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November 17, 2025
Good morning,
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It has been an exceptionally strong and inspiring fall sports season for Marlin athletics—a season that reminds us why this community is so special. I am incredibly proud of all our student-athletes and coaches for their commitment, grit, and sportsmanship.
Two programs—field hockey and cross country—have been particularly energized under the leadership of new head coaches Baylor Baxley for field hockey and B.T. Pham (director) and Jacob Balot (head coach) for men’s and women’s cross country. Their renewed momentum has translated into impressive performances and a clear sense of direction for the future.
At the same time, three of our perennial powerhouse teams—volleyball, women’s soccer, and men’s soccer—continued their tradition of excellence by advancing into postseason play under the guidance of outstanding coaches: Karissa Cumberbatch (volleyball), Jeff Bowers (women’s soccer), and Shane Kohler (men’s soccer).
This past weekend was a busy and exciting postseason stretch for Marlin athletics, with multiple teams competing deep into tournament action and representing Virginia Wesleyan with distinction. Please find all the results here.
Across every program, our student-athletes earned a remarkable collection of All-ODAC honors, an impressive validation of their hard work and competitive spirit. We look forward to learning of additional individual and team laurels following the completion of post season play.
It’s a Great Day To Be a Marlin!
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We are delighted to kick off the Fall 2025 Marlin Business Conference tonight. This semester’s theme, “Progressing from Paychecks to Passion,” invites participants to explore how purpose, innovation, and leadership intersect in today’s evolving business world.
A student-run initiative, the biannual conference is a signature event of VWU’s business program—bringing together students, faculty, and industry leaders for a week of inspiration, networking, and experiential learning.
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The conference will feature Jody M. Wagner, Founder and President of Jody’s Inc. and former Secretary of Finance for the Commonwealth of Virginia, as keynote speaker at 7:00 p.m. in The Athenaeum of the H.C. Hofheimer II Library. A member of the VWU Board of Trustees, Wagner brings a distinguished career spanning public service and private enterprise. Her insights into entrepreneurship, financial stewardship, and community leadership will set an inspiring tone for the week.
This fall’s conference is organized through the MBE 301 course and led by students Nathan Bryant (CEO), Mackenzie Swanson, and Miguel Hernandez (Chiefs of Staff) under the guidance of Frank Futyma, Lecturer in Management, Business, and Economics.
All are welcome to attend.
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Beginning this month, the University will partner with Securitas Security Services USA to support and strengthen our Campus Safety and Security Department. Securitas—an international organization known for providing tailored security solutions to schools, businesses, and institutions of higher education—will work alongside our existing senior leadership, all of whom will remain in place. This new arrangement enhances our ability to deliver high-quality service and ensures a continued safe and welcoming environment for our campus community. Please join me in welcoming the newest members of our Campus Safety and Security team as you see them across campus.
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The United Methodist Church has ratified two constitutional amendments further affirming its commitment to inclusion and equity. The first amendment clarifies that all persons, regardless of gender or ability, are eligible for full participation in the life and membership of the Church. The second identifies racism as “a destructive scourge” and reaffirms the Church’s responsibility to confront and eliminate systemic racism within both society and its own institutions.
We continue to value our historic relationship with the United Methodist tradition, which helped shape our identity as a learning community grounded in dignity, respect, and service to others. These guiding principles remain central to our mission today as we prepare for our transition to Batten University. Learn more here.
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Plans are progressing according to schedule for the implementation of Batten University in 2026. Last week, the Department of Marketing and Communications shared transition plans with faculty and staff regarding updates to brand elements such as automatic signatures, print materials, and other visual assets.
I continue to be deeply impressed by the dedication and hard work of our implementation teams, who are managing what often feels like an endless list of details with professionalism and creativity. Their efforts are ensuring a smooth and successful transition as we move toward the July 1, 2026, rollout. I am also profoundly grateful to the growing list of donors whose generosity is funding the implementation and helping to bring this exciting new chapter to life.
Batten University-branded mugs, mousepads, hoodies, hats, and shirts are now available in the Scribner University Store, with additional items arriving later this fall.
The Board of Trustees is united in its commitment to ensuring a strong and vibrant future for our institution. By bringing together three institutions—Sentara College of Health Sciences, the Batten & Black School for International Studies (Lakeland Japan), and Virginia Wesleyan—under one unified identity, we strengthen our academic offerings, expand opportunities for our students, and honor the values that have guided us since our founding while securing a bright and sustainable future for generations to come.
As part of our commitment to honoring our heritage, we encourage you to explore the Letters of Legacy collection online—personal reflections from alumni and friends celebrating what Virginia Wesleyan has meant to them.
You can learn more about the transition and its progress by visiting our “Becoming Batten University” page here.
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Deirdre Gonsalves-Jackson, Provost and Vice President, recently hosted a meet-and-greet information session in Brock Commons for faculty from Sentara College of Health Sciences, providing updates on the 2026 integration. Members of the President’s Cabinet also participated, and SCOHS faculty were later treated to lunch in the Boyd Dining Center.
Meanwhile, construction has begun on the expanded Stephen S. Mansfield Special Collections and Archives on the second floor of the H.C. Hofheimer II Library. The redesigned facility will triple current archival space, enhance preservation and access, and prepare for the integration of the Sentara College archives. Founded in 1892, Sentara College brings 8,800 alumni who, together with Virginia Wesleyan’s 10,000 graduates, will form a powerful partnership of two institutions dedicated to academic excellence and community service.
To learn more about Sentara College of Health Sciences, visit www.sentara.edu.
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Despite rain and midweek snow flurries, construction of the new Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art continues on schedule and within budget. Pavers are being installed on the front plaza, landscaping is underway on the backside and both ends of the building, terrazzo flooring is being completed in the main lobby, and finishings are progressing on the second floor.
The 35,000-square-foot facility within the David R. Goode Arts Complex will reach significant completion by mid-December, with the museum’s move beginning in January and a grand opening planned for April. This exciting collaboration promises extraordinary opportunities for the University and the greater Coastal Virginia community.
Learn more at www.virginiamoca.org and www.vwu.edu.
| AROUND TOWN AND ACROSS CAMPUS | | |
Virginia MOCA: VIP Gallery Experience
A memorable evening at the Virginia MOCA Reception and VIP Gallery Access for the Where We Meet exhibition, a powerful celebration of community and connection through art. It was a pleasure to join Matt Galumbeck, Allison Byrne, Executive Director of Virginia MOCA; Bruce Berlin, Chair of Virginia MOCA; and Cabell Birdsong (far right) for this special event.
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Celebrating the Marlin Family Campaign for Faculty and Staff
It was so much fun celebrating the supporters of the Marlin Family Campaign for Faculty & Staff. We are grateful for our community’s commitment to our students and to one another. As we pursue outside funding and grants for programming and key initiatives, strong faculty and staff participation strengthens our credibility and demonstrates the depth of support across campus. The celebration brought great energy to campus with karaoke, giveaways, and even a little hand walking!
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2025 Regional Workforce CTE Forum
We were pleased to host the 2025 Regional Workforce CTE Forum in Brock Commons. The annual forum brings together educators, employers, and regional leaders to explore workforce needs and strengthen career and technical education pathways across Hampton Roads.
It was a privilege to welcome Susan Long-Molnar, President of Managing Communications and Chair of the Forum (top left-center); Virginia Beach Mayor Bobby Dyer; Justin Saunders, Vice President of the Hampton Roads Chamber (bottom left-far right); and Tonya Gill ’10 (bottom right-center) of the Primrose School.
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BRAVO! Dinner Brings Regional Leaders Together
I enjoyed visiting with friends and colleagues at the BRAVO! Dinner at the Hilton Virginia Beach Oceanfront. It was a pleasure to connect with Justin Saunders, Vice President of the Hampton Roads Chamber; James Noel, President and General Counsel of The Franklin Group (top right); and Vernon Tillage (top left), Portsmouth City Council.
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Honoring Service and Sacrifice: VWU Celebrates Veterans Day at Newly Relocated Memorial
The first dusting of snow didn’t stop our community from coming together to honor those who have served. Last Tuesday marked the University’s first Veterans Day Ceremony at the newly relocated Veterans Memorial in the Godwin Hall Plaza—a meaningful moment of gratitude and remembrance.
We are proud of our Marlin veterans—students, faculty, staff, and alumni who have answered the call to serve. Among them, we were honored to welcome Capt. Brian Becker, U.S. Navy (Ret.), as keynote speaker.
Capt. Becker is a decorated 30-year FA-18 pilot and former TOPGUN Training Officer who logged over 3,400 flight hours and 725 arrested landings while leading sailors worldwide. As Commander of Strike Fighter Wing Atlantic and later Commanding Officer of the Hampton Roads Naval ROTC Consortium, he helped bring VWU into the program. Now Director of VWU’s NROTC Preparatory Program, he mentors future Navy and Marine Corps officers.
Pictured with master of ceremonies Assistant Professor of MBE Garrett Wood, Capt. Brian Becker, and Marie Porter, Director of Campus Ministries.
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After Virginia Votes
I attended the After Virginia Votes luncheon presented by the Virginia Public Access Project at The Main. The program featured thoughtful post-election discussion with Delegate-elect Virgil Thornton, political strategist and civil rights advocate Gaylene Kanoyton, Delceno Miles, President and CEO of The Miles Agency, and Bryan Stephens, President and CEO of the Hampton Roads Chamber.
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The Power of Firsts
Last week, we celebrated our first-generation students with events highlighting their resilience, achievements, and important place in our community. Activities included resource tables, strengths-based exercises, and a “Belonging for First-Generation Students” workshop led by the Virginia Center for Inclusive Communities.
The celebration concluded with an inspiring keynote from The Hon. Chris Taylor ’06, a proud first-generation alumnus and former Virginia Beach City Council member. Taylor encouraged students to embrace both the hope and responsibility of being first and reminded them that their journeys reflect perseverance, community, and grace. Pictured: Coordinator of Student Success and Engagement Kaza Dayton ‘25, Chris Taylor ‘06, and Associate Vice President for Student Success Crit Muniz.
Learn more | View photo gallery
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Hampton Roads Chamber Hosts Congressional Forum
The Hampton Roads Chamber hosted a productive Congressional briefing for area business leaders. We are grateful to Representatives Bobby Scott, Rob Wittman, and Jen Kiggans for sharing insights on key issues affecting our region. It was a pleasure to join Congressman Scott, Virginia Beach City Council Member Michael Berlucchi, and Delceno Miles, CEO of The Miles Agency, for this important regional conversation.
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Conservation Speaker Series at Virginia Aquarium
I enjoyed an engaging afternoon at the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center for the Conservation Speaker Series, sponsored by VWU Board Chair Nancy DeFord. The program featured Dr. Stephanie Green, Canada Research Chair in Aquatic Global Change & Conservation at the University of Alberta, along with VAMSC CEO Cynthia Whitbred-Spanoulis. Dr. Green’s presentation, Ocean Invaders: Causes, Consequences, and Solutions, highlighted the growing challenge of invasive marine species in coastal ecosystems.
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Inaugural Bobby Levin Art Exhibition
The inaugural Bobby Levin Art Exhibition highlighted The Art of Healing, a moving collection curated by BHC scholar Sarah Richards ‘26, the first Bobby Levin Scholar. Sarah is pictured with her mother and grandmother; Dr. Sally Shedd, Professor of Theatre; John Rudel, Professor of Art and Curator of Exhibitions; Jane P. Batten, Trustee Emerita; and Amy Levin Keefe, Bobby’s sister.
Established to honor the life of Bobby Levin, a longtime Hampton Roads friend, entrepreneur, and philanthropist who found the restorative power of art therapy during his own cancer journey, the scholarship supports students completing combined coursework in studio art and psychology in preparation for graduate study in art therapy. This annual exhibition affirms the potential of art to inspire connection, reflection, and healing, while preparing students for meaningful careers in service through the arts. Learn more here.
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The Pharos: November Edition
I’m pleased to share that the November 2025 edition of The Pharos is now available online. This month’s issue highlights the outstanding achievements of our faculty and staff—showcasing their scholarly publications, professional presentations, and continued impact across their disciplines.
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Junior Selected for Prestigious WACA Scholars Program
Congratulations to junior Alessandra Bados-Hernandez, who has been selected to participate in the World Affairs Councils of America Student Scholars Program and National Conference in Washington, D.C., November 19–22. A dual major in Political Science and Hispanic Studies and member of the Marlins Pre-Law Society, Alessandra plans to pursue a career in immigration law. We are proud to have her represent VWU on the national stage. Read more here.
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Alumni Display Enhancements in the John A. Trinder Center for Advancement
Kudos to Kayleigh Poggioli, MBA ‘23, Director of Alumni Engagement, and Sarah Guzzo, MBA ‘22, Director of Stewardship, for adding several dozen commemorative alumni photos throughout the John A. Trinder Center for Advancement on the second floor of Godwin Hall. The Center—home to advancement, alumni engagement, institutional research, prospect research, gift entry and records, special events, business and corporate development, innovative partnerships, and the executive in residence—now features a warm visual tribute to our alumni community. Friends are invited to stop by and see the refreshed space!
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President to President Series: Chapter 3 Available Now
The third chapter of this year’s President to President thought leadership series, “Students See Everything,” is now available online. In this installment, Moravian University President Bryon L. Grigsby, Ph.D., explores how intentional traditions, shared experiences, and thoughtful campus design can cultivate pride, strengthen community identity, and deepen students’ sense of belonging. Discover how his approach offers practical insight into creating environments where every member of a campus feels connected, valued, and engaged. Read Chapter 3.
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Campus Infrastructure Improvements Continue
Thanks to everyone for your patience during the milling and paving of Smith Drive—from the entrance near the David R. Goode Arts Complex to Brock Village. This work is part of a $10 million corrective maintenance initiative launched in the spring, which also includes roof replacements, HVAC upgrades, and new restrooms in sections of Allen Village.
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Marlins on FloSports: Expanding Our Reach
This summer, we announced that the University joined the Old Dominion Athletic Conference in signing a media rights agreement with FloSports, the exclusive streaming partner for ODAC athletic events. If you haven’t already, now–with three of our teams advancing into post-season play–is a perfect time to see the partnership in action.
FloSports provides fans with consistent, high-quality coverage of VWU athletics across numerous sports. Games can be streamed live or watched on demand through FloCollege.com or the FloSports app, available on phones, tablets, and smart TVs. Both monthly and annual subscriptions are offered, with discounted pricing for viewers using a .edu email address.
The FloSports partnership enhances the visibility of Marlin Athletics and complements our own VWU Digital Broadcasting Network. Together, they deliver a more professional, accessible, and far-reaching platform for our athletes and fans. As our post-season teams continue to compete, I hope you’ll tune in to cheer them on—and experience firsthand how this innovative partnership is strengthening the Marlin brand and connecting our community like never before.
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PARTNERS IN PROGRESS
A Virginia Wesleyan University Community
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Enjoy the Marlin Business Conference!
Sincerely,
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