Dr. Donald Wolfgang, professor of psychology retires after 35 years of teaching.
By Brittanie Wyko '11
Dr. Donald Wolfgang
After 35 years of teaching, laughing, guidance and leadership, Dr. Donald Wolfgang, professor of psychology at Virginia Wesleyan College, retired in December 2007.
Having been the first counseling staff member at Virginia Wesleyan, Wolfgang has watched the College grow in many ways. He has also helped the College expand by establishing the first Residence Life staff and services.
"At the time, there was only one specialist for Residence Life who resided in Rose Hall and was responsible for the other six halls that existed," said Wolfgang. Today the College has three villages with a total of 11 residence halls, and the construction of Village four expected to be complete in the spring of 2008.
Throughout the years Wolfgang has also assisted with the development of the Career Services Department and staff and the Learning Resource Center. His devotion to the College has established several well-qualified departments ready to help students with on-campus housing, prospective jobs/careers and schoolwork.
In regards to teaching, Wolfgang describes psychology as a "fascinating field." He explains that psychology was one of his interests in college and a professor suggested that he apply for a graduate degree in the field.
"And my placement and time at Virginia Wesleyan has been a very happy match," he said.
Upon retirement, Wolfgang will take with him many fond memories of Virginia Wesleyan. Three specific memories stand out to him the most. First is the opening of the Jane P. Batten Student Center in 2002, and second is the men's basketball team clinching the NCAA National Division III Basketball Championship in 2006.
"The third," he said, "is more personal and are the fond memories I have of taking students on travel classes – five times to the Colorado Rocky Mountains and two times to Paris and the French Alps." Wolfgang will forever remember the wonderful memories of working with his colleagues and students.
Wolfgang also said that he will take away with him the feeling of pride—"The pride I feel in being affiliated with the outstanding faculty that is associated with the College."
As for post-retirement plans Wolfgang said he will continue to be a life-long learner by enjoying reading and traveling.
The Virginia Wesleyan Community thanks Dr. Donald Wolfgang for his years of service and wishes him a very happy retirement.
12.19.07