The University of Virginia's College at Wise Magazine, Spring/Summer 2015

THE UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA’S COLLEGE AT WISE

SPRING/SUMMER 2015

60 YEARS IN THE MAKING UVa-Wise alumni reaches milestone

FROM THE CHANCELLOR Dear Alumni and Friends, Spring 2015 has been a semester filled with many traditional events, a few firsts, and a milestone for our growing campus.

The “Snow Story” continues at UVa-Wise! Mother Nature dumped heavy snow and brought chilling temperatures to the region in February, forcing UVa-Wise to cancel classes for two weeks straight. Our facilities staff worked tremendously hard to keep sidewalks and parking lots clear of snow and ice, while also handling the normal daily maintenance that keeps a campus operating.

Faculty and staff relied on technology to conduct business from home while the College was shuttered. Faculty’s creative uses of technology kept students current in classes, but we operated on a modified schedule in April to make up lost class time. It made all of us appreciate the arrival of spring.

Each spring we host the Scholarship Luncheon, an annual event that brings our loyal scholarship supporters together with the students that benefit from their Chancellor Donna P. Henry generous gifts. The Scholarship Luncheon, one of my favorite events, highlights the many ways the scholarship funds change lives—one student at a time.

We celebrate our past each April with Founder’s Day, a tribute to Mr. Jefferson and his vision and hard work that led to our College and its mission to provide access to higher education across Virginia. Founder’s Day has evolved to a student-driven afternoon of fun and fellowship, including a Q&A on Thomas Jefferson. This edition of the UVa-Wise Magazine shares photos of Mr. Jefferson’s birthday celebration.

Our campus comes together on the annual Day of Service to fan out into the community and to work on projects that benefit our neighbors. Student groups representing many aspects of campus life work with local residents and community leaders on a variety of projects. It has become a signature event for UVa-Wise, and it is one of the best ways our College shows community commitment. My family and I look forward to volunteering for the Day of Service each year.

Our spring sports programs faced fierce competition in the Mountain East Conference. The tennis teams played in the newly dedicated Jim and Betty Humpreys Tennis Complex, and our baseball and softball teams continue to build strong programs.

Another first for UVa-Wise this semester was our Women’s Lacrosse team, under the direction of Coach Meghan Dennehy. The team, led by 11 freshmen, made it to the inaugural Mountain East Conference tournament in its first season. We are proud of the first-year program, and we look forward to the next season. Coach Dennehy was named Coach of the Year by the MEC. In December, we hosted a reception to celebrate the our 60th anniversary. Many friends of the College came to The Inn at Wise to mark this auspicious milestone. You can relive the night through the photos capturing the fun. We are 60 years strong and counting!

UVa-Wise reached another milestone in May when the Class of 2015 was inducted into the Alumni Association. The addition of the 307 new members pushed our alumni membership past the 10,000 mark. It took 60 years to reach that mark, but having an army of 10,000 alumni benefits the College in terms of fundraising, national exposure, and with student recruitment as the network of alumni grows in size and influence.

I congratulate the Class of 2015 as they earn their baccalaureate degrees, leave UVa-Wise, and pursue careers or graduate school. I look forward to the future successes of the Class of 2015, and their continued connection to the College at Wise as alumni. I know you will use your skills and education to make your communities a better place.

Sincerely,

Donna P. Henry Chancellor

CONTENTS

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Undergraduate Research Undergraduate research is on the rise.

Find out what students are doing and how it benefits them and the region.

The UVa-Wise Magazine is produced by College Relations and Alumni Relations for alumni and friends of The University of Virginia’s College at Wise.

EDITOR Kathy Still ’84 ALUMNI EDITORS Pam Collie ’93 Cindi L. Smoot ’09 EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Susan Mullins PRINCIPAL PHOTOGRAPHY Tim Cox, Tim Cox Photo/Graphics CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Kathy Still ’84 Dalena Adams ’15 Lanna Monday Lumpkins SPORTS CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Darrell-Dingus Ely ’10 Beth Rife STATISTICAL RESEARCH Cindi L. Smoot ’09 MAGAZINE DESIGN Lanna Monday Lumpkins

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Commencement 2015 U.Va. Provost John Simon urged graduates to make the most of the opportunities they encounter in their careers and communities and to use their UVa-Wise education to make a difference.

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Headlines Features Athletics Class Notes

Tell us what you think about The UVa-Wise Magazine. Email your comments, story ideas and alumni submissions to magazine@uvawise.edu or contact us by mail at The UVa-Wise Magazine, 1 College Avenue, Wise, VA 24293 or by phone at 276-376-1027.

10,000 Strong The University of Virginia’s College at Wise reached a milestone when the members of the Class of 2015 caused the alumni roll at the small liberal arts college to swell beyond 10,000 members.

HEADLINES

Clark among Lamar York Prize recipients for 2015 Amy Clark ’92, a professor of English and director of the Appalachian Writing Project at The University of Virginia’s College at Wise, is a recipient of the 2015 Lamar York Prize for her nonfiction work “The Rocks.”

Clark teaches in the Department of Communication Studies. Clark’s specialization is writing pedagogies, rural literacies, and Appalachian studies. She teaches courses in Appalachian language and literature, rhetoric, and applied linguistics.

She is the co-editor and author of Talking Appalachian: Voice, Identity and Community (University Press of Ky., 2013) which was released in paperback in the fall of 2014. The book explores Appalachian dialects from western Pennsylvania to northern Georgia, and draws from sociolinguistic articles, essays, novel excerpts, and poetry about what it means to be an Appalachian dialect speaker.

Clark is also the author of “Success in Hill Country,” a collection of interviews with successful people who grew up in or near the central Appalachian birthplace of Napoleon Hill, the global bestselling author of books like “Think and Grow Rich.”

Her work has appeared in the New York Times, “With Good Reason” radio, Appalachian Journal, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, Tampa Tribune and many other publications.

In 2012, she was honored with the Jean Ritchie Fellowship in Appalachian Writing from Lincoln Memorial University.

Clark is a founding director of the Appalachian Writing Project, a non-profit organization that has supported rural teachers in their research, writing, and teaching about writing since 2000.

More information about the 2015 Lamar York Prize can be found at

Murray Civil War lecture featured on C-Span UVa-Wise Assistant Professor Jennifer Murray’s lecture on “The Culture of Civil War Commemorations” was featured April 11 on C-Span’s Lectures in History Series.

Murray’s lecture explored the indelible imprint of the Civil War on America society and Americans’ collective memory. The history professor addressed themes of sectional reconciliation, the interplay between race and reunion, and Civil War veterans’ deliberate construction of a wartime narrative that championed the heroism and valor of Union and Confederate soldiers, while deliberately ignoring the war’s causes and consequences.

Using the Gettysburg battlefield as a case study, Murray explored the means in which the Civil War’s culture of commemoration manifested itself into American memory and upon the national landscape. This lecture was part of Murray’s History 3705 course “America In the Gilded Age.” Murray is the author of “On A Great Battlefield: The Making, Management, and Memory of Gettysburg National Military Park, 1933-2013.” Her book explores the nexus of landscape preservation, interpretation, and memory at Gettysburg National Military Park and contributes to the historiography by moving the discussion beyond the July 1863 battle to a contemporary discussion of America’s association with battlefields as memorial landscapes. Nominated for the Lincoln Prize, the Tom Watson Brown Prize, the U.S. Army’s Distinguished Book Award, the Bachelder-Coddington Award, “On A Great Battlefield” already has been named one of the top Civil War books of 2014 by the Civil War Monitor. Murray received her doctorate from Auburn University and joined the UVaWise faculty as an assistant professor in 2012.

2 UVa-Wise Magazine

Amy Clark ’92

http://the-hooch.com/2015/02/12/2015lamar-york-prize-winners-and-finalists-infiction-and-nonfiction/

Scalia work featured in Wall Street Journal UVa-Wise Associate Professor Christopher Scalia has written an opinion piece in the Wall Street Journal on the value of liberal arts education.

In the piece, Scalia asks conservatives to stop bashing the liberal arts.

We are on Instagram!

Keep up with the College and share photos with us @ www.instagram.com/uva_wise

Bluegrass concert given to Virginia benefit Wise County Food Bank Lawyers Weekly honors Chancellor Henry UVa-Wise student Casey Page, a member of the College’s bluegrass band, helped launch a project that raised $1,080 for the Wise County Food Bank after it was destroyed by heavy snow.

Page, with help from the Wesley Foundation, organized the Highland Bluegrass Benefit Festival at UVa-Wise in April.

“I love bluegrass,” the Pound resident said. “I thought it would be good to take my love of bluegrass and use it to raise money for the Food Bank.”

Page, a senior music education major, has

been a fan of traditional mountain music since he was a child. He grew up in the Old Regular Baptist Church and listened to the music on the radio as his family drove to church.

“I love the traditional mountain instruments,” he said. “I later learned to sing in church.”

His work with the UVa-Wise Bluegrass Band put him in a unique situation to put his plan to help the Food Bank in action.

All proceeds for the benefit went to the Food Bank. In addition, organizers collected non-perishable food items during the event.

Chancellor for a day Chancellor Henry and senior Kim Welty traded places April 8 during Chancellor for a Day. Welty won the opportunity to trade places for her contribution and oversight of food and water collection for the Wise County Food Bank on behalf of science department students.

Students meet with Chancellor Donna P. Henry to hand off the backpack and schedules

Virginia Lawyers Weekly recently named Chancellor Donna P. Henry as one of Virginia’s most influential women.

The announcement was made in early May during a dinner in Richmond, Virginia.

Henry, in her third year as head of UVaWise, was featured in the May 12 edition of the magazine. She was the only woman west of Roanoke to make the list.

“The Influential Women of Virginia awards recognize the outstanding efforts of women in all fields, including law, business, health care and education,” Virginia Lawyers Weekly wrote. “The honors are given to individuals who are making notable contributions to their chosen professions, their communities and society at large.

Their energy, ideas, achievements and commitment to excellence and progress give us a look to the future.”

In recognition of the award, the Wise County Board of Supervisors approved a resolution honoring Henry. The resolution was approved during the board’s May 14 meeting.

“The Wise County Board of Supervisors extend congratulations to Chancellor Donna Price Henry upon the recognition that has been brought to her, her family, UVa-Wise and the Southwest Virginia community,” the resolution states.

Visit us on Facebook @ www.facebook.com/UVaWise

Kim Welty meets with Development Staff

Ready for biology

Spring/Summer 2015 3

HEADLINES PROFESSORS USE TECHNOLOGY TO COMBAT

SNOW DAYS

UVa-Wise professors embraced technology to keep snowbound students from falling behind in coursework after treacherous weather shuttered the College for two weeks in mid February.

As a result, a snow day was no longer a day off for many students. Assignments were delivered via email, lectures were posted on Moodle, tests were given and some professors received smartphone photographs of completed work from students who lost electricity or Internet service during the snowstorm.

Some turned to social media, including Facebook and YouTube, to bring lectures to students.

“I created video tutorials using Camtasia for every lecture and uploaded them on YouTube,” said Yang Feng, a professor in the communication department.

She used Google Drive to create online surveys to test whether the students studied the material. She emailed the results to her students.

“I also have encouraged students to participate in online discussion,” she added.

“In my quantitative research methods, I created video tutorials on how to use various research methods in research projects. I posted questions on Moodle and asked students to give me the answers based on the video tutorials before a deadline.”

Wally Smith, a biology professor, relied on Mother Nature and technology to teach lessons in his Appalachian Natural History class.

“Rather than giving extra assignments during this time, I’ve been keeping students current on Moodle by using real-time weather events as ways to teach concepts related to how the Appalachians influence local meteorology and climate,” Smith explained. “For example, some of our recent heavy snow was influenced in part by ‘orographic forcing,’ which means local enhancement of snowfall amounts through the effect of steep mountain slopes lifting moist air and causing it to drop more precipitation than it would otherwise as it rises.”

Smith taught an interesting lesson to his 4 UVa-Wise Magazine

students after winter’s snowfall.

“We’ve seen a number of fascinating natural phenomena occur, such as ice dams and ice pans on rivers, so I’ve been sharing these and the science behind them with students on Moodle,” he said. “It’s, hopefully, given the snow storm some scientific context related to what we’ve been discussing in our course. Appalachian Natural History is uniquely suited to being able to do this, so I thought it might be unique compared to just throwing out other assignments.”

David Kendall, chair of the department of business and economics, is no stranger to online and hybrid teaching.

“Snow days in no way slow us down,” he said. “One of the huge advantages of online-hybrid classes is that students access and engage with learning resources 24/7.

One of my favorite expressions is that ‘butts in seats don’t equal learning.’”

Kendall said students and faculty are fortunate that the College has made investments in technology and has the personnel to keep the technology up and running.

Amy Clark ’92, chair of communication studies, has continued working with her students using discussion forums and lecture notes posted to Moodle.

“We can continue learning the material, particularly with theory, they’re able to engage in discussion on Moodle forums, with my feedback, to try out and share their ideas on theoretical applications to what they’re reading,” Clark said.

Clark is also using the College portal and Google Docs to engage students in discussion about their developing qualitative projects or drafts of pieces they are writing.

She is considering using Google Hangout for real-time discussions.

“The only downside to this is there were still a few off-campus students who did not have access to the Internet,” Clark said.

“Aside from that, we were able to easily get back on track. Because I used Moodle and I worked with them so much digitally, it hasn’t been that disruptive.”

Robert Hatch updated assignment due

dates on the Mathematics and Computer Science Moodle course page, and he sent out follow-up messages to his students when it became apparent that the College would be closed for a lengthy time.

“I explained my expectations for when assignments would be due, as well as when we might have exams,” he said.

Madelynn Shell, a psychology professor, kept in daily contact with her students via email and Moodle.

“I assigned discussion forums and other online assignments for them to complete while we were away,” she said. “In addition, for many of my classes, I asked students to use this time to work on final projects, and I had a lot of communications with students about getting topics and articles approved.”

Shell also worked with several students on research projects. “ I had one student preparing to present her research at a conference, and we emailed back and forth, used Box to share files with comments and questions and spoken over the phone about the next steps,” she said. “I had another student who was in the process of preparing a manuscript and we meet via Facetime to talk about updates.”

Jan Fiala, a physics professor, used WebAssign, Mastering Physics and created his own videos to explain material to students. His students also watched experiments on YouTube as motivation for their laboratory projects.

“They asked questions by email and communicated with me and my teaching assistants,” he said.

The Center for Teaching Excellence staff successfully juggled assignments for online students during the snow closure.

Heather Askea ’01, instructional technology coordinator, said it was business as usual at the CTE. “We were able to keep all of our online courses going with virtually no interruption,” Askea said.

The staff stayed busy answering email, updating the webpage and helping students with questions.

“With over 1,000 students this semester, it was vital to stay current with our

students,” Askea said. “Jennifer Partin ’12 and Adele Scalia should be commended for going to campus to do a few specific tasks that required Jenzabar access. I can see so

many ways that the traditional classroom could benefit from a blended approach to learning, especially during extreme snow days.”

UVa-Wise resumed classes on a normal schedule on March 2, and the use of technology during the closure made the challenge of catching up less daunting.

Snow recovery effort was campus-wide task R

ecovery from the fierce snowstorms that hit The University they had to work, and they had difficulty even getting to campus to of Virginia’s College at Wise in February cost about $70,000 work. They are truly the unsung heroes.” when final figures are tallied, campus officials said on March 3.

Travis Perry, director of capital operations and planning, was UVa-Wise was tangled in a thick blanket of ice and snow in mid also impressed with the efforts.

February after two feet or more of heavy flakes fell within a matter “Our facilities, grounds and housekeeping did an amazing job,” of days. Classes were cancelled for 10 straight days. College offices Perry said. “Having seen the condition of campus and the local were shuttered. The College experienced what appears to be a community, I could not believe how well they performed under record number of snow days. the circumstances. I simply cannot recall having faced conditions But “snow days” had a different meaning for facilities and like this in Wise County before. It is a testament to their dedication grounds employees, food services, campus police and key to the College, the students and its administrators and staff. Buildings had to mission.” be maintained as usual, and basic campus Ewing said some in administration operations had to continue. and staff worked from home or made Residential students who had not it to campus to carry out needed tasks, left for a visit home between the including work on Southern Association fierce winter storms were snowbound. of Colleges and Schools accreditation Sidewalks had to be cleared so students tasks, audit reports, grant applications could trek to the Hunter J. Smith Dining and other time-sensitive matters.

Commons for meals three times a day.

“Even though we were closed, Roads had to be cleared in case of we were still operating,” Ewing said. emergencies. It was a relentless chore as “When you have a residential campus, new and thicker flakes quickly replaced things don’t come to a grinding halt. the snow that work crews shoveled and People knew what had to be done and What started as a dusting quickly progressed into an all-out plowed. they did it.” winter storm “It was futile,” student Zemery Josh Justice ’07, director of housing, Gilliam said when he recalled watching said the snowbound students enjoyed crews clear the snow. “The snow kept coming back. I couldn’t get the first week of the snow, but the second week was more difficult. my car out of the parking lot for two weeks.”

Student Tim McDonald agreed with Justice.

Campus maintenance supervisor David Short reported to “At first it was a classic snow day,” McDonald said. “We went administrators that he had never seen the volume of snow hit sledding and had snowball fights, but it eventually got old.” campus in his 30 years with UVa-Wise.

Justice said resident advisors organized activities to help students “We were exhausted,” Short said. get through the winter confinement. Some RAs held board game Sim Ewing, vice chancellor for finance and administration, events while others held Dance Dance Revolution contests. praised the grounds and maintenance workers for their dedication Professors used technology to keep students current on lessons as during the winter storm that forced Wise County to declare a local well. state of emergency.

“I applaud all of our RAs and housing staff,” Justice said. “It “Our facilities people were working non-stop, Ewing said. “They was a tough time for students once it got colder. I noticed they were were moving snow by vehicle, equipment and hand. “The snow only out walking on campus when it was time to go to the dining kept getting heavier and heavier, and they had to take care of other commons for meals.” issues that occurred in the buildings.”

Ewing summed up the College’s reaction to the crippling Ewing said some buildings experienced leaks, a sprinkler mishap weather situation when he recalled the overall response. occurred in the Slemp Student Center and crews had to deal with a “The thing that revealed the most about our institution and the bevy of issues in addition to the snow removal efforts. region is that people came to campus, knew what they had to do, “They were exhausted,” Ewing said of the more-than-two dozen and they got it done,” he said. “We all understood that we were workers and campus police officers. “They worked two straight going to make it happen, and we worked through it.” weeks. They didn’t stop. I don’t think people realized how hard

Spring/Summer 2015 5

FEATURES

tA PLAN ASu smooth as glass

Dakota Gallimore ’15 has a remarkably clear vision of the journey he will take after earning his degree in software engineering in May, and the life he sees through his Google glasses is by no means rose tinted.

Gallimore, a Christiansburg, Virginia native, is brutally realistic when he discusses the disquieting concerns he has of his decision to start his own company instead of turning to the job market. The 24-year-old man knows the journey will be fraught with possible stumbles, but he is buoyed by a persistent instinct that has him gazing on the enticing rewards of success, both financially and professionally.

Deep down he knows he can make a living developing software for mobile platforms that extend way beyond today’s array of smartphones. He works to keep the vision of success fresh in his mind. He finds himself thinking Dakota Gallimore ’15 of the signature turtleneck style of Steve Jobs and the casual but confident opened his eyes to the mobile development way he presented himself to the world side of software engineering. He plunged in during product launches. On days when without hesitation. the dreams are strong, Gallimore wonders “When I saw all the mobile apps, I just what clothing he should choose as his own thought it was so cool,” he said. “I taught unique style. myself when I could and really got into it.

“I’m very excited, but very nervous too,” I found I was able to create something fast.

Gallimore said. “I’ve opted to pursue my It went beyond the traditional black screen company instead of looking for a job, so it computer. It really enticed me. Mobile is hard to not be nervous. I’ve poured my devices are transforming now, and I like heart and soul in it for three years.” being on the cutting edge of technology.”

Gallimore’s journey began as a youngster Gallimore enjoyed experimenting with who was always fascinated by computers. mobile apps and related technology, but He knew early on that he wanted a career he had to overcome the difficult aspects involving computers and video games. of creating the right graphics and other “I always wanted to make a video game,” challenges. Once he got comfortable with he said. “That is really what got me into those aspects, he started thinking about this field, but I decided to go into mobile what he could do to create something that software development.” was his from day one. As fate would have it, He still had traditional computer Gallimore needed to go no further than his software in mind when he enrolled at UVamother, Caren Gallimore, for inspiration.

Wise, but the guidance of supportive faculty “My mother is a runner, and she always 6 UVa-Wise Magazine

runs while she listens to a music playlist,” he explained. “She likes to change the playlist depending on her level of activity, but to do that, she would have to stop what she was doing and change the music.”

Gallimore decided to work on what he called an Activity Based Music player that would analyze movements and match the tunes to the tempo of those movements. He admits to using a bit of calculus to determine rate of change over time, and he applied it to motion.

“My mom uses it to go out and walk and run,” he said. “It’s still in development, but it is a project that I really enjoy working with because I like a challenge. I like doing something that has never been done before, and I looked at this as a way to train a device to recognize what you are doing. You train it once and it does it all the time.

Mom doesn’t understand it, but she says she is glad it works.”

A self-confessed Google fanatic, Gallimore often turns to the company when he is stumped on a project. He reads Google’s websites and learns all he can to get over any hurdles. It is not surprising that Google turned to Gallimore when it came time to test its Google Glass platform. Gallimore was one of only 10,000 individuals to receive a pair of the wearable computers.

“I love Google,” he said. “I wanted to work at Google before I decided to start my own company. I love all things Google, so Google asked me if I wanted a pair, I said ‘yes, please.’’

Google Glass represented a new platform for software development, and Gallimore wanted to be part of it.

“Mobile phones are here, but those devices are going toward wearable technology,” he said. “I started to look at what I could develop that would be useful for Google Glass.”

Gallimore gave it some thought and decided how helpful it would be to create a language translator for Google Glass.

“It would work like a closed caption you have on television now,” he said. “And I thought it could work well for cross language communication. People wearing the glasses would know what each other is saying without having to speak the same language.”

Gallimore said others are developing medical and hospital applications for Google Glass that allows surgeons to live stream surgery and to develop surgical guides, but developing a language translator would open things up for a mass market.

“I’ve got it to work with 13 languages now, so that is cool,” he said. “It is still in development, but I want to be 99 percent sure before I say it can work. It should auto detect languages as well. This one is the closest project I have toward being realized now.”

Gallimore has outsourced some of the language translator project to a freelance developer from Chicago, but he has decided to launch dreams.build, a crowd funding platform this summer to help with financing. And if that is not enough to keep him busy, Gallimore is working on a second project that he admits he is “insanely excited” about developing. The new project is an electronic book platform, and this one sprang from a discussion Gallimore had with his girlfriend.

“She loves to read books and I love to play video games,” he said. “She asked me why I played video games instead of reading. I told her that in video games, you get to change the story as you play. You have key story plots in video games, but the way you get there is different.”

Gallimore thought about the conversation and decided that there was no reason that avid readers couldn’t have a say in how a book’s plot unfolds, as long as the author agrees.

That was the motivation behind Bookly, a program that would enable fans to write their own piece of their favorite fictional

story.

“People could write their own stories from Game of Thrones or Harry Potter,” he said.

“For instance, if Hagrid is gone for two chapters in a Harry Potter book, fans could write about what they imagine he did during those two chapters. I want to integrate fan fiction through this platform.”

Gallimore understands that integrating fan fiction in this manner would be entirely left up to the authors, but he is excited by the thought that others would be eager to read what their fellow fans created as side journeys for their favorite fictional characters.

Even though Gallimore has his career path mapped out, he is savvy enough to have a back up plan if his company falters.

He plans to turn to Google, especially after he spent a day with the company one summer. The visit is forever etched in his memory.

“That was so cool,” he said. “I just loved it. I was in heaven for a day. Absolute heaven. If my company does not take off, my dream job is to work at Google.

Specifically, Gallimore is interested in Project Ara, a concept that would allow customers to build a modular smartphone with only the bells and whistles that they want or need. The modular pieces would fit easily into the structural backbone of the phone, basically allowing the user to plug in the parts of the device that they would use.

“Instead of buying a whole new phone, you can buy a better camera and slide in into place,” he explained. “I’ve always wanted to be on the cutting edge, so I stay current with Google.”

Google invited Gallimore and 49 others to their offices in New York to participate in a conference on the second round of Project Ara. Others participated in similar conferences in Los Angeles and London.

Gallimore was not one of the lucky 1,000 to receive the Ara prototype, but he did get to hold one and see how it worked.

“It was 20 pieces, and it was assembled in about 20 seconds and was then turned on,” he said. “It was amazing.”

Equally impressive to Gallimore was the knowledge that the same team that is working on Project Ara is also working on Google’s self-driving car design.

“I was just like a little kid on Christmas all over again,” he said. “I was trying to be professional and to contain myself, but it was so cool. It opened my eyes. I’m ready to develop for Ara when it is ready.”

Gallimore said the company plans to market the pilot project in Cuba this summer as an affordable way for people to get mobile phones.

He hopes to move forward with the launch of his dreams.build company this summer, which gives him more time to contemplate which clothing style he wants as his signature Dakota Gallimore look.

With the speed his plans are unfolding, Gallimore will have to pick the right product launching style sooner rather than later.

Spring/Summer 2015 7

FEATURES

Gratitude Senior conducts

Psychology major Cassondra Chadwell, a UVa-Wise senior, conducted research that suggests that expressions of gratitude and positive affect can improve a person’s perception of relationships.

The Big Stone Gap native found that gratitude only worked if it was effortful.

Chadwell’s research, conducted under the guidance of Professor Madelynn Shell, suggests that interventions that increase positive affect could improve positive relationships over time. According to Chadwell, her findings could be used to improve relationships in general or could be used for specific groups to form or maintain positive relationships.

Chadwell presented her research “Gratitude and Positive Affect as Predictors of Positive Relationships,” at the Southeastern Psychological Association’s regional conference in Hilton Head, South Carolina.

“It was very exciting and eye opening,” she said. “It opened a lot of doors. I got to meet with students with similar ambitions and goals, and the public speaking aspect was beneficial.”

Chadwell began her work by noting earlier research that suggested positive social relationships have the potential to impact emotional and psychological well-being, and that it is critical to identify factors that can predict the formation and maintenance of such relationships.

Her study attempted to identify whether expressing gratitude improves positive relationships and if this is moderated by effort put into gratitude expression.

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To conduct her research, Chadwell used 140 students who completed pretest measures, including perceptions of positive relationships and positive affect. During the survey, the participants kept an online journal for at least four days a week for nearly a month. Those participating were randomly assigned to experimental and control groups. The experimental group was asked to list three things they were grateful for each day and the control group listed three things they did each day. All participants rated the amount of effort put into each day’s journal. At the end of the journal project, participants once again reported on their perceptions of positive relationships.

Cassondra Chadwell ’15

research

She found that the expressions of gratitude improved a person’s perception of relationships and that focusing on expressing that gratitude could improve how a person views their relationships.

“The biggest thing was the writing,” she said. “Writing in psychology is key, and my writing has improved. The public speaking and the experience of getting up there and explaining my research gave me more confidence for my plans to go on to graduate school.”

Chadwell said working with Professor Shell was beneficial on many levels.

“She had been in my shoes before and had seen it from a student’s perspective,” Chadwell explained. “She was able to give me feedback and constructive comments, and that was always helpful, especially when I got discouraged.”

The next step for Chadwell, is to sort her choices for graduate school. She is considering several, but is seriously considering a program in industrial organizational psychology.

She has enjoyed her time at UVa-Wise and said the personalized attention she received from faculty and staff helped her along the way.

“They always want us to succeed as students and pushed me out of my comfort zone,” she said.

In her spare time, Chadwell enjoys running and hiking. She is president of Psi Chi, public relations officer for the Student Activities Board, involved in the National Society of Leadership and Service and Delta Iota, and she was inducted into the Darden Society.

Chadwell’s research was funded by the Slemp Foundation.

Student / faculty research and

SOCIALIZATION

T

in adolescence S S STRE

he approach of adolescence is stressful enough for most preteens, but many children with solitary tendencies can feel those stresses more acutely and avoid socialization with other children.

UVa-Wise graduate Victor A. Scott ‘14, and psychology professor Madelynn Shell collaborated on a research project to see just how adolescent boys and girls come to grips with socialization and stress by examining data from 195 sixth-grade students as they made their way through their first year in middle school.

“This research project has been the product of a two-year collaboration which has been a learning experience for both of us,” Shell said.

The group of children examined in Scott and Shell’s research was surveyed by Shell when she worked at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. The sample was 56 percent female. Overall, the group ethnic origin breakdown comprised 55.4 percent European American, 24.6 percent Latino/Latina American, 18.5 percent African American and 1.5 percent Asian American.

Approximately 1/3 of the study group received free/reduced-price school lunch while two thirds did not qualify for free/ reduced lunch programs.

“We had a very large dataset with various measures of social and emotional development in children in third through seventh grade,” Shell said. “Victor looked through the available data and became interested in how shy children respond to stress, particularly following a stressful time such as the middle school transition.”

Scott and Shell began their two-

year effort as they developed and tested hypotheses, reassessing their assumptions and refining questions and findings from the raw data.

“We went through many drafts and revisions,” Shell said of the resulting research paper. “We spent most of 2014 working on this.”

After submitting it for publication, Scott and Shell found themselves in a cycle of ‘revise and resubmit’ from editors asking for clarification of various issues and topics.

“This was a challenging experience, but it really helped Victor clarify important concepts in the manuscript, and the paper became much stronger as a result.”

Using an assessment questionnaire developed for Shell’s dataset, the 195 children were selected from a larger group of sixth-graders just entering middle school.

The questionnaire asked those students about their tendencies regarding shyness, embarrassment and solitude with other children. Based on the assessment scale, the students were identified as anxious solitude (AS) or non-AS. The students in the study group also responded to questions about stressful situations they encountered and just how stressful they were. The students also were surveyed about how likely they were to deal constructively with stressful issues or to avoid or worry about them.

After statistical evaluation of the students’ responses, Scott and Shell found that students with a greater tendency toward anxious solitude generally showed greater perceived distress, and worry about and avoidance of stressful issues. Girls in the study group also reported feeling more peer-related stress than did boys in the

Victor A. Scott ’14

study, they found, but said more often than boys that they were able to cope effectively in stressful situations.

They also found that the data suggested anxious solitude students who perceived and/or worried about peer-stress situation also were more likely to leave or find themselves unable to think what to do when in a stressful encounter.

Determining a study’s results is one part of research. Communicating those results and conclusions is another. Scott found himself presenting his findings at several regional conferences on psychology and social sciences.

“It was great public speaking experience and helped him think about new angles on the project,” Shell said.

Shell said she is excited to work with students in research teams and how they get excited on specific topics and delve into the research and available literature on those topics.

“It is also great to see students develop their presentation and writing skills once they have a completed project to share with the world,” Shell added.

Spring/Summer 2015 9

Documenting

FEATURES

Documenting rich multi-cultural

APPALACHIAN HERITAGE

After looking through the John Cook Wyllie Library Special Collections and Archives, Evan Couch ’15, a history major at The University of Virginia’s College at Wise, decided to research the multi-cultural past of Appalachian coal camp workers.

Couch, a Castlewood native, intrigued by several Lee County, Virginia marriage records from the early 1900s, began to see a pattern that paved the way for his “Immigrants for Appalachian Coal, 1890-1940” research.

Unusual names not native to the region captured his attention.

He noted that multiple spellings of the same name often appeared in census reports from year to year.

“I started looking at public census records beginning in 1910 primarily in Lee, Wise and Russell counties,” Couch said. “After that, I would look at a last name that was often hard to pronounce, and saw the census taker would spell it different each time. It was difficult and I had to start over tracking movements repeatedly.”

Couch traced the routes of immigrants before, during and after their stay in the coalfields and found that many southwestern Virginia coal miners were of Hungarian, Austrian, Polish, Slavic and Italian heritage.

By comparing census records with those of Ellis Island immigration, Couch found where many immigrant coal workers in the region had been admitted into the United States. They traveled to Southwest Virginia in search of work during the early coalmining boom.

He theorizes that coal companies most likely placed company representatives around Ellis Island as a way to recruit new immigrants to the region.

“Whenever I found a ship coming to Ellis Island, I would search for specific names, the date of admission to the United States and how the person’s name was spelled by the immigration officer,” said Couch. “I then began looking to see if the person had become a naturalized citizen in our region because there had been an influx at that time.”

Couch’s research shows diverse immigrants came to the region, married natives and had children. As a result, they brought their own cultural traditions and influence to the region.

Englishman James Dixon, who migrated in 1882, began work as a coal miner in Kentucky, moved up the ladder, married, and ultimately became a mine superintendent in Bell County.

The Italian Rainero brothers, Earnest and James, started a contracting business, married Appalachian natives and eventually went on to build some of the finest homes in St. Paul, Virginia.

10 UVa-Wise Magazine

“Some changed their names to fit in with the community,” Couch said. “Many immigrants were Catholic while most Appalachian natives were Protestant.

Many left after 20 or 30 years. While many of their children were born here, they were not raised here.”

Couch details miner Ivan “Steve” Temar Sr. of Hungary, who married and later moved Evan Couch ’15 to Washington, Pennsylvania where all four of his sons became miners.

The story of Russian Nicholas Ivan Ardan Sr., who settled in Lee County, is one of Couch’s favorite discoveries. Ardan’s life was not typical of most immigrants. He had an elite home with a mulatto servant and served as a military surgeon in World War I. Following his father’s footsteps, son, Ivan Ardan Jr., also known as “Kniving Ivan the Mad Russian” graduated from VMI, served in World War II, and became a surgeon like his father.

“Mining was a draw along with a desire to have something better,” Couch said. “It was better than what they had in their home countries.”

Couch believes the employment opportunities provided by Appalachian coal companies supported the creation of the second largest melting pot in the early twentieth century, aside from New York City, making it a modern culturally diverse society. He is quick to point out Appalachia became a depleted region, nevertheless, still impacted by European immigrants.

Couch plans to continue his research by focusing on Catholicism in the region from an immigrant perspective. He is considering pursuing a graduate degree in Appalachian studies.

Couch’s research was funded by the Slemp Foundation.

s e l r a h C . t S

KEEPING

THE MEMORIES OF

Preserving the history of a coal mining town that was in its prime in the ‘50s and ‘60s is an important task, especially since much of its past is preserved in the memories of its elderly residents.

UVa-Wise student Kevin Alsup set out to record an oral history of St. Charles, Virginia, a once-bustling Lee County town with a colorful history known for having just “one road in and one road out.” The project, part of Professor Brian McKnight’s oral history project, was difficult at times.

Alsup, a Lee County resident, found 15 residents ranging from age 50 to 81 who reluctantly agreed to discuss life in the town when coal was king. Alsup’s goal was to learn about everyday life during a time when living was hard.

St. Charles was no ordinary town when it sprang up once coal was discovered. Most towns formed around a coal mine, but Alsup explained that St. Charles didn’t start out that way.

“There were several mines in St. Charles,” he said. “Two were across the road from each other. You could find that often in St. Charles.”

The town boasted five bars in its heyday, and five churches—three Baptist and two Methodist—were located in a one-mile stretch.

“Growing up in St. Charles was not an easy life,” Alsup said. “Most people were poor. They may have eaten soup beans most of the week, but they had a special Sunday dinner.”

Children in St. Charles had chores such as hauling water to their homes for household use, and older siblings basically raised the younger kids.

Most husbands worked in the coal mines and their wives were homemakers. Alsup

ALIVE

found that most families had subsistence gardens and raised livestock. St. Charles residents married young and most families had at least five children.

When it came to education, the residents Alsup interviewed said some families thought education was important while others did not. Females tended to put more importance on completing school.

The males who dropped out went to work digging coal.

“Most entered the mines when they were very young,” Alsup said. “One told me that he was just 16 when he went to work. A lot of them said they had a fear of mining accidents. Many said they worked underground for 20, 30 or 40 years.”

Conditions underground were treacherous. The coal was contained in low

seams, often in tunnels just 22 inches high.

“One man told me he had to roll over on his back just to take a drink of water,” Alsup said. “They called those low ceiling mines dog holes.”

Accidents and deaths happened often, but the only choice during those days was to either mine coal or move away. Many left in the big migration to Detroit, Alsup explained.

The residents who participated in the oral history project recalled how St. Charles, like other Virginia towns in those days, was segregated. Both whites and blacks worked together underground and got to know each other well, but they went their separate ways once their shifts were over. The local candy store served all races equally, Alsup found, and the town physician, Dr. Gable, treated all patients.

The town had a theater, clothing stores, a pharmacy, garages, taxi stands, hardware stores and other retail establishments. St. Charles came to life on the weekends.

“The town was extremely busy,” Alsup said.

Like many mining towns, St. Charles had its share of boisterous behavior, some leading to violence on occasion, and that led to a bit of a reputation for the Lee County town.

“Today, it is a shell of its former self,” Alsup said. “The mines left and so did the people and the businesses.”

Those who remain remember the town at its best and its worst. Alsup hopes his project will preserve the rich history for generations to come.

Alsup’s research was funded by the Slemp Foundation.

Kevin Alsup

Spring/Summer 2015 11

FEATURES More than 250 members of the UVaWise community donated time and labor as part of the fifth annual Cavaliers Care: A Day of Service on April 11.

Eleven different projects on campus and throughout the community offered opportunities for volunteers to work with local agencies and neighboring residents.

Projects included campus beautification, town of Wise and Camp Bethel clean-up, Rails to Trails in Appalachia and the making of pet adoption blankets.

Volunteers were treated to breakfast by event sponsor Kiwanis of Wise.

Mulching at the Big Glades

Making campus grounds colorful

Planting flowers in Wise

12 UVa-Wise Magazine

Removing leaves from Camp Bethel

Tidying up campus

Keeping Wise clean

Camp Bethel

Adding fresh mulch to flower beds

Giving the Big Glades a fresh look

“I believe the Day of Service is a great way to help bridge a connection between the College and the town of Wise, all while being able to help others out and make Wise even more beautiful.”

—Mikaela Logan ’12 Pulling weeds

Planting pansies on campus

Crafting pet adoption blankets

Cutting blanket fabric

Spring/Summer 2015 13

FEATURES

ssions

expre

Shelf

A glimpse of the treasures and trinkets found in faculty and staff offices

Memories of a favorite professor

By Dalena Adams ’15 Josh Justice ’07, director of housing and residence life, spent much of his undergraduate career at UVa-Wise building relationships with his peers and professors as he cultivated a passion for his studies in history and government.

One of the most rewarding friendships he built was with Joseph Scholnick, one of his government professors. ”When I first came here I was taking 3000 level classes right off the bat and I ended up taking a class on the American presidency with him,” Justice said. “It was rewarding, and I just kept taking his classes.”

Justice liked the way Scholnick taught the classes, especially the courses with an international focus.

Scholnick was always a popular professor. The campus community was saddened when he passed away unexpectedly during Justice’s senior year. It was not surprising that Justice and classmate Meghan Hughes were asked to speak at his memorial service.

After the memorial service, Scholnick’s sister gave Justice a plate that Scholnick had brought back from a trip to Turkey. To Justice, the plate represents all the classes he took Scholnick taught and all the stories he told the students about his many trips abroad.

“He was such an important part of my life,” Justice said. “He had such a boisterous voice. He would say, ‘hello, hello, hello’ at the beginning of every class, and he would quote Josh Justice ’07 Spongebob because he loved Spongebob Squarepants. He also loved a good grape soda. He would always talk about drinking grape soda. He was so down to earth and such a good inspiration. The plate reminds me of him and why I became

by Dalena Adams ’15 Neva Bryan, assistant director of professional and career development, spends much of her time in her Cantrell Hall office searching for job and internship opportunities for students. Luckily, she has an office filled with a number of neat novelty items to keep her company, including a handmade Groot statue carved by her husband Daniel Stanley. While she holds all of these objects near and dear to her heart, nothing in her office comes close to the meaning that a small cookbook her mother made for her still has, especially this year.

April 26 marked the first anniversary of the passing of Neva’s mother.

“When I go through it, of course it brings back memories of different meals that we’ve had, particularly for holidays,” Bryan said. “Holidays have changed for me a lot since my mom passed away, especially Thanksgiving and Christmas, the two big eating holidays I guess, will never be the same for me.”

Bryan made a conscious decision this past year to celebrate these two major holidays very differently.

“It would just be a pale version of itself if I tried to do the same thing, you know,

a history and government major.”

Justice keeps the plate displayed on a shelf in his office among all of his other novelty trinkets as both a representation of himself and a dedication to the man who helped him become who he is today.

Recipes from the heart

14 UVa-Wise Magazine

maybe eventually my husband and I can go back and try to have a traditional family meal of some of the stuff my mom cooked but I don’t think I’m quite ready for that yet,” Bryan said.

The cookbook serves as a good reminder of her mother and her penchant for making and keeping lists.

“Even though she didn’t go to college or graduate from high school, she was a very intelligent person,” Bryan said. “She could answer every question on Jeopardy, she kept up with the news, and she loved to read. She really liked to make lists. I found lists all over the house after she passed

A world away Professor Margie Tucker has many items in her office that represents the years her parents—Ned and Margaret McGee— worked in foreign countries.

Tucker has a framed photo of her parents with Emperor Haile Selassie during a particularly troublesome time in Asmara, Ethiopia. However, some of the items on her shelves that she treasures most are ones that former students brought her from trips they made as part of the Fellowship in Natural Sciences research program.

The collection began around 2009 when former student Rachel Belcher ’11 went to Africa for her research project. The gifts

Margie Tucker holds a photo of her parents

away about what she had eaten for the day or what kinds of flowers she had planted in the garden or lists of the books she had read.”

While she was going through some of her mother’s things she also discovered that her mom kept journals throughout her life.

“I haven’t read them yet and I don’t think I’m going to,” she said. “It would be invading her privacy, and I feel that reading someone’s journals after they pass is just wrong.”

Bryan and her mother shared a love for writing things down and the cookbook is a good way to keep that connection strong.

In fact, Bryan believes the cookbook is a way that her mother will always be with her.

And something that happened in February

continued when Spencer Adams ’11, Rachel Hensley ’12 and Jessica Shartouny ’13 traveled between 2010 and 2012.

The items, a plate and other decorative items, all came with an exciting story told by each former students about their time in Africa and the many things they learned in their research. The FINS treasures keepsakes represented the students’ no longer even knew her involvement. appreciation for Tucker’s work with FINS To Tucker, that meant the FINS research and her help getting the program in place. efforts were ingrained at UVa-Wise.

But something happened as the program “It had become embedded in the culture grew—the gifts stopped coming. Tucker here,” Tucker explained. “The students and admits others didn’t associate the program with me. wondering It was just something the Natural Sciences at first why Department was doing on a regular basis.” students no The trips and research were not routine, longer returned but no longer felt exotic. with the The students still knew what an tokens from incredible experience it was for them,” she their travels, said. “It really changed their lives in many but then she ways. They learned a lot about themselves realized what and how they wanted to spend their lives. was going on, and it made her They returned with high levels of self confidence about their research.” even prouder.

Tucker said those students and more The program have gone on to bigger things, and the had grown gifts on her shelf remind her of the many so successful benefits of the FINS research program. that students

makes her even more convinced.

“I always kept the cookbook on the bottom of my bookshelf,” she said.

“When it snowed, my office was flooded and a lot of my stuff was ruined, but I looked down on the bookshelf and the cookbook was completely untouched by the water. I think that was some sort of sign.”

Neva Bryan with her mother’s cookbook

Spring/Summer 2015 15

COMMENCEMENT

COMMENCEMENT 2015 THE UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA’S COLLEGE AT WISE MAY 9, 2015 26 16 UVa-Wise UVa-Wise Magazine Magazine 34 UVa-Wise Magazine

College awards 307 degrees in the Class of 2015 The 307 members of The University of Virginia’s College at Wise Class of 2015 were urged Saturday by University of Virginia Provost John Simon to make the most of the opportunities they encounter in their careers and communities and to use their UVaWise education to make a difference.

Simon delivered the commencement address to hundreds who gathered in the David J. Prior Convocation Center to celebrate the academic accomplishments of the graduates. The provost recalled his own graduation in 1979 and said there were similarities between then and now, and also amazing changes, especially with social media and its instantaneous communication.

“Your graduation is occurring in a time of social challenges within our own country, reflected by the protest on May Day in which thousands across the U.S. demanded racial justice,” Simon said. “Building a truly inclusive society is a challenge that both my and your generations share. I hope that you act to advance social change to create a more just and peaceful world with every opportunity you have.”

Simon reflected on the novels and literature of his youth, and said he spent hours reading spy stories and espionage thrillers that were popular in the Cold War era. Today’s works by high profile authors have garnered success with stories that portray post-apocalyptic worlds created by climate change, disease, food shortages and other stark issues, Simon told the crowd.

“I have read them all and am a fan of this genre,” he said of the novels “The Hunger Games,” “Legend,” “Maze Runner,” “Divergent,” “The Road,” “Oryx” and “Crake.”

“But I do not believe these books tell about the present or the future. It is the great contributions your generation will make to society in the years to come that will prove this to be so.”

Taylor Read’s family and Josh Barker ’15

ROTC commissioned graduates

Simon told the Class of 2015 that UVa-Wise professors have done their best to equip them with the knowledge and training they need for a life of significance.

“We expect you to solve the difficult problems that confound this time,” he said. “We expect you to find cures for diseases that have eluded us, to find solutions to environmental problems that confound us, and to set a new tone of civility and cooperation in our nation’s public discourse that has eluded us. As you take your degrees today, you embody our best hopes and aspirations for the future.”

Before conferring degrees for the Class of 2015, Chancellor Donna P. Henry informed the graduates that they have pushed the number of UVa-Wise alumni to more than 10,000, a significant milestone in the young College’s 60-year history.

“You have a promising future ahead,” Henry said. “You have choices to make and much work to do. So graduates, explore and endeavor to make sound choices. Shoulder the necessary responsibilities and lead yourself, your colleagues and your community in making a better world.”

After the degrees were awarded, four ROTC graduates— Geordan A. Cross, Shahn A. Kahn, Dustin A. Sparks and Clint B. Womack—were commissioned as second lieutenants in the U.S. Army. The new officers received their military assignments, received their first salutes, and received rousing applause from the audience.

A posthumous degree was also awarded to Taylor Read. Read passed away a few weeks before Commencement exercises.

John Simon, University of Virginia Provost

Spring/Summer 2015 17

COMMENCEMENT

Words of encouragement for the Class of 2015

Awaiting the beginning of Commencement

A selfie for the memory books

Beginning the day as students and ending as cadets

Working with the cap and gown

18 UVa-Wise Magazine

University of Virginia Rector George K. Martin urged the UVaWise Class of 2015 to be proud of their academic accomplishments and to understand that earning a college degree is a significant move that will serve them well in life.

Martin was one of several University leaders and UVaWise officials who offered words of encouragement to the 307 graduates who gathered with their family and friends in the David J. Prior Convocation Center Saturday for Commencement exercises.

“Today is about celebrating the graduating class, and deservedly so,” Martin said. “But the unwavering support, during good times and bad, offered by allies must not go unnoticed.

George K. Martin, U.Va. Rector Parents, siblings, peers, faculty and staff, and everyone committed to helping you become the best version of yourself are deserving of our gratitude.”

The Class of 2015 will leave UVa-Wise with the confidence of a world-class education and the knowledge that this achievement was no small feat, he told the crowd.

“In a nation where the demand for a college education is as high as it has ever been, you can be confident knowing that your education is of the highest order,” Martin said. “Some of you will be pursuing a professional or vocational track and some will be pursuing further graduate studies, but all of you will be doing so with a leg up on the competition.”

Marcia A. Gilliam ’82, chair of the UVa-Wise College Board, reminded the graduates and guests that the College opened its doors 60 years ago with a mission to serve the region. The dream of creating a college in the Appalachian Mountains created many challenges, but it continues to thrive, Gilliam added.

“Today, graduates, we honor your achievement of fulfilling your dream…the dream of a college education,” Gilliam said. “We honor the passion, commitment and effort you put forth to make this dream your reality.”

Shannon Walker, the Student Government Association president, congratulated the graduates for their hard work and dedication. She urged the Class of 2015 to come back often to visit UVa-Wise and to support their alma mater.

Andrew Chapman ’15

“One thing that most alumni have in common is that they are extremely proud of UVa-Wise, and you should be too,” Walker said. “You should be proud of the growth our College has experienced during your time here. You are capable of achieving any goal you set your mind to because UVa-Wise has given you the tools to be successful. The liberal arts degree that you are leaving here with today is proof that you have the intellectual capacity to do whatever you want.”

Andrew Chapman, the honorary class speaker, thanked faculty, staff, and others who made it possible for students to receive a UVa-Wise education.

“With the completion of our degrees, we are now greater prepared to advance the intellectual efforts of those who came before us,” Chapman said. “As college graduates, it will soon be our turn to be both the defenders and producers of knowledge.

Let us all take great pride in this accomplishment and work to ensure that this institution’s strong commitment to education is exemplified by all of its proud alumni.”

Brian Blanton ’92, president of the UVa-Wise Alumni Association, inducted the Class of 2015 into the Alumni Association.

“As graduates, I challenge you to give back to your community and your alma mater,” Blanton said. “Cherish your memories here as students and continue to make new memories as alumni.”

Pi Kappa Phi brothers

Let the celebration begin

Presentation of degrees

Ready for the big day

Spring/Summer 2015 19

FEATURES

Standing tall

10,000 STRONG The University of Virginia’s College at Wise reached a milestone on May 9 when the 307 members of the Class of 2015 caused the alumni roll at our small liberal arts college to swell beyond 10,000 members.

4,376

Male alumni

5,466

Female alumni

(1954-2014) 20 UVa-Wise Magazine

It took 60 years to reach such a significant number, but class sizes grew steadily during the College’s six decades. It dwindled during a short period when the College moved from granting two-year degrees to bachelor’s degrees, creating two years of single digit graduating classes during the transition.

The growth exploded as additional programs and degrees were offered, more students discovered UVa-Wise, and stories of its small college atmosphere were shared with others across Virginia and beyond.

The number 10,000 may seem a bit small when compared to alumni ranks at larger and older colleges and universities, but the milestone is significant.

The lasting relationships the College has built with 10,000 individuals over the years means UVa-Wise has a strong army of graduates uniquely positioned to help their

alma mater grow and prosper for years to come. And a 10,000 alumni base means those in its ranks are either winding down after successful careers, now reaching a comfortable place in life, or just starting out in the always vital entry level job.

Having graduates who are at various career levels and different life stages creates a situation where older alums are able to mentor

TOP TEN ALUMNI STATES ALUMNI CALL HOME 1. Virginia - 6,479 2. Tennessee - 761 3. Kentucky - 282 4. North Carolina - 239 5. Florida - 121 6. Georgia - 107 7. South Carolina - 100 8. Maryland - 68 9. West Virginia - 61 10. Ohio - 60

WHERE WE ARE NOW (1954-2014)

.6%

MIDDLE STATES 137 alumni call this region home

1.5% 2%

MOUNTAIN STATES

35 alumni moved to the mountains

NORTHEAST 174 alumni migrated up the coast

.6%

94%

WEST

38 alumni live closer to the Pacific

1.3%

SOUTHEAST SOUTHWEST 114 alumni migrated west

younger ones that are eager but unsure about taking certain important work steps.

And younger alums are uniquely positioned to act as ambassadors for UVa-Wise when high school students they encounter are ready to make the critical decision about where to attend college.

In other words, an army of 10,000 alumni represents a powerful element that when harnessed will only help UVa-Wise grow stronger with time. It took 60 years to reach that milestone, and each graduate from members of the Pioneer Class of 107 students to the 307 members of the Class of 2015 all have reason to be proud of being a part of the College’s rich history.

The following pages include stories that highlight the importance of the alumni milestone and what it means to UVa-Wise and its extended family of graduates.

8,204 alumni found staying power in Virginia and nearby states

ALUMNI BY COUNTRY (OUTSIDE OF U.S.)

Turkey Canada Germany Japan Belize Thailand Haiti Overseas military

10,149 ALUMNI

(2015) Spring/Summer 2015 21

FEATURES

ALUMNI NETWORKING Tyler Giles ’03, a Big Stone Gap native, lived in the Wise County town until just after his freshmen year in high school. His father worked for Norfolk Southern railroad and had to move the family to Alabama, Ohio and other places during those years.

Alumni relationships can provide valuable career direction Tyler Giles ’03 has benefitted both from being mentored and being a mentor

22 UVa-Wise Magazine

Once Giles graduated high school, he knew he wanted to come back home, so he decided to enroll at UVa-Wise. It turned out to be a good decision. Giles, vice president of commercial lending at Powell Valley National Bank, has built a strong network of contacts in the area and beyond, and he credits his relationship with fellow UVa-Wise alumni for helping him build such strong friendships in business and in his personal life.

“I knew that the career path Dad was on would mean he would have to keep moving, so I decided to come back home,” Giles said. “I had to pay out-of-state tuition for a while, but it was worth it. I needed some stability at that point in my life, and it was so crazy living in different states. It was great to get some roots established.”

Giles majored in business administration and found himself considering a variety of career paths. His friendship with alumnus Ed Roop ’76, also a long time family friend, ended up having a major impact on his career choice.

“I’d had help over the years from a bunch of alums,” Giles explained. “Ed Roop has been a family friend forever. When I graduated in 2003, Ed was president of the UVa-Wise Alumni Association, so that meant he was actually on the stage when I got my diploma.”

Roop was also at a graduation celebration later that evening and he spent some time talking to Giles about his future.

“Ed asked me to consider a career in banking, and he also urged me to get involved in the Alumni Association,” Giles said. “Both ended up being good advice Ed helped me establish banking contacts, and he encouraged me to fill in for an unexpired term on the Alumni Association Board of Directors.”

Giles said Roop and Rick Mullins ’91 nominated him for the board. He now serves as the board’s treasurer and is the Alumni Association’s representative on the UVa-Wise College Board.

“The networking opportunities with the Alumni Association have been huge,” Giles said. “I first realized that during the Alumni Association’s Celebration the year I graduated.”

As Giles remembers, Duane Miller ’94, also an alum, bought him a coveted ticket to the annual Celebration as a graduation gift. Giles was reluctant to attend because he was not sure he wanted to attend an event that would have a lot of people from older generations. He admits that he could not have been more wrong about the event or the people who attended.

“I had a blast,” he said. “Since then, one of the things that I’ve tried to do is attend and to encourage younger alums to go to that function. The networking opportunities that the Celebration and other alumni functions offer are unbelievable. Younger alumni do not understand that until they go and see it for themselves.”

Giles remembers Miller’s generosity and tried to return the favor to younger alumni when he has a chance.

“Brian Bentley graduated in 2011, so I bought him a ticket and made him go,” Giles said. “Brian began his career as a teacher, but now he is in the golf business in Lebanon, Tennessee, but he still buys a ticket.”

He has noticed an increase in active participation in alumni events over the years, especially in the organized travel groups and the alumni club events held across Virginia and in neighboring states.

“I would like to see a broader network develop from all of this,” he said. “I wonder sometimes if the students graduating now or the younger alumni know how our big network of 10,000 alums can help them. I know I’d love to be hiring bankers, and I’d love even more to be hiring one of our own. It’s all about participation.”

FOUR DECADES OF MENTORING

Debbie Hill Collins has sat behind the big desk in a public school classroom since she earned her bachelor’s degree in elementary education from the College in 1973.

During that time, the Wise resident played mentor to many of her fellow UVa-Wise graduates as they took their own seats behind the teacher’s desk for the first time. She retired after teaching kindergarten at Wise Primary School for 39 years, but she has not slowed down. In fact, she is often called to substitute, many times for the same teachers that she once helped maneuver the classroom pitfalls.

Mentoring young teachers, especially ones who graduated from UVa-Wise, came natural to Collins. She also received a healthy dose of mentoring from her fellow alums when she was starting out.

“When I graduated, Don Salyers taught kindergarten at Wise Primary,” she said. “Kindergarten was just an experiment at the time, and he taught two half day sessions. The year I graduated is when the Wise County School Board started to offer kindergarten in all county schools.”

Collins landed one of the new kindergarten jobs, and she credits Salyers for helping her in those early days. Many years later, Collins found herself mentoring Salyer’s daughter, UVa-Wise alum Donna Rogers ‘96, when she began her teaching career.

“Donna was one of my intern teachers,” Collins said. “Early on, I never knew she was Don’s daughter.”

The veteran teacher often thinks about the number of young educators she has worked with over the years, but coming up with an exact number proves elusive. She has solid results counting the teachers who are still working at Wise Primary School.

“There are five on the faculty that were my interns,” she said. “I really don’t know how many over the 39 years that I’ve had, but I’ve had a student intern for at least 30 of my 39 years teaching.”

When Collins first started teaching at Wise Primary, her supervising teachers were UVa-Wise alumna, Ruby Salyers ’70, and Sue Arney and Francis Riggs.

“Francis Riggs took me under her wing,” she said. “She was like my second mother. Through the years, she was the one I went to at Wise Primary if I needed anything.”

Giving advice to new teachers and intern teachers from her alma mater is something she always viewed as a way to repay the favor to other generations.

“I always told them that even though I had years of experience, I felt like I learned a lot from them because they always had good ideas,” she said. “I put myself in their shoes and remembered how nervous and scared I was as an intern teacher. I would always tell them that I wanted them to feel comfortable. I wanted open communications because I always remembered how I felt and how the others helped me during that time. I always tried to do the same.”

Collins is pleased to note that most of her former intern teachers have stayed in touch over the years, even if they have landed jobs in areas far from Wise.

“We have become lifelong friends,” she explained. “They are not just someone I had as an intern.”

Even though she is retired, she is not one to just sit idle.

In between the time she spends substitute teaching, she works closely with the Alumni Association. She serves on the Alumni Association Board of Directors, and she often participates in Homecoming activities and is a true Cavaliers fan. Lately she has been traveling with fellow alums as part of the Alumni Association’s travel program that pairs students, alumni, faculty and friends together on trips to promote increased interaction between the groups.

She has also been spending more time on campus, a place that she has seen grow and change over several decades.

“It is amazing how many things have changed here,” she said.

“The students have so many opportunities today. I joined the Winston Ely Health and Wellness Center, and I wish we had had that when I was a student here. The campus is really phenomenal now.”

Collins is pleased that UVa-Wise now has 10,000 alumni ready to do their own mentoring.

“It will be beneficial,” she said.

“Having a small college atmosphere that lets students get to know all their classmates and professors will make graduates want to give back to UVa-Wise. When you go to a bigger school, you just can’t have the same experience.”

Collins said UVa-Wise is a family tradition. Her siblings hold degrees from the College, and she met her husband, Steve Collins, when they were in class together. The couple has been married for 41 years. One son graduated from Virginia Tech, but she is proud to note that her son, Mark Collins ’12 is a UVaOver 10,000 Wise alumnus. He also holds a staff position at the College. alumni are And like a good alumna, Collins ready to become often talks with potential students mentors about UVa-Wise. She believes Debbie Collins ’73 has that the College has much to offer developed lifelong students from the region and friendships from mentoring new teachers beyond.

“UVa-Wise is such an asset for our region and Virginia,” she said.

“You could not ask for a better Spring/Summer 2015 23 college.”

FEATURES

MARCHING STEP BY STEP

Photo by Elizabeth Good

Compelling and powerful stories unfold when the sons and daughters of UVa-Wise are asked if a member of the faculty or staff significantly touched their lives during the College’s 60-year history.

Professors can provide positive influence anytime during a student’s life Alford receives his masters degree in music

24 UVa-Wise Magazine

Nearly all of the 10,000 graduates need no time to search their memories for that particular story. The narrative is always there, and is usually illustrated by a wide smile. The individual stories are touching, but serve as a strong testament of UVa-Wise culture when compiled as a whole.

Alumnus Brandon Alford’s ’12 story of how Professor Rick Galyean influenced his life is worthy of a closer look. The story began years before Alford, who recently completed his master’s degree at Radford University, began his undergraduate years in Wise.

Alford was entering eighth grade at Galax High, a new school for him since his parents had recently separated.

He learned during the move that his father had played snare drum while he was in school. Fascinated by that bit of information, young Alford asked his guidance counselor if he could join the marching band. The guidance counselor placed him in an advanced music theory class, which as it turned out, was taught

by Rick Galyean.

Galyean made no promises to Alford about joining the band, but he agreed to work with him over the summer. Galyean had no idea that the eager youngster had little chance of joining the percussion section.

“He just showed up one day carrying this antique drum and two drumsticks,” Galyean said. “They had stuck him in an upper level class that was just for juniors and seniors. He had absolutely no business playing drums.”

Galyean had other plans for the eighth grader.

“He didn’t have the heart to tell me that I didn’t have rhythm,” Alford fondly recalled.

“I asked him about the possibility of playing a wind instrument, and he got me a tuba and told me to take it home and give it a try. Three months later I was named to All District Band.”

Galyean said Alford was not telling the whole story about his newly acquired tuba talent.

“He made the All District Senior High Band

Brandon Alford ’12 and Richard Galyean

Alford’s high school band photo

and the New River Honors Band as first chair tuba player,” Galyean said. “He made All District every year and was first chair in the Golden Hokie Virginia Tech Honor Band.”

Alford readily admits that he was not the easiest high school student. He would often skip class, but would show up for band. Galyean eventually caught on and had a chat with Alford’s father. The men struck a deal designed to keep the teen in school.

“They decided that Rick would drive me to school each morning and make sure I got there,” Alford said. “It worked for a while, but I’d skip again. Rick never gave up on me.”

Galyean said he was not aware of Alford’s selective class skipping until the day of high school graduation. It ended up not quite the day of celebration that Galyean expected.

Alford’s slew of unexcused absences eventually caught up with him, and he was not allowed to graduate. Galyean tried to encourage the young man to keep going even with the setback.

“He’s been like a dad to me,” Alford said.

Alford, with no high school diploma, kept his job with Rose’s, a local department store, and Galyean entered graduate school at Radford University. Normally, that would have been the last chapter of the story, but not in this tale.

Galyean saw that the band program at Radford was short on tuba players, so he made another deal with Alford.

“He told me that if I got my GED, I could play tuba with the Radford University band. I got my GED and played in the Radford band for about four years.”

Alford continued his work with Rose’s for 11 years and was eventually promoted to assistant manager.

Galyean was hired to help launch the marching band program at UVa-Wise as the music program grew. A new chapter in the story opened.

Galyean found the fledgling marching band lacked players, so he called on Alford to visit and play in a concert. He also found Alford a place to live with music educator David Barker in Big Stone Gap. Alford took community college courses and applied to UVa-Wise. He got in on the second try after making good marks in community college courses.

“He talked me into it,” Alford admits. “I wound up coming here as a student.”

By this time, Alford was a non-traditional student. Galyean still had to stand firm and push Alford on occasion, but he directed the band during Commencement 2012 as Alford received his degree.

“I was often down on myself about my abilities,” Alford said. “I felt like I had lost 10 years of time. I felt I had to compensate for what I saw as my lack of ability, but I’m slowly getting over it.”

Galyean had a major part in helping him realize that he did have the ability to not only get a college degree, but to recognize that he could share those skills with public school students.

“We went through some times here,” Galyean said.

“He’s grown so much over the years as a person. My wife and I consider him a son now. I was so proud of him when he got his degree here. It’s good to know that I had some influence on his life, but we’ve had our times.”

Alford agrees that it was not always an easy path, but it turned out well.

“My time at Wise helped me develop what I need to be a good teacher…a good educator,” he said.

Alford followed Galyean’s path to Radford. He received his Master of Arts in Music with a concentration in Instrumental Conducting on May 9. Galyean could not attend Alford’s robing ceremony because the UVa-Wise Commencement was on the same day. He did attend Alford’s final recital.

Alford serves as adjudicator at regional band competitions, and he helps many local band directors with their programs and students. He also set a goal to be a mentor for young students.

“I’m trying to pay it back everyday,” he said of Galyean’s mentorship. “I want to be there for someone else like Rick was for me. I want to make up for all the mistakes I’ve made in the past. I didn’t start college until I was about 26 years old,” he said. “It was great to be able to come back to school. I’m 32 now, and I am go glad that I am able to keep being involved with UVa-Wise.”

Spring/Summer 2015 25

FEATURES

ALUMNI AT WORK During the May 9 Commencement, Chancellor Donna P. Henry informed the 307 members of the Class of 2015 that UVa-Wise would have more than 10,000 alumni once their degrees were conferred.

Using a liberal arts degree to make a difference UVa-Wise Alumni give back to the communities where they live

“UVa-Wise alumni are leaders in medicine, business, law, politics, education, community service, military service, science, the arts, and essentially every walk of life,” Henry said. “And you, the Class of 2015, are well prepared to join them.”

Information compiled by the UVa-Wise Office of Alumni Relations clearly shows that Henry’s words to the newest crop of graduates ring true.

Records indicate that UVa-Wise graduates hold a variety of positions in the work force, just as expected from the sons and daughters of a good liberal arts college. It is not surprising that a college with a heritage of educating the next generation of teachers, UVa-Wise has more than 2,000 who are either working or have worked in K-12 schools.

Several hundred alumni work at a variety of colleges and universities across the nation.

According to the Office of Alumni Relations, more than 200 UVa-Wise graduates own their own businesses. Those businesses range from retail operations to coal companies. Some own real estate businesses. Others have started their own professional services companies.

More than 2,000 are employed in the fields of

marketing, retail, insurance, and most are working at the management level.

A hefty chunk of UVa-Wise graduates are working in a variety of legal fields, including judges or lawyers, and probation and parole officers, dispatchers, drug court coordinators and related posts. In addition, the College has alumni serving as police officers in local police departments, U.S. Capitol Police, or with state police agencies.

Graduates of the College at Wise have and continue to build strong careers in the health industry. Several hundred UVa-Wise grads are physicians, nurses, veterinarians, physician assistants, dentists, pharmacists, lab technicians, physical therapists and work at various levels of service in the mental health field.

UVa-Wise business and accounting graduates have stellar reputations in the fields of banking and financial planning businesses. UVa-Wise has a strong accounting program, and many graduates are employed in that field.

The College’s natural science, computer science and software engineering programs now boasts numerous graduates working in a variety of science-related positions.

And in keeping with the liberal arts education and its goal to prepare its graduates to be prepared for all types of jobs, UVa-Wise has graduates in faith-based careers while others list themselves as writers and artists.

UVa-Wise alumni are, indeed, using their liberal arts degrees to make a difference in their communities—one graduate at a time.

DEGREE OF STUDY BUSINESS AND ECONOMICS SOCIAL SCIENCES EDUCATION NATURAL SCIENCE HISTORY AND PHILOSOPHY COLLEGE MAJOR AND GENERAL STUDY LANGUAGE AND LITERATURE 26 UVa-Wise Magazine

2,559 2,437 1,422 919 807 726 550

MATHEMATICS AND COMPUTER SCIENCE NURSING NON-DEGREE COMMUNICATION STUDIES VISUAL AND PERFORMING ARTS SOCIAL WELFARE MINING MANAGEMENT

540 248 160 155 136 82 15

LOOKING AHEAD

Pam Collie ‘93, director of alumni relations at UVa-Wise, has given a lot of thought to ways the College can harness the power of 10,000 alumni, and she recognizes that reaching this milestone can propel the institution to even greater growth and prosperity in the future.

“I see new and exciting things over the horizon for our students, our campus, our alumni,” she said.

Collie has held the alumni director post for eight years, and she said growth in the number of graduates has exploded since 2000 as graduating classes consistently top the 300 mark.

“Some of the advantages in reaching this milestone are the capacity to have the UVa-Wise name spread all over the world,” Collie added.

Brian Blanton ’92, president of the UVa-Wise Alumni Association, said the sheer number of alums will only help the association in its mission to aid, strengthen and expand the work and development of the College.

“We, as members of the Alumni Association, have something to be proud of,” Blanton said.

“We have supported our alma mater by giving our time, energy and resources to helped build a strong foundation of support that will continue to pay dividends for decades to come.”

Blanton is especially proud that UVa-Wise students have more opportunities through travel and research to enhance their college experience.

He said UVa-Wise graduates are leaving a legacy behind for future generations.

Collie and Blanton believe the alumni growth will also help increase the number of graduates who make gifts to their alma mater. Both note that

increased alumni giving increases the value of a UVa-Wise diploma. Both expect the alumni-giving figure to rise in the future.

Having a larger alumni base also changes the way the Office of Development and College Relations work on fundraising. More than half of the College’s alumni graduated since 2005, which creates some interesting dynamics when it comes to alumni giving.

“For us, it means we’ve got a lot of work to do to build relationships with the younger alumni,” said Valerie Lawson, director of development. “A lot of our alums have volunteered for us in many ways, including serving on leadership boards, Highland Cavalier Club, Annual Fund Class Council and in other ways. Those volunteers are financially supporting us and they are also giving back in other ways.”

Tami Ely, head of development and college relations, said alumni are also giving back to the College based on the programs and organizations they were a part of as students.

“As opportunities for students have increased at UVa-Wise, such as undergraduate research and additional Greek organizations and new programs, those new affinity groups are allowing alumni to give back to the programs they are most passionate about. It’s all about their experiences here.”

UVa-Wise Alumni help build a strong foundation of support Brian Blanton ’92 is hopeful new graduates will be proud of their alma mater and will want to give back

UVA-WISE ALUMNI: 10,000 STRONG

Spring/Summer 2015 27

FEATURES

M

organ Muse ’15 was in elementary school when she saw her first theater production. The Henrico County native was immediately enchanted by the pageantry and the magic that made the story come alive.

While Muse enjoyed all aspects of her first theater experience, her venture into theater in high school and later at UVa-Wise seemed to weave a path straight to costuming. She found she enjoyed stitching together all the details that helped bring the magic of the theater experience to others.

“To me, costumes are like the final part of the character,” Muse explained. “The colors used explain the character in many ways.

The textures the costumer chooses, the make of the dress, and the way the dress moves make a difference. The final level of costuming helps the actors get more into their characters.”

Muse’s hard work and tenacity have been rewarded with an opportunity that could best be described as a storybook ending, especially for a student of theater who revels in the behind the scenes work that garners little attention when done right. With her degree in hand, Muse is moving to Orlando to work in costuming at Disney University.

If things go well, she will be one of the many dedicated costumers who make a visit to Disney World an enchanting experience for thousands of youngsters each day.

“I was raised a Disney kid as many people were,” she said. “My mom has been talking to me about trying to work for Disney for a while, so I applied to the Disney University program. I go to Florida in August to do costuming.”

28 UVa-Wise Magazine

Muse will spend her days handing out costumes to princesses and other popular characters in the Disney theme park complex.

She will ensure that each costume is in pristine condition, and that each character is poised to put on a good show for guests.

“It is a big stepping stone,” Muse said. “Having Disney on a theater major’s resume is such a good thing. I’m so glad that I can put that on mine.”

Muse hopes to gain what she termed real work experience at Disney. She knows it will be a different setting than the comfort of a college campus filled with classes and supportive friends and faculty, but she is ready for a challenge.

UVa-Wise was always on her short list of colleges to attend, especially after she met faculty members Michael McNulty and Michael Hunt during a theater competition. The size of UVa-Wise created a situation that allowed her to gain skills in many aspects of theater, something she doubts could have happened at a bigger institution.

She credits faculty member Ben Mays for helping her master many technical skills that she believes will serve her well at Disney and beyond.

“Ben Mays and Michael Hunt have been big mentors for me,” Muse said. “Michael Hunt taught me a lot about life and how things will not always be happy and cheerful.

Ben Mays has always been there for me on the technical side, especially when I needed a midnight shopping run to Wal-Mart to buy material for costumes and props, or when the sewing machines break down.”

Her body of work at UVa-Wise reveals quite a portfolio. The most recent work she created at the College was for the production of The Last Days of Judas

for the stage,” Mays explained. “Here you have to also figure out how to build your own designs with a very small and usually inexperienced costume shop crew.”

Mays said small shows mean a costumer must work long hours or bribe friends with lunch and music to get some labor. Working wee hours into the night is a given.

“A lot of hours go into each costume you see on the stage, and it’s not for the faint of heart,” Mays said. “Morgan thrived on the challenge. She will be missed by all of us here in theater.”

It was fitting that the last costume she altered or designed was her graduation cap for Commencement 2015. It came as no surprise that the cap was decked out in a Disney theme.

Isacarat. She dressed the older Judas in a basic tunic that was singed in places to represent centuries in hell. The costume included a frayed cloth belt, and it appeared to the audience that his clothing was frayed and ready to fall apart. In reality, the costume was sturdy and was designed to allow the actor the comfort to perform a difficult role with no worries about wardrobe malfunctions.

“Morgan has grown immensely since being in our department,” Mays said. “Like many of our students, she has fulfilled various roles both onstage and backstage.”

Mays said Muse started by expressing an interest in the craft of costuming. She took responsibility for just a few costumes at first, but developed her skills and accepted the challenge and responsibilities of a costume designer.

“The role of costume designer is tough here because you can’t just design and then pass your drawings off to a costume shop foreman who then passes them off to an army of stitchers who cut and shape your ideas into reality

e s u M a s n i a g y e Disn

Spring/Summer 2015 29

FEATURES

Dedication of the

Jim and Betty Humphreys Tennis Complex The University of Virginia’s College at Wise held a ceremony on May 8 to dedicate the Jim and Betty Humphreys Tennis Complex in memory of the Wise County couple and the lasting legacy they left at the College and the region.

The tennis complex, which opened in June 2000, was made possible by the generosity of the Humphreys and Thomas families. The facility, which was designed to serve UVa-Wise, high schools, and the local community, stays busy throughout the year.

At the ceremony, friends and family described Jim Humphreys, a lifelong athlete and successful business and community leader, as a compassionate, generous, and caring man with a friendly competitive nature. Betty Humphreys was touted as an exceptional UVa-Wise professor and role model who inspired her students to be leaders in both their careers and communities. Her lifelong work with 30 UVa-Wise Magazine

the Future Business Leaders of America inspired generations of Southwest Virginia students.

“Mom was professional, she was an optimist, and she was a Christian,” the couple’s son, Jim N.L. Humphreys said.

He told the crowd that his parents’ decision to move to Wise County to work at the College was one of the best choices they made. He also thanked those gathered for honoring his family with the tennis complex dedication.

“We thank you for this tribute to Jim

Attendees were reminded of support provided by the Humphrey family.

and Betty and for their unparalleled legacies at this College and this community,” Chancellor Donna P. Henry said to the Humphreys and Thomas families.

Henry told the family and friends of Jim and Betty Humphreys that she and her family notice as they walk across campus in the evenings that the tennis complex is always in use.

“Competitive athletics is an important part of the UVa-Wise experience,” Henry said. “At UVa-Wise, as at all Virginia public colleges, athletics — everything from facilities, staff, travel for competitions, and supplies — is funded through private monies only. This spectacular facility is made possible through the benevolence of the Humphreys and Thomas families.”

Generous donors are essential to small colleges such as UVa-Wise, especially as the College is in the final transition to NCAA conference affiliation, Henry explained.

“We are proud to note that UVa-Wise has not only the best athletic facilities in our new conference, but some of the best in the nation,” Henry added.

Marcia Gilliam ’82, chair of the UVaWise College Board, recalled the many times she played tennis with Betty Humphreys.

“Betty excelled in tennis, just as she did in everything she did in life,” Gilliam said.

“Her elegant and graceful manner on the court was apparent to anyone watching her game while beautifully dressed as if she were on center court at Wimbledon.”

Gilliam said she never had the opportunity to play tennis with Jim Humphreys, but said she heard many stories of his talents and playing ability that matches his wife’s.

The tennis complex gives students and the community the chance to improve their game at any level of play, she told those gathered.

“Jim and Betty Humphreys are allowing and challenging us to do what they so loved doing…playing competitive tennis with friends and foes in a beautiful setting and on wonderful courts,” Gilliam said.

About Jim and Betty Humphreys Natives of Lee County, Virginia, Jim and Betty Humphreys moved to Wise County in 1966 when Mr. Humphreys joined the faculty as head basketball coach of what was then Clinch Valley College. He served the College from 1966 to 1977 in several positions including associate professor of education, director of admissions and financial aid, and dean of students before leaving to work at the Humphreys Group.

Mrs. Humphreys joined the faculty in 1968 and was an associate professor of business at the time of her death in 2014.

A renowned teacher, role model, and FBLA coordinator, she inspired her students to become community and business leaders.

The couple, lifelong athletes and tennis enthusiasts, left a legacy of extraordinary support for UVa-Wise.

Doug Humphreys and Mike Thomas

Humphreys and Thomas families with complex dedication plaque

Jim N. L. Humphreys with canine companion

Don Pippin ’58 & Gigi Pippin

Spring/Summer 2015 31

FEATURES

Chancellor Donna P. Henry and Chancellor Emeritus Joseph Smiddy

Tina Colley ’89 and Imelda Moore ’81

Frances Roberson, Valerie Lawson ’87 and Sylvia Gillespie

60

Debi Bates and Bobby Bates

CELEBRATING

Pedro Hunnicutt ’72 and Lotus Hunnicutt and Winston Ely ’61

Bruce Cahoon and Margie Tucker

Tracy Kress and Greg Kress

32 UVa-Wise Magazine

YEARS

Tom Mullins and Alma Mullins

Jim Masters and Suzanna Masters

Wendy Adrian, John Mark Adrian, Isabella Adrian and Chancellor Donna P. Henry

The beginning of a legacy

Chancellor Donna P. Henry’s Toast December 12, 2014

Ashley Miller and Tyler Giles ’03

Carl Snodgrass ’58 and Bonnie Elosser

Conrad Sutherland and Brenda Swindall ’66

I would like to propose a toast to The University of Virginia’s College at Wise and the visionaries who met at The Inn at Wise on a snowy night over 60 years ago.

To the Three Wise Women – Mary Thompson, Jane Knox and Lois Tracy – who presented the bold idea of a College in Wise to UVA extension agent Sam Crockett.

To the Three Wise Men – Kenneth Asbury, Fred Greear and William Thompson, Sr. – who followed up on the idea and travelled to Charlottesville to convince UVA President Colgate Darden that the plan for a College was solid and had community support.

And to Chancellor Emeritus Joseph Smiddy for your leadership of Clinch Valley College in its formative years.

And now let us raise our glasses to the future of UVa-Wise, now 60 Years Strong and Counting!

Cheers!

Paul Kilgore Jr. & and Paul Kilgore Sr. ’56

Marcia Gilliam ’82, Skip Skinner & Jan Zentmeyer

Elsey Harris, Amelia Harris and Van Daniel

Marcia Gilliam ’82, Marilyn Maxwell, Bill Maxwell ’59, and Chancellor Donna P. Henry

Spring/Summer 2015 33

FEATURES

Founder’s Day

IT’S THE PARTY of the

CENTURY

The Founder’s Day celebration commemorating the 272nd birthday of University of Virginia’s founder, Thomas Jefferson, was held April 13. Students, faculty and staff celebrated with music, festive red, white and blue cupcakes, finger foods and a fun facts trivia competition.

Trivia contest participants make their best guess

Margie Tucker spies through her looking glass

T.J. is right at home

34 UVa-Wise Magazine

Selecting the final answer

“

The Wise Guys playing the Happy Birthday song

The purpose of Founder’s Day is to commemorate the vision of Thomas Jefferson and the dreams of the three Wise men and Wise women who, over sixty years ago, were first inspired to establish a college in Southwest Virginia. Over the years we have celebrated Founder’s Day with lectures, activities, contests and even a visit from a Thomas Jefferson reenactor. We do this to honor our past, to acknowledge what we have achieved and look forward to bigger and better things in the future. I believe our College has fulfilled Mr. Jefferson’s vision.

–Robin Benke

Founder’s Day Committee Chair

Ronnie Shortt and Mike Abbott ’82

”

Festive cupcakes

Robert Collins wins Jefferson trivia

The party invitation

Playing a little heavy metal

SGA President Shannon Walker and Chancellor Henry

Enjoying food, friends and fun

Spring/Summer 2015 35

ATHLETICS

First sponsored year-end Athletics Banquet held

by Darrell-Dingus Ely ’10

Sponsored by Arms Athletic Software, the first ever year-end UVa-Wise Athletic Banquet was held in April inside the David J. Prior Convocation Center. The event featured remarks from Chancellor Donna Henry, a year in review, and the presentation of awards by the athletic department, the Highland Cavalier Club, and the faculty.

The top award of the night, Cavalier of the Year, was award to junior women’s tennis player Junetta Nuckles. Presented to the student-athlete who is distinguished academically and athletically, and embodies the core attributes of NCAA Division II, the recipient shows school spirit and supports their peers and the athletic department.

A chemistry major, Nuckles aspires to attend medical school and become a doctor once completing her undergraduate work. Currently, she serves as the women’s tennis representative on the student-athlete advisory council while also serving as the Baptist Collegiate Ministry President. In addition, Nuckles is a Spanish tutor and was recently named as the student representative on the UVa-Wise Advisory Board.

On the court, she is impressive as well.

Last fall, Nuckles won 10 consecutive matches in aiding the Cavaliers to a 4-3 record in Mountain East Conference play.

Tom Nyman and Junetta Nuckles

36 UVa-Wise Magazine

Richard Meade and Donna Hale received The Outstanding Service Award for their continued support of athletics at UVaWise. Both graduates of the College, the duo volunteers their time to take pictures of student-athletes and provide their work free of charge to the department and the student-athletes.

Team of the Year honors went to the 2014 softball team for their run to the conference championship. The team won 37 games, one shy of a school record and was led by seven seniors. Senior Megan Dillion hit 10 home runs for the club as the team led the league with 60 homers.

Three players earned First-Team AllMEC accolades while three more received

Women’s softball team recognized as Team of the Year

other postseason recognition by the conference.

Volleyball Head Coach Kristen Salyer was named Coach of the Year. In her third year at the helm of the program, Salyer led the program to its most wins since the 2007 season with 14. UVa-Wise doubled its win total from 2013 and increased its number of conference wins by seven.

A 2010 graduate of the College, Salyer’s team returns 10 players for the 2015 season.

Male and Female Athlete of the Year Awards were awarded to men’s cross country runner Shaquon Wilkins and volleyball player Karley Allen.

Wilkins claimed the individual title and aided his team to the team title at the University of Charleston race in September.

His performance led him to his second MEC Runner of the Week award in as many seasons. A week later, Wilkins finished eighth overall at the Hagan Stone Classic where he competed against numerous NCAA Division I runners.

He finished the season with a sixth place finish at the MEC Championship which garnered him First-Team All-MEC honors.

Allen posted 394 kills and 348 digs en route to her Female Athlete of the Year honor. A First-Team All-MEC selection, she posted 16 double-doubles in 2014 and through two seasons is on pace to record over 1,000 kills and 1,000 digs in her fouryear career.

Allen’s season was capped by becoming the first player in school history to earn First-Team All-Region honors at the NCAA Division II level.

Football player Dustin McGill and Nuckles received the Highland Cavalier Club Rising Senior awards while volleyball player Veronica Sanchez and men’s tennis player and golfer Brandon Moore received the graduation senior award that plans to attend graduate school by the faculty.

Cyndi Newlon ’92 presents the Faculty Athletic Award to Brandon Moore

Basketball leads to a real life dream team

by Darrell-Dingus Ely ’10

They say you can’t hurry love. That may be true, but you can hurry and have a wedding.

Not that Katie Jo Dockery and her husband Mark Dockery rushed into something they weren’t ready for, it was just, why wait?

“We got engaged last February and we were looking at dates … my family thought we were going to wait until I graduated, but we just wanted to do it as soon as possible,” Dockery explains. “My husband was a college athlete so he understands the road trips and all of the things I have to do. He’s a coach and I play ball, so we don’t get to see a whole lot of each other right now, but we’re happy.”

Although her name has changed (from Lester to Dockery), not much is all that different for Dockery. She still lives offcampus like many other players and hangs out with her teammates the same as always, with the minor exception of some goodnatured “old lady” references. Dockery did not have to sacrifice her relationship with her teammates for her marriage. In fact, in

addition to some extra jewelry, she gained a valuable partner who knows a little bit about college basketball himself. Her husband, Mark Dockery, is King University’s all-time leading scorer pouring in over 1,800 career points as a Tornado and is now coaching high school basketball.

“It helps a lot to have someone that can show you some things, but can also know and appreciate the work you’re putting in to getting better,” she says. “He knows the ups and downs and that it’s a long season, so it’s nice to have someone to talk to about those things.”

Since basketball is such a major part of each of their lives, it’s no surprise that the basketball court is exactly where their relationship started. The two were playing in a Fellowship of Christian Athletes alumni basketball game, and mark spotted Katie Jo during the women’s game, and Katie Jo noticed Mark during the men’s game. The two met up afterwards, and wedding bells would soon be in their future.

With the hectic schedules of a college athlete and a high school basketball coach,

the pair try to catch as much of each other’s games as possible. Katie Jo has practice during the day, which means she can often get to games later in the evening, and Mark has a seat in the stands at many UVa-Wise home games. They certainly talk a lot of basketball since Mark’s a coach and that’s the same profession Katie Jo aspires to, but the support they show for each other far outweighs any critiques or criticisms they may have for each other.

“He’s probably more critical of me than I am of him because I’m still playing,” she says with a laugh. “But, really, it’s nice to get feedback and then apply that the next time I go out to play. I help him with stats and break down film, so we do spend a lot of time talking basketball.”

The Lester-Dockery wedding didn’t take place at center court somewhere, nor was there basketball confetti bandied about at the reception. Their relationship started around basketball and certainly still orbits around the game, but it doesn’t require it.

The wedding just made it official. After all, why wait?

MEC Tennis Freshman of the Year Men’s tennis freshman Andrii Rutnytskyi was named Mountain East Conference Freshman of the Year following the conclusion of the 2015 season. A native of Odessa, Ukraine, Rutnytskyi won five singles matches and paired to win two doubles matches in his first collegiate season. Rutnytkyi spent the entirety of his inaugural collegiate season playing number one singles and number one doubles.

In addition to his Freshman of the Year honor, Rutnytskyi also earned Second-Team All-MEC accolades as he aided the Cavaliers to four wins.

Andrii Rutnytskyi

Spring/Summer 2015 37

ATHLETICS

Dennehy named MEC coach of year

by Beth Rife

UVa-Wise women’s lacrosse coach Meghan Dennehy was named Mountain East Conference Coach of the year following the completion of the regular season. Dennehy led the team to three wins in the inaugural season, including a 10-9 overtime victory over Norte Dame College giving the school its first ever MEC victory.

“I am so grateful for the experience to coach lacrosse at UVa-Wise. This school and this team help me fully understand what coaching is all about. “Dennehy stated. “I am humbled and honored to be named conference Coach of the Year and for all of our players that were recognized by the MEC in our first season! The future of this program is bright, and I can’t wait to see what is in store for us in the coming seasons.”

38 UVa-Wise Magazine

Before coming to UVa-Wise, Dennehy was the head coach at Queens University of Charlotte for six total seasons. Over Dennehy’s six-year stint, she had 23 players named to the all-conference team, 10 named to the all-tournament team, 10 named to the conference academic team, one conference player of the year, one conference freshman of the year, eight all-region team selections, five academic All-American team selections, and two All-Americans.

Five individuals received recognition from the conference as well. Hannah Marshall was an All-MEC First Team performer as she scored 18 goals, picked up 19 groundballs, and caused 16 turnovers.

Marshall posted two hat tricks in her freshman season. Most recently, Marshall

scored three goals and tallied six draw controls in the regular season finale at Tusculum. In addition, Marshall earned MEC All-Freshman Team honors.

Annie Hanson, Lauren Donahue, Mel Reilly and Taylor Lawton all received AllMEC Second Team recognition. Donahue had a season-high five ground balls at Tusculum. Hanson scooped 20 ground balls and scored 21 goals while Reilly contributed 150 saves balls and 20 groundballs. Lawton racked up 13 goals, tallied 22 total points and gathered 35 groundballs.

Reilly joined Marshall on the MEC AllFreshman Team.

As Dennehy said, the future is promising, with 13 players returning for her second season at UVa-Wise.

Photo by Donna Hale

Meghan Dennehy and the lacrosse team

Hunter Smith Family Foundation Challenge Gift The UVa-Wise Highland Cavalier athletic program received a challenge gift of $3 million through the Hunter Smith Family Foundation. Hunter J. Smith and her late husband, Carl W. Smith, have been steadfast supporters of the College and its athletic program for more than two decades. In addition to this game-changing challenge gift, the Foundation has funded annual athletic scholarships since the inception of the Highland Cavalier football program in 1991. The Smith’s generosity provided for the construction of Carl Smith Stadium and Mrs. Smith provided funding for the Hunter J. Smith Dining Commons, the renovation of the Lila Vicars Smith House and an

endowment for the Marching Band.

The Hunter Smith Family Foundation’s challenge gift encouraged many to contribute and was matched by a total of $3.05 million from 122 donors. These funds, in addition to other recently endowed athletic scholarships, position the College to reach its endowed athletic fundraising goal of $10 million.

Endowed athletic scholarships provide funding that enables the College to recruit top student-athletes. While the notoriety associated with the College’s move to the NCAA will garner the attention of studentathletes, the ability to attract and retain these students is driven by our

by Darrell-Dingus Ely ’10

Brandon Fletcher (Baseball) – BA, Health and Physical Education Shahiem Harris (Football) – BS, Management Information Systems Megan Hilliard (Cross Country) – BA, Liberal Arts and Science – CUM LAUDE Ashley Hooven (Volleyball) – BA, Health and Physical Education Lannie Johnston (Softball) – BS, Business Administration Nehemiah Jones (Football) – BA, Health and Physical Education Harrison Loy (Football) – BA, Health and Physical Education Brandon Moore (Golf/Tennis) – BS, Economics – CUM LAUDE Tyler Morris (Cross Country) – BA, Environmental Science Matthew Parker (Cross Country) – BS, Environmental Science R.W. Payne (Baseball) – BS, Administration of Justice – CUM LAUDE Luis Roa (Baseball) – BS, Nursing Samantha Robinson (Cross Country) – BA, Liberal Arts and Science – SUMMA CUM LAUDE Veronica Sanchez (Volleyball) – BA,

capacity to offer athletic scholarships at a level comparable to other NCAA Division II teams. Because of the generosity of the Hunter Smith Family Foundation and those who matched this challenge gift, the College is better situated to successfully compete in the Mountain East Conference and the NCAA. Faculty, staff, and students owe a debt of gratitude to Mrs. Smith and her late husband, Carl, for their commitment to ensuring the College and its students have access to facilities and resources not often realized at most small, liberal arts institutions.

Student athletes bid College farewell The athletic department at UVa-Wise saw 27 former student-athletes walk across the stage at UVa-Wise Commencement 2015 held in the David J. Prior Convocation Center on Saturday, May 9. Of the 27, seven were named Who’s Who Among Students in American Universities and Colleges while Ashley Hooven, Will Cline, and Anthony Wallis were members of the College’s Darden Society.

A list of graduates are listed below: Brittni Altmann (Volleyball) – BA, Liberal Arts and Science Daniel Bates (Baseball) – BA, Health and Physical Education Michael Bowyer (Football) – BS, Biology Desmond Burris (Football) – BA, Health and Physical Education Hayden Chandley (Football) – BA, Health and Physical Education Madison Compton (Cross Country) – BS, Biochemistry Cody Compton (Baseball) – BA, Health and Physical Education Kevin Enix (Football) – BS, Administration of Justice – CUM LAUDE

Graduating senior athletes

Biology – CUM LAUDE Mary Jo Stallard (Tennis) – BA, Health and Physical Education Julian Stewart (Football) – BA, Biology Chaz Tanner (Baseball) – BS, Administration of Justice Ryan Ward (Baseball) – BA, Health and Physical Education Brittni Altmann, Michael Bowyer, Madison Compton, Kevin Enix, Junetta Nuckels, Veronica Sanchez, and Hayley Thacker were named Who’s Who Among Students in American Universities and Colleges while Megan Hilliard received Peake Honors and Hooven also earned the Ray Spenilla Award in Health and Physical Education.

Spring/Summer 2015 39

DEVELOPMENT

Napoleon Hill Foundation marks gift milestone at UVa-Wise donating a total of $1 million for the Officials with the Napoleon Hill Foundation understand the benefits of long scholarship fund. Hill’s teachings about goal setting are a key component in his success term investing, and the steady investment philosophy. the Foundation has made to The University “It took us a while, but we got there,” of Virginia’s College at Wise has grown to Green said. “The satisfaction comes from more than $1 million and has helped more knowing it is all for the students and that than 100 students. it continues to help them achieve a college The tally for the Napoleon Hill degree. We looked forward to reaching our Foundation Scholarship Fund topped the goal. In life, we don’t usually exceed our $1 million mark in January 2015 when expectations, but I saw the possibility of it Don Green ’61, the Foundation’s director, and never had a doubt in my mind that we’d presented a $250,000 check to Chancellor Donna P. Henry. The scholarship fund, established in 1997, is named in honor of Napoleon Hill, a native of Wise County. Hill’s business and success philosophies remain popular around the world.

The Napoleon Hill Scholars Program encourages students in all major academic studies at UVa-Wise to participate in honors studies and to engage in business research and internships through special academic work based on the using Hill’s “Keys to Success” philosophy.

Green has been at the Chancellor Donna P. Henry and Don M. Green ’61 helm of the Foundation accomplish it.” since he retired after a successful career Green’s comments echo Hill’s most in banking. He started work for the famous quote which simple states that a Foundation in a small office located in a dry person can achieve what his or her mind cleaning store. can conceive.

He believes Hill would be “It was a 10 foot by 12 foot office,” pleased that the Foundation which bears his Green recalled. “Local businessman name has made education possible for so Wendell Barnett gave me a small wooden many promising students. desk, and I went to Walmart and purchased “Education is the answer,” Green said. a combination phone and fax machine for “I think Napoleon Hill would be very $89.99, and then I started work.” proud.”

He moved operations to the UVa-Wise Professor Frank Frey works closely with campus shortly after taking the post with the Napoleon Hill Scholars. He says the the Foundation. It was during those early scholarships and the Hill philosophy lessons days that Green and Annedia Sturgill, his bring many benefits to students. administrative assistant, would often discuss “At the very least it helps offset the his goal of the Foundation eventually increasing costs of higher education 40 UVa-Wise Magazine

for those selected to be Napoleon Hill Scholars,” Frey said. “But more importantly, it helps us introduce the philosophy of success to a wider range of students at the College, giving them a stronger foundation for achieving their goals in life.”

According to Frey, the program has helped more than a hundred students, and the latest gift to the College means even more can be trained for success. Student Mikaela Campbell-Magana, a Napoleon Hill Scholar, said the program and the scholarship has been a tremendous help to her and her fellow classmates.

“I’m mostly referring to the ideas and philosophies of which the Foundation was built upon, those being Napoleon Hill’s ‘Keys to Success,’” she said. “Many of the keys are things that everyone knows to practice and implement in their daily lives, but it really requires a conscious effort to enforce regularly and to do so well for that matter.”

Campbell-Magana said she has realized many of her goals, especially ones that she has struggled with in the past.

“All it took was for someone to believe that I had what it took to be a scholar for me to find the confidence and potential within myself,” she said. “The program has been a true test of my abilities, and I am more than thankful for the opportunity and experience.”

Classmate Vincent Freels agrees.

“I am a first generation college student, and I fund my college education from my own pocket,” he said. “This scholarship helps to pay for my college experience. In addition to funding tuition, it also enriches my experience by providing me with different opportunities to help me grow in both my professional and personal life.”

In addition to establishing the Napoleon Hill Scholars program, the Napoleon Hill Foundation also established the Napoleon Hill Professorship in Business at UVa-Wise.

Kline Foundation generosity continues to benefit students

When Ferdinand Bert “F.B.” Kline created the Kline Foundation in 1952, one of his visions was to make higher education possible for residents of Southwest Virginia.

The Kline Foundation Board of Trustees continues the work that its founder began 63 years ago.

In fact, the Foundation’s long history of student support, including funding Ferdinand Bert Kline of scholarships and various projects at colleges that those students chose to attend, has made and continues to make a substantial difference throughout the region. The Kline Foundation was incorporated to receive and administer funds and property to support religious, scientific, educational and charitable purposes.

“Through the years, much of the money we have gathered has gone to support students, ” Foundation board member Harold E. Armsey said. “Mr. Kline knew that education was a solution to a lot of problems.”

Established in 1952, the Kline Foundation operated from The Coca-Cola Bottling Company of Norton offices in the early days.

Mr. Kline later started the Lonesome Pine Bottling Company, which primarily operated in Vansant. The Foundation’s assets were derived from the profits of the company’s operations and from its founder’s personal generosity.

The first trustees were Mr. Kline, Arthur D. Smith, George F. Scott, William C. Kline and Dr. T.J. Tudor. Since Mr. Kline’s death in 1970, a board of trustees has operated the Foundation. Current board members are: George Culbertson, Harold Armsey, Glenn Teasley, Charles Lawson, Stewart Spradlin, Byron Cantrell and Fred Ramey.

Mr. Kline operated The Coca-Cola Bottling Company of Norton, and Armsey said he held strong beliefs that education should be a primary concern of the Foundation that bears his name.

While many regional initiatives have been assisted by the Foundation, students who attend UVa-Wise, Mountain Empire Community College and other colleges in the region have been the primary beneficiaries in terms of scholarships and other vital

programs and projects. Before his death, Mr. Kline provided funds to build a gymnasium at King University and he endowed a scholarship in the name of his wife, Grace Carson Kline.

“The Kline Foundation has given scholarship funds consistently since the College’s origin,” Tami Ely, head of Development and College Relations at UVa-Wise said. “The Foundation has supported the Chancellor’s Discretionary Fund, has sponsored many initiatives like the science fair, and has supported hundreds of students through scholarships. I firmly believe that the endowed scholarships of the Kline Foundation will indefinitely sustain scholarship needs for our students from Dickenson, Wise, Lee and Buchanan counties and the city of Norton.”

George Culbertson, chair of the Foundation board of trustees, saw first hand how Mr. Kline’s philanthropy transformed the lives of many UVa-Wise students, especially in the College’s early years.

“Joe Smiddy has often talked about having a few students each year that couldn’t afford tuition,” Culbertson said of the College’s first chancellor. “George F. Scott, Mr. Kline’s treasurer, would always come see Joe at the beginning of the semester and Joe would give him a list of his needs. George would come forth with funds from the Foundation to help pay their expenses.”

Culbertson said board members enjoy carrying out their roles to support Mr. Kline’s work. He said the Kline Foundation is not a large foundation, but its funding for students has been critical to education over the years.

“It brings great pleasure to be able to support students through the Kline Foundation endowed scholarships,” Culbertson said.

Stewart Spradlin ’92, Byron Cantrell, Harold Armsey, Fred Ramey ’88, George Culbertson ’57 and Charles Lawson Not pictured: Glen Teasley

Spring/Summer 2015 41

SCHOLARSHIP LUNCHEON

Students receive TICE awards

Timothy Meador, Marcus Elmore, Sanders Huguenin and Bethanie Hamilton

Five UVa-Wise students received Tice Total Achievement Awards at the 2015 Scholarship Luncheon in honor of their community service, family values, cooperation, creativity and scholarship.

The awards, made possible through a generous endowment created by Dr. Frederick Gordon Tice, a 1939 alumnus of the University of Virginia, are determined by nominations made by faculty or staff members and selected by the Tice Award Committee. The students received a $1,000 check.

The Tice Recipients Timothy L. Meador, a Roanoke native, is a biology major who plans to become a physical therapist. Described as a true leader on the football field and in his community service, Meador often spends weekends assisting the coaching staff with recruiting tours with players and parents. Meador does community service work at local elementary schools, Samaritan’s Purse Operation Christmas Child and Feeding America to 42 UVa-Wise Magazine

provide for those in need. He has also volunteered as a cook at a homeless shelter.

Bethanie P. Hamilton, a biology major from Castlewood, Virginia, plans to be a physician’s assistant. She volunteers with the UVa-Wise Trio program by serving as a note-taker for students with special needs. Hamilton also spends time sitting with the elderly, and she serves as a coach with the Clinch River Little League Softball Association. She works to inspire young players to pursue an education.

Marcus J. Elmore, a native of Blacksburg, South Carolina, is a sports management major. Elmore has worked as a resident advisor on campus and has earned recognition as programmer of the year in the housing department. He also worked as a resident advisor for the Summer Bridge program and helped freshmen adjust to college life. He is known for being a team player who assists others, and he is an active member of his church.

Lyndra A. Frimpong, a two-time Tice winner, is a resident advisor who is active in student life. She is a member of the Student Government Association Elections Commission, a representative of the Honor Court, public relations and community service coordinator with the Multi-Cultural Alliance, student ambassador, volunteer at a women’s shelter and is a member of the Baptist Campus Ministries.

Noah A. Aldridge, a Pennington Gap native, is a biology major who plans to enter medical school. He is active in several clubs and organizations on campus, including the Student Advisory Athletic Counsel.

Aldridge, a tennis player for the Cavaliers, spends time as a volunteer for nonprofit organizations and works hard to help others. He is known for viewing each detail of community service as an opportunity to unload burdens from those in need.

In addition, he has worked as a volunteer reader for children in public schools.

Kobe Lawson and Sharon Daniels ’88

Wayne Edwards ’62, Brenda Edwards and Hillary Yates

New Scholarships in 2015 and those who helped make it possible: Sally S. Baird Scholarship Sally Baird ’92 Ann Cawood Scholarship Anonymous Jonette “MJ” Dixon Scholarship Jonette “MJ” Dixon Carpenter ’01 & Shawn Carpenter F. Wayne and Brenda P. Edwards Scholarship Wayne ’62 and Brenda Edwards

R. Winston Ely & Tamara S. Ely Scholarship Winston ’61 and Tami Ely ’90 Brock Funk Athletic Scholarship Terri Anne Funk ’07 & Tiny & Roxanne Funk Gamma Chi Omega/Kappa Sigma Pursuit of Excellence Scholarship Adam Bell ’00, Mark Dixon ’12, Jonathan Mason ’02, Nick Marshall ’09, Marcus Montgomery ’13 and Kevin Whitmer ’13 & alumni of both fraternities Fay Bond & Donald Gillespie International Studies Fund The late Fay Bond Gillespie ’70 Richard and Leslie Gilliam Athletic Scholarship Richard ’74 and Leslie Gilliam Don M. and Phyllis A. Green Scholarship Don ’61 and the late Phyllis Green Ralph B. and Hazel C. Greene Scholarship William R. and Pauline Greene Jones ’59, H. Fred and Juanita Greene Colley ’62, David R. and Rita Greene Call, Marvin C. and Velma Greene Barker, Randy L. and Yvonne Greene Wampler ’86, Jeffrey W. and Pamela S. Greene Woolwine, David and Teresa Greene Holbrook , Dennis C. and Teresa M. Greene, Michael and Denise Greene O’Bryan’88

Betty Chloe Bolling and Brooke Colley

Betty M. Humphreys FBLA Leadership Scholarship Anne M. Baker ’86, Glenna B. Hensdill ’77 & Virginia Lynn Leonard ’89 Kline Foundation Scholarship Kline Foundation Board Harper, Davis, and Duane Miller Scholarship Duane Miller ’94 Doug and Cecilia Mullins & Carrie Blevins Mullins Memorial Scholarship Doug and Cecilia Mullins Stuart Rose Memorial Masonic Scholarship Hoge Lodge No. 8 A.F. & A.M. Hunter Smith Athletic Scholarship Hunter J. Smith Family Foundation Southwest Virginia Medical Clinics Scholarship Board of Directors of the Southwest Virginia Community Health Services, Inc. UVa-Wise Staff Scholarship Fund UVa-Wise Staff Council Robert and Jeannie Stallard Athletic Scholarship Robert ’76 and Jeannie Stallard ’80 Michael Keith Wampler Scholarship Fund Benny Wampler Laura Leigh Wells Memorial Scholarship Roy ’56 and Ruth Wells

Scott Perkins and Junetta Nuckels

Spring/Summer 2015 43

SCHOLARSHIP LUNCHEON

STORIES and

RELATIONSHIPS A record number of students and donors attended the annual Scholarship Luncheon, a popular event that transcends generations by pairing scholars and benefactors for some lively conversation and stories about the College yesterday and today.

The event highlights the staying power of the College’s 60 years of providing educational opportunities for students from Southwest Virginia and beyond.

Preston Mitchell, a retired history teacher and basketball coach, delivered the key address at the event. He used the theme of stories and relationships to show how the College has changed over the years and touched many lives in the process.

“I was wondering what comes first, kind of like the chicken and the egg conundrum,” he said. “We all have these great stories and they help put into words what this place means to us. But I think that it is the relationships that accompany the stories that are the lifeblood of the College that gives us the uniqueness that is UVaWise.”

Mitchell urged the students to foster relationships with their teachers, coaches, staff and each other. He said those relationships will bring them great stories to tell that will articulate UVa-Wise in best light.

Terry Bates ’64 and Carlie Clark

“These extraordinary resources allow us to do what is most important at this College…year in and year out…in good economic times and in not so good times. What is most important at UVa-Wise? Providing students with a first class education at an affordable cost. Thanks to you, our endowment gives the College the means to make this commitment and to live up to it.”

–Chancellor Donna P. Henry

Chancellor Emeritus Joe Smiddy and Wesley Baugh

Sally Baird ’92 and Rex Baird

44 UVa-Wise Magazine

Glenda Burnham and Nina Mullins

Jeff Sturgill ’74 and Chassidy Salyer

Vonda Buchanan and Dylan Slemp

legacy of

A

learning

Cassondra Chadwell, a senior psychology major, spoke at the annual Scholarship Luncheon on behalf of her fellow students who benefit from the generosity of scholarship donors. Her message was simple and to the point.

“In the future, I hope to judge my success not by my title, finances or personal achievements but by how much I am able

Lawton Mullins ’04, Chancellor Donna P. Henry, Koen Elswick and Beth Stockner

Megan Funk ’12, Zeke Funk, Bernice Hill and Kim Hill Nicholson

Cassondra Chadwell ’15

Ruth Wells, Roy Wells ’56 and Daria Blach

to enrich the lives of others by offering support similar to what was done for me here at UVa-Wise,” she said. “Without your generous support, many students may not have the chance to realize their full potential as your generous support has enabled me.”

Chadwell, a Big Stone Gap native, followed her parents’ footsteps to Wise to attend college. It was a decision she never regretted.

“I have received tremendous support and guidance from the faculty on this campus,” she said. “They truly take an interest in student success. It is because of their confidence in me and my abilities that I have explored many opportunities outside of my comfort zone.”

Chadwell has been active in campus life and has taken advantage of many enrichment opportunities while at UVaWise. Generous donors make research opportunities possible, and it helps many students succeed.

“I have participated in multiple undergraduate research projects,” she said.

“All this has provided me with a strong foundation to build upon as I pursue my education at a graduate level.

She presented her research at a conference in Hilton Head, South Carolina and will travel to New York City this summer to present at an international conference. She also held an internship with the Healthy Appalachia Institute.

“I will carry these experiences with me from this point forward,” she said.

Spring/Summer 2015 45

1989

CLASS NOTES

David Allio earned his masters in fine arts in visual art from Vermont College of Fine Arts. He lives in Chesnee, South Carolina.

1996

2005

2008

Anthony Graham and Jordan King Graham ’11 welcomed their daughter, Reagan McKinley Graham, on Sept.

11, 2014. Reagan weighed five pounds and thirteen ounces. The family lives in Abingdon, Virginia.

Cody Dalton received an award for his sports columns at the North Carolina Press Association awards ceremony held at the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill on Feb. 26, 2015. For the last four years, he has been the sports editor at The Observer News Enterprise in Newton, North Carolina. He lives in Newton, North Carolina.

Marnie Head works as a veterinarian at the Scott Veterinary Services in Gate City, Virginia. Her husband, Bryan Head ’98, works at Eastman as a distribution manager in sales. They have six children – Blake, Emmerson, Griffin, Grey, Piper and Paisley.

The family lives in Kingsport, Tennessee.

Reagan McKinley Graham

2007 Brittany Hall and Brett Seybert were married on Aug. 15, 2014, in Gulf Shores, Alabama. Brittany earned her Master’s Degree in English from East Tennessee State University in 2010. She is employed with Columbia State Community College as an assistant professor of English. They live in Columbia, Tennessee.

The Head family

Cody Dalton

2011 Robert M. Davis is employed with the city of Virginia Beach’s Department of Emergency Medical Services and was promoted to public safety analyst II. Robert lives in Virginia Beach, Virginia.

1999 Christopher Charles is the pastor at Mooringsport/Oil City United Methodist Churches. He, his wife, Christi, and their five children, Justin, William, Emerson, Ethan and Lilly live in Mooringsport, Louisiana.

2001 Stephen Anderson earned his master’s in organizational management in 2009 from Southwest University and a Master of Operational Art and Science from Air Command & Staff College in 2013. He is employed with the United States Air Force as a commander with the 355th Force Support Squadron at the Davis-Monthan Air Force Base. Stephen and his wife, Amanda, live in Tucson, Arizona.

46 UVa-Wise Magazine

Brittany Hall and Brett Seybert

Robert M. Davis Amanda and Stephen Anderson

Nathan A. Jones and Annette Scott Jones ’11 welcomed their daughter, Natalie Annette Jones, on Nov. 24, 2014. She weighed eight pounds. The family lives in Winder, Georgia.

2012 Brandon Hale and Amanda Mullins were married on Sept. 13, 2014, at West End Baptist Church in Big Stone Gap, Virginia.

The maid of honor was Stephanie Mullins Tompkins ’04, and the bridesmaids were Misty Mullins and Leeanna Hale ’15.

The best man was Kenneth Hale, and the groomsmen were Adam Mullins and Nicholas Mullins. Brandon is employed with Eastman Chemical Company as a laboratory technician. They live in Mount Carmel, Tennessee.

Ellen Krupey and Brandon L. Marshall ’12 were married on June 7, 2014, at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church in Wytheville, Virginia. The matron of honor was Angela Barton, and the bridesmaids were Rhonda Curtis, Ashley Chambers, Hannah Imburg ’12 and Jenna Brown ’15. The best man was Harvey Marshall, and the groomsmen were Chuck Curtis, Dale Marshall, Craig Beale ’11 and Shaun Foster ’11. Ellen earned her master’s degree in human services from Liberty University and is employed with Floyd County Social Services as a social worker. Brandon is employed with Montgomery County Sheriff ’s Office as a deputy. They live in Christiansburg, Virginia.

The Jones family

Sarah Rasnake and Bart Came were married on Sept. 20, 2014, at Mathews Manor in Springville, Alabama. Tiffany Meadows Evans ’11 served as bridesmaid.

Sarah is employed with CGI Federal as an IT Consultant. They live in Lebanon, Virginia.

Amanda and Brandon Hale

Ellen and Brandon Marshall

Sarah and Bart Came

Sarah M. Liston earned her Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Radford University in 2014. She is employed with Family Preservation Services as a therapeutic day treatment counselor. Sarah lives in Collinsville, Virginia.

Tiffany Evans and Sarah Came

Sarah Smith and Peter Carlson ’12 were married on Oct. 4, 2014, at Heartwood in Abingdon, Virginia. The maids of honor were Chiz Ononiwu ’11 and Anna Adams ’11. Kristin Robertson ’11 served as bridesmaid. The best man was Stephen Carlson, and the groomsmen were Myles Cote ’11 and Adam Smith ’05. Sarah is employed at UVa-Wise as the assistant director of the Winston Ely Health & Wellness Center, and Peter is employed with the Wise County Sheriff ’s Office as a deputy sheriff. They live in Wise, Virginia.

We have a new look! www.uvawise.edu/alumni While you’re there, submit a Class Note online!

Sarah Smith Carlson and Peter Carlson

Spring/Summer 2015 47

CLASS NOTES Lauren B. Maddox and Matthew S. Tiller were married on May 24, 2015, at Timberlake Christian Church. The matrons of honor were Sarah Negron and Amy Galliher. The bridesmaids where Alyx Reinhardt, Samantha Dalton, Amy Woodard, Rachel Ribaric, Kristen Carter and Victoria Tiller. The best man was Bryan Hannum, and the groomsmen were Kurt Breitmeyer, Mike Boyd, Matt Thompson, Eric Curtis, Haile Lytton, Jeremy Soles and Aaron Smith. Lauren earned her Masters of Special Education from Lynchburg College in 2014 and is employed with the Lynchburg City Schools as a special education teacher.

They live in Evington, Virginia.

2013

Cieara Tolliver is employed with Farmers and Miners Bank in Pennington Gap, Virginia as a bookkeeper, and she is also employed with WSWV radio station as a news anchor. She lives in Pennington Gap, Virginia.

2015 Desmond Burris is attending graduate school at Virginia Union University. He lives in Roanoke, Virginia.

Frank Connell III and Megan Messer ’15 were married on Aug. 9, 2013, at East Gate Park in Dothan, Alabama. The maid of honor was Regan Messer, and the best man was Matt Messer. Frank is employed with Steve Cole, CPA as an accountant.

They live in Wise, Virginia.

Cieara Tolliver

2014 Erin L. Kellam is employed with the Barter Theatre as a stage 2 electrician. She lives in Critz, Virginia.

Geordan Cross is a 2nd Lieutenant in the United States Army.

Morgan Day and Richard Day welcomed their son, Richard Lawrence Day IV, on Feb. 1, 2015. He weighed eight pounds and 3 ounces. They live in Wise, Virginia.

Edileyne Delgado is attending Marymount University in pursuit of her graduate degree. She lives in Montpelier, Virginia.

Matthew and Lauren Tiller

Dru Morgan and Kayley Phillips ’13 were married on Dec. 31, 2014, at Camp Bethel in Wise, Virginia. Genie Hamilton and Emilee Brickey were bridesmaids. The groomsman were Jacob Morgan, Dylan Hall, Ethan Hall and Evan Brickey. Dru is in his third year at Lincoln Memorial College of Osteopathic as a medical student completing his clinical training with Wellmont Health System in Norton, Virginia. Kayley is a biology and anatomy teacher at John I. Burton High School. They live in Wise, Virginia.

Jeffrey Taylor is employed with the Western Virginia Regional Jail as a correctional officer. He lives in New Castle, Virginia.

Kimberly Good is attending graduate school at Hollins University. She lives in Roanoke, Virginia.

Shahn Khan is a 2nd Lieutenant Finance Officer with the United States Army.

Erin Kellam

Nathan Rasnake is working on a Masters of Science in Integrated Marketing Communications from West Virginia University. He is employed at UVa-Wise as an admissions counselor. He lives in Wise, Virginia.

Christopher Luce-Edwards is employed as swim coach with the Wise County Blue Marlins. He lives in Norton, Virginia.

Helen R. Osborne is attending the University of Virginia School of Medicine.

She lives in Charlottesville, Virginia.

Cara Robinson is attending graduate school at Lincoln Memorial University. She lives in Big Stone Gap, Virginia.

Dustin A. Sparks is a 2nd Lieutenant in the United States Army.

Jill and Michael O’Donnell with Kayley and Dru Morgan

48 UVa-Wise Magazine

Nathan Rasnake

Lackey for the prosecution Meghan Hall-Schroter Lackey ’10 knows how to stick to a plan. She was just six years old when she decided to become a lawyer, and she was 13 when she knew that UVaWise was the only college for her.

“I had no idea what ‘being a lawyer’ meant then, but it sounded fun,” she recalled. “I was always told that I could argue with a fence post.”

Meghan Hall-Schroter Lackey ’10

The young girl with the reputation for stating her point and standing her ground now spends her day arguing cases before a jury and a judge since she took a job as assistant commonwealth’s attorney for Wythe County.

She has come a long way in a short time since the first time she visited UVa-Wise.

Rural Retreat High School was battling

for a slot in a state championship football tournament at Smith Stadium, and young Meghan was in the stands to cheer for her hometown team. She liked what she saw, and she fell in love with the campus.

“I saw that it was a small college, and it was far enough away from Rural Retreat that it felt like I was going away from home, but close enough to go back home on the weekends if I wanted,” she said. “I knew I was not going to be just a number at Wise.”

She realized at a young age that she would get one-on-one assistance from professors and would not be just a nameless face in a crowded classroom. The UVa-Wise experience helped her finish law school at Liberty University in May 2014 with the confidence she needed to prosecute complicated criminal cases.

“I felt prepared when I entered law school,” she added. “I was used to writing research papers and reading for hours at a time in Wise. We were supposed to teach others in law school classes, and my professors at UVa-Wise expected the same thing. They wanted us to be so prepared that we would be able to answer the questions they asked or to teach the class.”

The lengthy papers and the small town atmosphere of the law school at Liberty felt a bit like home to her. The realization made for a smooth transition. In typical fashion, she decided early on that the prosecutor’s table was the right place to rest her briefcase.

“I knew that criminal law was my primary interest,” she said. “I wanted to prosecute.

There are many amazing people who do defense work, and I admire them, but I felt

I could best represent the community as a whole as the prosecution. I knew it would have a bigger impact on the community.”

As a prosecutor, the Wythe County resident sees people at their best and at their worst, and it has only reinforced her determination to do all that she can for her community. In her spare time, she and her husband, John Lackey ’10, also a UVa-Wise alumnus, enjoy the outdoor beauty that Wythe County offers.

John Lackey ’10 and Meghan Hall-Schroter Lackey ’10

“My husband and I love being outside,” she said. “We love to fish, hunt, ride four wheelers and spend time with our extended family.”

She does not hesitate to recommend a liberal arts college to youngsters who are looking for the right path to higher education. She tells them to visit colleges and to remember that they are not just picking a place for an education.

“You need to be comfortable at the college you choose, and that is why I chose Wise,” she said. “You need an educational support system and one that you get on a personal level. I had that in Wise.”

In Memoriam

Carol Sue Gilbert ’56 passed away on April 8, 2015. She lived in Wise, Virginia.

Eugene Collins ’58 passed away Oct. 29, 2014. He was a resident of Pound, Virginia.

Charlotte Estep ’70 passed away on March 31, 2015. She lived in Norton, Virginia.

Thomas H. Kilgore ’71 passed away Nov. 10, 2014. He was a resident of Richlands, Virginia.

Truel W. Cornes ’73 passed away Dec. 24, 2014. He was a resident of Belfast, Virginia.

Georgia B. Starry ’73 passed away Aug. 9, 2014. She was a resident of Alexandria, Virginia.

James W. Bryant ’77 passed away Nov. 10, 2014. He was a resident of Martinsville, Virginia.

Howard S. Sandt ’79 passed away May 10, 2015. He was a resident of Big Stone Gap, Virginia.

William K. Patton ’90 passed away May 2, 2012. He was a resident of Clinchco, Virginia.

Joseph W. Hampton ’90 passed away Jan. 16, 2015. He was a resident of Wise, Virginia.

Jerry R. Mooney ’90 passed away Dec. 28, 2015. He was a resident of Clintwood, Virginia.

Brad A. Hurt ’98 passed away Jan. 11, 2015. He was a resident of Pound, Virginia.

Stephanie D. Sturgill-Adams ’00 passed away July 4, 2014.

She was a resident of Pound, Virginia.

Brock Anthony M. Funk ’08 passed away Jan. 16, 2015. He was a resident of St. Paul, Virginia.

Spring/Summer 2015 49

ALUMNI NEWS

PAST EVENTS

Basketball Homecoming Alumni and friends from all era’s gathered at the Prior Center for an afternoon of fellowship, fun and basketball. Former coaches, players and their families all enjoyed seeing photographs of their time playing on the court and light refreshments in the Chancellor’s Suite.

Chancellor Henry and Sim Ewing, Vice Chancellor for Finance and Administration assisted 2014 Homecoming Queen Katie Beth Brooks in the crowning of the 2015 Homecoming King, Brent Wills and Queen, Olivia Rowe.

Larry Russell ’72, Jared Stapleton ’05, Brian Powers ’97 and Bill Wendle ’93

Basketball homecoming photo Vanessa Lester ’04 Jeff Lester ’03, Paisley Lester

Ed Conley, Pam Conley ’84, Dick Davidson Paige Law, Nat Law ’99 and Bill Henry Miller ’66

Chancellor Donna P. Henry, Sim Ewing, Vice Chancellor for Finance and Administration and last years Homecoming Queen Katie Beth Brooks ’14

Spring Swing The 20th annual Community Spring Swing golf tournament drew 28 teams and over 20 sponsors for a great round of golf, fun and fellowship on Friday, April 17, 2015 at Lonesome Pine Country Club. Proceeds from the tournament benefit the Alumni Association and the Highland Cavalier Club.

Tournament champions were Rick Colley, John Brickey III, Mike Owens and Tyler Robinette. Special thanks to our corporate sponsor Norton Community Hospital/ MSHA, beverage sponsor Pepsi of Norton, and luncheon sponsor Cavalier Pharmacy.

Rick Mullins ’91, Russell Wampler ’90, David Adkins ’93 and Brian Blanton ’92

Bob Sage ’79, Fran Hunt ’80, Trey Stapleton ’12, Luke Layne ’07, Ryan Nutter ’07, Keith Denson, Vince Marshall ’80 and L.J. Boothe ’07

Mike Owens ’96, Rick Colley ’90, student Tyler Robinette and John Brickey III ’86

Washington, D.C. Baltimore

A group of alumni and current students took a weekend tour to Washington D.C. for the Cherry Blossom Festival on Saturday, April 11 and Sunday, April 12. The group toured the Capitol and ended the trip with a Baltimore Orioles game on Sunday afternoon.

50 UVa-Wise Magazine

Posing with the Orioles mascot Alumni and students enjoy the Baltimore Orioles game

ALUMNI GATHERINGS

Eastern Kentucky

CLUBS

Alumni of the college from Eastern Kentucky came together and enjoyed heavy hors d’oeuvres followed by a complimentary production of Steel Magnolias at the Jenny Wiley Theatre in Pikeville on Saturday, March 28, 2015.

Josh Justice ’07, Ella Smith ’04, Steve Lawson ’78, Valerie Laswon ’87, Pam Collie’93, Bill Wendle ’93, Teresa Wendle, Pamela Bartley ’86, Albert Smith ’02 and Yvonne Stallard

Hampton Roads Over 20 alumni and friends of the college gathered at the newly constructed Marsh Pavilion of the Virginia Marine and Science Center in Virginia Beach on Saturday, April 25, 2015. Heavy hors d’oeuvres were enjoyed as the group toured the facility sharing stories and reconnecting with fellow classmates and friends from years past.

Fran Hunt ’80, at-large alumni association board member, coordinates the activities of the club and invited other alumni from the region to assist in growing the club for future endeavors and initiatives on behalf of the College.

Robert Cannon ’84, Kathy Cannon ’85, Bob Sage ’79, Fran Hunt ’80 and Martha Hunt ’81

David Mallard, Karen P. Mallard ’88, Brian Blanton ’92, Wanda Williams and Pam Collie ’93

Max Ward ’10, Helen Melshen ’11, Cathy Sandidge ’71, Cindi Smoot ’09 and Paul Melshen ’14

Timothy Evans ’99, Bob Sage ’79 and Sanyika Evans

Spring/Summer 2015 51

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

SAVE THE DATE: Aug. 18 - Fall Convocation Homecoming 2014: Oct. 2 - Silver Saber Spirit Contest, pep rally and student and community picnic Oct. 3 - Alumni picnic, family carnival, football game and alumni dance Oct. 5 - 23rd annual Cavalier Golf Classic at The Virginian Nov. 12 - 13th annual Super Raffle Dec. 4 - December Convocation Dec. 14-18 - Alumni Travel Bahamas Cruise

2015 Football Schedule 52 UVa-Wise Magazine

Date

9/7/2015 9/12/2015 9/19/2015 9/26/2015 10/3/2015 10/10/2015 10/17/2015 10/24/2015 10/31/2015 11/7/2015 11/12/2015

Opponent

Tusculum College Notre Dame College (Ohio) Shepherd University Glenville State College West Virginia State University Concord University West Liberty University Fairmont State University Urbana University (Ohio) West Virginia Wesleyan College University of Charleston

Location

Wise, Va. South Euclid, Ohio Wise, Va. Glenville, W.Va. Wise, Va. Athens, W.Va. Wise, Va. Fairmont, W.Va. Wise, Va. Buckhannon, W.Va. Wise, Va.

Time

7 p.m.

12 p.m.

1 p.m.

1:30 p.m.

3 p.m.

2 p.m.

1 p.m.

2 p.m.

1 p.m.

1 p.m.

7 p.m.

UPCOMING ALUMNI TRAVEL

Travel opportunities

Bahamas Cruise - December 2015 December 14 - 18 (4 nights)

Itinerary: Departing Port Canaveral, Dec. 14 Nassau, Bahamas Coco Cay, Bahamas Returning to Port Canaveral, Dec. 18

$467.17 for cruise only $567.17 for bus and cruise $200 deposit per cabin Travel on the bus from UVa-Wise is $100.

(Bus will depart Dec. 13 at 8 p.m. from Greear Gym at UVa-Wise.)

Each cabin includes: • $75 on-board spending credit • A complimentary dinner for two in a specialty restraurant • A coupon booklet (($400 value) • Free EFFY jewelry set • A surprise gift from Cruise Planners

Register by September 1 Contact the Office of Alumni Relations at 276-328-0128 or register at www.voyageseeker.com/group/Cavs Pricing and availability subject to change after Sept. 1, 2015. The pricing & promotions listed on this advertisement are being included by the travel agency and are not the responsibility of Royal Caribbean International or its parent company or affiliates. Contact your travel agency for more information. All itineraries are suject to change without notice. ©2014 Royal Caribbean Cruises Let. Ships’ registry: The Bahamas.

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