Dialogue: Nota Bene: Weekly Update

March 24, 2025

Good morning,

One of my favorite traditions at Virginia Wesleyan is just around the corner—Spring Alumni Weekend returns April 4-6, 2025! We’re excited to welcome alumni, parents, and friends back to campus for a weekend of celebration and connection.

Join us for an unforgettable weekend filled with fellowship, food, and fun. The festivities begin on Friday evening with an alumni social at Shorebreak Pizza & Taphouse, where classmates can reconnect in a relaxed setting. On Saturday, our Marlin community continues the tradition with our annual spring picnic. Be sure to stop by the reunion tent for Cheers & Beers where we’ll raise a glass to recognize our three retiring faculty members: Kathy Ames, Linda Ferguson, and Doug Kennedy.

Members of the classes of 1975 and 2000 can commemorate their 50th and 25th commencement anniversaries by adding their signatures to the University Scroll. Alumni games and athletic contests, including softball’s annual Strike Out Cancer Day, will add even more energy and excitement to the weekend. Additionally, make time for a special performance of Shakespeare’s classic “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” brought to life by VWU’s Theatre and Music programs.

Mark your calendars and make plans to come home! For all the weekend’s fun, check out the full schedule here.

ET CETERA

As previously announced to students and faculty, beginning Fall 2025, required textbooks and course materials will be included in tuition—eliminating separate purchases and unexpected costs.

Students will save hundreds of dollars upfront, and all materials will be ready before classes begin. Physical books can be picked up at the campus bookstore with a student ID, while digital resources will be available in the student portal—no more waiting on financial aid or last-minute orders.

Faculty will continue selecting the best materials, and we’ll ensure students have what they need from day one. This change supports affordability and academic success by removing common barriers to learning.

No action is needed now—details will be shared over the summer. For questions, contact our Student Success Team at studentsuccess@vwu.edu.

At VWU, student success is our priority, and we’re excited to make this investment in their education.

AROUND TOWN AND ACROSS CAMPUS

Women’s History Month Continues

Check out our last week of events for Women's History Month here.

Introducing CONTRIBUTIN® - Give Today, Feel Better Forever!

You're invited to help us Cure the Marlin Fever by participating in our Spring Day of Giving on April 11, 2025. Alumni from the top three decades with the highest rate of giving between July 1, 2024 - April 11, 2025, who support any area of campus will earn a spot in the exciting Marlin Fever Fighters Drawing! It's your chance to make a difference and join the fun.

VWU Launches New Master’s in Applied Psychology Online

I am pleased to share that we are expanding our graduate offerings with the launch of a fully online Master of Arts in Applied Psychology. This 30-credit-hour program is designed to equip students with real-world psychological insights for careers in nonprofits, corporate human resources, and government agencies. With a flexible format and no standardized test requirements, the program is ideal for working professionals looking to advance their careers. The first cohort begins today, March 24, 2025. Learn more.

Virginia MOCA Tour

The new Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art (VMOCA) at VWU is taking shape, and excitement is building! Last week, I had the pleasure of joining Alison Byrne, VMOCA Executive Director, in leading a tour of the construction site for representatives from the American Alliance of Museums, a key accrediting organization in the museum industry. We look forward to its anticipated completion in late 2025, bringing a dynamic new space for contemporary art to campus and the community.

Alison Byrne Honored by YWCA

My congratulations to Alison Byrne, Executive Director of the Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art (VAMOCA), who was honored by the YWCA South Hampton Roads for her visionary leadership. Alison who has been with VAMOCA for over two decades and assumed the role of Executive Director in 2024, has been instrumental in advancing the museum’s mission and community engagement. I’m delighted that she’s being recognized for her dedication and significant contributions to the arts and broader Hampton Roads community.

VWU Trustee Honored at JA Hampton Roads Business Hall of Fame

I was proud to join Harriet Malbon and Trustee Emerita Jane Batten in celebrating VWU Trustee John Malbon’s well-deserved recognition and induction into the Hampton Roads Business Hall of Fame. Hosted by Junior Achievement of Greater Hampton Roads, this prestigious recognition honors the impact of business leaders who have shaped our region’s economic and civic landscape.

John’s leadership on the VWU Board of Trustees has been exemplary, and his commitment to our University continues to strengthen its future. Congratulations to John on this distinguished honor.

Representing Virginia Private Colleges in Meeting with Rep. Scott

We had a productive meeting with Congressman Bobby Scott, the ranking member of the House Committee on Education and Labor, on Friday. I met Rep. Scott with Mary Dana Hinton, President of Hollins University and current Chair of Virginia Private Colleges and the National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities (NAICU). Rep. Scott has been a strong supporter of higher education initiatives and is a frequent visitor to VWU.

Connecting with Virginia’s Attorney General

It was a pleasure visiting with Virginia Attorney General Jason Miyares and Christopher Newport University President Bill Kelly at a business leaders’ social event at The Main last week. Great conversations about a wide variety of topics and the future of our Commonwealth.

Chesapeake Bay Foundation Climate Lecture Series

I enjoyed reconnecting with good friends and colleagues at the Chesapeake Bay Foundation’s Climate Lecture Series at The Slover Library last week. With keynote speaker U.S. Senator Tim Kaine, the event featured insightful discussions alongside Norfolk Commissioner of the Revenue Blythe Scott, CBF President & CEO Hilary Harp Falk, Rep. Bobby Scott, Del. Michael Feggans, and former Gov. Ralph Northam. The lecture tackled the pressing topic: “Climate Change: Keeping Our Community Safe and Prosperous.” A thought-provoking evening focused on the future of our environment and economy.