July 27, 2026
Good morning, |
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The Batten University community mourns the passing of Prudence "Pru" Ryan, a devoted friend and benefactor whose generosity, vision, and commitment to education and environmental stewardship have left an enduring mark on the University.
Together, Pru and her husband, Trustee Louis F. Ryan, have long championed Batten University's mission through philanthropic leadership that has enriched the student experience and advanced academic excellence. Their generosity established the Louis and Prudence Ryan Symposium and Prize for Excellence in Research, an annual showcase of undergraduate scholarship through the Jane P. Batten Honors College that encourages students to engage thoughtfully with complex environmental challenges and present research of the highest caliber.
Beyond their support of the University, Pru and Louis have been dedicated advocates for environmental sustainability throughout Coastal Virginia. Their leadership and philanthropy have strengthened partnerships that advance research, education, and conservation, reflecting values that continue to shape both Batten University and the broader community.
On behalf of the Board of Trustees and the entire Batten University family, we extend our heartfelt sympathy to Louis and the Ryan family. We are profoundly grateful for Pru's remarkable life, her unwavering generosity, and the lasting legacy she leaves for generations of Batten students.
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A major milestone has been reached in Batten University’s ongoing campus renewal efforts with the completion of the main campus chiller replacement project—the largest undertaking within our $10 million capital improvement initiative. The installation of a new 370-ton chiller significantly enhances cooling efficiency and reliability for multiple campus buildings, strengthening the infrastructure that supports our students, faculty, staff, and visitors. Located on the back side of the Jane P. Batten Student Center, between the Dining Services loading dock and the Scribner University Store delivery entrance, the new system represents an important investment in the long-term sustainability and resilience of our campus.
Jason Seward ‘05, Chief Operating Officer and Vice President for Enterprise Strategy, led the Batten University team through the planning and successful implementation of this complex project.
We extend our sincere appreciation to Aramark Engineering Solutions for its expert management and partnership throughout the project. We also thank Brad Botkin, Director of Facilities Management, and his staff, whose collaboration made this important investment possible. Together, these improvements ensure that our campus infrastructure continues to support the exceptional educational experience that defines Batten University. |
After two weeks of packing, faculty and staff from Sentara College of Health Sciences (SCOHS) completed their move this past week from our Chesapeake campus to Batten University’s main campus. RCS Commercial Moving & Warehousing of Richmond is managing the three-phase relocation that will bring all academic programs to Virginia Beach by next summer. Vice President Jason Seward is leading both the Blocker Hall renovation and the relocation effort. Approximately 39 SCOHS faculty and staff have now joined the Marlin family. During the coming academic year, classes and laboratory instruction will continue on both the Chesapeake and Virginia Beach campuses to provide a seamless transition for students. |
The transfer of SCOHS assets to Batten University was completed on June 30. SCOHS will continue to operate as an independent division of the University until the U.S. Department of Education grants final approval for the integration of federal financial aid programs. Both SACSCOC and ABHES have already endorsed the transaction.
We are also grateful to the Frank Blocker, Jr. Foundation and the Mary Morton Parsons Foundation for their generous support of the Blocker Hall renovation, which is creating a welcoming new home for our expanding health sciences programs. |
I am also pleased to share that, in the coming months, we will introduce a refreshed visual identity for Sentara College of Health Sciences. This effort will honor the College's distinguished heritage while reflecting its future as part of Batten University. The initiative includes an updated logo, a new artistic rendering of the College's original Norfolk campus where it was founded in 1892, and the introduction of a distinctive academic crest that will be used in formal academic settings. Together, these elements celebrate more than a century of excellence while embracing an exciting new chapter in the College's history. |
Once final authorization is received from the U.S. Department of Education, Sentara College of Health Sciences will join the Wesleyan College of Arts and Sciences and the Global Campus (College of Professional and Graduate Studies) as the University’s three colleges, completing another significant milestone in the evolution of Batten University. |
AROUND TOWN AND ACROSS CAMPUS |
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Partnerships Thrive at The HIVE Many thanks to Jerry Mathis and our friends at Virginia Beach Economic Development for hosting a partnership social at The HIVE. Batten University has proudly partnered with The HIVE since its inception, reflecting our shared commitment to innovation, entrepreneurship, and regional economic growth. I was pleased to join COO and Vice President Jason Seward, Jerry Mathis, Ihsane Mouak of Virginia Beach Economic Development, and Jeanne Evans-Cox, Executive Director of the Central Business District Association, for an evening celebrating the strong partnerships that continue to strengthen our community. |
Virginia MOCA Inspires Lifelong Learning Lifelong learning takes many forms, and at the Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art, curiosity is always encouraged. Through free guided group tours offered both in person and virtually, Virginia MOCA invites visitors of all ages to engage with art, exchange ideas, and discover new perspectives.
Recently, Virginia MOCA welcomed residents of Harbors Edge Norfolk for a guided gallery experience led by two volunteer Gallery Teachers. Drawing on works from the Museum's current exhibitions, the tour encouraged close observation, thoughtful discussion, and meaningful engagement with contemporary art. Programs like these reflect Virginia MOCA's commitment to creating opportunities for learning, connection, and discovery, reinforcing the Museum's belief that curiosity and creativity can enrich lives at every age.
Groups interested in scheduling a guided tour may submit a Virginia MOCA In-Person Tour Request Form. |
Leadership for Virginia Higher Education Governor Abigail Spanberger has appointed Dr. Edward Ayers to the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia. Dr. Ayers is Tucker-Boatwright Professor of the Humanities at the University of Richmond, where he is President Emeritus. As the Council's representative for Virginia's nonprofit private colleges and universities, Dr. Ayers will help guide statewide higher education policy, planning, and coordination. We wish him every success in this important role. |
Congratulations to Emily Archer Congratulations to Emily Archer on her appointment as Director of Economic Development for the City of Virginia Beach. Emily has served the City for 11 years and most recently served as Acting Director of Economic Development. We have had the pleasure of working with Emily on a variety of workforce development initiatives and have long appreciated her collaborative leadership, strategic vision, and commitment to strengthening our regional economy. We look forward to continuing our partnership as she leads Virginia Beach’s economic development efforts into the future. Congratulations and best wishes, Emily! |
A Milestone for CBA Head of School Krishna Rasik Davda Congratulations to Chesapeake Bay Academy Head of School Krishna Rasik Davda on completing the National Association of Independent Schools Institute for New Heads. This significant professional milestone reflects Krishna's commitment to leadership, lifelong learning, and educational excellence. We look forward to the continued success of Chesapeake Bay Academy under his leadership and to strengthening our valued partnership in the years ahead. |
Preparing Students for Career Success I enjoyed lunch at DeFord Manor with Batten University Trustee and alumna Mavis McKenley, Vice President of AMG National Trust, and Career Development Director Alice Jones. Our conversation focused on expanding internships, mentorship, job placement, and leadership opportunities that prepare Batten University students for success in their careers. |
Strengthening Our Partnership with Sodexo It was a pleasure to welcome Sodexo corporate leadership to campus for a lunchtime planning session in the Princess Anne Room as we reviewed our partnership and discussed future opportunities. Special thanks to Senior Vice President Josh Hubbard (pictured left), who flew in from Boston, and to Solution Design Director Kyle Kouri, Strategic Account Development Director Pam Neff, and Senior Director of Partnership Strategies & Solutions Denise Hopkins for joining us. Heather Beatty, General Manager, Jason Seward ‘05, COO and Vice President, Brandon Elliott ’03, Executive Director of Intercollegiate Athletics, and I enjoyed a productive conversation focused on enhancing the Batten University experience. |
Welcoming Hampton Roads Chamber tHRive Batten University was pleased to host the Hampton Roads Chamber's tHRive program on campus. Pictured with me are Emily Nelson, Coordinator of Programs and Development for the Hampton Roads Chamber, and Larry Belcher, Batten University's Director of Innovative Partnerships. Emily was instrumental in launching tHRive, the Chamber's signature young professionals initiative, and continues to lead its growth and regional impact. We are grateful for our strong partnership with the Hampton Roads Chamber and its shared commitment to developing the next generation of leaders. |
Bert Schmidt to retire as WHRO President and CEO Congratulations to our good friend, Bert Schmidt, on the announcement of his retirement after an extraordinary career leading WHRO. Bert will continue to serve as President and CEO until a successor is selected, ensuring a thoughtful and seamless leadership transition. His vision, integrity, and unwavering commitment to public media, education, and our region have left a lasting legacy that will benefit Hampton Roads for generations to come.
It has been a genuine pleasure serving on the WHRO Board of Directors during Bert's tenure. I have admired his thoughtful leadership, collaborative spirit, and ability to bring people together in support of a mission that enriches our communities through trusted journalism, educational programming, and the arts.
On behalf of the Batten University family, I extend our sincere congratulations and best wishes to Bert as he prepares for this well-earned next chapter. Thank you for your friendship, your exceptional leadership, and your many contributions to Coastal Virginia. |
VCIC Hampton Roads Director Departing Please join me in extending our appreciation and best wishes to Meagan Starks, who will conclude her service as Hampton Roads Director of the Virginia Center for Inclusive Communities (VCIC) in August as she begins a new professional opportunity. Meagan, whose office has been located in The Athenaeum of Hofheimer Library, has been a valued partner and friend of Batten University. During her tenure with VCIC, she strengthened the organization's presence throughout Hampton Roads, built meaningful community partnerships, and advanced its important mission of fostering understanding and inclusion. Reflecting on her time with VCIC, Meagan shared that she leaves with "a full heart, immense appreciation, and hope for all that lies ahead." She expressed deep gratitude for the relationships she has built and for the opportunity to collaborate with so many individuals dedicated to creating communities where everyone belongs. We are grateful for Meagan's contributions to our campus and the broader region, and we wish her every success in this exciting new chapter. |
2026 State of the University: August 19 Each August, prior to the start of the fall session, I deliver a State of the University Address to our campus community. Alumni, parents, and friends are encouraged to tune in to the Batten Digital Broadcasting Network to watch this year’s program as we celebrate Batten University’s continued momentum and share an exciting vision for the year ahead. |
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PARTNERS IN PROGRESS A Batten University Community |
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See you in the shade, Marlins!
Sincerely, |
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