| June 8, 2026
Good morning, |
|
|
As I open this week’s Nota Bene, I find myself reflecting on the remarkable conclusion of another extraordinary year of Marlin athletics, highlighted by the accomplishments of our nationally acclaimed softball program. The 2026 Marlins completed a season for the ages. Entering the NCAA Division III Elite Eight with an astounding 50–0 record, the Marlins earned a No. 1 ranking in the final NCAA regular-season poll, captured conference, regional, and super regional championships, and advanced to the NCAA Division III Softball World Series for the third consecutive year. Equally impressive, these outstanding student-athletes achieved a team grade point average of 3.7 on a 4.0 scale, demonstrating that excellence in competition and in the classroom can go hand in hand. |
|
While every season eventually comes to an end, the legacy of this team will endure. Head Coach Brandon Elliott, his staff, and these exceptional young women represented our University with determination, grace, humility, and sportsmanship. They brought pride to the entire Marlin community and provided countless moments of inspiration throughout the year.
As we celebrate their achievements, we also pause to appreciate the broader lesson they have taught us: success is measured not only by championships won, but by character displayed, friendships forged, and the positive impact made on those around us. To our softball student-athletes and coaches—thank you for an unforgettable season. It is, indeed, a great day to be a Marlin. |
|
As we celebrate the accomplishments of our softball program, we are also pleased to recognize an important leadership transition within Marlin athletics. Brandon Elliott ‘03 will now assume the role of Executive Director of Intercollegiate Athletics while continuing to serve as Head Softball Coach. During recent years as Assistant Athletic Director and Head Coach, Brandon has distinguished himself as an outstanding leader, mentor, and ambassador for the University. His success on the field has been remarkable, but those who know him best understand that his greatest strengths are his integrity, commitment to student-athlete success, and ability to build a culture of excellence. We are excited about what Brandon’s leadership will bring to our entire athletics program. He understands the values that define Marlin athletics—excellence in competition, success in the classroom, integrity, sportsmanship, and a commitment to developing student-athletes as leaders. He has demonstrated a consistent ability to develop championship-caliber teams while keeping student development at the center of the experience. His collaborative approach, strategic vision, and proven record of success make him exceptionally well-suited to guide Marlin athletics into its next chapter. We look forward to supporting Brandon as he assumes this expanded role and continues to build upon the strong foundation already in place. |
|
| It is with great pride that I share the Spring 2026 President’s List and Dean’s List.
Congratulations to the 156 students who achieved a 4.0 grade point average and earned a place on the President’s List, and to the 289 students on the Dean’s List who earned a GPA between 3.5 and 3.99 for the spring session.
To qualify for these honors, students must have full-time status and have completed at least nine session hours of traditionally graded courses. These individuals reflect a remarkable commitment to academic excellence. Well done! |
|
I recently had the pleasure of connecting with members of the Alumni Council in a hybrid format and sharing updates on the continued momentum and transformation of the University. Fifteen Marlins attended either in person or via Zoom.
Alumni leaders heard updates on several important initiatives, including the integration of Sentara College of Health Sciences into the University on July 1, which will expand our alumni community by approximately 9,000 graduates and create exciting new opportunities for engagement and connection.
We are also proud to announce the newest members of the Alumni Council, beginning July 1. This group brings experience across customer success, banking, mental health counseling, therapy, medical sales, and graduate research, and represents alumni living in Virginia, North Carolina, and Ohio. I remain deeply grateful for the dedication and involvement of our alumni leaders, especially Alumni Council Chair Bill Gobble ’03 and Kayleigh Poggioli, MBA ’23, Director of Alumni Engagement, whose leadership continues to strengthen ties across the Marlin community. View 2025-2026 Alumni Council.
Pictured from left to right are Emily Amland, MBA ’21; Melina Cabral ’23, MBA ’24; Andreas Combos ’20; Brandon Foster ’19; Zac Green ’09; and Juwon Seaborne ’22, MEnv ’25. |
|
We are pleased to welcome Emily Fluck as Director of Catering and Conference Services with Sodexo, our valued campus partners. Emily (center) brings nearly a decade of hospitality experience to the campus community, most recently serving as Sales & Event Manager at the Glass Light Hotel & Gallery following her role as Restaurant Manager. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Management from The College of New Jersey. Pictured with Sodexo General Manager for Dining Services Heather Beatty.
Emily shared she looks forward to working closely with students, faculty, staff, and guests to support catering and conference service needs across campus. As the University enters this transformative year, we are excited to have her join the community and contribute to the vibrant hospitality experience that enhances campus life and special events. |
AROUND TOWN AND ACROSS CAMPUS |
|
|
University Closed for Juneteenth (June 19) As a reminder, the University will be closed on Friday, June 19, in observance of Juneteenth. Juneteenth is a federal holiday and has been since 2021.
All non-essential federal, state, and city government offices will be closed for this holiday. Please consult local listings and websites for information about other services that may be closed that day as well. |
|
Celebrating Pride Month The University proudly celebrates Pride Month and extends heartfelt wishes to our LGBTQ+ students, alumni, faculty, staff, families, and allies.
As part of a campus tradition established in 2019, the Pride flag is flying alongside the American and Virginia flags at Heritage Plaza in front of Godwin Hall—symbolizing our ongoing commitment to inclusion, respect, and belonging for all members of the Marlin community.
The tradition began during a period of significant debate within the United Methodist Church regarding LGBTQ+ inclusion. In 2024, the denomination’s General Conference voted to remove longstanding restrictions related to LGBTQ+ individuals, including bans on same-sex marriage and the ordination of gay and lesbian clergy. Following those actions, approximately one-third of United Methodist congregations in the United States disaffiliated, with many joining the Global Methodist Church. Today, the values and direction of the United Methodist Church align closely with the University’s mission and longstanding commitment to dignity, belonging, and respect for all members of our community. |
|
2026 Summer Session Courses Are you looking to get ahead or catch up this summer? Summer Session courses are a great way to stay on track, lighten your future course load, or explore a new subject, all at a discounted cost. Apply today and make the most of your summer. Learn more here. |
|
Strengthening Social Work Education and Practice Faculty and academic leaders recently welcomed Kimberly Johnson, Chief Executive Officer of United Community Solutions, to campus for discussions focused on preparing the next generation of social workers and advancing best practices in the profession. Joining the conversation were Dr. Ben Dobrin and April Christman from the Social Work program, Dr. Bill McConnell, Dean of the D. Henry Watts School of Professional Studies, and Associate Provost Dr. Loren Marquez.
Kimberly serves on the Virginia Board of Social Work and was recently elected to the national Association of Social Work Boards, becoming the first Virginian to serve in that capacity. The visit provided an opportunity to strengthen connections between the University and leaders in the field while exploring ways to support students pursuing careers in social work and human services. Pictured center is Marcus Calabrese of Image Capital Group, who also participated in the discussion. |
|
Exploring AI in Modern Philanthropy The Glass Light Hotel & Gallery in Norfolk provided a wonderful setting for a lunch and program with our friends from Brown Advisory. Martin Ouimet and Amy Seto led a thoughtful discussion on the growing role of artificial intelligence in philanthropy. Joining us were VWU Trustee Emeritus George Y. Birdsong H’16 and Suzanne Savage, Vice President of the Access College Foundation, a valued Marlin partner.
The Glass Light Hotel & Gallery occupies the historic Royster Building in downtown Norfolk, where Virginia Wesleyan University was founded as a College in 1961. The building is also home to the Virginia Wesleyan historical marker commemorating the institution's beginnings. |
|
Westminster-Canterbury Annual Golf Classic We were proud to support our friends at Westminster-Canterbury on the Chesapeake Bay during their annual Golf Classic! We are grateful for our continued partnership and the opportunity to collaborate through our Lifelong Learning Program, which brings engaging educational experiences to residents and strengthens meaningful community connections.
Pictured with Ben Unkle, CEO of Westminster-Canterbury, are Heather Campbell ’04, Vice President for Enrollment and Student Success, Jason Seward ’05, Chief Operating Officer and Vice President for Enterprise Strategy, and Dr. Jill Sturts, Assistant Dean of the Jane P. Batten Honors College. |
|
A Celebration of Service Our community partner, Chesapeake Bay Academy, recently honored Dr. Judy Jankowski upon her retirement after 13 years of dedicated service. Pictured with Dr. Jankowski are Dr. Taryn Myers, Professor and Chair of Psychology, and Vice President Jason Seward ’05. We are grateful for Dr. Jankowski's lasting contributions to CBA and wish her every happiness in retirement.
|
|
Hampton Roads Caucus Meets at Amazon ORF4 Fulfillment Center I was pleased to join members of the Hampton Roads Caucus and regional business leaders for a productive meeting at the new Amazon ORF4 Fulfillment Center in Virginia Beach. The discussion, led by Delegate Cliff Hayes, Chair of the Hampton Roads Caucus, focused on several important regional priorities, including flooding, infrastructure, energy, transportation, and long-term planning across Hampton Roads.
Special appreciation to Lindsay Winter and the Amazon ORF4 Fulfillment Center team for hosting us at this impressive new facility, which is Amazon’s third robotic fulfillment center in Virginia and the third-largest building in the Commonwealth. |
|
Greer Environmental Garden Receives VB Clean Community Commission Award We were honored to receive the Institutional Landscape Award for the Greer Environmental Garden as part of the Annual Landscape Awards Program presented by the Virginia Beach Clean Community Commission. The award was presented during a luncheon hosted by the Commission at Princess Anne Country Club on May 21 and recognizes the University’s commitment to environmental stewardship, sustainability, and the beauty of our natural landscape. Pictured (left to right): Batten Professor of Ocean and Atmospheric Sciences Dr. Elizabeth Malcolm, Member of the Virginia Beach City Council Dr. Amelia Ross-Hammond, and Provost and Vice President Dr. Deirdre Gonsalves-Jackson. |
|
Opportunity Scholars Event The University was pleased to participate in the Opportunity Scholars Memorandum of Understanding Signing Ceremony hosted by Isle of Wight County Schools. The event formally launched collaborative partnerships focused on expanding educational access, workforce readiness, and career opportunities for students throughout the region.
The gathering brought together leaders from K-12 education, higher education, workforce development, business, nonprofit organizations, and community leadership to strengthen pathways for young adults across Coastal Virginia. Pictured (left to right): Opportunity Scholars Board Chair Fred Thompson (Thompson Hospitality), Opportunity Scholars CEO Lewis Carney, Dean of Global Campus Dr. Drian Glyde, and Opportunity Scholars Regional Director Lathaniel Kirts. |
|
World Affairs Leader Visits Campus We were pleased to welcome Matthew Hughes, President of the World Affairs Councils of America, to campus. The University is proud to host the World Affairs Council of Hampton Roads and support many of its outstanding programs and community conversations. Pictured with Hughes are outgoing WACHR President Susan Boré, WACHR board member and incoming President Gary Bonnewell ‘79, H’16 (center), and Chief of Staff/ Vice President for Strategic Initiatives Kelly Cordova (far left). |
|
Chiller Replacement Nearing Completion Located behind the Jane P. Batten Student Center, the campus chiller replacement project, our largest initiative within the $10 million capital improvement program, is nearing completion. This critical upgrade will enhance reliability, improve energy efficiency, and strengthen the long-term stewardship of University resources.
Special thanks to Mike McGarvey, Aramark Project Manager, and Aramark Engineering Services for their continued partnership and expertise, building upon successful chiller improvements in Godwin and Blocker Halls. And my thanks to Vice President Jason Seward ’05 for his leadership. |
| Frank and Wilma Blocker Hall Renovations Underway To Support Sentara College of Health Sciences Integration Immediately following Commencement, work began on renovations to Frank and Wilma Blocker Hall to support the integration of Sentara College of Health Sciences in the 2026–27 academic year. Labs, classrooms, and office spaces are being upgraded in preparation for the integration. R.D. Lambert Construction of Chesapeake is leading the project. We are grateful to The Blocker Foundation and The Mary Morton Parsons Foundation for their generous support. |
|
With Gratitude to Rev. Doug and Deena Sasser Commencement weekend marked the conclusion of Rev. Doug and Deena Sasser’s two years of ministry and service with us in Virginia Beach. During that time, Doug faithfully served as pastor of Haygood United Methodist Church and as Chaplain for the University, providing thoughtful leadership and meaningful support to both the congregation and our campus community. We are deeply grateful to Doug and Deena for their friendship, service, and ministry, and we wish them God’s blessings in this next chapter. |
|
We are pleased to welcome Rev. Evelyn Archer-Taminger as the new pastor of Haygood United Methodist Church beginning July 1. In that capacity, she will also serve as our Chaplain and collaborative partner in the Haygood UMC/Epworth Campus Ministries program.
A Virginia native, Rev. Archer-Taminger brings a strong background in ministry, theological education, and community engagement, and holds degrees from and. She is joined by her husband, Aaron, who works in forestry, and their daughter, Adeline. We look forward to the positive impact she and her family will bring to our community and to our continued partnership in supporting the important work of Epworth Campus Ministries. |
|
Community Support for Marlin Softball Our thanks to our friends at Audacy Virginia and Channello’s for supporting our Marlin Softball team during postseason play. Special appreciation to Marlin alumnus Larry Romaine ‘97, Director of Digital Development for Audacy Virginia, who personally delivered pizzas to the team at the Jane P. Batten Student Center. We are grateful for the continued support of our alumni and community partners as they cheer on the Marlins. |
|
A Marlin Legacy One of the great joys of Commencement season is watching stories come full circle—and few are as meaningful as the Harris family’s. This year, Joseph W. “JoeJoe” Harris crossed the stage earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication, continuing a proud Virginia Wesleyan legacy that spans generations.
I’ve had the privilege of working closely with his stepmother, Lori Harris ’94, in the President’s Office, and I’ve seen firsthand the deep love and commitment the Harris family has for our University. From his father Joe’s days on the basketball court to the four siblings who have called this University home, the Harris family represents the very best of the Marlin spirit—family, tradition, loyalty, and purpose.
Congratulations, JoeJoe—you have made your family and your University proud! |
|
Norfolk Tides Tickets As many of you know, I enjoy baseball and maintain two season tickets for the Norfolk Tides located behind the first base dugout at Harbor Park. I am pleased to once again make these tickets available to faculty and staff throughout the season. If you are interested in attending a game, please contact Anja at aswilkens@vwu.edu with your preferred date. You can view the Tides schedule here. |
|
| PARTNERS IN PROGRESS A Virginia Wesleyan University Community |
|
| Have a great week, Marlins!
Sincerely, |
|
|
