Friday, July 31, 2020
The Inside Splash with Coach Liz Hudy
In this week's edition of the Virginia Wesleyan Athletics “Inside Splash” segment, Head Women’s Basketball Coach Liz Hudy is interviewed by VWU Sports Information intern Taylor Major '20. Check it out: vwuathletics.com/sports/wbkb/2019-20/releases/20200715jcb6xv
Thursday, July 30, 2020
Coastal 61 at Oxford Village
Check out this video from our partners at The Franklin Johnston Group for Coastal 61 updates. The apartment community opens this fall across from the main entrance of campus on Wesleyan Drive.
Monday, July 27, 2020
Nota Bene: Weekly Update
It's hard to believe we are less than a month away from welcoming approximately 420 new students to our Marlin Family. We are busy preparing for their arrival and what is sure to be a unique semester. A reminder to continue to monitor the Virginia Wesleyan COVID-19 website for regular updates and resources, including the latest regarding mandatory testing prior to campus arrival.
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It is with the ultimate health and safety of our student-athletes, coaches, support staff and our community 
at the forefront, that Virginia Wesleyan University athletics will follow the Old Dominion Athletic Conference (ODAC) Presidents Council and Athletic Board of Directors decision to postpone conference competition and championships for fall and winter sports through the end of the 2020 calendar year (December 31).
at the forefront, that Virginia Wesleyan University athletics will follow the Old Dominion Athletic Conference (ODAC) Presidents Council and Athletic Board of Directors decision to postpone conference competition and championships for fall and winter sports through the end of the 2020 calendar year (December 31).
It is our hope and intention, that if conditions safely permit it, we will compete in all sports after the new year. Evaluation of the ever-changing health and safety climate will be ongoing and communication related to changes will be forthcoming, when appropriate.
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Virginia Wesleyan has finalized a new affiliation agreement with William & Mary's School of Marine Science at the Virginia Institute of Marine Science (VIMS). This unique partnership promotes enrollment of graduating Batten Honors College students in VIMS' Master of Arts in Marine Science program. Interested students should contact the Dean of the Batten Honors College Dr. Joyce Easter.
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Following the announcement this spring of our exclusive agreement to jointly operate a campus in Tokyo--Lakeland University Japan and Virginia Wesleyan University Global--we are pleased to welcome our first graduate from that campus to Virginia Beach this fall. Many others have expressed interest and are expected to join us in Coastal Virginia after the COVID Crisis.
This program will add an increased international presence to VWU's student body, as the University welcomes students not only from Japan, but from around the world. Virginia Wesleyan students and faculty will also have the opportunity to travel to the Tokyo campus.
In case you missed it, offices supporting VWU Global Campus will have a new home in Godwin Hall. Larry Belcher, Director of Enrollment for VWU Global Campus, and Marion Hibbler, Director of Support Services for VWU Global Campus, will soon move to the first floor of Godwin in what is now the Vice President for Enrollment's office suite. The office will support all online, evening and weekend, international, early enrollment/advanced scholars, and non-credit learners. Dr. Paul Ewell, Dean of VWU Global Campus, will remain on the second floor of Clarke Hall, adjacent to the Academic Affairs office.
As leadership transitions in the Center for Enrollment with Vice President David Waggoner's retirement, Heather Campbell will assume the role of Chief Enrollment Officer (and acting Vice President for Enrollment) and will remain in her office in Godwin Hall. Anja Serby-Wilkens will move to an office closer to Ms. Campbell. The transition is likely to occur by the start of the fall semester.
ET CETERA
The Norfolk Forum
Since moving to Coastal Virginia in 2015, Annie and I have enjoyed our season tickets to The Norfolk Forum. Founded in 1933, it is the oldest publicly-subscribed speakers' forum in the country with at least four speakers 
a year welcomed to present to potential members a series of lectures from eminent individuals covering cultural, literary, and governmental issues before the nation. Their history boasts a diverse range of speakers over 87 years to include philosophers, educators, consumer advocates, authors, historians, futurists, judges, musical revues, ambassadors, financial wizards, rocket scientists, war correspondents, foreign affairs experts, and film critics.
a year welcomed to present to potential members a series of lectures from eminent individuals covering cultural, literary, and governmental issues before the nation. Their history boasts a diverse range of speakers over 87 years to include philosophers, educators, consumer advocates, authors, historians, futurists, judges, musical revues, ambassadors, financial wizards, rocket scientists, war correspondents, foreign affairs experts, and film critics.
It is an enriching and stimulating experience each time, and is a special opportunity available to us in Coastal Virginia. Last month I had the pleasure of joining the The Norfolk Forum Board of Directors, and look forward to serving this esteemed organization. We plan to make a block of tickets available to our students when it is safe to do so. Learn more at thenorfolkforum.org.
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Speaking of Board-related service, I was recently re-elected as Chair of the Board of Directors of Academic Search, Inc., and Vice Chair of the American Academic Leadership Institute (AALI). I've enjoyed serving on both Boards for over 10 years.
Welcome Marie Porter as Virginia Wesleyan's New University Chaplain
On August 1, we will welcome Marie Porter to the Marlin Family as our new University Chaplain. Marie has served as the Director of Youth Ministry at the neighboring Haygood United Methodist Church since 2009 and will join us at VWU in a part-time capacity while continuing her service at the church. Marie is Lay Person Certified by the Virginia Conference of the UMC, Elizabeth River District. This partnership developed due to the reduced funding we receive from the Church, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Marie's energy, enthusiasm, and interest in serving our campus community is inspiring and I look forward to her joining us.
Kudos: YMCA of South Hampton Roads
YMCA Camp Red Feather, a regional day camp for the YMCA of South Hampton Roads, has returned to its home on our 
campus this summer. Camp Red Feather has continued to serve the needs of 160-180 local children each week, providing an immersive summer camp experience while adhering to safety guidelines associated with COVID-19. Activities have been modified to reinforce social distancing standards with children and staff. For example, a simple game of tag is now played with foam pool noodles to promote these standards.
campus this summer. Camp Red Feather has continued to serve the needs of 160-180 local children each week, providing an immersive summer camp experience while adhering to safety guidelines associated with COVID-19. Activities have been modified to reinforce social distancing standards with children and staff. For example, a simple game of tag is now played with foam pool noodles to promote these standards.
The YMCA conducts daily health screenings for all camp staff and children. This is conducted during drop-off as part of our curb-side drop off routine to include temperature checks and health status question and answers. In addition, camp staff and campers have all been provided with face masks and other face coverings which are used for all inside activity and when social distancing is not possible outdoors. Learn more here.
Kudos: VWU Alumni
Model, actor, singer, and VWU alumnus Jarrell Hargraves '16 recently appeared on the Hampton Roads Show to talk about his HBO Max series "Legendary." In addition to completing his first season of this series, he has also been cast on the new show "Gold."
Professional basketball player and VWU alumnus DJ Woodmore '14 recently signed on with EPG Baskets Koblenz and will continue his overseas professional career in Germany.
AROUND TOWN AND ACROSS CAMPUS
In a recent edition of the Virginia Wesleyan Athletics "Inside Splash" segment, Head Men's Lacrosse Coach J.P. Stewart is interviewed by VWU Sports Information intern Taylor Major '20. Read it here.
The brand new seating in TowneBank Arena looks great and we can't wait to fill the stands. Additional amenities and features will be added in the coming weeks.
Renovation of the Boyd Dining Center continues to progress with the installation of the new flooring recently completed.
Significant progress has been made on Coastal 61 at Oxford Village. A temporary new traffic light at our main entrance has been installed to direct traffic exiting Oxford Village (into campus or onto Wesleyan Drive). This is only a temporary light until the steel structure arrives next month. Among many other updates, the Coastal 61 signage is in place.
The Susan T. Beverly Hall lettering has been successfully installed on the exterior of the building, and looks great.
After several delays caused by the pandemic, planning is now back on track for the construction of DeFord Manor. We anticipate crews to begin construction this fall.
STAY CURRENT ON VWU NEWS AND FEATURES
REFLECTIONS
I hope you find these links useful to my recent columns and publications:
CONNECT WITH ME ON SOCIAL MEDIA
Twitter: @vawesleyanprez
Facebook: @ScottDMillerprez
Instagram: @prezscottmiller
LinkedIn: Scott D. Miller, Ph.D.
Flickr: Scott D. Miller
Dialogue: prezscottmiller.blogspot.com
(Be sure to subscribe to Dialogue for daily updates via email)
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Have a great week!
Saturday, July 25, 2020
The Wesleyan Review: July 24, 2020
Catch up on Virginia Wesleyan University news in the latest issue of the Wesleyan Review: https://conta.cc/39pg5sd
Friday, July 24, 2020
The Inside Splash with Coach Nicole DeSalvia
In this week's edition of the Virginia Wesleyan Athletics "Inside Splash" segment, Head Women's Lacrosse Coach Nicole DeSalvia is interviewed by #VWU Sports Information intern Taylor Major '20. Check it out: https://vwuathletics.com/sports/wlax/2019-20/releases/20200713hbyvol
Thursday, July 23, 2020
Kudos to VWU Scholar-Athletes
Congratulations to the 170 Marlins who earned ODAC's 2020 All-Academic Team Honors. Keep up the good work! View the list and more information: https://bit.ly/3eUE1VJ
Spotlight on Virginia Wesleyan Alumnus
Learn about VWU graduate Brian Hill '93, Owner of Navigator Counseling & Consulting and of River City Aikido, in this recent Richmond Times-Dispatch feature: https://bit.ly/2D1cGUF
Wednesday, July 22, 2020
VWU Alumni DJ Woodmore signs with EPG Koblez
Congratulations to Virginia Wesleyan University alumnus DJ Woodmore '14 on signing with EPG Baskets Koblenz and continuing his overseas professional career in Germany. Read more here: https://bit.ly/39lLfkq
Virginia Wesleyan's Announcement on 2020 Athletic Seasons
Following the Old Dominion Athletic Conference (ODAC)'s recent decision, I share with you an announcement regarding Virginia Wesleyan University's 2020 athletic seasons:
It is with the ultimate health and safety of our student-athletes, coaches, support staff and our community at the forefront, that Virginia Wesleyan University athletics will follow the ODAC President's and Athletic Board of Directors decision to postpone conference competition and championships for fall and winter sports through the end of the 2020 calendar year (December 31). It is our hope and intention, that if conditions safely permit it, we will compete in all sports after the new year. Evaluation of the ever-changing health and safety climate will be ongoing and communication related to changes will be forthcoming, when appropriate.
For more information about the ODAC's decision, click on the following links: Release | FAQ
It is with the ultimate health and safety of our student-athletes, coaches, support staff and our community at the forefront, that Virginia Wesleyan University athletics will follow the ODAC President's and Athletic Board of Directors decision to postpone conference competition and championships for fall and winter sports through the end of the 2020 calendar year (December 31). It is our hope and intention, that if conditions safely permit it, we will compete in all sports after the new year. Evaluation of the ever-changing health and safety climate will be ongoing and communication related to changes will be forthcoming, when appropriate.
For more information about the ODAC's decision, click on the following links: Release | FAQ
Monday, July 20, 2020
The Inside Splash with Coach J.P. Stewart
In this week's edition of the Virginia Wesleyan Athletics "Inside Splash" segment, Head Men's Lacrosse Coach J.P. Stewart is interviewed by VWU Sports Information intern Taylor Major '20. Check it out: https://vwuathletics.com/sports/mlax/2019-20/releases/20200713h1rzoi
Nota Bene: Weekly Update
The Virginia Wesleyan University Board of Trustees convened virtually last Thursday for a 
special meeting in preparation for the new academic year. The meeting began with an update on the state of the world as we navigate this historic event, and the state of higher education in America and how we are adapting as an institution. This included discussion and reaffirmation of our test-optional policy adopted for the 2021 recruitment cycle and plans for this fall.
special meeting in preparation for the new academic year. The meeting began with an update on the state of the world as we navigate this historic event, and the state of higher education in America and how we are adapting as an institution. This included discussion and reaffirmation of our test-optional policy adopted for the 2021 recruitment cycle and plans for this fall.
The Trustees heard lengthy presentations regarding our plans for reopening campus in August, led by Dr. Maynard Schaus (Vice President for Academic Affairs), Dr. Keith Moore (Vice President for Campus Life and Operational Management), and Joanne Renn (Interim Executive Director of Intercollegiate Athletics). A conversation regarding the uncertainty in the Old Dominion Athletic Conference (ODAC) regarding competition for the upcoming academic year also took place.
I again want to offer my thanks to the Emergency Response Team which is composed of Dr. Schaus, Dr. Moore, Jim Cooper (Vice President for Finance and Administration), Jason Seward (Associate Vice President for Campus Life and Operational Management), and Ms. Renn.
The Board accepted the final budget for the 2019-20 fiscal year, and approved the budget for the 2020-21 fiscal year.
My gratitude goes to the Board for their stewardship and strong support during this especially challenging time.
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Throughout my career in higher education, I've enjoyed being actively involved in church-related institutions. As many of you know, I have served as president of the national umbrella organization representing over 100 schools, colleges/universities, and seminaries of the United Methodist Church.
You have heard much in the national news about the challenges facing the United Methodist Church. Add to that the challenges of the pandemic, and the higher education landscape is quickly evolving. In response to this modified arena, a new journey has also begun for the long-established association of Methodist schools, colleges, and universities that I've had the pleasure of leading. The shift comes in the form of both identity and strategic focus.
I am pleased to announce that the National Association of Schools, Colleges, Universities, of the United Methodist Church (NASCUMC) has officially become the North American Association of Methodist Schools, Colleges and Universities (NAAMSCU). This change in name, which is the result of extensive work undertaken by leadership of the association, represents an expansion of the geographic focus of the association and its intent to be more broadly inclusive of educational institutions across the Methodist spectrum. 
This is an important point for this organization and this moment represents more than a name change, but an organizational reset. The NASCUMC organization has often focused its attention almost exclusively on the facilitation of conversation between higher education institutions and the United Methodist denomination. While this priority is still important, our goal is to shift the organization into becoming more of a strategic partner with the institutions we serve.
Among the strategic initiatives being explored are opportunities for associational members to collaborate on the acquisition of critical services, using scale to reduce costs, and identifying opportunities to establish programs collectively that would be difficult for institutions to undertake individually. Through engagement with additional partner institutions, such collaborations can be strengthened.
As Dr. Mark Hanshaw, secretary of the association and associate general secretary for the United Methodist General Board of Higher Education, shared: "Though the work on this strategic shift began long before COVID emerged or the new focus was given to the nation's systemic racial disparities, these events have helped us to better understand the need for deeper collaboration across our institutional network. What is unfolding here is not an event, but a process. We believe that it will provide new and vital structures of support for our institutions."
NAAMSCU is a nonprofit corporation based in Nashville and established under the laws of the State of Tennessee. I am proud to have led the organization through this historic and much-needed change, and look forward to seeing the evolution continue after my term as NAAMSCU president ends in 2021.
ET CETERA
Joanne Renn to Remain Athletic Director for 2020-21 Academic Year
Joanne Renn, who came out of retirement this spring to serve as Interim Executive Director of Intercollegiate Athletics, will remain in that capacity for the 2020-21 academic year. With continuously changing messages from both the 
NCAA and the ODAC regarding the 2020-21 season, it is important for us to maintain a level of consistency in our Office of Intercollegiate Athletics. Acclimating a new athletics director under the current circumstances would not be ideal for anyone. Therefore, we have suspended the search for a permanent athletic director.
NCAA and the ODAC regarding the 2020-21 season, it is important for us to maintain a level of consistency in our Office of Intercollegiate Athletics. Acclimating a new athletics director under the current circumstances would not be ideal for anyone. Therefore, we have suspended the search for a permanent athletic director.
After 11 years as athletics director and 25 years total with the Marlins, Joanne retired in 2018. She is a trusted colleague and friend. Joanne played an instrumental role in the implementation of several important initiatives during my early tenure at the University. She provided active leadership in expansion and improvement of the institution's athletic facilities: Birdsong Field, the Betty S. Rogers Track and Field Center, development of the outdoor athletic complex, upgrades and naming of Kenneth R. Perry Field, a new East Gate campus entrance and the adjoining Marlin Way, and TowneBank Park. Joanne was also instrumental in the initiation of men's and women's swimming, a relationship with Harlaxton College of England, and establishment of the Batten Honors College. She led the planning, secured the funding, and supervised the construction of the Everett Tennis Center in 2011. Renn Reserve and Pond, in the heart of our outdoor athletic complex, was named in Joanne's honor upon her retirement.
VWU sponsors 22 intercollegiate sports programs and a staff of more than 55 coaches, administrators, and support personnel.
I thank Joanne for providing valuable leadership at this critical time. When deemed appropriate to re-start the search process, I keep you all informed.
Returning to Campus Fall 2020 COVID-19 Guide
Last week, I shared with our Marlins an update on our plan to return to campus this fall along with a detailed document, the Returning to Campus Fall 2020 COVID-19 Guide. This guide was formulated by our Emergency Response Team, informed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and follows strict guidance from the Office of the Secretary of Education, the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia, and the Virginia Department of Health. I encourage our campus community to review the document carefully and refer to it often.
This thorough plan, which will be archived on the University's COVID-19 webpage at vwu.edu/coronavirus, 
will allow us to safely return to campus and offer our students the liberal arts experience that is our fundamental mission. Nothing is more important than the safety of our campus community, and it is because of the strength of our community that I have confidence in our ability to come together and meet the challenges that this fall will bring. More information will be forthcoming about academics, residence life, and campus life. Should you have questions in the meantime, please direct your inquiries to the appropriate contacts that can be found here.
will allow us to safely return to campus and offer our students the liberal arts experience that is our fundamental mission. Nothing is more important than the safety of our campus community, and it is because of the strength of our community that I have confidence in our ability to come together and meet the challenges that this fall will bring. More information will be forthcoming about academics, residence life, and campus life. Should you have questions in the meantime, please direct your inquiries to the appropriate contacts that can be found here.
NCAA Postgraduate Scholarship
Congratulations to VWU alumna Kaitlyn Dozier Fox on being awarded the NCAA Postgraduate Scholarship for part-time or full-time graduate study at a university or professional school. This award stands as a significant honor for Kaitlyn and the institution. A complete listing of the award recipients will be released at ncaa.org.
The Passing of Dr. Cheul Kang
It is with sadness that I share the passing of a beloved member of our Marlin family, Dr. Cheul Kang, VWU Professor Emeritus, Management, Business, and Economics. Dr. Kang passed away on July 11 at the age of 88, and is survived by his son David and daughter Grace. Please join me in keeping them and all of those mourning this loss in your thoughts and prayers. After 32 years of service to the institution, Dr. Kang retired in 2017. He undoubtedly left his mark on Virginia Wesleyan and our community, and will be greatly missed by all. Dr. Kang's obituary can be found here.
AROUND TOWN AND ACROSS CAMPUS
Remembering Sue Birdsong
While the COVID-19 crisis has prevented us from holding a dedication ceremony for the Sue Benton Birdsong Entrance Gate at VWU, the plaque has been installed and we are so proud to honor our good friend.
Coming Soon: New Office Location for VWU Global Campus
As leadership transitions in the Center for Enrollment with Vice President David Waggoner's 
retirement, office locations are also shifting. Heather Campbell, Chief Enrollment Officer (and acting Vice President for Enrollment), will remain in her office in the Center for Enrollment Services. Anja Serby-Wilkens will move to an office closer to Ms. Campbell. Larry Belcher, Director of Enrollment for VWU Global Campus, and Marion Hibbler, Director of Support Services for VWU Global Campus will move to the former Vice President for Enrollment office. The transition is likely to occur by the start of the fall semester.
retirement, office locations are also shifting. Heather Campbell, Chief Enrollment Officer (and acting Vice President for Enrollment), will remain in her office in the Center for Enrollment Services. Anja Serby-Wilkens will move to an office closer to Ms. Campbell. Larry Belcher, Director of Enrollment for VWU Global Campus, and Marion Hibbler, Director of Support Services for VWU Global Campus will move to the former Vice President for Enrollment office. The transition is likely to occur by the start of the fall semester.
The Office will support all VWU Global Campus areas including LUJ/VWU Global (Japan), VWU Online, Evening and Weekend Program, Early Enrollment, and non-credit continuing education programs.
Greater Norfolk Corporation
Recently I had the opportunity to attend the annual meeting of the Greater Norfolk Corporation's Board of Directors. I have served on the board for four years and on the Executive Committee this past year. It has been a gratifying experience. The meeting was the final meeting for Chuck McPhillips, who is stepping down as GNC's President. Chuck has provided extraordinary leadership during his seven-year tenure as president. I thank him for his leadership but also for the warm welcome he provided for me when I first arrived here.
Campus Construction Project Updates
Enjoy updated photos of progress on the renovation of Boyd Dining Center and our new TowneBank Arena.
Millenial Marlin on the Move
Congratulations to CovaBiz "Millenial on the Move" honoree Tiffany Boyle, a 2014 Virginia Wesleyan graduate. Tiffany is the Commissioner of the Revenue for the City of Newport News and serves on the President's Council at VWU. Read more here.
Inside Splash
Virginia Wesleyan Athletics has launched a new "Inside Splash" segment, featuring members of the coaching staff. In this inaugural piece, Head Men's Basketball Coach Dave Macedo is interviewed by VWU Sports Information intern Taylor Major '20. Check it out here.
STAY CURRENT ON VWU NEWS AND FEATURES
REFLECTIONS
I hope you find these links useful to my recent columns and publications:
PRESIDENTIAL EVENTS
I invite you to stay updated on these activities here.
CONNECT WITH ME ON SOCIAL MEDIA
Twitter: @vawesleyanprez
Facebook: @ScottDMillerprez
Instagram: @prezscottmiller
LinkedIn: Scott D. Miller, Ph.D.
Flickr: Scott D. Miller
Dialogue: prezscottmiller.blogspot.com
(Be sure to subscribe to Dialogue for daily updates via email)
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Have a great week!
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