|
October 13, 2025
Good morning,
| | |
VWU will welcome Jody M. Wagner, Founder and President of Jody’s Inc. and former Secretary of Finance for the Commonwealth of Virginia, as keynote speaker for the fall Marlin Business Conference, taking place November 17-20 on the VWU campus.
A student-run initiative, the biannual Marlin Business Conference serves as a signature event for the University’s business program—uniting students, faculty, and industry leaders for a week of inspiration, networking, and experiential learning. This semester’s theme, “Progressing from Paychecks to Passion,” encourages participants to explore how purpose, innovation, and leadership intersect in today’s ever-evolving business landscape.
Jody Wagner, who also serves as a member of the VWU Board of Trustees, brings to the podium a remarkable career bridging public service and private enterprise. As Virginia’s Secretary of Finance, she oversaw the Commonwealth’s fiscal operations, helping preserve its AAA bond rating, and earlier founded Jody’s Inc., a Virginia Beach-based gourmet popcorn company that has grown into a beloved regional brand. Her insights into entrepreneurship, financial stewardship, and community leadership promise to set an inspiring tone for the conference.
The Marlin Business Conference is organized through the MBE 301 course and led this fall by students Nathan Bryant (CEO), Mackenzie Swanson and Miguel Hernandez (Chiefs of Staff), under the guidance of faculty advisor Frank Futyma, Lecturer in Management, Business, and Economics.
Wagner’s participation reflects VWU’s ongoing commitment to connecting students with accomplished leaders whose experience and example demonstrate the real-world impact of a liberal arts education grounded in purpose and passion.
| |
I am pleased to share that William “Bill” Gobble ‘03 has been named Chair of the Alumni Council. During his time at Virginia Wesleyan, Bill was an active and engaged student, majoring in the Liberal Arts Management Program (L.A.M.P.), now known as Management, Business, and Economics, while also serving as co-captain of the Men’s Basketball team under Coach Dave Macedo.
Following graduation, Bill built a distinguished 22+ year career with American Funds, where he worked in financial and operational risk. He now turns his focus to new pursuits, bringing the same leadership and dedication that defined both his professional life and his time at Virginia Wesleyan as he takes on this important role for the alumni community.
| | |
As Virginia Wesleyan continues its evolution toward Batten University on July 1, 2026, our community stands at the threshold of an exciting new chapter. We are grateful for the many alumni and supporters who built the foundation of this institution. Their legacy remains woven into our story.
We encourage you to visit the Letters of Legacy collection online—a growing archive that captures stories of transformation from our alumni, faculty, staff, and friends. Each reflection highlights the enduring spirit of our community and the shared commitment that will carry Batten University into the future.
Batten University gear can now be found in the Scribner University Store of the Jane P. Batten Student Center.
Learn more about VWU becoming Batten University here.
| |
VWU continues to make meaningful progress in the integration of the Sentara College of Health Sciences, a transformative partnership that will expand opportunities for students pursuing careers in nursing and healthcare. Specialized teams are actively aligning academic programs, operations, and clinical partnerships to create a seamless experience for both current and incoming students.
This collaboration reflects a shared commitment to meeting the growing demand for skilled healthcare professionals across Coastal Virginia and beyond. Once accreditation approval is finalized, the full integration will take effect on July 1, 2026, coinciding with the University’s historic transition to Batten University.
Together, these initiatives represent a bold investment in the region’s health and education infrastructure—and in the future of the students we serve.
| |
Progress continues on the new home of the Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art (Virginia MOCA), located within the David R. Goode Arts Complex on the campus of Virginia Wesleyan University. During Homecoming and Family Weekend, members of the Parents Council enjoyed a special behind-the-scenes tour of the construction site and were impressed by the scale and design of the soon-to-be cultural landmark.
| |
Now in its final stages, the project remains on schedule and on budget, with occupancy expected in February 2026. When doors open, Virginia MOCA will feature exhibitions, performances, lectures, and workshops that foster creativity and connection across the region.
The Museum’s spring opening will coincide with Virginia Wesleyan’s evolution to Batten University on July 1, 2026—two milestones that reflect the University’s growing role as a center for the arts, learning, and engagement.
Learn more at www.virginiamoca.org and www.vwu.edu.
| AROUND TOWN AND ACROSS CAMPUS | | |
HRC State of the Region
Twenty five years ago, our good friend and colleague Jim Koch H‘22 hosted 30 people for the first State of the Region. The noted economist and retired college president returned to celebrate the anniversary with a crowd of 800 at Marriott Waterside. I enjoyed visiting with (left to right) Jim Koch, Virginia Beach Mayor Bobby Dyer, and Hampton Roads Chamber CEO Bryan Stephens at the event.
| |
VWU Long-held Investments Top $180 million
Virginia Wesleyan University has a productive relationship with Brown Advisory for the management of our endowment. Last week, Board of Trustees leadership joined us for an enlightening presentation by our OCIO team in the Shafer Room (Board of Trustees Room) in the Boyd Dining Center at Brock Commons. Pictured with Endowment Committee Chair John F. Malbon H’22, Thad Glowacki and Colin Chandler of the OCIO team at Brown Advisory, and Board Chair Nancy T. DeFord.
| |
Virginia Business Women in Leadership Awards
Congratulations to Kelly Cordova, MBA ‘21, Chief of Staff and Vice President for Strategic Initiatives, who was honored at the Virginia Business Women in Leadership Awards held at the historic Jefferson Hotel in Richmond. Also recognized was our good friend Delceno C. Miles, President and CEO of The Miles Agency, for her outstanding leadership and impact across the Commonwealth. The annual event celebrates women whose vision and influence continue to shape business and community success throughout Virginia.
| |
Cohen, Koroleski Named Assistant Vice Presidents
I am pleased to announce the promotion of Dr. Jen Cohen (pictured left) and Beth Koroleski to assistant vice president roles.
Currently serving as Director of Student Engagement, Dr. Cohen will assume the position of Assistant Vice President for Campus Life. Beth Koroleski, who has provided strong leadership in financial aid services, will become Assistant Vice President for Student Financial Planning.
I extend my sincere thanks to both for the important roles they play in advancing the student experience and for their continued dedication to VWU.
| |
December Term Workshops
As we look ahead to the winter session, VWU is offering online, synchronous December Term workshops in CompTIA Data+ and CompTIA Security+ from December 8, 2025, through January 23, 2026. These instructor-led sessions provide an excellent opportunity to strengthen professional skills and earn valuable technical certification—participants pay only for course materials. Register today at vwu.edu/workshops or contact ceinfo@vwu.edu for more information.
| |
Faculty Dinner at DeFord Manor
It’s always a joy to gather with colleagues at DeFord Manor for our faculty dinner—a valued tradition that brings our campus community together in fellowship and conversation. Annie and I are deeply grateful for these meaningful evenings.
| |
Norfolk Stories That Have Shaped Our Lives
Former Norfolk City Historian Peggy Haile McPhillips brought local history to life during a thought-provoking lunchtime lecture hosted by the Robert Nusbaum Center on October 2 in Brock Commons. In her presentation, “Norfolk Stories That Have Shaped Our Lives,” McPhillips shared vignettes tracing the city’s evolution—from horse-drawn streetcars to the rise of the Ghent neighborhood—illustrating how the past continues to shape Norfolk’s identity today. Her storytelling reminded attendees that the most meaningful histories often begin close to home. Read more.
| | |
Page to Podium
Dr. Tyler Lehrer, Assistant Professor of History, presents, “Wanderers and Would-Be Kings: A Siamese Prince, A Portuguese Priest, and the Fall of Ayutthaya,” on Wednesday, October 15, at 11:30 a.m., as part of the H.C. Hofheimer II Library Lecture Series this fall.
Learn more about H.C. Hofheimer II Library.
| |
Important Commencement Reminder
Students participating in the 2025 Winter Commencement Ceremony on December 13 must submit their Commencement Fee (which covers regalia) and order their cap and gown by Friday, October 17.
Graduates who order by the deadline may pick up their caps, gowns, and four (4) ceremony tickets at the Office of Finance and Administration December 9–12, 9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.
Commencement rehearsal is mandatory and will take place Friday, December 12, at 11:00 a.m. in the Susan S. Goode Fine and Performing Arts Center.
For details on tickets, announcements, photography, and parking, visit the Commencement website and review the FAQs.
We look forward to celebrating your incredible achievement!
| | |
PARTNERS IN PROGRESS
A Virginia Wesleyan University Community
| | |
Enjoy the many colors of the fall, Marlins!
Sincerely,
| | |
