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.

PARTNERS IN PROGRESS A Virginia Wesleyan University Community

STAY CURRENT ON VWU NEWS AND FEATURES Features News Briefs VWU Athletics The Wesleyan Review VWU Alumni News  The Arts at VWU  Virginia Wesleyan University Magazine  The Pharos REFLECTIONS I hope you find these links useful to my recent columns and publications:  University Business  Enrollment Manager  President to President Archives CONNECT WITH ME ON SOCIAL MEDIA Twitter: @vawesleyanprez  Facebook: @ScottDMillerprez Instagram: @prezscottmiller  LinkedIn: Scott D. Miller, Ph.D.  Flickr: Scott D. Miller  Dialogue: prezscottmiller.blogspot.com  (Be sure to subscribe to Dialogue for daily updates via email)

Feeling a little older and wiser today. Sincerely,

-- Scott D. Miller, Ph.D. President Virginia Wesleyan University 5817 Wesleyan Drive Virginia Beach, VA 23455   Phone: 757.455.3215 Email: president@vwu.edu Web: www.vwu.edu/president  Blog: prezscottmiller.blogspot.com

Congratulations to my good friends Courtney McBath and Shawn Avery

 

Congratulations to my good friends Courtney McBath and Shawn Avery, honorees at tonight's United Negro College Fund Mayors’ Masked Ball in Newport News.  Courtney is President of Virginia Christian College and Shawn is President of the Hampton Roads Workforce Council.  Both are strategic partners of VWU. #UNCF #MMBHamptonRoads UNCF Virginia

We celebrated the seventh annual Betty S. Rogers Track and Field Invitational

 

We celebrated the seventh annual Betty S. Rogers Track and Field Invitational today with members of the Shelhorse and Rogers families.  The event, named in memory of Bill and John Shelhorse’s sister, is held each year at the facility that bears her name.  Our thanks to Bill and Sallye Shelhorse for making the Center possible.

A productive meeting today with Congressman Bobby Scott

 

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

A special night at The Main

 

A special night at The Main as the Hampton Roads Business Hall of Fame recognized VWU Trustee John Malbon as a 2025 honoree. With Harriet Malbon and Trustee emeritus Jane Batten.

The Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art at VWU is coming together!

 

The Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art at VWU is coming together! Today Alison Byrne (VMOCA Executive Director) and I gave a tour of the construction site to representatives from the American Alliance of Museums, a museum accreditor. The project should be completed in late 2025.

Great to visit with good friends at the Climate Lecture Series

 

Great to visit with good friends at tonight’s Climate Lecture Series hosted by the Chesapeake Bay Foundation at The Slover.  With keynote speaker U.S. Senator Tim Kaine and Blythe Scott (Norfolk Commissioner of the Revenue);  CBF President/CEO Hilary Harp Falk and Congressman Bobby Scott; Delegate Michael Feggans and former Gov. Ralph Northam.  The lecture explored the critical question: " Climate Change: Keeping Our Community Safe and Prosperous."

Nice to visit with Jason Miyares and Bill Kelly

 

Nice to visit with Virginia Attorney General Jason Miyares and Christopher Newport University President Bill Kelly at a business leaders social at The Main earlier this evening.

Nota Bene: Weekly Update

March 17, 2025 Top o' the mornin' to ya, Marlins!

The Marlins are the 2025 ECAC Champions! Omari DeVeaux was named tournament MVP, leading the Marlins with 26 points as they bested Salisbury University for the first Eastern College Athletic Conference tournament championship in school history. Learn more. Congratulations to Head Men's Basketball Coach Dave Macedo, his staff, and his team on a great season!

We are pleased to announce that the Spring Marlin Business Conference, taking place April 14-17, will explore the theme “Riding the Wave of Innovation". This year’s keynote speaker is Andrew Cohen, an accomplished academic entrepreneur, and former top Wall Street trader.   Andrew Cohen is the visionary behind Future Traders, an innovative educational platform and trading simulation that has revolutionized how students learn about financial markets. His expertise extends to his work as an educational consultant for Bloomberg, where he has contributed to test banks for BMC Certification and developed content for Bloomberg's Professor Toolkits. With deep roots in the financial industry, Andrew brings real-world experience to academia. He was a market maker and trader on Wall Street, later developing the Systematic Alpha Value and Growth Models at Validea Capital. He is also the author of A Practical Guide to Trading, Market Making, and Investing, a widely respected resource in the field. A graduate of the prestigious Goldman Sachs Training Program, Andrew achieved financial independence by age 36. His passion for bridging the gap between theory and practice has transformed ODU’s trading room lab into one of Bloomberg’s top-tier trading environments, integrating his proprietary Future Traders simulation and leveraging his extensive Wall Street experience. His teaching excellence and innovation have earned him numerous accolades.   Beyond academia, Andrew was a consultant and participant in the Netflix documentary Madoff: The Monster of Wall Street. The Marlin Business Conference brings together industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and students for an engaging exploration of business and innovation. This spring’s event is organized by students in Professor Frank Futyma’s MBE 301 class, with leadership from Clarissa Thurston (CEO) and Nicholas Barnes (Chief of Staff). Their dedication and vision ensure a dynamic and impactful conference experience.

The University will celebrate retirements and employee service milestones of faculty, staff, and friends in operational services in a campus-wide celebration on Wednesday, April 30 at 3:30 p.m. in the Joan P. Brock Room of Brock Commons. Congratulations to these members of the Virginia Wesleyan family: Retiring Faculty Members and Friends Kathy Ames, Lecturer in Mathematics Polly Gaskins, Sodexo Dining Services Linda Ferguson, Professor of Management, Business, and Economics Doug Kennedy, Professor of Sport and Recreation Professions Joyce Walden, Aramark Facilities Management

40 Years Carol Johnson 30 Years Ben Dobrin Mike Rigby 25 Years Charline Bess Jeff Bowers Kim Brown ’16 Joyce Easter Malcolm Lively Vic Townsend John Wang

20 Years Soraya Bartol Richard Bond Vic Dorsey Craig Jackson Travis Malone John Rudel C.J. Sholler Harold Stallings Kathy Stolley

15 Years Gabriela Martorell Taryn Myers Michael Skipper ’23 10 Years Heather Campbell ’04 Kelly Cordova Javier Delgado Bill McConnell Bryson Mortensen Antje Schwennicke Jason Squinobal Jill Sturts

I hope all faculty and staff members mark their calendars and make plans to join in our celebrations for these long-serving and dedicated Marlins on April 30. Watch your inbox for more information soon.

ET CETERA

At Virginia Wesleyan, we are always planning for the future—considering how to evolve as an institution to meet the needs of our students and faculty. As Provost and Vice President Deirdre Gonsalves-Jackson and I discussed VWU’s next steps, we recognized that the library of the future is more than just a collection of books. It should serve as a central hub for learning, exploration, and collaboration, supporting academic activity across disciplines. Our location provides a unique opportunity. With 14 academic libraries within a 35-minute radius, VWU can rethink what a university library should be—leveraging regional resources and new ideas to create a space that enhances the student experience. As part of the Campus Master Plan process, a proposal emerged to reimagine Hofheimer Library as a comprehensive learning resources center, reflecting evolving needs and trends. The Lighthouse and its associated functions have outgrown their current space in Clarke Hall and would be a natural addition to this envisioned facility. The result is the Athenaeum—a modernized learning environment designed to support both academic and professional development. Traditionally, an Athenaeum is a space for studying books and periodicals, but at VWU, it will offer much more. Construction will begin in the coming weeks, with completion expected by summer 2025. The Athenaeum will be designed to foster collaboration, creativity, and discovery. Key features will include: The raised Forum Stage – A flexible space for readings, lectures, panel discussions, and public events. Lounge and meeting areas – Comfortable, furnished spaces for receptions, meetings, and informal gatherings. Expanded galleries and seminar rooms – Integrating the Neil Britton Gallery, Barclay Sheaks Gallery, and Pruden Seminar Room for exhibitions, lectures, and study. A 24-hour study lounge – Featuring a dedicated computer bay for students needing access to e-books and digital resources. Beyond its role as a learning commons, the Athenaeum will house offices currently located in the Truist Center for Exploration and Discovery, consolidating academic and career resources in one location. Offices for Career Development, Civic Engagement and Service Learning, Global Engagement, Undergraduate Research and Creativity, VWU Online, and Instructional Technology will all be based in this new space. Additionally, Virginia Christian College, VWU’s shared-resources affiliate, will have an office within the Athenaeum. Rather than a simple renovation, the Athenaeum represents a step forward in VWU’s commitment to supporting student learning and success. We look forward to seeing this vision take shape.

AROUND TOWN AND ACROSS CAMPUS

Women’s History Month Continues The annual observance of Women’s History Month continues throughout March. Check out our events and programs to learn more and get involved here.

Join the Madness! The MAF Madness campaign makes its official debut tomorrow. Get ready for some fierce competition and a whole lot of fun! Join forces with our Head Coaches as they go head-to-head to rally support for the Marlin Athletic Fund Our Super Sweet Sixteen are racing toward a goal of $2,000 each — that’s a grand total of $32,000 to fuel the future of Marlin Athletics during MAF Madness! Follow the madness on Virginia Wesleyan Athletics Facebook and Instagram.

VWU eSports to Host 3rd Annual CompleteU Collision on the Coast I am excited to share that we will be hosting the 3rd Annual CompleteU Collision on the Coast on March 29-30, bringing together 30 of the top collegiate Rocket League teams from across the country. With powerhouse programs like the University of Florida and four-time national champion University of Akron, this event has grown into one of the largest in-person collegiate Rocket League tournaments in the nation. Thanks to the support of CompleteU, Kellam Mechanical, and Lenovo+Intel, the competition will feature a $3,500 prize pool and will be streamed live on VWU eSports’ Twitch channel. I look forward to seeing this exciting tournament continue to elevate VWU’s presence in the collegiate eSports arena. Read more. Come Home, Marlins! Spring Alumni Weekend is coming up. Set for April 4 - 5, 2025, it’s packed with all kinds of fun and festivities. From the Marlin Family Picnic and alumni games to celebrating our Milestone Marlins (Class of 2000, 25-year reunion & Class of 1975, 50-year reunion) and their scroll signing, it's sure to be the perfect time to reconnect with old friends and make new ones. Full Schedule of Events

Career Connect and Career Fair Showcase Meaningful Opportunities for VWU Students I was truly impressed with the success of VWU’s Career Connect series and Career, Internship & Volunteer Fair, which saw record student engagement earlier this month. More than 360 students participated in these career-focused events, connecting with industry professionals, alumni, and local employers. It was inspiring to see our students taking full advantage of these opportunities to explore potential career paths and internships. Learn more.

VWU and Partners Lead Community-Driven Heat Mitigation Efforts I was greatly encouraged by the collaborative efforts of VWU faculty, the Center for Sustainable Communities, and local partners in addressing the challenge of urban heat in Portsmouth. Made possible through a grant from the Virginia Department of Forestry and the U.S. Forest Service, this initiative uses heat mapping data to identify temperature disparities across the city and develop targeted solutions such as tree planting and green infrastructure. Seeing faculty, students, and community members work together—and take action by planting trees—highlights the impact of collaborative environmental stewardship that is embodied in VWU’s purpose and culture.   Read more | Virginian-Pilot Coverage | 13News Now Coverage

The Pharos: March 2025 I am proud to share the March 2025 edition of The Pharos, which is available now online. We hope you enjoy learning more about our talented faculty and staff members who continue to make important contributions to their respective fields through publications, presentations, and more.

CBF Climate Lecture Series Kickoff with Senator Tim Kaine and CBF President and CEO Hilary Harp Falk The Chesapeake Bay Foundation (CBF) is excited to announce the kickoff of its Climate Lecture Series, featuring a keynote address by U.S. Senator Tim Kaine and CBF President and CEO Hilary Harp Falk. Senator Kaine will explore the critical topic, "Climate Change: Keeping Our Community Safe and Prosperous." This lecture series aims to bring together a diverse group of community members to share their expertise and experiences on the pressing issues surrounding climate change and its impact on the Chesapeake Bay. Don't miss this opportunity to engage in meaningful discussions and learn more about how climate change affects us all on Wednesday, March 19, from 6:30-7:30 p.m. at Slover Library (235 E Plume St, Norfolk). Doors open at 6:00 p.m. with a pre-lecture reception. FREE and open to the public. Register at events.cbf.org/kainelecture.

Championing Student-Athlete Excellence at VWU I was pleased to meet last week with the Athletics Management Council, which plays a critical role in ensuring that our athletic programs remain aligned with our academic mission. I was joined by Faculty Athletics Representative Jill Sturts, Athletic Director Andrea Hoover-Erbig, and student representatives Julia Hathaway and Everett McCloskey for important discussions on student-athlete welfare, academic integrity, and compliance.

Supporting Regional Growth and Community Partnerships As Chair of Virginia Beach Vision (VBV), I was pleased to welcome Capt. Josh Appezzato, Commanding Officer of Naval Air Station Oceana, as the guest speaker at last week’s board of directors meeting. Our discussion reinforced the vital role NAS Oceana plays in our community and the importance of strong partnerships between the military, local government, and business leaders.  Through its strategic initiatives, VBV helps shape policies that support a thriving community for residents, businesses, and institutions like Virginia Wesleyan University. With Laura Chalk (Exec Dir/CEO, VBV) & Brad Martin, Vice Chair of the Board. And with Anthony Walters (CEO, YMCA-SHR) & Bart Dexter (VP, Hourigan).

Marlins Day: Showcasing the Best of Virginia Wesleyan I always enjoy Marlins Day, welcoming prospective students and their families to campus and showcasing all that makes Virginia Wesleyan University exceptional. Visitors toured our beautiful campus, met faculty and students, and learned about academic programs and scholarships. It’s a great way to discover what makes VWU special!

Chat & Chew: Connecting with Staff It’s always great to host a Chat & Chew for staff at DeFord Manor. Last week, we discussed recent and upcoming campus happenings. I host these informal meals regularly throughout the spring to connect with staff, providing updates on University initiatives and fostering open dialogue about life at VWU. These gatherings are a great way to stay engaged and share ideas over a meal.

President to President: The Impact & Student ROI of Intercollegiate Athletics The eighth chapter of this year’s President to President thought leadership series is now available online. In “Athletics as a Strategic Investment: Playing for the Public Good,” University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire Chancellor James Schmidt makes a strong case for viewing athletic programs not as a budget line item, but as a critical campus connection point that provides opportunities for support, belonging, and engagement for all students. Schmidt also emphasizes the need to build robust, student-centered athletic programs so that universities can continue developing the critical thinkers in demand by employers.

Hampton Roads Positioned as a Hub for Offshore Wind Development Officials hope that the newly completed offshore wind hub at Portsmouth Marine Terminal will help establish Hampton Roads as a key center for offshore wind development along the East Coast. This $223 million project, which provides critical infrastructure for Dominion Energy’s wind farm off the Virginia Beach coast, represents a significant investment in renewable energy and the region’s economic future. Learn more from WHRO.

PARTNERS IN PROGRESS A Virginia Wesleyan University Community

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