Averett Magazine 2017

Legacy F O R A LU M N I & F R I E N DS O F AV E R E T T U N I V E R S I T Y | 201 7 E D I T I O N

BUILDING A LIVING-LEARNING

FOR ALUMNI & FRIENDS OF AVERETT UNIVERSITY

TA B L E O F C O N T E N T S

2017 Edition Vice President for Institutional Advancement Buddy Rawley '75 Editor Cassie Williams Jones Art Director/Designer

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Travis Dix Contributing Writers Danielle Staub

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A R U N WAY T O S U C C E S S

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SERVING THOSE WHO SERVE

Drew Wilson

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VETERAN PROFILES

Lindsey Fulcher

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WO R K I N G T H R O U G H L I F E BY H E L P I N G OT H E R S

Editorial Assistants

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O N E T E A M : T H R E E N E W WAY S T O P L AY

Marion Breen

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T H E P OW E R O F “ Y E T ”

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C OV E R S T O R Y : T H E C A M PA I G N F O R M A I N

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MAKING COLLEGE A PRIORITY

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T H E B E S T O F F E N S E I S A G R E AT D E F E N S E

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F AC U LT Y & S TA F F N E W S

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C L AS S N OT E S

Donna Gourley Sherry McDowell '12 Photography Bobby Carlsen '92 Travis Dix John McKeith Drew Wilson

22 8 Vision Statement: Averett University will be a premier student-centered university renowned for innovative teaching and engaged learning.

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Mission of Averett University: Averett University prepares students to serve and lead as catalysts for positive change.

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From the President Momentous Momentum

It’s always a pleasure to share good news about Averett, and as we head to press with this magazine, my Good News file is overflowing. As I heard someone say recently, “Today’s Averett is full of wonderful!”

Certainly our students are more engaged in service-learning and community service than ever before; we have just won an Equestrian National Championship; we’ve launched three new sports; we’ve forged very promising new partnerships for our adult students; and, based on deposits we have received for the fall, we are expecting the largest incoming class in the history of Averett University.

Everyone at Averett feels our positive momentum, and I think you’ll share in our excitement after you read this magazine and learn more about all we’re accomplishing.

Of upmost importance, I hope you’ll take time to read about our Campaign for Main, a fundraising campaign to renovate the iconic Main Hall we all call home. This building has welcomed generations of students for more than a century, and now it’s time we prepare it for the next century of students who will live and learn here.

Renovations are projected to be completed in the fall of 2018, and this is just the beginning – the first step along our path that will combine living and learning in a lasting way, setting the direction for similar renovations throughout Averett’s entire residential community.

It’s because of the amazing alumni and generous friends of Averett that we’ve been able to accomplish so much, and we count on your support and investments to help us sustain this momentum.

I am deeply grateful to the many people who have worked diligently on behalf of Averett, and whose input helped shape the direction we are headed.

Thank you!

Warmly,

Dr. Tiffany M. Franks Averett University President

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A Runway to Success: Averett’s Aviation Takes Off

by Danielle Staub “Imagine a small jungle boy hopping on an airplane for the first time in his life. I knew I wanted to be a pilot the moment the plane took off.”

Gabriel Verde recalls his flight from Peru when he was only eight years old. Verde immigrated to the United States with his parents and his sister. At first, Verde says his parents didn’t think he was serious about becoming a pilot.

“It was a bit of a culture shock coming here. The only two words I knew in English were red and restroom. There were a lot of times I thought I wasn’t going to make it, but my mom always said she didn’t raise a quitter,” he said.

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For 31 years, Averett’s aviation program has been turning young men and women into trained pilots who ensure passengers are safe in the air. In the last 20 years, the career field has seen a drop in pay and after Sept. 11, 2001,

AVERETT MAGAZINE | 2017 EDITION

“This is such a great time to be in aviation,” he said.

The partnership allows students to become certified flight instructors and complete the rest of their 1,000 hours while getting paid by both Piedmont Airlines and Averett.

The program provides cadets with tuition reimbursement and conditional employment.

Imagine a small jungle boy hopping on an airplane for the first time in his life. I knew I wanted to be a pilot the moment the plane took off.

Verde is one of two Averett aviation students who have graduated the program, gone on to become cadet flight instructors here at the University and now landed a job with Piedmont Airlines. A new cadet program partnership the University signed in July 2016 with Piedmont Airlines, a wholly owned subsidiary of the American Airlines Group Inc., will now offer pilot prospects a guaranteed career path to American Airlines.

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Averett’s Chief Flight Instructor Travis Williams says many were getting out of the business. All that is changing now, according to Williams, as there is a huge upswing in aviation and a demand for pilots.

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– Gabriel Verde '16

In a newly released study, The Boeing Company estimates they will need 600,000 pilots worldwide by the year 2025. In the next 10 years, the major regional airlines in the United States will be retiring 18,000 pilots because of age regulations.

Williams considers himself a recruiter to fill those open job positions. This new certified flight instructor program helps him sell the program to prospective students even easier as students can fulfill the required training hours they need to take the next step in becoming a pilot right here at Averett.

“Students will graduate with 250 hours, but federal regulations say they need 1,000 hours. Becoming a flight instructor helps get that time,” Williams said. “When you become a flight instructor, that’s when you really learn how to fly – your ticket to learn.”

And Verde couldn’t agree more. He finished his degree in 2016 and then started his time as a flight instructor.

“I learned a lot about myself when it came to making pilot-in-command decisions. Before, I relied on my instructor. Now, sitting with your student, you realize you are the last line of defense. Oh my word, I’m the one who is in control,” Verde said.

selected students all the way through to American Airlines.

And that was the story for graduate and former flight instructor, Bledar Ibroci, who started training with Piedmont Airlines in early December 2016.

“It brought the Piedmont and the Averett teams closer together, giving me an insight into what kind of company Piedmont was, and helped me make my choice in furthering my career,” Ibroci said. “I get to fly new, larger and faster airplanes to new places and meet new people. With the flow into American and fast captain upgrades, along with this recent surge in regional airline pay, it is definitely a huge advance in my career that would not have went as smoothly if it wasn’t for Averett University.”

Verde says the flight instructor position helped him to not only become more responsible, but also learn to be patient.

“In the middle of all these retires, this program is growing. With all the people retiring, others move up, and then our students get those jobs,” Williams said.

“For 10 long months, I’ve worked day and night. I’ve pushed a lot of my limits. For someone to get my amount of hours in 10 months is unheard of – something I’m very proud of. In a way I’m exhausted, but eager to jump on the next step,” Verde said.

Williams says the current upswing in the industry is the second huge boom for aviation across America, next to that of one in the 1950s.

“Students have a job when they are already in school. How many majors can say a company has come in and hired them as a sophomore?” Williams said.

Only two interviews within their sophomore year flows

Gabriel Verde '16

The University’s aviation program saw the largest incoming class to date in the fall of 2016. In 2012, Verde’s freshman year, there were around 40 students. This year, the program contains 70 students and has seen the highest freshman retention rate in the program’s history.

“The Averett name is getting out there. Every time I fly to other airports, they see the Averett symbol and they now know who we are. Averett’s on the map,” Verde said.

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EASY EASY WAYS WAYS TO TO SUPPORT SUPPORTTHE THE CAUSES CAUSESYOU YOUCARE CAREABOUT ABOUT More than ever, people are searching for something to make their lives better. You can find great joy and meaning in supporting the causes that you care about while securing your financial future.

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Consider naming YOUR IRAAverett as a beneficiary of your IRA. All or a portion of your IRA Consider naming to Averett can pass automatically us and as helpa beneficiary of your IRA. All or a further our mission.

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Support our cause by designating Averett LIFE INSURANCE as a beneficiary of a new or unneeded Support ourpolicy. cause by this life insurance Making designating ascontacting a charitable gift isAverett as easy as your policy provider to complete beneficiary of a new or a beneficiary designation form or call unneeded life insurance policy. us for our partnership with Bankers’ Making this charitable gift is as Insurance.

BEQUESTS AND FREE WILLS KIT One of the easiestAND ways toFREE help us is by BEQUESTS naming Averett in your estate. These WILLS KIT lasting legacy gifts will ensure Averett

One of the ways to help prospers welleasiest beyond our lifetimes for generations to come. us is by naming Averett in your estate. These lasting legacy To obtain a copy of our FREE wills kit gifts will ensure and create Averett your own, visit: prosperswww.averett.edu/giving well beyond our call your IRA administrator and easy as contacting your policy andfor search Planned Giving. lifetimes generations to ask to change or add provider to complete a come. beneficiaries to your account. beneficiary designation form or To obtain a copy of our FREE Many account providers now call to us support for our partnership It’s easy (and costs you nothing today) our cause! Ifwith Averett is a beneficiary in your plans, please let us and create yourtoown, permit youWetowould make Bankers' Insurance. know. likebeneficiary to thank you and also make sure that your gift is used for the wills causeskit that mean the most you. visit: www.averett.edu/giving designations online. and search Planned Giving.

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AVERETT MAGAZINE | 2017 EDITION

It's easy (and costs you nothing today) to support our cause! If Averett is a beneficiary in

CA MPUS NEWS Campus News

University partners with local hospital, YMCA to promote healthy living

information to empower positive decision making and encourages healthy and responsible lifestyle choices to enhance personal success and to help the student population reach their full potential.

by Danielle Staub

“With the center on campus, students are more likely to seek medical attention, even for minor issues because of the convenience of being on campus,” she said.

A new partnership with Averett and the Danville Regional Medical Center (DRMC) now provides students who are seeking health care and wellness checks with the option to stay on campus. Made possible by a gift from an anonymous donor, Averett has a brand new Health & Wellness Center located inside the Galesi Family Student Success Center. The 1,500 square-foot space includes a lobby and reception area, two exam rooms, and the health and wellness office. Services of the clinic, exclusive to Averett students, include wellness checks, sick visits, physicals, immunizations and routine lab work.

Jill Adams is Averett’s first-ever director of Health & Wellness and Title IX Coordinator.

Adams says students are coming into the center daily. And if the clinic isn’t open at that time, Adams helps the students make appointments for clinics off-campus after hours.

“I want students to feel comfortable coming to the Health and Wellness Center and discussing issues that they see on campus,” Adams said.

And on top of medical attention, Adams stresses the importance of students feeling comfortable discussing issues and speaking up. During the 2017 spring semester, The Red Flag Campaign placed posters and red flags around campus, symbolizing “red flags” in a relationship. Designed with a “bystander intervention” strategy, the national campaign encourages friends and other campus community members to “say something” when they see warning signs (“red flags”) for dating violence in a friend’s relationship. Adams says the campus community will see more programs moving forward.

“I will be offering certification for peer health educators for students that want to get involved and help educate peers,” Adams said.

On January 17, the University hosted a ribbon cutting ceremony and tour of the new Health and Wellness Center. (from left to right: Averett President Dr. Tiffany M. Franks; Brandon Veasy, Averett student; DRMC CEO Alan Larson; Dr. Jennie Emery, chief family medicine resident at DRMC; Averett Chaplain Skyler Daniel) DRMC will handle all billing and insurance processing. The clinic is headed up by Dr. Jennie Emery, chief family medicine resident at DRMC, who, according to DRMC Chief Executive Officer Alan Larson, after working in the hospital for the last three years, has developed a vision for working with students and their health and wellness needs and goals.

“We’re excited to bring all of those resources to this vital part of our community,” said Larson. “Our commitment is to make your visit here quick and easy, and enjoyable and accurate.”

In addition to medical care, students have access to Averett’s Office of Health and Wellness, which oversees a number of wellness programs for the campus community. The office works to provide current, objective health and wellness

Since the Health and Wellness Center is now located in the old fitness center, Averett has also partnered with the Danville Family YMCA to provide current traditional undergraduate students, as well as Averett faculty and staff, with a significantly decreased membership rate. Around 350 students are taking advantage of the discounted membership.

“We are excited to partner with our local college, Averett University, and offer YMCA membership to the students,” said Sarah Folmar, chief executive officer of the Danville Family YMCA. “Having a new, state-of-the-art YMCA health and wellness facility for their use will be an asset to their overall quality of life here in Danville, Virginia.”

“We feel privileged to collaborate with Averett in such a meaningful way, while at the same time ensuring our mission of making our community healthier,” said Larson. “In providing these services, we hope it will give Averett students a competitive edge and help maximize their educational experience at the University.”

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It is a high priority at Averett University for veterans to know they are supported. Over the last year, that effort was acknowledged with U.S. News & World Report ranking the University as the ninth best regional college in the south for veterans.

Averett was the only Virginia school to rank among the “2017 Best Colleges for Veterans.”

“Averett has been recognized a number of times for being very military friendly, and the Best Colleges for Veterans ranking and other similar recognitions just reinforce the commitment we at Averett have to serving our women and men of the military,” said Dr. Tiffany M. Franks, president of Averett University.

U.S. News produces the Best Colleges for Veterans rankings to provide military veterans and active-duty service members with data on which top-ranked schools offer benefits that can help them make pursuing a college education more affordable. These rankings only include numerically ranked schools in the 2017 edition of the U.S. News Best Colleges rankings that are in the top half of their U.S. News ranking category, and those that had 20 or more students who used GI Bill benefits to partially or fully finance their tuition and fees during 2015– 2016.

Averett was additionally named a 2016 Military Friendly School® by Victory Media; one of America’s most military-friendly colleges in 2015 by BestColleges.com; a top school in the 2015 Military Advanced Education Guide to Colleges and Universities; ranked in the top 20 percent of America’s most military-friendly schools by G.I. Jobs magazine for five consecutive years; and is the sole university recipient of the Dan Daniel-Military Resale Invitational Endowed Scholarship since 2012.

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AVERETT MAGAZINE | 2017 EDITION

Serving Those who serve: Taking Care of Our Student-Veterans

by Danielle Staub

For Janet Roberson, who handles the University’s Veterans Affairs and is the Military Affairs Officer and PDSO for SEVIS/SCO for Veteran’s Administration, the impact of these ratings can be summed up in one word: exposure.

“Veterans look at these ratings and the magazines that list these rankings when they are making their decisions about where to attend. It makes all of the veterans here proud to be an Averett student and proud of Averett for supporting the veterans after all they have done for our country,” she said.

Roberson is also the assistant dean/registrar and has been with Averett for 30 years. She is a U.S. Army veteran.

“The reason I’m so passionate about veterans doesn’t have to do with me, but my family and fellow veterans. My husband did two tours in the United States Marine Corps, my son was in the Marine Corps, one daughter was in the Army, and my father and father-in-law were in the Navy, so I come from a military friendly family,” Roberson said. “The students here need a voice. I am constantly taking the pulse of how things are going with the veterans and what we can do to make them even more successful.”

Roberson has worked tirelessly over the last several years to make Averett look more appealing to student-veterans.

With the Post-9/11 GI Bill, Chapter 33 and the Yellow Ribbon Scholarship, the University is seeing an uptick in the number of veteran students. Currently, we have 103 veterans attending Averett, both traditional and in the Graduate and Professional Studies (GPS) program.

“Up until 9/11, we didn’t have that many vets on campus. We had a number in GPS, but hardly ever had one on campus,” she said. The Yellow Ribbon, Post 9/11 GI Bill, “has been of benefit to all veterans at Averett, but perhaps most importantly to those in Aviation because of the Yellow Ribbon Scholarship which adds additional funds, when Aviation students have extra add-on costs like airplane fuel.”

“A number of our vets have Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), and they will go into class and the other students are worried about classwork and parties. When the veteran is listening and thinking, ‘Really, I’ve been in a combat zone.

That’s what you worry about? Those are your worries?’

Sometimes, they have to step away to calm down.”

Roberson says it’s about making them feel comfortable on campus.

“They always tell me that they are so grateful to have the lounge because it gives them a place to get away in between classes and time to think. I am currently working on remodeling the veteran’s lounge and on some additional training for faculty and staff regarding working with veteran students,” she said.

Recently, the University formed a Veteran’s Club, which continues to grow.

“We have a monthly meeting of the Veteran’s Club. We catch up with each other, and discuss ideas about things that the veterans need to be successful at school, as well as plans for what the veterans can do for Averett,” Roberson said.

Veterans and current members of the military (both active and reserve) have a number of options available to them through Averett, including a military discount for active duty military, accelerated classes at satellite campuses across the state (including a site at the Marine Corps Base at Quantico), competitive financial aid offerings to qualifying students, and dedicated and specialty support for active duty military, veterans and their families. Averett is a Yellow Ribbon Program and accepts all GI Bill chapter programs.

In addition to the veteran rankings, U.S. News and World report gave Averett its highest ranking to date as the no. 20 best regional liberal arts college in the south in 2017. Only three Virginia schools made the “2017 Regional Liberal Arts Colleges” list, and Averett was the only to make it in the top 20, retaining its position as the highest ranking Virginia regional college out of 56 total for the south.

And with more veterans, the University is finding additional ways to accommodate them.

“I knew the importance of having a veteran’s lounge on campus, that’s why I pushed so hard for it. Veterans need a place that they can go to outside of the classroom, where they can have solitude and be themselves,” Roberson said.

She says the reality for a veteran-student who is 25 or 30 years old may be worlds apart from that of an 18-year-old freshman.

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VETERAN PROFILES

Christine Harris served in the United States Army from 2005-2008. The 29-year-old came to Averett in the fall of 2016 as a psychology major and also a member of the women’s soccer team. Born and raised in California, Harris was stationed overseas and throughout this nation during her time in the Army.

After attending two local community colleges, Harris started talking to the soccer coach at Averett.

“I’d come out to campus and do some pick up with the team. I felt an immediate connection with the players. They were very accepting that I was different.

The team really reached out to me.”

Being a student-athlete, Harris had to spend some time away from the team during the end of the fall to focus on her grades. Harris suffers from PTSD from her time in the Army. She says Averett’s willingness to work with her as a veteran and her disability was very appealing.

“They offer a lot of accommodations here if you have a disability. It makes it easier, it’s very close-knit here and it’s a support system. When things got crazy this last semester, the Averett family was there to support me.”

Even the professors have been friendly and helpful.

“One of my psychology professors actually helped me out with some coping techniques. If I’m feeling overwhelmed, I can get up and walk away, take a 10-minute break and come back,” Harris said. “I think it’s great because the professors understand mental

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illnesses. They can relate because they know so much about it.”

Either on the field or in the classroom, Harris says she knows she is setting an example for the younger students. She believes her military training has given her the discipline to be a better student than she believes she would have been right out of high school. After she finishes her degree, Harris wants to work at the Danville Veterans Association Clinic.

“I want to help other veterans. I can relate to what they are going through.”

Harris met her husband, Tim, while they were both serving in the Army. The pair was married in 2008.

They have two children and live in Chatham.

Harris is looking forward to continuing her education and getting back on the soccer field.

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I felt an immediate connection with the players...

The team really reached out to me. – Christine Harris

KENNETH WHITEHEAD

mostly underwater, resurfacing at times, from Hawaii to the North Pole.

“I’ve spent 313 consecutive days under water. When you come up, things have changed. People listen to different music.”

Whitehead performed weapons system care and maintenance for everything from a 9mml pistol to a nuclear device while aboard the Navy submarine.

After the military, he worked for the Department of Defense in communications and computer technologies and then moved back home to be with family.

Kenneth Whitehead served in the United States Navy from 1996-2005. The 36-year-old is a retired Torpedoman’s Mate first class (Submarine).

“Averett is definitely willing to go the extra mile to help returning students and veterans get their education,” Whitehead said.

Whitehead says after high school, he wanted to see the world, and finding the money for college at that time wasn’t an option. Now, he’s using his GI Bill to pursue a biomedical degree at Averett.

Whitehead had about four months left before his GI Bill would run out. Without much information, he called Averett looking for help.

Before the classroom, the military landed Whitehead

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CHRISTINE HARRIS

AVERETT MAGAZINE | 2017 EDITION

“It was a cold call asking what I could do, and then next thing I knew, I was enrolled in the school. They

He says it’s the small class atmosphere that helps him fit in with the other students.

“The small classes really help. I would not be doing well in a large auditorium class setting. The staff here is more than willing to help you with every aspect. I’ve yet to be turned away when I’ve approached a professor after class,” Whitehead said.

Whitehead hopes to finish his degree at Averett and get a master’s degree in the medical field to pursue pharmacy work or become a physician’s assistant.

VETERAN PROFILES

told me how easy it would be, got a packet from the school and I was registered in about two weeks. Nothing but good to say about the department up there,” Whitehead said.

“Military teaches veterans not to quit. I’m not going to quit. You get that drive instilled into you in the military.

The only way I’m going to fail is if you throw me out,” Whitehead said.

Originally from Caswell County, N.C., Whitehead now lives in Danville with his wife.

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This is our home; we can make it what we want it to be. – Jasmine Lipscomb

JASMINE LIPSCOMB Jasmine Lipscomb served in the United States Marine Corps for 11 years right out of high school.

The 31-year-old is a mother of four and a Graduate and Professional Studies student double-majoring in psychology and sociology and criminal justice.

Lipscomb describes her time in the Marines as challenging.

“I learned everything about myself. I went in as a 17-year-old, got out as a 29-year-old. Married in there, divorced in there, had all my kids there, it made me a better person to come back into the civilian sector. It gives me a boost above the world,” Lipscomb said.

Lipscomb got her associate’s degree while serving in the military. She served overseas in Okinwa, Japan, and Paris, France, as a Marine security guard at American embassies before coming back to the United States to continue her service.

“My biggest challenge was fitting back into this atmosphere. I have high expectations and a set of skills. Being here as a full-time college student, I’m experiencing a different atmosphere, so it was challenging to fit in,” Lipscomb said.

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But she is coping and now using her life experiences to help friends and family back home.

“Coming back home after growing in the military has put all my pieces together. I ran away from home but ended up right back where I started. Now, I’m finding I’m able to fix issues and problems, put the drama away and help put things back together. I’m able to use my skills to help my family out. With patience and counseling, my family is looking at me like, she did it, I can do it,” Lipscomb said.

She says Averett faculty and staff helped make the campus transition easier. Lipscomb says she has met a few military friends on campus and is using her experience in the military to be a leader in the City of Danville.

“Averett as a whole is really trying to help me. We (veterans) have our own lounge, IT guys are great and Security is great. When I was pregnant and trying to make it, they were always there to help,” Lipscomb said.

“This is our home; we can make it what we want it to be. I want to bring military people together because sometimes you feel like you are alone, you don’t fit in. You want to be around other veterans and it really makes a difference, to be around like minds. There is a mutual respect for one another.”

She feels strongly about it, even if going to school at Averett was a backup plan.

“I was like, quick, take care of the family. Once I got myself together, I realized getting my degree at Averett is a win-win situation. It was a rushed thing but it worked out for the better,” Lipscomb said.

And now, she plans to graduate with her bachelor’s degree in May of 2018 and pursue a master’s degree at the University of North Carolina Greensboro.

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Commons Apartments Renovations This summer, one of the current apartments is being transformed into a shared community space for residents. In addition, all apartments are getting a facelift with all new flooring and re-glazed bathtubs.

Frith Hall Commuter Lounges With the help of a $25,000 grant from the Hughes Foundation, Averett has completed two new student spaces in Frith Hall and the hallways got a fresh coat of paint! Located in the bottom of Frith and on the third floor, these lounges will provide space for students to get together – but most particularly for commuter students to have a space on campus to relax, hang out and meet fellow students.

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Campus Touchscreens In our ongoing emphasis of celebrating achievers, Averett installed a large display and screen outside of Pritchett Auditorium in the Violet T. Frith Fine Arts Center lobby, and another touch screen in Averett Central. The interactive screens allow patrons and guests to explore lists of donors, videos from Averett leadership, admissions and athletics information, a campus map and an events calendar.

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AVERETT MAGAZINE | 2017 EDITION

New & Improved Spaces:

MAIN Campus Student Health and Wellness Center Through a partnership with Danville Regional Medical Center, Averett opened its new Student Health and Wellness Center in January 2017. Made possible by a gift from an anonymous donor, the clinic accommodates students seeking health care and wellness checks without ever leaving campus. Located inside the Galesi Family Student Success Center in the former fitness center, the space also includes the Office of Health and Wellness, which oversees a number of wellness programs for the campus community.

Academic Commons at Blount Library Opened in 2015, and enhanced in 2016 with workstations on all three floors, the Academic Commons at Blount Library is a place where students can discover, learn and collaborate. Students appreciate the expanded study rooms, media areas, white boards and scholars workstations. Art students design several exhibits per year at the “art wall,� seminars gather for discussions in the round, and groups reserve media rooms to rehearse presentations or view and discuss films.

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“There was a need, and we were familiar with this area because of our time at Averett. What was supposed to be a four-year journey, turned into a nine-year journey.”

Nic Sturdifen ’07, ’10, and his wife Kaylin ’05, ’07, realized their passion for helping others while at Averett University. Nic was a football player and a business guy. Kaylin was on the cheerleading squad and wanted to be a teacher.

Then, they both got jobs as resident assistants in the campus residence halls. This would lead to a residence hall director and an area coordinator position for both Nic and Kaylin. Kaylin would go on to become the assistant director of residence life.

“It was in those positions that we both realized and our eyes were opened to the idea and concept of helping and leading people to find their way in life,” Kaylin said.

After working at Averett for a few years, Nic took another job at Enterprise and then Verizon Corporate. Kaylin would eventually follow, leaving Averett as well and moving to a teaching job in Greensboro. But it was what they learned at Averett that brought them back to Danville.

“Averett was a job, yes. But it was also a live-in position. We spent a lot of time with the college students which helped us really guide them along their way,” said Nic. “The corporate jobs had great rewards but the satisfaction was missing.

We wanted both.”

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We catch people wherever they are and help them along the way.

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– Kaylin Sturdifen '05,'07

So, Nic and Kaylin decided to start their own business in March of 2014 called Life Push, LLC, a multi-tier human services company.

Working through life by helping others: Averett alumni run growing business in downtown Danville

by Danielle Staub

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AVERETT MAGAZINE | 2017 EDITION

“In the beginning, we had envisioned going to colleges and universities,” said Nic. “I would do the motivational speaking and Kaylin would focus on the workshops. Doing that just seemed to open up the door to new services in the human services field at large.”

The pair agrees, even though the vision was different in the beginning to what it is today, the end result has come together perfectly.

The multi-faceted company works with clients from three categories: K-12 students and family development, college-aged young adults, and transitional adults. With the first, Life Push works therapeutically with at-risk youth and their families, often with kids who have single to multiple barriers to success in their lives. For college students, the company holds leadership conferences and workshops, and the Sturdifens present regularly as motivational speakers. Transitional adults – those working through challenges in adulthood or need assistance getting their life back on its proper course – can benefit from a range of services from mentoring to certified therapeutic services.

“We catch people wherever they are and help them along the way,” Kaylin said.

individual to do what we do. When working here, you have freedom in doing the job and getting it done, but also to enjoy life,” Kaylin said.

“We always said, if we started a company helping people, we would start it in Danville.

We wanted to provide an opportunity to employ Averett alumni, opportunities for jobs after graduation the way Averett provided opportunities for us as students,” Kaylin said.

There are three staple points they tell any potential employee: ◗◗ We work to create a platform for people to be able to live out their purpose. ◗◗ We work to create a platform where people can financially sustain themselves.

The pair wanted to help the community that developed them into who they are today – an Averett community that allowed them to become successful.

“We knew the type of student Averett puts out, and we wanted to create a pipeline for Averett students that would allow us to develop our company. A pipeline from Averett to the professional world that so many other universities have,” said Nic. “This way we could meet several needs at once; by providing job opportunities for students after college, we help retain good young talent in the area, which not only helps the city of Danville, but its people.”

“We wanted to create a pipeline for Averett students.”

– Nic Sturdifen ’07, ’10

With a new office in Danville’s River District, Life Push is centrally located in an area the city is working to revitalize.

“We love the energy in the River District,” the two agreed.

“And with the right planning and the right people in place, Danville can be a staple in the Southside.”

And Life Push has its own kind of change in energy when it comes to the workplace.

“We pride ourselves on being professional and getting work done, but we have fun. We like to think we are the ‘Google’ in regards to employee culture for a human services company when it comes to the atmosphere at Life Push. We want to appeal to today’s current generation, because we not only employ our current generation but work closely with the youth and we need to relate to them,” Nic said.

He says they also offer development opportunities for their employees, so they can grow within the company.

◗◗ We work to create a platform where we can free people from the restrictions of their everyday workplace.

“There is so much more to life than living, working, paying bills and then dying. If you are living life that way, then you are misusing your time,” Nic said.

Currently, the company employs around 60 people, 18 of whom are Averett alumni. The executive team is made up of six people, four of which are alumni and one who is married to an alumnus.

“We have an 86 percent success rate with our program. We have serviced over 100 clients and families since October 2015,” Nic said.

And it’s making a difference.

“You realize it a lot faster than people would naturally think.

You can typically tell that what you’re doing is effective because you can see it in the person’s life, how they respond to a question or to how they respond to a traumatic event.

Those are some of your best indicators,” Kaylin said.

Founded on Christian principals, Nic and Kaylin say they don’t push that message on clients but use that as a base for how they operate.

“Life is a precious thing and many people take it for granted.

No one is guaranteed any amount of time,” said Nic. “What are we trying to do for people? We push them to achieve the highest level of success in their life. Success, or being successful, does not always mean financially. One person’s success isn’t necessarily another’s.”

“We make sure to hire people who know this is their purpose and this is what they want to do. It takes a certain type of WWW.AVERETT.EDU

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CA M PUS NEWS

Student-athletes setting records on and off the field and court

By Drew Wilson

Hanging new championship banners is important, but Averett’s Department of Athletics also prides itself on academic success and emphasizing the “student” in studentathlete. Following the Fall 2016 semester, the numbers continued to rise as Averett Athletics had one of the best academic performances by student-athletes in recent years.

Averett Athletics notched record numbers in four years for highest average team Fall GPA, highest cumulative team GPA, highest average student-athlete Fall term GPA and highest average student-athlete cumulative GPA. In addition, Averett produced the highest percentage of student-athletes with a 3.0 GPA or better.

This past fall, 133 Averett student-athletes achieved a 3.0 or higher and five teams had an average GPA of at least 3.0.

Individually, between September and March, four Averett student-athletes have earned Academic All-District honors from the College Sports Information Directors of America (CoSIDA), with junior women’s basketball player Samm Chandler earning Academic All-America Second Team distinction.

Averett’s sports teams have succeeded on the field or court, with two teams winning conference regular season championships and the other teams finishing high in the conference standings. Through the end of basketball season, Averett ranked third in the USA South Conference’s President’s Cup standings, the highest the Cougars have placed in recent history. Averett Director of Athletics Meg Stevens believes the success academically and athletically go hand in hand.

“When they are doing well in the classroom, it probably means they are doing well at other things, too,” Stevens said.

“You want to raise that student-athlete bar. They’ve continued to do that. Some comes from things we’ve strategically put in place as a department and some are initiatives and systems that coaches have created.”

Stevens also noted the student-athletes are holding themselves accountable. She regularly meets with a group of 16

AVERETT MAGAZINE | 2017 EDITION

captains and leaders from each of the department’s athletics programs.

“I’ve seen a tremendous change in our captains and leaders group,” Stevens said. “They’re very well aware of how much academics mean. The student-athletes, themselves, have taken ownership of it. That’s even more impactful when it’s not just an athletic director or a coach saying they have to do well academically and it comes from their peers. They are seeing the success and how that is helping them across the board.”

One specific initiative was to create a place for all students to use as an academic study area on Averett’s North Campus. It was a need that many students and coaches expressed when Stevens first arrived at Averett in 2013. That dream was realized during the 2016-17 school year as the university created the Carrington Academic Center inside the E. Stuart James Grant Center. The room offers a computer lab with laptop stations and a printing kiosk for students who need a place to work on class assignments or have study hall session. The addition of the center is already paying dividends as students utilize the space regularly throughout the day.

“It was obvious when you walked through the hallways and you’d find students sitting on the floor studying or doing homework because they were stuck in between a class and the start of practice or missed a shuttle at some point,” Stevens said. “The fact that we have a place to study on North Campus — which is where so many of our students and student-athletes spend their time — has been one of the most impactful. It has someone in it at all hours of the day from morning till night doing school work. That room has been a life-changer for many, especially student-athletes.”

CA M PUS NEWS

Averett Hosts the National IHSA 50th Anniversary Tour Kick-Off In September, Averett University hosted the 50th anniversary tour of the Intercollegiate Horse Show Association (IHSA). IHSA’s founder, Bob Cacchione, made Averett his first tour stop on Friday, Sept. 23, 2016. Cacchione met with Equestrian Studies faculty, alumni, guests and the local media while here at Averett.

Cacchione founded the IHSA in 1967 at only 18 years old, and it has since grown to a membership of almost 400 member colleges in 45 states and Canada, representing more than 9,000 riders.

That Saturday, Sept. 24, Averett’s IHSA team hosted the show season opener. Eleven teams from Virginia and North Carolina competed. Nine Averett students placed, bringing home several ribbons for Averett’s Equestrian Studies program.

Congratulations to the

Averett University

Equestrian Department 2017 Intercollegiate Dressage Association

National Champions and 2017 ANRC Novice Level 3rd Place Team

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17

SPORTS N EWS

One Team three new ways to play

By Drew Wilson As Averett prepares for its inaugural season of three sports — men’s wrestling and men’s and women’s lacrosse — during the 2017-18 academic year, the head coaches of those programs have been laying the foundation this year through recruiting and building a team from scratch.

They say the process has been a lot of hard work, but very exciting. Among the biggest challenges is just getting the word out about Averett’s new programs into the lacrosse and wrestling communities.

“A lot of it is just getting your name out there, and that’s why I’ve been working so hard to get the Averett name out there,” men’s lacrosse coach Tony Mackin said. “We’ve got a lot of great things on campus and a lot of things to be proud about.”

Since lacrosse isn’t played in many area high schools or even at the youth level, Mackin and women’s lacrosse coach Kelly Ryan have turned to social media to help boost interest in Averett’s new programs. Both coaches are very active with their programs’ social media accounts, posting everything from pictures of jersey combinations and the latest equipment to photos of lacrosse clinics they host to various photos of what Danville has to offer as a city.

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AVERETT MAGAZINE | 2017 EDITION

“I’ve been complimented a lot,” Ryan said of her social media efforts. “Student-athletes are using social media. They’re on Twitter, Instagram, Snapchat, everything. I wanted prospective players to be able to look up ‘@AverettWLAX’ and be able to find out what is going on here. It’s something that I definitely dedicate myself and my time to doing in order to get the Averett brand out there.”

Using social media also has given coaches an opportunity to give prospective student-athletes a feel of Averett before they step on campus for a visit.

“The biggest part with getting students to commit is having them visualize themselves here,” Mackin said. “That’s huge on their visits obviously, but it’s a huge help thanks to social media because you can visualize it from the comfort of your own home.”

Because wrestling can be found at many local high schools, head coach Tommy Owen has been able to take a more hands-on approach in recruiting by building relationships with the area high school coaches and teams.

“We’ve had nothing but support from the local high schools and I think that is going to transition into fans in the seats for meets and get some of the local kids coming to Averett to wrestle,” Owen said.

bounce some things off each other and pick up some other tips along the way. Maybe it’s something on a recruiting visit tour or a recruiting phone call. I think it’s been a huge help. I ask some of the coaches who have been here a while what they do, obviously, and find out what they’ve done to have great success here and try to emulate that. But it also helps to have some people in the same boat with you and understands the ups and downs.”

Although they’ve each been able to focus on recruiting and building the program, being away from actively coaching for a year has also been strange. They’ve tried to fill that void by traveling to watch other colleges or high schools compete or by hosting clinics.

The coaches said once recruits and their families become aware of Averett, it is easy to show them why they should come be a part of the Averett family and inaugural team. It’s the same thing that sold the coaches on taking the job at Averett.

“Averett spoke to me a lot on my interview,” Mackin recalled.

“It does some things differently in how the staff talks and how people interact with each other. Averett is different—in a good way and in a way not a lot of other colleges are doing it.

That sets us apart not only as a department but as a school, and I think the students see that. It spoke to me about that ‘One Team’ mentality. We follow that; it’s not just words on a board.”

For Ryan, the people at Averett make the difference.

“We go into the library on recruiting tours and the librarians are greeting us and handing out bookmarks and giving information,” she said. “That’s something that my recruits’ families have said to me about even going into the library and they are already being treated like family.”

Whether on the mats or on the field, some of the big sells to recruits have been the opportunity to not only come in and immediately make an impact, but also get the full attention of the coaches in terms of development. Also, the chance to be a part of history is a great selling point.

“To start something new and be a part of something special especially these first few years, kids are going to come in and not be a number,” Owen said. “They’re not a statistic in somebody’s program. They’re laying the groundwork and being the fathers of the program.”

Ryan, who has been up and down the East Coast running camps and clinics while recruiting, has enjoyed the experience because she’s been able to get out and grow the game.

She’s been able to make a lot of connections, even if they may or may not pay off down the road.

Mackin and Ryan have also been working to build a connection in the Averett community through hosting student and faculty/ staff lacrosse clinics to generate interest in a sport they may not be as familiar with.

“Getting the students involved is a big thing,” Mackin said. “Even if they don’t want to play or try out, they can still come out and understand a little about what they’re watching.

With a lot of sports, if you understand what you’re watching, it makes it more enjoyable for you as a spectator.”

With Averett adding the three sports at the same time, the trio of new head coaches has also found camaraderie in each other as they go through the process.

All three coaches are anxious to begin his or her respective program next school year.

“It’s been a lot of fun, especially working closely with Kelly and Tommy,” Mackin said. “It’s been a help because we all

“The chance to start a program is as rewarding as it gets,” Owen said.

WWW.AVERETT.EDU

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CA M PUS NEWS

CCECC: Week and a Day to

by Lindsey Fulcher Each year, The Center for Community Engagement and Career Competitiveness (CCECC) at Averett organizes a Week to Engage in the fall, and a Day to Engage in the spring.

It’s a chance for students, faculty and staff to volunteer for service projects throughout the community. For these events, Averett partners with Danville Community College and Piedmont Community College to push the positive message of how volunteering helps our community.

Week to Engage is an entire week during the fall where students, faculty and staff can volunteer daily in community projects around Danville.

“It helped me develop by reminding me that I should be thankful for all I have,” said Jordyn Minton, Averett University student-volunteer. “It made me feel connected because I was actually helping others and I knew that what I was doing was helping impact the community directly.”

This past year, Week to Engage had 600 volunteers with 120 people volunteering for more than one project. There were a total of 27 community partners and 80 service projects throughout Danville. According to the Independent Sector, the national value of volunteer time is $23.56. With Week to Engage reaching 1,150 hours served, it brought an economic benefit of $27,094 to the Dan River Region.

Although the event is extremely beneficial for the community, it can be just as beneficial for the volunteers.

Minton said her favorite part is knowing that she is making a difference, whether it’s helping a business with a task, or directly helping someone who can’t do it themselves.

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AVERETT MAGAZINE | 2017 EDITION

In the spring, students, faculty and staff spent a full day giving back during Day to Engage. One of the main projects is Play to Engage, which is at the Carrington Pavilion in Danville’s River District. The CCECC partners with Danville Parks and Recreation for this service project. The CCECC also invites after-school partners such as The Boys & Girls Clubs of the Danville Area, Danville Family YMCA and Danville Redevelopment and Housing Authority (DRHA,) which has several youth centers.

Play to Engage is a big field day for kids with activities, music and snacks. The purpose is to show kids that being healthy and active can be fun. This year during the day, CCECC recognized the Averett students who participated in Teach it Forward, an after-school tutoring program with local elementary school students in eight different locations throughout the city.

“I enjoy the different activities in the community. Some are big and some small, but they all help out the community,” said Hannah Mattson, Averett University studentvolunteer.

The CCECC was created to shift the culture in the Dan River Region to one where service is the norm.

Over the last couple of years, the love for service-learning has grown and the numbers show students, faculty and staff who start with Week to Engage and Day to Engage are then interested in continuous volunteering in the community.

Community partners can post volunteer opportunities and service projects onto Get Connected – a volunteer management and tracking software tool – for students, faculty and staff to sign up for throughout the year.

Visit Get Connected for volunteer opportunities at engage.averett.edu.

CA MPUS N EWS

Angel Tree Creates Christmas for Area Kids

by Lindsey Fulcher Each holiday season, Averett University partners with the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Danville Area and hosts the Angel Tree Celebration. The celebration provides around 40 children with Christmas at Averett.

The “Angel Tree” at the Center for Community Engagement and Career Competiveness (CCECC) has an ornament for each angel looking to be sponsored each year. Any club, team or group of friends may get together and choose an angel to sponsor from the tree. The ornaments have the name of an angel, three items on their wish list and their clothing sizes. Each group buys at least two of the three items, in addition to a piece of clothing.

Students are then encouraged to volunteer at The Boys & Girls Clubs before the celebration to build a relationship with their angels.

During the celebration, the children are partnered with students and faculty that eat dinner and decorate cookies with them. The children also get to visit with Santa. Shortly after, they are taken to the multipurpose room in the Student Center where their presents are waiting for them.

“This allows us to celebrate Christmas with some children who may not have that opportunity,” said Rachel Covington, assistant director of community engagement at the CCECC. “We wanted to do the celebration as an event, and not just give the presents and that be it. We want students involved and interacting with the angels.”

Participating in the celebration allows students, faculty and staff to benefit as well. There are always boxes and charities around to donate toys to during Christmas. However, this event is unique because the relationship piece is incorporated with the presents. The students, faculty and staff don’t just buy presents, they actually get to see their angel’s joyful reactions.

“My favorite part of the celebration was watching the children play with their gifts and opening them,” senior Brandon Veasey said. “The celebration helps me feel more connected with the community.”

This event grows the community as a whole by allowing local children to come to campus and share a meal. It is another way Averett lets the community know that it wants to build relationships, and students are attending events like this in order to do so.

“It makes me feel good to know that we have people who are willing to take a few moments out of their day to get a gift for a child in need and make their holiday one to remember,” Veasey said. “That is what service, community and love is all about.”

Christmas is a time where people want to be with family.

Averett has the motto “One Family,” and seeks to uphold this motto. The Angel Tree Celebration is an opportunity to invite others into the Averett family, and the University will continue to do so for years to come.

Photos courtesy of Boys & Girls Clubs of the Danville Area WWW.AVERETT.EDU

21

The Power of “Yet”

by Danielle Staub

What’s the first step to being a successful student?

Going to class.

Over the last year, new leadership at the Galesi Family Student Success Center is enhancing the student experience by focusing on working through the academic challenges students ...it’s face.

The team, Dr. Sherill Anderson, director of student success, Aries Wilson, assistant director of student success, and Holly Kilby, coordinator of academic support, make up Averett’s Student Success Center.

Centrally located on Danville’s main campus, the center provides online and in-person tutoring and writing support. This year, students experienced a restructured office with three new staff, and a whole new way of tackling issues with a growth mindset.

“When they come in, we are going to figure it out. But it’s not just a pathway to another building, it is a place we hold you accountable and connect you to the appropriate resources,” said Anderson.

“

important that students know they can come to you for advice, for anything, because you’re a real person and you’ve been through it too.

The team uses the power of the word, “yet.”

Anderson says when a student comes in with a question, or they call them in about an issue, they choose their words carefully ending statements with “yet.” For example: “You haven’t found out your grade, yet.”

It’s a constant reminder for the team, too, to remember every day the students are watching them and mimicking what they see.

“They see our body language and hear which words we choose to use. If we are stressed out, they mimic that. The way we Dr. Sherill Anderson approach each student is very important in the sense of what will the next steps be. We have to think about fixing or helping this All member institutions are required by Southern Association situation moving forward so it won’t happen again,” Anderson of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, or SACSCOC, said.

“Working with a growth mindset, I’ve witnessed stress to develop and implement a Quality Enhancement Plan, or decrease in a student right in front of me. It really calms them QEP. The topic was up to Averett, but the QEP must focus on down, it is working.

But as a leader and someone they look up learning outcomes and address key issues resulting from to, you have to constantly remind yourself every day on how ongoing institutional assessments. Averett’s QEP is focused to do that.” on student resiliency. Academic progress and success require resiliency, and resiliency requires continued effort even in the face of failure. The University will focus on helping students face academic challenges with a positive attitude and to learn from both their successes and failures.

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AVERETT MAGAZINE | 2017 EDITION

”

So, what does the team stress? Go to class. However, going to class doesn’t mean just sitting in your seat and listening to the faculty member speak.

“It’s actively participating and developing that relationship that you wanted when you decided to attend a small liberal arts school. You may take multiple classes with the same faculty member.

So we tell the students, learn about your major, develop relationships with other students and the faculty, because on top of other things, you’re most likely going to need those connections and references for your job one day,” Anderson said.

In the fall of 2016, half of the incoming freshman class were first-generation students. Anderson was also a first-generation student. As she took over the direction of the Student Success Center in July 2016, Anderson said she had plans to also use her personal experiences to help whomever walked through those doors.

“I understood exactly what their questions were and where they were coming from because I’ve been there. Because of my experience, the students did not feel ostracized or uncomfortable when bringing their concerns to me. I don’t give administrative responses to students, they are responses that come from my experiences. And it’s important that students know they can come to you for advice, for anything, because you’re a real person and you’ve been through it too,” she said.

In an effort to find the final touch – to help create and then measure success, the team put in place another new approach this year – reaching out to parents. The team not only connects with students on a daily basis but understands that parents would like to have an idea of how their student is doing on their own at college, especially the first-generation students, and because of that, the team is working to improve their connection with parents.

Dr. Sherill Anderson is the director of student success for the Galesi Family Student Success Center. Sherill holds a bachelor’s of arts in sociology and a master’s degree in education student development from Alfred University.

She completed her doctoral degree in executive leadership at St. John Fisher College in Rochester.

Aries Wilson is the assistant director of student success. Aries holds a bachelor’s of science in management and leadership from Bluefield College and a master’s of science in education with a concentration in academic advising from Kansas State University.

“We want to let them know what’s going on with their students. Last semester, a parent letter was sent out to engage parents in communication with their children about their grades and overall experience at Averett. We want a more collaborative relationship with parents because they leave their kids here for such a long time, and they want to know what’s going on. This helps with a revaluation of processes and procedures to move us forward,” Anderson said.

The Student Success Center is a resource on campus unlike any other. Anderson calls this year, with the changes and restructuring throughout the department, a “pivotal point for us.”

“I tell them, just come in and we will figure out the rest. We are very serious about students going to class, which is the first step to success.”

Holly Kilby '09,'15, is the coordinator for academic support. She holds a bachelor’s of arts in English and history (double major) and a master’s of business administration from Averett University.

WWW.AVERETT.EDU

23

CA MPUS N EWS

Skiddle Volunteer of the Year

by Danielle Staub In December, The Dan River Nonprofit Network awarded Averett University student Erica Skiddle the “Volunteer of the Year” Committee Award. Skiddle was nominated by Averett’s Center for Community Engagement and Career Competitiveness (CCECC).

“Volunteering is important to me because I love being able to make a difference. Nothing compares to seeing the difference you can make,” Skiddle said. “And also in the community, I feel like it is important to help each other out and do what we can for one another.”

The award honors local volunteers throughout Danville, Pittsylvania and Caswell counties for their service to the citizens and nonprofits. Skiddle was one of 11 nominees in the community who “embody the spirit of volunteerism and who give back to their community through their time and efforts.”

Toyota Scion in Danville donated $1,000 to go to an organization of the award recipient’s choosing. Skiddle chose the Danville Area Humane Society.

“I knew I wanted the money to go to somewhere that can really benefit from it. I’ve always been a big animal person. I just wanted to help the most I can,” said Skiddle.

On top of being a student and a cheerleader at Averett, Skiddle volunteers at every event she can.

(from left to right) Buddy Rawley, Averett Vice President of Institutional Advancement; Erica Skiddle; Evelyn Riley, Executive Director of the Nonprofit Network; and Rachel Covington, Assistant Director of Community Engagement at Averett’s Center for Community Engagement & Career Competitiveness.

“Whenever we need volunteers or help with a project, Erica is the first one to step up to lead. Not only that, she is passionate about what she does and encourages others to join her,” said Rachel Covington, assistant director of community engagement at the CCECC. “Others should volunteer because we all can help make a difference,” said Skiddle. “No matter what it is you volunteer with, it makes a difference.”

The Office of Marketing and Communications at Averett is concentrating on creating a strong social media presence and reach. This year, the team created a University Instagram account and a Snapchat filter to use when on campus. The University Facebook and Twitter accounts – along with accounts affiliated with different departments and majors – are updated and shared on a daily basis to help keep students, faculty and staff aware of what is going on around campus and in the surrounding community.

Staying engaged in the community is a key part of Averett’s mission. A new partnership with River City TV, Danville’s Government Access Channel, is helping show the community how Averett is getting involved. Twice a month, Danielle Staub, marketing and communications specialist, and Mark Aron, River City TV’s anchor, put together a Facebook show, “Hometown Happenings with your Hometown University” with a “Cougar Commitment” feature. The first informs the community about the events at Averett that month, and the latter highlights a student, faculty or staff member who is making a difference in the community.

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AVERETT MAGAZINE | 2017 EDITION

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25

CA M PUS NEWS

Nursing Program Receives CCNE Accreditation In the summer of 2016, the baccalaureate nursing program at Averett University received its accreditation by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), an autonomous accrediting agency that ensures the quality and integrity of baccalaureate, graduate and residency programs in nursing.

In November 2015, the School of Nursing hosted a team of evaluators from CCNE who examined the program for how well it met its four standards, and afterward submitted a report to CCNE’s Accreditation Review Committee (ARC). The ARC met the following spring to review all reports submitted, and made a recommendation to the CCNE Board of Commissioners (BOC) for Averett’s accreditation. The BOC met in early May 2016 and granted the final approval for accreditation.

“Averett University has significantly expanded in the health sciences in recent years, offering more programs with cutting-edge facilities and top-notch faculty,” said Averett President Dr. Tiffany M. Franks.

“Our state-of-the-art nurse education facility opened in August 2012, and the nursing program’s progress within a short period of time has been remarkable. Receiving this accreditation will only bolster that growth and enhance the already exceptional level of nursing education offered at Averett.”

The CCNE falls under the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) umbrella, which has established nine essentials of baccalaureate education for professional nursing practice. In addition, nursing schools must meet four standards of program quality and effectiveness that CCNE has mandated to be accredited.

“We’ve worked very hard to build an exceptional curriculum for our nursing students and adopt the AACN Essentials as a framework for our program, and this accreditation speaks to the dedication and support of so many faculty, staff, administrators and students,” said Averett School of Nursing Dean Dr. Pamela Giles. “Deep 26

AVERETT MAGAZINE | 2017 EDITION

in the heart of southern Virginia, just off the Blue Ridge Parkway, is a hidden gem of a nursing school – a place where caring and relationships are still important, and where faculty know your name. I couldn’t be more proud of this designation.”

The Averett School of Nursing’s degree program includes two tracks: an on-campus, four-year, traditional Bachelor of Science in nursing (BSN) track, and an online, accelerated registered nurse (RN) to BSN track. The program was awarded a five-year accreditation, the maximum term for a new program.

The program currently enrolls approximately 75 students between the two tracks, and it was the third largest major among students in last fall’s entering class. It graduated its first class of nurses in December 2015, many of whom immediately found work in the region, like at Duke University Hospital and Danville Regional Medical Center, or are pursuing graduate work.

Current traditional students are taught at the Health Sciences Innovative Practice Center at Averett’s Riverview Campus in Danville, which is providing nursing students hands-on training opportunities with its state-of-the-art simulation lab, skills lab and health assessment lab. RN to BSN students, who are part of the university’s Graduate and Professional Studies Program, learn from a specialized curriculum designed to prepare graduates for nursing management and leadership positions, as well as take the AONE Nursing Manager and Leader Certification exam.

The founding donors, whose support was essential to the establishment of this program, include the Tobacco Region Revitalization Commission, the E. Stuart James Grant Charitable Trust, Danville Regional Medical Center and the Danville Regional Foundation.

CA M PUS NEWS

Bringing Music to the Game

There was a new addition to Averett’s football and basketball games this year–the AU Cougar Band. Janet Phillips, assistant professor of music, started recruiting for the band in 2015. Starting off with only three clarinets, one flute and one saxophone, the band continues to grow over time with more awareness and the help of local high school band members.

In the fall of 2016, the band made its first full band appearance at football games.

In three semesters, the Cougar Band has grown from five to about 25 people, and is made up of Averett students, Danville Community College students, local high school students and adult community musicians.

“I can generally not contain my excitement over all that has and is happening with our band development,” Phillips said. “Exposure to instrumental music learning has profound positive effects on the brain, making us smarter, improving memory and providing increased pathways between the two hemispheres of our brains. Being in band has other benefits as well, including a built-in social group and continued opportunities to build personal characteristics such as leadership, teamwork, cooperation, accountability and personal responsibility.”

Moving forward, Phillips says it’s all about growth. Growth in numbers of players, expanded instrumentation, growth in the quality of their sound and growth in difficulty level of concert music.

“We’ve had so many firsts already, I want to keep those exciting ‘first times’ happening with ever new and better opportunities.

We can have the opportunity for service-learning by having some of our students tutor and coach and lead sectionals at local middle and high schools,” she said.

HOSTESS

H WIT E TH

MOSTESS

Averett continues to expand its outreach and awareness-raising by hosting many visitors to campus. In fall 2016, Averett played host to a number of visible, statewide events. In September, more than 400 community and health leaders attended the Health Collaborative Summit. Later that month, the Council of Independent Colleges in Virginia meeting brought in presidents from more than 20 Virginia private colleges to Averett’s campus. And in October, Averett welcomed First Lady of Virginia, Dorothy McAuliffe, for the “Governor’s Summit on Enhancing Engagement in the Commonwealth” which combined the annual meeting of Virginia Engage Network, a collection of 18 universities.

In addition, last summer the University hosted an unprecedented 1,700 young people for Passport and Impact summer camps over the course of six weeks on the Main Campus, and on North Campus, just fewer than 500 kids from the community came for sports camps, learning athletic fundamentals from Averett coaches and vastly improving their skills. Finally, the University continues to host regional summer interns year after year for the Danville Regional Foundation and area businesses.

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Campaign The

for Main

Building a Living-Learning Legacy

by Cassie Williams Jones

Main Hall is Averett University.

It embodies Averett’s history and represents its potential for continued growth. It is the familiar face that has welcomed students for more than a century. Main Hall is the flagship of an ever-expanding footprint, the central symbol that embodies the significant legacy of this institution. For all those who know and love Averett, Main Hall is home.

This is why the University recently launched the Campaign for Main, a fundraising campaign to renovate what has been home to so many through the years.

Main Hall: The Legacy For more than 100 years, Main Hall has been the cornerstone of Averett’s campus and fundamental to Danville’s historic Old West End landscape. The University’s roots run deep into the heart of the community, and its alumni across the globe all find their foundation here in this one, iconic place: Main Hall.

In 1907, the then-Roanoke Institute purchased a 15-acre tract on West Main Street from the Mountain View Land Co. for $5,500 for the purpose of moving the campus away from the crowded downtown business area where the college originally operated on Patton Street. Construction of Main Hall, a threestory Neo-Classical Revival style structure, was the first of many construction projects to come and was meaningful to the University’s trajectory.

Since that time, these halls have housed more than 5,000 students. These pillars have upheld a bygone era, and these steps have ushered through generations of students. If these walls could talk, they’d speak to the sweeps of time and tell the diverse stories of all of those who lived, worked and moved through this space. This building tells a story – the story of Averett University – and it’s one for the ages.

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enlisted Credo Higher Education, a comprehensive higher education consulting firm that specializes in independent colleges and universities, to conduct a comprehensive review of the Averett residential life experience.

“Ultimately, Averett seeks to create living-learning residential communities that enable engagement and collaboration, combined with value-added features that students most desire today,” said Averett President Dr. Tiffany M. Franks. “We are not considering residence halls with an over-abundance of amenities; in fact, it’s quite the opposite. The University is focused on students’ success, meaning the new living facilities will include classrooms, student spaces, collaborative learning areas, community kitchens ... the recommendations even include provisions for increased parking.”

Credo’s interdisciplinary team of experts looked at the campus through five lenses: student success, student housing, services and programs, architectural planning Dorm life…it’s what many think of when they envision the and design, and resource allocation and strategies true “college experience.” for implementation. According to Credo, “There is a fundamental distinction between providing basic physical Residence halls are where many students live necessities and the intentional cultivation of during some of the most formative years of their community, belonging and engagement. In the adulthood. And they’re not just where they eat It’s about the living-learning environment, we are setting and sleep, they’re where they study and prepare for those major class assignments. Where they total educational up the residential experience as an extension of the classroom and more intentionally go to rest their weary minds after knocking out experience integrating the academic and residential that last big exam. And where they build life-long – places and experience.” bonds with their classmates and form some of the

More than a Building

“

most meaningful friendships and relationships of their lives. It’s where the memories are made.

spaces where students live and learn.

Main Hall, for most, is where those memories start. So renovating Main Hall is about more than a building. It’s about the total educational experience – places and spaces where students live and learn. It’s about the intersections of social, academic and spiritual growth and overall holistic development. It’s about a safe and inclusive environment that is supportive of the needs of the students outside of the classroom. It’s about a living-learning residential experience.

The Plan “A goal without a plan is just a wish.”

Those words from the late Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, French writer, poet and aviator, exemplify the extent of research, planning and strategy developed to bring this long-awaited wish of revitalizing historic Main Hall to fruition.

While the existing residential facilities on Averett’s campus are structurally and fundamentally sound, they accommodate a student from the 1940s – the last time any renovations were made to Main Hall – and don’t meet the needs of 21st century students. With aging facilities and very little room to grow, Averett needed a comprehensive, professional review of its residential life experience. Following much research, the University 30

AVERETT MAGAZINE | 2017 EDITION

Many students, staff, faculty and trustees were involved in the discovery phase of Credo’s research. For Averett to fully understand all of the issues and components to address to ensure success, Credo facilitated an interactive process where workshops held on campus allowed for transparent collaboration between all of the stakeholders responsible for the residential experience. There was profound similarity in what the students wanted in their residence

”

living experience and what those working for and serving the institution envisioned.

The Credo team came back with a phased, comprehensive plan that aligns with the University’s mission, vision and values, and will dramatically strengthen Averett’s competitive position for traditional undergraduate students.

Averett now has a clear vision and a recommended plan for transforming spaces where students have lived, into places and programs that integrate the academic and social experiences of students and facilitate a greater sense of belonging, engagement and community.

The 10-year, $28 million master plan spells out options based on varying enrollment levels over the next decade, allowing for incremental renovations and extensions. The proposed plan calls for a course of action that is implementable and sustainable, deals with all program and operational issues, modernizes all existing residential facilities, and finally, includes new construction.

and lots of faculty, staff and students in attendance, Averett unveiled its 10-year residence hall master plan. To kick off and celebrate this historic journey, the University introduced the “Campaign for Main.”

Perhaps even more important is meeting the demands of “This beautiful, stately Averett icon will be reinvigorated to the University’s steady growth. With the strategic additions be made like new again for the next century of new enrollment pipelines, such as the of students who will live and learn here,” three new athletics teams starting play this said Franks. “But mainly, this will set the fall, the University must find additional ...places and direction for similar renovations throughout residential spaces to house the increasing programs that integrate Averett’s entire residential community. This number of traditional on-campus students. the academic and social is just the first step along our path that will combine living and learning in a lasting “The greatest takeaway from the project experiences of students way.” will be instilling pride among students and and facilitate a greater alumni, and helping residents develop a After an anonymous $2.5 million signature stronger attachment and sense of belonging sense of belonging, investment, this public phase of the with Averett,” said Franks. engagement and campaign is an effort to raise another $2 million over the next 12 months to begin Where it all Begins community. renovations to Main Hall in the summer of Main Hall represents the beginning of 2018.

Averett’s campus. From its iconic columns, This first phase of the master plan will provide more than 50 to its picturesque lawn, to a century’s worth of memories, it additional beds between the third and fourth floors, along symbolizes Averett in every way. And so, it’s especially fitting with each floor getting a lounge for residents to share. The that the residential renovation process begins here – the first rooms will be modernized, and include two beds, a sink of several residential spaces to undergo renovations over the and air conditioning. The penthouse level, which hasn’t course of the next decade and beyond. been utilized in decades, will be renovated into a shared On April 20 on the lawn of Main Hall, with the Board of lounge space, including a community kitchen and group Trustees present, as well as many local elected officials, study spaces. This step is just the first of similar renovations special friends and alumni and donors of the University, throughout Averett’s entire residential community.

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”

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What the Future May Bring As enrollment continues to climb, the renovations to Main Hall are just the beginning.

Over the next decade and beyond, five more phases of reconstruction are proposed.

Davenport Hall •

•

•

Renovate the second floor to become academic space, to include two classrooms, faculty offices, the student newspaper site and other support spaces, reducing the bed count from 93 to 60 beds.

Renovate the third and fourth floors, possibly to be used for first-year housing, aligning first-year academic courses and utilizing space within the hall for classes.

Add an elevator.

Fugate Hall • • •

Renovate the entire building.

Reduce the bed count from 146 to 142 beds.

The space will possibly be used for multigenerational housing (second- through fourthyear), and potentially themed housing may be developed by suite or per floor.

Danville Hall Renovation • • •

Renovate the entire facility to become student housing, moving academic functions currently on the lower level to Davenport.

Increase the bed count from 65 to 97 beds.

Possibly transitioning the space to become firstyear housing, aligning first-year academic courses and utilizing space within the hall for classes.

Danville Hall Addition

• • •

Construct a complimentary styled, three-floor addition on the hillside of Danville Hall.

Provide 68 new beds within the addition.

The space will possibly be used for first-year housing, aligning first-year academic courses and utilizing space within the hall for classes.

Bishop Hall • •

Renovate the entire building.

The space will either be used totally for housing, or may include some academic spaces like classrooms, meeting rooms and collaboration spaces, depending upon the campus needs at the time.

Residence Halls Timeline

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As you’ve read, Averett is renovating Main Hall – the heart of Averett. And the evidence is clear: living-learning environments do have a positive effect on academic performance, critical thinking and persistence and we want to create these experiences for Averett students. We want to honor Averett’s history and traditions and take back the Main Hall spaces you remember so well and create new living-learning spaces for our students.

You can help make this dream a reality by:

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Challenging your class year to match gifts and name a ‘class’ room for students; Showing your love for your ‘main squeeze’ by making a gift in their name; Honoring a professor by naming a room after them and challenge others in your major to match your gift; Getting your teams’ sports together and combine resources; Or, making a gift for yourself and your time at Averett.

Every gift makes a difference and will be utilized for the Main Hall project or other needed projects and activities for our students. This is your chance to do something exceptional and be a part of our students’ success for generations to come!

To Make a Gift to the Campaign for Main, please use the enclosed envelope to send checks to:

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Averett University Campaign for Main 420 West Main St. Danville, VA 24541 Or visit our website at: www.averett.edu/campaignformain

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CA M PUS NEWS

One PARTNERSHIP at a Time, Averett’s GPS Program Continues to Grow

by Danielle Staub

A single mom. An Army veteran. A 42-year-old that graduated high school and went straight to work. All three have one thing in common: They go to work, handle their family life and have time to take classes to finish up their educational goals.

“It was the best fit for my family’s lifestyle. The Averett’s Graduate and Professional Studies (GPS) program stood out because of its ‘one course at a time’ flexibility and ‘selfpaced learning,’ along with its reasonable weekly deadlines.

Averett’s academic schedule afforded me the opportunity to maintain full-time employment and spend quality time with my family and friends, all while obtaining a degree,” said GPS student Cory Ross, who is pursuing his Associate of Science in business and expected to graduate in 2017.

One University. Two Tracks.

When traditional students come to Averett, the University is molding that 18-year-old into a young man or woman they hope to become throughout four years, looking into their future through long-term goals.

GPS students are a whole different spectrum. They are here for a shorter amount of time – 18 months to two years – and have short-term goals. They likely come back to school for one of three reasons: It’s personal – they are doing it for their kids or to be a role model; job growth – it’s necessary for a promotion; or a career change – they are preparing to switch career tracks.

“Averett wants to be and is designed to be very hands-on, and have that personal and supportive touch towards the student. The goal isn’t just to recruit and enroll; the goal is to set forth a plan for the student, all the way to graduation, and to be there for them the whole time,” said Ron Lonzo, executive director of GPS enrollment. “I was brought on to make sure our processes fit that mentality, and I see that already happening. The service and support our students are getting is superior to what it was a year ago.”

Within the last year, GPS has been revamped. The University decided the program needed to be run internally and not through a third party, streamlining the process for the student. Around 20 people, including Lonzo, now take care of marketing and recruitment in-house, so the students deal with one University.

“My job is split into two parts: making sure that GPS fulfills that student-centric, personal touch approach, and to connect to the community and the other organizations by building partnerships,” Lonzo said.

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AVERETT MAGAZINE | 2017 EDITION

Partnering for a Cause Thirteen partnerships have been formed within the year with businesses and organizations Averett feels have certain traits, such as a high commitment to professional development for their staff.

These include the Baptist Theological Seminary at Richmond, the K-12 Teachers Alliance, the Friendship Foundation, Higher Education for Adults in Roanoke, Bayport Credit Union, Keystone Academic Solutions, John Randolph Hospital and Planet Fitness.

The GPS team looks for specific qualities in partners, including: excellence in partnership support; effective and efficient education; breaking the trend in increasing student debt; promotion of programs offered online and face-to-face; and strategic growth and brand excellence.

Altogether, partnerships have brought in 131 new GPS students in the 2016-2017 academic year, students who likely wouldn’t be here without them. Lonzo hopes to see that number continue to climb.

“We are currently working on more than 30 other partnerships, on top of the others we have. Our goal is to form 10 partnerships every academic year, which in turn will add over a 100 new GPS students a year,” he said.

With such growth, the GPS program, aligned with Averett’s mission statement, is working to create an educated workforce throughout Southern Virginia but also across the Commonwealth with our five GPS campuses and abroad.

“Our Keystone partnership markets to students overseas, who are in virtual-classrooms with students in the U.S. So, we are educating the non-traditional students while also working across the cultural-divide in the classroom,” Lonzo said. “And on top of that, making it more affordable for them to prepare themselves for success.”

For a working adult, cost can be the decision between continuing an education or not. That’s why the GPS team works so hard to develop partnerships which often include tuition reimbursement for students. This helps to reduce student debt.

Each partnership goal is to develop a tuition reimbursement plan to reduce debt, which is working towards the greater goal of meeting students where they are in life and helping them to excel.

GET INVOLVED AVERETT ALUMNI ASSOCIATON Being an alumnus who supports the University is easy by remembering the four T’s: • Time – Come to one of our social or sporting events.

• Talent – Share your expertise in event planning, volunteering, internships and mentoring with students.

• Tuition – Share your Averett experience with another and they choose to attend Averett.

• Treasure – There is no fee to be in the Alumni Association but Averett depends on its alumni to give scholarships and improve facilities. Gifts of all sizes improve the quality of your degree and can change the life of a student.

Time

Roberta Thayer-Smith ’74 “I value the opportunity to meet, greet and catch up with many Averett alumni who live in the area at a wine and cheese function held in historic Yorktown. It is always exciting to meet new faces, talk about their Averett experiences either while on main campus or in the GPS program and to learn where life’s journey has taken them. This helps keep alive what I have always treasured about Averett: the continuation of friendships, the feelings of belonging and the participation in new and different understandings. ”

Talent Melanie Baiardo ’95

“Some of the best things that I have helped organize almost happen organically. You don’t have do something fancy. Keep an open mind when you get together with folks and don’t close yourself off from the world. You might have more in common with them than you think.”

Tuition Wendy Brannock ’14, ’16

(Encouraged a friend to return for their master’s at Averett)

“I told her that it would be something that no one would ever be able to take away from us. Also, I told her that if we did not do it while we were in the school mode that we would never do it. So, I guess a person could say that we kind of encouraged each other to continue on with our education...we did it, with no regrets.”

Treasure Nancy Perry ’72

“We have all proudly worn blue and gold, stood together to sing the school song, applauded our peers for their accomplishments and so many other times. Now we all need to stand together as “One” Averett and say “Thank You” to the school that gave us all opportunities.

Big or small, it makes no difference, but giving our “time” or our “treasure” is something that we all can do as a way of showing that we are 100 percent behind our alma mater.”

Alumni Association Executive Board The Alumni Board works to help alumni take full advantage of their affinity with the University by setting up events and leading alumni in giving back to Averett through recruiting, activities, events and giving.

Alumni Board Members 2017-2018 Pattie P. Cairns ‘74 - Danville, Va. Justine L. Cherochak ‘12 - Falls Church, Va. Diron C. Clements ‘07 - Danville, Va. Ronald B. Cole ‘83 - South Boston, Va. Carol D. Digesare ‘68 - Jacksonville, Fla. Lucille A. Digges ‘55 - Charlottesville, Va. David C. Hudson ‘10 - Danville, Va. La Voice L. Newby ‘15 - Richmond, Va. Nancy L. Perry ‘72 - Portsmouth, Va. Ginny M. Rawls ‘03 - Acworth, Ga. Heidi E. Roach ‘06 - Raleigh, N.C. Nicholas C. Sturdifen ‘07 - Burlington, N.C. Roberta A. Thayer-Smith ‘74 - Yorktown, Va. Jackson B. Weller ‘01 - Danville, Va. Anita J. Wyatt ‘77 - Danville, Va.

Alumni and Friends Development Staff Members Dan Hayes ‘92 Sherry McDowell ‘12

Let us know if you, or someone you know, would be an excellent addition to the Alumni Board.

Terms are for three years. The rewards and ability to make a difference are endless!

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MARK YOUR CALENDAR F

OCTOBER

FOR HOMECOMING 2017

R 20-22

For first-generation student, Maria Ochoa, her decision to go to college wasn’t always supported by her mother.

“She told me, ‘No, that’s not possible. How are you going to get through it? You can’t afford it. I know you’re smart but it’s going be tough,’ and I proved her wrong,” Ochoa said. “At the end of the day, I am always trying to impress her. What she said was wrong, but she was saying it to push me a little harder.”

Ochoa’s parents and grandparents were born and raised in Mexico. She says working and creating a family was very important to them, so they didn’t even think twice about an education. But for Ochoa it was different. Her father left the family when she was five and passed away when she was 11. She watched her mother work hard to support them and she didn’t want to be stuck in what she calls the ‘norms.’ None of Ochoa’s siblings graduated high school and now all work minimum wage jobs, so she wanted to start on a new path and make a difference in her life and for her family.

“I wanted to change the standards for my family. I want to be a role model for my nieces and nephews and let them know that it is possible,” she said.

“I wanted to change the standards for my family.

I want to be a role model for my nieces and nephews and let them know that it is possible” - Maria Ochoa

The now rising junior took a leap of faith to come to Averett and says only four weeks in, she had her bags packed to go home. It was the kindness of a staff member that helped her figure out a way to stay.

Even though she owed $1,000, she informed Student Financial Services that she only had $200, and they gave her more time.

Making College a Priority

Averett sees Record Number of First-Generation Students

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AVERETT MAGAZINE | 2017 EDITION

“I didn’t know Work-Study was here, so I went to the shopping center down the street and asked every store if they were hiring, they all told me no. I came here without a car, so I was hoping to find a job nearby and work my way through school.

It was a leap of faith. When the deadline came closer, I called my mom and she said, ‘Well, it’s either we pay your tuition or we pay the rent,’ and I starting packing my bags.”

“My parents were extremely supportive in my decision to go to college because they want me to have the possibilities in life that they couldn’t get. My dad didn’t go to college because he was a tobacco farmer and he had to work all the time. As a result, he didn’t even finish high school. My mom finished high school, but she became a cook at a local restaurant, and she hasn’t left there in 26 years.”

Ochoa says she was planning on leaving until she told a former residential life staff member, who said, “No, you’re staying, let’s figure this out.” She took the time to work closely with Ochoa and helped her get a work study job, another scholarship, and this year, she became an RA.

Dr. Sherill Anderson, director of student success, is seeing the college-focused mindsets more and more.

“If it wasn’t for people like her, I wouldn’t be here. The small school atmosphere and the personal relationships you form is how I’ve made it this far. That shows me that Averett is actually trying to help us create a better future, set high standards and be the improvement of our families,” Ochoa said.

Like Ochoa, Lester Chambers, a freshmen and first-generation college student, is part of this new group of students at Averett University who are more represented than ever before.

“College is more engrained into the long-term life goals of our students. I think college is presented as less of an option and more of a necessity to have a competitive edge in our fastpaced society,” Anderson said.

“First-generation students are choosing Averett because it is a small private liberal arts college that prides itself on delivering a quality education, with faculty and professional staff that truly care about students inside and outside of the classroom.”

And that means helping their parents through the process, as they navigate the nervousness, excitement and heightened concern.

“In some instances, I think people who have experienced college already take for granted “Our parents were alive at the idiosyncrasies of the college a time when getting a job experience,” Anderson said. was easier, and they didn’t “However, I think we instill a need a college degree in sensitivity to the amount of order to get a job, so they questions and concerns amongst Ochoa holds a photograph of her with her mother. didn’t go to college.” our faculty and professional staff by sharing pertinent information as well as an overview of the Half of Averett’s Fall 2016 freshmen class were first-generation characteristics of the student we are working with every day.” students, the largest number the University has seen in an incoming class. That means they are the first one in their And Ochoa has some advice for the new class and her fellow family to attend a four-year college or university. first-generation students.

A commuter student, Chambers wants to be a math teacher and picked Averett because of the education program’s success in helping students find a job after graduation.

“I feel like I am doing something special in my family because I am one of the few people in my whole family that is going or went to college,” Chambers said. “Most high school seniors want a good job, and in order to do so they need to go to a four-year college.”

And even though Chambers’ parents did not go to college, they understood why he should.

“I feel extremely empowered, blessed and proud. Always keep your head held high. Always find a positive side to everything.

Don’t let a negative aspect shut your hopes and dreams down. Always ask for help,” Ochoa said.

“Our faculty-to-student ratio does not allow for a student to get lost in a crowd or be treated as just another number,” said Anderson. “Whenever you are embarking on such a significant life experience such as college, our students need that support and guidance through uncharted territory.”

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Frank R. Campbell Stadium Averett completed construction and opened the new Frank R. Campbell Stadium in August 2016 on North Campus. The multi-million-dollar project included the installation of state-of-theart synthetic turf and lights on Daly Field and construction of the 12,500-square-foot stadium, which houses the J.T. Emerson Press Box, the President’s Suite, new stands for seating, a dramatic entryway and plaza, and more.

Football and men’s and women’s soccer have already played on the new turf. Gracing the field in the 2017-18 academic year will be our new men’s and women’s lacrosse teams, which were announced over the summer alongside our new men’s wrestling program.

The stadium was dedicated to the late Dr. Frank R. Campbell, president emeritus of Averett, on Sept. 17, 2016. He served as the University’s twelfth president from 1985 to 2002, and during his tenure, the University saw many changes and improvements thanks to his leadership.

New & Improved Spaces:

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Campus Touchscreens In our ongoing emphasis of celebrating achievers, Averett installed a Hall of Fame Wall with an interactive touch screen in the E. Stuart James Grant Center lobby on North Campus. The interactive screens allow patrons and guests to explore lists of donors, videos from Averett leadership, admissions and athletics information, a campus map and an events calendar.

Carrington Academic Center Last fall, Averett opened the Carrington Academic Center in the E. Stuart James Grant Center on North Campus. The space provides an academic resource and study area for all Averett students, and houses five desktop computers, 15 hard-lined connections for laptops, 30 desks, a WEPA printing station and a phone charging station.

It was created to give students a location to study in between classes, and for student-athletes to focus on academics before or after practice. The project came to fruition from the Averett 2020 strategic plan. This space was made possible through a generous donation from The Alexander Berkeley Carrington, Jr., and Ruth Simpson Carrington Charitable Trust.

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The Best Offense is a Great Defense

By Drew Wilson

Who can score the most points? That seems to be the focus of many individuals within today’s younger basketball generation. Points are flashy. Points grab headlines.

That’s what makes Charles Bryant different. And that’s what has helped him become not only the program’s all-time leading rebounder, but also one of the greatest all-around players in Averett University men’s basketball history.

To truly understand and appreciate how Bryant has transformed into the player and leader he became during his senior season, you have to go back to the start of his time at Averett. When Bryant arrived on campus nearly four years ago in the fall of 2013, he knew of the scoring prowess of Justin Pierce, who had just finished his senior season and was still in school at Averett. He was aware that Pierce had somewhat passed that proverbial scoring torch to guys like Bradley Robinson ‘16. When the team would gather to play in open gym, Bryant opted to focus on his defensive abilities rather than try to impress his new teammates on the offensive end.

“I would just try to guard the best player,” Bryant recalled. “As far as scoring, it was not on my mind at all. To me, defense and rebounding was how I felt I was going to get a chance to play on the floor.”

That mindset and understanding is what makes Bryant special, according to Averett head coach David Doino, who took over the program following Bryant’s freshman season.

“There’s a selflessness to him that is unique,” Doino said. “Some guys are able to come in and just have that alpha personality as a young guy and take over. And some guys are able to understand that they have to play a role in order for us to be successful. I think Charles is just that type of guy. ‘What do I need to do for us to win?’”

As a freshman coming off the bench, Bryant was the perfect complement to the large class of players a year ahead of him — a group that is arguably one of the best recruiting classes the program has seen in recent memory. The athletic forward did most of his damage on the offensive glass. He averaged 6.2 rebounds per game, and more than two-thirds of his rebounds were on the offensive end. Many resulted in put-backs, helping him score 9.7 points a contest.

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AVERETT MAGAZINE | 2017 EDITION

Doino, who was an assistant coach at conference foe N.C. Wesleyan College during Bryant’s first season at Averett, remembers Bryant’s talents as a freshman.

found a way to dominate the glass. Doino loves Bryant’s “old school mentality” and how he plays with a certain toughness.

“I thought he was tough as nails,” Doino said. “I thought we had to keep him off the backboard. He was always in the scouting report as a high energy player. As a freshman, I knew he was going to be really good. I thought his energy level and his toughness around the rim was something that you don’t see out of a freshman usually right away.”

“A Quiet Killer” On the surface, Bryant isn’t imposing. Quiet and reserved, one may be hard-pressed to get the Jarratt, Virginia, native to offer many words upon meeting him for the first time.

However, one also may be hard-pressed to find a more polite individual around.

“When I talk about that old school mentality, that’s stuff that height and weight don’t judge,” Doino said. “The heart that he has and the nose for the ball — what he does and the knack for rebounding he has is an art. You either have that or you don’t, in my opinion. It’s tough to teach that type of nose for the ball.”

Bryant said that mentality was instilled in him while growing up.

“If I really want anything, I’m going to go get it,” Bryant said. “I was really blessed with that mindset the way I was raised, the way my parents are, the way my friends are. Everyone doesn’t have that, and I feel so blessed to have that.”

Bryant’s development continued his sophomore season as he moved into the starting lineup. Surrounded by a talented junior class, Bryant was comfortable in his role. He didn’t need to be the scorer. The team just needed him to hit the glass and do the little things. With little pressure, Bryant excelled during his second season. He led the USA South Conference in rebounding with 8.1 boards a game while helping Averett return to the top of the conference standings and earn the USA South’s regular season championship. selflessness

“He’s as humble as they come,” Doino said. “He’s very grateful, very thankful for everything, very respectful. I think the biggest compliment I can give him is that if I needed him, I could call him and have him come sit with my kids and leave him with my kids and know they were in good hands.”

That mild-mannered demeanor almost seems uncharacteristic of the aggressiveness needed to be a great rebounder. Crashing the boards is a battle in the trenches — a war of toughness and strength.

Friend and former teammate JaColby Hawkins ‘16 called Bryant a “quiet killer” because of his ability to lead by example through his work ethic early on, even as an underclassman.

“

There’s a to him that is unique... some guys are able to understand that they have to play a role in order for us to be successful.

Friend and former teammate Carter Jones ‘16 said Bryant’s unselfishness was instrumental in Averett’s title run that season.

“We had a very balanced team in terms of scoring, so you never knew who was going to get the shots,” Jones said. “I never heard him complain one time about not getting David Doino “He’s just always going hard and it’s touches. He took great pride in defending Head Men’s Basketball Coach really contagious and spreads to and grabbing every rebound in sight. everyone else,” Hawkins said. “During Without a teammate like that, that year the game I would just see him going hard and I wanted to would have looked much different for us.” make sure I was giving my best for him. He literally leaves everything that he has on the court.”

Bryant was rewarded with 2015 USA South All-Conference First Team honors, proving he had the makings of a great Even though Bryant was a year behind him academically, four-year career. Although Bryant’s rebounding average Hawkins remembers Bryant’s influence during the offseason increased during his junior season, Averett’s struggles as a after Hawkins’ sophomore season, which was Bryant’s first team down the stretch likely were a factor in him not earning year at Averett. Hawkins recalled Bryant dragging him to the all-conference honors a second year in a row. weight room every day.

“It was honestly all him that helped me get to the point of wanting to get better and being dedicated,” Hawkins said.

The seeds of leadership were being sewed.

“Knack for rebounding” When Bryant stepped on the court, he was rarely the tallest guy on the floor. Yet, at 6-foot-2 and 202 pounds, he always

”

“Just keep believing”

Entering his senior season, Bryant felt a little lost. Gone were some of his best friends and teammates — a group of six that included three of the top-13 scorers in program history and two of the top-eight rebounders of all-time at Averett.

Meanwhile, Bryant was the lone men’s basketball senior remaining — the only survivor of his freshman class. He wasn’t just “a” guy. He had to be “the” guy. The spotlight was on him.

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43

Leading by example wasn’t hard. As his teammates noted, he’d been doing that for several years. Bryant had to take that next step, which was a challenge at times. With the team mired in adversity following a 2-10 start, Bryant changed his approach and became more of a vocal leader in the locker room and at practice.

“He’s a true team player,” junior James Contreras Jr. said. “We started off rocky at the beginning of the year and he always told the team, ‘Just keep believing and by conference we will be okay.’ He never stopped believing in any of the coaches or the team.”

Chasing a championship wouldn’t even be a possibility for Averett without Bryant, Doino bluntly said.

“Honestly, we would’ve been lost without him,” Doino added.

“I don’t know if we would have been mentally tough enough to handle how the start of the season went without him. His leadership is by far what single-handedly has kept us alive to that point.”

Chasing the record Bryant passed Averett Athletics Hall of Famer DeMarcus Morrison late in the season as the program’s all-time career rebounder. Bryant admitted he thought it was a mark that seemed unattainable when he glanced at the record book as a sophomore. Now, Bryant’s name is at the top of the list.

It’s funny to think that he almost didn’t even play college basketball.

In high school, Bryant was getting more attention from schools wanting him to play football. Furthermore, Bryant wasn’t even sure if he was going to college at all. He happened to be playing at a basketball camp in Richmond, where former Averett men’s basketball assistant coach Larry Henshaw spotted him. Averett was the first school to contact him about basketball. So he jumped at the opportunity.

Fast-forward several years and Bryant is not only the all-time leading rebounder currently with 882 boards, he also finished his collegiate career fifth all-time in scoring with 1,304 career points.

Bryant said he doesn’t believe he will fully be able to appreciate the record and all that he accomplished right away.

“As of right now, I realize that it’s big and important,” he said.

“But I don’t think it’s honestly going to hit me until it’s all over and I can sit down and think, ‘Yeah, I really did that.’”

Once conference play rolled around, the Cougars found their way with Bryant leading the charge in all aspects, creating matchup nightmares on both sides of the floor for opponents.

Averett bounced back from that difficult start and to win a share of the USA South’s regular season crown and the top seed in the conference tournament. At the same time, Bryant put together a dominant season individually. He averaged a team-high 17.6 points and a conference-best 10.4 rebounds to help him earn USA South Player of the Year and AllConference First Team accolades during his final season.

“Charles could have given up on the team when we started off 2-10, but because of his growth as a person and leader, he knew it was a matter of time before we started clicking,” Contreras said.

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AVERETT MAGAZINE | 2017 EDITION

Bryant’s place in Averett men’s basketball history is already firmly planted, especially after helping the Cougars win their second regular season title in three years. Yet, records or rings aren’t what Bryant wants to be his sole legacy.

“I want myself to be remembered as always playing hard and doing whatever for my teammates,” Bryant said. “What I really want to be remembered for is not playing for myself.

I’ve never played for myself. Before every game, I have somebody in my head that I’m playing for. That’s why I get real emotional sometimes. … That’s what pushes me to go so hard.”

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Faculty and Staff Accolades

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DeAmicis Publishes Article in Criminal Justice Journal

Brenner Publishes Paper in Technology Publication

Albert DeAmicis, GPS adjunct professor in criminal justice, published an article entitled “The Thin Green Line and Their War at the Border” in the American Criminal Justice LAE Journal.

Dr. Aimee M. Brenner, assistant professor of education, published a paper in TechTrends, a publication of the Association of Educational Communications & Technology (AECT). The paper, “Investigating Practices in Teacher Education that Promote and Inhibit Technology Integration Transfer in Early Career Teachers,” was co-authored with Dr. Jennifer M. Brill, associate professor and program leader for the instructional design & technology (IDT) program at Virginia Tech. It was based on research Brenner conducted with Brill for her dissertation study while pursuing her Ph.D. at Virginia Tech.

Lee Publishes Article in Medicine Journal Dr. Tiffany Lee, GPS adjunct professor, published her first article in the Emergency Medicine International journal on “International Good Samaritan Laws.” Right after publishing the article, she was contacted by the Emergency Physicians Association in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) about consulting with them as they try to pass a Good Samaritan law in their country.

Lee is a disaster responder for Team Rubicon and an emergency planning volunteer with the Rescue Mission of Roanoke.

Lemery Judges App Challenge Steve Lemery, assistant professor of computer science and mathematics, served as a judge for this year’s U.S. Congressional App Challenge, in which high school students designed and created smart phone apps. This year’s 5th District winner was the “VR Atom History Explorer” submitted by a team from Franklin County High School. Steve was impressed by their app’s use of a 3-D interface using a low-cost “Google Cardboard” device.

Fiedlerm Publishes Article on STEM Education Dr. Evan Fiedlerm, GPS adjunct instructor, copublished an article entitled “Critical Thinking through Technology Applied in Collegiate Pedagogy.” Fiedlerm, who was the lead editor of this collaborative effort, worked with eight colleges and universities to study critical thinking within the STEM disciplines.

An avid runner, he has published or co-published numerous articles on running and exercise. He also maintains several websites on running and exercise.

Harris Achieves CCNA Tony Harris, network and security administrator, passed the CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate) Routing and Switching certification exam. The certification validates a professional’s ability to understand, configure, operate and troubleshoot medium-level switched and routed networks and also includes the verification and implementation of connections via remote sites using WAN.

AVERETT MAGAZINE | 2017 EDITION

Stevens Presents at Virginia Tech Meg Stevens, director of athletics, spoke to a group of freshmen student-athletes at Virginia Tech in August 2016. She encouraged them to make the most of their rare opportunity to play collegiate sports at the Division I level. Over the past years at Averett, Meg has been the keynote speaker at several regional and national events in the collegiate sports industry at various levels.

Ehrhardt Attends and Presents at Conferences Alexis Ehrhardt, executive director for Averett’s Center for Community Engagement and Career Competitiveness, spoke at Miami Dade College. The conference consisted of three sessions on teambuilding and employee engagement. Ehrhardt spoke on the topic of increasing institutional agility through leadership and represented Averett, which was one of only five other institutions outside of Miami Dade College to bring in featured speakers.

Over the summer, she traveled to Munich and Berlin as one of 22 Americans selected for the American delegation of the XXXVIII American-German Young Leaders Conference. Sponsored by the American Council on Germany, the conference brings together American and German young professionals to discuss a wide variety of political, economic, security and social issues. Delegates came from government, business, academia and the media, and had the opportunity to hear from key German government leaders, while sharing their own perspectives on the future of the transatlantic relationship.

Ehrhardt also graduated from Lead Virginia, an eightmonth program that enables the Commonwealth’s leaders to discuss their perspectives with each other, provides a venue for them to educate each other about the issues in their communities and raises the level of understanding about the challenges facing our regions.

FACULT Y & STAF F Blair Named Interim Superintendent

Lesley Villarose, dean of students, attended a threeday intensive training to become a certified Civil Rights Investigator by the Association of Title Nine Administrators.

Dr. Gary Blair, GPS adjunct faculty in education, has been voted as the interim superintendent for Rappahannock County Public Schools. Blair holds an M.Ed. in administration and supervision and an Ed.D. in educational leadership. He has served in many capacities in the Richmond area school systems, most recently as director of human resources for Rappahannock County.

Sierra Braxton-Sears, assistant director of student engagement and leadership development, and Taylor Mahaffey, graduate assistant for student engagement and leadership development, presented at the William and Mary Elevating Change Conference.

Mahaffey and Braxton-Sears also were on the planning committee for the Virginia Student Services Conference.

Hawkins Releases New Publication Ralph Hawkins, associate professor of religion, had a chapter published in a volume of “Hebrew and Beyond,” honoring Dr. Rodney Cloud, one of his former professors. His chapter is entitled, “The FortyThousand Men of Joshua 4:13,” and deals with the translation of Hebrew terms in this verse.

Covington and Flinn Complete Senior Leadership Seminar Rachel Covington, assistant director of Center for Community Engagement and Career Competitiveness, and Debbie Flinn, director of development and planned giving, completed the 2016-17 ACE Women’s Network Senior Leadership Seminar. Initiated in 1987, the Senior Leadership Seminar series provides a forum to bring together emerging women leaders with established leaders in higher education in the Commonwealth. The Senior Leadership Seminar focuses on personal development, professional development and trends in higher education. During each meeting, speakers and guests join the group to discuss critical issues facing higher education from a variety of perspectives. The group met three times over the course of the 2016-17 academic year and the participants graduated in June 2017.

Rowland Earns Graduate Certificate in Instructional Design Susan Rowland, director of curriculum services for distance education, has completed the requirements for a graduate certificate in instructional design through the University of Wisconsin-Stout. The eight-month intensive program revolved around best practices in the instructional design field and emphasized the design of effective instruction for instructor-led or web-based delivery through the alignment of appropriate instructional strategies and assessments.

Canady Publishes Book and Serves as Race Relations Resource Dr. Andrew Canady, assistant professor of history and honors program director, wrote and published a book, “Willis Duke Weatherford: Race, Religion, and Reform in the American South,” a biography revised from his dissertation about a southern liberal man in the 1900s. Canady wants to use the knowledge he gained through writing this book to help bring positive change in the community. He plans to continue to be a resource for race relations discussions in Danville and the surrounding area and use the mindset of Weatherford, that education will bring change over time.

Yancey Named to Board of Directors Tia Yancey, administrative assistant for the CCECC, has been named to the United Way of DanvillePittsylvania County’s Board of Directors. Yancey currently serves as a commissioner for the Danville Redevelopment and Housing Authority and as a parent advisory member for the iChoose program, an initiative of the Dan River Partnership for a Healthy Community.

Faculty and Staff Accolades

Student Life Staff Reach Certifications and Present

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47

Faculty and Staff Accolades

FACULT Y & STAF F Henderson Joins IDA Hall of Fame

Miller Inducted into USA South Hall of Fame, Named Coach of the Year

Ginger Henderson, associate professor of equestrian studies, was inducted into the Intercollegiate Dressage (IDA) Hall of Fame in April 2016 during the National Competition in New Jersey. According to the IDA, the award recognizes outstanding service in an administrative capacity to the functioning of the organization. The IDA said, “This year’s recipient epitomizes the spirit of service. She is a founding board member, regional representative, past organizer of Nationals, coach, development officer and coordinator of the USDF Quiz Challenge.”

Danny Miller, head women’s volleyball coach, was inducted into the USA South Athletic Conference’s 2017 Hall of Fame Class, and was named USA South Volleyball Coach of the Year. Miller, in his 22nd season leading the Cougars, became the most decorated coach in USA South volleyball history with his eighth USA South Coach of the Year honor. The Cougars captured the USA South’s East Division championship during the regular season after posting a perfect 15-0 mark in conference action. The regular season title was the Averett program’s second consecutive and league-best 16th all-time. Averett finished with a 2610 overall record.

Morris Receives National IHSA Award Cricket Morris, equestrian studies instructor and coach, received the Intercollegiate Horse Shows Association (IHSA) 2016 Nationals Coach Sportsmanship Award given to the coach who demonstrates actions and efforts beyond their responsibilities as a coach. It was noted that Coach Morris “has put in 100 percent effort into the running of the National Horse Show. If you ask her for something, she does it and asks what else? She is always available to answer numerous questions and always with a smile.”

Doino Named Coach of the Year David Doino, head men’s basketball coach, was named USA South Basketball Coach of the Year. Doino, in his third year as head coach, guided the Cougars to their second USA South regular season championship in three years. This season, Doino rallied his team from a 2-10 start to claim a share of the league title and the No. 1 seed in the conference tournament, which Averett hosted. Doino’s selection is the sixth time an Averett coach has been named as the league’s top coach.

Ferguson Wins Race in France Dr. Richard Ferguson, professor of physical education, won the overall title at the 11 kilometer mountain race in Villard-Reculas, France, in July 2016. In the fourth edition of the race, he won in course record time.

Parts of the race climbed to over 6,000 feet in the French Alps.

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AVERETT MAGAZINE | 2017 EDITION

CLAS S NOTE S

1950s Lorene Simpson Preas ‘52 of Roanoke, has two sons and four grandchildren, she is 86 and has been an active member at Virginia Heights Baptist Church since 1954. Lorene also is a member of the Back Creek Civic League and the Back Creek Ladies Club. She volunteers every week with Second Helping Shop. “Life is good.”

Jane Fidler Merle ‘81 of Midlothian, recently joined Keller Williams Realty in Midlothian and works with both buyers and sellers.

Cynthia G. Crockett ‘83 of Washington, D.C., is a licensed professional counselor and certified coach.

1990s

1960s

Natalie Roberson Kline ‘90 of Roanoke, is children’s minister at The Rescue Mission of Roanoke.

Paula Kirby Blundell ‘62 of Frederick, Md., is celebrating the recent graduation of her grandson, Matthew. Matthew is a fourth-generation teacher and is teaching STEM in Montgomery County in Maryland.

Stacey Harville Oakes ‘90 of Danville, is the principal at Gretna Senior High School.

Linda Harrell Coffman ‘67 of Newport News, along with her husband of 46 years (whom she met at an Averett mixer in 1966), are enjoying retired life. They have four grandchildren, plus her dear mother and father, ages 92 and 99. “God is good!”

Sandra Allen Lawrence ‘67 of Atlantis, Fla., is retired from the education field and enjoying golf, family and fitness in paradise in South Florida.

Jan Smart O’Kelley ‘68 of Keswick and her husband are approaching their 49th wedding anniversary and are very active with their three children, six grandchildren and three rescued dogs and cats.

1970s Bethanie Hamlett Tucker ‘72 of Alton, recently presented workshops on generational poverty at Miami Dade College. She is the author of several published works including Understanding and Engaging Under-Resourced College Students, Reading by Age 5, Readiness Skills and Relationship Building for Early Childhood Education and Tucker Signing Strategies for Reading.

Hilda Canody Stevens ‘73 of Amherst, is owner/educational consultant of Successful Innovations, Inc. She was named to 2016 Worldwide Who’s Who and featured in 2016 November/December issue of 2016 Women of Distinction Magazine.

Kathryn Dodson ‘77 of Altavista, was recently honored by her high school, Altavista High, for her service to the school. A scholarship was created in honor of her 32 years of service.

Barbara Britton Tune ‘79 of Nathalie, is the principal at Pathways Day School.

1980s Sharron Jennings Gunter ‘80 of Altavista, is assistant principal at Brookneal Elementary School.

Carol J. Cahill Law ‘80 of Belchertown, Mass., is the recipient of the Intercollegiate Horse Shows Association (IHSA) Lifetime Achievement Award. CJ is a national championship-winning hunt seat equestrian team coach at Mount Holyoke College and one of the top coaches in the nation.

R. Kevin Ryan ‘95 of Alexandria, recently was the recipient of the South Boston (Mass.) Citizens’ Association’s John W. McCormack Public Service Award.

William I. Mawyer ‘96 of Charlottesville, has been appointed the executive director of the Rivanna Water and Sewer Authority and Rivanna Solid Waste Authority.

Tracey Lowery Moss ‘96 of Clemmons, N.C., was named Morgan Elementary School’s Teacher of the Year.

Greg Soult ‘97 of Quinton, is the pastor for Antioch Baptist Church.

Harding A. Travis Jr. ‘97 of Skippers, was ordained in May of 2015 as a Christian nondenominational minister. He completed his post graduate studies at Liberty University through the Liberty Home Bible Institute.

Jason LaRocco ‘98 of Dubai, UAE, is a pilot for Emirates in Dubai. He is captain of the Airbus 380, the biggest passenger airliner.

J. Kahlil Pfaff ‘99 of Bumpass, is a missionary with Kids Alive International in Beirut, Lebanon.

Barbara Homiller ‘99 of Midlothian, is chief operating officer for the Better Business Bureau serving south central Virginia.

Sherry Roosa Phelps ‘99, ‘13 of Blanch, N.C., is the associate registrar at Virginia Military Institute (VMI).

Vernon L. Saunders III ‘99 of Gainesville, is vice president and general manager of Jacobs’ Federal Network Systems business unit with responsibility in the execution of FNS programs.

2000s Shawn M. Williams ‘00 of Broadlands, is serving as the general counsel with the Alliance Technology Group in Hanover, Md. Stephanie Lowe Ellis ‘01 of Danville, received the 2016 National School Psychologist of the Year award from the National Association of School Psychologists. Stephanie is a children’s specialist and lead school psychologist with Asheboro City Schools.

Jared Kania ‘01 Williamsport, Penn., is the assistant director of the College of Petroleum and Natural Gas at Lackawanna College.

Christine McFadden Slate ‘01 of Richmond, is chief compliance officer with Cherry Bekaert Wealth Management LLC. WWW.AVERETT.EDU

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CLAS S NOTE S Michael T. Ferguson ‘03 of Powhatan, is the new vice president of technical services at Dominion Due Diligence Group (D3G), where he will be in charge of the company’s account management teams.

Ferguson has been with the company for more than 13 years.

Chris Layne ‘05 of Chesterfield, is director of commercial banking at EVB. Amy Bracey ‘06 of Danville, recently accepted the position of executive director of Commonwealth Senior Living in Williamsburg.

Sterling G. Williams ‘06 of South Boston, is the interim head coach for the Halifax County High School varsity boys basketball team.

Carmella N. Cook ‘07, ‘12 of Chantilly, is a human resources manager for SpartanNash at MDV Landover, the leading food distributor to U.S. commissaries and exchanges throughout the world. She recently was recognized by the Progressive Grocer for her work in the industry and named one of the Top Women in Grocery receiving their Rising Star award.

Chris Hodnett ‘08 of Atlanta, Ga., is a trainer in operator selection, training and training systems with Chick-fil-A corporate offices in Atlanta.

Michael Rapay ‘08 of Greenwood, S.C., is the director for the office of student activities at Lander University.

Daniel L. Rogers ‘08 of Dry Fork, is a high school PE teacher for Pittsylvania County Schools.

Joseph T. Dusewicz ‘09 of Hampton, is an assistant vice president and branch manager for Townebank, Oyster Point.

Jason C. Grey ‘09 of Danville, is the director of utilities for the City of Danville.

2010s Zachary Ward ‘10 of Fort Myers, Fla., is a physical education and health teacher at LaBelle High School and assistant coach for the LaBelle Cowboys baseball team.

Dan Nadel ‘12 of Los Angeles, Calif., is a nurse recruiter for Aya Healthcare.

Alexandra A. Pingree ‘12 of Raleigh, N.C., graduated from Elon University with a master’s of arts in interactive media. She and her sister own a website design and development business.

Bobby Allen Roach ‘12, ‘16 of Dry Fork, is a public relations and marketing specialist for Danville Community College.

Kendra Edwards ‘13 of Salem, has been named a recipient of Harris Corporation’s “Ten under Ten” award. The award honors emerging leaders – all within 10 years of obtaining their undergraduate degree – for their professional success and demonstrated leadership both at Harris and within their communities.

Suvituuli J. Piipponen ‘13, ‘16 of Sewanee, Tenn., is the coordinator for Student Activities at The University of the South - Sewanee.

Marquis Scott ‘13 of Ocala, Fla., is a PE teacher at Emerald Shores Elementary School.

Christopher A. Dumler ‘14 of Salem, is a deputy sheriff with the Roanoke County Sheriff’s office. He is the recipient of the Class 15-32 Lawfit Award.

Kevin D. Ferrell ‘14 of Moneta, is a branch manager with Enterprise Rent-A-Car. Wynton D. Stephens ‘14 of Seneca, S.C., is the sports director at the YMCA of Greenville.

Taylor Harris ‘15 of Saxe, recently accepted a position at BB&T bank in Keysville as a Community Banking Branch Banker Team Leader.

“Upon my date of hire, the Market Leader mentioned that she was very enthused about my educational background. I have the wonderful staff at Averett University to thank. I am proud to tell others that I received such a great education at Averett. It is because of my knowledge acquired at Averett that I was able to be offered a position in the business field.

Thank you Averett University!”

Davis M. Absher ‘16 of Mocksville, N.C., is the assistant basketball coach at University of Virginia – Wise.

Courtney Pine Ball ‘11 of Reidsville, N.C., graduated from Elon Law School in May 2016.

Kris D. Echols ‘11 of Danville, is a systems administrator for the Averett University Computer Center.

Quinton D. Harrell ‘11 of Charlottesville, operates A Taste of Home Southern Cuisine with his wife. He volunteers with the Black Professional Network, the Charlottesville Alliance for Black Male Achievement and advises other entrepreneurs.

Ashley E. Jackson Ferrell ‘11 of Moneta, received two master’s degrees in education from the University of the Southwest. She is a school counselor for Pittsylvania County Schools.

Linda Brown-Burton ‘12 of Midlothian, has been named the first executive director of the Petersburg Symphony Orchestra.

Derek Forney ’12 of Danville, is Asset Protection Store Leader at Target Corp.

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AVERETT MAGAZINE | 2017 EDITION

Submit classnotes, weddings, births, deaths and address changes to alumni@averett.edu.

CLAS S NOTE S

WEDDINGS 1980s Rosalee Maxwell ‘80 and Bill Lyons September 10, 2016 Karen Olp Nooruddin ‘83 and Hazem Aziz June 6, 2016

1990s Katherine Anderson ‘91 and Ronnie Gray April 9, 2016

2000s Stephanie Lowe ‘01 and Christopher Ellis ‘01 December 31, 2016

Lauren Boswell ‘04 and Jonathan Dodd ‘06 December 1, 2016 Tiffany Weinkopff ‘04 and Mark Baillie May 28, 2016 Jonathan Travis Hackworth ‘06 and Leslie Ann Harris August 20, 2016

2010s Courtney Pine ‘11 and Neil Ball ‘11 May 28, 2016 Joshua Hudson ‘11 and Jaynee Campbell September 17, 2016 Ashley E. Jackson ‘11 and Kevin D. Ferrell ‘14 June 25, 2016

James R. Thurnes ‘07, ‘12 and Tracey Tonsor July 30, 2016

Tyler G. Williams ‘12 and Allison M. Sparks ‘14 June 11, 2016

Christopher W. Hodnett ‘08 and Erin B. Ricketts ‘14 August 29, 2015

Carianna S. Beck ‘14 and Timothy A. Coston ‘15 July 17, 2016

Daniel L. Rogers ‘08 and Mary Elizabeth Stump September 24, 2016

Kelsey C. Rouech ‘15 and Tim Robertson June 18, 2016

Mario E. Huffman ‘09 and Holly B. Janney February 27, 2016

Katelyn J. Riddle ‘16 and Brandon L. Holder May 14, 2016

BIRTHS 2000s Odessa Chafin Davis ‘00, a daughter, Kathryn Elizabeth February 5, 2016 Gair Perry Ayers ‘02 and Nathan V. Ayers ‘99 a daughter, Alexandra Gair August 30, 2016 Blaire A. Price Bycoffe ‘03, a daughter, Sadie Alice June 21, 2016 Daniel E. Carroll ‘03, a son, Noah and a daughter, Katherine April 25, 2016 David M. Venci ‘03, a son, William Thomas August 12, 2016 Jerry Manning ‘04, a son, Colin Ray November 8, 2016 Grace-Kelly Powell Pyle ‘06, ‘07, a daughter, Ava-Grace July 6, 2016 Colin Osberg ‘07, a daughter, Nora Elizabeth May 2016

Michael Rapay ‘08, a son, Ben July 2016 Mercedes Hottle McGinthy ‘09 and Derek McGinthy ‘08 a son, Ryan November 30, 2016 Holly Beth Kilby ‘09, ‘15 and David Wilson Thomas ‘11 a son, Noah February 9, 2016

2010s Logan Michael Smyth ‘10, a son, Robert Michael January 14, 2016 Kathryn Mills Forney ‘11, ‘15 and Derek S. Forney ‘12 a son, Trenton Michael May 3, 2016 Brian C. Wallace ‘11, a daughter, Addilyn Reese September 13, 2016 Jonathan R. Thompson ‘14, a son, Craig Truman November 20, 2015

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I N LOVI N G ME MO RY

IN LOVING MEMORY

1930s Janie M. Williams Viele ‘33 Frances Stanley Attkisson ‘35 Zelda Kobre Bernard ‘38 Eileen Louise Lloyd-Mader ‘38 Polly A. Haymes Scott ‘38 Hazel Parrott Shields ‘38 Lillian Hinson Newton ‘39 Elsie Carr Slayton ‘39

1940s

1950s

1980s

Dorothy L. Hawkins Alexander ‘51

Dorothy “Dot” Harraway Bennett ‘80

Margie P. Pace Shorter ‘51

Janette Mills Baradell ‘81

Sophie Ann Seal Evans ‘52

Wanda Powell McEntire ‘83

Janet O. Riecks Grace Somers ‘52

Edward Cleophus Simon ‘83

Nancy E. Simpson Cocke ‘53

Wanda Martin Billings ‘84

Carolyn H. Crewe Gray ‘53

Ricky Dale Lewis ‘85

Billie Rae Johnson Soyars ‘53

Sharon Reid Shelton Maurakis ‘87

Bonnie Jean Banks Kipple ‘54 Janet Lieske Wrenn ‘56

1990s

Zemula Moorefield Pickeral ‘55 Barbara A. Haley Birchall ‘57

Sharon E. Denny ‘93

Mary Jane Bliss Sinex ‘40

Thomas Lee Bowles ‘57

Ronnie Lee Dinkle ‘93

Doris Bass Booth ‘41

Kay Kellam France ‘57

John W. Hall ‘93

Ruth Grace Briddell Lawson ‘41

Anne Rice Spencer Schauss ‘58

Gladys Woods Stamps ‘94

Holmes Oneida Moss Walters ‘41

Christopher Scott Kile ‘95 Dennis L. Williams ‘95

George H. Shields ‘42, former trustee

1960s

Annie MacKay Revere Patterson ‘42

Rebecca Cornwell Owens ‘60

James C. Witherspoon ‘97

Margaret A. Tilson ‘43

Eula Rittenbury Ragsdale ‘61

Barbara T. Messick Benedict ‘44

Carol Sue Stephens Sawyer ‘63

Andean L. Conner Dalton ‘44

Janet Marnell Headley ‘64

2000s

Barbara J. Scott Moore ‘44

Marie Owen Motley Bushley ‘65

William Daryl Dalton ‘00, ‘02

Marjorie Denman Westerfield Motley ‘44

Phylliss Anne Welch Hubbard ‘65

Adam Winstead ‘00

Marilyn J. Washburn Roberts ‘44

Patsy A. Meadows ‘65

Teresa C. McLane Blackwell ‘02

Martha Anne Crutchfield Sherman ‘44

Teresa Y. Thames Wilkinson ‘69

Ruth E. Madren Person ‘03

Sylvia E. Davey Orr ‘42

Sally Elliott Armstrong McNemar ‘45

Ivan Alexander Morrozoff ‘96

Shirley Mae Eanes Matthews ‘04

1970s

David A. Gladstone ‘05

Mildred Elizabeth “Betty” Truslow Welch ‘45 Louise Warner Wells ‘46

Marcia L. Brown Cook ‘72

Robert E. Moody Jr. ‘07

Virginia “Addie” Dodd Wilkerson ‘46

David L. Deal ‘72

Gary Milton Lavinder ‘08

Vivian C. Reed Garrett ‘47

Frank William Holland ‘72

Sallie Mae Johnson Scott ‘12

Gilda Gelia De Meo ‘47

David Jonathan Austin ‘73

Lucie T.M. Jenkins Johnson ‘47

Brenda Carol Rowe Donavant ‘73

June L. Houlgrave Moore ‘47

Kenneth T. Meadors ‘74

Eugene P. Black ‘48

Trudy Clark Thompson ‘74

Bernice Patterson Elliott ‘48

Nora Poole Jenkins ‘75

Ruth Jean Simpson Gravely ‘48

Bickford Patton Jennings ‘75

Gordon E. McCubbins ‘48

Ruby May Reynolds Anderson ‘76

Betty F. Hughes Roberts ‘48

Judy Ellen Bowles ‘76

Esther Lovelace Hutcherson ‘49

Frederick D. Ferguson ‘76

Alice W. Milton ‘49

Olga Schmidt Pilson ‘76

Judith M. Carter Redfern ‘45

Jackson L. Fowlkes Jr. ‘77 William “Bill” McCraw ‘78

52

AVERETT MAGAZINE | 2017 EDITION

Bonnie Sullivan Short ‘05

FRIENDS Othelia M. Shelhorse Anderson,

former trustee widow Richard Glenn Barkhouser, former trustee Dr. Frank R. Campbell, president emeritus Inez Gaddy, former trustee spouse Louise R. Lester, former trustee Doris Lee Davis Pritchett,

former dance instructor Carolyn Patricia Pulley, former dean of women Elizabeth “Beth” Seelinger Spencer,

adjunct faculty

Thank you to our Averett Society Members The Averett Society includes donors who give at least $1,000 annually

Trustee ($25,000+)

The George and Sarah Buchanan Fdn. The Carrington Charitable Trust Estate of Sallie M. Clark The Community Foundation

of the Dan River Region Doug and Beverley Dalton Philip N. Daly and Frances K. Daly Charitable Lead Unitrust Danville Regional Foundation Estate of Dr. J. B. Frith Violet and Ray Frith * E. Stuart James Grant Charitable Trust Japan Tobacco International JT--Minnie Maude Charitable Trust Charles B. Keesee Educational Fund Frank and Dugan Maddux Michael D. McHugh Military Resale Invitational Francoise Rambach Gail and Robert Ramey The Virginia College Fund VA Tobacco Indemnification & Community

Revitalization Commission Lettie Pate Whitehead Foundation, Inc. Womack Foundation

Ambassador ($10,000 - $24,999)

Estate of Carrie T. Aylor Estate of Elizabeth Bustard The Coca-Cola Company Elizabeth Compton * Niles and Carol Daly James and Susan Daniel Betty Falk Charles and Lenora Harris * Lester and Jane Hudson * Hughes Memorial Foundation Old Dominion Electric Cooperative Ronald R. Palmer Mary and Bill Riddle Leah H. Shields * Vanguard Charitable Endowment Program Virginia Baptist Foundation Elizabeth and L. D. Walker Woodall Auto Mall

Scholar ($5,000 - $9,999)

Jan G. Barnett Bob & Lois Bass Janet H. Campbell Coca-Cola Bottling Company Barbara J. Collie * Gary and Susan Collins * denotes Legacy Society

Ben and Betty Davenport Tiffany and Joe Franks Landon E. and Marian C. Fuller

Perpetual Charitable Trust Vincent P. Kania Kenneth and Suzanne Miller Lillian H. Ransom Sammy and Dianne Saunders Loralee and Fred Stucky Elizabeth L. Swaim John James Westbrook Society

of Natural History The Winston-Salem Fdn., Inc.

Averett Society ($1,000 - $4,999)

Alliance One International, Incorporated Anonymous Robert W. Arnold Barbara A. Bacharach John and Patsy Barr Cyndie and Dan Basinger Brigid N. Belko Catherine B. Bendall Kirk Bidgood Judy and George Nolen Ken and Brenda Bowman Ed and Patricia Brunot Joseph and Diane Burke Meaghan T. Byrne Lyle and Marsha Ann Cady Pattie and Don Cairns * Dan and Emily Carlton Tim and Ingrid Carter Judy and John Cayce * Sarah L. Collie Roby R. Craft Steven and Beth Daniels Jay R. Davis Sue and Donald Davis Lucille and Kennerly Digges Michael and Joyce Duncan Kristopher D. Echols Alexis and Scott Ehrhardt Don Ethington and Pat Morgan Jackie and Lynne Finney Debbie and Barry Flinn * Timothy and Jackie Fulop Stacy and Tim Gato Virginia and Burgess Hamlet Ginger and Michael Henderson Wanda and Stanley Jeffress * Ann Jensen Lisa and L.K. Johnson Mike and Joan Keck

Kiwanis Club of Danville, Inc. Kohnken Family Foundation Barbara S. Larson-Wille * John and Janet Laughlin Margaret and Richard Lewis John H. Love Mike and Judy Luter Karen Margo Patricia B. Maurakis Angie McAdams Eric and Sherri McClanahan Danny Miller Wayne and Nancy Oakes Margaret P. Parker Nancy L. Perry Luncheon Pilot Club/Danville Jonathan D. Pruitt Buddy and Debbie Rawley Jack and Cynthia Reasor Claude D. Reynolds * Katherine Rigney Ben and Deborah Rippe Janet and Maurice Roberson Barbara R. Russo Amanda and Ronald Ruthenberg Jeff and Angela Smith Calvin and Diane Snowden Gene and Rebecca Steadman Meg Stevens Strategic Marketing Affiliates Roberta and John Thayer-Smith Kathie and Scott Tune Brian S. Turner Marcia P. Turner Jean C. Vernon Lesley and Mike Villarose Jane and Robert Wait Hampton and Barbara Wilkins Kris and Ron Willard Ebb and Gayle Williams Wayne and Michalene Womble Steven D. Wray Peggy S. Wright Richard and Jean Wright Anita J. Wyatt Landon and Kathryn Wyatt

Recent Alumni Averett Society ($500+) (For alumni graduating in the last 10 years)

Anthony & Jamie Martinez Chloe E. Mayhew Christopher A. McDonald Philip A. Wilson

for donations received May 1, 2016 - May 1, 2017

Thank you to our Donors Edna E. Aaron Cleive and Jill Adams Jo Ann Adams Linda C. Adams Gerald and Margaret Adcock Lynne and Stanley Adkins Peggy O. Adkins Paulette D. Akers Vaughan and Doan Alexander All-Virginia Title & Escrow Inc. Fannie L. Allen Pat and Lee Allen Daphne J. Almarode Constance E. Alston Rossie and Carol Alston Nancy J. Alward Joan and Robert Anderson Melissa and Mark Anderson Nancy and Andy Anderson Tahnai Annis John C. Ansted Leslie Ansted Mauricio and Melissa Arrien Fran Ashby Keith and Jeanne Ashworth Mary E. Ashworth Ann and James Astin Jean D. Atkins R. C. Aylor Christine and William Baggerly Melanie and Tony Baiardo Abigail A. Bailey Anne B. Bailey Joyce B. Bailey Wanda and Paul Bailey Louise and Charles Baker Vatronza Barbour Nancy Barden Karen and James Barksdale Carol and Dillon Barnett Margaret T. Barnett Bradie C. Barr Lamar Barr Estate of Mary L. Barr Nicole C. Barringer Mercedes and Tom Barton Sandy D. Bash Bradley W. Bass Teresa and Ernest Beach Harriet and Raymond Beale Ralph and Joan Beck Mathew D. Bell Dale and Bill Belmonte Brian R. Benitez Joanne and Thomas Bennett Scotty Bennett Ellen Beville and Eddie Mitchell Elizabeth A. Beyer Marilyn L. Birchak Lura and Chuck Bishton Anne and Tyler Bland Carolyn and William Blaylock Randall and Linda Blevins Paula and Frank Blundell Robert L. Boggs Pat and Heidi Bolen

Phil and Lee Bowditch Angie and Jeff Bowers Bowlman T. Bowles Cathy J. Bowling Charlie and Carol Bowman Marjorie Bowman Patricia A. Bowman Dimitri Braakman Laura N. Branham Sierra and Jamison Braxton-Sears Richard and Marion Breen Alisha N. Bretz Cathy and Rick Briggs Charles and Debra Brown Kirkland D. Brown James W. Broyles Phyllis J. Bryant Valerie L. Buckley Margaret A. Bugg Susan and Pervis Burcham Michael and Batina Burcher Kevin T. Burnette Linda M. Burns Carol M. Burst Marion and Charles Burton Joel and Linda Butts James S. Caldwell Andrew M. Canady Nancy and Claude Carey Karen and Robert Carson Brenda and Ray Carter Carmen Carter Keith A. Carter Kendall Carter Nicholas P. Carter Worth H. Carter Jr. † Malcolm Case Russell Casey Ann and Steve Cassada Robert and Abby Cauthen Suzanne B. Chamberlin Carl and Anna Chambers Chandler’s Automotive and Tire JoAnn Chandler Terrie and Richard Chaplin Louise and Perry Chapman Sarah Chapman Justine L. Cherochak Mary and Garland Childrey Sandra and Steven Church Nancy J. Clardy Catherine Clark and

Michael Roberts Corinne and Tom Clark David Clark Harriett and Lee Clark Katherine E. Clark Michael and Elizabeth Clark Nancy and Bill Clark Rebecca L. Clark Jan G. Clarke * Diron C. Clements Barry and Margaret Clendenin Kim and Robert Clifton Lydia Clifton Ray and Alice Cobb

Beth and J.W. Cobler Johnathan Cochran Betsy and James Coffey Linda and Kohl Coffman Ronald and Amy Cole Steward M. Cole Robert W. Coleman EJ and April Collins Norman E. Colston Carolyn D. Combs Patsi and Mike Compton Cathy and Wayne Conner Michael and Lisa Cook John and Donna Cooper Elaine F. Copeland Alton and Edna Corpening Rachel M. Covington Cecile and James Cox Eleanor S. Craig Cassidy Crawford Morgan Crawford MaLinda and Charlie Crawley Deloris and Donald Crews Emily and Billy Crews Elisabeth Crocker Cynthia G. Crockett Steven R. Crouse James Culbreth Glenn and Maureen Culley Reginald S. Daniels * Stokes and Betty Daniels Danville Braves, Inc. Harriett A. Darst Eric and Mary Davidson Debra Davis Delores A. Davis Venida W. Davis Elaine L. Day Pamela G. De Feo Mark and Debbie Deane Eileen F. DeLucia * Deborah M. DeMarey Lisa B. Devaughan Zana and Chris Devlin Joan L. Dickens Helen and Luther Dickens William and Cheryl Dickerson Carol D. Digesare Sandra E. Diles Louis G. Dillion Kathy and Al Divine Travis and Chrissy Dix Alison and Michael Dixon Leslie and Helm Dobbins Barbara and Robert Dodson David P. Doino Janey and Edgar Douglas Chuck and Terri Driggers Virginia and John Dughi Karen E. Duhamel Layton and Kathryn Dunbar Doris and Robert Duncan Joseph T. Dusewicz Ailene and James Duval June Eanes Lalor Earle

† deceased

Juanita Easley Richard A. Easley Christopher and Jennifer Eastwood Mary Ann Edwards Stewart and Terry Edwards Kenneth and Mercedes Elgert Chris and Stephanie Ellis Debbie and Lee Ellison Morgan E. Epstein Erie Insurance Group Martha and Calvert Esleeck Ann and John Evans Mary and Nick Fairbanks Androniki J. Fallis Nina and W. L. Fenska Richard and Jill Ferguson Lynn M. Fern Barbara E. Fidler Terry and William Fields Kay and Robert Finch Mary and Llewellyn Fischer Steve and Janice Fitts Danielle and George Fitz-Hugh Kenneth H. Fleming Olga J. Floyd Austine Flynn Derek and Kathryn Forney Jennifer Foster Roy and Melissa Foster * Clara S. Fountain Mary and Jerry Franks Nadine and William Frey Mary L. Frith George and Anne Fritz Bill and Sally Fuller Ed and Christie Fulton Paula L. Galbraith Nora and George Garber Denise and Martin Garrett Wright and Carolyn Garrett William H. Garvin Toni and Jim Gazda Russ and Maryilyn George Glenda and Mike Gerteisen Anne E. Geyer John and Deborah Geyer Jean and Kevin Gibbons Rasbury and Pamela Gilbert Lewis and Melanie Giles Kathie and Joe Gillette Patricia A. Glenn Vertell T. Godbolt Tonika Goode Elizabeth S. Goodman Kelli O. Gordon Gloria and Kirk Gosling Diane M. Gosney Joseph W. Goude Donna and Tom Gourley Jillian A. Gourley Herbert and Lynne Grant David and Debbie Gray Robert F. Gray Lucille and Emory Graybill Linda C. Green Betsy and James Greene

* Legacy Society

Bennie M. Gregory Brandon and Leigh Gregory Faye and Dennis Groome Mary and Gary Grubb Carolyn and Werner Gruber David A. Gurganus Dwight H. Hackett Samuel M. Hairston Billie and John Hale Mary and Oswald Hale Ron Hall Mary M. Hamlett Melissa Hammer Pamela Hanley Ashlyn Hardie Joseph and Sarah Harmon Benjamin R. Harris Helen H. Harris Melveice and Lisa Harris Pamela D. Harris Mary R. Hastings Barbara A. Haven Ralph and Kathy Hawkins Dan and Kim Hayes Jay and Bernadine Hayes Neda and Richard Haymore Wanda and Steve Haynes Jerry and Anna Hedrick Lisa A. Heft Georgia and Terry Henderson Elizabeth Hendricks Patrick Henry Sue B. Henson Riva Herbin Ralph and Ruth Hess Elizabeth Hickey Vesa and Bobbi Hiltunen * Betty and Russell Hines Cliff and Sara Hodges Judy and Cliff Hodnett Kendra Hoes David Hoffman and

Elizabeth Deaver Debra † and Doug Holland Gloria and Robert Hollerbach Rose and Kevin Holley Lyn D. Holt Elisabeth and Paul Honor Jennifer C. Hooper Mariah Hopkins Mark Hopkins David and Michelle Horton Peter and Jo Ann Howard Aaron and Heather Howell Elsie and Gerald Hrabica Patricia and William Hubard Nancy and Elliott Hudgins Susan and Pat Hudgins David C. Hudson Penny and Charlie Hudson Sarah R. Hudson Elizabeth M. Hughes Jennifer Hughes and

Jeremy Groskopf Anne and Mickey Hummel Bonnie and Rick Humphries

Susan Hunt Mary Jane and Ira Hurt Ellen D. Hutchens Ellen and Jeff Hutson Debbie and Ricky Hyler Pam and Bill Irvin Angela and Aubrey Isaacs Sandy and Todd Isom James J. Jackson Marty and John Jackson Mary and Raymond Jackson Sandra H. Jackson Scarlett Jackson LaVaille and Thomas Jebson Deborah and Dwight Jefferson Nell H. Jefferson Florence M. Jeffreys Mike Jernigan Bob and Nan Jiranek Harry H. John Christina M. Johnson Henry B. Johnson Shannon Johnson Barbara Johnson-Grey Sam and Bennetta Jones Cassie Williams Jones Anna K. Kautzman Lewis and Margaret Keens Joe Keesee Peyton Keesee Linda and Jerry Kelly Diane P. Kendrick Budge and Carolyn Kent Pat and James Kindle Carol King Frank and Betty King Frances C. Knight Gloria and Henry Knight Barbara and Donald Koonce Vili E. Korpela Barbara A. Kushubar Chung and Jahee Kwon Janice and Richard Lacks Laurie Lake-Green Charles S. Lambert Betty and Timothy Langston John and Sarah LaPrade Jason and Jeanne LaRocco Arleen and Frank Lawrence Bill and Theresa Lawrence Lawrence Distributing Company Sandra and Stephen Lawrence H. Lynnette Lawson Philip P. Leadbetter Frances D. Leete Fred and Rena Leggett Elina and Ville-Petteri Lehtinen Steve and Linda Lemery Anne Lewis Mary and Mason Ligon George I. Lindsay Glenna R. Lingafelt Kevin M. Lipscomb Mavis and Phillip Lloyd Tim Locklear Stephen and Jane Long Ron Lonzo Bradley Lopez Sally Lovett Moye and Joseph Lowe Marilyn J. Lucas * Ann and Dan Lucy Marian and Henry Luttrell Gloria R. MacKenzie

Tony and Terese Mackin Gail and George Mahaney Jane and George Mahoney Charles and Carol Majors Marcia E. Mamunes Matthew B. Mann Howard and Janette Manwiller Robert and Sandra Marsh Janet Martin Frank and Elizabeth Massey Rahma Matten Sarah R. McBrayer Wendy and William McClellan Joan C. McCrumb Randy and Kathy McDaniel Louise and Charles McDowell Sherry and Mac McDowell Carol and Francis McInnis Lynn E. McKerral Pamela McKirdy Frances McMillan Anne E. McMurry Wanda McNair Angela McNeely Laura and Fred Meder Leonard and Dorothy Medford Dana E. Mehalko The Merck Company Foundation Margaret E. Merhoff Michael and Melanie Merhoff Jane and Bill Merle Davina Meyer Margaret and Harry Milam Eric and Margaret Miller Gary and Karen Miller Mary Ann and Philip Minton Ann and Frank Mobley Mark D. Monson Catherine L. Moore Cecilia A. Moore Cindy and Mark Moore Robert and Jean Moore Suzanne C. Deborah Moran Bobby and Cindy Moreland Bernie and Kelly Morrell Cheryl A. Morrison Feleta and Anthony Morton Carolyn and Walter Moseley Mark and Allison Mosley Jane Moss Edward G. Motley Lindsey and Richard Moynihan Patricia and Thomas Mulligan Stephanie and James Mullins Danny and Ingrid Myers Susan T. Nastasi Caroline H. Neal Joel and Adrian Nester Betty H. Nesterak Network for Good Tommi K. Nevin La Voice L. Newby Susan and Marty Newcomb Jonathan Nichels Harold and Geraldine Nofsinger Mary Lou and Richard Northrup Jeanne R. Nostrandt Katherine M. Nufer Lori Nuffer Jerry and Sarah Oakes Karen and Scott Oaks Alice and Dale Obenchain-Leeson George Odongo

Mary J. Ogden Jan and Jim O’Kelley Emma E. Olsson Lance W. Orndorff Susan and Allan Osborne Marvin and Deborah Osborne Katherine A. Pappas John A. Parkin Kyle Patterson Marion L. Paugh William and Wanda Pavord Pamela R. Paynter Carly M. Pearce Steve Petrick Brenda T. Petty Harriet and Tom Phelps Karl A. Phelps Sherry and Chris Phelps Phi Beta Sigma Janet and Bob Phillips Gary and Janice Phillips Kristi L. Phillips Helen and Silas Plybon Fairy and John Pointer Nancy and William Pollok Bert M. Poole Marie and Norris Porter Brandon Potter Laura M. Powell Lorene and Jimmy Preas Sarah and Michael Pressley Eve Price Ronald and Linda Price Emily and Stephen R. Prior * Ashley Pyron Jordan Quinn Susan and Donald Rager Robin D. Ratchford Ginny and Christopher Rawls Donald and Sharon Reaves Rhonda and Richard Reavis Alex Reece Mary E. Reed Elizabeth and Eugene Regen Gloria M. Revere Michael F. Revere Rick and Janice Riccardelli Shirley and Phillip Richards Liz Richardson Randy and Jan Richardson Randy L. Richardson Pamela and Len Riedel Bill and Page Ritter Heidi and Max Roach Kathy Roberson Gloria D. Robertson Karmen L. Robinson Rick and Susan Roccesano Amanda Roccia Bette and Frank Rogers Shirley A. Rohe Alethia and Alan Ross Pam and Troy Ross Pat and Dave Rotty Monique Rountree Karen Rouse Mary and Carl Rowland Susan and Don Rowland Jean and W.E. Royal Alvin and Patricia Rubelmann Natalie Ruechel Victoria and Andrew Russell Kelly Ryan Louise and Harry Ryan

Sergey Samoilenko Charles and Linda Sampson Marshall T. Sanders Marietta and Joe Sanford Lucy Sanford Jim A. Sauser Marilyn and Marvin Schutt Donna and Herb Schweiger Carolyn and Robert Scott Sally and Gill Seal Mary K. Shannon * Mark Sheets Clyde and Valerie Shelton Glenn and Alice Shelton Linda and Keith Shelton Mary A. Shelton Jay and Martha Sheperd Bobby and Leigh Shields Phillipa E. Shoffner Sandra and Roger Shortridge Margaret J. Showalter Robin Showalter Stephanie and Patrick Sigman Marlyn C. Sigmon Drew and Priscilla Sigmund Gwenne and Arthur Silvers Sandy and Bob Simmons Corene and Edsel Simms Frances F. Skenderis LaToya S. Skinner Brent R. Skipper Roslyne and Randy Slate Michael and Kathleen Sloan Helen C. Small Mary E. Small Al and Becky Smith Jay and Stacy Smith Kelsey Smith Mildred and George Smith Stephanie P. Smith Cornelius Snow Tom G. Sotos Jack and Elizabeth Spainhour Krisztina Spong Andre Springs Joan Sprinkle Ginny and Jerry Stanley Jacqueline and R.E. Stansbury State Farm Companies Lillian B. Steele Paul and Jennifer Steelman Carolyn and John Stephens Marion and Herbert Stephenson Hilda and Terry Stevens Lisa and Scott Stewart Liza Stone Brenda J. Storke Mark and Amy Stowers Amy Strom Bobby and Betty Sullivan Mary and Gary Sullivan Jean Summa Sandra and Randall Suslick Nicole Swanson Anne and Cleve Tanner Bren and Adam Taylor Judith and Frank Taylor Margaret and James Taylor Pam and Scott Taylor Scott and Sondra Teffeteller Aakash Thakral The Church of Jesus Christ

of Latter-Day Saints Beverly and Gene Thompson

James Thompson James and Tracey Thurnes Emily and Rod Tomlinson Harding A. Travis Lynn and Edward Trewhella Gary and Mary Tucker Barbara and Rodney Tune Pierce and Judie Turbiville Amy and Edward Turner Marvin J. Turner Suzanne G. Twist Thomas and Jennifer Underwood Deborah and John Upton URW Community Federal Credit

Union - Arnett Blvd Jonathan Utter Sylvia L. Vaden Jon and Nancy VanFossen Stefan S. Varner Laura H. Velle Jean A. Vernon James Virges Arto and Tuulia Viskari Jenni W. Vuola Paul and Diane Wagner Linda and Michael Walker Stephanie and Daniel Walker Margie A. Walton Karen and Tony Ward Jennifer Warren Howard W. Watkins Edna V. Watts Anne and James Weaver Dorothy and Milford Weaver Bob and Linda Weir Jackson and Sara Weller Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC Andrew and Courtney Wenk Christopher E. West Donna and Brian White Amy W. Whitehouse Virginia G. Whiting Joyce and Edward Whittle Charles and Ella Wickham Virginia and Bob Wiles Gwen A. Wiley Celia and John Wilkerson Wilkins & Co. Realtors, Inc. Cynthia H. Williams * Tori Williams Travis and Brenda Williams Brady and Ruth Willis Davin B. Wilson Drew and Heather Wilson Judy and Albert Wilson Martha L. Wilson Annie and Ray Wimbish Jane Wiseman Doris and William Wissick Jeffrey S. Woo Toni Wood Robert and Margaret Wooding Cindy and Kent Woodward Chuck Woolard Ronald and Meryl Worley Roberta and Charles Wrenn Hilda A. Wright Jean J. Wright Jeffrey L. Wright Sarah E. Wright Tia L. Yancey Robert and Nancy York

Donors giving $1 - $999 received May 1, 2016 - May 1, 2017

INSTITUTIONAL A DVA N C E M E N T

420 W. Main St. Danville, VA 24541

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