The summit will be held at 91短视频’s Suter Science Center (1194 Park Road, Harrisonburg, Virginia) with events starting at 9 a.m. It aims to bring together students, educators, and community members to explore undergraduate research, innovative initiatives, and real-world solutions.

Students will attend from Sustainable Shenandoah Valley’s five member institutions: Blue Ridge Community College, Bridgewater College, 91短视频, James Madison University, and Mary Baldwin University.

鈥淏y celebrating the impactful work already happening across the region, this event seeks to inspire new ideas, partnerships, and pathways toward a more just and sustainable future,鈥� the summit鈥檚 website says.

A schedule on the website lists presentations by local students and officials, posters and networking opportunities, and a keynote speech by John C. Jones.

Jones is an assistant professor in the School of Life Sciences and Sustainability at Virginia Commonwealth University. His main research interests surround the intersection of urban food system development, urban food insecurity, local governance, and the challenges facing America鈥檚 cities. In recent years, he has begun to research interventions to mitigate college student food insecurity. 

91短视频 students Ciela Acosta, Kate Stutzman, Jenna Oostland, and Tara Cahill are among those who will deliver presentations at the summit.

Acosta will present on examples of campus organizing and advocacy that have taken place on 91短视频鈥檚 campus, including bell ringing for Palestine and direct action for sustainability, according to the summit’s website. Her presentation will include an empowerment discussion for students to be able to notice where inequity is present on their own campuses and be able to effectively and peacefully call for change.

Stutzman, Oostland, and Cahill will lead a comprehensive analysis of 91短视频’s carbon emissions for the 2024-25 academic year in accordance to the university’s climate goals. Emissions from a number of sources are considered including, but not limited to, food production and waste, purchased electricity, natural gas, fertilizer and pesticide use, student and faculty travel, and 91短视频’s solar grid.

Register for the summit .

For more information, visit the event鈥檚 website .

According to a , Rogers played a pivotal role in launching a comprehensive redesign that modernized the program鈥檚 structure, expanded its reach, and strengthened its position as a leading doctoral pathway for physician associates. 鈥淚鈥檓 honored by the trust placed in me and deeply grateful to the leaders, mentors, and colleagues who paved the way for my growth,鈥� he said.

He holds a DMSc from the University of Lynchburg, a master of physician assistant studies from James Madison University, and a bachelor鈥檚 degree in biology and environmental sustainability from 91短视频.

Rogers said 91短视频 prepared him by grounding his education in service, perspective, and purpose. “My intercultural experience in Bolivia with Dr. Doug Graber Neufeld expanded my understanding of global health and challenged me to think beyond my own context,” he said. “At the same time, Dr. Carolyn Stauffer‘s Sociology of Health course helped me see how social, cultural, and systemic factors shape patient outcomes. Together, those experiences shaped not only my career path, but how I lead and serve today.”

Dr. Tara Kishbaugh, dean of faculty and student success, taught Rogers in general chemistry when he was a student at 91短视频. She said he showed a strong sense of civic engagement and confidence in his coursework, along with exceptional leadership and a commitment to service.

鈥淚 am thrilled to see him take on this leadership role in an educational setting and look forward to seeing how he inspires others to reach their academic potential while giving back to their communities,” she said. 

Clockwise from top left: Blake Rogers ’14 helps Clover Hill EMTs check inventory in one of their ambulances at the station in 2014. | Rogers speaks during a 2015 workshop for the Shenandoah Valley Soil and Water Conservation District. | Then a physician assistant student at JMU, Rogers receives the 2018 PA Student of the Year Award. | Rogers ’14 and Matt Tieszen ’10, MA ’15 (biomedicine), return from an elective clinical rotation at Shirati KTM Hospital in Tanzania in 2018.

This isn鈥檛 the first time Rogers has been featured in 91短视频 News. 

While a double major at 91短视频, he volunteered with the Clover Hill Volunteer Fire Co. and interned at the Shenandoah Valley Soil and Water Conservation District, where he was hired after graduation. As a grad student at JMU, he received the 2018 Physician Assistant Student of the Year award and completed a clinical rotation at a hospital in Tanzania. 

Rogers spent his 91短视频 intercultural experience studying biology and Spanish in Bolivia and the Gal谩pagos Islands. A medical mission team experience in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, confirmed his desire to enter the medical field. 

At the University of Lynchburg, Rogers said his favorite course to instruct is Ethics and Regulation of AI, where he guides students through modern dilemmas in health care. “I remain deeply influenced by 91短视频’s emphasis on service, community, and global perspective as we prepare clinicians to lead and serve in a rapidly evolving health care landscape,” he said.

Between thousands of acres of forested lands and the Blue Ridge and the Allegheny mountains, nature-lovers at 91短视频 have their pick of beautiful scenery and unique ecology.

In September, 14 students traveled two hours to experience one of the rarest ecoclimes on the east coast, Dolly Sods Wilderness Area in the Monongahela National Forest. On the agenda: hiking, rock scrambles, birding, caving, and fossil-hunting, with some downtime to relax and an evening around the campfire at Red Creek Campground. 

Professors Doug Graber Neufeld and Jim Yoder, who teach biology and environmental sustainability, led the trip to West Virginia. 

鈥淲e live and work in an amazing place with access to these public lands that are both our laboratory and our home,鈥� Graber Neufeld said. 鈥淲e wanted to give our students an opportunity to see some of that beauty, get away from campus, and do something fun in ecology without a test or homework hanging over them.鈥�

The trip, with one- and two-night options, was open to all environmental sustainability majors and minors and any first-year student considering the major.

Ally Peachey, a sophomore majoring in environmental science and biology from Champaign, Illinois, says Dolly Sods made the list as one of her favorite wild places, along with the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. The eight-mile hike on the first day out was, she said, 鈥渟ome of the most beautiful hiking I have experienced,鈥� she said. 

Read more about ecology field trips and students hiking in Shenandoah National Park.

91短视频 hikers along the Bear Rocks Trail (right), surrounded by the unique “heath bald” habitat composed of huckleberry bushes and high altitude species of sedges and grasses as well as red spruce trees.

Northland loop trail, which travels through a forest of red spruce into a unique bog area. 

鈥淭his unique ecosystem resembles a boreal forest from northern New England, Canada and even Alaska in many aspects, with lots of bogs and specialized plants, including the carnivorous sundew,鈥� said Graber Neufeld. 

The name Dolly Sods came from a homesteading family, the Dahles, and the local word for a meadow, 鈥渟ods.鈥� The history of human activity in the region includes eras of grazing, logging, burning  and bombing. During World War II, the area was a practice artillery and mortar range. Only in the late 鈥�60s, under threat of development, was it eventually protected and restored.

Yoder (black vest) and Graber Neufeld (to the left) talk about the bogs on the Northland Loop Trail.

Hikers pause along the Raven Ridge Trail to view a beaver dam.

The 91短视频 group poses for a photo in front of the Sinks of Gandy, a mile-long cave through a mountain. Here the group poses before tracing the path of the river into the mountain, wading and climbing over rock areas before climbing through a passageway and chambers to exit at the end. Rock formations and mineral deposits were a highlight, along with sightings of cave wildlife, including bats and spring salamanders.

Spelunking was a highlight of the weekend for Catherine Kirby, a junior environmental science major. Hailing from Loudoun County in northern Virginia, she says the nearby Blue Ridge mountains are a favorite wild place. The Dolly Sods trip gave her some great memories to return to campus with, especially the fellowship of 鈥渆ating dinner together around the campfire.鈥� 

鈥淭he #BringThePeace award is a way to recognize the work of denominational peacemakers who are walking the talk in their peacebuilding journey through their active engagement in promoting peace in their congregations and communities and, often, beyond,鈥� said Lorraine Stutzman Amstutz, the MC USA denominational minister for peace & justice.

Weybright is currently a Juris Doctor (J.D.) candidate at Temple Law School, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. She studied environmental sustainability at 91短视频.

Previously, Weybright was a climate futures fellow at the  (now the Anabaptist Climate Collective) and worked with the MCC National Peace & Justice Ministries in Washington, D.C. With these organizations, she researched and wrote climate policy through a peace and justice lens. She was also a member of the Mennonites against Militarism council, and as such, she worked to connect the impact of militarism on the environment.

鈥淭here are a lot of ways to get involved. You don鈥檛 need to be doing what we stereotypically think of as the 鈥榠n in the thick of it鈥� work, in which all of our professional lives, personal lives and spiritual lives intersect with peace and justice,鈥� Weybright said. 鈥淚t鈥檚 a matter of just knowing where to start.鈥�

For more information on MC USA鈥檚 peacebuilding efforts, click .

After six years, the Center for Sustainable Climate Solutions is signaling several major changes with incorporation under the new name, . The organization is now an independent nonprofit (501c3), moving away from affiliation with 91短视频 and its other core partners, Mennonite Central Committee and Goshen College. The announcement was made Oct. 24.

Doug Graber Neufeld, a biology and environmental science professor at 91短视频, has led the organization since its beginning but plans to step down in early 2023. A new board will facilitate the search for new leadership.

Neufeld said that to be effective, the center needs to evolve along with the climate crisis.

鈥淭his independent organization is prepared to embrace new roles in programs that impact an expanded audience, while continuing programs that have successfully motivated people and organizations to take meaningful actions,鈥� he said. 鈥淏eing involved from the beginning in shaping this organization as we learn from those we serve has given all of us hope. We see how we are able to equip people to engage together with one of the most important issues of our time.鈥�

Much of the previous organization鈥檚 programming is focused on educating and empowering advocacy among young people, equipping pastors to engage their congregations, raising the voices of those most impacted by climate change, and supporting researchers from Anabaptist institutions.

For example, in January 2022, the center convened the Anabaptist Collaboration on Climate Change with leadership from 18 Anabaptist organizations in the United States and Canada. In summer 2021, 16 cyclists rode across the country, listening to diverse voices across the United States talk about climate change. [Read more about the .]

Read about :

• An explanation of the new name;
• Bios of the new board members;
• A funding plan and creation of an annual fund;
• A report on the 2022 sustainability summit and ecumenical retreat;
• New climate curriculum for churches;
• Learn more about extractive minerals and stories of global climate injustice

The group included six students from area universities: two from 91短视频, three from Bridgewater College, and one from James Madison University.

91短视频 students Anika Hurst and Laura Craft, now back on campus to continue their chemistry and environmental science studies, both said their individual teaching and research experiences helped to confirm where they鈥檙e headed next. Hurst hopes to do more field research, while Craft was energized by adapting her water health research learnings to lesson plans for Aboriginal learners from ages 8-18. Nicole Miller 鈥�21, a graduate of 91短视频鈥檚 chemistry program, is considering graduate school.

91短视频 chemistry professor Matthew Siderhurst is the principal investigator for the initiative, which is titled 鈥淭ephritid fruit fly Multidisciplinary Australian Research Collaboration for Biosecurity,鈥� or T-MARC-BIO for short.

Siderhurst has led insect tracking and field trapping studies stateside, in Hawaii and the Pacific region for many years.  

The grant is part of the NSF鈥檚 International Research Experiences for Students program, designed to give US students multidisciplinary research experience in Australia that will advance basic science and address internationally significant challenges in biosecurity and global food supply chains. The program also aims to foster life-changing learning by enhancing interpersonal skills, empathy, and global awareness that come from living and working outside the US.  

A total of six students were funded by the initiative; in addition, a recent 91短视频 graduate was supported by independent research funding. 91短视频 biology professor Jim Yoder, who has led multiple to the Pacific region, traveled with the group to connect them with Australian scientists.听

Four students were hosted by Macquarie University in Sydney, split between two labs with different foci of chemistry education, mentored by Dr. Joanne Jamie, and blowfly research, mentored by Dr. Soo Jean Park; those students were Craft, Mary Shifflett and Emily Schloss from Bridgewater College, and Jacqueline Kossey, from James Madison University.

Three others were based at Queensland鈥檚 Department of Agriculture and Fisheries headquarters in Mareeba and mentored by Stefano De Faveri and Jodie Cheesman. Their research was in tracking fruit flies with harmonic radar.

鈥淚 spent a lot of time out in the papaya field, tracking the Queensland fruit fly using a RECCO unit and flagging tape,鈥� Hurst said, of her teamwork with Allison O’Brien, a Bridgewater College student, and Nicole Miller, a 2022 91短视频 graduate. 

Tephritid fruit flies are 鈥渁mong the most damaging horticultural insect pests worldwide, constituting pest management issues, trade barriers, and invasion threats for Australia, the U.S., and throughout the tropics and subtropics,鈥� according to T-MARC-BIO documents. 

The student research is aimed at bolstering strategies for monitoring and controlling the invasive fruit fly species in ways that will reduce the negative impacts of pesticide use. 

Having been delayed twice by COVID travel restrictions, Siderhurst was excited to see a first cohort of students begin their travel and research. 

Two further cohorts of American students will be heading to Australia in 2023 and 2024.

This semester鈥檚 Suter Science Seminar lineup at 91短视频 include professionals working in disease ecology, behavioral health and crisis services, animal health, and biology.

The events will be held in Swartzendruber Hall of the Suter Science Center, and will be livestreamed for the off-campus community on the . [You do not need to be a member of Facebook to view the livestream.]

Wednesday, Sept. 14, 4 p.m. 鈥淓merging Vector-borne Disease in the Commonwealth鈥� with Dr. Gillian Eastwood, assistant professor of vector-borne disease ecology in the Department of Entomology at Virginia Tech.

Saturday, Oct. 8, 10 a.m. 鈥淏uilding-up the Behavioral Health System in a Time of Crisis: Opportunities and Challenges鈥� with Dr. Rolando L. Santiago, chief of behavioral health and crisis services for the Department of Health and Human Services in Montgomery County, Maryland.

Wednesday, Nov. 9, 4 p.m. 鈥淐ount Up: My Reflections on Science, Industry, and Life鈥︹�� with Raul E. Diaz Lugo, global quality lead for Merck, Animal Health North America.

Wednesday, Nov. 30, 4 p.m. 鈥淐haracterization of Sensory Driven Intrinsic Iris Constriction in Mammals鈥� Dr. Marquis Walker, assistant professor of biology at James Madison University.

The lectures are made possible by the sponsorship of the Daniel B. Suter Endowment in Biology and the co-sponsorship of supporting programs. 

Named in honor of long-time 91短视频 biology professor, Daniel B. Suter (1920-2006), the Endowment in Biology was established in 1986 through the generous donations of alumni and friends and currently consists of over $1 million of invested funds. 91短视频 hopes to double the Suter Endowment in order to more adequately support distinguished faculty and to increase scholarship aid to deserving students.

From conducting economic policy research in the DC area to assisting with costume design at an award-winning theater, 14 students are gaining professional experience this summer at the Washington Community Scholars鈥� Center (WCSC). The center, located in the nation鈥檚 capital since 1976, is a program of 91短视频.

These 14 students, including two from Goshen College, are living and working in Washington DC in a range of professional internships in fields from youth work to invasive species removal.

This summer Ann Butwell, associate director of student life and administration for WCSC, is debuting the course Creativity, Culture and Change: Latinidad in the Capital Region. From meeting in city hall with the first Latina mayor of Mt. Rainier to studying immigration patterns and conducting their own research, WCSC students are gaining a greater understanding of the local community and contributions of immigrants.

The semester-long experience is also a community-building endeavor, with students living together in the Nelson Good House in the Brookland neighborhood of Northeast Washington, DC. This semester鈥檚 placements include several organizations that are long-time hosts of 91短视频 students, highlighting WCSC鈥檚 deep ties within the region. Many alumni can trace their careers back to a pivotal experience at WCSC. 

Read more about WCSC success! Grads Tessa Waidelich and Terry Jones find full-time work after their internships.

Read on to learn more about the students, their placements and the organizations they are involved with. 

Andrew Bennett, a biology major from Doylestown, Pa., works alongside therapists and patients at Pivot Physical Therapy.

Jessica Buckwalter, a psychology major from Yona, Guam, is with Little Friends for Peace. She works with children, young adults, and halfway house personnel to provide nonviolent ways to work through emotions and trauma.

鈥淢y most significant learning experience will likely come from working with such a diverse group of people, and all that those groups bring to our discussion,鈥� she said.

Jessica Chisolm, a peacebuilding and development and writing studies double major from Collinsville, Miss., is working with Mennonite Central Committee’s National Justice and Peace Ministries office. Alongside the communications coordinator and peace education coordinator, she will write an article and work on anti-militarism curriculum resources.

Skylar Coffey, a psychology major from Elkton, Va., is with Samaritan Inns, working at Clark’s Inn, a rehabilitation house for mothers that suffer from substance abuse. Skylar observes rehabilitation group sessions and individual sessions, learning to take clinical notes and conduct supervised research on building a rehabilitation program.

Ashlyn Eby, a nursing major from Annandale, Va., is with Community of Hope, a community health clinic that provides quality healthcare and housing to families. She is on two interdisciplinary teams with goals of reducing uncontrolled diabetes and hypertension in the population they serve.

Amanda Gilbert, a psychology major from Lanham, Md., is with Covenant House, an organization that provides educational programs, job training and placement, medical services, mental health and substance use counseling, legal aid and beyond to homeless youth.

Josh Holloway, a liberal arts major from Broadway, Va., is with St. Anthony Catholic School, gaining experience working with children and observing different teaching styles.

Alijah Johnson, a digital media and communication major from Upper Marlboro, Md., is interning with Washington Digital Media, making business cards and several other templates.

Aaliyah Lawhorne, a biology major from Waynesville, N.C., is interning with Bread for the City. She works at a primary care clinic where she conducts patient satisfaction surveys to English and Spanish-speaking clients. She is also shadowing and assisting the nurses and other health care professionals.

鈥淚 think the most significant learning experience I have had is learning how to provide holistic care to communities that are underserved,鈥� she said.

Rachel Mast, a sustainability studies major at Goshen College from Lancaster, Pa., is assisting the Anacostia Watershed Society with their adult education classes, tree surveying, invasive species removal, wetland planting, and boat tours on the Anacostia River.

Alex Miller, a theater and environmental science double major at Goshen College from Middlebury, In., is working at the Keegan Theater as a costume design intern for three productions during the summer.

鈥淚 am excited to help with costume design in a professional setting and look forward to working with several costume designers over the course of the summer. I hope to add their advice, techniques, and knowledge to my professional toolkit,鈥� they said.

Kendra Oguamena, a psychology major from Alexandria, Va., is helping Girls on the Run DC with program outreach, coach recruitment processing, and communications. She has found it meaningful to see and hear about the coaching experiences from past and current volunteer coaches. Girls on the Run provides an “inclusive place of belonging, where girls feel supported and inspired to explore their emotions, cultivate empathy and strengthen their physical and emotional health.”

Katelyn Sellars, a nursing major from Telford, Pa., works with Mary’s Center’s Centering Pregnancy program, designed to improve equity and health among expecting parents. She also works with the patient education team, developing skills in patient education. Mary’s Center provides primary health care and other wrap-around services to any individual that enters their doors regardless of their ability to pay.

Josh White, a business administration major from Chesapeake, Va., is with the Coalition for Nonprofit Housing and Economic Development, which fosters just and equitable community development solutions that address the needs and aspirations of low- and moderate-income district residents by convening, advocating, and educating diverse stakeholders. Josh is conducting research, collecting citations and taking inventory of a variety of housing and loan documents for historical outcomes of DC tenant policies.

A familiar name was seen on the list as senior d, becoming the Royals first male winner since Tyler Denlinger won the award back in 2017. 

“It feels really great to be honored for the things I’ve enjoyed doing for the past four years, kind of holistically, at college,” Alderfer told Assistant ODAC Commissioner J.J. Nekoloff. “I’ve been pretty heavily involved in a lot of different areas and so it’s good to have this honor that really recognizes that I’ve been doing.” 

Alderfer is a 2022 graduate of 91短视频 with a degree in environmental science with minors in photography and history. The Broadway, Va. native has had a stellar athletic career for the Royals, starring across three sports: cross-country as well as indoor and outdoor track & field. In his four years at 91短视频, he had a laundry list of accomplishments that included but was not limited to: 91短视频 Male Athlete of the Year (2019-20 and 2020-21), 91短视频 President’s Award (2021-22), 3x national qualifier, 3x ODAC champion and holder of six different individual and relay records

Just as impressive as his athletic accomplishments, his academic resume showed that he was a dual-threat. He finished his 91短视频 career with a 3.97 GPA. In addition, he was named CoSIDA Academic All-District twice, CoSIDA Academic All-American, 2x ODAC Scholar Athlete of the Year and is a Yoder Scholar, 91短视频’s highest academic award. 

The third prong of the award took a look at students’ community service and campus involvement. Alderfer checked all the boxes there too, being heavily involved in areas such as being President of 91短视频 Explore Club, being on the Leadership Team of Earthkeepers Club, being an Honors Council Member, acting as a Creation Care Council Member as well as an Intercultural Committee Member and more. 

He’ll now go on to compete for a D3CA regional award and ultimately, if he wins that, he’ll compete for the D3CA Male Student-Athlete of the Year Award.

Alderfer becomes the sixth Royal to win the Jopson Award, which is third all-time in the ODAC behind Washington and Lee University and Hampden-Sydney College. 

The Jopson Award is named in honor of the Bridgewater College professor and coach who retired in 1981 following 45 years at BC. Dr. Jopson, who initiated and directed the Eagles’ cross country and track & field programs, led his teams to ODAC indoor track & field titles in 1979, 1980 and 1981, and outdoor crowns from 1978 through 1981.

The Marjorie T. Berkley Award, given to the ODAC’s top female scholar-athlete, was won by Olivia Weinel of Shenandoah University. 

For the full ODAC release, including video interviews with both winners, . 

Ten graduating seniors were honored as Cords of Distinction recipients in a ceremony Saturday afternoon, April 30, 2022, at 91短视频.

Faculty, staff and fellow students nominated the recipients, who were cited for their 鈥渟ignificant and verifiable impact鈥� on the university and on student life; for their contributions to developing the institution鈥檚 positive image; for substantial contributions to the Harrisonburg/Rockingham County area and beyond; for their high academic and social standing; and their embodiment of 91短视频鈥檚 shared values of Christian discipleship, community, service and peacebuilding.

Rodrigo Barahona

An environmental science and economics from Tegucigalpa, Honduras, Rodrigo was honored by Micah Shristi, director of International Student Services.

Rodrigo Pablo Felipe Sebastian Barahona Barahona, or 鈥� to his friends鈥撯�漅odri鈥�. Since the moment he first set foot on campus Rodrigo has consistently and constantly demonstrated welcoming, connecting, and generously serving others as his highest priorities. This is exemplified by the chill relaxed friendly creative presence that Rodrigo brings to any interaction and by the many and wide-ranging community building activities on his 91短视频 resume:

1. International Student Organization (鈥淚SO鈥�). Unfailing participation, planning, and leadership of the club throughout his 4 years at 91短视频 including 2 years as treasurer. Let me give you an example: Even this semester with an evening class at the same time as our weekly club gathering, Rodrigo still comes to the gathering as soon as his class is over even if it’s just for 5 minutes at the tail end of the gathering. Connecting with and supporting ISO members is so important to him. Rodrigo has also been an active member of the Latino Student Alliance.

2. Creative expression. Through participation in formal and informal music ensembles Rodrigo has (literally) helped to set the rhythm of campus life with his skills as a drummer with the 91短视频 Jazz Ensemble and many other musical collaborations. I would be remiss if I failed to mention creative video collaborations with Jay Cho. 

3. He鈥檚 brainy. One major was not enough for this man. He needed two, so he鈥檚 graduating with a double major: economics and environmental science.  And surprise, surprise, Rodrigo uses his braininess to help other students by serving as an economics tutor in the Academic Success Center and an English language tutor in the Intensive English Program. 

4. Community service: Gardens, solar panels, field trips, vines, figs鈥� Oh, my! 

All this and more鈥� and always friendly, welcoming, unassuming, and non-judgmental. Rodrigo models creativity, compassion, and hard work to his peers. There will be a Rodri-shaped hole in 91短视频鈥檚 community fabric next semester. Thank you for everything, Rodrigo. These Cords of Distinction are well deserved.  

Asha Beck

A digital media and communications major and Spanish minor from Linville, Virginia, Asha was honored by Professor Kathy Evans, education.

It has been an immense pleasure to work and learn alongside Asha Beck this year. Asha has a heart for people; she possesses natural leadership qualities; and she holds a deep passion for justice. 

Whether she is planning an event or working on an art project, Asha centers relationships with others as an essential part of all that she does. She cares for people and it shows in the way she listens empathetically and in the way she works to include people who have often been left out. She sees people, truly sees them, regardless of their status or of their ability to provide something in exchange – she simply sees them and includes them in the most genuine of ways. In thoughtful and compassionate ways, Asha embodies the tagline, 鈥淏elong Together,鈥� and has helped to make 91短视频 a place where people indeed do belong. 

Asha is also a natural leader. She has been a member of Safe Space since her first year at 91短视频; as one of the Leadership Council members this past year, she has worked to build community and support fellow students. In addition, she has held leadership in the Art Club and served as a senator with SGA. With her commitment to a relational ethic, her leadership takes on a quality of collaboration and invitation. I remember being at a Safe Space meeting where students were discussing the roles of president, vice-president, etc. and in part because of Asha鈥檚 leadership, they ended up settling on a leadership team model, where they all worked together to make decisions and plan events. I think they even rewrote the club constitution to reflect this commitment to a non-hierarchical leadership structure. 

Lastly, one of the things that I have appreciated so much has been Asha鈥檚 fierce commitment to justice and equity. Again, from a completely relational place, she is willing to have difficult and authentic conversations that demonstrate a willingness to learn from others鈥� perspectives. From caring for chickens to hosting conversations about healthy emotional boundaries, Asha has spoken out about important issues and has supported initiatives that create opportunities for education, advocacy, and a better 91短视频. 

Asha鈥檚 care for the earth, her love for people, and her concern for all of life have led her to be one of those quiet champions for a more just world. I look forward to seeing where Asha鈥檚 path continues to take her. 

Alcinda Brubaker 

A marketing major from Keezletown, Virginia, Alcinda was honored by Celeste Thomas, Director of Multicultural Services.

I am humbled to stand before you today to share the accomplishments of this wonderful young woman, Alcinda Brubaker. It was my pleasure to serve as her adviser for the Black Student Alliance as well as mentor. I have come to not only know Alcinda as a talented young woman but I have been blessed to have the honor to get to know her heart. 

Alcinda began her journey at 91短视频 in 2010 and in the words of Langston Hughes, 鈥淟ife ain’t been no crystal stair. It鈥檚 had tacks in it, And splinters, And boards torn up, And places with no carpet on the floor鈥擝are.鈥� Despite all of your challenges you have kept climbin鈥� and reachin鈥� landin鈥檚, and turnin鈥� corners, and sometimes goin鈥� in the dark, but you have followed your own advice and have never given up! 

You have given so authentically and unselfishly of yourself to the 91短视频 community, the greater Harrisonburg community, and to the well-being of the numerous students you have mentored. Your impact will be felt for years to come. You have impacted not only the BIPOC community but you have left your footprint on the entire campus. On campus you have served the following: Royal Society Ambassadors, Art Club, Black Student Alliance, The Weather Vane, Student Life, and the Department of Business and Leadership to name a few. Additionally, you have served Gift and Thrift, Harrisonburg Renaissance, International Festival, Beats for Mozambique, and Divine Unity Community Church. Your reach has been broad. 

You are passionate about making a difference in the lives of those who are marginalized. You recognize the privilege that you hold and work hard to make the playing field equitable for everyone. You live your favorite quote by Ghandi, which is, 鈥淏e the change you wish to see in the world.鈥� You have worked hard to overcome adversity and you are resilient beyond words. 

I leave you with these words from Amanda Gorman: 鈥淔or there is always light, if only we鈥檙e brave enough to see it. If only we鈥檙e brave enough to be it.鈥� You are BRAVE! Look what a war orphan from Mozambique has accomplished when given the opportunity!

Tahj鈥檃e Coleman

A psychology major from Willingboro, New Jersey, Tahj鈥檃e was honored by Celeste Thomas, Director of Multicultural Services.

I am well pleased to have had the opportunity to walk alongside Tahj鈥檃e during her journey at 91短视频. In the words of Maya Angelou,鈥淒oes my sassiness upset you? Why are you beset with gloom? 鈥機ause I walk like I’ve got oil wells Pumping in my living room.鈥�

Tahj鈥檃e is a deep thinker. She is one who sits back and observes situations before contributing. She takes it all in and comes to the table informed. She does her research. She has a heart and genuine concern for people and creates opportunities for those who are less fortunate than herself.  

Tahj鈥檃e is a true advocate for social justice. She not only assisted with the creation and painting of the Black Lives Matter Mural but has on numerous occasions raised her voice and spoke truth to power in the 91短视频 Weather Vane newspaper. She unapologetically shared her passion about the inequities happening in the world and on campus. She stood up with confidence, bravery, self determination and empowerment while serving her people.

She carries that same passion in her service with the Black Student Union, the Student Government, Psychology Club and Royal Ambassadors. It wasn鈥檛 enough to just be a part of these organizations, she held leadership roles in all of them. She always shows up in spaces as her authentic self and this is a unique gift.

Additionally, she has worked at Covenant House where she was able to counsel homeless youth and guided them in the direction of working toward a positive and productive future. In an effort to assist students in having a better college experience, she is conducting research on how childhood verbal abuse can create low self-esteem in college students and can ultimately create a lack of sense of belonging in college.  

Tahj鈥檃e has taken being a young woman of color on campus very seriously. It is not lost on her the importance of representation to underclassmen of color and that regardless of one鈥檚 ethnicity, your hard work will pay off! To paraphrase Maya Angelou: Tahj鈥檃e, Bringing the gifts that Your ancestors gave, You are the dream and the hope of the slave. You Rise, You Rise, You Rise!

Elizabeth Eby

A major in peacebuilding and development and Bible, religion and theology from Goshen, Indiana, Elizabeth was honored by Professor Justin Poole, theater program director.

Throughout her four years at 91短视频, Elizabeth Eby has been a standout student, always dedicated, hardworking, fearless, and passionate. She has juggled multiple activities with patience and a smile on her face, contributing greatly to group dynamics in diverse settings.

Elizabeth has served as Pastoral Assistant (then Student Chaplain) for two years, as a hymn sing student leader, as planner and leader of campus worship services and the Sunday Night Worship service during the pandemic shut down period. 

In theater Elizabeth’s contributions onstage and behind the scenes have helped launch and sustain a significant growth period for the theater program. From her first leading role, playing Belle in Beauty and the Beast during her freshman year to her unforgettable portrayal of doomed rockstar Mercutio in U2 Romeo and Juliet and the featured dancer in the opera Noye’s Fludde Elizabeth has demonstrated remarkable skills as a performer. Elizabeth has been the recipient of multiple Irene Ryan Acting nominations from the Kennedy American College Theater Festival. She was even one of the select few to make it to the finals round in this year’s regional competition, beating out theater majors from much larger programs. Elizabeth has also been a community teacher for the after-school program On the Road Collaborative at Thomas Harrison Middle School, demonstrating her commitment to nurture another generation of artists. 

Elizabeth Eby’s presence at 91短视频 has made this a better place, and I look forward to seeing where she goes from here!

Skylar Hedgepeth

An elementary education major from Smithfield, Virginia, Skylar was honored by Ashley “Stick” Kishorn, head field hockey coach.

Skylar Hedgepeth has connected with a tremendous amount of people during her time at 91短视频. I realize there are so many individuals who could speak on behalf of Skylar tonight. I am truly honored to have the opportunity to present Skylar Hedgepeth for this recognition of Cords of Distinction Award. 

Skylar has taken opportunities to be a leader in a wide variety of roles on campus and throughout our community by participating as an active member with Eastern Mennonite Student Women鈥檚 Association and the Committee of Diversity & Inclusion.  As Celebration co-president and a Student Chaplain Assistant, Skylar exemplifies her passion to serve others through 91短视频鈥檚 student-led worship service. She dedicates her summers to Fuge Camps, where she works as a bible study leader to create change in the lives of students. Skylar鈥檚 compassion and selfless contribution to others will continue to guide her as she pursues her future as an educator. In addition to her activities, Skylar鈥檚 dedication to academic excellence has allowed her to maintain a 4.0 Cumulative GPA and hold a spot on the 91短视频 Deans List each semester. She has been recognized as a member of the NFHCA All – Academic Squad and a Scholar of Distinction. 

In the recruiting process four years ago, I could tell that 91短视频 and the field hockey program would be a good choice for Skylar and for our program, but more importantly Skylar was a perfect fit for the 91短视频 community as a whole. Skylar already possessed many of the values and characteristics, and of course the field hockey skills to make a prominent contribution to 91短视频 Athletics. Skylar made an immediate impact on the field hockey program starting her career leading the team in goals as a freshman and earning the 91短视频 Rookie Athlete of the Year Award. Sklyar also earned All-ODAC recognition during her freshman and junior seasons. As she finishes her field hockey career, she leaves her mark on the program and her name in the record book, finishing 17th all time in scoring. Additionally, Skylar鈥檚 work ethic and determination allowed her to participate as a dual-sport athlete and also played softball and lacrosse.

Beyond the statistics and her capabilities as an athlete, Skylar exemplifies what you hope each and every athlete who comes through the program will aspire to be. You hope that they will get involved and be active participants in the community, you hope that they will be able to grow their faith, and you hope that they will grow as leaders and be able to advocate for themselves and for others. She has taken full advantage of the Division III athletic experience and submerged herself into the 91短视频 community. She cares deeply about women鈥檚 representation, she is vocal about the rights of underrepresented groups, and steps up to share her faith with others. I am grateful for the opportunity to have coached Skylar. I could not be more proud of her and the impact that she will have on future students as an elementary teacher.  

Hannah Leaman

A mathematics major with secondary education licensure and a minor in Honors from Bakersfield, California, Hannah was honored by Professor Daniel Showalter, mathematics.

During her first three years at 91短视频, Hannah quickly established herself as a disciplined student, talented writer, and a master of mysteries. For example, did you realize that Hannah shares the title of reigning world champion of the Kryptos Codebreaking Competition held by the University of Central Washington? But rather than selfishly limiting her sharp wits to her own academic pursuits, she invests them in helping others. As one nominator said, 鈥淗annah has so courageously spoken out on important issues on campus and done so with grace, thoughtfulness, and compassion. She has been a quiet and fierce advocate for a better 91短视频.鈥� 

Still, it wasn鈥檛 until our cross-cultural to Thailand together that I truly began to see Hannah鈥檚 poetic soul and transformative presence. Although I may not have earned the same 15 credits as the students on the trip, I learned just as much, and a large portion of my growth took place from reading Hannah鈥檚 journal. She taught me how an event can be interpreted quite differently by people with different backgrounds and how our past experiences color our present perceptions. She introduced me to inspirational leaders like Glennon Doyle. And her unique way of articulating social dynamics and personal tensions changed the way I organize my thoughts. Yet, Hannah is not only an eloquent writer; she backs her words up with her actions. When a member of our cross-cultural broke her ankle, I took care of the basic needs, but Hannah quickly perceived that the student鈥檚 emotional needs and feelings of inclusion were just as important. Without any prompting, she organized a daily rotation of support for the member 鈥� a task that required numerous hours and lasted the entire trip. And this is just one peer; everyone respected Hannah. At one point, when Hannah was wrestling with some personal issues, she asked my 9-year-old daughter Ellie if she had an extra stuffed animal to share; this was a breakthrough moment in Ellie feeling connected with Hannah. As Ellie said, 鈥淎nyone who understands the power of bonding with a stuffie can be trusted.鈥� Here are some other comments written by her cross-cultural peers: 鈥淗annah鈥檚 curiosity shines and is a huge asset.鈥� 鈥淗annah, you balance strength of character and genuine thoughtfulness, peppered with giddy enthusiasm for the beautiful things in life鈥� 鈥淗annah, you make things happen. You are very intelligent in the way you care for others.鈥� 鈥淗annah, I always enjoy conversations with you. They never stay as small talk for long.鈥� And, my personal favorite, 鈥淗annah is badass but also so kind and loving. The combo makes her even more badass.鈥�

This spring, I鈥檝e been supervising Hannah鈥檚 semester of student teaching. In terms of content and pedagogy, she was a star, which was no surprise. Behavior management, however, can be much trickier even for experienced teachers. On Hannah鈥檚 first day of middle school instruction, she took a stand when she heard some culturally inappropriate comments. That day would have gone so much more smoothly for Hannah had she chosen to ignore the comments, but she has never been one to opt for the easy way out. Another incident occurred a couple weeks later when the cooperating teacher was absent – this one had the potential to emotionally endanger other students and was personally directed at Hannah when she tried to intervene. Rather than hold a grudge against the students who were responsible, Hannah regrouped that night, and then entered into a mediated restorative process in the following days. This process not only helped heal her relationship with the students but also helped the students sincerely and willingly change their speech and behavior as a result. 

Hannah, may you continue to sustain your balance as a dancing daffodil and a badass advocate for this world. 

Faith Manickam 

A biology, pre-med major and chemistry minor from Hesston, Kansas, Faith was honored by Rachel Roth Sawatzky, director of Student Programs, Student Life.

Cords of Distinction are presented to 91短视频 students who make positive contributions to student life and the institution at large, while maintaining good academic standing. It is my distinct honor to present this award to Faith Manickam who has both met and exceeded these criteria in her academic and community engagement endeavors throughout her time at 91短视频. Biology professor Jeff Copeland indicates that Faith distinguished herself in the classroom and in preparation for medical school, but that she is not just a great student, she is also a great classmate. Professor Deanna Durham also reflected on Faith鈥檚 academic giftedness, adding that Faith also offers 鈥渁 presence that encourages others to share; she pauses before speaking and you can see her wondering about how to put her questions into words. She is sensitive and mindful of others, giving space and a kind smile. I’ve enjoyed hearing her process in class, reflecting about identity and faith, aware of the larger world yet fully immersed where she is.鈥� Deanna also noted with appreciation, 鈥淔aith shows up again and again: for SGA; campus events; poetry readings; speakers; convocation; and so on. And she not only shows up but she engages deeply in discussions and conversations, lingering to talk…she doesn’t want to miss an opportunity to learn more.鈥�

In my own experience of Faith I have found that she embodies the words of musician and philosopher, Jimi Hendrix: 鈥渒nowledge speaks, but wisdom listens.鈥� I have yet to meet another student who can hold space with such compassion and confidence. Dean of Students Shannon Dycus reflects, 鈥淔aith has both natural and learned leadership skills. Watching her in leadership means getting to witness the ways she is actively attentive to the needs of people around her – you see her eyes moving with care. Faith’s leadership is centered in possibility – always asking the questions of how we can show up. The spirit that drives this in her motivates others to the generative care she holds.鈥� 

Not only is she wise and thoughtful, Faith is also a great conversationalist. I value the many conversations that have spilled over from a scheduled meeting into an extended personal conversation. Over the course of those conversations, Faith and I have discovered numerous shared experiences and deep connections. If Faith and I had gone to college together, I hope that we would have been friends; and in any case, I am very glad we are friends now.

Faith, as you set your eyes toward the next phase, I want to offer you this advice for life, in the words of Indian writer and political activist Arundhati Roy: 

To love. To be loved. To never forget your own insignificance. To never get used to the unspeakable violence and the vulgar disparity of life around you. To seek joy in the saddest places. To pursue beauty to its lair. To never simplify what is complicated or complicate what is simple. To respect strength, never power. Above all, to watch. To try and understand. To never look away. And never, never to forget.

Faith 鈥� good luck and on behalf of 91短视频, thank you for your leadership and the spirit in which you offered it.

Misrahim (Mizz) Nyagwegwe

A recreation and sports management major from Norristown, Pennsylvania, Mizz was honored by Brian Martin Burkholder, University Chaplain, and Carlin Kreider, Campus Missionary, Every Nation Campus.

Well, what does one say to honor Misrahim (Mizz) Nyagwegwe upon his recognition as a recipient of the 91短视频 Cords of Distinction? He is a beloved son, thoughtful brother, dedicated uncle, friend to many, basketball player and valued teammate, mentee, and mentor to peers. What stands out most clearly is the loyalty Mizz extends to the people for whom he cares. Mizz is always willing to go the extra mile to care for and benefit others, sometimes setting aside his own preferences, motivated by a desire to see those around him grow and improve.

When observing Mizz in action, it is his steadfast presence that stands out. When Mizz is there, he is there. His contributions to the well-being of others, or toward meeting the goals of the team, or advancing a shared purpose are steady and consistent. He shows up and offers what he has to offer with an unassuming yet confident presence and he brings joy by sharing his warm smile and friendly personality.

It seems that Mizz finds great joy in serving others. He is a four year member of the men鈥檚 basketball team – elevated to co-captain his senior year, a ministry assistant and student chaplain assistant contributing to the intentions of campus ministries and the Office of Faith and Spiritual Life, a community advisor with residence life, a rec sports intern helping to organize and run events, and a dedicated student leader with Every Nation Campus as they moved from having affiliate status to being an official 91短视频 student club.

In addition to his on campus involvements, Mizz has been active at his church serving on the parking team and as an Armor Bearer and he participated in a spring break mission trip to Myrtle Beach. He also contributed to the Royals Read program with the men鈥檚 basketball team reading to area children.

Our hope for Mizz is that he continues to pursue God and grow in his own understandings of his purpose 鈥� his vocation. May God bless Mizz with a deep knowledge and experience of the love God has for him, and may Mizz continue to find ways of reflecting this love outward so it in turn blesses others who cross his path.

Mizz, congratulations on being honored with the 91短视频 Cords of Distinction.

Allison Shelly

A political science major with minors in Honors, journalism, community organizing and development, and history from Collinsville, Mississippi, Allison was honored by Professor Ji Eun Kim, political science.

Salt and light. Allison Shelly is the person who recalls what Jesus said to his followers: To be salt and light of this world, affecting and influencing the people, community, and the world around us. As shared by multiple enthusiastic nominations, Allison made a 鈥渟ignificant and verifiable impact鈥� on all of us during her four years at 91短视频. 

As her colleagues appreciated her presence and active work in every corner of our campus and beyond, succinctly reviewing Allison鈥檚 list of countless positions and accomplishments is highly challenging. She was the SGA co-president during COVID and polarized election year, a position in which she helped the campus organize “Race Matters,” “LGBTQ+ Matters” orientations, hosted town halls, co-hosted a convocation event reflecting on political polarization on campus. Her peers also called her a great leader of 91短视频鈥檚 Cross Country, Track & Fields, and 91短视频 Triathlon teams. Allison served as a Community Advisor for first years as well as the 91短视频 Honors mentor. She also worked in the Visual Arts in Worship Documentary team, a collaborative work between 91短视频 and Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical Seminary. Except for the semesters when she was off -campus, either for her Middle East Cross-Cultural or to work as a Community Organizing intern at Congregation Action Network in DC, her name always appeared on the Weathervane, where she served as the writer and photographer. You may have also come across her bright, friendly smile at Common Grounds as she was our barista for four semesters. Allison鈥檚 active campus engagement was also accompanied by her excellent academic standing. As a major in political science with four minors (in history, community organizing, journalism, and honors), she has been an all-A Dean鈥檚 list student with a perfect GPA. 

Now while Allison鈥檚 resume certainly shines with numerous accolades, it is who she is and how she does the work that really makes her deserving of this award. Allison is a person who tirelessly holds on to the values of justice and equity in all aspects of her life. She is empathetic and genuinely cares about others, especially those whose voice has been silenced and or marginalized. It is no surprise that her research topics have always centered around the issues of unjust political systems that suppress others and perpetuate injustices (e.g., examining the mistreatment of Kurds, assessing the international human rights regimes that are inherently limited in addressing ongoing violence). Allison is passionate about the ways in which we can create real change, yet she approaches others with great nuance and humility, hoping to communicate and understand the complex emotions that others or herself may experience in this arduous journey for justice. Her attentive listening skills and thoughtful presence invite and challenge us to become more loving and caring people. Last year, Allison shared three values that she wishes to engrain in the foundation of her being and purpose: First was 鈥渋nitiative鈥� (with the wisdom that her actions may not create immediate social change). Second, a mindset of 鈥渁bundance.鈥�  And lastly, 鈥渃reativity鈥� which often blooms the most when we are limited. I feel blessed to have been able to work with Allison these past four years, who truly inspires us with such a desire to improve herself and the world around her. I look forward to seeing her continue to walk this journey guided by her values.

• Allison Shelly and Isaac Alderfer were recognized as Male and Female President’s Award honorees. The President’s Award is given to the male and female who has most exemplified the values of the athletic department during their career through academic achievement, athletic contribution, Christian commitment, leadership, campus involvement and service.
• Paris Hutchinson and Alijah Johnson were named Athletes of the Year, for most outstanding athletic achievement in current academic year.
• Bri Redfearn and Damon Morgan were named Freshman of the Year, for most outstanding athletic achievement.

Read more about each athlete below.

PRESIDENTS AWARD: Allison Shelly – Triathlon, Cross-Country and Track & Field

Shelly was awarded the 2021-22 President’s Award by 91短视频 President Susan Schultz Huxman. Shelly is a political science major with minors in history, journalism, community organization and development as well as honors with a 4.0 GPA from Collinsville, Miss. In her time at 91短视频, she has been an integral part of three different athletic teams as well as an SGA Senator and Co-President, a contributor for the Weather Vane, Senior Class Business Manager, Convocation Committee, CODI, Academic Council, Conversation Partner in IEP, Community Advisor, Young Democrats Club and part of the Harrisonburg Living Wage Campaign.

After her graduation, her future plans include a service year in the Serving and Learning Together program of Mennonite Central Committee in Palestine.

For her nomination, she also had to submit a reflection on her time at 91短视频, to which she replied, “Simply put, there is no way I would have had the confidence and balance I’ve felt in academic or co-curriculars in the past four years without my experience with track & field, XC and triathlon. I wasn’t plannin on running until two weeks before coming to 91短视频. The decison to try to get in shape has allowed me to form friendships that will continue far past college, allowed me to learn to stay strong underpressure and given me opportunities to learn from a multitude of teammates and supporters within 91短视频 athletics staff, whom I really admire.” 

On winning the award, Shelly said, “Who would I be without my teammates, my coaches, and the experiences I’ve had because of athletics? I am so grateful to have this award as a reminder of all that 91短视频 athletics has been for me.”

PRESIDENTS AWARD: Isaac Alderfer – Cross-Country and Track & Field

Alderfer was awarded the 2021-22 President’s Award by 91短视频 President Susan Schultz Huxman. He is an enviromental science major with minors in photography and honors from Broadway, VA who has maintained a 3.97 GPA. While at 91短视频, he has re-written the record books in both cross-country and track & field. On the 91短视频 campus, he has been involved as a leader in the 91短视频 Explore and Earthkeepers Club, a barista at Common Grounds, a Community Advisor, a Center for Sustainable Climate Solutions student ambassador, a member of the Honors Council and Creation Care Council, part of the Intercultural Committee, a biology tutor, a contributor to the Weather Vane and has done biology research. 

After graduation, his future plans include a service year in the Serving and Learning Together program of Mennonite Central Committee in Cambodia.

For his nomination, he also had to submit a reflection on his time at 91短视频, to which he replied, “Being part of an athletic team at 91短视频 has helped me to develop skills directly associated with my athletic performance, in addition to skills such as time management, conflict mediation, communication and leadership. The relationships I have build over the past four years with teammates, coaches and other athletics staff are so valuable to me and I feel confident will result in lifelong friends and mentors. While it certainly has not always been easy to balance athletics with school work and a social life, it has, in so many ways, been rewarding and worth the sacrifices involved.” 

On winning the President’s Award, Alderfer said, “It’s an honor to receive an award that acknowledges the sacrifices and commitment from the many perspectives involved in being a student-athlete.  Big hugs to all my 91短视频 comrades.”

Athlete of the Year: Paris Hutchinson, Volleyball

Hutchinson, a sophomore from Waynesboro, Va., was named the 91短视频 Female Athlete of the Year after a season that saw her have one of the best seasons in 91短视频 women’s volleyball history. She was named First-Team All-ODAC and Second-Team VaSID All-State. For her performance in 91短视频’s pair of wins over Roanoke and Lynchburg, she was named the ODAC Player of the Week. By the end of the season, she was second in the ODAC and 24th nationally with 4.00 K/S and sixth in the ODAC in total kills with 284. She also led the squad in points/set at 4.61, which was also tops in the ODAC and 22nd nationally.  

Hutchinson helped 91短视频 to a record-setting season as the Royals finished with seven ODAC wins, their most conference wins in two decades.

“Receiving the ‘Female Athlete of the Year’ award is such a special honor,” Hutchinson said. “The group of finalists were all so deserving! As a sophomore, I still have much to learn and improve on. But I’m lucky to be a student-athlete at 91短视频. I am truly humbled by the faith that those around me, have within me. I would not have accomplished this without my amazing teammates, coaches, trainers, and all who have been by my side. Thank you for continuing to motivate me to be the best I can be each day.”

Male Athlete of the Year: Alijah Johnson, Track & Field

Much like Hutchinson, Johnson has one of the best years in 91短视频 track & field history. The senior from Upper Marlboro, MD, qualified for 2022 NCAA Indoor National Track & Field Championships in the 200m. He was named USTFCCCA All-Region for the 60m and 200m. Durin the indoor season, he was named the ODAC Men’s Indoor Track Athlete of the Week. For his performance at the ODAC Championships, he was named Second-Team All-ODAC in the 200m and Third-Team All ODAC in the 60m. His name is currently etched in the record books as he set the 91短视频 record in the 200m and 60m. His successful season earned him First-Team VaSID in sprints. 

He has followed that up with a stellar outdoor season, setting the ODAC and 91短视频 record in 200m at the Dennis Craddock Coaches Classic. He currently has the eighth fastest time in the nation in the 100m and the second fastest time in the nation in the 200m. This past weekend at the ODAC Championships, he picked up second place in the 100m and was the ODAC Champion in the 200m. If his current times hold, he will be making his second straight trip to the NCAA Outdoor National Championships at the end of May. 

“I was very happy when I heard my name called for the Athlete of the Year,” Johnson said. “I felt like my journey as a student athlete had come full circle since I had won Freshman Athlete of the Year as well. All of the hard work, ups and downs of being a student-athlete is paying off and I’m excited for what lies ahead.”

Freshman of the Year: Brii Redfearn, Basketball

Redfearn burst onto the scene in her first collegiate game against Apprentice. The Fairfax native dropped 19 points and grabbed a game-high 13 rebounds in the Royals 76-44 win. For that performance, she was named the ODAC WBB Player of the Week. She continued her strong season, finishing second on the team with 11.5 PPG and leading the Royals with 8.7 RPG, which was second in the ODAC and led all freshman.She was the only player in the ODAC with a 20 rebound game, and she actually did it twice, grabbing 20 against Wilson College and 22 against Bridgewater. She finished the season with seven double doubles. Along with her basketball success, she is also a member of the 91短视频 outdoor track & field team. At the Dennis Craddock Coaches Classic, Redfearn was part of the 4×100 relay team that set the 91短视频 record. 

“I am more than blessed with the award of Freshman Of The Year,” Redfearn said. “I’ve certainly had periods when I felt like life was winning and I was losing. I couldn’t have done it without my teammates or my coaches setting me up for success and always pushing me to be the best athlete I can be. I will always appreciate them and give them the credit they deserve. When I felt like I was failing them, they let me know that it’s all in my head, ‘it’s a mental thing’ but the secret to the game is learning how to lose. This is just the beginning of my journey as a collegiate athlete. – 23”

Freshman of the Year – Damon Morgan, Track & Field

Morgan started his success during 91短视频’s indoor track & field season. During the year, he had two top-five finishes during the season. He was part of the 4×400 relay team that finished fifth at the ODAC Championships. He raced to the 91短视频 indoor record books, sitting top-10 all-time at 91短视频 in 60m and top-five all-time at 91短视频 in the 200m. He picked right back up where he left off in his first outdoor season, setting a PR in the 100m and 200m at the Washington and Lee Track Carnival. He continued to add his name to the record books, adding his name to the top-10 in both the 100m and 200m. He finished his outdoor season with a third place finish as part of the 4×100 relay team at the ODAC Outdoor Championships. 

“It’s an honor to have won Male Freshman of the Year, I’m just glad that my name was in the conversation,” Morgan said. “I was only able to walk this path because of Alijah Johnson. He has been a great mentor academically as well as athletically. He has left some big shoes for me to fill but I will NOT let him down.”

More than 100 91短视频 students were recognized for accomplishments and achievements during the 2021-22 academic year during a special recognition ceremony Tuesday.

Academics

Academic Success Center

Seniors who worked as tutors were recognized: Rodrigo Barahona, Jonas Beachy, Ben Bontrager-Singer, Garrett Cash, Tarynn Clark, Erin Clayton, Elizabeth Eby, Ike Esh, Ben Greenleaf, Mary Harnish, Tasia Hoover, Caleb Hostetler, Brenda Kasongo, Nicole Miller, Sara Beth Mumbauer, Jake Myers, Andrea Troyer, Laura Troyer, Jason Wong, Eli Wright, Teo Yoder, Janessa Zimmerman, and Verda Zook.

Bible and Religion

The annual Haverim* writing awards are given to students whose essays demonstrate robust scholarship related in one way or another to biblical studies, religion, philosophy, and/or Anabaptist/Mennonite thought and practice. Cash awards of $300, $200, and $100 for first, second and third place, respectively, come with the prize. 

• First place: Elizabeth Eby for 鈥�”Beyond Cancel Culture: Uniting around Difference in the Book of Acts,鈥� highlighting how the 鈥渃ancel culture鈥� phenomenon can too often cause precisely the exclusion that it seeks to address and articulating how the Apostolic Decree encouraged radical inclusion while still challenging and de-centering the voices that perpetuate injustice.

• Second place: Isaac Alderfer for his exploration of the industrialization of food production and his argument that a turn toward agroecology could offer a form of food production that pays attention to both social and environmental justice.
• Third place: Jake Myers for his history of monasticism in Ireland and effects on surrounding communities.

*Haverim, the Hebrew word for friends, is a group of Bible, religion, and theology and seminary alumni which supports 91短视频 and EMS.

Biology, Chemistry and Environmental Sustainability

• Nicole Miller: Outstanding Senior Chemistry Student
• Faith Manickam: Outstanding Senior Biology Student
• Isaac Alderfer and Jacob Myers: Outstanding Environmental Sustainability Student
• Evan Kauffman and Meredith Lehman: Outstanding First-Year Chemistry Student Award
• Megan Miller and Isaac Spicher: Outstanding Second-Year Biology Student Awards
• Jessie Landis: Award for Excellence in Research, 
• Andrew Troyer: Award for Exceptional Service.

Business and Leadership

• Rodrigo Barahona: Outstanding Economics Senior
• Alcinda Brubaker: Exceptional Service Award
• Max Driver: Outstanding Business Administration Senior听
• Max Driver: Outstanding Research Award
• Jaylon Lee: Outstanding Recreation and Sports Management Senior
• Isaac Longacher: Outstanding Marketing Senior
• Verda Zook: Outstanding Accounting Senior.

Center for Justice and Peacebuilding

Graduate student Conner Suddick was selected for recognition for 鈥渆xceptionally artful and inclusive leadership,鈥� according to his advisor Katie Mansfield, lead trainer with the Strategies for Trauma Awareness and Resilience. 鈥淐onner, thank you for imagining an inclusive experience for every body at 91短视频 and working creatively to address historical and present wounds and weave a more loving future that includes queer bodies, engaging research, writing, participatory arts-based research and circle processes.鈥�

Education

Five education students were named as 2022 Teachers of Promise, among 100 of the best and brightest pre-service teachers in Virginia:听

• Mary Harnish, from Lancaster, Pa.; Elementary Education, PreK-6 & Special Education
• Hannah Leaman, from Bakersfield, Ca.; Mathematics, Secondary Education, 6-12
• Rachel Lute, from New Market, Va.; Early Elementary Education, PreK-3
• Bethany Shultz, from Harrisonburg, Va.; Elementary Education, PreK-6 
• Anna Smith, from Edinburg, Va.;  Elementary Education, PreK-6.

Gage Riddick was selected by department faculty for the annual Courage to Teach Award, modeled after principles in Parker Palmer鈥檚 book of the same name. Department faculty selected Gage for his  dedication and success in teaching, her genuine caring for students, reflective practice, highly principled behaviors, and her courage to navigate challenging experiences. He was presented with a copy of Palmer鈥檚 book.

91短视频 faculty selected Skylar Hedgepeth for the Virginia Woman鈥檚 Scholar Award from the Virginia State Organization of Delta Kappa Gamma Society International. The award is for an outstanding graduate with the promise of being a key woman educator.

Language and Literature

The following students earned awards and scholarships, many of which are in memory of valued professors who provided powerful examples of mentorship, scholarship and teaching.

• Sarah Bascom is the winner of the Carroll Yoder Award for Teaching Excellence, which honors an 91短视频 senior or junior who has demonstrated academic excellence in both literary studies and education courses and has shown a clear call to the teaching profession.听
• Claire Whetzel earned the Ray Elvin Horst Award for excellence in Spanish.听
• Jessamine Domingo earned the Ervie L. Glick Award for excellence in world language study.
• Claire Whetzel is awarded the Omar Eby Writing Award. This award is presented to a senior majoring or minoring in writing studies who demonstrates excellence in the craft of creative writing and who provides insightful critique and support for other writers in creative workshops.
• Neo Carter was awarded the Omar and Anna Kathryn Eby Scholarship.
• Sarah Bascom and Tiffany Carey were awarded the Hubert R. and Mildred Pellman Scholarship.
• Karla Hostetter was awarded the Leroy Pellman/Elizabeth Lauver Scholarship.
• Jessica Chisolm and Joseph Whetzel were awarded the Esther Eby Glass Scholarship.
• Hannah Landis, Maria Menjivar, and Lucy Unzicker were awarded the Ernest G. Gehman Scholarship.听

Mathematics, Engineering and Computer Science

• Jonas Beachy and Laura Troyer: Outstanding Seniors in Engineering Award, awarded by the faculty as the highest honor for the graduate/s demonstrating academic excellence, service, and contributions to community and culture at 91短视频.
• Ike Esh and Hannah Leaman: Outstanding Seniors in Mathematics Award, awarded by the faculty as the highest honor for the graduate demonstrating academic excellence, service, and contributions to community and culture at 91短视频.
• Isaac Andreas and Trajon Brown: Outstanding Seniors in Computer Science Award, awarded by the faculty as the highest honor for the graduate demonstrating academic excellence, service, and contributions to community and culture at 91短视频.
• Ike Esh won 91短视频鈥檚 annual math competition.
• Winners of the Kryptos international codebreaking competition, out of 77 teams, were Hannah Leaman, Caleb Hostetler and Mana Acosta. Look for news coverage soon!

Music

Two students were honored with the Outstanding Student in Music Award for leadership, service, music performance and music scholarship.

• Eve Yavny has served as concertmaster of the 91短视频 Chamber Orchestra, is a two-time winner of the 91短视频 concerto competition, and gave an excellent senior recital performance. She has distinguished herself as a teacher and assistant in the Shenandoah Valley Preparatory Program as well as performed in countless university and department events. 听
• Isaac Longacre distinguished himself throughout his career at 91短视频 with exceptional performances in four 91短视频 musical theater productions, playing iconic roles from a villain to a hero in “Shrek,” “Beauty and the Beast,” “U2 Romeo and Juliet,” and “Noye’s Fludde.”

Political Science

Paige Hurley was named the History and Political Science Outstanding Student. She was recognized for exemplary service, as the student assistant for the program, and scholarship, with听 research published in New Errands, the online publication of the Eastern American Studies Association.

Psychology

• Avery Trinh and Katie Zuercher were both awarded the Galen R. Lehman Outstanding Achievement in Research Award. Both had exceptional designs, data collection and interpretation of results. Katie鈥檚 research was on the survival processing paradigm for first person shooter video games and Avery worked with 91短视频 Institutional Research on a survey about belonging.
• Joshua Wenger and Lindsay Green received the Judy H. Mullet Award for Internship Excellence, for their outstanding and consistent performance in psychology internship with exceptional independent work in establishing a unique field placement experience with Sentara Behavioral Health and Outpatient Center and the Community Care and Learning Center, respectively.

Campus Life

Campus Activities Council

Natallie Brown, Isaac Andreas, Thomas Erickson, Aliyyah Haggard, Ashley Schoenhardt and Jeremiah Yoder for the CAC All-Star Award. Criteria includes volunteering over 200 hours or working more than 350 hours.

Office of Faith and Spiritual Life

The following students were recognized for leadership as student chaplains, nurturing faith and spiritual life in various ways: Micah Buckwalter, sustainability; Alyssa Breidigan, worship; Natallie Brown, discipleship; Elizabeth Eby, engagement; Kate Landis, worship; Emma Nord, community; Reah Clymer, community; and Halie Mast, service.

Center for Interfaith Engagement

Philip Krabill and Leah Walker were recognized for offering opportunities in fall and spring, respectively, helping to create spaces on campus for engagement around issues of religious diversity and justice. They co-planned events such as SoulStories and interfaith leadership convocation breakout groups, student dinners, and celebrations of sacred holidays on campus, according to Trina Trotter Nussbaum, associate director of the Center for Interfaith Engagement, who offered the appreciation.

Multicultural Student Services

Director of Multicultural Student Services Celeste Thomas recognized the leaders the Latinx Student Alliance, many of them first-year students who stepped in to revive and continue the club after several seniors involved in leadership graduated: co-presidents Ashley Iscoa, Mayra Cruz and Cristal Narciso; co-secretaries Diego Tijerina Saucedo and KC Argueta-Rivas; marketing director David Flores Cano; historians Emily Diaz and Ariel Morales Bonilla; and treasurers Margarita Hernandez-Perez and Tony Cortes.

Residence Life

Sarah Grossen was recognized with the Outstanding CA Award, for her three-year commitment to serving as a community advisor in 91短视频 residence halls. 鈥淪he continuously creates safe, fun, and inviting spaces for all of her residents,鈥� said Tyler Goss, assistant director of student programs.

Student Government Association

Co-presidents of the Student Government Association Philip Krabill, Faith Manickam, and Aman Seyoum, were recognized for outstanding leadership by Dean of Students Shannon Dycus.

The co-presidents passed the gavel to the incoming leadership team of Meredith Lehman, Ella Brubaker, and Hannah Beck.

Athletics (includes winter and spring seasons)

Athletic Department Awards

Freshman of the Year 鈥� Brii Redfearn: Women鈥檚 Basketball and Damon Morgan: Men鈥檚 Track & Field

Athlete of the Years 鈥� Paris Hutchinson: Women鈥檚 Volleyball and Alijah Johnson: Men鈥檚 Track & Field

President鈥檚 Award 鈥� Allison Shelly: Women鈥檚 Triathlon, XC and Track & Field and Isaac Alderfer: Men鈥檚 XC and Track & Field

Field Hockey

Skylar Hedgepeth, Maggie Groetsch, Kate Landis and Libbie Derstine were named Scholars of Distinction as well as to the National Academic Squad. Joining them on the National Academic Squad were Rachel Breslin, Keely Mitchell, Cassidy Armstrong and Morgan Leslie.听

Women鈥檚 Volleyball

Paris Hutchinson: VaSID All-State Second Team

Men鈥檚 Basketball听

Tim Jones: Royals Athlete of the Week; D3 National Team of the Week; ODAC MBB Player of the Week; 1,000 Career Points; All-VaSID Second Team; All-ODAC Second Team.

Mizz Nyagwegwe and Mark Burkholder were each named to a Royals Athlete of the Week honor.

Women鈥檚 Basketball听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听

Claiborne Poston: Royals Athlete of the Week

Men鈥檚 Indoor Track and Field

Distance Medley Relay 鈥� Set 91短视频 indoor T&F record 鈥� 10:22.26 

Alijah Johnson: Set 91短视频 indoor T&F record in the 60m 鈥� 6.96; Set 91短视频 indoor T&F record in the 200m 鈥� 21.96; All-ODAC Second Team in the 200m; All ODAC Third Team in the 60m;听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 All-VaSID First Team 鈥� Sprints; Qualified for NCAA Indoor National Championships.

Justice Allen: Royals Athlete of the Week

Eli Roeschley: Royals Athlete of the Week; All-ODAC Second Team in Triple Jump

Isaac Alderfer: Royals Athlete of the Week;听All-ODAC Second Team in the Mile; All-ODAC Second Team in the 800m; All-VaSID Second Team 鈥� Mid Distance;听Qualified for NCAA Indoor National Championships; DMR-All-VaSID Second Team

Women鈥檚 Indoor Track and Field

Jenna Weaver:听 Royals Athlete of the Week听

Men鈥檚 Volleyball

Nate McGhee: Royals Athlete of the Week

Baseball

Jon Sawyers: D3 Team of the Week听

Brett Lindsay: ODAC Player of the Week听

Ray Tricarico, Ethan Spraker, and Natty Solomon were each named to a Royals Athlete of the Week honor.听

Women鈥檚 Lacrosse

KC Argueta-Rivas and Skylar Hedgepeth were each named to a Royals Athlete of the Week Honor.

Softball

Grace Fravel, Bri Allen, Emily Campbell and Sierra Lantz were each named to a Royals Athlete of the Week Honor.听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听

Men鈥檚 Outdoor Track & Field

Alijah Johnson: Men鈥檚 ODAC Track Athlete of the Week and Royals Athlete of the Week.

Women鈥檚 Outdoor Track & Field

Kendra Oguamena: Royals Athlete of the Week

Leadership from 18 Anabaptist organizations in the United States and Canada convened at the Anabaptist Collaboration on Climate Change on Jan. 26- 27 to address what many consider a moral emergency. 

The 24-hour meeting at the Mennonite Central Committee Welcoming Place in Akron, Pennsylvania, was the largest gathering of Anabaptist leaders on climate change in North America to date.  It was organized by the (CSCS).

Those gathered drafted a statement that was later signed by the majority of the participating organizations: 鈥淎s organizations founded on Christian faith in the Anabaptist tradition, we recognize the significant threat to global communities, economic justice, and the next generations from climate change. We are committed to explore our work and mission in support of sustainable and just climate solutions.鈥�

鈥淗aving so many organizations willing to come together and talk about climate change clearly reflects that this issue is important to Anabaptist communities,鈥� said Doug Graber Neufeld, director of CSCS, and professor of biology at 91短视频. 

Since its founding five years ago, CSCS has functioned as a joint initiative between three core partners: 91短视频, Mennonite Central Committee and Goshen College.  In order to broaden its reach, CSCS is in the process of deepening its relationships with a wider range of partners in programming, governance and financial support. 

The event was meant to provide a place for a focused conversation on the Anabaptist response to climate change as well as lay groundwork for future collaborations between the organizations. 

鈥淭here is a real risk that climate change will have a huge impact on things Mennonites care about,鈥� Ray Martin, who helped found CSCS, said in an opening speech. 鈥淲ell-being of families, conflict, sustainability of agriculture, hunger, our sense of community, our health, the livability of low-lying areas, even our faith (will be affected).鈥� 

Martin went on to say he believes Anabaptists are uniquely positioned for climate action. 

Anabaptists have a history of radical innovation, a theology centered around community and care for creation, a background in agriculture and land stewardship and a value placed on simple, selfless living.  These are attributes that 鈥渕ay make us more open to acknowledging the concerns of global warming and more willing to change our ways to address the risks,鈥� he said.

Jennifer Halteman Schrock, director of Mennonite Creation Care Network which works closely with CSCS on congregational outreach, appreciated the questions posed at the gathering. 鈥淗ow might we leverage our unique identity in practical ways? What assets do our organizations have that we could mobilize? What could we do together? It will take time for answers to emerge, but I believe they are the right ones to ask,鈥� she said.

Sarah Augustine, a participant who represented the Coalition for Dismantling the Doctrine of Discovery, was inspired by the willingness of the participants to 鈥渃ome together and speak with鈥� one voice鈥� despite the group鈥檚 diversity. 

Still, there were many voices not present at the table. 

鈥淲e represent the people who are causing the problem more than people who are affected by it,鈥� said Graber Neufeld. 鈥淲e are very aware of that.鈥�

To Augustine, the role of the Coalition at the gathering was to represent those on the front lines of climate change and remind others that climate change isn鈥檛 an abstract concept; there are people suffering right now. 

鈥淚ndigenous people and vulnerable people鈥� are usually the first people that are impacted; they鈥檙e the first that are going to be refugees, the first that are displaced, the first people injured by climate change,鈥� she said.  鈥淚t鈥檚 good to see Mennonite institutions willing to take a stand.鈥�

Brent Alderfer of Community Energy, Inc., extended this moral concern to future generations, 鈥淪olutions take more than a tweak to operations鈥攖hey require revamping our core missions to assure sustainability for generations to come.鈥� 

At the ACCC, participants were asked the question, 鈥榟ow can CSCS best support Anabaptist organizations in their climate efforts?鈥�

“With climate change accelerating, it is clear that individual organizations will find it more and more difficult to make a difference,” said Mark Lancaster, advancement director for CSCS.  “There is a growing need for building collaborations among Anabaptist organizations to create broader impact, and CSCS would like to embrace this role to coordinate work and catalyze actions.”  

The center plans to organize more gatherings on climate change in the future, and include a broader range of participants.  

In the meantime, CSCS facilitators encouraged participants to consider how Anabaptist organizations working in diverse areas can incorporate climate justice into their operations and missions.

For Mennonite Men, this looks like developing the JoinTrees campaign with the goal of planting a million trees by 2030. 

For Goshen College, climate action looks like developing young leaders and conducting research that will inform the sustainability work of others. 

For the Mennonite Healthcare Fellowship, it means exploring the ethics and impact of climate change to human health, while for MennoMedia, it looks like incorporating Anabaptist perspectives of climate issues into the publications that reach beyond Anabaptist audiences.

The gathering left many participants with new questions, but also with newfound hope. 

鈥淗aving the Mennonite church step forward as a tradition and say 鈥榦n behalf of peace we have to defend the climate鈥� defend the earth.鈥� That brings me hope,鈥� said Augustine. 

Graber Neufeld concluded his presentation with a reminder: when it comes to climate action, the outcome is what鈥檚 most important. 

鈥淚n everything, we are not interested in doing things just for the sake of doing things, but because it makes a difference鈥︹�� he said.  鈥�(The) ultimate outcome for us would be climate justice.鈥�

Organizations that participated in the meeting were CSCS (as the convening organization), Coalition for Dismantling the Doctrine of Discovery, 91短视频, Everence Financial, Goshen College, MCC U.S., MCC Canada, MennoMedia, Mennonite Church Canada, Mennonite Church USA, Mennonite Creation Care Network, Mennonite Disaster Service, Mennonite Economic Development Associates, Mennonite Healthcare Fellowship, Mennonite Men, Mennonite Mission Network, Mennonite World Conference, and Merry Lea Environmental Learning Center of Goshen College.

A link to the consensus statement and signatories is found at the CSCS website for the meeting:

Dr. Carole Nash will present the first Suter Science Seminar of 2022, 鈥淭elling Time with Historical Ecology: Native American Communities in a Changing Shenandoah Valley Environment,鈥� on January 26 at 5 p.m. Nash is a registered professional archaeologist and associate professor in the School of Integrated Sciences at James Madison University. She is also the director of the Environmental Archaeology Laboratory at JMU.

The sessions are free to the public, and made possible by the sponsorship of the Daniel B. Suter Endowment in Biology and the co-sponsorship of supporting programs. They will be live streamed on the [you do not need to be a Facebook member to access the livestream.] The campus community is invited to attend the seminars in person in Swartzendruber Hall of the Suter Science Center.听

鈥淎rchaeology opens doors to past cultures, allowing us to see the relevance of past practices to today鈥檚 problems,鈥� says Nash. 鈥淎s an interdisciplinary science, archaeology also tells us about the relationship between environmental history and cultural responses, a topic very important in this time of climate change.鈥�

Nash explains that by looking at Native American communities who have long occupied the Shenandoah Valley, we can learn a great deal about responses to environmental change in our area. 

Nash received her PhD in anthropology from the Catholic University of America. She is a specialist in archaeology of the Middle Atlantic uplands with over four decades of experience in cultural and environmental studies, including work with the National Park Service, National Forest Service, Commonwealth of Virginia, and private firms.听

Named in honor of long-time 91短视频 biology professor, Daniel B. Suter (1920-2006), the Endowment in Biology was established in 1986 through the generous donations of alumni and friends and currently consists of over $1 million of invested funds. 91短视频 hopes to double the Suter Endowment in order to more adequately support distinguished faculty and to increase scholarship aid to deserving students.