Virginia Wesleyan University Magazine | Winter 2022 Annual Report Edition

VirginiaWesleyan SPECIAL EDITION Winter 2022

University Achieves Record Fundraising and Endowment Growth Despite pandemic-related economic challenges, outside financial support ensures VWU’s prosperity

2020-2021 ANNUAL REPORT

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CAMPUS UPDATES

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CAPITAL PROJECTS

A MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT Welcome to this special edition of Virginia Wesleyan University Magazine!

Every winter in these pages, we review highlights from the past year, offer updates on new and existing programs, and give special thanks to those who support the University.

In our cover story, we announce record fundraising and endowment growth over the last seven years. We are thrilled for the new opportunities, facilities, and programs this fundraising continues to bring for VWU students and faculty alike.

After a challenging year in 2020-21, our Marlins returned to campus this fall eager for a more normal semester. As a Vaccine Champion University, Virginia Wesleyan has been able to return to our traditions, once again hosting events like Homecoming & Family Weekend and Founders Day. Founders Day was especially meaningful this year as we celebrated the University’s 60th anniversary and dedicated Susan T. Beverly Hall, the original academic building on campus formerly known as the Fine Arts Building. The University welcomed Mary Ryberg, our new Vice President for Finance, near the start of the semester, too.

I am proud to report that VWU is once again featured in The

Princeton Review Guide to Green Colleges: 2022 Edition. It is so appropriate that VWU is recognized as a national leader on this topic. In 2020, the Board of Trustees adopted “Environmental Guiding Principles” to be embedded in the permanent institutional mindset for future planning, including the recent announcement of the investment of our full endowment in an environmentally friendly way.

Finally, let me take this opportunity to thank the many alumni, friends, faculty and staff, parents, students, and organizations who contribute financially to Virginia Wesleyan University. Higher education today is a highly competitive industry, and private support is critical to recruiting students through scholarships and serving them well with quality technology, programs, and facilities.

Your gifts are essential to our student-centered living and learning environment and honoring our liberal arts mission.

We thank you!

PRESIDENT AND LEADERSHIP SCOTT D. MILLER, PH.D.

President

KIMBERLEY J. HAMMER, J.D.

Vice President for Advancement Special Assistant to the President

KEITH E. MOORE, ED.D.

Vice President for Campus Life and Operational Management

SUSAN LARKIN, PH.D.

Vice President for Academic Affairs

MARY RYBERG

Vice President for Finance

HEATHER CAMPBELL

Vice President for Enrollment

ANDREA HOOVER-ERBIG

Executive Director for Intercollegiate Athletics

KELLY CORDOVA

Executive Assistant to the President

ADVANCEMENT AND ALUMNI RELATIONS LORI HARRIS ’94 Associate Vice President for Advancement and Executive Director of Alumni Relations SEAN FLYNN Assistant Vice President for Advancement Alumni Relations General Inquiries alumni@vwu.edu

VirginiaWesleyan UNIVERSITY

EDITOR Stephanie Smaglo ASSISTANT EDITOR Laynee H. Timlin

Scott D. Miller, Ph.D. President of the University

BRANDING AND DESIGN MANAGER Christine Hall CONTRIBUTOR Cameron Evans ‘22 VISIT US ONLINE AT VWU.EDU/MAGAZINE PRINTED ON RECYCLED PAPER

BY JONES PRINTING SERVICE

/ B / WINTER 2019

MAGAZINE

A ribbon cutting marked the official reopening of the newly named Susan T. Beverly Hall. Pictured (from left): Elena Barr Baum, Tom Beverly, Clay H. Barr, Susan T. Beverly ‘72 H’21, VWU President Scott D. Miller, Board Chair John Malbon, and Travis Malone, Professor of Theatre and Dean of the Batten Honors College.

DEDICATION OF SUSAN T. BEVERLY HALL Susan T. Beverly Hall (the original Fine Arts Building) was officially dedicated in September 2021 during a special ceremony held as part of Founders Day celebrations.

The building is named for Susan Torma Beverly, Trustee Emerita, alumna of the Class of 1972, and retired educator.

“We could not be more pleased and thankful to name this newly renovated building, a cornerstone of thousands of Marlins’ campus experiences throughout the last five decades, in her honor,” said VWU President Scott D. Miller.

President Miller acknowledged several distinguished benefactors who have supported Virginia Wesleyan’s journey in years’ past and yet again on this occasion.

“We are currently standing in the Edward D. Hofheimer Theatre, which was originally constructed in 1981 and now has also been lovingly renovated thanks to many members of the Hofheimer family,” he said. “I would especially like to recognize Clay Hofheimer Barr, niece to the theatre’s namesake, for mobilizing her family. Clay’s special efforts resulted in additional fundraising dedicated to make this space truly spectacular including acoustical stage flooring—identical to what was used in the Goode Center—new LED lighting, a new curtain, and much more.”

During the ceremony, tokens of appreciation—framed architectural photographs and photo books of the newly renovated building—were presented as gifts, and special donors to the project were recognized, including: The Mary Morton Parsons Foundation, the Alison J. and Ella W. Parsons Fund, The Hampton Roads Community Foundation,

James A. Hixon, Linda H. Kaufman, Philippa Barr, Elena Barr Baum, David and Claire Benjack, Edward G. Kaufman, Elise P. Wright, Wesley Wright III, and Wesley and Elise H. Wright.

Following a formal ribbon cutting in Hofheimer Theatre, the evening turned to performances of gratitude and thanks from flutist Hailey Schumacher ’22 and vocalist Serena Smith ‘21.

Tours of the newly renovated space followed.

“This facility has a special space in the University’s past,” said Dr. Miller. “But now, this building holds a vital role in the University’s present and future.”

Read more at vwu.edu/arts.

Virginia We sl e yan U nive rsit y Magazine / 1 /

University Achieves Record Fundraising and Endowment Growth DESPITE PANDEMIC-RELATED ECONOMIC CHALLENGES, OUTSIDE FINANCIAL SUPPORT ENSURES VWU’S PROSPERITY While national media reports are painting a challenging picture for American higher education, President Scott D. Miller described ways Virginia Wesleyan University has continued to grow and prosper during his annual State of the University address at the start of the 2021-2022 Academic Year.

In his address, Dr. Miller highlighted accessibility and affordability for students, record fundraising, and growth in physical assets and endowment.

“Despite all the financial challenges facing our students and the University over the last 18 months, our donors have remained true and provided record levels of support,” Dr. Miller told guests during the event in the University’s TowneBank Arena. “In fact, fundraising from public and private sources has been the best in University history.”

President Miller shared that during the last six years the University has attracted $167 million of private donations, and over $10 million in state and federal designated award dollars.

This support has resulted in construction of new buildings, renovation of existing structures, new instrumentation and technology, and a larger endowment. The increase in endowment has significantly expanded the University’s scholarship offerings, he noted.

“It has enabled us to revise our position in the marketplace and be more responsive,” said Dr. Miller. “It has led to increased opportunities for our students. This support has truly transformed us from an aspiring local college to an inspiring global university.”

Dr. Miller noted that VWU’s endowment grew to $123 million in the 2021-22 Academic Year, including an $80.2 million endowment for the Batten Honors College. In keeping with the most significant of the three pillars for the Batten Honors College, the funds are invested in an environmentally friendly way, including the adoption of long-term investment strategies that create an equitable, low-carbon, and regenerative economy.

Dr. Miller also set goals for the future and highlighted recent accomplishments (see PAGE 3).

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CELEBRATING RECENT ACCOMPLISHMENTS

Breanna Wimbush '23, a Batten Honors College student from Virginia Beach, majors in biology and minors in chemistry and religious studies. Founded in 2017, the Batten Honors College reached its desired capacity of 160 scholars in 2021. The highly selective program equips high-achieving students to be problem solvers who are environmentally-conscious, strategic-thinking global citizens, ethically-bound to bettering their community and the world.

• Reached an overall headcount of 1,608 undergraduate and graduate students in 2020-21, an additional 1,203 continuing education learners, and 300 learners at the University’s collaborative campus in Japan. The highly selective Batten Honors College, founded in 2017, also reached its desired capacity of 160 scholars in 2021.

• Continued a multi-faceted plan of affordability that combines the fourth consecutive year of freezing tuition costs for the 2021-22 Academic Year, the Batten Honors College, an expanded Work & Learn Program for student employment, a concurrent enrollment program and Fair Transfer Agreement with all community colleges in Virginia, affordable out-of-semester 12-month course options, and a fifth-year tuition guarantee.

• Joined an elite group of 68 National Liberal Arts Colleges in the Liberal Arts Colleges Racial Equity Leadership Alliance (LACRELA), facilitated by the University of Southern California’s Race & Equity Center, to inform and shape VWU’s initiatives for diversity, equity and inclusion.

• Grew the endowment from $55 million in 2015 to $123 million in 2021-22.

• Added several new academic programs, including an online Master of Education and restructuring of on-campus undergraduate education programs to include majors in elementary education, special education and education studies. Also added a major in computer information systems and a minor in cybersecurity.

• Grew a workforce development partnership with Virginia Beach Economic Development, offering no-cost continuing education programs to build a stronger and more resilient Coastal Virginia amid the pandemic.

• Continued campus construction in year five of the University’s capital improvement plan, including renovation of Susan T. Beverly Hall (the original Fine Arts Building), updates to the Malbon Center for Technology, relocation and expansion of the Barclay Sheaks Gallery, construction of DeFord Manor, establishment of the David L. Kaufman Center for Enrollment, modernization of Clarke Hall with the addition of a new business center, and upgrades to the Betty S. Rogers Track and Field Center.

• Won a third national championship in four seasons for VWU softball.

A HAPPY HOMECOMING MARLINS RETURNED TO CAMPUS IN OCTOBER 2021 FOR TRADITION, TOGETHERNESS, AND TEAM SPIRIT It was an especially happy Homecoming and Family Weekend for Virginia Wesleyan University in 2021 as Marlins returned to campus in October following a gap year due to the pandemic.

The weekend kicked off Friday with Marlin Spirit Day, the 20th Annual Virginia Wesleyan Golf Outing at Cypress Point Country Club, a meeting of the Parents Council, the annual Marlin Alumni Social at Shorebreak Pizza & Taphouse (co-owned by JB Maas ’01), and a Homecoming Dance on campus for students.

Festivities continued into the weekend with the Athletic Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, held in the Watts Gallery of the Goode Fine and Performing Arts Center. Benefactors Joan P. Brock H’10 and Tassos J. Paphites ’79, and longtime coach and athletic director Joanne Renn, were recognized along with three former Marlin athletic greats: John “Jack” E. Lingo III ’01 (Men’s Lacrosse, 19982001); Brandon M. Massie ’11 (Men’s Soccer, 2006-2009); and Adam L. Nycz ’12 (Men’s Lacrosse, 2009-2012). Conference Athletic Games were also part of the action, with competitions from women’s soccer, men’s soccer, field hockey and volleyball. Annual Alumni Games brought back Marlins for some friendly competition in softball and men’s and women’s lacrosse. The Homecoming Court crowning of Marlin Majesty—junior Jordan Gilliam and sophomore Ashleigh Lockard—took place during halftime of the field hockey game on Birdsong Field.

Tastebuds were tickled with the 5th Annual Chili Cook Off during FinFest on Marlin Way. FinFest also featured a picnic-style lunch, refreshments and dessert, as Marlins mingled with friends and favorite faculty members.

The VWU National Championship Softball Team was presented with championship rings during a special ceremony on Foster Field, and a Toast to the 2021 National Champions followed on Marlin Way. A late afternoon Performing Arts Showcase took place in the Goode Fine and Performing Arts Center with student choral and instrumental performances and a sneak preview of the fall theatre production, Nickelodeon’s “The SpongeBob Musical.”

Mark your calendars for Spring Alumni Weekend on April 8-9, and the 2022 Homecoming and Family Weekend October 7-9.

Pictured (from top): FinFest was full of smiles as Marlins returned to campus for Homecoming for the first time since 2019; The Thirteenth Class was inducted into the Athletic Hall of Fame in the Goode Fine and Performing Arts Center; The national champion softball team celebrated their accomplishment with a special ring ceremony at Foster Field.

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Mary Ryberg Named New Vice President for Finance Mary Ryberg of Chicago, Illinois, has been named vice president for finance at Virginia Wesleyan University effective September 2021.

Ryberg brings 22 years of senior-level financial management experience in a private college setting to VWU. Previously, she served as the senior director of finance at the Illinois College of Optometry and as an accounting manager at the American Academy of Pediatrics.

“Virginia Wesleyan University will benefit tremendously from Mary’s extensive experience in higher education finance and planning,” said Dr. Scott D. Miller, President of the University. “As VWU continues its focus on affordability, access and innovation, Mary brings an innovative mindset and a history of strong focus on process improvement.”

Ryberg holds both the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) designations. She earned a master’s degree in accounting with a graduate credential in forensics and fraud along with a master’s degree in information systems, all from Roosevelt University in Chicago.

The University celebrated the achievements of its 2021 Alumni Awards recipients as part of the Founders Day celebrations. Pictured (from left): VWU President Scott D. Miller, William Shelhorse ‘70 (Distinguished Alumnus Award), Vanessa Thaxton-Ward ‘83, Ph.D. (Alumni Service Award), and Tiffany Boyle ‘14 (Graduate of the Last Decade Award), and VWU Board Chair John Malbon.

Founders Day Celebrates VWU's Rich History and Bright Future “Founders Day is an occasion to honor our past, celebrate institutional excellence, and look ahead to our ever-bright future,” said Virginia Wesleyan University President Scott D. Miller in his opening remarks for the Founders Day Convocation on September 9, 2021.

The event was held in person in the Goode Fine and Performing Arts Center, a welcome change from the previous year’s virtual event.

“Celebrating Founders Day together gives us that chance to honor what is great about Virginia Wesleyan, from its inception nearly 60 years ago through today,” he said. “Remembering the good times and all the special moments shared as a Marlin community has carried Virginia Wesleyan through the dark times to get to today and the bright semester ahead.”

Keynote speaker Gary Bonnewell ’79, H’16, joined the event virtually. His humorous and inspiring message to students was made more memorable through the use of the acronym “SMART,” which encouraged five actions: Serve, Mentor, Ask, Roar and manage Time.

The 2021 Alumni Awards were also presented as part of Founders Day. Celebrated for their outstanding professional and personal accomplishments, the 2021 honorees are William Shelhorse ’70 (Distinguished Alumnus Award), Vanessa Thaxton-Ward ’83, Ph.D. (Alumni Service Award), and Tiffany Boyle ’14 (Graduate of the Last Decade Award). Following the presentation of Shelhorse’s award, Dr. Miller announced the naming of the “Shelhorse Ponds and Lawn at DeFord Manor.”

Founders Day was launched in 2016 as an annual event to honor the history and heritage of Virginia Wesleyan.

Virginia We sl e yan U nive rsit y Magazine / 5 /

FINANCIAL REPORT Virginia Wesleyan University completed the fiscal year on June 30, 2021, with operating revenues totaling $63,056,960, expenses of $61,218,878, and a net excess of revenues over expenses of $1,838,082.

Contributed gifts and pledges for 2020-2021 totaled $68,039,658. Excellence Fund gifts totaled $1,104,895 and are critical for underwriting all aspects of the Virginia Wesleyan experience—highimpact academic programs, faculty development, annual scholarships, and meaningful student-life experiences such as undergraduate research and study-away opportunities.

Thank You TO OUR DONORS

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ith this edition of Virginia Wesleyan University’s Annual Report, we acknowledge the generous financial support of alumni and friends, faculty and staff, students and parents, businesses, foundations, and organizations during the 2020-2021 fiscal year, ending June 30.

On behalf of all who benefit from the leadership investment of our donors, we say thank you as we invite your continued engagement with, and support of, Virginia Wesleyan University.

View a complete list of donors: vwu.edu/donors / 6 / WINTER 2022

Virginia Wesleyan University’s endowment value is affected by several factors each year, including investment returns, new contributions, and the annual payout for University programs, scholarships and professorships. The endowment was valued at $72,066,846 on June 30, 2021, compared to $58,765,586 on June 30, 2020.

V I R G I N I A W E S L E YA N U N I V E R S I T Y A N N UA L R E P O R T 2020-2021

OPERATING STATEMENT OF REVENUE AND EXPENDITURES for the 12-month period ending June 30, 2021 CARES Act

REVENUES AND TRANSFERS Student Fees Auxiliary Enterprises

8,887,532

Gifts, Grants and Transfers

4,040,825

Endowment Income

3,202,500

Other

0.00%

6.41%

Auxiliary Enterprises

14.09%

Student Fees

2,784,958

68.92%

681,089

$ 63,056,960

EXPENDITURES Instruction

$ 11,986,929

Student Aid

24,089,564

Institutional Support

8,181,326

Student Services

6,523,497

Auxiliary Enterprises

2,264,384

Long-term Debt

2,578,815

Operation and Maintenance of Facilities Management

4,308,296

Academic Support

1,286,067

Interest Income

Gifts, Grants and Transfers

1,324

Stimulus - CARES Act

Other

1.08%

5.08%

$ 43,458,732

Interest Income

4.42%

Endowment Income

Long-term Debt

Academic Facilities Support Management 2.10%

7.04%

4.21%

Auxiliary Enterprises

Student Aid

3.70%

39.35%

Student Services

10.66%

Institutional Support

Instruction

13.36%

19.58%

$ 61,218,878

Make your gift conveniently and safely online at vwu.edu/giveonline View a complete list of donors: vwu.edu/donors Virginia We sl e yan U nive rsit y Magazine / 7 /

2021-2022 BOARD OF TRUSTEES

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he Board of Trustees is the governing body of Virginia Wesleyan University. It supports the University’s mission, is responsible for securing adequate financial resources for the operation of the University, and establishes long-range goals and institutional policies.

2021-2022 BOARD OF TRUSTEES John F. Malbon Chair Scott D. Miller, Ph.D.* President of the University Susan S. Goode Vice Chair Mavis E. McKenley ‘11 Secretary J. Timothy Bailey ’83 Treasurer Hon. Deborah M. Paxson ‘75 Parliamentarian David L. Kaufman Immediate Past Chair G. Robert Aston, Jr. H’20 J. Timothy Bailey ’83 Gary D. Bonnewell ’79, H’16 Alisa W. Crider ’10* Nancy T. DeFord, Ph.D. W. Taylor Franklin ’04 Susan S. Goode Sharon S. Goodwyn William W. Granger III David L. Kaufman H’19 Howard P. Kern Seonyoung Kim* Sharma D. Lewis* John F. Malbon Vincent J. Mastracco, Jr. Robert W. McFarland Mavis E. McKenley ’11 Scott D. Miller, Ph.D.* Matthew R. Nusbaum Eric C. Nyman ’94 Tassos J. Paphites ’79 / 8 / WINTER 2022

Deborah M. Paxson ’75, J.D. Jonathan E. Pruden Michael R. Rawls ’91 Robin D. Ray Louis F. Ryan Alan H. Shaw James H. Shumadine Lee T. Stevenson ’85 Joseph R. Thomas Kenneth G. Trinder II George K. (Chip) Tsantes III ’83 Anthony Walters Michael J. White ’81 Douglas B. Wilson ’86 *Ex officio

TRUSTEES EMERITI Jane P. Batten H’06 Susan Torma Beverly ’72, H’21, Ed.D. George Y. Birdsong H’16 Joan P. Brock H’10 Thomas C. Broyles Robert W. Collenberg II ’90 Robert H. DeFord, Jr. O. L. (Butch) Everett William J. Fanney Ronald M. Kramer Lemuel E. Lewis John E. Lingo, Jr. Elizabeth F. Middleton ’91 Emily S. Miles William S. Shelhorse ’70 William H. Thumel, Jr. John A. Trinder D. Henry Watts H’07, D.B.A.

ALUMNI COUNCIL

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s a volunteer advisory group, the principal purpose of the Alumni Council is to strengthen the bond between VWU graduates and Virginia Wesleyan—its students, faculty, administration, and Board of Trustees—while advocating for VWU and offering support for the enrollment and advancement of its programs.

2021-2022 ALUMNI COUNCIL Alisa W. Crider ‘10, Chair Scott D. Miller, Ph.D.* President of the University Thomas W. Taylor ‘00, Ed.D., Vice Chair Lori Simpers Harris ’94* Associate Vice President for Advancement & Executive Director of Alumni Relations Dominique M. Fowler ‘12, Secretary Brandon L. Adair ’12 Myles A. Baynard ’19 Jordan E. Bondurant ’12 Samantha L. Bull ’11 Kadija S. Corinaldi ’15 Alisa W. Crider ’10 Ksera T. Dyette ‘11, Psy.D. Chiereme D. Fortune ’13 Dominique M. Fowler ’12 Gregory E. Freedland ’97 William R. Gobble ’03 Glynn F. Goodrich ’82 Nicholas G. Hipple ’18 Julie H. Kissell ’82 Taylor J. Major ’20 Katie Giwa-Osagie ’14 Andrew W. Petrey ’15 George W. Rogers ’03 Jaclyn B. Ruelle ‘04 Katherine Shea-Sword ’99 Edmund B. Stanton ’02 Thomas W. Taylor ’00, Ed.D. Megan A. Watts ’15 *Ex officio

PARENTS COUNCIL

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he Parents Council serves as an important forum for the exchange of information concerning the various activities and programs of the University.

CLASS OF 2022 Robert and Pamela Anderson Garret and Valerie Callahan Lee and Tanya Corbin Robert and Camilla Harrod Michele Hylton Stephanie Morris Robert ’92 and Amy Scott Craig and Vicki Signorelli Charles and Faye Sterling CLASS OF 2023 Peter and Julie Anderson Cecil and Julie Chatman Tom and Kris Hall Alex and Renee Hansen John and Carole ‘88 Heller Dan and Kristen Kasprow CLASS OF 2025 Mark and Jennifer Bible Walter and Kelly Clarke Eugene and Margaret DiLorenzo Andrea Dukes ’92 Mike and Kristen Gaffney Richard and Mindy Hoag Jo Manthos Keith McGhee and Leanne Currie-McGhee Carter and Cathy Oates Tracy Oates Joseph and Lori Palau John and Kimberly Pritchard Bradley and Amy Smith Andrea and Karla Spicer Bill and Christine Stuart Chris and Danica Turner William Tuthill and Heather Greenfield Mike and Michelle Warden

PRESIDENT’S COUNCIL

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he President’s Council is comprised of business leaders from Coastal Virginia who embrace, embody and similarly align with the University’s vision and values in their management practices.

2022 MEMBERS Taylor Adams Bruce Alperin Julie R. Anderson ‘96 Paula Bazemore Tiffany Boyle ‘14 John S. Burton, Esq. ‘95 Ellen Carver Lindsey Clark Bart Dexter Christopher Garran Stephanie Gorham Pierre Granger Katherine (Kaddy) Hamilton ‘85 Lynette Harris ‘78 Judy Jankowski, Ed.D. Mark E. Jones Sarah Kellam ‘92 Angie Lombardi Dean Mattix Eli Miller ‘00 Priscilla Monti Joseph Ruddy ‘83 Wendy Scott, Ph.D. Cynthia W. Spanoulis Karen Thomas ‘88 Scott Tominovich J. Benjamin Unkle, Jr. Thomas Watkins Al Wiegert Michelle Ellis Young

Virginia We sl e yan U nive rsit y Magazine / 9 /

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YOUR GIFT MAKES A DIFFERENCE

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Thank You!

KAYLEEN MEINEN ‘21

Support The Excellence Fund

To make a tax-deductible gift, please use the envelope provided in this publication, visit vwu.edu/giveonline, call the Office of Annual Giving and Alumni Relations at 757.455.3217, or email excellencefund@vwu.edu.

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The internship increased my confidence and communication skills just as much as my commitment to the visual arts community. The experience reinforced my appreciation of art and provided me with ideas for finding employment after graduation.

CHLOE CLARKE ‘21

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A gift to The Excellence Fund does so much more than show your support.

It helps Virginia Wesleyan students today become who they want to be tomorrow.

Being abroad made me learn to take initiative and push myself in order to learn and grow.

Virginia Wesleyan helped me learn that I am capable of a lot more than I thought.

‘‘

Office of the President 5817 Wesleyan Drive Virginia Beach, VA 23455