Dialogue: Nota Bene: Weekly Update

June 22, 2026

Good morning,

We will reach a historic milestone on June 30, 2026, when the integration of Sentara College of Health Sciences into Batten University takes effect. Following the transfer of assets, Sentara College of Health Sciences (SCOHS) will operate as a separate, free-standing division of Batten University until final approval is received from the U.S. Department of Education. That approval is anticipated later in 2026, at which time SCOHS will formally become a college of Batten University.

The integration will welcome more than 9,000 Sentara College of Health Sciences alumni and 38 full-time faculty and staff members into the Marlin Family. During the 2025–26 academic year, SCOHS enrolled approximately 500 students in its undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs, further strengthening Batten University’s growing presence in health sciences education.

Sentara College of Health Sciences traces its roots to 1892, when the Norfolk Protestant Hospital School of Nursing was established to prepare professional nurses for a growing region. Over more than 130 years, the institution evolved through several organizational and name changes while maintaining a steadfast commitment to educating healthcare professionals who serve the communities of Hampton Roads and beyond.

As healthcare education expanded, the institution broadened its academic offerings beyond nursing to include a variety of health sciences programs. In 2006, it became Sentara College of Health Sciences, reflecting its growing role within Sentara Health and its commitment to preparing graduates for careers across the healthcare spectrum. The College developed a strong reputation for academic excellence, clinical partnerships, and workforce preparation, educating thousands of nurses and allied health professionals.

On June 11, 2026, the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) granted final approval for the transfer of Sentara College of Health Sciences to Batten University. As part of the integration, Dr. Megan Hunsinger has been named Dean of Sentara College of Health Sciences. While the University awaits final approval from the U.S. Department of Education, Dr. Deirdre Gonsalves-Jackson will serve as Acting Provost of SCOHS.

SCOHS programs will continue to be offered on the College’s Chesapeake campus while expanding opportunities on Batten University’s main campus in Virginia Beach. The University’s long-term plans call for the eventual relocation of all SCOHS programs, faculty, staff, and operations to the main campus, creating a fully integrated health sciences presence within the Batten University community.

Upon completion of the federal approval process, Sentara College of Health Sciences will continue its distinguished legacy while expanding opportunities for students through enhanced academic pathways, interdisciplinary collaboration, and access to the resources of a comprehensive university.

Last month, a familiar Hampton Roads partner began the visible transformation of our campus from Virginia Wesleyan University to Batten University. Since May 18, Archbell Signs has been hard at work installing new campus signage in preparation for our official name change on July 1. Founded in 1963 by Pete Archbell, the company is recognized as Norfolk’s oldest sign shop and has built a reputation for combining traditional craftsmanship with modern technology while serving businesses and institutions throughout Hampton Roads for more than six decades. Archbell has served as the University’s official sign and graphic display company since 2016 and has been a valued partner in many of our campus enhancement projects.

One of the most visible recent projects is the new Batten University signage at the Sue B. Birdsong Entrance adjacent to the DeFord Gate House. The installation work was completed by Masonomics, whose expertise helped bring this important gateway feature to life. I am especially pleased to note that all costs associated with the University’s new signage program are being funded entirely through private gifts and donations, ensuring that the transition to Batten University is supported by philanthropic investment rather than operating funds. As July 1 approaches, these signs serve as tangible reminders of an exciting new chapter in the institution’s history while honoring the generosity of those who continue to invest in our future.

ET CETERA

The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) has announced a new name and visual identity that reflect its evolving role in higher education accreditation. Beginning in September, the organization will become the Commission on Colleges and Universities, acknowledging the national scope of its work following the U.S. Department of Education’s removal of regional accreditation boundaries.

Along with the new name, the accreditor unveiled a redesigned logo featuring a torch and shield. According to President Stephen L. Pruitt, the new identity better reflects the institutions the organization serves and its vision for the future. The change underscores the Commission’s commitment to partnering with colleges and universities as they move beyond accountability measures toward demonstrating meaningful impact. Read News Release.

This year, The United Methodist Church celebrates the 70th anniversary of full clergy rights for women, a milestone that recognizes the faithful service, leadership, and perseverance of generations of women called to ministry. Since the Methodist Church granted women full clergy rights in 1956, women have served as pastors, district superintendents, bishops, seminary leaders, missionaries, chaplains, and advocates for justice and compassion throughout the denomination and around the world.

Virginia Wesleyan has been affiliated with The United Methodist Church since its founding in 1961 and has benefited greatly from the leadership of women in ministry. Today, Bishop Sue Haupert-Johnson H’23 and District Superintendent Beth Givens provide important leadership within the Virginia Conference and on our Board of Trustees, while the Rev. Evelyn Archer-Taminger and Marie Porter offer faithful guidance to our Epworth Campus Ministries.

The anniversary also provides an opportunity to reflect on the current vitality of The United Methodist Church. Following the historic actions of the 2024 General Conference, many congregations and conferences have shifted their focus from institutional questions to ministry, discipleship, community engagement, and strengthening local churches. Here in Virginia, the conference has flourished under Bishop Haupert-Johnson's thoughtful and forward-looking leadership.

We remain historically related to The United Methodist Church and continue to play a leadership role in the Association of Affiliated Institutions in Virginia, which includes Randolph-Macon College, Shenandoah University, Ferrum College, and Randolph-Macon Academy, as well as the North American Association of Methodist Schools, Colleges, and Universities (NAAMSCU). Batten University continues to receive valued support from the Virginia Conference of The United Methodist Church, the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry, and the United Methodist Higher Education Foundation.

As Batten University prepares for the July 1 integration of Sentara College of Health Sciences, some have asked whether our Methodist affiliation will change. The answer is no. The integrated institution will continue the historic relationship established when Virginia Wesleyan was founded in 1961. Batten University will remain the youngest United Methodist-affiliated college or university in the nation while also benefiting from the rich 134-year educational legacy of Sentara College of Health Sciences. We are grateful for the many clergy and lay leaders whose commitment, service, and support continue to strengthen both the Church and our University community.

Last Friday, our University community observed Juneteenth, a day that commemorates June 19, 1865, when news of emancipation finally reached enslaved African Americans in Galveston, Texas—more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation had been issued. Juneteenth serves as both a celebration of freedom and a reminder of our nation’s continuing journey toward equality, opportunity, and justice for all. It invites reflection on the struggles, sacrifices, and achievements of generations who worked to expand the promise of freedom and citizenship in America.

At Batten University, our recognition of Juneteenth is consistent with our mission and values and with our longstanding heritage as a United Methodist-affiliated institution. The United Methodist tradition has long emphasized human dignity, social justice, and the belief that all people are created in the image of God. As an institution committed to preparing engaged citizens and servant leaders, we believe it is important to honor moments in our history that encourage learning, understanding, and meaningful dialogue. Observing Juneteenth reflects our ongoing commitment to educational excellence, civic engagement, and the celebration of the diverse experiences and contributions that strengthen both our campus community and our nation.

The Virginia Conference of The United Methodist Church convened its 2026 Annual Conference June 17–20 at the Atlantic Union Bank Center on the campus of James Madison University in Harrisonburg. The gathering brought together clergy and lay members from across Virginia for worship, fellowship, leadership development, and church business.

Highlights included Opening Worship led by Bishop Sue Haupert-Johnson, a Juneteenth Worship Service, and the Service of Call and Ordination. Participants also received a report on Virginia’s United Methodist-affiliated educational institutions and updates from Wesley Theological Seminary and Duke Divinity School.

Batten University maintains a proud historical relationship with The United Methodist Church dating to 1961. Last fall, I concluded my term as Chair of Affiliated Institutions for the Virginia Conference, passing the role to Dr. Michael Hill, President of Randolph-Macon College. I continue to represent the presidents of Virginia’s United Methodist-related institutions on the Virginia Conference Board of Higher Education and Campus Ministry.

June 28 marks the birthday of John Wesley (1703–1791), founder of the Methodist movement and the inspiration behind Virginia Wesleyan's founding in 1961. A statue of Wesley rests on the Gamble Plaza in front of the Monumental Chapel and Beazley Recital Hall. Wesley believed that faith and knowledge should work together in educating the whole person, a principle that remains central to our mission today. His vision inspired the creation of hundreds of Methodist-related educational institutions. Today, The United Methodist Church sponsors 10 major research universities, 13 seminaries, 82 liberal arts colleges, and numerous other schools dedicated to educating students for lives of purpose and service.

AROUND TOWN AND ACROSS CAMPUS

Virginia African American Cultural Center’s Annual Golf Tournament

We were proud to support the Virginia African American Cultural Center's Annual Golf Tournament at Cypress Point Country Club, an event celebrating community, collaboration, and a shared commitment to expanding opportunities across Hampton Roads. Partnerships with organizations such as the Virginia African American Cultural Center and the YMCA of South Hampton Roads strengthen our mission and create meaningful opportunities for engagement, education, and service.

Pictured are Dr. Craig Jackson, Dean of the Birdsong School of Social Science; Dr. Rebecca Hooker, Associate Professor of English; Dr. Amelia Ross-Hammond, Founder of the Virginia African American Cultural Center and Virginia Beach City Council Member; Jason Seward ‘05, Chief Operations Officer and Vice President for Enterprise Strategy; Provost and Vice President Dr. Deirdre Gonsalves-Jackson; and Jamie Childress, Vice President for Youth Development with the YMCA of South Hampton Roads. Together, we are building stronger communities and creating pathways for future generations to thrive.

Strengthening Community Partnerships

Aaron Cooper, Trustee of Chesapeake Bay Academy and founder of Aaron Cooper, Inc., visited campus for a tour highlighting the exciting transformation underway across the University. Accompanied by COO & Vice President Jason Seward and Brad Botkin, Director of Facilities Management for Aramark, we showcased recent capital improvements, facility enhancements, and strategic initiatives that are shaping Batten University's future. We value our strong partnership with Chesapeake Bay Academy and appreciate the many opportunities for collaboration that continue to benefit both institutions.

National Leadership Role for April Christman

Congratulations to April Christman, Assistant Professor of Social Work and Field Education Coordinator, on her election to the Board of Directors of the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) as Undergraduate Faculty Representative. Her three-year term begins July 1, 2026.

As the national association representing social work education and the recognized accrediting body for social work programs across the United States, CSWE plays a vital leadership role in advancing the profession and shaping the future of social work education. April’s election reflects her expertise, dedication, and the quality of the University's social work program. We are proud to see her recognized by colleagues nationwide and look forward to the impact she will make while helping elevate the University's visibility on the national stage.

Sodexo Dining Services Cultivating a Culture of Hospitality

Kudos to Heather Beatty, our new General Manager of Sodexo Dining Services, for launching an outstanding staff development initiative. Heather and her leadership team recently gathered for the first meeting of their Summer Book Club, centered on Unreasonable Hospitality by Will Guidara, and enjoyed a thoughtful discussion on leadership, service, and creating exceptional experiences through intentional acts of generosity. The group is looking forward to a summer of learning, growing together, and strengthening team culture through shared reading, discussion, and professional development.

Nikki Nieves Promoted to Assistant Vice President

Congratulations to Nikki Nieves on her appointment as Assistant Vice President for Enrollment and Director of Enrollment for the Jane P. Batten Honors College. Nikki has served with distinction as Director of Enrollment for the Batten Honors College during one of the most successful and prosperous periods in the program’s history. Through her leadership, dedication, and commitment to recruiting exceptional students, the Honors College has continued to grow in both quality and reputation. Her promotion reflects the significant impact she has made on the University and her unwavering commitment to student success. We look forward to her continued leadership as the Batten Honors College enters an exciting new chapter.