Spring 2024 Meredith Magazine

CAMPUS NEWS

In 1924, Meredith College faculty and staff presented the first performance of Alice in Wonderland as a gift to their students. Now, 100 years later, the tradition continues. Once in a generation – or every four years – Alice and friends return to the delight of Meredith students. The 100th-anniversary production took place in February 2024. Read more about this special tradition on page 26.

Meredith Students Produce News Show

By Gaye Hill

Meredith students are now producing a biweekly show from the news studio in the Communication and Health, Exercise & Sport Sciences (CHESS) building.

The program, Meredith College Student News (MCSN), features stories shot, written, and edited by students under the guidance of Dr. Lynn Owens, associate professor of communication. The opportunity to participate is available to students from all majors.

Senior Freya Dahlgren serves as executive producer and anchor of the show.

“I decided to get involved with MCSN because I have always loved news and learning,” said Dahlgren. “When this opportunity presented itself on campus I knew I had to jump at the chance to participate.”

Dahlgren has enjoyed giving Meredith stories a wider audience.

“I think everyone has a story to tell that people can learn from, and I love how we can share these through our programming.”

Owens has a strong background in television news, having worked as a reporter for WNCT-TV and at Reuters Television in London as a technical producer. She has been teaching journalism and mass communication since 2006, having served as the faculty advisor for UNC-Chapel Hill’s student newscast, Carolina Week.

“I’m just there as quality control, using my background knowledge in the industry to make sure that the product looks professional, but I’ve always stressed that this is their show,” she said.

The biweekly schedule allows students to develop story ideas and gather the content needed for each piece.

“We put it all together live –there’s no do-over as I make sure it’s done in one take, just like a real newscast,” Owens said. “One week we pitch ideas and then the students go out to write and shoot their stories. The following week is studio day when we go in with the anchor and put the show together.”

Owens said the mission of the show is to be informative.

“We want to let students know what’s happening on campus, and to focus on accomplishments and opportunities,” she said. “My students want to showcase the good things people are doing.”

Allen Named CIC Senior Advisor and President in Residence

Meredith College President Jo Allen has been invited to serve a one-year appointment as the senior advisor and President in Residence at the Council of Independent Colleges (CIC).

Although CIC is located in Washington, D.C., the “residency” is remote. Allen will fulfill her obligations through the first six months while at Meredith, followed by the second six months at Allen’s home after leaving office.

The CIC appointment recognizes Allen’s years of service as an actively engaged president in national matters critical to supporting higher education, focusing both on traditions of excellence and willingness to adapt to meet new opportunities and challenges.

As CIC’s senior advisor and President in Residence, Allen will serve as an advisor to and collaborator with the CIC staff in planning and hosting the annual Presidents Institute, the largest convening of presidents serving at independent colleges and universities. The Institute brings together presidents of independent and private institutions of all types, ranging from small specialized or affiliated colleges to large research institutions.

“I am honored to be asked to serve in a way that allows me to make greater connections among my colleagues who are doing the hard work of leading through tumultuous sociopolitical, financial, and demographic times. The opportunity to share information, strategies, and networks is truly a culminating activity for a retiring president, and I’m pleased to be serving my colleagues and my profession in this way,” said Allen.

The CIC appointment began in January 2024 and ends in January 2025.

NC AHEAD Conference Held at Meredith

By Rocio Antelis

Meredith College hosted the North Carolina Association on Higher Education and Disability’s (NC AHEAD) annual conference, Equity & Excellence: Access in Higher Education, on October 9-10, 2023.

The keynote session, “Teasing Out Academic Barriers from Personal Challenges” was delivered by Adam Meyer, director of student accessibility services at the University of Central Florida. The presentation centered on properly identifying academic barriers and determining effective accommodations.

“Identifying and removing academic barriers for students with disabilities is becoming increasingly challenging as more and more students come to college with complex lives and personal situations,” said Karen Coffey Hager, Meredith College disability counselor. “The session allowed us to walk away with new strategies to incorporate into our practices.”

Attendees also had the opportunity to attend other sessions at the conference that included topics such as dealing with compassion fatigue, supporting neurodiverse students, working collaboratively with parents, and more.

“Meredith is a member of NC AHEAD because they are the best source of accurate information regarding best practices in the field of disability services in higher education. Networking with other members and having access to the archives and research on the AHEAD website has been invaluable,” said Carolyn Koning, assistant director of disability services at Meredith.

Industrial-Organizational Psychology Program Celebrates Five Years

By Rocio Antelis

The industrial-organizational (I-O) psychology master’s program is celebrating five years at Meredith College.

Since its launch, the number of applications per year has increased from 16 to 30-45. In total, 50 students have completed the degree. The program has a remarkable employment rate with 97% of graduates securing I-O-related jobs within six months of graduation. Many graduates have gone on to pursue careers at prestigious organizations such as Amazon, Butterball, Cisco, UNC-Chapel Hill, WakeMed, and more.

“The I-O psychology program provided me with skills that have carried into my job today. I learned the basics of data analysis and how to take a holistic approach to inform company-wide decisions,” said Morgan Hendrix, ’22, M.A. in Psychology.

Through the years, the program has expanded to provide students with more experiential and networking opportunities, including a study abroad class in Italy, a student organization, and a mentorship program. The latter two initiatives were spearheaded by Assistant Professor Jenna McChesney, who has been integral in fostering a collaborative culture and creating research opportunities for students. Additionally, faculty members continually revise the curriculum to stay up-to-date on industry trends.

Program Director Joe Mazzola said he is most proud of the collaborative community the program has cultivated. “With our cohort model, students take the majority of their classes

together. They enjoy working together and caring about their fellow students,” said Mazzola. “They understand that helping everyone learn and find work opportunities helps the program grow and ultimately makes their degree and career prospects better.”

This supportive community extends past graduation as well. The I-O faculty members maintain contact with alumni and provide guidance beyond their time at Meredith. Alumni have graciously given back to the program by sharing internship and job opportunities and presenting to current classes.

“Even now as an alumna, the Meredith I-O faculty are always there to support me at every step of my career,” said Meredith O’Dekirk, ’22, M.A. in Psychology.

Looking Ahead to the Next Five Years

As for the future of the program, Mazzola and Doreen Donnelly, program manager and admissions counselor, hope to increase the number of yearly applications, boost brand recognition, and grow the program’s alumni and community network.

“Meredith has been the perfect environment to grow a strong academic program with an additional focus on community building. The administration has been very supportive of us throughout this journey and more people than I can count have contributed to getting the program to where it is today,” said Mazzola. “All of our students and graduates are Meredith Strong.”

Meredith Invites High School Students to Celebrate Dance

By Melyssa Allen

Meredith College welcomed more than 350 students to “share, learn, and celebrate dance” as part of the High School Day of Dance.

This event, held on campus on November 3, was sponsored by the Meredith College Dance Program. Students from 22 area high schools participated in the program, which included dance classes with Meredith faculty, alumnae, and guest artists.

“For the high school students, it’s an opportunity to experience collegiate dance and see what other dance programs in the area are doing,” said Assistant Professor of Dance Courtney White. “The high school teachers love that their students get to build relationships and community outside of their respective high schools.”

New classes were added to the schedule this year. “We included classical Indian dance, Afro-rhythms, and Fossé, a Broadway-style of jazz,” White said. Students also enjoyed improvisation, yoga, contemporary ballet, modern, lyrical, jazz, and hip-hop.

At the end of the day, dancers were able to perform for each other, which White says is always a highlight. Fourteen groups performed this year.

“Our favorite part is the informal performances that happen at the end of the day,” she said. “The support the students show towards each other is just magical.”

Current dance students at Meredith are essential to the day’s success.

“The Meredith dance community is what makes this event possible. They assist in planning, act as class monitors/ assistants, help students navigate from class to class, and of course, clean up,” White said. “They do a wonderful job answering questions and love showing others what dance is like here at Meredith.”

The event also provides opportunities for Meredith dance students and area teachers to network.

“Meredith College dance education majors have an opportunity to meet and connect with teachers in the field, high school teachers get to reconnect with

colleagues and former students, and our guest teachers make connections with high schools for possible jobs,” White said.

Mini Version Held in September

Earlier in the fall semester, the dance program sponsored another dancefocused event for high school students. In September, a mini version was held for juniors and seniors that featured some different elements.

“For the informal showing, we piloted an anonymous online feedback process for dancers who were developing solos for upcoming college or professional auditions,” White said. “This event was unique because students took a master class from Les Ballet Afrik, a multi-cultural dance company whose mission is to champion the Black, Latinx, and LGBTQ+ experiences within the ballroom scene.”

In addition to the master class, Meredith College Dance co-presented a performance by Les Ballet Afrik with the prestigious American Dance Festival.

A Family Continues Their Education at Meredith College

By Rocio Antelis

Amy Schroeder, ’24, MBA, and her two children, Jack, ’26, MBA, and Jenna, ’24, ’25 (MBA), are all pursuing a Master in Business Administration from Meredith College.

Jenna was the first Schroeder to enroll at Meredith in 2020. As a high schooler, several of her teachers were Meredith alumnae, which piqued her interest in the College. The intimate class sizes, great scholarships, and various experiential opportunities ultimately led her to attend.

During Jenna’s junior year, Amy began the MBA program. As an education consultant for career development and work-based learning with the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction, she works with middle and high school career development coordinators to ensure students are prepared for careers or college.

“In my role, I strive to increase my knowledge of strategic planning, project management, and leadership styles to consult teachers and educators. The MBA can help me do that while also helping me further develop professionally and continue to build connections in the community,” said Amy.

Amy was familiar with Meredith not only through her daughter but also through numerous personal and professional connections. In 2011, while working as a career development coordinator at Wake County Public School System, she became interested in learning more about the next steps for students after high school. One of her colleagues connected her with Meredith’s Office of Career Planning, and she had the opportunity to job shadow there that summer.

Additionally, Amy has volunteered several times at the annual Leadership Conference for High School Juniors and serves on boards alongside Meredith faculty and staff for organizations such as the

North Carolina Career Development Association.

“Meredith has always been a safe space for continual learning and personalized growth. It’s a place to learn and develop personally and professionally,” said Amy.

Each night after her classes, Amy would enthusiastically share what she was learning with her children. As a communications major, Jenna was already interested in pursuing the Accelerated MBA program. Listening to her mom gush about the MBA program solidified her choice to pursue it.

“My mom has always emphasized the importance of lifelong learning. She was one of the reasons I chose to do the Accelerated MBA program,” said Jenna. “When she came home, she was so excited about what she learned in class and the small community that she had built.”

Jack, who at the time was a senior studying business administration at the University of Lynchburg, found these conversations thoughtprovoking, and he too decided to apply to the MBA program at Meredith.

“I want to be able to reach a certain level of personal satisfaction with my career and I think an MBA can get me there. It’s important to continually push yourself and keep your mind active,” said Jack.

About the Meredith MBA

In Fall 2023, the three Schroeders were in the same MBA-630 (Managerial Accounting for Decision Makers) class. Living with their classmates enriched their comprehension of the course content. “We [would] get wired up and keep talking about the class,” said Jack. “It for sure bled into our family life.”

In an academic setting, they have the opportunity to discover different sides of each other. Amy recalled being impressed by her son when he presented in class. “The manner in which he commanded the room and articulated himself was impressive. It was a proud mom moment,” she said. “I’m learning from both of my children. It’s definitely a humbling experience. I’m cherishing and recognizing the impact and growth for us on this journey together.”

At Meredith, we know every student brings a unique set of strengths to our MBA program. With an average class size of 18, we’ll help you identify those strengths and work with you to build on them – becoming an even stronger professional and leader in your organization.

• Accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)

• One of the most affordable programs in the Triangle

• 33-credit-hour MBA with an average time to completion of just two years

• Coeducational program open to women and men

Learn more at meredith.edu/mba

New Articulation Agreement Finalized with NC State University

By Melyssa Allen

Meredith College has finalized a new articulation agreement with NC State that provides priority admission into Meredith’s Master of Science in Nutrition–Accelerated Dietitian Nutritionist Track (MS-ADNT) for up to four qualified NC State nutrition science undergraduate students.

As of January 1, 2024, a master’s degree is required to become a registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN), meaning nutrition science undergraduate students at NC State who want to earn their RDN credential must enter an ACENDaccredited graduate program to continue toward that goal.

“With the longstanding relationship between Meredith College and NC State, the close proximity of both campuses, as well as the high quality of undergraduate students who graduate from the nutrition sciences program, it made sense that we form this agreement that would benefit both institutions and their students,” said Meredith College Assistant Professor of Food and Nutrition Coleman Hale, the MS-ADNT program director.

Under the articulation agreement, NC State will recommend interested students for Meredith College to consider for the four available spots in the MS-ADNT program.

“We will review applications and offer priority admission to the top four candidates. These individuals will know before the general admission deadline of January 1 if they have been accepted to the program,” Hale said.

Any students not offered priority admission will be considered with other applicants at the general admissions deadline.

“Because there is a limited number of spots in the MS-ADNT program amidst the high levels of interest from prospective students, this is a great opportunity for NC State Nutrition Science undergraduates to secure a spot in this program,” she added.

Meredith College and NC State will both benefit from the new agreement.

“Meredith College seeks top students for this rigorous program. Our colleagues at NC State University are aware of the type of student who would perform well in this demanding program and can provide recommendations that help us fill our program with qualified students who are up to the challenge of spending time in both the classroom and field each week,” Hale said.

The agreement also allows NC State Nutrition Science to support its students’ goals of becoming registered dietitians under the new master’s degree requirement.

“Since NC State does not offer an accredited master’s program, this agreement ensures that their students have a pathway forward to a competitive Master of Science in Nutrition program that is well established and respected in the community,” Hale said. “Additionally, the priority admission lets four of their students know quite early that they have been accepted and allows them to move forward with making their graduate school decisions.”

The Meredith College Master of Science in Nutrition–Accelerated Dietitian Nutritionist Track (MS-ADNT) is a new track that launched in Fall 2023. This track is a newer style of nutrition program that was created by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND) to help streamline the pathway toward becoming a registered dietitian.

Meredith College has a historically strong Master of Science in Nutrition program.

“Even though the MS-ADNT program is ‘new’, the curriculum utilizes some of the courses from our other program, and the same wonderful faculty are teaching the courses,” Hale said.

MEREDITH EXPERTS IN THE NEWS

Meredith College experts have recently been featured in media outlets including the Associated Press, Newsweek, Winston-Salem Journal, NC Newsline, and Politico

Professor of History Greg Vitarbo was one of the historians asked by Newsweek to predict whether the war between Russia and Ukraine is likely to end in 2024. The story, “Will Ukraine War End in 2024? Experts Weigh In,” was published on December 28, 2023.

Associate Professor of Political Science Jeff Martinson was quoted in an Associated Press article about the United Nations General Assembly. “Behind all the speechmaking at the UN lies a basic, unspoken question: Is the world governable?” was published on September 21, 2023.

Hospitality and Tourism Management Program Director and Instructor Michael Altman was interviewed by the WinstonSalem Journal for an article titled “Vacation complication: Climate change a growing factor in travel.” Altman noted that changing climate conditions are affecting tourism in places where weather has been a draw. The article was published in September 2023.

Professor of Political Science

David McLennan was interviewed about the September 2023 edition of the Meredith Poll by a variety of media outlets. The poll, which asked North Carolina voters who they planned to vote for in upcoming political primaries, was covered by WRAL, WNCN, NC Newsline, and Politico.

Grant Supports Inclusive and Equity-based STEM Programs

By Rocio Antelis

In May 2021, Meredith College received a grant from the Arthur Vining Davis Foundations to support Cultivating Equitable and Inclusive Pedagogical Practices in STEM Higher Education, a three-year project that aims to create fully inclusive and equity-based STEM programs at Meredith.

Over halfway through the project, researchers have compiled preliminary findings on the impact of inclusive instruction in STEM courses at Meredith. After the implementation of inclusive pedagogical methods in the fall of 2022, both faculty members and students reported an inclusive, positive classroom environment.

Initial Needs Assessment

For over 15 years, higher education institutions, including Meredith, have focused on attracting and retaining historically underrepresented students in STEM majors. Despite an increased number of underrepresented students enrolling in STEM majors, there remains

a significant gap in the number of these students who complete degrees in STEM, indicating a lack of success in truly addressing the underlying issues. New research suggests that STEM instructor teaching methods have a significant effect on whether students persist in a STEM major or switch to a non-STEM major.

Inclusive instruction requires faculty to integrate the experiences and perspectives of students into their classrooms and be responsive to diverse student demographics and backgrounds, such as race and ethnicity, gender, social class, academic preparation, learning challenges, age, and family educational attainment.

“As faculty members, we have noticed that our student learning experiences change over time. What worked for students five or ten years ago doesn’t work for current students,” Associate Professor of Chemistry Sasha Ormond said about the importance of implementing new, inclusive pedagogy methods in the classroom.

To kick off the project, researchers conducted a needs assessment of the inclusiveness of current STEM instruction at Meredith. The results identified areas of improvement in STEM courses, such as

• Ensuring diverse representation in the curriculum does not reinforce dominant cultural narratives

• Providing students with the opportunity to engage with diverse classmates through intentional assignments and group work

• Developing a curriculum that includes contributions from a diverse set of scientists

• Making curricular and pedagogical methods accessible and implementing accommodations when needed

The project team then worked with several organizations, including Academic Impressions and SEA Change to design a workshop for faculty addressing the issues identified in the needs assessment.

First Cohort of Inclusive Pedagogy Leaders

Beginning in May 2022, 14 faculty members were selected for the first cohort of Inclusive Pedagogy Leaders in STEM. The cohort participated in the all-day workshop on inclusive pedagogical practices led by Rita Kumar from the University of Cincinnati and completed two online courses on the subject matter. Post-workshop, faculty members reported an increase in their knowledge of inclusive instruction and in their motivation and confidence to implement the new strategies.

During the summer, the cohort worked collaboratively to revise course materials and teaching methods to be more inclusive for selected courses offered in the fall of 2022. Throughout the academic year, faculty had the opportunity to discuss challenges and potential solutions during monthly STEM café events.

Pedological methods that were introduced included exam retakes, student exposure to historical or current scientists of various races and sexual orientations, extra credit assignments that connect students’ diversity and course material, and more.

Fall 2022 Outcomes

At the end of the fall 2022 semester, the first cohort and students in the revised courses were surveyed to assess the effect of inclusive instruction. In comparison with their post-workshop levels, faculty reported

• No change in their knowledge of inclusive instruction nor their preparedness to implement it, indicating they had retained the information learned in the workshop and still felt prepared to use it

• A significant increase in their level

of confidence in delivering inclusive instruction

• A slight decrease in their motivation to implement

Students and faculty both reported an inclusive classroom environment with aspects such as

• A transparent grading system

• A positive environment

• A sense of trust

• A culture where it was safe to make mistakes and seek help

• Faculty use of student names When asked about their feelings of belonging at Meredith College and within STEM, 82% of students responded generally positively.

The results suggest faculty were well-positioned to create inclusive environments and that students perceived the classroom environments as inclusive. Additionally, faculty members and students identified areas of improvement such as implementing faculty-assigned groups (as opposed to students choosing their groups) and including more diversity in course materials.

Second Cohort

In May 2023, a second cohort of 11 faculty members was selected to continue implementing inclusive practices for the 2023-24 academic year. Seven of the first cohort members chose to participate in the second year.

The second cohort attended a twoday workshop, which began with a selfguided online training by educational consultant Barbi Honeycutt, followed by a Q&A session. The second day of the workshop was an all-day event led by Bryan Dewsbury, principal investigator of the Science Education and Society Research Program at Florida International University.

Similar to the first cohort, faculty members reported a significant improvement in their knowledge and confidence to implement inclusive instructional practices.

“One reason why DEI is so important to me is that my son has Down syndrome. I want him to feel like he belongs and show others that different is just that — different. It should be valued because that is how we learn and become better,” said Ormond about why she participated in the project. “It was useful to be able to brainstorm ideas with other faculty and experts.”

At the end of the academic year, cohort members and students will again be surveyed to assess the impact of inclusive instruction. Final findings are expected to be available in August 2024 after the survey data has been analyzed.

Learn more about the grant at mcstemproject.org.

I believe each person I have made a relationship with at Meredith has shaped my college experience into a well-rounded and highly remarkable time. I can confidently say that both faculty and students truly care and are never afraid to express it. ”

JILLIAN JACKSON, ’25

Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and Hospitality and Tourism Management

Building the Skills to Overcome Obstacles

When I started at Meredith, I was planning to major in biology. Since middle school, I thought pursuing a career in STEM was what I needed to do. During my first year at Meredith, however, I was struggling to grasp the course material and slowly started to realize I was unfulfilled in studying biology.

I expressed an interest in event planning to my freshman faculty advisor, the late Tim Hendrix. He encouraged me to register for an event planning course that had just been added to the hospitality and tourism management program.

In the fall of my sophomore year, I took the class and felt I was exactly where I needed to be. Hearing the instructors Courtney Hopper and Dana Kadwell, who are sisters and Meredith alumnae, speak about their experiences in the hospitality industry made me reflect on my own path. I promptly connected with Hannah Keeton Hughson and Michael Altman from the School of Business and

declared business administration and hospitality and tourism management as my majors.

To earn class credit, I volunteered with A Southern Soiree, a Raleighbased event planning company. After that experience, I kept in contact with the planner and she offered me an internship position, which bolstered my studies.

I believe each person I have made a relationship with at Meredith has shaped my college experience into a well-rounded and highly remarkable time. I can confidently say that both faculty and students truly care and are never afraid to express it.

Growing into an adult is a challenge I am still facing, but I know my experiences here at Meredith helped me build the skills I need to overcome any obstacle life may bring my way. In college, I have learned that I don’t have to know all the answers. The peers, advisors, and faculty around me have often helped me figure out solutions, and I take advantage of the opportunity

to connect with them.

As a resident assistant, I have bonded with residents during our time together living on campus. I am also the president of the Meredith Activities Board and plan campuswide events to help students make memories. My college experience has been enhanced by the connections I have made with fellow students.

I chose Meredith because of the feelings of inspiration and empowerment I experienced when I attended the Leadership Conference for High School Juniors. During my college search, I kept searching for those feelings. At the time, I was surprised Meredith was the only place I found them. Now as a student here, I realize those feelings were also sparked by the sense of belonging and validation for the first time. My experiences at Meredith are rooted in the abundant amount of resources available in our community, each catered to the success of every individual.”

Photo courtesy of Perry Vaile Adams

Meredith Hosts International Plasma Awareness Week Event

By Melyssa Allen

Meredith College hosted an event for Project Plasma on October 4, in observance of International Plasma Awareness Week 2023.

Approximately 120 Meredith faculty, staff, and students attended the fair, where they learned facts about plasma and the importance of plasma donation. Participants were also able to share their reasons for donating.

The Project Plasma event was organized by the Meredith community in honor of Provost Matthew Poslusny. Representatives from the Garner Station Grifols Donation Center and the GBS|CIDP Foundation International participated.

The student organizations involved were Meredith’s pre-health post-baccalaureate program and Peer Educators Advocating for Responsible Lifestyles (PEARLS). Professor of Biological Sciences Karthik Aghoram is the pre-health post-baccalaureate program director, and Director of Student Health Services Mary Johnson is the PEARLS advisor.

In addition to the on-campus event, a Meredith College team formed in Poslusny’s honor participated in a Walk & Roll fundraiser on October 21. All money raised from Walk & Roll events goes towards research grants that the Foundation will award to leading experts in the field of Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS), Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy (CIDP), and related syndromes such as Multifocal Motor Neuropathy (MMN), and variants. The Meredith team had the largest number of participants and raised the most money for this cause.

NEWSMAKERS

Congratulations to the following faculty who have been approved by Meredith’s Board of Trustees for sabbaticals in 2024-25.

• Associate Professor of Biological Sciences

Maria Pickering, Fall 2024

• Professor of Theatre Steven Roten, Fall 2024

• Professor of Psychology Mark O’Dekirk, Spring 2025

Director of the Student Success Center Dr. Tina Romanelli, Head of Research & Instruction Jeff Waller, Research & Instruction Librarian Morgan Johnson, and Head of Technical Services Carrie Nichols presented at the Biennial Conference of the North Carolina Library Association in Winston-Salem, N.C., on October 19-20, 2023. Romanelli, Waller, and Johnson gave a presentation, “You Belong With Me: Collaborations Between Academic Libraries and Other Campus Departments,” which described lessons learned from the ongoing collaboration between the Carlyle Campbell Library and Learning Center on the research tutoring service and their twice-ayear Research and Paper Palooza events. Nichols contributed her insights about technical services careers to a panel discussion titled “Demystifying Careers in Technical Services: Getting a Job, Learning the Job, Growing in the Job.”

Two poems by Assistant Professor of English Zach Linge are included in the anthology Another Last Call: Poems on Addiction & Deliverance, which was published by Sarabande Books in October. Contributors to the anthology include U.S. Poet Laureate Ada Limón, MacArthur Fellow Ocean Vuong, and Pulitzer Prize-winners Jericho Brown, Sharon Olds, and Diane Seuss.

Professor of History

Dan Fountain had a solicited piece published in the Fall 2023 issue of the N.C. Museum of History’s Tar Heel Junior Historian magazine. This issue is part of a series highlighting the upcoming 250th anniversary of the American Revolution. The article is titled “Tear it Down”: The Road to the American Revolution. The museum is working to build enthusiasm for the upcoming statewide celebration of the 250th anniversary.

Learn more at gbs-cidp.org/project-plasma.

FROM THE PRESIDENT

One of my favorite Meredith traditions did not exist when I was a student. Fire and Water is an end-of-first-year tradition that encourages reflection, healing, and celebration.

Students are asked, first, to recall an uncomfortable memory and then jot a word or two that captures its essence on a slip of paper. Perhaps something as simple as “C- on chemistry exam,” “argument with roommate,” or “skipping test prep sessions.”

Then, they are asked to recall a highlight – one they never want to forget – and jot it on a slip of paper.

With two slips of paper in hand, they now put the pleasant memory slip inside a plastic Easter egg and set it in the water of the fountain, where it floats and symbolizes the buoyancy of warm memories – reminders of things going right.

The uncomfortable memory gets tossed into a small container fire, symbolizing a lesson learned without having to carry its sting forever.

As I retire, I’m going through my own version of Fire and Water. There are several moments and episodes I permit myself to release, but the pandemic, naturally, is my primary fire story. I know that the crush of decisions was hard on everyone, robbing some of the experience and growth they needed but prioritizing the safety of our community above all. Regardless of how history characterizes that time and those decisions, I can release that burden, while acknowledging the evidence of lives saved and appreciating the countless messages of support.

Water is more delightful, and if I were to honor the way we celebrate highlights, I could not possibly cram enough slips of warm memories

into my little egg. Seeing the faces of prospective and newly arriving students with their anxiety and excitement as they come to campus for the first time. Meeting new colleagues and re-engaging with those who were here when I was a student. Experiencing new and changing traditions. Appreciating how new academic programs and athletic teams bring vibrancy to learning and engagement. Traveling with students, faculty, staff, alumnae, and other friends of the College throughout the state and around the world. Hearing alumnae recall the experiences at Meredith that solidified their self-image or changed their lives. Seeing renovations and new construction affirm the growth and ongoing spirit of this College and the support of those who want its success to flourish. Enjoying the thrills of gifts throughout the campaign and beyond from the thousands of donors who appreciate all that Meredith represents and achieves.

Current and former presidents and those who truly understand the work of the presidency know our jobs are insufferably hard, and there is rarely a moment of genuine serenity. But it is primarily the people – the faculty, staff, students, alumnae, trustees, donors, and other friends – who make the work either a firestorm or a joyous brook.

As I leave the presidency, I simply thank you for all the extraordinary ways you have buoyed me and helped me float. And I wish for each of you less fire … more water.

President Jo Allen, ’80

FOREVER STRONG

FIRST ALUMNA PRESIDENT LEAVES POWERFUL LEGACY

By Gaye Hill, Emily Parker, and Melyssa Allen

When Jo Allen, ’80, assumed the presidency of Meredith College in July 2011, it was a homecoming like no other.

As the first alumna president, Allen brought a unique perspective to her role, one that required her to recognize the ways Meredith had changed while honoring its past – and to explore how the College needed to evolve to maintain its relevance.

“I came back to a place that I love and fell in love all over again,” said Allen. “It is transparently good, in terms of a good education, of good people with good hearts and good intentions.”

Planning for the Future

One of Allen’s first projects after coming to Meredith was the creation of a strategic plan. Her vision was of a “rolling” plan that would evolve to meet the needs of an ever-changing campus community. To develop such a plan, she knew it was critical to involve all of the stakeholders and take seriously their input.

MAKING HIGHER EDUCATION STRONGER

President Allen is a powerful advocate of higher education. One of her priorities has been to raise Meredith’s profile nationally, and her work with statewide and national organizations provided an ideal opportunity to do so. We asked some of her colleagues at other colleges, universities, and educational institutions, as well as family, classmates, and friends, to share their thoughts on Allen’s presidency.

“Over the 25 years in my former capacity as president of the National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities (NAICU), it has been my privilege to work with more than 1,000 college and university presidents. I’ve been especially fortunate to serve with Jo in her capacity as Chair of the NAICU Board of Directors, and currently in my role as a Meredith College Trustee. I consider her to be one of the most creative, resourceful, inspiring, and competent presidents in America. Meredith has been incredibly wellserved by her landmark leadership!”

David Warren

Member, Meredith College Board of Trustees

President, National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities (NAICU)

"Dr. Allen has been a national leader and a champion for the independent sector of higher education. Few higher education leaders in America have had as much influence on state and national policy positions for independent colleges and universities as Jo. Her impact and legacy extends well beyond the Meredith College campus."

James T. Harris III, D.Ed. President, University of San Diego

A visioning conference provided a kickoff to the planning process, which then continued for months through the work of discrete planning committees. Each was responsible for one of six pillars: educational excellence, financial strength, optimal enrollment, IT/infrastructure, enhanced visibility, and quality of life for faculty, staff, and students.

Meredith Forever, first approved in October 2012, became the strategic plan for the future of the College. Allen takes great pride in its lasting relevance.

“Our strategic plan and its six pillars have sustained our thoughts and plans for 12 years. I think that speaks to having gotten it right from the beginning,” she said.

Strengthening Alumnae Engagement

As an alumna herself, it was natural for Allen to inspire new ways for alumnae to engage with the College. Under her leadership, the Office of Alumnae Relations launched numerous exciting initiatives designed to engage current alumnae and lay the groundwork for future alumnae to feel connected to Meredith. Programs include Meredith Mentors, an online network that fosters personal and professional networking, and the Meredith Alumnae Business Directory. Ask an Alumna, Life After Meredith, and 1891 Club all help current students prepare for lifelong relationships with the College.

Hilary Allen, director of alumnae relations, estimates that her office has coordinated over 1,200 alumnae events

during Jo Allen’s presidency.

“Dr. Allen has always supported the continued outreach and engagement of the Alumnae Association,” said Hilary Allen. “After all, she is an alumna, and she has made it a priority to share updates at alumnae events, both on and off campus, throughout her tenure. Meredith is truly Forever Strong thanks to her leadership, vision, and support.”

Those close to Meredith value the unique perspective President Allen has brought to her alma mater.

“I appreciate that an alum has been leading Meredith,” said Abby Dittmann, ’24, senior class president. “She understands our history and appreciates our strong values and traditions. These things are what make Meredith such a special place.”

Courtney Allen, ’10, president of Meredith College Alumnae Association, shared this sentiment.

“Dr. Allen has led the charge to elevate and transform our campus and community in so many positive ways. We are blessed to have had her as the first alumna president of our beloved alma mater and we wish her all the best as she embarks on this next journey!”

Academic Growth and Evolution

In addition to new educational facilities like the CHESS building, Meredith’s academic offerings have also grown. Academic highlights include

• Creating new academic programs including public health (2014), a pre-health post-baccalaureate

certificate (2014), hospitality and tourism management (2018), as well as master’s degrees in industrial-organization psychology (2018), criminal justice (2020), and biomedical sciences (2024).

• Ongoing strength of Study Abroad, including a return to programming after the 2020 pandemic pause. In summer 2022, 113 students participated in study abroad, including 109 in programs led by Meredith faculty. This tied the 2009 record for Meredith faculty-led programs.

• Consistently earning top rankings and accreditations from a variety of organizations.

• Relaunching Wings, Meredith’s adult education program, in 2014. Wings’ 50th anniversary was celebrated in 2022.

Matthew Poslusny, provost and senior vice president for academic programs, previously worked with Allen at Widener University and came to Meredith in 2013, two years after her arrival.

“I have had the privilege to work with Jo for 17 out of the last 19 years,” said Poslusny. “I have always been appreciative of her ability to generate new ideas and transform them into reality, from the StrongPoints® program to renovations to Jones Auditorium to CHESS, the new academic building. She has made a lasting impact on Meredith’s academic footprint.”

Professor and Department Head of Dance and Theatre Carol Finley observed that Allen’s support for academic programs is inclusive.

“Jo Allen understands that the arts are an important means of understanding the world. Under her leadership arts faculty were empowered to shape thriving academic and co-curricular programs that make Meredith a highly regarded institution in the regional arts education landscape,” said Finley. “Dr. Allen has a twinkle in her eye when she talks about Meredith and her love of the College has been a joy to experience.”

Transforming Campus

A key component of Allen’s presidency has been the renewal of Meredith’s historic

MEREDITH MILESTONES

Major accomplishments and moments that occurred during Jo Allen’s time as Meredith’s eighth president.

GROWTH IN ATHLETICS

During Allen’s years as president, the Avenging Angels athletics program has celebrated championship wins across several sports, expanded its offerings, and been supported with new facilities. Sports added include lacrosse (2012), track & field (2016), field hockey and golf (2019), and indoor track (2024). Athletics facilities investments include the Lowery Fitness Center, athletic field and track enhancements, and the Estes-Speight Family Athletic Center, which is now under construction.

CELEBRATING 125 YEARS OF GOING STRONG

Meredith College celebrated the 125th anniversary of its founding in 2016. The year-long celebration culminated on February 27, the official date Meredith’s charter was granted in 1891, and included a campus open house, with trolley rides to the City of Raleigh Museum, an alumnae artist exhibit, and a display of a time capsule created by students for the anniversary. A new historical marker proclaiming Meredith’s place in North Carolina history was unveiled as part of the anniversary commemoration.

LEADERSHIP THROUGH PANDEMIC CHALLENGES

As president, Allen provided leadership during the unprecedented challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic. Like other organizations around the world, the College had to pivot to remote learning in 2020, while still providing the sense of community that is a hallmark of the Meredith experience. Through the pandemic, no employees were laid off or furloughed; emergency fund sources were established or enhanced to help students and employees with unanticipated expenses.

OTHER INITIATIVES

In 2015, the Meredith Poll was established. The Poll asks North Carolinians their opinions on a range of public issues. Results regularly garner media coverage in local and national media outlets.

As part of Meredith’s college-wide anti-racism initiative, the College’s first Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) professional was hired in 2022. Responsibilities include working with colleagues across campus and with student groups to review organizational practices, processes, and structures, and recommend ways to make them more equitable. Another element of the anti-racism initiative was a focus on understanding College history, which led the Board of Trustees to approve name changes for some campus facilities.

MAKING HIGHER EDUCATION STRONGER

“Jo brought an uncommon graciousness to every occasion I was with her. Whether it was leading the selection process for the new president of NAICU, or calming dissension while we served together in higher education gatherings, she was just superb, and she was unfailingly right! She will always be one of my favorite colleagues in the cause of higher education and I wish her well.”

Andrew K. Benton

President Emeritus, Pepperdine University

"I have known Dr. Allen since we were sitting in the classroom taking freshman English Composition together. She was just Jo back then, wide-eyed and eager to discover all the possibilities that lay ahead. I've also sat in the boardroom with Dr. Allen as she led the College through a pandemic, social unrest, and prepared our students for changing workforce needs. Meredith prepared Jo well to become the leader she is today. A listener and life-long learner with a keen sense of humor. We'll miss Dr. Allen, but I have no doubt her footprint is big enough to inspire wide-eyed and eager young women long into the future."

Ella Frantz, ’80

Member, Meredith College Board of Trustees Co-Chair, Presidential Search Committee

"While there have been many times throughout history that have brought significant challenges to higher education, I believe it is fair to say that the period during which President Allen served Meredith was one of the most challenging times for our profession. Issues surrounding enrollment, the pandemic, inclusion and belonging, not to mention challenges to the whole notion that higher education is critical to advancing our society have made this a challenging period to provide stable and forward-looking leadership. That is exactly what Jo Allen has done for Meredith. She has navigated these choppy waters to perfection and leaves Meredith much stronger than when she arrived. I am confident that when the story of Meredith College is written in the future, Jo Allen will be remembered as a strong, focused, and highly impactful leader."

Randy Woodson

Chancellor, NC State University

“When Dr. Allen began her tenure as the eighth president of Meredith College on July 1, 2011, she arrived on campus with a unique perspective. She was the first alumna to serve in this leadership role. President Allen brought to the position a deep and abiding love for and understanding of her alma mater. Her vision was to honor the important traditions and legacy of the College while at the same time preparing its students for the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century. ‘Going strong!’ soon became the College’s mantra. President Allen has exceptional communication skills – both verbal and written. Her presidency has been personified by transparency and integrity. Meredith College is a much stronger institution today than when Dr. Allen arrived in July 2011 – due in large measure to her leadership.”

Sam Ewell

Past Chair, Board of Trustees

"Dr. Allen has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership, guiding students with unwavering dedication from freshman year through senior year. Her enthusiastic presence, particularly during cherished traditions like Cornhuskin', has been a source of joy for me and many others. As she steps into retirement, we express our deepest gratitude for her transformative impact and will dearly miss her influential leadership on our academic journey."

Mary Grace Teachey, ’24 Student Government Association President

campus to meet the evolving needs of students, faculty, and staff. During Allen’s tenure, at least 14 major projects were completed as well as numerous minor renovations. (See page 19 to learn more about capital projects.)

All renovations were funded by contributions from donors, which is a point of pride for Allen.

“I’m very proud of all that we’ve done, and we’ve done it all without borrowing,” said Allen. “I think it speaks to how much people care about this College.”

Decisions regarding additions and renovations have been driven by input from the campus community and donors, with an overarching emphasis on drawing students to Meredith.

“This is an investment – no matter what, you have to make people want to come here,” she said. “We also had to think about it in the context of our population. For instance, our students weren’t using the pool, so we turned it into a workout area they would – and do – use.”

Projects still underway or on the horizon include phase two of Jones Auditorium, the Estes-Speight Family Athletic Center, and a facility to house a new academic program.

Strong Fundraising

President Allen and the Institutional Advancement team, led by Vice President Lennie Barton, have exceeded major fundraising milestones year after year. Ongoing fundraising, despite the pandemic, has consistently generated over $10 million per year.

The largest fundraising effort in the College’s history, Beyond Strong | The Campaign for Meredith, raised $90,466,720. The silent phase began in July 2012 and concluded in December 2018, having surpassed its $75 million goal. Funds raised through the Campaign supported scholarships, special programs like study abroad, facilities, faculty and staff development, and more.

Allen takes special pride in the growth of large-dollar gifts during her tenure.

“Every gift matters and everyone can’t give $1 million, I surely understand that,” she said. “But the fact that we went from

three $1 million gifts in the previous campaign to 33 in this one speaks volumes about the growing sense that Meredith is worth investing in.”

In addition, contributions have increased in all categories, from annual giving to the Meredith Fund, from planned gifts to faculty/staff giving.

Another point of pride is establishing Giving Day. When the first event took place on February 23, 2016, 1,791 donors contributed $283,052 during the Make It Count for Meredith event. In less than 12 hours, the initial goal of $125,000 had been reached and a new goal of $250,000 was set by President Allen. Giving Day has continued to grow each year, and in 2024, the goal was $1.1 million.

Barton credits Allen with advancing Meredith’s philanthropic efforts.

“Of all the leaders I have worked with in the past, Jo has given fundraising more of her time than any of them, both during and after our Campaign. We meet regularly and she is always willing to make phone calls or go see someone,” said Barton. “She is responsible for our fundraising success.”

The Power of Going Strong

Early in Allen’s presidency, the College began developing a brand campaign to fully capture the unique experience and impact of a Meredith education. In-depth research gathered feedback from stakeholders including students, faculty, staff, alumnae, and

friends of the College. That research was shared with a marketing agency, which then pitched the Meredith College | Going Strong concept to President Allen, the Executive Leadership Team, and other representatives from across campus.

The rest is history.

“That was one of the greatest aha moments and one of the ways it became clear to me that Meredith was where I belonged as a president,” said Allen. “Going Strong is foundational but also aspirational. I don’t know any institution that’s built its brand on something so tangible that works so well in the context of who the institution is.”

Under Allen’s leadership, strengths became a singular focus at Meredith. The Marketing team took the kernel of the Going Strong concept and built it out over the next decade, having a demonstrably positive impact on enrollment, perception of academic strength, and more. New research conducted in 2019 found that the Going Strong brand campaign still resonated and, indeed, had even more growth opportunities.

“The Going Strong campaign and Meredith’s branding successes would not have happened without President Allen,” said Kristi Eaves-McLennan, vice president for marketing and communications. “In the early days of her presidency, she recognized that greater visibility would be key to Meredith achieving its strategic goals.

“Selecting a president for Meredith College is a daunting task! Taking its responsibility with great seriousness, the 2010-11 Presidential Search Committee began to look for that uniquely qualified person to serve Meredith as its eighth president. As the search unfolded and many, many candidates were considered, one candidate continued to stand out above all the others. Dr. Jo Allen's educational work, background experiences, and extensive skills became quickly apparent. Equally important and captivating was her charisma highlighted by her warm engaging smile. AND she was an alumna! Jo had a deep and abiding love for her alma mater –an understanding of the power of a Meredith education personally and professionally.

When Jo began her tenure, she actively reached out to all constituents. She knew the importance of including all the voices. While confident about the direction for Meredith, Jo opened herself to listening and learning from a variety of perspectives. I believe it was this openness to the faculty, staff, alumnae, parents, and friends that has allowed Meredith to continue to grow and develop. Jo Allen has exceeded all the expectations of the Search Committee. How fortunate for the College that it has had the benefit of her leadership for these 13 years.”

Nancy Williams Cheek, ’63 Past Chair, Board of Trustees

MAKING HIGHER EDUCATION STRONGER

“Jo first became my little sister when I was two, and I realized quickly that she was born STRONG! Not only is she my sister, but she’s been my friend, mentor, and confidante and was a member of my Little Sister Class when she entered Meredith College in 1976.

I am very grateful that Meredith College is our alma mater, and I am also thankful and proud of our first alumna president, Dr. Jo Allen, Class of 1980. She has worked diligently during her 13-year tenure as a strong, resourceful, intelligent, and positive advocate for Meredith while supporting its students, faculty, staff, and alumnae/i to successfully move the Meredith College family along – Beyond Strong!

Thank you, Jo, and I know that you’ll continue to support Meredith, but now as a retired alumna! Best wishes always from your favorite BIG SISTER!”

Kay A. Blizzard, ’78

“Dr. Allen’s leadership has been recognized by other independent college and university presidents in the state who elected her to two terms as chair of the board of North Carolina Independent Colleges and Universities (NCICU). Her broad vision for private higher education has also been sought at the national level, where she has served as chair of the board of NAICU. The Board of Trustees of Meredith, the independent college and university presidents in North Carolina, and presidents nationally have placed their confidence wisely in Dr. Allen’s leadership at all levels and she has worked tirelessly and with great effect on behalf of Meredith, in particular, and all of private higher education in North Carolina and across the country. I especially want to thank her for her strong support for NCICU and for me as president. It has been a joy to work with such an effective leader in all these roles.”

Hope Williams President, North Carolina Independent Colleges and Universities

“It was my privilege and pleasure to have been both Jo Allen’s freshman advisor and her freshman English teacher. Honesty demands I acknowledge that was the last time my achievements surpassed hers. I have followed her career with pride. When I was fortunate to visit her at Widener, where she was a vice president and provost, I left wondering if we could possibly woo her to return to her alma mater as president. And weren’t we lucky we were able to?

Everyone is aware of the gift to Meredith Jo Allen has been. When she told me she was retiring, I paused a moment (fortunately) and instead of declaring, ‘You can’t!’ said, ‘You have every right to.’ And as sad as we all are, we know how hard and successfully she has worked for us and wish her all the best in what will inevitably be a more relaxed (as well as fun!) future. That said, we know she will miss us too. Meredith is like that, isn’t she?”

Betty Webb, ’67

Professor Emerita and Wings Outreach Director

Since then, she has consistently championed and supported Meredith’s branding efforts.”

StrongPoints®, Meredith’s signature advising and personal coaching model, was developed in 2014. An essential component of the College’s emphasis on strengths, StrongPoints has empowered thousands of students by helping them identify their unique strengths and learn how to apply them in their academics, experiences, careers, and finances.

Professor of Religion Shannon Grimes sees Allen as the perfect ambassador for the brand.

“It is fitting that Meredith’s Going Strong brand was created under President Jo Allen’s leadership, because she herself is a shining example of a strong Meredith graduate, and she has strengthened this college in many ways, especially through her impressive fundraising and networking efforts,” said Grimes. “Throughout her time here, and most notably during the difficult pandemic years, President Allen has led with skill, vision, and integrity. She has been an excellent steward of Meredith College, and she will certainly be missed.”

Looking Forward

So what lies ahead for Jo Allen?

She will continue her lifelong support for higher education and plans to complete a book that has been in the works for a couple of years.

In addition, she has recently agreed to serve as President in Residence for the Council of Independent Colleges (CIC) in Washington, D.C., only the second individual to hold this position. She will continue to reside in North Carolina while holding the year-long position, which started January 2024. She will focus on important topics in higher education and help line up speakers and sessions for the organization of college presidents.

She is also looking forward to taking some time to settle into being a "good alumna," and read books and other materials that are not about higher education.

Allen said she leaves Meredith feeling satisfied about the impact of her presidency.

“I feel like I’ve done what I came here to do,” said Allen. “The next president will come in and I hope they’ll feel as blessed and fortunate as I do.”

A CAMPUS TRANSFORMED

During President Allen’s tenure, Meredith’s historic campus has seen extensive renovations and additions – all thanks to the generosity of donors. These changes are integral to Meredith’s strategic plan and enable students, faculty, and staff to learn, conduct research, and stay physically active, as well as provide additional revenue sources through rental fees.

Learn more about campus improvements and the donors who made the renovations possible at meredith.edu/campus-growth.

Extensive renovations on the upper and lower levels provided a better dining experience and more flexible spaces for events.

A dedicated space supports StrongPoints®, Meredith’s advising and personal coaching program.

Significant enhancements and renovations created a better experience for prospective and current students and their families, as well as staff whose offices reside in Johnson Hall.

An iconic spot for visitors and current students, the fountain plaza includes the fountain, sitting areas, and accessible walkways into Johnson Hall.

The renovated facility, which includes treadmills, bikes, elliptical cross trainers, rowers, weights, and more, serves as a teaching facility, a training facility for Athletics, and supports health and wellness programs for students, faculty, and staff.

The garden is a campus resource for education, research, service, and training in sustainability, ecology, food security, and environmentally sound food production.

2013 | Belk Dining Hall

2014 | StrengthsLab

2015-16 | Johnson Hall

2018 | Dickson Foundation Community Garden

2017 | Lowery Fitness Center

2017 | Elizabeth Triplett Beam Fountain

Renovations included new carpet, seating, and sound system as well as expanded accessible seating and improved auditorium entrances.

A complete renovation simulates the commercial food service environment students work in once they graduate from Meredith.

Renovations included new furniture, new lighting, and freshly painted walls along with a bathroom converted to being fully ADA-compliant.

Phase one of the renovation included new seating, carpet, lighting, sound, a new elevator for accessibility, and general upgrades. Additional upgrades include renovations to the black box theater and a marquee-enhanced entrance.

The sanctuary, bridal suite, corridors, conference room, kitchen, and common room were all refurbished.

After draining in 2017, the lake and small island were completely restored, including ADA-friendly sidewalks, walkways, and patios.

A new academic facility opened in August 2022 and provides cutting-edge instructional space for Meredith’s growing communication and health, exercise, & sport sciences programs.

Once complete, the facility will include training space for softball, tennis, and golf, along with a student lounge.

2018-19 | Kresge Auditorium

2021 | Nifong Nutrition Lab

2022-23 | Carlyle Campbell Library

2023 | Jones Auditorium

2022 | CHESS Building

2020 | Jones Chapel

2021 | Meredith Lake

2023 | Estes-Speight Family Athletic Center

DESIGNING WOMEN

FIVE INTERIOR DESIGN STUDENTS USE THEIR TALENT TO HELP OTHERS

By Emily Parker

At the opening night of the Green Chair Project “Chairity” event in September 2023, five interior design students were surrounded by a beautiful space they designed. They saw exquisitely designed vignettes and had the opportunity to network with donors and other designers. Most importantly, these students knew they were helping support families in need in Wake County.

The items in all of the vignettes would be sold during a three-day event where ticketed admirers of beautiful design would “ohh and ahh” over gorgeous and creative interior designed rooms. The proceeds from the Chairity event go straight to the mission of Green Chair, to provide beds or cribs to over 6,000 children who do not have one as well as furnishings and everyday items for the home.

Amber Dobbins, ʼ25, Rachel Kimble, ʼ23, Kendal Kwasnick, ʼ23, Cecilia Rivera, ʼ24, and Mary Grace Teachey, ʼ24, worked collaboratively on the vignette they designed. Southern Studio Interior Design sponsored their space and is owned by Vicky Serany, a Green Chair Board member who attended Meredith College. Teachey interned with Serany and learned about the event from her. There was an application process for Serany to pick the students to work on the project. When the five students were informed they were chosen, they did not know each other well and had very little time before the spring 2023 semester ended to start brainstorming and working on the space.

“The students were impressive! They were dedicated to thoughtful design, collaborative as a team, and efficient with project management – all key elements to a successful project,” said Serany. “We invited the students into our studio to work alongside our senior designers. It was an incredibly rewarding experience for our team, and we couldn’t be more proud of their work. Their energy was contagious!”

A Year Can Make a Big Difference

A year earlier, Kimble and Kwasnick were co-presidents of the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) Club, and their vice president interned with Lori Moscato, ʼ99, who had participated in Chairity several times. Moscato spread the word to the club about Green Chair and their mission.

ASID members had the opportunity to tour their building, curate the vignettes for families in need to choose items from, and volunteer to have an end-of-the-year school drive to collect items from students. Each year, ASID Club collects items from students moving out of residence halls and apartments to donate to Green Chair.

“It has been a joy working with the Meredith design students this year and seeing their creativity and different styles of design. It was uplifting to see the enjoyment they got from giving back to their community and from this, the idea of having them participate in Chairity was born,” said Green Chair Manager of Chairity Margot Huffines, ’81. “With the sponsorship from Southern Studio Interior, these students curated a space that was a nod to the Meredith traditions Tea for Two and Alice in Wonderland with an overall theme of mentorship. Seeing their creativity and different styles of design shared with our sponsors and shoppers was wonderful.”

Designing the Space

One of the first things the five students did after learning they were selected to work on the vignette was go to Green Chair to look at their space. They wanted to get a feel for where it was located among all the other vignettes.

“We really were given the creative freedom to pick what we wanted in the room, including the theme,” said Kimble.

At Southern Studio they worked quickly for two days to decide on the theme, finishes, and the items they might need.

“Cecilia threw out there, ‘we are Meredith students, let’s make this about Meredith.’ So our theme was mentorship and we did a tea room because it was a nod to the tradition Tea for Two. But we also wanted it to be kind of whimsical, which is why our design finishes are based on Alice,” said Kwasnick.

Once the theme was decided, the students had to get their order of what they needed for the space to Green Chair as quickly as possible because it was almost the end of the spring semester and they would all be in different locations for the summer. The sponsors of Green Chair provide the Chairity designers items to choose from for their spaces along with second-hand items that Green Chair had in stock from generous donors.

“There were items from so many places. We could pick our fabrics, our pillows, carpet, and accessories,” and Rivera. “Some of this was done online and some decisions were made at the showroom of the vendor.”

“For example, we went to Spoonflower’s website and picked out our wallpaper, but went to the showroom of the company that supplied the carpet,” said Teachey.

During the summer the students collaborated via an email chain. Tasks were split and when they had to make decisions about what was going in the space, they would email options and pick one they liked, one that fit the space the best. The students said they were on the same page about the choices and worked well together. They had the opportunity to collaborate with Southern Studio on many things including the curtains, for which they picked the fabric and design. Green Chair also allowed each team to pick out an item they wanted to lacquer, so the students decided on a chair from Green Chair’s inventory.

“We were amazed by all the individuals, professionals, and companies we were able to collaborate with to create this inviting space,” said Teachey.

Communication throughout the summer was key in designing the space.

“We started this project at the very end of the school year, so now everyone has summer jobs but you have to get the work done. You can only push it off for so long because the companies are the donors. They needed to know what we wanted. And then sometimes they would email us to let us know something was out of stock,” said Dobbins. “So we had to be quick to think and communicate with each other and have a little group chat. I think

Photos courtesy of Catherine Nguyen Photography

communicating that way amongst ourselves first and then with Vicky and everyone else was a very smart solution so if we did have disagreements, which we honestly really didn’t, but if we did, it would be between us and not through an email chain of a group of people.”

All the students agreed having the chance to work on this project mimicked what it would be like in the real world when they land full-time employment. Kimble and Kwasnick, both Wings students, graduated in December 2023 and have interior design jobs in Raleigh with companies where they interned.

“We learned a lot more about project management, working in a professional environment, and appreciating different ideas and perspectives from your team,” said Teachey. “It was eye-opening to create things I wouldn’t have thought to do, but someone else brought an idea to the table and we were able to collaborate and get excited about others’ ideas.”

Learning from one another and seeing their vision come to life was rewarding, and they were excited for each other by the end of the process.

“The interior design program at Meredith helped me launch my business and career,”

said Serany. “I hope that our sponsorship of the students helped foster a sense of community and philanthropy. Real-life experiences can be so beneficial, and I hope that when the students have established their own careers, they continue to nurture the next generation of designers.”

Southern Studio Interior Design let the students pave their way with this project by gently helping when they needed it and listening and waiting for the students to ask for help.

“They let us think it out if we were struggling. For example, with what the tablescape would look like, they just stood back and let us think it through. They weren’t trying to make it theirs,” said Kimble.

“It was cool because they are design professionals and our whole theme was mentorship. So it felt like it all came full circle,” said Kwasnick.

All the Details

Seeing their drawings and decisions come to life when they returned to Meredith in August 2023 gave the students the real-life experience of what an interior design career would be like. In the classroom they are drawing, deciding on finishes, making a lot of decisions, but in most cases not putting the project together.

“We may have felt like we were going to give it to the builders, they’ll do it. This was like, oh, no, we’re going to nail this to the wall ourselves. We’re going to measure this out ourselves. We’re going to move this chair here and see if it looks good,” said Dobbins. “Of course, we were not building the walls to the room but we were hanging fixtures, so Cecilia was using a hand drill!”

The students felt like everything about their vignette was intentional. Everything had a story or a reason why they picked it. They were on a treasure hunt to find accent pieces that spoke to them. They were pleased so many vendors supported the Chairity event, so there was no lack of pieces to choose from.

“In the end, I feel like we turned a classic take on a tea room into something youthful with a lot of fun little details like unicorn bookends and bright pink, twisted candlesticks. It was our own take on what a tea room could look like,” said Dobbins. Kimble said no one stifled anyone’s ideas. “When Mary Grace wanted to put plates on the wall, we all got excited. We were happy for each other and wanted to see everyone’s vision come to life.”

Even the art in the vignette was donated. Each group designing a space was paired

MEREDITH CONNECTIONS TO GREEN CHAIR

with an artist. The students informed the artist of their mentorship theme and the painting was created. The students said every detail was planned and the opportunity to be so hands-on was tremendously rewarding.

“Design isn’t always about working with an unlimited budget and they were able to successfully curate a space, using items from The Green Chair’s inventory, and their creativity, to make their space come alive. It gave them design experience as well as allowed them to network with established designers and hopefully will help them be successful,” said Huffines.

The students also recognized that the support from their Meredith professors and community had a big impact on their success.

“I think the support that we get from the school means we’re all so connected. It’s kind of like a small neighborhood. And I feel like that’s a really big thing, being able to get that support,” said Rivera. “That community we create, even though we don’t all know each other, we’re in the same school in the same sisterhood, it really makes going here special.”

A year earlier when Kimble volunteered for Green Chair and saw the Chairity event vignettes, she thought to herself that maybe one day she would get to design one.

“Once our vignette was complete, it was surreal to me. It was amazing that just one year later I was standing in the space our design group created,” said Kimble. “It just goes to show that Meredith gives you these opportunities, and if you put yourself out there, you don’t know what can happen.”

Most importantly, the students said the vignettes are a lot of glitz and glam, beautiful spaces for people to enjoy seeing, but at the end of the day, the money raised during Chairity provides for families in need. They are proud to be a part of that.

“What makes a home are the families. We had so much fun designing the space together and knowing we were putting our love into something that is going to help the community,” said Kimble.

To learn more about Green Chair and to view the Green Chair Chairity recap video visit thegreenchair.org/chairity.

“I was thrilled to see Meredith’s involvement in Green Chair. It has always seemed like a natural fit between the two organizations because of our interior design program, our merchandising program, and Meredith’s love of creating meaningful service opportunities for its students. I wasn’t surprised to find there was already so much overlap, and Chairity highlighted that.

I think real-life experiences allow our students to test their crafts before they enter the market. I hope that our students learn from this experience what is necessary to be successful as an interior designer and that you can use your degree to serve others meaningfully. I want them to know that their degree will help them earn a living, but it can also be used to serve our community. When your passions collide with the world’s needs, I think we truly improve the lives of those around us.”

Astra Ball

Meredith College Director of Advancement Services and Green Chair Board Chair

“It is so rewarding working for a non-profit organization, and knowing every day that the work you do is helping others. No matter what happened, at the end of the day, more people have essential home furnishings and can have sweeter dreams tonight – and that makes everything worth it. I also love the close connection to Meredith, with Astra Ball, my previous boss, being our Board Chair, and working side by side with another fellow alumna, Margot Huffines. Raleigh is such a great city, and being able to give back to our neighbors in need, while being supported by fellow alums and staff, is such a great feeling. And, continuing it into the next generation, having an intern this summer be a student at Meredith (Claire Parker) was so neat to reminisce about my time at Meredith and see how they’re preparing the students of today to be in the world tomorrow.”

Jordan Godwin, ʼ15 Green Chair Marketing Manager

“Having Meredith involved in Chairity is important to me because giving back to a community that gives to you should be a core value, the networking opportunities for those young ladies are priceless, and this experience is something that cannot be taught in the classroom. After designing two spaces in the last two years for Chairity, I see the value of the experience. Supporting a local charity that is putting resources right back into the very community that we work in is key. The fact that they are in the business of creating homes is the cherry on top.”

Lori Moscato, ʼ99 Owner, Casual Elegance Designs

“I have served on The Green Chair Project board for over four years. I was drawn to the organization for several reasons. The first is how the organization provides beds for children in Wake County who unfortunately do not have a bed of their own. There is a direct correlation between children with beds and how the child performs in life and school. The second was the organization’s mission to provide furnishings and necessities for families in transitional housing when placed in permanent housing. Providing families with their furnishings offers them a sense of value and sustainability, which is inspirational to see. The third was how the organization collaborates and partners with other non-profit organizations to expand its reach to improve the lives of more children and families in our community.

I have witnessed first-hand the positive and profound emotional impact that Green Chair is making on needy families in our community by providing beds, furnishings, and other necessities.”

Charles Royal

Meredith College Board of Trustee Chair, Green Chair Board, and Managing Director, Bank of America

Meredith is the only school in the Raleigh area to hold the Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA) and was recently named the #31 top interior design program in the country by Intelligent.

A BEHIND-THE-SCENES LOOK AT 100 YEARS OF ALICE IN WONDERLAND

By Betsy Rhame-Minor, ’01

A Cheshire cat, a caterpillar smoking on a mushroom, a mad tea party, clever wordplay, and a little girl who navigates this strange world. To some, these bring to mind a childhood story and film adaptations. To those in the Meredith community, these mean much more.

Last month, Meredith College administration, faculty, and staff celebrated 100 years of Alice in Wonderland, with its 26th quadrennial production. Designed to be seen once in a student’s college years, the play also beckons alumnae back to campus to experience this unique gift from College employees to its students. Though the tradition occurs once every four years, it’s made a big enough impact that those in the Meredith community sometimes refer to the College as simply “Wonderland.”

“Everyone remembers seeing Alice,” said Carolyn Carter, ’73, who first saw the performance during her junior year in 1972. “I remember [it] vividly. We just knew it was something very special. Everyone was whispering and figuring out who were various characters.”

Said Anne Bromby, ’71, “I was a freshman so I really didn’t know many of the professors. I sat there for two hours in fantasy land knowing I was seeing something really special.”

Rumors and Myths

A popular story is that Meredith College’s Alice in Wonderland production began during a flu epidemic and quarantine in 1924.

“The flu epidemic may not be true,” said Alice cast member and Director of Alumnae Relations Hilary Allen, ’01. “I think it was started around Valentine’s Day as a Valentine to the students.”

Betty Webb, professor emerita, Wings outreach director, and former Alice cast member, has also heard this explanation.

“The notion that this was a faculty gift to students during a flu outbreak is such a good story that it attracted Meredith students into believing it,” said Webb.

Jean Jackson, ’75, vice president for college programs, professor of English, and cast member and director of Alice, set out to solve this mystery and find the true origin of this tradition. The flu quarantine, she determined, is an urban myth. After extensive research in the College newspaper around the time of the first Alice production and even North Carolina state health records from 1924, Jackson says there is no evidence that this flu rumor is true.

Also, Jackson says, based on our own more recent experience with a pandemic, inviting sick or exposed people to gather for a play is illogical.

What she has learned, however, is that its origins were mysterious. Faculty managed to rehearse a script and create props without the student body’s knowledge. Students were invited to an evening reception, where faculty gave the surprise performance.

Bromby discovered a tiny, tattered script in the Library’s Alice archives, a play in three acts written for children, and that script is still very close to what is used today. Jackson supposes that someone had a copy of the script and the idea to perform it for students in 1924.

According to the College Archives, the first production of Alice was the idea of Director of Physical Education Gertrude Royster Sorrell, and Art Professor Ida Poteat created the first costumes.

Jackson likes to think of those first professors who were responsible.

“I don’t think there’s a way we can know their motivation fully,” she said. “I think the doing of it is noble enough. It’s lasted for 100 years, that says it works at Meredith and works for Meredith. I am so grateful to those early people who started this tradition. I’m sure they would be stunned to know it continues.”

Consistency and Change

In 100 years and 26 productions, some things change each production, and some things remain constant. The characters remain the same though the number of cards, flowers, and fairies can vary. While most of the script remains constant with each production, a few current cultural references are added.

One aspect that is largely the same, time after time, is the costumes. Painstakingly created and repaired by retired Dean of the School of the Arts Becky Bailey since the 1980s, some costumes have lasted decades.

“I imagine I volunteered [to help],” said Bailey, who studied visual arts and theater costume for her Ph.D. “It was a logical fit with my background.”

Her first task was making the new

Humpty Dumpty, which was the original costume and about 60 years old. Bailey has constructed new costumes to be sturdier than the original ones.

“As casting has changed … things have changed in terms of how they’re costumed. The roles in general have become much more active in the time I’ve been involved,” she said.

Bailey has also standardized the makeup for each character or group of characters. The deck of cards all have the suit of their card painted on their faces. The flowers, she says, put on large false eyelashes and rosy cheeks and lips.

Costumes are just one of the many details that must be sorted out.

Said Allen, “Seeing it from the other side, I don’t think people realize all that goes in it.”

For instance, the title character Alice starts practicing her lines in the fall, listening to the full script on her commute to and from campus. Main characters tend to hold the same parts sometimes for decades, and they also begin reviewing their lines early. Costumes and scenery

are unearthed from their hiding places all over campus. Sometimes a new prop needs to be ordered or made.

“There are hundreds of details that have to be managed,” explained Jackson.

Casting Characters

Casting the roles when one opens up falls to Jackson, who has directed the play since 1992.

“Some of being the director is knowing the campus well enough to know who could do the parts,” she explained.

For instance, Jackson jokingly asked Vice President for Business and Finance Tammi Jackson in her job interview if she could roller skate. When Laura Davidson was hired to be Dean of Library Information Services, she learned that one of her job responsibilities would include storing costumes. Jackson has created spots in the script for faculty and staff members to show off hidden talents like belly dancing, tap dancing, and the tango.

“I think [Dr. Jackson] has seen potential in people that they have not seen in themselves,” said Bailey. “It’s just another little quirk in our 100-year history.”

Familiar Faces

For the students, seeing faculty and staff they recognize in comical roles is what makes this tradition so special.

“You hear about it and you finally get to experience it,” said Katie Perkins O’Neill, ’09, who saw Alice for the first time in 2008 and hasn’t missed a performance since. “There will be some surprises. You never knew what professor you would see. ... You can’t see [the White Rabbit] and not think of Dr. Huber anymore, and Dr. Tippett as Queen. There’s nothing like hearing Dr. Lynch play the organ at the beginning. … It’s just so meaningful.”

Said Webb, “The delight of it is recognizing your serious, no-nonsense faculty members acting astonishingly bizarrely on stage.”

The actors appear to have as much fun as the audience.

“I tell every production the students won’t know if you miss a line,” said Jackson. “If you’re having fun they’re having fun seeing it. … Students want to have plenty to laugh at. They want to enjoy it in every way and be surprised by what their faculty and staff do for them.”

Besides the fun, there is deep dedication for those who play the same roles time after time.

Said Webb, “I [once] came back from a sabbatical in order to keep [my] role.”

Jackson, who had two different roles in the play before assuming the director’s role and creating a new character, remembers hearing the news that she’d been named the production’s leader.

“…My colleague in Joyner, now Lux, elbowed me and said, ‘That’s better than tenure,’” Jackson said.

Said Allen, “[Faculty] love the community and want to do [Alice] as a gift for their students. It’s incredible. … I don’t think it would happen at any other school, and if it did it wouldn’t happen consistently for 100 years.”

In celebration

of 100 years of the Alice in Wonderland production at Meredith College, two alumnae are producing a book that will soon be available to the Meredith community.

In January 2023, Anne Bromby, ’71, had the idea to highlight the 100 years and 26 productions.

“I did some research in the library and felt like we had enough to write a book,” Bromby said.

A few months later, Carolyn Carter, ’73, joined her, and they began enlisting the help of others. Thirty-four others, to be exact. Notable College administrators, faculty, staff, and alumnae are writing chapters for the book, designing the cover, creating the book design and layout, and collecting photos, memorabilia, and previous campus newspaper articles from Alice productions over the years.

“It’s a community effort for sure,” explained Bromby. “It’s really been lovely to see everyone embrace this little project and give it life.”

The book, Alice and Wonderland at Meredith College: The First 100 Years, will be available this spring at the Meredith College Campus Store in person and online. Proceeds from the sale of the book will support future Alice productions.

“We wanted to include the 100th celebration performance so the book … will be able to be a graduation gift and available at Reunion Weekend,” Bromby said.

Purchase your copy of Alice in Wonderland at Meredith College: The First 100 Years meredith.edu/alice-in-wonderland-book

MEREDITH PHILANTHROPY MAKING AN IMPACT

Construction Begins on Estes-Speight Family Athletic Center

By Emily Parker

Meredith College broke ground in the fall 2023 on the EstesSpeight Family Athletic Center which will include athletic training space for softball, tennis, and golf. Chris Speight Brown, ’76, along with her siblings, gave a $1 million lead gift to name the center in memory of their mother, Mary Estes Speight, ’53, and their father, Bobby Speight.

The building will include two large indoor batting cages that will double as indoor golf driving ranges, locker rooms, a student lounge, and public restrooms. In addition to the building, lights have been installed at the tennis courts, which have also been resurfaced. A new LED wireless scoreboard has

been installed at the softball complex.

Two of the tennis courts have been named: one by an anonymous donor and one by Brad and Kimberly Osborne in honor of their daughter Ellie, ’25, who is on the tennis team and a Broyhill Scholar. “We are grateful for Ellie’s experience and love for tennis, a lifelong sport. Through dedication and determination, student-athletes become role models, inspiring others to chase their dreams and believe in their potential. Sports have the extraordinary ability to bridge divides and bring communities together,” said Brad Osborne. “We are honored to support Meredith tennis and the

Meredith Strong mantra for the young women who will thrive on these courts in the future.”

The players' lounge has also been recently named by Ginger Alexander Neustadt, ’05, former Board of Trustees member. "I treasure my days at Meredith and I appreciate the opportunity to support our Avenging Angels with a room where they can relax, rejuvenate, and swap their game day stories. I want to be a part of the upward trend in women’s athletics and what better place than the college that changed my life? Go, Angels!"

Meredith’s 11 athletic teams have had continued success. Keeping facilities up to date will support Meredith’s enrollment of studentathletes.

The current construction is phase one of the project. Support is needed to start phase two, which will include other amenities for the complex.

Inland Construction, headquartered in Garner, N.C., has been selected as the general contractor. Construction of phase one is expected to be completed in 2024.

Learn more about Meredith Athletics at goavengingangels.com, and to see construction updates, visit meredith.edu/campus-growth. Interested in helping fund phase

Estes-Speight Family Athletic Center rendering provided by Inland Construction

two of the project? Contact Eric Douglass, director of strategic giving for athletics, at edouglass@meredith. edu or (919) 760-8589.

Douglass Brings Valuable Experience to Athletics

Eric Douglass is the new director of strategic fundraising for athletics. He will also remain as Meredith’s head tennis coach. Douglass has over 30 years of experience securing funding for high-profile sports and entertainment events, non-profits, colleges, and universities. His clients have included such notable events as The Grammy Awards, the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am and Masters, the 1996 Summer Olympics, multiple Super Bowls, the US Open Tennis Championships, and others. He has also worked at Duke University and Tulane Law School. After college, Douglass played tennis professionally in Europe and was a hitting partner for several ATP and WTA pros at the French Open, Wimbledon, and US Open. He taught tennis in Los Angeles before starting a successful career in the sports and entertainment industries. In his spare time, he plays tennis competitively and recreationally and works with a few junior tournament players. He is a Principia College graduate with three grown children of whom he is immensely proud.

50th Reunion Project to Help Athletes and All Students

Meredith College has a long history of alumnae honoring their alma mater with their gifts of support. Each class raises funds for a 50th reunion class gift. During their 45th reunion year, each class selects a project that is a priority of the College. During the next five years, the class raises $250,000 to establish a class legacy for current and future generations of Meredith students.

“Meredith’s Alumnae Reunion Weekend is one of the most significant annual alumnae events hosted on campus, with classmates celebrating the results of their collaborative fundraising efforts with their 50th reunion class gift,” said Tonita Few, strategic giving officer for reunions.

“The Class of 1978 will celebrate their 50th class reunion in 2028, and we are pleased that they have decided on what their funds will support.”

The Class of 1978, led by Class Gift Agent Celia Brown Mitchell, has chosen to support the transportation needs of Athletics and other student groups by purchasing two new 15-passenger vans. The new vehicles will replace the current vans that are 18 years old. Each van will be equipped with modern technology such as GPS, Wi-Fi so students can do homework while traveling, charging stations for phones and laptop computers, and comfortable seats for longdistance travel. The vans will also

be custom-wrapped with Meredith College branding to serve as a mobile billboard for athletics and admissions recruitment purposes.

“Our class wanted to impact as many students as possible while meeting a great need. When the idea of bus transportation became a possibility, the committee agreed that it was a great project idea for our class,” said Mitchell. “Our class feels that every student, whether an athlete or not, deserves a first-class experience when they are on the road for a Meredith function.”

Approximately 300 individuals are involved in Athletics at Meredith, whether they are players, coaches, assistants, trainers, or other staff who assist Athletics.

“I want the current Meredith students to know that the Class of 1978 is committed to paying it forward with our financial contributions that will ensure the success of Meredith sports and other co-curricular activities on and off campus,” said Mitchell. “The 50th reunion project committee is a dedicated and loyal group of graduates who are grateful for how Meredith shaped our lives not only through our fabulous education but also through the friendships and sisterhood we are happy to be part of. Our class motto is ’78 First Rate’ and we want to guarantee that all future Meredith students have a first-rate experience as well.”

Eric Douglass

Walking in their Mother’s Footsteps

By Emily Parker

Margaret Weatherspoon Parker, ’38, was a strict parent with high expectations of her two daughters. So when Anne Parker Phillips, ’66, and Mary Stuart Parker Alderman, ’71, decided they wanted to honor their mother with a gift to Meredith College, they wanted to make sure it would be something she would have been proud to support.

“Despite her high standards, she was a champion of the underdog,” said Mary Stuart. “She was an angel in disguise to many people and was the epitome of a Meredith Angel.”

Student Fund in honor of their mother.

International students will have the opportunity to receive up to $5,000 in an academic year for circumstances such as medical emergencies, housing, bereavement travel expenses, and other needs deemed appropriate. The fund will be managed by the Office of International Programs.

“I am in awe of our international students, who have often traveled across the world in pursuit of a Meredith College education. They are brave, strong, and ambitious students who are such a valuable part of our

The Parker family had a long history of support for women’s education and support for those in need. Later in life, as Margaret enjoyed traveling abroad and seeing places very different from her North Carolina home, she understood the importance of knowing about and understanding cultures beyond one’s own. After discussions with Margo Alfieri, ’11, regional director of strategic giving, about the need for a fund to assist Meredith international students experiencing unforeseen hardships, Anne and Mary Stuart made a gift of $50,000 to establish the Margaret Weatherspoon Parker International

community,” said Brooke Shurer, director of international programs. “When unexpected challenges arise in their lives, international students are often not able to access government aid, financial loans, additional work, or family circles of support to weather these storms. This fund meets a direct need to ensure that these students are supported during the most vulnerable of times. We are truly grateful to Anne and Mary Stuart for honoring the legacy of their incredible mother in this impactful way.”

The sisters felt the gift was a fitting tribute to their mother, and it would

be how she would have wanted them to respond to the need, just as she would have done.

“She would have loved meeting the Meredith international students and learning from them about their families, backgrounds, and aspirations. She cared for those with challenges, as made obvious by the agencies she supported with her time and talents. She helped those who couldn’t help themselves,” said Anne. Mary Stuart added that it was appropriate for them to provide resources to Meredith to emphasize the importance of a well-rounded education to address not only the academic but also the physical and emotional development of the students.

Since Anne and Mary Stuart appreciate the value of the international diversity these young women bring to Meredith, they want to help those courageous and determined enough to venture to the U.S., especially to Meredith, to broaden their education.

Two of Margaret’s three sisters also attended Meredith: Laura Weatherspoon Harrill, ’27, and Stuart Weatherspoon Upchurch, ’36. The fourth sister attended Hollins College, and their mother attended Greensboro College, both women’s colleges. In 1968, Margaret’s uncle, W. Herbert Weatherspoon, then a trustee of Meredith, and the four daughters of his late brother James R. Weatherspoon initiated the fundraising campaign for the new physical education building at Meredith with a major gift, thus having the gymnasium named for the Weatherspoon family. Margaret's other financial contributions to Meredith include endowing a scholarship, supporting the library, investing in the addition of the Weatherspoon Gymnasium, supporting the Meredith Fund, and meeting other needs on campus. Margaret was honored to be asked to serve as a trustee, following in the legacy of her uncle Herbert and sister Laura, and served on Meredith

Phillips and Alderman visited campus in October 2023 to meet some of Meredith’s current international students and enjoyed lunch together.

Dr. Brooke Shurer, Atiqua Prithu, ’25, Shae-Lynn Henderson, ’25, Anne Parker Phillips, ’66 (top row pictured from left to right). Mary Stuart Parker Alderman, ’ 71, Wanjiru Mambo, ’ 24, Margo Alfieri, ’ 11 (bottom row pictured from left to right).

College’s Board of Trustees from 1974-1998. She was proud to be Meredith’s first female Board Chair from 1991-93.

Margaret also served on the N.C. Baptist Convention’s Committee on Higher Education with her pastor and other moderate Baptist leaders who opposed the Southern Baptist Convention’s increasingly restrictive edicts. Mary Stuart says her mother was very proud to be at the helm of the Board of Trustees when the decision was made to sever the College’s ties with the Southern Baptist Convention in defiance of their position on women in leadership roles.

“Mother always encouraged us in our leadership roles, insisting that it was most appropriate for us to be in positions of church and community leadership, and yet she shunned most leadership roles as inappropriate for her,” said Anne. “Though she was uncomfortable in the leadership role as Board Chair, she felt strongly about the issues and decisions that were facing Meredith because of the change in leadership of the Southern Baptist Convention.” Mary Stuart added, “She wanted Meredith to continue to be a woman’s college and was determined to help maintain the College’s status as a single-sex institution.”

“Mother came from and continued a legacy of giving to help others,” said Anne. “She was fortunate to have the ability to make an impact with her resources and was involved with quite a few philanthropic endeavors.” Margaret was an active member of First Baptist Church in Winston-Salem, N.C., co-founded the Missions Memory Fund, and was a member of the Women’s Missionary Union. She was a sustaining member of the Junior League of Winston-Salem, served as the President of the Bowman Gray School of Medicine Guild, was a Board member of the Amos Cottage Rehabilitation Hospital and Senior Services of Winston-Salem, and was active with the Winston-Salem Foundation.

Anne and Mary Stuart have wonderful memories of their mother and all the good she did to help others. They are pleased that their gift to Meredith will keep her memory alive and show international students that others care about their needs and affirm their desire to further their education as Angels at their alma mater.

You can further the impact of Anne and Mary Stuart's effort by contributing to this fund. Visit community.meredith.edu/SupportMC and select "Other" from the designation drop-down box. Please type in Margaret Weatherspoon Parker International Student Fund to designate your gift to this fund.

Going far, going strong –for generations

More than 130 years ago, Meredith College opened with just over 200 women. Today, we’re a nationally-ranked community of thousands going far and going strong – together. As we carry our work forward into the future, we want to share an alumnae resource that can help you care for yourself, your loved ones, and your community for years to come.

Meredith College has partnered with FreeWill – a secure, online estate planning resource where you can make a plan to protect what matters most in as little as 20 minutes and at no personal cost. This self-guided platform walks you through the will-writing process and allows you to include an optional legacy donation to support the next generation of students.

Visit FreeWill.com/MeredithCollege or scan the QR code to learn more and get started today!

SUPPORT MEREDITH.

Gifts to Meredith College make a difference to the entire Meredith community and keep our students going strong!

Visit meredith.edu/support and make a gift that addresses the College’s greatest needs, select a more specific way to make an immediate impact on the College, make a long-term, endowed gift, or a gift through your will or trust. Also, learn how you can attend future events or how you can volunteer. Connect with other alumnae and students through the Meredith Mentors program.

Visit meredith.edu/support to stay connected and reach out to an Institutional Advancement staff member if you have questions. To make a gift, visit community.meredith.edu/ supportmc.

ALUMNAE CONNECTION

Class notes and news for Meredith Alumnae

1958

Chris Livingston Arthur lost her wonderful husband in February 2022 and he is greatly missed by her and her family. She continues to reside in a great retirement residence community in Rock Hill, S.C., where there is much friendly support. Arthur is now on dialysis three days a week, which leaves four days to feel great. She considers herself very blessed! Her children and grandchildren are spread across the country, including Houston, Dallas, Denver, Rock Hill, and Columbia. Life is good! Still living at their home in Raleigh, Susan Moss Grigg and her husband are in good health for their age. They enjoy gardening and seeing family and church friends. After many years, Grigg has retired from her church handbell group because of macular degeneration problems. Her husband’s train group has disbanded, so they both have more time to do everyday things. They were both recently honored by their Presbyterian church as the 2023 outstanding older adults. Grigg and her family experienced severe devastation in September 2023 because of the loss of her daughter, Laura Grigg Powell, ’90, who died from cancer. The loss has left a hole in Grigg’s family and heart.

1963

Spending three weeks abroad, Martha Spence Blount and her husband traveled to France on a trip they had planned to take back in 2020. They spent the first two weeks with the alumnae and friends travel program and the last week sightseeing on their own. They also visited a friend of their son’s who lives in a chateau in Estos. From Estos, Blount took a train to La Rochelle. She had Huguenot ancestors who were sent to La Rochelle when Protestants were banned from most of France. Before

Compiled

returning home, they visited Paris for two more days. Blount had a grand time and enjoyed meeting some alumnae and friends of the College who she previously did not know. Retired from pastoral care, Bryna Barrett Bozart-Barnes continues to maintain connections from her roles at Atrium Health and The Charlotte Spirituality Center. She now enjoys family trips to the mountains and coast in N.C. She remains active in church and enjoys good books and good friends! In addition to continuing to run her private practice, Anna Shadoin Rickell also runs grief groups at First Presbyterian.

1967

In recognition of extensive community service and volunteer participation in local projects and events, Sharon Bradshaw Kirby Lamm recently received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Greater Palm Harbor Area Chamber of Commerce in Palm Harbor, Fla. She served for many years on the board of directors, including her position as chair of the board. Lamm continues to hold leadership positions while actively supporting the organization. In addition to this service, Lamm also writes a monthly column published in a local newspaper detailing Palm Harbor Museum activities and events.

1971

Anne Luter Bromby had a special joy this past December – the birth of her new grandchild! Her son and daughterin-law welcomed their first child at the end of 2023. An early Christmas present! Anne has also enjoyed working extensively with Carolyn Howard Carter, ’72, on a special Meredith project for the 100th anniversary of Alice in Wonderland. They have been delighted with all the support they have received

from Meredith people. Deborah Ingram Cleaver cannot believe how much time has passed since their 50th Alumnae Reunion where she reunited with so many old friends and spent a wonderful weekend with her roommate, Sue Hubbard Ramsay. Cleaver will always think of Reunion with warmth. She is now retired from Lewis and Clark College but continues to teach her long-standing adult students. She relishes the gift of free time that leaving academia has allowed her. Cleaver admits that she has always had wanderlust and has recently been making up for lost time during the pandemic. Over the last two years, she traveled to Norway, Sweden, Finland, Spain, Portugal, Italy, France, Canada, Croatia, and Greece. Cleaver has even more planned for 2024! In the spring, she will spend three weeks at the NG Art Creative Residency at Moulin Gréoux near Maussane in Les Alpilles working on material for a paper on translating the music of the Baroque era from the harpsichord to the modern piano. While she has spent time in Provence during the summer and fall, Cleaver has not ever visited in the spring. Until this adventure, she is studying French online with Babbel and with a private tutor for conversation. She hopes to at least improve her "restaurant French'' by the time she leaves. Being an avid hiker, Cleaver also has plans for a trekking trip around Mt. Blanc in Switzerland, France, and Italy in September and October 2024. She’s prepared for the hike by climbing up Oregon's many fabulous mountain trails. Cleaver's husband continues to keep himself busy in retirement from his many years as a professor of Chinese medicine, and they both marvel at how the hours fly by every day. She looks forward to hearing about a future Meredith reunion and would love to come to another! Happily retired,

Chris Fecho Dixon and her husband live in St. Joseph, Mich. She recently got together with classmate Rachael Shaw Richardson in Columbia and Charleston, S.C. They had a wonderful time! Returning from a family trip, Libbo Leathers Hall visited the Bay Area of California. Earlier in the summer, Hall and her husband met up with Nancy Watkins Laney and her husband for their 56th Henderson High School reunion. They enjoy their part-time condo at Ivy Hall in Raleigh, which is near their daughter and grandchildren. Moving to Holden Beach, N.C., Sara Kennemur Mountford and her husband enjoy being in their happy place! She loves babysitting her two grandsons who live nearby and visiting with Anne Luter Bromby. For more than 27 years, Jessie Markert Rivers has worked as a chemist at JALI, a food quality and safety lab in Edenton, N.C. She is a leader in quality assurance, specializing in peanuts and almonds. Her studies in organic chemistry at Meredith and NC State prepared her for her longtime career as a chemist. Before her role at JALI, Rivers worked for R.J. Reynolds in Winston-Salem and Avoca Farms.

Splitting time between Indialantic Fla., Charlotte, and Boone, Vickie Regan Rolfe and her husband like the warm weather in the winter and the cooler weather in the summer! Their long-time friends are in Charlotte, so time spent in town is very valuable to them. This past spring, Rolfe took a lovely trip to Marbella and Seville, Spain. Her family members, including their daughter, son-in-law, and grandson, were able to join the trip. She missed her oldest grandson who could not attend as he was preparing for his graduation from Princeton. He began a job as a structural engineer in R.I. over the summer. Rolfe sends all her best to her classmates!

Gloria Little English has had a busy year! She and her husband traveled to Boston for a Lions Convention and also traveled on an amazing Viking Cruise to Iceland and Norway. In addition to traveling this year, English planned her 56th class reunion for Smithfield High School and is in her 19th year of volunteering with the AARP TaxAide program. Looking forward to her next trip, English plans to get some needed rest on her river cruise on the beautiful Danube in July 2024. Jane Holloway Woodard and her family continue to have fun raising a

ALUMNAE GOING STRONG

CHRISTINA SARACENO, ’17 Turning Obstacles Into Opportunities

By Rocio Antelis

Christina Saraceno, ’17, was raised to believe she could do anything if she set her mind to it. Saraceno was diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy at birth, which has led to her using a wheelchair as the disability affects her four limbs and balance. Because of her diagnosis, many individuals have doubted her ability to achieve her goals. Saraceno has never let that deter her.

At Meredith, she was heavily involved in traditions and student life, including living on campus. “I loved Cornhuskin’ and Stunt because my classmates were inclusive of me. My favorite Stunt activity was the three-legged race. A little creativity goes a long way!” said Saraceno.

As an intern for Meredith Events, Saraceno and Bill Brown, director of events, realized the campus needed accessibility updates. For over three years, Saraceno worked with the events team to identify improvements while maintaining the campus's historic elements. “I’m proud that my efforts have made a significant impact on students and visitors,” said Saraceno. “The College continues to implement accessibility improvements to this day and informs me of those changes.”

In 2019, Saraceno was nominated by First In Families NC to collaborate with Lenovo on their Smarter Technology for All initiative, which strives to assist individuals with disabilities to be more independent in their homes by using smart technology.

“I love that a global company with a large platform is noticing people with different abilities and bringing them to the forefront,” said Saraceno. “It takes a lot of effort and collaboration for a large company to take this approach.”

Once Lenovo assessed her needs, they provided her with voice-activated, smart technology, including thermostats and lightbulbs. COVID-19 delayed the project, and Saraceno was grateful for Lenovo’s determination to continue collaborating. Once the project resumed, Lenovo and Saraceno filmed two videos to share her story and how the smart technology had improved her independence.

Thanks to the online attention the videos received, Saraceno had the opportunity to film a one-minute segment for WRAL to educate others on the technology. Saraceno felt prepared for the interviews because of her educational experiences at Meredith.

“I am honored to have access to these products that empower my independence. You can’t put a price on independence. You really can’t.” said Saraceno. “I still collaborate with Lenovo to help individuals with a disability be more independent in their everyday lives.”

Saraceno strives to break down barriers and shift people’s mindsets to be more open and inclusive. “Every time I look down at my onyx ring, I’m reminded I’m the epitome of what strong looks like,” said Saraceno. “I am thankful to the Meredith community for their ongoing support.”

ALUMNAE CONNECTION

service dog for Canine Companions. Kasha, a yellow Lab, has been with the family since October 2022. In February 2024, Kasha went to “puppy college” to learn her “big girl” job and will hopefully change someone’s life. The highlight of Woodard’s summer was attending the 50th wedding anniversary party of her cousin, Anne Luter Bromby, and her husband, Craig. New friends and lifelong friends from high school and college gathered at the Bromby beach house to celebrate.

1973

Bobbie Heilman Murphy had so much fun celebrating her 50th Alumnae Reunion Weekend this past May. She loved catching up with everyone and reminiscing about the Meredith years! Since Reunion, Murphy and several other classmates in the Richmond area have begun getting together periodically for lunch or dinner. She enjoys seeing the group, including: Marcia Dark Coreth , Anne Carter Shiflett Zetts , Scottie Noel Alley, Debbie Adams Roethke , Sarah Powell Prior, and Shirley Johnston Sprinkle, more regularly.

1975

Celebrating a 70th birthday and a 43rd wedding anniversary in the same year certainly made Susan Webster Vallance feel especially thankful! She and her husband continue attempting to keep pace with their two precious granddaughters. Vallance treasures getting to catch up and spend time with her Meredith classmates periodically.

1980

In July 2022, Laura Anderson Jacobson released her first children’s picture book, The Boy with the Magic Thumb. Her book was published through Creative Minds Publications and highlights the transition from thumb-sucking to inner confidence. Jacobson, in partnership with the Office of Alumnae Relations, hosted a book signing event on campus in October 2023. She loved getting to share the story and its background with other alumnae who attended!

1981

After retiring, as the downtown marketing coordinator with the City of Wilson, Susan Kellum is now with the N.C. Department of Commerce as the program manager

of the N.C. Main to Main Trail grant. Kellum’s son is a police officer in southern California and was married in April 2023 at Laguna Beach. Making a trip out of the wedding, Kellum and her partner traveled to Maui, where they were lucky to spend time in Lahaina before the devastating fires. Her daughter, Caroline Levin, ’17, lives in New York and is an account manager with Stokke.

1984

In October 2023, Nancye Butterworth traveled and stayed in Ohio for two weeks to meet her new grandson! Emily Craig has been working as the teaching director at Community Bible Study in Georgetown, S.C. since 2020. Over the summer of 2023, Jane Harrell Dodd welcomed a new grandson, James Haiden. Celebrating her 21st work anniversary this year, Elizabeth Dove never expected to be at SAS for so long! She enjoys her work immensely and even after all the years, continues to learn something new every day. Dove appreciates that her professional life has allowed her to travel, having lived in Europe for four years, along with many other cities in the U.S. She is especially thankful that Meredith encouraged her to be a lifelong learner – what she has become throughout her career! After more than 20 years in Japan, Carolyn McLeod Gaskins and her husband relocated to London this summer. This move began a new chapter in Gaskins’ career and a new adventure in her life! She moved for her work with Bloomberg LP, where she is the facilitation lead for EMEA, as part of the leadership and talent development team. After taking a few months to get settled into their new home, they are now having a great time exploring London and traveling throughout Europe – weekend trips to new locations are so easy! In addition to new adventures, Gaskins is enjoying "reliving" her semester abroad in England and Scotland with the Meredith group in the summer of 1983. She hopes if any fellow angels are located in England or visiting that they will reach out. Cynthia Lawson Harding is excited to announce the birth of her grandson in February 2023! Dr. Jane Boyd Thomas has been named Distinguished Professor at Winthrop University. This is the highest honor the university bestows upon faculty members. The selection

indicates exceptional skill in teaching, significant research or creative effort, high standing among professional colleagues, and general service to the university. Thomas is often referred to as "Dr. Shopping" and has published more than 50 articles on consumer behavior. Retiring from optometry in N.J., Dr. Freddie Johnson Van Zile has relocated to Pine Knoll Shores, N.C.

1986

After over 21 years of teaching in N.C. public schools, Robbin Spencer Dunthorn officially retired on August 1, 2023! She decided that after teaching in three different schools full-time and substitute teaching at several other schools, the time was right. Dunthorn did stay home with her children for a few years in between her teaching jobs. She has seen many changes in both the educational system and the students and continues to pray for future teachers every day. Despite the known challenges of teaching, Dunthorn does not have any regrets about being a teacher but emphasizes that teaching is a job that requires love and passion for the field. In December 2023, Georgia Parrish James retired after 20 years as a high school food and nutrition teacher. She began her career in Pitt County and ended her career at Southwest Edgecombe High School. Immediately after retiring, James moved from her home in Bethel to a 90-year-old farmhouse with only one toilet! She plans to spend more time in Raleigh during her retirement and would love to plan outings with fellow angels. James cannot believe she and her classmates will be turning 60 next year. Continuing to work parttime, the real highlight of Melinda Wrenn Thomas ’s week is keeping her two grandchildren on Fridays. They love coming over to "Lindy and Papa’s house." Thomas is expecting the arrival of her third grandchild.

1987

In June 2023, a group of Class of 1987 friends, Cindie Miner Johnson , Sophie Grady Knott , Aileen Jenkins Staples , and Donna Wilson Thagard joined the alumnae and friends travel program on a trip to Northern France. The travels were full of sightseeing, food, fellowship, and new friends! Having worked for the Town of Wake Forest for over 30 years,

Aileen Jenkins Staples was promoted in July 2023 to assistant town manager and chief financial officer. In her new role, Staples will oversee several departments, including finance, budgets, risk management, information technology, organizational performance, and Wake Forest power. Before being promoted, she served as the finance director.

1988

Dottie Bass Burch has been recognized in the 2024 edition of Best Lawyers in America for her practice areas in Business Law and Real Estate Law. Fewer than six percent of the nation's practicing lawyers are included in the peer-evaluated annual list.

1989

Proud Wings alumna Mary Beth Deaton and her husband were awarded the inaugural George and Mary Beth Deaton Award for their contributions to Family Promise of Wake County. This organization moves families at risk of or experiencing homelessness

into sustainable, permanent housing in the community through a continuum of services. Happy to announce the engagement of her son, Mary Ann Lisenba Kirchner is looking forward to their wedding taking place in Dublin, Ireland, in July 2024! The two met in high school at their youth group and became sweethearts. Kirchner’s son works as a financial representative at Fidelity and his fiancee as a pediatric oncology nurse at St. Jude’s Children's Research Hospital. Kirchner enjoyed getting together for a mini-reunion with fellow angels Edy Speight Abshire, Jan Pope Faison , and Sarah Winslow Sykes at an NC State football game last November. There was plenty of food, love, and laughter! She always enjoys spending time together – both reminiscing and making new memories. After working as an elementary school teacher for 35 years, Susan Whichard Tankard has retired. She was excited to see her daughter get married in October 2023.

1990

Recently moving to Hawaii, Alyson Kuhlke

Jones and her husband are helping care for her mother-in-law and attempting to revive a family farm. In addition to their move, Jones and her husband recently became grandparents. God is Good!

1995

In 2022, Nicole Bettini Higginbotham graduated from Queens University in Charlotte with a Master of Science in Talent and Organization Development. Higginbotham now serves as the chief people officer for Abound Health, an organization providing care and services to empower individuals living with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Recently changing jobs, Betsy Powell Mantak is now working as a creative project manager at Closed Loop, Inc. After suffering a ruptured aneurysm in March 2021, “going strong” has a whole new meaning for Emily Griffith Potts . She decided to leave the classroom to become a school counselor. Potts now works with the senior class at Dan River High School in Virginia. Her son is working to finish his Master of Science in Anatomy at Marshall

PARTY 3 CLASS LUNCHEON & EVENTS 3 WORSHIP SERVICE

STATE OF THE COLLEGE

Join us on campus in May to relive your Meredith Days! All alumnae are invited to attend Alumnae Reunion Weekend, and classes ending in a four or nine will be celebrating a special class reunion. On Friday, we will celebrate the Class of 1974 and all other classes who have celebrated a 50th reunion at the Golden Oaks Society Luncheon, and the Campus Party hosted by President Jo Allen, ’80, will feature live music from BOUNCE Party Band. Saturday highlights include a State of the College, where we will honor and celebrate the retirement of Dr. Allen, the College’s first alumna president, a campus luncheon, and individual class activities. The weekend will conclude on Sunday with the Alumnae Worship Service and Brunch.

To view the schedule of on-campus events and individual class events as well as register online, visit meredith.edu/alumnaereunion. Should you have questions or need additional assistance, please contact the Office of Alumnae Relations at (919) 760-8548 or alumnae@meredith.edu.

We look forward to welcoming you home in May!

ALUMNAE GOING STRONG

KENYA LAWRENCE, ’07

A Lifelong Learner

By Rocio Antelis

From a young age, Kenya Lawrence, ’07, sought out opportunities to teach. As early as junior high, she would tutor elementary students. In high school, she mentored middle schoolers through the Breakthrough Collaborative program and volunteered as a summer camp counselor.

“I always knew I wanted to be in education,” said Lawrence. “I had an awesome math teacher in the eighth grade so when it came time for me to decide my major, I chose math in addition to a teaching licensure.”

Lawrence first began pursuing her bachelor’s degree in 1999 at North Carolina State University. As a mother and student working full-time, she faced several obstacles to finishing her degree. A colleague who was pursuing her MBA at Meredith encouraged Lawrence to apply to the College, emphasizing the small class sizes and strong community. In 2004, Lawrence began her studies at Meredith as a Wings student and completed her degree in three years.

“The small environment was definitely what I needed. Having that support system allowed me to stick with it,” said Lawrence. “When the daycare was closed, other students were willing to watch my daughter in the lounge while I was in class. It was really sweet of them to do that.”

After graduating, Lawrence taught in the classroom for 14 years. She participated in many professional development opportunities, including fellowships with the Yale National Initiative and Charlotte Teachers Institute. In 2021, she was offered the opportunity to work with Durham Public Schools as a district math coach. After two years, she was promoted to math specialist. She provides schools with support and resources to improve their instruction and track student data to monitor progress.

Lawrence takes a personalized learning approach to education, which emphasizes learner profiles, competency-based progressions, individualized learning pathways, and flexible learning environments. In this approach, teachers co-design the environment with students and strategically use technology to present content, customize learning plans, and track student data. Lawrence earned a Master of Arts in Education Technology and a Master of Information Science from North Carolina Central University in 2023 to become more adept in technological resources.

Additionally, Lawrence is pursuing her Ph.D. in Mathematics and Statistics Education at NC State. “Teachers are asked to do a lot. How are they supposed to get everything done? I think the answer to that is personalized learning. That’s why I chose to pursue a Ph.D.,” said Lawrence. “I want to research how personalized learning impacts different classroom environments and how it affects social, emotional, and academic learning.”

Lawrence thanks Meredith for helping to develop her teacher’s voice and making her a well-rounded teacher. “Meredith provides a personal experience,” she said. “I felt comfortable going into the classroom and using what I had learned at Meredith.”

while simultaneously working as an adjunct professor. Potts’ daughter is a sophomore in high school and looking to enter a fine culinary arts program. Keeping the entire family sane, Potts’ husband coached football for 25 years and is now retired.

1996

After the last seven years spent teaching middle school English, social studies, and science, Dede Cañedo Hollifield has finally achieved her dream of becoming an English language learner teacher. She is teaching K-5 students in Morganton, N.C., where most of her school is from Guatemala. They are helping Hollifield improve her Spanish and she is helping them learn English. She thinks this opportunity has been a rewarding way to start her 21st year in education!

1999

C ourtney Duncil drafted a legal article published by Bloomberg Law on August 2, 2023. The article, “Why ChatGPT Won’t Put Discovery Counsel Out of a Job," discusses the ways that artificial intelligence has revolutionized e-discovery and explains the crucial importance of discovery attorneys despite this technology. Duncil works as discovery counsel in Moore & Van Allen’s litigation group in Charlotte, with a focus on discovery, particularly electronic discovery. It has been a busy year for KeAnne Tomlinson Hoeg! In June 2023, she became a project manager for her organization’s program that helps N.C. manufacturers alleviate supply chain disruptions by sourcing necessary materials and products domestically. The addition of this program to Hoeg’s position has enabled her to present at conferences and to a variety of regional and state economic developers. In addition to her career change, Hoeg has worked on getting back into writing recently. She has written and read a few pieces at local open mic nights. Two pieces of her work were published in local publications, and she’s enjoyed exercising that part of her brain after all these years. During the summer, Hoeg and her son, who is 14, vacationed with friends in Chicago. This was his first trip outside of N.C. and on a plane and he loved it! Hoeg hopes to take him on more trips in the next year. Nelly Navarro-Britt welcomed a grandson, Declan Edward, in October 2023.

2001

Lyda Fontes McCartin is the new director of the School of Information Science at the University of South Carolina.

2003

In July 2023, Amanda Fletcher began a new role as the executive director of the office of international programs at Edmonds College in Lynnwood, Wash. Moving from Nova Scotia, Jacqueline Phillips Weatherly-Cadzow is now back in New Bern, N.C.

2004

Emily Gupton Upchurch is a special education instructor for kindergarten and first grade at Cluster Springs Elementary School in Alton, Va.

2005

Paige Avery Barnes was named Johnston County Public Schools Principal of the Year for the 2023-24 academic year. Teaching middle school trivium, Nicole Armstrong Cockerham works at Thales Academy’s Rolesville campus. Sarah Gransee has recently become the director of library development for the State Library of N.C. She moved to Durham in early November and is enjoying the chance to get reacquainted with the Triangle.

2007

Adrienne Kralick Walker has accepted a new position and is now a senior tax manager for FORVIS in High Point, N.C.

2009

Accepting a new position as an associate podiatrist at Alta Ridge Foot Specialist, Samantha Price Chiles serves the area from Boone to Spruce Pine, N.C.

2011

Transitioning to a fully plant-based diet in 2020, Pamela Lakay Footman has been featured in several magazine articles, including Women’s World and Forks Over Knives. This health transition along with a regular exercise routine has helped Footman lose over 100 pounds.

2012

The book Greeking Out, written by Jillian Curtis Hughes , was published by National Geographic Kids and is a New York Times best-seller! Hughes wrote the book based on the “Greeking Out” podcast. She has been the head writer for the podcast since 2019 and recently won a Webby Award for her work.

2016

Meredith Hovis began a new position as an assistant professor at the University of North Carolina at Wilmington.

NEW ARRIVALS

2003

Allison Shivar Linton, a daughter, Abigail, 12/12/22.

2004

Kacie Miller Teeter finalized the adoption of her twin girls, Faith and Grace, in March 2023.

2007

Laura-Beth Aldridge Jones, a son, Brooks Lee Todoroff, 7/22/23.

2008

Ashley Morrison Craig, a daughter, Camilla Harper, 10/22/23.

ToniAnn Gambella Loftus, a son, Theodore James, 10/16/23.

Mackenzie Lyons Rackley, a daughter, Ellie Lyons, 3/13/23.

2010

Laura Beth Jones, a son, Brooks Lee, 7/22/23.

2013

Kelsey Suttenfield Lawhorn, a daughter, Shiloh, 6/26/23.

Holly Campbell Huitt, a daughter, Lucy Kate, 6/22/23.

2018

Maggie McCreery Woods, a daughter, Anne McCreery, 4/28/23.

MARRIAGES

2016

Cheyenne Raye Williams to Rene Fernandez, 5/27/23.

Meredith Hovis to Alex Nianouris, 6/10/23.

DEATHS

1940

Sarah Olive Lawrence, 5/24/23.

ALUMNAE CONNECTION

1944

Fannie Memory Farmer Mitchell, 8/21/23.

1946

Helen Hall Bosse, 9/19/23.

1949

Lela Butts Hovis, 8/21/23.

Betty Jo Williams, 7/23/23.

1951

Jean Valette Taylor, 10/1/23.

1953

Nancy Jo Wallis Fleming, 10/9/23.

Jean Dula Fletcher, 8/10/23.

1963

Linda Thornton Stern, 9/25/23.

LaRue McLamb Todd, 7/12/23.

1955

Rebecca Calloway Daniel, 11/4/23.

1957

Margaret Ann Stewart Lewis, 12/31/22.

1958

Betty Jane Jackson, 8/23/23.

Joyce Skillman McKenzie, 11/2/23.

1959

Mary Eunice Hassel, 8/30/23.

1961

Ruth Moss Moore, 10/23/23.

1963

Frances Gorham Stewart, 11/9/23.

1968

Susan Ray Smialowicz, 10/11/23.

1971

Mary Lynne Bogguss, 10/4/23.

1972

Susan Van Wagening Montgomery, 9/13/23.

Rebecca Brown Roberts, 11/22/23.

1978

Rebecca Johnson Wines, 7/14/23.

1980

Barbara Sirles Westmoreland, 8/31/23.

1982

Virginia Porter Bateman, 10/7/23.

1986

Nancy Braun Smith, 11/4/23.

1990

Laura Grigg Powell, 9/21/23.

SYMPATHY

1953

Meta Mae Williams Kennedy in the death of her sister.

1958

Susan Moss Grigg in the death of her daughter.

1960

Carolyn Jones Hammond in the death of her husband.

1966

Sara Lynn Kennedy in the death of her grandson.

1972

Becky Hooper Michaels in the death of her husband.

1973

Susan Lassiter Lampley in the death of her mother and sister.

1975

Patty Whisnant Cease in the death of her uncle.

Laurie Lu Cressman in the death of her brother-in-law.

Emily Perry Johnson in the death of her sister.

Margaret Farmer Woollen in the death of her aunt.

1976

Kathryn Midyette Anderson in the death of her mother.

Lisa Williams Phipps in the death of her mother.

1978

Sally Lawrence Sandifer in the death of her mother.

1979

Billie Jo Kennedy Cockman in the death of her aunt.

Jennifer Norvell Farrell in the death of her father.

Ruth Joan Pardue in the death of her mother.

Molly Lawrence Whitaker in the death of her mother.

1980

Joy Johnson Giuseffi in the death of her mother.

1981

Jennifer Blackmon Williams in the death of her husband.

Mary Williams-Kotnik in the death of her brother.

1983

Lisa Peters Bailey in the death of her father.

Nancy Mullinax Stamper in the death of her mother.

1988

Nadine Kennedy Bradsher in the death of her father.

1991

Raven Joyner Edwards in the death of her father.

Kimberly Corcoran Moore in the death of her father.

1994

Leslie Wallace Helms in the death of her father.

2003

Jamie Lynn Burke in the death of her son.

2005

Mary Clarke Shuff Bourgeois in the death of her mother.

2011

Carver Morrow Draughn in the death of her sister.

2001

Jennifer White Urban in the death of her father.

2012

Paige Cockman in the death of her great aunt.

2020

Kristin Bradsher the death of her grandfather.

2021

Gail Bunce in the death of her sister. Anna-Dreher Miller Cherry in the death of her grandfather.

2022

Alison Bunce in the death of her aunt.