West Virginia Wesleyan College Winter/Spring 2015
The Bells of Campus {See page 4}
inside this Title III A Towering Gift of Class Notes, Student Sundial Grant Program Generosity Profiles and More! Features
Title III Grant WINTER/SPRING 2015 Sundial Editorial Staff 2 Erica Byrd, Assistant Director of Public Relations Rochelle Long ’00, Director of Public Relations Towering Gift of Robert Skinner ’75, Vice President for Generosity Advancement Layout and Design: 4 Angelic Designs, Buckhannon, West Virginia CONTACT: Office of Alumni Relations Student Profiles 304-473-8509, or [email protected] Office of Advancement 8 304-473-8485, or [email protected] Office of Admissions Homecoming 800-722-9933, 304-473-8510, or [email protected] 15 www.wvwc.edu Sundial is published biannually by West Virginia Wesleyan College. Story suggestions, comments, Athletic News address changes, and class notes should be directed to the Office of Alumni Relations, Erickson Alumni Center, 59 College Ave., Buckhannon, WV 26201.
West Virginia Wesleyan College, a private educational 19 institution, is committed to the principle of equal opportunity for all qualified persons, welcomes students Class Notes, of all backgrounds and takes pride in the diversity of its Alumni Profiles & faculty and staff. It assures students access to all the In Memoriam privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available at the College. West Virginia Wesleyan College strongly supports affirmative action principles 22 and does not discriminate on the basis of creed, religion, national or ethnic origin, age, race, color, gender, sexual orientation, or handicap in the administration of its educational programs, admission policies, financial aid programs, athletics, co-curricular activities or other College administered programs.
Thank A specialYou! thanks to Kristi Lawrence Wilkerson ’99 for her service to Wesleyan as Director of Alumni Relations from 2008 to 2015. We wish her happiness and success in her Thanks to a generous donation by William ’58, Hon. ’05 and Mara Linaberger Watson ’58, new career role as Director of Christian the beautiful hourly chimes and sounds of My Home Among the Hills will once again ring Education at the First United Methodist loudly over Wesleyan’s campus and Buckhannon. Pictured here with President Balch. Church of Buckhannon. Full article {see page 4} From the President
Since its founding in 1890, West Virginia Wesleyan College has challenged its students to set and uphold standards of excellence while making a life-long commitment to develop their intellectual, ethical, spiritual, and leadership potential. Wesleyan’s strong tradition of academic excellence is a result of its dynamic and dedicated faculty. From our early heritage, students have been involved in a strong co-curricular program complementing our academic programs. The combination of these programs has helped Wesleyan attract outstanding students from West Virginia, 31 other states, and over 28 countries. The ranks of our alumni include winners of the Breakthrough Prize in Life Sciences, a Pulitzer Prize, an Emmy Award, and Country Music Songwriter of the Year, as well as GRAMMY® award nominees. As Patrick and I have traveled across the country these past nine years, we have met incredibly successful alumni in all walks of life who strive to positively impact their communities. In this issue of the Sundial, you will meet a group of current students who are poised for tremendous future accomplishments. You cannot help but notice that Wesleyan has remained true to the roots of the institution’s founders. As I encounter students, I find them eager to learn and energized to make a difference. Their passion for learning and service is as inspiring as is their concern for others. While we have strived to offer new programs to meet the demands of the global economy, the traditional values of Wesleyan remain the same. We continue to challenge students to think critically and creatively, communicate effectively, act responsibly, and demonstrate their local and world citizenship through service. West Virginia Wesleyan College has represented the best of higher education for 125 years. The institution continues to thrive today not only as a result of the passion of those who work here, but also the tremendous support we receive from our alumni and friends. Your generosity transforms the lives of each and every student.
In Friendship,
Pamela Balch ’71
www.wvwc.edu | WINTER/SPRING 2015 SUNDIAL 1 Title III Grant Program Historical Grant Makes Impact on Campus n September, the U.S. Department of Education approved an incredible $10 million Title III grant award to West Virginia Wesleyan College under the department’s Strengthening Institutions Program (SIP). The program helps eligible institutions of higher education to become self-sufficient and expand their capacity to serve low-income students by providing funds to improve and strengthen the academic quality, institutional management, and fiscal stability. The grant, which will be distributed over five years, is Ithe largest grant of its type ever awarded to a college or university and the largest award Wesleyan has ever received in its history. Among the initiatives the grant will support are improving student services, academic instruction, enhancing faculty development, and classroom renovations. In addition, the grant includes a $2 million endowment match challenge. The Title III grant has allowed Wesleyan to create a Student Success Center which provides one-on-one guidance and assistance to students with academic, career, and personal matters. With the grant funding, staff will be able to offer support to students as they learn to navigate the world of higher education. We will provide classroom renovations with current technology and flexible furnishings to meet the needs of 21st century learners, and resources for faculty to develop a culture of support for at-risk students. Three positions were created within the Student Success Center and are filled by Alison Clausen as Title III and student success center coordinator, Shauna Jones ’92, MFA ’13 as first-year student academic advisor, and Jill A. Okes ’09 as experiential learning coordinator.
2 SUNDIAL WINTER/SPRING 2015 The grant will support improving student services, academic instruction, enhancing faculty development, and classroom renovations.
Along with the Student Success Center, a Center for Teaching With new programs on campus come new ways alumni can and Learning was also developed to provide support and be involved in the success of Wesleyan students. The Student resources to faculty and staff. The Center provides workshops Success Center is currently building its experiential learning and programming that engage faculty, staff, and administration program. This program is focused on co-curricular experiences, in pedagogical development; support and technology training primarily internships, where students work in a professional for learning management and assessment systems; quality learning environment. Students will build proficient skills in resources for faculty, staff, and administration to explore best professional attitude, communication, critical thinking, and practices in teaching; and a culture that cultivates student more. learning through innovative teaching across the curricular and The experiential learning program affords alumni the co-curricular student experiences. Two positions were created opportunity to include their name or business as potential within the Center including Cynthia Brissey as teaching and internship destinations for students. This program not learning center coordinator and Traci Probst as instructional only caters to students, but also allows alumni to develop a technology specialist. stronger connection to Wesleyan, discover outstanding future Wesleyan plans to upgrade its academic spaces to include employees, foster and cultivate new perspectives to develop classrooms, laboratories, and support areas for academics future professionals, and sustain a strong reputation among –such as libraries, teaching and learning centers, and other current students and future alumni. learning spaces–in the next three years. The building upgrades will include the nursing program housed in Middleton Hall, Christopher Hall of Science, the second floor of the Lynch- If interested in taking part in the experiential learning program, Raine Administration Building, and the English Annex. The please contact Experiential Learning Coordinator Jill A. Okes at: College will continue remodeling as many classrooms as [email protected] or (304) 473-8607. possible with the Title III funds. Double Your Inve$tment in We$leyan
Every dollar you donate to the Title III Endowment Fund is matched by the Federal Government
If every Wesleyan graduate donated $25 each over the next five years, we could easily reach the $2 million goal!
Make your gift to the The clock is ticking. Title III Endowment Fund Today! Help us meet the To make an online gift to the Title III match, go to www.wvwc.edu Title III Challenge! or mail your check to West Virginia Wesleyan College, Office of Advancement, 59 College Avenue, Buckhannon, WV 26201.
www.wvwc.edu | WINTER/SPRING 2015 SUNDIAL 3 A Towering Gift of Generosity: Watsons Provide Funding for New Carillon System
t has been a number of years since West Virginia Wesleyan College students have heard the sound of bells ringingI from atop Wesley Chapel. In 2009, the system that provided the sound for the chimes went silent. However, that silence was broken this spring semester. Thanks to a generous donation by William ’58, Hon. ’05 and Mara Linaberger Watson ’58, the beautiful hourly chimes and sounds of Administration Bell Tower from Chapel Bell Tower My Home Among the Hills will once A view of the old home of both the seminary bell and the Shannon Bells from their “new” perch in the Wesley Chapel steeple. The seminary bell was in- again ring loudly over Wesleyan’s stalled in the Lynch-Raine Administration Building tower in 1906, while the speaker cones for the Shannon Bells originally were visible on top of the tower. campus and Buckhannon.
4 SUNDIAL WINTER/SPRING 2015 1905 The remains of the old seminary building, taken a number of days after the fire. The seminary bell survived its Stanley H. Martin (president of Wesleyan from 1957-1972) and Mrs. Bill and Mara Watson four-story fall. Fannie Lynch (Jones; Seminary Class of 1901) posing with the semi- nary bell in front of the half-completed chapel, circa 1966.
Construction began in early spring to in- living “off-campus,” students were still 1905 on the same site as the old Semi- stall the Schulmerich g5TM Electronic required to abide by a 7 p.m. curfew nary Building, the bell was hoisted into Carillon, an innovative system that uses for study hours, which was signaled by the new central tower where it contin- digitally sampled sound to recreate ringing the seminary bell. ued to serve campus. In the fall of 1961, the classic bell rods created by George On Saturday, February 4, 1905, while members of the Hamner and Phillips Schulmerich. This system is replacing classes were meeting (which was the families donated a carillon unit by the the College’s second Carillon system practice at the time), a fire started in Schulmerich Company of Sellersville, that was installed in 1988 and will be the Seminary Building. Once the fire PA in honor of Arthur G. Shannon, a for- named the Watson Bells. However, the alarm was sounded, everyone on cam- mer Wesleyan trustee member. The 183 history behind the Wesleyan bells be- pus rushed to save furniture, school re- miniature bells of the unit were installed gins a number of years before that. cords, library books, and anything else in the Administration Building and were The original Seminary Building, which that could be pulled from the blaze. No heard amplified through a speaker sys- was constructed in 1889, contained a one was killed or injured during the fire, tem on top of the building and were single bronze bell in the tower, cast in and many of the building’s furnishings named the Shannon Bells. 1890 by the McShane Bell Foundry were either carried out or thrown out the When Wesley Chapel was constructed of Baltimore, MD. The company was windows onto the snowy ground below. in 1966-67, its 204-foot tall steeple tow- founded in 1856 and is still in busi- At some point during the fire, the semi- er became home to both the seminary ness today as one of the last remain- nary bell, hanging four stories above bell and the amplification system for the ing “Western-style” bell-makers in the the ground, fell into the basement of the Shannon Bells. The mechanical unit that United States. The seminary bell is 40” building, its fall cushioned only by de- controlled the carillon bells was placed in diameter and strikes a pitch of F# and bris and ashes. A small crack was the in a large room behind Kresge Hall, weighs around 1,400 pounds. only notable injury the bell sustained, located in Wesley Chapel’s basement. The seminary bell played an important which did not impact its sound. Once The unit was also expanded to tie into role in campus life. In the initial years the bell was cool enough to be handled, the new pipe organ located in the Cha- of the school, before Ladies Hall (now it was placed on a stand on the grounds, pel. In this way, the carillon could be Agnes Howard Hall) was constructed where it continued to signal the change played from the organ console to sound in 1895, students lived with families of classes and the call to study hours. outside through the external steeple in Buckhannon or grouped together to When the current Lynch-Raine Admin- speaker, or inside through speakers in rent space in “boarding clubs.” Despite istration Building was constructed in the Chapel. The unit could also be pro-
www.wvwc.edu | WINTER/SPRING 2015 SUNDIAL 5 grammed to play automatically through a music-box type device. The songs that echoed forth on campus at 5:05 p.m. for decades were created from paper rolls with cutout slots that fed through a de- vice with metal tines. As the tines en- countered the cutout slots in the paper, they would send a signal for one of the 183 miniature bells to be struck, which was then amplified to the steeple tower. In 1988, a newer carillon unit was in- stalled to replace the older unit that failed. The newer unit allowed recorded tapes to play musical selections, such as the alma mater, at noon every day. The newer system could still accept the old music rolls, which it did faithfully un- til the unit completely failed in 2009. At the time of its failure, the music roll unit was thought to be the last function- ing one of its type known to exist in the world. Through those decades, many who came to campus fondly recall Dr. Bobby Loftis and Robert Shafer, pro- fessors of music, performing carillon concerts prior to campus convoca- tions. Likewise, students could set their watches by the sound of the alma ma- ter at lunchtime or the variety of church hymns, secular songs, and other selec- tions that played every evening around dinnertime.
1890 – Seminary Bell with Carillon Amplifier Cones In addition to the single 1,400 pound seminary bell, the steeple of Wesley Chapel houses the eight speaker cones (five of which are visible here) that amplified the sound of the miniature Shannon Bells in the chapel basement to the campus.
Carillon Music Roll The original carillon functioned much like a music box or a player piano, with paper rolls running through a player unit containing many metal tines. Each cut-out notch the tines encountered in the paper signaled to the unit which specific note should play and what type of bell sound should be used.
6 SUNDIAL WINTER/SPRING 2015 The new Schulmerich g5TM system allows those sweet familiar sounds to fill the air once again with the introduc- tion of the “Arlington” package, which includes samplings of true cast bells, Flemish bells, English bells, and harp bells. The new system still keeps the familiar Schulmerich sound to which campus has become accustomed and features built-in MIDI hardware and an Emergency Alert System that can play an alert tri-tone and encoded verbal commands. Meanwhile, the seminary bell is rarely heard, mostly reserved for use during special occasions. Most notably, it was tolled during the 1985 funeral of former Wesleyan president Stanley H. Martin. Likewise, on the first anniversary of the September 11, 2001 attacks, the bell was tolled at the exact minutes when planes crashed into the World Trade Centers, the Pentagon, and near Shanksville, PA. The seminary bell will remain in the bell tower even after the carillon speakers are installed. ☼
1963-1988 – Schulmerich Carillon Unit in Kresge Like computers of old, the original carillon unit takes up most of a room in the basement of the chapel. It not only contains the 183 miniature “Shannon Bells”, but also the automatic player roll unit that played music to campus and the clock system that struck the hours (seen at right).
1900 – McShane Bell Catalog While the seminary bell was cast ten years earlier, this 1900 catalog from the McShane Bell Foundry shows the approximate weight and pitch of Wesleyan’s 40 inch bell.
www.wvwc.edu | WINTER/SPRING 2015 SUNDIAL 7
Photos courtesy of Brett Miller ’06, archivist at West Virginia Wesleyan College STUDENT PROFILES West Virginia Wesleyan College, along with its alumni, continue a tradition of excellence by producing successful students who think critically and get involved in the world around them. Recently, the Sundial editor asked seven of these students to recount their Wesleyan experience and think toward the future and beyond graduation. Meet Bronson Clark, Jessicah Cross, Amanda Davis, Will George, Michelle Oye, Aaron Piot, and Colin Winkie. Bronson Clark
“Diversify yourself. Engage yourself. Express yourself. There is no better opportunity or time to find your interests. Step outside your comfort zone, and do as many things as you can while you are here.”
“The overall community feel and all the opportunities to travel around the country and opportunities that are here are my favorite now have friends all over the United States.” aspects of Wesleyan,” commented senior Recognizing a call to go into ministry, Bronson Bronson Clark. “The liberal arts allow you is set to attend seminary after graduating from to be well-rounded, and Wesleyan certainly Wesleyan and ultimately plans to become represents that. Sometimes people don’t an ordained elder in The United Methodist understand how important that is. Students Church. should take these experiences and use them for the rest of their lives.” “Last summer I served as an intern for New Haven United Methodist Church for Bronson, a native of Calhoun County, WV, 10 weeks,” said Clark. “This was a good has participated in college life to its fullest. discerning experience for me. I had full He will soon complete his degree with a major exposure to what it is like to be a pastor. I in public relations and minors in business and focused on building relationships through psychology. As he prepares to leave WVWC, visitations of regular church attendees, shut- he knows the experiences he has had here ins, those living in assisted living or nursing have prepared him for the future. homes, and those in the hospital. There was “A small campus like Wesleyan allows you also community and committee work, and of to develop a sense of community and become course public speaking, involved.” active, involved, and engaged,” said Clark. Thinking about his college years, Bronson “There are many ways to be exposed to many shared advice for future Wesleyan students: different experiences here. “Diversify yourself. Engage yourself. Express “I am a member of the varsity baseball team,” yourself. There is no better opportunity or noted Clark. “It has taught me a lot in regards time to find your interests. Step outside your to work ethic and time management. You comfort zone and do as many things as you push yourself more than you think you can can while you are here. mentally and physically. “I did not realize how interested I was in “I admire the way Coach Randy Tenney (’77) radio until I experienced it for the first time,” and Coach Brett Ripley (MBA ’08) run the he added. “Now I serve as C-92’s technical baseball program. They have great structure, director. I enjoy the production side and organization and discipline for the team. I learning how it all works together. With might even coach baseball myself one day increasing interest on campus and more following what I have learned from their equipment and funding, I look forward to leadership and example.” Wesleyan growing the media studies major. In addition to being a student-athlete, Bronson “Professor Pete Galarneau (’98) became my has also served as president of his fraternity, academic advisor through my involvement Kappa Alpha Order. with the radio station. He is a good advisor “I had always heard negative stereotypes of for not just academics, but for life. He has Greek life,” recalled Clark. “But I quickly been honest and has pushed me. I am leaving recognized the benefits of networking and Wesleyan with such a great experience developing leadership skills. I have had because of him.”
8 SUNDIAL WINTER/SPRING 2015 Jessicah Cross “Get involved as much as possible to meet all the students and professors here. If a class sounds like it would be interesting, then take it! You will be exposed to so much more by trying new things.”
Jessicah Cross is focused on opportunity. “I want to give back to my state, and I In discerning her career path, the senior appreciate how state government works here,” political science major has completed multiple she concluded. “Our legislators are very internships. collegial and friendly. They work together and From January to April 2014, Jessicah found come together to compromise. herself immersed in day-to-day internal “But I definitely want to go to DC one day,” workings of the state legislative process. She she added. was competitively selected as a Judith A. Jessicah selected Wesleyan because of the one- Herndon Fellow where she worked with the on-one attention from faculty. Senate minority leader’s office and gained first-hand experience with tracking legislation, “I have learned so much from Dr. Robert writing amendments for bills, and attending Rupp and Paula Lowther McGrew (’78),” sessions and committee meetings, as well as stated Cross. “I would not have had these party caucuses. Only 10 students attending a opportunities anywhere else. Dr. Rupp is West Virginia college or university are chosen passionate about political science and gets for this prestigious fellowship each year. his students involved in as much as possible Originally interested in becoming an attorney, inside and outside the classroom. He definitely Jessicah previously completed an internship cares about each student individually and what in a law office. She also served as an intern they want to do with their lives. Dr Rupp is a with a lobbyist in Charleston and with the professor of history, and McGrew is associate state archives office. While with the archives professor of library science and director of department, she worked with U. S. Senator library services. Joe Manchin’s gubernatorial collection and “Mrs. McGrew was my first-year seminar primarily with his speeches. While working leader, and she encouraged me to pursue a with the lobbyist, she found her true passion. library science minor. I have enjoyed that “About the same time that the movie Legally and it has complemented my political science Blonde came out, 9/11 occurred,” recalled major.” Cross. “The movie showed me how you can In addition to her coursework and internships, accomplish anything you set your mind to. Jessicah also spends her time as a sister of Zeta I became very interested in being a lawyer Tau Alpha where she is now “Think Pink” and selected political science as my major, chair promoting breast cancer awareness. She following the pre-law track. is also a student phonathon caller. “However, after completing an internship with “It is refreshing to talk with alumni who have a law office, I decided that going to law school the same love for Wesleyan that I do,” said was not for me and recognized my growing Cross. “I am so appreciative of their giving interest in political science. I then had a class back to this school. It is good to know so many that involved identifying a legislative bill and people have had such great experiences here.” contacting lobbyists. That contact ultimately led to an internship with a lobbyist. As she prepares to enter graduate school for a master’s degree in political science, she offers “I also had the opportunity to serve as a these words of wisdom to incoming freshmen: Frasure-Singleton intern with Delegate Bill Hamilton for one week. I quickly realized I “Get involved as much as possible to meet all want to be a lobbyist and later run for public the students and professors here. If a class office.” sounds like it would be interesting, then take With aspirations of going to Washington, DC it! You will be exposed to so much more by one day, the Philippi, WV native is focusing on trying new things.” state-level government right now.
www.wvwc.edu | WINTER/SPRING 2015 SUNDIAL 9 Amanda Davis
“Getting involved on campus, especially with community service, offers the complete Wesleyan package. I am very thankful for getting the WV Scholar award. Without it, I would not be here.”
Senior Amanda Davis decided in the fourth In addition to conducting research and grade that she was going to attend West preparing for graduate school, Amanda Virginia Wesleyan College one day. She played softball for two years, served as an attended softball camps here growing up and anatomy and physiology tutor, and found fell in love with the beautiful campus, sense herself wanting to get more involved in of community, and ability for one-on-one community service. interactions with professors. Then she won Amanda is now a coordinator of the WE the West Virginia Scholar competition at the LEAD program, overseeing three teams, end of her junior year of high school in 2010. including Healthy Children, Animal Welfare, “Wesleyan is the only school I applied to,” and Appalachian Experience. She previously said Davis. “Winning the full, four-year served as an issue team leader for Health and scholarship for tuition, fees, room and board Wellness for two years. She has assisted confirmed I would be able to attend college with various events such as the “Get Up and at Wesleyan.” Get Moving” healthy kids initiative in area schools, a pet adoption event, the Stockert The biology major from Salem, WV, plans Youth Center Children’s Festival, serving to earn a Ph.D. in animal sciences with a meals at the Rosenbaum Family House, and concentration in agricultural biochemistry an invasive plant pull at Seneca Rocks. after graduating from WVWC. “Other students and even my first-year “I completed an internship through INBRE seminar leader, Julie Keehner, vice president (Idea Network of Biomedical Research for student development, encouraged me to Excellence) last summer,” explained Davis, become involved on campus,” she recalled. “where I was fortunate to study insulin “Julie takes students under her wing. She is resistance and diabetes in dairy cows. I friendly, welcoming and a good resource. went to a farm in Pennsylvania and took tissue samples of muscle, fat and liver, and “Getting involved on campus, especially then analyzed them in the lab looking for with community service, offers the complete insulin sensitivity. Pregnant, overweight Wesleyan package,” she said. “I am very cows are prone to certain metabolic diseases thankful for getting the WV Scholar award. just before giving birth because they cannot Without it, I would not be here.” consume enough food to meet the energy demands required for lactation. This concept Editor’s Note: Scholarship funds for this West is similar to gestational diabetes in humans. Virginia Scholar Award are now provided by the Culpepper Wesleyan Scholars Award “This research offers insight for people and by West Virginia Wesleyan College. when you cannot conduct the study on The Culpepper Wesleyan Scholars Award humans, themselves,” she added. “I have a was established in 1991 as an endowed concern about the rising rate of Appalachians scholarship fund by Olive O’Dell Culpepper ‘33 and C. Ross Culpepper ‘30, and today, is with obesity, so this research followed my continued by Marvin ‘51, Hon. ‘06 and Elaine interests.” Karnes Culpepper ‘54, Hon. ‘06.
10 SUNDIAL WINTER/SPRING 2015 Will George
“I have enjoyed the closeness of everyone here. It’s like a small community.”
Senior applied physics major and men’s “Internships at NASA are more than tennis team student-athlete Will George of conducting research and learning about Petersburg, WV, plans to work in aerospace aerospace engineering,” commented George. engineering one day, and he is gearing up to “There are volleyball leagues, softball go to graduate school for a master of science teams, and opportunities to travel to other degree in the field. NASA facilities, Virginia Beach, and the Smithsonian’s Air and Space Museum. You “I have always enjoyed engineering make friends there and have great networking concepts,” said George. “It may have started opportunities.” back when I played with Legos.” Will’s out-of-classroom experiences do not Since that time, his interest in flying, planes, stop there. He also participated in an Honors and engineering has only grown. Program Spring Break trip to Paris. “I was selected to participate in a summer “I really enjoyed the impressionist art program at Stanford University while I was museum where there was an exhibit featuring in high school,” explained George. “My Vincent VanGogh’s work,” he said. “I focus was on aeronautics there. We had crash appreciate art and its difficulty. You can see courses in physics, calculus, and aerospace the brushstrokes with impressionist artwork. engineering. We made a small glider out of After the trip, I bought pastels and gave it a balsa wood and windmill turbines and remote try, myself.” control gliders out of foam. We got to do it These experiences confirmed that Will made all, including designing, building, and flying the right decision in coming to Wesleyan. the gliders.” “My dad, Kirk ’86, is an alumnus of Wesleyan, Little did he know his hands-on experience and I knew this was the best opportunity for with aeronautics was just the beginning. me, academically, socially, and financially,” While a student at West Virginia Wesleyan he said. College, Will spent the last two summers as Will believes all freshmen should begin an intern at NASA at its Langley Research their college career by going on the pre- Center in Virginia, thanks to a suggestion by orientation trip to Seneca Rocks offered each Dr. Bert Popson, professor of physics and August. engineering and department chair. In the summer of 2013, he worked on analyzing “I met many of my friends on that trip,” pressure data from entry descent and landing added George. “I returned to be a student instrumentation mounted to the heat shield of leader for two years after that. The outdoor the Mars rover, Curiosity. This type of data is recreation options at Wesleyan are great. I often used to calculate a vehicle’s trajectory participated in whitewater rafting, camping, through the atmosphere. Then, in the summer skiing, paintball, zip lining and a mud of 2014, Will compared stable and unstable obstacle course, among others. oscillations of Multi-Mission Earth Entry “I have enjoyed the closeness of everyone Vehicles during wind tunnel tests. here. It’s like a small community.”
www.wvwc.edu | WINTER/SPRING 2015 SUNDIAL 11 Michelle Oye
“I chose Wesleyan because I was impressed with its 100% acceptance rate for students entering medical school. I liked the commitment it represents by the College and the faculty.”
It’s a “family thing” for Michelle Oye. thought I went to Ghana to make a difference The senior biology major from Beckley, in the lives of others. Little did I know the WV, plans to attend medical school after patients and children in need left a greater graduation. Her older sister, Monique ’14, impact on my life.” is currently attending West Virginia School Michelle has also participated in research of Osteopathic Medicine, and younger sister with Professor of biology Dr. Jeanne Sullivan Melissa is a junior biology major at West at WVWC, regarding stink bugs. They Virginia Wesleyan College with plans to also discovered that killing one stink bug does not attend medical school in the future. attract more stink bugs. “Ever since I was five-years old, I have “That’s only a myth,” explained Michelle. wanted to be like my father who is a vascular surgeon,” said Michelle. “I will Now, their research is focused on female enter WVSOM this fall. It reminds me of stink bug mating preferences. Wesleyan. Everyone is very friendly and “I love all of the biology professors here,” helpful. I plan to become a psychiatrist said Michelle. “Dr. Sullivan is a great teacher. and specialize in internal medicine. Mental You learn a lot from her and she always helps illness is becoming more prevalent and I her students as often as she can. want to contribute to society in this way.” “I chose Wesleyan because I was impressed Michelle’s focus on contributing to society is with its 100% acceptance rate for students not only based on medical school. She is an entering medical school. I liked the issues team leader for the WE LEAD Healthy commitment it represents by the college and Children initiative and president of Alpha the faculty.” Phi Omega, the coed national community Michelle shared that she believes freshman service fraternity. She has specifically students need to know that college is different been involved in starting “Get Up and Get than high school. Moving” programs in local schools to reduce childhood obesity. “You have to study hard from day one. Graduate schools will see everything you did Her service to others does not end there, in college. Do your best. You do not come though. In the summer of 2012, Michelle to Wesleyan to just play around. You also do traveled to Ghana to complete medical not have to be a science major to go to med outreach and serve as a junior doctor. school. “I went on rounds with doctors and learned “Do not come to college to be what your so much from all the physicians and nurses I parents want you to be,” she added. “Do shadowed,” recalled Oye. “The best part of what you want to do. It will be much more my experience was the medical outreaches in worth it to do what you love and love what which I partook. I met so many children who you do.” were suffering from poverty and got to help treat their wounds and ring worm cases. I
12 SUNDIAL WINTER/SPRING 2015 Aaron Piot
“People everywhere need to know how great this college is. When they see how great the faculty are and how great this school is, they will want to come to Wesleyan. This is the place.”
“I came to Wesleyan because of Dr. James Orchestra (MACJO). He submitted a two- Moore,” said senior music education major minute video playing trumpet, and he was Aaron Piot of Charleroi, PA. “He helped selected to perform jazz at the Lincoln Center start a jazz ensemble at my high school. He and Dizzy’s Club Coca-Cola. became a mentor and gave trumpet lessons. “The best musicians and music students on “Then a closeness with other music faculty the east coast rehearsed for a couple of hours developed. You get so close with them. on a Sunday,” Piot shared. “Then we played Dr. Melody Meadows. Dr. Dan Hughes. two sets on Monday. It was such a good Students go to their homes to have dinner. networking opportunity to meet others who They know you personally, and they go the are musically talented. extra mile.” “I have great friends now living across the This close relationship with faculty is a country and in Italy.” highlight for Aaron and resulted in his being Now preparing for graduate school to earn a encouraged to apply for an international master’s degree in jazz studies, Aaron says he travel scholarship. has always known he wanted to pursue music “Dr. Meadows suggested that I apply for the education. Bly Family Scholarship for International “My elementary band director instilled the Studies,” Piot continued. “I also applied love of music in me,” said Piot. “I want to for the Benjamin Gilman Scholarship and focus on elementary education and work to realized that, with both scholarships, I keep music in the schools. Elementary-aged actually could spend the summer in Italy.” kids learn and experience so much more than Aaron spent six weeks in Italy visiting tourist music when in music class.” attractions, taking classes and playing jazz. While at Wesleyan, Piot has taken part in “I wanted to immerse myself in classical Concert Band, Jazz Ensemble, intramural music,” recalled Piot. “My focus has always basketball, LEAP leadership sessions, and been on jazz, and I know you need other Concert Chorale. experiences and expertise. I was able to not “People everywhere need to know how great only play some jazz in Italy, but also perform this college is,” noted Piot. “When they see with the orchestra of an opera in an old how great the faculty are, they will want to historic church. The courses I took exposed come to Wesleyan. This is the place. me to architecture, cooking, and the Italian Renaissance. “Students should not be afraid to contact faculty members and other students to ask “My favorite experience was traveling to the questions. Reach out to them. They are Amalfi Coast. Seeing the crystal blue water happy to answer your questions to make sure was amazing.” you have the information you need to truly Aaron also traveled to New York City recently have a great experience here.” as part of the Mid-Atlantic Collegiate Jazz
www.wvwc.edu | WINTER/SPRING 2015 SUNDIAL 13 Colin Winkie
“You get to know everyone on campus, and professors know who you are. As Student Senate president, I had the ability to attend Board of Trustee meetings and vote on matters as a representative of the student body. Not a lot of schools do that.”
“I was impressed with the new David E. “The time I spent in Eastern Europe sparked Reemsnyder Research Center science my interest in going to Bulgaria. It is the building, so I chose West Virginia Wesleyan gateway to Europe with tons of history, and College,” said senior Colin Winkie from yet it is also a developing country. Bridgeport, WV. “I did not want a big school “One day, I would like to take part in ‘Doctors with big classes. I have always liked being without Borders,’ which would combine my able to talk with professors one-on-one. interests of medicine and travel. I recognize They are very willing to help. that you cannot force Western medicine onto “College is not as scary as everyone portrays others from different cultures. The human it to be. You figure it out, and you grow.” body may not change from culture to culture, Winkie recently concluded his term as but it is important to respect traditions, president of Student Senate. He is now beliefs, and customs.” reflecting on his time at WVWC and looking In preparation for medical school, Colin forward to what the future holds. He will completed an internship and additional soon complete his degree which includes a research. biochemistry major with minors in biology, psychology and Honors. “Between my sophomore and junior years at Wesleyan, I participated in an INBRE (Idea “I have applied for the Fulbright Scholarship and am waiting to hear if I make it to the next Network of Biomedical Research Excellence) round. I would like to go to Bulgaria,” he internship where we focused on nanoparticle said. “Either way, I know I will go to medical technology for drug delivery. We wanted to school at some point in the future and become see if we could target specific cells to make a surgeon.” drugs more effective,” shared Winkie. “At Wesleyan, I worked with Dr. Bruce Anthony During the summer of 2014, Colin participated on researching the effect alcohol exposure in the “Semester at Sea” program, traveling to has on cells.” Dr. Anthony is the assistant Russia, Estonia, Poland, Sweden, Norway, and professor of chemistry. Finland. He also spent time in England, Spain and Ireland. When Colin graduates in May, he will be “The trip was awesome,” commented one of the first two individuals to receive a Winkie. “Our professors came from all over biochemistry degree. The program began the country, and we took difficult classes. two years ago. My classes were mostly in psychology, and I “There are many parts of Wesleyan that really enjoyed cross-cultural psychology and are unique,” added Winkie. “You get to learning about the challenges of sustainable know everyone on campus, and professors lifestyles. know who you are. As Student Senate “I am thankful for the scholarships that president, I had the ability to attend Board allowed me to participate in this program, of Trustee meetings and vote on matters as a and especially the one from Dr. E. Maxine representative of the student body. Not a lot Moose Bruhns (’45, Hon. ’07). of schools do that.”
14 SUNDIAL WINTER/SPRING 2015 You’re Invited! HOMECOMING 2015 October 15, 16, 17, & 18
Come home to West Virginia From Founders Day Convocation and the Special reunion events are Wesleyan College for Homecoming Banquet to golf, reunions, Homecoming 2015 when we tailgates and Chapel – planned for the Classes of ‘45, honor our Alma mater and all alumni ‘50, ‘55, ‘60, ‘65, ‘70, ‘75, ‘80, with a weekend dedicated to traditions, there is something for tributes, and transformations. everyone! ‘85, ‘90, ‘95, ‘00, ‘05, and ‘10.
2009 Left to right Row 1: Jill A. Okes, Josh Dilly, Sarah Wilt, Liz Short, Meghan Frum, Cassie Lemon
2004 Left to right Row 1: Matt Sponaugle, Pamela Erb Kesling, Matthew Brothers- McGrew, Stephen Brothers-McGrew, Brandon E. Starkey, Kimberly Druschel Aurelio, Nicole Mutafis Moravy, Katie Bellentine Heisler Row 2: Brandi Slider Weekley, Curtis Harris, Vera Pawlowski Kucharski, Geib Waltz, Chris Blackburn, Virginia Gum Hamisevicz, Nicholas Hamisevicz, Shawn Amory, Scott Green, Craig Moravy, Julia Kisner
www.wvwc.edu | WINTER/SPRING 2015 SUNDIAL 15 1999 Left to right Row 1: Shad Wachter, Rachel Bell Painter, Sherri Baierl, Kristi Lawrence Wilkerson, Vicki Griffith Porter, Courtney Sill Courtemanche, Daniel Bushey, Lindsay Silcott Fowkes, Aubryn Falk George, Samantha Stokes, Melissa “Missy” Lauber, Angel Williamson Riley Row 2: LauraMay Sorkin, Maryanne Warneke Dunlap, Scott Harris, Curtis Wilkerson, Jonathan Andrew, Barry George, Chett Prichett, Natalie Green Holcomb, Amy Hansen Shultz, Janelle Willey Moffett, Allason Gates
1994 Left to right Row 1: Jerry Donahue, Kristi Rightsell Donahue, Carolyn King-Layden, Kristen Wellmon Jawad, Liz Sechler, Melinda Lapan, Alison Haupt Bushman Row 2: Kristi Currence Deil, Nicole Graebner, Lori Carter Rocker, Melissa Lazzari McDonald, Stephanie Longo, Rob Adams
1984 1989 Left to right Jay Van Reenen, Row 1: Candy McClellan Hug, Michael Lisa Reinicker Kennedy, Karen Sue MarryAnn Vrieswijk Croyle, Lexana Vrieswijk, Margaret “Meg” Dunham, Dixie Jean Helmick McCormick, Annette Fetty Santilli, Kathryn Heft Holland, Jacqueline McDaniels, Leslie Jones Helfgott, Ellen Wyckoff Bruny, Lee Ann Patton Row 2: Sandra MacGregor Zuffelato, Scott E. Zuffelato, Sarah Lowther Hensley, Lisa Thompson Weaver, Jeffrey M. Rabatin, Scott H. Strickler, David E. Blake, Claudia Rohardt, Karil Herd Ellinger, Karen Bourner Gibbons, Kevin W. Bruny, Thomas M. Smith
16 SUNDIAL WINTER/SPRING 2015 1979 Left to right Row 1: Elizabeth “Libby” Stealy Summers, Martha Brown Randolph, Lynelle Lewis Zickefoose, James D. Mizell, Cheryl Holloway Powell, Kimberly Smith Wriston, Caroline H. Rapking, Jane Squires Skinner, Jennifer Kiser Sisson, Cheryl Isner Olcott Row 2: Jan Lanier Pickering, Denise McDaniel Harper, Glenn W. Rosenberger, Margo Friend, Ronald D. Metz, Gregory A. Wriston, Angela Gay Kinkead, James P. “Gus” Godsey, David R. Kolakowski, P. Van Nickell, Richard L. Olcott
1974 Left to right Row 1: Samuel C. Woods III, Thomas L. Rosa, Charles E. Elkins II Row 2: Iva Seibert Keller, Janice Beall, Stephanie Walsh, Debra Lenhart Green, Martha Ellison, Susan Harrison Dixon, Benedict Tantillo III, Cheryl Smith Hay, William R. Stone, Nancy Wolfe-Dilgard, Kenneth H. Rose, James E. Seidel Row 3: Jay P. Cook, Susan Victor Danford, Jayne Chamberlain Kalp, Barbara McIntyre Rinaldo, Barbara Edelman Francis, Janet Smith Blunt, James A. Eberly, John M. Walsh, William M. Harper, R. Bruce Gerwig, Mary Becker Mason, Martha “Marty” Edwards Harrison, William P. Kohler III, James M. Reneau Row 4: William P. Kirner, Theodore “Ted” C. Anderson, William C. Francis, John C. Dixon, Gerald “Jerry” L. Wolfgang
www.wvwc.edu | WINTER/SPRING 2015 SUNDIAL 17 1969 Left to right Row 1: Christine Rapking Cox, Karen Demshaw DiPietro, Lauri-ann Frueh Cardinali, Rose Marie “Rie” Wilson, Nancy Chomicz, Vicki Thorn Bossow, Cheri Ellis Green, Kathleen “Kay” Beardsley Collinson, Margaret Shepherd Collinson, Margaret Fehrman Thornton, Lois Inzetta Jones Row 2: Diane “Danni” Daniell Allman, Triana Rapking Bruso, Carolyn Reneau Shepler, Martha Roberts Hartley, Charles “Bud” U. Starkey, Nancy Williams Coonts, Jack A. Owen, Judith E. Putnam Row 3: Robert L. Allman II, David J. Feola, Sr., Robert A. Titchenal, Gerald E. Dotson, Stephen W. Terry, David E. Reemsnyder II, John “Jack” E. Reger
1959
Calvin McCutcheon, Gail Nelson Bergdoll, Margaret Ireland Walls, Douglas S. Miller, Betty Kay Hanifan McClellan, Ronald M. McCauley, Nancy Jo Funk Pepper, John R. Campbell
1954
Clinton D. Spiegel, Ernestine Cutright Horstman, Arthur W. Swarthout
18 SUNDIAL WINTER/SPRING 2015 Bobcat Sports News Academics & Athletics Form A Symbiotic Relationship
The term student-athlete couldn’t be any more inter- twined with a college or university than it is at West Virginia Wesleyan College. With nearly 40% of students who attend Wesleyan par- ticipating in NCAA Division II athletics, academics and athletics have formed a symbiotic relationship. Athletics help enrollment numbers for the College and provides a platform for public recognition with print and televised media. Photo courtesy Duane C ar p enter, SI D. Student-athletes can receive scholarship funding from the college which may be their one chance at attending Amanda Forest #18 during her play in the second round of the NCAA a college along with exposure and experiences that are Tournament against East Stroudsburg at ESU. unlike any other. It has been a solid relationship both on and off the field. motivation and pull me to my feet when I Student-athletes endure two-a-day practices, start feel like I cannot stand. They are my life- their days sometimes at 6:30 a.m. for a practice and get home in the wee hours of the morning after a long bus line and my anchor at school, and without ride back from a competition. them, I wouldn’t be the person I am today. But the benefits of being a student-athlete at West Vir- I wouldn’t have enjoyed Wesleyan nearly as ginia Wesleyan are immeasurable. much as I have. It has been a journey and Participating in Wesleyan athletics provides opportuni- definitely a learning experience. Being a ties to learn, compete, and succeed. The advantages of member of a team provides challenges to competing are both immediate and lifelong. you in ways you never imagined and molds Student-athletes as a group graduate at higher rates you into the person you become.” than their peers in the general student body and feel better prepared for life after college. Forest was honored by the Alpha Lambda Delta society as an Outstanding Academic Freshman. She has also been named to the Dean’s List (3.5 GPA or above) for several semesters at Wesleyan. The West Virginia Wesleyan women’s soccer team experienced unparalleled success during the 2014 season, advancing to the “I work very hard to manage my time with Sweet 16 of the NCAA Division II tournament and finishing 20th sports and academics,” she stated. “It in the final women’s soccer season poll. really is a juggling act. I complete a lot One of the stalwarts on that team was senior defender of assignments on the long bus rides to Amanda Forest from Mississauga, Ontario, Canada. away games, or struggle with hotel Wifi. There will be some late nights and early Forest is working toward a Bachelor of Arts degree, with an English-writing concentration. She is also pursuing two minors, mornings but it is all worth the sacrifice one in theatre and one in gender studies. when you get to step on that field with your best friends. These are the people that have For the Canadian all-star, athletics has provided a second family. your back for the last four years and have “Participating in a sports team at Wesleyan been there for every struggle, every drop of has given me so many things,” remarked sweat, every 6 a.m. punishment run, every Forest. “Most importantly, it has given me ice bath, and fitness session, every injury, a second family, my wonderful and irre- bruise, turf burn, and rainy practice. You placeable teammates on the Lady Bobcat make it work, for them and for yourself soccer team. They push me when I need because the game is worth all that.”
www.wvwc.edu | WINTER/SPRING 2015 SUNDIAL 19 Bobcat Sports News
Nate Edwards, a 2012 Wesleyan graduate who is currently Edwards was an academic All-American in 2011 for cross a graduate student working on his Master’s in Education at country and was on the Dean’s List his senior year. Wesleyan, excelled in distance running as a member of the cross country and track and field teams. “Being a team leader for the 2009-2011 cross country teams and 2011-2012 track Edwards, from Urichsville, OH, was part of six West Virginia Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (WVIAC) Championship teams also helped me grow as a person. I teams. He was the WVIAC champion in the 10,000 meters had a great deal of teammates who looked and was runner-up three years in the WVIAC Cross Country up to me and leaned on me for support. It championships. was wonderful working with other Wesley- an greats like Eric Cooper, Grant Burton, “The track and cross country programs Ricky Kump, Kevoy Douglas, John Natow, were my second family,” Edwards re- Barry Franklin, Skyler McCoy, Cuylor marked. “I made some of my best friends Edgell, Stephon Knox, and Eric Myers. If it during the four years I spent at Wesleyan. was not for all of them, winning four team Having a head coach (Jesse Skiles) who track championships would have been instills hard work and dedication to aca- nearly impossible.” demics, and athletics helped mold me into the person I am today. I learned how to For track and field junior runner Ali Johnson, competing in balance academics, practice/meets, and a athletics at Wesleyan has helped her become a focused and social life all at the same time.” driven athlete.
Johnson, from St. Mary’s, WV, is working toward a biology major and a chemistry major. Part of a relay foursome, they hold the indoor record in the Distance Medley Relay.
“My involvement in sports has enhanced my Wesleyan experience exponentially,” Johnson said. “Not only was I able to con- tinue my athletic career and make new friends along the way, but I also attained various skills that will be used throughout my lifetime. The leadership, teamwork, and time management required of a stu- dent-athlete is incredibly demanding and it, along with the push from the track and field coaches, has helped develop me into a more diverse and determined scholar and athlete.”
Johnson has achieved the Dean’s List three semesters. She is a member of Catholic Campus Ministries, Society of Health Professions, Alpha Lambda Delta Honor Society, National Society of Leadership and Success, Alpha Phi Omega Service Fraternity, and Beta Beta Beta Honor Society.
By competing in college sports, student-athletes learn important skills, such as leadership, time management, and how to effectively work with others toward a common goal, but it’s simply the human element that makes playing sports at Wesleyan so important.
The friendships that are made, the memories that last a life time, and the family atmosphere that develop while being a Bobcat or Lady Bobcat is at the heart of what being a student- athlete means at West Virginia Wesleyan College. ☼
20 SUNDIAL WINTER/SPRING 2015 on sale Our Home NOW! Among the Hills West Virginia Wesleyan College’s First 125 Years
There has not been a history of WVWC written and published since Kenneth Plummer’s A History of West Virginia Wesleyan College 1890-1965. Much has happened in the last 50 years, and this new coffee table-type book details the entire 125 years noting major events and people of Wesleyan. Available Now • Alumni and friends may pick up the book on-campus, or it can be shipped to you • $40 per copy plus 6% sales tax ($2.40) • $5 for shipping and handling, or save this cost by picking up your copy
About the Book:
When the West Virginia Conference and nurtured by an environment at Wesleyan Seminary was founded by the Methodist that values and emphasizes academic rigor, Episcopal Church in 1890, it consisted of a diversity, responsible self-discovery, life-long single building in the middle of a farm field, learning, and meaningful service. a faculty of five, and a vision of educational excellence in West Virginia. Throughout Our Home Among the Hills not only revisits Wesleyan’s first 125 years, the student body Wesleyan’s early years as told through two has grown dramatically, new academic and previous published histories by Thomas co-curricular programs have been added, and Haught (Sem. 1894; Hon. 1916) in 1940 and the forty-three acre campus has seen itself Kenneth Plummer in 1965, but expands the transformed into one of the most beautiful story to include present developments and in the region. The heart of West Virginia new historical perspectives. In addition, Wesleyan College remains its founders’ the text draws upon a rich body of archival vision of providing a quality education vitally images to enrich the narrative and connect rooted in the liberal arts. Thousands of readers with times, places, and people they students have been positively challenged may never have known or experienced.
Quantities are limited – reserve your copy today!
About the Please clip and return by mail. Author: q Yes, I want a copy of the new history book! Payment Options: Brett T. Miller, a na- Name ______Graduation year______q Enclosed is my check* tive of Lancaster, (if applicable) PA, graduated from q Please charge my credit card: West Virginia Wes- Address ______q Visa q MasterCard leyan College in ______q American Express q Discover 2006 and also holds a Master in Library and Information Sci- Phone______Email______ence, and currently serves as Archivist, Card Number______Coordinator of Records Management, and Expiration Date______Security Code______Number of copies ______X $40.00 =______Music Librarian. He has worked to estab- 6% sales tax, number of copies ______X $2.40 =______+ lish an official archives at Wesleyan and Tax Signature of Cardholder to collect, preserve, organize, and make Please check as appropriate: accessible the historical records of the q On-campus pick-up during Homecoming FREE ______
College. He also works as the part-time q Ship to the above address at $5 per copy *Make checks payable to West Virginia Wesleyan College Number of copies ______X $5 = ______+ archivist of the West Virginia Annual Con- Shipping/Handling ference of the United Methodist Church MAIL COMPLETED FORM TO: and is an occasional volunteer at the Erickson Alumni Center = m 59 College Avenue Upshur County Historical Society. Grand Totalwww.wvwc.edu $ ______| WINTER/SPRINGBuc 2015khannon, SUNDIAL WV 26201 21 Alumni News & Class Notes
1945 1959 1961 1965 Homecoming 2015 Reunion W. CALVIN MCCUTCHEON, Emeritus Club members ROBERT Homecoming 2015 Reunion Buckhannon, WV, started shear- H. LANG and BETTY LEE LANG ing sheep long ago as a young WILLIAM M. MONNIE of man, and, at 77 years of age, Bedford, NH recently published 19 sheared sheep number 100,000 an historical memoir book titled 50 at the 2014 West Virginia State The Lake Effect: The 1960’ Civil Homecoming 2015 Reunion Fair. A long-time competitor in Rights Movement and the Viet- the fair shearing contest, he had nam Conflict Tested the Common a large crowd on hand to watch Core Values of Two Brothers by him set a mark that may never be Terry and Bill Monnie. surpassed. Around 1980, he set 19 the West Virginia state record for celebrated their 50th wedding 57 a 10-hour day with 335 sheep. anniversary at a party given by MAX P. MULLER, JR., Elligay, their three children on February 19 GA, was recently honored to 17, 2014, and during a Baltic Sea 67 have one of his watercolor Cruise in August of 2014. paintings chosen to hang in the EDWARD S. BAKER, Ridgely, MD, retired from Chesapeake Georgia State House in Atlanta. GRETCHEN E. OTTO retired in College on June 30, 2014. He The painting was delivered to the 2001 and returned to her home- served the institution for 43 Capital on August 5, and Gov. town of Marietta, OH after 40 years as a coach, administrator, Deal and Mrs. Deal greeted Max years. She worked for 30 years and Professor of Kinesiology and and thanked him for his participa- as a Rehabilitation Specialist at Wellness, teaching over 12,000 tion. Sheppard Pratt Hospital, Towson, students. He was honored by MD. With declining health, the president to deliver the 2014 she spent the last 10 years as commencement address to the a Concierge for Marriott Hotels graduates, which can be seen and their Management Services on YouTube. He was elected by as Evening Operations Manager 19 a unanimous faculty vote to the at USF&G Conference Center & 60 distinguished honor of Professor Guest Rooms also in Baltimore, Homecoming 2015 Reunion Emeritus. MD.
Emeritus Club 2015 Spring and Summer Luncheons and Programs
G. Albert Popson, Jr., Ph.D. James H. Moore, Ph.D., Professor of Physics and Engineering and Associate Professor of Music, Department Chair and Department Chair Director of Jazz Ensembles MAY 8 Friday, May 8 in the JULY 16 Thursday, July 16 in the French A. See Dining French A. See Dining Center, Center, Rooms ABC. Rooms ABC.
Brett T. Miller, M.L.I.S. R. Daniel Hughes, D.M.A., Archivist, Coordinator of Records Management, Associate Professor of Music and Director of Choirs Music Librarian and author of AUG 13 Thursday, August 13 in the -Our Home Among the Hills, the 125–year history of West Virginia Wesleyan College. Greek Alumni Room in the JUNE 18 Thursday, June 18 in the Virginia Thomas Law Center Greek Alumni Room in the for the Performing Arts. Virginia Thomas Law Center for the Performing Arts.
22 SUNDIAL WINTER/SPRING 2015 Alumni News & Class Notes
JANE COOPER SAPONE and CAROLYN MARTIN LIGHT, 19 husband DAVID S. SAPONE Clarksburg, WV, has won the 19 69 were joined by friends in celebrat- grand prize of the 2014 Sargent 81 BONNIE MARINO BAKER, ing their son’s wedding. Alumni Art Brighter World Teachers’ Pickwick Publications has Ridgely, MD, retired from Caro- attending were members of ADPi Online Art Contest, a prestigious recently released JANE ELLEN line County Public Schools after and Chi Phi. They all married at national award, for her watercolor NICKELL’S new book, We Shall serving the students, faculty the same time and reside in the painting. She is a 10-year Lincoln Not Be Moved: Methodists De- and staff of Ridgely Elementary Pittsburgh area. They are lifelong High School art teacher. Light, bate Race, Gender, and Homo- School for 32 years as a Media friends thanks to Wesleyan. Left who was an art major in college sexuality. Specialist. Her love and passion to right are: JOHN F. THOMP- and a long-time member of the for dogs led her to become a SON, JR. ’77; KIMBERLY MUR- West Virginia Watercolor Society, certified dog trainer and evalua- RAY THOMPSON ’78; DANIEL submitted five paintings. She and tor. On July 1, 2014 she opened J. MANCOSH ’76; LINDA husband RANDALL C. LIGHT received an all-expense-paid trip 19 her new business, “Best Friends VIORAL MANCOSH ’76; JANE 83 COOPER SAPONE ’77; DAVID S. to New York. K9 Academy,” in Easton, MD. JAMES W. STRAWN, Charles- SAPONE ’77; ELLEN HOFFMAN Bonnie loves sharing the sense ton, WV, was recently recognized WORTHY ’78; and DWIGHT T. of excitement and accomplish- for his contributions to West WORTHY II ’76. ment with others as they bond 19 Virginia. He is a national recipient with their dogs. 80 of the Jefferson Award for Public Homecoming 2015 Reunion Service, the premier public ser- vice award in the United States that is often referred to as the SUSAN WILCOX ELLISON “Nobel Prize of volunteering.” 19 completed her MA in Communi- He has devoted hours, years, 70 cation degree with a concentra- and months of his life to ensuring Homecoming 2015 Reunion tion in Education. She received that non-profit organizations in her diploma from Spring Arbor West Virginia continue to thrive. JON C. GULNAC and A. University Online in January His wide-ranging involvement in CHARLES MOYER II met up 2015. Susan is a SPOKES Instruc- organizations supporting children, in Phoenix in June 2014 before tor with West Virginia Adult Basic hospitals, and art demonstrates Jon and wife Jill headed out on Education at RESA 5. She and his commitment to the universal a Grand Circle Tour through the 19 husband Terry reside in Parkers- 78 well-being of all our residents. Grand Canyon, Lake Powell, Zion burg, WV and have six grown RICHARD K. DEQUASIE was ap- Canyon and Bryce Canyon. Jon children and seven grandchildren. pointed by Bishop Sandra Steiner is a retired UM Minister recently Susan is still involved in music Ball as the Mon Valley District called back to serving the Church. ministry with the Adult Choir Superintendent in the WV Annual 19 Chuck has resided in Arizona for and the Handbell Choir at their Conference of the United Meth- 85 over 40 years. They were room- church. odist Church in June 2014. Homecoming 2015 Reunion mates and fraternity brothers at Wesleyan. DENISE “DEE” HUGHES, Winsted, CT, shared a photo of 19 a gathering of Greek alumni at 19 79 O’Lordans Irish Pub in Westmin- 90 JAMES P. GODSEY, Virginia ster, MD. In the photo are:(sitting) Homecoming 2015 Reunion Beach, VA, has just completed KRISTI KIRCHNER MERRITT his first children’s book, How ’82, KAREN LANNIN DULANEY Scooter Gets His Tail Back. This ’81. (standing) DEE HUGHES, enchanting tale is about a lizard DONNA YOUNG THOMAS ’82, 19 MARIANNE ARROYO PERRY ’82. 91 named Scooter, his forest friends, (back) GEORGE E. PERRY ’82. and how a lovely day in the park SANDRA CAPP BICHSEL and was turned upside down. It has SUSAN GOTHARD DAVIS spent 19 strong anti-bullying message and a few hours reminiscing and 75 is available at retailers now. catching up in Apex, NC. Both Homecoming 2015 Reunion played on the volleyball team from 1987-1991.
1977 JANET HURST ALLIO, Elkview, WV, has been honored as the WV School Nurse of the Year.
www.wvwc.edu | WINTER/SPRING 2015 SUNDIAL 23 KATIE BOWLES MILLER From Bonner to Bar Exam
Katie Bowles Miller ’03 has been After a five-year career at Hatcher, Katie and Chris opened on a career trajectory that has taken Miller Bowles Law, PLLC, a full-service family law firm in her to the top, and quick. In only Charlotte, NC. the nine years after graduating “Family law is the only kind of law I have ever practiced,” from West Virginia Wesleyan Katie said. “I did not graduate thinking I wanted to be a College, she became a Board Certified Specialist in Family Law family law attorney. When I was studying for the bar exam, and the proprietor of her own law the materials and family law cases I read seemed like a firm, Miller Bowles Law, PLLC. natural fit.” Along with husband Chris, Katie Within her scope of work, Katie still finds reasons to be opened the firm in 2012, and it has thankful for her Wesleyan education. been growing ever since. “Our firm does a lot of work with Safe Alliance in Charlotte, While a student at Wesleyan, the and they help women who are victims of domestic violence St. Albans, WV native studied obtain restraining orders against their abusers,” Katie public relations and business commented. “We work pro bono for them and are really able administration. She was also a to help the women. It feels good because it ties my time member of Lambda Pi Eta, the at Wesleyan in the Bonner Scholar program with my legal communication honor society, and career.” traveled to New York for the Eastern Communication Conference. She Katie attributes some of her success to three instructors: Dr. took advantage of May Term Long, Dr. Danette Ifert Johnson ’90, former communication travel and spent time in London professor, and Kristi Lawrence Wilkerson ’99, former with Dr. Kay Long, professor of communication instructor and director of alumni relations. communication, Emerita, and “These women helped me find my way through the public former Wesleyan President Bill relations major, helping me focus on key points and public “Keep an open mind because you never know what opportunities speaking,” she said. “I never saw myself as a public speaker, but now I do it every will present themselves. Do not go down a certain path or choose day in court. I learned so much from these a certain major or career because that is what others expect of educators, and it has translated into my you. Public relations spoke to me. Find something that you are workforce.” genuinely interested in and strive to do it well.” Even with her booming law practice, Katie still finds time to contribute to her alma mater. In 2014, she joined the Alumni Council. Haden’s wife, the late Betsy Flanagan. Katie and the group also spent a week in Oxford touring the university. “The time I spent at Wesleyan was obviously a really “I had the most amazing experiences during that trip,” she important time in my life,” Katie stated. “I felt like it was said. “That was a highlight of my Wesleyan career.” important to give back on some level. As Alumni Council, we are able to speak with the administrators at the College However, the Bonner Scholars program was what made the and continue to be involved with the College’s mission. It most impact in her life. is great to know that Wesleyan is still catering to students in “The majority of my time outside of class was spent working such a positive way. It is important for me that the legacy is through the Bonner Scholars program,” Katie stated. “I ran maintained.” a third- and fourth-grade basketball program. That program changed my life.” As for students who are searching for their own career path, Katie offers these words of advice: After graduating from Wesleyan, Katie began law school at the University of South Carolina. It was here she would “Keep an open mind because you never know what meet her future husband and business partner, Chris. After opportunities will present themselves. Do not go down graduating from law school, Katie worked for a company a certain path or choose a certain major or career because doing contract work until she successfully completed her bar that is what others expect of you. Public relations spoke to exam in 2007. It was then she began working as an attorney me. Find something that you are genuinely interested in and at Hatcher Law Group. strive to do it well.” ☼
24 SUNDIAL WINTER/SPRING 2015 Alumni News & Class Notes
1992 2000 2005 WILLIAM K. LEPP, Charleston, Homecoming 2015 Reunion Homecoming 2015 Reunion WV, was named the winner of the PEN/Steven Kroll Award for Married: CHAD Born: To ASHLEY ELKINS Picture Book Writing for his book A. BURDETTE LINVILLE, MBA and JASON The King of Little Things. to Corinne LINVILLE ’03, son William James Figel June 14, Linville on February 10, 2014. 2014. They William is the first grandson of currently live WILLIAM G. ELKINS ’75 and the 19 in Albany, NY, second great grandson of the late 95 where Chad CHARLES E. ELKINS ’54. Homecoming 2015 Reunion works for the New York State CHARITY METZ SCHULLER and Office of Peo- BETSY MEREDITH ELSWICK ’97 ple with Developmental Disabilities and writes for the Albany Times were inducted into the Inaugural Union Comics WebBlog, and Corinne works for St. Peter’s Hospital. Hall of Fame during West Virginia Alumni in attendance, Best Men: CRAIG H. GUIDO and DAVID M. University’s School of Pharmacy’s SCOVILLE. Others: ALLISON QUINN GUIDO ’02, CHRISTOPHER centennial celebration. Dr. K. LONG, and KATHRYN REIMER. Schuller is Director of Regulatory Affairs at Pharmaceutical Product Development, LP in Morrisville, 20 20 NC, while Dr. Elswick is Clinical 01 04 Married: DANIELLE BLONAR Associate Professor at WVU’s Born: To AIMEE YINGLING Married: LINDSEY GRAHAM RAYMAN to Matthew Rayman. School of Pharmacy. CISZEK and husband, JOHN GUINN to Scott Guinn. The The couple was married on E. CISZEK III ’99, son Marek couple was married on July 12, Saturday, October 18, 2014 at Edward Ciszek on May 22, 2014 at the WVU Erickson Alum- the Rolling Hills Country Club in 2014. John, Aimee and Marek ni Center in Morgantown, WV. McMurray, PA. In the photo are reside in Columbus, OH. Marek’s Alumni who participated were: alums JEREMIAH S. JONES and grandparents, who also attended ADENA D. BARNETTE ’03, CHRISTINA HART HILDRETH ’03. Wesleyan, are MARTHA A. EL- BRETT T. MILLER ’06, CEASON LISON ’74 and the late JEFFREY E. RANSON ’04, and CHETT A. YINGLING ’75. PRITCHETT ’99, who officiated with Bishop Sharon Z. Rader.
1996 WILLIAM J. MCKENNA, Hern- don, VA, started a podcast on Born: To RAYMOND K. LAMO- June 2, 2014 called “Not Another RA III MBA and wife Kathleen Podcast?” He recently inter- LaMora, son Logan Kenney viewed WVU Hall of Famer and 20 LaMora on October 6, 2014. former Wesleyan Coach BRIAN 02 J. JOZWIAK ’91. Born: To DANIELLE PUTZ LINDSeY GRAHAM GUINN, CLOUSE and husband Brian along with Pritchett ’99, and Born: To ROBERT C. MILLWA- Clouse, daughter Lilian Ranae Barnette ’03, joined Presi- HONOR ROLL TER and wife Dottie Campbell Clouse (Lily) on May 19, 2014. Millwater, daughter Eleanor Ann dent Pamela Balch ’71 for a CORRECTIONS Millwater on July 23, 2014. “selfie” at Homecoming 2014. We apologize for inadver- tently marking Mrs. Beth Landin Slade deceased in the Friends section of the 2013-1014 Honor Roll of Donors and Annual Report.
www.wvwc.edu | WINTER/SPRING 2015 SUNDIAL 25 Alumni News & Class Notes
DAN T. DORSEY ’06, daughter 20 Ellen Dorsey on June 14, 2013. 20 06 Jordan is a Supervisory Contract 10 Married: HEATHER RHOADES Specialist with the Department Homecoming 2015 Reunion WILSON to Chris Wilson on July of the Navy, and Kristin teaches 5, 2014 at Seventh Street United eighth grade history for Chesa- 20 Methodist Church in Parkersburg, peake Public Schools. The family 11 WV. The couple resides in Belpre, resides in Virginia Beach, VA. Married: AMANDA LANHAM HOLBERT to KRISTIAN L. HOLBERT ’14 OH where she is working to start on December 13, 2014. a photography business. Back row: STEVEN M. WHITE ’13, ROBERT C. QUARLES ’12, 20 CHARLES J. KRAMER ’13, JOHN H. KRAMER ’13, DYLON J. SWAIN ’14, 09 JACQUELINE E. SPICER ’12, BRADLEY S. MCMILLION ’85 SARAH A. WILKINSON, Rich- 3rd row: MATTHEW J. MAYNARD ’13, KELLEY UNDERWOOD RE- mond, VA, is now the Marketing ESE ’08, Emily Haws, CHRISTOPHER J. REICH ’15, JILL A. OKES ’09, and Development Specialist at ALAINA HATMAKER SWAIN ’11, LEANDRA MCMILLION MORLAN Heart Havens, Inc., a United MEd. ’13, KRYSTAL MCMILLION LANHAM ’84. Methodist-affiliated nonprofit that runs group homes for adults with 2nd row: VALERIE A. HEDRICK ’11, Bethany Gardner, BRYSON E. intellectual disabilities. MORLAN ’10, BRIANNA J. HICKMAN ’11 Front row: Gretchen Moore, JOCELYN R. SPELLMAN ’11, Kathleen Born: To LAUREN BONE WOOD Burnard, AMANDA LANHAM HOLBERT ’11, and KRISTIAN L. HOL- and husband THOMAS A. BERT ’14. WOOD ’11, daughter Lydia Kath- ryn Wood, born on December 16.
2007 Born: To KRISTIN SIENKOWSKI DORSEY and husband JOR-
Share your news Your (career and address changes, promotions, awards, marriages, births, retirements, etc.) Classmates by sending the information to: Office of Alumni Relations 59 College Avenue Buckhannon, WV 26201 WANTto hear from or [email protected] Remember to include your name with maiden name (if applicable), class year, spouse’s name and class year (if applicable), mailing address, phone and email address. Include occupation/title and other business information, as appropriate. Photos should be high- resolution images. We apologize for any inconvenience, but we are unable to publish engagement announcements due to space limitations. SHARE YOUR NEWS YOU!
26 SUNDIAL WINTER/SPRING 2015 Alumni News & Class Notes
Married: EMMA ELKINS BENJAMIN W. HAMRICK, who Married: NATHANIEL S. LINGER and LORILYN BROWN LINGER ’14 REXROAD, MBA ’13 to RYAN completed his Master of Arts in on July 19th, 2014 in Buckhannon, WV. NICHOLAS T. CUTRIGHT ’14 20N. REXROAD ’12 , MBA ’14 on History from Duquesne Universi- and KAYLA LINGER ’15 were in the bridal party. Lorilyn is the daugh- September12 20, 2014 in Milton, ty in May 2014, is now employed ter of ROLAND M. BROWN III ’74 and Carolyn Brown. Nathaniel is PHILIPWV. The P. brideADAMS was, Oakland,escorted by by the International Junior Golf the son of MICHELLE HEAVNER LINGER ’84 and Darrell Linger. MD,her father, graduated CHARLES Wesleyan E. ELKINS with a Academy in Hilton Head, SC. B.S.II ’74 in. Wesleyan Biology. He alumni is continuing in the hiswedding education party at were: the University MEGAN ofELKINS Central HANNAH Florida, working ’08, LIND on- a Ph.D.SAY ELKINS in Biomedical ROTELLA Sciences. ’08, He 20 recentlyTRAVIS hadREXROAD the opportunity ’09, MARA to 13 workL. WRIGHT at the University’12, LANCE of E.Vienna HEIN - DAVID B. MOGLE II, Hermitage, inEN, Vienna, MBA Austria’14, DYLON at an J.interna SWAIN- PA, is working at First National tionally’14, and renowned JESSICA RNATRUMAN Biology ’15 . Bank of Pennsylvania in loan lab.Many other Wesleyan alumni operations since January of 2014 were in attendance. Emma after working with them as an in- KATHRYNworks as a MORGANProgram Specialist BILLUPS for, tern and over the summers since Huntington,the American WV, Lung was Association, recognized graduating high school. asand the Ryan Southern is a Case League Manager of Pro for- fessionalthe Boone Baseball’s and Lincoln 2014 Juvenile Woman ofDrug Excellence. Courts. They reside in St. Albans, WV. Coming June 15, 2015
Classes from the last 10 years battle it out for 24 hours to see MAISA SHIGEMATSU, Brazil, which class can illustrated a recently released children’s book titled The Adven- tures of the Pirate Captain of the Back the ’Cat Green Beard (Tordesilhinhas). It joined the fifth place of the best- with the most selling books in the bookstore, and ranked first in the children’s donors. category at Livraria Cultura. Can the ’Cat Count All information for Class Notes on You? was received by January 16, 2015. Watch for Details!
www.wvwc.edu | WINTER/SPRING 2015 SUNDIAL 27 Wesleyan’s UnassumingProfessor
ince beginning his career at the Col- The professor of English has seen first-hand lege in 1969 with his colleague, the how students have changed over the years late Dr. Irene McKinney, no profes- and has tried to adjust his teaching style to sor has enlightened more students keep them engaged. “Their access to tech- Sabout the value of the humanities, literature, nology has shortened their attention span,” and international culture than Bill. At the commented Bill. “I used to lecture 50 min- same time, he can be counted on to lead a utes, but that has changed. Professors today freshman seminar group every fall. His dedi- have to find ways to keep students interested, A dedicated cation to helping students find success is leg- and that keeps me on my toes. They push me endary among his faculty colleagues. and force me to remain creative and passion- teaching faculty “I hope my students have gained valuable ate about what I am teaching.” has always been insights regarding Homer’s Iliad and other While Bill loves teaching honors courses, he great literary classics,” he said. “I have pursued teaching as a career because of his the hallmark of strived to encourage students to attend theatre desire to transform mid-range students into productions, classical music concerts, dance life-long learners. “I still like the challenge the West Virginia concerts and visual arts exhibits with the ul- of helping students become engaged and ex- Wesleyan College timate goal of developing an appreciation for cited about humanities, the arts and interna- culture, the arts and life-long learning,” tional literature.” experience. In addition to teaching humanities, Bill has In his unassuming way, Bill plays down his also introduced thousands of students to lit- legacy at Wesleyan. However, his colleagues Perhaps no single erature from Africa, Asia, Russia, and the are quick to heap praise on his four-and-a- Middle East. “No one has worked harder to individual represents half decade career at the College. “Bill is internationalize Wesleyan’s curriculum than the complete professional,” said Dr. John Bill Mallory,” remarked Dr. Boyd Creasman, this tradition better Saunders, associate professor of English, vice president of academic affairs and profes- Emeritus. “He has posted office hours that than low-key sor of English. “His international literature he always keeps. He has lots of advisees with courses have contributed to our students’ de- Professor of English whom he spends a great amount of time, and velopment of global perspectives.” he is particularly patient and helpful to a stu- Dr. Bill Mallory. Bill has traveled with students to Ghana and dent who is struggling with his or her first and to other institutions to help students gain a subsequent semesters.” more global perspective. “I have always be- “Bill is always willing to step up when lieved international literature helps students needed,” added Dr. Creasman. “Whether it develop a context for understanding culture is taking on an additional course, working a and history,” he noted. “I have particularly registration day, or assisting the office of ad- enjoyed teaching these courses during the missions, his dedication to Wesleyan is stead- past few years to help students understand fast and strong.” the impact of such events as The Arab Spring ☼ upon the Middle East and Africa.”
28 SUNDIAL WINTER/SPRING 2015 In Memoriam
MARIE MANKIN ANDERSON ’34 of DOROTHY SNYDER BEVERAGE ’41 of many years, and she went back to work Appleton, WI, died January 2, 2005. Harrisonburg, VA, died January 18, 2015. as an RN at Pioneer Nursing Home for 17 She taught school for many years, begin- years. Her community involvement also MARTHA FOSTER MCCUSKEY ’36 of ning in Cass and retiring from Tygarts included Girl Scouts, Humane Society, Parkersburg, WV, died October 1, 2014. Valley High School in the early 1970s. A Habitat for Humanity, Meals on Wheels, She was involved in many organizations long-time resident of Valley Bend, she and Acts VI soup kitchen where she was including the Women’s Medical Auxiliary, was a member of the United Method- a stalwart worker since its beginning in Girl Scout troop leader, and St. Paul’s ist Church. She was also a member of 1986 until October 2014. She was also an United Methodist Women. She also par- the Order of the Eastern Star and of the active member of Community Presbyte- ticipated in all of her children’s activities, Daughters of the American Revolution and rian Church for 54 years. always putting her family first. served on the Board of Directors of the Elkins Rehabilitation and Care Center. JOHN J. HASSLER ’43 of Bonita Springs, JOHN WESLEY GWINN ’38 of Yorktown, FL, died January 17, 2015. VA, died October 3, 2014. He taught M. CONARD ST. CLAIR ’41 of Buckhan- school and coached high school football non, WV, died January 4, 2015. He was JOHN D. MARTIN ’43 of Clarksburg, WV, for three years and served as principal for the owner and operator of the Poling-St. died December 20, 2014. He enlisted in one year in Talcott, WV. He entered the Clair Funeral Home and was a Licensed the U.S Army Air Force and earned a den- U.S. Army Air Corps as a private in 1942. Funeral Director and Embalmer since tal degree on a military scholarship after Following OCS and air cadet training, he 1941. He was a member of the First graduating. In 1951, during the Korean became a Navigator on B-25s and flew 56 United Methodist Church of Buckhannon. War, he served at Patrick AFB in Florida combat missions in New Guinea, the Phil- He served in the U.S. Navy during WWII. and Eielson AFB near Fairbanks, AK, ippines, and Japan. He also served during He was also a member of the Franklin providing dental care to military person- the Korean conflict. Later in his military Lodge # 7 A.F. & A.M., Osiris Shriners, nel. After his military career, he returned career, he served as Director of Personnel 32nd Degree Mason and a member of to Clarksburg to practice general dentistry for the Army Air Force Exchange System. The Scottish Rite, Buckhannon Lions Club, for many years. Dr. Martin was a member He was a graduate of the Air War College Buckhannon VFW Post # 3663, Frank B. of the First United Methodist Church in and retired as a Colonel in July 1964. His Barlett Post # 7 American Legion, and The Clarksburg and the American and West numerous military decorations include Knights of Pythias. Virginia Dental Associations. the Legion of Merit, two Air Medals and the Air Force and Army Commendations ETTA RUTH HOSKINS WEIGL ’42 of BETTY HOFFMAN TABSCOTT ’43 of Medals. Oberlin, OH, died August 12, 2014. She Brigantine, NJ, died November 15, 2014. was editor of the employee magazine of She enjoyed music, playing games like JANICE GRAHAM HUTCHINSON ’39 of American Cyanamid Co. for three years. golf, bridge and especially “chase the Oakland, MD, died August 7, 2014. She She was an editor for the University ace.” She loved traveling to visit her taught the subjects of English, French of California alumni magazine and the friends and beloved family. and Social Studies while holding teaching school’s Agriculture Department. Her po- appointments at the Accident High School etry was published in several small press WILLIAM WAGGY, JR. ’43 of Vacaville, and Southern High School in Garrett Coun- journals and anthologies, and in the book CA, died December 22, 2014. He was ty. She was active in the Methodist Wom- Meltwater. She taught courses in modern drafted into the army in 1942 and sent to en organizations during the tenure of her poetry at Elderhostels and also at Kendal MIT to train in meteorology for the Army husband’s ministry. She was a long-time at Oberlin. Air Corps. He served in the South Pacific member and Sunday School Teacher at St. in New Guiana and the Philippines. He Paul’s in Oakland, serving on a number of MILDRED ROSENMERKEL BAILEY ’42 joined the West Virginia National Guard various committees and boards. She was of Knoxville, TN, died June 22, 2005. and led the weather detachment based at a member of the American Association of Charleston airport. He remained on active University Women, the Daughters of the MARILYN PRICE WILSON ’42 of Char- duty after the war in the U.S. Air Force, American Revolution, and Oak Camp 11 lotte, NC, died July 19, 2014. She worked serving in Hawaii, California, Vietnam, and Woodmen of the World. at the Maritime Commission and the Illinois during a 30-year career, retiring as a United Nations Relief and Rehabilitation Lieutenant Colonel in 1972. WILLIAM L. KIDDY ’40 of Jekyll Island, Administration while her husband served GA, died July 1, 2014. He worked at Union with the U.S. Army during WWII. She was MARGARET SHARPS SPRIGGS ’44 of Carbide Corporation in Clarksburg, WV for a member of the Order of the Eastern Carpendale, WV, died August 24, 2014. 42 years and retired in 1982. He served in Star and Junior League. She was the prize She taught home economics at Ridgely the U.S. Army in both the Philippines and chairman for the WV Golf Association. High School. She was a member of Cen- Japan. He was a member of the Jekyll tre Street United Methodist Church for Island Presbyterian Church and a 50-year ANNA L. BALLI ’43 of Pickens, WV, died more than 60 years and was the Sunday member of the Franklin Lodge AF&AM March 16, 2003. school superintendent for more than 40 Masonic #7. years, and belonged to United Method- EULA LOOMIS HICKOX ’42 of Brigham ist Women. She was also instrumental WILLIAM W. WILSON ’40 of Sarasota, City, UT, died November 3, 2014. She was in starting the Humpty-Dumpty Learning FL, died January 30, 2014. a Red Cross volunteer, working on blood- Center in Cumberland, MD. mobiles and blood pressure clinics for
www.wvwc.edu | WINTER/SPRING 2015 SUNDIAL 29 In Memoriam
LOUVADA J. ARMSTRONG ’47 of Mor- pastored Methodist Churches. She was a CHARLES R. SHAFFER ’50 of Buckhan- gantown, WV, died February 16, 2012. former member of the Woman’s Club at non, WV, died November 1, 2014. He Marlinton. served in the U.S. Navy during World War ROBERT O. FOERNSLER ’48 of Arnold, II. He was a member of the Sand Run MD, died October 7, 2014. He received WALLACE E. KNIGHT ’49 of Dinge, Baptist Church and the Franklin Lodge No. his pilot wings in June 1943 and was France, died September 25, 2014. At the 7 AF&AM. He was a retired math teacher assigned as a B-24 bomber pilot in the age of 18, he became a reconnaissance for the Upshur County Board of Education. European theater during World War scout in the Third Armored Division of the He served in the West Virginia House of II with the 455th Bomb Group, 741st U.S. Army, saw combat in Germany and Delegates for 18 consecutive years and Squadron, near Cerignola, Italy. He was was discharged as a Sergeant. He began also served on the Upshur County Com- awarded the Air Medal, with two Bronze his career as a reporter and business edi- mission. Oak Leaf Clusters; the European-African- tor for the Charleston Gazette newspaper, Middle Eastern Campaign Medal, with and subsequently had a long career in RICHARD L. SLACK ’50 of Point Pleas- one Silver Star; the World War II Victory public relations for Ashland Oil, Inc. After ant, WV, died December 11, 2014. He Medal; and, the Honorable Service Lapel retiring from Ashland Oil, he began his was certified by the American Board of Button. In 1945, he returned to New York final, most satisfying career as an associ- Surgery in 1961. In 1966, he was made and accepted a federal government job at ate professor of journalism at Marshall a Fellow in the American College of Sur- the Naval Applied Science Laboratory in University. geons. He had been a surgeon at Pleasant the Brooklyn Navy Yard. In March 1969, Valley Hospital and member of the Board he served an unusual civilian tour; he was MARY MELROSE PERRY COURTNEY of Trustees from January 1971 to January assigned to Ben Lisk, Vietnam in the Viet- ’50 of Pittsburgh, PA, died December 1982. He also served as physician director namese Laboratory Assistance Program. 21, 2014. She worked for West Penn of the Mason County Health Department. He served as project engineer to evaluate Power Co. demonstrating the new electric He practiced as an immediate care doctor a new high-velocity water jet proposed stoves to home makers. In 1969, Melrose at Appalachian Hospital, Raleigh Hospital, for installation aboard naval ships as river rejoined the workforce as a managing and the Jackie Withrow Wilson Hospital war weaponry. During his brief assign- dietician at the Paragon Cafeteria in the (formerly known as Pinecrest Hospital). ment there, he was wounded by 109mm Koppers Building, Pittsburgh, and later as He was a member of the Mason County enemy rocket fire on March 15, 1969, a clinical dietician at Washington Hospital Medical Society, West Virginia State Medi- and became one of the few civilians in Washington, PA. cal Association, and the American Medical awarded the Purple Heart. In addition, Association. He served his country in the he received the Department of the Navy WARREN L. GARNER ’50 of Midland, U.S. Navy. Superior Civilian Service Award. Returning MI, died September 30, 2014. He served to the States that same year, Bob joined with the U.S. Army during World War II as MILDRED HAYES TRUBAN ’50 of David Taylor Research Center (DTRC) in a PVT 1st Class, Service Company, 39th Woodstock, VA, died July 24, 2014. She Annapolis. He was a supervisory general Infantry. He was a long-time member of was active with her family, her husband’s engineer in the Materials Departments, First United Methodist Church, where veterinary practice, and state senate ac- Firefighting and Survivability Branch, until he were very involved with the Youth tivities, and her church, Woodstock United his retirement in 1985 after 38 years of Ministry. Methodist Church. She and her husband federal service. maintained Shenandoah Animal Hospital HARRY N. JOHNSON ’50 of Indepen- for more than 50 years. VIRGINIA MAE BODKIN KING ’48 of dence, MO, died December 1, 2014. From Grafton, WV, died December 17, 2014. August 1944 until June 1946, he proudly SHIRLEEN SATTERFIELD GARNER ’51 She was a member of the Trinity United served in the U.S. Navy, on a mine sweep- of Midland, MI, died November 12, 2012. Methodist Church, Trinity Choir, and the er, during World War II. He worked from She was a long-time member of the First United Methodist Women. She was 1951-1983 in the Detroit School Systems United Methodist Church where she volunteer and member of Grafton City in numerous positions, including physi- worked with middle school students in Hospital Auxiliary. cal education, driver’s education teacher the youth ministry at the church. She was and coach. He was a member and active a member of the Music Society at the VIRGINIA DEE SMITH MOSER ’48 of Priesthood member of the RLDS Church, Midland Center for the Arts. Montvale, VA, died August 21, 2013. She South Chrysler Restoration Branch. was a retired nurse, serving both as a WILLIAM R. GASTON ’51 of Anderson, trauma and home health nurse. She was MELBA SMITH LINGER ’50 of Bridge- SC, died October 15, 2014. During the a very talented musician and writer. port, WV, died January, 31, 2015. She Korean War, he served in the U.S. Army was a homemaker and a member of the Chemical Corps. He was later employed BERNARD L. CARDER ’49 of Baltimore, First United Methodist Church in Buck- by Owens Corning Fiberglass and was MD, died November 4, 2014. hannon. She was a former youth Sunday transferred to Anderson, SC, where he school teacher, a member of the Wesley lived for the remainder of his life. He LAURA WAKINS CRAWFORD ’49 of Bible Study Group at First UMC, and a retired after a long career in insurance and Elkins, WV, died January 10, 2015. She member of the Auxiliary to the Harrison financial planning. As former chairman of was a homemaker, and along with her County Medical Society. the Anderson County Election Commis- husband, lived in various communi- sion, he took an active role in politics. He ties throughout West Virginia where he previously served as deacon of the First
30 SUNDIAL WINTER/SPRING 2015 In Memoriam
Baptist Church of Anderson. He also was Orlo C. Strunk, Jr. ’53, Calabash, N.C., died September a member of the Unity Spiritual Center of 24, 2013. An author, psychologist, clergyman, and educator, Clemson/Anderson where he served on Dr. Strunk served as Professor of Psychology and Dean of the the board of trustees and as treasurer for College during a time of unprecedented growth at Wesleyan. many years. He believed “an integral function of the teacher in the Chris- tian academic community was to be a teacher in and out of ALBERT E. TOMER ’51 of Cincinnati, OH, the classroom. The close relationship, the personal encounter died June 20, 2014. He was a retired Unit- between members of the staff and the student body, gives ed Methodist minister serving churches substance to Christian concern for the individual, his/her prob- in England and Massachusetts before lems, abilities, and interests.” Kenneth M. Plummer, A History coming to West Ohio where he served at of West Virginia Wesleyan College 1890-1965. the following United Methodist Churches: Epworth (Kenton), Broadway (Toledo), In 1968, he was appointed professor of psychology and religion and pastoral psychol- Church of the Saviour (COS), Mason, and ogy at Boston University and as clinical supervision for the Danielson Institute. In 2009, Dr. Strunk received the Doctor of Divinity from Wesleyan. Clifton. Al was appointed district superin- tendent of the Cincinnati District in 1985 He graduated from Wesleyan in 1953 with a philosophy and biblical studies with mi- and retired in 1994. nors in economics and psychology. He later earned a professional degree from Bos- ton University School of Theology and a Ph.D. in psychology and pastoral counseling. WILBERT L. JEFFRIES ’53 of Buckhan- He was married over 60 years to his spouse, Mary Louise Reynolds. non, WV, died August 27, 2014. He is best known as the owner of the retail business The Sport Center of Buckhan- non, a staple for hunting and fishing enthusiasts for more than 57 years. He and experiences expressed through litera- Green Bay, WS. He was a Rotarian and was a veteran of World War II, serving ture. He served as the Chair of the Depart- active in the Chamber of Commerce in in the CB’s detachment of the U.S. Navy ment of English, President of the Faculty Upshur County for many years. from 1944 to 1946, where he received Senate, the Director of Land Acquisitions the European Theater Ribbon, American 1989-1994, on the Athletic Committee, VIRGINIA LIGHT MORROW ’58 of Theater Ribbon and Victory Medal. and represented FSU in the College Painesville, OH, died July 30, 2014. She English Association. He was honored with worked with the Girl Scout Councils in RICHARD R. GUICE ’54 of Kiamesha several major recognitions of distinc- several regions, and she attended Hope Lake, NY, died October 17, 2014. He was tion at FSU including: the Daisy Parker Ridge United Methodist Church. a retired United Methodist minister and Flory named Professorship (1985), the had served numerous churches in the Distinguished Service Professor Award ROBERT M. OURS ’58 of Morgantown, Hudson Valley, the Catskills and Long (2003), the Friends of Strozier Library WV, died July 29, 2014. He worked for the Island. He was a member of the N.Y. Distinguished Service Award (2006), and Associated Press in Richmond and later as Annual Conference. He was involved with the FSU Torch Award (2013). Two awards a supervisor of Virginia AP Radio-TV News the Conference Camping Ministries at at FSU have been created and named in Report. He taught history at UVA’s Eastern Quinnipet in Shelter Island, Epworth in his honor including the Fred L. Standley Shore Branch from 1966-68. He joined High Falls, NY and Kingswood in Hancock, Award for Outstanding Teacher (1982) WVU’s Journalism faculty in 1972, reach- NY. In retirement, he was active in the and the Friends of Strozier Library Fred L. ing the ranks of professor and professor Rising Hope Prison Ministry at the Wood- Standley Award for the Academic Librarian Emeritus. Heading the news editorial se- bourne Correctional Facility. of the Year (2012). quence in the 1990s and advising J-School students in the WVU Honors Program SIDNEY D. LOWE ’54 of Hanson, KY, CARUS L. CAMPBELL ’56 of Buckhan- from 1983-’96, he served on nearly 100 died January 19, 2013. He was a World non, WV, died January 3, 2015. He was a master’s and Ph.D committees. He was War II veteran and served the ministry as U.S. Army World War II veteran, serving a member of First Presbyterian Church a U.S. Navy and V.A. Hospital Chaplain. in the European Theatre of Operation. He of Morgantown where he was a former served as chaplain in the Civil Air Patrol member of the voice and bell choirs, FRED L. STANDLEY ’54 of Tallahassee, from 1963 to 1987 and as chaplain for the Kappa Tau Alpha (journalism honorary), the FL, died December 22, 2014. He began Buckhannon Police Department. Cousteau Society, The Planetary Society, his teaching career at Florida State Univer- and The American Legion. He was a sity (FSU) in 1963 culminating with his RICHARD J. LIGHT ’58 of Jane Lew, member of the U.S. Air Force ROTC while final course taught at FSU’s London Study WV, died September 6, 2014. He was a attending WVU and later served in the Centre on his favorite topic of “Banned member of Broad Street United Method- U.S. Army and Army National Guard. Books” in 2013. During his illustrious ist Church in Weston. He was a veteran, career, he directed the course of study of serving in the West Virginia National ROBERT E. MCBRIDE ’60 of Valparaiso, 58 Doctoral Dissertations, nine Masters Guard and the Army Reserve. He retired IN, died November 17, 2014. He served Theses, and six Undergraduate Honors after 21 years with Extrusion Technologies as a major in the U.S. Air Force during the Theses. He published four books and 57 as plant manager, a pipe production plant Vietnam War, and joined the medical staff scholarly articles related to his advocacy in Buckhannon, WV. He was employed by at St. Anthony Hospital in Michigan City in for minority rights and multicultural voice Aries Telecommunication as a business 1971. He was a founding physician in Pa- manager for WGBA Television Station in thology Consultants, Inc. and Consultants
www.wvwc.edu | WINTER/SPRING 2015 SUNDIAL 31 In Memoriam
in Pathology. He created Northern Indiana school teacher and a member of the St. had an active career in both the private and Medical Laboratory Services, which later Johannes Lutheran Church of St. Clair. He public sectors of clinical psychology and became the foundation for Alverno Clinical served in the U.S. Air Force and the U.S. was involved with the Employee Assis- Laboratories. He served as President of Navy during WW II and Korean War. tance Professionals Association on state, the Medical Staff of St. Anthony, Memo- national, and international levels. rial, and Walters Hospitals. He was CEO LAURENCE W. FIELD ’64 of Poultney, VT, of Walters Hospital, and CEO of Kingwood died October 27, 2014. He taught litera- KAREN WHITE KEPHART ’74 of Princ- Hospital. He was instrumental in creating ture and psychology at Green Mountain eton, WV, died December 20th, 2014. As Northern Indiana Education Foundation, College and the College of St. Joseph. nurse and administrator of the ER, Trauma an organization whose mission is to serve Unit and ICU. She worked at the Princeton as an educational resource for physicians, BETH M. EDDEY ’65 of New York, NY, Community Hospital for 23 years. nurses and other healthcare profession- died July 6, 2014. als in Northern Indiana. He served on ROSS E. STRAIGHT ’74 of Buckhannon, the Board of Directors of St. Anthony ROBERT H. HADEN ’67 of Henrico, NC, WV, died August 13, 2014. After working Memorial Hospital, the Northern Indiana died November 17, 2014. He served as a as a commercial interior finish carpenter Regional Board, and also as Chairman of fighter pilot in the U.S. Air Force for nearly and then furniture maker, he began his art both of these boards. He also served on 28 years, seeing action in both the Vietnam full-time in 1989. He was the designer and the Sisters of St. Francis Health Services conflict as a Prairie Fire FAC(A) and in creator of the official seal of the City of Board of Trustees. In 2007, he received Desert Shield/Desert Storm, where he was Buckhannon as well as the Buckhongahe- the Michigan City Chamber of Commerce the Director of Operations for the 354th las bronze sculpture in Jawbone Park. He President’s Award. In 2010, he was the re- Fighter Wing at King Fahd, Saudi Arabia. was the designer and creator of both the cipient of the fourth Mother Maria Theresia He spent most of his flying career as a pilot bronze Philippi Sago Miners Memorial and Bonzel award. of the A-10 Thunderbolt II (aka “Warthog”) the bronze Upper Big Branch Mine Disas- and was a Command Pilot. He retired as a ter First Responders Memorial. VICTOR M. DEBARR ’61 of Buckhannon, decorated Air Force officer and pilot having WV, died January 9, 2015. He worked for been awarded, among other honors, the JOHN J. CUNNINGHAM III ’82 of Pen- Upshur County Schools as a math/science Distinguished Flying Cross with two oak nington, NJ, died August 26, 2014. He teacher and administrator from 1961 to leaf clusters (one for heroism), the Bronze held numerous positions in environmental 1994, retiring with 33 years of experience. Star and the Meritorious Service Medal and property management over the past He also served on the Upshur County with one silver leaf cluster and one oak leaf 30 years. Board of Education from 1996 until 2000. cluster. After retiring from the Air Force, He was a member of the Chapel Hill UMC He had successful careers with Fireside SHELLY CRANE MCDONALD ’91 of Cary, where he served on various committees. Hearth & Home, and as a real estate broker NC, died October 30, 2014. After receiving and developer in Raleigh and Lake Gaston. her law degree, she worked in the law of- JOHN B. HANSON ’61 of The Villages, FL, fice of Jim Matish in Clarksburg for several died September 22, 2014. He served as a PAMELA FRYE HARPER ’67 of Naples, FL, years. After moving to Cary, NC, she was a Methodist Minister, in Phoenicia, NY, until died August 30, 2014. She worked for Hon- partner in a law firm in Raleigh. he took a job with the Department of So- eywell Bull HN for over 20 years. She loved cial Services in Wheeling, WV. He served to knit and bowl and was an avid reader. MICHAEL R. OSBORNE ’01 of Lewisburg, as CEO of the Bellaire Medical Founda- WV, died October 30, 2013. He was a tion. In 1984, he moved to Orlando, FL GEORGE M. GLUMAC ’70 of Grayson, member of Lewisburg United Methodist where he accepted a position as CEO with GA, died on May 22, 2014. Church. Blue Cross Blue Shield: Health Options. In March 1989, he served as Director of FRANCES HARRIS REGER ’70 of Chagrin OTHERS ASSOCIATED Benefits and Risk Management for Orange Falls, OH, died December 20, 2014. She WITH WESLEYAN County Public Schools. He represented worked as a credit analyst in Charlotte, NC, Orange County Public Schools by serving as an outplacement assistant at Virginia on the Board of the Florida Health Care Tech, and as an administrative assistant H. PAT ALBRIGHT of Pittsburgh, PA, died Coalition for 13 years. for the controller at Beaunit Corporation November 9, 2014. He served on the in the Research Triangle, NC. Later in life, Board at West Virginia Wesleyan College PAUL J. HODYAS ’61 of Uniontown, PA, she and a close friend operated an interior always a scholar, he endeavored to support died August 17, 2014. He was a veteran of design company for several years in Bain- education for others. the U.S. Marine Corps for whom he served bridge Township, OH. a total of 12 years in active duty and as a IDA MAE HYRE of Buckhannon, WV, reserve, achieving the rank of captain prior LINDA HALL ALTMANN ‘71 of William- died on September 27, 2014. Mae retired to his discharge in 1973. He was employed stown, WV, died September 23, 2014. from West Virginia Wesleyan College after by Pennsylvania Glass Sand and Ohio Lime She was currently employed by the Wood working 21 years at the Benedum Campus companies during his professional career County Board of Education and taught third Center. as a sales manager prior to retiring in 2003. grade at Waverly Elementary School. January 31, 2015 This is the memorial list as we know it. We apologize for any CHARLES W. HECKERT ’63 of Clarksburg, BARBARA WALLACE MURDOCK ’71 of omission and ask that you please notify the Office of Alumni WV, died December 4, 2014. He was a Marietta, GA, died August 6, 2014. She Relations at [email protected] or 304-473-8509.
32 SUNDIAL WINTER/SPRING 2015 We Did It,
How About You? We supported our “Home Among the Hills” this year by making a gift. We are proud to have our names listed in the Honor Roll of Donors and Annual Report, and to do our part to strengthen the value of a Wesleyan degree. By making a gift, we are helping the College fund academic scholarships for the most deserving students, assist with capital improvements, support our favorite academic, athletic, and student life programs, and increase the endowment. Please join us and keep Wesleyan first among all colleges in West Virginia in alumni giving participation. Giving is easy.
Support Go to www.wvwc.edu and click on Support Wesleyan Wesleyan or mail your check in the enclosed envelope in this Sundial.
Add Your Name to the List of Donors, and Make Your Gift before June 30!
www.wvwc.edu | WINTER/SPRING 2015 SUNDIAL 33 West Virginia Wesleyan College Non-Profit 59 College Avenue Organization Buckhannon, WV 26201 U.S. Postage www.wvwc.edu PAID YLS
Change Service Requested
Row 1 (L to R): Mikenze Poling ’18, C. Mateal Wamsley Poling ’80, Nancy Emerick Fizer ’80, Sarah Fizer ’18, Susan Kohl Gorges ’93, Phoebe Gorges ’18, Brian C. Gorges ’93 Row 2: Robert E. Raffety ’97, Cynthia Kirby Raffety MEd ’91, Mallory Moss, Jennifer Raffety Moss ’94, Lindsay Moss ’18, Katie Fox ’18, Larry A. Reid III ’01, Katie Reid ’18, Tammy Reid, Kenneth Fox, Jr., Sarah Fox, Diann Aldridge Corll ’82, Austin Corll ’18 Row 3: Jeffrey M. Rabatin ’84, Sarah Rabatin ’18, Martha Rabatin, Suzanne Borden Fox ’89, C. Gregory Morris ’80, Emily Morris, Susan Schellhase Morris ’80, Marjorie Dickley McKnight ’76 Row 4: Emalene L. Heaton ’00, Michael Moore ’18, William C. Mitchell ’90, Colin Mitchell ’18, Guy Lettieri ’87, Kim Lettieri, Jack Huggins, Olivia Hubbard ’18, Rena Reed Hubbard ’78 Row 5: Jeff Aiosa, Katie Aiosa ’18, Lindsay Lettieri ’18, Annette Smith Aiosa ’91, Mikki Aiosa