Excelsis | Fall 2024

XCELSIS E FALL 2024

A B AT T E N H O N O R S C O L L E G E P U B L I C AT I O N | V I R G I N I A W E S L E YA N U N I V E R S I T Y

THIRST PROJECT CREATING WAVES

ARTISTIC

IMPACT

TEACHING IN

CAPE

TOWN

Environmental Stewardship Rocket Man Ecosystems of Puerto Rico

A BATTEN HONORS COLLEGE PUBLICATION | VIRGINIA WESLEYAN UNIVERSITY

A BATTEN HONORS COLLEGE PUBLICATION | VIRGINIA WESLEYAN UNIVERSITY

Thirst Project Creating Waves MJ MATTHEWS

INNOVATION

&GROWTH

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ewly joining the list of student organizations at Virginia Wesleyan University this year is the Thirst Project Club, which is a branch of the global organization, Thirst Project (TP). I have been involved with this initiative since 2019 when I was introduced through my high school’s chapter of the organization. Thirst Project is completely dedicated to aiding in ending the global water crisis, supplying it to the 785 million people that don’t have access to clean water. Unsanitary water harbors bacteria and sometimes harmful chemicals that lead to the contraction of waterborne illnesses and suppressed immune systems.

LETTER FROM THE DEAN

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ince the 1990s, the Honors program has championed the value of an honors approach to all majors and activities at Virginia Wesleyan. This year has seen a tremendous increase in the depth and breadth of the Honors College. Our faculty and scholars have begun to see how their work can have an indelible impact on the community, the region, and the world.

This summer Dr. Elizabeth Malcolm, Batten Professor of Ocean & Atmospheric Sciences and Director of Sustainability, received a grant to deepen a national research effort to map the effects of climate change by mapping the amount of heat retained in an area. After a successful study of Norfolk, Dr. Malcolm’s group worked with volunteers, VWU students, BHC students to map heat effects in the city of Portsmouth, VA. The data collected, accomplished by our faculty and students and in collaboration with the region, will help us better understand the impact of heat in urban environments.

Honors education is about the need to think deeply, critically, and across disciplines. VWu is leading the region in building partnerships and opportunities for students to connect their honors studies with world-class organizations. In August, VWU and Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art broke ground on the new state-of-the-art museum facility on our campus. In the space, students will have the opportunity for internships and artistic experiences that will help them understand how humans use art to create community and wrestle with contemporary issues.

These are just two examples of the many ways the campus and faculty are building strategic and inspiring learning opportunities for BHC students. Whether study abroad, leadership, or research, it is exciting to be part of an institution that values the academic and the creative as important areas of research. No matter the method of research, our honors students are enacting the principles of our mission and seeking to propel humanity through the next century. A tall task - but one that can only be accomplished through environmental stewardship, leadership, and global citizenship.

2 / EXCELSIS

Getting water and sanitation access to communities in need makes all the difference. In learning the sobering reality of this issue, I wanted to take part in the change. After serving as a TP leader in high school, I planned on bringing it wherever I went, and that just so happened to be VWU. A previous VWU professor of many years, Dr. Lawrence Hultgren encouraged me to bring TP on campus before I was even committed to VWU or the BHC. Coming onto campus with preexisting support made me all the more excited to expand the bounds of this organization.

In my attempts to bring TP to campus, I found that it takes a village. My good friend McKenna Howenstine, also a BHC student, stepped up to fill the co-president role of this newly founded club, and is just as passionate and driven, and my friends weren’t far behind her. We planned on what the club structure would look like, and what our goals were.

The Thirst Project organization has two main focuses for student leaders: education and fundraising. In-person work with affected communities is minimal, as TP does not send westerners to do the work, but rather empowers and guides communities to build the systems that will serve them for years to come. In terms of fundraising, building the wells and other infrastructure that is needed to give access to clean water is costly. Fundraising is vital to this cause, and we as a club plan on incorporating it into our events and curriculum, but do not expect the student population to be the main contributors in this way. Instead, we as a club will focus on making as many students as possible into experts on the issues we are trying to address.

Through educational events, McKenna and I would like to see every TP club member become a beacon of information about not only the issue of the global water crisis, but also of the Thirst Project organization. In this way, whenever the question or opportunity arises, each student can inform others on what our work is and why it is so important, hopefully gaining a supporter or two in the process. As of now, the club sits at about 15-20 members, which is exciting for such a small campus. We hope to see continued growth in the club, and we want to change the world!

EXCELSIS / 3

A BATTEN HONORS COLLEGE PUBLICATION | VIRGINIA WESLEYAN UNIVERSITY

TEACHING IN

A BATTEN HONORS COLLEGE PUBLICATION | VIRGINIA WESLEYAN UNIVERSITY

ARTISTIC

A BATTEN HONORS COLLEGE PUBLICATION | VIRGINIA WESLEYAN UNIVERSITY

CAPE IMPACT TOWN SARAH RICHARDS

T

JOY RAMSEY

his summer, I traveled to Cape Town, South Africa, through Beyond Sports’ sister program, Student-Athletes Abroad. I interned with an afterschool program in Heideveld, Cape Town, and stayed in a villa for three weeks with other student-athletes from universities like Penn State, Columbia, and Dartmouth.

We immersed ourselves in South African culture, from its food to its history. The locals openly shared their stories, especially about the apartheid. People of color were forced out of District Six in the 1960s and confined to “unofficial settlements,” which still exist today. These settlements are crowded with small huts, tents, and old apartments, lacking space and amenities.

Despite these challenges, South Africa is rich in culture and kindness. The children are grateful for anything they receive, even a broken hair clip. They enjoy diverse cuisines and have limited electronics outside schools and homes. The after-school program I interned at, Great Commissions United (GCU), supports students with behavioral problems or disabilities. Every day, Mario and his helpers from The Mothers of Our Kitchen prepared meals for the children. Mario also held feedings at his home and a church, where he preaches.

GCU aims to increase graduation rates from elementary schools and support struggling students. Many students slip through the cracks due to a shortage of teachers, with 50-70 students per every fifth-grade classroom. The community, and many surrounding it, faces serious issues with gangs and drugs, leading children to drop out of school early.

During my internship, I worked on creating a drug rehabilitation and prevention program. I continue to work on this project from the US, focusing on finding grants and creating educational materials on the risks of drug use. I plan to return to GCU to further this initiative. The children have made an everlasting impact on my life. They taught me patience, gave me a newfound sense of curiosity, and most importantly, taught me to have an eternal gratitude for everything. These kids are happier than most children I see daily in the US. Appreciate everything and happiness is to follow.

4 / EXCELSIS

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his past summer was a period of growth for me, as I spent most of my free time devoted to applying to open artist calls and broadening my horizons for public art projects in the ViBe Creative District. After creating two murals at Virginia Wesleyan for the Batten Student Center in January of 2024 and participating in the Marlin Mural Festival during the Spring ‘24 semester, I felt inspired to branch out to create in the larger Virginia Beach area. Courses like Public Art and Painting 1 have prepared me for murals and exhibitions by learning about creating large scale projects, drafting ideas, as well as communicating with stakeholders.

My first project of the summer was a submission for the 18th Street Community Fence Murals. Artists who are selected receive up to $100 for reimbursement, create a mural on an 8ft by 4ft piece of plywood, and secure it to a fence alongside other murals bordering local apartments. I was so excited to hear that my mural was selected as I really enjoy collaborative projects where my work can be a part of something bigger. My mural, Big Kid, represents a self portrait and feelings towards adulthood and how I still enjoy activities “for kids” like making arts and crafts, playing outside, and of course, blowing bubbles. In addition, the portrait is met by a pink background to further play with ideas of youthfulness; my goal for this mural is to inspire others to reconnect with their own creativity and inner child.

It was a challenging yet fantastic experience and I can’t wait for more opportunities with the ViBe Creative District. By submitting my art to every open call imaginable, I also had the privilege of being showcased in the Virginia Beach Art Center’s Defying Gravity exhibit!

This event marked my first piece on display and for sale in a gallery.

The Virginia Beach Art Center has monthly juried themed exhibits which are open for all artists to apply for, and my painting, Serene Suspension, was selected. I was especially inspired by the theme after studying abroad for my Spring ‘24 semester in Malta where I spent a lot of time in the water, so I interpreted floating as a form of “defying gravity.” This process was extremely rewarding as it gave me the confidence to apply to more exhibits in the future. I was able to learn about wiring canvases, gallery presentations, and also had the opportunity to network with other artists.

In regards to my long term goals, I plan to attend EVMS for their graduate program in Art Therapy and Counseling through Virginia Wesleyan’s Early Assurance Program. Besides art, helping others is my main passion and life and I want to combine both of these aspirations as an art therapist while adding some color to my community.

EXCELSIS / 5

A BATTEN HONORS COLLEGE PUBLICATION | VIRGINIA WESLEYAN UNIVERSITY

A BATTEN HONORS COLLEGE PUBLICATION | VIRGINIA WESLEYAN UNIVERSITY

Lost and

Found

IN HEIDELBERG AVERY BELISLE

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tudying in Heidelberg was a dream come true, filled with personal growth and unforgettable experiences that broadened my perspective. Upon arrival, I was excited about utilizing my German skills; however, I initially struggled to be understood and to understand the rapid, complex vocabulary of native speakers. Adjusting to classes conducted in German was especially difficult; going from an academic environment where I was confident in my skills to one where I could barely figure out how to open up my email was humbling in exactly the right way. Being forced to take things slowly, admit my mistakes, and fail in front of people who were effortlessly experts in what I struggled with was an important experience in my life.

The turning point in Heidelberg was meeting a welcoming and kind group of friends. When I first arrived, I was feeling lost with new educational platforms, cultural nuances, and linguistic inferiority. My friends were patient and supportive, which allowed me a safe environment to practice my German, ask questions, and reflect on new things I’ve experienced. With their help, my conversational skills improved and I began to feel at home.

Studying educational theories and practices at the Pädagogische Hochschule Heidelberg encouraged me to reflect on my own education and appreciate the intricacies involved in teaching and learning. More importantly, I have made lifelong friends, experienced new cultures, and gained invaluable academic and practical knowledge. This journey has improved my German and expanded my horizons, deepening my understanding of the world. Studying in Heidelberg was an experience I will always hold close to my heart.

KATELYN BAKER

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In the spring of 2023, I attended my first VCHC conference and was inspired by how passionate the students were about their research. When I discovered that there were student positions available, I did not think that I had enough experience with the VCHC to run.

On a whim, I gave an impromptu speech to the participating student body in which I discussed how helpful the Honors Program has been throughout my journey as a first-generation college student, which resulted in my election. I have attended two VCHC conferences since my appointment as the 4-year private student representative.

6 / EXCELSIS

In the fall of 2023, I traveled to Emory and Henry University with Dr. Travis Malone to assist in the planning of the spring 2024 conference. Faculty and students came together to determine a theme for the spring conference, a service learning project to include in the itinerary, and the logistics of the conference itself.

In the spring of 2024, I traveled to Radford University with colleagues to present my research on the effect of artificial light at night on bat species composition and activity in the old-growth urban forest on campus. It was during this conference that I was reelected as the 4-year private student representative.

The VCHC conferences allow students to share their own research while learning about the interests and accomplishments of other honors students in Virginia and West Virginia. The VCHC acts as a vehicle for collaboration for both students and faculty alike.

As a senior, this will be my last year serving as the 4-year private representative for the VCHC. I encourage students in the BHC to consider attending the spring VCHC conference and potentially running for a position. I hope a BHC scholar will take my place as the next 4-year private student representative!

MIADiehl

Where are you from?

Virginia Beach, Virginia

Where are you from?

I am from Blairstown, New Jersey

What groups have you gotten involved in on campus so far?

I have gotten involved with Marlins Go Green, the Thirst Project, Students Against Continued Homelessness (SACH), and our school’s choir program.

What groups have you gotten involved in on campus so far?

I haven’t officially gotten involved yet however, I plan on participating in Marlins Go Green and The Marlin Chronicle.

Do you know what you want to major and/or minor in?

I plan to major in Biology and potentially double minor in Marine Science and Environmental Studies. I’ll be minoring in Marine Science, though.

Leading THROUGH Learning s the Virginias Collegiate Honors Council (VCHC) 4-year private student representative, I assist with conference planning, specifically in regards to the conference theme and community volunteer project. The VCHC creates a space for students and faculty of honors colleges throughout Virginia and West Virginia to meet and share ideas.

BREVINde Jesus

What made you choose the BHC? I enjoyed the sense of community that I got to hear about when talking to current students during the competition. I had already been thinking about VWU due to its smaller campus and how it felt more “comforting” than being at a larger university.

However, hearing different students’ experiences helped me make up my mind. Also, hearing about the different opportunities I could be given to further my studies and career in the future sounded like something I could not pass up.

If you could be any animal, what would you be and why?

A zebra shark. I ended up doing my senior project on them and fell in love with them. I ended up learning about what environmental factors are impacting them, and how humans have been impacting them. But I also got to know about the animal itself and how amazing of an animal it is.

Do you know what you want to major and/or minor in?

I’m planning on majoring in Communications with a potential double major in Political Science and minoring in Music.

What made you choose the BHC? I came here for an open house last year and fell in love with the campus. Brooke Novkovic told me all about the Batten Honors College and I just knew I would do it.

What are you looking forward to most in the BHC and at VWU? The thing I’m looking forward to the most is continuing to be a part of the amazing community in the BHC and performing with the choirs here at VWU. If you could be any animal, what would you be and why?

I think I would be a domesticated cat because my favorite thing to do is nap and they get to nap all day whenever they want.

What professional or academic experiences have prepared you for college?

I was a part of model UN in high school, which I think prepared me for my Political Science classes.

I also spent my childhood at sleepaway camps, so easing into the idea of living with other people and being away from my family was a much easier transition.

ALLISONPeck

Where are you from?

I am from Phoenix, Arizona. I live in the center of the city; my high school is right next to the Cardinals stadium.

What groups have you gotten involved in on campus so far?

So far, I have had the pleasure of becoming an official member of the BHC, joining the VWU Swim team, starting an on-campus job as a lifeguard, and recently joined Tri Sigma’s sorority.

Do you know what you want to major and/or minor in?

I have decided to go into a Business major, but I have not decided on a minor yet. I chose to be a Business major because of the flexibility that degree offers within the work field, and also because I grew a passion for the business field.

Did you complete any summer jobs or volunteering? If so, explain.

Over the summer, I was a lifeguard and Swim Instructor for the city of Phoenix. I loved it because I got to know and become close with the families in my community and, in my mind, made a difference. I also had the opportunity to volunteer with an organization called Borderland’s Produce Rescue, which took in fruits and vegetables that would have just rotted in a landfill due to their appearance or a surplus and sold them in bulk at a very cheap price to families in the community, providing healthy foods they wouldn’t have usually had access to.

EXCELSIS / 7

ACHIEVEMENTS A BATTEN HONORS COLLEGE PUBLICATION | VIRGINIA WESLEYAN UNIVERSITY

EVENTS

A BATTEN HONORS COLLEGE PUBLICATION | VIRGINIA WESLEYAN UNIVERSITY A BATTEN HONORS COLLEGE PUBLICATION | VIRGINIA WESLEYAN UNIVERSITY

S’MORES NIGHT BHC students were invited to a s’mores night to roast s'mores and create new bonds. Tons of s’mores were made, volleyball was played, and the music stayed all night long.

FEATURED PRESENTATIONS BHC Students Christian Palmisano, Samantha Vos, Samantha Silvia, and Claire Carter presented at the Premier Session 1 during the Spring Academic Symposium 2024. At Premier Session 2, BHC Students Josh Spicer, Katelyn Baker, Kainaat Trehan, and Breana Mahoney presented.

Virginias Collegiate Honors Council Fall Conference

BHC students Katie Baker, Elena Lichtenwalner, and Calee Lukowski traveled to George Mason University to plan the VCHC. The BHC is one of 28 programs in the VCHC, celebrating honors colleges and programs.

READING DAY BRUNCH RYAN BHC Students come together for a SYMPOSIUM brunch at the end of the year, right Breana Mahoney (Pictured), Rhian Tramontana, and Eddie McDonald presented their research in the symposium, which explores global environmental challenges under the mentorship of VWU faculty. Breana was awarded the Louis and Prudence Ryan Prize for Excellence in Environmental Research.

before finals. Together, they find out their superlatives and have a break before everything begins.

CHICAGO

This Broadway masterpiece hit the VWU stage, telling us how fame, fortune, and the legal system unite through two murderers desperate for the spotlight.

ODAC Women’s Golf Tournament Juliette Coffey attended the ODAC Women’s Golf three-day tournament in which the winner would have the lowest score over that time. She tied with Emily Brubaker and had playoffs, in which Juliette won with a par and Emily with a bogey.

8 / EXCELSIS

EEXXCCEELLSSI ISS / / 98

ALUMNI Spotlight Alumni Check-in Article: Brandon Kwon

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irginia Wesleyan Esports started my freshman year in 2019. Since then, the program has seen tremendous success and growth. What started as a program with 15 students has now peaked to 35 students and 5 professional staff at the time of writing. When I became Director of Esports, I knew it would be a tall task to follow my successor, but having worked with him as a student and then coach, I felt prepared for the role. Personally, I am excited to be working with the campus community once again.

The best part of the position, much like your collegiate sports coaches, is the impact you have on students. By teaching them different approaches to the games, or even helping establish healthy studying habits, there will always be a lasting impact on any given individual. I think many of the skills I am passing along originated in the Batten Honors College.

Taking courses in leadership and stewardship has allowed me to create my own coaching style that is unique to who I am and the specific group of students I am working with. I believe this year will be the most successful year for VWU Esports, and that is due to the commitment from both the university and our students to the program as we gear up for our Fall competitive schedule.

I cannot wait for you all to see what we have been working on and hopefully bring home the first conference title in our program’s history.