FERRUM COLLEGE 2021 ANNUAL REPORT
• First Graduate Students Receive Diplomas – p. 6 • Athletes Garner All-America Honors – p. 19 • College Celebrates 30% Increase in Giving – p. 33
THANK YOU TO OUR VOLUNTEER LEADERSHIP BOARD OF TRUSTEES
ALUMNI BOARD OF DIRECTORS
OFFICERS D. Scott Showalter ’73, Chair W. Jeffrey Booker, First Vice Chair Bernice Cobbs ’98, Second Vice Chair Ronald Singleton ’70, Secretary Phyllis Karavatakis ’76, Past Chair
OFFICERS B. Clay Wiley, Jr. ’06, President Ty’Nesha Jamison Scales ’05, Vice President Terrance S. Harrelson ’11, Secretary Twyla Stephen Tatum ’04, Past President
MEMBERS David Arrington Denise Bates Suzanne M. Boltz John Cougill ’69 Jeff Davoud ’97 Everett Foxx ’92 Ann Klotz Jeff Knotts Sharma D. Lewis Judson P. (Jud) Mason ’67 Annita Nelson Baxter Phillips, Jr. ’66 Suzanne M. Smith ’98 Nancy Walsh Teresa Watson Marilyn H. West Bruce Whitehurst B. Clay Wiley, Jr. ’06 George D. Yancey ’67 TRUSTEES EMERITI William B. Bales Maury L. Carter ’53 Patricia O. Compton Robert A. Cox, Jr. Thelma B. Crowder Betty Forbes Samuel L. Lionberger, Jr. Sid D. Mason M. Douglas Newman ’42 Ida B. Powell
MEMBERS Wayne Brockwell ‘06 Scotty L. Bryan ’97 Fletcher “Nathan” Daniels III ’99 Philip J. Davis ’02 Randal L. Doss ’94 Brooke Gill ’05 Lynette Evans Guilliams ’05 Danielle W. Hannuksela ’16 Shannon Jost ’97 Sandra Kalamaras ‘04 Dana Kelley ’94 J. Glynn Loope ’86 Alesha Meadows ’12 Rob Monolo ’92 Billie Quesenberry ’17 Jeffrey Reardon ’96 Kevin Reynolds ’13 Matt Scruggs ’04 Elizabeth “Beth” Simms ’09 Deanna Reid Sumners ’13 Holly Stitham-Ellis ’97 Dorothy Carroll Vetterl ’18 LIFETIME MEMBERS Donald Brown ’66 Samuel Camden ’66 James Clark Jr. ’62 Bruce Griffith ’66
2021 ANNUAL REPORT Profess
Message from President David Johns 5 First Graduate Degree Students Make History 6 Kevin Reilly Named VP for Academic Affairs 7 Students Take Top Spots During Young Farmers Discussion Meet 8 Campus Composting Program Restarted 8 Accelerated Path to Appalachian School of Law Degree Now Offered 9 Carissa Williams ’22 Accepted into Programs in Belize and Panama 9 Durham Named Global Farmer Network Roundtable Fellow 10 Vanden Eykel Adds Commitments During Society’s Break From “Normal” 10 Hally Named Assistant Director of Boone Honors Program 11 Whited Examines True-Crime & Literary Naturalism in Her New Book 11 Classes of 2020 and 2021 Celebrated During Commencement Ceremonies 12
On Campus County and College Celebrate Completion of Ferrum Pedestrian Bridge Students Donate Over $5K in Labor, Alumnus Offered a Job Robinson Reaches Students “Where They Are” As New Campus Minister Twentieth Anniversary of September 11 Commemorated On Campus Office of Student Life & Engagement Supports Students, Community
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Athletics
Message from Director of Athletics John Sutyak 17 Ferrum Establishes Black Hats Football Endowment 18 Harrison’s All-America Honor Caps Historic Season 19 Madden-McAfee Named to Academic All-America Team 19 Sports Hall of Fame Classes of 2020 & 2021 Recognized 21 Houston Astros Induct Billy Wagner ’93 into Sports Hall of Fame 21 Athletics Pictorial 22
Alumni
It’s the People 24 Message from Vice President for Institutional Advancement Wilson Paine 25 Distinguished and Outstanding Alumni Recognized 26 Pohlad-Thomas ’08 & Simms ’09 Named to “Top 40 Under 40” List 27 Everett Foxx Named Ferrum College Trustee 28 Ecotourism Program Leads to Galapagos Research for Audrey Ramsey ’18 28 BG (Ret.) Burt Thompson ’82 Speaks During Veterans Day Ceremony 29 National Guard Member Demontay Wimbush ’21 Prepared for Deployment 29 Homecoming & Family Weekend Pictorial 30
Philanthropy
Endowed Scholarship Created in Honor of History Professor Richard Smith 31 Norton Outdoor Adventures Receives VA Wildlife Grant 31 Nursing Program to Expand with Virginia Tobacco Commission Assistance 32 BRIM to Preserve Adams Collection of Appalachian Folklore with CIC Grant 32 Ferrum College Celebrates 30% Increase in Giving 33 Why Do YOU Support Ferrum College? 34 By the Numbers 36 Blue Ridge Folklife Festival Pictorial 38
On the front cover (L-R) are Ferrum College nursing students Christine Aigner, Jennia Candy, Megan Allen, Shawn Cobbs, Grace Wright, Casey Raggett, and Alisha Elizalde. On the back cover (L-R) are Ferrum College students George Mitchell, Shaylise Jones, Ethan Fragoso, Marina Joy Powell, Braden Homsey, and Mikayla Floyd.
Fulfill the Promise is a publication of the Ferrum College Office of Institutional Advancement. Please send address changes by mail to Office of Institutional Advancement, P.O. Box 1000, Ferrum, VA 24088-9000; or call 540-365-4211; or email advancement@ferrum.edu. EDITORS Jamie Campbell Wilson Paine CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Laurie Adams, Tracy Holley, Bart Smith, Kristin Waters, Diana Yates PHOTO EDITORS Bart Smith Kristin Waters PHOTOGRAPHY Jamie Campbell, Global Farmer Network, Sarah Griffith Photography, Gary Holden, Brad Holley Photography, Alexandria Moore, Bob Pohlad, Virginia Farm Bureau Federation, Visit Virginia’s Blue Ridge, Kristin Waters, Beth Worley, Ferrum College Sports Information Office staff, and Ferrum College friends DESIGN Kristin Waters Ferrum College is approved to offer GI Bill® educational benefits by the Virginia State Approving Agency. Ferrum College does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, age, veteran status, gender, sex, disability, or any other protected status in admission to, access to, treatment in or employment in its programs and activities. Ferrum College affirms the dignity and worth of every individual regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity and will not tolerate harassment or discrimination toward any individual. The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding the nondiscrimination policies: Director of Human Resources, Ferrum College, P.O. Box 1000, Ferrum, VA, 24088-9000; (540) 365-4235. Inquiries concerning the application of nondiscrimination policies may also be referred to Office for Civil Rights, D.C., U.S. Department of Education, P.O. Box 14620, Washington, D.C. 20044; (202) 208-2545, TDD; (202) 208-7797. OCR encourages use of e-mail or fax to communicate with OCR whenever possible. Also, complainants may file a complaint with OCR online or by email (ocr@ed.gov).
At Ferrum College, we have one priority — to fulfill the promise of college by providing pathways to meaningful work, making education attainable, and staying connected for a lifetime.
Every student. Every major. Every day. Provide Pathways To Meaningful Work • Developing comprehensive career pathways interwoven into all aspects of Ferrum College • Maintaining curriculum relevant to career and life preparation • Recruiting, retaining, and graduating a diverse student body • Enhancing infrastructure and processes to support this Focus Plan
Make Education Attainable • Assuring affordability through a stronger endowment and improved student financial literacy • Providing flexibility through seated, online, hybrid, and accelerated programs • Removing process barriers • Assuring timely program completion
Stay Connected For A Lifetime • Building robust lifelong learning opportunities • Expanding alumni career services • Creating legacy program
Nothing more is necessary, nothing less will do. To learn more about Fulfill the Promise and how you can get involved, please visit ferrum.edu/fulfillthepromise.
Dear Ferrum Community, Colleges promise a lot—academically, socially, and professionally. We are judged by those promises and whether we deliver on them. Of these, perhaps the most important is the promise of access and opportunity. But there is a problem: sometimes we act as if the opportunity students want and the access they need is college itself. This is not true. College is a springboard to opportunity and possibility, it is not a trampoline that gets you nowhere. It is not an end in itself for its own sake. We prepare students for life, for its many surprising and unpredictable turns, and then we provide a pathway to what lies beyond, a pathway to meaningful work. Every student. Every major. Every day. This meaningful work is bigger than a job, and even bigger than a career; it is a life purpose based upon our values and guided by a desire to improve our lives, our families, and our communities. This life work requires us to be problem solvers who are determined, smart, and fearless, and to be leaders who are ready to build the future. One thing is for sure, Ferrum College students know that nothing in life comes easy or free, we all have to work hard for what we want. Our students come to us with promise; we help them find purpose; then we connect them to possibility. We are excited to launch our new strategic plan, Fulfill the Promise. In this plan, we are focusing our efforts to make sure our students know how to build the networks they need, to make sure they are prepared for and have clear pathways to meaningful work through an education that is dynamic and attainable. And because at Ferrum College we are family, we plan to stay connected for a lifetime. With Panther Pride,
David L. Johns, Ph.D. President
First Graduate Degree Students Make History on May 1, 2021
The first cohort of Ferrum College graduate students received their degrees in May. (L-R) Jason Woods, Brittany Andino, Leya Deickman, Callie Wheeler, Ashley Lambeth, Katie Ingram, Mario Vasquez, and Eric Grundman.
On May 1, 2021, eight graduate degree students were honored during Ferrum College’s 105th commencement ceremony. These students are the first graduate degree recipients in the institution’s history. “It was such a joy and honor to be able to call the names and watch our first graduate students be hooded on stage at this year’s commencement ceremony,” said Dean of the School of Online Graduate and Education Studies and Associate Professor of Political Science Sandra Via ’04. “I am so proud of these students for their hard work and dedication.” The Master of Science in Psychology and the Education Specialist Degree (EdS) in Teacher Leadership and Coaching programs are completely online and offer graduate students the chance to complete the curriculum in just one year. Each program prepares students for career advancement or to enter a doctoral program. Leya Deickman, who received her undergraduate degree in psychology from Ferrum in 2019, is a proud member of the first graduate degree class. True to its promise, the program took Deickman a year to earn a Master of Science in psychology. Because of her organized and energetic nature, she was also able to work full-time at the College as an area coordinator for the Office of Student Life and Engagement, compete for the women’s wrestling team, and remain a dedicated mother to her young son Kendall. “Being a full-time graduate student, staff member, student-athlete, and still managing my home life was extremely demanding,” said Deickman. “There were many days where Kendall would have to come to practice and there were days where I went to my office an hour early to just get some quiet time to do homework. But the beauty in online courses is that you can shape your schedule however 6
you would like. Having the freedom to do that enabled me to be all those different things at once.” Deickman enjoyed the curriculum of Ferrum’s graduate program. “I have been in other online programs before and they were very much regurgitation of information. While I still learned things, I was not as excited to learn. Ferrum’s program has been the opposite. I am always challenged and learning new things. The structure of each class is unique but is clearly laid out from the first day of class. I am learning about my own interest while being able to learn about psychology branches and research,” she said. Ferrum College’s Senior Enrollment Officer Eric Grundman agrees with Deickman’s assessment. While working full-time for the College, Grundman enrolled last summer as a full-time graduate student, and also earned a Master of Science in psychology. “Speaking from the perspective of the senior enrollment officer at Ferrum College, being a member of the first cohort and graduating class in Ferrum College history with an M.S. in psychology has been an incredibly positive experience,” said Grundman. “The past year has been truly enriching and fulfilling in every way. I’ve been able to gain knowledge as well as expand my professional network while working together with classmates who will be friends for a lifetime.” Grundman will always feel grateful for his graduate school experience at Ferrum. “The faculty and staff have worked with me and my fellow classmates to guide us through this intensive online program with a level of compassion and a personal touch that might not otherwise be offered at larger institutions,” he said. “One of the greatest honors of my life is that I am able to say I am now a proud Ferrum College alumnus.”
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Kevin Reilly Named VP for Academic Affairs
In September, Dr. Kevin Reilly was named vice president for Academic Affairs. “My vision,” said Reilly, who served as acting vice president over the summer months, “is to work collaboratively and build upon our strengths: delivering outstanding opportunities for students through existing programs, while developing exciting new programs, to provide career-oriented experiences that prepare students for life after college.” Reilly earned a B.S. in psychology and an M.A. in industrial/organizational psychology, both from Bridgewater State College. After receiving his Ph.D. in social cognition/ personality from Lehigh University in 2002, Reilly arrived at Ferrum College as a faculty member in the psychology department. He also served as a school dean for eight years before being named assistant vice president for Academic Affairs in 2019. Reilly was instrumental in Ferrum’s glowing fall 2020 Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges accreditation review. He also helped the College receive authorization to offer a variety of masters and specialist degree programs. “Kevin is an obvious choice for vice president for Academic Affairs,” said President David Johns. “He is deeply committed to our students and his work is filled with creativity, grace, and good humor. We would be hard pressed to find someone who knows us better or loves us more.”
Ferrum College Students Take 3 of the Top 4 Spots During Young Farmers Collegiate Discussion Meet Ferrum College students earned three of the top four places during the Annual Collegiate Young Farmers Discussion Meet on November 5 in Lynchburg, VA. Agriculture Science major Madison Cogle ’23 (left) won first place, entitling her to a $500 scholarship from Southern Farm Life Insurance Company and Virginia Farm Bureau Federation (VFBF) Young Farmers. She also won trips to additional meets slated for January and February 2022. “I was going for the experience and the opportunity to connect and communicate with other students in agriculture—winning was just the cherry on top,” said Cogle. Junior Lauren Hackett ’23 (center) and sophomore Ryan Gobble ’24 (right) were also named finalists. Gobble and Hackett each received $150 from VFBF. Hackett is majoring in agriculture and Gobble is a secondary education major. All three winners are Boone Honors Program members and Ag Club officers. Cogle is also Ferrum’s first-ever Beckham Presidential Scholar and a member of Franklin County Young Farmers. Competitors were judged on discussion skills, understanding of issues, and ability to build consensus.
Campus Composting Program Restarted With Academic and Dining Services Partnership Assistant Professor of Biology & Horticulture Clay Britton and Aladdin Campus Dining Food Services Director Levi Briggs have partnered to restart the College’s composting program, which will eventually encompass a work study program and a course practicum for students. Britton manages the College’s hydroponics program, which supplies produce to Aladdin. “During one of our discussions, Clay [said he] wanted to find a way to get [the composters] running again. I thought it would be great for Dining Services to partner with the College to start something important – reducing landfill waste and maintaining sustainability,” said Briggs.
Aladdin’s Jonathan Steen empties a bucket of raw food waste into the composter.
The College purchased two large composters when the program was previously active. In September, Briggs spent about a week of his personal time after work cleaning out the barn that houses the composters, so that they could be operational again.
Aladdin’s staff is overseeing the composting process. The compost will be used at Titmus Agricultural Farm and around campus in flower beds and herb gardens. 8
Accelerated Path to Appalachian School of Law Degree Provided for Ferrum Students Ferrum College and Appalachian School of Law (ASL) have entered into a 3-plus-3 Dual Degree Agreement, which will allow Ferrum students to enroll at ASL after three years as an undergraduate at Ferrum. Ferrum students will receive their baccalaureate degree after completing their first year of law school at ASL, and will then receive a law degree two years later. This efficient pathway to a law degree allows graduates to begin working in the legal field in less time and with less expense. Admission to ASL is guaranteed for Ferrum students as long as they are on track to receive their bachelor’s degree by the end of the semester after application to ASL, maintain a minimum cumulative 3.0 grade point average, and earn an LSAT score equal to or exceeding 150. “Our partnership with Appalachian School of Law is a natural fit,” said Ferrum College President David Johns. “ASL’s mission of providing community leaders and community advocates builds upon the work we do, and this partnership is one more way for Ferrum College to serve our students, our community, and our region.”
Carissa Williams ’22 Accepted into Belize and Panama Loop Abroad Programs Ferrum College senior Carissa Williams is preparing for Loop Abroad sessions in Belize and Panama, which will occur after graduation in May 2022. Loop Abroad programs are designed for college-aged students who are interested in attending veterinary school or working professionally with animals. Williams’ emphasis area within her pre-professional health sciences degree is pre-veterinary science. After two weeks in Belize, working with large farm animals and studying the Belize barrier reef, Williams will spend another two weeks in Panama studying sloths, birds, anteaters, kinkajous, and big cats. After completion of the program, Williams will have earned about 240 clinic and service hours toward veterinary school. Assistant Professor of Animal Science & Agricultural Sciences Nancy Brubaker, who is Williams’ academic advisor at Ferrum College, said, “Ms. Williams is a hard-working, dedicated student who has persevered in one of the toughest collegiate times. She has a wonderfully practical and mature perspective that will set her up to not only have the ability to serve the veterinary community, but also to embrace the learning experience.” 9
Durham Named Global Farmer Network Roundtable Fellow Associate Professor of Crop Science Tim Durham was named a Global Farmer Network (GFN) Roundtable fellow in the fall of 2021. He and about 30 other farmers from six other continents began meeting virtually to develop innovative strategies to meet the food, clothing, and fuel needs of our growing global population. In late October, Durham traveled to Brussels, Belgium to discuss trade and other contemporary agricultural issues with the other farmers in-person. The Brussels trip provided valuable insight about the issues and priorities other farmers are facing. Durham said, “For example (and I’m generalizing), Canada, the U.S., and African nations were interested in technology transfer — getting value-added seeds and equipment from Research & Development into the hands of farmers. European and South American participants were more centered on climate change and carbon capture. That’s not to say these are incompatible goals, the challenge is to craft inclusive policy sensitive to the needs of all stakeholders.” Durham’s GFN fellowship is an ongoing commitment, which he described as “kind of like a referral network, a speakers bureau of content experts interlinked with each other.”
Vanden Eykel Adds Commitments During Society’s Break From “Normal” When society as we knew it halted due to COVID-19, Associate Professor of Religion Eric Vanden Eykel knew he needed something more to fill his time. “Shifting to virtual instruction consumed much of my attention,” said Vanden Eykel. “But because I commute from Roanoke, I also found that I had an extra couple hours per day that I didn’t have before we went virtual. Because I like to be busy, I started finding things to fill those hours.” The result? He is now writing one book (The Magi: Who They Were, How They’ve Been Remembered, and Why They Still Fascinate) and co-editing two (Sex, Violence, and Early Christian Texts and Judeophobia and the New Testament: Texts, Contexts, and Pedagogy). He was also named a general editor to Journal for Interdisciplinary Biblical Studies, an open-access journal dedicated to innovative biblical scholarship. And he was appointed to the Ferrum College Forrest S. Williams Teaching Chair in the Humanities in spring 2021. “Receiving the Williams Teaching Chair caught me completely by surprise, but it was and is a huge honor,” said Vanden Eykel. “Research and writing makes me a better and more effective teacher, but also I’m just happier as a person when I have things to work on.” 10
Hally Named Assistant Director of Boone Honors Program Associate Professor of Political Science and Public Administration Ed Hally has been appointed to the position of Boone Honors Program (BHP) assistant director. He will serve alongside Professor of English Lana Whited, who has directed the program for the past 13 years. “With a keen intellect and a heart for service, Ed Hally is an ideal candidate for honors education,” said Whited. “I am delighted about his appointment and grateful for his willingness to take on this new role.” The BHP, an interdisciplinary program committed to challenging students, and the college campus as a whole, to strive for excellence, has continued to grow since its 2001 inception under the leadership of now-retired Dean of Arts and Humanities and Religion Professor David Howell. In May 2021, the program graduated 14 honors medallion recipients, its largest-ever group. This fall, BHP welcomed its largest entering class of 25 honors students. “The students are the main reason to work so closely with the BHP,” said Hally. “The classes are always rewarding to teach because the students always surprise and impress me with their creativity, their talent, and their ability to work as a team.”
Whited Examines True-Crime & Literary Naturalism in Her Newly Released Book, “Murder, In Fact” English professor Lana Whited’s latest book began over 35 years ago with a search for Truman Capote’s In Cold Blood: A True Account of a Multiple Murder and its Consequences. Puzzled to eventually find the true-crime book in the fiction section instead of the crime and non-fiction section, Whited began a decades-long study of murder narratives resulting in her book Murder, In Fact: Disillusionment and Death in the American True Crime Novel, released in November 2020. Whited says she attempted to connect novels written from the 1890s to now, to Naturalism based on three characteristics: “the authors’ use of reporting skills borrowed from journalism; the authors’ focus on the murderer; and the authors’ writing about crimes having basis in fact.” Whited is relieved to finally hold the book that took 35 years to write, but her work was not without trials. “At certain points, I have had to put the project aside for periods of time because the material became too traumatic, but I don’t think I will ever have true-crime fatigue.” 11
Classes of 2020 & 2021 Celebrated During Commencement Ceremonies on Campus The class of 2020 returned to the Ferrum College campus for an in-person, socially-distanced commencement ceremony on Friday evening, April 30, 2021 in Adams Stadium. The keynote speaker was Virginia’s 2021 Teacher of the Year Anthony Swann. The next morning, May 1, 173 graduates of the class of 2021 crossed the commencement stage at Adams Stadium during another socially-distanced ceremony. The keynote speaker for this ceremony was New York Times bestselling author Jeff Selingo, who has written about higher education for more than two decades. Additionally, degrees were conferred on the eight first-ever Ferrum College graduate students receiving the degrees of Master of Science in Psychology and Education Specialist in Teacher Leadership and Coaching.
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Franklin County & Ferrum College Celebrate Completion of Ferrum Pedestrian Bridge The Franklin County Board of Supervisors, Ferrum College, and the community celebrated the completion of the Ferrum Pedestrian Bridge with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Wednesday, April 28, 2021. Over 50 people attended the outdoor event, which took place on the Timber Line Road side of the pedestrian bridge in Ferrum. The 360-foot-long bridge connects the Ferrum College campus sidewalk to the Dollar General Store located on Virginia Route 40. The separate pedestrian bridge runs parallel to the narrow Sheriff Shively Bridge and is essential to keeping Ferrum students and other pedestrians safe as they cross the Norfolk Southern railroad tracks.
The County secured funding for the project through the Virginia Department of Transportation’s (VDOT) revenue sharing program and local matching funding from Franklin County and Ferrum College. “We are proud to partner with the Franklin County Board of Supervisors, VDOT, and the Village of Ferrum to create a safe walking space for our students and community members,” said President David Johns. “This pedestrian bridge is an important asset for Ferrum, for business and for recreation, and it is going to strengthen ties in our community for years to come.”
Students Donate Over $5K in Labor, Alumnus Offered a Job Due to E-Term Experience During the Environmental Planning and Development (EPD-202) Experiential Term (E-Term), led by Professor of Environmental Science Delia Heck and Professor Emeritus of Biology and Horticulture Bob Pohlad, seventeen Ferrum College students built, repaired, and beautified three sites on campus. In the process, they donated almost $5,600 in labor to the College, and one recent graduate even landed a job thanks to his involvement. Alumnus Stephen Murphy completed the EPD-202 E-Term just days after earning his Bachelor of Science in environmental science in May. He was then offered a job as a maintenance technician with Bedford Regional Water Authority. “My work with the E-Term and my previous job experience were key contributors for me to get the job,” Murphy explained. “BRWA was impressed with my experience and that Ferrum has such a handson program.” “This class was an excellent opportunity for our students to participate in experiential learning at its best,” said Heck. “They were able to learn about concepts of sustainability, engage in the work of repairing, building, and creating garden and riparian spaces, and develop a sense of pride in their efforts, their project, and the campus.” 14
Robinson Reaches Students “Where They Are” As New Campus Minister Since her arrival as campus minister in August 2021, Reverend Laura Robinson has been talking to students and implementing their ideas “to make our ministry program one that reaches Ferrum students where they are,” she said. “Some of our current ideas include prayer walks in the woods, craft sessions, book discussions, and movie nights.” A native of Zionsville, IN, Robinson received her Bachelor of Arts in English and religious studies from Indiana University in 2011, and her Master of Arts degrees in biblical exegesis (2013) and systematic theology (2014) from Wheaton College in IL. She is currently pursuing her doctorate in religious studies at Duke University. Robinson has taught courses on the New Testament, her area of focus, since 2016. She is also a 2015 James B. Duke Fellowship recipient, and has extensive experience in audio and video production with co-hosting her own podcast, “New Testament Review.” “[Laura] is a young, dynamic, experienced, and energetic pastor who is bringing so much to our college community,” said Dean of Student Success Dave Wiggins, who chaired the search committee for Ferrum’s campus minister. “We are very fortunate to have her join our community.”
Twentieth Anniversary of September 11 Commemorated With Campus Ceremony Faculty, staff, and students gathered at Hart International Plaza to acknowledge the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. As the American and Ferrum College flags fluttered in a gentle breeze above the crowd, Vice President for Academic Affairs Kevin Reilly brought remarks from President David Johns, who was unable to attend the service due to a death in his family. “What I can say with certainty is that September 11th exposed human cruelty and hatred, but September 12th displayed human resolve and solidarity,” wrote Johns. “Being lumped together as one by the terrorists actually made us act together as one – mostly, and for a time. It seemed to matter less who was who or what group we represented.” Campus Minister Laura Robinson led a prayer and a moment of silence, saying, “When we pray together today, I know many of us will be praying for protection, for safety, for understanding, for peace, for relief. But I also ask all of us here to make room in our hearts for freedom from fear.” Robinson concluded the service with a wish: “May we never live through another day like 9/11, but may we rise to the occasion if we do.” 15
Office of Student Life & Engagement Supports Students, Enhances Community Ferrum College made some strategic staffing changes to enhance the student experience and promote community engagement. Associate Professor of Psychology and former Dean of the School of Health Professions and Social Sciences Angie Dahl has been named vice president of Student Development and Campus Life. Dahl has master’s degrees in both religion and psychology, an educational specialist degree in school psychology, and a Ph.D. in clinical psychology from Utah State University. She brings to the position an understanding of student development, expertise in mental health and trauma, and a passion for Ferrum College and its students. Former Assistant Dean of Students Vanessa Stone has been named the dean of students. Stone has a master’s degree in human services, executive leadership, and has worked within student affairs at Ferrum College for the last ten years. Dahl shared, “Vanessa understands our students’ needs for safety and connection. She brings this focus and her love for Ferrum to this position.” Vanessa will lead both Residence Life and Student Accountability teams. Associate Director of Graduate and Online Programs and Transfer Student Coordinator Jill Adams will assume the role of dean of Campus Life and Title IX coordinator. Adams has a master’s degree in human services, health and wellness, and has worked in student affairs throughout her career, most recently as assistant dean and Title IX coordinator at Averett. “Jill has a history of infusing energy into all things Ferrum. She will be focusing on providing opportunities for connection and belonging for all of our Ferrum community and leading up our Title IX response,” said Dahl. Director of Student Activities Justin Muse ’05 has been named chair of the Committee on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. Muse has a master’s degree in human services, executive leadership and has worked with student activities at Ferrum for 14 years. “Justin understands the real need for all members of our community to engage with each other and have meaningful conversations on race, ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual orientation and learn to work together,” said Dahl. The team’s focus will be to support the Ferrum College community holistically. Dahl shared, “We will center our efforts on supporting student development in multiple dimensions- intellectual, social, spiritual, emotional, and physical, and emphasizing opportunities for connection, understanding and engagement across our community. The pandemic only highlighted the importance of supporting each other and providing opportunities for each member of our community to find purpose, progress in their own development, and ultimately, flourish.” 16
Dear Ferrum College Family, What a year 2021 has been. I am proud to have been a part of the amazing staff at Ferrum College, as we worked diligently to provide safe opportunities for our studentathletes to compete last spring and this fall. In January of 2021, we embarked on a journey to provide every student-athlete the opportunity to participate in meaningful competition. In doing so, we witnessed both of our basketball teams advance to the ODAC semifinals, both of our wrestling programs participate in their respective national championships and both of our soccer teams qualifying for the ODAC playoffs. In the spring, all of our teams played as scheduled, with women’s lacrosse hosting a home playoff game, softball making an ODAC playoff appearance and our men’s track and field team appearing at the NCAA championship in just its first year of NCAA Division III competition. Making this happen was no small feat. With every single Ferrum athletic team “in-season” at the same time, facilities were scheduled non-stop and covering our events with athletic training, sports information and event management was a challenge. However, we persevered as we always do and we were able to provide a positive experience for all of our students. Personally, I am thankful for our athletic training staff who were the MVP’s in making the season happen. They lead the charge of COVID testing, while continuing to care for our students through difficult circumstances. We were able to celebrate a number of accomplishments individually and at the team-level last spring. In addition to the ODAC playoff appearances mentioned above, Ferrum posted its best ever finish in the ODAC Commissioners cup since joining the league. We had two student-athletes named all-Americans, three student-athletes were named academic all-America, and three student-athletes were named ODAC Scholar Athletes of the year for their respective sports. As we wrap up the fall and head into winter, and 2022, we have been excited to welcome fans back to our games, including an enhanced tailgating experience at our home football games, a thrilling fall homecoming weekend and the induction of both the 2020 and 2021 classes into the Ferrum College Sports Hall of Fame. Our students continue to grow and thrive as they compete and represent Ferrum College in one of the premier leagues in all of NCAA Division III, the ODAC. Thank you for your support of Ferrum College and Ferrum athletics. Go Panthers!
John Sutyak Director of Athletics
Ferrum Establishes Black Hats Football Endowment
Ferrum College has established a Black Hats Football Endowment to provide continual and lasting support for the Ferrum College football program. The endowment will complement the gifts the football program currently receives annually. The creation of this endowment was made possible through the estate gift of Elizabeth A. “Betsy” Flanagan, who passed away in February 2021. Her gift was made in memory of her late-husband and former Ferrum football player, Harvey “Mike” Mitchell III ‘80. Flanagan began her career at Ferrum College, progressing from assistant director of admissions to executive assistant to the president within four years. She later spent fifteen years as Virginia Tech’s vice president for Development and University Relations. “I have heard of Betsy Flanagan’s generosity of spirit for many years, and this gift confirms that although her time at Ferrum was brief, she exemplified our motto, ‘Not Self, But Others,’” said Vice President for Institutional Advancement Wilson Paine. “This is the next natural step in honoring the football program’s rich history of student success, on and off the field, since its inception in 1955. This endowment represents Ferrum College’s commitment to the long-term health of its football program.” Supporters of the Ferrum College football program now have two ways to give: an annual gift and/or an endowment gift. An annual gift to the football program goes directly into the program’s account and is available immediately. An endowment gift is invested and only a certain percentage used each year. This policy enables the endowment to provide a recurring and lasting stream of funds for the football program. 18
Black Hats continued “The establishment of this endowment is a testament to what this program has meant to so many of our alumni and it will benefit our program in perpetuity,” stated Director of Athletics John Sutyak. “We are extremely thankful for this gift that has made the endowment possible.” “This incredible donation made by Dr. Betsy Flanagan is a perfect example of the awesome support we have for Ferrum football,” said Head Football Coach Cleive Adams. “A donation of this magnitude demonstrates the impact our program has on the lives of so many men, past and present. This endowment provides a huge advantage moving forward and sets a standard for the support needed for Black Hat Football to compete at a high level in this region.”
Harrison’s All-America Honor Caps Historic Season
Dazon Harrison’s 5th place finish in the men’s 400m finals at the 2021 Division III Track & Field National Championships held in May marks the first time a Ferrum College athlete has ever competed in the Track & Field National Championships. It also marks the first all-America honor in the College’s track & field program history. Harrison finished with a time of 47.56, a personal record for him in the event and a 5th place finish after winning his heat in the preliminaries just 24 hours prior to the finals. Three heats were run in the preliminary stage, with the top two finishers in each heat plus the next two fastest times from all the heats combined qualified for the finals. 19
Madden-McAfee Named to Academic All-America Team
The College Sports Information Directors of America named Ferrum College’s Kajuan Madden-McAfee to the 2020–21 Men’s Basketball Academic all-America Second Team. Madden-McAfee is Ferrum’s first ever Academic all-American in the sport of men’s basketball, and the College’s eighth overall honoree. Madden-McAfee was the Old Dominion Athletic Conference/Virginia Farm Bureau Men’s Basketball Scholar-Athlete of the Year for the 2020–21 season. He was one of three recipients at Ferrum this year, including Katie Shoaf in women’s swimming and Josh Greenway in baseball. Madden-McAfee was named to the ODAC All-Conference Team after averaging 15.6 points per game this season and shooting almost 44% from behind the three-point line. Madden-McAfee helped lead the Panthers to a 7-6 overall record this season, including a 5-4 mark in the ODAC. The Panthers advanced to the ODAC Tournament semifinals for the first time in any sport for the 2020-21 season. Ferrum is led by Head Coach Tyler Sanborn, who recently completed his fourth season at the helm of the men’s basketball program. A senior from Harrisonburg, Virginia, Madden-McAfee majored in applied mathematics with an Educational Studies minor. Because the NCAA provided blanket waivers for all student-athletes during the 2020–21 academic year, Madden-McAfee returned to play this season.
Sports Hall of Fame Classes of 2020 & 2021 Recognized During October Event
During the Alumni Awards and Sports Hall of Fame Celebration held October 30, 2021, in Franklin Hall Quad on campus, Director of Athletics John Sutyak presented the awards to the Ferrum College Sports Hall of Fame 2021 inductees: Melvin Dillard ’92, of Hampton, VA; Tara Toland ’05, of North, SC; Trica Moore Barber ’06, of Sneads Ferry, NC; Roben Sutphin Thomas ’96, of Woodbridge, VA; and Mark White ’96, of Deltaville, VA. These individuals excelled in one or more sports while at Ferrum College, exemplifying the highest ideals of small college athletics, sportsmanship, and the spirit of Ferrum’s motto, “Not Self, But Others.” They have since gone on to achieve significant success in a career field. Special recognition was given to Gary Holden (far right), who is in his thirtieth year as Ferrum College’s sports information director and his eighteenth year as assistant athletic director, and to Vickie Van Kleeck (center), who served as head softball coach for 24 years.
Because last year’s Sports Hall of Fame ceremony was postponed to mitigate the spread of COVID-19, the 2020 inductees were also recognized in this year’s ceremony. They are: Becky Piloto Fennessy ‘92 of Avondale, PA; Bobby James ‘84 of Rocky Mount, VA; Shelby Irving ‘84 of Danville, VA; Elizabeth Adams O’Neal ‘00 of Wake Forest, NC; and Kathy Bocock ‘84 of Greensboro, NC (not pictured). Special recognition was given to Coach Jim Hartbarger of Silva, NC, who served as Ferrum’s head men’s basketball coach from 1964-67, and produced a 71-15 record. 20
Panther Women & Men Wrestlers Perform at Nationals Katerina Pendergrass ’24, Destiny Benjamin ’23, Morganne Flinkstrom ’21, and Leya Deickman ’19, who was also a member of Ferrum’s inaugural graduate class that received master’s degrees in psychology in May 2021, competed during the National Collegiate Women’s Wrestling Championships in Tiffin, Ohio on March 6. While there, Pendergrass earned all-America with her eighth-place finish in the 109 pound weight class. Following suit, ten members of the men’s wrestling team, one in each weight class, headed to the 2021 National Wrestling Coaches Association Division III Championships held on March 12 in Coralville, Iowa. They were: Tyler Ramirez ’24, Cris Reynoso ’24, and Rayshawn Dixon ’24; JD McMillin ’23, Isaac Hudson ’23, and Elijah Martin ’23; Levi Englman ’22, Christian Hite ’22, and Braden Homsey ’22; and Mario Vasquez ’20, who also received a master’s degree in psychology from Ferrum College in May 2021. “Wrestling is such an important part of each of their lives. To see our women and men persevere through the ups and downs of weekly Covid testing, as well as having matches and events canceled, or added, at the last minute, is a testament to their positivity, focus and perspective of being a wrestler in a pandemic,” said Ferrum’s Director of Athletics John Sutyak.
Houston Astros Induct Ferrum Alumnus Billy Wagner ’93 into Sports Hall of Fame Ferrum College alumnus and Major League Baseball standout Billy Wagner was inducted into the Houston Astros Sports Hall of Fame in August 2021. He was one of six inductees, and played nine of his 16 major league seasons for the Astros. Regarding his Astros Hall of Fame induction, Wagner said, “It’s humbling…I’m very fortunate. I played at a time where I had a lot of good players behind me and a lot of guys in front of me that got me the ball and made the plays. I’m very lucky to be here.” Wagner played baseball for Ferrum College from 19911993, before being drafted into the pros. He subsequently pitched for the Houston Astros from 1995-2003, then the Philadelphia Phillies (2004-2005), New York Mets (20062009), Boston Red Sox (2009), and Atlanta Braves (2010). Wagner retired from baseball after finishing the 2010 season. He is also one of eight individuals that comprise the 2019 National College Baseball Hall of Fame induction class. Wagner is married to alumna and former women’s basketball star, Sarah Wagner ’94. Both are members of the Ferrum College Sports Hall of Fame, class of 2003 and 2004, respectively. 21
Record Number of Ferrum College Student-Athletes Named to 2020–21 ODAC All-Academic Team Visit ferrumpanthers.com to view a list of the 2020–21 ODAC All-Academic Team members. 22
Ferrum College offers 27 varsity sports for women and men
of Ferrum College students are student-athletes
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What Makes Ferrum College So Special? The majesty of the mountains... the glisten of the lake’s surface... the tranquility of the surroundings. But beyond each of those things are the people who make up the heart and soul of our school. The faculty, staff, coaches, and administration nurtured and shaped us into the people we are today, while helping create one cohesive Ferrum family. They are the driving force behind what makes our campus a place that we continue to hold so near and dear. Learn about these individuals and others who have made a profound difference in the lives of all of us blessed to call Ferrum College home by visiting www.ferrum.edu/its-the-people.
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Dear Ferrum Family, “Ferrum is special.” It’s a phrase I hear often when speaking with our alumni and benefactors, and I usually respond by evoking my five year-old son’s favorite word, “why?” Why is Ferrum so special? The answer, of course, is a simple one: It’s the People. For it is the people at Ferrum College who truly make up the heart and soul of our school. When you reflect on your own Ferrum experience, there is likely a faculty, staff, coach or administrator who comes to mind. Individuals like Ms. Loretta, Dave Newcombe, Bob Pohlad and Carolyn Thomas, and countless others who for decades dedicated their lives towards making sure the thousands of Ferrum students with whom they interacted felt welcomed, supported, and loved. The “It’s the People” initiative guided the Institutional Advancement team throughout most of this past year and brought with it a renewed hope and optimism to the Ferrum campus. From a record-breaking fundraising year to the return of events like Homecoming and Folklife Festival, there was an energy on campus and within our community that was absent for much of 2020. That energy carried over into our fundraising as well. Despite the ongoing disruptions of COVID-19, we increased overall fundraising from $1,925,636 in 2020 to $2,590,331 in 2021 for a 30% increase. We also achieved a 50% increase in scholarship gifts, welcomed over 350 first-time donors, and raised an additional $1,000,000 to the College’s endowment. These accomplishments can be attributed to the hard work and tireless commitment of the entire Institutional Advancement team, our campus partners, and most importantly, to you. Your engagement and support, financial or otherwise, helps contribute to the greatness of being part of the Ferrum community. And if this past year has taught us anything, it is that community matters. Community, and the connectedness that it provides, is the tie that binds us during good times and challenging times. I am thankful to be part of the Ferrum community with you, and I look forward to seeing you at one of our upcoming events in 2022. With Panther Pride,
Wilson Paine ’07 Vice President for Institutional Advancement
Distinguished and Outstanding Alumni Recognized During October Celebration
In a brisk, outdoor ceremony at the Franklin Hall Quad on Saturday, October 30, Ferrum College recognized its 2021 Distinguished and Outstanding Alumni Award recipients, as well as its Sports Hall of Fame inductees for both 2020 and 2021. After President David Johns opened the ceremony, the Distinguished Alumni Award was bestowed upon Rev. Dr. Burton White ’84 (center) by Vice President for Institutional Advancement & External Relations Wilson Paine ’07. White was recognized for his exceptional service to his community, which includes 31 years spent in ministry and the creation of Solutions Pastoral Counseling, LLC, which offers counseling services to the Ferrum community for free or a reduced cost. Paine then presented the Outstanding Young Alumni awards to Paul Jaglowski ’12 (left) and Ra’meer Roberts ’13 (right). Jaglowski was an Academic All-American and the 2012 recipient of the Ferrum College President’s Cup. Jaglowski also founded Feedtrail, a software company that empowers healthcare organizations to deliver an exceptional and human-centered experience, and has served on Ferrum’s Alumni Board of Directors, as well as the board of directors for Maison Fortune Orphanage in Hinche, Haiti. In 2018, Jaglowski was named as one of the 30 Rising Customer Experience Superstars under 30 (CS 30 Under 30) by CX Network. During his time at Ferrum College, Roberts was named to the Dean’s List, served as the College’s radio host in 2008 and 2009, and was a member of the basketball staff from 2009-12. After graduation, Roberts established the Black American Scholarship of Empowerment at Ferrum, which gives an annual gift of $250 to one male and one female African-American student. He currently works as the assistant director of residence life for conduct at Virginia Commonwealth University. 26
Alumni Pohlad-Thomas ’08 & Simms ’09 Named to “Top 40 Under 40” List At the beginning of this year, The Roanoker Magazine named the class of 2021 “Top 40 Under 40,” a group of individuals nominated by the magazine’s readers for their outstanding leadership, career achievements, and community involvement. Two Ferrum College graduates are on the list. Director of Marketing and Events at Wilderness Adventure at Eagle Landing, Tim Pohlad-Thomas, a 2008 graduate of Ferrum College, was named to the list. In The Roanoker’s article, he is described as a “tireless advocate for our region” with a passion to help residents find alternate travel options, which saves money and provides a method to physical fitness. He is a 2018 graduate of Leadership Roanoke Valley and currently serves as vice president of the Clean Valley Council board, as a board member of 5 Points Music Foundation, as the Experience Outside Program chair with Get2KnowNoke, and as the FloydFest Outdoor Adventure director. “When I learned that I had been chosen for the ‘Top 40 Under 40’ Class of 2021, I was honored and surprised,” said Pohlad-Thomas. “I felt honored because on the list I accompany many other incredible people doing great work for the region, including Ferrum graduate Beth Simms. I was surprised because I didn’t know I had been nominated and because I do what I do because of my passions and my love of helping others and not to receive accolades. Growing up around Ferrum College and going to school there certainly helped me understand why the motto ‘Not Self, But Others’ is important no matter where you end up in life or what you end up doing.” Franklin County Director of Economic Development Beth Simms, a 2009 Ferrum College graduate, was also named to The Roanoker’s list. Simms was nominated because of her work in creating a $5,000 grant from the Reset Rocky Mount Small Business Grant Town’s allocation of the CARES Act, which aided local businesses impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. In The Roanoker’s article, Simms was praised for “her ability to focus on the big and small picture at the same time.” She is a 2017 graduate of the E.A. Morris Fellowship for Emerging Leaders program and currently serves on Ferrum College’s Alumni Board of Directors. “I am honored to be named to The Roanoker Magazine’s ‘Top 40 Under 40’ list,” said Simms. “There are three of us from the Ferrum community and two who graduated from Ferrum College. I believe this proves that Ferrum students carry Ferrum’s motto of ‘Not Self, But Others’ with them throughout their lives. I am grateful for the positive attention this article has brought to Ferrum, Rocky Mount, and Franklin County!”
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Everett Foxx Named Ferrum College Trustee In June 2021, Ferrum College alumnus Everett Foxx was named to the College’s Board of Trustees. “Everett’s professional experience and support for Ferrum College make him an excellent addition to our Board of Trustees. It is an honor to work with him, and the rest of our Board, to facilitate educational experiences for Ferrum students and fulfill the promise of higher education,” said President David Johns. Foxx attended Ferrum College from 1988–1992. During his time at Ferrum, he helped men’s basketball win its first-ever Dixie Intercollegiate Athletic Conference Tournament Championship in 1992, and led the Panthers to the first-ever NCAA Division III Tournament where they advanced to the second round. Foxx holds 17 school records, including career leading scorer with 2,112 points. He was also named to the Top 10 All-Time Players in Dixie Conference history, and was named to the 1992 National Association of Basketball Coaches All-America Team. In 2005, Foxx was inducted into the Ferrum College Sports Hall of Fame. In 2017, he received the Agent of the Year award for top production commissions while working in the Richmond General Office for New York Life. Currently, he serves as principal for Oasis Insurance and Retirement Services in Glen Allen, VA. Foxx was the keynote speaker for Ferrum’s Opening Convocation in August 2021. He continues to be a generous supporter of the College and its basketball program.
Ecotourism Program Leads to Research in Galapagos for Alumna Audrey Ramsey ’18 In January 2021, Ferrum College alumna Audrey Ramsey ’18 boarded a plane bound for the Galapagos Islands. “I spent two months in the National Park of Galapagos, collecting data from park rangers, tourists, and locals to aid the Park in future management decisions,” she said. Ramsey became interested in ecotourism when she traveled to Costa Rica for a family vacation in 2010. After ecotouring the Osa Peninsula, she was hooked. “I searched for colleges that offered ecotourism and Ferrum was the one college on the East Coast that offered it as a minor,” she said. “In my first ecotourism class in 2014, Foundations of Ecotourism, I learned about the Galapagos Islands and their exceptional model of ecotourism. From that class onward, Galapagos became a dream of mine.” In 2019, the College began offering ecotourism as a major. “I would never have had the opportunities I’ve had if it weren’t for the ecotourism program at Ferrum,” said Ramsey. 28
Brigadier General (Ret.) Burt Thompson ’82 Reflects on Time at Ferrum During Veterans Day Ceremony Ferrum College students, faculty, staff, and community members attended the College’s annual Veterans Day ceremony in Vaughn Chapel on November 11, 2021. Ferrum College alumnus and Brigadier General (Ret.) Burt Thompson ’82 was the keynote speaker. Retired U.S. Army Sergeant and Professor of English Melvin Macklin brought greetings to attendees on behalf of the College. After the “National Anthem” was sung, Campus Minister Laura Robinson gave the invocation and President David Johns welcomed the crowd. Next, Vice President for Institutional Advancement and External Relations Wilson Paine ’07 introduced BG (Ret.) Thompson, who spoke about his own experience, first as a student at Ferrum College and then as a military service member. “We only celebrate Veterans Day for a few minutes and then this country’s life carries on – as it should – but I think it most appropriate that we recall this occasion during the moments when we are faced with great responsibilities,” said BG (Ret.) Thompson. “Recall the contributions and sacrifices which so many men and women, and their families, have made that permits us to gather like we are today.”
National Guard Member Demontay Wimbush ’21 Prepared for Deployment During Last Senior Year Semester Ferrum College senior and National Guard Member Demontay Wimbush ’21 spent the final semester of his college career preparing to mobilize. In January 2022, he will deploy to Africa where he’ll be stationed for nine months. As history major, Wimbush worked as a McBroom Scholar at the Blue Ridge Institute and Museum (BRIM). His job included giving tours of the farm museum and working over a blacksmith’s fire in the summer heat. Researching and learning through history has always been Wimbush’s passion. “I enjoyed history during grade school,” he said. “My desire to seek the truth has allowed me to fall even more in love with my history major at Ferrum.” “From the very first day, he was incredibly enthusiastic about having this opportunity,” said BRIM Director Bethany Worley. “He was always looking for something new to learn, either in the museum or at the 1800’s farm. Demontay is just an extraordinary young man,” stated Worley. “I have no doubt that Demontay will make an impact in this world.” 29
Homecoming & Family Weekend
After the cancelation of last year’s homecoming events in an attempt to mitigate the spread of COVID-19, Ferrum College was excited to once again welcome alumni, students, parents, families, faculty, staff, and friends back to campus to enjoy the Homecoming 2021 festivities on October 15–17. There were plenty of fun events, including the Corron Classic Golf Tournament, a Ferrum Takeover at Mellow Mushroom, alumni sports games, tailgating, football, and more!
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Endowed Scholarship Created in Honor of Beloved History Professor Richard Smith In October 2021, Ferrum College announced the creation of the Richard L. Smith Academic Enrichment Scholarship in History. The scholarship, honoring beloved Professor of History and Williams Distinguished Teaching Professor in the Humanities, Richard Lee Smith, was made possible through gifts from alumni, family, and friends. Smith passed away on February 24, 2021. The resolution states that the endowed scholarship will follow “the guidelines that reflect Dr. Smith’s distinguished career in world history as a scholar, teacher, and writer.” Based on merit, the scholarship is given to Ferrum students who demonstrate academic excellence, intellectual rigor, and an interest in academic research and cultural engagement. Recipients may use the scholarship for study abroad, or classes, seminars, or research at a U.S. university with a prominent history program. “He taught me, and countless others, that history is neither confined to pages in a book nor relegated to the past. It is experienced through culture, cuisine, and ultimately the people with whom we meet,” said Vice President for Institutional Advancement & External Relations Wilson Paine ’07, who was one of Smith’s students at Ferrum. “He leaves behind an enduring legacy in the lives of those who knew him and learned from him.”
Ferrum’s Norton Outdoor Adventures is First College-Based Outdoor Rec Program to Receive VA Wildlife Grant Ferrum College’s Norton Outdoor Adventures (NOA) is the first college- or university-based outdoor recreation program in the state to be awarded a $3,000 Virginia Wildlife Grant from the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources. While the grant has traditionally been given to organizations that provide programming to students who are high school age and younger, the program recently branched out to higher education institutions. Launched in 2014, the Virginia Wildlife Grant Program’s mission is to be a funding resource for schools, nonprofits, and government agencies with an emphasis on connecting youth and diverse populations to the outdoors. The grant is a partnership between the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries and the Wildlife Foundation of Virginia. The program is supported by the sale of merchandise and gear from ShopDWR, the One Shot Turkey Hunt Fundraiser, and private donations. The Ferrum College Hunters and Anglers Group will specifically benefit from the additional funding. This group is designed to bring together students from different backgrounds that are interested in being outdoors. A Bass Fishing Club, Fly Fishing Club, and a Clay Shooting Club will be formed as part of this organization. 31
Nursing Program to Expand with Virginia Tobacco Region Revitalization Commission Assistance On September 21, the Virginia Tobacco Region Revitalization Commission’s Education Committee met to review proposals for its Competitive Education Grant. This grant funds projects that support STEM-H (science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and health) programs at the post-secondary level. Ferrum College was approved for an award of $133,188 to fund renovations to the Nursing Division’s area in lower Vaughn Chapel. This award will increase classroom space, provide storage and study areas, and create a conference room for professional development. Construction is set to begin in May 2022. “Our BSN program is committed to addressing our region’s need for competent and compassionate nurses,” said then Dean of Health Professions and Social Sciences Angie Dahl. “The pandemic has only intensified the previously existing national shortage, and our program is proud to provide a high-quality nursing education with training in community-based and rural health care delivery, as well as standard acute care clinical environments.” Ferrum’s Division of Nursing offers an online RN to BSN program, as well as a four-year residential BSN program.
Ferrum College & BRIM to Preserve Adams Collection of Appalachian Folklore with CIC Grant Ferrum College has been named one of 24 Council of Independent College institutions to participate in “Humanities Research for the Public Good” in 2021-22, a national initiative promoting student research and public engagement. This initiative focuses on showcasing library and museum collections held at private colleges and universities. Ferrum will receive a grant of $10,000 to implement a year-long undergraduate research project, which will include public storytelling workshops in collaboration with the Blue Ridge Institute and Museum (BRIM) and the Franklin County Public Library. Ferrum’s project, titled “Preserving and Sharing Old and New Stories from the James Taylor Adams Collection and the Public,” will make more accessible the collection of Appalachian folklore and ballads organized by James Taylor Adams during the 1930s and 40s. The material is stored in the BRIM’s archive. Students are learning about record maintenance and began digitizing the material in fall 2021. “This project provides a wonderful experiential opportunity for our humanities students. It fits very well with our minor in Public History and Museum Studies,” said Professor of English Tina Hanlon, who is assisting with this project. 32
Ferrum College Celebrates 30% Increase in Giving; Finishes Year With Over $2.5 Million Raised Ferrum College raised over $2.5 million last fiscal year (July 1, 2020 – June 30, 2021), surpassing last year’s total by more than $600,000. In addition to the increase in overall fundraising, the College is also celebrating an uptick in its Arthur Society members, its leadership giving society for individuals and businesses who contribute over $1,000 annually. For the second consecutive year, Ferrum experienced record-breaking fundraising for athletics by raising over $128,000. This comes on the heels of the recent announcement of the Black Hats football endowment that will provide ongoing support for the Ferrum College football program. With over 1,000 donations (a 10 percent increase from last year’s giving), the Ferrum Fund raised more than $385,000 in unrestricted dollars, which will be used to develop new academic programs, support scholarships, provide student research opportunities, and more. In addition to athletics and the Ferrum Fund, the College raised more than $900,000 for scholarships and over $560,000 for the Blue Ridge Institute & Museum.
Thank You To Our 2020–2021 Honor Roll of Donors The Arthur Society
The Arthur Society recognizes those who give $1,000 or more to the College over the fiscal year (July 1–June 30). • •
President’s Circle: $5,000 and up Leadership Circle: $1,000–4,999
1913 Society
The 1913 Society recognizes those who make cumulative outright and/or irrevocable gifts to Ferrum College of $100,000 or more.
The Ruth Society
The Ruth Society recognizes those who give to Ferrum College for 3+ consecutive years.
The Beckham Society
The Beckham Society recognizes those who name Ferrum College as a beneficiary of bequests, charitable trusts, life insurance policies, gift annuities, or other deferred gift arrangements.
The Panther Club
The Panther Club recognizes those who give to Ferrum College athletics to support our athletics teams and facilities.
For the 2020-2021 Honor Roll of Donors, please visit: ferrum.edu/giving-societies 33
Why Do YOU Support Ferrum College? Our donors give for a variety of reasons. A common thread seems to be that Ferrum College, at its core, is a community that helps students realize their potential and achieve professional success. Meet some of our loyal donors below, and learn more about why they support Ferrum College.
Alexandria Dixon ’19 What degree did you earn at Ferrum College and what do you do now? “I was a business administration major with concentrations in management and finance. I minored in philosophy. Aside from spending time with family and participating in Ferrum College alumni tennis tournaments, I spend my days living in Northern Virginia as a program manager for SAP Concur and my evenings as a Peloton bike rider.” Why do you support Ferrum College? “I support Ferrum College to honor those that helped me during my college journey, to support students that will become future caring and skilled professionals, and because I believe in the motto and future of Ferrum College: Not Self, But Others.” What is your favorite Ferrum memory? “While I have many favorite memories from being at Ferrum, I have to say one that I will always remember is when I was a freshman and my very caring science professors, Drs. Carolyn Thomas and Bob Pohlad, invited the whole class over to their house to connect with each other and make homemade pizzas! This experience really opened my eyes to how important it is to make a personal connection to those around you and how tasty food can bring people of all cultures and backgrounds together. I was also able to try chia seeds on pizza which has become a new favorite!”
Clark Childers ’80 & Susan Childers ’81 What degrees did you earn at Ferrum College? “Clark earned a Bachelor of Science in recreation administration. He spent 37 years in the manufacturing industry, retiring from Yamaha Motor and Manufacturing Company in 2017. Susan earned a Bachelor of Social Work and spent 27 years in the healthcare industry. She retired in 2015.” Why do you support Ferrum College? “We support Ferrum College as it gave us the foundation and education to become successful adults in our careers. We feel this is a way of “giving back” in helping students achieve their education goals.” What is your favorite Ferrum memory? “We have many memories of our time spent at Ferrum College, which include the relationships we made with others who have become lifelong friends, celebrating the 1977 football championship, intramural sports (Clark) and serving as a president’s aide (Susan), and of course meeting each other.” 34
Jeff & Michele Dixon Why do you support Ferrum College? “One of the great joys of our lives has been watching our daughter, Alexandria, grow into a successful young woman, receive her degree from Ferrum College and begin a rewarding career. We’re sure fellow Ferrum parents also have fond memories of their child’s time on campus, whether at graduation, watching them compete in athletics, or perhaps perform on stage. We are grateful for the wonderful memories Ferrum has created for our family and for all it has given to Alex, and, for that, it will always hold a special place in our hearts. That is why we continue to support Ferrum College.”
Clay Wiley ’06 What degree did you earn at Ferrum and what do you do now? “I earned a Bachelor of Science in business management and marketing. I work for Donegal Insurance Group as a business relationship manager. I also serve as president for Ferrum’s Alumni Board and I’m Young Agents chair and board member for Independent Insurance Agents of Virginia.” Why do you support Ferrum College? “I support Ferrum College because Ferrum supported me and provided the foundation that has led to my success both personally and professionally. I very much value the relationships I’ve developed over the years while a student at Ferrum and since, with both faculty and friends.” What is your favorite Ferrum memory? “A Ferrum College sponsored whitewater rafting trip in West Virginia with friends and students. It was an incredible experience connecting, exploring the river, and trying something new!”
Scott Showalter ’73 What degree did you earn at Ferrum and what do you do now? “An associates degree in 1973; afterwards, I went to University of Richmond. I serve as the chair of Ferrum’s Board of Trustees. I am also a professor of Practice and director of the Master of Accounting Program in the Jenkins Graduate Program at North Carolina State University. I also volunteer in numerous roles.” Why do you support Ferrum College? “Ferrum was a turnaround experience for me. The two years I spent at Ferrum got me headed in the right direction and, as they say, the rest is history.” What is your favorite Ferrum memory? “I met my wife, Elizabeth A. Showalter, at Ferrum. The College gave me more than an education.”
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Overall Contributions
$2,590,331* TOTAL GIFTS
Restricted Gifts $945,529
50% increase from previous year
Ferrum Fund $385,998 Endowment $1,188,804 Capital Gifts $70,000 Fiscal year 2020–21
Total Number of Gifts FY2021: 2,078
FY2020: 1,777
FY2019: 1,414
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Giving Day FY2020: $112,601
FY2019: $52,958
FY2018: $6,255
Endowment FY2021: $66,146,540
Arthur Society Members FY2021: 174
FY2020: $52,306,519 FY2020: 159 FY2019: $53,671,188 FY2018: $52,886,524
Operating Revenue
Operating Expenses
$30,070,224
$27,481,992
TOTAL REVENUE
TOTAL EXPENSES
Net Tuition and Fees $12,997,897 (43%)
Auxiliary Services $7,127,492 (26%)
Auxiliary Services $9,899,549 (33%)
Student Services $6,723,882 (25%)
Investment Income $2,393,906 (8%)
Instruction $6,976,272 (25%)
Contributions $952,220 (3%)
Institutional Support $5,324,666 (19%)
Grants $3,530,898 (12%)
Academic Support $1,329,680 (5%)
Other Income $295,754 (1%) 37
FY2019: 137
Blue Ridge Folklife Festival
The 47 annual Blue Ridge Folklife Festival on Saturday, October 23, 2021 brought thousands to campus on a beautiful fall day to enjoy music, crafts, country foods, antique cars and tractors, contests for horses and hounds, and more. th
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“Ferrum College is special because it is a place where, as a teacher, I could help students maximize their potential if they were willing to work hard and dedicate themselves to achieving academic success.” —Dr. Richard L. Smith (1945–2021)
Non-Profit Org U.S. Postage
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Lynchburg, VA Permit No. 215 OFFICE OF INSTITUTIONAL ADVANCEMENT P. O. BOX 1000, FERRUM, VA 24088