Summer 2019
GOODE CENTER OPENS
New fine and performing arts center hits the stage with Legally Blonde - The Musical
COMMENCEMENT ON UNIVERSITY COMMONS Wesleyan Named Among Nation's Best Online Bachelor's Degree Programs
Virg in ia We sle ya n U n ive rsit y Ma g a zin e | Su mmer 2019 / 1 /
ACCELERATED DEGREE OPTIONS
Cooperative College Program with Duke University's Nicholas School of the Environment
Affiliation Agreement with the University of Virginia’s Frank Batten School of Leadership and Public Policy
Early Assurance Program and Joint Program in Medicine with Eastern Virginia Medical School
Pre-admittance and Joint Degree Options in Pharmacy with Shenandoah University
Cooperative Degree Program in Occupational Therapy with Washington University in St. Louis
Pre-Engineering Program with Old Dominion University
Guaranteed Admission Agreement with Candler School of Theology at Emory UniversityÂ
Cooperative Program with Regent University School of Law
Virginia Wesleyan offers several accelerated degree options in cooperation with other colleges and universities. In most cases, programs involve a course of study at Virginia Wesleyan followed by a related course of study at the partner institution.
State of the Arts M
arch 30, 2019, was a historic day for Virginia Wesleyan University as we officially opened and dedicated the Susan S. Goode Fine and Performing Arts Center. A longtime dream of Virginia Wesleyan, the new facility has already proven popular with audiences from on campus and off. In this edition of our VWU magazine, read about that special evening of celebration, and our appreciation to the donors who made it all possible: Susan and David Goode, Joan and Macon Brock, Eleanor and Henry Watts, and Susan Beverly '72. Their financial support resulted in a beautiful state-of-theart venue for concerts, plays, dance, art exhibitions, conferences, and special presentations. We are grateful to these friends of VWU for their leadership in bringing to life our newest facility, one that we will proudly share with our wider community. It was a busy year for Virginia Wesleyan as we completed other major campus improvements— Tom and Betty Broyles Field at TowneBank Park, home to our softball team, and The Beacon, the new design for the Bell Tower. In May, we held our Commencement Exercises on University Commons, the first ceremony held outdoors since 2003. We celebrated the Class of 2019—including our first graduate students to receive diplomas—and recognized our speaker, Congresswoman Elaine Luria, and our retiring Chair of the Board of Trustees, David Kaufman, with honorary degrees. Jonathan Zur, President and CEO of Virginia Center for Inclusive Communities, delivered the Baccalaureate Address. VCIC opened its first office outside Richmond on our campus last year, and we are honored to work
with them in serving a diverse society. We’ve added a fourth academic component— the D. Henry Watts School of Professional Studies. Named for longtime VWU Trustee and community leader Henry Watts, the school will serve the departments of Business, Social Work, Recreation and Leisure Studies, and Education. Meanwhile, our online programs continue to flourish, and we look forward to establishing additional offerings through University College. Our distinctive, selective Batten Honors College continues to attract some of the best academically prepared students in the nation and from other countries. Students of The Batten Honors College have special opportunities to pursue individual excellence. The program emphasizes global citizenship, personal leadership, and stewardship of the natural environment. Finally, we have continued to focus on affordability. Tuition has been frozen for the second year, affordable summer and winter terms have been added, and our summer student-work program, Opus, has been expanded to the full academic year. We are mindful of families’ need for financial planning for education, and along with generous aid programs, Virginia Wesleyan is one of the most affordable private institutions in the nation. Enjoy reading all the VWU news! Sincerely,
Scott D. Miller, Ph.D. President of the University
COMING SOON: COASTAL 61 AT OXFORD VILLAGE
7 MOVE PARTIES CELEBRATE BRAY VILLAGE REFRESH
FEATURES
12 18
9
Goode Center Opens
Virginia Wesleyan celebrated the grand opening of the Susan S. Goode Fine and Performing Arts Center on March 30, 2019
"Be Good and Do Good Work" U.S. Congresswoman Elaine Luria shares memorable message with graduates during the first outdoor Commencement Ceremony in nearly two decades
Conte
HONORING RETIRING FACULTY VIRGINIA WESLEYAN UNIVERSITY
20 departments 1 PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE 4 WESLEYAN WINDOW 10 EYE ON VWU 16 THE ARTS AT VWU 20 ACADEMIA 23 LIVING & LEARNING 26 ATHLETICS 30 ALUMNI
nts
2019-20 BOARD OF TRUSTEES
PRESIDENT AND LEADERSHIP
John F. Malbon, Chair Scott D. Miller, Ph.D., President Susan S. Goode, Vice Chair Nancy T. DeFord, Ph.D., Secretary J. Tim Bailey ’83, Treasurer David L. Kaufman H’19, Immediate Past Chair J. Tim Bailey ’83 Susan Torma Beverly, Ed.D. ’72 Gary D. Bonnewell ’79, H’16 Nancy T. Deford, Ph.D. Troy DeLawrence ’93* Susan S. Goode Sharon S. Goodwyn William W. Granger III Mary C. Haddad Jean T. Jenkins ’89 Alexander B. Joyner* David L. Kaufman H’19 Howard P. Kern Ronald M. Kramer Sharma D. Lewis* John F. Malbon Vincent J. Mastracco Jr. Robert W. McFarland Scott D. Miller, Ph.D.* Eric C. Nyman ’94 Tassos J. Paphites ’79 Deborah M. Paxson, J.D. ’75 Jonathan E. Pruden Robin D. Ray Cynthia M. Rodriguez ’14 Louis F. Ryan Alan H. Shaw James H. Shumadine M. Wayne Snead* Lee T. Stevenson ’85 Joseph R. Thomas Kenneth G. Trinder II George K. (Chip) Tsantes III ’83 D. Henry Watts, D.B.A. H’07 Michael J. White ’81
Scott D. Miller, Ph.D. President Mort Gamble, Ed.D. Senior Vice President Maynard Schaus, Ph.D. Vice President for Academic Affairs James E. Cooper Vice President for Finance and Administration Keith E. Moore, Ed.D. Vice President for Student Affairs David Waggoner Vice President for Enrollment Tina Hill Executive Director of Intercollegiate Athletics Kelly Barham Executive Assistant to the President
ADVANCEMENT AND ALUMNI RELATIONS Lori Harris ’94 Assistant Vice President for Advancement and Executive Director of Alumni Relations Sharon Laderberg Assistant Vice President for Advancement alumni relations general inquiries
alumni@vwu.edu
VirginiaWesleyan UNIVERSITY
MAGAZINE
EDITOR
Stephanie Smaglo ASSISTANT EDITOR
Laynee H. Timlin
PRODUCTION / PHOTOGRAPHY MANAGER
*Ex Officio
Janice Marshall-Pittman
TRUSTEES EMERITI
BRANDING AND DESIGN MANAGER
Jane P. Batten H’06 George Y. Birdsong H’16 S. Frank Blocker Jr. Joan P. Brock H’10 Thomas C. Broyles Robert W. Collenberg II ’90 Robert H. Deford Jr. O. L. (Butch) Everett William J. Fanney 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
Christine Hall
SPORTS EDITOR / SPORTS PHOTOGRAPHY
Samuel Carges CONTRIBUTOR
Cameron Evans '22, photographer VISIT US ONLINE VWU.EDU/MAGAZINE PRINTED ON RECYCLED PAPER BY JONES PRINTING SERVICE
ON THE COVER: Abigail Horgan '19 starred as Elle Woods in Virginia Wesleyan's April 2019 musical production of Legally Blonde. PHOTO: HAYLEY HEATH '19
Wesleyan Window
Virginia Wesleyan, TCC Formalize Fair Transfer Agreement AGREEMENT GUARANTEES TIDEWATER COMMUNITY COLLEGE GRADUATES JUNIOR CLASS STATUS AT VWU Tidewater Community College graduate Charleston Yancey has wanted to attend Virginia Wesleyan since he was a kid. When he earned an Associate of Science in Social Sciences in May 2019, his path to a four-year degree was seamless thanks to the new Fair Transfer Guarantee agreement between VWU and TCC. “It takes a lot of stress off of me,” Yancey said. “I have a plan. Now I can get there and graduate in two years and still stay in that four-year track.” In a signing ceremony held at Virginia Wesleyan in February 2019, VWU President Scott D. Miller and TCC President Gregory T. DeCinque (pictured) formalized the new admission agreement. Beginning this fall, TCC graduates with an associate of arts or science will enter Virginia Wesleyan with junior class status. All lower-level general education requirements—including foreign language—will be deemed complete, allowing students to focus on courses for their major and upper-level elective credits necessary for their bachelor’s degree.
“We have been good neighbors and partners with TCC for many years,” said Dr. Miller. “We want their students to feel comfortable and confident making important decisions about their future. There can be frustrations that come with transferring to a four-year institution—loss of credits can add years to the pursuit of a degree, which in turn can rack up student loan debt. With the new Fair Transfer Guarantee, TCC students will come to VWU on even footing with students who started here as freshmen.” President DeCinque also commended the agreement, praising the simplified process and the impact it will have on TCC students. “The agreement we signed today removes any doubt about the transfer of all TCC credits to Virginia Wesleyan," he said. "Now those TCC graduates can rest assured that they will enter Virginia Wesleyan as juniors, which keeps them on track to graduate with a bachelor’s degree in four years while also saving them money.”
/ 4 / Vi r g i n i a We s l ey a n Un i v e rs i t y M a g a z i n e | Su mme r 2 0 1 9
Wesleyan Window
To make students’ transition even more seamless, VWU has created the Marlin Fast Pass concurrent enrollment program. TCC students who declare their intent to transfer to VWU will be assigned an academic advisor and issued a student ID. They will have full access to the VWU campus—including use of the library and fitness center, and free admission to athletic and cultural events—before they even become students at VWU. And, students who have attained a 3.0 GPA at the completion of their freshman year at TCC will be eligible to concurrently enroll in 200- and 300-level VWU courses in their sophomore year. This is a timely accomplishment, as Virginia Wesleyan recently opened an Enrollment and Advising Office on TCC’s Virginia Beach campus. VWU enrollment counselors work onsite at TCC each Wednesday assisting students who are interested in transferring. The University also offers the Virginia Beach College Success Scholarship—a $10,000 annual scholarship program for Virginia Beach residents—plus generous merit- and needbased scholarships and federal and state aid. Visit vwu.edu/fairtransfer for more information or contact the Office of Enrollment at 757.455.3208 or enrollment@vwu.edu
ROTC Office Opens at Wesleyan
PHOTO: TIDEWATER COMMUNITY COLLEGE
NEW SPACE SERVES AS INFORMATION HUB FOR THE ARMY ROTC MARLIN COMPANY
The Fair Transfer agreement guarantees TCC students like Charleston Yancey (pictured) entrance to Virginia Wesleyan with junior class status upon completion of an associate of arts or science.
Virginia Wesleyan's Army Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) program has a new headquarters on campus. A formal ribbon-cutting ceremony was held in February 2019 for the new Godwin Hall office, which now serves as a central location for the Army ROTC Marlin Company. Major Rhana Kurdi spoke during the event, praising the University's personal approach to learning and its mission to build meaningful lives through engagement in the region, the nation, and the world. “These leaders, cultivated here at VWU, whose decisions are guided by a strong ethical and moral compass, are what the Army needs,” she said. The Marlin Company, previously the Marlin Detachment, was formalized on campus in February 1998. Through elective classes and field training, students receive valuable tools, training, and leadership experiences that may not only lead to military service but also become assets in any career field. Those interested should contact the Army ROTC Marlin Company office at armyrotc@vwu.edu or visit vwu.edu/rotc to learn more. Virg in ia We sle ya n U n ive rsit y Ma g a zin e | S ummer 2019 / 5 /
Wesleyan Window
Beacon Dedication Celebrates University's Bright Future Members of the Virginia Wesleyan community gathered in February 2019 to celebrate a bright new light on campus—The Beacon. A dedication ceremony was held in the Atrium of the Greer Environmental Sciences Center where guests could look out at the updated structure on University Commons.
“The Bell Tower,” as it was previously known, was built adjacent to Monumental Chapel in 1975 and quickly became a campus icon. During the University’s campus master planning process in 2016, structural deficiencies were identified in the tower, and the choice was given to either strengthen it through complete restoration or remove it within three years for safety reasons. These findings were presented to the University’s Board of Trustees, and Trustee Emerita Jane P. Batten generously funded the restoration. During the dedication, President Scott D. Miller thanked Mrs. Batten for her untiring support of the University and this project. “It is fitting and proper that this once proud symbol of our historic past is now, with its new look, an iconic beacon lighting the way for the future,” he said.
Malbon Becomes Board Chair John F. Malbon of Virginia Beach assumed his role as Chair of the Virginia Wesleyan University Board of Trustees on July 1 when former Chair David L. Kaufman concluded his three-year term. The Board also welcomes three other new officers for 2019-20—Susan S. Goode of Norfolk was elected Vice Chair, Dr. Nancy T. DeFord of Virginia Beach assumed the role of Secretary, and J. Tim Bailey '83 of Charlotte serves as Treasurer.
Watts School of Professional Studies VWU has established the D. Henry Watts School of Professional Studies, building upon undergraduate and graduate programs in the Departments of Business, Education, Recreation and Leisure Studies, and Social Work. The University’s fourth academic school is named with gratitude for longtime Trustee Henry Watts (pictured), recognizing his 30 years of leadership and support of Virginia Wesleyan and his outstanding contributions to the Hampton Roads business community.
COMING SOON: COASTAL 61 AT OXFORD VILLAGE EIGHT-BUILDING, 248 LUXURY-APARTMENT COMPLEX EXPECTED TO OPEN ON CAMPUS IN 2020 Virginia Wesleyan University and The Franklin Johnston Group broke ground in June 2019 on Coastal 61 at Oxford Village—a new eight-building, 248 luxury-apartment community located on the north side of campus on Wesleyan Drive. “We are proud to embrace both sides of Wesleyan Drive, expanding our presence as we expand our programs and enrollment,” President Scott D. Miller remarked during the event. “We are fortunate to be doing so in such a prime location, in a thriving city, and where it is always a ‘Great Day to Be a Marlin.’” Expected to open in 2020, the community will include one-, two-, and three-bedroom floor plans, a state-of-the-art fitness center, swimming pool with
sundeck, and a rooftop sky park. Each apartment will feature an open floor plan, fully-equipped kitchen with stainless steel appliances and granite countertops, custom crown moldings, oversized walk-in closets, and private patios and balconies. Residents will be within walking-distance of arts, cultural, and athletic events at Virginia Wesleyan, and will have immediate access to Interstate-64, Norfolk Premium Outlets, and the brand new IKEA store. Coastal 61 at Oxford Village is a public-private partnership between VWU and The Franklin Johnston Group. The community will be open to the public and is also envisioned as a living space for VWU students, faculty, and staff.
VWU Named Among Best Online Bachelor's Programs After just one year, VWU Online has attracted attention in national rankings, being selected for inclusion among U.S. News & World Report’s 2019 Best Online Bachelor’s Programs. VWU Online launched at the start of the 2017-18 academic year with the transition of Virginia Wesleyan from a college to a university. The University now offers six online undergraduate programs, a Master of Business Administration, short-term online career training certificates, and web-based professional development courses. VWU is also a member of the Council of Independent Colleges (CIC) Online Course Sharing Consortium. Virg in ia We sle ya n U n ive rsit y Ma g a zin e | Su mmer 2019 / 7 /
1,600 students
15:1
student/faculty ratio
1/4
out-of-state students
4
–year graduation guarantee
36
academic majors
98%
students receiving financial aid
22
OUR LOCATION. YOUR ADVANTAGE.
athletic teams
25+
academic associations and honor societies
92%
BECOME A MARLIN
vwu.edu/scholarship
graduates employed or continuing education within a year
MERIT SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE 757.455.3208 | enrollment@vwu.edu / 8 / Vi r g i n i a We s l ey a n Un i v e rs i t y M a g a z i n e | Su mme r 2 0 1 9 5817 WESLEYAN DRIVE VIRGINIA BEACH,
VIRGINIA
VWU.EDU
Wesleyan Window
Move Parties Celebrate Bray Village Refresh FOUR RESIDENCE HALLS RECEIVED UPDATES DURING THE 2018-2019 ACADEMIC YEAR Positive energy filled Rose Hall in December 2018 as Virginia Wesleyan freshmen carried belongings to their updated new living space. The residence hall was the first of four in Bray Village to see $2.1 million in improvements during the 2018-2019 academic year, receiving full replacement of showers and bathrooms, fresh paint inside and out, and corrective maintenance care. Lugging bedding, bags, and books was made easier for students through “Move Parties,” which featured music, cookies, hot cocoa, and most importantly, helping hands from Residence Life, Enrollment, Facilities Management, and Campus Security. “We're trying to make it a smooth and engaging experience as people are going into this brand new space,” said David Stuebing, Director of Residence Life. “We want the reality of moving to also be a fun experience…so far I've seen a fair number of smiles.” The updates primarily focused on the bathrooms, with new plumbing, ventilation, hardware, and fixtures. The laundry rooms were also revamped and single-use restrooms were added.
As part of the improvement process, each of Bray’s residential buildings was taken offline on a rotating basis while upgrades were made. From ceiling to floor, tiles to fixtures, these spaces will have a valuable impact on the experiences of the University's newest Marlins residing in these halls. “Really what we're trying to do is provide the nicest, best space we can,” said Steubing, “so that students can direct their mental and emotional reserves to hanging out with their peers, engaging in student activities, studying, and enjoying all the benefits of Virginia Wesleyan." Constructed in 1966, Jerry G. Bray, Jr. Village (Village I) is made up of four residence halls: Louise W. Eggleston Hall, Abel E. and Clara Eaton Kellam Hall, Margarette Hanes Old Hall, and Paul Howard Rose Hall. It also contains three academic buildings: Birdsong Hall, Peter D. Pruden Hall, and Aubrey L. Eggleston Commons. The academic buildings also received updates as part of the overall improvement process.
Virg in ia We sle ya n U n ive rsit y Ma g a zin e | Su mmer 2019 / 9 /
1
4
6
7
2
EYE ON
7
3
SPECIAL EDITION: THE SUSAN S. GOODE FINE AND PERFORMING ARTS CENTER 8 With an impressive annual schedule of plays, concerts, exhibits, and special
presentations, the fine and performing arts are central to the Virginia Wesleyan experience. To serve the University's growing programs in these areas, VWU has built the Susan S. Goode Fine and Performing Arts Center. Here's a closer look at the new facility.
5
1. The 23,200-square-foot Susan S. Goode Fine and Performing Arts Center is located on Smith Drive near the main entrance to campus. An exterior cornerstone 8 (shown bottom right in photo) bears the University seal and the name of benefactor and Trustee Susan Goode, namesake of the building and of the Susan S. Goode School of Arts and Humanities. The cornerstone was unveiled during a special ceremony in October 2018. 2. Modern stage lighting illuminates the theatre and provides behind-the-scenes 11 production opportunities for students. 3. Upon entering the building, guests arrive in the impressive glass-enclosed Eleanor and Henry Watts Grand Lobby and Gallery. Rotating exhibits showcase the work of both professional and student artists. 4. The exterior of the building is surrounded by natural green space and features inspiring landscaping and a plaza for outdoor programming. 5. A grant of $71,000 from the E.K. Sloane Fund of the Hampton Roads Community Foundation helped to underwrite the purchase of a $154,000 Steinway Concert Grand Piano for the building. Considered the gold standard of musical instruments, the Steinway Series D enhances student performances and attracts high-quality outside artists. 6. A state-of-the-art sound system amplifies music and theatre performances. The control room is among the support spaces that ring the stage along with a scene shop, dressing rooms, green room, costume, prop, and equipment storage. 7. The spring 2019 season opened in the 325-seat Joan and Macon Brock Theatre 12 with acrobatic dance troupe Aura CuriAtlas and "Legally Blonde - The Musical" (read more beginning on page 12). 8. Situated in front of the building is the Susan Beverly Grand Terrace and Pond, named for a VWU Trustee and 1972 graduate of the University.
8
The Goode Center is only the first phase of a new arts complex at Virginia Wesleyan. The University also expects to upgrade studio spaces and classrooms in the original Fine Arts Building. ALL PHOTOS BY JON LIMTIACO, EXPOSURE PHOTOGRAPHY
Virg in ia We sle ya n U n ive rsit y Ma g a zin e | Su mmer 2019 / 11 /
GOODE CENTER OPENS VIRGINIA WESLEYAN CELEBRATED THE GRAND OPENING OF THE SUSAN S. GOODE FINE AND PERFORMING ARTS CENTER ON MARCH 30, 2019. Guests explored the 23,200-square-foot facility, viewed the inaugural exhibition from the Chrysler Museum, and enjoyed performances by the Virginia Symphony and Wesleyan’s music and theatre departments. VWU President Scott D. Miller welcomed guests to the dedication, noting that the University’s plan was “to create the most comprehensive facility of its kind on campus to educate future generations of accomplished leaders in the fine and performing arts.” Located prominently near the main entrance to campus, the Goode Center is named for Virginia Wesleyan Trustee and nationally recognized arts
philanthropist Susan S. Goode, an active member of the Virginia Wesleyan Board of Trustees and namesake of the University’s Susan S. Goode School of Arts and Humanities. “We are indebted to the Goodes for their generosity, their kindness, their friendship, and their many contributions to our community,” Dr. Miller said during the dedication. “Many colleges have missions of the liberal arts. Many aspire to build a wonderful home for their theatre, music, and visual arts programs. The Goodes have given us the inspiration for enriching and expanding the arts tradition of Virginia Wesleyan University, and for that we say thank you.” Made possible by sustained fundraising efforts, the facility features the impressive glass-enclosed Eleanor and Henry Watts Grand Lobby and Gallery
/ 12 / Vi r g i n i a We s l e y a n Un i v e rs i t y M a g a z in e | Su mme r 2 0 1 9
PHOTO: JON LIMTIACO PHOTO: JON LIMTIACO
Building supporters and University leadership held the official ribboncutting for the Susan S. Goode Fine and Performing Arts Center on March 30, 2019. Pictured (from left): Tymoff+Moss Architects Principal Michael Schnekser, Board Chair David Kaufman, VWU Trustee Henry Watts, Eleanor Watts, VWU Trustee and building namesake Susan Goode, David Goode, VWU President Scott D. Miller, VWU Trustee Emerita Joan Brock, Dean of the Susan S. Goode School of Arts and Humanities Travis Malone, Tom Beverly, VWU Trustee Susan Beverly '72, VWU Trustee John Malbon and Hourigan Executive Vice President Mark Roy.
Virg in ia We sle ya n U n ive rsit y Ma g a zin e | Su mmer 2019 / 13 /
During the grand opening event, the Virginia Symphony and the Virginia Wesleyan Camerata student choir premiered "There Will Be Stars Over This Place Forever," a work commissioned by David Goode in honor of his wife, Susan Goode, and this special occasion.
PHOTO: JON LIMTIACO
and the 325-seat Joan and Macon Brock Theatre. Support spaces ring the stage, including a scene shop, dressing rooms, green room, costume, prop, and equipment storage. A plaza for outdoor programming overlooks the Susan Beverly Grand Terrace and Pond. “If the arts nourish the soul and education feeds the mind,” Dr. Miller said, “it is these distinguished patrons who have sustained Virginia Wesleyan’s journey in years past and yet again, tonight. Their generous gifts are succeeded only by their informed devotion to our mission, concern for our students and faculty, and wise counsel when we have needed it the most.” A highlight of the evening was the premiere of “There Will Be Stars Over This Place Forever,” a work commissioned by David Goode in honor of his wife and the building opening. Composed by Joshua Harris, the piece was performed by the Virginia Symphony and Virginia Wesleyan Camerata and led by conductor Bryson Mortensen. "'There Will Be Stars Over This Place Forever' is an exciting piece to premiere as part of this dedication," noted Mortensen. "The text chosen for the piece almost sounds like a blessing on the Center itself, and Joshua Harris included so many musical elements that give the piece a sense of place. It is an honor to conduct this new work at such an important event.” The Goode Fine and Performing Arts Center is only the first phase of a new arts complex at Virginia Wesleyan. The University also expects to upgrade studio spaces and
classrooms in the original Fine Arts Building. These updates, coupled with the new construction and additional planned expansion, will enhance the University’s fine and performing arts facilities and showcase the prominence of Virginia Wesleyan’s arts program to the community. “The fine and performing arts are central to the tradition of liberal arts education, which is the cornerstone of our Virginia Wesleyan mission,” Dr. Miller said. “The arts nurture our spirits, inspire awe and amazement, and inform our collective humanity
/ 14 / Vi r g i n i a Wes l e y a n Un i v e rs i t y M a g a z in e | Su mme r 2 0 1 9
with beauty and truth. They reflect the possibilities of human creativity, challenging us to explore fully what it means to be enlightened and invigorated. May this new center accomplish all of that and more.”
Studying the arts at Virginia Wesleyan is a multidimensional experience that blends students’ creative talent with professional preparation and opportunities to learn alongside talented faculty and guest artists. Virginia Wesleyan offers majors and minors in art, music, theatre, studio art, and art history. Learn more at vwu.edu/arts.
The Goode Center’s spring 2019 season opened with the VWU production of "Legally Blonde - The Musical" directed by Travis Malone, Dean of the Susan S. Goode School of Arts and Humanities and Professor of Theatre.
Virg in ia We sle ya n U n ive rsit y Ma g a zin e | Su mmer 2019 / 15 /
AUGUST
1
“Big Old Work” John Rudel
- OCTOBER 1
NEIL BRITTON ART GALLERY
THE
NEIL BRITTON GALLERY
757.455-3257 | open daily free and open to the public Engaging both the Coastal Virginia and University communities, the Neil Britton Art Gallery comes alive with the work of professional artists and VWU students. For more information, contact John Rudel, Curator of Exhibitions and Professor of Art, 757.455.3257
AT VWU
FALL SEASON 2019
BARCLAY SHEAKS GALLERY
757.455.3200 | 9:40 am - 4 pm weekdays free and open to the public Named for nationally renowned painter and founder of the VWU Art Department, this Godwin Hall gallery features acrylic paintings by Barclay Sheaks. A digital archive of the campus collection can be seen at vwu.edu/Sheaks
S U S A N S. G O O D E F I N E A N D PERFORMING ARTS CENTER This 23,200-square-foot facility features the impressive glass-enclosed Eleanor and Henry Watts Grand Lobby and Gallery and the 325-seat Joan and Macon Brock Theatre. A plaza for outdoor programming overlooks the Susan Beverly Grand Terrace and Pond. VWU.EDU/GOODE
VWU CONCERT SERIES The Susan S. Goode Fine and Performing Arts Center hosts world-class artists, performers, musicians, and lecturers throughout the year. The Series is grateful for the support of the National Endowment for the Arts, the Virginia Commission for the Arts, and the Hugh Dougherty Visiting Artist Endowment. JOIN THE ARTS@VWU Get the Arts at VWU in your inbox! Sign up for electronic reminders and schedule updates by sending your name and email address to sbilly@ vwu.edu. Include your mailing address if you’d prefer a printed copy. CONTACT INFORMATION
PERFORMANCE RESERVATIONS 757.455.3381 / theatretix@VWU.EDU ART EXHIBITIONS 757.455.3257 CENTER FOR SACRED MUSIC 757.455.3376 MAIN CAMPUS 757.455.3200
LOCATION From I-64, take Exit 282 (Northampton Boulevard/Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel) and turn right onto Wesleyan Drive. Convenient, free parking available.
Reception & Artist’s Talk: Thursday, September 5, 5-7 p.m. Large-scale paintings and mixed media works by John Rudel spanning nearly 20 years. Employing expressive color, recognizable imagery, and abstract elements, aggregations as a nexus point to ponder the role of history, psychology, science, politics, spirituality, aesthetics and humanity as an exploration of our perceptions of and place in the world.
AUGUST
30
The Hunts
BROCK THEATRE, GOODE CENTER 7:30 PM
Somewhere between woodsy and magic, this indiealternative family band's earthy sound has generated over 16-million Spotify streams, MTV synchs, a place on the Starbucks playlist, and background music for film, documentaries and national commercials. $10-15 | vwu.tix.com
SEPTEMBER
2
Goode Jazz
WATTS GALLERY , GOODE CENTER | 7:00-8:30 PM
VWU professor Jason Squinobal (saxophone) is joined by Joel Sanford (piano), Evan Shackly (guitar), Will McPeters (string bass), and Mike Laubach (drum set) in an informal evening of jazz. Light refreshments and cash bar. Doors open at 6:45 pm | Free
SEPTEMBER
9
VWU Music Faculty Recital
BROCK THEATRE, GOODE CENTER 7:30 PM
An evening of music featuring the talents of VWU faculty. $10-15 | vwu.tix.com
SEPTEMBER
15 Agnes Wan Steinway Artist BROCK THEATRE, GOODE CENTER 4:00 PM
First-prize at the Paris Grand Virtuoso Music Competition is only one of many won by this Steinway Artist, also author of Physical and Mental Issues in Piano Performance. Wan will perform English Suite No.2 in A-minor, BWV 807 (Bach), Escenas Romanticas (Granados), In the Mist (Janáček’s), and Andante Spianoto e Grande Polonaise Brillante, Op.22 (Chopin). $10-20 | vwu.tix.com
SEPTEMBER
27 Red Priest
BROCK THEATRE, GOODE CENTER 7:30 PM
The only early music group in the world to be compared in the press to the Rolling Stones, Jackson Pollock, the Marx Brothers, Spike Jones and Cirque du Soleil, this extraordinary quartet will bring their “break-all-rules, rockchamber ensemble” to VWU with “Truly, Madly Baroque,” featuring works by Vivaldi, Pachelbel, Locatelli, Albinoni, Tartini, Bach, and Handel. $10-20 | vwu.tix.com
F A L L
S E A S O N
OCTOBER
3 Padmarani Rasiah Cantu
JASON SQUINOBAL
2 0 1 9
Schematic Tapestry JOHN RUDEL
PADMARANI RASIAH CANTU
BROCK THEATRE, GOODE CENTER 11:00 AM
5
Homecoming and Family Weekend Arts Showcase
14 Didier Castell-Jacomin, piano BROCK THEATRE, GOODE CENTER 7:30 PM
The Center for Sacred Music presents this accomplished choreographer in the performance of the ancient classical dance of India, Bharatha Natyam, one of the world’s oldest art forms. Free
OCTOBER
NOVEMBER
Hailed by critics and audiences, pianist Castell-Jacomin will perform Klavierstucke E moll Major D.946 (Schubert), Sonata quasi una fantasia, Op. 27, No.2 (Beethoven), Polacca, Op.26, No.1 and Prelude, Op.28, No.15 (Chopin), among others. $10-20 | vwu.tix.com THE HUNTS
NOVEMBER
BROCK THEATRE, GOODE CENTER 6:30 PM
20 VWU Jazz Ensemble
OCTOBER
Dr. Jason Squinobal conducts the VWU Jazz Ensemble. Free
Showcasing the talents of VWU students in the Arts. Free
BROCK THEATRE, GOODE CENTER 7:30 PM
8 Morning with the VSO Ladies
NOVEMBER
BROCK THEATRE, GOODE CENTER 11:00 AM
Light refreshments in the Watts Gallery at 10:15 am This Virginia Symphony Orchestra String Quartet presents String Quartet in One Movement with Amy Beach, Germaine Tailleferre, and Fanny Mendelssohn, featuring Amanda Gates and Kirsty Barnett Green, also a member of the VWU Performing Artist faculty (violins), Beverly Kane Baker (viola), and Rebecca Gilmore Phillips (cello). $10-20 | vwu.tix.com
BETH M. BIENVENU DIDIER CASTELL-JACOMIN
AGNES WAN
DUO THALASSA
NOVEMBER
18 VWU Choral Invitational BROCK THEATRE, GOODE CENTER 5:30 PM
22 Seraph Brass
SERAPH BRASS
The VWU Camerata hosts visiting high school choirs from throughout Virginia. End-of-day showcase welcomes all. Free
BROCK THEATRE, GOODE CENTER 7:30 PM
Led by world-renowned trumpeter Mary Elizabeth Bowden, this dynamic brass ensemble draws from a roster of America’s top female players and engages audiences with captivating programs including classics, newly commissioned works, and original transcriptions. $10-20 | vwu.tix.com
OCTOBER
31 “The Christians”
NOVEMBER
- NOVEMBER 3
BROCK THEATRE, GOODE CENTER
BRYSON MORTENSEN VIRGINIA SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA STRING QUARTET
In Lucas Hnath’s play about faith in America today, Pastor Paul is about to preach a sermon that will shake the foundations of his church’s belief, and illustrate the trouble with changing one’s mind. Directed by Dr. Sally Shedd, Batten Professor of Theatre. Presented by the VWU Theatre Department in conjunction with the Center for the Study of Religious Freedom and the VWU Music Department. $5-10 | vwu.tix.com
BROCK THEATRE, GOODE CENTER 7:30 PM
Kelby Schnepel conducts the VWU Orchestra. Free
6-7Sing We Now of Christmas BROCK THEATRE, GOODE CENTER 7:30 PM
The VWU Camerata and Vox Vera, under the direction of Dr. Bryson Mortensen, present traditional and contemporary Christmas music paired with holiday tales, past and present. $10-15 | vwu.tix.com
7 Beth M. Bienvenu
DECEMBER
18 Heritage Holiday Concert
National Endowment for the Arts
BROCK THEATRE, GOODE CENTER 11:00 AM
BROCK THEATRE, GOODE CENTER 7:30 PM
U.S. AIR FORCE HERITAGE OF AMERICA BAND
NOVEMBER
8 Duo Thalassa
BROCK THEATRE, GOODE CENTER 7:30 PM
Wayla Chambo (flute), host of Afternoon Classics on WHRO-FM, and Todd Holcomb (guitar), a member of the VWU Performing Artist faculty, perform works by Bach, Piazzolla, and Tedesco, among others. $10-20 | vwu.tix.com
23 VWU Orchestra DECEMBER
NOVEMBER
The NEA’s Director of Accessibility speaks on “Creative Forces,” a partnership between the NEA, the Department of Defense, and Veterans Affairs that serves the needs of military patients and veterans with traumatic brain injuries and psychological health conditions, along with their families and caregivers. An On Deck presentation co-sponsored by The Arts@VWU. Free
- DECEMBER 13
NEIL BRITTON ART GALLERY
Opening Awards Reception: Thursday, November 21, 6-8 p.m. Art by area high school students responds to tragedy, fear, and loss in an age of gun violence, lockdown drills, and a media landscape of perpetual violence. Free
OCTOBER
OCTOBER 31 AT 11 AM - AN "ON-DECK" EVENT NOVEMBER 1 & 2 AT 7:30 PM NOVEMBER 3 AT 2:00 PM
21 Healing and Hope
RED PRIEST
The U.S. Air Force Heritage of America Band brings a holly, jolly holiday classic to the concert stage, presented by Heritage Chamber ensembles. Fun for the whole family! Free
"BE GOOD AND DO GOOD WORK"
U.S. CONGRESSWOMAN ELAINE LURIA SHARES MEMORABLE MESSAGE WITH GRADUATES DURING FIRST OUTDOOR COMMENCEMENT CEREMONY IN NEARLY TWO DECADES
“I will try to leave you with a message that’s easy to remember,” Congresswoman Elaine Luria told the nearly 290 members of the Virginia Wesleyan University Class of 2019 on May 18. “Be good and do good work.” Rep. Luria, a retired Navy commander who represents Virginia’s Second Congressional District, explained that this was her philosophy when she commanded 400 sailors at Assault Craft Unit Two at Joint Expeditionary Base Little CreekFort Story. She credits the sixword slogan to Dr. Charles Stuppard, who used it himself as a commanding officer. “Dr. Stuppard’s words are wise and applicable everywhere, especially when you break them down into different segments of your life," she said. "Be good to your colleagues…Be good to your family…Be good to your community…And in more general terms, just be good.” She also urged graduates to do good work, regardless of the job and no matter how tedious the task. “Show people your energy, your talents, your very best. Do good work for those employees you will eventually lead. Set the example for them to follow with not just words, but actions…Your work and potential to do good has only just begun. But for today, take a breath, enjoy it.” The Commencement Ceremony was the first to take place outdoors at VWU since 2003. Families, mentors, and friends gathered on University Commons in front of the Greer Environmental
Sciences Center to celebrate those earning not only undergraduate diplomas, but also the University’s first master’s-level degrees. "After today, you will no longer be Virginia Wesleyan students," said President Scott D. Miller, "but for the rest of your lives, you will be Marlin alumni. You join our 10,000 men and women whose experiences at Coastal Virginia’s premier university of the liberal arts and sciences will continue to inform careers and contributions.” President Miller and Provost and Vice President Timothy O’Rourke conferred degrees upon students earning a Master of Arts in Education, Master of Business Administration, Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science, and Bachelor of Social Work. Graduates proudly crossed the platform to receive their diplomas as cheers from the crowd celebrated their promising futures. The University also recognized Congresswoman Luria and David Kaufman, Chair of the VWU Board of Trustees, with honorary doctoral degrees, and distinguished faculty members received awards during the ceremony. The ceremony concluded with the singing of the University’s Alma Mater led by Bryson Mortensen and Virginia Wesleyan Vox Vera. “This place, if it did its job, taught you how to properly balance the personal and professional,” said Rep. Luria. “Work hard and don’t lose sight of what makes you happy. Strive to make the world a better place.”
Virg in ia We sle ya n U n ive rsit y Ma g a zin e | Su mmer 2019 / 19 /
Academia
RETIRING FACULTY HONORED
Three longtime faculty members—(pictured, from left) Dave Garraty, Mavel Velasco, and Bob Albertson—were honored in May 2019 at a luncheon in the Atrium of the Greer Environmental Sciences Center followed by the traditional faculty commemorative tree-planting ceremony in Wilson Arboretum. Read more about the joys of their tenure at Virginia Wesleyan and their plans for retirement.
DAVE GARRATY
MAVEL VELASCO
BOB ALBERTSON
Management, Business and Economics 40 years of service
Hispanic Studies 32 years of service
Management, Business and Economics 40 years of service
Garraty says his most rewarding experiences at Virginia Wesleyan were those times when graduates returned and thanked him for his teaching or advising efforts. His retirement plans include a quick surgery, an Alaskan cruise, a cross-country RV trip, selling his North Carolina house and moving back to Hampton Roads. “As the Alma Mater says—my path may lead around the world but my heart stays at Wesleyan,” added Garraty.
Velasco says that the most important part of her tenure at Virginia Wesleyan has been, without a doubt, her students. She says that they have taught her more than she thinks she taught them. After retiring she plans to work with a non-profit organization that she founded recently, the Educational and Cultural Hispanic Organization (ECHO). Through it, she hopes to advocate for the education of minorities in our country.
Albertson says he cherishes the collegiality he experienced at VWU and absolutely loves speaking with alumni and hearing of their personal and professional successes. He hopes to spend time with family in retirement; conduct additional research on Hampton Roads history; and perhaps join his wife in helping a non-profit board or two. He looks forward to attending events on campus, something his busy schedule while working didn’t allow for.
/ 20 / Vi r g i n i a We s l e y a n Un i v e rs i t y M a g a z i n e | Su mme r 2 0 1 9
Academia
FOCUS ON FACULTY: DEIRDRE GONSALVES-JACKSON LOVE OF TEACHING AND MENTORING STUDENTS DRIVES THIS MARINE BIOLOGIST
With Gratitude for Provost O'Rourke Dr. Timothy G. O’Rourke retired at the conclusion of the 2018-19 Academic Year. He has served as chief academic officer since 2007, first as the Kenneth R. Perry Dean of the College and Vice President for Academic Affairs, followed by his appointment to Provost and Vice President in 2016. The University will continue to benefit from his visionary leadership.
For Deirdre Gonsalves-Jackson, Associate Professor of Biology and Director of Summer Session and January Term, one of the most fascinating things about her field is scuba diving. These days she says she's limited to snorkeling, but it’s a close second, especially in the Caribbean. Gonsalves-Jackson has been a member of the faculty at VWU since 2006, teaching courses such as Tropical Marine Ecology, Marine Invertebrate Zoology, Natural History of the Chesapeake Bay, Oceanography, Principles of Biology, and Marine Invertebrate Evolution. She says her time at VWU has gone by in the blink of an eye and it's hard to believe she’s been here for 13 years. During that time, she believes that the University has changed tremendously, but at the same time it’s still the same place that first attracted her more than a decade ago. Her love of teaching, mentoring, and working with students shines through all she does and she really enjoys collaborating with VWU colleagues, both in science and in other disciplines like math and education. Read more at vwu.edu/features. Deirdre Gonsalves-Jackson in her natural habitat on campus: a lab in the Greer Environmental Sciences Center.
Schaus Named Vice President for Academic Affairs Veteran academician Dr. Maynard Schaus is the new Vice President for Academic Affairs at Virginia Wesleyan University, effective July 1. Previously at VWU, he served as Associate Provost and Dean of University College, Chair of the Division of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, and Director of Undergraduate Research. A member of the VWU faculty for over 20 years, he is a Professor of Biology. Virg in ia We sle ya n U n ive rsit y Ma g a zin e | Summer 2019 / 21 /
PHOTO: VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY
Academia
Music producer and guitarist Steve Buckingham is offering a special lecture and teaching "Rhythm and Blues Tore Down the Walls of Segregation."
Grammy Award Winner Teaching at Wesleyan Music producer and guitarist Steve Buckingham is a four-time Grammy Award winner with 27 number-one singles to his credit. His work with artists like Dolly Parton, Cat Stevens, and Alicia Bridges earned him 11 Platinum and 19 Gold albums and Top 10 singles on 11 different charts. He served as vice president of Artists and Repertory (A&R) at Columbia Records for a decade, and another 11 years as senior vice president of Vanguard and Sugar Hill Records. Buckingham also happens to be a musical historian and taught at the University of Richmond, Vanderbilt University, and now, Virginia Wesleyan University. His course, “Rhythm and Blues Tore Down the Walls of Segregation,” studies how music—specifically Swing and Jazz in the 1930s and 40s, Rock & Roll and Rhythm & Blues in the 1950s, and Soul Music in the 1960s— impacted segregation and the Civil Rights Movement. The class includes films, interviews, recordings, and oral histories of artists and producers from these genres. He first taught the course on campus in spring 2019 and is teaching it again this fall. Buckingham will also offer a special presentation on the topic on Monday, September 16, at 7 p.m. in the Greer Environmental Sciences Center (Room 155). The event is free and open to the public. / 22 / Vi r g i n i a We s l e y a n Un i v e rs i t y M a g a z in e | Su mme r 2 0 1 9
Hofheimer Library Celebrates a Half Century Since its opening in 1969, the Henry Clay Hofheimer II Library has never been just a library. It has always been a space at the heart of the campus for creating connections and exchanging knowledge and ideas. During the 2019-20 Academic Year, the University will celebrate the library’s importance throughout VWU’s history with fun facts about the past, new opportunities in the present, and robust plans for the future. Be on the lookout for details and learn more about Hofheimer Library at vwu.edu/library.
The Science of Zombies: There are many ways to earn credits during Virginia Wesleyan's January Term. Thirty-seven students enrolled in the fourcredit course “Science of Zombies” in January 2019, studying death and decomposition, forensic entomology, and pathogens, viruses and parasites. The contemporary topic was just the draw that biology professors Vic Townsend and Deirdre Gonsalves-Jackson had in mind when they developed the new course. Capitalizing on the popularity and cultural obsession with the undead, they created a course chalk full of scientific concepts depicted through this king of current horror genres. The class even received a handson tutorial in zombie makeup (pictured with makeup artist Missy Rhombus).
Living & Learning
PHOTO COURTESY: JULIA DOWNING
Internships Prepare New Grad for Next Chapter Julia Downing was among the nearly 290 seniors to walk across the platform during Virginia Wesleyan’s 2019 Commencement Ceremony. After four years at VWU, the political science major from Seeonk, Massachusetts, graduated cum laude with a Bachelor of Arts degree. Downing first came to Virginia Wesleyan in 2015 for the opportunity to play soccer. In her four years on the team the Marlin midfielder earned accolades such as third team All-Old Dominion Athletic Conference (ODAC) and All-ODAC Academic Team. She also worked for the VWU Athletics Department, assisting with photography, recording statistics, and working the shot clock. In addition, she was a member of the Political Science Honor Society. (DOWNING, continued on page 24)
Julia Downing completed an internship with the Scottish Parliament in spring 2018. Virg in ia We sle ya n U n ive rsit y Ma g a zin e | Su mmer 2019 / 23 /
Living & Learning (DOWNING, continued from page 23) Downing credits "Introduction to Comparative Politics," taught by Assistant Professor of Political Science Antje Schwennicke, as the most influential course she had at Virginia Wesleyan. That course, during her sophomore year, changed the trajectory of her studies and sparked her interest in studying away. As a result, she applied for a semester abroad and chose Scotland as her country because she wanted to see "how a parliamentary system works." The program offered her the opportunity to do an internship with Scottish Parliament. “It was my first class focusing on international issues, which influenced my decision to go abroad and completely shaped the rest of my college career and future plans,” she said. For four months, during spring 2018, Downing lived in campus housing at the University of Edinburgh, an ideal setting for the self-proclaimed Harry Potter geek. She said the experience gave her more insight into the policy side of politics. During her time there, she traveled all over the country and to Northern Ireland, Spain, Germany, and the Netherlands. “Edinburgh is beautiful," she said, "full of history and charm. The Scottish Gaelic background is rooted in folk tales—everything that happened there has an interesting story behind it.” Downing said that most of her internship was spent reviewing policy, writing speeches, and conducting research. She was also able to experience the ins and outs of a parliamentary system first-hand while learning what makes a government function. Following her study abroad experience, Downing secured a year-long internship at a local military law office in Portsmouth. What’s next? After graduation Downing headed to Washington, D.C., to work as a counterterrorism analyst intern. She says that her internship with Scottish Parliament helped her expand her knowledge of international politics and events, and her work with a military defense attorney gave her a new perspective on national defense— all of which helped her secure her new position.
Judge Richard S. Bray (right), President and CEO of The Beazley Foundation, and VWU President Scott D. Miller with Zachary Ward '19, a recipient of the Fred W. Beazley Endowed Scholarship. The scholarship is one of the many ways The Beazley Foundation has supported Virginia Wesleyan over the years.
Beazley Foundation Commits $150K to Campus Technology The Beazley Foundation, a local organization that supports educational, charitable, and religious purposes, has committed $150,000 to fund improvements to campus technology at Virginia Wesleyan. “We value the Beazley Foundation's confidence in our mission, our vision for the future, and our plans for the appropriate care and expansion of the Virginia Wesleyan campus,” said President Scott D. Miller. In recognition of the Foundation's ongoing support, the University will name the student technology center in Clarke Hall the Fred W. Beazley Technology Center. This is the third donor in the last year, the others remaining anonymous, to make significant contributions to this important area. Funds will support a modernized technology center in Pruden Hall. New equipment will be installed to provide the digital space to support and operate the new virtual learning environment. Virginia Wesleyan first benefited from the Beazley Foundation in 1974 when a grant was made to complete the necessary funding to build Monumental Chapel on campus. The Foundation also made a gift to VWU in 1985 to establish the Fred W. Beazley Endowed Scholarship.
/ 24 / Vi r g i n i a We s l e y a n Un i v e rs i t y M a g a z in e | Su mme r 2 0 1 9
Living & Learning
VWU RANKED 19TH NATIONALLY IN ETHNIC DIVERSITY BY U.S. NEWS Virginia Wesleyan has been recognized by U.S. News & World Report in two categories of its 2019 Best Colleges guide—ranked 19th in “Ethnic Diversity” among National Liberal Arts Colleges and featured among U.S. News’ 229 “Best National Liberal Arts Colleges." To identify colleges where students are most likely to encounter undergraduates from a different ethnic group from their own, U.S. News factored in the proportion of minority students and the overall mix of groups in each institution’s 2017-2018 academic year student body.
VWU's largest ethnic group, at 26 percent of the student population, is African-American. “We are proud to hold this designation, as it represents the diverse, global community in which our University is located,” says President Scott D. Miller. “We are a welcoming, inclusive campus with an outstanding, nationally prominent academic reputation—and we take pride in fostering the kinds of values and traditions that make our students proud to have chosen us for their career and life success.”
Partnership Promotes Cross-Generational Dialogue Professor Leslie Caughell's “Our American Future" course bridged the generational gap this spring, bringing VWU students to Westminster-Canterbury on Chesapeake Bay to share thoughts on contemporary politics, including the 2020 presidential candidates, social spending, national debt, taxation, immigration, gun control, hate crimes, fact-finding and misinformation. The course was part of the ongoing Westminster/ Wesleyan Lifelong Learning Institute, a partnership launched between the two organizations in 2017. "These sorts of community activities represent one of the things that VWU does best," said Caughell, "drawing connections between the academic world and the larger community."
Kameron Clarke '22 discusses politics and society with Pat Hayward at WestminsterCanterbury on Chesapeake Bay, a life-care retirement community in Virginia Beach.
Virg in ia We sle ya n U n ive rsit y Ma g a zin e | Su mmer 2019 / 25 /
Athletics
PLAY BALL
Those who know anything about Virginia Wesleyan University athletics know that the Marlins are home to back-to-back NCAA Division III National Softball Champions. The team claimed consecutive national titles in 2017 and 2018, becoming only the fourth team in Division III history to achieve this distinction. The winning team earned a long list of accolades, including a three-time NCAA Player of the Year award for Hanna Hull '21 (see opposite page); First Team All-American and State Player of the Year honors for Cassetty Howerin '19; eight All-Conference, three All-Region, and two All-America recipients; and two-time National Coaching Staff of the Year honors (as well as conference, region, and state) for Head Coach Brandon Elliott '03 and his staff.
VWU OPENS NATIONAL CHAMPION SOFTBALL COMPLEX: TOM AND BETTY BROYLES FIELD AT TOWNEBANK PARK The accomplishments of Coach Elliott and his team have drawn major attention, including a $500,000 gift from the TowneBank Foundation for complete renovation and upgrades to the University’s national champion softball complex. In spring 2019, the Marlins took the field at Tom and Betty Broyles Field at TowneBank Park. This “field of dreams” features a new scoreboard, dugouts, stands, fencing warning tracks, field (including an artificial turf "ring" from third base to first base), bullpens, batting cages, press box, grandstand, and auxiliary building. The field was dedicated in March 2019 with a ribbon-cutting and a ceremonial first pitch by former VWU Trustee Bob Aston, Executive Chairman of TowneBank.
/ 26 / Vi r g i n i a We s l e y a n Un i v e rs i t y M a g a z in e | Su mme r 2 0 1 9
What Else is New at VWU? The men's and women's basketball locker rooms were renovated. These Division I-style suites feature custom wooden lockers, wall graphics, white boards, updated seating and carpeting, and more. Funding was made possible by the family of VWU Trustee and men's basketball alumnus Tassos J. Paphites '79. Baseball has a new scoreboard at Kenneth R. Perry Field at TowneBank Park. Emblazoned with the Marlin logo, it provides a much brighter and clearer view for fans. Birdsong Field has upgraded bleachers with added brick siding and a press box on top. A generous donor graciously gifted The Trinder Center with a new sound system for VWU soccer.
Athletics
Marlin Magic
All Hail Hanna Hull You've probably heard the name Hanna Hull. And to her credit, it's deserved. The Chesterfield, Virginia, native will most likely go down as one of top athletes ever at Virginia Wesleyan—and possibly in all of the NCAA. With one more year left in the Marlin uniform, the lefty hurler’s awards list is approaching a mile long. Hull has been crowned the National Player of the Year twice, the National Freshman of the Year in 2017, a First Team All-American all three seasons, and a plethora of other awards at the conference, regional and national level. In August 2019, the Norfolk Sports Club presented Hull with the General Douglas MacArthur Memorial Award, denoting her as one of the Most Outstanding College Athletes who formerly attended a Virginia high school (an honor also bestowed on Mia Hamm). Throughout her career the junior has passed numerous milestones, including a pair during the 2019 season that most collegiate pitchers never come close to. In April 2019, in a home battle against Ferrum College, Hull punched out 15 Panther batters. That performance also clipped her 1,000 career strikeout mark, a precedent only 24 pitchers in NCAA Division III history have ever achieved. A few games later, Hull eclipsed another pitching benchmark. In the first round of the NCAA National Championship, the Marlins hosted the University of Scranton, eventually defeating them by a score of 7-2. Hull tossed the game’s first five innings, earning the victory in the process. That win marked the 100th of her career as she became just the 13th player in NCAA to reach the century club. With her senior year on the horizon, Hull needs 24 wins to top the NCAA Division III all-time leader in victories set by Hayley Fiendel of Coast Guard (2009-12).
What’s soccer without a little thrill? The women’s soccer team earned its third-straight (12th overall) appearance in the NCAA National Championship this fall, traveling to Swarthmore, Pennsylvania, for the opening round of the tournament. There the team drew New York University for their first opponent, a team which like the Marlins, gained entrance to the NCAAs via at-large bid. Regulation played a stalemate between the two programs with neither side able to scratch the scoreboard. After the 90-minute whistle sounded, both sides poised themselves for a pair of 15-minute golden-goal overtime periods. VWU began the extra stanza with the ball and immediately found themselves in an offensive position. Alex Davidson ’20 (pictured) dribbled to the corner flag before sending a perfect ball into the 18-yard box. It was received by senior Brooke Adamchak ’19, who corralled it quickly before ripping a shot. The ball was beautifully placed in the top-right corner, beating the Violet keeper’s outstretched arms before falling in the back of the net. The goal put a stop to the game with Virginia Wesleyan advancing, 1-0, over NYU.
Athletics
Volleyball Trending Upward
HARRIS STAYS HOOPIN’ The cliché of leaving everything on the court your senior season is often shrugged aside. Not for Jayla Harris. With nothing to lose, the Fredericksburg, Virginia, native produced one of the top seasons in Virginia Wesleyan history. The Marlins’ go-to offensive threat, Harris drained a career-high 549 points to lead not only the team, but also the entire Old Dominion Athletic Conference. No point meant more than in the waning moments of the regular-season finale at Randolph College. Harris hit a three-pointer in the fourth quarter which moved the guard’s career point total 1,912, eclipsing the Virginia Wesleyan record of 1,910 points set by Amy Simpson in 1986. At the season’s conclusion, Harris had set the new record to 1,931 while also collecting D3hoops.com Third Team All-America honors, ODAC Player of the Year honors, and the Marjorie Berkley Award—given to the top female scholar-athlete in the conference. She was also nominated for the 2019 NCAA Woman of the Year Award. / 28 / Vi r g i n i a We s l e y a n Un i v e rs i t y M a g a z in e | Su mme r 2 0 1 9
Virginia Wesleyan volleyball made waves this fall as it churned out its eighth-straight winning season. No win was bigger than when Seven Cities rival Christopher Newport University came to town. The Captains have always had the Marlins’ number on the court as VWU had never earned a win over them in the program’s 15 years. Things appeared to be staying that course in 2018 as the Captains strolled into the Jane P. Batten Student Center ranked 20th in the country. The match went back and forth, with Christopher Newport winning a set, followed by a set won by the Marlins. Virginia Wesleyan was led by a strong attack from middle Amber Matalus ‘20, who finished the season earning the program’s third-ever All-American title. It came down to a winner-take-all fifth set and neither side was budging. Eliminating all unforced mistakes, the Marlins clinched the match-winning point as Doneisha Hall ’19 and Matalus combined to clog up the middle. The team used that momentum to propel themselves to the ODAC semifinals.
Athletics
First-Year Phenoms “First-year, shmirst year.” That's probably what Skyler Lattuca and Landry Moffo said after completing what most seasoned veterans would consider a solid year of collegiate running. Skyler Lattuca joined the men’s cross country and track and field teams as a sophomore. Excelling in distance events, Lattuca took no time to make a name for himself as he paced the entire field in the opening cross country meet, taking first out of the 43 competitors. The success spread into the rest of the season, with the runner placing in the top 10 in the next four races and setting the second-fastest 8K time in Virginia Wesleyan history. Lattuca was eventually tabbed the Old Dominion Athletic Conference’s (ODAC) Rookie of the Year as well as an All-Region selection.
As the fall finished up, it was time for the indoor and outdoor track and field teams to start competing. Showing no signs of rookie jitters, first-year athlete Landry Moffo (pictured) dominated the hurdle events in both the indoor and outdoor seasons. He took second at the ODAC Indoor Championships in the 60-meter hurdles, setting a new Marlin record in the process. He then collected first place in the 110-meter hurdles in the ODAC Outdoor Championships, resetting the Virginia Wesleyan record books in that event as well. These two also put the "student" in student-athlete. Lattuca was named to the Virginia Sports Information Director’s (VaSID) All-Academic team for 2018-19 while Moffo earned United States Track and Field and Cross Country Coaches Association (USTFCCCA) All-Academic honors.
History at the Links Low scores are usually bad, but when the men’s golf team turned in the lowest score in program history, the Marlins were all smiles. Competing in the three-day Camp Lejeune Intercollegiate, the four-person team—consisting of Keith Cooper ’19 (pictured), Taylor Cunningham ’21, Jackson Lyons ’22 and Stone Skeeter ’19—combined to shoot a 282, which put them just two strokes over par. That mark beat out the old record of 284, set at the same course in April 2016. Leading the charge was Cooper, who made history of his own as his 63 (-7) edged out NCAA National Championship winner, Evan Cox, as the program’s individual low score. Cooper was later named to the All-ODAC Third Team.
Alumni
ELEVENTH CLASS INDUCTED INTO ATHLETIC HALL OF FAME Virginia Wesleyan University inducted the eleventh class of its Athletic Hall of Fame and presented a Career Achievement Award during a special ceremony on February 9, 2019. The Athletic Hall of Fame honors those who have made lasting contributions to Virginia Wesleyan’s intercollegiate athletic program, and members represent the best of the best from VWU’s athletic history.
SCOTT H. BARLOW ’83
Men’s Tennis (1981-83)
Scott Barlow played No. 1 in singles and doubles from 1981 to 1983. He was Dixie Conference Champion at No. 1 in 1981 and 1983 and received NCAA Tournament Bids at No. 1 in singles in 1981, 1982 and 1983. Barlow holds the best single season record (No. 1 singles) in 1981 (17-1) and best flight record (No. 1 singles) in 1981 (17-1). His overall record (No. 1 singles) 1981-83 was (45-6). Barlow was honored as All-Dixie Conference in 1981 and 1983. He splits his time between Newport News and Preston, Maryland. He is a retired law enforcement officer and currently the executive director of the Hampton Roads Criminal Justice Training Academy.
NORMAN BILLUPS JR. ’81
Men’s Basketball (1977-81)
Norman Billups is No.1 in VWU history in blocks per game (9) and blocks per season (69) in 1978-79, and No. 2 in blocks in a career (156). He is the No. 2 in career rebounds (801) and single-game rebounds (23). He is No. 4 in season rebounds (255) in 1981-82. Billups scored 1,135 career points. He was All-Dixie Conference in 1979 and 1981. Billups was honored as the MVP of the Dixie Conference Tournament in 1978. He was a member of the first basketball team to win a Dixie Conference title, quality for the NCAA tournament (1978), and achieve 20 plus wins in a season (1978-79). Billups earned a master’s degree in social work from Florida A&M University. He lives in Thomasville, Georgia, with his family and serves as case manager with the Tallahassee Police Department.
Presented in recognition of Coach Renn's 11 years as Executive Director of JOANNE RENN / 30 / Vi r g i n i a We s l e y a n Un i v e rs i t y M a g a z in e | Su mme r 2 0 1 9 Intercollegiate Athletics and 25 years of service to Virginia Wesleyan University.
Career Achievement Award
FREDERICK GLEN PIZZANELLO ’85
Alumni
Baseball (1982-85)
Glen Pizzanello ranks No. 1 in VWU history in career triples (19), No. 2 in career RBI (138), No. 2 in season triples (7), No. 2 in career total hits (190), No. 3 in career batting average (.383), and No. 3 in career runs scored (126). He is also tied at No. 4 in career homers (15) and No. 6 in career doubles (38). He was named All-South (1982) and All-Virginia and All-Dixie Conference (1985). Pizzanello lives in Chesapeake with his family and is a real estate appraiser with Sinnen Green & Associates.
JACKIE OCHS-GREGORY TEXTER ’09
Women’s Soccer (2005-09)
Jackie Ochs-Gregory Texter was one of the top defensive players in women’s soccer history. She was named National Soccer Coaches Association of America/Adidas All-America (2008), All-South honoree (2008), All-Virginia (2008), and two-time All-ODAC honoree (2007 and 2008). She received the ODAC Sportsmanship Award (2008) and was honored by the College Sports Information Directors of America Academic All-District (2007 and 2008). OchsGregory Texter helped guide the Marlins to a combined four-year record of 66-11-13 overall, 38-1-5 in ODAC competition, the 2006 ODAC Championship, four straight NCAA appearances, and a berth in the national Final Four in 2006. She lives in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, with her family and is a clinical supervisor with Pennsylvania Counseling Services.
2019 Spring Alumni Weekend Despite the rain, a great time was had by all at Spring Alumni Weekend in April 2019. We welcomed members of the President's Parents Roundtable; had an excellent showing at the Friday evening Alumni Social at ShoreBreak Pizza and Taphouse; rooted for former classmates in alumni athletic games; and gathered for a retirement reception honoring longtime professors Bob Albertson and Dave Garraty. We also welcomed alumni back for a 40-year reunion of the Liberal Arts Management Program (LAMP)/ Management, Business, and Economics (MBE). We are so grateful to our alumni for staying connected to the University, a true testament to the strength of the Marlin Family. We hope to see you there next year!
2006 WOMEN’S SOCCER TEAM
The 2006 women’s soccer team will go down as one of the most prolific squads in Marlin history. The team amassed a record of 18-4-4, shutting out a record 20 opponents and going on a 19-game unbeaten streak that lasted from September 9 to November 24. The team won the ODAC Tournament Championship for the first time in program history, earning them an at-large bid to the Division III NCAA Tournament where the Marlins powered all the way to the Final Four, the farthest Virginia Wesleyan has made it in program history. At the season’s conclusion, seven players were named to the All-Conference teams while Kelly Donnelly was named the ODAC Player of the Year as well as a First Team All-American.
Virg in ia We sle ya n U n ive rsit y Ma g a zin e | Su mmer 2019 / 31 /
ALUMNI AWARDS 2018
DISTINGUISHED ALUMNUS AWARD
JOSEPH P. RUDDY '83
The Virginia Wesleyan University Alumni Council annually bestows alumni awards to graduates of the University in recognition of outstanding professional and/or personal accomplishments. Congratulations to the following 2018 honorees:
ALUMNI SERVICE AWARD
CLAYTON J. SINGLETON '94
GRADUATE OF THE LAST DECADE AWARD
ALISA W. CRIDER '10
Chief Innovation Officer, The Port of Virginia
Artist/Teacher, Norfolk City Public Schools
Public Relations Coordinator, Hampton Roads Transit
Joseph P. Ruddy oversees The Port of Virginia's strategic planning, marketing and communications, process excellence, and commercial pricing teams. His previous roles include chief operations officer and director of operations and labor for Virginia International Terminals and a senior position at Virginia Intermodal Management. He has also held positions with international ship line companies such as France's CMA-CGM and the National Shipping Company of Saudi Arabia. He serves on Virginia Wesleyan's President's Council and on the boards of the Hampton Roads Shipping Association, Cystic Fibrosis of Hampton Roads, and Beach FC. In 2013, he was the recipient of the Global Excellence Award, presented by the Virginia International Business Council. He earned a bachelor's degree from Virginia Wesleyan University and a master's degree from the College of New Jersey.
Clayton Singleton's blend of verbal and visual art inspires, motivates, and educates. He has been noted in many publications ranging from The Virginian-Pilot to Time magazine. He has created public art, won numerous awards, produced several solo and group shows, and helped to rewrite Norfolk Public Schools' art curriculum. The Virginia Opera commissioned Clayton to design sets for Porgy and Bess and Freedom's Journey. He has served as a member of Norfolk's All-City Teaching Team, The d'ART Center Board of Directors and Norfolk Arts Commission, and the Hampton Roads National Poetry Slam Team. He exhibited at the Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art, The Chrysler Museum of Art, and has co-curated regional group exhibitions such as NOW: African-American Artists in Tidewater. Most recently he produced a solo exhibition for the Downing-Gross Cultural Arts Center titled "Future Love Paradise."
Alisa Crider is dedicated to advocacy and community development in the region. She is a founding member and the current chairwoman of the Hampton Roads Chamber's Young Professional Program, tHRive, the region's fastest growing young professionals group. Through her work with the Chamber’s Regional Board of Directors and their Executive Committee, she ensures millennials have a voice. Additionally, she serves on the Young Professionals Leadership Council for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Virginia Chapter and the Public Relations Society of America Virginia Chapter. Alisa is a recipient of the 2016 CoVa Biz Millennials on the Move award and a 2018 graduate of the 30th LEAD Hampton Roads Class. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in communications with a focus in journalism and minors in business and sociology from Virginia Wesleyan University.
/ 32 / Vi r g i n i a We s l e y a n Un i v e rs i t y M a g a z in e | Su mme r 2 0 1 9
YOUR GIFT MAKES A DIFFERENCE
Thank You! A gift to The Excellence Fund at Virginia Wesleyan University does so much more than show your support. It helps students today become who they want to be tomorrow.
‘‘
‘‘
Studying abroad is more than academic learning, it is more than being internally transformed, and it is more than becoming culturally competent. It is all these things at once and so much more if you allow it to be. SELENA CHAMBERS ’19
‘‘
‘‘
My professors have been more than just teachers. They have been mentors, guiding me in the right direction. The business program allowed me to grow tremendously. VWU has been amazing. If I could do it over again, I would still choose this institution.
‘‘
‘‘
DYLAN ARDINGER ’19
My two internships were completely different from each other. One consisted of fieldwork, and the other was primarily in a lab environment. This allowed me to determine the type of research, career path, and work environment that interests me. MAYANNI MCCOURTY ’19
Support the Excellence Fund Use the envelope provided in this publication, visit vwu.edu/giveonline, call the Office of Annual Giving and Alumni Relations at 757.455.5709, or email excellencefund@vwu.edu
Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Norfolk, VA Permit No. 27
5817 WESLEYAN DRIVE VIRGINIA BEACH, VIRGINIA 23455 VWU.EDU | 757.455.3200
Join us for fun and foodtrucks at
FINFEST
CLASSES RECOGNIZED
1979,1989,1999, 2009, 2019
ANNUAL CHILI COOK-OFF VIRGINIA WESLEYAN ALUMNI
Visit VWU.EDU/HOMECOMING for the latest updates on the weekend events.