Meredith Magazine Summer 2012 by Meredith College

A Publication for Alumnae and Friends of Meredith College

M A G A Z I N E

Summer 2012, Volume 37, Number 2

Points of Pride Graduates Celebrate the Meredith Experience

96032Cvrx.indd 1

8/9/12 12:15 PM

Contents Meredith Magazine Volume 37, Number 2 Summer 2012 Executive Editor Kristi Eaves-McLennan Managing Editors Melyssa Allen Karen T. Dunton Assistant Editor Gaye Hill Art Director Vanessa Harris Designer Lauren Sumner Alumnae Connection Editors Hilary Allen, ’01 Meredith Moody, ’10 Halie Sue Smith, ’11 Contributing Writer Katrina Kempney, ’11 Editorial Assistant Kaye Rains Photographers Burnie Batchelor Studio Callie Taylor Buchert Charlotte Claypoole Christopher Ferrer Gary Knight Andrew Polesovsky David Timberlake Triangle Business Journal/ Dathan Kazsuk

Features 12 POLITICAL CONNECTIONS Meredith Alumnae Work to Make Republican Convention a Success 14 MEREDITH IN BLOOM Spotlight on Meredith’s Distinctive Gardens 18 EXPLORING YOUNG ADULT LITERATURE English Course Focuses on Emerging Genre 21 VIVA l’ITALIA! Meredith Alumnae and Friends Gain an Intimate Perspective of Italy through Tuscan Intensives

News 2

MEREDITH HOLDS 2012 COMMENCEMENT

JO ALLEN REFLECTS ON FIRST YEAR AS PRESIDENT

FIRST LACROSSE COACH’S GOAL IS TO BUILD WINNING TEAM

11 THREE INCOMING FRESHMEN ARE TOP SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS

in every issue 1

From the President

Meredith community by providing readers with insight and information about the news, activities, events, programs, plans and people of the College. Meredith Magazine is published three times a year by the Meredith College Department of Marketing. Questions or comments may be submitted to marketing@meredith.edu.

Newsmakers

Dateline Meredith

Meredith Experts in the News

Athletics

Alumnae Connection

Meredith Magazine exists to serve the

On the Cover Undergraduate students in the Class of 2012 voted to wear maroon regalia to express pride in their alma mater.

96032Cvrx.indd 2

8/9/12 12:17 PM

from the PRESIDENT

Honoring Our Connections

henever people learn that I work at Meredith, they respond with a warm smile and a recitation of their connections to the College: a mother, grandmother, favorite aunt, sister, cousin, niece, beloved teacher. Even our traditions connect the years, just as the senior class’s woven daisy chain entwines the graduates with a final, special memory of connections to Meredith. My own connection to Meredith began with my sister Kay, Class of ’78, who decided to go to Meredith because her fifth grade teacher, Dorothy Bryan, inspired her with a love of learning and dignity of living, two truly beautiful characteristics of so many Meredith alumnae. (Interestingly, Mrs. Bryan’s two daughters, Anne and Julia, both went to Meredith, and Anne now serves on the College’s Board of Trustees.) Indeed, I find that the consistent story of Meredith is one of making, honoring and extending connections. This issue of Meredith Magazine explores some other kinds of Meredith connections—those between alumnae who share a common purpose and job, those between experienced teachers and young learners, and those between our appreciation for beauty and our stewardship of this campus and our environment. As you read this special issue, I hope you will consider the many ways that Meredith makes connections in your life—between friends, colleagues and family and between jobs,

common causes and passions. I also hope you will reflect on the connections of our times, the decades that have preceded us, and the years that stretch out before us. As always, I hope you will ensure that wellconnected future for Meredith with your gifts, with your referrals of wonderful students for enrollment at Meredith, and with your testimonials of the impact this College has made on your life. If you are like me, your connections to Meredith—your memories, lessons learned, friendships made—are precious and priceless. Today, I am celebrating my connection to Meredith through a gift in honor of my sister Kay, who brought me to Meredith as a teenager and who, today, supports my life here as president. What connects you to Meredith? Family? Friends? Faculty and staff? Your job? Your passions? Your values and character? Whatever it may be, would you make a gift in honor of that connection? Thank you for all you do for Meredith…and especially, for staying connected.

“I find that the consistent story of Meredith is one of making, honoring and extending connections.”

M er edi t h M ag az i n e / sum m er 2 012 /

96032_01-11x.indd 1

8/13/12 12:02 PM

ampus news An Update on the Events and the People of the Meredith College Campus

Meredith Pride on Display at 2012 Commencement By Gaye Hill

n Sunday, May 6, 2012, Meredith College held commencement exercises in historic McIver Amphitheater. This was the first commencement for President Jo Allen, ’80, since her return to Meredith to ser ve as the College’s first alumna president. The sea of maroon caps and gowns clustered in the center of the Amphitheater was striking, and was new this year. The undergraduate Class of 2012 voted to wear maroon regalia as a way of expressing their pride in Meredith’s heritage and distinguishing themselves from other colleges in the area. Alumnae Association President Elizabeth Dove, ’84, brought greetings to graduates on behalf of alumnae, another new addition to the commencement exercises. Alumna Silda Wall Spitzer, ’80, delivered the 2012 commencement address. Spitzer, former First Lady of the State of New York, has had a highly successful career spanning the private, nonprofit and public sectors. She has worked to advance the economy, sustainability, youth service and education, and women’s leadership and human rights. Spitzer, who noted that the oldest of her three daughters would also graduate from college this year, told graduates it is up to them to define their own “core.” “There is no one right way to live a successful life—as a professional or as a woman,” 2

said Spitzer. “It is about following your own path, seizing opportunities while staying true to yourself, your dreams, your beliefs—and along the way doing something that makes a difference.” Spitzer said that as women, it is critical for the graduates to understand that they are ultimately responsible for themselves. This is particularly important with regard to one’s finances, given that almost 85% of impoverished elderly Americans are women, who live on average almost a decade longer than men. Spitzer earned a Bachelor of Arts in English and history from Meredith and holds a law degree from Harvard Law School. During the commencement ceremony, Spitzer was awarded an honorary doctor of humane letters. She is also newly elected to the Meredith Board of Trustees. Allen Challenges Graduates to Be a “Force of Nature”

In her remarks, President Allen encouraged graduates to build on the “deep learning” they have developed while at Meredith by

engaging deeply in their careers, their future areas of study, and their communities. “As an educator, I urge you to continue deepening your knowledge and your love for learning,” said Allen. “As a fellow human being, though, I urge you to continue deepening your commitment to others.” Allen noted that members of the graduating class are joining an exclusive club, with only 1% of the world holding an undergraduate degree, and even fewer holding graduate degrees. “As part of the educated force, you will be expected—and we truly need you—to do great things.” Four hundred seventy seven degrees were awarded during Meredith’s commencement ceremony. Of those, 370 were undergraduate degrees, and 107 were graduate degrees. Meredith conferred the Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Music and Bachelor of Social Work, as well as master’s degrees in business, education and nutrition during the commencement exercises.

/ Meredit h M a g a zi ne / s umme r 2 0 12

96032_01-11.indd 2

8/9/12 12:28 PM

M E R E D I T H

N E W S

Jo Allen Reflects on First Year as President By Melyssa Allen

o Allen, ’80, completed her first year as president of Meredith College on June 30, 2012. Meredith Magazine asked Allen to look back at her accomplishments and special memories since she returned to her alma mater. The first year has been “a whirlwind of meeting, greeting, connecting and learning” for Allen, who has spent much of the year getting to know Meredith alumnae, students, employees, donors and other Meredith supporters.

First Year Priorities

“One of my priorities during this year has been to get to know people, in order to understand their hopes, fears and priorities. I want to learn how to motivate and inspire them just as they have motivated and inspired me.” As the first alumna to serve as Meredith’s president, Allen has had a unique challenge managing her transition from Meredith student and alumna to president. “The perspective [on Meredith] that I had as a student has been reinforced. I knew

Meredith was well respected, but I’m not sure I realized how beloved it is,” Allen said. “People light up when you say Meredith.” Allen brings her viewpoint as an alumna and her experience at other higher education institutions. “This year, I’ve worked to find out how much of that broader perspective I need to narrow to Meredith, and how much of the Meredith perspective I might need to broaden. Getting that right is tricky.” A major priority for Allen was bringing the Meredith community together to begin a strategic planning process that is open and inclusive. “I’m proud that we launched that effort – and launched it well – with a Vision Conference,” Allen said. More than 170 people with an interest in Meredith’s future participated in the conference on January 27. The event brought together faculty, staff, student leaders, alumnae and community leaders to focus on what Meredith is doing well, what it could do more of, and what new opportunities the College should explore. Beginning to build key relationships with Meredith supporters, including those who attended the Vision Conference, is another accomplishment in which Allen takes pride, as is her work to build planning into the Meredith culture.

“It is one of those things like brushing your teeth – it is imperative for good health for the College,” Allen said. “We have to make it part of our culture and tend to it because it is for our future.” Favorite Moments

“There have been many special moments … including the excitement of Move-In Day and Cornhuskin’. Everything about inauguration was special. Having my first commencement as president, and that my classmate Silda Wall Spitzer did the address.” Meeting alumnae throughout the year, including during an Alumnae Weekend that Allen said was incredible, was also a highlight. Allen said she has enjoyed the warmth of the Meredith community – “waves from staff, the smiling faces of students in Belk, and visits from family and friends.” Looking Ahead

Allen looks forward to beginning to implement the strategic plan during her second year. “I want people to feel ownership, and feel ready to go. I also want to continue to sustain the goodwill and collegiality I’ve felt this year. That’s important to me,” Allen said. “Feeling the goodwill of the community behind you is really important.”

Author Jeannette Walls to Speak at Meredith By Melyssa Allen

eannette Walls, author of Meredith College’s 2012 Summer Reading Book selection “The Glass Castle,” will speak at Meredith early in the Fall 2012 semester. Walls’ lecture, titled “The Glass Castle: Demon Hunting and Other Life Lessons,” will be held on Monday, Aug. 27, 2012, at 7 p.m. in Jones Auditorium. The Presidential Lecture Series event, which is sponsored by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina, is free and open to the public. In “The Glass Castle,” Walls describes her childhood in the desert of the American

Southwest and then in a West Virginia mining town with her three siblings and the brilliant, unorthodox, irresponsible parents who manage at once to neglect them, love them and teach them to face their fears. The story is at times harrowing and at times hilarious as the children go without food and indoor plumbing yet are encouraged to read Shakespeare and dream of the beautiful glass house they will

all one day build. Despite all her hardships, Walls develops the determination to leave West Virginia on her own at 16, move to New York City, enroll in Barnard College and eventually become a well-known columnist for New York magazine and MSNBC.com and a television personality. Walls’ memoir has been a New York Times best-seller for more than four years. Meredith’s Summer Reading Program is now in its fourteenth year. Visit meredith.edu/summer-reading for more information. M er edi t h M ag az i n e / sum m er 2 012 /

96032_01-11.indd 3

8/3/12 5:59 PM

M E R E D I T H

N E W S

Meredith Course Helps Local Pets Find Homes By Melyssa Allen

eredith College summer class “Who Let the Dogs Out?” has more than just an unusual name to set it apart from a traditional college course. Students in the six-week course learn photography skills that they use to highlight animals at the Wake County Animal Center, which receives approximately 17,000 surrendered animals annually. The primary goal of the class is to help these animals find permanent homes. Taught by Associate Professor of Art Shannon Johnstone, the class is considered a hybrid course because learning takes place both in the classroom and online. Each week, Johnstone gives the students a question that must be answered on their blogs. “I am really happy to be teaching a class that combines traditional classroom learning with online hybrid learning, all with an emphasis on service and community collaborations,” said Johnstone. “I love working with students as they learn how photography can literally save lives.” Students serve as volunteer photographers for at least seven hours each week, providing images to the Wake County Animal Center for use on its website. Each student maintains a personal blog featuring 20 or more photos that are meant to showcase animals that need homes. This year, student Lauren Symonds created a class Facebook page to highlight pets of the

week. Visit the page at www.facebook.com/ TheMeredithAngelsTails. In addition to taking photos, students in the class also spend time just visiting with the animals, holding them and helping with obedience training. These interactions are some of Symonds’ favorite parts of the class. “The animals are so full of love and it feels so great to be a part of the process of finding them homes,” Symonds said. “Working with the staff and volunteers is also wonderful. They have taught me so much about being non-judgmental towards those who surrender their pets, and looking at each animal as an individual with an individual personality and not as property.” This is the second time this class has been taught at Meredith. The subject grew from Johnstone’s own photography series focusing on the issues of animal overpopulation and the importance of responsible pet ownership.

Symonds said the realities of overpopulation make the class challenging, but also underscores the importance of the class’s goal to help more animals find home. “It is hard to watch the families make the decision to surrender their pets and it is hard to see the animal scared and unsure of their future,” Symonds said. “It is also hard to know that some animals must be euthanized. I hope I can inform people about responsible pet ownership to keep these animals from going to the shelter in the first place.” Class member Brittany Murray hopes the course will be offered more often. “Imagine the difference Meredith College students could make in the lives of so many animals in our community,” Murray said. “I highly recommend the class to anyone and cannot describe the amount of joy you will feel when you see and hear the success stories at the center.” Murray is a beginning photographer who is pleased that her coursework is making a difference in Wake County. “Whenever I see that one of the animals that I have photographed or spent time with has a deposit and is getting adopted, I cannot help but smile,” Murray said. “Knowing that my classmates and I all work together to help these animals is an incredible feeling.”

From Poetry to Psychology, Meredith Celebrates Achievement By Katrina Kempney, ’11

tudents from across Meredith’s disciplines presented their research during Meredith’s 10th annual Celebrating Student Achievement undergraduate research conference on Tuesday, April 17. Many who presented had personal connections to their projects or used their presentations as a chance to find in-depth answers to questions that arose during regular coursework or extracurricular activities. Art student Natalia Lopes, ’12, completed 4

a short animation called “The White Deer,” which is on display in the Annual Juried Student Art Exhibition until August 26 in Johnson Hall rotunda. Lopes based the project on a short story she had written. “One day I just decided to try writing a fairy tale, and what came out was a fairy talelike story that addressed contemporary issues such as the environment, relationship equality and animal rights,” said Lopes. Elizabeth Warren, ’12, undertook research

in psychology, guided by Cynthia Edwards, professor of psychology. Warren said, “I wanted to see if there was a relationship between identification with a young adult literary hero and identity development in young adult women.” Warren’s project, “Hermione or Bella: Identification with Literary Heroes and the Development of Identity among Young Adult Women,” explored the possibility of such a relationship. She was attracted to the topic because of her experience with young adult literature.

/ Meredit h M a ga zi n e / s umme r 2 0 12

96032_01-11x.indd 4

8/9/12 12:32 PM

M E R E D I T H

N E W S

Newsmakers British. How has Harry Potter become such a global phenomenon?” She and her advisor, Steven Benko, assistant professor of religion and philosophy, investigated. “I used theories of mass culture, Americanization and globalization to study Harry Potter and its success. This was a great experience and I learned a lot from it,” Rawls said. “This opportunity gave me a chance to learn something new about writing, presentation and the “Like most people, I have felt a conanalytical study of popular culture.” nection with characters […] in that I have Both students and faculty at Meredith grown up with them, faced my own obagree that participating in Celebrating stacles, and at some point have felt that these Student Achievement is a beneficial part of characters are friends of mine,” said Warren. attending Meredith. Even though her hypothesis was “I think students can be inspired by not supported by her research, Warren the events on CSA Day by seeing what still relished the chance to participate in their fellow classmates are accomplishing,” CSA Day. “Sharing my research with the said Lopes. campus community has been a terrific Maiden touted the chance for students experience,” she said. to experience real-world use of valuable Another Meredith student who preskills. “I think that CSA day is a great time sented her research, for students to hone Michelle Maiden, “I think students can be in- their presentation ’14, had a personal in front of a spired by the events on CSA skills connection to her supportive audience,” project on Alzheim- Day by seeing what their she said. “I also think er’s disease. “One fellow classmates are accom- that it cultivates a of my grandmothsense of pride in the plishing.” —Natalia Lopes, ’12 ers lived with this research being done disease for 15 years at Meredith.” before passing away the summer before I Benko agreed that CSA Day gives went to college.” students a chance not only to explore new Maiden’s project, “A Possible Link areas of study but also to participate in an Between Alzheimer’s Disease and Copper,” important Meredith event. explored possible root causes behind the “Students get to show off their writing, disease. “Our hypothesis is that metals research and presentation skills,” he stated. such as iron and copper may cause the “And I think that doing it in a very public protein plaques that are the hallmark of forum pushes them to express themselves Alzheimer’s disease, and that the combina- better, and in a more sophisticated way, tion of these metals and the plaques cause than before.” the neural damage seen in patients,” said An academically-focused tradition also Maiden. sends a positive message to those outside Mary Rawls, ’13, and another student the Meredith community, according to worked with a faculty member to study Benko. “It shows that Meredith students are popular culture in the United States. serious about their education. To stand up “I knew I loved Harry Potter so I talked in front of a room full of people and say, with my professor about incorporating that ‘This is how I have spent my time, and it is into my project,” explained Rawls. “I then worthwhile for you to hear about it,’ shows ended up asking why Harry Potter was that Meredith students take themselves and so popular in America though it is very their academic careers seriously.”

Assistant Professor of Religious and Ethical Studies Steven Benko’s article, “Ironic Faith in Monty Python’s ‘Life of Brian’” was published in the Spring 2012 edition of the Journal of Religion and Film. Benko also moderated a panel on Amendment 1 and same sex marriage in North Carolina. The panel was mentioned in media outlets including the News and Observer’s ‘Under the Dome,’ NBC-17 and The Daily Tar Heel. Benko was also interviewed by WUNC radio in advance of the panel discussion. Learning Center Director and English faculty member Carmen Christopher Caviness presented “Natural Born Cyborgs? How Neuroscience Explains Our Students’ Fascination With Unauthorized Technologies in the Classroom” at the 33rd Annual Spring Conference on the Teaching of Writing. The event was held at Old Dominion University with funding support by The Thistle Foundation. Professor of English Robin Colby’s article “Browning’s Christmas Eve and Easter Day as Meditational Verse” was published in the Summer 2012 (vol. 61, no. 4) issue of Christianity and Literature. Assistant Professor of Art Warner Hyde reviewed and critiqued graduate student portfolios as a juried guest professor at the National Council for the Education of Ceramic Arts (NCECA) conference in Seattle, Wash. It is the largest and most prestigious gathering of ceramic artists and educators from around the world. Associate Professor of English Kelly Roberts presented a paper titled “Autobiographical Reflection and a Focus on Personal, Lived Experience in Teacher Reflection” at the 2012 American Educational Research Association annual conference, held in Vancouver, British Columbia. Assistant Professor of Physics Bill Schmidt was a panelist for the Preparing Students for College Science Panel Discussion Workshop. This was part of the annual North Carolina Academy of Science Annual Meeting, held March 24, 2012, at Campbell University. Schmidt’s review of the book “Energy and the Environment: Choices and Challenges in a Changing World,” by Reza Toossi was published in “The Physics Teacher” in April.

M er edi t h M ag az in e / sum m er 2 012 /

96032_01-11.indd 5

8/3/12 5:59 PM

M E R E D I T H

N E W S

Dateline Meredith

Meredith Dietetic Interns Have 100% Pass Rate on RD Exam By Melyssa Allen

he 2012 class of students who completed Meredith’s Dietetic Internship program have a 100% pass rate on the Registered Dietician (RD) exam.

Mariamawit Tadesse, ’12, Earns WomenNC Award By Melyssa Allen Mariamawit Tadesse, ’12, was selected as the recipient of the first Carolyn King CSW Scholarship, presented by WomenNC at a special on-campus event. Tadesse was one of five North Carolina college students selected to present at the United Nations’ 56th Commission on the Status of Women (CSW), which was held February 27-March 9, 2012, in New York City. The theme of this year’s UN event was the empowerment of rural women. Tadesse’s presentation topic was agriculture and rural women farmers. Each of the WomenNC Student Fellows discussed their U.N. experiences during an April event at Meredith College. The first WomenNC Carolyn King Scholarship was presented to Tadesse during this event at Meredith. The award funds expenses from Tadesse’s UN visit. 6

Meredith College’s pass rate over the past five years is 97%. In 2011 and 2012, all Meredith Dietetic Internship candidates passed the exam on their first try. Only

The Carolyn S. King Award honors the legacy and example of Carolyn King, a lifelong advocate and pioneer for women’s rights and for racial and social justice. The award recognizes a demonstrated passion for racial justice, courage in advocating opportunities for marginalized persons, and sensitivity, positive attitude and perseverance in the face of challenge. Tadesse graduated from Meredith in May with a double major in business administration and economics and minors in international business and French. WomenNC is a Raleigh-based non-profit with a primary goal of empowering young women to become active participants in local North Carolina issues, coupled with an increased understanding of the diverse roles women play in the global community. Since 2010, WomenNC has sent 13 North Carolina university fellows to participate in the United Nations’ annual CSW conference.

60% of Dietetic Internship Programs have a pass rate higher than 80%. Meredith College’s Accreditation Council for Education and Nutrition (ACEND)-accredited Dietetic Internship program provides college graduates with the knowledge and supervised practice needed to enter this fast-growing field of nutrition. The Dietetic Internship Program prepares men and women for the RD exam and, ultimately, a career as a Registered Dietitian in the field of nutrition. Meredith’s Dietetic Interns are in supervised practice settings such as hospitals, wellness centers, WIC programs, Food Service Management and Long Term Care settings. Interns work at least 1,200 hours or 40 hours a week in addition to preparing for the RD Exam. Visit www.meredith.edu/graduate/nutrition for information on the DI program.

Meredith Dance Performs at National Festival By Melyssa Allen The Meredith College Dance Program represented the Mid-Atlantic American College Dance Festival (ACDF) during the National ACDF festival May 24-27 at the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington D.C.

Junior Dance Studies Major BrieAnna Hester performed “Prelude to Settling” choreographed by Associate Professor Carol Kyles Finley and Lacy Lowder, ’11. The piece

/ Meredit h M a g a zi ne / s umme r 2 0 12

96032_01-11x.indd 6

8/9/12 12:39 PM

M E R E D I T H

N E W S

Dateline Meredith

was chosen for the national festival at the Mid-Atlantic Conference from among 30 dances. The National College Dance Festival highlights, on a national level, the outstanding quality of choreography and performance that is being created on college and university campuses by bringing together schools from all over the country to perform at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C. The 30 participating schools were selected by nationally recognized adjudicators at each of the 11 ACDFA regional conferences. Selections were based on outstanding artistic excellence and merit.

Wake County Schools neighborhood student assignment issue, and was cited in The News and Observer as one of ten citizens who most influenced the outcome of the vote. She also presents in the community on the call for immigration reform. Alvarez received an additional award during the spring semester from NC Peace Action. She is one of two 2012 Grand Prize Awardees for a Witness for Peace trip to Cuba and Nicaragua. This competition was open to students age 1323. Funds for the scholarships come from donations to NC Peace Action earmarked for the Peace Legacy Fund.

Student Monserrat Alvarez Recognized for Community Service

Meredith Alumnae on 40 Under 40 List

Meredith Experts in the News Meredith faculty and staff have served as experts in a wide variety of news articles, in media outlets such as Inside Higher Ed, US News, MSNBC.com, The Los Angeles Times and FoxNews.com.

“

—President Jo Allen was quoted in an Inside Higher Ed article about the future of women’s colleges.

“

By Melyssa Allen

Two Meredith College alumnae were Meredith College junior Monserrat among those named to The Triangle BusiAlvarez has been named a member of ness Journal’s 2012 “40 Under 40” list. Campus Compact’s 2012 class of NewAshley Britton, ’03, senior manager man Civic Fellows. Newman Civic Felat Johnson Lambert & Co, LLC., and lows are nominated by member college Meredith Lawhon, ’01, and university presidents from across the global head of hucountry. Alvarez is one of 162 Newman resources at Bayer man Civic Fellows from 32 colleges and CropScience, were universities. named members of The Newman Civic Fellows Awards the 2012 class. The 40 recognize inspiring college student lead- Britton Under 40 Leadership ers who have worked to find solutions Awards honor promisfor challenges facing their communities. ing young business Through service, community-based people under the age research, and advocacy, the 2012 class of of 40 in the Triangle. Newman Civic Fellows are making the These professionals are most of their college experiences to betrecognized for their Lawhon ter understand themselves and the root career accomplishments causes of some of the most pressing social and their community service. issues that challenge us all. Britton earned a Bachelor of Science Alvarez has worked for education and in accounting at Meredith. Lawhon immigration reform. Her efforts include holds an undergraduate degree in founding the youth movement of NC business management from Meredith, Heroes Emerging Amongst Teens (NC and completed Meredith’s MBA program HEAT); the Grilled Cheese Bus (youth in 2007. job training and community organizing The Meredith College MBA Program initiative) and Angeles Latinas (an advowas a sponsor of 40 Under 40 program, cacy club serving the Meredith campus which included a banquet honoring the and Raleigh community). She also par2012 class and a special section in The ticipated extensively in the controversial Triangle Business Journal’s May 18 issue.

There is an opportunity for the remaining women’s colleges to be very clear about the value added and to talk about how that actually strengthens them, their positions and what they have to offer students.”

Try contacting your school for the specifics … and reach out to each of your private loan lenders (if you have more than one) to make sure you’re clear on what you owe, how long your private loan grace period is, and what your monthly payments will look like.” —Director of Financial Assistance Kevin Michaelsen was quoted in a US News article about what college graduates should do during the grace period before college loan payments are due.

“

In the case of Hillary Clinton, though, it was quite ridiculous to me that when she went with a natural face, which millions of men do every day, it made the news with close-up photos of her face. While her appearance made a lot of news, I don’t think that is necessarily bad if it can start a conversation on accepting more women with a natural appearance.” —Associate Professor of Economics Anne York was quoted in an MSNBC.com story about the idea that women in politics and business, like Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, are criticized for not wearing makeup or being fashionable.

“

Many of them don’t like to watch anything by appointment anymore. They only plug into the networks during various dead periods of their day. They need something special and unusual to catch their attention. The networks are falling down in the area where they need to be strong: content, content, content.” —Associate Professor of Mass Communication Doug Spero was quoted in The Los Angeles Times’ article about broadcast TV’s struggle to attract younger viewers. Spero was also recently quoted in The Christian Science Monitor in an article about media outlets choosing to publish photos of U.S. troops with dead Afghan insurgents. M er edi t h M ag az i n e / sum m er 2 012 /

96032_01-11.indd 7

8/3/12 5:59 PM

M E R E D I T H

N E W S

Dateline Meredith

Enrollment in Graduate Programs Up

Meredith Recognizes Faculty and Staff Excellence By Melyssa Allen Ten faculty and staff members were honored for research, teaching and service to Meredith College on April 20, 2012, during the College’s annual Faculty and Staff Awards and Recognition Celebration. The following faculty and staff were presented with awards: PAULINE DAVIS PERRY AWARDS • Assistant Professor of Chemistry Matthew Stutz, Award for Research and Publication. • Professor of Human Environmental Sciences Diane Ellis, Award for Excellence in Teaching.

eredith College has seen a 45% increase in the number of students interested in beginning graduate study this fall. As of June 15, 2012, 75 students have enrolled in Meredith College’s graduate programs, compared to 52 students at the same time in 2011. Applications also increased this year from 216 in 2011 to 313 in 2012. Meredith offers coeducational MBA, M.A.T., M.Ed. and Master of Science in Nutrition graduate degrees. Denise Rotondo, senior vice president for academic programs, believes the increase may suggest optimism about the job market 18-24 months out. Rotondo also attributes the increased interest to recent enhancements that Meredith has made to its graduate programs.

which infuses concepts of leadership, ethics, and personal and professional development throughout the MBA curriculum. Program Expansion

In 2011, Meredith added a new Master of Arts in teaching option. The Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) in English as a Second Language program serves people who have bachelor’s degrees in disciplines other than education, who are committed to becoming teachers, and who are seeking initial N.C. teaching licensure.

HARRY AND MARION EBERLY FACULTY DEVELOPMENT AWARD • Associate Professor of Education Jennifer Olson. IDA H. FRIDAY FACULTY AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE IN TEACHING • Instructor of Human Environmental Sciences Eunyoung Yang. ACCESS AWARD • Professor of History Michael Novak. ALLEN AND BARBARA PAGE PRESIDENTIAL STAFF AWARD • Director of Meredith Events Bill Brown

Quality Enhancement

Meredith’s School of Business, which includes the MBA program, earned accreditation by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business International (AACSB) in 2010. Less than 5% of business schools worldwide meet the rigorous standards of AACSB. One of the distinguishing features of the Meredith MBA program is the LEaD initiative,

LAURA HARRILL PRESIDENTIAL AWARDS • Director of the Learning Center and Instructor of English Carmen Caviness • Assistant Director of the Learning Center and Instructor of Mathematics Lara Dick

Graduates of the new MAT in ESL program will be prepared to fill greatly needed ESL teaching positions in North Carolina. Meredith also offers MAT degrees in elementary education and special education. For more information on graduate programs at Meredith, visit meredith.edu/ graduate.

STAFF RECOGNITION AWARDS • Associate Registrar Linda Wann, who joined Meredith’s staff in 1999, and Associate Director for Employer Dana Sumner, a member of Meredith’s staff since 2000. In addition to the awards, retiring faculty member Bob Vance was honored. Vance is retiring after serving as a member of Meredith’s Department of Religious and Ethical Studies since 1981. Faculty and staff were also recognized for service awards for five, ten, 15, 20, 25 and 30+ years of service.

/ Meredit h M a g a zi ne / s umme r 2 0 12

96032_01-11x.indd 8

8/9/12 12:41 PM

M E R E D I T H

A T H L E T I C S

N E W S

First Lacrosse Coach’s Goal is to Build Winning Team By Melyssa Allen

eredith College’s first lacrosse team will begin competitive NCAA and USA South conference play in spring 2013, but inaugural Coach Lauren Scott is already at work building the team. Scott came to Meredith from Danbury (Conn.) High School, where she served as the varsity lacrosse coach since 2004. In five years, she took a team with a previous record of 2-14 to a 2008 Division II State Championship. She played lacrosse at Western Connecticut State University, playing multiple positions and setting school records in scoring, ground balls, caused turnover and points in a career and season. She is second on Western Connecticut’s records in points in a season, points in a career and goals in a season.

The new coach’s focus during the summer and fall is on recruiting players for Meredith’s team. She attended the national high school lacrosse tournament, where more than 1,300 of the best players from across the United States competed. She also attended

“The biggest support alumnae could offer is word of mouth. Lacrosse is the fastest growing sport in the country. As girls are leaving high school, they are looking for opportunities to extend their playing career.” —Lauren Scott

several other tournaments on the East Coast to recruit students to Meredith. “My ultimate goal for the first year is to grow the program,” said Scott. “I plan on spending a lot of time visiting high schools, tournaments and camps, just to spread the word about Meredith. On the field, I am hoping that this inaugural team will be one of pride, committed to getting better every game.” In November 2011, Meredith College announced the addition of lacrosse as the College’s seventh Division III sport. Meredith is the first college or university within the City of Raleigh to offer women’s lacrosse as a varsity sport. Meredith’s location and the opportunity to bring college lacrosse to the area was a draw for Scott. “Raleigh is a great city for college, drawing thousands of students each year; yet there are no lacrosse teams in the immediate area,” Scott said. “When I came for my interview and met the faculty and staff it was apparent how supportive and enthusiastic they were about this new program. I felt at home instantly.” Meredith alumnae have a role to play in making the new team a success. “I would like alumnae to know how excited and honored I am to represent their school as Meredith’s first ever lacrosse coach,” Scott said. “I am excited, passionate and enthusiastic about the new program and anxious to give the alumnae another reason to come back and cheer.” Alumnae can also help by spreading the word that lacrosse is Meredith’s newest sport, according to Scott. “The biggest support alumnae could offer is word of mouth. Lacrosse is the fastest growing sport in the country. As girls are leaving high school, they are looking for opportunities to extend their playing career,” Scott said. “We need to get the word out that Meredith now has a Division III program. Tell your local high schools, your gyms, your recreation departments, your families and your friends.” Visit goavengingangels.com for more on Meredith Athletics. M er edi t h M ag az i n e / sum m er 2 012 /

96032_01-11.indd 9

8/3/12 6:00 PM

M E R E D I T H

N E W S

Meredith Student Selected for NC Biotechnology Fellowship By Melyssa Allen

eredith College student Jacqueline Bailey is the recipient of an Undergraduate Biotechnology Research Fellowship from the North Carolina Biotechnology Center for an industrial research collaboration with Cary, N.C.-based JustNeem, LLC. Bailey is the first Meredith student to receive a research fellowship from the Center. The fellowship prepares undergraduate science and engineering majors for careers in biotechnology by supporting relevant, handson laboratory research. Bailey, who is majoring in biology with a minor in international studies, will be conducting product research for JustNeem, LLC, including testing the mosquito repellent effects of neem and in-depth EPA registration work. The Neem tree is an evergreen tree that

is part of the mahogany family. Neem bark, leaves, fruit, seeds and oils all contain medicinal qualities. “This fellowship will allow me to perform on-campus research in collaboration with Meredith Professor of Biological Sciences Larry Grimes and the company’s CEO, Peter Radtke, to demonstrate the efficacy of neem formulations as a natural plant-based bug repellent.” JustNeem, LLC, is a body care company based in Cary, N.C., that specializes in natural premium neem products. The company’s products are made with imported West African neem and its profits support job creation, economic development, neem tree planting and ecological improvements in the Sahara Desert of Mauritania, West Africa. Bailey’s interest in products created from the neem tree began as a member of Mer-

edith’s Model United Nations team, which represented Mauritania at the Southern Regional Model UN in 2010. “My involvement with Meredith’s Model United Nations Club piqued my interest in both the hard sciences and global public health,” Bailey said. Undergraduate Biotechnology Research Fellows receive a grant of up to $5,000 to support a 12-month research project. Student Fellows must work a minimum of 400 hours on the research project; give a presentation to their peers at the home department or institution on both the scientific and business aspects of their research; and present a paper or poster at an appropriate professional conference. Student Fellows are also required to attend at least one meeting during the award period at the state or regional level concerning the business aspects of biotechnology.

Meredith Students Attend Auschwitz Jewish Center Program By Melyssa Allen

eredith College students Callie Buchert, Leah Jay, Ila Torfin and Lizzie Wood recently completed the Auschwitz Jewish Center (AJC) Program for Students Abroad in Krakow, Poland. In its fourth semester, the program provides a scholarly learning environment through which students studying overseas engage intensively with the history of the

Holocaust and Jewish life in Poland. Meredith’s students were participating in a semester at Meredith’s site in Sansepolcro, Italy, when they were selected for the AJC program. Facilitated by American staff from the Museum of Jewish Heritage – A Living Memorial to the Holocaust in New York and Polish staff from the Auschwitz Jewish Center, the five-day program takes place during spring and fall semesters and is open to North American students studying abroad. Participants visit Krakow and Oswiecim (Auschwitz), work with scholars, take in-depth tours of AuschwitzBirkenau, hear testimony, and engage in meaningful discussion. The students wrote about their ex-

periences abroad in online journals for Meredith’s website. Wood wrote about her experience during the AJC Program. “I felt as if I was trespassing while walking through these camps. I now know more than ever that this is sacred ground, and those who are able to visit it are among the lucky,” Wood wrote. “We are lucky that we are privileged enough to see what happened to these people, and also lucky enough to be able to walk through the gates of the camp into our free lives whenever we please.” Four students have previously participated in the program. Katy Cleary and Elizabeth Van Noppen went in Fall 2011, and Briana Karmini and Meredith Hyatt attended in Spring 2011. During Meredith’s 2012 Celebrating Student Achievement Day, Cleary and Van Noppen presented research, “Coping and Resiliency Through the Eyes of a Holocaust Survivor,” informed by their participation in the AJC Program.

/ Meredi t h M a ga zi n e / s umme r 2 0 12

96032_01-11.indd 10

8/3/12 6:00 PM

M E R E D I T H

N E W S

Three Incoming Freshmen are Top Scholarship Recipients By Melyssa Allen

Tia Joyce

Megan Luke

Mollie Melton

Established and funded by Meredith College alumnae, the Alumnae Legacy Scholarship is the highest honor available to entering freshmen at Meredith. Additional benefits of the Alumnae Legacy Scholarship include international study, leadership training, enrichment programs and mentoring. The Alumnae Legacy Scholarship is named in honor of the Meredith College alumnae who have led the fundraising effort to create Meredith’s first full scholarship.

soccer captain in her junior and senior years. She will also play soccer at Meredith. Luke said Meredith is a perfect fit, because she will be able to play soccer while completing the Meredith/NC State dual degree engineering program. “It offers me everything I was looking for from a college, and I didn’t think that was possible,” Luke said. “The faculty and staff at Meredith are all so great, and I can tell they genuinely care about me as a person.” Mollie Melton, who completed a homeschool program, is the founder and president of “Lost in a Good Book” After-School Reading Program, which she created with a grant from the NC Community Foundation in 2009. Melton is interested in both an English major and an environmental sustainability major. “I love literature, and I am very interested in studying how science relates to other things, such as economics and policy,” said Melton. “I liked Meredith because it has the programs I’m interested in and the opportunity to study abroad, but I also just felt like I could be at home here.” Presidential Scholars, like Alumnae Legacy Scholars, represent the top tier of honors students at Meredith College. The selection of Meredith College Presidential Scholarship recipients is based on merit, including superior academic achievement, intellectual promise and leadership ability.

mong the members of Meredith’s incoming Class of 2016 are three students who have earned the College’s top academic awards, the Alumnae Legacy Scholarship and the Meredith College Presidential Scholarship. These students are also part of the largest group of Honors students in Meredith’s history. alumnae legacy scholar

Tia Joyce, of North Wilkesboro, N.C., is the 2012 recipient of the Alumnae Legacy Scholarship, Meredith’s only full, four-year, merit-based scholarship. The recipients of this full scholarship are selected based on merit, including superior standardized test scores, academic achievement, high school and community leadership ability, and strong communication skills. Joyce graduated from Wilkes Central High School in Wilkesboro, N.C. She plans to major in mathematics and pursue teacher licensure. Her career goal is to teach secondary mathematics. One of her favorite teachers, a Meredith alumna, suggested Joyce explore her alma mater. “Because of her I could already see first-hand Meredith’s ability to educate and transform exceptional women,” Joyce said. “It didn’t take long for me to realize that Meredith was the school of my dreams. I knew Meredith was a college of integrity, excellence and opportunity. I couldn’t pass that up.”

“It didn’t take long for me to realize that Meredith was the school of my dreams. I knew Meredith was a college of integrity, excellence and opportunity. I couldn’t pass that up.” —Tia Joyce Presidential Scholars

Megan Luke, of Huntersville, N.C., and Mollie Melton, of Raleigh, N.C., are the recipients of the Meredith College Presidential Scholarship. Megan Luke graduated from Hickory Grove Christian School. She plans to enroll in Meredith’s Engineering Dual Degree partnership with NC State University. Luke played JV and varsity soccer and basketball, serving as

M er edi t h M ag az i ne / sum m er 2 012 /

96032_01-11.indd 11

8/3/12 6:00 PM

political connections Meredith ork Alumnae W to Make blican 2012 Repu a Convention Success

By Melyssa Allen All

ed, white and blue may be the color scheme for the 2012 Republican National Convention, but the event will have a decidedly Meredith hue – thanks to the work of Anne Stewart, ’03, and Amanda Oliver, ’02. Both of these alumnae have spent many hours ensuring that the convention’s delegates have a positive experience. Stewart serves as director of delegate services for the convention, leading a team tasked with assigning 16,000 hotels rooms in about 100 hotels for convention guests, and around 80 venues for convention events in Tampa, Fla. “We are the main point of contact for all 56 delegations and help them with all their convention needs,” Stewart said. “The main goals are for everyone to have a place to lay their head at night when they are in Tampa Bay for the convention and a place for them to host their events.” Oliver, whose title is venue and master calendar coordinator for the committee on arrangements, is one of the six members 12

Amanda Oliver, ’02, and Anne Stewart, ’03

of Stewart’s team. Her job is to help the groups and convention delegations “have fun, memorable and successful events” during the convention. “I speak with groups about the logistics of their events and make recommendations on event spaces that fit their needs,” Oliver said. “I also work closely with representatives from contracted venues and members of the community.” This is Stewart’s second convention. She served as deputy director for delegate services for the 2008 Republican convention. “Politics has been a learned career

for me,” Stewart said. “I graduated from Meredith with a business degree and kind of fell into politics when I moved to D.C. after graduation.” Oliver and Stewart say there is no such thing as a typical day at work. “Every day is different depending on what is the highest priority for that day, and that will even change during the day,” Stewart said. This aspect of their work is exciting for Oliver, who said “when the phone rings, it could be someone from a news outlet, a filmmaker or a representative from a delegation.”

/ Meredith M a g a zi ne / s umme r 2 0 12

96032_12-21x.indd 12

8/9/12 12:52 PM

Meredith Connections

“Meredith taught me to believe in something greater than myself.” —Anne Stewart, ’03

Oliver and Stewart worked together when Oliver served as Meredith’s assistant director of alumnae and parent relations, and Stewart was a member of the Young Alumnae Board. “When I learned of her plans to relocate to Tampa for the convention, I asked if there might be room for me on her team,” Oliver said. “It has proved to be one of the best questions I have ever asked!” Both alumnae say their Meredith educations prepared them for their jobs. “Meredith taught me many things, [including] how to work hard and believe in something greater than myself,” Stewart said. Oliver said Meredith provided the foundation of her career. “Without my Meredith experience, I may never have gained the confidence that I have as a professional woman, or have had the opportunity to meet so many other strong, inspiring and intelligent women.”

DITH

What’s the Role of Higher Education in Politics?

S E T VO 2012 After the Republican Convention, the spotlight will turn to Charlotte, N.C., for the Democratic National Convention. As the presidential race heats up, the role of higher education in politics can be seen at Meredith and other institutions. “One of the most important roles higher education plays is to encourage individuals to become fully informed on significant issues through deliberate and conscious exposure to multiple viewpoints,” said President Jo Allen. In the past, Meredith College has hosted political candidates from both parties, held voter registration drives, orga-

nized debates, held forums on issues and sponsored other political education events. A recent example of Meredith’s efforts to educate voters is a panel discussion sponsored in March by Meredith’s Center for Women, Ethics and Public Life that brought together speakers from different sides of the debate over a vote to amend North Carolina’s constitution. Assistant Professor of Religious and Ethical Studies Steven Benko, the Center’s director, sees educating citizens as an important role for a college during an election year. “We should be creating an informed citizenry who are confident enough in their understanding of the issues that they can go out and make informed arguments for their candidate or perspective,” said Benko. “That is what we were trying to do with the Amendment 1 panel. There was a lot of confusion about Amendment 1—even down to the language of the amendment.”

Benko said helping students become engaged in political life is another role colleges should play. “We should be giving our students the skills they need to always be informed citizens,” Benko said. “That requires us to use our expertise to increase the role and esteem of expert knowledge in public discourse. We should want our students to respect expert knowledge at the same time that they know how to go and find it, evaluate it, and use it to create their own informed opinions.” Professor of Political Science Clyde Frazier believes colleges should encourage civic engagement. “This is particularly important for students because so many are voting for the first time,” Frazier said. “Young people vote at significantly lower rates than the rest of the population but research shows that voting is a habit. Once people form the habit they are more likely to continue voting in the future.”

M er edi t h M ag az i n e / sum m er 2 012 /

96032_12-21x.indd 13

8/9/12 12:53 PM

/ Meredi t h M a ga zi n e / s umme r 2 0 12

96032_12-21.indd 14

8/3/12 6:07 PM

meredith

in Bloom

With plants ranging from calla lilies to classic magnolias, Meredith’s distinctive gardens delight and soothe visitors and residents alike. By Gaye Hill

ong known for its beautiful, lush campus, Meredith’s grounds only become more striking with each passing year. Under the direction of Grounds Manager Aaron Schettler, and with financial support from alumnae and friends wishing to preserve and enhance the historic grounds, the College has become home to an increasingly wide variety of flowers, plants and trees. Many of the plantings serve a dual purpose, such as the edible garden near the Science and Math Building that offers both delicious fruits and lovely foliage and blooms. Others,

The cardoon is a fascinating thistle-like perennial plant, similar to the globe artichoke, with dramatic silver-gray serrated foliage and bright purple flowers.

such as the architectural flowers and freeflowing landscape that surround the GaddyHamrick Art Center, echo the academic subjects pursued within. Still others, such as the Norma Rose Garden, honor individuals who have affected Meredith’s history. Ultimately, Schettler and his team strive to ensure that the grounds welcome all who come to Meredith’s campus. “Too often landscape plantings fail to engage and excite,” said Schettler. “By adding plants with dramatic form and architectural interest, students and visitors are extended an invitation to explore and take note.”

These blackberries are a part of an edible landscape. Plants in the garden include figs, plums, pomegranate, blackberries, raspberries and kiwis. Students, faculty, staff and visitors are welcome to pick the fruit from the garden once it’s ripe. M er edi t h M ag az i ne / sum m er 2 012 /

96032_12-21x.indd 15

8/9/12 12:54 PM

Pomegranate shrubs make a striking addition to the landscape and provide colorful flowers and ornamental fruit.

Tall Verbena has an airy structure and attracts goldfinches and butterflies. This plant has lasting value as it blooms from May until frost.

While classic southern magnolias such as this one are found across Meredith’s campus. The Ruby McSwain Magnolia Collection also features beautiful and diverse selections of rare species and cultivated varieties.

Anise-scented sage, also known as salvia, blooms from May till frost and is one of the best hummingbird plants for our area. It forms a spreading clump of mint green foliage topped all summer with vivid blue flowers.

This kousa dogwood is a Japanese variety. With evergreen foliage, it blooms from late June into July and foliage bronzes somewhat in wintertime.

The fragrant chaste tree attracts hummingbirds and butterflies and grows into a multi-trunked tree with a broad, spreading structure. Its name comes from the medieval belief that a potion made from it could curb the libido.

Top Five Tips for Gardeners Easy ideas to enhance your garden from Meredith Grounds Manager Aaron Schettler then create a complementary planting palette. This can be achieved using contrasting or harmonizing form, texture and color.

❷

❶

Well-chosen plant combinations can add significant interest and draw attention to the landscape. Start with a plant you would like to feature and

❸

Ornamental grasses are one of the best groups of plants with high visual impact combined with low maintenance requirements. They help create a dynamic garden environment with their texture, form and movement. Select plants with good foliage texture and color to provide for the longest season of interest. Evergreen perennial lilies like yuccas provide exceptional

interest and will persist for years in a garden.

❹

Edible plants often have great aesthetic interest. Visitors to Meredith will see many perennial edibles used in the campus landscape including rosemary, pomegranate, fig and fennel.

❺

Establishing plants early on in the process is key and can be made easy with the use of high efficiency drip irrigation. The slow delivery rate of drip irrigation allows the soil to absorb the water and maintain a uniform moisture level.

/ Meredit h M a ga zi n e / s umme r 2 0 12

96032_12-21.indd 16

8/3/12 6:07 PM

Garden and Grounds Endowment Fund Over the years, donors have helped to create some of Meredithâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most striking gardens. For example, Ruby McSwain, â&#x20AC;&#x2122;54 (H), provided funds to create The Ruby McSwain Magnolia Collection, and the Class of 1962 funded the landscape renovation of Johnson Hall courtyard. Efforts are underway to establish a grounds endowment fund. If you are interested in supporting grounds beautification, please contact Billie Jo Cockman at (919) 760-8371 or cockmanb@meredith.edu.

M er edi t h M ag az i n e / sum m er 2 012 /

96032_12-21.indd 17

8/3/12 6:07 PM

Exploring

young adult Literature

A Meredith literature course helps students turn a discerning eye on an emerging genre. By Melyssa Allen

/ Meredit h M a ga zi n e / s umme r 2 0 12

96032_12-21.indd 18

8/3/12 6:07 PM

rom “Harry Potter” to “The Hunger Games,” books written for younger readers have regularly been found on bestseller lists in recent years. A Meredith College course that focuses on young adult (YA) literature has proven to be just as popular. Taught by Associate Professor of English Kelly Morris Roberts, ’91, the English literature elective has carried a waiting list each semester it has been offered since 2010. The course covers many subgenres of YA literature, including realistic fiction, historical fiction, science fiction and fantasy, nonfiction, and poetry geared toward young adult audiences. Topics as varied as teenagers finding their place in dystopian society, high school students dealing with bullying, and an orphan being raised by ghosts in a graveyard version of “The Jungle Book” can all be found in the genre. Roberts adapts the syllabus for each class depending on what her students have read previously. While recent titles such as the “The Hunger Games” may be alluded to in discussion, the class focuses on classics like Lois Lowry’s “The Giver,” Robert Cormier’s “The Chocolate War,” and other selections the students have not read before. The accessibility of YA literature makes it appealing, said Amber McKinney, ’10, who

“YA books are so accessible. What I really love is that people come into the class with an innate confidence that they will understand it.” — Kelly Morris Roberts, ’91 took the class as an English major. “This course is a great introduction into the genre of YA literature for those who are unfamiliar with it, and a fantastic class about the details of the genre for those who are already familiar with it,” McKinney said. “YA books have a wide range of subject material and the storylines are often engaging and subtly deep.” Kelly Tilley, ’12, said YA literature’s popularity was also part of the course’s appeal. “My main purpose for taking the course was to open myself up to reading books that were not geared towards adults,” Tilley said. “Young adult literature has become so popular recently that it was nice to switch gears.” Learning to Select and Teach Young Adult Literature

Many of the students who take the class are working toward teaching licensure. Teaching these future teachers how to select and present contemporary literature in their own classrooms is one purpose of the course.

Roberts teaches the class as a Socratic seminar, modeling this style of teaching for her students. Twenty percent of the class meetings involve a student-focused discussion of a book. These discussions typically last the entire class period, with students sharing their ideas and high-level questions about the work. The course helps students learn how to teach the Socratic seminar style in hopes that they replicate it in their own classrooms. YA literature is particularly well suited to teaching the Socratic method because the works can be read in their entirety before each class discussion. Students’ comfort with YA writing also makes the seminar style less intimidating. “YA books are so accessible. What I really love is that people come into the class with an innate confidence that they will understand it,” Roberts said. “YA literature is meant to be read by a range of reading levels. These books can be digested as a whole, read and enjoyed.”

Associate Professor of English Kelly Morris Roberts, ’91, gives her students the tools to teach and enjoy young adult literature.

M er edi t h M ag az i ne / sum m er 2 012 /

96032_12-21.indd 19

8/3/12 6:07 PM

Lauren Allen, ’13, a Teaching Fellow who plans to teach elementary school, liked the class emphasis on creativity and critical thinking. “I loved the book selections and the many opportunities that we had to show our deep understanding of the text through a creative response,” Allen said. “After reading ‘Because of Winn Dixie,’ I was able to use my passions for both education and mathematics to come up with a few math-integrated lesson plans that would accompany a unit study featuring the novel.” While the YA genre may be accessible, students say the Meredith class is not easy. “The class is fun, yet challenging,” said Anna Barefoot, ’13, and English major who is earning 9-12 licensure. “The seminar-based structure really helps you to form your own opinions about the text, versus taking someone else’s verbatim. I know I will use many of the things I learned in my future classroom.” An Emerging Genre With Growing Popularity

YA literature is a fairly new genre, and Roberts said there is no way to pinpoint when it began to be differentiated from children’s literature. “We know that Shakespeare lived and died in a certain year but genres evolve,” Roberts said. The “golden age” of children’s literature is thought to be the 1800s. Roberts notes that Meredith College favorite “Alice in Wonderland” was written in 1865. What is now known as YA literature exploded in popularity more than 100 years later in the 1980s and ’90s, growing from children’s literature meant for younger kids and adolescents. According to “Publishers Weekly,” the number of YA books published each year has grown from 3,000 titles in 1997 to more than 30,000 in 2009. Part of what Roberts hopes students learn in the class is how to identify quality YA literature from among the thousands of titles. “You develop a taste for what makes exemplary young adult literature and what is to be appreciated for its popular appeal,” Roberts said. “This course gives them benchmarks or a curiosity for YA genre and contemporary literature. Joyce McLeod, ’12, said the class helped 20

Recommended Reading

Meredith’s YA Literature class covers a variety of books, many that Associate Professor Kelly Roberts numbers among her favorites. When asked to suggest a few books from the genre for Meredith Magazine readers, Roberts offered the following mix of classics and newer titles. “If you haven’t read ‘To Kill a Mockingbird’ [by Harper Lee], you should,” Roberts said. “Every time I read it I find something new.” Other classics that Roberts recommends are Lois Lowry’s “The Giver,” any of C.S. Lewis’ “Chronicles of Narnia” series, Ray Bradbury’s “Fahrenheit 451”, and any by J.R.R. Tolkien. “Those will give a reader a good taste of where the YA genre originated,” Roberts said. Roberts also recommends a few more recent books. “The Book Thief ” by Markus Zusak – Set in Nazi Germany in 1939, this unusual book features a young girl who steals books to support her love of reading. “Moon Over Manifest” by Clare Vanderpool – Winner of the 2011 Newberry Medal, an award given to the most distinguished children’s book, “Moon Over Manifest” follows young Abilene Tucker’s adventures in Manifest, Kansas. “If you think YA literature is all about darkness and violence, ‘Moon Over Manifest’ is a piece of fiction everyone can enjoy. While it isn’t super sweet, it is not a dark story,” Roberts said. “The Lightning Thief ” by Rick Riordan – “If you like Harry Potter, try this book. You know so much about mythology by the end of the story. It is a great mixture of discovery and literature for the age.”

her learn what types of books appeal to young readers. “The class helped me gain an understanding of the types of books YA students are motivated to read,” McLeod said. “We received a true picture of the types of books that interest young adult readers.” For book publishers, the popularity of YA literature has increased as the genre grows beyond its intended audience. Having a YA label is now a selling point. Roberts said Markus Zusak’s “The Book Thief ” was marketed to a YA audience in the U.S., but as general fiction internationally. Roberts theorizes that the first adult readers of YA literature were reading novels, such

as the Harry Potter series, to make sure the books were appropriate for their children to read. “We owe [Harry Potter author] J.K. Rowling a great deal. She definitely got kids reading more, and when parents read Harry Potter to ‘check it off as ok’ for their children to read, they were pleasantly surprised that they enjoyed it too.” Roberts said adults should not hide their love of YA literature. “We learn to appreciate good poetry or good post-colonial literature — it is the same process with YA. There’s nothing to feel guilty about.”

/ Meredi t h M a ga zi n e / s umme r 2 0 12

96032_12-21.indd 20

8/3/12 6:08 PM

Viva l’Italia! Meredith alumnae and friends gain an intimate perspective of Italy through Tuscan Intensives.

By Gaye Hill

eredith’s emphasis on international education has resulted in more students studying abroad, international faculty exchanges, and a permanent campus location in Sansepolcro, Italy. Now, that commitment has led to the creation of Tuscan Intensives—short courses that allow travelers to experience unique aspects of Italy rarely seen by tourists, and, in particular, allow alumnae to enjoy the Meredith College campus abroad. The courses range from a cooking class taught by the palazzo chef to a focuss on Tuscan gardens. Participants stay in the renovated 16th century Palazzo Alberti, sharing the space with Meredith students. For some travelers, the courses are an opportunity to “study abroad” that they might have missed as undergraduate students. Others, such as Betty Galloway Harkey, ’60, welcome the chance to learn from faculty experts and experience life in a uniquely beautiful setting. Harkey said the course helped her gain a new appreciation for Renaissance art. “Winding our way down ancient streets off piazzas into museums and cathedrals, we studied frescoes and paintings of the 15th century,” said Harkey. “In Sansepolcro we studied the Piero della Francesca’s and were taught to look for symmetry through the mathematical exactness in the likenesses of Mary, Jesus, John the Baptist, the cross and the symbolism within.” Classes may include visual presentations, art lessons, field trips, walking tours and excursions to nearby towns. In addition to learning new skills and gaining knowledge, participants are able to experience various

2013 Tuscan Intensives Taste of Tuscany: April 5-17 and May 2-14, 2013 Following the Piero Trail: April 18-30, 2013 Tuscan Gardens and More: September 12-26, 2013 Exploring the History and Culture of the Tuscan Hill Towns: October 1-15, 2013

aspects of Italian daily life. “I enjoyed how we were completely immersed in the Tuscan culture by living among the people of the town,” said Shannon WillisHedrick, ’94. “Cooking with Margherita (the palazzo chef) was the most valuable aspect of this culinary course; however, we also learned so much on the excursions, such as the process for making olive oil, organic farming and cocoa farming.” To see pictures from recent courses, search for “Tuscan Intensives” on Facebook. For detailed course information, and to reserve a spot, go to meredith.edu/abroad/italy/ twoweek.htm.

Trip Details The cost of each intensive, $1,475, includes accommodations, six breakfasts and lunches, instruction, entry fees and excursions. Airfare is not included, but transportation by chartered bus or taxi from Rome to Sansepolcro is included. Questions? Contact Betty Webb, director of Sansepolcro programs, at webbb@ meredith.edu, or Linda FitzSimons, coordinator of the Tuscan Intensives, at lfitzsimons@nc.rr.com.

M er edi t h M ag az i ne / sum m er 2 012 /

96032_12-21x.indd 21

8/9/12 1:02 PM

lumnae Connection Notes and news for Meredith alumnae

Highlights MC in NYC 2012 ....................... 24

Alumnae Reunion Weekend

2012 Alumnae Award Recipients ..... 25 Alumna Profile: Amanda Schardt, ’05 ... 26 Memorable Moment ................... 28 Twelfth Night Then and Now .......... 30 Alumna Profile: Jordan Jaked, ’11 ....... 31

The Results Are In!

Thank you to all who took the time to complete the recent Meredith Magazine Readership Survey, which had a great response rate. Survey results indicate that, overall, the Magazine is enjoyed by our alumnae readers, who see it as an important and reliable source of information about the College. In response to your feedback, the Magazine staff is working on a number of new ideas that readers can expect to see reflected in the next few issues of Meredith Magazine. If you have additional thoughts you’d like to share about the Magazine, please send an email to marketing@ meredith.edu.

ore than 500 alumnae and friends returned to campus to reminisce and relive their Meredith days at this year’s Alumnae Reunion Weekend. Alumnae were able to learn about College updates, tour changes to campus, and reconnect with Meredith friends. “Being back on campus as a class for the first time since graduation was great fun,” said Grace Sugg, ’07, who celebrated her first of what will be many Meredith reunions. “Being here with classes from the past 65 years was a wonderful reminder of the strong sense of community and tradition, as well as the alumnae network, that you are proud to be a part of as a Meredith graduate. Getting to stay on campus in the residence halls really made you feel as though you were reliving your time as a student.” The weekend began by honoring the Class of 1962 and members of the Golden Oaks Society at a special luncheon featuring remarks from President Jo Allen, ’80, and Alumnae Association President Elizabeth Dove, ’84. Alumnae danced the night away at a class party hosted by President Allen at the Massey House. Saturday included the Annual Meeting of the Alumnae Association which featured remarks from Allen and Dove, the Alumnae Award presentation and the class giving totals. The Class of 1962 was this year’s big winner with $1,653,222 raised and a class participation rate of 50%. The highlight of the weekend is the connection among Meredith friends and classmates that transcends the years since graduation. After celebrating her 10 year class reunion, Christine Kelley Storch, ’02, said, “Reunion is a fabulous time to remember why we became friends all those years ago and know we are truly blessed.” To view photos from this year’s Alumnae Reunion Weekend, visit pictage.com and search for Meredith College. 3’s and 8’s are next! Mark your calendars for May 17 – 19, 2013!

/ Meredit h M a ga zi n e / s umme r 2 0 12

96032_22-32.indd 22

8/3/12 6:09 PM

class notes Compiled by the Office of Alumnae & Parent Relations from February 2012 to May 2012. Information may be edited for space limitations and content restrictions. Submit class notes to your class agent, online at www.meredith.edu/alumnae, by e-mail at alumnae@meredith.edu, by fax (919) 760-2818, or by phone to the Office of Alumnae and Parent Relations at (919) 760-8548. Deadline for Fall 2012 issue is September 10, 2012. Submissions received after this date will appear in the Spring 2013 issue.

’47 Dot Loftin Goodwin has been with her husband for

63 years. She has enjoyed and continues to enjoy farming, family, friendships, serving Apex Baptist Church through choirs, organ, handbells, Apex Area Youth Chorus, overseas trips and blessings including being near to Meredith.

’52 Nancy Cheek Gaines exercises twice a week

at the senior center. Once a week she goes to her life group to talk about spiritual things and have fellowship with other Christians. She lives alone

but her family got together for a week in April in Franklin, N.C. Her daughter and son-in-law live there.

’56 Adair Whisenhunt Cantwell enjoys most of her

days by spending time with her puppy.

’57 Marilyn Greene Burris still sings in the choir at

First Presbyterian Church, Greensboro. She does lots of outreach and volunteer work. She moved to a retirement community in early May. She also loves spending time with her grandchildren.

’62 Celia Caldwell Maddry’s life is busy with church, tutoring, her extended family and her involvement with Wilkes Circles of Care, an anti-poverty initiative. Beverly Mae White Shearon and her husband are enjoying retirement by volunteering and spending time with their family both in Raleigh and at their second home in Oak Island. Mary Anne Eason Tingen started traveling by motorhome after her husband retired. They have been all over the U.S., Canada and Alaska, and are members of a travel club with monthly outings. They also take their grandchildren on a trip in the motorhome each sum-

A Letter From the Class of 1982 to 2012

At their 30 year reunion, the Class of 1982 had a meaningful and unique idea. The class decided to take their life experiences and compile advice to give to Meredith’s most recent alumnae class. Enjoy some select pieces of advice from them while remembering what you have learned since your time at Meredith. We can all benefit from these insightful words. Dear Graduates, Recently the Class of 1982 held our 30th reunion, and as part of the class meeting took a few minutes for each woman to write her best advice to each of you. It does not seem like 30 years have passed since we left Meredith. While we were

probably told each tidbit we are about to share with you, it is only 30 years later that we truly see the wisdom. So, we are a bit older (definitely) and a bit wiser (hopefully). Here is our perspective 30 years later. Make the effort to stay connected with your classmates…

Truly invest in your friendships while you’re here because they will still be your friends in 30 years and they will remind you of things you forget. Keep in touch with your Meredith friends. You will help each other through the good times and bad. Our Meredith friendships are precious! Follow your heart…

Find something that you are totally passionate about and do it all you can.

Pour yourself into it. This passion will make life worth living at times when things aren’t going the way you want them to You can do it all, just not at the same time. Be patient. Breathe. Enjoy every moment. Love! Don’t burn bridges…

Be nice to everyone you meet; the people you meet on your way up are the same ones you will pass if you stumble and fall. You don’t always have to be perfect, just perfectly honest. If people lose their trust in you, it may never be regained. Slow down and Enjoy!

Don’t be in a hurry – appreciate everything, good and bad, because everything changes eventually, good and bad. Remember – TIME is the great equalizer. And so in closing….Wear sunscreen, floss, be grateful, give love and mercy, and keep asking questions, and live your one, wild, precious life well every day. M er edi t h M ag az i n e / sum m er 2 012 /

96032_22-32x.indd 23

8/9/12 1:10 PM

alumnae Connection MC in NYC 2012: November 16-18, 2012 Make plans to join alumnae and friends in the Big Apple as we explore the city that never sleeps! This annual alumnae trip will include: airfare, transfer, hotel accommodations, an alumnae reception, theatre ticket, a visit to the 9/11 Memorial and a ticket to the Radio City Christmas Spectacular. This year’s show is the Tony Award winning hit “Nice Work if You Can Get It,” starring Kellie O’Hara and Matthew Broderick. Pricing information will be available soon. For additional information or to register, contact Hilary Allen, ’01, director of alumnae & parent relations, at (919) 760-8751 or allenh@meredith.edu.

mer. The Tingens enjoy life on Emerald Isle, attending grandkids’ sports games, and family time on the boat and island.

’64 Sara Gwynn Bryan Brackett recalls fondly that her husband of over 48 years proposed in “The Grove” during graduation weekend. They live in Charlotte where they enjoy good times with their two children and two grandchildren. After a rewarding 28-year teaching career, Brackett retired to spend quality time with her mother and mother-in-law in their last years. She now has an active exercise routine, serves as a volunteer tutor, has re-joined her garden club and participates in a Bible Study class. She makes frequent trips to the beach, often with her two sisters. Brackett writes that “Life is good” and that she looks forward to seeing lots of Meredith friends at the 2014 reunion. Ann Cockerham Carmichael and her husband celebrated their 49th anniversary in February. They live in Charlotte, as do their two sons and their “grand dog.” Carmichael continues her work as a sales representative for Carlisle clothes. Jo Crowder Dermid moved to Nashville, Tenn. in 2010 after many successful years of catering and being vice-president of sales for BBJ Linen in Chicago. She and her two daughters, Beth Dermid Harmon,’88, and Amanda Dermid Robinson, ‘91, now own and operate Graceful Tables. This specialty linen rental company is recognized by the International Special Events Society and the National Association of Catering Executives as one of the leading new firms in the hospitality industry. Judy Wicker Eaton and her husband retired to Lake Tillery. After his death in 2000, she moved to Albemarle. Although health issues have slowed her down, Eaton still loves to travel, especially to visit her daughter who lives in London. Sue Ennis Kearney is enjoying serving as a 24

gift agent for her class because it has re-connected her with so many Meredith friends. She also serves on Meredith’s Friends of the Carlyle Campbell Library Board. Retirement has also allowed her to enjoy many art, music and theatre events, take classes of interest, read more, re-join the church choir and travel to Italy. Jane Kincheloe McDonald and her husband recently returned to N.C. after more than 30 happy years in the Cincinnati area. McDonald took a break from teaching to raise three daughters and re-entered the field as a pre-school director and subsequently as early childhood founder at Cincinnati Hills Christian Academy. After “retiring” she became interim Christian education director at a Baptist church. McDonald received the “Outstanding Citizen of the Year” award in 2007 and was honored with Jane McDonald Day in Mariemont in 2009. She credits Meredith for preparing her in a variety of ways and says, “You can always tell a Meredith girl!” Sue Anne James Schoonderwoerd writes that after a very scary health episode, she has made changes and given priority to what she values most in her life. A focus on love has led her to spend more time with her two little granddaughters, a grandson age 15, two sons deploying to Afghanistan, and husband, who encourages her to keep a plate, and not a platter, full. Exercise is also a priority—specifically tap-dancing with the Silver Strutters. Challenging her mind has led to a less stressful career in real estate staging and has allowed her to explore some architectural design concepts.

’67 Linda Blanchard Sparks writes that after living

more than 20 years in Arizona, a year in San Jose, Calif., more than 12 years in Austin, Texas, three years in Grenoble, France, and over a year in Albany, N.Y., she and her husband have finally settled back

in Raleigh. Gloria McDonald Stubbs has been retired for 13 years. She moved to Myrtle Beach from Greenville, S.C. It is close to the beach for her and close to golf courses for her husband. Three of their grandkids were adopted from Russia. She and her husband led their church’s mission team to Lynch, Ky. for the past seven years. She has also been working in their church library for 12 years. Martha Reynolds Thaler is newly one of the “Immortal Six” that attended the first Meredith Intensive study at Palazzo Alberti in Sansepolcro, Italy. They studied Piero Della Francesca with Maureen and Jim Baker. They traveled to see the artist’s work in Tuscany, Umbria and Marche. Betty Webb spent the Spring semester in Italy, directing the Meredith program there. She will spend most of the summer in London.

’72 Deborah Love was featured in an article published in Virginia Lawyers Weekly that applauded her work of bridging the gap between doctors and lawyers. She was especially instrumental with her vision and leadership in developing “Access Now,” a program that facilitates specialty physicians to help the working poor. Since their 40th reunion, Sandra McClain Buller has five grandchildren ages three months to six years. She is a professor of music and director of graduate studies in music at Florida Atlantic University in Boca Raton. JoAnne Weaver Campbell was elected to the 2012-13 Regent for the Wilmington Ladies Tea Walk Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR). Campbell and her husband reside in Carolina Beach, N.C. She now has two grandchildren from her oldest daughter. Her other children live in Wilmington, N.C. S. Cassandra Crump received notification in November 2011 that she had achieved National Board Certification in library media. Her work as a middle school media specialist is still pleasant. It has been a joy to be in her hometown to enjoy her nieces. Marti Miller Elliott writes that retirement is fabulous. The hardest adjustment after teaching for 30 years was the realization of not having to adhere to rigid schedules and bells. Carol Anne McLaney Felts has three children and two grandchildren and she writes that they are precious. Kathy Oliver Hardee has worked as an educational and training specialist at Tiara Yachts and a sentencing services specialist for the Onslow County Criminal Superior Court. Her son is in the U.S. Army. She has three cats and two yellow labs. She is also beginning an online store. Betsy Pearson Hinkle lives in a rural community, Mills River. She is active in her church, facilitates and leads Bible studies, and answers the phones at The Cove for

/ Meredi t h M a ga zi n e / s umme r 2 0 12

96032_22-32.indd 24

8/3/12 6:10 PM

alumnae Connection Billy Graham Crusade Ministries. She is also a caregiver for aging parents in Durham. Hinkle taught middle school for 23 years. She has two sons, both of whom are NC State graduates in engineering, and three grandchildren. Liz Gregg Hurst is currently teaching family and consumer science at Peasley Middle School in Gloucester County, Va. Her previous school was destroyed by a tornado April 16, 2011. Her husband is semiretired and still working in Newport News, Va. Nan Kutulas is still working at Fort Bragg as a librarian. She is serving as medical librarian for the Joint Special Operations Medical Training Center Library- a part of the US Army JFK Special Warfare Center and School. The JSOMTC trains special operations combat medics and Special Forces Medical Sergeants. Jeanie Brown McCandless was named director for Coleman Lew & Associates. She was unanimously elected and is praised for her leadership, experience and business savvy. Becky Hooper Michaels is still teaching eighth grade. Her first granddaughter was due in June. She is also still married, celebrating 40 years in June. Lynda Bell Moore has three grandchildren under the age of three. Since retirement she still loves to travel, shop, go to the beach and catch up with the Class of 1972. Sylvia Jean Morris Moore’s first grandchild turned one in March 2012. Meredith Elam Muse is now retired from teaching elementary grades in both Wake and Guilford counties. She has been married to her husband for 39 years. They have two sons and have lived in Greensboro for 38 years. Betty Sue Manning Norris is a P.E.O. and she serves on the Delaware City Board of Special Olympics. She still sings in the choir, rings handbells, serves as music librarian and, obviously, loves music. Occasionally, she subs as a pianist at their church. Marianne Nifong Raker writes that retirement from teaching high school continues to be marvelous. She is giving back for all the years that she could not volunteer. Her daughter and her husband live nearby. Lynne Pullen Shaw and her husband are both enjoying retirement. They have recently taken cruises to the Caribbean, Hawaii and Alaska. They enjoy having their daughter, son-in-law, and five-year-old granddaughter living down the street from them. Their son lives in Cary. Karen Voelker has been retired from Davidson County Community College since 2002. She is still an avid horse woman and rides three days per week. Her other pastimes are collecting antiques, pottery and cooking. Kathy Moore Watkins is still working as the business development manager at Maquet. Vivien Currier Windley writes that she is still working but is looking forward to retirement in the next year. She plans to spend more time with her sweet granddaughters.

copies of “The Things They Carried” by Tim O’Brien. World Book Night is a time to encourage reading to In her will, Linda Keith Ray established the Linda those who normally do not. Debbie Pugh Miller Keith Ray Scholarship Endowment, which will fund came to Raleigh’s Ovarian Cancer Walk the weekend scholarships for undergraduate students in good of September 17 to walk two miles in support of to 2012need. Distinguished Alumna Award recipients Ellen academic standingongratulations who also demonstrate Her her Meredith roommate, Linda Keith Ray. she also Barney Williams, ’72, and Nancy Williams Cheek, ’63, Recent Graduate daughter Kaitlin and son-in-law Mike are happy that recruited several friends and family members. They Award recipient Audrey T amer Harrell, ’07 , Philanthropy Award recipiLinda Keith Ray will be remembered in this wonderful spent the rest of the weekend eating, drinking and ent Yount Peggy Beam Beale,is’77 , and Katherine Keith Thomas, ’79, Career Achievement Award a doctor in Wilmington. way! Anne catching up. Kitty Brewer Spillman spent a week recipient.Clayton The Career Award was also presented posthumously Alice Winecoff writesAchievement that she is grateful in September in Nashville, Tenn., withtoherLynn husband. Jones Ennis, ’75. in touch with classmates for the opportunity to keep Meredith Marr Watson is on the Meredith Friends Ellen is aLibrary Meredith music and through her Performing role as class Artist gift agent. SheBarney feels thatWilliams Lawrence of the Boardprofessor of Trustees.of Marilyn coordinator studies. Williams internationally a soloist and a classmate notes keepof usvocal connected to our favorite performs Weiler has served as as pastor of First Methodist college!director. Alice represented theco-founder Class of 1974 the She is the ofinCapital Opera of ofRaleigh, andN.C., participated in theVivian Church Reidsville, since July 2011. alumnaecompany’ inaugurals processional theOpera inauguration merger withforthe CompanyCraig of North Carolina. She serves on the from Wells earned her doctorate in education ceremony of Dr.Carolina Jo Allen asOpera Meredith president. North board of theShe directors. NC State during her 30th year of teaching. Wells also remainsNancy connected to the College as chapter Williams Cheek’s service to Meredith hasto culminated 2011-12 term continues enjoy workingin foraWake County Schools leader for Mount and Tarboroof through as Wilson, chair ofRocky the College’ s Board Trustees. She the presidential as aalso highserved school on administrator. She hassearch continued chaptercommittee. events with alumnae of all Cheek had Godwin writes that of ages. Cindy a distinguished career they have established mini-traditions more than 30 years as an among the class in which they get elementary school teacher. together informally and frequently. Audrey Tamer HarSome classmates involved are Hope rell became an assistant Faircloth Coffey, Peggy Walser principal at Kinston High Howard, Lissy Wall, Kathy FleetSchool in Kinston, N.C., wood McNeill, Christy Farrior, less than five years after Cindy Godwin, Kathy Harrison, graduating from Meredith Jeannie Alford Scott and Mamie College. Previously, Harrell Lewis Potter. Kathy Johnston Alumnae award winners with President Allen (center) taught at Holly Springs Harris is assistant vice president and Elizabeth Dove, ’84, president of the alumnae High School, she and assistant corporatewhere secretary association (second from right) and Larry Ennis. wasinnamed First Year Phoenix for Equifax Atlanta.the Teacher Deborah of the Year. Harrell Chen Haydon, Jordan was Cindy a Teaching Fellow and anWinecoff Honors Scholar. She continues to serve Meredith on the Matthews, Godwin and Alice her artwork and even commissioned some work. She Young Alumnae Board and the Teaching Fellows Clayton attended the March inauguration of Dr. writesAdvisory that she Committee. looks forward to perusing artwork Peggy Beale has served as the CEO of Paxton Company inJudd Norfolk, Va., lives for 29 Jo Allen in Raleigh Memorial Auditorium. Theresa Beth Wiggins in Bozeafter retirement. has Meredith served Meredith trustee and the Alumnae Association as run presiHerrin years. BowlesShe hosted roommatesasata her man,onMontana, and helps her daughter The Leaf as a regional director and as Hamptonand Roads chapter leader. Her community Jenning home indent, Spartanburg this past fall. Susan Bean Coffee Shop. French,contributions Anne Young Beam, Beth Judd Wiggins include: serving as president of the Junior League of Norfolk-Virginia Johnston Harris BowlesRed is Cross’s Tidewater Chapter, and as secretary of and Kathy Beach, secretary of all thecame. American retired from her job as Director of The Spartanburg the Norfolk Committee for the Prevention ofSusan ChildWebster Abuse. Vallance writes that after 37 years Jeanne “Cookie” Guthrie Art Museum.Katherine mostly with third CP&L/Progress grade classrooms, she will be joining Keith Parker Thomas has spent herincareer Energy, Newtonmost writesrecently that loves work asdirector the family the ranks of retired Her husband will also be as her Progress’ oflife community relations andangels. economic developcoordinator at Brentwood Mayof 2012 was aorganizations leaving the education At present, their plans ment. Thomas isAcademy. a member several that supportfield. trade and economic big month for her familyinwith two graduations. She are N.C. to sleep later than 5:30 a.m. andDevelopcatch up on lots development North Carolina, including the Commerce Trade and was in Beaufort, N.C. for a family reunion in the sumof reading and resting. ment Board. Thomas is a member of the Meredith College Business Advisory Board mer of 2012 that included her own Meredith alumnae and is a class agent. legacy connections with her sister, Suzanne Lynn Jones Ennis was an advocate for the arts who served as associate director Debra Godwin Avery retired four years ago after Guthrie Letchworth, ‘68; and their mother, Lucille and curator of the collection at the Gregg Museum of Art & Design at NC State. teaching high school mathematics at SmithfieldParker Guthrie, ‘36; and cousin, Jenny Reynolds She was also an adjunct professor in the MBA Program at NC State and at NC WesSelma High School in Johnston County for 31 years. Plummer, ‘95. Mamie Lewis Potter was chosen leyan College’s Adult Degree Program. Her service to Meredith included a term as Since then, she has been busy babysitting her two to distribute books for World Book Night. On April president of the Alumnae Association, and on the Archives and History Committee. grandchildren. Her husband works as a management 23, 2012, in Moore Square in Raleigh, she gave out

’74 2012 Alumnae Award Recipients

’75

’77

M er edi t h M ag az i ne / sum m er 2 012 /

96032_22-32.indd 25

8/3/12 6:10 PM

alumnae Connection

’74 Amanda Schardt, ’05, Finds Success in Fashion Industry By Melyssa Allen

manda Schardt, ’05, says her love of fashion began the moment she bought her first issue of Vogue at age 13. After earning a degree in fashion merchandising and design from Meredith, Schardt has put that love to work in a variety of roles in the fashion industry. Schardt now serves as director of development for the Los Angeles-based clothing brand Paper Crown, a feminine line the company describes as “for those who like to play dress up in a grown up world.” Her associates in the company are designer Lauren Conrad, former star of MTV’s “The Hills,” and her business partner Maura McManus. The partnership began in 2010. The line is now carried at retailers including Nordstrom and Piperlime. “I oversee all concept, development, sampling, merchandising, production and marketing/ branding materials,” Schardt explains. “My background is in high-end contemporary brands, and I am used to having oversight and input in every area.” Her work is fast-paced and ever changing. “One day I may be visiting contractors, reviewing fitting Amanda Schardt, ’05 specs, grade charts and production quality. Another I may be styling a photo shoot and pulling an all-nighter editing photos and creating a lookbook,” Schardt said. “The more tedious aspects of costing, margins and projections are easily offset by a great sales meeting or fitting.” Schardt moved to Los Angeles a few years after graduating from Meredith. Prior to joining Paper Crown, she was brand manager for clothing line Geren Ford, handling all branding, marketing and creative, as well as managing merchandising, development and production for a collaborative brand with Urban Outfitters called HAWKS. Schardt has also worked with the line Whitley Kros, which she was a part of from its launch. Along with these full-time positions, Schardt has completed numerous freelance projects. “Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to work on over 40 photo shoots, seven fashion shows, and dozens of deliveries of collections.” Her Meredith education has provided the tools needed for all of these projects. “The classes in the program are so applicable to the practicality of the industry,” Schardt said. “I often tell Dr. [Diane] Ellis, ‘I just pulled out that Textiles notebook,’ or ‘I got my majors’ sell through reports and I need to look back at Merchandising Math!’. For more information, visit paper-crown.com. 26

In her will, Linda Keith Ray established the Linda Keith Ray Scholarship Endowment, which will fund scholarships for undergraduate students in good academic standing who also demonstrate need. Her daughter Kaitlin and son-in-law Mike are happy that Linda Keith Ray will be remembered in this wonderful way! Anne Yount Beam is a doctor in Wilmington. Alice Winecoff Clayton writes that she is grateful for the opportunity to keep in touch with classmates through her role as class gift agent. She feels that classmate notes keep us connected to our favorite college! Alice represented the Class of 1974 in the alumnae inaugural processional for the inauguration ceremony of Dr. Jo Allen as Meredith president. She also remains connected to the College as chapter leader for Wilson, Rocky Mount and Tarboro through chapter events with alumnae of all ages. Cindy Godwin writes that they have established mini-traditions among the class in which they get together informally and frequently. Some classmates involved are Hope Faircloth Coffey, Peggy Walser Howard, Lissy Wall, Kathy Fleetwood McNeill, Christy Farrior, Cindy Godwin, Kathy Harrison, Jeannie Alford Scott and Mamie Lewis Potter. Kathy Johnston Harris is assistant vice president and assistant corporate secretary for Equifax in Atlanta. Phoenix Chen Haydon, Deborah Jordan Matthews, Cindy Godwin and Alice Winecoff Clayton attended the March inauguration of Dr. Jo Allen in Raleigh Memorial Auditorium. Theresa Herrin Bowles hosted Meredith roommates at her home in Spartanburg this past fall. Susan Jenning French, Anne Young Beam, Beth Judd Wiggins and Kathy Johnston Harris all came. Bowles is retired from her job as Director of The Spartanburg Art Museum. Jeanne “Cookie” Parker Guthrie Newton writes that she loves her work as the family life coordinator at Brentwood Academy. May 2012 was a big month for her family with two graduations. She was in Beaufort, N.C. for a family reunion in the summer of 2012 that included her own Meredith alumnae legacy connections with her sister, Suzanne Guthrie Letchworth, ‘68; mother, Lucille Parker Guthrie, ‘36; and cousin, Jenny Reynolds Plummer, ‘95. Mamie Lewis Potter was chosen to distribute books for World Book Night. On April 23, 2012, in Moore Square in Raleigh, she gave out copies of “The Things They Carried” by Tim O’Brien. World Book Night is a time to encourage reading to those who normally do not. Kitty Brewer Spillman spent a week in September in Nashville, Tenn., with her husband. Meredith Marr Watson is on the Meredith Friends of the Library Board of Trustees. Marilyn Lawrence

/ Meredi t h M a ga zi n e / s umme r 2 0 12

96032_22-32.indd 26

8/3/12 6:10 PM

alumnae Connection Weiler has served as pastor of First Methodist Church of Reidsville, N.C., since July 2011. Vivian Craig Wells earned her doctorate in education from NC State during her 30th year of teaching. Wells continues to enjoy working for Wake County Schools as a high school administrator. She has continued her artwork and even commissioned some work. She writes that she looks forward to perusing artwork after retirement. Beth Judd Wiggins lives in Bozeman, Mont., and helps her daughter run The Leaf and Bean Coffee Shop.

’75 Susan Webster Vallance writes that after 37 years

in mostly third grade classrooms, she will be joining the ranks of retired Angels. Her husband will also be leaving the education field. At present, their plans are to sleep later than 5:30 a.m. and catch up on lots of reading and resting.

’77 Debra Godwin Avery retired four years ago after

teaching high school mathematics at SmithfieldSelma High School in Johnston County for 31 years. Since then, she has been busy babysitting her two grandchildren. Her husband works as a management consultant with Morgan AM&T, splitting his time working from home and also in Shanghai, China. Avery enjoys traveling with him. Virginia “VA” Patrick Avery taught kindergarten for the same school and in the same room for 31 years. She retired four years ago and now teaches kindergarten in a half-day program at her church. Kathy Christian Bender is an attorney specializing in college and university law and living in Chapel Hill, where she has been for almost five years. Previously, she lived outside of D.C., where her two children were raised. She divorced and then returned to N.C. Her children live in Boston. She has traveled to Australia, Italy, Greece, New Zealand and Mexico. She has been enjoying sprint triathlons, spoiling her cats, and spending time with friends. It was wonderful seeing her Meredith Angels at the reunion and she looks forward to the 40th. Marcia Clark Blaine has been working for Buncombe County Schools for the past 20 years in their Title 1 program and currently in the first grade. Her husband has his own engineering consulting firm. She has one daughter who has blessed her with three wonderful grandchildren. Jenny Barton Bolen is a new grandma. She is also a realtor with a small boutique firm in Charlotte and a pre-school teacher three mornings per week. She has three children and writes that she is very blessed. Mary Kay Allsbrook Bradshaw retired in June with 35 years in education. Most of these years were in

gifted education teaching English. She will celebrate 34 years of marriage in August. She writes that she looks forward to retirement and loves to reconnect with her Meredith friends. Lynn Hasley Brugnolotti lives in Morehead City with her husband. She has worked as a music minister for 28 years and currently serves St. Egbert’s Catholic Church. Her twin daughters live in Durham with their families. Her six grandchildren are the lights of her life. She is also very active as a master gardener, avid reader and loves singing. This summer finds them hosting out of town company frequently. She has a great Meredith connection with Sunnie Gail Ballou, ’80, one of her dearest friends in Morehead City, who is also a Meredith graduate. Millie McLaney Chalk is now the district manager for Duke Energy. She manages government and community relations. Anne Reece Collins is a guidance counselor for a middle school in WinstonSalem. Her husband is self-employed as a financial planner who works primarily with older adults. One daughter graduated in May 2012 from NC State and her other daughter graduated from NC State with an M.A. in psychology. Anne Edge Dale writes that she is starting over as others are retiring. She graduated last May with M.Div. from Virginia Seminary and was ordained priest in the Episcopal Church of February 18, 2012. She serves small parishes in the Diocese of East Carolina while she and her husband care for her mother. In addition, they have a foundation in Honduras where they are building schools and installing water purification systems. She and her husband celebrated their 30th anniversary this spring. Kimberly Dale lives in Greenville, N.C., and retired in 2005 from WNCT-TV, where she worked for 26 years in the production department. Over the years she has been very active in local theatre and producing and judging beauty pageants. She writes that she is really enjoying retirement. She spends most of her days sleeping late, playing on the computer, watching television, reading, going shopping, out to eat and to the movies. She is also an avid doll collector and admits that she spends way too much money on them. She loved seeing all of her fellow ‘77 Angels at their 35th reunion. Phyllis Smith Hayes is in her ninth year as a nursing instructor at Halifax Community College and will finish her MSN-Adult Nurse Practitioner in July. She has been married 32 years. Her husband currently works in Hampton, Va., for an aeronautical research firm. They have three sons. Her first grandchild, a 10 month-old-girl, was born 11 weeks early but is rapidly catching up. Teri Meadows Hires moved back to Raleigh three years ago and currently works as leadership development consultant for a small firm, PDI Ninth House. She consults with

Fortune 1000 companies on leadership development, talent management and executive coaching for potential leaders. Margaret Tucker Johnson is proud of her son, who graduated from Northwestern University with his doctorate degree in materials science and engineering. Rebecca Armstrong Johnson and her husband moved from Wilmington to West Jefferson, N.C. in 2010. Cathy Pickett Lamb serves on the staff at Spring Garden Community Church in Greensboro, N.C. Carol Clapp Lemke has lived in New Orleans for 15 years. She and her husband will soon celebrate their 34th wedding anniversary. He is the provost at New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. Lemke has many responsibilities as the wife of the provost and also is the assistant to the dean of chapel at the seminary. Jacquelyn “Jackie” Webb Lewis runs Lewis Farms, a retail market, featuring pick-your-own berries, landscape plants, hanging baskets and the ever-popular homemade ice cream. Broadway star Beth Leavel returned to North Carolina to play M’Lynn in the NC Theatre’s production of “Steel Magnolias,” in April. Dottie Booker Moore has been working for AAA Travel for many years. She has two daughters and one grandchild. Granddaughter #2 is on the way. Kimberly Hicks Naegelen has been married since 2007. They live in Clayton. She works in downtown Raleigh as an office manager for Chicago Title. Her daughter graduated and lives in Apex with her grandson. Lynda “Nina” Noffsinger is the director of counseling services at High Point University, and is a licensed professional counselor supervisor. She has four children, ages 29, 26, 23 and 17. Cherry Croom Rouse writes that her children are grown and she has a granddaughter, Annabelle, born July 2010 to her son. They live in Sanford. Her daughter lives in Atlanta. Deborah Doss Russell retired after teaching high school English and History for 30 years. Since then, she has earned a master’s degree in history and is completing coursework for a Ph.D. in American history at UNC-Greensboro. She continues to live in Mayodan, N.C., with her husband. Their three children are grown. Two of them live in New York City and one in Chapel Hill. Judy Smith is enjoying life in Northern Virginia and beginning her 16th year with a management consulting firm she started with two other women. She is the incoming president of the Rotary Club of Leesburg- only the third female president since it started in 1927. Her brother is running for N.C. Commissioner of Agriculture this year so she is supporting his campaign. Sharon Stephenson is still working as an OB-GYN physician, although on a part-time schedule now. She and her husband spend a lot of time in Oriental sailing with their sailing club. M er edi t h M ag az i ne / sum m er 2 012 /

96032_22-32.indd 27

8/3/12 6:10 PM

alumnae Connection

“

Memorable Moment

“

Julie Taylor was married in October 2009. She lives in Albuquerque, N.M. and is the director of sales at the Hilton Garden Inn in Albuquerque Uptown. She is still playing the violin with the Albuquerque Philharmonic. She also sings with the First Presbyterian church choir and with a professional chamber group in Santa Fe called Canticum Novum. Harriet Jones Tillett is the principal at Southern Middle School in Roxboro. Jo Ann Marks Trethaway has been employed for the past 13 years at the Wake Forest University School of Divinity, and for the past seven years as operations manager. She is married and has two sons, two daughters and two grandchildren. Their children live in Winston Salem, N.C., Johnson City, Tenn., and Portland, Ore. Denise Gaskins Willey is living in New Bern, N.C., and has been married for almost 30 years. She had several public relations/sales jobs before having their only child in 1990. She joined a national group of cotillion directors and taught until last year. She got her real estate license two years ago and hasn’t activated it yet. The past couple of years have been spent taking care of and renovating her husband’s family home place on a farm in Northeastern N.C. Her daughter is living in Los Angeles. Lee Coble Worden is the director of global outreach at Community Bible Church in High Point, N.C. Joyce Pendergraft Young has worked for the Retirement Systems Division for the Department of State Treasurer for the past seven years. 28

Katie Rogers, ’93, and I didn’t attend Meredith at the same time. We actually met during a fun-filled NYC alumnae trip in 2010 and have continued to build a great friendship ever since. I believe Meredith Angels are unique in that we recognize those similar core values we cultivated during our time at Meredith. And there’s nothing more special than sharing those fond memories...except for making new ones!”–Melody Yow, ’99 She and her husband celebrated their 36th wedding anniversary last December. Her only child is now doing very well as an attorney.

’78 Celia Witt Beauchamp has been inducted into the

Tenet Healthcare Heroes Hall of Fame, the highest honor for employees, for her efforts with diabetes in Jasper County.

’79 Cindy Louise Bizzell was named administrator of

the NC’s Guardian ad Litem program, a court advocacy program representing abused and neglected children in court. Last year, over 5,000 volunteers advocated for the best interests of over 15,000 children.

’81 Karen Baker Burden completed 30 years of teach-

ing high school English and planned on continuing until an opportunity emerged to become a secondary literacy coach. In 2011, she also received her M.Ed. from NC State in new literacies/global learning. With no grading to do anymore, she has been enjoying more leisure time with her husband. Georgia Elizabeth “Beth” McLamb Sigmon is currently an administrator at Vidant Medical Center Foundation in Greenville, N.C. The foundation supports Vidant

Medical Center and is part of a ten hospital system. Beth is married and has one 15 year-old son.

’82 Kaywood Graham Draughon has two sons. Her oldest graduated from Hampton-Sydney College in May 2012 and her youngest is a rising junior at Harrells Christian Academy.

’85 Margaret Garriss and her mother were featured in The News and Observer on May 14, 2012. The article highlighted the special bonds that mothers and daughters who work together share. Both Margaret and her mother are professional violinists and teach at Meredith.

’85 Kay Robertson Sokolovic’s 14 year-old daughter, Casey, is a sea turtle activist and the founder of Help Them L.A.S.T.- Love A Sea Turtle. They have been recognized in the April 2012 issue of Family Fun Magazine for their family’s volunteer work. Casey has raised enough money to fund six environmental STEMfocused camps. The hands-on, water-focused camps take place at a 400 acre nature conservancy. They take them kayaking and on a marine science adventure to the beach where they tour the sea turtle hospital, do a beach clean-up, learn to snorkel and have fun.

/ Meredi t h M a ga zi n e / s umme r 2 0 12

96032_22-32.indd 28

8/3/12 6:10 PM

alumnae Connection

’88

’97

Laura Taylor Alridge has been promoted to vice

Jennifer Griffin Grady has been named a senior

president of Boleman Law Firm, P.C. in Richmond, Va. She has also been named to the Board of Directors of Coordinators 2, an adoption agency in Richmond, Va.

account executive by S&A Cherokee, a full-service communications company. Sarah K. Rumney has been promoted to banking officer by BB&T.

’89

’98

Gretchen Holt Witt and Emily Necessary Fowler,

Beth Sumrell Ehrensberger lives in Richmond,

‘98, continue their work with Cookies for Kids’

Va., and is a freelance writer covering nutrition and health topics for books, websites and magazines. Kelly Conkling Scott lives in the western part of North Carolina. She enjoys working with her husband who is pastor of a wonderful church and she stays busy homeschooling her triplet boys.

Cancer and have just completed a second cookbook, to be published in May 2013.

’90 Ginger Wood Norris recently moved to Richmond, Va., to work at the VCU Parkinson’s and Other Movement Disorders Center. She will be managing the clinical research studies and providing genetic counseling for Huntington’s Disease and Essential Tremor.

’91 Sharon Shipp-Giese is living in Stuttgart, Germany

and pursuing a full-time career in art producing portraiture and still life works. Kelly Morris Roberts was awarded tenure and was also promoted to associate professor in the Meredith College English Department.

’92 Amy Carter Bland received her Master of School Administration degree from Appalachian State University on May 11, 2012. She was also a North Carolina Principal Fellow scholarship recipient.

’93 Kelly Phillips Erb was named to Philadelphia Busi-

ness Journal’s ‘40 Under 40’ Class of 2012. Lisa Watkins Ward became the NC representative for Dress A Girl Around the World (DAG) in June 2011. Ward arranges for thousands of dresses to be given to at risk girls around the world. She travels all over North Carolina speaking to various churches, groups and organizations about DAG. She was also one of the featured speakers at the DAG National Convention in Arizona. She had the amazing privilege to travel in March to hand out some of her dresses to girls in Uganda.

’94 Shannon McGinnis serves as executive director,

and is a founding board member and principal pianist of Collaborative Arts Institute of Chicago. Since 2006, she has served on the vocal coaching staff at the Chicago College of Performing Arts at Roosevelt University and this summer joins the faculty of Up North Vocal Institute in Boyne City, Mich.

’01 Sarah Barnhart writes that she is finishing up her sixth year as a high school counselor. She enjoys Jazzercise and plays in the handbell choir at her church. She also looks forward to arriving home each day to be greeted enthusiastically by her sweet kitty. Colleen Mazza received her MBA from Meredith College in May 2011. Jenille Shelton Hess was awarded a Roy H. Park Fellowship with the School of Journalism and Mass Communication at The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She will begin her candidacy for a Master of Arts in Strategic Communications this fall as part of the Class of 2014. Elizabeth Anne Bondurant Spires recently began a new job at BB&T as the regional associate relations manager.

’02 Lori Beck Blackley is a practicing chiropractor in

Lumberton, N.C., at Beck and Blackley Chiropractic Clinic. She also published a children’s book, “Let’s Go to the Chiropractor.” Robyn Ratcliffe Darnell is married to Ed Darnell and they have one daughter, Kailynn Elizabeth, born 3/8/11. Traci Day Ricci and family are moving to Alabama where her husband is in flight school with the U.S. Army.

’03 Katherine Anderson appeared as Marian Paroo in “The Music Man” in April. Carolyn Clark is working part-time as a teacher of an enrichment class for students who are home schooled. She loves teaching and feels that her days at Meredith prepared her for this job. She also does volunteer work as clerk for church and has edited and co-written two devotional books for the church.

’04 Amy Burgess has recently accepted the position of

territory sales representative for Forest Pharmaceuticals in Fayetteville, N.C. Stacey Cartrette writes that her daughter, graduated from Cary High School in June and will be attending Meredith in the fall. They are very excited as she will be the third in the family to attend Meredith. Kelley Taylor Contrera teaches first grade at Union Elementary in Wingate, N.C. She was also named “Teacher of the Year.” Mary Frances Evans Daniel graduated from UNC-Greensboro in May 2012, earning a master’s degree in history, with a concentration in historic preservation. She is working for Preservation North Carolina in Raleigh. Mary-Kathryn Pate Hixson was named career development coordinator for Needham B. Broughton High School. Molly Huffstetler was featured in an article by VCU School of Social Work that spoke about her work experiences while in graduate school and how they fueled her desire to help promote change through her career in social work. Kim Turnage Keith has been promoted to associate branch executive director at the Kerr Family YMCA. She has been at Kerr YMCA since January 2010. Miranda McCall completed her MBA and has been promoted to the associate director of financial assistance at Duke. Meredith Threatt received her master’s in education in community counseling at the University of Dayton this past fall and is now a licensed health counselor in Ohio. She just opened a private practice, Atrium Counseling and Coaching Services, with two other therapists and a life coach.

’05 Kendra Keech Alexander is a major gifts officer

at the College of Education and East Carolina University. Victoria Bunch is serving as the secretary of the Meredith College Alumnae Association. Laura McNeill Cox is now a client advocate at Dimension Data. Cameron Fisher is a business relationship manager for the business banking division of Wells Fargo. Rachel Salsman Harrison is a senior client advisor with SchoolDude.com. Beth Briggs Holt is an internal auditor at American National Bank. Catherine Maher Taggart is a clinical research coordinator II at Duke University Medical Center. Barbara Whitecross is a senior design consultant/ accounts manager at Legacy Business Solutions, LLC/Homebuilder Selections. Lauren Midgett Williams is the regional director for ViSalus Body by Vi 90-Day Challenge while continuing to teach fourth grade.

’07 Crystal Colclough writes that she is a stay-athome mom to two boys. They recently went to Disney World and had a wonderful time. Christy Nash is M er edi t h M ag az i ne / sum m er 2 012 /

96032_22-32.indd 29

8/3/12 6:10 PM

alumnae Connection

Performance of Twelfth Night 1907

Performance of Twelfth Night 2006 the site coordinator of the YMCA middle school after school program. She graduated with her master’s in human services in June from Capella University and will be looking for her dream job in child welfare. She loves to write and enjoys blogging. Writing a book is still on her bucket list. Genevieve Parker Hill was married in April 2012. She writes that she is so excited about upcoming adventures. She is planning a long round of travels and writing research this summer in the Middle East and Turkey. Rebecca Newton Pope is living in western North Carolina with her husband and is working from home for a company she has been employed by since December 2007. Kathryn Taylor is an interior designer and is working on the District of Columbia Public Libraries, MLK Library and Columbia College Chicago.

’08 Laura Williams Cosner was recently featured on

TLC’s “Say Yes to the Dress Atlanta” prior to her December 2011 wedding. It was a long day of filming but she found a dress she loved and was able to share it with everyone at home.

’09 Natalie Braswell continues to enjoy her work in

marketing at the N.C. Museum of Art. Ashley King accepted a new position as the third- eighth grade site administrator at Franklin Academy in Wake Forest, N.C. Crystal Sumner graduated from Elon University School of Law and plans to take the Bar exam this summer. She writes that she could not have come this far without her background at Meredith.

’10 Erin Etheridge graduated from the University of

Virginia with an M.A. in Spanish Literature. Becky 30

Forbes has earned a master’s degree in library and information studies at Florida State University, where she was also inducted into the Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society. Collette Kinane graduated from the University of Pennsylvania with a master’s of science in historic preservation after successful completion of a master’s thesis titled “Addressing the Nation: the use of design competitions in interpreting contentious historic sites.” Maggie Lally is preparing to graduate with an M.A. in English from College of Charleston/The Citadel after passing her comprehensive exam with honors. This year, Lally has had several adventures in academia: she presented at the Middle Tennessee State University English graduate student conference and the Southeastern Medievalist association conference, and participated in the second manuscript seminar at USC in March. Virginia Clair Tharrington has spent the last two years teaching second grade at an international school in Shanghai, China. She was a homeroom teacher, and she taught English, science, social studies, and ESL. She will now be returning to Raleigh to start the adventure of law school at Campbell in the fall after a month long trip through Africa. Lauren Holden Williams has completed her M.A. in English at NC State.

’11 Jordan Jaked recently received a full graduate

assistantship, including full tuition waiver and living costs, for the University of Georgia’s Master of Fine Arts in costume design. She will be moving to Athens, Ga., in preparation of the program that begins in Fall 2012. Kiran Subramaniam moved to Los Angeles to work in the entertainment industry. She is a literary assistant for Hertzberg Media and she loves it. The people that walk in every day continue to blow her away.

Births & New Additions 1992 Jacqueline Dato Mawyer, a daughter, Kaylee Michelle, 4/5/12.

1994 Kendall Lueke Myers, a daughter, Hadley Grace, 4/30/12.

1995 Heather Johnson McCullen, a daughter, Emily Catherine, 3/8/12. Tracy Bowes Moseley, a daughter, Darby Peyton, 7/13/11. Missy White Wells, a daughter, Lillian “Lilly” James Wells, 12/9/11.

1996 Christian “Christy” Hunt Arbogast, a son, John

Valentine, 6/7/12.

1997 Elizabeth Schramm Cook, a daughter, Ellery Eric-

son, 4/27/12. Deborah Handy Martin, a son, Owen Charles, 5/16/11. Carol Colston Tuttle, a daughter, Erin Alexis, 4/16/12.

1998 Beth Sumrell Ehrensberger, a daughter, Margaret Catherine “Cate”, 5/6/12. Brandie Stallings Kutch, a son, Cooper Luke, 3/22/12.

1999 Elizabeth Allen Bryant, a son, Henry William,

9/1/2011.

2000 Emily Brindle, a son, Rafael Morales-Brindle, 12/30/11. Sarah Glover Donleycott, a daughter, Emma Katherine, 12/14/11.

2001 Kimberly Clendenen Franklin, a daughter, Sophia

/ Meredi t h M a ga zi n e / s umme r 2 0 12

96032_22-32.indd 30

8/9/12 1:03 PM

alumnae Connection Marie, 6/4/12. Elizabeth Anderson Gallop, a daughter, Grace Louise, 9/11/11. Kimberly Shive Green, a son, Eli William, 1/29/12. Amy Alm Moore, a daughter, Lauren Kelly, 12/07/11. Ashley Nance Navarro, a son, Ricardo Bryson, 12/9/11. Jenille Shelton Hess, a son, Dylan McClellan, 11/21/11.

2002 Lori Beck Blackley, a daughter, Paige Wilson,

3/4/12. Traci Day Ricci, a son, Daniel Esteban, 3/7/12. Anna Jones Townsend, a son, Griffin Alexander, 11/1/11. Hope Parrish Whitesides, a daughter, Elizabeth Madison, 1/17/12.

2003 Alison Suber Braswell, a son, Owen Scott, 1/26/12. Allison Rowe Edwards, a son, Chapel Grayden, 11/28/11. Hunter Eddins Gentel, a daughter, Mary Weathers, 12/18/11. Emily Stewart Strickling, a son, James Leland, 5/2/12.

2004 Lauren Broere Husmillo, a daughter, Sadie Rose, 5/1/12. Holly Goss Miller, a daughter, Liliana Alyse, 7/26/11. Mary Katherine Hardy Washington, a daughter, Emma Louise, 2/5/12.

2005 Mary Clarke Shuff Bourgeois, a son, Lionel “Leo” John, 9/27/11. Amy Hall Oliver, a son, Jordan Andrew, 11/13/11. Jill Nester Hayes, a son, Hudson Ryan, 3/6/12. Meredith Heinisch Huie, a daughter, Emily Grace, 5/2/12. Beth Smith Namishia, a son, Eli James, 10/17/11. Brandy Pulley Powers, a daughter, Ella Katherine, 9/24/11.

2006 Sarah King Krizan, a daughter, Jillian Paige,

11/18/11. Christina Adkins Steel, a daughter, Eleanor Kathleen “Ella Kate”, 3/31/12.

2007 Mary Ruth Richards Beasley, a daughter, Emma Ruth, 5/30/11. Mary Kate O’Shaughnessy, a daughter, Abigal Harper, 10/26/11. Katherine Murray, a son, Ryan Scott, 11/8/11.

Deaths 1937 Eleanor Edwards Williams, 3/1/12.

1938 Anne Poteat Rose, 04/24/11.

1939 Barbara Behrman McClain, 3/2/12.

Jordan Jaked, ’11, Works to “White Out” Lung Cancer By Melyssa Allen

ostume designer Jordan Jaked, ’11, teamed up with other Meredith fashion designers in June to put on a special fashion show called White Out Lung Cancer. The event honored the memory of her mother. All designs in the show used only white, ivory and silver fabrics, reflecting the ribbon colors that symbolize the campaign to raise awareness of lung cancer. As a student, Jaked earned a theatre degree, took fashion courses and worked in costume design for Meredith Ensemble Theatre. She combined both of these interests for the fundraiser. “It was important for me to raise awareness, and the best way I knew how was through producing something theatrical and fashionoriented,” Jaked said. White Out Lung Cancer benefited the North Carolina Lung Cancer Partnership (NCLCP), which supports lung cancer research, awareness and advocacy. Jaked felt the fashion show would help reach a younger audience. The White Out Lung Cancer event, which also included a silent auction, was successful beyond Jaked’s expectations. “We sold over 30 more tickets than we were hoping to sell, and we had to add seats in the balcony of the theatre,” she said. Jaked’s family, including sister, Brittany, who is a senior at MerJordan Jaked, ’11 edith, helped coordinate the event. She was also supported by her Meredith College family. Eight of the nine designers were students or alumnae in Meredith’s fashion design program. Many other Meredith alumnae supported the effort as sponsors or volunteers. She hopes to make the fashion show an annual event. “I certainly want the event to continue, and with all the support I’ve received from Meredith, the NCLCP, and my family, I believe it is possible,” Jaked said. She also hopes to hold a similar event in her new home of Athens, Ga., where she is attending the University of Georgia to pursue a Master of Fine Arts in theatre design. “I really want to stay active working with the Lung Cancer Partnership throughout my life, in hopes of providing families and patients with resources that will help them cope with the diagnosis of lung cancer,” Jaked said. Learn more about the N.C. Lung Cancer Partnership at nclungcancerpartnership.org.

Anna Lee Johnson West, 5/18/12. M er edi t h M ag az i n e / sum m er 2 012 /

96032_22-32.indd 31

8/3/12 6:11 PM

alumnae Connection 1941

1996

1976

Hannah Ruth Spruill McGaw, 2/2/2012.

Christine Owle Murray, 2/14/12.

Lee Kirk Michael in the death of her mother.

1942

1977

Nauwita Page Hogan, 1/20/2012.

Marriages

1943

2000

Betsy Porter Fritschel in the death of her father.

Vivian Tulburt Cole, 1/27/12.

Kimberly Franklin Ritter to Paul Kavanagh, 6/3/10.

1978

1945

2000

Margaret Weathers Smith, 4/15/12.

Rachel Polich to Paul Mancuso, 05/21/11.

Mary Elizabeth Johnston Arthurs in the death of her mother.

1946

2003

Julia Fleming Pugh, 2/8/2012.

Melanie Humphries to Ivar Svinis, 5/3/08.

1947

2004

Esther Hooker Stratford, 4/16/12.

Mary Frances Evans Daniel to Braxton Pryce

Kathy Christian Bender in the death of her father.

1979 Sandra Irvin G. Cagle in the death of her mother.

1987 Leigh Allison Eury in the death of her sister.

Wilson, 6/30/12.

1991

Bennie McGougan Gardner, 3/20/12.

Mary-Kathryn Pate Hixson to Jeff Connor, 6/21/12.

Mary Dell Fales Johnson, 1/17/2012.

Kristin Siha to Marc Tillett, 5/5/11.

Mary Wood Spencer Sparks in the death of her mother.

Sarah Ellen Skinner, 5/27/12.

Malone Elizabeth Wade to Rafe Harrison Lockaby,

1949

3/24/12. Holly Goss to Andrew Miller.

Abbey Lanier Mulvaney in the death of her grandmother.

2006

1996

1948

Iris Gray Scarborough, 3/8/12.

1950 Catherine Elizabeth “Betty” Moore, 5/8/12.

1951

Brooklyn Parrish to Kevin Ladd, 4/28/12.

2010 Shanika Adams to Emmanuel Kidd, 5/26/12.

Sarah Jane Newbern Brashear, 5/26/12. Barbara Todd Pruitt, 6/7/12.

1952 Helen Leatherwood Cody, 3/18/12.

1954 Bobbie Addy Manderbach, 3/17/12. Elizabeth “Betty” Irene Hunter Mott, 5/4/12.

1955 Barbara Harrill Graham, 1/17/12. Trudy Fitzgerald Willmann, 12/10/2011.

1956

Sympathy 1943 Marsha Hood Brewer in the death of her sister.

1950 Winnie Fitzgerald Smith in the death of her sister.

1952

1995

Trinnie Terrell McMillan in the death of her father.

1998 Martha S. Gilliam in the death of her father.

2000 Courtney Suggs in the death of her grandmother.

2003 Malissa de La Fosse Albright in the death of her father. Allison Rowe Edwards in the death of her grandmother.

Marilyn Morrissette Brandt in the death of her

2004

husband. Sue Fitzgerald in the death of her sister.

Kelley Taylor Contrera in the death of her grand-

mother. Blair Briggs Roberts in the death of her grandfather.

Maxine Grant Falls, 3/23/12.

1960

Nancy Carpenter Gregg, 3/8/12.

Barbara Armstrong Haas in the death of her son.

2005

1957

1961

Jennifer Harrower in the death of her grandfather.

Betty Jo Kiff Eason, 9/12/11.

Jenny Taylor Bond in the death of her husband.

1961

1966

Maggie Ann Rowe Baucom, 6/8/12.

Price Marsh Thrower in the death of her mother.

Barbara Jean Bumgarner, 4/15/12.

1969

1963

Linda Sears Suggs in the death of her mother-in-law.

Marion Hall Bowman, 3/23/12.

1972

1980

Carol Swarr Beaumont in the death of her mother.

Mary Nell Breedlove Hight, 5/19/12.

1973

1981

Carolyn Howard Carter in the death of her mother.

Cathy Sutton Hardy, 2/22/12. Geraldine Herring Kennedy, 3/24/12.

Debbie Pearce Godwin in the death of her father.

ther. Katherine Roach in the death of her father.

2006 Lindsey de La Fosse Turnau in the death of her

father.

2007 Crystal Colclough in the death of her father and mother-in-law. Christina Hooks Copersito in the death of her father.

2012 Mary Royall Hight in the death of her mother.

1974

1982

Amy Pierce in the death of her mother.

Pamela M. Hargett, 5/12/12.

Susan Goforth Porter in the death of her mother.

Beth Briggs Roberts in the death of her grandfa-

/ Meredi t h M a ga zi n e / s umme r 2 0 12

96032_22-32.indd 32

8/3/12 6:11 PM

ultural events Fall 2012 Calendar for Meredith College

Meredith College cultural events are open to the public and free unless otherwise noted. We invite you to visit meredith.edu/community for more information about these and other events.

August

“Patience” by Gilbert and Sullivan Presented by Meredith’s White Iris Light Opera Thursday-Saturday, August 23-25, 8 p.m. Sunday, August 26, 3 p.m. Jones Auditorium Tickets: $5 general

Presidential Lecture Series at Meredith College Jeannette Walls Monday, August 27, 7 p.m. Jones Auditorium Presented by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina

Guest Recital Richard and Renee McKee, duo-pianists Friday, September 7, 7:30 p.m. Carswell Concert Hall

September North Carolina Dance Festival

Convocation Chris Jordan Wednesday, September 19, 7 p.m. Jones Auditorium

“Machinal” by Sophie Treadwell Tuesday-Saturday, September 25-29, 8 p.m. Sunday, September 30, 3 p.m. Studio Theatre Tickets: $10 general, $5 students/seniors Reservations: boxoffice@meredith.edu

Meredith Opera Workshop

Geoffrey Simon, organ Sunday, October 14, 7:30 p.m. Jones Chapel

An Evening of Mozart Scenes Friday-Saturday, November 16-17, 7:30 p.m. Carswell Concert Hall

Meredith Sinfonietta Concert Thursday, October 18, 8 p.m. Jones Auditorium

Fall Choral Concert Sunday, October 21, 3 p.m. Jones Chapel

The All-Dance Festival

Natural Settings: Botanical Art Susan Aldworth, Marilyn Bass, Claire Miller and Patricia Savage Opening reception, Sunday, September 9, 2-4 p.m. September 9 - November 11 Rotunda Gallery

96032Cvr.indd 3

“Step on a Crack” by Suzan Zeder

Guest Recital

Carswell Concert Hall Lecture-Recital by Barbara Peters, soprano Thursday, October 25, 7:30 p.m.

Opening reception, Sunday, September 9, 2-4 p.m. September 9-October 28 Frankie G. Weems Art Gallery

Opening reception, Sunday, November 11, 2-4 p.m. November 11-29 Frankie G. Weems Art Gallery

October

Debussy Festival

Wax Foundations: Encaustic in the Southeast

Senior Art Exhibition

Thursday-Saturday, November 8-10, 7 p.m. Saturday-Sunday, November 10-11, 3 p.m. Studio Theatre Tickets: $10 general, $5 children/students/seniors Reservations: boxoffice@meredith.edu

Friday-Saturday, September 7-8, 8 p.m. Sunday, September 9, 3 p.m. Jones Auditorium Tickets: $15 adults; $10 students/seniors; $5 children under 10; $25 festival pass Reservations: boxoffice@meredith.edu

November

Meredith Faculty in Concert Friday, October 26, 7:30 p.m. Meredith Music Majors & Music Students in Concert Saturday, October 27, 7:30 p.m. Lecture-Recital by Thomas Otten, pianist Sunday, October 28, 3 p.m.

Friends of the Library Fall Dinner Featured Speaker: Bishop John Shelby Spong Tuesday, October 30, 6:30 p.m. Belk Dining Hall Tickets: $18 for Friends Members, $10 for students, $20 for all others Reservations: meredith.edu/library/friends.htm or (919) 760-8531

Meredith Dance Theatre Friday-Sunday, November 16-18, 8 p.m. Jones Auditorium Tickets: $10 general; $5 students/seniors Reservations: boxoffice@meredith.edu

Guest Recital Richard Reid, pianist Performing works of Mozart, Beethoven, Liszt and Rachmaninoff Monday, November 26, 7:30 p.m. Carswell Concert Hall

“Women at Work” New plays presented by the playwriting class Thursday-Friday, November 29-30, 8 p.m. Studio Theatre

December Winterfest Concerts Meredith Chorus, Chorale, Encore! and Sinfonietta Sunday, December 2, 3 & 8 p.m. Jones Auditorium

8/3/12 5:52 PM

Department of Marketing 3800 Hillsborough Street Raleigh, North Carolina 27607-5298

Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Raleigh, NC Permit No. 369

www.meredith.edu

Go Back to School … at Meredith If you are an alumna, you already know the quality of a Meredith education. Many of our graduate students choose our programs precisely because they know they will receive an exceptional, personal educational experience. Our graduate and post-baccalaureate certificate programs for men and women offer the flexibility, convenience and affordability you need to advance in your career. Programs Offered at Meredith • Master of Business Administration (MBA) • Master of Education • Master of Arts in Teaching • Master of Science in Nutrition • Dietetic Internship • Didactic Program in Dietetics Certificate • Paralegal Certificate • Pre-Health Certificate • Business Foundations Certificate

LEARN MORE: meredith.edu/graduate (919) 760-8423

96032Cvrx2.indd 4

8/13/12 12:04 PM