A short documentary about the owners of Harrisonburg’s , co-directed by peacebuilding grad Mariana Martinez ’21, will premiere next week at Court Square Theater. 

The 20-minute film, titled ¡Hola, Paisano!, follows the owners, Hugo Hernández and Berenice Rodriguez, two immigrants from Mexico, as they build a life, family, and a business through baking. It traces their beginnings, introduces their family, and places their experiences within the broader context of today’s national conversations about immigration.

“In short, it’s a slice of life,” said Martinez. “It touches on themes of family, the immigrant experience, the American dream, and what it means to run a bakery in Downtown Harrisonburg. It feels like a niche environment to document in, but it truly is a channel where you can see the life of Hugo and Berenice, their story, and their life.”

Martinez is originally from Honduras and moved to Harrisonburg with her family when her father, Luis Martinez SEM ’15, began attending Eastern Mennonite Seminary to earn a master of divinity. She graduated from Eastern Mennonite School and attended Hesston College for two years before transferring to 91����Ƶ. 

Along with Jess Daddio, co-director and director of photography for ¡Hola, Paisano!, and Sarah Golibart Gorman, producer, the filmmaking trio met for the first time and began hashing out the idea in March 2024. Gorman, a writer for Edible Blue Ridge who runs the popular Instagram account, had written a about Latino restaurants in Harrisonburg and had interviewed the owners of El Paisano.

“She had a connection there, which helped create a rapport with them and allowed them to tell their story,” Martinez said.

¡Hola, Paisano!  will screen with English and Spanish subtitles and will be shown at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 18, with doors opening at 6:30 p.m. Tickets to the screening are pay-what-you-will and can be reserved online at .

A panel discussion with the documentary team and bakery owners will be held after the film, followed by cake to celebrate the bakery’s seven years in business. Afterward, attendees can continue the celebration at Broad Porch Coffee’s Latin Dance Night, which lasts until 11 p.m.

A new book published in July and co-edited by 91����Ƶ professors Ji Eun Kim (political science) and Timothy Seidel (peacebuilding, development, and global studies) aims to provide a broader, more inclusive understanding of peace and conflict by intentionally integrating voices and perspectives from the Global South/majority world.

The Sage Handbook of Peace and Conflict Studies (Sage Publishing), which was also co-edited with three professors from the U.S., Canada, and Ecuador, features contributions from more than 40 authors around the world who are working on these issues in their contexts, including current and former 91����Ƶ faculty members: Center for Justice and Peacebuilding Professor Paula Ditzel Facci (she wrote a chapter on “Decolonial Possibilities in Arts and Peacebuilding”) and CJP alumni and former professors Florina Xavier MA ’04 and Ashok Xavier MA ’04 (they wrote a case-study chapter on “Preschool Intervention in Sri Lanka”). 

“In seeking contributors, we reached out to scholars and practitioners from around the world as widely as possible,” Kim said. “Given 91����Ƶ’s longstanding commitment to peace and justice, it’s perhaps not so surprising that several of the experts who joined the project have, or once had, ties with 91����Ƶ.”

The 592-page handbook explores the evolution of the field of peace and conflict studies and offers a critical overview of theoretical approaches. “Additionally, it examines how cultural and disciplinary assumptions shape peacebuilding and conflict transformation, and it critiques traditional global narratives on issues like governance, climate change, and human rights,” according to a description from the publisher. “Finally, the handbook presents real-world case studies that integrate themes of decoloniality, race, gender, and power inequalities across diverse global contexts.” Some of those case studies examine peace and conflict in regions including Ukraine, Palestine, Libya, and Afghanistan. 

“We dig into political economy and histories of colonialism and the sorts of things that don’t always get as much attention in peace and conflict studies,” Seidel said. “One of the goals of this handbook was to not only expand the scope of what we study, but also to expand the range of voices included in that study—something of critical importance in a historical moment defined by rising authoritarianism close to home and genocide in Gaza.”

The book is structured in the following five sections:

• History, Knowledge, and Power in Peace and Conflict Studies;
• Theory and Analysis in Peace and Conflict Studies;
• Practices and Approaches in Peace and Conflict Studies; 
• Global Issues, Institutions, and Change in Peace and Conflict Studies; and 
• Case Studies in Peace and Conflict Studies.

Seidel said the process in completing the book took about two years from start to finish. “It’s an interesting and impactful book,” he said, “and you can see 91����Ƶ’s fingerprints all over it.”

The Sage Handbook of Peace and Conflict Studies is available to through 91����Ƶ’s Sadie Hartzler Library. An online webinar on the book, sponsored by the Peace Studies Section of the International Studies Association, will be held on Friday, Oct. 24, at 8:30 a.m.

91����Ƶ the professors

Kim is an associate professor of political science at 91����Ƶ, where she teaches courses on human rights, political reconciliation, genocide and mass atrocity prevention, and East Asian security. Her research lies at the intersection of International Relations, Comparative Politics, and Peace Studies, and her areas of specialization include transitional justice processes after large-scale political violence and international institutions and norms. She holds a PhD in Political Science and Peace Studies from the University of Notre Dame.

Seidel is associate professor of peacebuilding, development, and global studies at 91����Ƶ. His writing has appeared in various journals including Postcolonial Studies, International Politics, Journal of Peacebuilding and Development, and Third World Quarterly. He is co-editor of Resisting Domination in Palestine: Mechanisms and Techniques of Control, Coloniality and Settler Colonialism (2024) and Political Economy of Palestine: Critical, Interdisciplinary, and Decolonial Perspectives (2021).

She is recognized as this year’s Young Peacemaker, an honor given to “a young adult or teenager who has already demonstrated a clear devotion to peace and justice work,” according to an Aug. 28 from MC USA announcing the award recipients.

Acosta is involved in Mennonite Action, 91����Ƶ Peace Fellowship, and the 91����Ƶ Chamber Singers. She credits her participation in a nonviolent civil disobedience action on Capitol Hill with Mennonite Action as a pivotal moment in her vocational call. 

Joe Roos, a founder of Sojourners magazine who served as its publisher, was honored by MC USA as this year’s Legacy Peacemaker. 

MC USA’s Bring the Peace awards are designed to draw attention to the peace and justice work that people within the denomination are doing and to encourage and inspire more people across the country to engage in similar endeavors, according to the release.

From Feb. 21-23, 2025, the 91����Ƶ Peace Fellowship club will host the Intercollegiate Peace Fellowship (ICPF) conference. This student-led weekend conference brings together students and faculty from Mennonite, Brethren, and Quaker colleges across the U.S. and Canada to examine issues of peace and justice.

The theme for the 2025 ICPF is “Building Solidarity: From Turtle Island to Palestine.” Many students from the schools represented at the conference participate in organizations such as  and the —organizations that are working to build Palestine and Indigenous solidarities, respectively. The 2025 ICPF will give students an opportunity to learn more about these movements, educate students about organizing and movement-building, and foster connections to encourage activism on home campuses and in home communities.

Keynote speakers at this event include the co-founders and organizers of Mennonite Action, Nick Martin and Adam Ramer, as well as a longtime member of the Coalition to Dismantle the Doctrine of Discovery, Lars Åkerson. Their keynote addresses will be held in Martin Chapel at 91����Ƶ’s Seminary Building, with different sessions taking place throughout the building.

The conference workshops will provide space for more in-depth conversations with Mennonite Action and the Coalition, as well as a time to hear from other practitioners about the solidarity work they engage in. Some of the workshops include creative approaches to decolonial peacebuilding in South America, Palestine solidarity work in Harrisonburg, and a student panel with a mix of justice-related topics.

Renae Benner, one of the 91����Ƶ students helping organize the ICPF, looks forward to meeting other students who “care deeply about peace and justice issues.” She hopes those who attend the conference will “leave feeling inspired to take action for peace and be informed about how to do that.” Many faculty and students at 91����Ƶ care deeply about seeking peace and justice, she added, making the university well-suited to host this conference.

91����Ƶ last hosted the ICPF in February 2020 and before that in 2014. Generally, participating institutions take turns hosting the conference every year, but due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the conference has not been held since 2020. The conference planning committee is excited about restarting the conference and looks forward to building new connections during this time.

Visit the Intercollegiate Peace Fellowship webpage to find more information about the schedule or register for the conference.

Participants at ICPF are expected to come from Mennonite colleges and universities including Hesston College, Bluffton University, Goshen College, Bethel College, Canadian Mennonite University, and Conrad Grebel University; other Anabaptist, Quaker, and Brethren universities such as Messiah College, Elizabethtown College, and Manchester University; and other colleges in the Harrisonburg area such as James Madison University and Bridgewater College.

This event reflects 91����Ƶ’s commitment to its core value of peace and justice by providing a platform for students and faculty to engage in critical conversations, build meaningful connections, and take tangible steps toward transformative change in their communities and beyond.

Read a preview of the event in the Daily News-Record .

The board of directors includes several educators, as well as representatives from the medical and law fields.

Mansour is also associate professor at Nazareth Evangelical College in Israel. She earned her PhD in peace studies and theology from the Oxford Centre for Mission Studies. In 2020, she published (Langham Monographs).

For 13 years, Mansour was a public prosecutor and deputy head of the public prosecution office in Nazareth. She was the first Palestinian Arab to hold such a position in Israel.

Ten 91����Ƶ students are gaining professional experience this fall at the Washington Community Scholars’ Center (WCSC). They represent nine different majors, showing the range of placement possibilities available through the program. The diversity includes four computer science majors (with two also double majoring in math), two history and social science majors, one social work major, one liberal arts major, one digital media major, and one peacebuilding and development major.

The center, located in the nation’s capital since 1976, is a program of 91����Ƶ.

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’s placements include several organizations that are long-time hosts of 91����Ƶ students, highlighting WCSC’s deep ties within the region. Many alumni can trace their careers back to a pivotal experience at WCSC. 

Read more about WCSC success! Nursing major Ashlyn Eby talks about personal growth and learning from her internship. 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. 

Zyeasha Ba, a peace and development major from Stafford, Virginia, is with the peace education program . She helps to lead discussions about conflict resolution with elementary school age children and men experiencing homelessness.

Seth Andreas, a math and computer science major from Bluffton, Ohio, is doing a variety of tasks at , from scripting to 3D modeling, in the realm of virtual reality game development.

KC Argueta-Rivas, a social work major from Springfield, Virginia, works with case managers at providing legal services and social services to clients.

Cor’Shauna Cunningham, a liberal arts major and psychology minor from Brooklyn, New York, is with , an addiction treatment center.

Mykenzie Davis, a digital media and communications major from Lititz, Pennsylvania, is with , where she is filming and editing videos for clients and enhancing her portfolio for post-graduation job search.

Natalia Hernandez, a computer science major from San Pedro Sula, Honduras, is with , where she is implementing malware detection software. She was recently offered a position as a service desk engineer at the same organization.

Anya Kauffman, a history and social science major from Goshen, Indiana, is interning at the criminal defense law firm, . “I help two legal assistants with tasks including requesting accident reports from the police department, scheduling hearings at the DMV, checking for court dates or case numbers. I think the most significant learning experience will be working in a fast-paced law firm, understanding the ins and outs of a criminal defense firm, and learning the process of a criminal legal case.”

Tace Martin, a history and social science major from Eugene, Oregon, is with . The site was one of the first public schools for African American children in the United States, and currently houses a museum, a research room, art exhibits, and the archives of the District of Columbia Public Schools. He is documenting and rehousing collections related to the school itself, as well as “pulling collections for upcoming scholarly visits.” Martin is also contributing to the site’s draft application to be listed on the National Park Service Register of Historic Places.

Joey Sun, a computer science major from Shenyang, China, is with the . His role consists of providing technical support to all Smithsonian employees regarding verification issues, technology assistance, and moderating access to special documents. He is learning to navigate the user interface and software the OCIO uses to support the entire Smithsonian network.

Noah Swartzentruber, a math and computer science major from Lancaster, Pa., is working on projects for the Smithsonian National Zoo’s website and collaborating on a web-based tool for zookeeping staff.

Summer 2022 placements included:

• A physical therapy practice
• Mennonite Central Committee’s National Justice and Peace Ministries office 
• Community of Hope, a community health clinic that provides quality healthcare and housing to families 
• 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
• St. Anthony Catholic School, gaining experience working with children and observing different teaching styles
• Washington Digital Media, making business cards and several other templates.
• Bread for the City’s primary care clinic in a Spanish-language setting
• Anacostia Watershed Society with their adult education classes, tree surveying, invasive species removal, wetland planting, and boat tours on the Anacostia River
• Keegan Theater
• Girls on the Run DC
• 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.

Jamie Reich, WCSC’s associate director of communications and retention, contributed to this article.

We hope that what you hear and see this evening will move your spirit, buoy your soul, challenge your mind and bring joy to your heart. 

Professor David Berry, introducing the 11/11/22 Gala Concert

91����Ƶ’s annual Gala Concert was an evening of multiple delights amidst musical artistry, bringing together Nicolas Flagello’s rarely-performed choral masterwork about the life and death of Martin Luther King, Jr., and a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to hear Balla Kouyaté, a legend of world music.

Equally thrilling to music lovers of the 91����Ƶ community were the performances of university musicians in all ensembles, joined by 15 young musicians from the Shenandoah Valley Youth Symphony. 

And especially meaningful for both performers and audience that night was that Dianne Flagello, wife of the late composer, had personally blessed the performance. 

Producer and master of ceremonies Professor David Berry shared with the audience that choir director Professor Benjamin Bergey had invited her to the performance. 

The 2.5-hour concert left many with feelings similar to what Berry had wished.

“Our program’s commitments to community engagement, justice and peacebuilding, and diversity of styles and genres in music was so evident,” said Dean Dan Ott, himself a musician. “I could see in the faces of our student-musicians that they understood deeply, in their bodies and spirits, that the full power of music to bring us together was in force during this performance.”

Sharon Welch, who leads the justice-oriented Social Transformation Fellowship, watched the livestream from Chicago. “Deeply inspiring to see young people performing with such skill and integrity that powerful work … such a clear articulation of the pivotal vision and impact of 91����Ƶ,”  she observed.

In a note to Bergey after the concert, Flagello expressed appreciation for the multimedia presentation that accompanied the music, for the choir’s “angelic glorious sound,” and for bass Ricky Goodwin, who “sang with a sensitivity and heartfelt understanding of the role.” And in another synchronicity, she shared that Kouyaté’s performance was an “added pleasure, as my major instrument was the marimba.”

91����Ƶ’s music community and student-musicians rose to the challenge of two difficult and technically challenging collaborations in what was a rare opportunity, according to Berry and Bergey.

Flagello’s work has only been performed a few dozen times since its premiere. Preparations began more than a year in advance, with Bergey proposing the masterwork as part of a winning Inclusive Excellence grant from 91����Ƶ’s Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. 

“The Passion of MLK was such a powerful work to learn on many levels for our students,” Bergey explained. “Modern oratorio is not often tackled as it is often harmonically more dissonant, which can be a challenge at first. Between the important and pertinent thematic content using MLK’s speeches, as well as liturgical texts and a beautiful composition, our students rose to the challenge that not many university groups have done.”

Kouyaté’s visit was also the result of collaborative efforts with and several other organizations (for a full list of sponsors, see below). 

The initial idea to invite him to perform came from his former colleague Kimberly Souther, now director of 91����Ƶ’s Preparatory Music Program.

Kouyaté not only performed at the gala but visited school groups to speak about and perform with his balafon.

During their rehearsal, 91����Ƶ musicians learned folk tunes from Mali alongside Kouyaté “in an improvisatory way through a different learning modality, which was such a stretching and beneficial opportunity,” Bergey said.

Professor Kyle Remnant, director of bands, worked in “out-of-the-box and creative ways with the jazz ensemble on improvisation and learning music by ear in preparation for collaborating with Balla,” Berry added. “That really helped give them the confidence to learn the music by ear in the way that these Malian folk songs would have traditionally been taught, which was an important part of the learning process.”

91����Ƶ musicians participating in the concert spoke later of their profound appreciation for such a rich experience. 

Orchestra concertmaster Judith Hoffman is a junior music education major aiming to work with young high school musicians. The gala provided her with inspiration to recreate a similar exciting and supportive environment and context, “one that embodies creativity and connection,” she said. “Being in an ensemble and creating music isn’t simply following the dynamics or articulation on the page. It’s about giving meaning to the music and using the music to reach and connect with others.”

Junior music performance major Luke Haynes said his performance in the gala both stretched him and provoked strong emotions. He performed on the clarinet and organ with the Chamber Orchestra for the MLK piece. “I felt like I was contributing to raising awareness that racial oppression is still among us even 54 years after Martin Luther King Jr’s assassination in 1968.” 

Haynes also performed on clarinet with the 91����Ƶ Wind Ensemble, Jazz Band, and Kouyaté. “Learning some of his music and then soloing with him was so humbling,” he said.

“What I loved about this gala was the collaboration across ensembles,” said sophomore music and peacebuilding major Reah Clymer, a soprano with the University Choir and Chamber Singers. “My favorite part of the night was ending the concert with Balla, the Chamber Singers and the 91����Ƶ Jazz Band. We were all dancing and moving around, singing harmonies, clapping different rhythms, and enjoying the music together. It was a magical and energizing way to end the concert, and I am really grateful to Balla for sharing his music with us.”

Special thanks to sponsors Nancy Heisey and the J.Wilmer and Velma I. Heisey Grant Fund; 91����Ƶ’s Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion; Any Given Child-Shenandoah Valley; Shenandoah Valley Preparatory Music Program; ; ; and Encore, the alumni organization of 91����Ƶ’s music program.

“The #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,” 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����Ƶ.

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.

“There are a lot of ways to get involved. You don’t need to be doing what we stereotypically think of as the ‘in in the thick of it’ work, in which all of our professional lives, personal lives and spiritual lives intersect with peace and justice,” Weybright said. “It’s a matter of just knowing where to start.”

For more information on MC USA’s 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����Ƶ 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����Ƶ, 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.

“This 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,” he said. “Being 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.”

Much of the previous organization’s 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

91����Ƶ’s begins the 2022-23 academic year with historically high enrollment levels across a range of degree and graduate certification programs. And just in time to contribute to the teaching and advising load are two new tenure-track professors with deep peacebuilding experience and strong CJP ties.

“The CJP community is fortunate for the opportunity to continue to learn from Dr. Paula Ditzel Facci and Dr. Gaurav J. Pathania, two peacebuilding practitioners with diverse skill sets and expertise who have shown their investment in the mission and vision of our program,” said Dr. Jackie N. Font-Guzmán, CJP’s strategic vision director and vice president of diversity, equity, and inclusion. “Both of these scholars have experience as visiting scholars or professors in our CJP programs, and will strengthen, expand and enrich our learning community in their more permanent roles.”

Facci, a former visiting scholar at CJP during fall 2016, returns to a full-time role as assistant professor of peacebuilding to teach graduate courses with CJP. 

Pathania was a visiting professor last year with the undergraduate sociology program and CJP. In his current role as assistant professor of sociology and peacebuilding, he will teach in the undergraduate peacebuilding and sociology programs in 91����Ƶ’s School of Social Sciences and Professions, and also at CJP. Pathania brings a Buddhist perspective with deep commitments to 91����Ƶ’s Anabaptist values of peace, justice, and reconciliation.

He notes: “As a peacebuilder, my goal is to develop a sociology for peace. I would invite all communities to the table and have a caste, race, and gender conversation with them.”

“Gaurav brings both extensive teaching experience and an exciting research agenda,” said Professor Timothy Seidel, who teaches peacebuilding, development, and global studies and also directs 91����Ƶ’s Center for Interfaith Engagement. “His anti-caste commitments and approach to peacebuilding fill a critical gap that will strengthen our programs. With his rich experience and wide network of scholars and activists, Gaurav will also provide our students with new and exciting opportunities to engage issues of social justice by relating across differences.”

Pathania previously taught at Georgetown University, Catholic University of America and George Washington University. He has been a visiting scholar to the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, and at University of Southern California. His ethnographic research in cultural sociology addresses issues of caste, class and racial discrimination among diaspora and focuses on contemporary identity movements among university students in the U.S. 

He holds PhD, MPhil, and MA degrees in sociology from Jawaharlal Nehru University in India.

Facci holds a PhD in peace and conflict studies from the University Jaume I in Spain, a masters degree from the University of Innsbruck, and a BA from SaoPaulo State University. Her current research explores dynamics of peace, conflict and violence in Latin American through encounters of dance, investigating transformative initiatives led by local communities, with the aim of informing public policies for social justice. As a practitioner-scholar, she is also experienced in developing frameworks for eliciting conflict transformation through movement and toolkits on gender and the culture of peace.

“We have deeply appreciated the energy and depth of background Dr. Facci brings into her teaching this fall,” said Professor Gloria Rhodes, CJP academic programs director. “Her ever-present smile and her enthusiasm for teaching has enlivened her courses.”

At CJP, Facci is currently teaching the Foundations I sequence, a required class for all incoming students pursuing a master’s degree or graduate certificate. She is also teaching a course in the transformational leadership program and a course in negotiation and mediation.

“Teaching at CJP connects my passions to teaching, meaningful research and transformative practical work,” said Facci. “CJP has been fundamental in my formation, and I am excited to contribute to its unwavering commitment to peace and justice. 91����Ƶ’s dedication to inclusive excellence and social change makes it a vibrant hub for cutting-edge innovation in peace work, and I am thrilled to be part of it.”

Facci has taught at the Instituto Paz e Mente in her native Brazil, as well as with the University of Innsbruck in Austria and the Academy for Conflict Transformation in Germany. She was a visiting research fellow at the Kroc Institute for International Peace Studies, University of Notre Dame.

Both professors are accomplished scholars and writers. Facci is the author of (Palgrave Macmillian, 2020), and (LIT Verlag, 2011). She published a (2020), and co-edited the special issue “Transnational Perspectives in Peace Education” in the Journal of Peace Education (2019). She has authored chapters in culture of peace for educators and youth and worked as a consultant in Reports on Human Rights Education of the InterAmerican Institute of Human Rights, Costa Rica. 

Pathania is the author of (Oxford University Press, 2019). He is part of the editorial board of South Asia Research Journal of the School of Oriental and African Studies, London. He is also an anti-caste writer, poet and activist, and currently working on his memoir. Pathania won the Poetry Society of India’s national poetry award in 2016. His anti-caste poetry appears in J-Caste journal published by Brandeis University. He is currently collaborating with Virginia Tech on a project about privileges among South Asian students.  []

91����Ƶ’s 2022 alumni awards will be presented at the Oct. 7-9 Homecoming and Family Weekend celebration.

Recipients include Dr. Joseph Gascho ’68 and Camila Pandolfi ’12.

���³��� Amy Rosenberger ’85 received word she was the recipient of the Alum of the Year Award for 2022, she thought she had misread the letter.

“I had to read it twice,” said Rosenberger, who graduated with a BA in English and minors in sociology and theater arts. “I never expected to receive such an honor, and when I think of those who’ve been named in prior years, it’s more than a bit overwhelming .”

She may have been incredulous about receiving 91����Ƶ’s honor, but members of the selection committee were not. They, along with Rosenberger’s colleagues, clients, and law professionals recognize the positive impact this labor and employment lawyer has made for more than 25 years.

Her most recent honor is among the most prestigious: In 2021, she was elected as a Fellow of The College of Labor and Employment Lawyers. The non-profit professional association honors leading lawyers nationwide for achievement, advancement, and excellence.

 “Being elected as a Fellow of The College of Labor and Employment Lawyers is one of the greatest honors a labor and employment lawyer can achieve,” Rosenberger said, “and I am humbled to be included in this distinguished group.”

A partner in the Philadelphia law firm Willig, Williams & Davidson, Rosenberger lists the following career highlights 

·   Representing labor unions and employees including government service, healthcare, K-12 and higher education.

·   Supporting workers and unions in arbitration and litigation; organizing drives and collective action; and pursuing fair contracts.

·   Teaching skills to workers to negotiate confidently with employer representatives.

·   Serving on the appellate team that obtained the Pennsylvania Supreme Court’s affirmance of a $4.04 million plaintiff’s verdict in an employee’s breach of contract claim.

·   Enforcing an interest arbitration award for a corrections officer bargaining unit before the Pennsylvania Labor Relations Board and prevailing on appeal, resulting in recovery of more than $3.6 million to the affected employees.

·   Serving as president and board member for the Philadelphia Chapter of Labor and Employment Relations Association.

·   Member of the AFL-CIO Union Lawyers Alliance (formerly Lawyers Coordinating Committee) since 1995, serving on the board of directors for three years.

·   Recognized by The Best Lawyers in America, 2016 to present.

·   Selected to the Pennsylvania Super Lawyers list, Super Lawyers (Thomson Reuters), 2017 to present.

Rosenberger enjoys the variety of responsibilities in her work. “It’s a mix of litigation, negotiation, strategic planning, education, and by its nature, the law is always evolving and so there is always something new to learn and to adapt to.”

Learning how to navigate and adapt to the traumatic challenges of the pandemic were issues Rosenberger and many of her clients dealt with in 2020. Essential workers, including educators, health care and transit employees, faced a barrage of concerns, such as contacting the virus and bringing it home to their families, as well as working long hours in stressful conditions.

“I think we are only beginning to see the impact of all of this on our workforce,” Rosenberger said. “There are many who are changing careers as a result, or who have retired earlier than they had originally planned, and we are seeing the impact in worker shortages in all sorts of fields.”

Typically, Mennonites do not choose a career in law, Rosenberger said. “When I went to college, and when I graduated, I knew that I wanted to find work helping others, but I wasn’t sure exactly how. The thought of becoming a lawyer never occurred to me. I don’t think I ever met a lawyer until I was an adult.”

Rosenberger credits 91����Ƶ’s Washington Study Service Year (WSSY), now the Washington Community Scholars’ Center, for giving her a year of “immense personal growth,” she said, adding that being taken out of her comfort zone and being exposed to different societal and political issues “opened my eyes to a world of options for meaningful work that I hadn’t previously considered.” The core curriculum of WSSY still informs her work as an attorney — “especially the sociology coursework that explored concepts of servant leadership and psychology curriculum that focused on interpersonal relations.”

After graduation, Rosenberger worked for a few years in legal support staff roles, but still wasn’t thinking of law as a career option. “It was really when I went to work for a firm that represented unions and employees that I saw a legal career as something that fit with my values, and that I would find personally and intellectually rewarding.”

In 1995, Rosenberger completed her education at Northeastern University School of Law. Competition in a traditionally male-dominated career could be challenging for female attorneys starting out at that time, she said, but she had an early advantage. “I found a position right out of law school, in a firm [Willig, Williams & Davidson] that is majority women-owned, and I’ve worked there ever since.”

The more senior women attorneys were “excellent advisors,” Rosenberger said of her mentors. “They invested their time and energy in training me and identifying opportunities for me to develop skills and expertise as well as helping me to find leadership roles within our profession. I have tried to follow their example to ‘pay it forward,’ both within and outside my firm.”

So how does a successful lawyer relax from her busy life of service? Rosenberger enjoys traveling (especially to national parks), spending time with family, and gardening. “I find it relaxing and meditative to work in my big backyard vegetable garden, to harvest food and preserve it.”

However, no matter how demanding her career is, serving others gives value to her life. “Often the greatest joy in my work comes in what may seem like the small victories, but not to the employee involved,” Rosenberger said, noting examples of her experiences helping employees get pay increases or overturning unfair discipline that resulted from favoritism. “Working with labor unions allows me to do that, because under a union contract, there are more avenues to ensure fairness for all employees than in the non-union workplace.”

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’ Center (WCSC). The center, located in the nation’s capital since 1976, is a program of 91����Ƶ.

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’s placements include several organizations that are long-time hosts of 91����Ƶ students, highlighting WCSC’s 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.

“My 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,” 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.

“I think the most significant learning experience I have had is learning how to provide holistic care to communities that are underserved,” 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.

“I 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,” 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.

Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) announced the establishment of the annual Michael J. Sharp Global Peacemaker Award, which will recognize and encourage courageous peacebuilders across the world.

The award will be open to a person or organization who is currently involved in peacebuilding and is an MCC partner. The award, which will include a monetary prize, will be stewarded by the MCC United Nations Office, with the awardee chosen by a global selection committee. The first awardee will be announced in October 2022. More details regarding the award will be available this summer on the .

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The Global Peacemaker Award is named in honor of Michael J. Sharp, who served in the Democratic Republic of the Congo with MCC and later with the United Nations. Sharp, an ‘05 91����Ƶ graduate, was a beloved member of the 91����Ƶ community. Learn more about Sharp’s legacy: 

• The Michael J. Sharp Peace and Justice Endowed Scholarship Fund, started by Sharp’s family alongside extended family and friends, provides need-based aid to graduate students at 91����Ƶ’s Center for Justice and Peacebuilding with priority given to students from the Democratic Republic of Congo. It has already enabled David Nyiringabo MA ’20 and Yolanda Emedi to study at CJP and is currently valued at $265,000, with the goal being $500,000 total value. Read more or contribute to the fund.

• Listen to Marshall King ‘92 discuss his book about Sharp on 91����Ƶ’s “Peacebuilder” podcast.
• Learn about a student-produced documentary on Sharp in 2019.
• Read more about the 2019 MJ Dream Hike, a trek up Kilimanjaro including 91����Ƶ students and faculty that honored Sharp’s legacy.

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MCC consulted with MCC Congolese and African representatives, who support the award in the name of Michael J. Sharp given his commitment to peacebuilding, anticolonial work and Mennonite peace witness. As Sharp was a young adult, MCC hopes that this award will be an inspiration to young adult peacebuilders. 

On March 12, 2017, along with his UN colleague Zaida Catalán of Sweden, Sharp was ambushed and murdered by unknown assailants in DR Congo. A UN expert on armed groups, Sharp was on his way to meet with a new militia group and to document human rights abuses. He was 34. Sharp and Catalán’s interpreter, Betu Tshintela, also may have been killed, but today he and three motorbike drivers are still missing, according to conflicting news sources.

Prior to Sharp coming to DR Congo with MCC in 2012, courageous Congolese were working for many years, risking and sacrificing their lives for peacebuilding in eastern Congo. When Sharp came to the country, these Congolese welcomed him, educated and connected him to networks, and encouraged him in his front-line peacebuilding work with MCC and later with the United Nations. After his murder, Sharp’s name generated national and international interest. The peacebuilding work of Congolese partners now continues. 

Mulanda Jimmy Juma, MCC representative for DR Congo, worked closely with Sharp. From a Congolese perspective, says Mulanda, “an award in Michael’s name is warmly welcomed. His name in this country has value, is respected, is honored. Even in government circles. They have come to understand what he stood for, defending human rights of the people. Michael lived among us and learned from us.”

The Michael J. Sharp Global Peacemaker Award honors the faithful work of the Congolese peacebuilders who Sharp worked alongside, and of Sharp with both MCC and the United Nations. Through the award, MCC hopes to provide an ongoing means of recognizing peacebuilders who exemplify MCC’s commitment to peace and justice across the world. 

For more information, please email unoffice2@mcc.org. 

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

Faculty, staff and fellow students nominated the recipients, who were cited for their “significant and verifiable impact” on the university and on student life; for their contributions to developing the institution’s 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����Ƶ’s 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 – to his friends–”Rodri”. 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����Ƶ resume:

1. International Student Organization (“ISO”). Unfailing participation, planning, and leadership of the club throughout his 4 years at 91����Ƶ 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����Ƶ Jazz Ensemble and many other musical collaborations. I would be remiss if I failed to mention creative video collaborations with Jay Cho. 

3. He’s brainy. One major was not enough for this man. He needed two, so he’s 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… Oh, my! 

All this and more… 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����Ƶ’s 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, “Belong Together,” and has helped to make 91����Ƶ 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����Ƶ; 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’s 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’s 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’ 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����Ƶ. 

Asha’s 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’s 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����Ƶ in 2010 and in the words of Langston Hughes, “Life ain’t been no crystal stair. It’s had tacks in it, And splinters, And boards torn up, And places with no carpet on the floor—Bare.” Despite all of your challenges you have kept climbin’ and reachin’ landin’s, and turnin’ corners, and sometimes goin’ 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����Ƶ 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, “Be the change you wish to see in the world.” You have worked hard to overcome adversity and you are resilient beyond words. 

I leave you with these words from Amanda Gorman: “For there is always light, if only we’re brave enough to see it. If only we’re brave enough to be it.” You are BRAVE! Look what a war orphan from Mozambique has accomplished when given the opportunity!

Tahj’ae Coleman

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

I am well pleased to have had the opportunity to walk alongside Tahj’ae during her journey at 91����Ƶ. In the words of Maya Angelou,“Does my sassiness upset you? Why are you beset with gloom? ’Cause I walk like I’ve got oil wells Pumping in my living room.”

Tahj’ae 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’ae 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����Ƶ 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’t 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’ae 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’s ethnicity, your hard work will pay off! To paraphrase Maya Angelou: Tahj’ae, 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����Ƶ, 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����Ƶ 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����Ƶ. 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’s 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����Ƶ’s 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’s 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’s dedication to academic excellence has allowed her to maintain a 4.0 Cumulative GPA and hold a spot on the 91����Ƶ 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����Ƶ 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����Ƶ 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����Ƶ 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����Ƶ 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’s 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����Ƶ community. She cares deeply about women’s 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����Ƶ, 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, “Hannah 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����Ƶ.” 

Still, it wasn’t until our cross-cultural to Thailand together that I truly began to see Hannah’s 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’s 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’s emotional needs and feelings of inclusion were just as important. Without any prompting, she organized a daily rotation of support for the member – 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, “Anyone who understands the power of bonding with a stuffie can be trusted.” Here are some other comments written by her cross-cultural peers: “Hannah’s curiosity shines and is a huge asset.” “Hannah, you balance strength of character and genuine thoughtfulness, peppered with giddy enthusiasm for the beautiful things in life” “Hannah, you make things happen. You are very intelligent in the way you care for others.” “Hannah, I always enjoy conversations with you. They never stay as small talk for long.” And, my personal favorite, “Hannah is badass but also so kind and loving. The combo makes her even more badass.”

This spring, I’ve been supervising Hannah’s 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’s 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����Ƶ 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����Ƶ. 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’s academic giftedness, adding that Faith also offers “a 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.” Deanna also noted with appreciation, “Faith 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.”

In my own experience of Faith I have found that she embodies the words of musician and philosopher, Jimi Hendrix: “knowledge speaks, but wisdom listens.” I have yet to meet another student who can hold space with such compassion and confidence. Dean of Students Shannon Dycus reflects, “Faith 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.” 

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 – good luck and on behalf of 91����Ƶ, 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����Ƶ 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’s 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����Ƶ 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’s 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 – 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����Ƶ 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 “significant and verifiable impact” on all of us during her four years at 91����Ƶ. 

As her colleagues appreciated her presence and active work in every corner of our campus and beyond, succinctly reviewing Allison’s 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����Ƶ’s Cross Country, Track & Fields, and 91����Ƶ Triathlon teams. Allison served as a Community Advisor for first years as well as the 91����Ƶ Honors mentor. She also worked in the Visual Arts in Worship Documentary team, a collaborative work between 91����Ƶ 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’s 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’s list student with a perfect GPA. 

Now while Allison’s 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 “initiative” (with the wisdom that her actions may not create immediate social change). Second, a mindset of “abundance.”  And lastly, “creativity” 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.

Lisa Schirch, the Richard G. Starmann Sr. Professor of the Practice in Peace Studies at Notre Dame’s Kroc Institute for International Peace Studies, will be the first speaker in the Horizons of Change luncheon series, hosted by 91����Ƶ’s Summer Peacebuilding Institute. Schirch is a former professor at 91����Ƶ.

The lecture series featuring experts in the peacebuilding and conflict resolutions fields is an annual tradition at SPI, which draws several hundred peacebuilders from around the world to take courses for both professional development and academic courses. SPI is a program of 91����Ƶ’s Center for Justice and Peacebuilding.

Schirch will speak Wednesday, May 18, from 12:30-2:30 p.m. in the Dining Hall at 91����Ƶ. Cost is $20 for community members and $15 for 91����Ƶ faculty and staff. Email dsilvam@emu.edu to reserve your seat. The deadline to reserve is Monday, May 16. 

Her topic will be “Decolonializing Peacebuilding.” “Decolonising agendas” are emerging in the fields of humanitarian aid, development, anthropology, sociology and many other facets of life, including peacebuilding. Decolonialism refers to the process of undoing colonial worldviews, institutions and impacts. 

Schirch will analyze how the peacebuilding field can respond to the profound sense of chaos and unpredictability in today’s world by addressing the colonial distortions of governance, economy and society. Schirch will talk about how a decolonizing agenda for peace can help us respond to a global set of interacting “ meta calamities” (the pandemic, climate change and weaponisable technologies) as well as rising economic inequality and mass migration, accelerating polarisation and extremism, and urgent demands for racial justice and an end to gender-based violence.

Subsequent lectures will be

• Wednesday, June 1, with CJP Executive Director Jayne Docherty and 91����Ƶ Vice President for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Jackie Font-Guzmán, on the future of CJP and DEI at 91����Ƶ. Docherty is retiring after 21 years at CJP. Font-Guzmán, an expert in conflict transformation and author with Bernard Mayer of , will begin a new role as CJP’s strategic vision director this summer. She will aid in the search for and transition to a new executive director for the center.
• June 8, speaker TBD
• June 15, with Ram Bhagat, EdD, speaking on “Brown Vs. Board of Education: The Re/Mix –  From Massive Resistance to Massive Resilience. Bhagat, a graduate of CJP, works in the Richmond Public Schools and has taught several courses at CJP. He is a certified Strategies for Trauma Awareness and Resilience trainer.

Cost is $20 for community members and $15 for 91����Ƶ faculty and staff. Email dsilvam@emu.edu to reserve your seat no later than the Monday before each event.