05-17-2013

INTEL Grants Encourage Innovation, Engagement

Virginia Wesleyan College’s first-ever Innovative Teaching and Engaged Learning (INTEL) faculty grants have been awarded to Professor of Philosophy Dr. Larry Hultgren and Assistant Professor of Communication Dr. Lisa Lyon Payne. Each grant provides the recipient with up to $1,000 for a project that encourages and advances a culture of innovation and engaged learning. Hultgren’s project, “Toward the Liberally Educated Physician,” addresses how students who aspire to a career in medicine can be well-positioned for upcoming changes to the Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT). The test is being redesigned in 2015 to include sections on social sciences, behavioral sciences, and the humanities in addition to the natural sciences. The project also demonstrate how VWC’s new 4x4 curriculum, with its emphasis on inquiry, can help develop more well-rounded medical school applicants. Payne’s project, “Cultivating Honest Hearts and Knowing Heads: An Experiential Learning Plan to Increase Campus Wide Levels of Trust and Responsibility Through a Student-Led Campaign,” sets forth a plan for a student-led communication campaign designed to promote honor, trust and personal responsibility among students. Payne's fall semester “Public Relations” class will implement a campaign directed at educating the campus community about academic integrity and increasing awareness of, and adherence to, the College’s Honor Code. For more information, contact Associate Dean of Innovative Teaching and Engaged Learning Dr. Kathy Stolley at 757.233.8768 or kstolley@vwc.edu.

05-14-2013

Nancy Kelly '15 Accepted into EVMS Joint Program

Sophomore Nancy Kelly, a biology major from Phoenix, Maryland, was recently accepted into Eastern Virginia Medical School (EVMS) following graduation from Virginia Wesleyan. Through the College’s Joint Program in Medicine with EVMS, pre-med students like Kelly have the opportunity to apply for early admission to EVMS during the fall semester of their sophomore year. The joint program, overseen by Associate Professor of Biology Dr. Deirdre Gonsalves-Jackson, is highly competitive and selective. In order to apply, students must meet certain academic criteria, including an SAT score of at least 1250, an overall GPA from Virginia Wesleyan of 3.25 at the time of application, and the completion of at least 24 credit hours during their freshmen year. Not only does Kelly not have to worry about applying for medical schools, but she is also exempt from taking the Medical Colleges Admissions Test (MCAT), a standardized test that most medical schools require students to submit. Kelly, who plays forward and center for VWC’s Women’s Basketball team, says she is excited to watch her future unfold before her: “It's a big relief to know that my hard work is paying off. This is a big honor and I am very proud to accept it.” She is the College’s second pre-med student to be accepted into the program. Travis DeGraphenried ’12 was the first to be accepted 2010.

05-09-2013

Eggleston OK5K to be Held on VWC Trails June 8

The wooded trails of Virginia Wesleyan’s campus will be filled with runners Saturday, June 8 for Eggleston Services’ 2013 OK5K. Proceeds from the race, being held on campus for the third consecutive year, will benefit Eggleston and its mission of creating education, training and employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities. “We are proud to be able to host our event on the Virginia Wesleyan campus,” said Eggleston Vice President of Marketing and Development Thomas Redmond. “Both Eggleston and Virginia Wesleyan recognize the value of every individual and seek to empower them the best they can.” The race will be followed by refreshments, raffle prizes and an awards ceremony. In 2012, the VWC Cross Country and Track & Field team was presented with the Eggleston Champion Award, recognizing the team’s continued support and partnership. This year's one mile run begins at 8 a.m., followed by the 5K start time of 8:45 a.m. Register online or call 757.486.2184 for more information. More

05-09-2013

Tree Planting to Honor Retiring Faculty May 9

Virginia Wesleyan faculty, staff and friends are invited to attend a luncheon reception May 9 to honor Associate Professor of Recreation and Leisure Studies Mr. John Braley and Professor of Biology and Greenhouse Supervisor Dr. Paul Resslar, who will retire at the end of this academic year. The reception will be immediately followed by a walk to the Wilson Arboretum for the traditional honorary tree planting, a custom that began in May 1997. “Please join us in celebrating the long and distinguished service of these beloved friends and colleagues, whom we shall miss greatly,” said Vice President for Academic Affairs and Kenneth R. Perry Dean of the College Timothy O'Rourke. The luncheon reception will be held in the Pearce Hospitality Suite at 11:30 a.m. followed by the walk to the Wilson Arboretum at 12:45 p.m. The tree planting will begin at 1 p.m., rain or shine.

05-08-2013

Mini Marlins, Enoch Baptist Partner for Kids

Mini Marlins, a VWC community program providing recreational mentoring services for children, has extended its reach to include Enoch Baptist Church’s Christian Academy in Virginia Beach. Led by Recreation and Leisure Studies student Katie Giwa-Osagie ’14, the program began as a weekly playgroup at family shelters providing fun, safe and engaging activities for children. Director of Community Service Diane Hotaling and Giwa-Osagie presented the Mini Marlins program to Enoch staff, and the group now meets weekly with 8-15 children. “Volunteering is an experience everyone should have. You learn about yourself and get to meet great people,” says Giwa-Osagie. Mini Marlins hopes to continue this new partnership with Enoch Baptist Church in addition to other organizations promoting healthy choices through service to the community. For more information, contact Diane Hotaling at 757.455.3216 or dhotaling@vwc.edu.

05-02-2013

VIT CEO Ruddy '83 Addresses Business Students

Virginia Wesleyan alumnus and President and CEO of Virginia International Terminals, Inc. (VIT) Joe Ruddy ’83 served as a keynote speaker April 22 at a dinner reception held as part of the College’s Spring 2013 Business Conference. Addressing business students, faculty and staff in the Pearce Hospitality Suite in the Jane P. Batten Student Center, Ruddy spoke about his time at VWC and how it shaped his life and career. A graduate of the College’s Recreation & Leisure Services and Physical Education program, Ruddy was named president and CEO of VIT on April 1. The company is responsible for the management, operation, and conduct of the business of the public terminals of Virginia. Ethics was the theme of this semester’s business conference, a bi-annual event organized by students in the MBE 301 course “Principles of Management.” The weeklong event, held April 22-26, featured daily activities shining a spotlight on ethics in small business, supply chain and operations management, media, medicine, politics, law, environment, recreation and sports. The conference implores students to apply lessons from courses outside of business, providing a hands-on learning experience typical of the VWC liberal arts education. Last year’s Spring Business Conference featured another alumni speaker from the shipping industry, President and CEO of Maersk Line, North America, Mike White ’81.

04-30-2013

Honors Convocation, Academic Fair Set for May 3

Virginia Wesleyan College’s annual Spring Honors Convocation, an event that recognizes students’ academic and leadership achievements, will be held in the Convocation Center in the Jane P. Batten Student Center on Friday, May 3 at 1:30 p.m. Students on the Academic Dean's List, members of Honor Societies, Student Executive Council and Senators, and the Class of 2013 will be recognized by Dr. Timothy O'Rourke, Vice President for Academic Affairs and Kenneth R. Perry Dean of the College. The program will also feature individual student awards for academic achievement given by a variety of academic departments. Immediately following the approximate hour-long program, honorees and guests are invited to attend a reception in the C-MAC which will coincide with the College's eighth Academic Fair, where students' creative works and research projects will be displayed.

04-30-2013

Portion of Wesleyan Drive to Close May 4-5

As a result of continued construction, Wesleyan Drive will be closed from the College’s entrance to Baker Road from 7 p.m. on Saturday, May 4 through 7 p.m. on Sunday, May 5. The entrance itself will remain open. Signage will be placed along Wesleyan, Baker and Northampton directing through-traffic to detour around this block of Wesleyan Drive during this 24-hour period. When this section of road is reopened, traffic will be moved to the other side of Wesleyan Drive. Once completed later this year, this project—which includes the widening of Wesleyan Drive to four lanes and a new signal at the College’s entrance—will greatly improve traffic flow and increase safety for drivers and pedestrians.

04-29-2013

Strike Out Cancer Raises $15,102 for Research

The Virginia Wesleyan Softball Program hit a home run April 13 with its Fifth Annual Strike Out Cancer Day, raising $15,102 for cancer research and bringing the event’s five-year total to $40,098. Approximately 1,000 guests visited campus for the fundraiser, which included food provided by GENESiS Ministries, music, a silent auction, recreational activities and VWC softball and baseball games against Eastern Mennonite University. “Not only were we blessed with great weather, but we were blessed with hundreds of spectators who came with a giving heart…Words cannot express how surprised and elated we are to announce the final amount we have raised for the American Cancer Society,” said Head Softball Coach Brandon Elliott. The yearly event is hosted in memory of Elliott’s mother, Elaine F. Sears, who lost her battle with colon cancer in 2008. The Sixth Annual Strike Out Cancer Day is scheduled for April 5, 2014. More

04-29-2013

OIP's Johnson Given Zeta Phi Beta Service Award

The Chi Omicron Zeta Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority presented Director of the Office of International and Intercultural Programs Lena Johnson with a community service award April 13 at the second annual Virginia Beach Finer Womanhood Breakfast at the Hilton Garden Inn of Virginia Beach. “Lena was chosen because of the many acts of kindness that she does for college students and the surrounding community. She is a perfect example of our sorority's principle of sisterly love because she helps others, regardless of race, religion, or gender,” says President of the Chi Omicron Zeta Virginia Beach Chapter Chanel Alford-Campbell. The Zeta Phi Beta Sorority was founded in 1920 on the simple belief that sorority elitism and socializing should not overshadow the real mission for progressive organizations – to address societal mores, ills, prejudices, poverty, and health concerns of the day. Today, the organization values the principles of “Scholarship, Service, Sisterly Love and Finer Womanhood.” Virginia Wesleyan's chapter of the Zeta Phi Beta, Beta Upsilon, received three awards in March at the sorority’s 68^th Eastern Regional Leadership Conference. The awards included 2013 Outstanding Undergraduate Chapter, First Place ZHOPE Community Service Award, and First Place Scrapbook Presentation. More

04-25-2013

Dinner Acknowledges MBE Internship Sponsors

Virginia Wesleyan’s annual Internship Appreciation Dinner was held April 24 to honor local businesses that have sponsored spring internships for students enrolled in “Management Internship” and “Internship Seminar.” The dinner took place in Boyd Dining Center’s Shafer Room and recognized representatives from St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, DesRoches & Company, Norfolk Southern, J&A Racing, and more. As a result of the internship program J&A Racing Owner Jerry Frostick offered Dolores Roberts ’13 a full-time position with his company: “Her biggest attribute is her positive attitude. She’s very smart, but what drives her is her happiness.” Throughout the evening, students provided insight into their internship experiences and presented a slide show on behalf of Tempe Martens ’14, who is completing an internship in Prague, Czech Republic. For more information, contact Business Internship Director Dr. Robert Albertson at ralbertson@vwc.edu or 757.455.3226. More

04-24-2013

Greer Goes Green With Norfolk Reader Program

Illustrating the College’s commitment to social responsibility, Virginia Wesleyan College President Dr. William T. "Billy" Greer again volunteered for the annual Green Reader Program, a Great American Cleanup initiative derived from a partnership between Keep Norfolk Beautiful and Norfolk Public Libraries. The program, in its 12^th year, serves to further build a culture of environmental stewardship in Norfolk by coordinating volunteers to read to grades Pre-K through third during the month of April. Volunteers read stories that deal with environmental issues and engage students in a discussion about the book’s theme and their role in caring for the environment. The Green Reader 2013 Book List includes age-appropriate selections, including Kate McMullan’s I Stink (Pre-K); Alison Inches’ I can Save the Earth (Kindergarten); Jan and Mike Berenstain’s The Berenstain Bears Go Green (First Grade); Ellie Bethel’s Michael Recycle Meets Litterbug Doug (Second Grade); and Dr. Seuss’ The Lorax (Third Grade). President Greer is a longstanding supporter of the Green Reader Program. On April 17, he read to students at Coleman Place Elementary School. To learn more or to get involved, visit the Keep Norfolk Beautiful website.

04-19-2013

Crime Victims' Rights Week Inspires Open Forum

In recognition of 2013 National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, on April 22 Virginia Wesleyan will present “Beyond the Classroom: Marking National Crime Victims’ Rights Week on Campus,” an open forum for key personnel in the field of criminal justice, public safety, and victim services to discuss victimization and the role of “community” in assisting victims of crime. The event is sponsored by Assistant Professor of Criminal Justice Dr. Alison Marganski’s “Victimology” class and the Norfolk Commonwealth Attorney’s Office/Victim Witness Assistance Program. Special guests will include Norfolk Commonwealth’s Attorney Greg Underwood, Norfolk Chief of Police Michael Goldsmith, Norfolk Sheriff Bob McCabe, Norfolk Public Defender Sherri Carr, and Norfolk Probation & Parole’s Chief Probation Officer Kathy Hall. The event is meant to inspire thought and conversation, says Marganski: “We hope this event will recognize victims and survivors as well as those who serve them and foster meaningful dialogue among members of our community.” The free event is open to the public and will take place Monday, April 22 from 1-2:15 p.m. in the Jane P. Batten Student Center’s Shafer Room. For more information, contact Alison Marganski at 757.233.8842 or amarganski@vwc.edu. More

04-19-2013

Spring Business Conference to Tackle Ethics

Ethics is the theme of this semester’s VWC Business Conference, a bi-annual event organized by students in the MBE 301 course “Principles of Management.” The weeklong event, occurring April 22-26, will feature daily activities that shine a spotlight on ethics in small business, supply chain and operations management, media, medicine, politics, law, environment, recreation and sports. Local guest speakers will share their ethical insight, including retired general and thoracic surgeon and founder of the Chesapeake Care Free Clinic Dr. Juan Montero (Medical Panel, April 23), and Virginia Beach City Council Member Bill R. DeSteph (Ethics in Political Campaigns, April 24). Throughout the week, the conference will host a diverse array of area businesses, including TFC Recycling (April 25) and Final Kick Sports (April 26). Several alumni will return to campus as judges in the conference’s popular adaptation of the hit TV series Shark Tank (April 22, 25), in which teams of “Introduction to Business” students will present their entrepreneurial concepts to the panel of loan “sharks.” Associate Professor of MBE Paul Ewell stresses the takeaway of the event: “We want students to realize that there’s a social responsibility component to being in business. We want you to be smart and we want you to know business, but you also need to be good people, good corporate citizens and responsible business leaders.” For additional information, view the schedule of events, visit the conference Facebook page, or contact VWC Business Conference CEO Shelby St. Gelais ’13 at sbstgelais@vwc.edu. More

04-18-2013

Student Worm Research Earns ASB Award

Following a presentation of his research, biology and chemistry major Matthew Boyce ’13 received the Association of Southeastern Biologists (ASB) Research Award in Microbiology April 12 for his paper “A Metagenomic Comparison of the Microflora from Vermicompost with the Intestinal Microflora from the Composting Worm Eisenia foetida.” Boyce contended against graduate students and faculty to win the $500 award, which was presented at ASB’s 74^th annual meeting in Charleston, West Virginia. Under the guidance of Associate Professor of Biology Dr. Philip Rock, Boyce studied Eisenia foetida, commonly known as “red wigglers,” the most widely used worm species in the organic recycling process known as vermicomposting. His research was conducted using worms and compost from Virginia Wesleyan's very own “worm farm,” established by Rock in 2010 as a result of the President's Environmental Challenge Grant. Rock assisted Boyce with his project, helping the senior sort through months of collected data: “We turned up some interesting results that raise a bunch of new questions – typical in science!” Boyce will present his award-winning research again at VWC’s Undergraduate Research Symposium, taking place April 29-May 3. He has also been selected to participate in the National Institute of Standards and Technology's 2013 Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship in Gaithersburg, Maryland. He will be awarded a $5,500 fellowship to attend the 11-week program, where he will study “Measurement of Samples by Spinning Cell LA-ICP-MS.”

04-17-2013

Alumnus Composition to be Premiered Locally

This April the Orchestra of the Eastern Shore will premiere “Spiral Spectrum,” a piece written by David E. Weirich ’09, the first Virginia Wesleyan music student to graduate with a concentration in composition. The quick-moving piece, full of syncopation and changing meters, will be performed at the orchestra’s two spring concerts and will include a piano part played by Weirich’s fellow alumnus Geoffrey Bell ’09. Weirich graduated from Virginia Wesleyan in 2009 with a double major in music and mathematics. He became the first music major to graduate with a concentration in composition, an academic track created especially for him. He is now pursuing a Ph.D. in mathematics at the University of New Mexico. Bell also graduated in 2009 with a degree in music and is currently working toward a master’s degree at Shenandoah Conservatory. The Orchestra of the Eastern Shore, conducted by Virginia Wesleyan Professor of Music and Artist in Residence Lee Jordan-Anders, will also perform Vivaldi’s Concerto for two flutes, Heinichen’s Concerto for flute and oboe, and Mendelssohn’s String Symphony #2 in D. Jordan-Anders worked closely with Weirich to bring “Spiral Spectrum” to life: “It’s a privilege for me to be able to conduct the orchestra for this premiere. I have enjoyed working on the piece from start to finish. It was a big challenge for our modest orchestra to tackle this piece, but the players have embraced that challenge and are doing a terrific job.” The Orchestra of the Eastern Shore will perform Friday, April 19 at 7:30 p.m. at Hungars Episcopal Church in Bridgetown, VA and Sunday, April 21 at 4 p.m. at the Historic Cokesbury United Methodist Church, Onancock, VA. Weirich will return to his alma mater as a guest speaker this week, visiting Assistant Professor of Mathematics Dr. Lydia Kennedy’s “Mathematics Senior Seminar” class on Thursday, April 18 at 11:30 a.m. in Birdsong 202; and Lee Jordan-Anders’ “Intermediate Musicianship” class on Friday, April 19 at 9:30 a.m. in Fine Arts 9.  More

04-16-2013

New Priority Registration for Military Students

As of April 15, Virginia Wesleyan College now offers Priority Registration to military veterans and active duty service members. Priority Registration provides eligible students first choice of courses, ensuring enrollment in classes that are needed for graduation and allowing more flexibility in scheduling. The early registration benefit will also help School Certifying Officials (SCO) to more quickly process a student’s U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Enrollment Certification, leading to a more timely payment of monthly housing allowance and book stipend from the VA. Virginia Wesleyan SCO and Financial Aid Counselor Melanie Monk hopes Priority Registration will send a message of gratitude to military students: “We want to make sure our veterans are taken care of and that we continue to say thank you for what they’ve done for us.” For more information about Priority Registration, please visit the Registrar's Office or call 757.455.3200. To learn more about the support offered through Virginia Wesleyan’s Veterans Benefits Office, please contact Melanie Monk at 757-455-3207 or mmonk@vwc.edu.

04-11-2013

A Feather in Their Cap: Faculty Feats Showcased

Accomplishments of more than 30 faculty members were presented in the Hofheimer Library April 5 for the special showcase event "A Feather in Your Cap: Virginia Wesleyan College Celebration of Faculty Work," sponsored by the College’s new Center for Innovative Teaching and Engaged Learning through the Office of Academic Affairs. The exhibition, on display through April 15, touts faculty accomplishments from calendar year 2012 through the first quarter of 2013. Featured are grants received, recognition of faculty who received tenure and/or promotion, and publications, including a selection of books, peer-reviewed journal articles, encyclopedia articles, translations, music compositions and performances, and more. Among the works included are Thomas R. Fanney Distinguished Associate Professor of Mathematics Dr. Margaret Reece’s article "A Multi-Class, Interdisciplinary Project Using Elementary Statistics," published in PRIMUS; Associate Professor of French Dr. Alain Gabon’s grant for the 2012 National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) Summer Seminar for College and University Teachers, “France’s Haunting Pasts: Debating 20th-Century History and French National Identity;” and Assistant Professor of Political Science Dr. Aubrey Westfall’s 2012 Fulbright Grant to participate in the German Studies Seminar on the topic "Nation State and European Identity.” Associate Dean for Innovative Teaching and Engaged Learning Dr. Kathy Stolley organized the occasion: “This event is a pleasant segue into the final push of the semester. It’s a great opportunity for faculty, staff and students to mingle with colleagues and acknowledge these significant feathers in their academic caps, as well as to forge new collaborations, congratulate good work, and get inspired."

04-10-2013

Help Make History With New Bob Marlin Mascot

A new Bob Marlin mascot may be reeling in the VWC crowd next fall if all goes as planned for students in the Management II class taught by Professor of Recreation and Leisure Studies Dr. Douglas Kennedy. A student-led project is underway to design and fund a replacement for the College’s current mascot, designed in 2003 by students in a former Recreation & Leisure Studies course. The new class has been working closely with mascot-design company BAM! to develop an improved model boasting larger muscles, a brighter complexion, and interchangeable clothing. Wearing the costume will become more comfortable with the help of a shorter beak, better fin placement, and an improved ventilation system. The group is hoping to fund a majority of the $5,400 project through the popular crowdfunding platform Indiegogo, offering donation incentives such as an autographed photo from Bob Marlin, VWC apparel, and personal recognition at a College basketball game. Additional fundraising events will be held throughout April and May. Student team members describe the need for a new Bob Marlin on their Indiegogo campaign page: “As much as we love our current mascot…it's time for us to move on to the next generation. School spirit is really big here and having a mascot that we all know and love helps build support at all of our school events.” If you’d like to become a part of Bob Marlin history, visit Indiegogo to make a donation. For additional information or a schedule of additional fundraising events, contact Doug Kennedy at 757.455.3305 or kennedy@vwc.edu. More

04-09-2013

Archives Dedicated to Dr. Stephen S. Mansfield

Approximately 120 guests gathered in the Henry Clay Hofheimer II Library April 4 for the dedication of Virginia Wesleyan College's Archives in honor of Dr. Stephen S. Mansfield. Trustees, faculty, staff, family and friends were welcomed by Virginia Wesleyan College President Dr. William T. "Billy" Greer, who then commended Mansfield for his 45-year history with the College. Mansfield joined the history faculty in 1968, serving along the way as Chair of the Social Science Division and director of the College's first four SACS accreditation reaffirmation undertakings. In 1996, he became Vice President for Academic Affairs and Kenneth R. Perry Dean of the College. He retired a decade later to organize the College Archives. In 2010, Mansfield authored Wisdom Lights the Way, a history celebrating the first five decades of Virginia Wesleyan. President Greer applauded Mansfield’s extensive influence on the College: “This is just a small representation of the significant impact that Dr. Mansfield has had on the development of this College, the formation of an excellent group of faculty, the collection of the College’s Archives, and the documentation of the College’s first half century.”

04-08-2013

Marlin Business Experience to Showcase Interns

The Virginia Wesleyan College Business Department will present the first-ever “Marlin Business Experience” April 9, a forum for students enrolled in "Field Experience in Management" to showcase management internship opportunities they've held throughout the spring semester. Students will share information about the experiential opportunities they received from local sponsors, including Operation Smile, Bauer Compressor, Edward Jones, YMCA and more. Representatives from Bauer Compressor and APICS Supply Chain Management Organization, as well as students and faculty members from the Marlin Business Association (MBA), will be on hand to discuss leadership and internship opportunities. Through his experience, Operation Smile intern and MBA Executive Board Member Philip Biever ’13 learned the value of networking: “It’s crazy how much you can accomplish just by speaking with someone new.” Marlin Business Experience will take place Tuesday, April 9 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m in the Batten Center across from The Grille. Guests are invited to stop by at any time throughout the presentations. For more information, contact Business Internship Director Dr. Bob Albertson at 757.455.3226 or ralbertson@vwc.edu. To learn more about the VWC business department and to keep up to date on news and events, visit the Marlin Business Association’s Facebook Page. More

04-04-2013

Alumnus Visits VWC for Music, Life Lesson

Alumnus Steve Roberson (1992) visited VWC’s Fine Arts building April 3 to provide students, faculty and staff with a behind-the-scenes look into methods of acoustic guitar building and tonewood selection. Roberson, who earned a history degree and social studies teaching certificate at Virginia Wesleyan, gave a guitar making demonstration during Professor of Music Lee Jordan-Anders’ class "A World of Music.” The course explores the diversity of world music, focusing on American folk, religious, jazz, popular, and ethnic music, and concludes with an overview of Western classical styles. Roberson’s demonstration provided an appropriate segue from discussion about lyrical music into future lessons on instrumental compositions, including renaissance and baroque styles. Roberson grew up in a family of banjo, mandolin, and guitar players, but did not discover his passion for guitar making until the late 1990s when he began restoring old instruments at Isle of Wight Instrument Company. He stressed to students the importance of passion and hard work: “In a liberal arts education, you never stop learning unless you want to. It’s up to you what you want to do with it. Do what you love and the money will follow.” Roberson now owns Colonial Tonewoods, a specialty company in Barhamsville, Virginia that deals high-grade traditional and alternative tonewoods. For more information, visit the Colonial Tonewoods website.

04-03-2013

Beta Upsilon Chapter Takes First Place Honors

Virginia Wesleyan's chapter of the Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Beta Upsilon, received three awards in March at the 68^th Eastern Regional Leadership Conference, including 2013 Outstanding Undergraduate Chapter, First Place ZHOPE Community Service Award, and First Place Scrapbook Presentation. The annual conference, which hosted more than 500 Zeta Phi Beta members from Virginia, West Virginia, North Carolina and the District of Columbia, is designed to educate, empower, and offer fellowship to sorority members. The event was held March 21-24 at the Founders Inn and Spa in Virginia Beach and carried a theme of “Embracing and Empowering Our Eastern Regional Communities with Health, Wealth, and Confidence.” President of the Chi Omicron Zeta Virginia Beach Chapter and advisor to the College’s Beta Upsilon Chapter, Chanel Alford-Campbell, recognized VWC’s members, commenting: “Jasmine Patterson ’14, Tiah Davis ’15, Marneice Branch ’15, and Dejha Crudup ’15 are truly an exceptional group of young ladies. I'm honored that they have the help and influence of such wonderful administrators, faculty and staff.” 

03-27-2013

Marlin Chronicle Gets Online Makeover

Staff of Virginia Wesleyan’s student-run newspaper the Marlin Chronicle launched a new website for the publication this month, adding online conveniences that readers won’t find in the print version, including a photo/video gallery, a submission form for story ideas and letters to the editor, the ability to comment on and share stories, and links to the publication’s social media sites. The Marlin Chronicle has had an online presence for years, but it wasn’t being utilized, says Editor-in-Chief Rachel Balsley ’13. Updating the site was one of her main goals as the paper’s leader, not only for current students, faculty and staff, but also for alumni and other members of the VWC community without access to the publication’s print version. Former professor of journalism and communication and adviser for the Marlin Chronicle Dr. William “Bill” Ruehlmann, who retired in 2011 after 18 years at the College, reviewed the new website, commenting: “Indeed journalism is not dead – it's just more electric.” The bi-weekly publication has a staff of approximately 40 students, made up of editors, writers, photographers and illustrators. For more information, contact Editor-in-Chief Rachel Balsley at rebalsley@vwc.edu. More

03-18-2013

Alumnae Named YWCA Women of Distinction

Hope House Foundation Development Director Elena Montello '83 and President and CEO of the ACCESS College Foundation Bonnie Sutton ’99 have been chosen as honorees for the annual YWCA South Hampton Roads Women of Distinction Awards. Each year, the YWCA recognizes twelve outstanding women who have made significant contributions to the community through their professional activities and volunteer efforts. Now in its 25th year, the Women of Distinction Awards honor women in twelve categories ranging from the arts to science and technology. Montello, whose organization provides support for adults with developmental disabilities and hosts the bi-annual Stockley Gardens Arts Festival in Norfolk, is being honored in the arts category. Sutton, whose foundation is committed to providing students with the tools necessary to be successful in their educational endeavors, is being honored in the education category. The awards ceremony will take place on March 28 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Norfolk Waterside Marriott. For additional information or to learn more about the YWCA, visit www.ywca-shr.org.  

03-18-2013

Sororities Raise $4,250 for Circle of Sisterhood

In conjunction with the Circle of Sisterhood Foundation, Virginia Wesleyan sororities Alpha Sigma Alpha, Phi Sigma Sigma, and Sigma Sigma Sigma have raised $4,250 this academic year in support of the Half the Sky Movement, a cause dedicated to stopping oppression of women and girls worldwide. With the help of additional Greek-life students and athletic teams, the sororities have raised money through fundraising events, including a “Penny Wars” competition that brought in $1,727.87 and a partnership with the Skinny Dip Frozen Yogurt Bar. They have also increased awareness through guest speakers, including sex-trafficking survivor Carissa Phelps and Circle of Sisterhood Founder Ginny Carroll. The College’s efforts were recognized by the Half the Sky Movement with inclusion of VWC-submitted photographs in the organization’s 2012 year-end video. Included in the video are photographs of Associate Athletic Director Jeffrey Bowers, Vice President of Operations Bruce Vaughan, sophomore Samiah Griffin, and the 9-month-old daughter of Head Women’s Lacrosse Coach Fran Pochily. In a blog post about VWC’s involvement with the cause, senior Sigma Sigma Sigma member Rio Ziegler writes: “Sisters all over the nation are doing what we do best: collaborating ideas, recruiting advocates, and taking action in order to bring this issue to light. This is our chance for sisters to help sisters.” This philanthropic partnership was chosen by the Southeastern Panhellenic Association for the third consecutive year. Learn more about the Circle of Sisterhood Foundation and the Half the Sky Movement. For more information, contact Jenn Mitchell at jemitchell@vwc.edu or 757.233.8785 or Devin Cowhey at dncowhey@vwc.edu or 757.455.3383.

03-15-2013

Marlins Headed to NCAA Division III Sweet 16

That adage about bending, but not breaking held true for the Virginia Wesleyan College men's basketball team on Saturday, March 9. Christopher Newport University's Captains kept the pressure on VWC by cutting into leads throughout the NCAA Division III second round tournament before an overflow crowd at the Jane P. Batten Student Center, but the host Marlins never broke en route to a thrilling 80-69 victory. Virginia Wesleyan (23-7) advances to the round of 16 to face Williams College (25-4) on Saturday, March 16 in Williamston, Massachusetts. More

03-11-2013

Faculty Recording Connects Music, Visual Arts

In a new recording titled “Treasures of the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts,” Virginia Wesleyan College’s Artist-in-Residence and Professor of Music Lee Jordan-Anders explores the relationship between music and the visual arts, pairing various piano compositions with works of art from the museum's collection. She has performed the concert live at numerous venues, including VWC and the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, exploring the work of Degas and Debussy, Pomodoro and Prokofiev, Henri and Gottschalk and more. Additional performances will take place throughout the year, including an opening event for the Virginia Music Teachers Association annual convention in July. The recording is available for educational use and can be seen on Jordan-Anders’ website. In addition to her roles at Virginia Wesleyan, Jordan-Anders also serves as Music Director and Conductor of the Orchestra of the Eastern Shore. She performs frequently as a soloist as well as a collaborating pianist. For more information, please contact Jordan-Anders at 757.455.3297 or email ljordananders@vwc.edu.

03-07-2013

Blue Marlin Scholarship Deadline April 2

Blue Marlin Scholarships are now available for current Virginia Wesleyan students in amounts ranging from $500–$2,000. The purpose of the Blue Marlin Scholarship is to assist returning students in offsetting the cost of tuition and fees. The College is pleased to be able to offer these scholarships to returning students between the fall and spring semesters of the 2013-14 academic year. “The Blue Marlin Scholarship Fund is an excellent resource for students as they plan for their future at VWC,” says David Buckingham, Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of Enrollment Services. Scholarship awards are based on academic performance, financial need and extracurricular involvement. The deadline to apply for a scholarship is April 2, 2013. Download an application.

02-26-2013

Special Olympics Hoops Tournament a Success

Virginia Wesleyan teamed up with Special Olympics Virginia Feb. 23 for the annual Special Olympics Tidewater Regional Basketball Tournament, an event hosted by the College for more than a decade. The tournament was organized by ten students, who managed the staffing of 125 volunteers at various stations throughout the Batten Center. Greek-life members and other campus organizations escorted the participants through the convocation center for the traditional parade of athletes, signaling the opening of the games. Many volunteers acted as referees, scorekeepers and cheerleaders while others hosted recreational activities for athletes between competitions. Spearheading the event was VWC Director of Community Service Diane Hotaling: “Virginia Wesleyan has the most incredible volunteers. Everyone who stepped up to take a management position and everyone who came out to cheer on the athletes brought their best and gave their all to ensure that the athletes had a fabulous experience.” For more information, contact Diane Hotaling at 757.455.3216 or e-mail dhotaling@vwc.edu. To volunteer or get involved with Special Olympics Virginia, visit specialolympicsva.com.

02-26-2013

College's CEEP Efforts Earn Democracy Cup Award

In recognition of its efforts for the Campus Election Engagement Project (CEEP), Virginia Wesleyan was presented with the Democracy Cup Award Feb. 16 at the Active Citizen’s Conference in Williamsburg. The College received a $1,000 grant from CEEP last year, supporting campus-wide efforts to promote student awareness, voter registration, and volunteer opportunities throughout the 2012 election season. These efforts were sponsored by the VWC Offices of Community Service and International/Intercultural Programs, the American Politics Freshman Year Experience class, and Zeta Phi Beta sorority. Accepting the award on behalf of the College was senior Shelby St. Gelais: “We wanted to create a place where we come together in a non-partisan to way to stimulate discussion on what’s going locally, nationally, and globally. I am really big about getting students engaged. Now more than ever it’s about investing in our future, and this was a great way to do that.” For more information, contact Director of Community Service Diane Hotaling at dhotaling@vwc.edu or 757.455.3216. More

02-21-2013

4x4 Curriculum Boasts "100 Signature Experiences"

Virginia Wesleyan’s Office of Academic Affairs has begun compiling a list of “100 Signature Experiences,” an organized collection of assignments and experiential projects developed by faculty and staff as part of the 4x4 curriculum. The new curriculum, implemented in the fall of 2011, lengthened the standard course from three semester hours to four. Some courses meet four hours per week and cover additional material; others meet only three hours but are enhanced with out-of-class experiences and projects that justify a fourth credit. Experiences include field trips, service-learning and community engagement, independent and collaborative research projects or opportunities to work with advanced technological tools. To date, recorded Signature Experiences include the “Embrace Your Space” initiative pioneered by Director of First Year Experience Denise Wilkinson; the week-long VWC Business Conference organized by students in “Principles of Management,” led by Associate Professor of MBE Paul Ewell; and participation in the national “Clothesline Project” movement by students in “Family Violence: Causes, Consequences & Responses,” led by Assistant Professor of Criminal Justice Alison Marganski; Spearheading the project is Associate Dean for Innovative Teaching and Engaged Learning Dr. Kathy Stolley: “The new curriculum is core to our commitment of providing a rigorous and transformative education here at VWC. Students are not only having engaging, diverse experiences, they are having experiences that directly tie and translate their classrooms into the world. These Signature Experiences highlight the very best of what a liberal arts education is meant to be. The “100 Signature Experiences” project is still underway as the College continues to add creative new ways to implement the 4x4 curriculum. For more information, contact Kathy Stolley at 757.233.8768 or kstolley@vwc.edu.

02-21-2013

VWC to Host Annual Beach Blast Softball Tourney

Twenty collegiate teams will compete March 1-2 in Virginia Wesleyan College’s 16th Annual Beach Blast Softball Tournament, being held at the Princess Anne Athletic Complex (PAAC) in Virginia Beach. The fast-pitch tournament, which will have 40 games this year, began in 1998 under the leadership of former VWC Head Softball Coach Conrad Parker. In 2008 the organizational reigns were passed on to the College’s current Head Softball Coach Brandon Elliott, who continues to build the tournament's momentum and attract teams from across the country. Sponsored by the City of Virginia Beach, the VWC Beach Blast continues to be one of the most successful Division III softball tournaments in the nation. The competition is held at PAAC, a state-of-the-art facility with eight lighted fields, covered dug outs and bleachers, concessions, restrooms and a full-time field maintenance crew. Tickets are $7 for one day, $10 for the entire tournament. In the event of inclement weather, a rain date is scheduled for March 3. For more information about participating teams, game schedules or directions visit vwcbeachblast.com or contact Brandon Elliott at belliott@vwc.edu or 757.455.3307. More

02-20-2013

Thinking Greener: RecycleMania in Motion at VWC

From Feb. 3 through March 30, Virginia Wesleyan students, faculty and staff are participating in RecycleMania National Challenge, a friendly competition promoting waste reduction in campus communities across the United States and Canada. Each spring, more than 630 colleges and universities track recycling rates for an eight-week period in an attempt to reduce waste. A weekly report on how much recycling and trash Marlins collect will be used to rank VWC and other schools according to how much they gather per capita. In the first official week of this year’s challenge, VWC recycled 2,224 pounds of material. Last year, a total of 26,966 pounds of material were recycled by the College as part of the initiative. Marlins Go Green President Randy Rice will keep the campus updated on the College’s progress throughout the competition. For more information, contact Randy Rice at rrrice@vwc.edu. More

02-14-2013

Students Named to Fall 2012 Dean's List

Virginia Wesleyan College would like to congratulate all students who have been named to the Fall 2012 Dean's List. These individuals demonstrate a remarkable level of dedication to their academic pursuits and should be proud of this accomplishment. The Dean's List recognizes all students who achieve a grade point average of 3.5 or above during a given semester. To qualify for this honor, students must have full-time status and have taken at least nine semester hours of traditionally graded courses. View the complete Fall 2012 Dean’s List.

02-12-2013

Purim Shpiel to Raise Food, Funds for Charities

Local Jewish leaders will argue for a good cause this month at the Fifth Annual Latke-Hamantashn Invitational Debate benefiting Jewish Family Service of Tidewater and the Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia. The Purim shpiel event, being held at Virginia Wesleyan College, will comically struggle to answer the age-old question of which is superior: the Hanukkah latke or the Purim hamantashn. Organizing the event is VWC’s Gloria & David Furman Professor of Judaic Studies Dr. Eric Mazur: “This is a nice way to bring members of different congregations together for Purim and for area Jewish leaders to engage with their congregants and friends. But most importantly, it’s a fun way to raise food, funds and awareness for two local organizations that do so much work for area residents who don’t have enough to eat, particularly during the late winter days as colder weather lingers.” The event will take place Feb. 21 at 7:30 p.m. in the College’s Women’s Resource Center. It is free and open to the public, but guests are encouraged to contribute canned or dry goods or a make a small monetary donation to support the featured charities. Kosher snacks and refreshments will be provided by Yorgo’s Bageldashery and Belkov Brothers Kosher Food and Wine Distributors (formerly VA-BEL). For more information, contact Dr. Eric Mazur at emazur@vwc.edu or 757.455.3250.

02-11-2013

Veterans Memorial to Honor VWC Service Members

Leaders of the Veterans Memorial Project announced this week that they have met the initial fundraising goal to create a campus memorial to honor members of the Virginia Wesleyan College family who have served in the United States Armed Forces. Envisioned as a space where people can gather in fellowship or for quiet reflection, the memorial will be placed just in front of the magnolia trees at the corner of the field behind Godwin Hall. The monument stone is scheduled to be in place by the start of the 2013-14 academic year and an official dedication ceremony will be held on Veteran’s Day (Nov. 11). Leading the fundraising efforts is Vice President for College Advancement Mita Vail: “On behalf of everyone associated with the Veterans Memorial Project, thank you for your support and participation in this tribute to the members of our College family who have served in the United States Armed Forces and to those who have lost their lives in service to our country.” Additional fundraising is underway for permanent benches to be placed in close proximity to the memorial. For more information or to make a contribution, contact Mita Vail at 757.455.3205 or mvail@vwc.edu.

02-07-2013

VFIC Grant Funds Student Science Research

Two Virginia Wesleyan students will present their science-related research this semester, conducted with funding from the Virginia Foundation for Independent Colleges (VFIC). Junior math and computer science major Michael Corder and senior biology major Jeffrey Illinik both received a VFIC Undergraduate Science Research Fellowship grant last summer, allowing them each a $2,000 stipend to conduct hands-on research under the supervision of a faculty member. Corder’s research, "Mathematica Computations of Gram Matrices in Lie Superalgebras," minimizes the time spent calculating and checking work on Gram Matrix construction and creates an environment within Mathematica where consistently reliable results are available and easy to use. His research was conducted under the supervision of Assistant Professor of Mathematics Dr. Audrey Malagon and will be presented this month at Mercer University's Undergraduate Research Conference in Macon, Georgia. Illinik spent part of the summer in Belize conducting his research, "Food Choice of the Neotropical Harvestman Erginulus clavotibialis (Opilones: Laniatores: Cosmetidae)," which examines the country's harvestmen species, including potentially new species that are being examined under the College's scanning electron microscope. His research was conducted under the guidance of biology professors Dr. Maynard Schaus and Dr. Victor Townsend and will be presented in April at the Annual Meeting of the Association of Southeastern Biologists hosted by Marshall University in Charleston, West Virginia. VFIC is a nonprofit fundraising partnership supporting the programs and students of 15 leading private colleges in the Commonwealth, including Virginia Wesleyan. The organization has provided more than $300,000 to support summer undergraduate research programs at its member colleges.

02-05-2013

NCCA Awards College's Model UN Delegation

The National Collegiate Conference Association (NCCA), sponsor of National Model United Nations (NMUN), awarded a $2,000 scholarship to the Virginia Wesleyan College delegation in January to help fund the group’s participation in the annual NMUN conference in New York City. The 2013 NCCA Educational Scholarship is awarded based on the demonstration of financial need and diversity in the delegation and helps cover delegate fees, hotel costs and travel expenses. The VWC delegation travels annually to the conference, which draws more than 5,000 participants from all over the world to discuss current global issues. The group is transformed into diplomats for a single country, this year representing the Kingdom of Morocco. Leading the group is Dr. Aubrey Westfall, Assistant Professor of Political Science: “I am so thrilled that we were able to successfully portray how diverse our delegation is, and I believe we impressed the committee with the exceptional growth of the team in recent years, leading to our need for additional resources. I want to especially congratulate senior Franchesica Middleton, who drafted the scholarship application and worked with me to polish it for submission. It is due to her effort and determination that the whole team has been awarded.” Model United Nations serves as a campus organization for students interested in international politics, public policy and diplomacy. For more information, contact Aubrey Westfall at 757.233.8806 or awestfall@vwc.edu.

01-24-2013

Randy Shull Exhibit Channels Nation's Global Role

“Channeling the USA,” an exhibition featuring the work of artist Randy Shull, will be on display Jan. 29 - April 5 in the Hofheimer Library’s Neil Britton Art Gallery. The traveling show, curated by former editor of Art in America magazine Janet Koplos, addresses the role the United States plays on a global level. Fluidly working between a variety of mediums, Shull is highly acclaimed for his rich, sensual use of color and space, whether as painter, colorist, sculptor or designer of furniture, landscapes, buildings and homes. In a statement about his exhibit, Shull says, “There is a continuous public dialogue taking place about the role the USA plays throughout the world. This new body of work that I am making is part of that conversation. The work is not intended to be political yet the very outline of the shape we know as the USA takes on a stance that resonates beyond the visual…in the arena of power, history, geography, economics and politics to name but a few.” Shull has received many accolades, including a North Carolina Arts Council Fellowship, an NEA Southern Arts Federation grant, and a Master Residency at Oregon School of Arts & Crafts. His works are displayed in numerous collections including prestigious museums such as the High, the Renwick and the Mint. For more information, contact John Rudel, Curator of Exhibitions and Associate Professor of Art, at 757-455-3257 or jrudel@vwc.edu. More

01-23-2013

SCHEV Grant Funds Adult Learning Info Sessions

Adults interested in returning to college will have the opportunity to attend free information sessions this year as a result of a grant awarded to the College’s Adult Studies Program (ASP) last fall by the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia (SCHEV). SCHEV’s Increasing Adult Degree Completion grant has funded ASP’s “Coming Back to College” campaign, designed to increase educational awareness in working-age adults with some college credits, but without a degree. Beginning this month, free information sessions and workshops will be held throughout Norfolk and Portsmouth at community recreation centers, churches, libraries, civic groups, corporations, and on the Virginia Wesleyan College campus. According to Virginia Wesleyan’s Adult Studies Program Director Tom Farley: “Every aspect of the adult college experience and any concerns returning students may have will be addressed during the information sessions in an interactive and meaningful way.” The grant has also helped provide marketing efforts for the initiative, including branded printed materials, development of a direct mail campaign, and production of testimonial videos. Fifty presentations are scheduled from January through late May. For a complete schedule of the “Coming Back to College” information sessions, visit: http://www.vwc.edu/admissions/adult-studies/coming-back-to-college.php. For more information, contact Tom Farley at 757.455.3263 or asp@vwc.edu. More

01-16-2013

OIP to Host Father-Son Speakers for MLK Day

The Office of International and Intercultural Programs (OIP) will welcome guest speakers Robert and Fletcher Stephens to campus Jan. 21 as part of “The Gifts of Service,” the College’s annual Martin Luther King Day program. The father-son duo, speaking in the Monumental Chapel at 11 a.m., serves as a true example of the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Robert Emerson Stephens is the co-founder and facilitator of the Community Action Coalition (CAC), a nonprofit organization in Suffolk, Virginia dedicated to the prevention of violence and juvenile delinquency. In conjunction with the CAC, Robert Stephens and his son Fletcher launched the student-led, anti-violence campaign Be Fight Free (BFF) in 2010. The campaign, which creates awareness about ending violence in schools, has seen great success with more than 700 King’s Fork High School students signing a pledge to remain violence free and a 70 percent drop in the number of violent acts at Lakeland High School. In recognition of the campaign’s success, Robert Stephens was awarded with the FBI Director’s Community Leadership Award in 2011. Fletcher Stephens, a high school senior, is the BFF spokesperson for King’s Fork High School, where he also serves as president of the Student Council Association. He has volunteered as a member of the Suffolk Youth Advisory Council and worked as a Senate Page for the Senate of Virginia during the 2010 Legislative Session. For more information, contact Lena Johnson with OIP at 757.455.3116 or e-mail oip@vwc.edu. This event is free and open to the public. More

01-16-2013

Students Head South to Make History With Song

Twenty-one choral students will travel to the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) Jan. 17-20 to perform in honor of the 50th anniversary of the city’s U.S. Civil Rights Movement and the first signing of the Emancipation Proclamation. Participating students are enrolled in “Virginia Wesleyan Choral Tour,” an intensive three-week winter session course taught by Dr. Michael Trotta, Assistant Professor of Music and Director of Choral Music. Students will perform nightly, premiering "The Emancipation Project," a series of original music by Trotta and composer Glenn McClure. The compositions convey emotion that may have been felt during the historic time, according to freshman Elizabeth Sims: “The songs reflect the hope that people needed during that time. It’s really upbeat, inspirational music and gives the feeling that things will get better in time.” VWC’s student ensemble will perform alongside the UAB Honor Choir, Concert Choir and Steel Drum Band. UAB will in turn visit Virginia Wesleyan for the Emancipation Day concert at Virginia Beach United Methodist Church on April 8. For more information, contact Michael Trotta at mtrotta@vwc.edu. More

01-11-2013

Beach Fund Grant for Youth Mentoring Programs

A $3,000 grant has been awarded to Virginia Wesleyan College on behalf of The Beach Fund, a philanthropy group organized in conjunction with the Hampton Roads Community Foundation. The funds have been allocated towards the Marlins Read and Marlins Count mentoring programs for children attending two elementary schools in the Lake Edward neighborhood of Virginia Beach. Marlins Read, named a 2011-12 Model Partnership by Virginia Beach City Public Schools, is a student-run program that pairs VWC students with first graders from Virginia Beach elementary schools to help improve their reading skills. Student coordinator Allison Reeves ’13 received a 2012 ADVANCE Outstanding Service Award from the North Carolina Campus Compact, recognizing her dedication, service and support of the program. Marlins Count, a pilot program based on the Marlins Read model, focuses on math education. The Beach Fund is a group of young Hampton Roads professionals who’ve joined together to help charitable causes, improve life in the region and pool their resources to award grants. In 2012, they recommended $13,000 in grants to three nonprofit organizations that work to improve educational outcomes for children in the economically disadvantaged neighborhood of Lake Edward. For more information, contact Director of Community Service Diane Hotaling at 757.455.3216 or email hotaling@vwc.edu.

01-07-2013

Atomic Learning to Provide Web-Based Training

More than 60,000 computer training videos will be available to students, faculty and staff this January through the College-wide implementation of Atomic Learning, a software platform that provides web-based technology training and support. The software will be integrated into Blackboard, the College’s learning management system, and will include tutorials on thousands of applications, including Microsoft Office, IBM SPSS Statistics, Adobe Creative Suite, and more. Atomic Learning will also contain a suite of assistive technology for users with disabilities, including Dragon NaturallySpeaking, a recognition software that translates speech into text, and Read & Write Gold, a program that recites electronic text to those with reading and writing disabilities. Supported by the Office of Academic Affairs, the implementation of this training software was initiated by Director of Instructional Technology Robin Takacs. It will be available at the start of the spring 2013 semester following a faculty workshop on Jan. 24. In addition to Blackboard, users will be able to access the software through the College’s Computer Services web page. While faculty and staff will have access to Atomic Learning for development and training purposes, the software is primarily for students. “Because it integrates so well with Blackboard, Atomic Learning affords faculty the opportunity to assign videos as part of course work,” said Takacs. “This will make a huge difference since students of today are so visual.”  

01-07-2013

Folk Music Series Channels Appalachian History

Performers will appear at VWC this January as part of a special series focusing primarily on Appalachian music and culture. The concerts are happening in conjunction with a unique Winter Session course, “Music and Folk Culture of the Southern Appalachians,” taught by Professor of History Dr. Daniel Margolies. The course focuses on the region that includes Virginia, West Virginia, North Carolina, Tennessee, Georgia and Alabama. Students are learning about rural dance music, social and religious music, and early commercially recorded music, including the old time string band, jug bands, and more. Performers in the Folk Music Series include ethnomusicologist and old time musician James Ruchala; champion old time fiddler Mark Cambell; prize-winning fiddler and author Erynn Marshall accompanied by guitarist Carl Jones; and multidisciplinary traditional performers Elizabeth LaPrelle and Anna Roberts-Gevalt. “This series is a phenomenal opportunity to hear some of the best old time musicians of today performing in an informal, intimate setting,” says Margolies, “We are really glad to be able to present these evenings to the campus and to the Hampton Roads community.” All events are free and open to the public. For more information, contact Dan Margolies at dmargolies@vwc.edu. More  

12-20-2012

Mathematics Professor Receives IBL Grant

Based on a recommendation from the Academy for Inquiry-Based Learning (IBL), the Educational Advancement Foundation (EAF) has awarded a $5,000 grant to Assistant Professor of Mathematics Dr. Audrey Malagon and Virginia Wesleyan College. The funding, awarded on Nov. 27, will be used to redesign the course “Discrete Mathematics” into an IBL format, a method of instruction that places the student, the subject, and their interaction at the center of the learning experience. The redesigned course, “Foundations of Logic and Proof,” will make its debut in the spring 2013 semester and will integrate the learning method into topics such as logic, argument, abstract functions and relations, proofs, induction, sets, and an overall emphasis on mathematical writing. Dr. Malagon submitted the initial proposal for the funding last fall and is thrilled to bring the learning approach to the classroom: “We know that students can watch us do examples and copy them down and maybe even reproduce them on the tests, but they don’t always hold on to that. The Inquiry-Based Learning approach has been much more effective in helping students really own that knowledge and own those skills because they’re discovering it themselves. They’re figuring out how these things work on their own, with carefully designed lessons and guidance from us.”

12-17-2012

Reception Honors December Graduates

Virginia Wesleyan College’s 2012 December Potential Graduate Reception was held Dec. 9 to honor 49 seniors who were scheduled to complete their graduation requirements at the end of the fall 2012 semester. Attendees gathered in the Jane P. Batten Convocation Center, where Batten Associate Professor of History Sara Sewell served as the ceremony’s speaker. Potential graduates were congratulated by VWC faculty representatives and advisers including Associate Dean of the College Dr. Sally Shedd, who commended the students for their accomplishments. Senior Communication major Bryant Liberta relished the moment and his achievements: “The ceremony was a big rush of excitement. When you see everyone you've been with for the past four years all graduating and being right next to you, it's a real sense of accomplishment. Graduating is a big milestone in my life. I'm ready for the real world now.” Criminal Justice major Jeremy Hagwood feels a sense of relief: “It was a long, stressful road to get to this accomplishment, but now I can relax.” Fall semester graduates are able attend the December event and still remain eligible to participate in the May 2012 Commencement.

12-14-2012

SCHEV & Dominion Foundation Honor Professor

Professor of Biology Dr. Victor Townsend was honored with a Certificate of Achievement this month by the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia (SCHEV) and the Dominion Foundation. Townsend was nominated earlier this year for a 2013 Outstanding Faculty Award (OFA) and was one of only 33 nominees that made it to the final selection round. The OFAs are the Commonwealth's highest honor for faculty at Virginia's public and private colleges and universities, recognizing superior accomplishments in teaching, research, and public service. In a selection process based on peer review scores, Townsend placed among the top 25 percent in his category. In a letter praising Townsend’s accomplishments, SCHEV Policy Analyst for Academic Affairs and Planning Beverly R. Covington wrote: “I hope that you will take pride in the fact that your institution chose to highlight your obvious talents as a faculty member and that your application stood out among this year’s 109 nominations.”

12-14-2012

Cheerleaders Help Raise $100K at Charity Bowl

VWC Cheerleaders helped raise $100,000 on Nov. 30 for the Virginian-Pilot Joy Fund, a non-profit organization that has partnered with The Salvation Army to help provide new holiday toys for underprivileged children. The cheerleaders provided the evening’s entertainment at the 45th annual Toyota Charity Bowl football game at Princess Anne High School in Virginia Beach. They were joined by cheerleaders from Suffolk’s Nansemond River High and marching bands from Norfolk’s Booker T. Washington and Chesapeake’s Oscar Smith high schools. The evening featured a Pop Warner football game between the Norfolk Saints and the Virginia Beach Mustangs, a Chesapeake-Norfolk Sheriff’s Office Flag Football game and, for the main event, a football game featuring former high school, college and professional players. Virginia Governor Bob McDonnell performed the Charity Bowl coin toss and applauded the efforts of evening’s participants. According to Virginian-Pilot Joy Fund Administrator Debbie Bellucci, the organization’s various fundraising activities are expected to raise approximately $305,000 this year. For more information about College community service initiatives, visit www.vwc.edu/student-life/community-service.

12-06-2012

Rec & Leisure Class Helps Send Kids to Camp

As many as 15 underprivileged kids could now be able to attend YMCA Camp Silver Beach this summer, thanks to the fundraising efforts of Professor Doug Kennedy’s “Management of Recreation and Leisure Studies” class. Fourteen students, broken into groups, raised $6,755 this semester as part of the “Send a Kid to Camp” fund. The groups organized various fundraising activities, including a benefit dinner at Lynnhaven Fish House and the “Tis the Season 5K Dash” at First Landing State Park. Students also raised money by raking leaves, performing roof work and pitching their cause to local organizations. The class presented an oversized check to representatives from the YMCA of South Hampton Roads on Wednesday, who responded with gratitude and appreciation for VWC’s involvement in the community. “The reality is that people are extremely generous,” said Executive Director Danny Vestal. “If you share a story that can make a difference for a child or a family, it’s really amazing how generous people are with their time, their talents, and their money.” Since its inception in 2003, the Recreation and Leisure Studies Department’s “Send a Kid to Camp” fund has raised over $46,000 and helped send more than 75 children to YMCA Camp Silver Beach. For more information about College community service initiatives, visit www.vwc.edu/student-life/community-service.

12-06-2012

Giving Back: A Season of Community Service

This holiday season, in the spirit of giving, the VWC community is participating in service activities that benefit people here in Hampton Roads and around the world. Marlins Ministries in the Chaplain’s Office took part once again in Operation Christmas Child (Nov. 12-19), an initiative orchestrated by Christian relief organization Samaritan’s Purse. Professor Robin Takacs’ class, along with student coordinators Devon Killian ’13 and Kendall Bunting ’14, delivered 44 shoe boxes filled with small toys, hygiene items and school supplies for needy children around the world. "It's a way to bless children in places where they’re probably not going to get a gift because the poverty is just too extreme," said Chaplain Greg West. Community Services intern, Kefentse Budd and the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority participated in National Family Service Day on Nov. 17. Sponsored by Volunteer Hampton Roads, the food boxing event helps to feed the hungry in our community. More than 1,000 community members participated in the event, held in the CMAC. On Dec. 2, Phi Kappa Tau Fraternity held a pancake breakfast in conjunction with the Five Points Community Farm Market in Norfolk to help raise money for the Serious Fun Children’s Network, a network of camps for kids with mental and physical illnesses and disabilities. From Jan. 6-13, the College will once again host its On-Campus Winter Homeless Shelter, in partnership with Portsmouth Volunteers for the Homeless. Campus volunteers will help prepare and serve meals, socialize, provide overnight security, and learn firsthand about the root causes of homelessness. For more information about College community service initiatives, contact Diane Hotaling at 757.455.3216 or email hotaling@vwc.edu. More

11-29-2012

Professor's Art on Display in Local Gallery

Artist and VWC associate professor John Rudel kicked off his new show "The Metagrid Project” this month, on display Nov. 17-Jan. 18 at the Lorrie Saunders ArtGallery (Lorrie Saunders ’79) in Norfolk. The exhibit is inspired by the ubiquitous grid and features old and new paintings and mixed-media creations. This body of work extends back more than 10 years and has garnered numerous awards and honors, such as selection by Lisa Dennison (former director of the Guggenheim in New York) for inclusion in New American Paintings Magazine, and selection by Rod Slemmonds (director of the Museum of Contemporary Photography in Chicago) for inclusion in Out of the Darkroom: Photographic Input/Digital Output at the University of Miami Art Museum. A special Q&A segment with Rudel was also featured on AltDaily.com in November. Join Rudel this winter as he examines how we navigate our contemporary environment, where interconnectivity and easy dissemination prevail. For more information, visit the Lorrie Saunders ArtGallery website at artgalleryls.net or call 757.627.9808.

11-20-2012

International Photo Contest Winners Announced

Winners of the International Photo Contest, sponsored by the Office of International and Intercultural Programs (OIP), were honored Monday at a reception in Boyd Dining Center’s Shafer Room. Students who have studied abroad were invited to participate in the contest, which was held in conjunction with International Education Week (Nov. 12–16). With the opportunity to win cash prizes, entrants submitted up to three photos and a short essay that encompassed the theme, “Education as my PASSPORT to the WORLD!” First prize ($100) was awarded to sophomore Anjali Upadhyaya, who studied abroad in India last semester. “Education is just like that dark blue passport, and it’s my mind that gets to take the journey,” Upadhyaya wrote in her essay. “The classes I take – history, science, English – all allow me access to places that have the potential to open my mind and expand my horizons. When I studied abroad in India for a semester…I learned about different cultures and languages as well as different plants and animals. The opportunities like these that education provides are truly invaluable.” Second prize ($50) was awarded to senior Chiereme Fortune; Third prize ($25) went to junior Meaghan Groah; Honorable Mention was given to senior Allison Reeves. To learn more about study abroad programs or international internships, contact Lena Johnson at 757-455-3116, email oip@vwc.edu, or visit the OIP webpage.

11-19-2012

Blue Marlin Scholarship Available for Freshmen

Blue Marlin Scholarships are now available for current Virginia Wesleyan freshmen in amounts ranging from $500–$2,000. The purpose of the Blue Marlin Scholarship is to assist returning students in offsetting the cost of tuition and fees. This year the College is pleased to be able to offer these scholarships specifically to returning freshmen between the fall and spring semesters. “The Blue Marlin Scholarship Fund is an excellent resource for students as they plan for their future at VWC,” says David Buckingham, Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of Enrollment Services. “We are particularly pleased to be able to extend this opportunity to members of the Class of 2016.” Scholarship awards are based on academic performance, financial need and extracurricular involvement. The deadline to apply for a scholarship is December 7, 2012. Awards will be made in January for the spring 2013 semester. Download an application.

11-15-2012

Sigma Beta Delta Inducts New Members

On November 13, 2012, the Business Department at Virginia Wesleyan College hosted an induction ceremony for 11 new members. Dr. Linda Ferguson, Professor of Management/Business/Economics, hosted the event, which also included the induction of a VWC alumna. Sigma Beta Delta is the international honor society in business, management and administration, established to encourage and recognize scholarship and accomplishment among students of business, management and administration. Congratulations to new members Susan Burlock, Kelly Keys, Rebecca Kois, Tempe Martens, Kirsten Olson, Dolores Roberts, Rachel Schramm, Casey Tyree, Luke Wade, Tiffin Zimmerman and honorary member Nancy Shipley Whitman '87.

11-15-2012

Lacrosse Alumni Cross Paths in Afghanistan

Leaving everything on the field has taken on a new meaning for two former Virginia Wesleyan College men's lacrosse players. In a most improbable meeting, two lacrosse alumni are reuniting for a different cause, defending our country. Former Marlins Will Wheeler '08 and Matt Hovsepian '10 ran into each other on a military base in Kandahar, Afghanistan, where they are both stationed. Having not seen each other in four years, the two caught up, compared stories and shared a little Marlin history in the process. Hovsepian immediately reached VWC head men's lacrosse coach J.P. Stewart to let him know of the chance encounter: "Coach, I'm back from Afghanistan," wrote Hovsepian. "Ran into Wheeler in Kandahar as my unit was on our way out. Hope all is well with you. Wheeler is doing awesome. I'll be up in a couple weeks to visit." Virginia Wesleyan's men's lacrosse team recently completed their annual homecoming alumni game where Wheeler and Hovsepian were unable to participate due to their commitment to defend our country.

11-06-2012

Professor Michael Trotta Honored by ASCAP

Assistant Professor of Music and Director of Choral Music Michael Trotta has been honored by the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP) for his work as a performer and composer. Trotta received an ASCAP Plus Award based on more than two dozen performances at colleges and universities last year as well as demand for his original compositions. The award is distributed as an honorarium at the beginning of 2013. “These awards are granted by an independent panel and are based upon the unique prestige value of each writer’s catalog of original compositions as well as recent performances in areas not surveyed by the Society,” says ASCAP President Paul Williams. “In making these grants, we join with your educational institution in supporting the growth and development of our nation’s musical future.” Dr. Trotta joined the VWC faculty at the beginning of the fall 2012 semester. He holds a D.M.A. in choral conducting from Louisiana State University, an M.M. in choral conducting from Rowan University, and a B.M. in music education from Rowan University. Trotta looks forward to continuing the tradition of excellence in the arts while building the music program at VWC and further developing relationships with area arts organizations.

10-19-2012

Crosscurrents Theme for Winter Session 2013

Winter Session, a special three-week academic term each January at VWC, gives students a chance to explore unusual subjects, immerse themselves in unique experiences, or even learn through travel while earning credits toward graduation. The theme of Winter Session 2013 is “crosscurrents.” A variety of classes and events will explore this topic as it relates to culture, politics, music, literature and more. Among those events is a performance by Kishi Bashi, whose music is an interdisciplinary blend of East and West, on Jan. 10 at 7 p.m. in the Marlin Grille. On Jan. 17, a panel of Virginia Wesleyan professors will expand on the crosscurrents concept with presentation titles such as "Transcending Language Barriers through Visual Art" and "Words Across Cultures." Courses being offering during Winter Session 2013 range from “Food Fights & Christian Identity” to “Supply Chain Management and Logistics” to “Latin American Music and Dance.” Faculty-led travel destinations include Costa Rica, Hawaii, the Mayan region of Mexico, and the Blackfeet Reservation in Montana. Also during Winter Session, VWC hosts its annual Winter Homeless Shelter, the only homeless shelter held on a college campus in the U.S. Find out more about Winter Session.

10-15-2012

Coach Nick Boothe Inducted into ODU Hall of Fame

On Saturday, October 13, VWC Head Baseball Coach Nick Boothe was one of five Old Dominion University graduates to be inducted into that school’s Sports Hall of Fame for 2012. As a member of the Monarchs baseball team, Boothe was a “major cog" in the Monarchs school record 50-11 season in 1985. He helped lead the Monarchs to the Sun Belt Conference title and a berth in the NCAA regional, driving in 68 runs in 1983 and 76 runs in 1985. Boothe hit .364 in 1983 and still shares the single game home run record with three against Charlotte on April 6, 1985. He was named All-Sun Belt conference both in 1984 as a catcher and 1985 as an outfielder and was the team MVP in 1984. In his coaching role at VWC, Boothe ranks 26th nationally with 586 career wins and is the only Old Dominion Athletic Conference coach to be named Coach of the Year six times.

09-27-2012

VWC to Welcome Zimbabwean Ambassador

The President's Office, the Political Science Department, and the International Studies Forum are pleased to announce that Ambassador Trudy Stevenson, Zimbabwe's ambassador to Senegal, will visit Virginia Wesleyan College on Oct. 24, 2012. Ambassador Stevenson will discuss international relations and politics in the context of African history, and will answer questions at a public forum. A native of Valdosta, Georgia, Ambassador Stevenson has had a remarkable career in Zimbabwean politics. The event will include a reception in the Ambassador’s honor. In addition to the Forum presentation on October 24, Ambassador Stevenson will speak to five different VWC classes on Oct. 24, 25, and 31. Details to follow. For more information, contact Kate Loring with the President's Office at 757.455.3215 or email kmloring@vwc.edu. This event is open to the public.

09-26-2012

Campus Upgrades Focus on Student Life, Academics

A number of needed repairs and improvements were completed during the 2012 summer break that will enhance the living and learning experience for all VWC students. Many were structural and/or cosmetic including the replacement of several sidewalks and paved areas, new windows in student housing, fresh paint and carpet, improved drainage systems, heating and air conditioning upgrades and more. A special project requested by our students, which added or improved wireless connectivity in all residence areas on campus, also expanded internet access. New and replacement computers in a number of locations include a new 22-station computer lab on the first floor of the Hofheimer Library. Finally, a workroom on the second floor of the Batten Center has been transformed into a state-of-the-art classroom with swiveling, mobile “Node Chairs,” an upgraded whiteboard, and a fully electronic podium that displays monitor, television, Blu-Ray/DVD and a document camera to an 80-inch flat screen.

09-19-2012

Homecoming 5K to Support Track & Field, Vets

A fun new fundraising event will be part of the Homecoming festivities this year at VWC. The VWC Cross Country Team/American Legion Post 35 Homecoming 5k trail race will take place on Sat., Oct. 6 at 8 a.m. and is open to runners and walkers of all abilities throughout the Hampton Roads community. Half of the proceeds will go to VWC’s Cross Country/Track & Field teams and the other half will go to support the community work that Post 35 does with our military veterans and their families. Following the race at 9 a.m, there will be a 1K (.62 miles) "Walk With A Vet," in which participants can have the opportunity to walk with older and/or wounded veterans. Before and after the race, local legend Johnny Brown,(age 93 will be selling and signing his new book, The 16th Cavalry Spearhead to the Rhine with General Patton. Visit the race registration site for prices and further details.

09-04-2012

Billy Greer Announces Semester Abroad Initiative

During his annual State of the College Address, President Billy Greer announced that Virginia Wesleyan will launch an initiative this fall that will expand opportunities for students to enroll in semester abroad immersion programs. This new three-year pilot program is focused on increasing study abroad experiences for students and strengthening the on-campus infrastructure required to support them. The project will continue through the 2014-15 academic year, providing resources for at least  thirty-eight students to study abroad for a semester. Study abroad experiences provide students and the Virginia Wesleyan community with increased cultural insight and understanding, expand students’ academic and intellectual pursuits and enrich their lives by connecting them to a global community.

08-29-2012

Adult Studies Program Awarded Grant from SCHEV

The Virginia Wesleyan College Adult Studies Program(ASP)  has been awarded a grant from the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia (SCHEV) to advance awareness, opportunities, and support for adults who want to return to college and complete their bachelors' degree. The grant will enable ASP staff to increase outreach in the community by offering a series of free information sessions and follow-up workshops in area recreation centers, churches, libraries, civic groups, corporations, and on the Virginia Wesleyan College campus. Focus will be on the cities of Norfolk and Portsmouth, but all interested adults can attend the sessions. ASP presentations will include face-to-face conversations with prospective adult students that provide information and answer questions about getting started, personal and academic support provided, financial aid opportunities, and VWC majors and degrees offered. Information sessions will begin in September 2012 and continue through May 2013. According to VWC Director of Adult Studies Tom Farley, "There are 1.4 million adults in Virginia who have completed some college, but have not earned their bachelor's degree.  Although the reasons for stopping school may be many, taking the first step to returning to college is all about being well-informed and supported.  Knowing that staff in the VWC Adult Studies Program understands and provides the personal, professional, and academic support needed for working adultes to succeed in college will make all the difference."

08-25-2012

Academic Affairs Welcomes New Faculty/Staff

Seven tenure-track faculty members as well as several new members of the Academic Affairs staff have joined Virginia Wesleyan College for the start of fall semester classes for 2012. New faculty and staff include: Dr. Kathleen B. Casey, Assistant Professor of History, who was recently a visiting assistant professor of History at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee; Ms. Leslie Caughell, Assistant Professor of Political Science, who is completing her Ph.D. in Political Science from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign; Dr. Kellie Holzer, Assistant Professor of English, who last taught at the University of Washington; Dr. Kevin Kittredge, Associate Professor of Chemistry, who has held teaching positions at Western Connecticut State University, Siena College, and Miami University of Ohio; Dr. Audrey Malagon, Assistant Professor of Mathematics, who is currently a Visiting Assistant Professor at VWC; Dr. Jennifer Silvka, Assistant Professor of English, previously a lecturer in English at the University of Miami; Dr. Michael J. Trotta, Assistant Professor of Music and Director of Choral Music, formerly Associate Director of Choral Studies and Interim Assistant Professor of Choral Music Education at Oklahoma State University; Mr. Adam Ruh, Lecturer in English, who was previously Adjunct Instructor of English at VWC and Director of the Student Success Program; and Ms. Regina Bynum, Registrar, who was formerly the registrar at Norfolk State University. Joining the College in mid-September will be Ms. Sue Erickson, Director of Hofheimer Library, who is currently Interim Director of the Peabody Library at Vanderbilt University, and Mr. Stephen G. Leist, Research Librarian, who is presently Circulation Services Supervisor at Transylvania University.

07-31-2012

NSF Grant to Recruit Science and Math Scholars

Virginia Weseyan College has received a grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF) for the Science and Mathematics Scholars Program: Science and Math Students in a Liberal Arts College. The grant, which could total as much as $564,750 over a five-year period, provides funding for 30 need-based scholarships for academically talented undergraduates majoring in biology, chemistry, earth and environmental sciences, or mathematics. The award enables Virginia Wesleyan to aggressively recruit three cohorts of students and is designed to increase the numbers of students majoring in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics) disciplines at VWC. Selection of the applicants will be based on their aptitude for success and interest in STEM. In addition to the scholarship, student participants in the program are provided academic support and networking opportunities such as STEM tutors,  lecture presentations by professionals in STEM disciplines, one-on-one advising, and a special STEM FYE section to help them successfully complete their degree in a timely fashion. Students in each cohort will live in the same residence hall, take classes together, and engage in collaborative, multidisciplinary research. Virginia Wesleyan faculty and career services specialists will create workshops and a network of STEM professionals to assist students with career placement. VWC primary investigators for the grant are professors Margaret Reese, Deirdre Gonsalves Jackson, and Gabriela Martorell. "I am most excited about recruiting our STEM cohorts," says Gonsalves-Jackson, "We are planning some exciting opportunities and programs for the participants and I look forward to seeing them develop as scientists and mathematicians. I am also excited about the scholarships that we can provide them. A college education is expensive and to receive an NSF scholarship will serve them well financially and add prestige to their academic dossier."

07-17-2012

Sigma Nu Fraternity Receives National Award

The Virginia Wesleyan Iota Beta Chapter of Sigma Nu accepted its first “Rock Chapter” award this month at the fraternity’s Grand Chapter National Convention in Dallas, Texas.  Andy Brown’13, commander of the VWC Iota Beta Chapter of Sigma Nu, accepted the award on behalf of the Chapter. Also attending the convention were Chapter members Randy Rice’13, Jon Snow’15, and Ricky Ford’15. The Rock Chapter award honors collegiate chapters that have achieved excellence in operations across a broad range of fraternity operations, including risk management and behavioral issues. Sigma Nu was the first "social" fraternity chartered at Virginia Wesleyan and promotes the ideals of love, truth, and honor through the Brotherhood. Congratulations to the Virginia Wesleyan Iota Beta Chapter of Sigma Nu!

07-13-2012

Dr. Kennedy Invited to Train Defense Personnel in Europe

Dr. Doug Kennedy, Professor of Recreation and Leisure Studies, was invited by the Department of Army Installation Management Command (IMCOM) to direct aquatics training for defense personnel serving youth in Europe.  Kennedy, who has served for 25 years with the Boy Scouts of America's (BSA) National Camping School focusing on aquatics management, was recommended by the BSA to serve as the "Subject Matter Expert" for the defense Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) organization in Germany.  Kennedy traveled to Karlsruhe, Germany for the annual Youth Leadership Forum which brings together youth from across Europe to discuss quality of life on U.S. Defense Bases. Kennedy provided instruction to certify staff as BSA Lifeguards and consulted with directors from installations in Germany and Italy regarding the best practices for aquatics programs and staffing.  "The trip was extremely successful," said Kennedy, who was invited to return next year.

06-25-2012

Dr. Lindvall Awarded Grant from The Louisville Institute

Professor of Religious Studies Dr. Terry Lindvall, also the C.S. Lewis Endowed Chair in Communication and Christian Thought at Virginia Wesleyan, has been awarded a grant funded by The Louisville Institute, a Lilly Endowment-funded program based at Louisville Seminary. The grant entitled Cinematic Worship: Representations of Prayers and Hymns in Hollywood Cinema aims at integrating pastoral ministry with representational media studies. It assumes that congregations are as much movie audiences as they are worshipping communities, and as such, find that a blurring of representations reflects their perspectives on how they pray and how they sing in worship. The importance of this project rests in the idea that images have consequences, that the way a behavior or person is portrayed alters its identity in incremental ways.

06-13-2012

VWC's Bishop-in-Residence

Bishop H. Hasbrouck Hughes Jr. has graciously served as the Bishop-in-Residence at Virginia Wesleyan College since 1997. He retires that role this month. Bishop Hughes and his wife, Mera, have been instrumental in helping Virginia Wesleyan maintain close ties to the United Methodist Church and in initiating the continuing education seminar for Methodist ministers held on the VWC campus each spring. "Bishop Hughes and his wife, Mera, are people who are loved by many throughout the Commonwealth of Virginia, in United Methodist circles, in particular," says Virginia Wesleyan President Billy Greer. "We are very grateful for their support of the

06-01-2012

Dr. O'Rourke Selected for National Leadership Program

Dr. Timothy O'Rourke, Vice President for Academic Affairs and Kenneth R. Perry Dean of the College, is one of 20 senior-level administrators in higher education nationwide selected by the Council of Independent Colleges and the American Academic Leadership Institute to participate in a year-long Executive Leadership Academy. Individuals chosen for the program are vice presidents or cabinet officers in higher education who aspire to the presidency of an independent college or university. As a participant, O'Rourke will attend two seminars and ongoing webinars, participate in a mentoring program, develop experiential learning projects focused on specific areas of presidential responsibility, and complete a series of readings and case studies. "The Academy will help prepare CAOs to serve as effective college presidents," says Richard Ekman, President of the Council of Independent Colleges. "Competition for available places in the Academy was intense, and the review committee found the nomination materials to be most impressive. They (and I) believe that Dean O'Rourke has the potential for highly effective leadership as a college or university president." O'Rourke, also a professor of political science at Virginia Wesleyan, earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Pittsburgh and a Master of Arts and Ph.D. from Duke University. Prior to coming to Virginia Wesleyan in 2007, he was Dean of the Fulton School of Liberal Arts at Salisbury University in Maryland. For more information about the Executive Leadership Academy, visit www.cic.edu/executiveleadershipacademy

05-25-2012

New Leadership Role for Midge Zimmerman

VWC's Director of Purchasing Midge Zimmerman was recently named co-chair of the executive board for the United States Postal Service Postal Customer Council for Hampton Roads. Zimmerman, who works in the business office and was formerly materials manager for the Virginia Wesleyan Mail Room, has been a member of the Council for five years. "Midge is a shining star at Virginia Wesleyan," says Bruce Vaughn, vice president of operations at the College. "Her expertise extends to the greater community. She has been so instrumental in moving the Postal Customer Council forward that she has been asked to assume this more active leadership role."

05-10-2012

Allison Reeves '13 Receives AmeriCorps Service Award

VWC junior Allison Reeves '13 has been selected to receive the 2012 ADVANCE Outstanding Service Award from the North Carolina Campus Compact. This award recognizes an AmeriCorps mentor whose service and support goes the extra mile to positively impact their mentee and service site. Allison is the coordinator of Marlins Read, a mentoring program that pairs Virginia Wesleyan students with first graders from three Virginia Beach elementary schools to help improve reading skills. With Allison's leadership, Marlins Read has grown from 11 to 27 mentors and the program was recently recognized as a Model Partnership by the Virginia Beach Citly Public Schools. Allison's service has included helping a first grade class with a Valentine's for Veterans project, driving the VWC van that transports college mentors to the elementary schools each week,and facilitating a "Chalk the Walk" project that encouraged students to express their love of reading on the school's sidewalk for all to see. This is Allison's first year as an AmeriCorps volunteer and her efforts are certainly making a mark. Congratulations to Allison Reeves!

05-08-2012

New Batten Professors Named

Vice President for Academic Affairs & Kenneth R. Perry Dean of the College Timothy G. O'Rourke has announced the selection of a new group of Batten Professors at Virginia Wesleyan College. The following faculty members, chosen by their peers, will enjoy the designation and the corresponding financial support for their professional vitality for a three-year period—from 2012-2015: Dr. Deirdre Gonsalves-Jackson (Biology), Dr. Susan Larkin (English), and Dr. Sara Sewell (History). The new Batten Professors join the following holdover designees: Dr. Soraya Bartol, Mr. Philip Guilfoyle, Dr. Craig Jackson, Dr. Malcolm Lively, Dr. Elizabeth Malcolm, Ms. Sharon Payne, Dr. Susan Wansink, Ms. Denise Wilkinson, and Dr. Cathal Woods.

05-07-2012

2012 Rho Phi Lamba Inductions and Elections

Virginia Wesleyan's Department of Recreation & Leisure Studies inducted eight students majoring in Recreation and Leisure Studies into Rho Phi Lambda, the honor society for Recreation, Park, and Leisure Professionals during their annual ceremony May 7, 2012. 2012 inductees include Christian Almy, Kate Atkinson, Kaylee Cossaboon, Morgan Eller, Angel Horowitz, Brooke Ladyman, Taylor Ladyman, and Ryan MacArthur. Elections were also held for Rho Phi Lambda officers with the following results: President, Stella Davie, Vice-President, Kala Guy, Treasurer, Ethan Wright.

05-01-2012

Model Paper: Student Receives Award at MUN Conference

Carissa Chantiles '13 received an award at the Model United Nations (MUN) Conference in New York City in April for her paper on the position of the Republic of Liberia in the UNICEF committee. Chantiles was one of 14 VWC students who traveled to the conference along with faculty adviser Dr. Aubrey Westfall. Award recipients are selected by the MUN staff and given to those students who submit the best prepared and well written position papers. It is only the second time the College has received an award at the conference and the first time for a paper. "It's a huge honor considering the conference involved well over 5,000 students from all over the world," says Dr. Westfall. "I'm thrilled!"

04-25-2012

Maurice Jones Will Be Commencement Speaker

Maurice Jones, the new deputy secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), will deliver the keynote address during Virginia Wesleyan College's 43rd Commencement Ceremony on May 19. Jones will also be the recipient of an honorary degree from VWC. Jones was the president of Pilot Media and publisher of the Virginian-Pilot prior to joining the Obama administration in his new role this month. He was a Rhodes Scholar at Oxford University and a graduate of the University of Virginia law school.

04-20-2012

Culture Award: Kathy Merlock Jackson honored by PCA/ACA

VWC Professor of Communication Dr. Kathy Merlock Jackson received the President's Award at the Popular Culture Association/American Culture Association (PCA/ACA) Conference, which took place in Boston, April 11-14. The award is given to individuals who have contributed to the PCA/ACA in a variety of ways. Past recipients include leaders of the regional and international PCA/ACA organizations as well as individuals from business and industry. The Journal of American Culture, for which Merlock Jackson serves as editor, was described at the awards presentation as one two "solid, highly sophisticated, completely professional journals that have led the way in disseminating sophisticated, peer-reviewed scholarship." Merlock Jackson is a past president of the American Culture Association. Her latest book, Disneyland and Culture, explores the success and cultural impact of the Disney theme parks.

04-11-2012

Marlin Chronicle Recognized for Overall Excellence in 2012

The Society for Collegiate Journalists has announced the winners of its major awards for 2012. Virginia Wesleyan's student newspaper, the Marlin Chronicle, was the second place winner in the Newspaper Overall Excellence category. "Our Marlin Chronicle editors put together submissions for the contest last fall," says newspaper staff adviser and Assistant Professor of Communication Lisa Lyon Payne, "I'm particularly proud of their hard work and dedication to the publication." Congratulations to the staff of the award-winning Marlin Chronicle!

04-06-2012

Marlins Host Spring Break Basketball Camp

Virginia Wesleyan College will host a Blue Marlin Spring Break Basketball Camp for Southside Hampton Roads youth during the week of April 9-12, spring break for many area students. The camp is open to all area youth ages 5-17. As part of the camp experience, VWC Head Basketball Coach Dave Macedo, his coaching staff and players are partnering with Norfolk Police Officers assigned as Community Resource Officers in the Norfolk Redevelopment Housing Authority's (NRHA) public housing communities. The officers are encouraging more than 70 boys and girls, residents of NRHA public housing communities, to attend the camp. For Norfolk Police Officer and VWC Alum Rodney Young '07, volunteering at the camp will be a return to home court. Young was a member of the 2006 Virginia Wesleyan College National Championship Team. For more information, visit Blue Marlin Spring Break Basketball Camp or contact Dave Macedo at dmacedo@vwc.edu or 757.455

04-06-2012

Virginia Wesleyan College History Student Wins Award

A contingent of nine student members of Phi Alpha Theta, the national honor society in history, represented VWC at the Phi Alpha Theta Virginia Regional History Conference on March 31 at Lynchburg College. Three of the students presented research papers they had written for classes at VWC, and one of them, senior Jennifer Brown, earned runner-up best paper honors in the undergraduate U.S. category for her work entitled "An Examination of the Gendered Relationships between Matron Hannah Ropes and the Men of the Union Hotel Hospital in Georgetown, DC, June 26, 1862 – January 11, 1863." The conference was attended by groups from 11 Virginia colleges and universities and featured 64 student history presentations covering a wide array topics. Brown's award this year marks the fifth time in as many conference years that VWC students have brought home awards for their work in history, an achievement

04-06-2012

VWC Professor Selected for Summer Research Seminar in Paris

VWC Associate Professor of French Dr. Alain Gabon has been selected to participate in a National Endowment for the Humanities summer research seminar in Paris, France, June 4-6. This five-week seminar for college and university teachers and scholars is entitled "France's Haunting Pasts: Debating 20th Century History and French Identity Since 1990" and will explore four critical periods of crisis in French History and how they have shaped French identity and current debates: WWI; WWII, the Vichy Regime and the German occupation; Communist crimes; and the decolonization period and the Algerian War. The seminar is hosted and organized by the Institut d'Histoire du Temps Present, part of the National Center for Scientific Research, France's top multidisciplinary state scientific research institute. The application for the seminar was open to faculty, scholars, and researchers in a variety of disciplines including languages, English, history, post-Colonial studies, and

04-03-2012

A Curve Ball for Cancer: Marlins Raise $8,500+

The 4th Annual Strike Out Cancer Day was a winner on March 31 as more than 250 spectators came out to cheer on the VWC softball team while raising money for the American Cancer Society. Members of the softball team sold tickets to the event at $5 each. The day included food, fun and festivities as well as a large silent auction, which also helped raise money for the cause. The event raised $9,000, adding to the more than $25,000 raised over the last three years. "On behalf of the Virginia Wesleyan softball team, the American Cancer Society and my family, I want to thank our campus community for coming together for another great Strike Out Cancer Day," said Head Softball Coach Brandon Elliott.

03-21-2012

Model Partnership: Marlins Read Program Honored

Virginia Wesleyan College's Marlins Read program has been named as a 2011-12 Model Partnership by Virginia Beach City Public Schools and will be honored during a partners-in-education recognition event in April. Marlins Read is a community service opportunity for Virginia Wesleyan students who volunteer to tutor/mentor a Bayside Elementary School child for a semester to help develop reading skills. Way to go, Marlins!

03-14-2012

Teacher Triumph: Alum Is Suffolk Teacher of Year

VWC alumna Hope Bradshaw '96 was named the 2012 Middle School Teacher of the Year for Suffolk Public Schools. Hope teaches sixth-grade history at King's Fork Middle School and is in her 15th year of teaching.Principal Jennifer Presson said Bradshaw makes the lessons relevant to her pupils. "Instead of merely delivering content to students, she has taken her students on a journey through time," Presson said. Bradshaw often dresses as historical characters and leads re-enactments of events.

03-14-2012

Score for VWC: College to Host DIII Field Hockey Finals

The NCAA has recently announced that Virginia Wesleyan College and the Virginia Beach Convention & Visitors Bureau have been selected to host the 2013 NCAA DIII Field Hockey Championships. This championship will also include DI and DII competition and will be jointly hosted with Old Dominion University. "We are honored to have been awarded this distinctive event and look forward to working with NCAA staff to plan an outstanding championship experience," said VWC athletic director Joanne Renn. "We successfully hosted the 2004 and 2005 Women's Basketball Championships and welcome the challenge once more to expose the nation to our wonderful institution and historical region." Planning for the 2013 championships is already underway; the anticipated dates for the event are Nov. 20-24, 2013.

03-11-2012

Meeting Homer for the First Time: Stanley Lombardo

On March 8, Dr. Stanley Lombardo, a professor of Classics at the University of Kansas, offered the VWC community reflections on his experiences translating the Iliad and Odyssey. In his presentations, Lombardo likened the difficulties and rewards besetting the translator to the Zen practice of solving insoluble riddles or "koans." Approaching Homer with this aim, Lombardo noted he became aware of a characteristic light suffusing the world of Homer's poetry—"a sense of seeing things as if for the first time." Lombardo illustrated this with readings from his translation, recapturing an echo of how Homer's original audiences must have once experienced the tale of Troy—as a living song accompanied by music recited by a skilled craftsman with drama and feeling.

02-28-2012

"Suprasensorial" Trip: Art Department Buses It to D.C.

From the drawings of Pablo Picasso to the photographs Harry Callhan, a few dozen Virginia Wesleyan students, faculty and staff had a chance to immerse themselves in the greats during the Art Department's annual bus trip to Washington D.C on Feb. 24. "Everyone had a good trip and came back very tired," said Professor of Art Phil Guilfoyle, who organized the trip. Among the highlights was the National Gallery of Art and a special exhibit at the Hirshorn Museum called Suprasensorial: Experiments in Light, Color, and Space. Students also had time to explore some of the other free museums and attractions in the vicinity of the National Mall before gathering back on the bus for the return trip to VWC.

02-17-2012

Going, Going…Greener: Recyclemania Underway at VWC

For eight weeks, Virginia Wesleyan College will be participating in the Recyclemania National Challenge. From Jan. 30 through March 25, students, faculty and staff will take part in a friendly competition that promotes waste reduction in campus communities across the country. VWC will be competing with over 630 colleges and universities. A weekly report on how much recycling and trash Marlins collect will be used to rank VWC and other schools according to how much they gather per capita. In its first official week of competition, VWC recycled 3,614 pounds of material. Marlins Go Green President Randy Rice will be keeping the campus updated on the College’s progress in the competition.

02-14-2012

Toboggan Champs: VWC Team Snows the Competition

The fastest college team down the chute at the 22nd Annual National Toboggan Championships at the Camden Snow Bowl in Maine was the Virginia Wesleyan team, Southern Comfort, at 9.29 seconds. For the second time in four years, VWC's team captured the college division title. This year's team included Professor Doug Kennedy, the father of a VWC alum, and a firefighter who has assisted the College with safety procedures on our ropes course and during Winter Session.

02-06-2012

Clarke on Campus: Alum Returns for Black History Month

Erica Clarke ’05, a doctoral student and graduate teaching fellow at the University of Pittsburgh, was back on the Wesleyan campus on Feb. 1 to give a presentation titled “Crafting Our Own Noose: The Role of African Americans in a ‘Post-Racist’ Society.” Clarke, a keynote speaker for the College’s African American Heritage Month celebration, was welcomed by VWC faculty, staff and current students as she discussed her dissertation research on the history of blackface minstrelsy. Clarke talked about how her communications degree from VWC and liberal arts education prepared her for post graduate study. “It priceless,” “said Clarke. “There was never any limit placed on what I could do with my degree.”

01-24-2012

Better Together: Grant to Promote Healthy Relationships

Assistant Professor of Criminal Justice Alison Marganski has been awarded a grant from the Walmart Foundation through their Local Community Contribution/Hunger Outreach Grant Program. The $1,000 Grant will be used to promote community engagement and cultural understanding among VWC students, particularly through student projects related to raising awareness about relationship violence. Local organizations within the Hampton Roads area relevant to the topic will also be highlighted and supported. Additionally, the grant will be used to engage in research examining relationships and finding means of promoting healthy, positive relationships. 

01-22-2012

Home Run: VWC’s Fifth Habitat for Humanity House Dedicated

Since April 2011, more than 130 Virginia Wesleyan students, faculty and staff participated in the construction of the latest VWC chapter Habitat for Humanity home. On Saturday, January 21, all their hard worked paid off as the Morris family, for whom the home was being built, was handed the keys to their brand new townhouse at 352 Nelms Lane in Virginia Beach. Maura Bradley 11’, Immediate Past Habitat for Humanity Chapter President, Melissa Snyder, current Habitat for Humanity President and Diane Hotaling, Director of Community Service, were on hand. VWC President Billy Greer was among the speakers. Check out photos of the dedication on our campus snapshots page.

01-05-2012

Happy Campers: Thanks to Rec & Leisure Students

As part of the College's new enhanced curriculum, VWC recreation and leisure studies students raised a whopping $4,425 last semester for the "Send a Kid to Camp Fund," which provides financial assistance for children to attend YMCA Camp Silver Beach. They did it through a variety of fundraising events including a "Car Smash" in which participants paid for a chance to take a whack at an old vehicle. These students were building on a program that dates back to 2003 and has raised over $37,000 total. “I can't tell you how proud I am of our students,” said Dr. Doug Kennedy, Professor of Recreation and Leisure Studies. “On a campus where a lot of fundraising occurs, their performance really shines.”