Fall 2025 Meredith Magazine

CAMPUS NEWS

In September, Meredith College celebrated its newest facility, the Estes-Speight Family Athletic Center, which was made possible by Chris Speight Brown, ’76, and her siblings Elizabeth Speight Cooley and Bobby Speight, Jr., who made a $1 million lead gift to name the center in memory of their parents. The center is visible evidence of the growth and success of Avenging Angels Athletics. Read more about how investing in athletics benefits the College as a whole on pg. 16.

Watch highlights of Move-In Day 2025.

Meredith Welcomes New Students for Move-In and Orientation

By Melyssa Allen

Meredith College welcomed new students on its annual MoveIn Day on Saturday, Aug. 16, and approximately 417 new students, including first-time freshmen and transfer students, were enrolled when the new academic year began on August 20.

From Orientation Crew members and Student Advisors to Residence Life staff and alumnae volunteers, the Meredith community is on hand every Move-In Day to help new students adjust to college life.

More than 40 alumnae signed up to help welcome the students and their families. These volunteers visited with new students to deliver treats from the Alumnae Association. Other tasks include staffing water stations, helping in the hospitality center,

providing directions, and greeting new arrivals. Parents Council volunteers also joined in making sure the campus environment was welcoming.

After resident students completed moving into their new campus homes, Orientation began and continued through August 19. Student advisors support new students throughout Orientation and beyond.

“It is important to me that I can make the students in my group feel as welcome and comfortable as possible. If I can make them laugh and feel at ease, I really feel like I’ve done my job,” said Student Advisor Grace Harrington, ’26. “My biggest hope was that when students finish Orientation, regardless of the emotions they may be feeling, they understand that they are strong enough to tackle their

college experience and that they have a whole host of people who care for and support them.”

A positive experience during her own Orientation as a first-year student made Harrington want to serve as a student advisor.

“I felt that the whole orientation program was such an asset to me because it both gave me the information I needed and allowed me to start college off with a few new friends. Now, I hope I can be that friend to a new generation of Meredith students,” Harrington said.

Orientation provides students with an opportunity to start their Meredith College experience well.

“Orientation helps students prepare for the year ahead by giving them the tools needed to succeed in the

classroom, get involved in the Meredith community, and excel as an individual,” said Student Advisor Mia Satterwhite, ’28. “Orientation gives students an inside look into what is expected of them as students, provides them with detailed knowledge about the traditions special to Meredith, and so much more.”

Satterwhite calls Move-In Day and Orientation “an incredible time filled with fun, laughter, and a great community.”

“The joy that the O-Crew, Student Advisors, and staff at Meredith have is unmatched,” Satterwhite said. “As soon as you pull on campus and see the huge balloon arch, you know you are at home.”

New Book Focuses on Trailblazing Meredith Alumna

By Melyssa Allen

Anew book called The Feather Detective tells the story of Meredith College alumna Roxie Collie Laybourne, a trailblazing woman who was the world’s first forensic ornithologist.

Laybourne, who graduated from Meredith in 1932, worked at the Smithsonian Institution and used her skills in identifying feathers to solve a remarkable number of mysteries.

When describing the subject of his book, author Chris Sweeney starts with the basic facts.

“I like to lead with a basic, almost boring description of her science. I say that I’ve written a biography of a woman named Roxie Laybourne who worked within the Smithsonian and developed ways of identifying birds from the tiniest fragments of feathers,” Sweeney said.

From there, he shares the wide impact Laybourne’s work had. As the book’s description says: “Using nothing more than her microscope and bits of feathers, she helped prosecute murderers, kidnappers, and poachers. When she wasn’t testifying in court or studying evidence from capital crimes, she was helping aerospace engineers and Air Force crews as they raced to bird-proof their airplanes before disaster struck again.”

The book was published on July 22 by Simon and Schuster and was named one of NPR’s most anticipated books of the summer.

Sweeney hopes the book will bring more attention to Laybourne and her accomplishments.

“She was so resilient, so determined, and so clever. She embarked on some very difficult scientific endeavors, and she thrived in some adverse social environments,” Sweeney said. “She is the exact kind of role model we need more of in today’s world, and I hope this book will introduce her legacy to a large audience.”

Meredith’s College Archives played a role in the book’s creation. Sweeney contacted Meredith when writing an Audubon magazine article about Laybourne. He hoped to get copies of yearbook photos from Laybourne’s time as a student.

Meredith Archives and Collection Management Associate Janice Sniker also offered to share clippings from the student newspaper featuring Laybourne.

“It was so kind and thoughtful for Janice to make that initial offer. She didn’t need to do it at all,” Sweeney said. “And looking back, I think in some ways, having that stack of old newspaper clippings from Meredith in my possession helped convince me that I could gather enough yarn for a book.”

Chris Sweeney

Meredith Students Create a Guidebook for Data Storytelling

By Rocio Antelis

Students in the Spring 2025 Honors colloquium course, Data Storytelling for Societal Impact, created a guidebook on data storytelling for nonprofit organizations.

Anne York, program director and professor of economics, developed this course after reading Storytelling with Data by Cole Nussbaumer Knaflic. By combining data visualization and storytelling, Knaflic aims to present data in digestible and engaging ways.

“I thought this could be a fun class to teach students how to communicate complex information in meaningful ways,” said York. “Viewing the course through a social science lens, I saw a natural application in the nonprofit sector, where organizations must use data effectively to demonstrate their impact to stakeholders.”

York collaborated with Note in the Pocket, a nonprofit organization that addresses clothing insecurity in the Triangle, for the course. The organization shared raw data and welcomed the class of 16 students to its facility to learn about its mission, brand, and clothing sorting process.

The course also covered effective data storytelling techniques and the

methods by which the government collects data. Additionally, Director of StrongPoints® Emily Caldwell, who is also a nonprofit consultant, shared her expertise with the class on the challenges nonprofits face.

The final project was to develop a guidebook as a class explaining the value of data storytelling for nonprofits and how to create data visualizations.

Using the data provided by Note in the Pocket, the guide includes examples of effective data storytelling.

“The students’ creativity, clarity, and dedication were inspiring,” said York. “They not only mastered technical skills but also how storytelling with data can drive change, especially for organizations doing vital community work.”

Students in the course, representing a diverse set of majors, said the knowledge and skills they gained were valuable and applicable in their desired careers.

“As a studio art major, I didn’t think there would be a connection between this course and my major,” said Perla Gerez Hernandez, ’26. “But I am interested in arts administration and nonprofits, so learning how crucial

data storytelling is for funding and success was impactful.”

Students with prior experience working with data said they also benefited from the course.

“What I learned in this class will help me be a better data scientist in the future because I now know how to present data visually,” said Debbie Mong’are, ’26, who is studying computer science. “I’m used to thinking about data from the back end, but I’ve begun to think like a designer, so the audience will be able to understand the data too.”

Note in the Pocket was pleased with the students’ work.

“We were thrilled by this work and for taking our data and presenting it in such a beautiful way,” said Dallas Bonavita, executive director of Note in the Pocket. “It’s wonderful for fellow nonprofits to have access to this tremendously helpful and inspiring example of these creative best practices.”

Scan the QR code to view the guide.

Meredith College Mourns the Passing of Former Doll Collection Caretaker

By Emily Parker

Meredith College mourned the loss of Dorothy “Dot” Loftin Goodwin, ’47, former caretaker of the Meredith class doll collection, who died on June 29, 2025, at age 98.

In 1969, Goodwin assumed the role of caretaker for the class dolls from Margaret Bright, the first caretaker. She was trained on the care of the dolls by Bright, who lived near Goodwin and took her to many Meredith gatherings.

As caretaker, Goodwin completed many improvements to the collection, including putting the dolls in cases and repairing dolls and their outfits. She ensured the replacements and repairs matched perfectly. She had film placed on the upper Johnson Hall windows to stop the sun’s discoloration on the dolls. She also contacted each class to gather information about the dolls and placed the facts beside each doll, giving viewers a glimpse into their history.

The Meredith Class Doll is a treasured campus tradition. Since 1936, the senior

class has presented a doll to the College representing their time at Meredith, including national and local events, style of dress, and accessories. Goodwin knew the history of each doll in connection to the class as well as global events at that time. Through her work as the doll caretaker, Goodwin ensured this special tradition, which offers a unique glimpse into national and Meredith history, remained alive and well.

“I can remember when a doll from the 1940s experienced the disintegration of lace on her dress. Dot tirelessly searched for lace from that generation that was as close a match as possible to the dress,” said Hilary Allen, ’01, director of alumnae relations. “Much like Margaret Bright, Dot would ensure that the dolls were in pristine condition and ready to greet returning alumnae during Reunion Weekend.”

Goodwin could share stories about the dolls, such as when the original style of dolls was unavailable during World

Film Project Launches New Partnership

By Melyssa Allen

Meredith College was a filming location for A Good Fight, an upcoming movie produced by White Lightning Studios this summer. The film production is the start of a new partnership between Meredith and the North Carolina-based studio.

Production took place in a variety of locations on Meredith’s 225-acre campus, including in the Johnson Hall administration building, Jones Auditorium, McIver Amphitheater, and Cate Student Center. Meredith students, employees, and alumnae were also invited to be background extras during some scenes.

The College’s work with White Lightning Studios has continued after the filming wrapped. Meredith College President Aimee Sapp is looking forward to additional opportunities that this new partnership will bring.

“Our partnership with White Lightning Studios has the potential to benefit our campus community in many ways in the short and long term,” Sapp said. “The production company will work with Meredith to bring additional opportunities that will help raise the College’s profile and maximize use of our campus facilities.”

Robert Rippberger, a partner in White Lightning Studios, directed A Good Fight. Rippberger said the studio is honored to partner with Meredith College.

War II, the styles of dolls, and why some of the dolls wear miniskirts or pants.

“Dot’s Class Doll is one of my favorites. Ms. 1947 was acquired from a department store. She appears to be raising her hands in celebration, and her expression is full of happiness. Dot loved to say that her doll was exclaiming ‘hallelujah’ about graduating,” said Allen.

A proud alumna, Goodwin earned a Bachelor of Arts in music. She dedicated over five decades of service as the minister of music and organist at Apex Baptist Church, sharing her gift of music with generations. She founded the Apex Area Youth Chorus in the late 1960s, uniting youth from local churches and even producing a choral album. She also established the church’s handbell choir, leaving a lasting musical legacy.

Goodwin and her husband, William, established the Goodwin-Loftin Scholarship at Meredith in 1998 in memory of Dr. and Mrs. O.S. Goodwin and Sallie Beal Loftin, ’26.

“This collaboration reflects our commitment to build meaningful ties with the local creative community, while creating real-world learning opportunities for the next generation of storytellers,” Rippberger said.

About the Film

A Good Fight is a heartfelt drama that meets comedy. Inspired by true events, the movie tells the story of a smalltown businessman’s interview with a college reporter that goes awry, upending their lives in unexpected ways. The film features Booboo Stewart (X-Men: Days of Future Past), Abigail Breslin (Little Miss Sunshine), and Aaron Kuban (Jobs).

Watch Meredith’s First Legacy Pinning Ceremony.

First Legacy Pinning Ceremony Held

By Emily Parker

On Move-In Day, Meredith’s Office of Alumnae Relations started a new tradition by hosting a legacy pinning ceremony and reception. The event celebrated students whose mothers or grandmothers attended Meredith. In this first year, current legacy students who are sophomores, juniors, and seniors were invited to attend, along with new first-year students and transfers.

“The Office of Alumnae Relations is excited to start this new tradition,” said Hilary Allen, ’01, director of alumnae relations. “Traditions are a significant part of the student experience at Meredith, and we are happy to celebrate Meredith families who have made attending Meredith a family tradition. The event allowed us to honor past and present Angels as well as celebrate the ties that bind these

families to the greater Meredith family.”

The event in the Science and Math Building Atrium brought approximately 100 people together to hear from President Aimee Sapp at the opening of the ceremony. Sapp thanked alumnae for sharing their Meredith experience with their students and encouraging them to choose Meredith.

“As a parent, I know just how hard it is to send your children off to college.

For you to choose Meredith a second and even third time for some, that truly demonstrates the value of a Meredith degree and the transformative education one receives at Meredith. It shows that you want your student to have those same opportunities and experiences,” said Sapp.

During the event, Allen asked alumnae and current students to stand for the pinning ceremony and to read an oath printed on the card they received. Mothers and grandmothers, with tears in their eyes and beaming with pride, read the oath and then pinned their student.

“We hope you will remember this new tradition with appreciation for those who have come before you and recognize the Meredith family of which you are now a part,” said Allen. “May each of you make the most of your years at Meredith so that you, too, will want to one day pass this tradition onto your daughters, granddaughters, and other family members.”

Alumnae who pinned their daughters were excited and appreciative of this event on Move-In Day.

“Pinning my daughter, Brody, at Meredith’s first Legacy Ceremony is a moment I will treasure forever. It is incredibly special to see her become part of a place that meant so much to me so many years ago, and now will mean so much to us both. Knowing she will walk the same paths, learn from inspiring faculty, experience unforgettable traditions, and form lifelong friendships makes me excited for her journey ahead. Meredith helped shape the woman I am, and I cannot wait to see how it shapes her.”

Heather Hudgins-McKean Cohn, ’96

“Pinning Millie at Meredith’s first Legacy Ceremony is a moment I’ll cherish forever. We’re now connected not only as mother and daughter, but as Angels. Two generations bonded by a place that shapes our hearts, our strength, and our sisterhood. Meredith Angel, ’99, to my daughter, ‘29. Go Odds! This legacy pinning is a moment of pride, love, and an unbreakable bond!”

April Hardison Perdue, ’99

“I am truly honored and thrilled to be part of this new tradition celebrating the special bond shared between a mother and daughter who are living the shared Meredith experience and keeping the legacy alive. I am so happy to have had the opportunity to pin Savannah today!”

Crystal Turnage Bacon, ’01

Meredith College’s AACSB Accreditation Reaffirmed

By Melyssa Allen

Meredith College’s AACSB accreditation was reaffirmed in May 2025. AACSB International is recognized worldwide as the highest standard of quality for business education.

“Maintaining AACSB accreditation places the Meredith College School of Business among the top tier of business schools globally – an elite distinction held by fewer than 6% of business programs worldwide,” said Kim Burke, dean of the School of Business.

“For us, it’s not just a hallmark of academic excellence; it affirms our commitment to continuous improvement, innovation, and impactful student outcomes,” Burke added. “This recognition validates the strength of our curriculum, the quality of our faculty, and the success of our graduates in the workplace.”

Meredith College is the only undergraduate women’s college with an AACSB-accredited business school.

“Our school is a rare space where women lead, learn, and grow in an environment designed to elevate their voices,” Burke said. “Our students benefit from a personalized, missiondriven education that blends rigorous academics with mentorship, leadership development, and a strong emphasis on professional readiness.”

The AACSB peer review team highlighted several distinctive strengths of Meredith’s School of Business, including:

• Real-World Experience: Every undergraduate student completes a 120-hour internship, ensuring that they graduate with handson experience that supports our exceptional job placement rate.

• Experiential Learning: The Broyhill

Fellows Program offers highimpact learning experiences both on- and off-campus, helping students connect academic theory with real-world practice.

• Supportive Culture: The peer review team was particularly impressed by the collaborative and student-centered culture fostered by our faculty, staff, and administrators – a testament to our mission of empowering women to lead and serve. An engaged and supportive board of advisors also strengthens professional networks and mentoring opportunities for current students.

Meredith’s School of Business includes programs in accounting, business administration, and economics at the undergraduate level and the Meredith MBA at the graduate level.

New Accelerated Master’s In Psychology Degree Available

By Melyssa Allen

Meredith College is expanding its accelerated degree options with a new program that will allow the completion of an undergraduate and graduate degree in just five years.

Through the I-O Psychology 4+1 program, qualified Meredith psychology majors will complete both a B.A. in Psychology and an M.A. in Industrial-Organizational Psychology. The new 4+1 program was approved by the faculty in May 2025.

The Master of Arts in Industrial-Organizational Psychology at Meredith College prepares graduates to use the methods of scientific psychology to improve both the effectiveness of organizations and the work-life quality of employees.

“The 4+1 program will equip students to tackle workplace challenges and secure in-demand, rewarding careers in talent management, learning and development, people analytics, selection, change management, and consulting within five years,” said Professor of Psychology and Department Chair Gwynn Morris.

How it Works

Students will apply during their junior year and, if accepted, begin taking graduate courses in their senior year. Up to nine graduate credits taken during the undergraduate program will count toward both degrees.

Any student wishing to complete the 4+1 accelerated program needs to be admitted to Meredith College. General guidelines for eligibility for this program would be a 3.0 or greater GPA at Meredith.

Building on a Strong Foundation

Meredith’s psychology program has an outstanding reputation, particularly in the areas of research methods preparation. Undergraduate psychology students at Meredith are well-prepared for graduate-level work. Meredith psychology majors acquire both research skills and practical skills in applied settings. Students also have numerous opportunities to conduct research, and many present their studies at regional, national, or international psychology conferences.

Meredith College and N.C. Governor’s School East Celebrate 25-Year Partnership

By Melyssa Allen

Each summer for the past 25 years, the Meredith campus has served as the host campus for North Carolina Governor’s School East. The College welcomed the 2025 participants on June 22 for the four-week program.

The North Carolina Governor’s School is a summer residential program for high-achieving high school students. High school juniors are eligible to apply. The program has two sites, including Governor’s School East, which was held at Meredith and Governor’s School West, which was hosted by Greensboro College this year. Meredith has continuously served as the host campus for Governor’s School East since 2000.

“Meredith College was honored to welcome N.C. Governor’s School East students and faculty to our campus this summer as we have for 25 years,” said Meredith College President Aimee Sapp. “We are pleased to provide our campus facilities and resources to support this important educational endeavor.”

N.C. Governor’s School administrators are pleased to continue the program’s long relationship with Meredith.

“We are so proud to celebrate 25 years of partnership with Meredith College. Meredith’s beautiful campus has been a welcoming home for our students and the staff and administration have been amazing partners,” said N.C. Governor’s School Coordinator Rodney Allen. “They truly understand the mission of the Governor’s School and work diligently throughout the year to make certain our students have the best experience possible. Their vision and support of the program have been inspiring. We look forward to the next 25 years at Meredith College.”

Governor's School of North Carolina began in 1963 and is the nation’s oldest statewide summer residential program for gifted and talented high school students. More than 40,000 students have attended N.C. Governor’s School over the past 60 years. Across the two campuses, NC Governor’s School emphasizes collaborative efforts in 10 disciplines: Choral Music, Dance, English, Instrumental Music, Mathematics, Natural Science, Social Science, Spanish, Theater, and Visual Arts.

Patty Blackwell, a staff member in Meredith’s Facilities Services, was a guest speaker at Durham County’s inaugural Women Veterans Recognition Day Celebration on June 12, 2025. Isaac Johnson, Military Board Director for Congresswoman Valerie P. Foushee (NC-04), presented certificates of Special Congressional Recognition to Blackwell and two other guest speaker veterans. Blackwell, who served in the U.S. Air Force, is the co-chair of Meredith’s Honoring Women Veterans committee, which organizes the College’s annual Veterans Day service.

Professor Emerita Fran Page received the Raleigh Youth Choir’s Bob Goodale Noteworthy Service Award in recognition of her work as a music educator and visionary creator of the Capital City Girls Choir. The award was presented during the annual Raleigh Youth Choir Gala, which took place on Friday, April 11, at the MacGregor Downs Country Club. Page was the inaugural recipient of the Goodale Award.

Meredith’s Sports Sciences Association was featured in the summer issue of Kinesiology Today. The student organization received the 2025 National Undergraduate Student Group Impact Award from the American Kinesiology Association. The purpose of the organization is to promote and enhance kinesiology as a unified field of study and advance its many applications.

Dr. Lynn Owens, Associate Professor of Communication, was a recipient of the Television Academy’s 2025 Alex Trebek Legacy Fellowship, created in honor of the late “Jeopardy!” host. The Academy sent Owens to Los Angeles to attend the Media Educators Conference in October 2025. During the conference, educators learned from media professionals, creators, and top Hollywood executives about the latest trends and skills in the industry.

Meredith Alumnae Receive Fulbright Awards

By Melyssa Allen

Two recent graduates of Meredith College, Aniston Sennett, ’25, and Claire Jacoby, ’24, have been selected for prestigious Fulbright programs. Sennett is participating in the Binational Business Program in Mexico, while Jacoby received a Fulbright Research Award to Italy.

Aniston Sennett, ’25

Through the Binational Business Program, which supports internships with Mexican and multinational companies, Aniston Sennett, ’25, will be based in Mexico City for 10 months doing an internship and taking master’s-level classes in international business.

“I will be focused on learning all about Mexican business practices, culture, and making strong connections. I am ecstatic to be speaking Spanish every day and learning more about myself and the people around me,” Sennett said. “I want to build crosscultural relationships and learn all about Mexican culture while sharing aspects of my own, building bridges of mutual understanding.”

The Fulbright program in Mexico will build on Sennett’s majors in Business Administration and Spanish.

“By enhancing my language skills, deepening my cultural understanding, exploring another country, and connecting with new people, it’s the perfect way to enrich my education and strengthen the cross-cultural bridges between the U.S. and Mexico,” Sennett said.

Sennett is looking forward to learning while building connections through the program.

“I am most looking forward to the relationships I will make throughout this program. I love meeting new people and exploring different cultures,” Sennett said. “Having the opportunity to do that while exploring a new country is something I have been dreaming of doing for years. Being able to share my experiences at the end of this experience will be the perfect way to connect cultures.”

Claire Jacoby, ’24

A psychology major at Meredith, Claire Jacoby will complete a research project focused on the transition to motherhood, examining the similarities and differences in how Italian and American mothers define their maternal identity. Her project is titled “The Transition to Motherhood in American and Italian Women Living in Italy.”

“It allows me to further develop my research skills and learn new perspectives on approaching data,” Jacoby said. “This experience will prepare me for the rigor of graduate school and ultimately support me as I pursue a career in perinatal psychology research.”

Studying abroad as a sophomore through the semester-long Meredith in Italy program made Jacoby want to return someday. Working as a student assistant in the Office of International Programs after she returned to Meredith led her to learn about the Fulbright research opportunities.

“I knew I had wanted to gain postbaccalaureate research experience before applying to graduate school, so applying for a Fulbright made the most sense,” Jacoby said. “It allowed me to

intersect my passion for psychological research and studying Italian culture.”

Meredith Support Essential to Success

Both Jacoby and Sennett said support from Meredith College throughout the application process was important to their success. A major part of their support system was Dr. Vilma ConchaChiaraviglio, who serves as Meredith’s Fulbright Scholarship Advisor.

“Dr. Concha was extremely supportive throughout my application cycle and really believed in the strength of my project and application,” Jacoby said. “The application process is rigorous but rewarding. It takes about a year of revisions and feedback from Dr. Concha and the Fulbright committee to solidify the pieces of your application.”

Sennett described the extensive application process, which included a written application requiring multiple essays and an interview.

“After submitting in October 2024, I waited until January to hear that I’d advanced to the interview round. I was thrilled and immediately began preparing with my advisor and professors,” Sennett recalled. “The interview was entirely in Spanish with a virtual panel of six. It was nervewracking, but it helped me improve my interviewing skills, and I completed my first interview entirely in Spanish.”

Sennett said faculty members had suggested the Fulbright program to her, but conversations with Dr. ConchaChiaraviglio solidified her decision to apply and helped her identify the best program. Both Fulbright recipients also expressed gratitude for support from faculty in their majors and others at Meredith.

Sennett and Jacoby were among the 1,800 grant recipients chosen for Fulbright programs from more than 8,000 applications in 2025.

Interested in Exploring the Fulbright Program?

Dr. Concha-Chiaraviglio notes that alumnae as well as current students can apply for Fulbright programs. To learn more about how to apply to Fulbright, contact Vilma ConchaChiaraviglio at conchav@meredith.edu.

In Memoriam: Kevin Walker, Print & Copy Center

Director

By Melyssa Allen

The Meredith College community was saddened by the loss of Kevin Walker, director of the Print & Copy Center, who passed away in July. He was a longtime staff member who also served as a volunteer assistant coach for the Avenging Angels basketball team.

Walker made a major impact on Meredith students through his role as assistant coach of the basketball team. He served in this capacity from 2007 through the 2024-25 season under four head coaches.

Head Coach Megan Rahn, ’12, said it was hard to put into words what Walker meant to the basketball team and Meredith College.

“He was the heartbeat of our team, and he touched so many people on our campus,” said Rahn, who knew Walker when she was a player on the team through to her current role as coach.

Rahn said she has heard about Walker’s impact from numerous people.

“He was the epitome of everything you’d want in an assistant coach, including as a stand-in dad for players who were away from their families,” Rahn said. “He cared for us and looked out for us. His role in our lives went far beyond the basketball court.”

In his professional role, Walker managed a variety of projects for departments across the Meredith campus. The Print & Copy Center handles all forms of professional in-house printing.

Walker’s colleagues praised him for his professionalism and thoughtfulness.

“Kevin was a great partner to the Marketing Department. He was kind, thoughtful, and always there for us,” said Director of Visual Communications Vanessa Harris. “He was a great steward of the College brand and helped our department do our jobs well.”

In 2006, Walker received the Presidential Staff Award in recognition of exemplary service to the Meredith community.

A celebration of life event was held in Walker’s memory on September 27, followed by an Alumnae Tribute Game in Weatherspoon Gym.

Dr. Yang looked me straight in the eye and told me not to give up on design. She spoke of my talents and my fears and said she didn’t know who I was trying to fool, because she couldn’t see me doing anything else.”

SERENA DANIELI,

’25

Fashion Merchandising

Expressing Personal & Cultural Stories Through Fashion

I’ve been surrounded by fashion my whole life. My mom is a designer, so creativity and style have always been part of my world.

Growing up in a small town, I wasn’t exposed to the many ways fashion could become a career, so I initially planned to major in business and keep fashion as a side passion. But after taking my first design courses at Meredith, I quickly realized how much I loved translating ideas into garments. I fell in love with the process, especially the way fashion gives me a way to express personal and cultural stories. I knew I didn’t just want fashion to be part of my life – I wanted it to be my future.

Sophomore year was not easy. I was having trouble balancing my social life, school, and two jobs. I began to fall behind in one of my classes, and in that moment, it felt like my only option was to drop the course and change my major. Dramatic, right? To be fair, it was only a slight change – from Fashion Design to Fashion Merchandising. I made the switch without consulting anyone, on the very last day of the withdrawal period. Even though it was no longer required, I stayed in a design course.

At the end of that class, we threw a small party to celebrate the seniors. We sat together, eating and talking about our plans and memories. Suddenly, the conversation turned to me and my super-convincing major switch.

Dr. [Eunyoung] Yang looked me straight in the eye and told me not to give up on design. She spoke of my talents and my fears and said she didn’t know who I was trying to fool, because she couldn’t see me doing anything else. One by one, all my peers chimed in. They encouraged me and reminded me of the beautiful things I’d created, and the potential I’d be giving up just because something felt hard. Everyone at that table saw something in me that I couldn’t see in myself, and that’s a moment I’ll carry with me forever. Dr. Yang wasn’t willing to watch me settle for less, and for that I’m so grateful.

I’m most proud of my senior collection, Something Borrowed, Something Blue. It was inspired by my Tanzanian roots and celebrated the fusion of African prints with upcycled denim. It represents both cultural heritage and sustainability – two things that matter deeply to me. I’ve never

worked so hard or so long on a single project. It took over a year of preparation and months of staying in the sewing lab for hours at a time. The collection won first place in the “Intermediate and Beyond” category at the 27th annual African American Textile Society Fashion Exposé at NC State. That collection is a testament to my resilience and creativity. It proved to me that I can stay consistent and finish strong, even when things get hard.

Now, I have an amazing portfolio filled with a wide range of skills that I’ve developed here at Meredith. Beyond garment construction, I’ve learned about consumer behavior, trend forecasting, sustainability, merchandising, sketching, CAD software, data analysis, retail math, and more.

After graduation, I packed up and moved to Wisconsin to work as an apparel designer at Kohl’s! I had the opportunity to intern there last summer, and I’m so proud to be returning full-time. The work I did during the internship – and the support I received from Meredith – definitely helped me secure this role.”

MEREDITH COLLEGE LAUNCHES NEW ACADEMIC PROGRAMS IN DATA SCIENCES

NEW OFFERINGS HELP STUDENTS MEET CHANGING WORKFORCE NEEDS

By Rocio Antelis

As of the fall 2025 semester, Meredith College offers majors in Statistical and Data Sciences and Data Analytics.

Data science and data analytics are growing career fields as data has become more integrated into our daily lives. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a 36% growth in the data science job sector between 2023 and 2033.

With effective data analysis, business professionals can more accurately predict trends, psychologists can gain a deeper understanding of human behavior, and public health professionals can make more precise interventions and policies. As the use of data becomes increasingly valuable to a variety of fields, data analysis skills can set job candidates apart.

In response to the growing data science industry, Meredith’s Mathematics and Computer Science Department formed a committee to develop a data science minor. The minor was first offered in 2020.

“Everything in our world has changed dramatically because of our ability to

generate and access data,” said Dr. Emily Lada, data science program coordinator.

“We are dedicated to being at the forefront of data education, preparing our students for career opportunities in this exciting field.”

Several students with various majors pursued the minor, and many voiced a desire for more data science offerings.

Lada, who led the committee, began researching data science majors at other colleges and universities to create a program for Meredith.

While faculty were designing the new program, Jeannie Hinton, ’25, told Lada she was uncertain about pursuing the mathematics and computer science majors, but had a passion for data science. Based on the preliminary curriculum and with support from faculty, Hinton developed a contract major, which allows students to follow a unique course of study not typically

offered. In May 2025, Hinton became the first student to graduate with a degree in statistical and data sciences at Meredith.

“The statistics and data science minors weren’t enough for me,” said Hinton, who is now a business intelligence associate at BlueCross BlueShield of North Carolina.

“It really is quite the honor to be the first student to graduate with this major. It was a way that I could help improve Meredith and help other students pursue this field.”

Lada said, “It was perfect timing, and Jeannie was the perfect student to help us test out this new curriculum. Now, any student can declare this major.”

The statistical and data sciences major allows students to gain experience in making data-driven decisions using advanced data science techniques. Students also develop a solid foundation in the core statistics, mathematics, and computer science principles essential for a successful career in the field.

An Interdisciplinary Option

In addition to the statistical and data sciences major, the department introduced a major in data analytics for students interested in building data analytics skills within a chosen discipline.

The curriculum reflects the interdisciplinary nature of data analytics, providing a unique opportunity for students to combine statistical and data science skills with disciplinespecific applications. Students can select research design and applied analysis courses and complete a data-driven research project with departments across campus, such as business, psychology, public health, and exercise and sports sciences.

“This major is intended to be accessible to students with different backgrounds and interests, reflecting the pervasiveness of data in all manner of our lives today,” said Dr. Jennifer Hontz, chair of the department.

The Mathematics and Computer Science Department collaborated with faculty across campus to create the data analytics program. Faculty response to the new major has been positive, with many anticipating that skills in data analysis will give students a competitive edge in the workforce and graduate school.

Allegra Banks, ’27, declared data

analytics as a second major this fall to complement her studies and career goals in political science.

“This program has been the perfect addition to my experience,” said Banks. “I’ve seen how data and statistics connect to and influence law and policy, and I’m confident these skills will be an asset in my future pursuits.”

A Strong Foundation

Meredith’s new majors build on the College’s long history of strength in STEM fields. With computer science, statistics, and mathematics housed under one collaborative department, students gain a strong foundation in these core areas of data science. And, because of Meredith’s reputation and faculty connections in the Research Triangle Park, students have access to an array of internship and research opportunities.

As program coordinator, Lada brings over 13 years of extensive data science

industry experience. She holds a bachelor’s degree in mathematics and a master’s and Ph.D in operations research, a field that closely aligns with data science. Before coming to Meredith, she worked in the advanced analytics division at SAS Institute.

Lada also has a thorough understanding of the interdisciplinary aspect of data science, having completed projects in a variety of areas throughout her career, including neonatal intensive care, clinical trial design, drug discovery, supply chain management, and wildlife treatment.

“The program’s greatest strength is Dr. Emily Lada,” said Hontz. “She offers exceptional expertise and invaluable insight, and has established connections with the broader operations research and data science community across academia and industry.”

Data for Good

The ethical use of data is emphasized throughout the curriculum of both majors. Recognizing that data is a powerful tool,

Watch Jeannie Hinton’s Strong Story.

the department promotes its use to make a positive impact. This aligns with the College’s mission to prepare students to live with integrity and provide leadership for the needs, opportunities, and challenges of society.

“It’s not difficult to find examples of nefarious ways data is used, whether it’s inappropriately accessing sensitive data or purposely creating a misleading visualization,” said Lada. “I strive to emphasize that there are plenty of ways that data can be used to improve the world.”

Looking Forward

As the data science industry continues to grow, Meredith will continue to expand its offerings to help students prepare to succeed in the field.

The department is exploring additional data science electives to expose students to different areas of the field. They also hope to create a capstone course, potentially partnering with local organizations and nonprofits to allow students to work on real-world, large-scale projects.

Alumnae can also contribute to enriching the new academic programs.

“Alumnae

or eklada@meredith.edu.

are valuable resources to our majors and current students,” said Lada, “We’d love to connect with alumnae in the field to be mentors, panelists, and project collaborators.”

GO AVENGING ANGELS. GO MEREDITH.

HOW INVESTING IN ATHLETICS SUPPORTS THE FUTURE OF MEREDITH COLLEGE

By Melyssa Allen

In September, Meredith College held a ribbon-cutting for its newest athletics facility. The Estes-Speight Family Athletic Center is visible evidence of the growth and success of Meredith’s Avenging Angels athletics.

Associate Athletic Director Fiona Barkley contributed to this article.

BASKETBALL CROSS COUNTRY FIELD HOCKEY FLAG FOOTBALL GOLF LACROSSE SOCCER SOFTBALL TENNIS TRACK & FIELD

INDOOR TRACK

The donor-funded athletic center’s construction was made possible by Chris Speight Brown, ’76, and her siblings, who made a $1 million lead gift to name the center in memory of their mother, Mary Estes Speight, ’53, and their father, Bobby Speight. Located adjacent to the softball field and tennis courts, the facility includes two large indoor batting cages, a golf simulator, locker rooms, a student-athlete lounge, and public restrooms. Brown also funded a Hall of Fame for Athletics, named for her daughter Lisa Brown De Armas, ’03, that is housed in Cate Student Center. (See Philanthropy pg. 28 for more details on these projects.)

The new athletic center is needed as Meredith has expanded its athletic offerings, which the existing facilities strained to accommodate. Until the Estes-Speight Family Athletic Center opened in September, five athletic teams – volleyball, basketball, softball, tennis, and golf – were juggling to share one locker room in Weatherspoon over the course of an academic year.

Meredith’s Avenging Angels teams have found much success on the playing field, including 40 USA South Championships and 23 NCAA tournament appearances. But athletics also plays an important role in recruitment and retention. In addition to guiding their teams, Avenging Angels coaches support enrollment through their work recruiting student-athletes.

“Our coaches understand that this is important work for the College, and they know they can play a big part in increasing enrollment,” said Director of Athletics Jackie Myers. “I think they’ve taken ownership of that.”

Myers, who is in her 24th year leading Meredith Athletics, was inducted into the USA South Athletic Conference Hall of Fame in August. She has been instrumental in the growth of the College’s athletics program, including facilitating Meredith’s transition into the USA South conference in 2007 and establishing the Avenging Angels as a consistent and respected competitor within the conference.

Athletics has been a consistent draw for high school athletes who want to continue their playing careers in college.

“Student-athletes want an opportunity to continue their athletic career,” said Associate Athletic Director Fiona Barkley. “There’s not been that ebb and flow in enrollment for us. We’ve had good stability with our roster numbers.”

Meredith is a strong option for studentathletes who find Division III athletics appealing.

“As we all watch the landscape of Division I change and become more of a business, we’re still an opportunity for them to play purely for the love of the game. They come here to play because they love their sport and they want to be at Meredith,” said Barkley. “We’re not incentivizing them in any way beyond offering an opportunity to play their sport and to be in a great community.”

Student-athletes also gain valuable skills through their sport. They learn how to deal with conflict, be accountable, and manage their time. “There’s a lot outside of just winning and losing that studentathletes experience as they are preparing to go on to the workforce,” Barkley said.

New student-athletes find community at Meredith partly because they already have a built-in group of other students with whom they share the common experience of playing a sport.

“If they’re having a good experience and they’re playing on a team, they’re typically going to retain stronger,” Barkley

SOCCER

said. “They’re involved on campus. They are leaders in student organizations. It’s not their job to be an athlete here. It is an additional piece of their overall experience that encourages them to come here and stay here.”

Even students who might only play their first couple of years at Meredith retain well.

“They’ll stay because our coaches do a really good job of finding the right fit for people who want to come to Meredith,” Myers said.

Playing at a Division III college allows student-athletes a more balanced experience where they can continue in their sport and still focus on their classes.

“Our athletes don’t want to miss class. They’re very academically focused, but they love their sport. They really do want a good education, and they value what Meredith can offer,” Myers said.

Athletics Roster Expands with Addition of Flag Football

Meredith is adding flag football, with competition to begin in Spring 2027. Meredith expects to play the 7-on-7 format of flag football, which has an average roster size between 20 and 25 players.

Flag football has been one of the fastestgrowing sports in the country, and now Meredith’s Avenging Angels will be part of this momentum at the collegiate level. At least 65 NCAA schools are sponsoring women’s flag football at either the club or varsity levels this year, with more slated to join in 2026. Flag football will also be a sport in the 2028 Olympic Games.

Meredith is the first college in the USA South Conference to sponsor flag football as an official sport.

“I am confident that this sport will continue to grow in popularity and that more and more colleges and universities will add it,” said Myers. “Adding the sport before many of our conference schools will give Meredith a competitive advantage.”

Myers noted that Meredith followed this model with the lacrosse team, being one of the first in the USA South conference to add lacrosse as a varsity sport. Meredith’s team has since seen incredible success in lacrosse, winning 11 straight conference championships.

Leading Meredith’s new team will be Bryonne Herring, who was hired in August as the first head coach of flag football.

Herring brings a decade of coaching experience in strength and conditioning and football as he builds Meredith’s inaugural team as the College launches its newest varsity sport.

“I’m honored to step into this role and excited to help our players grow both on and off the field,” said Herring. “Flag football is more than just a game – it’s a chance to build character, teamwork, and confidence. I’m looking forward to building a team founded on hard work, growth, and fun.”

Prior to coming to Meredith, Herring was the head strength and conditioning coach at SUNY Brockport, where he oversaw training for all 23 NCAA Division III athletic teams. Herring also served as the head coach of the university’s women’s club flag football team. He guided the Brockport program with a focus on player development, team strategy, and communication. His leadership elevated team dynamics and built a foundation of competitive excellence – experience that will be pivotal in building Meredith’s program from the ground up.

“Bryonne’s vision for building a competitive and inclusive flag football program aligns perfectly with Meredith’s mission and values,” said Myers. “He’s not only an experienced coach – he’s a leader, mentor, and builder. We are thrilled to welcome him to the Avenging Angels family.”

Flag football joins 11 other sports that Meredith offers, which are basketball, cross country, field hockey, golf, lacrosse, soccer, softball, tennis, track and field (indoor and outdoor), and volleyball. The athletic department is exploring other options that could be added in the near future.

By adding new sports, Meredith expands its appeal to a broadened audience of prospective students.

“Our goal is to bring a whole new pool of students. With all of our sports, the goal is to be actively recruiting for the rosters, not just pulling from the students who are already here,” said Myers. “So we’re hoping it’s a whole new interest field that will bring new students to Meredith.”

New Coaches Join Meredith’s Athletics Department

When hiring, the Athletics Department leadership, of course, wants coaches who have had competitive success in their sport.

Locker room

Mud room

Batting cages

Meredith’s coaches have earned 15 USA South Coach of the Year honors. But they also look for an ability to market the Meredith experience to prospective student-athletes.

“Coaches have to know how to evaluate talent and find students who fit at Meredith and who fit the culture of our program,” said Barkley, who previously served as head volleyball coach from 2007-23. “Our coaches are excited about what Meredith is as an institution and what it offers its students academically and for their professional lives. It all knits together into what we can offer them.”

In addition to Herring, two other new head coaches are leading athletic teams at Meredith this season. Heather Brown has been named the head golf coach, and Garcian D’Cruz has been hired to serve as the head tennis coach.

Brown is the former director of intercollegiate golf and head women’s golf coach at Appalachian State University. A seasoned PGA professional and dynamic leader, she brings more than three decades of coaching experience and a proven record of developing student-athletes on the course, in the classroom, and in life.

“I’m excited to begin mentoring and developing our current Avenging Angels while also recruiting new student-athletes to help build and strengthen the program,” said Brown. “I am confident that we can take Meredith Golf to new heights.”

Brown guided the women’s golf program at Appalachian State to recordbreaking achievements, recruiting top national and international talent, mentoring over 30 Academic AllAmericans, and coaching a conference champion and two USGA qualifiers. Her teams consistently posted the highest GPA in the athletics department and were nationally recognized for academic progress.

“Heather’s experience, teaching philosophy, and dedication to the holistic development of student-athletes are exactly what we value in our athletics program,” said Myers. “She will be a tremendous asset to our campus and our golf team.”

GOLF SOFTBALL

A former head coach at Tusculum University, D’Cruz brings a diverse and accomplished coaching background, along with a strong commitment to both academic and athletic excellence to his new role with Meredith Tennis.

“I am excited and honored to be named the Head Tennis Coach at Meredith College, and I look forward to continuing the academic and athletic success of our student-athletes,” said D’Cruz.

At Tusculum, D’Cruz guided the program to a South Atlantic Conference (SAC) Tournament appearance, coached two players to All-Conference honors, and mentored 15 student-athletes who earned SAC AllAcademic recognition. D’Cruz previously worked at Elon University, where he was part of a successful run that saw the Phoenix finish as CAA Conference Tournament runnerup. While at Elon, six players earned All-Conference honors, and the program was recognized as an ITA AllAcademic Team for the 2023–24 season.

No matter what their sport, Meredith student-athletes benefit from the support system that athletics provides.

“If they have a personal problem or a challenge, their coach is who they’re going to go to first,” Barkley said. “That’s who they trust, that’s who they feel like they can open up to. We’re very fortunate in the coaching staff that we have are excellent people, and they have built great cultures.”

Myers and Barkley encourage Meredith alumnae to support current student-athletes at their games.

“There’s a great atmosphere and community at a lot of our games. But we want more people to come. We want it to be more of a campus opportunity for students, alumnae, whomever, to enjoy it and be together and to be excited about watching our teams win.”

Visit goavengingangels.com to view schedules and learn more about Meredith’s athletic teams.

Gifts

YOUR GIFT MATTER AT MEREDITH

HOW FUNDRAISERS WORK WITH DONORS

By Emily Parker

In 2024-25, Meredith alumnae and donors made a remarkable difference for students and the entire campus community.

Through countless hours of volunteering, attending events to welcome students both before and upon their arrival, and contributing annual gifts (under $24,999), major gifts ($25,000 and above), and deferred gifts, alumnae and donors strengthened the Meredith experience. Every gift – large or small – has an impact. From scholarships to facility improvements and new programs, each donor ’s choice of where to give aligns with Meredith’s needs, helping the College continue to grow and thrive.

Institutional Advancement serves as Meredith College’s fundraising arm, partnering with donors to help them choose where their gifts can have the greatest impact. The generosity of these donors has made a clear and lasting difference for the College, with overall giving rising significantly over the past 15 years.

“I am continually inspired by the love our alumnae hold for their college and the generosity they demonstrate,” said Lennie Barton, vice president for institutional advancement. “Our goal is to partner with donors to align their passions with the areas of greatest impact, ensuring their support strengthens the College in meaningful and lasting ways.”

Advancement staff during the 10th annual Giving Day in 2025.

Annual Giving – Loyalty in Action

Many alumnae make gifts to the Meredith Fund, the College’s annual giving program, each year, and support has steadily grown.

Last year, the Meredith Fund raised a total of $2.8 million, with $922,751 supporting Meredith’s Greatest Needs, a fund that provides budget relief and enables the College to allocate funds to pressing needs.

The Meredith Fund raises money with different audiences, such as 50th reunion classes, parents and families, senior class gift, faculty and staff, current donors, and new donors.

Annual competitions are also held by the Meredith Fund, including Meredith Mayhem, where alumnae classes compete for the most donors, and it is always fun to witness. Class gift agents and classmates rally one another to give, fueling both friendly rivalry and meaningful impact. In 2016, the Meredith Fund started Make It Count for Meredith Giving Day, held each year during Meredith’s birthday week, inviting alumnae and friends to give to whatever area they choose. That first year, the goal was $125,000 to honor the 125th anniversary of the granting of the College’s charter in 1891. This year, the bar was set at $1.2 million – but the Meredith community went above and beyond, with 2,706 donors contributing an incredible $1.6 million.

By supporting Meredith, our donors strengthen Meredith’s reputation, provide for future students, and increase the value of every Meredith degree.

Director of the Meredith Fund Jean Gambrill said annual giving plays a vital role in helping Meredith move forward each year.

“These gifts – no matter the size – directly support students, strengthen academic programs, and provide resources where they’re needed most. Annual giving helps bridge the gap between tuition and the full cost of a Meredith education, allowing the College to respond to immediate needs and invest in future opportunities,” said Gambrill. “Events like Giving Day and Meredith Mayhem highlight how powerful our community can be when we come together – fueling not only spirited participation but real, lasting impact. We are deeply grateful for the loyal support of our alumnae, faculty, staff, families, students, and friends. Every gift enriches the Meredith experience and helps ensure that current and future Angels can thrive.”

Join our Annual Giving Societies and be part of a tradition of generosity that strengthens our college.

IRIS SOCIETY – PRESIDENT’S CIRCLE

$5,000+ Annually

Recent graduates (past 10 years) $2,500

IRIS SOCIETY

$1,000 – $4,999 Annually

Recent graduates (past 10 years) $500

IVY SOCIETY

$20+/month for one year (11-15 years since graduation)

Recent graduates (past 10 years)

$10+/month for one year

ONYX SOCIETY

Three or more years of consecutive giving

On Giving Day, students thank donors for their gifts.

Board of Trustee members Claire Sullivan Slaughter, ’72, and Quintala Parham, ’08, always encourage others to support Giving Day.

Class of 1975

Classes Come Together

The goal for Institutional Advancement is to always match a donor’s passion with a project or scholarship that will improve a student’s experience.

A great example of this is the 50th Reunion Gift Program that the Meredith Fund launched in 2016, with the Class of 1971. It is a collective effort by a class starting at their 45th reunion to decide on a meaningful gift – one that leaves a lasting legacy at Meredith and reflects the enduring strength of their class bond. Their goal is to raise $250,000 by their 50th reunion. The first step is for classmates to attend their class meeting at their 45th reunion. Classmates learn how they can fund a reunion gift and discuss options with a Meredith Fund representative. The goal is to align the class’s passion with what the College needs.

The Class of 1975 celebrated their 50th reunion in May 2025 and were happy to announce they had reached their $250,000 goal of endowing the Chaplain’s Fund, an emergency fund to cover student financial needs as they arise. Their endowment will provide funding in perpetuity to the Chaplain’s Fund. These needs include but are not limited to food, gas costs, housing costs, transportation home for an emergency, the Daisy Trade campus food pantry, and basic nutrition education. During the five-year fundraising campaign, Gift Agent Sherri McGee, ’75, communicated the importance of philanthropy with her classmates and inspired them to take action with a gift. The Class of 1975 answered, and their spirit of giving back shows their loyalty to the Meredith community.

“This fund is very important for students. The need has risen sharply in the past four years,” said Stacy Pardue, campus chaplain. “Many students have told me that they couldn’t stay in school without it, and they are very appreciative of the support. I meet with most students we give funds to, so I can support them in their various challenges.”

The College is deeply grateful to the reunion class volunteers and generous donors who mark their 50th reunion by creating a legacy that strengthens Meredith for future generations. Whether through endowments, special projects, or campus enhancements, these gifts honor their time at Meredith and help ensure that today’s students can create memories just as lasting.

Past and current 50th Reunion

Gifts make an impact for the Meredith community.

CLASS OF 1971

Lillian Parker Wallace Lectureship

CLASS OF 1972

The Class of 1972 Scholarship Fund

CLASS OF 1973

Campus Garden and Beautification Fund

CLASS OF 1974

Athletics

CLASS OF 1975

Endowment for the Chaplain’s Fund

CLASS OF 1976

Study Abroad Scholarship

CLASS OF 1977

The Rumley Gazebo

CLASS OF 1978

The Student Transportation Fund

CLASS OF 1979

Outdoor Event Space

CLASS OF 1980

The Jo Allen Student Opportunity Fund

DONORS ESTABLISH TO PROVIDE FOR STUDENTS FOR YEARS TO COME

Staying Connected to Meredith

Meredith donors give over and over again to the College in generous ways. No matter the size of the gift, the Institutional Advancement team wants donors to give to what they care about. Maybe an alumna had an amazing professor in their major and wants to give back to that department, or maybe they had an enriching study abroad experience. When making a gift online, it is easy for the donor to designate where to make their gift, but sometimes an alumna wants to talk through a major gift ($25,000 and higher) with a gift officer.

Meredith College gift officers work with the donor to discuss where their gift might match up with the College’s priorities. That happened with Judy Williams, ’74. Williams could not decide on a particular gift until she heard about the new nursing program that Meredith was starting.

“I got excited. I have some family members who were nurses, and I know how nurses have benefited me and my family,” said Williams. “They contribute so much. So I thought, here is a chance for Meredith College to develop a successful new program. This is what I really want to contribute to. It was a great opportunity.”

This year, Williams established the Judith Lynn Williams Scholarship in Nursing. The endowment will support a student in the Baccalaureate in Nursing program.

Linda Carter, ʼ82, senior director of gift planning, was very helpful to Williams in deciding to make a major gift to the nursing program.

“She approached the situation with me. Her job is to benefit Meredith, and she does a wonderful job,” said Williams. “She focused on me and wanted to help me work through what I wanted to do for Meredith. It made a big difference for me that she involved me as a person and helped me decide that nursing was where I wanted to make my gift.”

Williams was the class gift agent for the Class of 1974 and served on the Alumnae Association Board, so she has stayed very connected to Meredith through the years.

Serving as a long-time class gift agent, Williams is well-respected by her classmates. Her leadership and generosity are reflected in the Class of 1974’s outstanding philanthropic record. The Meredith Legacy Scholarship was the class’s first gift, and at their 50th reunion, they raised over $250,000 for athletics. She became more interested and involved with the College at her 40th reunion and developed a relationship with Erin Cleghorn, who at the time was the director of the Meredith Fund. Williams found her to be a wonderful asset as Cleghorn would give her advice on how to encourage classmates to give to the College.

“As I got older and the opportunity to stay involved as a Class Gift Agent and on the Alumnae Association Board, it was a good way to have interaction with alumnae, the staff, and students,” said Williams. “That makes me feel like I am doing something helpful and exciting to benefit students at Meredith and people working there.”

Left to right: Provost Anita Thomas, President Aimee Sapp, Judy Williams, ’74, and her friend Delores Biggers, and Michelle Hartman, nursing program director, celebrated Williams’ nursing scholarship at an endowment signing in May.

A Perfect Gift

The family of Ruth W. Holleman established a scholarship in her memory this summer to support nursing students studying abroad in Kenya. These funds will allow students to experience community health in another country. In addition, their gift supported Michelle Hartman, nursing program director, to travel to Kenya for a site visit as she plans the nursing study abroad program.

The process of establishing the gift started when Warren Holleman called Claire Ruocchio, director of strategic giving. Warren wanted to do something in memory of his mother and to also honor Betty Webb, ’67, and Cathy Rodgers, ’76.

“He didn’t know about our nursing program until we started talking, and that became the best fit for him, as his mom was a nurse anesthetist, plus the study abroad part really appeals to him,” said Ruocchio. “Giving nursing students the chance to be in Kenya and to see that community health model in action is exciting to him.”

Growing up next door to Webb, Warren, and his brother Toby were deeply influenced by her. A lifelong connection began for them all. They met Rodgers after Warren wrote the play

Forged in Fire – The Story of Apex, based on Warren and Toby’s book, Pluck, Perseverance, and Paint: Apex, North Carolina: Beginnings to 1941. Rodgers directed the play.

A Perfect Gift

Warren and his wife, Marsha, now live in Houston but have stayed connected to Webb and Rodgers. Warren is a former professor of behavioral science at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, and for 10 years, he directed MD Anderson’s Faculty Health and Well-Being Program. He has extensive work in medical ethics and started a community health clinic for the homeless in Houston.

Warren and Toby’s mother, Ruth, was a pioneer for women in community health, creating a path for those seeking careers and positions in leadership. She served as chair of Rex Hospital’s Department of Anesthesia as well as nurse anesthetist for central North Carolina’s psychiatric hospitals and prison hospitals. During the era of racial segregation, Ruth provided anesthesia services for St. Agnes Hospital, which served Raleigh’s African-American community.

After talking to Ruocchio, all the pieces fell in place. The scholarship was crafted to honor their mother, a woman who cared deeply about her patients, and two women, Webb and Rodgers, who have been a part of the Meredith fabric for years. Ultimately, the gift will support students while honoring people who are dear to the Holleman family, and that makes a perfect match.

Erin Cleghorn serves as the Associate Vice President for Institutional Advancement at Meredith College, bringing more than 25 years of experience in membership and fundraising. She returned to Meredith in 2024, having previously led the College’s annual giving program for a decade. Cleghorn’s career spans a range of respected institutions, including the North Carolina Museum of Art, the North Carolina Bar Association, the NC State University Alumni Association, the Florida State University Alumni Association, and WFSU TV/FM, a PBS and NPR affiliate. She holds a bachelor’s degree in media communication from Florida State University, an MBA from Meredith College, and a Doctorate in Education from Appalachian State University.

Left to right: Marsha and Warren Holleman, President Aimee Sapp, Toby Holleman, Cathy Rodgers, ’76, Brooke Shurer, director of international programs, and Michelle Hartman, nursing program director, gathered for an endowment signing in June.

“Building relationships and listening to the stories of our alumnae and donors are part of the joy of working in Institutional Advancement. Many of our major gift officers are alumnae and feel passionately about Meredith,” said Cleghorn, associate vice president of institutional advancement. “Our goal is always to connect people with opportunities to make a difference here, advise them on how their gifts can make the most significant impact, and celebrate their contributions on campus. We have outstanding, generous alumnae, and their support helps us thrive in our mission to educate the next generation of strong women.”

Parents and Families Giving

“We’re continually inspired by the commitment of our parents and families, whose involvement strengthens the Meredith community in meaningful ways,” said Gambrill. “Their ongoing support of the Parents and Families Fund reflects the deep pride they have in the Meredith experience for their students.”

The Parents and Families Fund plays a vital role in Meredith’s yearly fundraising initiatives. Contributions from parents and grandparents help bring the Parents and Families Project to life. An annual campus enhancement effort is identified by getting input from current parents, listening to the campus community, and hearing students’ needs. The idea is presented to parents who are on the Meredith Fund Advisory Board. Every gift to the project makes an immediate impact, enhancing facilities and programs that directly benefit students during their time at Meredith.

In the last two years, funding upgrades to campus security technology have been the Parents and Families Project. The two new Flock license plate reading cameras are an additional security feature that ensures that all traffic coming to and from Meredith is recorded and can be easily accessed in case of an emergency or incident.

A second year of focusing on security allowed Campus Police to upgrade the blue light emergency call phones. The upgrade will include a system update and movement of the lights for easier access by students. Two new solar-powered blue lights were installed this past summer for added security.

Angels Connect Welcoming Voice

At Meredith College, students are the backbone of the Meredith Fund’s Angels Connect program. These students call alumnae and donors to tell them about upcoming events, raise funds, update contact information, and build relationships with alumnae.

“You may even receive a thank you call from students who are genuinely grateful for your support, as every gift – no matter the size – enhances their experience on campus,” said Gambrill. “So when you receive a call from Meredith College, please answer your phone and have a conversation with a student. Learn what makes Meredith special for them.”

The campus community, not just the Institutional Advancement staff, thanks you for giving to Meredith College each year and helping us to Go Strong!

Interested in giving to your passion or contacting a member of the Institutional Advancement staff? Visit meredith.edu/giving or meredith.edu/support/institutional-advancement-staff.

Impact of Family Philanthropy Through the Years

Blue light cameras installed (2024-25)

Two Flock license plate reading cameras installed (2023-24)

Enhancements to campus outdoor spaces (2022-23)

Student Health and Wellness Center –funding for building updates, electronic records system, support staff, and more. (2020-22)

Meredith Mentors – Meredith’s exclusive student-alumnae networking platform (2018-20)

Enhanced security at the Hillsborough Street gate (front entrance to campus) (2017-18)

New fitness center improvements (2016-17)

Fitness center program enhancements and extended operating hours (2015-16)

New campus lighting (2013-15)

Lower Belk Dining Hall restoration (2012-13)

Cate Student Center renovations (2011-12)

Fannie E.S. Heck Fountain restoration (2010-11)

MEREDITH PHILANTHROPY

MAKING AN IMPACT

Estes-Speight Family Athletic Center and Meredith College Athletic Hall of Fame Open

By Emily Parker

Meredith College held a ribboncutting ceremony on Friday, September 5, for the EstesSpeight Family Athletic Center. The new athletic center was made possible by Chris Speight Brown, ’76, along with her siblings Elizabeth Speight Cooley and Bobby Speight, Jr., who made a $1 million lead gift to name the center in memory of their mother, Mary Estes Speight, ’53, and their father, Bobby Speight, NC State All-American basketball player.

The new athletic building includes two large indoor batting cages, a golf simulator (coming soon), locker rooms, a student-athlete lounge, and public restrooms. The building is adjacent to the softball field and tennis courts. Brown also funded the Meredith College Athletics Hall of Fame, named for her daughter Lisa Brown De Armas, ’03. The Hall of Fame is housed in the Cate Student Center.

“Meredith College and Raleigh have meant so much to my entire family,” said Brown. “I wanted to pay tribute to Mom and Dad’s love of sports and Mom’s love of Meredith.”

President Aimee Sapp welcomed the Estes-Speight family, former and current athletes, coaches, major athletic donors, Board of Trustees members, faculty, staff, representatives from Inland Construction, the general contractor for the building, and other dignitaries who attended the ceremony.

“I’d like to thank the Speight family for all they have done for Meredith College. Three generations of Speight

women have graced the halls of Meredith and given back to the College in their own unique way. We are grateful for the commitment of your family to enhancing the strength and vitality of Meredith College for all future generations of strong women.”

Sapp also thanked Bill Neustadt, husband of alumna Ginger Neustadt, ’05, for attending.

“Another important contributor to this building was Ginger Neustadt. Ginger generously and lovingly contributed to the naming of the student-athlete lounge. She made this gift before her death this year,” said Sapp.

Neustadt graduated in 2005, having enrolled at Meredith at the age of 64. After retirement, she served on the Meredith Board of Trustees. Known for her outgoing nature, it’s only fitting that the building’s social hub – the student-

athlete lounge – now bears her name.

The new building mainly serves the softball, tennis, and golf teams, but all student-athletes will enjoy the student lounge. A place to watch game film, study, and prepare for practice or the next game.

Jackie Myers, Meredith athletic director, welcomed attendees and introduced the coaching staff, including new coaches for flag football, tennis, and golf.

‘I want to publicly thank you, President Sapp, for your shared vision for the athletic program and the value and the benefit that athletics can bring to an institution like Meredith College,” said Myers. “Thank you to the Estes-Speight family for your incredible generosity to the College and to our athletics program. In recognition of your mother and her alma mater, it is a testament

of your love for her and the strength of your family. We are sincerely grateful.”

Meredith’s athletic offerings have grown significantly through the years, now offering 12 sports at the Division III level.

“The impact this new building will have on recruits and retention is immeasurable. To be able to walk a prospect through this facility will speak volumes to those young women considering Meredith,” said Myers.

Kim Scavone, head softball coach for the past 15 years, also served as the project manager for the construction of the building.

Scavone reflected on the growth of Meredith softball and the facility improvements over the past 15 years, noting that this new addition will further strengthen her program.

“When I started 15 years ago, I knew it was going to take a lot of work and time, and fundraising for the softball facility to match the Athletic Field and Track Complex at the front of campus. We worked on the program, the fields, and the future of Meredith softball. I am so proud of what we have accomplished, and the legacy of success that Avenging Angels have left,” said Scavone.

Scavone believes the program has built a strong reputation in the community and created a studentathlete experience that Avenging Angels will carry with them for a lifetime, though it has required creativity in managing limited space and resources.

“Today we celebrate the generosity and vision of the Estes-Speight family. To say this building is a dream come true is probably not an accurate statement because back on that first campus tour I took 15 years ago, I do not think I dreamed quite this big,” said Scavone. “I now have seen countless Division III softball facilities, and I can say without question that the EstesSpeight family has made it possible to have the best in our conference, region, and probably the nation. We have already seen the impact on recruiting and bringing in talented new coaches. I know our athletes are so grateful for the daily impact it has on their experience, and I know it will be a

wonderful place for athletes from all teams to study, bond, relax, and train for generations to come.”

Brown acknowledged not only her family legacy at Meredith but also the long line of athletes in her family. Her father, Bobby Speight, was an AllAmerican basketball player at NC State, and his jersey hangs in the rafters at the Lenovo Center, home of NC State basketball. Brown was on the Aqua Angels synchronized swimming team at Meredith, and after graduation, continued to play competitive team tennis on four different levels. Her sister, Elizabeth, received the first women’s athletic scholarship at NC State and played women’s basketball. Her brother, Bobby Jr., graduated from NC State as well and had two sons who played football for the University of Michigan.

“Our entire family loves playing and watching sports. Golf was my mother’s passion, but she loved watching all sports in person or on television, and especially loved watching her grandchildren play sports. My family is so thrilled to honor our family with the naming of this building,” said Brown.

After the ribbon-cutting, students gave tours of the new building to all in attendance, and then the event continued with the unveiling of the Meredith College Athletics Hall of Fame at the Cate Center.

Hall of Fame Unveiled

Myers has had the vision for an Athletics Hall of Fame for over 10 years. During her speech at the Cate Center, she thanked Fiona Barkley, assistant athletics director, Institutional Advancement, President Sapp, and Jean Jackson, vice president for college programs, for all their help in bringing this shared vision to life.

The Meredith College Athletics Hall of Fame recognizes the academic and athletic accomplishments of Meredith College athletes, coaches, and administrators. Over the history of the program, many outstanding athletes and coaches have achieved records and other accomplishments

worthy of this recognition.

“This Hall of Fame is a bit of a reverse tribute from the SpeightBrown family. Chris, as the mom, would like to dedicate this space to her daughter, Lisa Brown De Armas, the third generation of this family to attend Meredith,” said Myers.

De Armas excelled as a student at Meredith. She majored in international business with a concentration in Spanish. She and her husband, Pedro, now publish a Spanish-language newspaper, El Informador, which is the largest Spanish-language publication in the Charleston, Hilton Head, and Myrtle Beach region of her home state of South Carolina.

“I am sure she is very proud of our 894 all-academic USA South student athletes,” said Myers. “Now, thanks to her family, Meredith can sponsor our own Hall of Fame, which will greatly enhance our chances of our student athletes getting into the USA South Conference Hall of Fame. Now that the groundwork has been laid for this space, we will be inducting our first class very soon.”

A touchscreen located in the space will feature Hall of Fame inductees’ profiles, as well as the history of the athletics program, along with athletic videos. Trophy cases for all athletic sports are also on display, including individual national recognition.

Myers invited Chris Speight Brown to unveil the sign for the Lisa Brown De Armas, ’03, Meredith College Athletics Hall of Fame.

“Lisa was very involved at Meredith, though she didn’t compete in sports,” said Brown. “She loved the idea of having the Hall of Fame displayed in the Cate Center, where there is more foot traffic, and she has the desire to see it expand to recognize studentathletes’ academic achievements.”

The first class of Meredith’s Hall of Fame will be inducted this academic year. Details about the event and the nomination form will be located on the goavengingangels.com website.

Are you interested in naming opportunities for the Estes-Speight Family Athletic Center? Contact Eric Douglass, director of strategic giving for athletics, at eddouglass@meredith.edu or (919) 760-8589.

Your Gifts Advance the College

By Emily Parker

Alumnae, faculty, staff, and friends of Meredith College played a vital role in supporting students over the past fiscal year. Through both financial contributions and volunteer service, they demonstrated a strong commitment to enhancing every aspect of campus life. Donor gifts supported scholarships, hands-on learning opportunities, facility enhancements, and more – helping to enrich the Meredith student experience. The College extends its deep gratitude to all who contributed to these efforts.

For the fiscal year 2024-25, the total raised in major gifts ($25,000 or more), annual gifts, and planned gifts was $15,464,743. This amount surpassed the fundraising goal of $10 million.

“Over the past year, the outpouring of support from our alumnae and friends has been remarkable,” said Lennie Barton, vice president for institutional advancement. “Each gift moves the College forward and helps students have the best Meredith experience possible. We appreciate each donor and that they believe enough in the mission of the College to give what they can to continue our culture of philanthropy.”

In this historic fundraising year, 97 major gifts, 19 new endowments, and 19 new planned gifts were established. An endowment generates earnings each year to be spent in a way chosen by the donor, and the endowment’s principal remains untouched. In this way, endowments continue to support Meredith College in perpetuity, strengthening the College’s future. The 19 new planned gifts have a value of $6,233,837, and the total lifetime planned giving is $72,647,191.

The Meredith Fund, our annual giving program, raised $2,848,871 in 2024-25. Gifts supported Meredith’s Greatest Needs, scholarships, athletics,

study abroad, student programming, and more.

• 4,759 donors

• 2,762 Onyx Society donors (3+ consecutive years of giving)

• $922,751 was raised for Meredith’s Greatest Needs, a fund that provides budget relief and enables the College to allocate funds to pressing needs.

• Make It Count for Meredith Giving Day on February 25 raised $1,634,211 from 2,706 donors in 24 hours.

• The Parents and Families Project raised $28,890 to fund security enhancements.

• The Class of 2025 raised $4,442 for a daisy garden to be used for future campus traditions.

• The Class of 1975 50th Reunion Project raised $251,038 for their Chaplain’s Fund Endowment, which provides emergency assistance to students.

• Faculty and Staff giving participation was 66%.

“We are truly grateful for the annual gifts from alumnae, faculty, staff, parents, students, and friends during the 2024-25 fiscal year,” said Jean Gambrill, director of the Meredith Fund. “Our donors’ passionate support advances Meredith’s mission and creates exceptional opportunities for students. We celebrate the loyalty of longtime supporters as well as the generosity of those who made their first gift to the College.”

Stay Connected with the Alumnae Association

During the 2024-25 academic year, the Office of Alumnae Relations coordinated 120 events with over 5,000 attendees from 38 states, two countries, and 78 different class years. The goal of each unique event is to allow alumnae to

reconnect, meet new people, and learn something about the College.

• Eight welcome events for President Aimee Sapp were held.

• The Meredith Mentors platform increased to 2,161 users.

• The Alumnae Owned Business Directory has grown to 128 companies.

• Angel Adventures, the alumnae travel program, included three trips with 88 travelers.

• 26 student events

Student Initiatives

There were 26 student events hosted by the Alumnae Association to support them, give them a skill, or teach them about life after Meredith. The 1891 Club, a student philanthropy organization, grew its membership to 194 students. This organization is devoted to helping current students prepare for lifelong relationships with the College as partners, advocates, and investors

Welcoming the Meredith Class of 2029 with 11 Senior Welcome events was important to the admissions strategy this year. The Office of Alumnae Relations held events in Raleigh, Goldsboro, Clinton, Rocky Mount, Wake Forest, Durham, Chapel Hill, Cary, Greensboro, Sanford, Winston-Salem, and Henderson.

The Year Ahead

The Office of Institutional Advancement hopes that you will stay connected to Meredith. There are so many ways. Visit meredith.edu or meredith.edu/support to see the latest news and events. Read your Meredith Magazine and the Lux e-newsletter, and follow Meredith on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn, TikTok, and Threads. Visit meredith.edu/alumnae to learn about events and to join online resources.

Competition Brings Alumnae Classes Together

By Jean Gambrill

M$15,464,743 RAISED IN MAJOR, PLANNED, AND ANNUAL GIFTS

$2,848,871 IN ANNUAL DOLLARS RAISED

4,759 DONORS MADE GIFTS

$1,634,211 RAISED ON GIVING DAY GOAL WAS $1.2M

$922,751 RAISED FOR MEREDITH’S GREATEST NEEDS

120 ALUMNAE ASSOCIATION EVENTS

eredith Mayhem is a powerful tradition that brings alumnae classes together, turning class pride into meaningful impact through collective giving to their alma mater. Held each year from mid-May through June, this friendly competition challenges alumnae to see which class from each decade can achieve the highest participation in giving to Meredith. The enthusiasm and generosity that come with the challenge demonstrate just how much Meredith women love a good competition – and their involvement celebrates the lasting connection alumnae have to their Meredith experience.

The class from each decade with the highest percentage of alumnae who make a gift is named that decade’s winner.

This year’s Mayhem brought renewed energy as alumnae reconnected, reflected on what Meredith means to them, and gave back. Congratulations to the 2025 Meredith Mayhem winning classes of 1959, 1969, 1975, 1982, 1998, 2001, 2013, and 2020 – whose leadership and dedication capture the spirit of Meredith Mayhem and help pave the way for a strong and vibrant future for all Angels.

SUPPORT MEREDITH

Gifts to Meredith College make a difference to the entire Meredith community and keep our students going strong!

Visit meredith.edu/support and make a gift that addresses the College’s greatest needs, select a more specific way to make an immediate impact on the College, make a long-term, endowed gift, or a gift through your will or trust.

Also, learn how you can attend future events or how you can volunteer. Connect with other alumnae and students through the Meredith Mentors program.

Visit meredith.edu/support to stay connected and reach out to an Institutional Advancement staff member to assist you if you have questions. To make a gift, visit community.meredith.edu/supportmc.

ALUMNAE CONNECTION

Class notes and news for Meredith Alumnae

1946

Celebrating with family and friends, Sallie Ray Bowers Wilkerson turned 100 years old in June 2025!

1963

Like many others, Velma McGee Ferrell is slowing down – what feels like a busy week would have been a slow one just a few years ago! She still spends hours each week at her sewing machine, creating items to sell through WomanCraft, the more-than-50-year-old co-op in Chapel Hill of which she is a longtime member. Ferrell and her husband are fortunate to have a son and daughter-in-law who include them on occasional adventures, including Alaska in 2024 and Pea Island, N.C., in January 2025 to observe the variety of migrating birds that winter along the coast. Ferrell and her husband now have a great-granddaughter who lives in Mexico. Their annual visit is a real gift! Linda Foster McGlamery remembers her days and friends at Meredith fondly. She continues to live alone, with regular visits from family members. Because of mobility issues, she no longer drives – a real pain! She enjoys meeting weekly with a group of friends for lunch and quilting, and she stays in touch with others through phone calls. McGlamery often finds herself reading several books at once. Adapting to change, she says, is her guiding focus for happiness.

1971

Mary Stuart Parker Alderman received the Peter Post Service Award from the United Way of the Lowcountry during its 2025 annual meeting. The award honors an individual who embodies the spirit of selfless service, humility, and lasting community impact. Alderman was recognized for her decades of volunteer involvement in Beaufort and Jasper counties. Bonnie Bell continues to enjoy coastal life in Wilmington, surrounded by family and friends. She and her husband are always delighted

when their grandchildren or friends from Washington, D.C., come to soak up beach life with them. Bell especially enjoyed a recent birthday celebration hosted by her sister. Several Meredith Angels were in attendance, including Anne Luter Bromby, Sara Kennemur Mountford and Doris McIlwain . They missed Jane Holloway Woodard, who was unable to attend. The group cherished the rare opportunity to gather with longtime friends and family. A highlight of the evening was Anne and Debra hilariously facing off in a game of “Bonnie Trivia.” Anne remains the reigning champion. Anne Luter Bromby was pleased to see the Class of 1971 well represented at the inauguration of Meredith College’s new president, Dr. Aimee Sapp. Classmates including Sharyn Hembrick West, Bonnie Scott Truelove, Vickie Regan Rolfe, Betsy Best Phillips, Deborah Stanley McNeill, Jessie Markert Rivers, and Anne Bryan enjoyed Dr. Sapp’s inspiring inaugural address and the reception in the Johnson Hall Rotunda. It was a wonderful day to celebrate Meredith and its new leadership. Since Boyd King Dimmock lives in Raleigh, she finds herself on Meredith’s campus from time to time; however, a recent visit was especially meaningful as she returned as the grandmother of a prospective student. She loved getting to accompany her granddaughter, Annalise, around campus – reminiscing about her own special memories on campus while dreaming about who Annalise might become. They had the opportunity to meet with the head of the new nursing program and appreciated her time, hospitality, and valuable information. While still living in Atlanta, Susan Sprouse Duckwall’s life has slowed to a relaxing pace. She lost her husband in June 2024 after his battle with early-onset Alzheimer’s. The couple shared 53 years of marriage, and he is now at peace and free from pain. Duckwall relocated to a senior residence in 2021 following a chimney fire at their home. The facility allowed her to live independently while still being able to

care for her husband prior to his passing. She now enjoys spending time with her family, including her four grandchildren. Duckwall sends warm wishes to her classmates and hopes everyone is enjoying life as much as possible. In early June, Gail Bartholomew Kiker and Martha Dandrige Overton flew to Paris for a week of adventures. They stayed in a fabulous hotel and walked many miles exploring the city, including the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, the Rodin Museum, and a Seine River cruise. Although they got lost a few times, most French locals were bilingual and very helpful. Kiker and Overton also traveled to Normandy, spending a night in the quaint village of Bayeux. They explored Pointe du Hoc, Utah Beach, Omaha Beach, and the American Cemetery before taking the train back to Paris – a day full of emotions. While Kiker loved experiencing Paris, she especially enjoyed spending time with Overton, who has been a friend since their freshman year together in 1967! Sara Kennemur Mountford and her husband continue to enjoy living in Holden Beach, N.C. This summer, they celebrated Independence Day with Anne Luter Bromby and her family at their cottage. Mountford’s youngest son and his family recently moved to Wrightsville Beach, allowing her more time with her 5- and 10-year-old grandsons. She also joined several classmates in Wilmington to celebrate Bonnie Bell’s birthday with a pink, Barbie-themed party! At 76, Jessie Markert Rivers is celebrating 30 years of employment at JLA Labs. She is deeply grateful for the support of both her work and church families and hopes she offers the same in return. Her son and his family live in Arnold, Md., where he works for Northrop Grumman. Her daughter, Katharine Rivers, ’11 , lives in FuquayVarina and works for SAS in Cary. Rivers is thankful for the digital tools that help them all stay closely connected. Her health remains good, aside from a bit of arthritis in her knees. She looks forward to reconnecting with classmates at their 55th Reunion in May 2026!

Compiled by the Office of Alumnae Relations from April 4, 2025, through July 25, 2025. Information may be edited for space limitations and content restrictions. Submit class notes online at meredith.edu/alumnae, by email at alumnae@meredith.edu, or by phone to the Office of Alumnae Relations at (919) 760-8548. Deadline for the Spring 2026 issue is November 28, 2025.

Submissions received after this date will appear in the Digital Summer 2026 issue.

1973

In May, Nancy Bass Drake traveled to Italy with her daughter and son-in-law. They spent two weeks exploring much of the country – visiting ancient sites, admiring the art and architecture, and, of course, enjoying the delicious food. Drake’s sonin-law, Ben, grew up in Bologna, making him the perfect tour guide. They also had the joy of meeting his family, which was a wonderful bonus. There was too much to see and enjoy in just one trip, so a return to Italy remains on her bucket list! In May 2025, Deborah Tingle McCutchen and her husband enjoyed a memorable trip to France with Collette Tours. Highlights included an overnight stay in the 15th-century Château de Beauvois, climbing the 350 steps of Mont Saint-Michel, and exploring Saint-Malo. A visit to the beaches of Normandy proved both emotional and eye-opening. They continued on to Giverny, where McCutchen was in heaven surrounded by flowers and art. In Paris, they enjoyed a cruise along the Seine, dinner in the Eiffel Tower, and visits to Notre Dame and the Louvre. McCutchen now understands why people fall in love with Paris. It was an unforgettable trip. Retirement continues to be filled with volunteer work and artmaking for Jean McLaughlin. She spent three weeks in residence at Château du Pin in the Loire Valley, where she drew in the gardens daily. Recovery from Hurricane Helene is ongoing in her area. In January 2025, Bobbie Heilman Murphy underwent surgery to fuse bones in her foot. Recovery required Murphy to remain completely off her foot for nine weeks, which was followed by a boot, and finally a return to regular shoes in June! Murphy enjoyed getting to meet Dr. Sapp at a welcome event in Richmond, Va. Fellow members of the Class of 1973 also attended, including Anne Carter Shiflett Zetts, Scottie Noel Alley, Nancy Plott Williams, and Marcia Dark Coreth, They all agree that President Sapp is delightful and the perfect fit for Meredith. Including Murphy, eight members of the Class of 1973 get together monthly for lunch and always have a great time catching up!

Ann Harden Whitford was awarded the Order of the Long Leaf Pine by North Carolina Governor Josh Stein for her service to the state’s community college system. During her tenure, Whitford served 16 years as a trustee at Carteret Community College and 14 years as a member of the N.C. State Board of Community Colleges. After graduating from Meredith, Whitford taught middle school for seven years before founding a construction company and enjoying a long career as a contractor.

ALUMNAE CONNECTION

1974

The spring was busy for Ceil Watson Blackwell. She traveled to Cuba in March and then had her left knee replaced in May. Peggy Bryan Cochran has joined a team committed to opening the Robersonville Exhibit Hall bringing the town’s history alive. For updates, visit Explore Martin County on Facebook. After 50 years apart, Marylu Utley Flowers is enjoying reconnecting with her suitemates and roommates from Meredith, including Jennifer Miller Curry, Candace Waugh Whitlock and Cindy Rosser Higgins. The group now visits regularly and has picked up right where they left off!

1975

Linda McKinnish Bridges has recently welcomed a new grandson from her youngest son.

1981

Helena Frances Flannagan welcomed a new grandson, Callum Henry, in November 2024. Traveling from New York to Quebec City, Kathy Anderson Newcomb and her husband enjoyed 12 glorious days aboard the Queen Mary II. Afterward, they wrapped up the trip with a wild weekend in Las Vegas, where they saw the Eagles in concert.

1983

Pam Dickens recently retired from her career in public health and is now spending her time as an artist focused on watercolor and pastels. Carla Fowler Gibbons and her husband are both officially retired! She retired in June 2023, and her husband retired in April 2025. In May 2025, Elizabeth Macklen Narron traveled to Norway and Sweden for a memorable trip with one of her sons. A highlight of the trip was dining at a Michelin-starred restaurant, where they enjoyed nine courses of native Swedish cuisine. After 37 years as a commercial real estate paralegal, Narron retired in 2020. She enjoys spending time with her three grown sons and two grandsons (ages 7 and 3), all of whom live nearby. After 41 years in the classroom, Molly McGee Spurgeon is still going strong! She believes that the Lord has given her the love and energy for teaching and plans to continue as long as she is able. McGee is proud of her son who is grown, married, and also a teacher! He is currently working on his doctorate. Recently, McGee’s suitemates came to visit her in Greenville, S.C. She is thankful for friendships that began in 1983 and continue today!

1984

Since retiring in the spring of 2025, Pam Mortensen Elks has thoroughly enjoyed her freedom! She and her family welcomed a second granddaughter in March 2025. She and her husband are thankful to have both of her sons in the Raleigh area. Recently celebrating 40 years of marriage, Elizabeth Fordham Mebane and her husband have two granddaughters and another on the way! Enjoying life in Edisto Beach, S.C., Linda Dotson Perkins and her husband enjoy spending time with their grandchildren, playing sports, and traveling. Dianne Powell Reardon is the practice manager for WakeMed Primary and Urgent Care on Oberlin Road in Raleigh, N.C. Kathy Gerald Stocks and her husband recently moved to North Myrtle Beach. They enjoyed travels to both Italy and the United Kingdom this year. Stocks’ children live locally, her son and his wife in Cary, and her daughter’s family in Chapel Hill. They are expecting another grandchild this fall! After 38 years, Carol Brooks Uphoff and her husband continue to live in Chapel Hill, N.C. She remains a nationally certified personal trainer and certified nutrition coach, although her favorite role is being a grandmother to three grandchildren –one in Raleigh and two in Atlanta. While traveling with the grandchildren has kept Uphoff from Alumnae Reunions, she does hope to catch up sometime soon! As a lawyer and lobbyist with Fetzer Strategic Partners in downtown Raleigh, Susan Fetzer Vick represents several North Carolina companies before the N.C. General Assembly. In August, she and her husband celebrated 40 years of marriage. They enjoy life in eastern N.C. in a farmhouse dating back to 1742. They often spend their weekends working on a 1900s fixer-upper in Belhaven. In 2023, Robin Congleton Woodlief retired and also welcomed a grandson, Nash.

1986

Laura Bynum Beasley is a proud mom! Her middle son was married in February 2025 in Wilmington, N.C., and it was a joyous celebration. Shortly after the wedding, he moved to Piedmont, S.C., to begin his appointment as a recruiter for the Air Force. Beasley’s youngest son graduated from Western Carolina University last December with a degree in parks and recreation management. He then moved to Hendersonville to start his job as water resource director for Camp Tekoa. Beasley hopes her fellow Class of 1986 members are gearing up for their 40th reunion this coming May. Bridgette

Parker Coates is thrilled to share that she is now a Gigi! Her grandson, Benson, was born in April 2025 and is proudly named after his Gigi. Although he may never be a Meredith Angel, he is certainly an angel to the family. Adding to the joy of 2025, Coates’ son married in May after a threeyear engagement. Professionally, Coates accepted the position of workforce development director at the Pee Dee Regional Council of Governments in Florence, S.C., where she has worked for nearly 35 years. She continues to love her work, her team and her employer – but with Benson’s arrival, retirement may be on the horizon in 2026. In her second year of retirement, Georgia Parrish James is enjoying every moment! She has become involved in the Free Moms program at NC State and volunteers on Thursdays at Centennial Campus. She would love for classmates in the Raleigh area to join her for baking and visiting with college students. Lisa Robie Poole is looking forward to the wedding of her daughter, Chelsea, scheduled for this fall! On a recent Italian adventure, Anne Douglass Scruggs visited Florence, Cinque Terre, and the Chianti region. Scruggs also welcomed a new grandson, Henry Walters, in August 2025.

1987

Suzanna Browne Edens was promoted to a senior technical writer at KBI Biopharma. Fannie Rowland Howell welcomed a new grandson, Hudson Alan, in February 2025. Dana Austin Rounds has officially retired! Elizabeth Bowen Royall Stiff has relocated from Miami to Charleston.

1989

Kathy Knowles Lohff welcomed a grandson, Weston David, in March 2025. After 35 years of service with the Southampton County Department of Social Services, Michelle Davis Stivers retired on August 1, 2025. For the last 16 years of her tenure, Stivers served as agency director. In retirement, she and her husband plan to relocate to their home on the Chowan River in Edenton, N.C.

1990

On April 14, 2025, Jill Creston Rothstein was named the executive director of the Wisconsin State Bar. Rothstein will be the first woman in the organization’s history to hold the position. Now in her sixth year, Amelia Stinson-Wesley serves on the Pineville Town Council. In addition to this role, she is the senior pastor of Memorial United Methodist Church in Charlotte, N.C., and was recently named a 2025 Hunt Institute State Policy Fellow.

1991

In May 2024, Christy Sizemore Rogers completed her doctor of social work (DSW). She now teaches as an adjunct professor in the master’s of thanatology program at Edgewood University in Madison, Wis. Rogers continues to work full-time as a hospice bereavement coordinator and grief counselor while residing in Greenville, S.C. After 29 years of service, Marbeth Wrenn Holmes will be retiring from her position as dean of student success at Nash Community College.

1993

In 2024, Jennifer Hartig graduated from Auburn University with a Bachelor of Science in nursing. She later passed her medical-surgical certification exam. Hartig was recently nominated for her hospital’s Nurse of the Year award. While precepting a class, she connected with a fellow Meredith Angel from the Class of 2013 who had recently become a registered nurse.

1994

Since returning to school, Lori Watson Strickland has become a licensed physical therapist assistant. Mary Blythe Taylor is in her third year of working parttime as a lecturer in public speaking at the University of Tennessee at Knoxville. Over the past year, she has been pursuing a Doctor of Ministry degree in

spiritual renewal, contemplative practice, and strategic leadership. She is now transferring to the newly created Doctor of Spirituality program at Claremont Theological Seminary. Blythe has lived back in her hometown of Rocky Mount, N.C. for the last decade.

1995

Debora Opheim Kolb has retired!

1996

After 24 years as a medical speechlanguage pathologist, Jennifer Collins Bland began a new journey as co-owner of Grounded and Baked bakeries. The first location opened in LaGrange, N.C., and the business has since expanded to two more locations in Goldsboro and Mount Olive, N.C. Bland and the bakery were recently featured on NC Weekend on PBS NC. In May 2025, Kyle Hoffman earned her master’s degree in sustainability management from Columbia University. She recently joined Lloyds Banking Group as head of energy, commodities and utilities in North America. Gina Hunt is celebrating the ninth anniversary of her company, Paris Personally, which offers tours and small group trips to Paris. After completing six years in secondary and tertiary eye care at Duke Eye Center and Triangle Eye Consultants, Dr. Amanda Steele has returned to primary care and is now practicing at MyEyeDr. in Wake Forest, N.C. In January 2025, Amy Johnson Zagora moved into a senior

account manager role at HMH Education Company. She serves accounts in South Carolina.

1999

Since 2002, Jennifer West Freeman has practiced immigration law in Richmond, Va. She was recently voted an equity member at Roth Jackson. Tabitha Gonzalez Hagen began a new position as a sales operations specialist and database coordinator at Allbridge LLC in Raleigh, N.C. In November 2024, April Jones Lee was elected to the Johnston County Board of Education while continuing to teach high school math in Harnett County. Lee was selected to serve on the N.C. Teaching Fellows Advisory Board and is a 2025 Hunt Institute State Policy Fellow. Since 2023, Mary Sharpe Sluder has served as the principal of Brooks Global Elementary School in Greensboro, N.C.

2001

Celebrating the one-year anniversary of opening her business, Susan Ames Webster and her husband are the proud owners of Vulture Peak Brewing Company in Wickenburg, Arizona. Vulture Peak is a microbrewery serving craft beer. Webster and her husband hope that if any MC Angels are in the area, they will stop by for a visit. Webster was recently featured in Bold Journey, an online magazine highlighting successful women business owners.

2025 CHRISTMAS ORNAMENT

Available Now

As you drive onto campus, the iconic Johnson Hall greets you – framed by graceful magnolias and the sparkling Elizabeth Triplett Beam Fountain, creating the perfect Meredith scene.

Now you can bring that beauty into your holiday home with this elegant hand-painted glass ornament. A timeless addition to your décor, it’s more than decoration – it’s a statement of your Meredith pride.

Limited quantity available. Sales runs through December 1 or while supplies last. Pick-up and shipping options available. To purchase, visit meredithmarket.com.

Questions? Email alumnae@meredith.edu or call the Office of Alumnae Relations at (919) 760-8548.

ALUMNAE GOING STRONG

MARY HEMPHILL, ’05 The Limitless Leader

By Rocio Antelis

Mary Hemphill, ’05, is limitless. As a North Carolina Teaching Fellow, she began her career as a third-grade teacher after graduating from Meredith College.

Driven by her passion for education and a desire to help others grow, Hemphill soon transitioned into assistant principal and principal roles, where she implemented initiatives to improve student outcomes and faculty morale at low-performing schools. This included the “one-minute meeting,” which encourages educational leaders to take a student-centered decision-making approach.

Hemphill’s innovation led to a job offer from the lieutenant governor to serve as the first director of K-12 computer science & technology education at the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction.

“When he called, I said, ‘I’m so sorry, I think you have the wrong number, I’m not a computer scientist,” said Hemphill. “He told me, ‘I don’t want you because you’re a computer scientist. I want you because you’re a problem solver.’”

In this role, Hemphill oversaw an initiative to provide an opportunity for all North Carolina K-12 students to learn computer science skills. Networking with leaders and decision-makers across the state, many requested Hemphill to speak at events outside of her work responsibilities. The demand became so great that Hemphill founded The Limitless Leader Collective, an organization that offers leadership development keynote speeches, coaching, workshops, and retreats. In 2022, Hemphill took a chance on herself and left her full-time job to focus on her business.

Hemphill has been a keynote speaker at more than 500 conferences in over 38 states.

“Had you told me that this was what my ‘yes’ was going to produce, I would have said ‘yes’ sooner,” said Hemphill. “In five years, I want the Limitless Leader Collective to be a global brand. I also want to build something with excellence and integrity, so that we can anticipate what leaders are going to look like in the next five years.”

In addition to running her business, Hemphill is an adjunct professor at UNC-Chapel Hill and a Forbes contributor on leadership strategies. Earlier this year, her article “How Leaders Use Microhabits to Activate Curiosity at Work” was featured as an Editor’s Pick.

Hemphill can trace her drive for excellence back to Meredith.

“Meredith has a standard of excellence,” she said. “There are support structures in place to help you cultivate excellence. I was the second Black SGA president and the centennial president. Seeing the 99 women who came before me, there’s a legacy that said, ‘Lead boldly. Lead unapologetically. And know that any room you step into, your voice matters, and you’re walking with this community behind you.’”

2002

In December 2024, Elizabeth Baynes Johnson earned a master’s in clinical mental health counseling from the College of William & Mary. She is now working as a licensed therapist at Oak City Psychology in Raleigh, N.C. Keri Medlin was the 2025 recipient of the Dale Jones Memorial Award for Excellence in Geriatrics, which was presented at the N.C. Association of Pharmacists meeting in June.

2004

Heather Moore Acree is the principal at KIPP Pride Lower Elementary School.

2005

Bethany Hall Stephens works at Coastal Horizons/Child First and is also a parttime cosmetologist. Beginning a new call, Amanda Hatfield Moore is now the pastor of Bethany Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Arapahoe, N.C.

2007

Heather Blackwood Barron and her husband have bought a new house in Perry, Ga.

2011

Based in Asheville, Caleigh Bridgers works for Pressio, an endurance apparel company, designing clothing for athletes in USA Triathlon, Spartan Race, Mudrunner, Hyrox, and more. This summer, Bridgers served as a studio assistant at Penland School of Craft, helping teach a twoweek course in natural dyeing, a passion she’s developed over the past few years. She and her partner manage two Airbnbs in North Asheville and are grateful to see the city reopening post-Hurricane Helene. Among other highlights, Bridgers continues to teach yoga and meditation, love on her two German shepherds, and travel! This summer included trips to Italy, the South of France, and Barcelona. In August 2024, she traveled to Thailand, kayaking around the islands of Koh Samui, followed by two weeks in Vietnam. During this time, she hiked through Black Hmong Villages in the north, studying traditional dyeing, weaving, and embroidery. All in all, Bridgers describes the experience as challenging, exhausting, fun, and deeply rewarding. Beginning this fall, Jordan Jaked Carrier started a role as professor of production design in costumes at the Savannah College of Art and Design’s Atlanta campus. Her work focuses on design for film and television. The past year has been a busy one for Emery Anna Lai! Last September, she traveled to New Zealand for National Hobbit Day.

In November, she landed her dream job, and in February, she purchased her first home. She’s enjoying every bit of this phase of life.

2014

Cady Carawan Howe and Rebecca Shaw Smith started a new business together called Say I Duo Social LLC. Since 2019, Kathryn Warren Holmes has worked as the showroom designer for Tile Inc. in Fayetteville, N.C.

2015

After nearly a decade in education, Sara Owens Crews recently made a leap into real estate. She now works as a residential Realtor and broker in the Raleigh area. In May 2025, Tabitha Ostrout earned her doctoral degree in psychology.

2019

The Wake County Public School System named Macy Brinson the 2024-2025 Teacher of the Year! Brinson teaches physical education at Kingswood Magnet Elementary in Cary, N.C. After completing law school, Jennifer Garcia moved to the Washington, D.C. area to work as a labor and employment attorney for the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC).

2020

Myah Morse Dooley is loving her role as an American history teacher and recently completed her fifth year in the classroom. This year was especially memorable, as

NEED TO ORDER A CLASS RING? REPAIR A RING?

In March 2024, Meredith College began a new partnership with Balfour & Co. to produce the College class rings, graduation products, and regalia. Founded in 1913, Balfour is well known for its long and successful history in delivering exceptional quality products that last a lifetime. Balfour is the leader within the industry and manages nearly 75% of all ring programs for colleges and universities.

Students and alumnae can expect artisan craftsmanship and excellent customer service from both the company and our campus representative.

There will be no changes to the design of our treasured onyx ring under this new partnership.

Purchase a Meredith College ring from Balfour & Co. at balfour.com/meredith.

Rings purchased from Jostens, up until April 2024, will continue to be serviced by Jostens. To reach the Jostens Customer Care Service Center, call 1-800-854-7464.

Should you have questions about the Meredith College Class Ring Program, contact Hilary Allen, ’01, at allenh@meredith.edu or (919) 760-8751.

she and her husband were married on Valentine’s Day in downtown Wilmington, N.C., and celebrated with her first cruise, honeymooning in the Bahamas, Jamaica, and Haiti. She is also excited to begin her M.A. in history this fall. Kayla Myers Holestin is a payroll clerk and human resources assistant at Performance Fire Protection, a family-owned company.

2022

Hannah Schneider received her Master of Fine Arts in experimental and documentary arts at Duke University in May 2025. Joining the team at the Gilbert Theatre in Fayetteville, N.C. MacKenzie Ulibarri is the office manager and resident lighting designer.

NEW ARRIVALS

2003

Christen Jones Voltz, a son, Jack William, 4/29/25.

2010

Emily Dawson Davis, a daughter, Margaret "Margot" Tyndall, 6/11/25.

Amanda Bitler Smith, twin daughters, Leah and Louisa, 11/30/22, and a daughter, Sara Katherine, 3/14/25.

2011

Samantha Bryant Anderson, a son, Garrett James, 1/17/25.

Sarah Beth Phelps Bdoyan, a daughter, Claire Naré, 6/12/24.

Halie Sue Smith Clifton, a daughter, Virginia Grace, 4/15/25.

2012

Linley Evans Coggins, a daughter, Leila Elise, 6/12/25.

2014

Barrett Royal Barton, a daughter, Grace Elizabeth, 12/26/24.

Erin Wilson Davis, a daughter, June Caroline, 11/20/24.

Ali Chappell DeHay, a daughter, Charlotte Russell, 2/4/25.

Stacey Florence Hill, a daughter, Ava Lee, 4/17/25.

2016

Lillian Redding, a son, Theodore Avery Garrett, 1/24/25.

2017

Megan Outten Maloney, a son, Joseph Kenneth, 4/14/25.

2019

Claire Beeson Gulley, a daughter, Daphne Ann, 1/8/25.

Abby Myers Mills, a son, James Alexander, 12/2/24.

2020

Alli Barrow Easom, a son, Bennett James, 11/15/24.

ALUMNAE CONNECTION

Kayla Myers Holestin, a son, Kaius Brendon, 9/7/23.

2024

Mallory Kemple, a son, Holden Bobby Gene, 6/15/24.

MARRIAGES

1996

Angela Jones to Derek Combs, 6/12/25. 2003

Christen Jones Voltz to Travis Voltz, 8/20/22.

2005

Bethany Hall to Wesley Stephens, 6/19/04.

2013

Ives Maready to Owen Stone, 5/31/25.

2014

Kathryn Warren to Laurence Holmes, 11/19/22.

2019

Maggie Griffin to Alex Christopoulos, 5/17/25.

Julia Hall McQueen to Connor Swales, 4/12/25.

2020

Myah Mary-Zell Morse to David Corey Dooley, 2/14/25.

Kayla Raellen Myers to John Lee Holestin, 10/30/21.

Elise Landres to Zac Nowack, 1/8/24.

DEATHS

1946

Frances Wallace Rankin, 4/24/25.

1947

Dot Loftin Goodwin, 6/29/25.

Jetta Funderburk Spencer, 6/9/25.

1948

Evelyn Peele Edwards, 3/1/09.

Jeanne Stewart Arthur Mays, 7/12/25.

1949

Betty Jean Johnson Brown, 2/23/25.

Billie Hart Warren, 4/11/25.

1951

Barbara Pearson Haskett, 7/13/25.

1952

Evelyn Krause Moss, 2/3/25.

1953

Peggy Hill Earp McManus, 4/10/25.

Ellen Westmoreland Smith, 6/11/25.

Melba Barbour Arnold, 11/9/24.

Carolyn “Lyn” Belton Bonahue, 7/13/25.

Barbara White DeLouise, 5/8/25.

Doris Allen Litchfield, 5/3/25.

Barbara Bullard Page, 3/9/25.

1955

Daphine Mayton Sparrow, 3/22/25.

1956

Trudi Moore Nelson, 10/25/24.

Catherine Yates Short, 5/11/25.

1958

Linda Smith Parker, 6/19/25.

Katie Eddins Vance, 6/22/25.

1960

Kitty Berger DuPlessis, 4/20/25. Carolyn Carr Fortner, 5/8/19.

Lois Haigh Gibbon, 4/19/25.

Ellen Paschall Johnson, 3/18/25.

Dolly Sue Vernon Pearce, 11/4/24.

Blake Long Settlemyer, 12/4/22.

1963

Harriet Rivers Brower, 8/2/25.

Gretchen Leffler Pindell, 7/17/25.

Martha Christian West, 11/2/23.

Leah Rose Williams, 2/8/25.

1964

Mary “Jenny” Winfield Gray, 6/16/25.

Carol Galloway Hager, 3/19/22.

1965

Carrie Tyson, 2/9/27.

1968

Elizabeth Watkins Watts, 7/4/25.

1970

Alicia Suarez Butler Eller, 5/26/25. 1972

Gail Arnette McCann, 7/7/25.

1973

Georgia Griffin Browning, 4/12/25.

1976

Janet Hollowell Whitfield, 5/31/25.

1977

Phyllis Smith Hayes, 7/10/25.

1979

Carla Wooten, 2/12/23.

1980

Kathy High Britt, 7/31/22.

1982

Carolyn Goldschmidt Wolf, 6/5/25.

1983

Patricia Mixon Crowe, 2/14/25.

1990

Anne Booth Davey, 3/14/25.

2016

Jessica Browning Schavone, 6/19/25.

SYMPATHY

1949

Betty Lutz Bowling in the death of her husband.

1956

Iris Merritt Womble in the death of her husband.

1957

Anita Hiatt Hennis in the death of her husband.

1958

Fran Fulp Franklin in the death of her husband.

1960

Betty Galloway Harkey in the death of her sister.

1962

Diane Journigan Garcia in the death of her husband.

1963

Susan Ross Clabault in the death of her husband.

Carolyn Miller Parker in the death of her husband.

1964

Martha Rivers Dickson in the death of her sister.

1965

Norma Baird Hoffman in the death of her husband.

Crystal Hartness Leathers in the death of her brother.

1969

Mary Helen Simms Patterson in the death of her husband.

1970

Phyllis Jeffreys Culbreth in the death of her husband.

Diane Clayton Felmet in the death of her husband.

Cindy Griffith McEnery in the death of her husband.

1972

Susan Burke Kerr in the death of her husband.

Marianne Nifong Raker in the death of her husband.

1973

Claire Goodwin in the death of her mother.

Gwen Noble in the death of her mother.

1974

Peggy Stone Lamm in the death of her mother and in the death of her husband.

1975

Norma Heath Lundy in the death of her husband.

1976

Susan Goodwin Thornbrough in the death of her mother.

1978

Debra Bryant in the death of her mother.

Faye Hollowell Porter in the death of her sister.

1979

Anne Arnold Keen in the death of her mother.

Molly Lawrence Whitaker in the death of her husband.

1983

Carla Fowler Gibbons in the death of her father.

Katherine Harless McMullan in the death of her mother.

Lisa Cline Todd in the death of her mother.

1986

Margaret McCullers Kocsis in the death of her aunt.

1987

Judy Wilson Black in the death of her husband.

Audry Kerr Bunn in the death of her mother.

Felicia Mabes Hayward in the death of her mother.

Laura Litchfield Van Meter in the death of her mother.

Lou Ann Qualls Wollett in the death of her mother.

Nikki Phillips Yarborough in the death of her husband.

1990

Beth Outland German in the death of her mother.

AMY BROWN, ’00 A Lesson in Perseverance

By Rocio Antelis

Perseverance led Amy Brown, ’00, to serve as a U.S. Army sergeant major, one of the highest military ranks and one only a few women have earned.

At Meredith College, Brown majored in studio art and earned her teacher licensure. Brown recalls her art professor reading The Carrot Seed by Ruth Krauss in class, a tale about a young boy who patiently waits for his carrot seed to sprout. The experience offered a lesson in perseverance that she has carried with her ever since.

After graduating, Brown was working at East Wake High School in Raleigh, following her lifelong passion to teach and serve her community. On September 11, 2001, Brown watched the news in disbelief with her students. That day, she decided to serve her country.

“You can imagine that when I told my family and friends that I was going to leave my teaching job, they told me I was nuts,” said Brown. “I was 30 years old and going to be at boot camp with fit 18-year-olds. I persevered and did well. I always said ‘yes’ to the long days and the extra effort it took to get a struggling soldier over a hurdle.”

Brown originally planned to return to her career as a grade school art teacher after fulfilling her initial six-year contract with the Army. However, she realized the Army provided ample opportunities to teach, create meaningful artwork, and have a positive influence on others. During her more than 20-year career in the Army, Brown held several positions, including multimedia illustrator, intelligence analyst, and art instructor.

“I was lucky enough to have leaders who saw my eagerness to learn and allowed me to work up to my potential,” said Brown. “I was allowed to cross-train and take on as much as I thought I could handle.”

Brown also served as the Army’s artist-in-residence for three years, documenting the lives of U.S. soldiers. Her works depict Hurricane Sandy relief efforts in New Jersey and New York, and soldiers in Afghanistan in 2013.

“People ask me, ‘Why doesn’t the Army just send a photographer?’” said Brown. “They do, and photographers do an amazing job, but to get to the most concentrated emotional responses, there is an artist there.”

Before retiring from the Army in 2025, Brown served at the Army Public Affairs Center in Fort Meade, Maryland, which oversees the Army’s communication strategies. As sergeant major, she advised leadership on doctrine, training, personnel, facilities, and policy related to public affairs.

ALUMNAE GOING STRONG

SAVE THE DATE • MAY 15-17

PARTY | CLASS LUNCHEON & EVENTS

STATE OF THE COLLEGE | WORSHIP SERVICE

Join us on campus in May to relive your Meredith Days!

All alumnae are invited to attend Alumnae Reunion Weekend, and classes ending in a six or one will be celebrating a special class reunion. On Friday, we will celebrate the Class of 1976 and all other classes who have celebrated a 50th reunion at the Golden Oaks Society Luncheon. The campus party will feature live music from BOUNCE Party Band. Saturday highlights include a State of the College, a campus luncheon, and individual class activities. The weekend will conclude on Sunday with the Alumnae Worship Service and Brunch.

Visit meredith.edu/alumnae-reunion to see the schedule of on-campus events and individual class events as they become available. Registration will open soon. Should you have questions or need additional assistance, please contact the Office of Alumnae Relations at (919) 760-8548 or alumnae@meredith.edu.

We look forward to welcoming you home in May!

1994

Mary Virginia Outland in the death of her mother.

1995

Leigh Butler Longino in the death of her father.

1996

Ann Carter Kirkland in the death of her husband.

Kacey Reynolds Schedler in the death of her father.

1997

Randi Ligon in the death of her mother.

1999

Farrah Bullock Mann in the death of her mother.

2002

Keri Medlin in the death of her father.

2005

Meredith Heinisch Huie in the death of her father.

2007

Heather Blackwood Barron in the death of her brother.

2014

Kaitlin Petruska in the death of her father.

2020

Mimi Mays in the death of her grandmother.

2024

Mallory Kemple in the death of her grandfather.