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ALUMNI NEWS
a l u m n i n e w s
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class notes
1950s
The Rev. Sanford L. Spangler, Jr. ’55
is a retired Lutheran minister, currently residing in Seymour, Tennessee.
1960s
Geranne Schwarzenbach Schulz
’66 is happily retired in New Bern, North Carolina.
1970s
The Rev. Andrea Caruso Conklin ’72
is an active member of the clergy of the Episcopal Diocese of Dallas, Texas.
Erskine “Sandy” White ’72, a former Maroon swimmer, recently retired as longtime sports administrator for the Blind Sports Organization. He is living in a golf community in Florida with wife, Heidi, and their youngest daughter, Marina, and has started a senior swim team. Daughter Jennifer, is an assistant principal, and son Jeff, works for Nokia.
Cristina Brescia Michta ’74 enjoys living in Bavaria, and loved attending her 45th class reunion, held during Alumni Weekend 2019. “It was wonderful celebrating with the Class of 1974,” she says.
William M. Passano III ’78 is proud to announce that his eldest daughter, Catherine, married Will Cagney IV on June 22, 2019 in Baltimore, Maryland. Catherine works in fundraising at the Smithsonian Institution National Portrait Gallery in Washington, D.C. Will is a policy analyst at the Department of Defense in Washington, and a first lieutenant in the Maryland Army National Guard. William Passano is president of Zensights, a biopharmaceutical vendor management company based in Phoenix, Arizona.
1980s
Kenneth Wingfield ’88 has published a new book, “All I Ever Wanted to Be…,” about his lifelong struggles with debilitating health issues, including polio and multiple sclerosis. “In many ways, [Roanoke College] has afforded me to live such an exceptional life,” he writes.
history at Roanoke College, Radford University and Virginia Western Community College. A contributing columnist for The Roanoke Times, he has also written extensively on local history and the Second World War.
1990s
Dianna Board Parrish ’90 is an advisor and adjunct professor of social work at Mary Baldwin University.
Jonathan R. Hausner ’93 has joined the law firm of Bowditch & Dewey, LLP as a partner. Jonathan, an attorney in Bowditch’s real estate and environmental group, holds a B.A. in political science from Roanoke College, and a J.D., cum laude, from Suffolk University Law School. He also completed a Barrister’s Pupilage, sponsored by Suffolk University Law School and the Chambers of Georges Khayat, QC, London, England. Bowditch has offices in Boston, Framingham and Worcester, Massachusetts.
John D. Long ’89 has authored “Murder in Roanoke County: Race and Justice in the 1891 Susan Watkins Case,” a book about the trial of Charles Watkins for the murder of his wife. In the book, according to a publisher’s note, Long “resurrects the truth of who killed Susan Watkins.” Long, who is the director of education at the National D-Day Memorial in Bedford, Virginia, holds a Bachelor of Arts in history from Roanoke and Master of Arts in history from the University of Virginia. He has taught
Former Nike executive Michener Chandlee ’91 has been appointed chief financial officer of Fanatics, the largest online seller of licensed sports merchandise. Michener, who has nearly 30 years of global finance experience — including the past 18 years with Nike — will oversee the business and financial planning, accounting, investor relations, purchasing, tax, treasury and divisional finance for Fanatics. Michener comes to Fanatics having held a variety of CFO positions across several key Nike divisions. His appointment as Fanatics CFO comes on the heels of the announcement that the company would manufacture and distribute all Nike NFL and MLB fan gear sold across all retail channels beginning this year. Michener holds a B.A in international relations from Roanoke and an MBA from IESE International Graduate School of Management in Barcelona, Spain.
Babb appointed police chief at Virginia Tech
William “Mac” Babb III ’90 has been named the new police chief and director of security at Virginia Tech.
Babb, a graduate of Roanoke’s Honors Program and a criminal justice major, served for 25 years as an officer with the Roanoke City Police Department and for four years as a deputy chief and assistant director of security at Tech before his new appointment.
“I’m thrilled to be able to continue serving the Virginia Tech community as police chief and director of security,” Babb says. “Roanoke College has a strong history of developing and engaging student leaders, and my experiences as an undergraduate there have extended into all aspects of my law enforcement career.”
Babb replaces Chief of Police Kevin Foust, who was promoted to associate vice president for safety and security. Babb holds a master’s degree from American Military University and is a graduate of the National Criminal Justice Command College.
He has received numerous awards over his career including the Commonwealth Valor Award and the Lifesaving Award from the Virginia Association of Chiefs of Police.
“Virginia Tech has gotten a brilliant and widely experienced new chief,” says Dr. Bill Hill, retired professor of political science at the College who remembers Babbs as one of Roanoke’s early Honors Program students. “Roanoke College should be proud. I know I am.” “My experiences at Roanoke College as an undergraduate have extended into all aspects of my law enforcement career.”
William “Mac” Babb III
Paul Droubay ’97 is vice president, Total Rewards, at Western Governor’s University in Salt Lake City, Utah.
2000s
Dr. Nina Barzachka ’03 has joined the tenure-track faculty at College of Holy Cross in Worcester, Massachusetts, as an assistant professor of political science. Nina earned a dual B.A. in international relations and French from Roanoke College, and an M.A. and Ph.D. in foreign affairs from the University of Virginia. Prior to Holy Cross, she taught at Dickinson College, Transylvania University, Gettysburg College and Mary Baldwin College.
Danielle Ramey Green ’09 illustrated a new publication titled “Metal Like Me,” written by Derek Sower.
Amanda Pickens Nitto ’09 has been elected shareholder at Robinson Bradshaw, a Carolinas-based law firm with national practices. Amanda, an experienced class action litigator, represents companies involved in high-stakes business disputes. After graduating magna cum laude from Roanoke, she earned a law degree, magna cum laude, from the University of South Carolina.
2010s
Christine Bealer ’13 has joined Fox Rothschild LLP in Exton, Pennsylvania as an associate in the Corporate Department. Christine advises clients on a variety of finance, regulatory and transactional matters.
Robert Gibson ’13 has joined the Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at VTC (Virginia Tech Carilion) as its associate director of business development. Robert is responsible for developing and nurturing partnerships between Virginia Tech scien
Dr. Matthew Troutman ’05 has been appointed Head of School at Thomas Jefferson School in St. Louis, Missouri. Troutman will assume the position on July 1, 2020. He holds a B.S. in physics from Roanoke, an M.S. and a Ph.D. in physics from Clemson University, and an M.Ed. from the Klingenstein Center for Independent School Leadership at Teachers College, Columbia University. Troutman, who currently serves as Thomas Jefferson School’s director of teaching and learning, has also held such posts as associate director of academics, chair of the mathematics department, and assistant college counselor. He also serves on the school’s Committee on Diversity, Inclusion, Equity, and Social Justice; the Admissions and Enrollment Committee; and the Student Travel Committee. He founded the Thomas Jefferson School’s Robotics Team and has coached varsity girls’ soccer and junior varsity boys’ soccer. Thomas Jefferson School is an independent, non-sectarian boarding and day school for grades 7-12. It is ranked as the 29th Best Boarding School in America by niche.com.
This group of Roanoke College alumnae celebrated 32 years of friendship (and turning 50!) in Stone Harbor, New Jersey, in November 2019. “A good time was had by all, and Roanoke College was remembered warmly as it brought this entire group together,” says Liz Fields ’92. Pictured, left to right, are: Kristin Egan Page, Tracey Talone Gross, Erica Smith Barron, Melyce Schreiner Lucchesi, Susie Gwaltney Mineo, Liz Hanney Fields, Meredith McGee Kelly, Kate Leach Licameli, and Jen Beck Silva. All are members of the Roanoke College Class of 1992. Carolyn Burke ’07, a fourth-grade teacher at the Peirce School in Arlington, Massachusetts, was recognized as a “Most Valuable Educator” by the Boston Red Sox in August 2019. Carolyn was on the field at Fenway Park as part of pre-game ceremonies. Carolyn is pictured here with the student who nominated her and the Red Sox game jersey presented to her.
tists and companies seeking to introduce cutting-edge health science discoveries from the lab to the marketplace. Robert comes to his new position after working as global sales strategist and scientist at Novozymes.
Kenneth Tryal ’16 is working as a contracted character artist for Disney Parks, Experiences and Products. His job involves creating stylized and on-model versions of Disney, Pixar and Marvel characters, to be sold on merchandise in the Disney parks and in The Disney Store. “I would like to personally thank all of the staff of the Fine Arts Department [at Roanoke], as they were instrumental in starting my career path,” Kenneth wrote in an email. “I hope that they continue to inspire and encourage young creatives to follow and create their dreams at Roanoke College and beyond.” Kenneth previously interned at Walt Disney World and has worked as an instructor/advisor in the art of cartooning and comics. Shelbi J. Holloman ’17, of Suffolk, Virginia, won the Miss Fauquier 2020 pageant on Nov. 9, 2019, qualifying her for the Miss Virginia pageant, to be held this summer in Lynchburg, Virginia. Her platform is “The 3 A’s: Active, Athletics, Ability. Shelbi received her B.S. in athletic training at Roanoke College and went on to receive an M.S. in athletic training from West Virginia Wesleyan College. Currently, she works as an athletic trainer at the Children’s Hospital of the King’s Daughters. Shelbi competed in pageants when she was younger, according to an article in the Suffolk News-Herald, but stopped around age 11 to focus on sports such as soccer, softball, field hockey and track and field. She went on to play field hockey at Roanoke and holds school records for most goals and most points scored in her playing career.
Sean Gilley ’18 is in his second year as a data analyst with Booz Allen Hamilton in the Northern Virginia area.
Michael Pugh ’18 is an account executive with Loudon United FC, Northern Virginia’s first professional soccer team. Mike previously worked as an inside sales representative with the Washington Nationals, getting an inside view of the team’s exciting run in the World Series last October.
Andrew N. Williams ’18 teaches government at Prince Edward High School in Farmville, Virginia. marriages
Clint Nichols ’05 married Anny Irons on June 8, 2019, at Ironsides Farm in Lewisburg, West Virginia. The Rev. Paul Henrickson, Roanoke College chaplain emeritus, officiated the ceremony. The wedding party included Kyle Ginzl ’06, Michael Jeniec ’06 and Mrunal Patel ’05. A host of other alumni also attended the wedding.
Elizabeth Higginbotham ’06 and Homer Marshman III wed on May 31, 2019 in Palm Beach, Florida. Elizabeth is a special events manager for The Colony Hotel in Palm Beach. Her husband is in corporate finance at Comcast Corp. The couple live in West Palm Beach with their miniature Australian Shepherd, Palmer.
Ashley Slaughter ’08 married Andrew Peter Weisel ’13 was named to Roanoker magazine’s “40 Under 40” Class of 2020. Peter, who was a member of the Roanoke College golf team during his years at the College, has dedicated his career to golf instruction. According to an article in the magazine, Peter, as director of instruction at Hunting Hills Country Club in Roanoke, was particularly dedicated to his junior students. He has written articles for Virginia Golfer magazine, spoken on golf-specific podcasts, coached with the First Tee of Roanoke and managed a local PGA Junior League team. He also taught a Golf for Business course at Hollins University and a weekly class for youngsters at North Cross School. Earlier this year, Peter and his wife, Kelsea Pieters ’13 relocated (with dog Bagel) to Colorado, where Peter accepted a position as PGA Coach at Trent Wearner Golf Academy in Denver. Kelsea, who was Roanoke College’s public relations specialist from December 2017 to January 2020, has joined the media relations staff at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical School.
Iszard on May 25, 2019 in the bride’s hometown of Warrenton, Virginia. Virginia Sen. Creigh Deeds officiated. Members of the wedding party included Elliott (Heapes) Storms ’09 (maid of honor), Krizia Gravina ’08 and Megan Gale ’07 (bridesmaids); Mia (Imperatore Acciardo) Lovejoy ’06 (reader). Other alumni in attendance were Robert Settana ’05 and Tristan Graham ’08. Ashley works for the Federal Aviation Administration, her husband for Combined Properties. The couple live in Alexandria, Virginia, with their black lab, Bank$.
Casey Van Veen ’08 married Lucas Stone on Sept. 7, 2019 in Manquin, Virginia. Kathleen Taylor ’07 served as maid of honor, and guests included Peggy Soublo ’08. The couple live in Newport News, Virginia, where Casey is associate director of student unions and engagement at the College of William & Mary, and Lucas serves as a submarine officer in the U.S. Navy.
Virginia McGuire ’10 exchanged vows with Matthew Benhoff on Sept. 21, 2019 in St. Michael’s, Maryland. Members of the wedding party included Emily Huston ’10 and Shawna Poole ’10. Alumni in attendance included Kate Guare ’09, Meg March ’11, Aaron Gentilucci ’10, Vicki Brings ’10, Brooke Edwards ’08 and Elizabeth Hartge ’12. The couple live in Crownsville, Maryland.
Sheree Mullen ’10 married Chris Andreou on April 24, 2019 in the Blue Mountains In New South Wales, Australia. A Virginia reception was held at Camp Roanoke on Sept. 14, 2019. Roanoke College alumni, faculty and staff in attendance included: Chris Turnbull ’00; Carrie Mullen Turnbull ’00; Louaine Mullen ’99; Dr. Virginia Stewart, associate professor, English & Communication Studies; Bryan Ryberg, associate dean for Student Success & Admissions; Lacey Niles ’10, Sarah Musser ’10, Laura Jennings ’10, Daniel Mullen ’07 and Cyndi Garman Navarrete ’10. continued on page 32
Brabham-Spivey wedding
Higginbotham-Marshman wedding
Mullen-Andreou wedding
McGuire-Benhoff wedding
Skaff-Broman wedding
Van Veen-Stone wedding
Boyle-Cicalo wedding
Nichols-Irons wedding
Hottel-Landis wedding
Sebastian Thomas Barrick
Hugh and Elizabeth Fletcher
Lindsay Skaff ’10 wed Craig Broman on Sept. 7, 2019 at St. George Orthodox Cathedral in Charleston, West Virginia. A number of Roanoke College alumni were members of the wedding party.
Zachary Hottel ’12 and Ayla Landis married on Dec. 14, 2019 at Mt. Zion Lutheran Church near Woodstock, Virginia. Zachary is archivist for the Shenandoah County Library; his wife is an RN at Rockingham Memorial Hospital. The couple resides in Woodstock.
Samuel Cook ’13 and Samantha Garst ’15 exchanged vows on May 4, 2019 at St. Andrews Catholic Church in Roanoke, Virginia. The wedding ceremony was followed by a Star Wars-themed reception at Hidden Valley Country Club. More than 30 Roanoke College alumni were in attendance.
Mike Remmes ’13 and Meagan Cole ’13 married on Oct. 26, 2019 in Asheville, N.C. A number of Roanoke College alumni were in attendance.
Ashley Boyle ’15 and Vincent Cicalo ’14 wed on June 1, 2019 at the Hyatt Regency in Old Greenwich, Connecticut. Fellow Maroons Olivia Rhodin-Stoneking ’16, Taylor Stoneking ’15, Libby Compton ’14, Andrew Dittmar ’16, Larissa Kuzmanoff ’14, Kat Jansen ’14, Tess Pleban ’17 (maid of honor) and Breanne Spitznogle-Stump ’15 (bridesmaid) were in attendance. Ashley is a quality control analyst for Cartus, a global relocation company. Vincent is a junior CEO for FortCica Roofing & General Contractors.
Jake Brabham ’15 and Stacey Spivey married on Aug. 3, 2019 in Conway, Arkansas. Among the wedding party and guests were Sean Walsh ’14, Mark Strelow ’14, Mark Adams ’15, Meggan Lionberger Adams ’15, Tyler Mortis ’15, Lauren Roth ’16 and Cole Rosen ’13. Jake is the son of Danny and Shannon Meredith Brabham ’86.
Travis Lumpkin ’15 and Amanda Paul ’15 wed on Oct. 12, 2019 at Prince William Forest Park in Triangle, Virginia. Alumni in attendance included Byron Tyler Coles ’14, Tori Beard ’15, Michael Neuman ’15, and Kerri Ann (Taylor) Neuman ’18. The couple live in Manassas, Virginia.
families
Dr. Julie Haddy Barrick ’97 and husband Thomas, are the proud parents of Sebastian Thomas, born Aug. 20, 2019. The family resides in Charleston, West Virginia.
William ’10 and Catherine (Kohler) Fletcher ’10 welcomed son Hugh Fletcher on Sept. 19, 2019. Hugh and big sister Elizabeth live with their parents in New Orleans, Louisiana.
in memoriam
Mary Louise Webber ’46, of Ellijay, Georgia, died Sept. 7, 2019, at the age of 93. Webber spent much of her life as a teacher, having graduated with degrees in chemistry and biology from Roanoke and completing master’s work in those subjects at the College William & Mary. Her first teaching job was at Andrew Lewis High School in Salem. Webber, with her husband and children, moved to Georgia in 1961, where she taught and helped start youth football and baseball programs. Webber would often offer rides to children who lacked transportation and made sure no child lacked the resources needed to participate. Webber also was offered a position with an Office of Economic Opportunity program, teaching adults how to read and write.
Jack R. Giles ’47, of Roanoke, Virginia, passed away on Aug. 29, 2019. Giles worked his way through Roanoke College as a caddie at the Roanoke Country Club. During World War II, Giles served in the U.S. Navy as ship navigator on LSMR 517. A manufacturing representative for South Carolina, North Carolina and Virginia, he enjoyed golf and taught a popular Sunday school class at Enon Baptist Church in Roanoke into his 90s.
Mary Lydia Gills ’47, of Roanoke, Virginia, died on Dec. 22, 2019 at the age of 96.
Dorothy Woodcock Grotz ’50, of Whiting, New Jersey, died on Jan. 9, 2020. Grotz entered Roanoke at the age of 16. She earned a bachelor’s degree in economics at Roanoke and later, a master’s degree in social work. An advocate for women’s rights, she worked in accounting and in social services, and was a longtime volunteer social worker for Women Helping Women.
David Eugene Repass ’50, of Salem, Virginia, passed away Jan. 20, 2020. He was 95. Repass, who had specialty training as a photo reconnaissance pilot, served as a first lieutenant in the 8th Photo Squadron in the Army Air Corps. His last mission was flown over Japan the day before the Japanese surrendered on Aug. 14, 1945. A member of the Maroons baseball team during his years at Roanoke, Repass remained a lifelong fan of the New York Yankees, often traveling to New York for games. He was known for his ability to recite stats for almost any player. Repass, an avid golfer, was known for his many years as a dedicated daily volunteer at Salem’s Hanging Rock Golf Course. A gazebo at the golf course was dedicated in his honor on the occasion of his 85th birthday.
William A. Sulahian ’50 died Sept. 30, 2019 at age 91. After graduating from Roanoke, he entered the U.S. Air Force, where he piloted F-94 Starfire Interceptor fighter jets. He was honorably discharged in 1961 with the rank of captain. While still in active duty, Sulahian earned his J.D. in 1961 from New York Law School. A longtime resident of Shelter Island, New York, he was a practicing attorney for more than 50 years. He served one term as Shelter Island Town Justice, from 2003 to 2007. An avid golfer, he was a member of Gardiner’s Bay Country Club, serving two terms as club president. He was also a member of Lions International for more than 50 years.
Susan Evans Rendeiro ’52 passed away on Oct. 3, 2019 at her home in Savannah, Georgia. Rendeiro worked in tourism for the Historic Savannah Foundation and Grayline Tours. She was a member of Huntington Club, Garden Club of Savannah, and Savannah Chapter of DAR.
Jack Deming Wocher ’53, of Chesterfield, Virginia, died on Sept. 29, 2019. He was 88. Wocher served in the U.S. Army from 1953-1955, followed by employment in the textile industry for 30 years. He was active in his church, leading a youth group fellowship for many years. An avid stamp collector, he also enjoyed photography and playing bridge. He played semi-professional baseball as a shortstop
Alexander Drew Hierholzer Jr. ’50, died on July 1, 2019 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He was 91. While a student at Roanoke, Hierholzer left to enlist in the U.S. Navy. The war ended while he was in boot camp, but he served aboard the USS Missouri on post-war duty. Hierholzer returned to Roanoke after an honorable discharge and graduated. He later attended graduate school at Catholic University and studied at the Freie Universitat in Berlin, Germany as a Fulbright Fellow. Known professionally as Alexander Holt, he appeared regularly on TV’s “Love of Life,” “The Secret Storm,” “Young Doctor Malone,” and Hallmark’s Hall of Fame. He also appeared in numerous New York shows and national tours. Hierholzer had a rich career in the theater, first managing the Papermill Playhouse in Millburn, New Jersey, and the Huntington Hartford Theater and Greek Theatre in Los Angeles, California. He later moved to the Aquarius Theater in Hollywood to manage a three-year run of the original cast of “Hair,” then managed the Curran Theatre in San Francisco. Later, he managed original Broadway cast tours around the United States, including “Legends!” with Carol Channing and Mary Martin; “Sugar Babies,” with Mickey Rooney and Ann Miller, and “The Elephant Man,” starring David Bowie, before retiring in his adopted home city of Philadelphia. Hierholzer, whose daughter says was extremely proud of having attended Roanoke, has endowed a fund for the Fintel Library in his name through a charitable bequest.
Price remembered as a true champion of the law
An accomplished jurist, Richard Price was also deeply involved in community service.
The Hon. Richard Lee Price ’61, a New York State Supreme Court Justice, who had a notable and extensive judicial career, died in late 2019.
After graduating from Roanoke College in 1961 with a B.A. in political science, Price earned a J.D. from New York Law School in 1964. He graduated first in his class, and was awarded Outstanding Student honors.
After law school graduation, Price began to establish an illustrious career in legal and human rights. His legal experience started in 1965, and in 1976 he became the Chief Law Assistant for the Civil Court of the City of New York, a position he held until 1980. His sensitivity to issues such as discrimination against women, child abuse, and sexual crimes long benefited advocacy groups devoted to improving society at large.
Price served briefly in 1981 in the Civil Court System and in June of that year, began his service to the New York County Supreme Court. He was elected a judge, and in 1982 he became an Acting Justice of the Bronx County Supreme Court, a position he held for many years. Price has been appointed to many prestigious positions throughout his career, such as an appointment by the governor to chair a committee in charge of setting the amount of child support mandated by the state.
Price held extensive memberships in the legal profession as well as the community. He held the presidency of the American Judges’ Association and membership on the Law Explorer Board of Boy Scouts of America. He was an active member of the Jewish Lawyers Guild, the Black Bar Association, and the Women’s Bar Association for over 25 years. Price wrote over 25 legal and judicial publications. His community service dates back to the mid-1960s, and he was named in 19 honorary listings, from Men of Achievement to Biography of the Year.
In 1980, Shaw University honored Price with an Honorary Doctor of Laws.
He received the Roanoke College Medal on May 15, 1997. The medal is the highest honor the College bestows on its alumni.
in the early 1950’s, and enjoyed tennis, water-skiing and the NFL.
George Charles Henrich ’55, of Virginia Beach, Virginia, passed away on Dec. 11, 2019. Henrich served in the U.S. Army, and had a 22-year career in sales. He later worked for a software company, then worked several years at Computerland and at C&T Associates, where he continued his sales career until retirement. Henrich, a member of the College’s Society of 1842, is survived by his wife, Helen Dunn Henrich ’55, whom he met and fell in love with at Roanoke College.
John MacDonald Atkinson ’57
passed away on Oct. 1, 2019 at the age of 84. Atkinson was a practicing CPA for more than 60 years. He also gave his time and talents to numerous organizations including Rotary Club, Prince William Hospital, Chamber of Commerce and Historic Manassas. A Distinguished Alumnus at Roanoke, he established an academic scholarship at the College. Among his survivors are daughter Leslie Atkinson ’85 and stepdaughter Paige Kennedy Getchell ’09.
Edward W. Taylor ’58, of Midlothian, Virginia, died Jan. 5, 2020 at the age of 82. Taylor attended Roanoke for two years before becoming a Naval Aviation Cadet and receiving his Navy wings and commission as an ensign in 1957. After his release from active duty, Taylor moved to Richmond, Virginia, where he completed his undergraduate degree at the University of Richmond, then later earned a J.D. from the T.C. Williams School of Law at the University of Richmond. After graduating, he entered practice, for many years as a partner with firms in Richmond and Chesterfield, Virginia. In the 1970s, he worked for four years to help victims of a pesticide that was being manufactured in Hopewell, Virginia. He served as a reserve naval aviator, piloting until 1973 and achieving the rank of lieutenant commander. Taylor, who held a commercial pilot’s license, made his last flight — to the Bahamas — at age 50. Taylor served on the boards of several Bar organizations. After 35 years of practice, he retired. In 2015, he was recognized for 50 years of honorable membership in the Virginia State Bar.
William Furman Mattox, Jr. ’61, of Salem, Virginia, passed away on Dec. 14, 2019.
Dalene B. Hyatt ’60, of Roanoke, Virginia, died on Oct. 3, 2019. Hyatt, who attended Roanoke, graduated from Mississippi College with a B.A. in religious education, then continued her education at Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, Kentucky and Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Fort Worth, Texas. She worked various jobs, including substitute teaching and secretary at the Roanoke Rescue Mission. Hyatt, who taught Sunday School and worked as a Bible School instructor, was devoted to her husband and children
The Rev. Charles Lenwood Johnson
’62, of Irvington, Virginia, died June 11, 2019 at the age of 82. An ordained Episcopal priest, Johnson served as assistant rector and rector in several parishes in Virginia and in Maine. He also served as assistant to the Bishop of Virginia and as chaplain to the retired clergy of the Diocese of Virginia.
Joseph R. Tubman, Jr. ’64, of Severn, Maryland, passed away on Aug. 22, 2019. Tubman served in the U.S. Air Force and later became a financial manager with the Maryland State Highway Administration. He was active in the choir of Fellowship Baptist Church Choir, and enjoyed woodworking, reading and tinkering with his computer.
Adele H. “Dixie” Nichols ’65 died Dec. 3, 2019 at age 75 in Houston, Texas. She was an active member of the Memorial Exchange Club for more than 30 years, holding many positions, and a member of the Houston Bead Society and a neighborhood book club. She is remembered as the
Porterfield leaves legacy of business and civic leadership
Bittle Porterfield was a businessman and champion of the Roanoke Valley’s education and arts.
Bittle Wilson Porterfield III ’68, businessman and civic leader who helped shape the arts, education and business communities in Virginia’s Roanoke Valley, passed away on Nov. 29, 2019 at the age of 75.
Porterfield, who earned an MBA from Virginia Tech after graduating from Roanoke, served in the U.S. Army from 1968 to 1970, then devoted much of his career in the beverage industry, leading two family-owned businesses, Porterfield Distributing and Rice Management.
Beyond that career, Porterfield was dedicated to making Roanoke and the state of Virginia better places to live, giving his time to numerous boards and organizations. He was president of the Taubman Museum of Art and the Roanoke Valley Chamber of Commerce, and served as chairman of the Roanoke Valley Business Council, the Foundation for Roanoke Valley, the Roanoke Valley Resource Authority and United Way of Roanoke Valley.
Passionate about aviation, he also served as chairman of the Roanoke Regional Airport Commission, and was appointed to the Virginia Aviation Board by Virginia Gov. Tim Kaine.
Porterfield also valued education, serving as chairman of the North Cross School Board of Trustees, the Hollins University Board of Trustees and Rector of the Radford University Board of Visitors. He also served on the boards of the Child Health Investment Partnership of the Roanoke Valley and Apple Ridge Farm. Virginia Gov. Mark Warner appointed Porterfield to the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia.
Porterfield’s passing was acknowledged from the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives on Dec. 12 when Rep. Morgan Griffith honored Porterfield as “businessman and champion of the area’s education and arts. His goal was to make the Roanoke Valley and Virginia a better place to live.”
world’s best grandmother, a loving friend, avid artist and an adventurer.
Wayne D. Ohlandt ’68, of Ridgefield, Connecticut, passed away on Sept. 3, 2019. Ohlandt had a long and successful career in financial services, working as an equity stock trader. He enjoyed playing bridge and golf, and watching football and baseball.
Don Lee Webb ’68, of Blue Ridge, Virginia, died Oct. 13, 2019, at age 73. After graduating from Roanoke, Webb began a 35-year career as a teacher and consultant with Roanoke City Public Schools. He also worked for the Kroger Company before and during his years as a teacher, remaining with the company for more than 53 years. He served in numerous roles, including clerk, customer service manager and engagement trainer. Webb was a mentor and father figure to many young people. Among his survivors is his wife of 49 years, Mary Margaret Tate Webb ’74.
Donald W. Dodson ’69, of Fincastle, Virginia, passed away on Jan. 12, 2020. A U.S. Army veteran, Dodson followed his military service by earning a degree from Roanoke and more than 30 years of employment with Norfolk Southern Corp.’s civil engineering department. He was an ordained deacon at North Roanoke Baptist Church and made mission trips at home and abroad.
John R. Jones ’70, of Morristown, Tennessee, passed away on Dec. 26, 2019. Jones served as a radio operator for the U.S. Navy. He had a fulfilling career with General Electric, Newport News Shipbuilding, and Siemans. He was a member of the Gem and Mineral Society, North Riverside Baptist Church of Newport News, and First Baptist Church of Jefferson City, Tennessee.
Gregory Ottaway ’71, of Osprey, Florida, died on Dec. 27, 2019. Ottaway worked with multiple companies in Georgia and Florida as a telecommunications consultant, analyst, engineer and senior network analyst before retiring in Florida. A member of Pi Lambda Phi Fraternity at Roanoke, his survivors include brother Geoffrey Ottaway ’69.
Christopher Lee Fowler ’75, of Roanoke, Virginia, died on Nov. 29, 2019. Fowler was employed for 40 years at Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital as a medical lab technician. He was a lifelong active member of Belmont Presbyterian Church, serving as clerk of session, elder and volunteer. Of particular note: He never missed a Roanoke Rescue Mission Drumstick Dash on Thanksgiving Day with family.
Claire M. James ’76, of Charlottesville, Virginia, passed away on Jan. 21, 2020 at the age of 84. James, a retired high school English teacher, was a poet, an accomplished church musician and an adventurous cook. She was known for her excellent spaghetti sauce recipe. (Don’t forget the bay leaves!)
Dr. Elizabeth Leonard-Ryan ’79 died on Dec. 29, 2019 in Richmond, Virginia. Leonard-Ryan, who graduated as valedictorian of her class at Roanoke, followed her life’s calling after graduation and earned a DVM from the School of Veterinary Medicine at Virginia Tech. As founder of the Seaford Veterinary Medical Center in Yorktown, she was known as a compassionate veterinarian who treated every animal as if it were her own. She was on the Board of Directors for Mutts with a Mission, Inc., which provides service dogs to veterans, and was a member of the Peninsula Veterinary Association board. She also headed the special Education Advisory Committee for the York County School Division. Surviving family members include mother Virginia Masters Leonard ’53. Ryan was predeceased by grandmother Susie Kilgore Leonard ’55 and grandfather, Dr. Miles S. Masters, a former professor of fine arts at Roanoke College.
Crystal Lynn Van Hise ’95, of Roanoke, Virginia, passed away on Dec. 7, 2019. Van Hise was vice president and head of Human Resources at Star City Games in Roanoke. She loved to travel and was often accompanied by many enthusiastic family and friends. She was a dedicated alumna of Roanoke College. RC
An iconic citizen, a man of distinction
Sigmund E. Davidson ’43, Roanoke Valley business and philanthropic leader, died March 8, 2020. He was 98.
Davidson, affectionately nicknamed “Sig,” was a veteran of the U.S. Army, earning his degree from Roanoke College and marrying his wife, Harriet, a month before enlisting during World War II. He was deployed to Germany a year later, entering combat on Dec. 13, 1944. He was wounded on March 3, 1945, and was later awarded the Bronze Star and the Purple Heart for his injury and valor in combat.
Davidson became successful in the clothing business, opening and expanding the eponymous Davidson’s men’s clothing stores in the Roanoke area. He was appointed to the national board of the Menswear Retailers of America.
Davidson was devoted to his community. A standout in Roanoke Valley civic activities, he served with the United Fund, American Red Cross, Roanoke Valley Chamber of Commerce, Jaycees, Center in the Square, and Downtown Roanoke, Inc. He further distinguished himself on the board of the National Conference of Christians and Jews as well as receiving their National Brotherhood Award for a “lifetime devotion to the ideal of the Brotherhood of man.”
Davidson was an important member of Roanoke’s Jewish community, at one time serving as chair of the Roanoke Jewish Community Council. He lived in Roanoke at a time when Jewish people were not always accepted, according to Davidson’s March
A photo portrait of Sig Davidson, taken in 2013 in the Monterey House.
11 news obituary in The Roanoke Times. In 1983, his nomination for membership to an exclusive private club in Roanoke, which at the time had no Jewish members, was declined. (The club, five years later, admitted its first Jewish members.)
Yet Davidson attained distinction as a business and community leader, and a truly dedicated alumnus. He joined the Roanoke College Board of Trustees in 1981 and served as class agent and on the Associates Steering Committee. He participated in numerous phone-a-thons and special projects.
“I had a wonderful education,” he once said. “As a country, we need to encourage people to get an education, and I want to be part of that.” “I’ve tried to be as philanthropic as I can. When you’ve been successful and happy, you’ve got to share that with your community.”
In 1984, Davidson received the Roanoke College Medal, which recognizes outstanding alumni whose professional accomplishments, community engagement and service to the College represent the ideals of leadership, integrity and citizenship that Maroons hold dear.
“Sig Davidson was one of the all-time best sons of Roanoke College,” said Roanoke College President Michael Maxey. “Exemplary in all that he did, Sig stood for what is good, fair, decent, charitable, and inspiring in life. The world is richer because of his presence among and influence on us.”
FACULTY & STAFF OBITUARIES
Stallions remembered for her knowledge and her kindness
Dr. Maria Stallions, 63, associate professor of education and former chair of Roanoke College’s education department, died on Oct. 6, 2019.
Dr. Stallions came to Roanoke College in 2008 from Barry University in Miami, her alma mater, where she served as assistant dean in the Adrian Dominican School of Education. At Roanoke College, she taught in the Education Department and was appointed department chair in 2015.
Stallions mentored a generation of students. Her passion for serving the needs of English Language Learners and students with special needs was a model for all.
In addition to her roles at Roanoke College, Stallions was president of the Virginia Association of Colleges of Teacher Education and a commissioner on the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation. She was a longtime member of Kappa Delta Pi, serving as chapter counselor at Barry University and at Roanoke College. She was also honored as Education Partner of the Year by Young Audiences Arts for Learning Virginia and received the Excellence in Teacher Education Award from Florida Association of Teacher Educators.
“Maria’s knowledge and expertise ran deep, yet she shared it both humbly and respectfully,” said colleague Dr. Leslie Murrill, an education professor at Roanoke. “She genuinely wanted others to achieve great things, and she dedicated herself to providing them with the resources and support to make that happen.”
Stallions attended Salem Presbyterian Church and served on numerous committees, including Christian Education. Her faith was a foundation of her life, and she began every morning reading her Bible and drinking a fresh cup of coffee.
“Maria’s kindness, words of wisdom, and mentoring have left a lasting impression on me and so many others,” Murrill said. “We are better people because of who she was.”
College loses two retirees
John vonBielefeld Brust, retired assistant professor of art at Roanoke College, died on Jan. 26, 2020.
Brust, who held a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from the University of Cincinnati and Master of Fine Arts from the University of Georgia., joined the Roanoke College faculty in 1973 as an assistant professor of art. He later was promoted to associate professor of art and served as department chair in the 1980s.
During his tenure, Brust was nominated twice for the Outstanding Teacher Award at Roanoke, assisted in design, planning and implementation of the Olin Hall Fine Arts Center, and served on the Teacher’s Advisory Committee of the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts
In 1982, Brust created a work of art that was featured in the City of Roanoke’s Centennial calendar.
Upon retiring from Roanoke College in 2003, Brust was awarded the Simon Carson Wells Medal, an award bestowed upon tenured retiring faculty members. The medal is named for Dr. Simon Carson Wells, a teacher of mathematics and natural science at the College from 1849 to 1900.
Rebecca Dawson “Becky” Flannagan, 80, who served as a librarian at Roanoke College for 25 years, died Jan. 27, 2020.
Flannagan served in the Cataloging department for a number of years before moving into a position as library associateacquisitions. There, “she kept the dollars rolling out and the books rolling,” Stan Umberger, then director of the library, said on the occasion of her retirement in 1998.
Flannagan was an avid reader, photographer and enjoyed playing various musical instruments. She and her husband, Dennis, were fond of travel and made their way to many cities and towns in the United States, where they could enjoy their love of bluegrass music.
ALUMNI ASSOCIATION NEWS
Oh, the places Maroons gather…
Alumnae, left to right, Nicole Coppola ’91, Julie Angert-Dalby ’87, Kristen Egan Page ’92, Elizabeth Hanney Fields ’92 and Courtney Dittman Brown ’92, proudly displayed a Roanoke College flag at the Philadelphia Alumni Chapter reception on Nov. 14, 2019 at The Radnor Hotel. Chapter chairs are Fields and her husband, Matthew Fields ’91; vice chair is Emily Horner Coralic ’09.
The Atlanta Chapter celebrated its third consecutive Henry Hill Chapter Challenge win on Feb. 18, 2020. The award is given annually to the alumni chapter with the highest giving percentage at the end of the fiscal year and most improved giving percentage from the previous fiscal year.
The annual Richmond Alumni Chapter reception was held Dec. 17, 2019 at The Jefferson Hotel, beautifully decorated for the holidays. Chapter chair is Karen Rymers Winslow ’02; vice chair is Jennifer Payne Waldman ’04.
The Baltimore Alumni Chapter gathered on Oct. 30, 2019 at the Maryland Club. Pictured here, left to right, are Charlie Coulson ’19, Sarah Hughes ’19, Abigail Werner ’19, Vincent Posterli ’18, Jonathan Morgan ’16 (chapter chair), Elizabeth Kronander ’18 (chapter vice chair).
