New Opportunities

by Dr. Jill Sturts

Spring is a wonderful season. It allows us to appreciate new growth, reflect on our past, and look ahead. Our students have expanded their worldviews as a result of experiences studying away, completing immersive internship experiences, and pursuing research projects. Additional opportunities are also blooming, both in breadth and depth.

One of the newest opportunities on campus is the Brown Advisory Student Managed Investment Fund Program. Within this program, students have the opportunity to research, recommend, and execute equity trades. This program boasts yet another avenue for students to network with professionals, present at conferences, and expand their knowledge of skills they will use throughout their lives and careers.

BHC students also had the opportunity to attend three talks at the Norfolk Forum, one of the nation’s oldest, continuous public lecture series. In the fall, students heard from Rick Steves, travel expert and best-selling guidebook author, and Mara Liasson, a national political correspondent for NPR and Fox News. Earlier this semester, a group of students enjoyed hearing from Linda Johnson Rice, former Chairman and CEO of Johnson Publishing Company. As a sponsor of the Norfolk Forum, BHC students have preferred seating and opportunities to interact with the speakers.

Exploring Complex Environmental Challenges

New this academic year is the Ryan Environmental Research Symposium. Established with the generous support of Louis and Prudence Ryan, the Ryan Environmental Research Symposium features the best of student research from scholars in the Batten Honors College. Under the mentorship of VWU faculty and community leaders, student scholarship featured in the Symposium explores complex environmental challenges in a global context. The top three students will be selected to present their work in a premiere public event that brings together scholars, mentors, and community leaders. The three finalists receive a cash award, recognition plaque, and a donation in honor of the award winner made to the environmental organization of their choice.

The birth, growth and development of each of these experiences and opportunities will prepare our students to be global citizens in an increasingly interconnected society. Their involvement is yet another way to develop intellectual curiosity and professional connections and resumes.