Dear friends,
As we approach the close of another remarkable academic year, it is my pleasure to reflect on and share the many achievements and celebrations that have marked our journey together.
We celebrated Spring Commencement with the Class of 2024, a momentous occasion where we were honored to have U.S. Senator Mark Warner as our keynote speaker. Our Baccalaureate Service with R. Perez Gatling, President of Virginia Beach Interdenominational Ministries Conference and Pastor of neighboring Ebenezer Baptist Church, delivered a message of faith and perseverance to our graduates. We are pleased to announce Del. Don Scott as the keynote speaker for our 2024 Winter Commencement.
This spring, we showcased our students' academic achievements through various events like the Academic Symposium and the Spring Honors Convocation. The Louis and Prudence Ryan Environmental Research Symposium, featuring the best of student research in the Batten Honors College, was a highlight, and Breana Mahoney '24 was awarded the prestigious Ryan Prize for Excellence in Environmental Research. These events recognize student excellence and commitment across all disciplines.
Additionally, we honored the dedication of our full-time faculty, staff, and friends in contract services, celebrating their significant milestones and retirements. Their contributions have been instrumental in shaping the vibrant and supportive community we cherish at VWU.
Looking ahead, we announced the Jane P. Batten and David R. Black School for International Studies at our collaborative campus in Tokyo, Japan. The Batten & Black School will offer unparalleled opportunities for students to study at all three campuses (Japan, Virginia, and Wisconsin) through this innovative partnership.
This year has truly been extraordinary at VWU. I thank you for being an engaged member of our community as we move ahead to the next chapter of our story.
Sincerely,
