PEACE Magazine 2020

Peace Magazine | Spring 2020 | A

MAGAZINE

SPRING, 2020

A Piece of Peace

B | Peace Magazine | Spring 2020

PRESIDENT’S

MESSAGE

With all that is going on in our world, I decided that in this edition of the Peace Magazine, I would take the liberty to do something different, something to celebrate the Class of 2020 and hopefully share with you, our alumni and friends, just how truly remarkable our students are.

So, In lieu of my traditional President’s Message, I made the decision to invite Student Body President and recent graduate, Deja Gainey ’20, to write this year’s President’s Message.

— Brian C. Ralph, Ph.D., President, William Peace University

Greetings

from

Main When I visited the campus of William Peace University for the first time during an Open House in 2016, I knew that it was a special place, but I had no idea what was in store for me over the next four years. I came to Peace with the intention of challenging myself to reach new heights, step out of my comfort zone, and make unforgettable memories.

I believe that I’ve achieved what I set out to do during my time at WPU but not without the assistance and motivation from our dedicated faculty and staff.

During my Peace journey, I've met some of my closest friends, studied abroad, learned how to be a better leader, and served the student body with the hopes of making Peace a better place. Attending WPU allowed me to get out of my comfort zone through immersing myself into new opportunities both on campus and throughout the Raleigh community.

During my time at WPU, I also learned how to challenge myself by enrolling in courses that forced me to think critically about the world around us. Some of my favorite memories of being a Peace student include studying abroad in Mexico with Dr. Laura Vick across the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico in 2019 and returning back to Mexico this past March with Mr. Roger Christman to assist with the filming of a documentary. These trips are perfect examples of what Peace is all about: focus on students, diversity, inclusion and respect, immersive learning, creativity and innovation, and commitment to community.

Through this opportunity, I was able to apply what I’ve learned in my Global Studies courses to become a global citizen. And I look forward to building on my experience as I head to Johns Hopkins University this fall for graduate work as a Charles Rangel Fellow.

I was honored to be asked by Dr. Ralph to write to each of you, our alumni and friends, as a guest writer of the President’s Message in this edition of the magazine. Many of you have helped make my Peace education possible, through your scholarship or other philanthropic support, such as my receipt of study abroad grants and internship experiences. I am grateful to all of you, our donors who had the forethought to believe in me and my fellow graduates that we would one day make a difference in our world-you can count on us, we are, after all, resilient Peace alumni now.

It has been an honor to serve the student body as the Student Body President this year. I am excited for the future of WPU and hope to see it continue to expand.

I hope that we remain as strong as the pillars of Main during these uncertain times. In the words of Mary Reed Buchanan, a student of the Peace Institute Class of 1919: “And now, with faces aglow with excitement, and hearts alight with hope for our future, we leave dear old Peace, hoping that by our lives here we have made Peace a better place; and that we are starting a new and better life made possible by the knowledge we have gained here.” Though I am no longer a student here, William Peace University will always be my home.

With Peace and grateful appreciation,

Deja Gainey, ’20 Student Body President

A Piece of Peace

Peace Magazine | Spring 2020 | 1

MAGAZINE

PRESIDENT Brian C. Ralph, Ph.D. VICE PRESIDENT FOR UNIVERSITY ADVANCEMENT Jodi Stamey, CFRE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Alexa Scattaregia Communications and Donor Relations Manager

Tableof

Contents

4

School of Professional Studies (SPS)

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Sergio Analco | Branding + Design PRINTER the National Group Office of Advancement 15 East Peace Street Raleigh, NC 27604 919.508.2586 advancement@peace.edu PHOTOGRAPHY Jessica Kleean Shelby Lombardo Cory Nolan Ozzi Peralta Alexa Scattaregia WPU Communications CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Ellie Barker Mikayla Brown ’20 Maya Bryant ’16 Elizabeth Timberlake Edwards ’07 Cayman Harrison ’20 Janelle Jennings-Alexander Cheniqua Lassiter ’15 Davis Nolan ’21 Ozzi Peralta Alexa Scattaregia Zoe Sinton-Covens ’21 Shanon Turner ’20 Founded in 1857 and affiliated with the Presbyterian Church (USA), William Peace University is an independent, residential University with a deep commitment to our students. We provide outstanding immersive learning opportunities that focus both on what and how a student learns - and includes experiential programs, opportunities to collaborate with faculty, the ability to use the classroom theories in applied, hands-on learning experiences through group projects, internships, and research projects-both on and off campus. All students are guaranteed immersive learning opportunities at William Peace University, as promised in our Mission: “ To prepare students for careers in the organizations of tomorrow. Rooted in the liberal arts tradition, the student develops an appreciation for life-long learning, a focus on meaningful careers, and skills for ethical citizenship.”

William Peace University: Twitter, Facebook, Instagram: @WPeaceU

10 years

10

Mabel Pugh

12

Immerse Yourself to Learn Yourself

16 Athletics Recap

20

The Magic Behind the Manning Music Series

24

Peace Pride Section

William Peace University Office of Advancement: Facebook and Twitter: @peacealumni Instagram: @peacealumniofficial

A Piece of Peace

2 | Peace Magazine | Spring 2020

Virtual Reality

HORIZON

on the

By Ellie Barker, Director of Alumni Relations and Annual Giving

Imagine if you could swim through a coral reef and take pictures of sharks all while seated at your desk. Imagine taking a stroll through an art gallery filled with digital artwork from around the world without leaving home. Imagine being able to see how sophisticated computers work from the inside out. With virtual and augmented reality, all of this is now possible. For William Peace University alumni Jonas Monanteras ’18 and August Batista ’19, this is just the tip of the iceberg of the work they do every day at Horizon Productions.

Jonas and August are both graduates of WPU’s Simulation and Game Design Program (SGD). Jonas came to Peace as a freshman after a visit to campus left him impressed by the small class sizes, the personalized attention he would get from faculty, like Professor Roger Christman, and the SGD Lab. Jonas’ focus on academics led him to also join the Honors Program at Peace.

August came to Peace after a two year early college program at a trade school, drawn not only to the SGD major but also to WPU’s theatre department. In addition to his classes, he also starred in a WPU Theatre production and worked as a stage technical manager on several others.

As SGD majors, Jonas and August spent their time at Peace learning how to master the design, 3D modeling, and programming used in developing video games. But the applications for the skills they learned goes far beyond just gaming; it’s used in military, healthcare, academic, and industrial applications.

Both August and Jonas thought they would be designing video games after graduation, not educating the masses on climate change. But all that changed when Jonas met Jason Cooper, Chief Digital Officer at Horizon Productions.

A Piece of Peace

Cooper was invited to speak for a class of SGD majors. Jonas, fascinated by the work Horizon was doing, approached Jason to learn more. That conversation led to an internship, during which Jonas worked on a Augmented Reality (AR) experience for the Hydrous. At Horizon, he spent hours sharpening his skills with Unreal Engine to develop an engaging experience featuring highly detailed photogrammetry models of coral reefs. The final project was an underwater world where you can explore, interact with marine life, discover corals around the globe, and learn about ongoing research.

Impressed by his skills and his well-rounded knowledge, Horizon offered Jonas a fulltime job right after graduation.

Peace Magazine | Spring 2020 | 3

“I feel like Peace created a major that perfectly prepared me with the skills for the job I have today,” said Jonas. “WPU showed me careers using virtual design technology that goes far beyond just entertainment. We learned how to use the Unreal Engine software—the technology behind video game production—but also movie-making, virtual reality, and a host of other uses. I now get to use that technology every day.”

The following year when August was searching for his senior internship, Professor Christman recommended he reach out to Jason and Jonas at Horizon. August landed an internship and worked on programming for augmented and virtual reality projects for a variety of industries including, agriculture, tech, and medical research.

“I felt prepared on day one of my internship. I knew I had the skills that would allow me to be successful, and I knew I could learn and adapt to new concepts and skills. And it was fantasticto have a friend and alumnus working there also, so I could turn to for help and advice,” said August.

As August’s internship came to a close, Jason and the Horizon team knew they didn’t want to lose a great team member. Like Jonas, August received a full-time employment offer right after graduation to continue his work at Horizon Productions.

Strategic partnerships, like those between William Peace University and Horizon Productions, are a core component of the Believe in Peace Strategic Plan. These partnerships benefit both the University and the organization. For Horizon, they have access to a new talent pool for their workforce. For WPU, and students like Jonas and August, the connection with Horizon Productions has led to excellent educational opportunities. To continue this connection, this summer Jason Cooper joined the William Peace University Foundation Board. “When Jodi Stamey, Vice President for University Advancement, approached me about joining the Foundation Board, I jumped at the opportunity to help the University succeed and continue to produce such outstanding graduates.”

WPU IS PROBABLY THE BEST-KEPT SECRET IN RALEIGH. THE STUDENTS AND GRADUATES ARE SO WELL PREPARED! NOT ONLY DO THEY HAVE THE NECESSARY TECHNICAL SKILLS, BUT THEY HAVE EXCELLENT WRITING, COMMUNICATION, AND OTHER SOFT SKILLS. IN OUR INDUSTRY, WE HIRE PEOPLE WHO HAVE THE SKILLS FOR THE FUTURE OF OUR WORK. — Jason Cooper, Chief Digital Officer at Horizon Productions.

Jason Cooper

August Batista ’19 Jonas Monanteras ’18

A Piece of Peace

SCHOOL OF PROFESSIONAL STUDIES

4 | Peace Magazine | Spring 2020

Celebrates

10

SPS Program years

William Peace University

By Cheniqua Lassiter ’15, Director of SPS Admissions

The William Peace University School of Professional Studies (SPS) is proud to announce ten years of service to the community of adult learners that have progressed through the program.

The program was created to be an opportunity for adults to complete an accelerated learning program that allows scheduling flexibility and the ability to complete a degree on your time and schedule. In years since, the SPS program has experienced many of its “firsts” that could only be made possible from the support of students, staff, faculty, and the external community.

In the early years the SPS program offered just two degrees, a bachelor of arts (B.A.) in Business and Leadership and a B.A. in Human Services. Both programs attracted adult students seeking the opportunity to finish an undergraduate degree, essentially positioning them to upward mobility within their career.

A Piece of Peace

Peace Magazine | Spring 2020 | 5

SCHOOL OF PROFESSIONAL STUDIES

In keeping pace with the economy and needs of the adult population, the program evolved and introduced three additional majors - Criminal Justice, Leadership and Nonprofit Administration, and Strategic Communications. In 2010, the School of Professional Studies launched [in partnership with the Wake County Public Schools System] a teacher licensure program and continues to encourage Instructional Assistants within the school system to take their next steps to be licensed educators.

In 2019, SPS launched the first online and hybrid Registered Nurse (R.N.) to bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) program in the Triangle area, partnering with leading health systems, such as WakeMed and UNC-Rex Healthcare.

“Being a student at WPU has been very exciting and stimulating,” says Francene Richardson '19, B.S. Business Administration. “It has taught me confidence while challenging me to reach my highest potential. Most importantly, WPU has confirmed that George Eliot’s words are true - “it is never too late to be what you might have been.”

As of Spring 2019, SPS has just under 200 students enrolled.

The SPS program has given adults a second chance to complete a dream deferred.

REGARDLESS OF THE MANY WAYS “LIFE” GETS IN THE WAY, I AM PROUD OF EACH STUDENT WHO CHOSE TO PURSUE OUR PROGRAM. LET’S JUST SAY, I WOULD NOT BE WHERE I AM TODAY WITHOUT THIS PROGRAM, AND I AM EVEN MORE ELATED TO BE ON THE FRONTLINE SUPPORTING EACH NEW COHORT OF STUDENTS TAKING THEIR NEXT STEPS!

— Cheniqua Lassiter ’15 Director of SPS Admissions

Regardless of how you choose to learn, each program comes with access to one-on-one advising and required professional development courses ensuring that each student leaves not only with a degree but with the skills and drive to thrive in any career setting.

ONLINE DEGREE VS. NIGHT CLASSES BENEFITS Online Degree

Night Classes

Only step foot on campus when needed

Changes how you spend your work day

Available for all SPS degree programs

One of the most popular ways for adults to learn

Requires discipline but provides greatest flexibility

10 years Convenient for students who live nearby

A Piece of Peace

6 | Peace Magazine | Spring 2019 2020

What is

ALUMNIENGAGEMENT? Alumni Engagement is the life-long relationship between graduates and their alma mater, created through alumni participation and involvement in the life and success of William Peace University and its students.

The Alumni Relations team, as part of the Office of Advancement, promotes Alumni Engagement by facilitating the relationship between alumni and their alma mater through opportunities for their participation and involvement.

These opportunities consist of FIVE CATEGORIES, and like the pieces of a puzzle, come together to create a picture of a vibrant and strong alumni community.

CONNECT Alumni Engagement is all about meaningful connections. Peace has this fantastic platform, alumniconnect.peace.edu, an online alumni community that streamlines alumni news, communications, events, programs, photos, and more into one accessible, central location. The launch of this program makes staying in contact with everything Peace easier than ever!

MENTOR Alumni serve as catalysts for students' personal and professional development.

The Career Design Center partners with the Office of Advancement to provide opportunities like speaking in classes or conducting mock interviews. Alumni are also encouraged to provide practical life advice and experience through the Dinner with Pacers Program. Through alumni guidance, insight, and counsel, the next generations of empowered Peace leaders are shaped.

Believe in Peace!

GIVE Alumni financial support is vital to the future of the institution. Every gift matters. Alumni giving not only helps bridge the gap between tuition and endowment income and operating expenses, but also provides resources for investing in innovative learning opportunities, campus and technology improvements, and much more.

To find out how you can best support Peace, log onto peace.edu/give today!

VOLUNTEER There are a number of opportunities for alumni to volunteer; from hosting regional events to serving on the Alumni Association Board of Directors.

Alumni can decide what type of volunteering is right for them, with contributions of time and talent always being needed and welcomed.

ATTEND By attending Peace events alumni stay connected to each other and campus.

The Office of Advancement plans numerous alumni events throughout the year on campus, in select regional areas, and in the Raleigh community. They also encourage alumni to attend athletic games, theatre performances, student programs and community events hosted by Peace to get the most out of their involvement.

STAR ALUMNI PROGRAM ...is William Peace University’s official way to recognize and honor our most dedicated alumni. Alumni who give, mentor, attend, connect, and volunteer are honored for their dedication. This year, the Office of Advancement held the Inaugural Star Alumni Celebration in February! Our Stars were invited to a wine-pairing dinner with President Brian C. Ralph, Ph.D. The celebration included a four-course dinner and a reception in Main Parlor.

The Star Alumni Program won a Silver and a Platinum District Finalist award at the 2019-2020 Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE) District III Conference.

The program will compete in the National CASE Award competition.

2018-2019 STARS! Class of

Star Alumni

1959

Gail Pope

1966

Mary Templeton

1971

Jane Bondurant

1979

Sarah Barge

1979

Gayle Cooke

1979

Kathy Lambert

1982

Kelly Gaines

1986

Dawn Dillon

1993

Kerri Habben

2004

Paulette Morrison

2007

Melissa Cade

2009

Stephanie Mathis

2010

Brenna Mickey

2011

Kirsten V. Benzaquen

2011

Brittany Goodman

2011

Megan E. Hoffner

2011

Gale M. Wilkins

2012

Maria Ewing

2012

Leigh Wallace Dodd

2013

Melissa Moran

2015

Cheniqua Lassiter

2015

Megan Mansfield

2015

Christiane Newell

2016

Deja J. Barber

2017

Maya Bryant

JennaHartwell

Peace Magazine | Spring 2020 | 7

Peace Profile

CareerDesign

By Mikayla Brown ’20

Jenna Hartwell, the Director of the Career Design Center, has a heartbeat for helping students. That energy radiates through her work, prompting one of her former students to nickname her “Jenergy.” Her mission is to put students first as she offers and encourages one-on-one meetings to tailor career plans for individual needs.

The new Career Design Center was created this past year. The former Career Services was re-imagined and Hartwell is the visionary behind this new WPU experience for students and alumni.

Hartwell has an undeniable passion for her work. “It’s the best job on the planet,” says Hartwell.

She believes that all it takes is a focus on students to prepare them for the careers of tomorrow as stated in the University’s mission statement.

“She is very relatable,” says Zion Ross ’23, a student worker at the Career Design Center. “She loves her job, has a lot of things to do, and is a very good person to talk to.”

According to Hartwell, there are three aspects of a sustainable career that all coincide for a happy professional life.

1 Values that are important to the

employee in the workplace.

2 Innate talents, which are skills

that come easily.

3 What employees are

passionate about, things that the employee feel excited to get out of bed in the morning.

ONE PERSON BELIEVING IN SOMEONE CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE — Jenna “Jenergy” Hartwell

All three of these have to work together to form a sustainable career. Hartwell says, “When someone is unhappy with their career, it is because the job is lacking in one of the three areas.”

Her job is to guide students as they find that perfect balance. She herself had a mentor at the career center at her small university in upstate New York that believed in her in a way that inspired her to help others.

Hartwell attended Cazenovia College and graduated in 2005 with a degree in social science and a history concentration. She went on to earn her Master’s degree in counselor education from North Carolina State University in 2010.

At Peace, she is looking forward to further developing the Career Design Center and creating connections with the new Center for Immersive Learning.

“We are being intentional about evolving – that’s special. Under Dr. Ralph’s leadership this idea of moving the needle is a really exciting thing to be a part of,” Hartwell says, “I hope we continue to maintain this idea where we are a place where you can feel supported.”

Her advice is to say “yes” to opportunities and to take risks.

“What is the worst that can happen if I apply for this opportunity?” states Hartwell.

The Career Design Center is open to all current students as well as all Peace alumni to provide any career guidance.

Hartwell says, “Look for new opportunities, leverage your Peace family… I always tell employers, I dare you not to fall in love with our students or graduates.”

Believe in Peace!

SocialLights

8 | Peace Magazine | Spring 2020

William Peace University: Twitter, Facebook, Instagram: @WPeaceU William Peace University Office of Advancement: Facebook and Twitter: @peacealumni Instagram: @peacealumniofficial A Piece of Peace

Peace Magazine | Spring 2020 | 9

PEACE DEMOGRAPHICS Fall 2019

82%

(728) Traditional Undergraduate (TUG)

18%

TUG ENROLLMENT AVERAGE AGE

(161) School of Professional Studies (SPS)

20.4

10%

YEARS OLD

(87) Part-Time

SPS ENROLLMENT AVERAGE AGE

TOTAL ENROLLMENT

889

34.8 YEARS OLD

90%

(802) Full-Time

MALE

46%

White 53% Black 24% Hispanic 12% Unknown 4% Two or More Races 4% Asian/Asian American 2% Alaska Native/Native American <1% Hawaiian Pacific Islander <1% Non-Resident Alien <1% NEW FIRST-TIME FULL-TIME (FTFT) STUDENTS

185

Residential

Live in campus housing

TOP

5

PROGRAMS OF STUDY

FEMALE

54%

NEW TRANSFER* STUDENTS

75

FULL-TIME NEW STUDENTS

(462)

(166)

1. Business Administration 2. Simulation and Game Design 3. Psychology 4. Exercise Sports Science and Sports Fitness Studies 5. Biology

23

YEARS OLD

TRADITIONAL UNDERGRADUATE

63%

TOTAL ENROLLMENT AVERAGE AGE

23%

43% (316) Athletes

* Based on most recent census data

A Piece of Peace

10 | Peace Magazine | Spring 2020

Mabel

PUGH

By Alexa Scattaregia, Communications and Donor Relations Manager

Mabel Pugh led an exciting life as an artist in the early twentieth century.

A 1913 graduate of Peace Institute, Pugh was famously known for her block drawings and portraits of notable politicians. Her portrait of Congressman Herbert Covington Bonner hangs in the Cannon House Office Building in Washington, D.C. After leaving Peace, Pugh went on to study at Columbia University and the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, where, in 1919, she was awarded the prestigious Cresson Traveling Scholarship to fund studies abroad in Europe.

During her time at Peace, she studied art under Mrs. Ruth Huntington Moore and was involved in the Arts Student League. In the twenties, Pugh moved to New York City to establish herself as an artist. Her illustrations were featured in several magazines, novels, and children’s books. During her time in New York, her works were exhibited widely across the country. Her paintings have graced the walls of the Brooklyn Museum, the Library of Congress, and the Houston Museum of Fine Arts. During the first New York World’s Fair, Pugh exhibited her painting, My Mother.

Pugh returned to her hometown, Morrisville, N.C. in the 1930s. She became Morrisville’s first female author when she wrote and illustrated her book, Little Carolina Bluebonnet, in 1933. Pugh then returned to Peace College and served as an art professor until 1960. During her tenure at Peace, Pugh became the head of the Art Department and served on the boards of the Memorial NC Art Society, the College Art Association, the North Carolina Symphony Society, and the Raleigh Civic Music Club.

Mabel Pugh died in 1986. After her death, her family donated some of Pugh’s drawings to be auctioned off by the College. In 1987, the Mabel Pugh Art Award was created in memory of Pugh herself, and her beloved art teacher, Ms. Moore.

In her will, Pugh bequeathed Peace College with two of her works, a painting of her estate, and a drawing of the First Church of Christ, Scientist in Raleigh. Both works are still proudly hung in Main.

A Piece of Peace

WPU Theatre Presents:

By Shanon Turner ’20

Peace Magazine | Spring 2020 | 11

Dracula

People are being bitten and drained. A rat is opened, and its blood is drunk. There are wooden stakes, fangs, and blood in all manner of things. Are you too afraid to see?

William Peace University Theatre presented Dracula this past October in Leggett Theatre.

Dracula is based on the legendary Transylvanian vampire who continually seeks out new victims while other characters make a valiant attempt to stop him. There is love, hate, and a lot of blood along the way - but this production had a fitting twist for a university that once had an all-female student body. A woman played the role of Dracula.

Lilly Mills, a senior theatre major at Peace, starred in the lead role as Dracula. She did not portray Dracula as a man, speaking as she normally would have and keeping her long brown locks, not making an effort to hide them, yet pronouns stayed the same as he/him/his.

Mills says her goal was to make the story genderless without affecting the level of intimacy in the show. Dracula touches on ideas of sexual assault, and she hopes the audience took a deeper look into issues that are often overlooked.

“Dracula represents Victorian oppression and how people during that time felt about sexuality and the liberation of that, which is exciting but dangerous,” Mills said.

“I think it’s easy as college students to go in and be like ‘whoohoo sex!’ instead of thinking about the dangers that we’re trying to talk about.”

Peace’s Dracula used Steven Dietz’s 1996 script, which uses aspects from several different Dracula films and stories.

Peace’s presentation included special effects, stage combat, and some underlying societal issues.

Dr. Wade Newhouse, the Program Director for Theatre and director of Dracula, said that despite the explosive effects and variety of scenes, the student actors are the ones that made the show a success.

“The story comes down to the stories that the actors tell,” said Newhouse. “Ultimately, the show worked because of the student actors who did it, not because of the fog, and smoke, and the bats, and the blood and all that stuff.”

Dracula featured more than just the effects. WPU junior, Nicholas Davis, was the stage manager for Dracula.

He was excited to present this show because of its duality, and the complexity of the stage acting.

Dracula is very dark and can be very gory, but he believes there are strong relationships between the characters despite that.

“It’s extremely big in intimacy and stage combat.

This show dealt with a lot of stuff that made the actors uncomfortable, which is a big reason why we did it,” Davis said. “We kept all the intimate romantic moments along with the combat.”

A Piece of Peace

12 | Peace Magazine | Spring 2020

Y urself

Immerse

Yourself to

Learn

By Caylan Harrison ’20

Hands-on, active learning has been a part of my education since high school, and I didn’t even realize it until it was labeled as Immersive Learning at William Peace University.

At Peace, faculty and staff use real and created environments to immerse all students into a place where they can practice their knowledge through real-world activities.

Being homeschooled up until college, I had to immerse myself in my community to learn in a more hands-on environment.

Sitting in my house all day didn’t exactly trigger my brain to want to learn. But, when I went out and practiced my knowledge with other peers, I was much more successful as a student.

When I came to Peace, I kept the same mentality of seeking learning opportunities that were not just limited to a classroom. Throughout my four years here, I’ve had multiple learning experiences where I was not just listening to a lecture or watching a 50-slide PowerPoint.

Instead, I was outside of the classroom, interacting with my peers, project clients, community members, and other professionals. Whether it was walking downtown to collect footage for a collaborative film project or volunteering at the Food Bank of Central and Eastern North Carolina, I have been learning in so many interactive ways.

IMMERSIVE LEARNING ON CAMPUS The definition of immersive is, “providing, involving, or characterized by deep absorption or immersion in something (such as an activity or a real or artificial environment).”

The Center for Immersive Learning at Peace does exactly that. The new collaborative space on the second floor of the Lucy Cooper Finch Library is the perfect atmosphere for students to learn in a more active environment as compared to the typical classroom. I have used the flexible space to collaborate on projects, meet with professors and project clients, and to record podcasts with classmates for our campus media publication.

A Piece of Peace

But learning for me did not just happen on campus. Personally, I have experienced many hands-on opportunities to take what I’ve learned in the classroom and apply it in my real life outside of college. It has never been all about the lectures, quizzes, and tests. For me, it has been all about collaborative projects, group discussions, and hands-on activities that happen outside of the classroom. Through these activities, I have developed skills that I know will be useful in the real-world.

ALAMO DRAFTHOUSE CINEMA PR PROJECT During my sophomore year, I was taking a Public Relations Techniques class, and we worked directly with the Creative Manager for Alamo Drafthouse Cinema to plan an on-campus event to promote their grand opening in Raleigh.

We never had a typical lecture-style class period. We either had a meeting with our client to discuss our plans, or we were working on creating posters for campus or content for social media. We even had to book auditorium space on campus and write press releases for the event. There was always active learning taking place outside of the classroom.

Peace Magazine | Spring 2020 | 13

For the event, we showed “The Wiz” (1978), as it was a part of the “Identity Through The Lens” film series hosted by the English Department for Black History Month. We had refreshments and party favors to provide a similar experience as one would have at Alamo.

The event was successful, and our client was pleased with the turnout. After the semester ended, we were later publicly recognized for our work. We were awarded a 2018 Sir Walter Raleigh Award by the Raleigh Public Relations Society (RPRS) for our communications work.

This was an incredible learning opportunity as my entire class was able to network and build relationships with community partners. We were not just limited to the classroom, and we had real-life opportunities to put our knowledge to work in a professional setting.

ARCHAEOLOGY FIELD TRIPS

LOOKING BACK, FORWARD

When I was in my junior year, I went with anthropology students and Anthropology assistant professor, Ms. Alexandra Daniels, to two different historical sites. The first was a local trip to Stagville Plantation in Durham, N.C. while the other was a two-hour trip to Town Creek Indian Mound in Mount Gilead, N.C.

Reflecting on these experiences makes me appreciate my journey at Peace more than anything because it wasn’t a typical class period for all of my classes throughout my career.

I instead used my own time to explore learning opportunities outside of class and in the real world to gain even more experience on how to apply my knowledge in other environments.

Visiting Stagville Plantation was an amazing experience as I was able to immerse myself in the culture while hearing about the history of the site. It was interesting to learn, for instance, that Cameron Village was first constructed for those who were freed from slavery and named after the Cameron Plantation.

As graduation approached, I found myself reflecting on the past four years, and I am so grateful for the opportunities Peace gave to me. I was the Editor-in-Chief for the campus newspaper, The Peace Times, and in another class, I had the opportunity to collaboratively create a news show as one of the reporters. These projects will help me decide my ultimate plan after graduation as I’m gaining real-world experience to determine if it’s a career path I want to pursue.

Even though the second trip was two hours away, it didn’t stop me from wanting to go. I was so excited to travel to Town Creek Indian Mound because it is a prehistoric site that is being preserved because of the importance of the Mississippian culture that once lived there.

When I was taking my archaeology class, I was especially happy with the fact that I learned the information in so many different ways. I remember watching a short video in class about making ceramics, and then I created and sculpted my own pottery when we went to Town Creek.

Without all of the collaborative projects, field trips, group discussions, and an internship program, I would not have learned everything I have in my short time here. I’m excited to apply all of my knowledge and skills in my future job because I know that Peace has prepared me for success in the real world.

When I was visiting both of these sites, I almost felt as if I was there living in the culture. I walked around houses where people lived hundreds of years ago and sat around a pit where fires were once constructed to boil water to make meals.

A Piece of Peace

14 | Peace Magazine | Spring 2020

2019 Bingham Award Celebrating the

for

Excellence Winners

By Elizabeth Timberlake Edwards ’07, Director of Donor Relations

Carolyn Blattner, Assistant Dean of Academic Affairs; Bobbie Cole, Assistant Vice President of Student Life & Director of Residence Life; Cody Arroyo-Greene, Assistant Director of Residence Life & Housing; and Amy White, Assistant Professor of Theatre.

The faculty and staff at William Peace University give much of themselves through their daily work to better serve our institution and move it forward. Laura Carpenter Bingham ’77, Former Peace College President (1998-2010), along with former First Man Warren Louis Bingham, experienced firsthand the dedication exhibited by Peace faculty and staff. And it was the Binghams’ belief that the talents and resolve of university employees that determine the excellence of the institution and, as such, these faculty and staff are the soul and spirit of Peace.

As a result of the Bingham's passion and generosity, in December 2005, the Bingham Award for Excellence endowment was born.

This honor is awarded to Peace employees in recognition of their meritorious performance in serving students, alumni, benefactors, and the greater civic good. Nominations are submitted by fellow faculty and staff based on traits of excellence in their colleagues’ work at the University. Employees are nominated in the categories of Customer Service, Efficiency and Innovation, Civic Engagement and the Spirit of Peace.

The faculty and staff were presented the opportunity to nominate their peers to receive the Bingham Fund for Campus Excellence in 2019. There were many deserving employees nom-

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inated for this honor; but ultimately, after deliberation among President Brian C. Ralph, Ph.D. and the WPU Senior Leadership Team, four members of the Peace community were presented with the award during the University’s annual 2019 Employee Holiday Luncheon.

The 2019 Bingham Award for Campus Excellence recipients include: Carolyn Blattner, Assistant Dean of Academic Affairs; Bobbie Cole, Assistant Vice President of Student Life & Director of Residence Life; Cody Arroyo-Greene, Assistant Director of Residence Life & Housing; and Amy White, Assistant Professor of Theatre. It is without doubt that we stand upon a solid foundation thanks to our exemplary faculty and staff, donors, and the vision of Peace’s past leadership and their own personal investment in the success of our University.

Creativity

Pacers Make All Their

UNIQUE

Peace Magazine | Spring 2020 | 15

Come to Life

By Julia Hardy ’21

Peace alumna, Ana Teresa Galizes, has turned her passion for art into a career at William Peace University. Ana Teresa, also known by students as “AT,” graduated from Peace in 2011 with a communication degree and a minor in English.

Galizes currently teaches art appreciation at WPU. Art has always been a very important part of Galizes’ life. When she transferred to Peace from Wake Tech Community College, she was excited to take classes expanding her artistic talents in her major through photography and videography classes.

“I stopped doing a lot of traditional and visual arts once I came to college because it was just so much pressure to perform well in school and I was learning about photography and videography,” she said.

During her senior year, she earned a graphic design certificate from Wake Tech. While she was in graduate school, she started her own photography business. “Once that was well established, that’s when I started doing more traditional visual arts again,” Galizes said.

Galizes has recently started teaching at Peace, where she has been excited to help reestablish a painting class that has not been offered to students for years. “Art is basically like therapy and people are able to step outside of themselves when they’re immersed in the process,” she said.

Students who are in the painting class handmade their very own sketchbooks at the beginning of the semester. Galizes loves these sketchbooks because she believes it’s a great way for students to practice mindfulness.

I LOVE ALL THINGS ART — Ana Teresa Galizes ’11

While she is teaching her classes, Galizes tries to treat all of her students the way she was treated by her professors when she was a student at Peace. She brings that friendly and comfortable environment that she experienced as a student into the classes she teaches now. “That’s just the way Peace is,” she said. “It’s all about that nurturing caring environment, and I am trying to continue that.”

Galizes owes all of her success with her photography business to the Communications Department at Peace. Everything she learned through taking communication classes has helped her accomplish these goals. “Without that program, I would not have a successful photography business,” she said. “It gets me a roof over my head and allows me to pay the bills.”

If people have dreams and goals of being an artist or another creative endeavor, Galizes has a passionate belief that they should not let the negative comments discourage them.

“I really want to be a positive voice for having creativity in your life,” she said. “Whether or not you’re making money from it.”

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ATHLETI RECAP 16 | Peace Magazine | Spring 2020

FALL 2019 The Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Soccer team finished the 2019 season with a 9-6-2 overall record and a 7-5-1 conference record. The men recorded a new program record for most wins in a single season. Ivan Ponce broke the program record for most career goals (24). The men picked up a huge (1-0) win over Maryville College late in the season before ending the season in the quarterfinals of the USA South Conference Tournament. Ivan Ponce was named to the USA South First Team All-Conference. Jose Garcia and Jonathan Miller were both named to the USA South Third Team All-Conference.

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The Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Soccer team finished the 2019 season with a 7-11-1 overall record and a 3-5-0 conference record. The team qualified for the USA South Conference Tournament for the first time in program history as well as setting a new program record for most wins in a single season.

Raine Greene broke the program record for most goals in a single season (12). The team landed a big (2-0) win over North Carolina Wesleyan College. Raine Greene was selected as USA South Rookie of the Year in addition to being named First Team East Division.

The Volleyball team ended the 2019 season with a 24-8 overall record and a 12-4 conference record. The team began the season with a nine-game winning streak and picked up wins over Meredith College (3-1), Greensboro College (3-2), and Averett University (3-1) throughout the season. The team also defeated Methodist University (3-1) in the first round of the USA South Conference Tournament. Brienna Laskowski was selected to the USA South First Team All-Conference, Mya Parks was selected to the USA South First Team East Division, and both Abby Benton and Brittany Carpenter were selected to the USA South Second Team East Division.

ICS WINTER 2019 The Women’s Basketball team completed the 2019-2020 season with a 23-5 record overall and a 15-1 conference record.

The Pacers made program and school history this season as they won the USA South regular-season title in the East Division for the first time in program history while also posting their best record in program history. The Pacers dominated with a 15-game winning streak before concluding the regular season with a tenacious (70-69) win over Greensboro College. The Pacers hosted the quarterfinals of the USA South Conference Tournament on February 22, where they defeated Huntingdon College (72-61). The Pacers wrapped up the tournament in the semifinals with a hard-fought (59-49) loss to Piedmont College. They also were the first team in school history to make an NCAA Tournament appearance as they took on #11 ranked Oglethorpe University on March 6. Coach Grahm Smith was named the USA South Coach of the Year, while senior Mikayla Ray was named to the First Team East Division, and sophomore Lauryn Cross and junior Jaymesha Sanders were named to the Second Team East Division.

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The Men’s Basketball team finished 2019-2020 with a 14-12 overall record and a 12-5 conference record, landing them the #2 seed in the USA South. The team concluded the regular season with an impressive 7-game winning streak, including a hard-fought (92-83) victory over Greensboro College. The season marked the best conference record for the men’s basketball program and the first time in program history that the team hosted the conference tournament. The team concluded the season in the first round of the USA South tournament as they fell (90-83) to Methodist University. Senior Trey Bryant was named to the USA South First Team All-Conference while junior John Burwell was named to the USA South Third Team All-Conference.

Members of both WPU Men and Women’s Swim Team

The Men and Women’s Swim teams had a successful season as they competed in ten meets. The teams hosted LaGrange College, Salem College, and Sweet Briar College on October 19 at the Pacer Invite, where they claimed several individual and team wins. The teams continued with their success throughout January, as they competed against Greensboro College, Warren Wilson College, Bridgewater College, and Salem College and picked up a combined five wins in that meet.

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18 | Peace Magazine | Spring 2020

SPRING 2020

Men and Women’s Track & Field were unable to begin their season, while the rest of the spring athletic programs concluded their seasons early.

The WPU Softball team was off to a 5-8 start after clinching two wins in a doubleheader against FDU-Florham. The team also picked up a notable (3-2) win over McDaniel College in the Triangle Softball Classic.

Women’s lacrosse was off to a 2-3 start as they picked up wins over Sweet Briar College and Salem College. Sophomore Allison Schaper led the USA South with 40 goals and 44 points.

Women’s Tennis only had the opportunity to play in two matches before the cancellation, while Men’s Tennis picked up three matches in the shortened season.

Junior Dylan Betancourt was second overall in the USA South as he recorded three wins in the shortened season.

Men’s Lacrosse began the season with a 2-4 record as the picked up wins over Marymount University and Emmanuel College.

Baseball was off to a 12-6 start with a 2-4 conference record as their season would end with back-to-back wins over Dean College. They began their season with an impressive 3-game sweep over Brevard College, later following up with another 3-game sweep over the University of Mary Washington. Junior Tyshawn Barrett led all of NCAA Division III baseball in triples, with the team also leading all of NCAA DIII baseball in triples as they tallied a combined 19.

Due to the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Spring 2020 season was cut short on March 12, as the remainder of all athletic events had to be cancelled.

However, many seniors from the spring seasons will be returning in 2021.

The NCAA voted to allow spring seniors an additional season of eligibility due to the effects of COVID-19.

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Peace Magazine | Spring 2020 | 19

Pacers Conclude Record-Breaking Season In The First Round of The NCAA ers in the game and within six (51-45). Cross would drain another 3-pointer to cut the Stormy Petrels' lead to five (57-52).

The Pacers were solid from the free throw line with Mikayla Ray and Khadijah Daniels bringing the Pacers within one (57-56) in the final minute of the third quarter, and WPU would head into the final quarter trailing by just three (59-56).

The William Peace University Women's Basketball team fell to #11 ranked Oglethorpe University in the first round of the NCAA DIII Tournament to end the Pacers' storybook season. The Pacers finish the season with a (23-5) record, the best overall record in the program's NCAA era.

THE BASICS Final score: William Peace 74, Oglethorpe 88 Records: William Peace (23-5), Oglethorpe (28-1) Location:Lexington, KY HOW IT HAPPENED The Pacers struck first as Mikayla Ray made two free throws after she drew a foul as she drove under the net to give WPU an early (2-0) lead. Oglethorpe responded with their own pair of free throws to quickly tie the game (2-2). Mariah Partin regained the lead for the Pacers with a drive to the basket (4-2), with the remaining deadlocked at (4-2) for 2 minutes until Oglethorpe tied the game at (4-4). Oglethorpe struck again and took a brief (6-4) lead, but Lauryn Cross responded with a layup to tie the game at (6-6). The teams would battle back-and-forth until Cross hit a shot from behind the arc to regain the lead at (9-8), but the Stormy Petrels would quickly tie things up as they took a (21-19) lead heading into the 2nd quarter.

Oglethorpe would start the 2nd quarter off by going on a (130) scoring run to extend their lead to (30-19) as the Pacers struggled to find their momentum. Jaymesha Sanders ended the Pacers' scoreless start to the second quarter with a jumper and a free throw to cut the Oglethorpe lead to 10 (32 -22).

Oglethorpe would again extend their lead to 13 (35-22), but Jaymesha Sanders continued to roll for WPU as she made several shots from the foul line to bring the score to (37-30) in favor of Oglethorpe. The Pacers would head into halftime trailing (39-30). The Pacers struck first in the second half with another jumper from Lauryn Cross.Cross would hit two consecutive shots from behind the arc and a jumper to bring the Pacers within three (43-40), though Oglethorpe would quickly respond. Mariah Partin would make a pair of free throws to bring the Pacers within six (49-43), while Lauryn Cross would knock down a couple free throws of her own to keep the Pac-

Chrystal Jerome would hit a jumper to put the Pacers within one (59-58) at the start of the fourth quarter, though Oglethorpe continued to push back to widen their lead to (63-60). Kiera Williams would get in the paint to bring the score back within one (63-62).The Stormy Petrels would go on a (11-2) scoring run in the middle of the fourth quarter to put them up (78-66) before Jaymesha Sanders would drain a shot from behind the arc to cut the Oglethorpe lead to nine (78-69). The Stormy Petrels would pull away in the final minutes of the game and the Pacers were unable to close the gap as they would fall (88-74).

PACER TOP PERFORMERS Lauryn Cross tallied 24 points to lead the Pacer offense while going (5-13) from behind the arc. Jaymesha Sanders posted 20 points by shooting (7-13) from the field and tallied 6 rebounds.

Mariah Partin led the Pacer defense with 7 rebounds.

FOR THE FOES Savannah LeGate posted a double-double with 25 points and 11 rebounds. Olivia Herrera tallied 18 points and 4 rebounds.

STATS OF THE GAME The Pacers had 20 turnovers compared to Oglethrope's 11. The pacers shot 82.6% from the free throw line compared to Oglethrope's 81.5%. Oglethrope shot 46.4% from the field compared to WPU's 37.5%.

SEASON RECAP The Pacers made program and school history this season as they won the USA South regular season title in the East Division for the first time in program history while also posting their best record in program history (23-5). They also were the first team in school history to make an NCAA Tournament appearance. This season also marks the final season for seniors Mikayla Ray and Khadijah Daniels as they conclude their impressive careers.

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Magic

20 | Peace Magazine | Spring 2020

The

Behind the

MANNING MUSIC SERIES By Maya Bryant ’17, Annual Giving and Engagement Manager Zoe Sinton-Covens ’21

The Manning Music Concert Series is an annual event series that celebrates music, theatre and other art forms. The series began in 2007 and what originally started as a program focused on a partnership with the N.C. Symphony, the program now offers a wide variety of genres and musicians. This season’s past performances included a Musical Theatre Masterclass with performers from North Carolina Theatre and a concert with the North Carolina Symphony. However, these events do not only feature outside musicians, it also allows immersive student learning opportunities for those interested in the arts. Either helping behind the scenes or appearing on stage, there are multiple opportunities to get involved.

Students, like Marerika Monroe ’22, have an opportunity to grow their skills as performers. “I was able to push myself outside of my comfort zone, and I had a fun time while doing it,” said Monroe. Monroe read the poem, “On Foot I Had to Cross the Solar System” by Edith Södergran, in the February concert of the 2019-2020 Concert Series.

Davyous Melvin ’22, also echoed similar thoughts on the importance of the event. “It allows students to perform in front of a wider audience.” Davyous was a part of the January concert, where he sang a song from the musical, Parade.

He not only was able to perform but gained valuable feedback from experienced professionals in his major during the Masterclass.

The Manning Music Concert Series allows the University to unite with different communities for one cause. It builds better networks into people from different talent realms.

Including a performance from the current Miss North Carolina, Alexandra Badgett, who performed a tap dance accompanied

by WPU student, Deanna Richards’21. It also connects students with different musical styles not available on campus. In the past, it has featured acclaimed soloists, string quintets, and traditional chamber music.

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the awarded ing was sented by n n a M n pre Alle Sara Jo ace Medallion, an C. Ralph.

Pe Bri William ident President s WPU Pre

THESE EVENTS ALLOW YOU TO EXPERIENCE OPPORTUNITIES THAT YOU WOULDN’T NECESSARILY EXPERIENCE AT OTHER UNIVERSITIES. AS A STUDENT, I THINK IT IS IMPORTANT BECAUSE YOU GET TO NETWORK WITH ALUMNI AS WELL AS LOCAL EMPLOYERS. IT IS ALWAYS INTERESTING TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THEIR STORIES AND EXPERIENCES! — Samara Demary ’22

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Jesse Farmer '21 singing "What am I Doin'?" from Closer than Ever at the Manning Music Master Class

At the opening concert of the 2019-2020 season, Sara Jo Allen Manning was awarded the William Peace Medallion.

The Manning Music Series has been a part of the Peace community for more than a decade. Peace alumna, Sara Jo Allen Manning ’58, ’60, established the Manning Music Series in 2007 as a way to combine two of her passions — music and her alma mater. She wanted to bring music here – to Peace – for students, faculty, staff, neighbors, and community members to all enjoy at no cost. This program is put on in collaboration with the North Carolina Symphony and provides an annual series of concerts to the William Peace University community.

On September 30, Sara Jo Allen Manning was awarded the William Peace Medallion, the highest and most prestigious non-academic recognition that can be awarded by the University. At the opening concert of the 2019-2020 series, President Ralph presented Sara Jo Allen Manning with the medallion.

Manning’s legacy stretches beyond Peace. She has been an impactful leader in the Raleigh community. Manning worked as the Secretary to the Bishop of the (Episcopal) Diocese of North Carolina for many years before retiring in 2002. Additionally, she has served on the Board of Directors for both The United Arts Council from 2000-2001 and the North Carolina Prevention of Blindness from 1981-1987, and as the Vice President of the Raleigh Arts Commission in 1990. She served on the executive committee of the Raleigh Chamber of Commerce, and the President of the Junior League of Raleigh.

The artists and student participants from the Manning Music Master Class with Professor Matt Hodge and Maya Brant '17, Annual Giving and Engagement Manager.

WPU continues to be grateful to Sara Jo Manning for her years of outstanding service and dedication to the University. Our community looks to Manning as an exemplary example of Peace values and alumni engagement, and we are inspired by her legacy of selfless giving and warm spirit.

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HIPHOP

Looking Back at

As We Look Forward

By Dr. Janelle Jennings-Alexander, Assistant Professor of English

It started as just an idea, a “Hey! Wouldn’t it be cool if...?” notion, bold enough to bring some attention to William Peace University, but interesting and scholarly enough to showcase the talent and intellectual curiosity that exists on our campus.

Stephanie Reed, Director of Diversity and Inclusion, and I, a faculty member in the English Department, had just gotten word that North Carolina rapper J. Cole was bringing a hip hop music festival to Raleigh. In May, just a few months before the festival, we sat down at one of the tables in the courtyard of Belk and started to think about what kind of programming we could bring to William Peace University’s campus to connect our students intellectually to the music they so casually consume that would soon be at their back door.

As one deeply entrenched in the ways of academia, I immediately thought about a small conference, a meeting of the minds, bringing in some academic heavy-hitters (or some brilliant, up-and-coming graduate students) who could show the students on our campus what it looked like for someone to blend their passions with their intellectual pursuits. I also wanted our students to be able to engage with these scholars to see what pathways might be possible for them after graduation.

Stephanie took that simple conference idea, flipped, remixed, and upgraded it so that a simple series of panel discussions eventually transformed into what would become WPU’s 2019 Hip Hop and Higher Education Symposium.

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In addition to academics from across the nation, this event featured local poets and rappers who spit rhymes while our own Prancing Pacers dance team “popped and locked” in the background. During the academic panels, local rappers and more formal intellectuals discussed topics at the intersections of hip hop and geography, mental health, public policy, educational advocacy, self-efficacy, black masculinity, visual art, and literature.

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Students from WPU’s Communications program conducted interviews with speakers for their podcast. President Brian Ralph and Vice President for University of Advancement Jodi Stamey sat with more than 30 students at a luncheon hosted by local radio personality Mir.I.Am and the chiefs of police of two local municipalities to talk about the role of hip-hop in advancing challenging discussions about policing in urban and black communities. And, UNC Professor and community activist Dasan Ahanu lead a group of faculty members in the training of inclusive teaching practices through hip hop.

THE CONNECTION THAT BLACK FOLK AND YOUNG PEOPLE HAVE IN CREATIVE CULTURE TO ARTISTS... ARTISTS WHO RADICALLY RESHAPED THEIR IMAGINATIONS...WHO THEY CAN SEE IN DIFFERENT FORM...WHO OFFER THEM LESSONS ABOUT LIFE--THESE ARE THINGS THAT ARE BIGGER THAN MUSIC. HIP HOP CULTURE, AS WE’VE BEEN TALKING ABOUT IT IN THIS SYMPOSIUM AND AS SCHOLARSHIP HAS TAUGHT US, IS BIGGER THAN MUSIC. IT’S A CULTURAL MOVEMENT. IT’S A CULTURAL PRACTICE. IT’S A WAY OF LIVING. IT’S A WAY OF SEEING THE WORLD. IT’S A HABIT OF BODY. IT’S A HABIT OF MIND. HIP HOP IS SO RICH AND SO NUANCED AND SO THOROUGH THAT IT DEMANDS AN INVESTIGATION.

— Marc Lamont Hill, Author and Political Activist

The symposium brought some names with national recognition, like Donovan Livingston, a poet, and educator who came to fame in 2016 when his Harvard Convocation speech/spoken word poem went viral with 13 million viewers and earned him national acclaim. The symposium brought, to a standing-room-only crowd at Kenan Auditorium, Ogden Payne, a Hollywood and entertainment writer for Forbes magazine and founder of the For the Students Tour, a national initiative creating educational opportunities for young people interested in careers in the music industry. And, the symposium brought to campus author and political activist Marc Lamont Hill.

And while the fame and celebrity of these speakers was certainly a draw, in his keynote address, Hill perfectly captured why these discussions were so important.

The Hip Hop and Higher Education Symposium was certainly one for the books. And, while it would be amazing to recreate that weekend of events, I think it may have been lightning in a bottle. Or, maybe serendipity, having all that talent and excellence in one space. Or, maybe, that weekend served as a glimpse of the future for Peace, a future that imagines our university as Raleigh’s hub for courageous conversations, as a space for interesting intellectual engagement, and as an institution that fosters an appreciation for the ways that immersive experiences can inspire us to demand that we are always investigating and learning something new. Now, wouldn’t that be cool?

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Faculty & Staff

HONORS

Cody Arroyo-Greene Assistant Director of Residence Life & Housing Cody received the Best of North Carolina Housing Officers for Program "Developing Staff Through Crucial Conversations."

Each year North Carolina Housing Officers awards "Best of NCHO" to the top voted program of the annual conference. The award is given to the presenter who had the highest average ranking on their program assessment. The winner of this award is guaranteed to present at SEAHO (Southeastern Association of Housing Officers) annual conference.

Rhonda Brown Assistant Professor of Biology Rhonda had a research article published in 2019. The article is titled: CD44 splice isoform switching determines breast cancer stem cell state.

Bobbie Cole Assistant Vice President of Student Life & Director of Residence Life Bobbie was nominated for the 2019 Albion College James L. Curtis Alumni Leadership Award. The James L. Curtis Alumni Leadership Award recognizes black alumni that have made significant contributions of time and effort to Albion College and its students.

Julie Cline, Chelsea Hayes, and Kasha Klinegores Career Design Center Assistant Director, Director of Student Involvement, and Director of Advising Services The North Carolina Career Development Association honored Chelsea Hayes, Julie Cline and Kasha Klinegores with the Outstanding Program Award for their 2019 Purpose at Peace Student Engagement program. Recognition of an innovative program, initiative, or intervention that has a clear purpose and demonstrated impact related to career development. It was a program that "helped students see that full path from student to professional in career development. It was fun and informative and defined what collaborative efforts on a campus should look like."

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Elizabeth Edwards, ’07 Director of Donor Relations On April 17, 2020, Elizabeth Timberlake Edwards '07, was awarded the General Federation of Women’s Clubs in North Carolina ( GFWC-NC) Junior Clubwoman of the Year Award. This award is given annually at the GFWC-NC State Convention to honor a Junior clubwoman who has given of her time, talents, interest, organizational efforts and active participation to render outstanding service through the Federation. Elizabeth was nominated by her local club, the Fuquay-Varina Junior Womans Club, and was selected to represent the GFWC-NC District VI at the District's Arts Festival in Raleigh on February 15, 2020.

A Fuquay-Varina Junior Woman's Club member since 2014, Elizabeth has served in various leadership roles including Public Relations Chair and Third Vice President of Ways and Means. As Third VP, Ways & Means, she was given the task of fundraising and helping to raise enough money to meet the club’s budget and also give back to many organizations within their community that had reached out to them for help. In the 2019-20 club year, the club profited over $16,000 directly due to her efforts.

Jenna Hartwell Director of the Career Design Center Jenna received the North Carolina Association of Colleges and Employers "2020 Outstanding Professional Award."

NCACE recognizes significant contributions to the post-secondary career services and employment field by a current member of the Association. This award is based on organization involvement and commitment, eligibility demonstrated by one or more of the following attributes: Demonstrated exemplary leadership in the post-secondary career services and employment field; significant research, publication(s), and professional presentation(s) that have impacted the profession; development of a model, creative program, or applied professional concept that affects the post-secondary career services and related fields.

Chelsea Hayes Director of Student Involvement Chelsea won the Shuronda H. Smith Outstanding New Professional Award and was recognized as the Outstanding Registered Student Organization Advisor.

Amy White Assistant Professor of Theatre Amy was invited to present research on Collaborative Goal Setting for Theatre Directors at the 2020 Southeastern Theatre Conference.

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Annual signature eventS

By Nolan Davis '21. Office of Student Involvement, Campus Activities Board, Student Government Association William Peace University Traditions allows the University Community to come together and share experiences while also participating in special occasions to the betterment and grow our community.

RED ROSE BALL The annual Red Rose Ball brings students together in the spring for a mid-semester celebration. It is one of our most time-honored traditions. Decked in formal wear at a location in our beautiful City of Raleigh, this event is filled with live music, food, and a photo booth to commemorate the occasion. This all-out event allows students to be creative with their attire and celebrate their community at WPU. Sponsored by the Student Government Association

FALL COCKTAIL Fall Cocktail is an event where students have the chance to come together, bond over good food, and their favorite music in a cocktail party-like atmosphere. This more casual event brings together our students to relieve stress and have fun. Sponsored by the Student Government Association (SGA)

HOLIDAY CELEBRATION This experience brings together WPU students, faculty, staff, administration, and alumni to celebrate the start of the holiday season. The event includes a holiday dinner in the Belk Dining Hall, the Moravian Love Feast service in Dinwiddie Chapel, the Lighting of Main Lawn, ending with a holiday tree and a hot cocoa bar and desserts.

Sponsored by the Student Government Association, Chaplain’s Office, Office of Advancement, Pacer Dining and Facilities & Grounds

TRADITIONS DINNER Traditions Dinner, held in September, recognizes our past as Peace College and Peace Institute in unique ways. Faculty, staff, and administrators volunteer to provide a full-service dining experience to the Pacer community with an elevated, plated meal. This recognizes the tradition of faculty and staff serving the women of Peace College meals each day many years ago. Sponsored by the Student Government Association LAST DAY OF CLASSES FESTIVAL (LDOC) The largest University tradition at is the annual Last Day of Classes Festival, or LDOC as it is casually called. This event, held on the last day of classes in the spring, brings together the entire campus community – students, faculty, staff, administration, and their families to celebrate the success of another great year at WPU. The event is filled with an exciting barbecue dinner, dessert food trucks, inflatables, caricature artists, live music, carnival games from departments and student organizations, a photo booth, and so much more. Sponsored by the Office of Student Involvement, Campus Activities Board and Student Government Association

LATE NIGHT BREAKFAST Held each semester during finals week, Late Night Breakfast brings together over 300 Pacers for an event to destress and enjoy a favorite – breakfast for dinner. Faculty and staff volunteer to serve Pacers an elaborate breakfast buffet as a break during finals week. Students get the chance to walk away with some awesome give-a-ways to help them make it through the final stretch. Sponsored by the Campus Activities Board

PACER PRIDE FRIDAYS Pacer Pride Fridays encourage students (and faculty and staff!) to show their school pride through their apparel each Friday. Fun events to complement this include tailgating activities and a swag swap – an opportunity to donate your clothing from another institution to a local non-profit in exchange for a WPU shirt. Sponsored by the Student Government Association, Pacer Athletics and Office of Human Resources

WELCOME BACK COMEDY SHOW The best ab workout around is had at the annual Welcome Back Comedy Show. This hilarious event takes place at the start of each semester during welcome week programming. Past comedians have television credits like Conan, MTV’s Girl Code, Wild n’ Out, Comedy Central and Black Entertainment Television (BET), plus international acclaim at the best comedy festivals. Sponsored by the Campus Activities Board MLK DAY OF SERVICE MLK Day of Service is WPU’s largest community service event, bringing together WPU students, faculty, staff, administrators, and alumni to give back to the city that we are lucky to call home. Buses of participants head out into the local community to provide valuable service to honor the legacy and community activism of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Past community partners have included Habitat for Humanity, the American Red Cross, Salvation Army, and Urban Ministries. Sponsored by the Office of Student Involvement, Campus Activities Board and Office of Advancement

WPU’S GOT TALENT Showcasing the diverse talents of our WPU community, WPU’s Got Talent is an annual event held each spring. The event welcomes students with any talents, including singing, acting, poetry, dance, and everything in between. The event includes a special celebrity panel of judges. The fun atmosphere is complemented by a national recording artist or group to serve as headliners. Past acts have credits, including The Voice, American Idol, international tours, and America’s Got Talent. Sponsored by the Campus Activities Board CAB WEEK The annual week-long celebration referred to as the “best week of the year,” is filled with over eight events to help students kick back and have fun before the rush of the end of the spring semester. Events typically include a comedy show, live music night, movie night, late-night dance party, and much more. Sponsored by the Campus Activities Board PURPOSE@PEACE ENGAGEMENT FAIR Held each September, the Purpose@Peace Engagement Fair brings together academic majors, registered student organizations, community service opportunities, and part-time job and internship opportunities under one event. A student gets the chance to see how their major, interests, and goals can come to life in this interactive, fun event. Sponsored by the Office of Student Involvement, Center for Student Success and Career Design Center

STUDENT LEADERSHIP AWARDS CEREMONY The annual Student Leadership Awards Ceremony recognizes student leaders for their achievements in academic and student life involvement, student organizations for their hard work to build community on campus, and celebrates the successes of events and activities that make WPU a more vibrant campus. Sponsored by the Office of Student Involvement and Student Government Association

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Traditions &

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In

MEMORIAM Remembering alumni and friends who have passed before us.

Please notify William Peace University of an alumnus passing by sending an email to our records division at advancement@peace.edu or call 919.508.2586.

Lillian Lee McGirt ’37

Paula Liles Riggan ’57

Jean Lindsay Berry ’39

Shirley Tarlton ’57

Ann Evans Dickie ’40

Betty Bacon Bikle ’58

Lucille McMillan Warren ’40

Patricia Lineberger Halberstadt ’58

Virginia Henderson Powell ’42

Patricia Geer Connolly ’59

To learn more about holding memorial services for an alumnus on campus, contact the Office of Conference and Events at 919.508.2045 or email conferenceandevents@peace.edu.

To make a gift in memory of your classmate or to purchase a memorial brick, please visit peace.edu/give. Or, contact the Office of Advancement.

Helen Boyette Allen ’43

Betty Surles Cranor ’59

Mary Alice Stell Barham ’44

Barbara Clifton Miller ’59

Charlotte Mason Snyder ’44

Jo Ann Simmons Koonce ’60

Emma Wrenn Sommerville ’44

Ann Turnage Flake ‘61

Louise Highsmith Wilkerson ’44

Marilynn Lee Leach ’63

Anna Worth ’44

Cindy Moore Byrum ’64

Emma Pierce Lore ’47

Carol Harris Cowen ’64

Mary MacPherson Spilman ’47

Anita Wheeless Porter ’65

Jane Winston Witherspoon ’47

Barbara Hoffman Curtis ’66

Jean Wall Mims ’48

Gail Frank Berquist ’68

Lois Newton Wilson ’48

Lillian Wood Erhardt ’68

Eleanor Vickers Coley ’49

Tanga West Radford ’73

Martha Rascoe Gillam ’50

Mary Graves ’76

Jean Marie Jones Godfrey ’50

Robin Moore Smith ’78

Jane Lilly Allman ’51

Paula Parrish Ryskiewich ’85

Alyce Yates Savage ’51

Gina Coor-McKenzie ’88

Barbara Norris Wilson ’53

Kelly Dickens Myrick ’94

Phoebe Fair Crouch ’54

Ivey Pope ’95

Betty Parrish Haley ’54

William Mingo ’11

Patricia Taylor ’54

Patrick Harvey ’19

Elizabeth McKinnon Lacy ’56

A Piece of Peace

NOTES Martha Jane Pearsall ’47 still believes that Peace Junior College was the perfect place for her to gain the confidence and encouragement to become an active, concerned woman on life’s large stage. She attended Peace Junior College with her sister Isabelle. After graduating in 1947, Martha worked as a radio host for “What’s Cookin’?” on WBT, Charlotte. She went on to work as the Communications Director for the Norfolk Economic Development Council. In 1983, she and her husband Charlie opened a talent agency. Martha has acted in many feature films and television series under her stage name, Marty Terry. Her and Charlie’s widely spread children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren are their greatest pride and joy.

Janet Brit Huggins ’81 is excited to announce her retirement after 30 years with Bladen County Schools. She is now working part-time with the College and Career Readiness program at Bladen Community College. She loves spending time with her granddaughter, Palmer Katherine Huggins.

Virginia Roberson Gray ’83 was elected in 2019 to her second term as Mayor of the Town of Wendell, NC after serving a term and a half as Commissioner of the Town Council.

Betty Thorp Kernan ’48 graduated high school from Peace Institute.

After graduating from Peace, Betty studied teaching at Radford College. Betty married Tom Kernan in 1953 and had two daughters. Betty loves spending time with her five grandchildren and her great-grandchild and playing mahjong. Betty will be celebrating her 19th birthday this May! Rebecca Dozier ’59, ’62 works as a Genealogical Researcher. She has written several books relating to her hometown, Littleton, NC, and on families in Northampton County. She currently resides in Georgia, which has proven to be the perfect home base for her three children and eight grandchildren.

Mary Paris Templeton ’66 is currently enjoying retirement in Myrtle Beach, SC. Mary loves to spend time with her six grandchildren; her oldest granddaughter is currently a student at the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill.

Cynthia Fulp Tenney ’70 has retired and is happily living in Asheville, NC. Deborah Feinman Johnson ’74 is excited to announce that her son married his high school sweetheart and that the couple is expecting their first child.

Lee Adams Rast ’75 and her husband are enjoying their retirement by running a non-profit horse rescue in Georgia. Their non-profit, Red Clay Rescue, currently houses 83 rescued horses.

Jane Bowman Fain ’76 currently resides in the Richmond, VA area and welcomed her fourth grandchild. She and her husband recently rescued a terrier mix named Larry.

Mary Kathryn MacCormack ’84 is pleased to announce that in the past year, her son has graduated from both high school and the Fire Academy. He is currently studying to become an EMT. Mary Kathryn is currently enjoying her thirty-third year of teaching high school science.

Sherrie Alligood Rogerson ’84 started her own consulting business after spending 30 years in the optical industry. She and her husband, Kirk, enjoy spending time with their two children and grandson.

Melinda Woods Beglin ’87 and husband, Jeff, celebrated their 15th wedding anniversary. She is a proud mother of four children and grandmother of two. After serving 20 years in the Air Force, Melinda retired and now works at her local Urgent Care.

Gregg Casper ’87 retired after 30 years of teaching elementary school.

She was recently awarded the Order of the Longleaf Pine from Governor Roy Cooper. In February 2020, Gregg married David Gaylon.

Tammy Raynor Petrosillo ’88 is currently working as a Visual Art teacher at Franklin Academy.

Libby Lanier Lea ’76 and her husband, Dean, are starting to wind down for retirement. While they both love their work, Libby and Dean hope to travel more in the next few years and spend more time with their seven grandchildren.

Susan Briggs Willard ’88 has retired from her career in Educational Technology after 25 years to stay home with her children. In her free time, she enjoys playing tennis and spending time with her husband Scott and her children, Clair and Connor.

Michele Eaves Burgess ’77 became the President of the Henderson-Vance County Chamber of Commerce in July 2019. Michele and her husband, Talmadge, celebrated the birth of their first grandchild, Virginia Parks Burgess, in September 2019.

DeNata Johnson ’02 is enjoying raising her two daughters, DeLeesia and DeLeah.

Ginger Lancaster Shields ’77 is excited to announce the birth of her granddaughter, Ella. She is currently teaching tennis at Carolina Country Club. Ginger loves to attend WPU basketball games to support the Peace Pacers and her son, Head Men’s Basketball Coach, Claude Shields.

Linda Currie Brafford ’78 retired after 40 years of teaching first grade.

Linda is looking forward to spending time with her four grandchildren and husband of 40 years.

Amanda Dean ’05 was promoted to Assistant Director of the MBA program at Meredith College. Amanda will graduate with her MBA from Meredith College in May 2020.

Erika Galluppi Simon ’06 and her husband welcomed their son, Michael Evan into the world in June 2018. Erika and her husband are excited to announce that they are expecting their second son in late May 2020.

A Piece of Peace

PEACE PRIDE SECTION

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PEACE PRIDE SECTION

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NOTES Elizabeth Timberlake Edwards ’07 On February 15, 2020, Elizabeth Edwards was awarded the General Federation of Women’s Clubs of North Carolina Junior Clubwoman of the Year Award at the GFWC-NC District VI Arts Meeting in Raleigh. Elizabeth was nominated by her local club, the Fuquay-Varina Junior Woman's Club, and will go on to be considered at the state level at the GFWC-NC State Arts Meeting in March. The award is given annually to honor a Junior Clubwoman who has given of her time, talents, interest, organizational efforts, and active participation to render outstanding service through the Federation.

Kelly Hendrix ’07 works as an Environmental Educator at Blue Jay Point County Park with Wake County Parks, Recreation & Open Spaces.

Tildsley Clifford McManus ’08 is excited to announce that she and her husband are expecting their first child! Joseph Cornelius McManus, IV is due in May 2020. The couple plans to call him Quinn.

Emily Giangrande Freeman ’15 married her husband, James Freeman, in Peace’s Dinwiddie Chapel when. The couple is also pleased to announce the birth of their daughter, Kathryn Anne Freeman.

Lauren Seeger Hinnant ’09 gave birth to Tucker Wayne Hinnant on March 26, 2019.

Caroline McClure ’15 took on a new position as an Adaptive Special Education Teacher in Jacksonville, NC. Her position allows her to pursue her teaching licensure through the East Carolina University Residency Program.

Stephanie Lilley Cooke ’10 is excited to announce the birth of her son, Grayson Bradley.

Emma Weavil Lawrence ’10 welcomed her son, Hutcherson William Lawrence, on January 10, 2020.

Kirsten Jarrell Benzaquen ’11 began working as a Senior Human Resources Generalist with Channel Advisor Corporation.

Leslye Valentin Park ’11 transitioned from her career in education and became a realtor in Bosie, ID in 2015. Since then, she has been a top producer in her regional district for the past three years.

Sierra Clarke Sprehe ’11 recently started working as the Communications Coordinator for BSA LifeStructures.

Leigh Wallace Hines Dodd ’12 has been promoted to Manager of Workforce Development at The Select Group. Her work focuses on technical growth development plans for employees, STEM partnerships, and veteran hiring programs.

Melissa Moran Manyatis ’13 married the love of her life, Timothy Manyatis, on October 12, 2019, in Raleigh, NC. Beakie Colon Rivera ’14 married in May 2019 and they welcomed her son into the world in January 2020. She recently became a licensed Clinical Social Worker and Addiction Counselor.

Santana Batts ’17 will be graduating from Vermont Law in May of 2021 with a Masters in Environmental Law and Policy and a Juris Doctorate.

Jarrett Bennett ’17 has worked in over ten different stage productions since graduating. He is currently performing in the second national tour of the Broadway production of The Color Purple.

Carly Cox ’17 is currently a Masters of Public Health candidate, with a focus on Maternal and Child Health at George Washington University. She is currently in the process of applying to Physician Assistant programs to attend after graduation from her current program in December 2020.

Maya Bryant ’17 earned the title of Miss Dunn 2020 and will compete for Miss North Carolina in June 2020.

Kimberly Cook Lauren ’17 pursued her Master's degree in Social Work and now works as a Clinical Therapist at Palmetto Summerville Behavioral Health.

Daisy Cheatham ’18 is currently working as the Sr. Human Resources Assistant at Amazon CLT4 in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Amy Murphy Gaines ’18 is proud to announce that she began a job with an engineering firm in Raleigh as a Human Resources Officer.

Brie Dorsey ’14 has earned her Master of Social Work from North Carolina Central University and currently works as a social worker in Durham, North Carolina.

Tara Lesick ’18 has been accepted into the University of North Carolina at Greensboro to study Experimental Psychology with a focus on hypodescent and racial social comparisons.

Abbe Fralix ’15 received her Master’s of Literature in Shakespeare and Performance in May 2019 and will receive her Master’s of Fine Arts in Shakespeare and Performance Acting in May 2020 from Mary Baldwin University.

Jenna Rouse ’19 is currently working as a Client Relations Manager in Durham, NC.

William Peace University reserves the right to edit submitted content as deemed necessary to align with our values, goals and University brand guidelines.

Damani Toudle ’19 has started working as a Commissary Management Specialist at Malmstrom Air Force Base.

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Theatre

Upcoming showS Chicago

Directed by Amy Pridgen

KENAN AUDITORIUM October 15–18, 2020

Tartuffe

Directed by Bryan Pridgen

LEGGETT THEATRE November 19 –22, 2020

The Wolves Directed by Amy Pridgen

LEGGETT THEATRE February 25-28, 2021

The Wedding Singer Directed by Wade Newhouse

KENAN AUDITORIUM April 15-18, 2021

A Piece of Peace

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