After serving Virginia Wesleyan for 34 years, Jesse retired in 2006, but he remained engaged with his alma mater. We could always count on him to participate in alumni and campus events, often providing transportation to fellow alumni and supporters so that they could join the celebrations. He was a member of the Lambuth M. and Alice A. Clarke Heritage Society and was awarded the Alumni Service Award in 2011. He also created the endowed Jesse H. Fanshaw III Scholarship to help future students succeed at Virginia Wesleyan.
Fundraising work is full of unsung heroes, and Jesse was certainly one of them. We easily remember the generous philanthropists whose contributions help build new facilities and launch innovative programs, but these gifts are often facilitated by individuals like Jesse. He not only believed in the institution's vision but passionately shared it with potential donors. His dedication, hard work, and commitment laid the groundwork for Virginia Wesleyan's enduring strength, helping to transform our institution into the thriving university it is today.
There will be a memorial service at Emmanuel Episcopal Church in Virginia Beach later in the month. We will share details as they become available.
Please keep the Fanshaw family in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
Sincerely,
