LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT

ENTS

alumni & friends

20 DONOR SPOTLIGHT Ray and Judy Felton - A couple with a servant's heart, and faith and family focus.

30 FACULTY & STUDENT SPOTLIGHT Professors Dame and McGuire, along with student Skadi Kylander's studies on the Prothonotary Warbler.

32 ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT Shafiq Kutabb's dreams become a reality with the support of Chowan University.

33 STAFF SPOTLIGHT Linda Hassell was a part of the Chowan fabric for forty-four years.

34 GRADUATE SPOTLIGHT Jacob Hunter gives glory to God.

in every issue

4LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT Dr. Kirk Peterson reflects on an unprecedented year.

36 CAMPUS MINISTRY Highlights from the year.

38 ATHLETIC UPDATES News for Brave Hawks fans.

47 CLASS ACTS Alumni news & notes.

57 HONOR ROLL OF DONORS A list of investors who have faith in Chowan's future.

/ChowanAlumni /ChowanUniversity /ChowanUniversity /ChowanAlumni /ChowanUniversity

letter from the president

KIRK E. PETERSON

I want to share a word of encouragement on how God's providence and Chowan University's fighting spirit have enabled this institution to endure and thrive in a world currently marred by uncertainty and fear. We live in times where the next generation's textbooks will describe the difficulties we are facing today. Throughout its storied history, Chowan has undoubtedly seen dark days, but these are not the darkest. Despite COVID-19's challenges, Chowan University has steadfastly remained united and strong. Our nurturing, Christ-centered environment continues to encourage and motivate all who call themselves Hawks as we carry on learning, teaching, and growing amid a global pandemic.

In March 2020, when schools across the nation were forced to convert in-person learning environments to virtual classrooms, our students, faculty, and staff's incredible flexibility carried Chowan successfully through the final months of the academic year. With only a few months to pivot and adapt for the upcoming fall semester, I called on the University's leading personnel to formulate and execute a plan. This task force was comprised of the following thirteen members: Dr. Danny Moore, Kim Bailey, Danny Davis, Sher-Ron Laud, Meredith Long, Pat Mashuda, Dr. Keith Reich, Montrose Streeter, Emily Terry, Daniel Wilson, Brandon Zoch, Dr. Francis Taylor, and University RN, Joy Taylor. I selected each individual to cover the spectrum of areas requiring COVID-19 adaptations such as creating hybrid-learning platforms, designing socially distanced pathways around campus, and enabling athletes to return to play, and to compete safely.

Additionally, the University instituted multiple methods to regulate each student's daily symptoms to identify someone sick with COVID-19 before infecting others. Every student, faculty, and staff member reporting to campus must log their wellness before attending classes or beginning work on the CampusClear mobile app. If faculty, staff, or students indicate that they feel ill, they are asked to remain at home or in their room, and the University is notified. From there, they are connected with Nurse Joy Taylor, assessed and given instructions, which may result in the individual being quarantined until they produce a negative result.

The Return to Play Task Force, consisting of leading personnel within Chowan Athletics, took charge of putting various methods for athletes, thereby alleviating some of the load from the rest of the University's long to-do list. In addition to completing CampusClear, they must fill out an online form between 6:00 pm and 9:00 pm detailing their current wellbeing. If they record that they are feeling ill

faith. family. fortification

or fail to complete the form altogether, they cannot attend any team functions the following day. When showing up to practice, each athlete has their temperature and oxygen levels recorded by their coaches to ensure that they are well enough to participate.

Due to safety measures being enforced, the sheer diligence exhibited by each task force member, and the compliance of every student, faculty, and staff member, I am pleased to report that Chowan University offered in-person learning to over one thousand students for the fall 2020 semester, saw sports continue training for their respective seasons, and sustained a minimum number of positive cases with each individual recovering and returning to full health. Though we have many masked faces to thank, let us not forget to direct the highest praise above; God's watchful eye and sheltering hands have ultimately made this school year possible.

The evidence that we have been extremely blessed lies in the fact that Chowan University successfully and safely endured the past fall semester. However, for those who need a more tangible example of the Lord's providence, turn your attention to the Cross of Christ Chapel that is beautifully situated on Lake Vann in the heart of Chowan's campus. The plans for this chapel were conceived and approved before COVID-19's landfall. Its original purpose was to provide a peaceful place for all to worship, a chapel that sits immersed in nature and boldly declares Chowan's Christian heritage. Soon after its foundation was laid in February 2020, the world came to a halt and flew into a frenzy. With the institution's early release, the summer months gave the chapel ample time to bloom into a perfectly, socially distanced location for worship. The Cross of Christ Chapel came to fruition in Chowan's hour of need, not by coincidence, but because God's plan provides for more than we can anticipate. Therefore, this first overt display of Christ on the University's campus is not only a declaration but also a comforting reminder that He is the omniscient light of the world, guiding us through this temporary period of darkness.

Faith, Family, Fortitude. This issue's theme appropriately captures the three pillars that have contributed to Chowan University's success in proceeding in the face of incredible adversity. Faith is first in the order just as Christ is King; He is the principal reason Chowan has been able to continue to provide a safely modified in-person learning experience and athletic participation. Faith also describes the trust we put in God to provide for and protect us. The family is we, the Brave Hawk nation, banding together as a unit, each member doing their part to limit the spread of the virus and help one another through the darkness one day at a time. And fortitude is the mantra we sing as we endure, rising above the challenges every passing day presents, knowing we are that much closer to the end of this terrible virus, the glorious unmasking, and the long-awaited hugs, reunions, and coveted normalcy.

I will leave you with the encouraging words of our Savior, from John 16:33, where he declares, "I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world, you will have trouble. However, take heart! I have overcome the world."

Faithfully,

Kirk E. Peterson President, Chowan University

ACCREDITATION REAFFIRMED BY SACSCOC

The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) announced on December 10, 2019 that accreditation for Chowan University is reaffirmed for an additional ten years following a comprehensive review of Chowan's academic and administrative programs. Reaffirmation signifies that Chowan programs meet high standards as the result of a rigorous internal and external review process that evaluates compliance against a common set of standards. Chowan University, which is accredited to award the associate, baccalaureate, and masters degrees, has been continuously accredited by SACSCOC since 1956.

CHOWAN ADOPTED NEW VALUES CORE

The new general education core requirements are represented in the acronym, VALUES which stands for Vocation, Application, and Learning in the Undergraduate Experience for Students. Recognizing students want more independence in making decisions, the VALUES Core gives students more choices, while making the curriculum more personal and engaging, promoting lifelong learning, and ensuring students acquire the skills and knowledge employers want. The core is designed as a six-part journey that requires students to focus on writing, reading, religion, mathematics, and the first-year experience. Students will then choose from a variety of courses designed to help them identify their personal and civic values, historical and global values, scientific values, and cultural and diversity values.

FALL 2020 BROUGHT THREE NEW MAJORS

Chowan University announced the addition of three new academic programs to its offerings, starting fall 2020: E-commerce, Educational Studies, and Business and Design. A Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a concentration in E-commerce prepares graduates for several career opportunities that are projected to grow over the next eight years. A Bachelor of Science in Educational Studies is a flexible program that allows students to participate in and learn from education courses as well as exploring other interests, and is a non-licensure program with an emphasis on education and liberal arts courses, students have the option of taking coursework in mathematics, science, social studies, English, and humanities. A Bachelor of Science in Business and Design allows students to integrate design courses with the theory and practice of management. Career opportunities include working on the business side of creative companies and on the design side of any company.

INAUGURAL DAN AND SALLIE SURFACE LECTURE IN HISTORY

On Monday, October 14, 2019, Chowan University hosted the inaugural Dan and Sallie Surface lecture in History. The lecture was funded by long time supporter Warren Chauncey of Virginia Beach, VA and delivered by Matthews, VA resident, Robert Garnett. Garnett’s lecture, entitled “Civil War Prison Camps: an Ancestor at Hellmira” explored the life, death, and legacy of his fourth- great- grandfather who was a Civil War prisoner of war.

A random act of kindness led to a friendship over many years with the Surface family, initially with Dan Surface and very quickly, with wife Sallie and children Eric, Julianne, and Brian as well. Mr. Chauncey was the beneficiary of Dan Surface’s generosity who served the university for many years as both a staff and faculty member. The Dan and Sallie Surface Lecture in History was Chauncey’s vision to commemorate and honor his dear friends Dan and Sallie Surface. Ultimately, Warren Chauncey’s generous gift to the university has made the vision of making the history lecture series program a reality. His selfless display of stewardship has secured invaluable learning experiences for generations of Chowan students to come.

DR. DAME RECOGNIZED IN AUDUBON MAGAZINE

On October 10, 2019, Chowan University’s Dr. James “Bo” Dame, coastal ecologist and professor in biology, was mentioned in the Audubon Magazine’s fall 2019 edition. In the Audubon article entitled “The Fight to Save Pine Island”, author Purbita Saha describes Pine Island’s battle with climate change and rising sea levels as well as Dr. Dame’s role in researching wildlife and wetland preservation. Pine Island lies between the Atlantic Ocean and an estuary separating the northern Outer Banks from the mainland known as Currituck Sound. Erosion and flooding have contributed to the area’s deterioration. Sponge-like marshes do protect the barrier island from being obliterated by natural disasters, most recently, Hurricane Dorian. However, natural and man made defenses, such as seawalls, will soon become useless in preventing climate change’s total takeover. Instead of relying solely on prevention methods, researchers have come together to assist the marshes in adapting while there is still time. Dr. Dame, as well as other scientists, are conducting revolutionary research that may not only save the marshes, but the entire ecosystem. Through their success, they hope to convince property owners to preserve and restore wetlands in other Outer Banks areas.

PROFESSOR DESIGNS FACE SHIELDS FOR FRONTLINE RESPONSE TO COVID-19

The COVID-19 pandemic has created an enormous problem to be solved; the shortage of personal protective equipment (PPE) for healthcare workers. With this concern, Dr. Mitchell Henke, Associate Professor of Graphic Communications headed to the production lab “to figure out a way to help those on the frontline.” With Chowan’s ArtiosCAD software for package design and Kongsberg cutting table for prototyping and production, Henke was confident he could be part of the solution. His first design step was to create a mask comfort strap made from triple black e-flute corrugated paperboard donated from Packrite in High Point, North Carolina. “This makes the mask more comfortable for those wearing them for extended periods,” says Henke. From there, he created a face shield frame out of the same material. After multiple prototypes, he found a feasible solution. From these existing materials, Henke created frames for the face shields. Two donated boxes of mylar from Fujifilm were provided to assit in supply needs. Each face shield takes around four to

2020 ROUSON LECTURE AND AWARDS

Murfreesboro native, Mrs. Eresterine Guidry was the guest speaker of the Reverend George T. and Luvenia B. Rouson Memorial Lecture. In her lecture, “The GLOW UP is REAL: How a Country Girl Conquered the City,” she shared personal stories encouraging students on how to have a more fulfilling lifestyle. Mrs. Guidry is founder and co-owner of African American Art & More in Four Seasons Town Centre, Greensboro, NC and the website GreekStuff.com. Rev. Dr. Claude M. H. Odom Ed D. received the Futrell/Ruffin Community Service Award for his service to the citizens of this region promoting education and health care. He is the Senior Pastor of the New Middle Swamp Missionary Baptist Church. Colonial Pharmacy, owner and pharmacist, Joseph G. Minton, was awarded the Minnie Wood Perkins Humanitarian Award. He was recognized for his dedication to the citizens of Murfreesboro.

2019-2020 RETIRESS

Professor J Brabban, E. Lee Oliver Fagan Distinguished Professor of Bible and Religion Department Chair Professor Tom Brennan, James L. Knight Associate Professor of Printing Technology and Communication Arts Chair Linda Hassell, Cataloger, and Special Collections Librarian Professor Christina Rupsch, Distinguished Professor of Art and Dean of the School of Fine and Applied Arts Timothy "Tim" Stienrock, Director of Human Resources Lynn Vann, Human Resources Coordinator

five minutes to produce. Charles Futrell, Director of Printing Production, assisted in production tasks and his wife Denise Futrell, a registered nurse at Southampton Memorial Hospital in Franklin, Virginia gave consulting advice. Denise is on the frontline every day, ‘gearing up’ to keep herself and patients safe. She happily tested designs and provided invaluable feedback helping Henke create a more durable and comfortable face shield. Along with providing face shields for Southampton Memorial, Henke contacted Minister to the University Rev. Mari Wiles, to identify other areas of need. Rev. Wiles suggested that members of Chowan’s Public Safety staff could use this equipment. Wiles also reached out to Tom Beam, Disaster Relief Coordinator at NC Baptist on Mission (NCBM) who Chowan Campus Ministry regularly partners with NCBM for disaster relief and mission trips.

ALUMNA HIRED AS HUMAN RESOURCES MANAGER

Emily V. Terry joins the Chowan University staff as Human Resources Manager, replacing Tim Stienrock who retired. She is a 2004 graduate of Chowan University where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. Prior to her return to Chowan, Emily spent fifteen years in human resource, quality, and process improvement at Vidant Health.

VALERIE CARTER SMITH LEAD RELIGIOUS HERITAGE

Valerie Carter Smith blessed Chowan with her encouraging testimony for a span of three days the week of September 23, 2019. On Monday and Wednesday, in Turner Auditorium, Smith delivered her autobiographical addresses. Tuesday evening, Smith attended an event where she spoke to Chowan Chrstian Service Association (CCSA) donors and distinguished guests about the importance of making monetary investments in the education and spiritual growth of the university’s students. During each lecture, Smith stayed true to her theme: “Against All Odds but With God”. She also accomplished her two main goals with her passionate story and delivery: to challenge students to identify with her personal struggles and to illuminate the sociological concepts evident in her story.

HAWKSCARD WENT DIGITAL

Students, Faculty, and Staff will be able to add their HawksCard to Apple Wallet and use their iPhone or Apple Watch, or add it to Google Pay and use their Android device, to access buildings, scan for meals in Thomas Dining Hall and Murfs, and more. This new ability is not only convienient and provides fewer

touchpoints, but also provides greater security for those who may lose their plastic card. The tool requires multifactor authentication on the device to keep the card information secure. Users will simply hold their Android device, iPhone, or Apple Watch near a capable reader at any location that the physical student ID card was previously accepted.

NEW RESIDENCE LIFE TEAM BRINGS THE CARE APPROACH

Chowan University welcomed three new Residence Life employees last summer, as well as the new Care Team approach, which will function in a broader scope to ensure that each student is safe and secure in their living and learning environments. Sher-Ron Laud, from Springfield, MA, became part of the Chowan family as the new Residence Life Director. Damian Taylor, of Winton, NC, and E’Mia Williams of Durham, NC joined Residence Life as Area Directors.

The department also introduced a new program designed to assist in behavioral intervention and identifying risk factors within the Chowan community. The Care Team initiative is designed to be a proactive group dedicated to identifying and resolving concerning behaviors. Chowan’s Care Team is trained to provide guidance on a wide spectrum of concerns: ranging from homesickness to dissociation issues to potentially harmful situations. Vice President of Student Affairs, Dr. Streeter summarizes that at its core, “the program is designed to help students be successful and create a comfortable and safe environment for Chowan’s students to live, learn, and thrive.”

NEW VICE PRESIDENTS NAMED

Daniel O. Wilson Appointed VP for Enrollment

Daniel Wilson of Winterville, NC, joined Chowan University as Vice President for Enrollment Management on April 6, 2020. Wilson stated, “I am truly blessed to be chosen as the new Vice President for Enrollment Management at CU...I am looking forward to the challenge and am confident that with God on my side, and with an awesome team on the other side, we will work together to meet all of the goals that are set before us. With God, all things are possible.” Wilson brings with him more than a decade of experience in higher education. Most recently, he served as Dean of Enrollment Services at Nash Community College where he developed the college’s first strategic enrollment plan, doubled the graduation rate, and repeatedly increased enrollments. Before that he also served at East Carolina University, Beaufort Community College, The Art Institute of Raleigh-Durham, Louisburg College. Wilson and his wife, Whitney, and are blessed with three children, Daniel Jr, (7) Gabriel (6), and Esriel (1.5).

Andy A. Wilson Leads Newly Named Advancement

On June 1, 2020, the Office of Development transitioned its name to the Office of Advancement, and Andy Wilson of Middletown, Ohio joined Chowan University as Vice President for Advancement. “The transition of Development to Advancement modernizes the division into how it currently functions. Development reflects primarily the fundraising program. Advancement encompasses a broader approach by its inclusiveness and acknowledgment of the professional divisions of Public Relations, Development, Alumni Relations, and Church Outreach. Our divisions do so much more to advance the university than just Development” shared new Vice President Andy Wilson, who was instrumental in the change. Wilson brings more than twelve years of executive leadership in higher education and over 28 years of fundraising experience. He most recently served seven years at The University of Tennessee at Martin. He and his wife Ami, have two children, Emily who attends University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, and David who is a high school junior.

LOUISE CURTIS GILLESPIE ANNUAL SCHOLARSHIP ESTABLISHED

The Louise Curtis Gillespie Annual Scholarship Fund has been established by Curt and Linda Gillespie in honor of his parents, and their devotion to service. Following undergraduate studies at Chowan, Lousie Curtis Gillespie earned a nursing degree at the University of Virginia.

The annual scholarship provides financial assistance to worthy and needy full-time first-generation students majoring in the Biological Sciences who are committed to pursuing a professional program in the medical field beyond the undergraduate degree. Recipients of the scholarship must have proven academic ability (GPA 3.0 or higher) to earn and retain the scholarship. The scholarship commitment is $20,000 for each student recipient and consists of $5,000 per year for four years. For this initial year, there have been two recipients named for the Louise Curtis Gillespie Annual Scholarship, Heidi Jensen of Loveland, CO and Katalia Gibbs of Gaffney, SC.

LOUISBURG COLLEGE AGREEMENT SIGNED

On January 16, 2020, Chowan University’s School of Education and Louisburg College in Education Degree Program signed an agreement that welcomes transferring Louisburg students pursuing a baccalaureate degree to complete their studies at Chowan.

In the agreement, Louisburg graduates of two-year associate of arts and associate of science degree programs are assured admission to Chowan with Junior status.

TOUR CHOWAN VIRTUALLY

The opportunity for prospective students to visit campus and see where they will attend class, study, and live is a vital part of choosing the right fit university. To ensure that potential Chowan University students, particularly those who live some distance from campus, have an opportunity to see campus, the University developed a virtual tour. Available at chowan.edu/virtualtour, the virtual tour provides visitors with an opportunity to see campus facilities through a guided tour, with 360-degree panoramic photos, videos and other still imagery.

A MODIFIED CAMPUS

In preparation for fall 2020, the University has made a variety of changes to campus facilities to assist students, faculty, staff, and visitors in staying healthy and practicing social distancing. At the direction of the COVID-19 Task Force and University leadership, the University Maintenance and Grounds in conjunction with housekeeping have been coordinating the changes. In some areas, transparent shields have been installed as well as directional barriers. Increased cleaning and disinfecting have taken place all over campus and maintenance is also coordinating the installation of over 100 additional sanitizing stations around campus. Chowan has designed, printed, and installed over 2,200 signs to serve as

TWO MASTERS PROGRAMS SLATED TO BEGIN JANAURY 2021

In September 2020, two new masters programs were approved by The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to begin in 2021. SACSCOC also approved Chowan University to offer distance learning. Chowan University's Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership is designed to provide graduates with the knowledge and skills necessary for upper-level management positions and expertise to further their organizations' mission. The new program is among the first in our region and is the Unversity's first online program. The new online Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.) with two specializations: 1) Elementary Education and 2) Secondary Education (Social Studies, Mathematics, English, and Comprehensive Science). The M.A.T. is designed for individuals seeking an initial teaching license through the completion of graduate study, and for individuals who hold a license and/or an education degree but wish to earn a master’s degree to help them further their careers.

visual reminders and aides to navigate the campus to assist with social distancing to help reduce the spread of COVID-19.

A VARIETY OF COURSE DELIVERY WITH THE AID OF A NEW INSTRUCTIONAL DESIGNER

Chowan University made adjustments to the fall 2020 semester to support health and encourage learning. Courses were designed to be delivered both remotely and in-person. The majority of remote and hybrid sessions were delivered in real-time, to enable immediate interaction and discussion. Some classes consisted of remote lectures and small, in-person sessions while some had alternating groups of students to attend in the classroom on alternating days. To support the transition in delivery methods, Chowan University hired an Instructional Designer to oversee the design, quality, and development of courses offered in all modes of delivery including face-to-face and distance delivery formats. Jonathan D’Souza has been charged to provide training to support instructional and support services in collaboration with faculty and support staff to ensure best practices in all instructional delivery formats (face-to-face, synchronous hybrid, asynchronous hybrid, and online).

CHOWAN'S FIRST EVER VIRTUAL COMMENCEMENT CELEBRATION

For the first time in the history of Chowan University, a virtual commencement celebration was held for the class of 2020. The in-person Commencement Ceremony was postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic. It was rescheduled to take place on December 19, 2020 but with continued pademic limitations, the University postponted the in-person ceremony until May 2021. Graduation is one of the most celebrated days of many families, but with the pandemic forcing restrictions, especially as it relates to gatherings of large groups, schools across the nation have had to make adjustments. While there were no graduates in gowns or turning of tassels, there were still celebrations as Chowan University decided to honor its graduations virtually on the pre-pandemic scheduled date. At 10:00 am on Saturday, May 8th President Peterson, Dr. Danny Moore (Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs), Dr. Montrose Streeter (Vice President for Student Affairs), and Rev. Mari Wiles (Minister to the University) conducted the live-streamed virtual celebration. Dr. Moore then recognized all 215 graduates by announcing their name and degree earned while both were displayed in the stream. Following the naming of the graduates, President Peterson conferred the degrees and gave a charge to the graduates. He challenged them to “think about how you have grown… I assure you, you are a better person, a stronger student, and a more responsible citizen because of your Chowan family… Now it is up to you to travel and change the world.”

View the commencment online at youtube.com/chowanuniversity.

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FORWARD WITH faith

A Student’s Perspective of the COVID-19 Pandemic

Grace Arredondo, in her on-campus room for online class.

For Americans, nestled in our bubbles, focused on our right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness, the Coronavirus of December of 2019 was a bottom- of- the- page news blip. Nothing more than a rumor of a respiratory illness contracted from bats sprung from Wuhan, China. But current events such as the Sudan factory fire and ongoing protests in Lebanon occupied international headlines. Confusion erupted in the West on January 30, 2020, when the World Health Organization confirmed the official outbreak of a Public Health Emergency of International Concern. Suddenly, the world became a much smaller place as countries mobilized to create measures that would prevent COVID19’s landfall and a possible pandemic.

On March 11, 2020, the World Health Organization upgraded COVID- 19’s status to a pandemic level. Chowan University responded to new state regulations by extending spring break another week, set to conclude on March 22, 2020, in the hopes of returning to finish the academic year. We were initially elated to be gifted with an additional week of sunshine and freedom, but our joy quickly faded with the school’s inevitable action of suspending in-person learning for the duration of the semester.

As a result of this sudden, unforeseen change, Chowan was forced to accommodate North Carolina requirements by shifting classes to a virtual platform and cancelling spring sports. The abrupt and jarring changes signaled a mass exodus of on campus students retreating home to complete the academic year as well as the sad postponement of the 2020 Commencement ceremony.

For an extended summer, Chowan was left to recover in the ruins of students’ unfinished hopes and dreams to establish the road to returning in the fall. President Dr. Kirk E. Peterson got right to work by establishing a task force composed of the University’s leading staff members in charge of accomplishing the necessary steps to convert classrooms and shared spaces into socially distanced learning and social environments. Additionally, Patrick Mashuda, Vice President for Athletics led a subcommittee of the University’s main task force under the “Return to Play” initiative. The leading members of Chowan’s Athletic Department were tasked with creating guidelines for returning athletes according to NCAA, Conference Carolinas, CIAA, and CDC COVID-19 regulations.

The Coronavirus did not only make life difficult for current students, it threatened to severely hinder the prospective student experience of touring Chowan’s campus. Thankfully, through a virtually guided tour comprised of 360- degree panoramic photos and videos, potential Hawks can experience the University’s landscape, architecture, classrooms, and facilities through the safety of computer screens.

While life in “the boro” was bustling with frenzied preparations, Chowan students eagerly awaited the call back to a revised normality. Maintaining sanity throughout stay- at- home orders and finishing classes online was difficult for us all. Watching summer drip away with an empty calendar started to weigh heavily on my mental health. In talking with fellow students, we realized that avoiding loneliness was our summer prerogative. This was the time to vanquish all excuses, to finally accomplish the goals we continuously shelved. Whether it was becoming more physically fit, nurturing a neglected hobby, or finding an available summer job, finding a channel to redirect our energy and focus was the key to surviving the summer.

After what seemed like ages, the time had come to return to campus. An especially apprehensive breed of returners were Chowan’s student athletes. The devastation spring athletes felt after missing out on their 2020 season loomed over fall sports eager to begin training. Approximately one week before move in days began, the Conference Carolinas Board of Directors voted to postpone all fall sports competition until spring 2021. Furthermore,

if sports made it to their competition seasons, they would be competing for empty bleachers. Although not all hope for a successful season was lost, the frustration of another delay threatened to rattle more athletic aspirations. But the foundational, driving force at the heart for a successful season was lost, the frustration of another delay threatened to rattle more athletic aspirations.

But the foundational, driving force at the heart of college athletes, the pure love of the game, sustains us all. At the end of every day, we don’t train through exhaustion and aching muscles for a competition’s applause or post- game recognition. We play to defend the honor of our school and to be satisfied by the personal gratification of our achievements. A team, their coach and the win at stake. That is all we’ll ever need.

Fall 2020’s return to campus was unlike any other in previous Chowan history. The usually manic, exhilarating aura present on move in day had matured into a grateful, cautious excitement that permeated throughout campus. From a six foot distance, squinted eyes from hidden smiles made familiar faces hard to recognize. In order to have a safe and successful on- campus experience, the University was mapped with blue arrows and directional stickers charting proper foot traffic across the campus grounds. Additionally, Chowan instituted new instructional delivery formats. Fall semester courses were conducted through either face-to-face, synchronous hybrid, asynchronous hybrid, or online interactions. By taking these necessary changes in stride and focusing on conquering one day at a time, our timid return eventually evolved into a bearable, new kind of normal.

Although Chowan’s status remained stable with vigilant rule enforcement, the trend of COVID related cancellations and postponements continued. All annual Homecoming festivities were suspended indefinitely and an altered spring 2021 schedule announced further amendments. With the new date for students returning to campus pushed to January 20, 2021, spring break occupied a valuable week of class instruction and was therefore canceled. Additionally, the originally rescheduled 2020 Commencement ceremony that was to occur on December 19, 2020, was increasingly postponed to May 8, 2021 with the class of 2021 still expected to graduate the following day.

This tumultuous year of postponed plans and delayed dreams has been the clearest evidence that as we suffer together, the need for service never ceases. Chowan’s Campus Ministry kicked off the school year with a reconfigured campus- wide project for the Hertford County Office of Aging. By limiting touch points and maintaining socially distanced lines, masked students were able to file in and out of the Jenkins Center, assembling goodie bags for the community’s elderly. With the stress and uncertainty perpetuated by constantly reconfigured calendars, leading members of Chowan’s student body also took charge to empower others in the wave of unceasing tension. Chowan’s Rotaract Club pivoted from their usual hands- on service approach by initiating two projects where Hawks could contribute to their community remotely. In July, the organization launched a fundraiser for the National Urban League as a response and contribution to the summer’s social movement for racial equality and justice for victims of police brutality. Following suit after the school year’s reignition, the University’s Honors College and Student Government Association both raised awareness and garnered support for the Black Lives Matter movement. Subsequently in September, Rotaract began their “Encouraging Notes Initiative” where the University was asked to write uplifting messages for the hardworking staff at Vidant Roanoke- Chowan Hospital in Ahoskie, NC. These service projects achieved the new ideal: recreating a sense of involvement and community by remaining socially distant, yet connected at heart.

"How does one joyfully accept continuously canceled plans, the loneliness embedded in physical separation and the frustration of a life on hold yet time marching on indifferently?" This year has been an extraordinary experiment in learning new ways of embracing. How does one joyfully accept continuously canceled plans, the loneliness embedded in physical separation and the frustration of a life on hold yet time marching on indifferently? It is through the preservation and perseverance of the human spirit that we do not let the light at the end of the tunnel grow dim. While it is easy to mope, make excuses, or quit the fight completely, there is not a moment to spare in getting about the business of achieving greatness. Time does not stop to pity our circumstances nor grant extra minutes because life decided to turn us upside down. The finish line approaches; let us be encouraged, and carry on. -Grace Arrendondo '21, Charleston, South Carolina Grace, masked in her history class.

BEN B. USSERY, JR.

CLASS OF 1968

BEN B. USSERY, JR. is the oldest of four children. He was born in Wilmington, NC (Old Hanover Hospital). His Father, Rev. Ben B. Ussery, was pastor at Boykins Baptist Church (1955-1969) and his Mother, Beth H. Ussery, raised their children and served as the church choir director. His Father and Mother also served other Baptist churches during their careers.

Ben is a Christian, and he was baptized when he was eleven years old. He is a member of Second Baptist Church in Richmond where he has served in numerous capacities such as church deacon, Sunday school teacher and Every Member Canvas leader.

Ben graduated from Southampton High School in 1966, where he was an outstanding athlete, particularly in football. He then entered Chowan Junior College (now Chowan University) where he played football for Head Coach Jim Garrison. After earning his AA degree, Ben transferred to the University of Richmond Robins School of Business where he was inducted into Beta Gamma Sigma and Omicron Delta Kappa and graduated with his BS in Business Administration in 1970. He also was a member of the U of R Southern Conference Championship football team which won the 1968 Tangerine Bowl Championship in Orlando, Florida. The Head Coach was Frank Jones. Ben pursued post-graduate education with a fellowship to Indiana University’s Kelley School of Business located in Bloomington, Indiana where he earned his MBA in 1972.

While at the University of Richmond, Ben and Carol Birkhead were married. In November 2019, they celebrated 50 years of love and devotion to one another. Carol and Ben originally met while both were attending Chowan.

Ben’s entire 27-year career was with Philip Morris USA. He began training in the New York office, but the vast majority of his employment with Philip Morris USA involved working in their numerous Richmond locations, where he climbed the corporate ladder to various senior management positions. These positions included blending, logistics, warehousing, field operations, Building Our Business, plant-manger, and supplier diversity development. Due to Ben’s longevity at Philip Morris, he was eligible for full retirement benefits at the age of 50.

Carol and Ben now live at Westminster Canterbury Richmond (WCR), where they were recognized in 2018 with the Laurel Award for their dedicated community service and full-time volunteering activities. Additionally, Ben was awarded the WCR Wellness Lifestyle Award in 2015.

It is with great gratitude and humility that Ben is recognized by Chowan University with their Distinguished Alumni Award.

THOMAS J. BALLANCE

CLASS OF 1969

TOM BALLANCE was born in Norfolk, VA on June 16, 1946. In his younger years, he attended Willard Elementary and Junior High School, followed by graduation from Granby High School in Norfolk. While at Granby he was a member of the Hank Foiles Hi-Y and was secretary of this service organization for two years.

He then attended Old Dominion University on a parttime basis. At this point, Tom was accepted as a fulltime student at Chowan College. While at Chowan, he had the honor of having many wonderful and caring professors. Tom stated, “my experience at Chowan was awesome, and this is where I made my decision to become a teacher. I made many new friends, many of which I’m still in contact with today.”

After Chowan, Tom went on to Atlantic Christian College, where he was president of the dorm council and received his education degree.After graduation, Tom taught school for forty years. He mainly served in private education. It was during his teaching years that he was reunited with Patsy Simms. They started dating and were married on July 22, 2000.

Tom and Patsy enjoy worshiping at Central Baptist Church in Norfolk. They have been members for sixteen years and Tom serves as a Sunday School teacher and a Deacon. He has also participated on the Finance Committee and Vacation Bible School programs.

Today, Tom serves Chowan University as a member of the Alumni Council. With over five years of dedicated service, Tom brings a wealth of knowledge and a love for the University. In 2018, Tom and Patsy served as host to the Chowan alumni gathering at Nauticus in Norfolk. Through his guidance, this was one of the largest off-campus alumni gatherings to date.

Tom considers Chowan as the place where he grew in character and in his endeavor to pursue his degree in education. He thanks everyone at Chowan who had a part in his education and in his life. To God be the glory.

2019 Inductees (left to right): Robert Earl and Carolyn Brinkley, Chinedu Iwuora, Ben B. Ussery, Jr and Tom Ballance.

ROBERT EARL AND CAROLYN BRINKLEY are not strangers to the community. Robert Earl was born and raised in the Center Grove Community and Carolyn was born and raised in the Early Station Community. They both attended Ahoskie High School where they began dating, fell in love, and married at a young age. Soon after marriage in 1951, Robert Earl was drafted in 1952 during the Korean Conflict into the United States Army and after basic training, he was stationed at Ludwigsburg, Germany. He achieved the rank of corporal/company clerk and received an honorable discharge in 1953. After returning home, he worked several different jobs and tenant farmed to provide for his family. In 1963, he was employed by Planters National Bank, which later became Centura Bank, in the Trust Department in Ahoskie, specializing in Farm Management. After retiring from the bank in 1990, he opened his own farm management business known as REB Farms Inc. which remains operational today. Carolyn supported her husband during his military service and remained in the Early Station Community until his return. When he returned, they made their home in the community that she grew up in. They have called the Roanoke-Chowan area home for their entire lives. Carolyn also provided for her family by working several different jobs. She worked for the Hertford County Tax Assessors Office as a “list taker” for over 45 years. During her employment with the Tax Office, she was also the Office Manager for Farmers Tobacco Warehouse for over 33 years. During this time, she remained a mother to their three sons as a taxi mom and supporter in the education of their children. The Brinkleys have always believed in community involvement. Robert Earl was part of the Ahoskie Lions Club and was instrumental in the creation of two scholarships, the Mack Jones Scholarship and the Ahoskie Lions Club Scholarship, at Chowan University which continue to financially assist students at the University. During his membership in the Lions Club, he served as President and received the Jack Stickley Lion of the Year Award by the North Carolina Lions Foundation. Because of his love for agriculture, he has also served on the North Carolina Peanut Growers Association, the North Carolina Society of Farm Managers for 20 years, the United States Farm Service Association for 42 years, the Hertford County Soil and Water Conservation Board for 41 years, the Hertford County Farm Bureau for 35 years and is presently a member of the Ahoskie Chamber of Commerce and a Board Member of the Ahoskie Rural Fire Department where he has served as Treasurer for over 37 years. Carolyn has been a member of the Ahoskie Woman’s Club for 44 years, which also provides a scholarship at Chowan University. She has served as President, chosen as Clubwoman of the Year in 1986 and 2011, received the Juanita Bryant Citizen of Year Award, Working Woman of the Year and Woman of the Century Award. She has been a member of Roanoke Chowan Hospital Auxiliary and has volunteered at Vidant Roanoke Chowan Hospital for over 45 years in various positions and recently received the Governor’s Award for Volunteer Service in Hertford County for her involvement in the community. Both are still active members of Earlys Baptist Church. Robert Earl has been a member for over 62 years and continues to serve as Deacon, Sunday School Director, Treasurer and has been very instrumental in several remodeling projects and two major building projects. Carolyn’s family founded Early's Baptist; therefore this church has been her church for her entire life. She continues to serve as teacher and has been for 66 years, church clerk 33 years, Women’s Missionary Union for 68 years, choir member and other various positions. Both continue to be part of the Chowan Christian Service Association at the University. In June 2019, they celebrated 68 years of marriage. They have three sons, Bob (wife, Carol) of Raleigh, NC, Don (wife, Debra) of New Bern, NC and Doug (wife, Susan) of Ahoskie, NC. They have seven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

ROBERT EARL AND CAROLYN EARLY BRINKLEY

CHINEDU IWUORA, or Slim as he was fondly called during his Chowan University days, is from Lagos, Nigeria. Chinedu came to Chowan in August 2006 to start his college journey and was a member of the Chowan University Soccer team for three years.

During his time at Chowan, he was named to several honor societies and won the academic award for Best Overall Student in Economics in 2009 and 2010. Despite his academic achievements, his best memories of Chowan were during his tenure as the President of the Chowan University International Students Club. It was there he honed his leadership skills, helping other international students acclimate to Murfreesboro and exposing Murfreesboro to the world. Chinedu graduated from Chowan summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a concentration in Accounting.

After graduating from Chowan, he worked for a year as a Junior Accountant at Patch Rubber Company in Roanoke Rapids, NC. He left this position to pursue a full-time Masters in Business Administration at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. There he served as a graduate assistant. He was also inducted into various honors societies and received several leadership awards. He graduated magna cum laude with a Masters in Business Administration with a concentration in Finance.

Chinedu landed an audit position with the prestigious Big 4 firm, Deloitte & Touche, LLP, after graduate school. He has more than six years of public accounting and auditing experience, primarily serving real estate and investment management clients in the financial services industry. He has served financial services clients ranging from midsize private companies with assets under management of $50 million to large, publicly-traded entities with assets under management of $8 billion. He also has substantial experience in real estate acquisitions and fair value accounting.

Outside of work Chinedu is very passionate about his community and helping others. He is the immediate past president of the board of the Chicago Chapter of the National Association of Black Accountants and is the President of the Deloitte Chicago Office Black Employee Network Resource Group. Despite all his responsibilities, he still finds time for his hobbies which include playing soccer, reading, and dancing. He is a licensed CPA in the State of Illinois.

CHINEDU C. IWUORA CLASS OF 2010

THE CROSS OF CHRIST CHAPEL

Student Campus Ministry Chaplain, Patrick Krack read the focal scripture for the chapel at the dedication from John 14: 1-8. This reference is especially significant as it is the foundation of the Christian faith and the Biblical purpose for the Cross of Christ Chapel. It describes Jesus comforting his disciples with the words now etched into the chapel’s altar, “I am the way, the truth, and the life.”

JOHN 14:6 | Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.

The Cross of Christ Chapel Dedication was held on Sunday evening, September 6, 2020. Amid the pandemic and under gathering limit restrictions, only the gracious donor and several key members of Chowan University’s administration and campus ministry were involved in paying tribute to the newly finished outdoor chapel.

The new chapel is a momentous milestone for Chowan University as it is the first overt sign of the institution’s Christian heritage. The breathtaking outdoor chapel is a culmination of a longtime vision, the generosity of an alumna, and a lot of planning and hard work by many.

Retired Chancellor, M. Christopher White had a vision that one day the Chowan University campus would have a chapel. At the dedication, he shared that a chapel has been attempted many times over his tenure, but given the other needs of the University in the past two decades, it has not come to fruition until now.

Dr. White shared the vision of an outdoor chapel with an alumna who aspires for Christ to be the focus of the project and not her. She immediately answered the call to contribute and make the vision become a reality. Chowan is forever indebted to the donor who recognizes the central focus of this place is Christ. Thus the name, “Cross of Christ Chapel.”

The criteria for the outdoor chapel were structured to create a perfect worship environment and a quiet place to escape the commotion of daily life where one can “be still and know that [He is} God.” The location for the chapel was to be in a serene place, encouraging worship, and near water to evoke the New Testament where the Sea of Galilee and the Jordan River play important roles. The chapel also needed to have clear

visibility and accessibility to the campus community. Lake Vann’s picturesque bank provided all of these requirements.

W. Frank Rose, Chair of Chowan’s Board of Trustees profoundly noted at the dedication that not only is the chapel an important symbol of Chowan’s faith but it stands as a holy place of reflection, celebration, and remembrance.

By constructing a chapel, in an outdoor, very visible location, the University is upholding the importance of its Christian heritage, but continuing to respect the rights of each person to worship God according to their own conscience. It is difficult to overstate the significance that the Cross of Christ Chapel will play in the lives of all at Chowan University.

The timing of this outdoor chapel could not be more perfect. In a time suddenly thrust upon us where we are limited to the number of people allowed to gather, the Farris Prayer Room and campus ministry are limited to serving only a couple people at a time. This sacred place allows for more people to safely gather and retreat to the peaceful solitude of Christ. The Cross of Christ Chapel is a beautiful illustration of how even in a period where life is framed with uncertainty, God’s providence has prepared us.

Rev. Mari E.Wiles, Minister to the University, read the dedication passage from John 14: 1-8. This section of John is known as the “farewell message of Christ” because Jesus delivers it to the disciples shortly before he is crucified, encouraging them to stay the course. He reminds us through this passage that in the midst of all of the chaos and uncertainty in life, there is no need to be troubled. Though fear insists that God is not enough to sustain us, His word reminds us that he is “the way, the truth and the life.” The Cross of Christ Chapel embodies this message as a place for us to gather on the principle that no matter what life brings, God is enough.

DONOR SPOTLIGHT THE FELTONS

RAY AND JUDY

For Ray and Judy Felton, the satisfaction of their service for others can only be fully absorbed in serenity and silence. However, Chowan University’s overflowing, thankful heart can no longer quell the insuppressible desire to respectfully recognize the Feltons for their unceasing generosity. After 53 years of marriage, the couple continues to mirror their loving commitment to each other through their unmatched service to others; their character can only be described as the purest examples of determination, dedication, and humility.

The Feltons are recognized as major supporters of the Chowan community as they are both past recipients of the Chowan University Community Service Award and the North Carolina Baptist Heritage Award. Ray and Judy, as well as two of their adult children, have grappled with hardships of their own, all four being cancer survivors. But through each diagnosis, they gained an unparalleled understanding of how important a kind soul can be in an hour of desperate need. In somber recollection, Ray referenced Psalm 23 as a particularly comforting passage he often recited when enduring painful cancer treatments. After having courageously conquered the disease, Ray and Judy became resolved to direct their philanthropic efforts towards helping others fight cancer by founding the annual Hertford-Gates Relay For Life. Additionally, Ray served as an NC ambassador for the American Cancer Society. It is through their unshakable foundation in the Father that the Feltons have endured and become resolved that their blessings from above should be showered on us all.

Ray Felton is a family man with a servant’s heart. His gregarious, encouraging personality lends itself as a tool, helping him locate people’s needs and serve them with quiet sincerity. In addition to being a notable

member of the Chamber of Commerce, the Chair of the Board of Education for Gates County, as well as part of the Executive and Business Affairs Committees, Ray Felton is a long time representative of Chowan’s Board of Trustees.

When retired chancellor, Dr. Christopher White, first approached Ray with the proposition for him to hold this distinguished position, the Gates county native sat astonished. Ray confided that he felt unqualified to serve on the board, believing that his lack of formal education exempted him from contributing worthy opinions. Dr. White reasoned with him, insisting that the entrepreneurial and leadership skills exhibited in Ray’s ability to successfully found and grow a large company like Metal Tech was enough evidence to show his input would be valuable to Chowan University.

Ray’s guiding principle was to strategically allocate resources to where the most help was required and where that aid can impact the most people. Through his Metal Tech experience, Ray cultivated an appreciation for encouraging capacity expansion; he sees the bigger picture and the essence that the whole is stronger than the individual. This mindset is evident in how Ray and Judy serve as a unit, not one independent of the other. Although Ray’s number is the proverbial helpline, his answer to a call for help is always the same: “I can’t do it without talking to Judy”. Only after consulting each other does Ray embark on meeting others’ needs.

Since 1988, the Feltons have established a legacy for graciously meeting Chowan’s needs. Some lesserknown contributions include financial support for the Friends of Music and CCSA funds as well as Metal Tech’s indispensable aid in upgrading the athletic scoreboards. Every selection Ray makes is methodical and resourceful with the focus of continually giving. After he replaced Chowan’s scoreboards, he transported the old ones to Gates County so they could continue to be used instead of leaving them for the scrap pile. In 2016, the Feltons advanced to giving one of the University’s most cherished donations, an endowed scholarship. Ray Felton fondly established the Mary Worrell Felton Carter, Benjamin Franklin Carter, and Elijah Joseph Felton Scholarship in memory of his mother, father, and stepfather for the Friends of Teacher Education fund. Ray recognized that this momentous investment in a student’s academic career was a necessary advancement of financial and emotional empowerment.

Ray’s favorite and most rewarding project was being asked to design and erect the sign outside of the Hawks Athletic Center using the variable message board that Pepsi, a Chowan Athletics sponsor, donated to the University. He described the whole endeavor as “a real pleasure” and one of the most fun projects he had done for Chowan.

Although there is evidence at every turn of the Felton family's contributions across Chowan’s campus, few bear their surname. After steadily giving to the University for over thirty years, the first visible recognition of the couple’s stewardship was the naming of one of the newly renovated University Development Department houses. When the adjacent properties were purchased, Ray relished the opportunity to assist in the planning and funding processes; he knew the need for these designated spaces was crucial to the school’s expansion and success. To honor his continued dedication to Chowan University, the building housing the Office of the Chancellor and University Relations was appropriately dubbed “The Felton University House” in 2018.

The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever. Psalm 23

In 2019, Ray Felton undertook a more symbolic project. A fact that is only common knowledge to alumnae and Chowan history buffs is that an enormous, wooden arch once welcomed walkers to the campus’s picturesque promenade. The storied arch’s reconstruction was a long-overdue project that was the unfortunate victim of constant reshelving. Ray said no longer. Through Metal Tech and his son Brock Felton’s generous financial donation, he modeled the new design after the famous original and constructed the new steel version to be situated at the promenade’s entrance. Its position is personally significant for Ray as it directs the wandering eye to behold the McDowell Column’s Hall down the long, stretching path that so many have walked during Relay For Life, honoring the lives of cancer victims, fighters, and survivors.

The Felton's extensive history of support has been consistently private; they desire to help with the humble things. And through decades of service, Ray’s mission has remained the same: to cultivate a uniting sense of pride within Chowan University and the surrounding community. The new arch represents the story of Ray’s service and stands as a symbol for all he hopes to accomplish. The Felton’s contributions have spanned over and across this entire campus and are so widely distributed that they have touched every Hawk from the past thirty years on their academic journey. And now, by way of this adorning photo op, Ray Felton can witness his dream coming to fruition through the throngs of posing students, smiling because they proudly identify with Chowan University.

Felton University House

m. christopher white Retires

In 2003 Chris White and his wife Linda moved to Murfreesboro to orchestrate what would become the renaissance of a small college in dire financial straits, known as Chowan College at the time. The Whites initially expected their tenure to last one or two years, but during those initial months, something magical happened. They fell in love with Chowan, her students, her mission, and her place in Christian higher education. Chowan became their passion and from that point, led to one of the most miraculous transformations in higher education during those years. White credits the institution's transformation to having a committed senior staff, almost all of which served alongside him during this critical period in Chowan’s history. A dedicated faculty and staff followed his lead and together accomplished what was thought by many to be impossible.

In 2017 White announced his transition to becoming the first-ever chancellor at Chowan University, and Kirk E. Peterson was named the twenty-third president in 2018. White first hired Peterson at Chowan in 2004 as a member of the faculty, then in 2018 the Board of Trustees and Dr. White brought him and his family back home as he was named president. Dr. Peterson shared his heartfelt “appreciation for [Dr. White’s] significant impact on our University during his 17year tenure” in a message to the Chowan community. He reflected on the first time White brought him to campus and shared how they “walked around campus and he explained and showed me what he was going to accomplish. I loved his vision, and, today, I believe he accomplished every goal.”

In the message to the Chowan University community, M. Christopher White announced his retirement as Chancellor of the University effective May 31, 2020. In his message, he shared that it was “with a mixture of happiness and sadness that Linda and I announce my retirement” and continued that he “would have preferred to have made [the] announcement in person. However, the coronavirus pandemic has upset all our lives by banning large meetings. Please know that my retirement plans have been underway for a long time and are not related to the pandemic. Now is simply the best time for our lives, stress levels, health, and future plans.” White’s career in higher education spans almost fifty years.

Presidential Inauguration Dr. & Mrs White both received honorary doctorates from Chowan University.

Over his fifteen-year tenure as president at Chowan, White transformed the school into a thriving regional university with the largest enrollment and strongest financial position in its 170-year history. Some of the most significant accomplishments during White’s tenure include:

• Saved the school from closure in 2003 and led it to its strongest position in history. • Built morale and confidence among faculty, staff, and the community that the institution had a positive future. • Transitioned the Chowan from college to university status, as well as changed its nickname from “Braves” to

“Hawks.” • Doubled enrollment to tie the highest number in history. • Obtained financial strength and stability, with major operating surpluses each year and endowment almost tripling to nearly 30 million. • Adopted Faith in Your Future as a tagline for admissions and marketing to further emphasize the institution’s focus on Chrisitan values. • Successfully reaffirmed all accreditations (SACS, NASM,

NCATE) • Spent and paid for thirty million dollars for on-campus upgrades, including renovations of every building. • Twelve new buildings were constructed, including the nine-building student apartment and suite complex named Whites Crossing by the trustees in honor of

Dr. and Mrs. White and their families. • Acquired property of numerous lots and raw acreage expanding the campus to over 400 acres. • Upgraded the athletic program from NCAA DIII to NCAA DII and solidified athletic conference memberships in the historic CIAA and Conference

Carolinas, and added eleven intercollegiate sports to the university's athletic programming (men's and women's tennis, men's soccer, men's and women's lacrosse, men's and women's swimming, men's and women's crosscountry, women’s golf, and women’s bowling). • Academic programs were enhanced, a graduate school and adult degree completion program were established, and the faculty became arguably the best prepared in the institution’s history. • Added significant scholarship opportunities, increased endowed scholarships by 300%, increased athletic scholarships from zero to over 2.5 million dollars, and created other scholarship opportunities including the

Friends of Teacher Education (FTE) and the Chowan

Christian Service Association (CCSA) surpassing the two million total endowment milestone. • Redesigning the institution’s relationship with the North

Carolina Baptist State Convention and expanding trustee membership to include all Christian denominations. • Successfully orchestrated many project campaigns with the most significant being the preservation of McDowell

Columns Hall, the renovation to create the Pond Football

Center, and naming two of the residential buildings in

Whites Crossing - Jewell Glover Hall and Juanita Pond

Hall.

In White’s message to the faculty and staff, he noted that “as I have reflected over the fifteen years I was privileged to serve as your president, all of us working as a team we were able to accomplish amazing things. From the near-death of the school to record enrollments and the strongest financial status in school history was thought to be impossible.” He concluded his message by sharing a heartfelt thank you to all that were a part of the team. When visitors look around the campus today, appreciating the new buildings and beautiful grounds and the positive attitude of students and staff, they are admiring the results of Dr. and Mrs. White’s years of service.

White often acknowledges those that have been instrumental in his career, with the greatest strength behind his accomplishments being his wife Linda Fleming White. Mrs. White shared that over the years the one constant in their endeavors has been the people and relationships along the way, but Chowan has always been “extra special.” The special relationships at Chowan initiated when faculty and staff came to Boiling Springs to help the couple move to Murfreesboro in 2003 and carried throughout their seventeen years.

A native of Hartwell, Georgia, White earned degrees from Mercer University, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, and Emory University. He is also the first United States citizen to be awarded the honorary Doctorate of Musical Arts degree from the prestigious Moscow State Conservatory of Music in Russia. White’s professional career began at Elon University in Burlington, NC where he served as a faculty and staff member from 1972-1986. In 1986 he started his presidential career that continued through 2002 at Gardner-Webb University in Boiling Springs, NC.

Dr. White has chaired numerous accreditation teams for the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools during his career in higher education. Community involvement has always been important to him. He is a Rotarian and has worked with the Chamber of Commerce, United Way, Boy Scouts, YMCA, Foundation of the Carolinas, and historical associations. The governor of North Carolina bestowed on him the highest honor – the Order of the Long Leaf Pine. In addition, both Dr. and Mrs. White have been awarded honorary doctorates from Chowan University and the coveted Spirit of Chowan Award.

The Whites are spending their retirement years at their home in Charlotte and anticipate a lot of their time being dedicated to their family and cherishing time with their six grandchildren. Dr. and Mrs. White's son Martin and his family reside in Charlotte, and their son Andrew and his family reside in Connecticut.

Chowan Makes way for the steinway

Nearing 2:00 pm on Wednesday, February 26th, 2020, Chowan University celebrated the arrival of a new Steinway piano in Turner Auditorium, McDowell Columns Hall. Dr. Kirk Peterson, President, and a conglomerate of excited onlookers witnessed school history as the piano was unveiled on the stage. Even before the instrument’s assembly process was completed, the awestruck faces of beneficiaries, donors, instructors and students alike were visible in the polished piano’s unblemished reflection. With the protective wrappings removed, now retired Chancellor White properly initiated the instrument into Chowan University’s care by playing the classic hymn “What A Friend We Have In Jesus”. Following Dr. White, several other pianists timidly approached the gorgeous piano to play, feel, and experience its qualities. And as Chowan’s musicians left the first fingerprints on its ivory keys, the Steinway’s inauguration into Turner Auditorium was complete.

Mrs. Elaine Myers and daughter Paige along with Mrs. Jane Newsome were among the eager crowd of spectators who patiently watched the tedious unloading and assembly processes. As well as being generous financial contributors, the women were also influential in selecting the new Steinway. They, along with Mrs. Linda Weaver, accompanied a group of Chowan affiliated individuals to the Steinway & Sons Factory in New York where they painstakingly examined some of the world’s finest pianos.

Ultimately, the nine foot Steinway & Sons Model D Concert Grand Piano that now sits in Turner Auditorium was chosen primarily based on its incredible touch and tone. When played, the piano’s keys possessed a superior, unmatched quality. Joshua Bryant, a senior music major, had the opportunity to be the first student to play the new Steinway. He described the piano as having an incredibly "bright tone" that's touch and sound capabilities took his breath away.

The addition of this newest Steinway is one step closer to the University achieving its goal of being an all Steinway school. With the help of the most recent, generous donations, Chowan is four pianos closer to this accomplishment. This campaign that started five years agonbegan with the hopes of elevating the quality of music as well as enhancing the Chowan experience. Becoming an all Steinway school illustrates how Chowan University prides itself on providing the best for its students. Keith Pendergraft, institutional representative with Hopper Piano and Organ Company in Raleigh, NC, acknowledged that their brand is “associated with prestige and quality”. To be an all Steinway school is the musical pinnacle of providing students the greatest opportunities for learning, experience, and success. In a statement from Steinway and Sons, the company remarked that being an all Steinway school “demonstrates a commitment to excellence and an unparalleled educational experience by providing students with the rich, unrivaled sound, incomparable tone, and pristine touch of [our] pianos. These [instruments] inspire students to realize their artistic talents and best prepare them to compete at the highest level in the professional world.” Some schools with stellar music programs that have achieved an all Steinway school status are Oberlin Conservatory, Cleveland Institute of Music, and Curtis Institute of Music. In the home stretch of capturing this incredible achievement, Chowan University looks forward to being recognized as the only all Steinway school in Northeastern North Carolina.

Clockwise from top, left: Student, Joshua Bryant playing for the first time. Professor Mary Hellmann taking in the first time she played on the Steinway in Turner Auditorium. Gracious donors, Jane Newsome, Linda Weaver, and Elaine Myers. Group in New York at Steinway and Son's Factory.

On Monday, August 17th, Dr. and Mrs. Peterson visited the home of Mary Breeden to present her with an award bestowed only to twelve other people - The Spirit of Chowan Award.

Dr. Peterson shared, “Mary Breeden will never be found in the spotlight, but all of us recognize her special touch in helping Chowan put her best 3 foot forward. She has taken pride and special interest in making sure all facilities are ready for use and maintained to the highest standard. Her talents are many. She literally has helped CU put her “best foot” forward for over 30 years!”

Mary has the distinction of working with six Chowan University President’s: Dr. Bruce Whitaker, Dr. Jerry Jackson, Dr. Herman Collier (interim), Dr. Stanley Lott, Dr. M. Christopher White, and Dr. Kirk Peterson. Her commitment to the University and its mission certainly has not gone unnoticed. Her loyalty and dedication are second to none. Mary has had a front-row seat with the growth and development of this great University, and we recognize her devotion over all of these years.

The award was established in 2002 through the vision of the late Jewell Faye Glover, Chowan Trustee, of Seaboard, NC. The Spirit of Chowan Award is given to those few individuals in the Chowan community whose service to others is exemplary, whose honesty and integrity are unquestioned, and who live out in their lives the servant-hood of Jesus the Christ. To date, this is only the 13th time the award has been presented.

Former Spirit of Chowan Award Recipients:

Genevieve T. Greer, former Student 2002 Sami El-Massarani, former Food Service Director 2004 Syble Shellito, Director of Academic Success, 2006 Andrea E. Eason, Former Dean School of Business 2009 Lindsay C. Comstock, Graduate (2003), 2011 M. Christopher White, Former President, 2012 Linda Fleming White, Former First Lady, 2012 Randy Harrell, former Vice President of Student Affairs, 2014 Hargus and Doris Taylor, former Chair of Religion and Whitaker Library Staff, 2015 Garth Faile, former Distinguished Professor of Chemistry, 2016 John M. Tayloe, Executive Director of Major Gifts and Planned Giving, 2017 W. Frank Rose, Jr., Board of Trustees Chair, 2018

recognizing MARY BREEDEN SPIRIT OF CHOWAN

Photos courtesy of the Chowan University Department of Biology

"The criteria Dr. Dame and I use to develop research projects at Chowan University are simple. We design projects that take advantage of our areas of expertise and contribute useful information to our fields of study. However, our number one priority is to involve students in all aspects of the process of scientific inquiry. We consider the Prothonotary Warbler research a success – particularly when it comes to student engagement. Many students have their fingerprints on this project. Work-study students and students enrolled in our Ecology Field Camp course built, installed, maintained, and monitored nest boxes. Skadi’s involvement in the project has far exceeded our expectations. She has participated in every aspect – building and installing nest boxes, grant writing, conducting fieldwork, analyzing data, and presenting her results at external conferences. It has been a pleasure to work with her and to see her engage and grow with this project. She has a bright future ahead and we look forward to watching it unfold." -Dr. Heather McGuire

Did you know Murfreesboro, North Carolina is a great place to find a mate? Senior Skadi Kylander and Professors Dr. Heather McGuire and Dr. James “Bo” Dame have found this true for the Prothonotary Warbler. These bright yellow birds migrate to Northeastern North Carolina from Central and South America to find a mate, breed, and raise their young. For a third of the year, these birds call this corner of the world home.

In 2017, Dr. McGuire learned that the Prothonotary Warbler was on watch lists with several conservation agencies. Since 1960, the population of these birds has declined by 40%. It so happens that Northeastern North Carolina is one of the top three breeding locations in North America. Through a combination of problem and proximity yielded an ideal opportunity for the biology professors and majors for field site research.

The Town of Murfreesboro has generously given the Chowan Biology Department access to the Meherrin River field site located less than a mile from campus. The NC Coastal Reserve and National Estuarine Research Reserve System has permitted access to a second site in Kitty Hawk Woods. These areas offer prime “real-estate” for these bright yellow birds. The birds nest in tree cavities that have typically been left by other animals. Fortunately for the Chowan researchers, these birds will also dwell in the human-made nest boxes crafted by biology professors and students.

Building nest boxes was one of the first projects Skadi undertook when she started as a student worker in the biology department. In the summer of 2019, Skadi eagerly began fieldwork alongside Drs. McGuire and Dame. The opportunity for hands-on research exceeded Skadi’s expectations. She enjoys the specific research on the Prothonotary Warbler at the field sites, but also unexpected discoveries. Skadi delights when she and her professors collectively “geek-out” over a plant to be identified or an unexpected bat resting in one of the nest boxes.

One of Skadi’s most memorable moments was when Dr. McGuire placed an adult warbler in her hands for the first time. Skadi beams as she describes the bird, “it was so light and soft.” Now Skadi routinely holds the nestlings and the occasional adult to check their weight and take other measurements. Along with the field research, Dr. McGuire and Dr. Dame have introduced Skadi to grant writing and research presentation.

Skadi has had great success in these areas. In 2019, she received research grants from North Carolina Independent Colleges and Universities (NCICU) and the Carolina Bird

DESTINATION MUFREESBORO

Faculty + Student Spotlight

"Interacting with these birds in the summer is an incredibly special experience, and an incredibly enriching experience for a budding biologist. It's amazing how patient they are with us as we take their measurements, watching us with their shining black eyes as we measure their legs and wings. It's amazing when a four-day-old nestling nestles in the makeshift nest of the fingers of one of our hands for a brief nap before it's her turn to be weighed. It's amazing how quickly an adult can return to a nest with a beak-ful of wriggling caterpillars right after bringing the nestlings a dragonfly so big it's a wonder that there could be any nestlings that would still be hungry. It's amazing to be standing in a swamp and suddenly see a flash of yellow as a prothonotary warbler flies by, no doubt in search of a delicious snack for its babies that will be ready to fly less than two weeks after they hatch. Opening a nest box one day to find a nest, and then going back to it to find eggs in that nest, then seeing those eggs hatch into baby birds that one day decide to take a leaps of faith out of the only home they’ve ever known to make their first flights, not to mention all work that has to be done by the baby birds’ parents for those first flights to happen, is just unforgettable." -Skadi Kylander

Club. In 2020 she received a grant from the Eastern Bird Banding Association. Skadi presented her research at the State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium (SNCURCS) at Duke University in 2019 and won the Alpha Chi National Honor Society Alfred H. Nolle Scholarship for a paper she wrote about her research.

In January 2020, Dr. McGuire and Skadi presented their research findings at the Dr. William Bradley Salon Lecture Series for the Chowan community. Skadi is the first student to present research at the salon. Together they introduced Chowan to the Prothonotary Warbler and their field site discoveries. Flooding and predators were possible challenges to nest viability at the Meherrin River site, and wasps may have impacted nesting at the Kitty Hawk Woods site. Despite these possible issues, Prothonotary Warblers nested at the field sites and the researchers started collecting data.

After compiling and sharing her research from 2019, Skadi prepared for the 2020 Prothonotary Warbler breeding session. “Figuring out solutions to problems, to make things better” energizes Skadi. With that motivation, she found a solution to the “wasp problem.” Wasps dislike slippery surfaces, so Skadi added a new amenity to the top interior of the nest boxes, plastic sheeting covered in Vaseline. It seemed to discourage the pesky wasps, which may have allowed for more viable nests in 2020.

Skadi enjoys all the aspects of studying these beautiful yellow birds, from time spent in the swamp to analyzing the data and content to review video footage of the birds as they feed their young. This has given great insight into the bird’s diet.

Listening to Skadi, you can understand why she and her professors are so engaged with their research. The birds have value in their beauty and their songs, but also in their bellies. They are great at keeping down the insect population, a welcome benefit to the humans who also dwell in this region.

As Skadi undertakes her final semester at Chowan, the bright biology student prepares to pursue higher education and additional research opportunities. She is open to any field of research: birds, plants, or other animals. These lovely yellow birds will always be special for Skadi. Her hope for them is that other students will seek to study with Drs. McGuire and Dame to continue the work of conservation and research. Perhaps, like Skadi and the Prothonotary Warbler, other students will find Murfreesboro their desired destination.

Shafiq stands out as one of my brightest accounting students. I admire Shafiq because he was unwilling to pass on any opportunity to improve himself, even if it meant traveling across the world to study at Chowan. The determination and drive he displayed throughout his time here showed me he was headed for a successful career as a CPA. He certainly didn't disappoint. I am very proud of Shafiq's accomplishments and so glad I had the opportunity to help him along the way.

-Shannon Williams

DREAMS, NOW REALITY Alumni Spotlight academically and was inducted into the Alpha Chi Honor Society, where he received opportunities to travel the United States to participate in national research conferences. Shafiq confides

When the unimaginable dream is realized, a surreal that "being away from home while on experience occurs where the imagination dramatizes the campus, as an international student, was challenging at times." conflict between ambitious aspirations and their practicality. However, Chowan's nurturing and caring environment But when this dream is molded into a goal that one day helped ease his transition into an enjoyable experience. A becomes accomplished, no obstacle appears impossible to few of the notable, friendly faces Shafiq gives thanks for are overcome. So is the case with the 2013 Palestinian graduate, Chad and Stephanie Holt, Dr. and Mrs. White, Professor Jill Shafiq Kuttab's journey from East Jerusalem to Murfreesboro, Awuni, Kim Bailey, Dr. and Mrs. Brabban, Craig Janney, and NC. Before he could pen his own name, Shafiq knew that Stephanie Furlough. his life's goal was to pursue higher education at an esteemed university in the United States. And through Chowan's stellar After graduating from Chowan University with an networking and accommodations, his seemingly unrealistic accounting degree, Shafiq became a Certified Public dream gave way to an incredible opportunity. Accountant (CPA) and started his career as an accountant at PricewaterhouseCoopers in Jerusalem. After two and a

Reflecting on his three years at Chowan University, half years as an associate with the firm in Jerusalem, Shafiq Shafiq recalls how his professors' sincere care and dedication transferred to the Toronto office, where he currently works to their jobs as educators prepared him for a career in the as a senior associate in Advisory. With sincere regards, Shafiq accounting field. He appreciated being known in class as a remarks that ultimately "my experience at Chowan helped name, not a number, and acknowledged that this elevated the me start my career on the right path and helped me pursue professor-student connection, making it more effective and my career goals. When I was making important decisions genuine. "My professors at the school of business (Shannon early in my career, I reached out to some of my professors Williams, Patsy Taylor, Tom Eisenmenger, Dr. DeJesus, Dr. on multiple occasions for advice. Their [guidance] helped me Griffin, to name a few) were instrumental in my academic get to where I am, and it's something that I am very grateful development. Professor Williams was my advisor and helped for." Shafiq's story models Chowan's mission, to provide an me a lot, not only as a student but also as an alumnus." incomparable educational experience where learning and Additionally, being employed as a student worker in the consideration for others meld. We are a place where graduates tutoring center as well as admissions and business offices gave depart with diplomas in hand and the acquisition of a new Shafiq an unparalleled experience to hone his responsibility, family in spirit. accountability, and time-management skills. Shafiq excelled

ARCHIVING HISTORY Staff Spotlight

Linda Hassell, Cataloger, and Special Collections Librarian, retired from Chowan University in December 2019. Her position’s responsibilities included: performing original and copy cataloging and classification of materials in all formats. She worked to ensure the accuracy of local bibliographic records based on OCLC records to provide service to faculty, staff and students using the online public catalog. Ms. Hassell was also responsible for the oversight of the Special Collections in the McDowell and Creech Collections. Her mission was to preserve the university’s history and its Baptist traditions.

Ms. Hassell’s legacy at Chowan spans more than her work in the library. Her father was employed at Chowan as the Director of Maintenance from 1960-1995. Because her father worked at Chowan for many years, Linda Hassell was very familiar with Chowan and its campus at a very young age. She was a student at Chowan from 1971-1973 and graduated with an A.A. degree in Liberal Arts. Hassell completed her education after receiving a B.A. in history in 1975 from Meredith College, and later, earning her first Masters in Education (M.A.Ed.) in 1990 and her second masters in Library Science (M. L.S.) in 1992 from East Carolina University. Her career as a faculty member at Chowan began in the fall of 1975, working for the Housing Department. A few years later, she worked as the Director of Institutional Research. And in the fall of 1988, Ms. Hassell began her most treasured position, working in Whitaker Library.

Some of Linda Hassell’s most memorable events include being a member of Lux Veritas in 2000 and the dedication of the Chowan University Hassell Center Maintenance Building in memory of her father.

In August 2013, she was appointed as a Chowan Faculty Marshall and in spring 2018, Ms. Hassell was appointed to serve as Chief Faculty Marshall for the 2016-2017 academic year. She was nominated for the Community Service Award in spring 2018, as well as the recipient of the Female Employee of the Year Award (2017- 2018), and the Academic Affairs Award of Excellence for job performance in the spring of 2019. Ms. Hassell’s awards and recognition stand as a testament to her dedication and fervent loyalty to Chowan University.

Ms. Hassell was a part of the Chowan fabric for forty-four years. Her passion and love of learning was rooted in her collegiate experience; being taught by intelligent professors who were invested in helping college students succeed inspired her to do the same in her professional life. Ms. Hassell’s job in Whitaker Library gave her the opportunity to have a positive, influential impact on student’s lives.

A. LINDA HASSELL UNIVERSITY ARCHIVES

As a token of appreciation for her dedicated service, Chowan University named its archives after Ms. Hassell upon her retirement.

Since elementary days, Jacob Hunter knew he was destined to play football. The Rocky Mount, NC native stood out from his peers and teammates as a goaloriented, self-motivated individual. Jacob’s mother Patricia Hunter, a special education teacher, taught her son the value in a quality education and a strong work ethic. She worked tirelessly to ensure her children thrived despite being a single mother since 2008 and living in a city where poverty and violent crime rates make vigilant parents wary. Jacob’s commitment to honoring his mother’s sacrifice was the cornerstone of his motivation to achieve stellar grades and enter Chowan University on academic and football scholarships.

Upon arriving at Chowan, Jacob admits that like most incoming freshmen, he didn’t know what to expect. Being away from the comfortabilities of his home and family caused Jacob to begin searching for stability and meaning to his young college career. He found purpose in being a valued member of the university football team, which became Jacob’s foundation for support and direction. The team’s summer training season gave Jacob an easier transition and helped him find a home and family in his teammates. Jacob’s life as a freshman at Chowan became primarily focused on becoming the best student-athlete possible.

Being a student-athlete had its pros and cons for Jacob. The biggest benefit was that the rigorous football schedule provided important daily structure. Hunter was strict with himself on maintaining time management and left little room for procrastination. He also enjoyed the camaraderie. Although his teammates could never fill the emptiness Jacob felt missing his mother and brother, having a support system on and off the field gave him the chances to embody role models as well as the opportunity to be a leader.

But being a successful student-athlete is not for the faint of heart. Hunter recalls that there is little time for relaxation and he couldn’t visit home for twelve to thirteen weeks due to football obligations. This lack of free time is what ultimately contributed to Hunter’s resigning from the team. Football preoccupied the time he wanted to devote to the classroom and his goal of becoming a ministry chaplain.

Going into his senior year, Jacob knew he had put himself in a difficult situation. Leaving the football team to focus on his grades meant that Hunter had forfeited his athletic scholarship. Unable to pay his updated tuition, Jacob considered withdrawing from Chowan University. Determined not to give up, Jacob sought financial assistance through the Chowan Christian Service Association (CCSA) Scholarship. This special award is given to deserving students preparing for Christian vocational service. By receiving the CCSA Scholarship, Jacob was given a second chance to complete his degree. Hunter acknowledges that this opportunity helped him appreciate people who give back to Chowan University. Their donations and endowments propelled him to graduation. Since receiving the CCSA Scholarship, Jacob has been especially dedicated to community service, particularly helping others who are struggling to provide for themselves.

The Chowan Christian Service Association not only uplifted Jacob’s financial state, but the fellowship with fellow scholars revitalized his spirit and reaffirmed his calling to be a ministry chaplain.

GIVING GLORY

Graduate Spotlight

Being able to meet his donors and have a relationship with them has been equally significant for Hunter. He hopes that their relationship encourages beneficiaries by physically seeing their donations impacting Jacob’s steady growth.