Spring 2025 Meredith Magazine

CAMPUS NEWS

As the spring semester began, Meredith College welcomed new and returning students to campus. Just as its beautiful 225-acre location in Raleigh is a strength, so is Meredith’s ability to adapt to meet the needs of current students. Read about ways that Meredith offers innovative student support in the feature on page 18.

Honoring Women Veterans Service Features Student Speakers

By Melyssa Allen

Meredith College held its annual Honoring Women Veterans event on November 6, 2024, in Jones Chapel. The event honors all veterans, with special emphasis on the contributions of women veterans.

Patty Blackwell, a U.S. Air Force veteran and Honoring Women Veterans Committee co-chair, noted during her welcome that the featured speakers were both student veterans. Trina Zazarine, ’25, is a U.S. Air Force veteran and Karina Reyna, ’25, is a veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps. They shared their experiences on active duty.

Zazarine’s service as a medic during the Gulf War led her to a 22-year career as a nurse. She reflected on her decision to join the military, as well as the training and opportunities being in service created for her.

She is past president of the Meredith Student Veterans of America club and past commander of the American Legion Post 67 in Cary, N.C. Zazarine values opportunities to engage with fellow veterans at Meredith and in the community to “foster a unique camaraderie known only to those who have served.”

Zazarine asked those in attendance to remember not all veterans are men. “There are women who have taken that same oath to dedicate their lives to this great nation,” she said. “Thank you for honoring us.”

Karina Reyna served in the U.S. Marine Corps for 12 years. In her remarks, she shared her nervousness and excitement upon arrival at boot camp when she was nearly 18.

Reyna’s service included humanitarian relief efforts in The Philippines after a typhoon. “What stuck with me was how good it felt to be of service and how much time we spent helping the locals there, trying our best despite the language barrier.”

Reyna takes pride in her status as a veteran. “As a woman, I am proud to say I served my country,” Reyna said. “I am proud to be a veteran, just as I am proud to be a wife, daughter, sister, dog mom, and Meredith College student.”

The College’s annual Veterans Day commemoration is presented by the Meredith College Honoring Women Veterans Committee.

Karina Reyna, ’25

Trina Zazarine, ’25

Meredith College Nursing Program Receives Approval from North Carolina Board of Nursing

By Melyssa Allen

The North Carolina Board of Nursing has approved the establishment of Meredith College’s nursing program. The approval was announced at the Board’s meeting on January 16.

“On behalf of Meredith College, I am pleased that the North Carolina Board of Nursing has approved our new program, which will provide students with valuable opportunities to pursue rewarding careers,” said President Aimee Sapp. “Meredith College is dedicated to meeting the evolving needs of our state in addressing the critical shortage of healthcare workers here and beyond.”

Meredith College’s undergraduate nursing program for women will provide a rigorous curriculum within a supportive environment to help students become leaders and innovators in the nursing field. Meredith students will be eligible to apply for the nursing program through a secondary application process that will begin during the fall 2025 semester.

“Graduates of Meredith’s nursing program will be prepared to deliver high-quality, compassionate care, advocate for health equity, and embrace innovations in healthcare to improve the health and well-being of

individuals, families, and communities,” said Michelle Hartman, Meredith associate professor and nursing program director.

Graduates will be eligible to apply for licensure as registered nurses and be “practice-ready” across a variety of settings and organizations.

Nursing Program Strengths

Building on a strong foundation of preparing graduates for successful careers in nursing, Meredith’s nursing program will support students through personalized attention and mentorship from experienced faculty members dedicated to their success.

As a women’s college, Meredith has unique programming to help students gain the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in STEM fields. The program will also emphasize the importance of ethical practice, cultural humility, and lifelong learning, preparing students to be ethical leaders and advocates for patients’ care and healthcare equity.

In an evolving healthcare landscape, Meredith’s nursing program will embrace innovation and technological advancements that enhance patient care and nursing practice.

“Our students will be encouraged to be adaptable and open-minded, as we equip them with the knowledge and skills to leverage emerging

technologies, evidence-based interventions, and interdisciplinary collaboration to optimize health outcomes and improve healthcare delivery,” said Hartman.

Meredith’s location near the Research Triangle and strong faculty connections to industry partners will support exceptional research, clinical placement, and employment opportunities.

History of Healthcare Career Success

Meredith College has a long history of preparing its graduates for healthcare careers. Meredith pre-nursing alumnae are employed in numerous areas of the nursing field, including neonatal intensive care, cardiology, pediatrics, clinical research, heart failure, lung transplant, hospice and palliative care, and more.

In December, Meredith gained the approval of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) for its proposed nursing program. In the spring of 2024, the Meredith College Board of Trustees approved the establishment of a nursing program after rigorous evaluation and planning by Meredith College’s leadership and faculty.

Learn more about Meredith College’s nursing program at meredith.edu/nursing.

Celebration Held for Meredith Abroad 50th Anniversary

By Melyssa Allen

Meredith College welcomed more than 200 study abroad alumnae, faculty, and supporters to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Meredith Abroad. The reception in honor of this milestone year was held on November 21, 2024, in Johnson Hall Rotunda.

“Whether you’re a study abroad alumna, faculty program leader, generous friend of the College, or supportive colleague, we’re all privileged to be part of something truly special together – the 50-year legacy of Meredith Abroad,” said Dr. Brooke Shurer, director of international programs.

As leader of a British Studies program in 1974, Dr. Roger Crook set the foundation for faculty-led study abroad at Meredith. He created and directed the first Meredith Abroad program with support from his wife, Mary Ruth.

To the members of the Crook family in attendance at the anniversary celebration, Shurer said, “We hope it brings you tremendous joy to see Roger’s and Mary Ruth’s visionary work continuing to make such a positive impact.”

Professor Emerita Betty Webb, ’67, spoke about the history of Meredith Abroad, including her first time as the program’s faculty leader in 1977. There were many challenges during that first trip, including a canceled flight from New York and a student injury before the group left Gatwick Airport. Despite these early obstacles, the study abroad program was filled with successes and sparked her love of international education.

“In the intervening years I have reflected so often on how lucky I was that early in my career I was given the opportunity to teach in a wellconceived and well-executed study

abroad program,” Webb said. “It was an opportunity that set the direction and values of my professional life.”

Webb later became Meredith’s director of international programs. She led more than 40 programs before retiring from the role. In her remarks, she also considered what makes study abroad such a powerful experience.

“What exactly does one learn abroad that one cannot learn at home? Nothing – but abroad, learning happens in ultra-high definition … ” Webb said.

“One does not merely learn about the arts, the artifacts, the cultures. One learns in the midst of them. In doing so, we can be changed forever in large and small ways, carrying forward into our futures new knowledge, skills, and understandings that we are aware of even if we can’t explain them.”

Webb’s remarks were preceded by comments from three recent study abroad alumnae, Hannah Cox, ’24,

Betty Webb, ’67

Haileigh West, ’24, and Olivia Slack, ’22, who all shared about the positive impact of their study abroad experiences.

Meredith Abroad programs continue to thrive after 50 years, including in the College’s Italian home in Sansepolcro, Italy.

“As a testament to the strength of our Sansepolcro programs, in this academic year alone, we expect to host nearly 140 members of the Meredith community in the Palazzo Alberti, including undergraduate students, graduate students, employees, alumnae, and friends of the College,” Shurer said.

Building on the strength of that 1974 British Studies program, Meredith students now study abroad around the world in a variety of locations. Associate

Director of International Programs Elizabeth Yaros, ’06, thanked the many people who have made these programs possible.

“Thanks to our committed faculty, generous donors, motivated students, and longstanding partnerships, Brooke and I feel confident claiming to any prospective student that there is no better place than Meredith College to help students achieve their dreams of studying abroad,” said Yaros. “It has been the gift of our professional lives to uphold the Meredith Abroad legacy, to continue to build upon it, and to see programs grow and flourish for generations of students to come.”

The Office of International Programs also hosted an anniversary celebration for current students and the campus community on December 4.

Watch a playlist of celebration highlights.

Spring 2025 | MEREDITH MAGAZINE 5

Hannah Cox, ’24

Dr. Brooke Shurer and Elizabeth Yaros, ’06

Meredith Holds Successful Supply Drive After Hurricane Helene

By Melyssa Allen

When the extent of the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene in Western North Carolina became apparent, Meredith College student leaders jumped into action.

Meredith College, in partnership with the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NC DOT), held a donation drive for those affected by Hurricane Helene and NC DOT workers in districts 13 & 14. The drive was coordinated by SGA, in collaboration with other Meredith students and student organizations. Students connected with NC DOT, set up the donation stations, and coordinated the collections.

First-year student Gianna Pasquale was one of the student organizers. Like many others, she was looking for a way to show support after the hurricane.

“After Hurricane Helene struck, many of my friends and professors were asking, ‘How can we help?’ but many of us did not know how. I felt a strong desire to find a hands-on way for the Meredith community to do what we could,” Pasquale said. “I did not want to be paralyzed by all the terrible news online, but instead be motivated and inspired to do something about it. I wanted to help turn our sadness into action.”

Pasquale contacted the Office of Student Leadership and Service to express an interest in organizing a campus-wide service project.

“I was able to connect with some wonderful students who were planning a donation drive,” Pasquale said. “It was a joy to work together for this cause!”

The campus community responded

strongly to the call to donate supplies. They also answered a request to write handwritten notes of encouragement that would be delivered with the supplies.

“It’s hard to believe that we started with one plastic tub in the Cate Center,” Pasquale said. “By the end of the drive, the donations had grown so much that they spread across the entire wall! There were more donations coming in every day, including energy bars, feminine products, and even dog food.”

The community response showed the character of the Meredith community.

“The results of this donation drive completely exceeded my expectations, and it showed me just how special and strong the Meredith community is,” Pasquale said. “When our neighbors are in need, everyone here at Meredith is ready and willing to lend a hand.”

Photo courtesy of Gianna Pasquale

Dietetic Internship Inaugural Cohort Completes Clinical & Food Service Management Rotation

By Melyssa Allen

The Dietetic Internship’s Site Preceptor Pathway (SPP) cohort of inaugural interns at Cape Fear Valley Medical Center (CFVMC) completed their clinical and food service management rotations in fall 2024.

Located in Fayetteville, N.C., this new partnership with Cape Fear provides Meredith students with full-time supervised practice in a hospital setting. The D.I. students were supervised by Meredith College faculty member Christine Battle, Clinical Educator.

“Partnering with a teaching hospital like CFVMC has given our interns a unique opportunity to develop professionally and personally,” said Battle. “The growth that I witnessed over several short weeks has been amazing. I am appreciative of the support from the CFVMC Clinical Nutrition Team to ensure that our students have a robust and rewarding experience.”

This collaboration between the Dietetic Internship (DI) and CFVMC has enabled students to gain hands-on experience in a hospital environment, better preparing them for their future careers in the field of dietetics.

The teaching hospital environment at CFVMC allowed students unique

opportunities to meet supervised practice requirements. Food service management interns completed projects such as planning an autumnthemed cafeteria meal and presenting training material they created to food service personnel.

Clinical interns created nutrition education material for oncology patients. They presented case studies on complex patient issues, including a literature review, end-of-life nutrition support, and septic shock’s nutritional impact on a patient with diabetes.

“This partnership was developed from a mutual relationship with Cape Fear Valley Medical Center Food and Nutrition Services and Meredith College,” said DI Program Director Cathie Ostrowski. “They were already valued partners and preceptors for our dietetic internship. We approached them about the partnership and they immediately saw value in supporting dietetic interns on a more regular basis.”

Feedback from students in the inaugural cohort has been positive.

“The staff and my preceptors have been amazing at making me feel welcomed and comfortable and it has been great seeing different areas of the hospital. I know I will be a well-

rounded dietitian because of my experiences,” said Gabrielle Veauthier.

Suzanna Gracyk feels confident in her skills after completing her clinical rotation at CFVMC.

“The hospital provides many opportunities to interact with patients with diverse nutritional needs, and my preceptor and staff dietitians were more than willing to guide us interns and share their knowledge with us,” said Gracyk.

Jessica Faulkner appreciated opportunities to build her skills in a variety of areas.

“Cape Fear had many amazing opportunities to get out of your comfort zone and learn from a variety of specialties in the clinical realm (pediatrics, MICU/CICU/SICU, NICU, oncology, Longterm Acute Care, surgery, and renal patients),” said Faulkner. “As this was my first rotation, I felt very appreciative to have such a great experience to start my dietetic internship off strong with such knowledgeable staff and preceptors at this site.”

Employee Events Help Enhance Sense of Community at Meredith

By Melyssa Allen

Achili cookoff, a Halloween costume/decor competition, Meredith night at the Carolina Hurricanes, and an employee talent show are just a few ways Meredith College is enhancing community spirit this academic year.

The Office of Human Resources and the newly formed Employee Enrichment Committee have organized several events for the Meredith community with more planned. Their goal is to create more community events where employees can enjoy time together, network to support each other, and have some fun.

“We want to help employees feel a greater connection to each other and to the campus as a whole. Just as our students benefit from time together, so do employees,” said Associate Vice President for Human Resources Pamela Galloway. “While we’re all working hard and accomplishing so much for Meredith, we also need to have some fun.”

Galloway said a sense of community for employees has long been a strength at Meredith, but that this had lessened during the pandemic. The new efforts aim to rebuild camaraderie among employees.

There are many benefits of building a stronger community, including positive energy, improved employee morale, and increased retention.

“Research shows that when we form bonds with coworkers, we tend to be happier at work, and we are more likely to enjoy the work we do,” Galloway said. “When we learn

more about others, it can help make our work seem more meaningful. We can see how what we provide supports other functions, giving us that ‘finished product’ satisfaction.”

In addition to organized events, the committee also encouraged informal opportunities such as taking a walk to the tunnel to see the Class of 2025’s artwork and attendance at events like the Honoring Women Veterans ceremony in November. The Staff Affairs Committee also organized several tailgate events for staff before Avenging Angels athletic events this fall.

Karina Reyna, ’25

Arts Programs Bring Prospective Students to Campus

By Melyssa Allen

During the fall 2024 semester, Meredith’s arts programs held special events designed to bring prospective performing arts students to campus. The Music Department hosted TrebleFest in October, and in November, the Dance Program held their High School Day of Dance.

Students from 11 area high schools came to Meredith on October 2 for a day of music-making in Meredith’s historic and resonant performance spaces. In addition to working with Dr. Lindsey Bruner Woodcock, director of choral activities, high school students could elect to take a voice lesson with voice faculty members Dr. Jeanie Wozencraft-Ornellas and Rachel Stenbuck.

Amid the rehearsals, lessons, and games, a highlight of the day was the afternoon “Recital Chat” provided by Meredith College music students. Several music majors performed solo works for the high school students, followed by a world premiere performance of a piece composed by student Hannah Bomar, ’26. Meredith Chorale members then shared their experiences with the high school singers and answered questions about life as a music major, balancing athletics and music in college, finding a path in the arts, and more.

The 2024 TrebleFest choir, the largest treble-clef chorus in the Triangle, finished the day with a performance in Jones Auditorium, where they shared the stage with Encore! and Meredith Chorale.

High School Day of Dance

The Meredith Dance Program welcomed hundreds of local dancers to campus for its annual High School Day of Dance on November 8, 2024. With 475 students from 26 area schools, this was the largest High School Day of Dance yet.

Assistant Professor of Dance Courtney White helps to organize this event, which allows participants to share, learn, and celebrate dance.

“Our motto is ‘We Dance Here.’ In Meredith’s dance program students are a part of a collaborative environment where they explore artistic, technical, and creative expression,” White said. “High School Day of Dance is an extension of our mission.”

High school students took classes from faculty, alumnae, and community members during the event. Class options included musical theater, jazz, improvisation, yoga, contemporary ballet, hip hop, and contemporary dance. Meredith students performed a tap piece choreographed by alumna Sydney Potter, ’22, one of the high school teachers in attendance. In addition, 16 schools brought dances to perform during the event’s informal showing.

Another special option was a community class by the prestigious American Dance Festival (ADF). Students attending this class had the option to audition for scholarships to ADF’s Pre-Professional Summer Dance Intensive.

Current Meredith dance students are essential to the success of High School Day of Dance. They assist with planning and support visiting students during the event.

High School Day of Dance also supports recruitment at Meredith. “Many of our current students attended High School Day of Dance,” White said. “This year, an admissions staff member spoke to the students about attending Meredith and set up a special admissions table for prospective students to visit.”

Meredith College experts have recently been featured in media outlets including U.S. News & World Report, The Guardian, Spectrum News, and Walter magazine.

Professor of Economics Anne York was featured in two U.S. News & World Report articles about the potential impact of presidential policies on the housing market. The articles were published in September and November 2024.

Professor of Political Science David McLennan was interviewed by The Guardian for a story about how Hurricane Helene might affect the election and voter turnout in North Carolina. The story was published in October 2024.

Associate Professor of Political Science Whitney Ross Manzo was a guest on Spectrum News’ Capital Tonight for a segment about the impact of gender on the presidential election results. The show aired in November 2024.

Assistant Professor of Art Holly Fischer was featured in Walter, a Raleigh-based magazine focused on lifestyle and culture. In the profile, Fischer discussed where she finds inspiration for her art and her work as a faculty member at Meredith. The issue was published in October 2024.

I am more confident, well-spoken, and outgoing compared to when I came in. I think it’s a combination of having a great support system at school, and also figuring out who I am. ”

WYNTER HENDERSON, ’24

Bachelor of Arts in Psychology

Walking Through Doors of Opportunity

Ifeel people say this a lot, but I fell in love with Meredith College and its atmosphere. At an Admissions Open House, I met so many amazing people and could feel the support around me. I had lost my brother the previous summer and was trying to figure out if I wanted to take a leap and move out of state for college or stay. Meredith was the best fit for me at the time, and I wouldn’t take this decision back.

I was able to apply myself in my courses because of the small class sizes that allowed me to be known by my professors and create important relationships.

My relationships on campus have made me more confident to speak up, able to voice my opinion, and generally made me more comfortable to apply myself outside of the classroom. I am more confident, well-spoken, and outgoing compared to when I came in.

I think it’s a combination of having a great support system at school, and also figuring out who I am.

I took an introductory psychology course at NC Central University as a student at Josephine Dobbs Early College High School, and I fell in love with the subject. I’ve been able to apply what I learned in my internships in my major and vice versa. It’s important to acknowledge that Meredith opened these doors of opportunity for me. I wouldn’t have gotten my first internship without the help of Dr. Edwards.

I’ve learned that I’m more capable than I thought I was. I don’t want to toot my own horn, but I’ve gotten myself through college as a first-generation student and that’s kind of a big deal. There was a point where I was working two jobs in order to pay for tuition. This is the reality for a lot of students. It was a rough semester, but I managed to

maintain my grades (though I did get my first college B). Through this, I learned my limits, but also learned great time management skills.

I’m currently applying to graduate programs for mental health counseling; my ultimate goal is to be a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and work with women of color. My greatest strengths are individualization and connectedness; through this, I find that I love working with and learning about individuals and aspects of intersectionality, while also focusing on how our differences connect us in unique ways.

I feel more optimistic about life and what’s next for me. I think it’s because college has allowed me to grow into the person I desire to be every day. I’m not the same person as I was freshman year. I am grateful for the woman I’m becoming.”

Professor of Religion Presents Conference Keynote in Egypt

By Melyssa Allen

Professor of Religion

Shannon Grimes recently visited Egypt for the first time to present a keynote speech at the international Hermopolis Symposium. Her talk was on Seshat, a goddess of scholars, scribes, and temple artisans.

Grimes was invited to present at the conference by Dr. Mervat Nasser, with whom she shares a publisher. “She invited me and our publisher, Dr. Aaron Cheak, as keynote speakers, along with Professor Charles Stang from Harvard Divinity School, and Professor Wouter Hanegraaff from the University of Amsterdam,” Grimes said.

The conference was held at New Hermopolis, an educational retreat center in Egypt. The event featured around 20 speakers. The presentations were recorded and were also made available online.

Visiting Egypt was an amazing experience for Grimes. While there, she visited several ancient sites and studied the iconography of Seshat and her betterknown companion deity, Thoth, the god of wisdom and writing.

“Dr. Nasser arranged for a tour guide to take us to the Giza pyramids and Saqqara before we headed down to the conference site in Tuna al-Gebel, which is in middle Egypt. The New Hermopolis retreat center is beautiful, almost like a monastery, and we had a wonderful group of scholars and artists gathered there,” said Grimes. “Each night, after our presentations, we would have entertainment; Egyptian folk dancing, an adorable children’s choir, stargazing in the desert, and even a blue lotus tea and meditation ceremony.”

After the conference, Grimes and other participants traveled to Luxor, and along the way, they visited several temples and intricately decorated tombs.

“I was able to see places I’ve been studying and imagining for decades, and it was quite moving to finally be there in person,” Grimes said.

Grimes’s interest in Seshat began when she was working on Becoming Gold: Zosimos of Panopolis and the Alchemical Arts in Roman Egypt, which was published by Rubedo Press in 2018.

Her accommodations at the conference had a fun connection to Grimes’s scholarship.

“Each room at New Hermopolis is named after a thinker who has perpetuated, in some way, the ideas and ideals of ancient Hermetic teachings,” Grimes said. “There is a room named after Zosimos of Panopolis (now Akhmim), the alchemist I’ve studied for years, and I was happy that I got to stay in his room.”

Since she returned from the conference, Grimes has been working on a new project that looks at women and goddesses in the Hermetic tradition. Her research on Seshat, which was the focus of her keynote, is part of that.

“I first learned about Seshat when I was working on my book on alchemy in Roman Egypt. She was described as the wife of the god Thoth, who is very well known, but I’d never heard of this goddess before,” Grimes explained. “I was drawn to her because she’s the goddess of the scribes, the scholars of the ancient temples, and I am very interested in their ideas of scholarship and writing as a spiritual practice.”

Meredith College Student News (MCSN) won first place for “Best Student News Brief” at the Radio Television Digital News Association of the Carolinas convention, held in Charlotte on November 9. The Best Student News Brief award is for student newscasts under 10 minutes long. MCSN competed against schools from North Carolina and South Carolina. MCSN is produced in Meredith’s news studio, which is located in the CHESS building. Newscasts can be viewed at youtube. com/@meredithcollegestudentnews.

Sharysse Ferguson, ’25, a student in the Fashion Merchandising and Design program, was named a recipient of the NRF Foundation x CVS Health Retail Leaders Scholarship. This prestigious scholarship aims to increase representation and interest in store leadership opportunities. Ferguson is among the first recipients of the new scholarship, which comes with a $10,000 scholarship and complimentary travel to New York City to attend the 2025 NRF Foundations Student Program.

Associate Professor of History

Angela Robbins was inducted into the Historical Society of North Carolina on October 18. Membership is capped at 100 and is only open to scholars who are nominated and voted in by their peers. Organized in 1945, The Historical Society of North Carolina encourages the study of history, with primary emphasis on the history of North Carolina and secondary emphasis on the history of the South and the United States. The Society seeks to foster research, writing, and publication of worthy historical studies in these fields.

Grimes at the Great Sphinx of Giza

THE MEANING OF THE ONYX

WHAT THE MEREDITH CLASS RING SYMBOLIZES TO THOSE WHO WEAR IT

By Emily Parker

At Meredith, class ring delivery day is filled with smiles, excitement, and squeals of pure joy as students walk into the Alumnae House.

Delivery Day each year shows the lasting legacy of the Onyx as an outward sign of academic accomplishment. Since 1954, the ring has also symbolized a connection to classmates, the College, and current and future alumnae.

“Like today’s students, I can still remember the excitement I felt when I picked up my ring from the Cate Center in the fall of 1999,” said Director of Alumnae Relations Hilary Allen, ’01, who oversees the ring program. “I love to see our current students filled with excitement over that Onyx ring. I still wear my ring 25 years later with such pride and gratitude. Delivery Day never fails to remind me that our ring program is special and unique.”

In addition to Delivery Day, Ring Week is a tradition that ensures receiving the Onyx continues to be a hallmark of the Meredith student experience. Since it started in 1997, Ring Week has been a bonding experience for each junior class. As part of Delivery Day, the Office of Alumnae Relations provides ring-themed gifts and a package of fun rings for juniors to wear each day of Ring Week.

Students often try on their Onyx rings while not looking at them – but the first time they see it on their hands is at the end of the week at Ring Dinner. This event was first held in 1991. Susan Wray, ’93, recalls that her class wanted to make it a special event, one that would continue for years to come.

“I was nervous that Ring Dinner might not be all that we were hoping for or that something would go wrong. However, our Ring Dinner was lots of fun, celebrating our accomplishments, our sisterhood, and being together as a class. We felt like we had made it, and we all had our Onyx,” said Wray.

Thirty-three years later, Ring Dinner is still a treasured tradition. While the tradition has grown over the years, the emotions felt at the most recent Ring Dinner were similar to that first event in 1991.

“We were absolutely thrilled to see all our hard work come together for such a monumental event. Ring Dinner turned out even better than we could have imagined. One of the most special moments of the evening was finally getting to place our Onyx on our fingers. The excitement in the room was contagious –everyone was smiling, celebrating, and sharing in the joy of this meaningful tradition,” said Caroline Goodwin, ’26, who was co-chair of the 2024 Ring Dinner with Sadie Gaines, ’26.

The 2024 event featured remarks from Vice President for College Programs Jean Jackson, who has her own Onyx as a member of the Class of 1975, and from guest speaker Lacy Uthe, ’14.

“Dr. Jackson led the Ring Ceremony beautifully, making the moment even more impactful as we experienced it together with our class. We enjoyed every aspect of the evening from seeing the anticipation of all the guests upon arrival to listening to our guest speaker to enjoying the surprise from the Big and Little classes – everything was so wonderful,” said Gaines.

History of the Meredith Ring

Just as Ring Dinner has evolved through the years, so has Meredith’s class ring. The oldest ring in the College Archives features a gold band with the letters MC and 1916. The 1917 ring added a green stone. By 1922, the ring changed to an elongated gold oval with a torch in the center. In 1924, two Meredith art professors designed the first ring to include an onyx. It was in the shape of an octagon, made by Tiffany & Company in New York, and sold for only $15. In 1950, a student committee selected an oval synthetic ruby with a gold band, but soon after art professor Douglas Reynolds led a group including Jean Dula Fletcher, ’53, and Ann Lovell, ’54, in a redesign.

The newly designed ring, which was first worn in 1954 and is still worn today, featured an oval black onyx with the Meredith seal engraved in the lower half and oak leaves incised on either a silver or gold band.

The only time the ring has changed since then was for the 1991 Centennial class. The oak leaves were moved slightly to allow space to include the years 1891 and 1991.

Crystal Drum, ’91, a member of that Centennial class, loves that her ring is a little different than other classes.

“Being a member of the Centennial class brought a whole year of celebrations to Meredith College,” Drum said. “Our Cornhuskin’ theme was ‘Wrapping Up a Century’; we were featured on the cover of the Raleigh phone book; and Erma Bombeck was the speaker at our graduation,” said Drum. “There were so many things that were special about being in that class and my ring holds all those celebrations and milestones.”

Making the Tradition Accessible to More Students

Long before the rings are delivered, the Office of Alumnae Relations is hard at work with orders and helping each student who is eligible to receive a ring. Undergraduate students who have completed 60 hours

Sadie Gaines, ’26, and Caroline Goodwin, ’26

Crystal Cheatham Drum, ’91, and her niece, Miller Cheatham Spencer, ’13

ONYX SIGHTINGS

The Meredith campus is of course not the only place where Onyx sightings occur. When walking down the street, shopping in a store, or enjoying vacation, a Meredith alumna can spot another Onyx and immediately start a conversation.

Here are a few examples of Onyx sightings and what these shared connections meant to alumnae.

“I remember a few years after graduation, I was in a department store in New York City going up an escalator when I spotted the unique Onyx coming toward me from the opposite direction. We smiled at each other and waved our hands to show our rings. As we were passing, she shouted out ‘1982’ and I shouted ‘1978.’ What a great feeling that was!

This past summer, my family and I were on a Caribbean cruise and I went into the ladies’ room and was shocked to see a Meredith sister! There was an instant connection between us. We were united because of our past, but it was the Onyx that was the catalyst for our connection. How awesome to meet a fellow alumna so far from home. I’m so grateful for my Onyx. The magic of our Onyx with its unique design instantly connects alumnae far and wide.”

Debbie Kirk, ’78

of coursework are eligible to purchase rings. Recognizing that the cost of the rings could be a barrier for some students, the Office of Alumnae Relations has made several adjustments to make participating in this tradition more accessible.

Two changes were establishing a Ring Fund and launching the Legacy Ring Essay Contest. The essay contest provides 20 rings per year to students who may not otherwise be able to afford one. Alumnae have contributed to the Ring Fund, which is also used to provide rings to students. While the number provided through that fund varies from year to year, in 2024, the Office of Alumnae Relations was able to provide 36 rings to current students.

“Ultimately, our goal is to always ensure that every student who has earned a ring and wishes to have a ring has the opportunity to do so,” said Allen. “We also want as many students as possible to participate in the Ring Dinner, so we contribute to that as well to keep the ticket price to a minimum.”

In addition, the Office of Alumnae Relations started a Loaner Ring Program to support Ring Dinner participation. There are instances when a ring may not have

been ordered in time, has yet to be ordered, or may not fit upon delivery. Through the Loaner Ring Program, students can reserve rings from alumnae who have shared their rings for use at Ring Dinner. In the fall of 2024, 23 students used the Loaner Ring Program.

For the essay contest in 2011, Elizabeth Oates, ’13, wrote about her grandmother’s Meredith class ring from 1933, which Oates calls her most prized possession.

“Meredith is a very special place, and these rings are just one of the symbols that connect us all,” Oates said. “And every time

Shannon McFarlane Byers, ’99, and Betty Webb, ’67

Elizabeth Oates, ’13

I look down at my Onyx on my hand, and my Granny’s around my neck, I will think of her and what Meredith means to both of us.”

Oates still feels passionate about her connection with her grandmother and Meredith.

“I wear the two rings most days of my life. I get asked about my grandmother’s Onyx often and proudly get to tell everyone about my grandmother and my amazing experience at Meredith,” said Oates.

Shannon McFarlane Byers, ’99, says the Meredith class ring is a small object that carries a lot of weight. She is forever grateful to have received the gift of the Onyx from then Professor of English Betty Webb, ’67.

“I worked several jobs to put myself through school and when the time came to order a ring, it just wasn’t feasible. It was a luxury,” said Byers. “Knowing the significance the ring plays to students and alumnae alike, Dr. Webb called me into her office and handed me a check to pay for the ring. While I was thrilled to have a ring of my own and participate in the Ring Dinner, I was humbled.”

The way she received her Onyx is a special memory for Byers.

“When I look at the ring now, I remember Dr. Webb but I also see the ring as a symbol of community. The ring reminds me to give of myself and support others around me, no matter where I am – campus, church, workplace, neighborhood, or home. It reminds me of the power of investing in others.

The Meredith ring is a small circle of gold and onyx, but to me, it represents people who helped shape me and a desire to serve where I’m planted."

The Onyx Connects Mothers and Daughters

The Meredith Onyx is a connection many mothers and daughters share. Elaine Jolly Davis, ’84, and Callie Elaine Davis, ’15, say being an Even and an Odd is okay with them. The Meredith Onyx has continuously been a part of their daily wardrobe, and they consider it to be a gift to share this legacy as mother and daughter.

When asked about this special connection, the Davises shared this reflection:

“The ring represents a connection to Meredith College and binds all alumnae together in a wonderful sisterhood. Regardless of the graduation year, a ring sighting brings great joy and certainly sparks a conversation that will inevitably include laughter as memories are shared. While our rings have been on different journeys and through different experiences, they symbolize the magic of Meredith College and the alumnae who continue to make it Wonderland. The traditions of Going Strong, seeking excellence, caring for the community, and joining a treasured sisterhood have remained anchors of the Meredith experience. Rather than creating cookie-cutter versions of what a Meredith alumna will look like, Meredith allows each woman to chart her own course and write her own story.”

Current junior Meredith Mills, ’26, is thrilled to finally have a ring like her mother Leah Mills, ’95, has.

“I remember learning about Meredith College as a young girl from my mom. I absolutely loved her Onyx. I thought it was amazing that all Meredith graduates had matching rings. When I started at Meredith College, I couldn’t wait to get an Onyx of my very own,” Meredith Mills said. “I have worn my Onyx every day since placing it on my finger at Ring Dinner. I love that my mom and I share so many of the same Meredith College memories. We now have matching rings.”

ONYX SIGHTINGS

“In 2023, I began a position with the N.C. Department of Commerce managing a federal grant that provides resources to connect the 72 Main Street communities across the state. At the first downtown development directors’ annual meeting I attended, I had already spied one Onyx, which gave me an idea. At the end of the meeting, I took the microphone and asked all Meredith alumnae to meet me for a picture. Meredith alumnae from the western, central, and eastern regions of North Carolina were in the photo. We are helping shape the future of small towns in North Carolina.”

Susan Kellum, ’81

Elaine Jolly Davis, ’84, and Callie Elaine Davis, ’15

ONYX SIGHTINGS

“We were dining in San Sebastián, Spain. A couple sat down beside us and she looked like she was wearing her Onyx! I tentatively asked if she went to Meredith College and a friendship was born! Amanda Knox Lyle, ’02, and I spent the evening sharing Meredith stories. My circle widened a little bit more all because of my time at Meredith. It makes me smile to think of it.”

Trinnie O'Connor, ’93

“Every year, we take the Meredith softball team to Florida for spring break to play in the Spring Games tournament. On one of their days off, we took the team to Disney's Magic Kingdom. We arrived at the park, proudly representing Meredith in our matching Meredith Softball shirts and coordinating Mickey Mouse ears. Our day was made even more magical when a few of our players were stopped by a cast member, Kaylan Page, ’21, because of their shirts. She then flashed her Onyx and told them that she went to Meredith. It was so kind of her to take time out of her busy workday to talk with the students about the place we all love!”

Emily Clemmons, ’21

Assistant Director of Alumnae Relations and Volunteer Assistant Softball Coach

The ring, and the College, are obviously special for Leah Mills, who named her daughter after her alma mater.

“When Meredith was born, I hoped she would choose to attend Meredith College one day. Over the years, I shared with her my scrapbooks, photos, and VHS videos from my four years at Meredith. I explained the traditions –Corn, Stunt, Crook Hunt, Big Sis/Little Sis, and of course Ring Dinner,” said Leah Mills. “I was thrilled when she decided to attend Meredith. As we drove down the front drive toward Johnson Hall on move-in day, I was crying happy tears. I pointed to my Onyx shouting ‘I am home and I am bringing my baby with me!’ Meredith has now found her home at Meredith. I am one proud Meredith mom.”

After Ring Dinner, Meredith students have another ring-related tradition in their futures at commencement. As students, the Meredith Onyx is worn with the seal toward the wearer. At the end of the commencement ceremony, new graduates turn their rings around so that the seal “faces the world” shining her light out to all. This change reinforces the symbolic nature of the Onyx.

“My ring never fails to make me think of my dear Meredith friends, those I met as a student as well as those I have met as a staff member. My Meredith friends are the women who, much like the word LUX, are the light of my life. In a lot of ways, my ring is my compass; it reminds me of what I know, what I value, who I trust, who I love, and ultimately, who I am,” said Hilary Allen.

Meredith Mills, ’26, and Leah Mills, ’95

Statue Commemorates Special Status of the Onyx

The importance of the Onyx to the Meredith community is now commemorated on campus through a new six-foot-tall Onyx statue near the Hillsborough Street entrance. On October 17, 2024, the College dedicated the statue in honor of Jo Allen, ’80, the first alumna to serve as Meredith’s president. Current and former members of the Board of Trustees raised money for this gift, with funding support from Balfour, Meredith’s ring partner. The timing of the dedication was perfect, as Ring Dinner was held the next night. It quickly became a new favorite photo spot as students lined up to have their photos taken before the dinner.

“The ring statue is now one of the first things you see when you drive onto Main Campus Drive, and in the distance behind it, one sees Johnson Hall. It’s iconic,” said Hilary Allen.

Alumnae from 30 different class years were in attendance at the unveiling, and more alumnae have made a point to stop at the statue when visiting campus.

“I have seen alumnae from class years ranging from the 1970s through the 2020s visit campus to have their photos made with the ring,” said Hilary Allen. “We now have a permanent representation on campus of something that has been treasured by Meredith students and alumnae since its creation in 1953 and since being first worn by the Class of 1954.”

Kate Breen, ’01, president of the Alumnae Association Board, was filled with “immense pride and gratitude” to be one of the speakers at the Onyx statue dedication.

“My Meredith Onyx has been my trusty sidekick since graduation. This ring isn’t just a piece of bling; it’s a symbol of all the friendships forged, challenges overcome, and a tangible connection to the past,” said Breen. “I’ve worn it every day since originally placing it on my finger, and it’s become a conversation starter, a badge of honor, and a bridge to the present. Whether I’m meeting fellow alumnae or reminiscing with old friends, my class ring has been a constant reminder of the incredible journey we’ve shared.”

Watch highlights of the Onyx statue dedication.

Kate Breen, ’01, Alumnae Board President

REDEFINING WHAT STRONG LOOKS LIKE

SUPPORTING MEREDITH STUDENTS IN THE AGE OF ANXIETY

By Gaye Hill

Today’s news cycle is packed with stories of heightened anxiety among teens and young adults. Elevated anxiety can have a significant impact on students’ college experience and affect their ability to work, study, make friends, and even participate in daily activities.

Not surprisingly, Meredith students are affected by these trends. That’s why the campus community is engaged in a wide range of efforts to help students manage these challenges – and become even stronger.

What the Data Shows

Through an annual Student Satisfaction Survey, Meredith checks in with students about various aspects of their college experience – including their anxiety levels. In the most recent survey, nearly half of the respondents (44%) agreed that anxiety had negatively impacted their college experience.

According to Beth Meier, director of the Counseling Center, there is likely no single reason for the increased anxiety among young people. Rather, it’s a combination of factors.

“Social media and excessive time on smartphones have contributed to this generation’s anxiety and sense of loneliness,” said Meier. “The pandemic certainly added to anxiety levels and

isolation. Additionally, the division in our country, the rise in mean-spirited and hateful communication, and racism all add to anxiety levels.”

This fall Meredith participated in the National College Health Assessment (NCHA), sponsored and distributed by the American College Health Association (ACHA). Topics covered in the nationwide survey included overall health and community, sleep, mental health, food security, nutrition, exercise, and more. Survey data will provide valuable information about Meredith students as well as regional and national trends.

Just as there is no one reason for increased student anxiety, there is likely no single way to address it effectively. Fortunately, programs and departments across campus are working to support students through varied (and often creative) programming.

Counseling Center

Meier said that although finding the causes of distress is valuable, leaning into

a solution-focused mindset is equally, if not more, important.

According to the Center for Collegiate Mental Health (CCMH), data shows college students have been feeling more anxious since the pandemic. Meier said one symptom that stands out is that students fear others do not like them.

“When asked to provide facts to support this fear, students rarely can. However, students are feeling lonely. It's tough to ask someone to lunch or ask someone sitting alone in the dining hall if they’d be up for company,” she said. “I have rarely met a student who would ask someone they don’t know well if they could sit with them during a meal, but all say they would welcome someone asking them.”

Fortunately, the Counseling Center can help students learn to manage their anxiety and fears, primarily through individual counseling. Counseling is tailored to meet the individual’s needs and concerns. Some of the things students might want to work on include learning to regulate or manage

emotions like anxiety and depression rather than being overwhelmed by their feelings and building friendships or improving trust and closeness in their relationships.

Data shows students who participate in counseling see their symptoms improve.

“As part of the initial appointment, students complete a 64-question survey, rating their symptoms of distress. We see ratings drop, often significantly, as counseling progresses, indicating students are feeling and doing better,” said Meier.

These improvements affect how the students feel, with research showing symptoms decrease most dramatically within the first four counseling sessions. Research also shows mental health counseling helps students function and positively impacts their ability to stay in college and graduate.

Student Health and Wellness Center

According to Mary Johnson, ’07, director of health services, students are coming to college with very different life experiences and perceptions than in previous decades.

“College wellness as a whole is changing,” she said. “The risky behaviors have decreased because students are not taking risks. It’s good because they’re not going around without seatbelts and not wearing helmets when they ride bikes. They’re too scared to put themselves in challenging situations, which is great overall, but at the same time, I think it comes out of a place of fear.”

Johnson said the Meredith community is doing far more than many colleges of comparable size to support its students, and the variety of offerings is helping to meet the varied students’ needs.

“There isn’t one voice that’s going to reach everybody. And we have so many talented individuals on this campus with such a wealth of knowledge that it taps into all of those strengths,” said Johnson.

Meredith is revitalizing its advisory wellness committee, which disbanded because of the COVID-19 pandemic, to bring these voices together. Johnson said she's hopeful the committee will establish more cohesion to wellness efforts across campus.

Johnson believes helping students manage their anxiety is inextricably linked to their overall wellness, so steps they can take to improve things like nutrition and exercise, safe sexual practices, mindfulness meditation, and more can all help their mental health, too.

The latter is a particular passion for Johnson, who is a certified Koru Mindfulness instructor. She holds two to four workshops a semester that teach students both meditation and mindfulness exercises.

“They walk out with tools that can help them. And it always fills up really quickly, so we know it’s reaching the students where they are.

Listening closely to students is another passion for Johnson, who said her team is fortunate in the amount of time they can spend with students when they come to the Health Center – and that, in turn, has helped to inform the Health Center’s practices.

“We’re growing with the students. If it looked like what it was 10 years ago, we wouldn’t be doing our job, right? We wouldn’t be serving our students. Because our students are always changing, it’s important that we’re not just static, that we move with them,” said Johnson. “They want to leave with something more than a prescription. They want to leave with knowledge. And I think that shift in our student population has created a shift in our clinical model.”

We’re growing with the students. If it looked like what it was 10 years ago, we wouldn’t be doing our job, right? We wouldn’t be serving our students. Because our students are always changing, it’s important that we’re not just static, that we move with them.”

MARY JOHNSON, ’07 Director of Health Services

Library

The Carlyle Campbell Library may traditionally have served as the academic heart of campus, but library staff has taken seriously the need to support students holistically. In recent years, library initiatives include adapting space and furnishings to make the library feel more welcoming, providing resources designed to support students’ mental health, and offering programming that supports community building.

“We feel like the library has a role to play in helping address the mental health challenges of our student body,” said Jeffrey Waller, interim co-dean. “We decided to develop a collection of mental health workbooks to help students understand the issues they’re wrestling with and learn some new coping mechanisms and skills to deal with those things.”

Waller said while it’s not a substitute for counseling, these resources offer a way for students to help themselves. The books use therapeutic approaches and were chosen in partnership with the Counseling Center.

Another innovative way the Library supports students is by paying close attention to its trending reads section for young adults, one of the Library’s most popular collections.

“We want to make sure that our students can see themselves in the resources that we’re providing. Not only is the young adults section popular, but these are books that are on the forefront of inclusion,” said Amanda Sullivan, ’98, research and instruction librarian.

The Library has hosted a variety of events for students, including Mental Health Day, craft events such as bracelet making and succulent plant potting, and chair massages during spring finals through a partnership with Wake Technical Community College. They also maintain an ongoing coloring station that is well-used by students.

All of these choices may seem beyond the typical idea of what libraries are doing. According to Waller, that’s precisely the point.

“Libraries have to evolve, because students and faculty can get most of their research needs online remotely from their dorm rooms or apartments. And so we need to find new purposes for our library as a crossroads space on campus,” said Waller. “These community-building events are a logical extension of that because we all care about trying to rebuild community in this post-COVID environment.”

One unusual way the library helps to mitigate student anxiety is by supporting them financially. The library partnered with Technology Services to purchase laptops so that students who have a financial need and are unable to get a laptop or their laptop is damaged can get an extended loan for a semester.

“We also work with faculty to select electronic resources that can be used as a textbook or as supplemental materials so that students don’t have to purchase them,” said interim co-dean Carrie Nichols. “And like public libraries, we no longer charge fines for most of our materials, which makes our facilities more accessible.

Sullivan said she thinks librarians are uniquely suited to helping students who may be struggling to communicate and engage with the community.

“You always have your librarian antenna up,” she said. “This is a service position, and we just have this tingle like, ‘Do you have a question? Can I help you with anything? Oh, well, let us know if you do.’ Just that small interaction and planting the seed lets students know we’re an open and welcoming presence.”

Libraries have to evolve, because students and faculty can get most of their research needs online remotely from their dorm rooms or apartments. And so we need to find new purposes for our library as a crossroads space on campus.”

JEFFREY WALLER

Interim Co-Dean

Lowery Fitness Center

In the Student Satisfaction Survey, the number one resource students said improved or sustained their mental health was the Lowery Fitness Center. This data point was not at all surprising to Heather Sanderson, assistant professor of health, exercise and sport sciences and director of the Lowery Fitness Center.

“Once a student experiences the physical activity practice they gain self-confidence and recognize how their body and mind respond during and after the exercise,” said Sanderson. “I always say to students, ‘People feel better after they exercise. It’s a quick mood booster.’”

Sanderson said the connection between exercise and mental health is noted by the positive changes in the cardiorespiratory, endocrine, and nervous systems. Those who suffer from anxiety tend to have elevated levels of stress hormones and quicker sympathetic nervous system responses.

“A reduction in hormones of the sympathetic nervous system (the fight, flight, freeze mechanism) occurs immediately following exercise,” she said. “Parasympathetic (rest and digest) nervous system hormones are released and activate the vagus nerve to slow the heart and

respiratory rates down, which promotes a feeling of relaxation and calm.”

She observed that many anxiety-reducing activities, such as deep diaphragmatic breathing and various exercise techniques, train the vagus nerve to improve the strength of the parasympathetic nervous system and then suppress the sympathetic nervous system. With continued regular exercise, students have a stronger parasympathetic nervous system long term.

Sanderson said brain structures are influenced by regular exercise, which not only helps manage mental health, it also improves memory and cognition.

“Studies have shown growth in brain structures such as the hippocampus (memory center) and the prefrontal cortex (problemsolving and creative thinking area) with regular exercise,” she said. “Students who are physically active in college are more successful in the classroom because of the neurological and physiological benefits of exercise on mental health.”

Students engage with the Fitness Center in a variety of ways. Free classes are offered through the Angels in Motion (AIM) small group exercise program and through health and physical learning courses, which are general education requirements. Health,

Once a student experiences the physical activity practice they gain self-confidence and recognize how their body and mind respond during and after the exercise.”

HEATHER SANDERSON

Assistant Professor of Health, Exercise and Sport Sciences and Director of the Lowery Fitness Center

Exercise, and Sport Sciences students teach wellness activity classes through the AIM program to other students. According to Sanderson, the peer-to-peer connection creates a stronger sense of community, which makes participants more likely to continue their exercise practice.

“I always hear students commenting how much better they feel after they leave the Lowery Fitness Center. We also have evidence from our health and physical learning course evaluations from students,” said Sanderson.

Additional Support Services

Meredith’s student support is broad and deep, with programs specifically focused on helping students succeed in college.

StrongPoints®, Meredith’s personal advising and coaching program, helps students emphasize their unique strengths and find ways to use them in their studies, personally, and professionally. Student Success Coaches are assigned to students, giving them a go-to person to answer questions of all kinds, from academic concerns to advice on where to find a particular campus resource. And Residence Life provides a range of programming on topics such as building social connections, making healthy and safe choices, and fostering personal growth.

Alumnae

Meredith alumnae may have faced different challenges when they were in college, but they are committed to supporting the current generation of students. Hilary Allen, ’01, director of alumnae relations, said her team and Meredith alumnae recognize that today’s students have different needs.

“They face more pressure than ever – academic, financial, personal. Our student outreach initiatives were a response to that and a means to support students, create community, and certainly offer fun engagement activities.”

During the 2023-24 academic year, the Office of Alumnae Relations sponsored 28 student events; this year, they sponsored 16 different student events throughout the fall semester.

Alumnae outreach efforts and programming for students increased after starting the 1891 Club, the student alumnae association. According to Allen, during COVID-19 they wanted to do even more to support all current students, including those who might not be members of the Club. They launched a series of student pop up events that continue today, such as First Day of Class (FDOC) Celebration and the Halloween and Galentine’s Pop Up events.

Offerings continue to evolve. One of the newest was the Ask an Alumna Series last year, which includes two sessions per semester and concludes with a networking event. Each session features a panel of alumnae experts and topics have included Health and Wellness, Time Management and Organization, Financial Literacy, and Resumes and Interviews.

Another new offering is Onyx Connections, a more informal gathering. Facilitated and staffed solely by alumnae volunteers, Onyx Connections allows alumnae to return to campus to offer baked goods, flowers, visits with a pup, a listening ear, and much more.

“Our alumnae enjoy the on-campus student events just as much as our students,” said Allen. “These events provide wonderful opportunities for alumnae to return to campus to connect, support, and encourage our current students. It’s also important for students to see that alumnae remain engaged and loyal to the College. We hope that our current students will one day be alumnae who want to return to campus and support students in the very same way.”

Allen said students enjoy the events, as well.

“We recognize that our students lead busy, hectic lives; we want the events to be fun, beneficial, and easy for them to participate in. I think that is why we always have such great participation from our students because they can just show up,” said Allen. “In events with a craft, such as the trucker hat bar that we hosted this fall, I love seeing their creativity, how they work independently, and how they support and encourage one another. They recognize that this type of outreach is unique to Meredith and part of what makes this such a special community.”

These events provide wonderful opportunities for alumnae to return to campus to connect, support, and encourage our current students. It’s also important for students to see that alumnae remain engaged and loyal to the College.”

HILARY ALLEN, ’01

Director of Alumnae Relations

Meredith’s hospitality and tourism major prepares students to succeed in one of the fastest-growing metropolitan areas in the U.S.

By Rocio Antelis

Cultural and entertainment hub. Innovation. Southern hospitality. These are a few of the characteristics that come to mind when thinking about our beloved City of Raleigh. And the rest of the country agrees. As one of the fastest-growing areas in the U.S., Wake County welcomes 51 new residents a day and over 18 million visitors a year. Raleigh is an increasingly popular destination to live, hold business meetings and conventions, attend sporting events, and visit for leisure. As a result, there are continual efforts to keep up with the demand in the hospitality and tourism industry, including the expansion of the Raleigh Convention Center, the construction of the new Omni Hotel, and more.

Will Bryant Photography

Knowing the industry’s growth trajectory, Meredith College introduced a Hospitality and Tourism Management program in 2018. Led by Michael Altman, the program follows a “flipped” classroom environment, meaning students are expected to complete research on their own time and come to class prepared to engage in conversations about what they learned. Additionally, many instructional hours are spent outside the classroom networking with industry professionals and gaining hands-on experience.

“We try to get students to engage with those in industry. And we do that in a variety of ways including participating in industry associations, site visits, and encouraging them to have multiple internships and part-time jobs,” said Altman. “This way, students have a story to tell [when applying to jobs].”

Altman said his goal is for the program to be a pipeline for students to gain meaningful employment in the industry. This feature highlights four alumnae who have succeeded in doing just that in this booming industry.

ANNA FORNO, ’23 Venue Manager, Heights House Hotel

Anna Forno was originally a business administration major, but it was not quite the right fit. She was lacking curiosity and excitement toward her studies. At the suggestion of her academic advisor, Forno took a hospitality course and fell in love with the field.

“I found my passion for hospitality. It is a balance between creative and analytical thinking, which was a perfect fit for me,” said Forno. “Through the program, I was able to explore subjects like food studies, theatre, and event planning that I would not have encountered otherwise.”

Forno connected with her current employer, Heights House Hotel, via LinkedIn while still an undergraduate student in 2022. For the remainder of her time at Meredith, Forno worked as a front desk concierge at the hotel and, soon after graduation, she transitioned into a full-time role as the in-house event coordinator. Earlier this year, she was promoted to venue manager.

The role requires wearing many hats. Forno performs administrative and direct service tasks, including managing the day-of operations of the events, handling private event sales, and booking parties. Additionally, she will cover the front desk or bartend at events as needed.

“Our team members are highly versatile,”

said Forno. “This allows us to maintain a small team while minimizing the risk of being understaffed. We communicate constantly so everyone is informed, and we can address any issues quickly.”

Regarding Raleigh’s growing hospitality and tourism industry, Forno said there will be plenty of opportunities for current businesses to expand and for new competitors to emerge. “It will be important to regularly assess your target market to maintain a strong customer base,” she said. “At Heights House, for example, our clientele loves our signature aesthetic, so we stay true to that instead of following trends.”

Another piece of advice Forno has for succeeding in the industry is to take advantage of every learning and network opportunity, both of which she learned at Meredith. As a student, Forno gained industry knowledge, which she now uses in her current position through site visits at different companies. She even works regularly with Curated Events Rentals, one of the companies she visited as a student.

“There’s always something to discover. Learn different roles, network as much as you can, let your personality shine, and build strong relationships, including with your competition,” said Forno. “Connections are so valuable in the industry.”

Anna

Photos courtesy of Will Bryant Photography

EMMA DRESSEL, ’22

Catering Sales Manager, Field House Catering

The UNC game day experience would not be the same without Emma Dressel. She works as a catering sales manager for Field House Catering, a segment of Rocky Top Catering that serves UNC game days and other campus events.

“My days are never the same, which I love. Some days I am consulting with clients, creating proposals, and hosting tasting sessions, and other days I am overseeing a team of 90 to 100 to cater athletic events,” said Dressel.

When applying for jobs, Dressel wanted to stay in the Triangle area. “There is such an abundance of opportunities here, and with the booming growth, I felt like I was ready to grow along with it,” she said. Catering and sales were not Dressel’s original career plan, but Rocky Top Catering’s top-tier hospitality and service drew her attention. Dressel had worked at the same events as the catering company during her internship with C&D Events, an event planning company owned by Meredith alumnae.

“I looked forward to the events that Rocky Top Catering would work, not only for their incredible food but their attention to detail, timeliness, and willingness to help any vendor around,” said Dressel. “I decided to go out on a limb to apply and am so glad I did.”

Dressel said there will be opportunities for companies to expand their clientele as the Triangle continues to grow. “There are more diverse clients which means companies can host more diverse events and create unique experiences for each event. At Field House, we maintain open lines of communication about emerging trends and opportunities within the company and with our vendor partners to share ideas.”

Timmester Photography

Timmester Photography

Timmester Photography

Magdalena Stefanek Photography LLC

Magdalena Stefanek Photography LLC

Magdalena Stefanek Photography LLC

Rebekah

REBEKAH LAKEY HAYES, ’22

Continuing

Legal Education Manager, North Carolina Bar Association

A love of service and people drove Rebekah Lakey Hayes to study hospitality at Meredith. She chose to stay in Raleigh after graduation because of the various work opportunities the city offered. “Raleigh’s hospitality and tourism industry is huge and full of wonderful businesses as well as a large network of strong professionals,” she said.

Lakey Hayes has served as the Continuing Legal Education (CLE) Manager for the North Carolina Bar Association (NCBA) since graduating in May 2022. In this role, she manages up to 20 events a year for various groups within the NCBA. The position requires great attention to detail and the ability to multi-task. “I may be starting the planning process with one group while in the middle of the process with another. It involves calls and communication with NCBA leaders, guest speakers, and venue representatives.”

The flipped classroom was essential to Lakey Hayes gaining the skills she needed to be successful in her career. At Meredith, she had the opportunity to assist in planning an open house at The Bradford, a wedding and event venue in Raleigh, as well as plan the Class of 2022 Ring Dinner. “It helped me grow my network, feel confident in my skills, and gave me so many invaluable hands-on opportunities,” she said. “It prepared me for my career more than reading from a textbook would have.”

To thrive in this dynamic and growing industry, Lakey Hayes stresses the importance of gaining diverse experiences and networking. “Nothing is cookiecutter in event planning. Having different experiences will help you adapt,” said Lakey Hayes “I also like to say this is a people industry. Your network will be a wonderful resource for your success.”

Timmester Photography

Magdalena Stefanek Photography LLC

Cooks Photo and Film

LINDSEY SIMMONS, ’23

Client Coordinator & Wedding Planner,

The Merrimon-Wynne House

Lindsey Simmons loves weddings. “I love the wedding industry and creating these once-in-alifetime experiences for clients on one of the best days of their lives,” she said.

Wedding planning is fast-paced, as planners work around the clock to meet deadlines and deal with unexpected changes. Simmons gained valuable knowledge during her time at Meredith and felt prepared to take on the challenging career.

“Events require you to be flexible both during the planning process and on the actual event day,” she said. “Being able to experience this first-hand at Meredith gave me confidence to continue toward my goal of being an events professional.”

One of Simmons’ most formative experiences was planning an event for the Triangle’s National Association of Catering and Events chapter for one of her courses. “It was a safe way to test the waters and make sure I actually wanted to pursue a career in event planning,” said Simmons. “I was also able to work with vendors that I still work with today and network with other professionals.”

Additionally, Simmons held an internship and part-time position at The Merrimon-Wynne House, a wedding venue, as a student. In this role, she found her passion for wedding planning and was offered a full-time position as a client coordinator upon graduating.

There is a high demand for weddings in Raleigh – according to the Wedding Report, Raleigh hosts over 6,000 weddings annually. Simmons and her team work diligently to make sure their venue continues to attract clients, offering them exceptional service from the beginning stages of their wedding planning to the end.

As for the hospitality and tourism industry at large in Raleigh, Simmons said the growth will not stop anytime soon, and professionals in the industry have to evolve alongside it. “We have to ask ourselves what sets Raleigh apart from other cities and challenge ourselves to create amazing experiences you cannot get anywhere else. The expanded Convention Center will bring in bigger events but it is important to also have smaller venues for different types of events and experiences,” she said. “I think this is crucial to bringing tourism to Raleigh, which is where the industry has the most room to grow.”

Krystal Kast Photography

Daise Photography

Autumn Harrison Photography MW Planning & Design (Wedding Planner)

Ally & Bobby Photography

MW Planning & Design (Wedding Planner)

Krystal Kast Photography MW Planning & Design (Wedding Planner)

MEREDITH PHILANTHROPY

MAKING AN IMPACT

Building a Family Legacy of Generosity and Purpose

By Emily Parker

Wendy Holman McLawhorn, ’99, celebrated her 25th reunion last year, and to commemorate it, she established the McLawhorn Family Scholarship Endowment. Giving back to Meredith in this way was a decision McLawhorn, her husband, Chris, and their two daughters Isabelle and Molly made together. In October, they came for an endowment signing with President Aimee Sapp in Johnson Hall to make it official.

“This scholarship endowment is really special, and I think that is a great example of philanthropy for your girls and I appreciate that,” said President Sapp at the signing. “We know any time we have an endowment signing that it represents the future growth of our endowment overall, and that is important to the health of an institution. This decision is a vote of confidence in all we do at Meredith. I appreciate that you want to be a part of that growth. This scholarship will have an immeasurable impact on future students.”

Living in Raleigh allowed the McLawhorns many opportunities to bring their daughters to campus for a simple walk around the Meredith Mile, a picnic on the lawn, or an afternoon to visit the amphitheater. As the girls grew older, they took advantage of alumnae events like Cookies with Santa and the Easter egg hunts. They also helped with Move-in Day and attended Iris Society events. This past year Isabelle and Molly enjoyed attending their first production of Alice in Wonderland and traveled to New York City with the College on the annual alumnae trip.

“Giving back to Meredith financially has been a priority for me and our family. We considered various ways we could give back to the College; we discussed it as a family and agreed we wanted to help make Meredith affordable to students,” said Wendy. “Our family knows the value of a Meredith education, experiences, and connections. We want to ensure that others can have the same opportunities.”

The McLawhorns wanted their daughters involved in the process because they have always placed a high value on volunteerism and philanthropy and have demonstrated this to them since they were young.

“My husband and I felt that volunteering and community service was a positive way to expose them to different environments and set a strong foundation of philanthropy and service.

Now, as teenagers, they have each found ways they personally enjoy giving back.”

Isabelle serves at their church preschool and Molly serves with the church’s programming and is on a teen board for a women’s charity. For Wendy and Chris, it has been rewarding to see their daughters find different ways to serve and share their gifts.

Wendy says of all her memories as a student and alumna, it was a special day to sign the McLawhorn Family Endowment with President Sapp. “Our family’s ability to set up a scholarship fund to help current Meredith students was so special to us and will hold a special ‘Meredith memory’ for me. It was a wonderful experience to be surrounded by family in that moment.”

This scholarship for undergraduates shows the investment the McLawhorns have made in Meredith students.

Isabelle and Molly in 2014 in front of Johnson Hall

Isabelle at the annual Alumnae Relations Easter Egg Hunt in 2017

Wendy’s commitment to Meredith began many years ago, even before she was an undergraduate. She told her mother she was going to attend Meredith. And once she stepped on campus she took full advantage of all the College had to offer.

“At Meredith, I met students and professors from different backgrounds, which helped me as a person,” said Wendy. “I truly felt supported by faculty and staff, which allowed me to step outside of my comfort zone and try things I would not have had the confidence to do in high school. I took advantage of many opportunities that helped me enter the workplace with strong leadership skills.”

Wendy’s leadership opportunities came through class officer roles, leading the Campus Activities Board, and working in the Student Activities office. Her confidence fueled her desire to be involved, give back to the community, and make a difference years after she

graduated from Meredith.

Those leadership skills she learned have served her well in her career. Wendy majored in psychology and minored in business administration/ human resource management. She began her career as a human resource intern in her junior year at Meredith and has worked as an executive in multiple companies, leading HR functions for sizeable businesses. Wendy currently serves as the vice president of human resources of the PPD clinical development business of Thermo Fisher Scientific, a business with over $5 billion in revenue and 20,000 global employees.

“While I treasure my four years at Meredith, I equally value the connections I have made with other alumnae after those years. I’ve met so many amazing graduates through my work on advisory boards and networking at Meredith events. I have stayed engaged and excited about

the opportunities to support the College’s future success.”

Wendy says she always wanted to stay involved and help the College and others by giving back what she gained from her Meredith experience. The Young Alumnae Board helped her stay connected with other alumnae after graduation and introduced her to ways to support the College, whether that was through her time, talents, or finances.

“Ensuring Meredith has strong financial support from alumnae and friends of the College is the key to the College’s ongoing growth and success and led me to start serving on the Meredith Fund Advisory Board,” said McLawhorn.

In 2024, McLawhorn was appointed to the Alumnae Association Board. She is excited about contributing to the College differently in this role.

“In all of these roles, I have had so much fun meeting new people and learning about the different aspects of Meredith, from admissions to career preparation of the students to recent initiatives like the nursing program.”

Wendy hopes alumnae will find a way to connect to Meredith. “For some, that means financial gifts, and for others that may mean gifts of time or talents. There are so many ways to get involved including advisory boards, speaking on alumnae panels and at admission events, engaging with current students, and even alumnae networking. I have learned we are strong together!”

MERED TH MENTOR S

Connect with Meredith Mentors

By Emily Parker

Meredith Mentors, our online mentoring platform, connects current students, alumnae/i, and faculty/staff to support personal and professional development.

By simply registering at mentors. meredith.edu you can begin to explore the online community for your own development or to support the development of someone else in the Meredith community.

Alumnae interested in connecting with others in their field, thinking about returning to school, or looking to change careers can connect with anyone on the online platform as well. Recent graduates can connect with fellow alumnae once they have moved to a new city, and alumnae can reach out with questions about career transitions. Meredith Mentors allows alumnae to network with each other and reconnect with classmates.

Meredith alumnae always want

to help Meredith’s current students. This platform allows alumnae to connect with students and help them review resumes, find internships and career opportunities, discover more information about a field of study, or give guidance on graduate school. The opportunity for mentorship, short or long-term, is also encouraged.

This semester a new mentorship matching program through Meredith Mentors was launched. There are currently 17 student and alumnae pairs matched based on interest, industry, majors, and other shared experiences. They have semester-long programming to guide their mentoring experience. Since the launch of Meredith Mentors in 2019, the number of people using the platform has grown steadily. Currently, 2,136 users, representing 28 states and 12 countries populate the online resource.

To learn more visit meredith.edu/alumnae/mentorshipnetworking. If you have any questions email mentors@meredith.edu. Gain instant access to the global Meredith community at mentors.meredith.edu.

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.

Visit meredith.edu/support to stay connected. Learn how you can attend future events or how you can volunteer. Reach out to an Institutional Advancement staff member to assist you if you have any questions. To make a gift, visit community.meredith.edu/supportMC .

Show your Meredith pride with items from the Meredith Market including our new Sea Bags!

To order online, visit meredithmarket.com.

Estes-Speight Family Athletic Center Nears Completion

By Emily Parker

The Estes-Speight Family Athletic Center construction is almost complete. The new building will include athletic training space for softball, tennis, and golf. The space will include two large indoor batting cages that will double as indoor golf driving ranges, locker rooms, a student lounge, and public restrooms.

The construction of this building is possible because Chris Speight Brown, ’76, along with her siblings, gave a $1 million lead gift to name the center in memory of their mother, Mary Estes Speight, ’53, and their father, Bobby Speight.

The players’ lounge in the center has also been named by Ginger Alexander Neustadt, ’05, former Board of Trustees member. The current construction is phase one of the project. Support is needed to start phase two, which will include other amenities for the complex.

Meredith’s 11 athletic teams have had continued success. Keeping facilities up to date will support Meredith’s enrollment of student-athletes.

Inland Construction, headquartered in Garner, N.C., is the general contractor for phase one. A ribbon cutting will be held this fall. Check your email and meredith.edu for more information.

Interested in helping fund phase two of the project or naming a space? Contact Eric Douglass, director of strategic giving for athletics, at eddouglass@meredith.edu or (919) 986-5205.

ALUMNAE CONNECTION

Class notes and news for Meredith Alumnae

1964

For nine years, Joy Adams Lucas and several classmates have regularly met for lunch at various Wake County restaurants. This year they gathered at the Belk Dining Hall on campus for a delicious kick-off to the holiday season. The group was delighted to have their classmate, Rhonda Morgan Wilkerson , share her knowledge as a docent at the N.C. Museum of Art as she guided them on tours of the exhibits. They treasure their friendships that are forever!

1968

On a two-week river cruise during the summer of 2024, Nancy Boyd Kipp and her husband ventured from Amsterdam to Budapest, traveling down the Rhine, Main, and Danube Rivers. While they certainly enjoyed the sights, they also enjoyed getting to know their fellow travelers. They were delightful people, many of them well-traveled and full of interesting life experiences. One of the highlights of the cruise was their stop in the town of Wurzburg, Germany, as Kipp lived there for a year when she was 15 years old. Her father was a career Army officer, stationed in Germany for three years. Returning to the town was a meaningful experience for her. Aside from traveling, Kipp continues to spend fun time with her daughter, her sonin-law, and her local grandchildren. It is a special treat when Kipp’s son and his family, who live in Greenville, N.C., come visit her in Colorado. When in N.C., Kipp connects with her roommate, Joyce Wilson Pendergrass, and her two suitemates, Dava Drew Jarman and Nancy Herring Stallings , which is always a fun time!

1971

July 2024 was quite the adventure for Gloria Little English and her husband! They took an amazing Viking River Cruise along the Danube, visiting the capitals of Eastern Europe. Gone for

a total of three weeks, they finished their trip with a visit to Dracula’s castle in Transylvania. Unfortunately, English contracted COVID on the plane ride home. She continues to stay busy with volunteer work, including her third year as her church trustee chair, and her second year as president of United Women in Faith. In addition to these roles, English continues to serve in the choir and as a backup pianist for Saint Andrews United Methodist Church in Garner, N.C. She and her husband plan to continue traveling as much as they can for as long as they can! Living in Norfolk, Va., Nancy Johnson Morgan and her husband love being near their family, including their two daughters, son-in-law, and two grandsons. They are enjoying their retirement by doing a bit of traveling, volunteering with various charitable organizations, attending NC State football and basketball games, and being present with family.

1976

In celebration of her 70th birthday, Louise Crouch Lee’s daughter took her on a trip to Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia. They followed the Cabot Trail along the coastline and were blessed with breathtaking views accentuated by gorgeous leaves and brilliant sunsets. Lee’s self-described “not-so-young body” was pushed to its limits with challenging hikes and a kayaking trip that left them wondering how they made it back in one piece! Lee was especially grateful for the rare one-onone time with her daughter who lives on the opposite side of the country and for memories that she will cherish forever. After the passing of her husband in 2022 and 37 years in the real estate business, Janet Fish Watson sold her Coldwell Banker franchise and retired in 2023. She now enjoys traveling and spending time with her two daughters and three grandchildren.

1978

Wendy Walton Ward welcomed two new grandsons.

1979

Katherine Keith Thomas received a Lifetime Service Award from the N.C. Economic Development Association in November 2024. An Alfred Williams & Company executive, Thomas has had various leadership roles throughout her career, including her time with Progress Energy before her current role at Alfred Williams.

1983

Through her 36-year tenure at Bank of America, Katherine Holland Campbell has gained experience in commercial banking, change management, and policy/regulations strategy.

1984

In July 2024, Claire Clyburn became the corridor district superintendent at the N.C. annual conference of the United Methodist Church. In addition, Clyburn welcomed her first grandchild in September 2024. Over the past two summers, Jane Harrell Dodd has excitedly welcomed a new grandson and a new daughter-in-law. For the last 40 years, Mary Jean Love Lester has served in music ministry as a church organist, choir director, and handbell director at various churches in central Virginia. Lester’s husband has recently retired from the Virginia Department of Transportation and his part-time role as a local pastor. The couple shares two sons who are both alumni of James Madison University in Harrisonburg, Va. Lester wishes her classmates and friends a happy 40th anniversary as Meredith alumnae – what a milestone! After retiring from her teaching career in 2021, Kimberly Bean Morgan has continued to substitute teach part-time. Morgan is also directing the music of Matilda at her old school. She has a total

of nine grandchildren who keep her quite busy! Continuing to live outside of Richmond, Va., Janet Noblin Noel and her husband are celebrating their 38th year of marriage. They love their four Scottish terriers, camping, and spending time with their grandchildren.

1985

Appointed to the Wake Tech Board of Trustees by Governor Roy Cooper in 2017, Kellie Falk was recently elected chair of the board. As chair, Falk will play a crucial role in shaping the future of Wake Tech, North Carolina’s largest community college, which serves over 72,000 students annually.

1986

Ann Clark Douglas welcomed her second grandson in August 2024. Living out her dreams of owning a home in Raleigh, Georgia Parrish James has been bouncing around like a ball this fall! She has joined the choir at Hayes Barton Baptist Church, welcomed her third grandchild, and discovered her newest obsession: creating needlepoint Christmas ornaments! This hobby takes her across the street from Meredith often for supplies. Additionally, James found out about the Free Moms group on campus at NC State last fall and has enjoyed baking lots of goodies for students. She loves knowing that the “kids” stand in line for a simple baked good – a blessing for them and herself! She is excited to welcome grandbaby number four this spring. Lisa Robie Poole and her husband could not be happier to announce the engagement of their daughter who is to be married in November 2025. Linda Spain Brame retired in January 2024. Call them crazy, but Melinda Wrenn Thomas and her husband have moved again … and during the week of Thanksgiving! While they had planned to move in 2025, they received an off-market offer that they couldn’t resist. Their new townhome already feels like home and they are right down the road from their two oldest grandchildren. While she loved living in downtown Greensboro, Thomas needed an extra bedroom for grandchildren wanting to spend the night!

1989

Excited about her new title as a grandmother, Mary Dickson Long welcomed her grandson in September 2024. Suzanne Bartholomew Mahaney is now a licensed professional counselor at Integrated Psychiatric in Alpharetta, Ga. Beth Oates Williams and her husband celebrated 35 years of marriage this year.

ALUMNAE GOING STRONG

CAROL HEDSPETH-LOWE, ’78 Alumna Competes in Jeopardy!

By Rocio Antelis

A longtime fan of Jeopardy!, Carol Hedspeth-Lowe, ’78, realized a dream of competing on the popular game show.

“My husband and I watch Jeopardy! every night. I’ve always considered myself a pretty good “armchair” competitor, so I decided to try the online test,” said Hedspeth-Lowe. “It’s a short test, and you don’t receive your results so I took it and forgot about it.”

A few weeks later, Hedspeth-Lowe received an email asking her to take a second test. Like with the first test, she didn’t receive her results or know what to expect. To her surprise, she received an invitation to a Zoom audition soon after.

“Several people were competing in a practice match with questions, wagering, and scoring,” said Hedspeth-Lowe. “I knew I had several correct answers, but we were told we’d hear back from a producer within 18 months if we had been selected to be on the show.”

A producer called Hedspeth-Lowe a few months later and invited her to be a contestant in March 2024. “I had to decline at that point because both my husband and I had surgeries scheduled, and I wouldn’t be able to make the trip,” said Hedspeth-Lowe. “The producer was extremely nice and asked me to reach out to them when I felt up to it.”

That summer, Hedspeth-Lowe followed up with the producer and was scheduled for taping on September 17-18. Hedspeth-Lowe invited Jonellen Thompson, whom she met at Meredith, to join her on the adventure for moral support. The experience did not disappoint the dedicated Jeopardy! fan. Hedspeth-Lowe said the crew and host, Ken Jennings, were all friendly and supportive. Thompson added that Jennings even chatted with the audience in between matches.

Hedspeth-Lowe also took the opportunity to show her pride as a Meredith alumna.

“Before taping, contestants fill out a survey about their lives and experiences which the producers use to come up with the questions for Ken to ask during the interview section,” she said. “When I arrived at the studio, I was given a note card with five topics that Ken could ask me about, one of which was that I had identified my Meredith Onyx as one of my most treasured possessions. I was really hoping Ken would ask me about it so I could shout out Meredith but it will have to suffice to know that I was wearing my ring and trying my best to represent Meredith well.”

To end the experience on another high point, Hedspeth-Lowe met another alumna on her way home. The flight attendant, Anna Clark, ’85, spotted Hedspeth-Lowe’s Onyx. “We had only a few minutes to share greetings so when I got home, I went on the Facebook alumnae page and described her. Fellow Angels recognized the description and connected us,” said Hedspeth-Lowe.

Hedspeth-Lowe’s episode aired on October 25. She earned a final score of $1,600.

ALUMNAE CONNECTION

She still remembers asking him to dance that first time at Barry’s on Hillsborough Street – one of the best decisions of her life! Lesley Holloway Parker and Karen Ruff had a wonderful time traveling with the Meredith alumnae group to Spain and Morocco in October 2023.

1990

Retirement finally feels real for Deanna Harris. She spends a few days a week substitute teaching in area schools. During the other days, she enjoys visits with family, meals with friends, pilates and walking, and outings with her semiretired husband. She also enjoys activities with their daughter who is finishing her senior year of high school. During the spring of 2023, Alyson Kuhlke Jones, her husband, and their youngest daughter moved to their family farm in Hawaii. Her daughter is the fifth generation of their family to live on the land. Jones is hopeful to get the farm up and running again since it has been dormant for 17 years. They love living on the volcano and would welcome visits from family and friends at their home.

1991

Alesha Still McCauley is a proud mom. Her son is a sophomore at UNC Charlotte and is doing well. He plans to major in mechanical engineering or mechanical engineering technology.

1992

In the fall of 2023, Gwen Daughtry Hodges started Hodges & Hergenrader, LLP with Anna Hergenrader. H&H is an accounting and advisory firm with locations in both Raleigh and Wilmington. The first year has been very rewarding for Hodges, and she is looking forward to many more years of serving closely held businesses and their owners.

1999

A 23-year veteran classroom teacher and public education advocate, April Jones Lee was elected to the Johnston County, N.C. Board of Education in November 2024. At the 2024 N.C. State Fair, Melinda Spencer Wallace received first place for her lemon-lavender biscotti and second place for her turtle cupcakes.

2000

In May 2024, Tiffany Keith Jelovich was promoted to regional sales vice president for healthcare and celebrated 26 years of service at Grainger.

2002

In May 2024, Rev. Suzanne Parker Miller

and the nonprofit Pastors for N.C. Children were honored to receive the “Champions for Children” award by the N.C. Foundation for Public School Children. Miller founded this nonprofit group back in 2019. Their work focuses on mobilizing faith communities to advocate for public school education.

2004

In December 2024, Courtney Harris Currin earned her doctor of education degree from UNC Wilmington.

2010

Taryn Oesch DeLong published her first book, Holy Ambition: Thriving as a Catholic Woman at Work and at Home, with Ave Maria Press in November 2024.

2011

Laura Brantley Baker has been teaching in Nash County for 14 years. She and her family are excited to welcome their fourth child this year. Courtney Carter ’s debut fantasy novel, To Kiss the Sea – Kingsport Chronicles Book 1, was released on October 31, 2023. The sequel, To Brave the Deep, came out on May 14, 2024. Carter is now working on To Free the Waves!, the final book in the trilogy. In her new role, Brittany Frieson Davis is an assistant professor of bilingual/bicultural education at the University of Texas at Austin. As a travel advisor with Rainbow Getaways, LLC since 2023, Julia Houtchings specializes in accessible travel for the LGBTQ+ community and allies. She is a certified autism travel professional (CATP) and a certified accessible travel advocate (CATA). Houtchings and her wife live happily in the Hudson Valley in upstate New York with their rescue dog, Chester. In January 2024, Kelley Ross Holly moved to County Kerry, Ireland, with her husband, son, and two dogs.

2012

Beginning a new role, JLP Prince is working at San Francisco State University as the continuity and compliance coordinator in the office of emergency services.

2014

As the co-owners of “Say I Duo Social,” Cady Carawan Howe and Rebecca Shaw Smith specialize in wedding and event content creation. In her new role, Meghan Thedford Kelly is working at NC State University in the industry expansion solutions department as their registration and logistics coordinator. Celebrating seven years on staff at

Apartment Life, Taylar Thomas Taitague is currently the divisional vice president of program management. She and her husband have three sons.

2019

After completing her graduate program at East Tennessee State University, Emma Moore received a position as a plant genetic researcher at Ohalo Genetics in Asheville, N.C. In addition to graduating and getting a full-time position, Moore recently published a paper in Annuals of Botany called “Co-flowering Richness Has Variable Effects on Pollen Quantity and Quality Limitation in Four Clarkia Species.” She feels grateful to Dr. Aghorham and Dr. Andrus for their help in cultivating her background in plant research and cell biology during her time as a Meredith student. As a resident of Asheville during the time of Hurricane Helene, Moore is glad to see her community’s resilience shine. They are coming back strong!

2020

It was a busy 2024 for Leah PooleSelters! She began a doctoral program at Tufts University, traveled to Namibia, Zambia, and Zimbabwe for research, and married! She was so grateful to have some Meredith sisters by her side on her wedding day.

2021

Rachel Goldberg passed the North Carolina State Bar Paralegal Exam.

2023

Rosemary Vega Escutia has been accepted into the master of education in school counseling program at Salem College. She will begin her studies in Fall 2025.

NEW ARRIVALS

2004

Ejiro Ubiedi Morrow, a daughter, Josephine Omorudu-Grace, 1/2/24.

Stephanie Doyon Spencer, a son, Lincoln James, 10/21/24.

2008

Ashley Vaughan, a son, Bennett James, 10/10/24.

2011

Brittany Frieson Davis, a daughter, Liana Catherine, 7/26/24.

Carver Morrow Draughn, a son, George Morrow, 7/8/24.

2013

Laura Jane Williams Ferguson, a daughter, Virginia Graham, 8/20/24.

2014

Lenelle Welch Hines, a son, Fuller Welch, 8/28/24.

Cady Carawan Howe, a daughter, Miller James, 7/15/21, and a son, Rhett Parker, 3/25/23.

Meghan Thedford Kelly, a daughter, Onyx Rose, 11/16/24.

Kelsey Hopper Sanders, a daughter, Sloane Elizabeth, 9/1/24.

Taylar Thomas Taitague, sons, Benjamin, 9/23/19, Samuel, 9/20/21, and Micah, 8/29/23.

2015

Julia Dent Bocchese, a daughter, Genevieve Clara, 7/26/24.

Lindsey Johnson Dumas, a daughter, Hazel Grace, 8/26/24.

2017

Kelsey Lockner Bell, a daughter, Rebekah Caroline, 3/9/22.

Hope Everette Eubanks, a son, Everette Owen, 10/29/24.

MARRIAGES

1982

Martha Baker Fraize to Clayton Rayvon Bennett, 3/16/24.

1986

Linda Gayle Spain to Dennis Wayne Brame, 2/17/24.

2001

Holly Lowman to Mary Bragg, 9/15/24.

2004

Stephanie Creech to Waylon Parham, 10/25/24.

2011

Erin Michelle Huber to Andrew Robert Swedenburg, 11/23/24.

2014

Cady Carawan to Nathan Howe, 11/11/18. Meghan Elyse Thedford to Brian Michael Kelly, 10/22/21.

Kelsey Hopper to Andrew Sanders, 7/22/23.

ARE YOU A MEREDITH ALUMNA WHO OWNS A BUSINESS?

The Office of Alumnae Relations is seeking to provide the Meredith community with a list of STRONG alumnae business owners from all over the country in a wide variety of industries. We hope this resource will encourage networking and provide support for alumnae-owned businesses.

Visit the directory at meredith.edu/alumnae/alumnaebusiness-directory to add your business or search for an Alumnae Owned Business near you!

Taylar Thomas to Jacob Taitague, 10/7/17.

2019

Shelby Wright to Kiley Wilson, 11/16/24.

2020

Elizabeth Cavanagh to Allen Cooper, 11/10/24.

Leah Banner Poole to Charlotte Ellen Selters, 10/20/24.

DEATHS

1942

Eloise Garriss McManus, 8/4/24.

1943

Mary Louise Ott Spain, 9/14/24.

1947

Rita Paez Reeves, 10/11/24.

1948

Catherine Campbell King, 9/22/24.

Frances Alexander Smith, 7/12/24.

Mary Louise Milliken Thompson, 9/16/24.

Mary Helen Vinson Woodard, 9/7/24.

1949

Marjorie Wilson Elinor, 1/5/24.

EXPLORE BRITISH ARTS & CULTURE WITH MEREDITH COLLEGE

DECEMBER 28, 2025 – JANUARY 6, 2026

Enjoy the new British Arts & Culture Intensive!

This experience is designed as a 10-day program for alumnae and friends of the College. The tour will take place December 28, 2025 – January 6, 2026 (Dates include all travel days.)

The program will take advantage of all that London has to offer: museums, theatre, a tour of Parliament, plus excursions to Hampton Court and Greenwich. Shop all the after-Christmas sales, go ice-skating, and ring in the new year at the London Eye, the possibilities are endless! We will be based at the beautiful boutique hotel, the Euston Square, located in central London. Led by study abroad pros Dr. Betty Webb and Professor Cathy Rodgers, all proceeds will benefit the London student summer study abroad program.

Make plans to join us soon—space is limited!

Please contact Cathy Rodgers, ’76, rodgersc@meredith.edu, to join the interest list and to receive program information.

ALUMNAE GOING STRONG

KISSIE STROUP, ’88 A Labor of Love

By Rocio Antelis

With a dash of passion and a pinch of risk, Kissie Stroup, ’88, started a salad dressing company, Little Black Dressing, in 2011.

Growing up in a family of chefs, cooking has always been a labor of love for Stroup. She fondly remembers family dinners during her childhood, laughing at the dinner table and relishing her grandmother’s salad topped with a homemade dressing.

Over the years, Stroup would make her grandmother’s special vinaigrette dressing for potlucks with friends. It was a hit. “People would show up at the house with jars and I would fill them up to go,” said Stroup. “At one point, my husband said the dressing needed its own office and to start a business.”

Stroup decided to take on the challenge with the mentality of building her business slowly and strategically. “The food industry is cutthroat. A wrong move can put you out of business fast,” she said. “I make sure to team with the right partners, at the right time, and in the right locales.”

The approach has proved successful for Little Black Dressing. In 2014, the company achieved a milestone even Stroup was not expecting – it was chosen as the official salad dressing of the 2014 U.S. Open in Pinehurst, N.C. Stroup had received an email inviting her to submit samples to the U.S. Golf Association’s caterer. “I initially thought it was my family playing a joke on me,” said Stroup. “Once they convinced me it was not a joke, I turned in samples and was picked.”

The large task was a feat for the small company. At the time, Stroup ran the production of the dressing, mixing and filling each bottle herself. With the help of family and friends, she was able to send the requested 3,000 bottles to the U.S. Open. “It was probably the most stressful job we have ever done,” said Stroup. “Nevertheless, we finished it, and it was well-received.”

So well-received, Little Black Dressing was chosen as the U.S. Open’s official dressing for a second time in 2024. “I do most everything for the business still, except for production,” said Stroup. “The dressing is made in a facility now so we were able to fulfill the U.S. Open order with less stress.”

Stroup said one of her greatest strengths is persistence. As a business owner, this skill is invaluable. “Don’t expect instant success. Don’t expect easy. Be ready to work hard and have long days and disappointments. Don’t be beaten down by the word “no”. Use it as a catalyst to push harder. Celebrate the good moments. There are lots of those, too.”

Dorothy Swaringen Hughes, 8/16/24.

1950

Charlotte Bowman Cunningham, 10/27/24.

1951

Nancy Hefner Goodson, 9/25/24.

Vertie Mitchell Perry, 11/7/24.

1952

Frances Sue Fitzgerald, 8/30/24.

Mary Ruth Godfrey, 11/29/18.

1953

Catherine "Kitty" Fisher Cole, 6/3/23.

Bette Winchester Glance, 8/28/24.

1954

Kay Sugg Crum, 9/7/24

Carmena Ruth Barnes Zimmerman, 6/1/24.

1955

Shirley McLean Davis, 10/26/24.

1956

Anne Parr Browne, 9/12/24.

Frances Reed, 11/7/24.

1957

Eileen Browne Bostick, 7/27/24.

1958

Sara Fagan Cutler, 8/20/24.

Kay White Marshall, 8/30/24.

1959

Marcie Hampton Briley, 4/10/24.

Martha Elmore James, 7/31/24.

1962

Betty Gray Singletary, 8/21/24.

1963

Brenda Clark, 10/18/24.

1964

Penelope Senter Bethune, 9/5/24.

Millie Pearce Brooks, 10/17/24.

1965

Susan Frye Carpenter, 7/10/24. Patricia Berry Davidson, 10/30/23.

1967

Ann Batson James, 10/26/24.

Gwynne Myers Nicholaides, 9/15/24. Emily Lay Paramonov, 11/3/23.

1970

Paula Tudor Gilbert, 10/12/24.

1971

Vickie Gilmore Presnell, 8/18/24.

1974

Deborah Pugh Miller, 10/24/24.

1975

Donnell Peeler Horton, 10/4/24.

Barbara Gregory Roberts, 6/24/17.

1976

Cris Pritchard Gardner, 9/5/24.

Susan Grogan Garrison, 11/5/24.

1980

Patricia Ann Hogan, 7/4/24.

1983

Melissa Neisler Lawrence, 9/27/24.

1986

Stephana Melissa West, 10/5/24.

1988

Betty Stroud Griffin, 11/2/24.

Dolores Burnham Soderberg, 9/23/19.

1991

Gene Jones, 9/29/24.

Gladys Cusley Langdon, 8/12/24.

1996

Eufemia Draetta, 9/30/24.

1999

Bess Hill Harrell Little, 11/27/24.

JoAnn Thomas, 9/26/24.

2015

Christine Cormier, 8/14/24.

SHOW YOUR PRIDE WITH A MEREDITH LICENSE PLATE

Do you have a Meredith license plate?

A Meredith license plate is a great way for North Carolina drivers to show their Meredith pride wherever they go and to promote the College to future Angels.

It is easy to order and a portion of the fees come back to Meredith

Order your tag today at ncdot.gov/dmv.

Follow the instructions and log into your DMV account to find the Meredith license plate.

SYMPATHY

1957

Bobbitt Clay Williams in the death of her husband.

1962

Carolyn Lay Dowd in the death of her sister.

Ida Carol Senter Wilson in the death of her sister.

1964

Patricia Lay Dorsey in the death of her sister.

1965

Polly Finan Laubinger in the death of her daughter.

1966

Jean Lyles McLeod in the death of her son.

1970

Phyllis Jeffreys Culbreth in the death of her husband.

1973

Dottie Sink Sykes in the death of her father.

1974

Judy Williams in the death of her mother.

1975

Susan Sener Worrell in the death of her sister.

1976

Janet Fish Watson in the death of her husband.

1979

Kim Neisler Lathan in the death of her sister-in-law.

1983

Melody West Parnell in the death of her sister.

1984

Catherine Cole Baldwin in the death of her mother.

Elaine Jolly Davis in the death of her father and father-in-law.

Susane Cutler Ruane in the death of her mother.

1985

Zan Bunn in the death of her mother.

Jennifer Goodson Lackey in the death of her mother.

1986

Denise Lee Ott in the death of her aunt.

Linda Spain Brame in the death of her brother.

Melanie Wenona Strickland in the death of her mother.

1987

Donna Wilson Thagard in the death of her aunt.

1989

Lesley Holloway Parker in the death of her father.

Michelle Parks in the death of her mother.

Davina Bunn Touchton in the death of her mother.

SAVE THE DATE • MAY 16-18

PARTY | CLASS LUNCHEON & EVENTS

STATE OF THE COLLEGE | PRESIDENT AIMEE SAPP 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 five or zero will be celebrating a special class reunion. On Friday, we will celebrate the Class of 1975 and all other classes who have celebrated a 50th reunion at the Golden Oaks Society Luncheon. The campus party, hosted by President Aimee Sapp, 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!

1991

Robbie Walker Griffin in the death of her mother.

1993

Trinnie Terrell O’Connor in the death of her mother.

1999

Courtney Duncil in the death of her father.

2000

Sarabeth West in the death of her sister.

2001

Emily Burt in the death of her mother.

2002

Rynn Ott in the death of her great aunt.

2004

Dianna Culbreth Wagoner in the death of her father.

2006

Ashley Bohn Roberson in the death of her father.

2011

Claire Dwyer Koehler in the death of her father.

2012

Ashton Herbert in the death of her mother. Mary Tschopp in the death of her father.

2013

Laura Jane Williams Ferguson in the death of her grandmother.

2015

Callie Davis in the death of both of her grandfathers.

2016

Katie Baldwin in the death of her grandmother.

2022

Carsen Williams in the death of her grandmother.