Dialogue: Nota Bene: Weekly Update

March 10, 2025

Good morning,

I was delighted to join Chesapeake Mayor Rick West at his State of the City Address, where he announced VWU-Chesapeake, our degree program at St. Brides and Indian Creek correctional facilities.

The VWU-Chesapeake campus officially launched with the start of the Spring Term on January 27, offering its first classes. This semester, four courses are being taught by our dedicated faculty: Drs. Sue Larkin and Rebecca Hooker in Humanities, Christina Todd in Business, and Dr. Lydia Kennedy in Pre-Calculus.

The program is off to a strong start—classes are going well, and the students are highly motivated and appreciative of this educational opportunity.

By now, you’ve heard my announcement regarding leadership transitions in our academic administration. At my recent Town Hall meeting in Brock Commons, I shared that Dr. Deirdre Gonsalves-Jackson will become Provost and Vice President after a reasonable transition period. She will succeed Dr. Susan Larkin, who has served admirably in academic administration for nearly five years.

Dr. Gonsalves-Jackson has been a key leader at VWU, most recently serving as Vice President for VWU Global Campus. Under her leadership, VWU Global Campus has grown to approximately 3,500 learners in the 2023-24 academic year, with continued expansion expected. She oversees VWU Online, the Jane P. Batten and David R. Black School for International Studies at Lakeland University Japan, the Evening and Weekend Program, the David R. Black Institute for Professional Practice, the Westminster-Wesleyan Lifelong Learning Institute, and the Advanced Studies Institute. Additionally, she chairs the VWU Graduate Council and oversees all graduate programs.

With extensive experience at VWU—including serving as Dean of VWU Global Campus, Director of Nursing and Allied Health, and Chair of the Biology Department—Dr. Gonsalves-Jackson’s leadership has been instrumental in advancing our academic mission. Her commitment to student success and academic excellence makes her the ideal leader for this role.

As we prepare for this transition, Dr. Larkin will focus on the writing and editing of the SACSCOC Self-Study, the completion of ongoing searches, and the facilitation of the new VWU-Chesapeake Prison Education Program.

We are grateful for Dr. Larkin’s contributions and wish her the very best as she assumes her new role as Vice President for Academic Affairs at Doane University. We expect a seamless transition as Dr. Gonsalves-Jackson steps into this leadership position.

Please join me in congratulating them both.

ET CETERA

At Virginia Wesleyan, we are committed to preparing our students to be informed and engaged citizens who understand the critical environmental issues facing our world. Jane Batten’s longstanding commitment to environmental education, both through WHRO and her transformative contributions to VWU, has been instrumental in shaping the University’s approach to sustainability. From the establishment of the Greer Environmental Sciences Center to the Batten Honors College, her vision has ensured that environmental stewardship remains at the core of a Virginia Wesleyan education.

Therefore, in collaboration with WHRO and the Batten Environmental Education Initiative, VWU is deepening its commitment to environmental literacy with the launch of ENVS 103 Introduction to the Environment: Virginia. This NO-COST online course will be available to incoming first-year VWU students during the summer prior to their fall matriculation and will count toward graduation requirements.

Designed as an introductory survey course open to all majors, it will provide students with a foundational understanding of Earth’s ecosystems, natural resources, and the pressing environmental challenges specific to Virginia. The course underscores VWU’s continued dedication to sustainability and environmental stewardship, equipping students with the knowledge and awareness necessary to become responsible caretakers of the planet.

The Batten Environmental Education Initiative is an all-encompassing effort to educate and develop Virginia’s environmental stewards of tomorrow. It was developed through a generous gift given by Jane Batten to WHRO. The initiative incorporates the development of a wide range of educational products—including online and video earth science courses, a student-oriented video series, an interactive mobile student lab, a series of short animated video segments designed to instill positive environmental stewardship habits at an early age (grades K-5), and other learning opportunities for younger students.

Students enrolled in ENVS 103 will earn four credit hours at no cost, contributing to the 128 credit hours required for graduation. The course, taught by Dr. Maynard Schaus, Professor of Biology and Environmental Science, will be offered during Summer Session 5, running from July 7 to August 22, 2025.

AROUND TOWN AND ACROSS CAMPUS

VWU Celebrates Women's History Month

Join the Robert Nusbaum Center for “Defining Womanhood: 75 Years of ’The Second Sex’ and Its Impact Across Disciplines” on March 27 at 12:00 p.m. in Blocker Auditorium. This panel celebrates the 75th anniversary of Simone de Beauvoir’s groundbreaking work, “The Second Sex,” examining its influence across disciplines. Virginia Wesleyan scholars from political science, psychology, sociology, English, and gender studies reflect on how the book first shaped them and its continuing relevance in understanding identity, power, and gender dynamics. By reflecting on themes such as “the Other,” existential freedom, and societal constructions of femininity, the panel highlights how “The Second Sex” challenges contemporary norms and illuminates paths toward equality.

Check out more events for Women’s History Month here.

Marlin Memories: Oral History Project Launches

The VWU Office of Alumni Relations is embarking on a meaningful initiative to preserve its history, one story at a time. Through its new oral history project, Marlin Memories, we are inviting alumni to share their personal experiences, recollections, and reflections, ensuring that the legacy of VWU continues to inspire future generations. This initiative, undertaken in collaboration with Publishing Concepts, Inc. (PCI), aims to create a unique collection of narratives that celebrate the impact of a Virginia Wesleyan education. Learn more about our Marlin Memories: Oral History Project.

Summer Session is for Everyone

Summer Session at VWU is the perfect opportunity to stay on track, get ahead, or explore new interests. Whether you’re catching up on coursework, working toward early graduation, or diving into specialty courses, VWU’s Summer Session offers flexible options to fit your academic goals.

With a 73% lower tuition rate compared to the academic year, Summer Session is also an affordable way to complete General Education requirements or advance in your major. Discounted on-campus housing and meal plans are available for students who want to stay engaged on campus.

Don’t miss out! Explore course offerings and learn more here.

New Session of Talent Development Courses with VBED Start Today

VWU Global Campus is committed to empowering professionals through comprehensive, non-degree continuing education courses that enhance career-ready skill sets. In collaboration with the Virginia Beach Department of Economic Development (VBED), VWU Global Campus proudly offers professional development courses online at no cost.

These no-cost workshops represent a major step toward expanding access to education and workforce development. Covering a broad curriculum in essential and emerging fields, VWU Global Campus is not only enhancing individual employability but also strengthening the local and regional economy.

As part of our talent development partnership, we continue to expand our free learning opportunities—offered online, in person at The HIVE in Town Center Virginia Beach, and on campus.

For more information or to register for an upcoming course, please visit VWU Global Campus.

Chesapeake Bay Academy's 29th Annual Gala and Coastal Virginia Magazine Feature Highlight Impact on Student Success

Congratulations to Chesapeake Bay Academy (CBA) on the success of its 29th Annual Auction & Gala, which raised over $325,000 to support students with learning differences. As a VWU Partner in Progress, CBA continues to thrive on our campus, fostering educational excellence and opportunity.

CBA’s dedication to personalized learning, social-emotional development, and research-driven instruction was also recently highlighted in Coastal Virginia Magazine. The feature showcases how CBA’s approach—supported by partnerships with Virginia Wesleyan University and other institutions—is transforming education for students with learning differences.

I was pleased to celebrate this strong collaboration at the Gala alongside VWU colleagues, Craig Jackson, Dean of the Birdsong School of Social Science; Vice President Deirdre Gonsalves-Jackson; and CBA Head of School Judy Jankowski. Learn more.

The Arts at VWU Newsletter

The Arts at VWU continue to enrich our campus and community with dynamic performances, exhibitions, and creative programs. I invite you to explore the newly-published Spring 2025 edition of the Arts at VWU newsletter, which highlights upcoming events, faculty and student achievements, and opportunities to engage with the vibrant arts scene at Virginia Wesleyan.

Unity in Knowledge Lecture Series

I hope you will mark your calendars, and join us for the 2nd Annual Unity in Knowledge Lecture Series, a powerful collaboration between VWU Global Campus and the Virginia African American Cultural Center. This spring, we’re bringing thought-provoking discussions on history, culture, social justice, and more—led by distinguished VWU faculty.

A Special Friend, Advisor, and Local Educator Reflects on Dr. Martin Luther King’s Legacy

I am honored to share a powerful story on WAVY-TV featuring my dear friend and Virginia Wesleyan University Special Advisor to the President, Cee Cee Tucker, as she reflects on the enduring legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in a recent WAVY-TV 10 interview. A lifelong educator and community leader, Cee Cee provides first-hand insight into witnessing Dr. King’s “I Have a Dream” speech, participating in civil rights protests, and the lasting impact of her experiences on her work today. Her reflections serve as a poignant reminder of the progress made and the work that still lies ahead. Watch story.

Virginia Festival of Jewish Film

I was pleased to provide the opening comments at the Virginia Festival of Jewish Film showing and discussion of October H8TE at the Susan S. Goode Fine and Performing Arts Center. The film explores the explosion of antisemitism on college campuses, social media, and in the streets of America over the last year and a half. As an institution committed to inclusion and meaningful dialogue, we were proud to partner in hosting this important conversation. Events like these reflect our mission to foster understanding and engage in critical discussions that promote respect and empathy across communities. Learn more.

Lithographs From Alumus in Beverly Hall

Kenneth ’93 and Vivian Yerby gifted the university two original lithographs by Alexander Nakita. We chose to display the lithographs in Susan T. Beverly Hall, which is especially fitting as Susan was also a graduate of Virginia Wesleyan (Class of 1972).

Laura Chalk Named to Virginia Business Forty Under 40

My congratulations to Laura Chalk, Executive Director of Virginia Beach Vision, on her recent recognition as a 2025 Virginia Business “Forty Under 40” honoree. I serve as Chair/President of Virginia Beach Vision and am delighted that she’s being recognized for her hard work and dedication to the betterment of our community.

Construction Kicks Off on $750M Norfolk Casino

Construction has begun on Norfolk’s long-anticipated $750 million casino resort near Harbor Park, marking the start of a project that has been in the works for over four years amid evolving plans. The resort, a joint venture between Boyd Gaming and the Pamunkey Indian Tribe, will feature extensive amenities including a 45,000-square-foot amenity deck, a 200-room hotel, and a temporary casino slated to open later this year while the permanent facility is set for a late-2027 launch. The project aims to meet state licensing deadlines to secure Norfolk’s casino rights. Read more.

Virginia MOCA to Open by January 2026 with Exhibit Featuring Nationally Renowned Painter

As construction on the new Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art here at VWU nears the one-third completion mark, plans are already underway for its inaugural exhibition in spring 2026 at its new home on the Virginia Wesleyan University campus. The museum has announced that contemporary painter Nina Chanel Abney, known for her bold and thought-provoking work exploring themes of race, politics, and modern culture, will be the first featured artist in its new 30,000-square-foot gallery space. Learn more.

Virginia MOCA Shares Exciting Updates in Latest Newsletter

As Virginia MOCA’s new home on the Virginia Wesleyan University campus continues to take shape, I invite you to explore their latest newsletter for updates on upcoming exhibitions, special events, and community initiatives. This edition highlights key milestones in the museum’s transition, along with opportunities to engage with contemporary art. Read newsletter.

Haitian Artist BIC On Campus: March 21

VWU is proud to host internationally renowned Haitian artist BIC, aka Tizon Dife, on March 21 as part of his University Tour: 25 Years of Career, 25 Performances. Known for his fusion of slam, rap, and poetic lyricism, BIC’s music explores themes of social justice, cultural identity, and civic engagement. Join us for this unique artistic and intellectual exchange. Register now to secure your spot.

Spring Marlin Business Conference

I was delighted to meet with student leaders of the spring Marlin Business Conference, Clarissa Thurston and Nick Barnes, and their faculty advisor, Frank Futyma. The conference theme is “Riding the Wave of Innovation,” and will be held April 14-17.

Distinguished Guests on Campus

We had an enjoyable lunch at DeFord Manor with new Virginia Beach City Council member Cash Jackson-Green, his wife Kenika, and staffer Charles Clarke. We talked about all the exciting things happening in Virginia Beach. Joined by Deirdre Gonsalves-Jackson, VWU VP, and Larry Belcher, Director of Innovative Partnerships.

We were also pleased to welcome Susan Colpitts, co-founder of Signature Wealth (now a part of Brown Advisory) to speak to our Investment Management class, led by Dr. Nadia Nafar. Afterward, we enjoyed lunch with David Black, VWU Executive in Residence.

Hampton Roads Alliance Annual Meeting

It was great to catch up with good friends at the Hampton Roads Alliance Annual Meeting. With Chip Filer, VP at CNU and former Norfolk City Manager; Diane Kaufman, Regional Director for Senator Tim Kaine; VB City Council member Worth Remick; Alisa Hegrenes ’10, HR Alliance.

World Affairs Council Series

We had another fascinating World Affairs Council presentation on campus at the Frank Blocker Jr. Auditorium. Led by Magnus Nordenman (second from left), Senior Fellow at the Atlantic Council’s Scowcroft Center for Strategy and Security & Author of “The New Battle for the Atlantic,” his topic was the Future of NATO and European Security. We enjoyed lunch after his talk.

Boys and Girls Club Gala

It is always a real delight to visit with my good friend Delceno Miles, CEO of The Miles Agency, and her husband, Athens Holloway. We attended the Boys and Girls Club of Southeast Virginia “Youth of the Year” Gala at the Granby Theatre.

Banding Together to Save the Bay

The latest news regarding the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is disheartening, and it is more important than ever to continue our efforts on campus and with our partners. Read more from the Chesapeake Bay Foundation.

Chamber Welcomes New Officials

We welcomed new Virginia Beach City Council member Cash Jackson-Green and Christian Green, new VB Director of Economic Development, at last week’s Hampton Roads Chamber-VB Board of Directors meeting. Christian joins us from Stonecrest, Georgia where he was Director of Economic Development and Tourism.