Issuu

THE MAGAZINE FOR ROANOKE COLLEGE | ISSUE TWO | 2026

Introducing the Shaun McConnon Discovery Center

DOGWOOD

GRAN AVENTURA “The National Park System: Explore Your America” took students on a grand educational adventure through breathtaking territory in the Southwestern U.S. By Lindsey Nair ’98 Photo courtesy Chris Lassiter

If the National Park Service had a contest for top fan, there’s no question Roanoke College Biology Professor Chris Lassiter would be in the mix. Lassiter has a personal goal to visit every park in the system, and his number currently stands at 387 out of 433. Over May Term, he shared his love of parks with a group of students in his travel course, “The National Park System: Explore Your America,” leading them through White Sands, Big Bend, Carlsbad Caverns and Great Sand Dunes national parks. Along the way, they focused on biological, historical and cultural sites of importance in New Mexico, Texas and Colorado. Near the U.S.-Mexico border, they visited Chamizal National Memorial and posed for this photo in front of the Nuestra Harencia mural, which represents the regional blending of cultures through symbols and images of the U.S. and Mexico.

D IS C O V E R IS S U E T W O | 2 0 2 6

10 Accelerated Path

18 McConnon Center

Roanoke is now offering 3-year bachelor degrees in public administration and cannabis studies that are a direct response to workforce demands, making education accessible to more students.

ON THE QUAD 8 11 12 13

Commencement 2026 The Four Crawford’s Glow Up Faculty Retirements

R OA N O K E M AGA Z IN E | IS S U E T W O | 2 0 2 6

R O O N E Y ’S R O U N D U P 14 15 16 17

Pinning Perfection Net Gains Hall of Fame Highlights

Thanks to generous donors and plenty of hard work, the Shaun McConnon Discovery Center is open at last. The 31,000-squarefoot center welcomed its ﬁrst group of students this fall, and it is already elevating the educational experience on campus.

IN S P IR IN G IM PAC T 46 48 49

Scholarship Dinner Alumni Awards Meet Douglas Powell ’97

26 25 Years Later A quarter-century after the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, Steve “Jet” LaMantia ’85 is still being remembered fondly at Roanoke, where a scholarship in his name continues to make college possible for deserving students.

ON THE COVER When this issue went to press, the Shaun McConnon Discovery Center had just been finished and its landscaping was still in the works. We asked illustrator Julia Green, who specializes in photo illustration, to do our beautiful building justice by jazzing up Richard Sperry’s photograph with a dramatic sky, enhanced lighting, flowers and shrubbery. By the time this magazine lands on coffee tables, the actual landscaping will be finished. Thanks to Julia for transforming a red-dirt construction site into a glimpse of what the future will bring for our new science center! FOREVER MAROONS 31 33 34 42

Living History with Nina Earle ’26 Alumni Books Welcome New Alumni Remembering Diane Wing

IN E V E RY IS S U E 4 6 50 51 52

Heard Snapshots Archives Four Questions: Kelsey Marletta ’10 Fun Page R OA N O K E .E D U

HEARD

We’re feeling the love T H E M AGA Z IN E F O R R OA N O K E C O L L E G E

ON THE INAUGURAL SCHOLARSHIP DINNER:

“I was very impressed with the students at our table. Articulate and conﬁdent. They know what they want to do and are planning ahead.” Stephen Bast ’75 ON DUSTIN PERSINGER, DIRECTOR OF ACCESSIBLE EDUCATION SERVICES:

“Dustin is a blessing! So thankful for him! And thankful for Roanoke College & the accommodations and inclusion for my son! Proud Noke Mom!” Andrea Holdren “In general, Dustin has really been a gift to my child at RC! We are very lucky he’s been so supportive! Thank you to him!” Brennan Sutton ON ROANOKE’S CAMPUS:

“I live here and never realized how much was tucked away unseen until our visit with my son, who is now a rising sophomore and track athlete.” Kevin Taylor

“Such a stunning and inviting campus when everything is in bloom! I’ll come visit when the pollen is done wreaking havoc on my allergies!” Wendy Feldman

“A beautiful campus. We enjoyed it for three years while our grandson attended, played men’s volleyball and graduated May 2025.” Laura Marcom Hussey

ON RETIRING FACULTY MEMBER MELANIE ALMEDER:

“Dr. Almeder genuinely changed my life, and I know she did the same for countless other students. What an amazing person, teacher, poet and friend.” Skye Sisk ’26

Editor Lindsey Nair ’98, Associate Vice President, Marketing and Communications Contributors Lily Kincaid, Alicia Petska, Anna Wehr, Mike Carpenter, Jordan Haack, Margo Boone ’26, Ashley Mountcastle ’27 Photography James France, Richard Sperry, Jason Lisk, Carissa Szuch Divant, Ryan Hunt ’18, Sam Harding ’29, Lindsey Nair ’98 Illustration Julia Green Design & Production Mikula-Harris Printing Bison Printing Sr. Associate Vice President, Marketing and Communications Rita Farlow

Roanoke College does not discriminate against students, employees or applicants on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, age, gender, sexual orientation, marital status, national or ethnic origin, disability or veteran status. Roanoke College Magazine is published twice a year by the Ofﬁce of Marketing and Communications for alumni, students, parents, staff and friends of Roanoke College. Editorial rights are reserved. Questions, comments and corrections may be sent to: Magazine Editor Roanoke College Ofﬁce of Marketing and Communications 221 College Lane Salem, VA 24153-3794 rcmagazine@roanoke.edu

2026-2027 | Board of Trustees Mr. Malon W. Courts ’92, Chair Mr. Kenneth J. Belton Sr. ’81, Vice Chair Mr. James S. Frantz Jr., Secretary Mr. David Meadows, Ex-ofﬁcio, Treasurer Dr. Frank Shushok Jr., Ex-ofﬁcio, President of the College Mr. Kirk Howard Betts Dr. Paris D. Butler, MPH ’00 Ms. Pamela L. Cabalka ’76 Dr. M. Paul Capp ’52 Mr. Joseph H. Carpenter IV ’99 Ms. Joanne Leonhardt Cassullo ’78

Mr. W. Morgan Churchman ’65 Ms. Kimberly Davis-Riffe Mr. Robert P. Fralin The Rev. Harry W. Grifﬁth Mr. Michael P. Haley ’73 Ms. Judith B. Hall ’69 Dr. Jared J. Herr ’04, M.D. Ms. Peggy Fintel Horn ’78 The Rev. Dr. Phyllis Milton, Bishop Ms. Nancy B. Mulheren ’72 Mr. Roger A. Petersen ’81 Mr. J. Tyler Pugh ’70 Mr. David W. Robertson ’89 Mr. C. Micah Spruill ’11 Mr. Daniel E. Strelka ’89

R OA N O K E M AGA Z IN E | IS S U E T W O | 2 0 2 6

Mr. Andrew K. Teeter ’71 Mr. Peter S. Treiber ’79 Mr. Christopher R. Turnbull ’00 Dr. Garnett B. Whitehurst Ms. Helen Twohy Whittemore ’80 Mr. Andrew Masterman and Mrs. Cheryl Masterman (Ex-officio, Cochairs of the Parent Leadership Council) Mr. Alexander “Sandy” Mulheren ’02 (Ex-officio, Chair of the President’s Advisory Board) Mrs. Nicole B. Terrill ’95 (Ex-officio)

221 College Lane | Salem, VA 24153-3794 | roanoke.edu

College Switchboard ...........................540-375-2500 Admissions Local .................................540-375-2270 Admissions Toll-free ............................800-388-2276 Alumni/Parent Relations ......................540-375-2238 Alumni Email .............................alumni@roanoke.edu Church Relations.................................540-375-2300 Colket Center .......................................540-378-5125 Intercollegiate Athletics........................540-375-2338 Olin Box Office ....................................540-375-2333

P R E S ID E N T ’S P E N

President Shushok chats with guests in July 2025 before the McConnon Discovery Center topping-out ceremony, a construction tradition that marks the completion of the structural frame. In the background is an evergreen tree, which was placed on the ﬁnal beam to symbolize good fortune and prosperity for the building.

Fortifying for the future The environments we build together matter profoundly, not only for what they are, but for who they form.

In a 1943 address to the House of Commons, Winston Churchill famously observed, “We shape our buildings; thereafter they shape us.” Because of your generosity, this past year has been a season of remarkable renewal across our campus, including the renovation of Crawford Hall, the dedication of the Doxanas Athletic Performance Center in Alumni Gym, and the long-anticipated opening of the Shaun McConnon Discovery Center. While new buildings and renovations inspire, their true value is not in bricks, mortar or technology. Their power lies in what they make possible for our students: discovering purpose, exceptional teaching, the exploration of leadership and character, and the intersection of aspiration with opportunity, often in ways once unimaginable.

“While new buildings and renovations inspire, their true value is not in bricks, mortar or technology. Their power lies in what they make possible for our students…” In conversations with Shaun McConnon, one theme consistently emerges: Roanoke College shaped his life in ways not fully visible at the time. His generosity today reflects his deep belief in the transformative power of education and a commitment to extending that opportunity to others, just like an earlier generation did for him. As we opened the McConnon Discovery Center, I found myself thinking about two younger members of our board of trustees: Dr. Paris Butler, an associate pro-

fessor of plastic surgery at the Yale University School of Medicine, and Dr. Jared J. Herr, a cardiologist in San Francisco specializing in advanced heart failure, transplantation and cardiac critical care. They are living examples, among thousands, of how our Roanoke College learning environments shape lives and create a ripple effect. The environments necessary to prepare earlier generations of learners will not suffice for today’s graduates. Reconfiguring our campus infrastructure for a 21st century education is no easy task given the cost of managing our residential campus, but our students must receive the competitive advantage they deserve to surpass workforce demands — and to undergird their critical role as citizens and stewards of our delicate future. As we look ahead, it is inspiring to consider who these newest Roanoke College spaces will help shape and the difference those lives will make. Thank you for being part of launching the next generation of Maroons. With hope,

Frank Shushok, Jr. President

R OA N O K E .E D U

SNAPSHOTS

AT LEFT: Some students capped their college experience with creatively decorated mortarboards.

AT RIGHT: Rooney watches with pride as 402 of his closest friends cross the stage on Commencement Day.

AT RIGHT: Co-valedictorian Mylah Goudy of Cumming, Georgia, addresses home stands packed with family and friends who turned out to celebrate the ﬁrst Commencement at Salem Stadium.

ABOVE: Heywood Fralin, a visionary philanthropist, education advocate, and civic and business leader, was awarded an honorary degree during the 2026 Commencement ceremony.

AT RIGHT: Is any selfie more satisfying than the pre-Commencement selfie? Probably the post-Commencement selfie. 6

R OA N O K E M AGA Z IN E | IS S U E T W O | 2 0 2 6

ABOVE: In April, members of the baseball team recruited students to sign up for the National Marrow Donor Program registry in memory of their teammate, Eddie Kaufman.

ABOVE: Students covered themselves (and each other) in brightly colored powders for Holi, the Hindu festival that celebrates the arrival of spring and the triumph of good over evil.

AT RIGHT: Robynn Hale ’27 and her daughter got dolled up for R President’s Ball in March. This fall, they are both headed to Pamplona, Spain, where Robynn will study at the Public University of Navarra under a prestigious Gilman Scholarship.

BELOW: During the Leave Your Mark event, seniors ascended to the roof of Fishwick House, the president’s home, to check out the swimming pool (wink wink).

AT LEFT: On Valentine’s Day, students, faculty and staff awoke to ﬁnd the campus plastered with encouraging messages as part of a “love bombing” carried out by students and staff in Student Wellness Services and the Marketing and Communications Ofﬁce. R OA N O K E .E D U

ON THE QUAD C O L L E G E N E W S & C A M P U S H A P P E N IN G S

Standing on ceremony The ﬁrst graduation ceremony at Salem Stadium gave the senior class a chance to create new traditions for future students. By Lindsey Nair ’98

Guests packed the home stands for the first Roanoke College graduation ceremony at Salem Stadium, where benefits included ample parking, better sightlines to the students and stage, higher quality audio and improved handicap accessibility. The ceremony started with clouds and cool temperatures that gradually cleared to reveal a piercing blue sky and warm sun by the time the Roanoke College Choir stepped out to sing the Alma Mater. The words to our college song are more poignant than ever on Commencement Day: “Someday the winter of life will pass before us, then we’ll remember the place that proudly bore us. Then we’ll remember Alma Mater, then we’ll remember thee.” To read more about the 2026 Commencement, visit roanoke.edu/commencement2026.

ON THE QUAD

The Abridged Bachelor of Science in Public Administration can be applied to work in government, public safety and nonproﬁts.

ACADEMICS

Roanoke launches 3-year degrees Accelerated bachelor’s degree programs in public administration and cannabis studies put Roanoke at the forefront of a movement to make education more accessible. By Alicia Petska

This fall, Roanoke College is expanding opportunities for more learners with the introduction of three-year bachelor’s degrees designed to help working professionals accelerate their career goals. Enrollment is now open for programs in public administration and cannabis studies. Coursework for both programs is 100% online, ensuring busy students balancing work and home get the flexibility needed to succeed. “These programs are part of our commitment to ensuring higher education is accessible and aligned with the needs of the modern workforce,” said Lisa Stone10

R OA N O K E M AGA Z IN E | IS S U E T W O | 2 0 2 6

“Our goal is to help them shorten the distance between where they are and where they want to be, all while providing the same high-quality education that defines a Roanoke College degree.” — Lisa Stoneman, assistant vice president and head of RC-RV

man, assistant vice president and head of Roanoke College-Roanoke Valley, a forward-thinking workforce development initiative. “For many professionals, a degree is part of unlocking the next stage of their career.

Our goal is to help them shorten the distance between where they are and where they want to be, all while providing the same high-quality education that defines a Roanoke College degree.” Roanoke is one of the first institutions approved to offer three-year degrees by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. The innovative approach puts the campus at the forefront of a movement to make education — and its career benefits — more accessible to people already in the workforce. Stoneman was recently appointed to a committee tasked with creating a statewide model for expanding three-year degree opportunities. The new programs are a direct response to job market demand. The Abridged Bachelor of Science in Public Administration, which includes courses in team management, public policy and data analysis, was developed alongside employers to ensure real-world relevance. The versatile degree can be applied to work in government, public safety and nonprofits. The Abridged Bachelor of Science in Cannabis Studies is launching at a time when 40 states have approved a form of marijuana legalization — and Virginia is poised to establish its own recreational marijuana market next year. The growing movement brings with it a need for a well-educated workforce grounded in the science, ethics and best practices of the industry. Roanoke has been a leader in cannabis education, and in 2024 it created Virginia’s first four-year degree program in the subject. To learn more, visit roanoke.edu/onlinedegrees.

In February, Roanoke College students took home top honors at the regional qualiﬁer for the American College Theatre Festival in Montgomery, Alabama. Theatre Roanoke College won three individual awards and acted in the piece that won the title of best new full-length play. Two students, Allison Dunnegan ’27 and Kennedy Swineford ’26, won awards at nationals in April.

Thanks to a Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship from the U.S. State Department, Robynn Hale ’27 and her young daughter will spend the fall in Pamplona, Spain. Hale will study at the Public University of Navarra, honing her Spanish language skills and building crosscultural connections in local classrooms.

Above and beyond Students at Roanoke earned impressive accolades and recognitions within the last year, exemplifying the high-achieving spirit of our Maroons.

Damien Fellows ’26 hopped on a plane over the summer to head back to South Korea after being awarded a second Critical Language Scholarship, funded by the U.S. government. The competitive national scholarship allowed him to spend two months at Pusan National University in Busan, where he studied Korean in an intense and experiential format.

By Lily Kincaid

We’re not usually the type to brag, but when it comes to our students? That’s a different story! Roanoke is home to many hard-working, all-star students who are constantly raising the bar and setting the standard for what it means to be a Maroon. By creating a campus environment that fosters both personal and professional growth, we empower these students to become stand-out leaders, both in their ﬁelds of study and in their communities. Read on to learn about some of their outstanding achievements.

The State Council of Higher Education for Virginia and the Virginia Talent + Opportunity Partnership selected Kathryn Buzik ’26 as one of the 2026 Top 50 Interns in Virginia. Buzik was recognized for her hard work as an intern in the workforce development ofﬁce at Carilion Clinic. Pictured are (L-R) Becca Shelton of PLACE at Roanoke College, Professor Shannon Anderson, Buzik, Professor Arnica Mulder and Nicole Ramsey of PLACE. R OA N O K E .E D U

ON THE QUAD

AT LEFT: The dorms are equipped with all new furniture. BELOW: The bathrooms inside Crawford Hall were completely remodeled to give residents more privacy.

FACILITIES

Supreme makeover After a year of renovations, students moved back into a new and improved Crawford Hall this fall. By Lily Kincaid

Crawford Hall may have been empty of students last year, but it was a constant flurry of activity as crews worked to update much of the building’s interior and exterior. Crawford opened its doors to students once again this fall, sporting new windows, a state-of-the-art new HVAC system, new furniture and more. Removing the window air-conditioning units allows the building’s architectural beauty to shine and greatly improves the view from its rooms, said Ben Irvin, associate vice president of facilities management. The new HVAC system will allow residents to adjust the temperature 12

R OA N O K E M AGA Z IN E | IS S U E T W O | 2 0 2 6

“We’re trying to make improvements where it matters most for our students.” — Ben Irvin, associate vice president of facilities management

in each room individually. Renovations also included a complete overhaul of the bathrooms, which were redesigned for increased privacy, and all new furniture in rooms and common areas. Crews also installed LED lighting throughout the building, and all three floors now have both a lounge and study area.

Irvin said the goal of the Crawford project was to enhance the quality of student life on campus, a priority in the college’s strategic plan, “Imagine Roanoke.” Additional residence halls will be renovated in the future. “We’re trying to make improvements where it matters most for our students,” he said.

RETIREMENTS

A fond farewell Educators Melanie Almeder, Gordon Marsh and Ned Wisnefske retired this spring after a combined 98 years of service to the college. By Alicia Petska

INNOVATION

Big ideas A new campus-wide initiative introduced in the spring encourages students to leverage their unique gifts and perspectives to solve big problems and realize their full creative potential. By Lily Kincaid

Logan Hammerschmitt, Roanoke’s new director of co-curricular innovation and creativity, has launched an initiative designed to provide support to students with creative curiosity and a desire to create something of value in the world, whether that be through creating a business, running a nonprofit or being an innovative employee at an existing company. Hammerschmitt (pictured above) sees the initiative, Leaders in Innovative Thought (LiT), as a way to bring different campus constituencies together and encourage students to participate in activities across campus. LiT is open to students of all majors. In his new role, Hammerschmitt will support and guide students through their entrepreneurial and creative endeavors. His mission is to encourage students to use their unique gifts and perspectives to do something that benefits themselves and the community around them, he said. He is especially interested in helping students see how they can apply what they’re learning in school to a non-traditional path for their major. “In today’s job market, being resilient—being able to fail and learn from those failures—is important,” he said. “We want students to be able to say, ‘Okay, this didn’t work for me. How can I pivot what I’m doing to apply what I’ve already learned, but still do something that might work better for me?’” Read more about LiT at roanoke.edu/litatroanoke.

After nearly a century of combined service, three distinguished professors retired in the spring, leaving a legacy of leadership and mentorship that extends well beyond campus. Melanie Almeder, professor emeritus of literary studies and creative writing, joined campus in 1999. She served as director of the Visiting Writers Program and was recognized with the Dean’s Exemplary Teaching Award, an Outstanding Faculty Award from the Virginia State Council of Higher Education, and a nomination for the Carnegie Foundation’s U.S. Professors of the Year Award. Her poetry and essays on art have won numerous prizes, including the Yeats Award, Zócalo Prize and Emily Dickinson Award. Gordon Marsh, professor emeritus of music studies, has been a defining part of the music program since arriving at Roanoke in 1996. He helped pioneer the college’s signature Intellectual Inquiry Program and integrated the music curriculum into the campus’s broader liberal arts mission. His work earned him music research residencies at the Cite Internationale des Arts and the Centre Pompidou in Paris. He served as chairman of the Fine Arts Department (twice), director of pedagogical development and director of the general education program, to name just a few roles. Ned Wisnefske, professor emeritus of religious studies, was instrumental in establishing the Religion and Philosophy Program when he joined Roanoke in 1985. He later served as department chair. He was a leading voice in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, contributing to committees on ELCA positions and identity. He also chaired the candidacy committee for the Virginia Synod of the ELCA. Wisnefske is the author of five scholarly monographs and a children’s book. Former students who wish to congratulate these faculty members may email almeder@roanoke.edu, marsh@roanoke.edu or wisnefsk@roanoke.edu. R OA N O K E .E D U

ON THE QUAD

Head Coach Nate Yetzer (center, maroon shirt) was named NCAA DIII and ODAC Coach of the Year.

Pinning perfection Roanoke’s young wrestling team had a perfect regular season and earned its fourth-straight Old Dominion Athletic Conference Championship. By Mike Carpenter

The Roanoke College wrestling team reached unprecedented heights this winter in just the fifth season of varsity action. The Maroons won the 2026 Division III NWCA/USMC National Duals title in Cedar Falls, Iowa, in early January. Entering as the No. 6 ranked team in the nation, the Maroons upset the top two teams in the tournament – No. 2 Augsburg in the semifinals and No. 1 Wartburg in the finals – to secure the title. Since the inception of the current Division III National Duals format in 2002, the championship has been almost exclusively dominated by Wartburg or Augsburg. Roanoke joined the University of Wiscon14

R OA N O K E M AGA Z IN E | IS S U E T W O | 2 0 2 6

“We had a great team that really believed in themselves and cared for each other. I think they took a lot of pride in representing Roanoke College and Noke Wrestling.” — Nate Yetzer, head wrestling coach

sin-La Crosse as the only two programs not named Wartburg or Augsburg to claim the event’s Division III trophy Roanoke finished the regular season with a perfect 15-0 mark and captured the program’s fourth-straight Old Dominion Athletic Conference Championship. In late February, Roanoke won the Division III Region 4 Championship at Ohio

Northern University, and nine Maroons qualified for national competition. Four Maroons earned All-American honors at the 2026 NCAA Division III Wrestling Championships March 13-14, 2026, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Mark Samuel, the national champion at 141 pounds in 2025, placed second, Jude Robson took third at 133 pounds, Hunter Moore was sixth at 184 and Xavier Preston finished eighth at 174 pounds. As a team, the Maroons placed sixth in the 68-team field, the best in program history Roanoke’s Nate Yetzer was named NCAA Division III Wrestling Coach of the Year by the Open Mat and the National Wrestling Coaches Association (NWCA). The Maroons finished the season ranked No. 1 in dual meet action. Yetzer earned ODAC Coach of the Year honors, Cade Parent was Rookie of the Year and Mac Cafurello took home the Virginia Farm Bureau Insurance ScholarAthlete of the Year. “It was a special year,” said Yetzer. “It was really a culmination of the last five years of work we’ve put in. We had a great team that really believed in themselves and cared for each other. I think they took a lot of pride in representing Roanoke College and Noke Wrestling. We just have so much support from our community. I think our team feeds off that!”

AT LEFT: Junior guard Jackson Bell in a matchup with Randolph-Macon College. Photo courtesy Sideline Media. BELOW: Members of the men’s basketball team gathered in the Cregger Center foyer in early March to watch the ODAC selection show and learn their ﬁrst tournament match-up.

Net gains The men’s basketball team posted another record-breaking season that landed them in the NCAA Tournament for the second straight year. By Mike Carpenter

The last two seasons have set a new standard for success for the Roanoke College men’s basketball team. The Maroons went 25-6 in 2024-25, the most wins for the program since the 1993-94 season. They also won two games in the NCAA Division III Tournament and reached the Sweet 16 for the first time since the 199596 campaign. Head Coach Clay Nunley’s team followed up with another record-breaking season in 2025-26, posting a 23-7 record. The Maroons won the program’s first Old Dominion Athletic Conference title since 1999-20 and advanced to the NCAA Tournament for the second-straight year.

“Our ODAC championship was the culmination of a lot of hard work by our guys, and it was rewarding to see because they were deserving of such an accomplishment.” — Head Men’s Basketball Coach Clay Nunley

After besting Rhodes 88-84 in the first round, Roanoke dropped an 83-81 overtime heartbreaker at Emory University, and the Eagles advanced all the way to the Division III Title game. The Maroons were ranked No. 17 in the final D3hoops.com poll of the year and competed with and defeated the best teams in the nation. Roanoke bested Ran-

dolph-Macon College 59-58, the No. 1 team in D3 at the time, in the ODAC Championship game. Roanoke led thenNo. 2 Emory in the closing seconds of overtime before a three-pointer with 12 seconds left turned the tide. “I thought our team proved we could compete – and beat – anyone in the country throughout the duration of the season, and that was most evident at the end of the year,” said Nunley. “Our ODAC championship was the culmination of a lot of hard work by our guys, and it was rewarding to see because they were deserving of such an accomplishment. We were also very appreciative of the outstanding support we received from the Roanoke College community throughout the season. To see so many Maroon supporters in the stands in Salem during the ODAC Tournament and in Atlanta for the NCAA Tournament gave our team an added boost!” The Maroons will look to continue this success, with the 2026-27 season tipping off Nov. 13.

R OA N O K E .E D U

ON THE QUAD

(L-R) Dustin Fonder ’94, Harrison Toney ’16, Marc Dinkel ’15, Kelly Higbie ’15, Amy Layman Bayse ’01, Chris Gordon ’97 and Gerald Holmes ’83. Not pictured: Robin (Yerkes) St. Cyr ’10.

ACCOLADES

Maroons inducted into RC, ODAC halls of fame These exceptional former studentathletes were honored during Alumni Weekend 2026.

This past spring, four former student-athletes were inducted into the Roanoke College Athletic Hall of Fame. All rankings were as of induction time. The inductees were: Marc Dinkel ’15 was a standout member of the men’s soccer team. His laurels include Second Team All-American, First Team All-South Atlantic Region, ODAC Player of the Year, and First Team All-ODAC honors. He also led the ODAC in goals, points and assists, and was second in game-winning goals. Those marks ranked him sixth in DIII in assists and seventh in assists per game in 2014. Dinkel is third in program history in single-season assists, tied for third in singleseason points, tied for eighth in career 16

R OA N O K E M AGA Z IN E | IS S U E T W O | 2 0 2 6

assists, and tied for 13th in single-season goals. Chris Gordon ’97 helped lead the men’s lacrosse team to three straight ODAC Championships and two NCAA tournament appearances. He was named Second Team All-American, Honorable Mention All-American, 1997 ODAC Player of the Year, and a two-time First Team All-ODAC. Gordon is fifth in alltime goals against average, sixth in saves per game and wins, eighth in all-time saves, and 12th in save percentage in the Roanoke record books. As a freshman, Kelly Higbie ’15 led the softball team to the NCAA DIII Championship Semifinals and picked up an All-Tournament Team honor, Most Outstanding Player of the ODAC and NCAA DIII Newport News Regional Tournaments, All-ODAC and All-Region, ODAC Co-Rookie of the Year, and the VaSID College Division Rookie of the Year. Senior year, she earned First Team

All-ODAC and Roanoke Female Athlete of the Year. She still ranks atop many of the RC pitching records. Harrison Toney ’16 was a standout distance runner for the RC cross country and track & field squad. In cross country, he was an All-American his senior year after finishing 35th at the NCAA Championships, placing second at regionals, and taking the ODAC crown. Toney was also a four-time All-ODAC and All-Region recipient as well as the 2015 ODAC Athlete of the Year in the fall season. He consistently carried his cross-country successes into the track seasons, becoming a fourtime ODAC champion and 10-time AllODAC honoree between the 3000, 5000, and steeplechase events. He qualified for the 2016 NCAA Outdoor Championships in the steeplechase, making it to the finals and placing 10th. Toney still holds the Roanoke program records in the indoor 3000 meters, outdoor 3000-meter steeplechase, and both the indoor and outdoor 5000-meter events. In addition, the following Maroons were inducted into the ODAC Hall of Fame. They are Dustin Fonder ’94, soccer and basketball; Gerald Holmes ’83, men’s basketball; Amy Layman Bayse ’01, softball; and Robin (Yerkes) St. Cyr ’10, indoor and outdoor women’s track and field.

ADDITIONAL LAURELS Two members of women’s teams at Roanoke had exceptional seasons. ALL-ODAC HONOREES The Maroons had 79 All-ODAC honorees across the 16 sports that competed in the winter and spring seasons, including 24 first-team honorees. ALL-REGION HONOREES Forty-one Maroons took All-Region honors, including 17 indoor track & field and 18 outdoor track & field athletes who accumulated a total of 58 All-Region citations. ALL-AMERICAN HONOREES Mark Samuel, Jude Robson, Hunter Moore, and Xavier Preston earned All-American honors after placing in the top 8 at the NCAA Wrestling Championships. Elias Ammon and Ophelia Ladner took the honor after finishing top 16 at the NCAA Track & Field Championships. Julian Kammerman, Ike Dutton, Noah Bell and Weston Hammond of the men’s lacrosse team earned the honor from USA Lacrosse and/or the USILA. Maddie McDonald and Jordan Wheeler of the women’s lacrosse team were honored by USA Lacrosse, with McDonald also earning the accolade from the IWLCA. OTHER NOTABLE AWARDS DeShawn Austin of the men’s track & field squad was the first Maroon to win ODAC Outdoor Rookie of the Year. Cade Parent became the fourth consecutive ODAC Rookie of the Year for the wrestling team.

Maddie McDonald ’27 dominated for the women’s lacrosse team in 2026, earning Second Team AllAmerican, First Team All-Region and All-ODAC, ODAC Offensive Player of the Year, ODAC ScholarAthlete of the Year, and RC Co-Female Athlete of the Year. The accolades for the rising senior came after she broke the program record for single season goals (89), ranked nationally in goals and points (108), and placed top of the ODAC in draw controls (92). McDonald was a force in the attack as she recorded at least three points in all but one game and posted 10 games with at least five goals.

Mac Cafurello, Ladner and McDonald each earned ODAC ScholarAthlete of the Year in their respective sports, with Cafurello and Ladner becoming repeat honorees. McDonald was also named ODAC Offensive Player of the Year. Women’s swimmer Halle Schart was named ODAC Women’s Swimmer of the Meet after winning three events at the conference meet. Head wrestling coach Nate Yetzer picked up Coach of the Year laurels from the ODAC, NCAA DIII and Open Mat. This was the third consecutive year that Yetzer earned the honor from the conference. NOTABLE TEAM ACHIEVEMENTS The men’s basketball team and wrestling team both had exceptional seasons. See Pp. 14-15 for details. The men’s lacrosse team found themselves back in the NCAA tournament and hosted a first-round game against Marymount. Their 22-7 victory in that game was the program’s first NCAA tournament win since 2013. The men’s volleyball team had their best season in program history, going 21-8 on the year. They posted 15 sweeps this year, including 11 against conference opponents. The Maroons also only lost 11 sets during the campaign to conference opponents.

Halle Schart ’26 became just the second women’s swimmer in Roanoke College history to take home ODAC Swimmer of the Meet laurels when she did so this season. The South Carolina native won the 200yard individual medley, the 100-yard backstroke, and the 200-yard backstroke events while helping the Maroons to podium finishes in the 800-yard and 400yard freestyle relays at the ODAC Championships. Schart also broke the program record in the 200-yard backstroke to top off her performance at the meet.

For more information about athletics, visit roanokemaroons.com R OA N O K E .E D U

THE HEART OF CONSTRUCTION OF THE MCCONNON DISCOVERY CENTER IS COMPLETE. THE STORY OF HOW ROANOKE’S NEW, CUTTING-EDGE SCIENCE FACILITY WILL IMPACT MAROONS, HOWEVER, IS JUST GETTING STARTED.

he first time Karin Saoub heard that Roanoke College planned to build a new science center, she was a job applicant interviewing for a position teaching math. It was 2009. Seventeen years later, much has changed: Saoub is now dean of the School of Health, Science and Sustainability at Roanoke, and the college’s new, state-of-the-art Shaun McConnon Discovery Center just welcomed its first group of students. It’s safe to say that substantial time, effort and support went into transforming the McConnon Center from a dream to a brick-and-mortar reality. Funded entirely by gifts and pledges, the new facility was made possible by 1,062 alumni and friends of the college who have pledged or donated a total of $60 million. Last year, the college secured $25 million in bonds to manage the period needed for pledges and bequests to come to fruition and allow the college to begin construction and beat inflationary trends. These donors chose to invest in the lives of future scientists, healthcare professionals, engineers, educators and researchers. Most notably, esteemed alumnus Shaun McConnon ’66 pledged $15 million to the project in 2021 — the largest gift in the school’s history — and later increased his pledge to $20 million with an additional $5 million bequest. McConnon is a Massachusetts-based cybersecurity expert who balanced his studies in biology at Roanoke with multiple jobs, a spot on the track team and

R OA N O K E M AGA Z IN E | IS S U E T W O | 2 0 2 6

DISCOVERY

BY LILY KINCAID

Daniel Nasrallah, assistant professor of chemistry, talks with students in the new chemistry laboratory inside the McConnon Discovery Center.

R OA N O K E .E D U

THE HEART OF DISCOVERY

membership in Kappa Alpha Order. He chose to give back to his alma mater because of its impact on his life path and success. In gratitude for his staggering generosity, the center now bears his name.

‘INVESTMENT IN THE FUTURE’ Across the board, from artificial intelligence to renewable energy, science and 20

R OA N O K E M AGA Z IN E | IS S U E T W O | 2 0 2 6

technology are in a period of rapid growth. At the same time, today’s workforce looks much different than it did a decade ago, and it will undoubtedly evolve further in the decades to come. Roanoke College is dedicated to preparing students for the future, no matter what it may look like, by creating an environment that encourages innovation, discovery and experiential learning. Inside the new McConnon Center, students will

develop the skills they will need for careers that may not even exist yet. “The completion of our new science center represents far more than a building — it is an investment in the future of our students and the communities they will go on to serve,” said President Frank Shushok Jr. “By creating modern spaces for discovery, research and interdisciplinary learning, we are equipping graduates with the knowledge and skills they’ll need to meet

Students chat in the atrium of the new McConnon Center, where ﬂoor-to-ceiling windows look east toward the Back Quad and Alice Aycock’s sculpture, “The Solar Wind.” When landscaping is ﬁnished, the former courtyard will be home to a stately white oak tree and a grassy area perfect for studying or napping.

“The completion of our new science center represents far more than a building — it is an investment in the future of our students and the communities they will go on to serve.” — PRESIDENT FRANK SHUSHOK JR.

the challenges and opportunities of an ever-evolving global landscape. I am immensely grateful to every single person who helped make this a reality, from our generous donors to the construction workers who brought it to life with such skill and care.” Though the building is impressive, the architecture isn’t what students will remember. Instead, they will remember what happens within it. From conducting

experiments and analyzing data to troubleshooting tough problems and learning new concepts, these experiences will shape the work that students do long after graduation. The McConnon Center will have an impact on every student who attends Roanoke College. Not only will it house some of the most popular majors, but every student, regardless of their major, will take two courses there. In it, students will dis-

cover a passion for research, gain confidence in their abilities, and learn to nurture their curiosity. That’s what makes the new space most exciting for Saoub. “Whenever I think of the building,” she said, “I think about how transformative it will be for every student. It’s an investment in their future—equipping the next generation of scientists, engineers, healthcare professionals and innovators to make a lasting impact.” R OA N O K E .E D U

THE HEART OF DISCOVERY Chris Lassiter, professor of biology, looks over a model of a human arm with students in the new anatomy and physiology laboratory inside the McConnon Center. Each table is outﬁtted with a snorkel that pulls heat, odors and low-hazard fumes away right at the source. This laboratory neighbors a special refrigerated storage space for science cadavers.

A ‘JEWEL BOX’ Over the last 35 years, Roanoke’s campus has evolved through a series of construction projects and renovations, including Fintel Library in 1991, the Colket Center in 2000 and the Cregger Center in 2016. But Trexler, Massengill and Jenkins Life Science, which was recently renamed for late biology professor Bob Jenkins ’61, were all built in the 1970s. Since then, the college’s student population has doubled and science has come a long way. In designing the McConnon Center, architects were tasked with a balancing act: create a beautiful, modern building that complements the older buildings around it instead of standing out against them. The building features wall-to-wall windows on both the west and east sides of the building, as well as a rooftop terrace. “I’ve always characterized this building as your jewel box,” said Michael Mat-

“We have students and faculty who are doing some pretty advanced work and research, and the new building allows us to actually have a space that matches the work that we’re doing now.” — KARIN SAOUB, DEAN OF THE SCHOOL OF HEALTH, SCIENCE, AND SUSTAINABILITY

thews, president and founder of the Charlottesville-based Matthews Development Company. “It’s this little jewel box nestled into campus.” The college began to raise funds to build

the science center in 2011. But by 2023, staggering inflation rates — including the largest jump in construction prices in 50 years — had driven the price of the project from $50 million to $100 million.

Under the leadership of Shushok and the board of trustees, the college made a strategic decision to create a new plan for the science center that held costs to $60 million but still provided ample space and opportunities for transformative learning experiences. The college broke ground on the project

The McConnon Center connects to Jenkins Life Science on one side and Trexler Hall on the other, creating more convenience for faculty and students — and another spectacular view from that skybridge.

in April 2024, starting with the demolition of Massengill. At times, the project posed unique obstacles. For example, Massengill supported Jenkins Life Science and Trexler both structurally and functionally. It essentially held up the two buildings on either side of it, and all the pipes and electrical infrastructure for the other two buildings ran through Massengill. Matthews called it a “technical and logistical challenge,” comparing it to brain surgery. The project was completed through a massive collaborative effort between outside companies, including WhitingTurner, VMDO Architects, Branch,

Iconograph and Matthews Development Company, and departments across campus, such as Buildings and Grounds, IT and Campus Safety. Future phases of the project will focus on the exteriors of Jenkins Life Science and Trexler. “Everybody — from the college’s leadership to the last person walking out the door, cleaning the windows — there was a relentless pursuit of quality among all of the members of this team,” Matthews said, “and that just sets you up for success.” The building was designed with sustainability and energy efficiency in mind. Among these design features are solar R OA N O K E .E D U

THE HEART OF DISCOVERY A construction worker waves at the cheering crowd below after fastening the ﬁnal steel beam to the structural frame of the McConnon Center during a topping-out ceremony in July 2025. Beside him is an evergreen tree placed on the beam to bring good fortune to the building, and the signatures of project donors can be seen on the beam.

panels and a vegetated roof. As a result of these efforts, the McConnon Center is expected to be certified LEED Silver. When it comes to sustainability practices, this is a way for the college to lead by example. “This is a didactic opportunity,” Matthews said. “I think the pedagogy of Roanoke College reflects this commitment to the future and sustainability and where our world is going.”

A LOOK INSIDE The center’s modern labs, with their cutting-edge equipment, better prepare students for what comes after graduation, whether it be grad school or a career. “We have students and faculty who are doing some pretty advanced work and research, and the new building allows us to actually have a space that matches the

work that we’re doing now,” Saoub said. The new facility is fully dedicated to the student experience. There are no faculty office spaces in the McConnon Center, and it’s not a research facility. Most of the space is dedicated to teaching labs, classrooms, green spaces and lounge areas, all designed with students in mind. Physics and engineering are housed on the first floor while environmental studies and human anatomy and physiology labs are on the third floor. Chemistry and biology labs are on the fourth floor. The second floor is a mezzanine level with study areas of varying styles to meet student needs. Within Roanoke’s liberal arts curriculum, all students are required to take courses in science and math. Many of these introductory courses will be held in the McConnon Center. “This is not a facility for the sciences — this is a facility for the campus,” Saoub said. The new lab spaces are better suited for student work — they now have access to a greater number of fume hoods and ex-

MCCONNON CENTER BY THE NUMBERS

318

tons of steel

615 1,918

Approximately

skilled workers spent more than 200,000 trade hours on the project

tons of waste removed during demolition

R OA N O K E M AGA Z IN E | IS S U E T W O | 2 0 2 6

10,500 165

square feet of glass

piles were driven in the ground. That’s 9,498 feet — or 1.8 miles — of piles!

1,509

tons of waste recycled and diverted from landﬁll during demolition

“This is a testament to the power of philanthropy and the belief that Roanoke students can change the world.” — NATE STEWART ’03, VICE PRESIDENT FOR ADVANCEMENT

haust snorkels, meaning they spend less time waiting to conduct their work. Overhead power reels in the labs allow faculty and students to easily move tables and modify the room layout to fit their needs. The McConnon Center also acts as a bridge between Trexler and Jenkins Life Science, creating a physical connection between the various departments housed in those buildings. This will facilitate more collaboration across disciplines and throughout the School of Health, Science, and Sustainability as a whole. “I’m really excited to have a science complex that connects us to each other,” said Sophia Allen ’27, a biochemistry major. This project also freed up space in Jenkins Life Science and Trexler, creating room for existing programs to breathe and grow while opening doors for potential new programs in the future. Engineering is one existing program that will benefit from the new space. When the program was established a few years ago, space in Trexler was already a little tight, said Bryan Cobb, associate professor of engineering. Engineering faculty offices were spread around Trexler, and they often had to share labs with other programs. Now, the faculty has a centralized location in Trexler, and lab space is more abundant, he said.

DONOR IMPACT While the college successfully achieved its $60 million fundraising goal to start the construction project, $24 million of that total was bequest and estate gifts — often referred to as planned gifts. Thirtysix million dollars in cash and pledges have also been received towards the project. Once planned gifts are realized, these gifts will be used to repay the bond debt. Planned gifts are often the largest gift a donor bestows upon the college. “Planned gifts have served as a tremendous asset to the college, funding multiple building projects along with providing resources to grow the college’s endowment,” said Nate Stewart ’03, vice president for Advancement. “We are grateful for all of our donors who have made this project a reality to serve our students.” Stewart said the Shaun McConnon Discovery Center exists because donors saw the potential of Roanoke College students and how the new facility could provide opportunities to jumpstart their careers. “Our donors our investing in the lives and experiences of our students,” he said. “This is a testament to the power of philanthropy and the belief that Roanoke students can change the world.” D

DISCOVER OUR HISTORY A new book curated by Glatha “Maggie” Madden ’69 tells the story of how far science, technology and innovation have come at Roanoke College since the school’s founding. Created and published in honor of the new Shaun McConnon Discovery Center, “Discovery Rising: Celebrating Science and Technology at Roanoke College,” is set against almost 200 years of remarkable discoveries, from the telegraph to gene editing and space exploration. This beautiful, 106-page hardcover book, which features more than 200 images and illustrations, takes readers through the milestones that helped shape the college’s scientific legacy today — and looks ahead to the impact today’s students could have on tomorrow’s discoveries. Madden graduated from Roanoke with a BBA and later earned an MBA from Emory University. She spent more than three decades as a managing consultant and executive director for independent firms, helping major national and international financial institutions improve their organizational effectiveness and profitability. She now works part time from her home in Amelia Island, Florida. Roanoke College is so grateful for the painstaking work Madden put into this engaging journey through history — and so proud to call her an alumna! This book will be available in October. To pre-order a copy, go to https://roa.ke/discoveryrising R OA N O K E .E D U

A bond that is never broken ON SEPT. 11, 2001, STEPHEN LAMANTIA ’85 WAS KILLED IN THE DEADLIEST TERRORIST ATTACK IN U.S. HISTORY. TWENTY-FIVE YEARS LATER, HIS CLASSMATES AND FRATERNITY BROTHERS CONTINUE TO CARRY HIS MEMORY WITH THEM. BY ALICIA PETSKA

n campus, Stephen “Jet” LaMantia’s voice was always easy to recognize. Warm, welcoming, and wonderfully loud, it would boom across the quad — especially when he spotted a friend. “Tooommy Blair,” he would call out whenever he saw his Sigma Chi fraternity brother, imbuing the words with a trademark gusto. The way he greeted you let you know that you mattered. It was a gift he brought to all his relationships in life. “I don’t know why that little piece sticks in my memory, the way he would say people’s names,” Tommy Blair ’85 said. “I miss it. He had this positive energy that was contagious. He was loud but in a good way, a joyful way. He was just a good man.” LaMantia, a lacrosse player and Sigma Chi president, earned a business administration degree from Roanoke in 1985

R OA N O K E M AGA Z IN E | IS S U E T W O | 2 0 2 6

and built a career in finance. He became a successful securities trader, working for Cantor Fitzgerald on the 105th floor of the World Trade Center’s North Tower. He was there on the morning of the Sept. 11 attacks. His life was one of the 2,977 taken. Twenty-five years later, it’s a loss that remains hard to believe for the many who loved him. “Steve had this incredible range within him,” said Todd Peters ’85, a Sigma Chi brother and college roommate of LaMantia’s. “He could connect with people from all walks of life. He was this magnetic presence that people gravitated toward. To have that taken away, it was one of many cruelties of 9/11.” LaMantia, who was only 38, grew up in a working class neighborhood in East Meadow, Long Island, earning the nickname “Jet” his freshman year on campus because he proudly sported his East Meadow High School Jets jerseys.

LaMantia as pictured in his senior college yearbook.

He worked multiple jobs while at Roanoke, just one sign of the drive he’s remembered for. After graduation, he married his college sweetheart, Kim (Stewart) LaMantia ’86, balancing his rising career with life at home, where he and his wife were raising two young children. No matter where life took him, LaMantia never stopped letting people know they mattered. He was the self-proclaimed block captain of his neighborhood cul-desac. He would wrap up his friends and family in big bear hugs and never hesitate to tell them that he loved them. Once on a visit, Peters recalled sitting with LaMantia as the longtime friends caught up on life, swapped stories about their kids and reflected on how far they had come since freshman year in Bowman Hall. “He was so happy,” Peters said. “I remember thinking, look at this guy, he’s king of the world. He had worked so hard, and he had the life he always wanted.” In the weeks after the terror attacks, heart-stricken alumni came from across the country to honor LaMantia at his memorial service, sharing memories of his passion, leadership and loud, loveable energy. But it didn’t feel like enough. Efforts quickly began forming to find a more tangible way of honoring their friend and classmate, leading to the establishment of

“He was this magnetic presence that people gravitated toward. To have that taken away, it was one of many cruelties of 9/11.”

LaMantia’s name is one of nearly 3,000 inscribed in bronze on the National September 11 Memorial in New York City. His name can be found on panel N-56 of the memorial.

— Todd Peters ’85

a campus memorial and a scholarship fund in LaMantia’s name, both of which continue today. Every year, Maroons still gather at the memorial, which stands outside the Sigma Chi house. A new generation of students and fraternity brothers meet on the anniversary date at exactly 8:46 a.m., the time the North Tower was struck, to hold a moment of silence and reflect on what was lost. Blair, who for years was chapter advi-

sor to the fraternity and now works for its national foundation, has spoken at the event to share memories of LaMantia. Peters has come back to speak as have many other alumni. It’s become a sacred ritual that connects people across generations and ensures the memories will endure. “Steve was someone who didn’t leave anything on the plate, you know?” Blair said. “He didn’t take anything for granted.

He wanted to make the most of everything offered to him by Roanoke College, by Sigma Chi, by life. We’ll continue to tell stories about him at Roanoke so his spirit and passion always live on here.” D

If you would like to contribute to the Stephen “Jet” LaMantia ’85 Endowed Scholarship, please visit roanoke.edu/HonorLaMantia. R OA N O K E .E D U

FOREVER MAROONS A L U M N I N E W S & U P DAT E S

A cleaner world As co-founder of Ele-Collection, Benjamin Norton ’20 is on a mission to eliminate plastic and uplift his community. By Anna Wehr | Photo courtesy of Emma Daws

In Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, where Benjamin Norton ’20 lives, it isn’t unusual to see an elephant walking through the backyard. What is unusual is a display of aggressive behavior from these animals known to be “gentle giants.” Still, multiple people had been attacked by elephants in Victoria Falls, including Norton’s father, who was nearly killed. After one combative elephant was euthanized, an autopsy revealed the cause of its erratic behavior: a stomach full of plastic. After hearing this news, Norton sprang into action and co-founded Ele-Collection, a plastic recovery company committed to eliminating plastics from wildlife spaces in Victoria Falls and surrounding communities. Ele-Collection is special in many ways, especially for creating women-led teams to further elevate the largest portion of their community living in poverty. Through these teams and their network of collection hubs, Ele-Collection works with Plazrok to convert the gathered plastics into a building aggregate. Norton, pictured with his pup Luna, credits his Roanoke College experience for teaching him “the value of community and our duty to give back.” Read more at roanoke.edu/elecollection.

R OA N O K E .E D U

FOREVER MAROONS

Roanoke Magazine wants to hear from you! Ofﬁce of Alumni Relations Roanoke College, 221 College Lane Salem, VA 24153-3794 540-375-2238 alumni@roanoke.edu roanoke.edu/alumni Due to space constraints and time between issues, submissions might appear in an upcoming issue. Editorial contributions are welcome but subject to editing. Photographs may be used as space permits, submitted in print or digital format. Digital photos must be 1 MB in size or larger. We cannot guarantee return of contributed materials.

1950s

Sandra T. Ford ’56 graduated with degrees in education and psychology from Roanoke College, and she spent most of her

career teaching preschool and kindergarten. But later in life, she found a love for composing. With guidance from a childhood friend and some classes at Roanoke College, she eventually be-

came a published composer. Her work has been sung by choirs across the country and even in Korea. She is a member of the Cornerstone Society. 1970s

Andy Teeter ’71 and his wife, Margo, were honored with the 2025 Spirit of the Valley Award by the YMCA of Kanawha Valley in Charleston, WV. This award recognizes their service and commitment to the valley and the state. Andy Teeter holds a degree in psychology from Roanoke, where he was a member of Sigma Chi. He is a member of the college’s board of trustees, President’s 25, the Monument Club, the Presidents Society and the Society of 1842. Pam Wolle Pierce ’72 and her company, Silver Bullet Productions, have released a new film, “No Greater Act,” which began streaming on PBS in January. It tells the story of the New Mexico Pueblo resistance against colonization, beginning in 1540. Pierce studied sociology at Roa-

noke and was a member of Phi Mu. Bill Beroza ’77 had his jersey retired at the 2026 Alumni Weekend men’s lacrosse game against Randolph College. Beroza’s many lacrosse honors include inductions into the National Lacrosse Hall of Fame, the Virginia State Lacrosse Hall of Fame and the Roanoke College Athletic Hall of Fame. Beroza studied business administration at Roanoke College. He is a member of the Monument Club, the Cornerstone Society and the Society of 1842. John Sullivan ’79 was inducted into his fourth hall of fame, the Long Island Men’s Lacrosse Foundation’s Hall of Fame. This comes 28 years after Sullivan was inducted into the Roanoke College Hall of Fame. He was part of Roanoke’s 1978 National Championship team, was named MVP and won the Paul S. Griffin Award for dedication and leadership. He graduated from Roanoke College with a degree in criminal justice. continued on page 32

Ron McLean ’74 (center), his daughter Katherine Campbell ’98 (right) and his granddaughter Caroline Campbell ’28 (left) attended Alumni Weekend 2026. Before they left campus, they snapped a legacy photograph. 30

R OA N O K E M AGA Z IN E | IS S U E T W O | 2 0 2 6

Michael Cummins ’26, Andru Boyd ’25 and Cody Breon ’22 (left to right) represented New Millenium/Steel Dynamics at a recent career fair at Roanoke College.

Nina Earle inside the VA250 Mobile Museum, which is traveling the commonwealth this year.

ALUMNI AT WORK

Living History Nina Earle ’26 is taking her passion for history on the road with VA250’s Mobile Museum, part of Virginia’s commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution. By Alicia Petska

Nina Earle’s first job out of college is more than just a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity — it’s part of a moment that will only happen once in history. Earle, who double majored in history and art history, graduated in the spring and immediately joined VA250, Virginia’s commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution. “I couldn’t believe it,” she said. “If this had come up one year earlier or one year later, I wouldn’t have been able to do it because I would have been in school or working. It was the perfect job at the perfect time.”

“History is never one story or one narrative. There are always multiple perspectives around events.” — Nina Earle ’26

Earle, who earned a concentration in public history, is devoting a year to traveling with VA250’s Mobile Museum, helping bring America’s past to life for communities across the state. It’s the natural extension of a fascination with Revolutionary War history that she first developed while growing up in Richmond, Virginia, with a mother who was a museum educator. At Roanoke College, where she was an honors student, Earle tackled multiple projects researching the founding fathers and did a prestigious Washington Semester internship at the Library of Congress, where she created teaching materials focused on the war and the press. She gravitates to the work because of the overlooked stories that can be discovered

in historical archives — accounts full of complexity, drama and contradictions. “The messiness is what makes it fun,” she said. “History is never one story or one narrative. There are always multiple perspectives around events. Unraveling those layers and learning more about people is, I don’t know, it’s just fun.” Ultimately, Earle plans to earn a master’s degree in library science and start a career as a research librarian, helping other people dig into obscure archives and uncover new information. But when the opportunity at VA250 crossed her path, it was too good not to pursue. Her year ahead will take her into new communities and introduce her to countless new people. “Roanoke is the place that taught me it was okay to go out and experience new things,” she said. “I could go to D.C. or I could lead a new club. Nothing was too big or too small. The professors are really great about supporting that energy, and I learned it’s really fun to think about those possibilities. You know, it’s asking yourself, why not? Why can’t I do that? Why can’t it be me?”

OUT OF MANY

ONE VA250’s Mobile Museum is a series of interactive exhibits built into an expanding tractor-trailer that can transport the experience to every part of the state. It’s proven so popular that two mobile museums are now crisscrossing the commonwealth for tours and events. For more info, visit va250.org.

R OA N O K E .E D U

FOREVER MAROONS

1980s

Laurie Gearheart ’84 was promoted to chief financial officer for Roanoke County after serving as director of finance and management services since 2019. Before her director role, she spent 12 years as assistant director of finance for the county. She graduated with a BBA from Roanoke College. Margaret (Adams) Lindsey ’84 was named interim finance director of Halifax County, VA, through her work as a consultant with VML/VACo Finance. Lindsey holds a BBA and a degree in economics from Roanoke College. Sean Smith ’84 was inducted into the Long Island Men’s Lacrosse Foundation’s Hall of Fame. Smith’s lacrosse career at Roanoke included being named ODAC Conference Player of the Year for 1983. Smith was inducted into Roanoke’s Athletic Hall of Fame in 1995. He dedicated his career to coaching la-

crosse and is now retired from the Levittown School District. He earned a degree in health/physical education from Roanoke College and was a member of Sigma Chi. Bill Pilat ’85 was named the 2025 Howdy Myers Man of the Year by the US Intercollegiate Lacrosse Association and the Intercollegiate Men’s Lacrosse Coaches Association. The award honors the most outstanding coaches in collegiate men’s lacrosse. In the ODAC Conference alone, Pilat’s winning percentage exceeded 80% as a coach. He is a member of Roanoke’s Athletic Hall of Fame and the Society of 1842. 1990s

Tisho (Holtby) Jessop ’94 was promoted to director of community fundraising programs at Susan G. Komen, where she will manage VIPink, DIY and Go Pink for the Cure. Jessop is passionate about supporting breast cancer research and raising awareness.

Kasson Bratton ’02 (right) and Will Farmer ’02 (left) met at Roanoke College to catch up and visit the Cregger Center. Bratton is currently the head of school at Hong Kong Academy in Hong Kong and Farmer is founder and chief consultant of W11R Consulting in Salem, VA. Both were founding members of Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity at Roanoke College. 32

R OA N O K E M AGA Z IN E | IS S U E T W O | 2 0 2 6

She has now walked in her 10th Susan G. Komen 3-Day, 60-mile walk and has raised over $40,000 for the cause. At Roanoke, she studied sociology and was part of the school’s Chi Omega chapter. She is still active with Chi Omega alumnae in her area. Heidi Keller Bocianowski ’95 created her own company, Astonishing Travel. She enjoys learning and experiencing new cultures, something Roanoke College allowed her to do. Bocianowski graduated with degrees in computer information systems and business administration. She went on to earn an MBA from the University of Maryland. Stanley Meador ’96 was appointed secretary of public safety and homeland security by Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger. He spent 23 years with the FBI in various roles, most recently as special agent in charge of the Richmond, VA, office. Meador holds a degree in criminal justice from Roanoke, where

he was a member of Kappa Alpha. Michelle (Doss) Gill ’97 is a freelance web designer and former event planner who owns her own web design company, Buffalo Creek Designs. Previously, she worked in fundraising and events. At Roanoke, she was a political science major. Her daughter, Casi West ’29, is a Roanoke College student. Daniel “Danny” Adams ’98 is the assistant director of library and archive services at Ferrum College’s Stanley Library. His most recent project has been curating the donated 5000-book and ephemera collection of late Franklin County historian J. Francis Amos. Adams graduated with a degree in English from Roanoke College. 2000s

Crystal Gibson ’00 owns an online shop, Happy Little Kitty, that is dedicated to selling products curated for her “fellow cat enthu-

Bonnie Gumpman ’11, Kara Kelliher ’13 and Sara Sloman ’12 (left to right) did their part to combat food poverty at the 13th Annual Alumni Charity Challenge hosted by Virginia Commonwealth University’s Alumni Richmond Chapter. As Roanoke College continues to build and maintain a culture of philanthropy, we are proud of alumni who strive to make a difference in their communities.

ALUMNI BOOKS

siasts.” She said Roanoke College prepared her for entrepreneurship by teaching her to think for herself and persevere. Gibson holds a degree in political science from Roanoke.

Fresh alumni reads “Your Journey to Successful Parenting: Ages 2-11, A Stress-Free Guide to Effective Behavior Change” By Alexandra J. Rogers ’70

Nicole Doherty ’01 was hired as assistant principal at Salem High School. She taught at Patrick Henry High School for 21 years and is currently pursuing a Ph.D. at Radford University. She earned degrees in history and political science at Roanoke and holds a master’s degree from James Madison University.

Rogers is a clinical psychologist who has spent her career serving children and families. In her retirement, she’s focused on sharing her knowledge of mental health through books and articles, expanding mental health access for those without the means to pursue it when needed. Publisher: Rogers Books LLC Overview: In this book, Rogers uses her expertise to support parents in understanding and addressing their child’s behaviors in a positive way.

Justin Worrilow ’01 stepped into a new job as general manager of Microsoft’s AI & Business Solutions organization for U.S. Federal Customer Success. In this position, he supports the federal government in adopting AI in the most effective ways. As a student, he was an active member of Sigma Chi fraternity and president of the IFC. He graduated with a degree in computer info systems from Roanoke and is a member of the Cornerstone Society and President’s 25. Karl Getschel ’03 was featured on iHeart Radio’s Maryland Business Spotlight. He is the current vice president of operations for Smyth Jewelers, a family company established in 1914 by his great-grandfather. He holds a business administration degree from Roanoke College, a gemology graduate degree from the Gemological Institute of America, and an MBA from William & Mary. He played lacrosse at Roanoke. Justin vanBlaricom ’04 was recognized by the Roanoker magazine as the male “Star of the Star City” in their Best of 2026 issue. VanBlaricom is co-owner of Noke Van Co., which was destroyed in a fire at Roanoke’s Riv-

“Bench Boy” By Mike Henrich ’98 Henrich is devoted educator who has spent more than 40 years in classrooms as both a teacher and a student in the Washington, D.C., area and South Pacific. Publisher: MRH Publishing Overview: “Bench Boy” was inspired by and based on Henrich’s personal experiences playing basketball as he strived to achieve a childhood dream. While he doesn’t compete competitively anymore, the life lessons from basketball have served him both on and off the court. “The Difference: Lessons on and off the field” By Bill Pilat ’85 Pilat coached men’s lacrosse at Roanoke College for 37 years after his own storied career as a student-athlete on the team. He also created his own goalie training school. Publisher: Independently published Overview: Pilat parlayed his own lessons in lacrosse, as both a player and a coach, into this book that is meant to help others in their lacrosse careers and life in general.

erdale development last year. The company has since found a new home, and vanBlaricom praised the community for its support during the difficult time. VanBlaricom is director of the Center for Leadership & Entrepreneurial Innovation at Roanoke College, where he is also an

adjunct lecturer. He earned a BBA from Roanoke and an MBA from the University of Virginia. Lauren Kraut ’05 is senior collections manager and registrar at the National Sporting Library & Museum in Middleburg, Virginia. She also teaches art his-

tory at Northern Virginia Community College. She landed at Roanoke thanks to fellow alumna and history major Sara (Murphy) Williams ’00, with whom she also worked with during her Smithsonian internship. Kraut graduated with a degree in history. R OA N O K E .E D U

FOREVER MAROONS

Matt Madalon ’06 won his ﬁrst national championship title as head coach of this year’s NCAA men’s lacrosse tournament champions, Princeton University. As a student-athlete at Roanoke, he earned a degree in history, and as goalie, he led the men’s la-

crosse team to multiple ODAC Championships and NCAA Tournament Final Four appearances. He was named First Team AllODAC twice and is a member of the RC Hall of Fame. Gregory Hess ’07 earned an

Ed.D. in kinesiology from Concordia University in St. Paul, MN. He also holds a master’s in rehabilitative science from the University of Pittsburgh and a bachelor’s degree in athletic training from Roanoke. He works for the United States Military Academy

in West Point, where he recently became director of sports medicine. While at Roanoke, he was a member of the baseball team. Molly (Festa) McMillin ’07 was selected by Wealth Solutions Report as a Top Wealth Manage-

NEW ALUMNI

Welcome to the alumni network! Roanoke College graduated 402 students in May 2026, and this is just a small sampling of the experiences they are going on to have in the workforce or graduate school.

Elizabeth Columbie ’26 is putting her education to work immediately as the business manager of A&E Auto Services, the Roanoke auto-repair shop she co-owns with her husband, Alexis. Columbie earned degrees in both business administration and Spanish at Roanoke while working three jobs — in the college’s Campus Safety Office, at Sherwin Williams and at A&E, where she did office work and helped find parts for repair jobs. On top of all that, the couple welcomed their first child, a baby boy, just a couple months before Columbie crossed the commencement stage. Identical twins Crockett and Samson Adams Hill ’26 are heading their separate ways to pursue doctorates in chemistry, Crockett at the University of Michigan and Samson at Baylor University. Like their late mother, the beloved English professor Mary Crockett Hill, the brothers made an impression at Roanoke, sharing the honor of Senior Scholar in Chemistry. They both also conducted research at Roanoke, Crockett on the analysis of solid-liquid interactions and thin films; Samson on more environmentally friendly ways to make carbon-nitrogen bonds. Both presented their research at professional conferences. Yelyzaveta “Liz” Satynska ’26 is heading to Virginia Tech to pursue a Ph.D. in computer science. Satynska, of Slovyansk, Ukraine, earned degrees in computer science, physics, mathematics and data science at Roanoke, where she worked in Information Technology and Residence Life. She was also a Summer Scholar, and she has already co-written two papers that have been published. Satynska founded a program at Roanoke called Pass on Hunger to address food insecurity. Her focus and resilience, particularly at a devastating point in history for her home country, was an inspiration to many at Roanoke. 34

R OA N O K E M AGA Z IN E | IS S U E T W O | 2 0 2 6

Columbie

C. Hill

S. Hill

Satynska

Morgan

Quintano

Marcus Morgan ’26 graduated from Roanoke with degrees in business administration and marketing, and he was a member of the basketball team all four years. Prior to graduation, he founded Championsbrew, a specialty beverage startup, with the help of Associate Vice President of Auxiliary Services Ben Marks. Morgan, who has always wanted to be an entrepreneur, plans to expand Championsbrew while also working as a FleetShare operations specialist for Merchants Fleet. Alex Quintano ’26 is the first Roanoke College student to enter Virginia Tech’s Agriculture and Applied Economics master’s since the 4+1 agreement was signed. He will attend graduate school with an assistantship, covering his tuition with a stipend for his work with the director of professional development in Virginia Tech’s Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning. Quintano was a member of the wrestling team all four years at Roanoke.

ment CFO. She is currently CFO of Choreo Advisors. Previously, she was CFO for Allspring Global Investments. McMillin earned a BBA at Roanoke and was a member of Phi Mu. Todd Williams ’07 and his wife are on a mission to build tools for fearless travel. Their suite of travel apps under YoursGlobal includes YourSweep, YourTour and YourFit. YourSweep helps travelers detect security and privacy risks while visiting new places. YourTour is AI-powered, helping users find hidden gems in new locales. YourFit allows you to shop sustainably using AI-powered measurements. Williams graduated with a B.A. in English. Lynsey (Crantz) Allie ’08 is executive director of the Botetourt County Historical Society, where her work ranges from examining an artifact to installing a new exhibit. She graduated with a degree in history. Tamara Poles ’08 is founder and CEO of Universal SciCom, which empowers STEM professionals to be effective communicators. Her work was recognized by Research Adjacent, a UKbased organization, and she was invited to speak on its podcast about inclusive science communication. At Roanoke, she played softball and earned a degree in biology. Cedric Wilson ’09 was awarded the 2026 Business Award by the NAACP Chapter of Roanoke at their 26th annual Citizen of the Year Awards, in addition to being named president-elect of the Roanoke Area Counselors Association. Wilson is a licensed professional counselor who founded his own company, Seeking Wellness. He earned a bachelor’s degree in sociology from Roanoke

College and was a member of Kappa Alpha. 2010s

Mark Sansone ’11 was hired as head coach of the men’s basketball team at Maryville College. He spent the last 12 seasons as assistant coach for the University of Mary Washington’s men’s basketball team, this year’s NCAA DIII Champions. He played basketball at Roanoke, where he earned a degree in sport management. He also holds a master’s in organizational leadership from Eastern University. Ben White ’11, a freelance photographer who studied environmental policy at Roanoke, is working to establish Richmond’s first public art park. The proposed park on the James River will blend graffiti culture and environmental culture. In April, the nonprofit Little Giant Society, where White works, hosted an event titled “Proof in the Park” in which anyone could come and paint under the 9th Street Bridge in Richmond. White is a member of the Presidents Society. Dustin DeMaria ’12, senior analyst for Icahn Enterprises, has been appointed to the board of directors for Centuri, which partners with regulated utilities to build and maintain critical energy infrastructure across the U.S. and Canada. He holds a degree in business from Roanoke and an MBA from Cornell. Zachary “Zach” Hottel ’12 was named Virginia’s 2025 Volunteer Fire Chief of the Year at the Governor’s Fire Service Awards held in Virginia Beach. This award was given by Governor Abigail Spanberger, Secretary of Public Safety (and fellow alumnus) Stanley Meador ’96, and Fire Programs

Director Brad Creasy. Hottel studied history at Roanoke and holds a master’s from Appalachian State University. Adam McDearmon ’13 was featured in the Fincastle Herald and Botetourt County News, where he shared his experience as a 911 dispatcher, a role he took on after suffering an injury during police academy. McDearmon was a dispatcher for Campus Safety at Roanoke, where he earned a degree in criminal justice. Lauren (Fischelis) Daugherty ’14 was featured in the equestrian lifestyle publication Sidelines Magazine, which told the story of her ownership of Baile Hill Farm in Sutton, MA. According to the article, Daugherty has loved horses since she was a child and was inspired to study health and exercise science at Roanoke College after being involved in a horse-riding accident in high school. While at Roanoke, an internship allowed Daugherty to work with an organization that offered therapeutic horseback riding. This experience led her to create her own program where people with disabilities and those without disabilities rode together. Daugherty and her husband bought Baile Hill in 2022. Stephanie Kennedy-La Rosa ’14 is the executive director of Steppingstone Farm Museum in Harford County, MD. An art history graduate from Roanoke College, she currently works to share Harford County’s rural heritage with the community. Meredith (O’Connell) Bittrich ’15 is the assistant director of academic program administration in MIT’s Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science. She previously served as the department’s graduate ad-

ministrator. At Roanoke, she was a member of Chi Omega and earned a degree in sociology. Kelsey (Reedy) Camarena ’15 was named vice president of corporate engagement for United Way of Greenville County, SC. She previously served the United Way of the Greater Triangle as chief philanthropy officer. Camarena graduated from Roanoke with a bachelor’s in psychology and from Appalachian State University with a Master of Public Administration. Ryan Hodges ’15 has had multiple pieces published in Ammoland Shooting Sports News. Hodges is an outdoorsman and firearms enthusiast who has worked at the Cody Firearms Museum and Taylor & Co. He earned a degree in history from Roanoke and currently works for Navy Federal Credit Union. Seth Bradley ’16 received the Young Professional of the Year Award at the Alleghany Highlands Chamber of Commerce & Tourism annual dinner in March. He attended with his wife, Paige (Martin) Bradley ’14. Bradley is a work-based learning coordinator for Alleghany Highlands Public Schools. At Roanoke, he earned a BBA and played basketball and baseball. Lydiah Mpyisi ’16 spoke at the 2025 conference for the American Society for Laser Medicine & Surgery, Inc. The theme of the conference was energy-based medicine and science. She is currently a student officer in the Medical Service Corps in the United States Army Reserve. Mpyisi earned an environmental science degree at Roanoke and recently obtained her medical degree from the University of Missouri-Columbia’s School of Medicine. R OA N O K E .E D U

FOREVER MAROONS

Kirstin (Figel) Holland ’16 is co-owner of Agenacare Urgent Care, which opened a second Virginia location in Salem after its success in Rocky Mount. Holland said she appreciates all she learned as a biology major and student-athlete at Roanoke. Madeline (Sefcik) Hanlon ’17 assumed the role of assistant county administrator in Roanoke County, where she previously served as community engagement director and assistant to the county administrator. Hanlon earned a BBA from Roanoke and an MBA from Bowling Green State University. She also holds a graduate certificate in local government management from Virginia Tech. At Roanoke, she was a member of Alpha Sigma Alpha. She is a member of the Cornerstone Society and the Maroon Club. Adnan Sosic ’17 is senior director of marketing analytics at EAB, where he leads national-level data initiatives that support higher education institutions. His work directly influences student success strategies, enrollment analytics and institutional planning across colleges and universities nationwide. He earned a BBA from Roanoke. 2020s

Garrett Channell ’20, executive director of the Salem Museum, gave a talk on Col. William Fleming, an influential colonial figure from the Roanoke Valley. He earned a bachelor’s in history from Roanoke and a master’s in museum studies from Harvard University. As a Maroon, he worked in the school’s archives and the Library of Congress preservation division. Emma Howard-Woods ’20 began working for the City of 36

Roanoke as an opioid response project coordinator. In this role, she manages the opioid abatement grant program in this region of Virginia, resulting from the national opioid lawsuits. She previously worked as an outreach coordinator for the Greater Roanoke Workforce Development Board. She earned a degree in sociology at Roanoke. Gastón Ocampo ’20 has been named a 2026-27 Schwarzman Scholar, which will allow him to earn a master’s in global affairs from Tsinghua University in Beijing, China. The year-long program focuses on expanding participants’ knowledge of China and bolstering international collaboration. After the program, Ocampo will return to his role as secretary general at the Institute for the Promotion of Latin America. In addition, he is an Atlantic Dialogues Emerging Leader Fellow, Doha Debates Ambassador and ICDD-USA.org board member. At Roanoke, he earned degrees in both international relations and business administration, and he co-founded the International Club. Margaret Skiff ’20 was featured in CNBC’s Millennial Money series for buying a duplex and paying off all her student loans in six years. Skiff, a senior experience analyst for Enterprise Holdings, earned a BBA at Roanoke. Benjamin Vester ’20 was featured in Poets&Quants, a digital media outlet highlighting business schools. The feature was titled “2026 Best and Brightest MBA.” He is a recent graduate of the University of Washington’s Foster School of Business. Vester is now a business analysis manager for T-Mobile. He obtained degrees in economics and political science from Roanoke and

R OA N O K E M AGA Z IN E | IS S U E T W O | 2 0 2 6

was a member of the men’s soccer team. Hunter Haskins ’21 serves as assistant director of the Salem Museum & Historical Society. Before landing in his current role, Haskins taught history and epistemology and worked at a seasonal farm museum on the weekends as a docent, interpreter and blacksmith. He began full-time work in museums based on a connection from his time at Roanoke. Haskins double majored in history and political science at Roanoke. Jessica Shelburne ’22 was named district sales manager of Southwest Virginia for Erie Insurance. She previously owned and operated Shelburne Insurance Agency in Christiansburg, VA, but sold the company in November 2024. She graduated with a degree in communication studies from Roanoke. Allyson Herriges ’23 was featured by Virginia Tech News for her graduate work in the school’s Translational Biology, Medicine and Health Graduate Program. Herriges went back to school after serving the country as an Army military police officer. As a mom to three children who require additional educational support, she seeks to understand how she can best support parents in similar positions. Her research at the Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at Virginia Tech Carilion is funded in part by the James R. Carter Sr. Memorial Award. She graduated from Roanoke with a degree in psychology and is a member of the Cornerstone Society. Drew Carlson ’25 works as a project engineer for Branch Civil, the construction company he interned with as a student at Roa-

noke. He said he was drawn to Roanoke for its new engineering science program and the school’s locale. Kaeden Noble ’25 became director of operations for Georgia Southern volleyball. Most recently, he was assistant coach for UC Santa Barbara, a position he also held for the Maroon women’s volleyball team in the fall of 2024. Noble is a record holder at Roanoke for his time on the men’s volleyball team, earning honors like First Team AllODAC and being chosen to represent the United States Division III men’s volleyball team in 2024. In his final season as a collegiate player, he was captain and first libero for the Maroons. He earned a degree in sport management from Roanoke. Erinson Romero-Archila ’25 is a systems specialist for the Information Technology Department at Roanoke College. He earned a degree in engineering science and worked for IT as a student. Tony Saade ’25 is a technical engineer at Dynax America Incorporation, which designs and builds tools for operators and technicians. He earned a degree in engineering science at Roanoke, where his mom works in Dining Services. He also holds an associate degree from Virginia Western Community College. Janet Sweat ’25 is a community engagement assistant for the Roanoke City Sheriff’s Office. She is part of an exciting, new youth literacy initiative in partnership with Therapets and the public library. The Reading PAW-trol allows children to read in a relaxed environment with therapy animals. Sweat holds a degree in sport management from Roanoke, where she was heavily in-

volved in the Center for Civic Engagement. Natalie Webster ’25 began her graduate studies at the University of Galway in Ireland this fall. She aims to earn a master’s degree in global media and communication. At Roanoke, she earned a degree in communication studies and was president of Alpha Phi Omega. WEDDINGS

Cromer-Riddick wedding

Ayers-DiFiore wedding

Shelly Ayers ’04 married Justin DiFiore on Nov. 15, 2025, in Chattanooga, TN. Several alumni were in attendance, and Brittney (Bowman) Deese ’04 was a member of the wedding party. Deanna Bracken ’19 married Leo Wackler on Oct. 24, 2025, at Mar-Lu-Ridge Summer Camp in Jefferson, MD. Multiple alumni were in the wedding, including Taryn Griffith-Thompson ’18, Kent Griffith-Thompson ’18, Hayley Paulson-Moe ’18, Emily (Geno) Gayle ’17 and Cassidy Drew ’19. Alyssa Cromer ’19 married Kwame Riddick on Sept. 12, 2025, in Virginia Beach, VA. Haleigh Ardolino ’19 and Bernice Saka ’19 were members of the wedding party.

Bracken-Wackler wedding

Kari Poage ’11 finalized the adoption of her daughter Scarlett Aurora on June 11, 2025. The Poage family resides in Salem.

DeShaw-Martindale wedding

IN MEMORIAM

Haley Atkins ’15 and Logan Atkins ’18 are the proud parents of Mary Kathryn Grace Atkins, born Jan. 9, 2026.

Thelma (Garst) Naff ’37, of Lynchburg, VA, died Sept. 2, 2025, at 108. At Roanoke, she earned a B.A. in Spanish and went on to spend many years as a beloved teacher in the Lynchburg school system.

The Rev. John L. Derrick ’51, of Woodstock, VA, died Dec. 26, 2025, at 96. After high school, he graduated from Roanoke College, Officer Candidate School for the U.S. Navy, and Lutheran Theological Seminary. He served on the USS Daly, traveling the world, and taught high school

Sophia Maria Schafer

Scarlett Aurora Poage

Mary Kathryn Grace Atkins

Melissa DeShaw ’21 married Jason Martindale ’19 on April 25, 2026, in Kutztown, PA. Fellow alumni Abbey (Packard) Eceiza ’21 and Taylor Yarn ’19 were in the wedding party. FAMILIES

Melissa Azevedo ’05 and Eric Schafer welcomed Sophia Maria Schafer on April 26, 2025, joining sibling Olivia Sky Schafer. Sophia and Olivia’s uncle is alumnus Ryan Schafer ’06.

R OA N O K E .E D U

FOREVER MAROONS

before becoming a pastor. He held many leadership positions throughout his lifetime, especially in service to various churches and religious organizations. His granddaughter Anna Derrick ’21 also attended Roanoke.

was known as an active and passionate Clevelander, spending his free time fishing, hiking, going to baseball games and art museums, and supporting his city and neighborhood. He was a member of the Cornerstone Society.

Robert H. Miller ’51, of Doylestown, PA, died Jan. 26, 2026, at 96. At Roanoke, Miller played basketball and was a member of Kappa Alpha. He went on to earn a master’s from Virginia Tech and a Ph.D. from the University of Maryland. He spent 17 years as director of quality control at Johnson & Johnson and created his own consulting business in retirement. Miller’s late brothers, Harold ’48, Richard ’59 and Gerald ’60 Miller were fellow alumni.

Robert L. Thompson Jr. ’53, of Vienna, VA, died July 17, 2024, at 101. Thompson served in the Army during World War II before earning a B.A. at Roanoke. After moving to Charlottesville, he attended the University of Virginia and received a master’s in mathematics education. He taught in Fairfax County Schools for over 20 years and was known for his dedication to making math fun.

George B. Naff ’53, of Cleveland, OH, died Oct. 20, 2024, at 92. At Roanoke, Naff earned a B.S. and was an active member of Pi Kappa Phi. He went on to earn an M.D. from the University of Virginia before completing his internal medicine residency and research fellowship at Case Western Reserve University, where he spent his career serving as a professor of medicine. Naff

Louise (Lucado) Gish ’54, of Moneta, VA, died Jan. 25, 2026, at 94. At Roanoke, Gish earned a B.A. in English and participated in Delta Gamma. She taught in Roanoke County Public Schools and enjoyed baking, crafting, and playing golf and tennis. Gish’s late husband Glenwood L. Gish ’61 also attended Roanoke. Cameron C. Barr Jr. ’55, of Fort Belvoir, VA, died Sept. 1, 2024, at 95. He earned a B.S. in mathematics from Roanoke and a

Marvin R. Huffman ’55, of Roanoke, VA, died Nov. 17, 2025, at 93. Huffman earned a B.S. in chemistry from Roanoke and a master’s in environmental studies from Marshall University. Huffman spent 37 years with the Union Carbide Company, now Dow Chemical, in addition to serving as a counterintelligence special agent for the U.S. Army. Huffman remained active with Roanoke as part of the Cornerstone Society and the Society of 1842, in addition to developing the M. Richard Huffman and Patricia Huffman Scholarship Fund. This endowed scholarship was established in 2026 and will be awarded to a junior or senior with financial need. The student recipient must possess strong character and be majoring in a sciencerelated discipline.

R OA N O K E M AGA Z IN E | IS S U E T W O | 2 0 2 6

master’s in mathematics from Virginia Tech. He also attended Virginia Military Institute and served in the U.S. Army during the Korean conflict. He worked as a math, calculus and physics professor at several institutions in Pennsylvania and Virginia. Barr loved gardening, swimming, canoeing and reading. Joseph “Joe” Mendez ’59, of Flushing, NY, died Jan. 10, 2026, at 90. He earned a bachelor’s degree from Roanoke College and spent many years working for Chase Manhattan Bank and Chase Manhattan Corporation. Daniel “Dan” R. Bennett Sr. ’60, of Pinehurst, NC, died Dec. 22, 2025, at 89. Bennett earned a bachelor’s degree from Roanoke, where he was a member of the men’s cross country and track and field teams. He was also a member of Kappa Alpha fraternity. Bennett spent most of his professional career in photo product sales, mainly with DuPont. In his free time, Bennett was a sports enthusiast who loved playing golf and making people laugh. The Rev. Judith (Enscoe) Olsen ’61, of Biloxi, MS, died Nov. 11, 2024, at 85. Olsen served the Virginia Conference of the United Methodist Church. She earned a B.A. from Roanoke and an M.Div. from Wesley Theological Seminary. She was fond of life and dancing. Her brother George Enscoe ’66 also attended Roanoke. Earl F. Zipin ’61, of Blue Bell, PA, died Aug. 1, 2024, at 85. After graduating from Roanoke, he attended the Kirksville College of Osteopathy. Zipin served in the U.S. Army and led a medical practice for over 45 years. He was preceded in death by his brother, Richard Zipin ’65.

David C. Chalfant ’63, of Sedgwick, ME, died Oct. 26, 2025, at 84. Chalfant was president of Kappa Alpha fraternity and graduated with a degree in English. He later received an M.A. from George Washington University. His passion for cooking led him to Cornell Hotel and Hospitality School, but he later dedicated himself to educating young minds as an English teacher for Montgomery Public Schools. Chalfant enjoyed throwing dinner parties at his beloved cabin and spending time with his grandchildren. Robert E. Hale ’63, of Chesterfield County, VA, died Jan. 3, 2026, at 84. At Roanoke, Hale earned a B.A. before beginning his career at General Medical Corporation. He later served as a medic in the Army Reserves before eventually building a successful medical supply company alongside several friends. Hale enjoyed vacationing on Hilton Head Island, SC, and was an avid golfer. Judith (Daum) Kummer ’63, of Rancho Cordova, CA, died June 9, 2025, at 83. In more than 40 years of teaching, she taught more than 1,000 students. Kummer earned a bachelor’s degree at Roanoke College while being a member of Delta Gamma. She went on to earn a master’s from Adelphi University. Stephen “Steve” C. Sadtler ’63, of Richmond and Eastern Shore, VA, died March 27, 2025, at 85. While at Roanoke, he enlisted in the National Guard. He spent his career in stock brokerage and retired as a partner at Merrill Lynch. He was a family man who enjoyed putting on the “Sadtler Olympics” with his family. Terri Chalkley Akers ’64, of Nashville, TN, died Aug. 23, 2024,

at 81. During her career, she coled Camp Hy-lake in Tennessee and completed social work for Metro Nashville. She earned a bachelor’s in sociology from Roanoke.

Donald Kerr ’60 served Roanoke as a member of the President’s Advisory Board and board of trustees.

Kenneth E. Workman ’67, of Fort Lauderdale, FL, died July 16, 2025, at 82. After earning a B.A. at Roanoke, he went on to earn an MBA from George Washington University and a Ph.D. from Harvard University. He spent many years working for the U.S. Department of Energy. Virginia “Ginny” (Thomas) Fizer ’69, of Pulaski, VA, died Aug. 17, 2025, at 78. During her career as a teacher, Fizer taught French, Spanish, English and math, impacting the lives of countless children. Fizer was particularly proud to have taught English to many international students. She enjoyed time with family and friends and was a talented crafter.

IN MEMORIAM

Paying it forward Donald Kerr ’60 was propelled by his love of athletics to give generously to his alma mater and aspiring athletes. By Anna Wehr

Carolyn (Hutchins) Huggins ’69, of Florence, SC, died Sept. 15, 2025, at 78. She graduated with a degree in chemistry from Roanoke. During her career, she worked for J.P. Stevens and Dupont, both in South Carolina. Christine (Katz) Nicodemus ’69, of Crofton, MD, died on March 30, 2025. She earned a B.S. from Roanoke. Melinda “Mindy” (Matthews) Skelton ’69, of Newburg, PA, died March 6, 2026, at 77. Skelton, who earned a philosophy degree at Roanoke, was a talented artist, specializing in smallscale media such as sculpted and sewn figurines, dollhouse miniatures and fine beadwork. She was a member of the Pennsylvania Guild of Craftsmen until her death. Additionally, she was

From his time as a collegiate athlete to his generosity as an alumnus, Donald J. Kerr ’60 left his mark on Roanoke College. Born and raised in Philadelphia, Kerr studied history and political science at Roanoke. He also joined both the men’s track team and the men’s soccer team, serving as soccer team captain for two years. His performance as a student-athlete earned him inclusion in Roanoke College’s Athletic Hall of Fame in 2009. Kerr also served as secretary and president of his fraternity, Pi Kappa Phi. Kerr’s career began at the U.S. Intelligence Service in the Far East, but he later managed operations for Campbell Soup Company in multiple states, and he ultimately served as president and CEO of Crestar Food Products. Upon retirement, he established his own company, Kerr Industries, Inc., which includes Bright Harvest Sweet Potato Company and Dakota

Brands International. He earned the moniker “the sweet potato man” at Roanoke College due to his donation of some 40,000 pounds of sweet potatoes to support food insecurity in the local Roanoke community. As an alumnus, Kerr served the college as a member of the President’s Advisory Board and the board of trustees. He was also a member of the Society of 1842 and the Presidents Society, and he was involved with the Maroon Club and the Cornerstone Society. Kerr’s generosity supported the turf facility at Roanoke College, which the soccer, field hockey and lacrosse teams use daily. In 2007, it was dedicated and named the Donald J. Kerr Stadium. In 2012, Kerr received the Roanoke College medal, the highest honor for an alumnus, and in 2017, he was awarded an honorary degree during the college’s commencement ceremony. Kerr’s philanthropy extended far beyond the reach of Roanoke College. After meeting a soccer player from Belize and learning about the country’s lack of resources to create up-to-date soccer facilities and supply equipment, his compassion drove him to support improving Belize’s soccer resources. Also, the United States Department of Agriculture awarded Bright Harvest Sweet Potato Company with a certification of appreciation in 2012 “for providing employment opportunities and economic growth through manufacturing in rural America.”

R OA N O K E .E D U

FOREVER MAROONS

an author who wrote technical manuals and articles for Commodore computer users during the 1980s boom. Gayle (Mansfield) Brooks ’71, of Haymarket, VA, died Feb. 14, 2025, at 74. At Roanoke, she earned a B.A. in history and was a member of Chi Omega. Brooks was known for her warmth and kindness toward others. She was preceded in death by her husband, John W. Brooks ’70. Christine “Chris” (McAllan) Anderson ’71, of Fairfax, VA, died Nov. 10, 2025, at 76. At Roanoke, she was a member of Phi Mu and the field hockey team. She graduated with a degree in psychology and taught kindergarten for many years before becoming a full-time mom. She engaged heavily with the Westmore Elementary PTA. She loved Rehoboth Beach and creating memories with her grandchildren. Louis R. Curd ’71, of Roanoke, VA, died Dec. 16, 2024, at 83. He graduated from Roanoke with a degree in biology and later served as president of Professional Ophthalmic Laboratories in Roanoke. He was a skilled billiards player and enjoyed strumming his guitar. Gregory D. White ’71, of Myrtle Beach, SC, died Nov. 26, 2025, at 76. At Roanoke, he earned a BBA and was a member of both the men’s basketball team and Kappa Alpha. After college, he served in the Army Reserves and founded his own construction business. White was also a flea market enthusiast and was known for his playful spirit. Allan S. Hill ’72, of Johnston, RI, died June 19, 2025, at 75. Hill earned a B.S. in mathematics at 40

Roanoke. He was the owner of Hill Orchards and served as president of the Rhode Island Fruit Growers Association for 20 years. He was also former secretary of the Rhode Island Farm Bureau. Survivors include his wife, Debra (Borst) Hill ’72 . Charles H. Lamons ’72, of Blacksburg, VA, died Aug. 18, 2024, at 73. After college, Lamons worked as a cartographer for the U.S. Department of Defense, and then at Kemoll’s, a premier high-end dining restaurant in St. Louis. His interests included music, reading, travel and photography. Carlton R. Saunders ’72, of Roanoke, VA, died Jan. 7, 2026, at 75. Saunders earned a biology degree from Roanoke and retired from the Department of Veteran Affairs Medical Center after 38 years. He enjoyed martial arts, reading and visiting the beach. Ellen (Parrish) Schlotthober ’72, of Roanoke, VA, died April 27, 2025, at 76. After earning a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Roanoke and an M.Ed. from the University of Virginia, she spent her career teaching students with learning disabilities. She loved quilting, knitting, trains, spending time by the creek and being with her husband, Charles L. Schlotthober ’73. R. Nelson Hurt Jr. ’73, of Chatham, NJ, died Jan. 16, 2026, at 74. He graduated from Roanoke with a BBA before serving a long career in government service. In addition to being an avid sports fan, he loved crossword puzzles, Bruce Springsteen, hot dogs and daily naps. As a member of Kappa Alpha fraternity at Roanoke, he was nicknamed “funky” for his enthusiastic dancing style.

R OA N O K E M AGA Z IN E | IS S U E T W O | 2 0 2 6

He was also a member of the school’s Cornerstone Society. Sandra G. McCulley ’73, of Roanoke, VA, died July 29, 2025, at 73. McCulley received a B.S. in mathematics from Roanoke and taught math at many high schools in the Roanoke area. Charles L. Schlotthober ’73, of Roanoke, VA, died April 27, 2025, at 77. He earned a BBA from Roanoke and was retired from Norfolk Southern. He was also a fireman on the 611, helped with the Norfolk & Western Historical Society archives and enjoyed painting model trains. Schlotthober was always willing to help do or fix anything, and he loved spending time with his wife, Ellen (Parrish) Schlotthober ’72. Diane (Clark) Bielinski ’74, of Wilson, NY, died July 16, 2024, at 72. Bielinski earned a BBA from Roanoke and, for most of her career, worked as a comptroller for her father’s business. She was also an active member of her church and had a passion for running marathons and playing pickleball. Survivors include her brother, Steven C. Clark ’76, and sister-in-law, Marjorie (Williamson) Clark ’75. Howard R. Bullen III ’74 of Roanoke, VA, died March 13, 2026, at 74. He earned a B.A. in sociology at Roanoke, where he was a member of Sigma Chi. Bullen served as a vocational rehabilitation case manager and a member of the United States Coast Guard Reserve and Navy Reserve. Survivors include his wife, Mary (Stevenson) Bullen ’76, daughter-in-law Emily (Shelton) Bullen ’01 and granddaughter Morgan Bullen ’27. Barbara (Todd) Van O’Linda ’74, of Richmond, VA, died Aug.

12, 2025, at 73. Van O’Linda earned a bachelor’s degree in sociology at Roanoke. Her late husband, William Van O’Linda ’74, and her daughter, Christine (Van O’Linda) Huffman ’00 also attended Roanoke. Danny Pace Jr. ’75, of Roanoke, VA, died Dec. 31, 2025, at 72. Pace obtained a bachelor’s in psychology at Roanoke and became the senior financial advisor and managing partner at Summit Wealth Group of Roanoke. He was a member of the Society of 1842 and was known for his great sense of humor and big heart. Donald “Don” D. Walters ’76, of Galena, MD, died Feb. 12, 2025, at 71. He received a B.A. in English from Roanoke and worked as an accounting clerk for various organizations, including Baltimore County Public Schools. He loved folk music and dance, hiking, reading, public libraries and trivia game shows. Edith C. Cross ’79, of Lewes, DE, died Feb. 5, 2025, at 86. She earned a B.S. in nursing at Roanoke and had a long career in the field, working in hospitals in Delaware, Virginia and Washington, D.C. She had deep faith and was very active within her church. Her favorite pastimes were going to the beach and spending time with her dog, Precious. Brenda C. Kelly ’80, of Wilmington, DE, died Dec. 26, 2025, at 67. She earned a B.A. in political science from Roanoke and an MBA from George Washington University. She worked as an executive at MBNA and Bank of America. She was an avid traveler, a meticulous gardener and an advocate for cancer research. Richard N. Phillips ’81, of Salem, VA, died Feb. 11, 2026,

at 84. After being honorably discharged from the Marine Corps in 1965, Phillips graduated with a BBA from Roanoke. He worked at Brabham Oil Company for 25 years. In his free time, Phillips loved tinkering with cars and listening to bluegrass music.

Sally Bauer ’77 never missed an opportunity to uplift her community.

The Rev. Kathryn L. Preston ’82, of Timonium, MD, died Dec. 25, 2025, at 66. Preston earned a B.A. in history from Roanoke and an M.Div. from Gettysburg Theological Seminary. She served the United Methodist Church in Southern Maryland and Baltimore County for most of her career, then worked as an insurance consultant in retirement. John J. Trahar ’89, of Austin, TX, died Nov. 6, 2025, at 58. Trahar received a B.A. in art from Roanoke and was a member of Sigma Chi. He later founded his own marketing agency, Greatest Common Factory, which went on to work with famous brands like Nike and the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC).

IN MEMORIAM

A heart for service Sally Bauer ’77 lived her life in service to others, setting a shining example of what it means to be a Maroon. By Ashley Mountcastle ’27

Hopkins Hospitals’ Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences. She held a special place in her heart for supporting women, children and animals. Bauer served on the President’s Advisory Board at Roanoke for 24 years and was a member of the Society of 1842, the Cornerstone Society, the Maroon Club and the Monument Club. While she didn’t have kids of her own, she was a godmother to three and supported countless others in her personal life and charitable endeavors. Bohannan cred-

“She would light up every room.” — Pam Cabalka ’76

Linda (Nunnery) Puckett ’83, of Salem, VA, died April 12, 2026, at 64. She received a degree in sociology with a concentration in social work from Roanoke. She worked for several local organizations, including as an adult protective service worker at the Floyd County Department of Social Services. Robert “Duane” Cregger ’92, of Richmond, VA, died Dec. 22, 2025, at 55. Cregger held a B.A. in art from Roanoke and was an artist whose work was sold and displayed on the East Coast. In addition, he was a talented pianist and graphic designer. Part of his career was spent as director of The Lincoln Theatre in Marion, VA. Jennifer (Browning) Adams ’94, of Collierville, TN, died

Sally (Wendler) Bauer ’77, who generously dedicated time and resources to numerous philanthropic endeavors, including Roanoke College, died April 7, 2026, at 70. During her time at Roanoke, Bauer studied abroad, was a Kappa Alpha Sweetheart and made lifelong friends, including her freshman roommate, Carla Bohannan ’77, who said Bauer “brought everybody together all the time” and continued to do so throughout her life. Another college friend, Pam Cabalka ’76, described Bauer as beautiful and funny. “She would light up every room,” Cabalka said. After earning a BBA at Roanoke, Bauer had a long, successful career in technology, including at Sun Microsystems. Following her career, she devoted herself to philanthropy in the Baltimore area, serving on the boards of The Family Tree, the Rise Alliance for Children, and Johns

ited Bauer with making her life and her three daughter’s lives fun, recounting with joy the time they all went to see “Mamma Mia!” in Washington, D.C. “She rented a limo and we all wore the boas,” Bohannan said, “and that’s something that my girls will remember.” In her free time, Bauer enjoyed spending summers with friends and family in Moose Pond in Bridgton, Maine, Rehoboth Beach in Delaware, and Cape May in New Jersey. Bauer gave her heart and soul to help others. She offered love, support and advocacy in ways that will always be remembered.

R OA N O K E .E D U

FOREVER MAROONS

IN MEMORIAM

A lasting legacy Through her work and kind spirit, Diane Wing touched the lives of countless students, faculty and staff. By Margo Boone ’26

Diane Wing, a beloved member of Roanoke College’s student engagement staff, died Dec. 31, 2025, at 68. For more than 20 years, Wing served as coordinator of the campus center and student activities, a job she was passionate about. Wing was so well-loved among students, faculty and staff that she was known as a “campus mom,” always willing to help with college matters, be a listening ear or lift someone’s spirits. Her office inside the Colket Student Center was a popular spot for students who enjoyed visiting with Wing. Originally from Illinois, Wing moved with her family to the Roanoke Valley and attended Andrew Lewis High School. She obtained a bachelor’s degree from James Madison University in 1979 and, after working for several Roanoke-area businesses, she joined the staff at Roanoke College. 42

R OA N O K E M AGA Z IN E | IS S U E T W O | 2 0 2 6

Diane Wing will forever be an integral member of the Roanoke community.

March 3, 2025, at 52. At Roanoke, she majored in sociology, played soccer and was a member of Delta Gamma. She was devoted to her family, loved to travel and was passionate about rescuing and fostering dogs. Survivors include her brother, David Browning ’97.

Joe Boucher ’87, director of student engagement and the Colket Center, was a close friend and colleague of Wing’s who worked with her for many years. He said she is irreplaceable. “Diane was the heart and soul of the Info Desk,” he said. “She was a wealth of campus knowledge, and her consistency, positivity and nurturing spirit gave such great perspective to our students.” Wing was awarded the Outstanding Staff Member award for the 2011-12 school year and the STAR Award in 2023.

David A. Witkege ’95, of Roanoke County, VA, died Nov. 22, 2025, at 75. Witkege earned a degree in English at Roanoke and worked a long career as a master carpenter. In addition to reading and woodworking, he enjoyed gardening, fishing, cooking and playing a variety of instruments.

“Everyone loved her and respected her so much that they didn’t even sit at her desk when she wasn’t around.” — Joe Boucher ’87

Her nomination for the STAR Award said her ability to juggle many tasks with endless details kept the Colket Center running, and to many students, she represented a home away from home. Outside of Roanoke, Wing loved to read, travel, play with her cats, experience nature and spend time with her grandchildren. She and her family treasured their time together. She was also an active member of West Salem Baptist Church. Wing’s vibrant and tender spirit will live on in the many individuals she impacted at Roanoke and the wider community.

Brandi K. McKee ’04, of Bethel Park, PA, died Jan. 15, 2026, at 44. She earned a B.A. in English at Roanoke and a master’s degree from Radford University. In addition to enjoying her work in residence life and student affairs, McKee loved reading, journaling, doodling and hand lettering, and all animals. Brandan C. Moffett ’04, of Laurel, MD, died July 10, 2024, at 42. Moffett grew up playing competitive soccer and helped win multiple state championships. He earned a degree in business administration from Roanoke College and played on the men’s soccer team. Courtney B. Cooper ’13, of Glenn Dale, MD, died Aug. 22, 2025, at 34. She earned degrees in international relations and Spanish at Roanoke, where she was a member of the Black Student Alliance, the College Activities Board (CAB) and the Building on Diversity (BonD) mentoring program. She is remembered for her imagination and infectious laugh.

FOREVER MAROONS

AT LEFT: Members of the Roanoke College Advancement team, pictured here on Giving Day 2026, are now being supported by Rose, a virtual fundraising ofﬁcer. BELOW: Rose’s avatar

Introducing Rose A new way to stay connected with Roanoke College As Roanoke College continues to keep its pulse on the ever-evolving landscape of higher education, the school is taking a creative approach to AI use in the workplace.

The Advancement Office at Roanoke College gained a new employee this summer, but she doesn’t take up much office space. Meet Rose, Roanoke College’s first ever virtual engagement officer. As more college and university advancement operations are presented with innovative artificial intelligence solutions to solve a wide array of problems, Roanoke is collaborating with Version2.ai, powered by Givzey, to complement its existing face-to-face fundraising efforts. Nate Stewart ’03, vice president for advancement, is leading the charge on this new initiative. “At Roanoke College, we know that advancement and fundraising must evolve if we’re going to continue elevating the student experience and fulfilling our mission to prepare graduates for lives of purpose 44

R OA N O K E M AGA Z IN E | IS S U E T W O | 2 0 2 6

and meaning,” he said. “By embracing new ideas, learning continuously and aligning our practices with the momentum of our strategic plan, ‘Imagine Roanoke,’ we’re building a culture of philanthropy that will strengthen our community for decades.”

“We know that advancement and fundraising must evolve if we’re going to continue elevating the student experience...” — Nate Stewart ’03, vice president for advancement

Rose, who was named after one of the college’s historic buildings, Roselawn, has been assigned a portfolio that includes a wide network of 1,000 alumni and friends of Roanoke. Her primary goal is connecting with those individuals and learning

more about their interests and affinities. For example, a member of Rose’s portfolio may be asked for their favorite memory of Roanoke College, and depending on their response, Rose will follow-up with more information about a program of interest to the potential donor. The knowledge gained through Rose is shared regularly with advancement team members to better inform decisions made by the college. In addition to supplementing the fundraising team’s outreach efforts, Rose allows the Roanoke College community to deepen its engagement with the school. “We’re proud to join a growing number of forward-thinking institutions partnering with Givzey and Version2,” Stewart said. “Their work across higher education reflects a shared belief that thoughtful innovation can deepen relationships and expand impact.” He went on to say, “Our collaboration with them positions Roanoke alongside peers who are reimagining what’s possible, and it equips us to explore AI tools that help us listen, learn and engage more effectively.”

Welcome Home Alumni Weekend 2026 was chock-full of Maroon pride as attendees relived their college days and connected with friends old and new. From milestones to traditions, there was much to be celebrated.

4 1. A ceremonial ribbon cutting marked the dedication and renaming of Roanoke College’s Athletic Performance Center in honor of William “Dox” Doxanas ’72, an impactful Roanoke College alumnus. Pictured from left to right are alumnus Patrick Clevenger ’26; Scott Bennett, head strength and conditioning coach; President Frank Shushok Jr.; John “Jack” Luetkemeyer Jr., lead donor; Page Moir ’00, major gift ofﬁcer; Marcos “Marc” Doxanas, brother of “Dox”; and Curtis Campbell, director of athletics. 2. Ben Halterman ’01 and his wife, Priscilla Halterman ’03, took to College Avenue for this year’s beach-themed block party. 3. Celi Stoutamire and Steve Esworthy ’91 pose for a picture at the annual Society of 1842 luncheon, which seeks to recognize donors who’ve named Roanoke College as a beneﬁciary of planned gifts.4. Members of the women’s softball team joined fellow students, alumni and friends of the college for FOTQ, a treasured tradition at Roanoke. 5. Alumni hailing from the class of 1976 celebrated 50 years since graduation with their induction into Roanoke College’s Honor Guard, the esteemed alumni group honoring all graduates who’ve achieved this milestone.

R OA N O K E .E D U

IN S P IR IN G IM PAC T

G IV IN G N E W S

(L-R) Olivia Sekel ’28 and Katherine Hammond ’26 spent the evening with alumni and donors Stephen Bast ’75 and Rebecca Krebs Bast ’75.

When generosity meets purpose Roanoke College hosted its inaugural scholarship dinner in April 2026 to connect students to the donors impacting their lives through endowed scholarships. By Anna Wehr

Our lives are driven by affinities. The kinship and connections we share with others are what lead to life-changing moments — like student scholarships. Every year, Roanoke College awards endowed scholarships to deserving students based on need and/or merit, but scholarship recipients don’t always get to meet the people who make their college journeys possible. The inaugural scholarship dinner did just that, presenting students and donors with the opportunity to connect, giving students the chance to express their gratitude, and allowing donors to see the young lives they are changing. Endowed scholarships are particularly 46

R OA N O K E M AGA Z IN E | IS S U E T W O | 2 0 2 6

“Connecting with students and sharing our common Roanoke experience strengthens my connection to the college and reinforces why giving matters.” — Dr. Jared Herr ’04

exciting because the donor’s impact lives on in perpetuity, meaning the number of students meaningfully impacted by the scholarship will continue to grow. Donors also establish the scholarship’s criteria. Eighty-three donors and 89 students gathered in Wortmann Ballroom for the evening of celebration and relationshipbuilding. The event included remarks from Nate Stewart ’03, vice president for

advancement; Dr. Frank Shushok Jr., president of the college; Dominic Wheaton ’26, senior business major and volleyball player; and Elaine Cronk ’77, alumna and donor. Olivia Sekel ’28 is a recipient of the P25 scholarship, a program that challenges donors to give $5,000 each year over five years for endowed student scholarships. Sekel, a double major in health and exercise science and Spanish, was particularly inspired by Cronk, who, like Sekel, received an impactful scholarship that made all the difference in attending Roanoke. “The whole point of college is to go and change and see who you are, and when she was given that scholarship, she knew that her change was valued,” Sekel said of Cronk. Feeling valued at Roanoke College has motivated Sekel to try new things, and the P25 scholarship has allowed her to experience more deeply what Roanoke has to offer. Wheaton, also a P25 recipient, compared scholarships to investments, saying

Patrick Clevenger ’26 and Elaine Cronk ’77 were all smiles at the scholarship dinner.

(L-R) Emily Scholtisek ’26; Morgan Tobey ’27; David Meadows, interim vice president for ﬁnance and administration; Bree Fulkerson ’27; Dr. Jared Herr ’04; Damien Fellows ’26 and Helena Bart ’27 enjoyed each other’s company at the scholarship dinner.

he was honored that donors chose to invest in him and touched by the trust donors placed in his hands. “Trust that their investment will create a return, not in dollars, but in impact,” he said. “And that’s something I carry with me every single day. Because those scholarships aren’t just financial support… they are belief. Donors are confident that students like me can make a difference.” Wheaton said he hopes to spark change

in the world and give back to pave the way for the next generation of Maroons — as Dr. Jared Herr ’04 and his wife, Erika Young, have done. Herr attended the scholarship dinner on behalf of he and Young’s commitment to the P25 scholarship. Both received scholarships while completing their undergraduate degrees, so they remain motivated to make higher education accessible to future students.

“Roanoke College played a defining role in my life, shaping who I am and opening doors that changed my future,” said Herr, a cardiologist based in San Francisco. At the dinner, he sat among multiple scholarship students, giving him the chance to see his investment at work. “Connecting with students and sharing our common Roanoke experience strengthens my connection to the college and reinforces why giving matters,” Herr said. “Seeing firsthand how scholarships make a difference in students’ lives is what makes being part of P25 so meaningful.” To learn more about establishing an endowed scholarship in your name, contact Vice President for Advancement Nate Stewart at 540-375-2230 or nastewart@roanoke.edu.

R OA N O K E .E D U

IN S P IR IN G IM PAC T

AT LEFT: Mike Haley ’73 shared a few words of inspiration with attendees of the awards reception and ceremony during Alumni Weekend. BELOW: Pat Kenney ’99 and Cara Kenney ’98 were presented with the Emerging Alumni Award.

ACCOLADES

Celebrating our alumni Roanoke celebrated several distinguished alumni and friends at an awards ceremony during this year’s Alumni Weekend festivities. By Lindsey Nair

During Alumni Weekend 2026, Mike Haley ’73, a Martinsville, Virginia- based businessman who has dedicated his life to lifting his community, was presented with the Roanoke College Medal, the highest honor bestowed upon Maroon alumni. The award was presented during an awards reception and ceremony where the Emerging Alumni Award and Maroons by Choice Award were also presented. Throughout his life, Haley has been led by a desire to work hard and give back. He earned a degree in business administration at Roanoke, where he was conference golfer of the year for the 1972-73 season and led the team to the first College Divi48

R OA N O K E M AGA Z IN E | IS S U E T W O | 2 0 2 6

sion NCAA Golf Tournament in college history. Haley had a prosperous career as a furniture manufacturing and sales executive at American of Martinsville before transitioning into the private equity field, where he was an operating partner in several companies. He’s dedicated much of his life to service, serving on the boards of civic organizations in Martinsville and helping to form The Harvest Foundation, which invests in long-term community initiatives in his home city. He recently rejoined the Roanoke College Board of Trustees, where he gives of his time, talent and treasures. Haley said his time at Roanoke College helped him build a successful career and put him in a position to give back to the community that helped raise him. Additional honorees included Cara Kenney ’98 and Pat Kenney ’99, winners of the Emerging Alumni Award for their work in volunteer leadership positions for Roanoke. Pat chaired the Roanoke Alumni Chapter for 10 years and has been

active in the Alumni Executive Council (AEC) since 2017. Cara served as president of the Alumni Association/AEC and as an ex-officio member of the board of trustees from 2022-25. She also has served on the Roanoke Alumni Chapter Committee since 2017. The couple has supported the college philanthropically at the Associate level for more than a decade, are members of the Maroon Club, and recently committed to the President’s 25 Scholarship Fund. Tom and Marty Murdock received the Maroons by Choice Award, which is presented to friends of Roanoke College who have exhibited immense dedication to the school. They believe deeply in the college’s mission under Shushok’s leadership, and they have generously invested time and resources in the college. As the parents of three children, the Murdocks understand that unexpected obstacles can often get in the way of a student’s education. The college is fortunate to count them among its most dedicated friends.

Douglas Powell ’97 on Heritage Walk during a visit to campus in July 2026.

SPOTLIGHT

A champion for students Douglas Powell ’97 is dedicated to making a college education a reality for aspiring Maroons. By Anna Wehr

If you’ve attended a Roanoke College women’s or men’s basketball game in recent years, there’s a 99.9% chance you’ve seen Douglas Powell ’97 in the stands cheering on the Maroons. Powell has been a champion for Roanoke College since 1991, when she enrolled as a 44-year-old nontraditional student. Her matriculation is a perfect example of the school’s commitment to connecting learners of all ages with flexible, highquality programs. Powell had earned her associate’s degree from Virginia Western Community College in 1990, and completing her bachelor’s degree was a lifelong dream. When Norfolk and Western merged with

Southern to create what is now Norfolk Southern, she was employed there in the accounting department. Employees were given the opportunity to earn a bachelor’s degree, so Powell met with fellow alumna Leah Russell ’79 to see what courses she needed to complete a business administration degree. She enrolled successfully and graduated in May 1997. “In addition to feeling a sense of great accomplishment, obtaining my degree opened other doors for me at Norfolk Southern, and I will always be appreciative of my time at Roanoke College, especially of the support I received from Dr. Kevin Baker,” she said. Powell praised other faculty in the Business Department, as well, including the late Judge G.O. Clemens. “There were two or three teachers I had that really helped me,” she said. Powell’s time at Roanoke left such an impression that she chose to give back to her alma mater. She is a member of the Cornerstone Society and the Presidents

Society, and she is an active Elderscholar participant. As a Norfolk Southern employee, she took advantage of her company’s gift-matching program to double her impact. Powell also worked closely with Roanoke’s advancement team and Business Department to establish the Douglas F. Powell Scholarship, which is awarded each year to four junior or senior business administration majors with a major GPA of 3.2 or above and demonstrated financial need. Emma Johnson ’26 is a direct recipient of Powell’s annual scholarship. “My experience at Roanoke College would not have been possible without the scholarship Douglas Powell provided me,” Johnson said. “Her contribution shaped every aspect of my four years at Roanoke, allowing me to graduate with honors, participate in clubs, participate on the women’s tennis team, complete an independent research project, grow academically and personally, and meet my lifelong friends.” Now retired and in what she calls her “second career,” Powell is a board member and treasurer of the Giving Back Society, a nonprofit organization established to uplift members of underserved communities in the Roanoke Valley and across the state of Virginia. Powell’s Roanoke College story is a reminder that college isn’t just for recent high school graduates; it is a resource for anyone at any stage of life. Through her experiences and her love for the college, Powell is creating opportunities for future students to grow, achieve and someday give back themselves.

R OA N O K E .E D U

C O L L E G E A R C H IV E S

Massengill Auditorium was demolished in 2024 to make way for the new McConnon Discovery Center.

A lasting legacy The family that inspired the name of Massengill Auditorium will be honored within the new Shaun McConnon Discovery Center, celebrating their enduring contributions to Roanoke College. By Jesse Bucher

The recently demolished Massengill Auditorium honored a family whose influence shaped both Roanoke College and the region’s economy. In 1871, Samuel E. Massengill was born in Sullivan County, Tennessee, where his father was a rural doctor. He would go on to study science and medicine at Roanoke, graduating in 1892, and earn a degree from the University of Nashville Medical School. Rather than enter medical practice, he set his sights on the pharmaceutical field. In 1897, he co-founded Massengill & Brothers in Bristol, Tennessee, as a wholesale distributor of Connor pharmaceutical products, but the company soon began 50

R OA N O K E M AGA Z IN E | IS S U E T W O | 2 0 2 6

Samuel E. Massengill PHOTO COURTESY EAST CAROLINA UNIVERSITY DIGITAL COLLECTIONS

selling its own medicines made on a handturned tablet machine. After his brother retired in 1917, Massengill established the S.E. Massengill Company, and what began as a small operation grew into one of the South’s largest pharmaceutical producers. By the 1920s and 1930s, distribu-

tion offices on both coasts were selling Massengill products made in Bristol. In 1937, a company antibiotic caused the “elixir sulfanilamide disaster,” leading to more than 100 deaths. The incident helped prompt the 1938 Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, strengthening federal oversight of drug safety. In the years that followed, S.E. Massengill Company continued to operate and grow. By the 1950s, its Bristol plant employed more than 400 people and was noted in the local newspaper for its extensive employee benefits. Massengill died in 1946 at age 75, but the company remained familyowned until its sale in 1971. Throughout the decades, the Massengill family maintained strong connections to Roanoke College, with four generations graduating as Maroons. Frank DeFriece, Massengill’s grandson, graduated in 1946 and later became president of the company. He served his alma mater on the board of trustees for 41 years and received the Roanoke College Medal. Supported by a gift from the family, Massengill Auditorium debuted in 1970 as part of an ambitious new science complex that modernized science education at Roanoke. For more than five decades, it hosted classes, lectures, forums, films and student activities. While the building itself has been replaced, the legacy of the Massengill family will live on. With the family’s blessing, the first floor of the Shaun McConnon Discovery Center will be named in honor of the Massengill and DeFriece families in recognition of their generous support of Roanoke College dating back to the 19th century. Jesse Bucher is the Roanoke College historian and a professor in the history program.

F O U R Q U E S T IO N S

Right on the money Kelsey Marletta ’10 was elected Commissioner of the Revenue for Radford, Virginia, in November 2025. She says being a ﬁrst-generation college student with a full-time job gave her the time management skills needed to be both a constitutional ofﬁcer and a mother of three. Photo courtesy Kelsey Marletta

What does a typical day look like in your job? The Commissioner of the Revenue is the chief assessing tax official for their locality. I am responsible for real estate assessments, personal property taxation, local taxes, business licenses, and the duties that come with being an elected constitutional officer in Virginia. Each city or county’s revenue stream essentially begins in the commissioner’s office. The local government must do what it needs to for the state government to operate in the manner it does. Each day can be very different from the previous one!

What is a personal cause that means a lot to you? Why? Raising awareness of childhood cancers and advocating for families after treatment. My oldest was diagnosed with leukemia when he was three years old and ﬁnished treatment right before turning 6. He is now 12 and there is so much that is unknown about childhood cancer. We live in a time of such advancement in medicine, and there needs to be more funding and advocacy for childhood cancer patients, survivors and their families.

If you had to pick a different career, what would it be? Why?

If you could have coffee with anyone, living or dead, who would it be?

I believe that public service is a calling, and while it may have taken me a while to get to where I am, I would not choose anything different. I believe many things needed to happen before I was ready to serve in the role I have been elected to. The transferable skills that I have acquired while previously working for Radford City Schools and Radford University have been such an asset for my position. No matter the challenges at present or the work that must be done, serving one’s community and one’s state is an honor.

My late grandparents. While my grandfather passed away several years ago, my grandmother just passed not long before I won my election. I know they would both be so incredibly proud of the work that I do to serve my community and how I am raising my three children to one day make their own positive impact in the world. Read more of Kelsey Marletta’s Q&A at roanoke.edu/marletta

DO YOU HAVE AN

EYE FOR DETAIL? How carefully were you paying attention the last time you visited Roanoke College? Test your memory by guessing where on the main campus the following photographs were taken!

Grade your answers and see additional detail shots at roanoke.edu/detailgame Do you have a favorite detail on campus? Tell us about it at rcmagazine@roanoke.edu

CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED

Marketing and Communications 221 College Lane Salem, Virginia 24153-3794

NOTE TO PARENTS: If this issue of Roanoke College Magazine is addressed to your son or daughter who no longer lives at your address, please provide a change of address to the College. Contact the Alumni Ofﬁce by mail, e-mail or phone.

Supporting success Roanoke College’s new ASPire (Autistic Support) Program provides academic and social support for neurodivergent students through resources such as peer-to-peer mentoring and workshops. Accessible Education Services Director Dustin Persinger ’13 and Director of Student Wellness Services Sandy McGhee, pictured here, developed and soft launched the ASPire (Autistic Support) Program in fall 2025. The program helps students on the autism spectrum adapt to college and enhance their experience at Roanoke. Read more at roanoke.edu/aspire