Join us for an evening of baseball, giveaways, and community when 91短视频 Night with the Turks returns on Thursday, July 16, at 7 p.m. The event will be held at Eagle Field at Veterans Memorial Park (395 S. High Street) in Harrisonburg.

Fans wearing 91短视频 apparel will receive free admission. Cheer on the Harrisonburg Turks as they take on the Waynesboro Generals, and catch 91短视频 T-shirts, maracas, and clappers tossed into the crowd between innings.

This marks the fourth consecutive year that 91短视频 and the Turks have partnered to host this event.

91短视频 the Turks

Established in 1915, the Harrisonburg Turks collegiate summer baseball team plays more than 40 regular-season games from May through July in the 12-team Valley Baseball League. League playoffs follow the regular season. Many Turks players have gone on to compete in Major League Baseball and to coach at the collegiate and professional levels. Follow the Turks’ season at .

Speaking to a crowd gathered in Downtown Harrisonburg on Thursday, July 2, to celebrate the 250th anniversary of America’s independence, President Dycus used the occasion to introduce herself as 91短视频’s 10th president and highlight the importance of community.

The celebration, held at the Turner Pavilion, kicked off both the Levitt AMP Harrisonburg Music Series and the Fourth of July holiday weekend. 91短视频 was a presenting sponsor for the event, which featured live music from Harrisonburg-based Dr. How & The Reasons to Live and Staunton-based headliner Scott Miller & The Commonwealth, along with food and drink vendors, giveaways, children’s activities, and a VA250 fireworks celebration. According to organizers, about 2,000 people attended Thursday’s event.

Braydon Hoover 鈥�11, MAOL 鈥�21, vice president of enrollment and marketing, represented undergraduate and graduate admissions at the 91短视频 tent. He shared information about 91短视频鈥檚 academic programs while handing out brain-shaped stress balls and hand fans, which offered a welcome relief from the sweltering heat.

When President Dycus took the stage, she likened the origin story of the United States to that of communities like Harrisonburg.

鈥淚t鈥檚 written by neighbors who show up for each other, who welcome new people, and who work together to make sure that the places that we create for one another are safe and that we allow each other to thrive,鈥� President Dycus said. 

The 2026-27 academic year marks 110 years since 91短视频 was founded in northern Harrisonburg. 91短视频’s tradition of educating students and preparing them to serve and lead in a global context has helped shape communities across the Shenandoah Valley.

鈥淲e鈥檙e proud to see our graduates here in the crowd this evening,鈥� President Dycus said. 鈥淏ut we鈥檙e also grateful to see our graduates around town leading our local government, caring for our patients in the hospital, teaching in our schools, and making sure that we鈥檙e looking out for our neighbors.鈥�

Six more free concerts in Downtown Harrisonburg will be held over the next two months. For more information on the series and its lineup, visit .

Watch President Dycus kick off the music series in the video below.

The group of 10 HHS seniors wrote, performed, and produced Dis/connect, a nine-track, multi-genre album recorded at 91短视频鈥檚 Astral Recording Studio in March. Listen to Dis/connect on or by using the embedded player below.

Last year, while the Astral Recording Studio was still under construction (it opened during the fall 2025 semester), Dr. Benjamin Guerrero, assistant professor of music at 91短视频, led a tour of the space for high school students. During the visit, he and J.R. Snow, Coordinator of Visual and Performing Arts for Harrisonburg City Public Schools, began discussing the idea of bringing students in to record an album.

鈥淲e just looked at each other and said, 鈥楲et鈥檚 make that happen,鈥欌�� Guerrero said.

After learning that students in the Fine Arts Academy were interested in creating an album, Snow reached back out to Guerrero, who consulted on the project. Together, they decided the students would write and rehearse their songs in advance so they would be ready to record during their studio visit.

鈥淔or many of our students, going into the studio and recording was definitely their favorite part of the project,鈥� Snow said.

One of those students, Wren Hamner, who contributed a rap song and a murder ballad鈥攁 song that tells the story of a murder, like “No Body, No Crime” by Taylor Swift鈥攖o the album, described the anticipation leading up to the group’s trip to Astral Recording Studio.

鈥淣one of us had ever recorded in a legit studio before,鈥� Hamner said. 鈥淲hen we got there, we had everything planned out. We were ready to go, and everything just came together.鈥�

Billy Perritt, another student from the academy, sang on three songs, playing guitar on two and drums on one. He said it was also his first time in a professional recording setting.

鈥淚t was such a blast,鈥� he said. 鈥淚t was a really cool learning experience, and I鈥檓 so glad I was able to do it. I鈥檓 thankful to 91短视频 for letting us use their facility.鈥�

Snow, who served as capstone coordinator for the Fine Arts Academy, said he was impressed by the cutting-edge capabilities of the state-of-the-art space.

鈥淚 have just enough knowledge about music technology to know how high-quality the Dolby Atmos studio is and to see what a gift it is for our community,鈥� he said. 鈥淚t鈥檚 a game-changer for artists who are looking to do some high-quality work.鈥�

Guerrero helped guide students through the recording process while they were at the studio, noting that they spent about an hour in the studio on each song. He added that the group received a discounted rate for their time, one way 91短视频 and its recording studio are connecting with the local community.

鈥淚t鈥檚 almost like an exclusive admissions tour,鈥� he said. 鈥淚t鈥檚 not just, 鈥楥an they envision themselves in the studio being creative?鈥� but 鈥楥an they envision themselves at 91短视频?鈥欌��

91短视频 the Astral Recording Studio

Located in the former Astral Hall building atop the 91短视频 Hill at 1304 Hillcrest Drive, the studio features acoustically treated rooms designed for crystal-clear sound. It provides students, faculty, staff, and community artists access to professional tools for recording and mixing music, video, podcasts, and other audio projects. Learn more at .

91短视频 the HHS Fine Arts Academy

The interdisciplinary, collaborative, and experiential learning community prepares students for lifelong careers, passions, and appreciation of creativity through the arts. The Class of 2026 marked the final year of the academy. Learn more about the academy and their album at .

Read all about the Astral Recording Studio in the story posted below:

Ande Banks 鈥�97, city manager of Harrisonburg since 2022, says leading the place where he grew up comes with its own unique challenges.

For one thing, there are the childhood nicknames that haven鈥檛 been forgotten. 鈥淲hen you鈥檙e walking down the street and someone calls out, 鈥楬ey, there goes Andy-Pandy,鈥� it鈥檚 like, 鈥楧o you really need to say that out loud?鈥欌�� Banks said.

Then there are the neighbors and parents of friends who remember the bouts of youthful mischief he and his buddies got into as kids. From swimming in local quarries to setting off firecrackers on Main Street, “it wasn’t anything too scandalous,” he said. Still, those encounters can feel a little awkward.

But for Banks, who has called Harrisonburg home since he was four, serving as city manager is a dream job.

鈥淚 couldn鈥檛 imagine myself anywhere else,鈥� he said.

A graduate of Eastern Mennonite School, he later earned a bachelor’s degree in history and social science from 91短视频 in 1997 and a master’s of public administration from James Madison University in 2017.

Friendships with faculty

Banks didn鈥檛 need much convincing to enroll at 91短视频.

As a soccer player at Eastern Mennonite School, he already knew then-Royals men鈥檚 soccer coach Roger Mast, who had coached the EMS team during his sophomore year and welcomed him on the 91短视频 squad. Many of his friends also were planning to attend 91短视频.

Shortly after beginning his studies at 91短视频, Banks formed close relationships with professors, including his adviser, Dr. Albert N. Keim, a longtime history professor, academic dean, and namesake of the history department鈥檚 annual Keim Lecture Series. 鈥淚 absolutely adored him,鈥� Banks said. 鈥淏etween him and Dr. Mary Sprunger, who still teaches at 91短视频, I had amazing one-on-one relationships with professors who I hold in great esteem.鈥�

Banks, a goalkeeper for the Royals soccer team, dropped the sport after his first year to focus more on his coursework. He acknowledged that he had not prioritized academics in high school and credited his relationships with professors with helping him flourish.

He recalled being fascinated as Dr. Keim, 鈥渁 kind of grandfather figure,鈥� shared his experiences as a conscientious objector, which stood in stark contrast to his own grandfather鈥檚 stories of fighting in World War II.

His grandfather had emigrated from Scotland. Banks spent a semester there for his intercultural, touring the country, reading history texts, and journaling for Dr. Keim.

鈥淭hat was a really important experience in my college career and as a human being,鈥� he said. 鈥淚t was life-changing.鈥�

Served city since 2009

It鈥檚 been a slow and steady rise to the top of city government for Banks, who has worked for the City of Harrisonburg for nearly two decades. He served as director of special projects and grant management from 2009-16 before becoming assistant to then-City Manager Kurt Hodgen from 2016-17 and deputy city manager from 2017-22. He was appointed city manager following a nationwide search on Oct. 25, 2022.

As , Banks carries out City Council鈥檚 policies and directives, prepares the budget, recruits and supervises city staff, oversees daily operations across departments, advises council members, facilitates communication among elected officials, employees and residents, and serves on numerous local and regional boards.

Given that range of responsibilities, no two days are the same, Banks said, 鈥渁nd that鈥檚 one of the things I love about it.鈥�

When Banks was named city manager, Harrisonburg Mayor Deanna Reed, then a member of 91短视频’s Board of Trustees, offered a strong endorsement.

鈥淲hat makes you unique and special is your heart,鈥� Reed told Banks. 鈥淵ou have a heart of service. You are a servant, and you love this community, you really do. … You are exactly what we need at this time for this city,鈥� reported at the time.

91短视频 teaches 鈥榮ervice above self鈥�

Banks credited 91短视频鈥檚 mission and vision with preparing him and other graduates for lives of service.

鈥淏oth in the curriculum and in the culture of Eastern Mennonite, it prepares us as alumni to go forth into the world and not just make a difference, but be conscious and conscientious citizens of the world,鈥� he said. 鈥淚 feel that the perspective that was shared with me at 91短视频 I鈥檝e taken forth, and that is certainly one of service above self.鈥�

Since graduating, he鈥檚 regularly returned to campus, connecting with programs such as the Intensive English Program and speaking with classes about public service. Banks said one of his favorite parts of the job is helping students and community members understand the role of local government and how it shapes everyday life. From 2001-09, he served as district representative for former U.S. Rep. Bob Goodlatte, R-Roanoke, and recalled the congressman鈥檚 description of local government as 鈥渇ront-seat politics.鈥�

鈥淵our constituents literally come out and sit in the front row and stare you down when you鈥檙e debating important issues in front of the community,鈥� Banks said. 鈥淗ere, in local government, you run into your constituents in the grocery store, at church, at school, at soccer games, and that gives you an opportunity to talk about the importance of the services we provide and the needs of our community.鈥�

Royals reign

Another benefit of working in local government is his close relationship with other 91短视频 alumni serving in leadership roles across the region.

Since becoming the first refugee elected to Harrisonburg City Council in 2024, Nasser Alsaadun MA 鈥�17 (education) has advocated for local refugee and immigrant communities. In Harrisonburg City Public Schools, alumni athletes Missy Hensley 鈥�92 and Ryan Henschel 鈥�15 serve as principals of Harrisonburg and Rocktown high schools, respectively.

In neighboring Rockingham County, Casey Armstrong 鈥�06 has served as county administrator since January 2025. Matt Dale MA 鈥�16 (organizational leadership) represents District 3 on the Board of Supervisors, and Kirby Dean 鈥�92 serves as the county鈥檚 director of parks and recreation.

Banks said collaboration between the city and county governments is especially strong because of their shared services, including social services, the health department, the emergency communications center, and the court system.

鈥淎ll of that means greater savings for our taxpayers and greater efficiencies in providing those services to the residents of Harrisonburg and Rockingham,鈥� Banks said. 鈥淎nd that means Casey [Armstrong] and I work much more closely than other colleagues in city-county relationships around the commonwealth.鈥�

Looking toward the future

Banks said it鈥檚 an exciting time for Harrisonburg. The city鈥檚 metropolitan statistical area, which also includes Rockingham County, is one of only a few in Virginia that has experienced continued growth over the past 20 years, he said.

While Harrisonburg faces challenges common to growing cities, including a need for more affordable housing, he said its two universities, regional medical center, and role as a commercial hub position it well for continued growth and long-term success.

鈥淚 think the future is as bright as the past, if anything,鈥� he said.

Banks lives in Harrisonburg with his wife, Jennifer, a JMU alumna, and their two children, Brigid and Al. When he isn鈥檛 actively running the city, he stays active, running through the city鈥攐ften with a baseball cap slipped on.

鈥淚 put on a hat and all of a sudden nobody knows who I am,鈥� he said. 鈥淭hey鈥檙e like, 鈥楾hat couldn鈥檛 be Ande, because he鈥檚 bald.鈥� It鈥檚 like I turn into a superhero.鈥�

In addition to his degrees from 91短视频 and JMU, Banks attended the Senior Executive Institute at the Weldon Cooper Center for Public Service in 2019 and achieved a certificate in local government management from Virginia Tech in 2013. He is a member of the International City/County Management Association, the Virginia Local Government Management Association, and the American Society for Public Administration.

This story appears in the summer 2026 issue of Crossroads magazine.

As Downtown Harrisonburg prepares to celebrate America鈥檚 250th anniversary with a free concert and fireworks spectacular Thursday, Cassidy Walker 鈥�25 is helping bring one of the city’s biggest summer events to life.

The Visual and Communication Arts (VACA) graduate has served as development manager for Harrisonburg Downtown Renaissance () since January, where she builds and strengthens relationships with donors, sponsors, and local businesses to advance the nonprofit鈥檚 mission.

She spoke with 91短视频 News about her love for Downtown Harrisonburg, the lessons she brought from 91短视频, and the city鈥檚 鈥渂iggest fireworks show yet.鈥�

How did you end up working for Harrisonburg Downtown Renaissance?

I fell in love with Downtown Harrisonburg, and I couldn鈥檛 really leave it. HDR is actually one of the reasons I fell in love with it.

Through the VACA program at 91短视频, I also worked with downtown business owners, so I already understood the impact HDR was making. Then someone I knew told me, 鈥淵ou鈥檇 be great at this job. You love talking to people, and you鈥檇 really excel in this role.鈥�

During my interview, I talked about how much I admired what HDR was doing and how my experiences at 91短视频, from admissions to VACA and working with students, had prepared me for this role. Thankfully, I got the job.

What鈥檚 been your favorite part of the job?

I love talking to people. Being able to make these amazing connections with business owners, sponsors, and community partners is my favorite part of what I do.

91短视频 taught me how to build meaningful relationships and have genuine conversations with people. Those skills have carried over directly into this role, and now I get to use them every day.

You mentioned falling in love with Downtown Harrisonburg. What do you love most about it?

Like 91短视频, Downtown Harrisonburg is incredibly community-oriented. People just care about one another and want to see each other succeed. That鈥檚 something I experienced at 91短视频, and when I got to know downtown and the people behind HDR, I saw that same spirit among the business owners and community partners. They really support one another, and that鈥檚 something special.

Since starting this job, what鈥檚 been your favorite moment so far?

I鈥檝e had a lot of favorite moments, but one really stands out.

One of our sponsors had worked closely with the previous development manager, and I was terrified walking into that first meeting. It was my first sponsorship meeting, and I wasn鈥檛 sure how it would go. As we started talking, I realized they also had ties to 91短视频. We talked about where I came from, why I wanted to work for HDR, and what this role meant to me.

In that moment, it clicked that I was doing exactly what I was meant to be doing. Even though I was nervous, the conversation felt natural and gave me a lot of confidence moving forward.

There鈥檚 a big event happening Thursday. What can people expect?

We鈥檙e presenting the VA250 Fireworks Celebration, which also serves as the kickoff to this year鈥檚 Levitt AMP Harrisonburg Music Series. It鈥檚 really two events in one.

We鈥檒l kick off the series with the first of seven free concerts, featuring a local opening act. There will be food vendors, kids鈥� activities, giveaways, and our biggest fireworks show yet.

It鈥檚 designed for everyone: families, friends, kids, and even dogs. Thanks to sponsors like 91短视频 and Blue Ridge Insurance Services, we鈥檙e able to make this event possible and are very grateful for their support.

What are you most excited for people to experience?

The whole idea behind the Levitt AMP Music Series is building community through the shared experience of live music. I get to see that happen in real time while working with our sponsors and artists.

Watching people come together, make connections, and simply enjoy being part of the community is what I鈥檓 most excited about. That鈥檚 really what these events are all about.

91短视频 is a sponsor of the VA250 Fireworks Celebration and Levitt AMP Harrisonburg Music Series.

These answers have been edited for clarity and conciseness. 

Dycus, who has led the university as interim president since July 2025, begins her five-year term on July 1, 2026.

鈥淚’m humbled to continue the bold legacy of 91短视频,鈥� Dycus said. 鈥�91短视频 leaders have been courageous and visionary stewards of this sacred community. Being called to serve among them is a responsibility I鈥檓 excited and honored to step into.鈥�   

The 91短视频 Board of Trustees unanimously voted to appoint Dycus as president during its June 12 meeting.

Jane Hoober Peifer 鈥�74, MDiv 鈥�97, chair-elect of the board, said Dycus demonstrated consistent and collaborative leadership over the past year as interim president that 鈥渃ontinues to unite the campus.鈥� She also highlighted her ability to listen attentively and build effective teams.

鈥淪he cares deeply about students and their success, and she works to create a good working environment for faculty and staff,鈥� Peifer said. 鈥�91短视频 is very fortunate to have the gifts and leadership of Rev. Dr. Shannon Dycus as its 10th president.鈥�

The board鈥檚 decision followed several months of feedback gathered by its Presidential Succession Planning Committee from representatives across the 91短视频 community, including faculty, staff, students, senior administrators, alumni, donors, church constituents, and other key stakeholders, regarding her potential appointment. 

A report of the committee鈥檚 findings, presented to the board in May, recommended appointing Dycus without launching a costly and time-consuming national search. 

Based on 鈥渢he institutional knowledge, relationships, and trust that she has already established, the university is not being asked to take a chance on an untested leader. Instead, [91短视频] has already completed the most meaningful leadership assessment possible: observing the candidate serve successfully in the role itself.鈥�

It cited her demonstrated leadership, character, vision, and effectiveness as positioning her to lead 91短视频 into its next chapter. It also noted the unusual level of alignment from those consulted throughout the process.

鈥淭he committee found broad and consistent support for Dr. Dycus across nearly every constituency engaged during this process,鈥� the report said. 鈥淪takeholders repeatedly described her leadership as authentic, relational, transparent, collaborative, strategic, mission-centered, and deeply aligned with 91短视频鈥檚 values.鈥�

The analysis concluded that Dycus demonstrates the leadership capacity, institutional understanding, and community trust needed to guide 91短视频 during a pivotal period in its history. Together, the board鈥檚 unanimous vote and the consistent, enthusiastic affirmation expressed across stakeholder groups reflect a shared confidence in Dr. Dycus鈥檚 leadership and in 91短视频鈥檚 future.

Over the past year as interim president, Dycus has fostered renewed optimism, deeper collaboration, greater transparency, and growing confidence in 91短视频, the report said. She helped create a healthier organizational culture while guiding the university through significant challenges.

During her tenure, Dycus has helped position the university for enrollment growth, financial stability, and sustained donor confidence. Undergraduate applications have doubled during this cycle, and 91短视频 is projecting a larger incoming class than last year, which itself was up 10%.

91短视频鈥檚 first-ever Forward Together comprehensive campaign has surpassed 80% of its $40 million goal with two years remaining. As student and workforce needs evolve, the university continues to reshape its academic programs to ensure its transformative educational offerings remain relevant in a changing higher education landscape.

A recently finalized strategic partnership with Virginia Mennonite Retirement Community positions the university to invest in programs and people that move it forward. An academic restructuring during the 2025-26 academic year has also expanded opportunities for cross-departmental collaboration.

鈥淭his is an incredibly exciting time for who we are as an institution,鈥� Dycus said. 鈥淲e are growing, we are sustaining, and there鈥檚 joy around who we are.鈥�

An educator and ordained minister, Dycus has more than 20 years of experience in learning communities and ministry settings, including the past seven at 91短视频. Prior to serving as interim president, she was vice president for student affairs, equity, and belonging. She previously served as dean of students from 2019-23 then vice president for student affairs and dean of students from 2023-24 before being promoted to vice president for student affairs, equity, and belonging (2024-2025).

Before coming to 91短视频, she was an academic adviser and adjunct faculty member at Franklin University of Ohio (Indianapolis campus) and co-pastor at First Mennonite Church in Indianapolis.

She holds a doctor of ministry in public theology from United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities, a master of divinity from Christian Theological Seminary in Indianapolis, and a bachelor of arts in middle and secondary education from Butler University.

Dycus is the first Black woman to lead 91短视频 as president. She succeeds President Emerita Dr. Susan Schultz Huxman, who served as the university鈥檚 ninth president from 2017-25.

She lives in Harrisonburg with her husband, Gregory, and sons Malachi and Semaj.

An inauguration ceremony on Oct. 10 during 91短视频鈥檚 annual Homecoming Weekend will celebrate Dycus as the university鈥檚 10th president during its 110th year. Invitations and additional details will be shared later.

Manuel Nu帽ez 鈥�94, chair of the board of trustees, reflected on the significance of the appointment. 鈥淎s 91短视频 steps into its next century, we are grateful to have found in Dr. Shannon Dycus a leader uniquely suited to this moment,鈥� he said. 鈥淒r. Dycus brings academic depth, a gift for listening, and a deep commitment to building community. Her leadership reflects clarity, wisdom, and a fierce commitment to our students and to the distinctive mission and witness of 91短视频.鈥� 

Members of the Presidential Succession Planning Committee included Janet Lind (chair), Jake Bell, Ral Obioha, Steve Kriss, and Amy Yoder McGloughlin.

Dr. Dycus reflects on being selected as 91短视频’s 10th president.

The Free Food Room is a joint initiative coordinated by the task force鈥攁 group of 91短视频 staff members that includes Celeste Thomas, Trina Trotter Nussbaum, Brian Martin Burkholder, and Levi Clymer鈥攁long with the SEEDS student sustainability group and Student Life. It receives monthly food deliveries at heavily discounted rates as a member of the Verona-based Blue Ridge Area Food Bank.

In addition to food bank deliveries, the Free Food Room receives fresh produce from local farms through its partnership with Harrisonburg鈥檚 educational outreach program. This year, the Free Food Room is receiving produce from near Keezletown. The program also receives donated produce through its relationship with Virginia Mennonite Retirement Community.

鈥淚鈥檓 so impressed by how many partnerships this little space involves,鈥� said Nicole Litwiller 鈥�19, MA 鈥�20, annual giving and donor communications specialist, one of the visitors on the tour. 鈥淚t鈥檚 such a great example of 91短视频 and the broader community working together.鈥�

Task force members said they plan to add card-swipe access to the entrance this summer to ensure resources and donations are best used to serve students, employees, and others with an active 91短视频 ID card. The security upgrade, funded through a $12,000 grant from the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia (SCHEV), will allow the Free Food Room to be open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. It is currently accessible from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Grant funding will also be used to create more visible signage outside the space, increase publicity as students return to campus, and address ADA doorway access needs, with the remaining funds designated for food purchases.

Task force members said the Free Food Room often has an abundance of fresh produce during the summer months and encouraged faculty, staff, and students to take fruits, vegetables, and frozen meat home with them, regardless of financial need.

鈥淓very summer, we have this excess,鈥� Trotter Nussbaum said. 鈥淭his is for people who think, 鈥極h, I don鈥檛 need the Free Food Room.鈥� Please come and take it because it will spoil, and you might as well have fresh produce in your house. Come take it.鈥�

鈥淏efore you go to the grocery store,鈥� Thomas added.

91短视频 students Rin Akinotcho (top, below left) and La-Ann Volel (below right) help out at the Free Food Room during the spring semester. 

How to help

Monetary donations to the Free Food Room can be made online through . Select 鈥淔ree Food Room鈥� from the designation dropdown menu to direct your gift to the program.

Food donations may be left on a marked table inside the Free Food Room.

For more information about the Free Food Room or ways to support its work, contact Brian Martin Burkholder, Celeste Thomas, Trina Trotter Nussbaum, or Levi Clymer.

When Nate McGhee 鈥�24, MBA 鈥�26, arrived at 91短视频 in the fall of 2020, it wasn鈥檛 his first time giving college the old college try. The marketing and business administration major, a key contributor to the Royals men鈥檚 volleyball team during his four seasons on the squad, had enrolled at Randolph-Macon College a couple years prior. But a string of personal hardships, combined with a lack of preparation and a limited support system, led him to flunk out after his first year.

He said the private liberal arts school, which competes with 91短视频 in the Old Dominion Athletic Conference (ODAC), might have been a good fit had he applied himself more. But he hadn鈥檛 yet developed strong study habits and, as he struggled with self-doubt, he didn鈥檛 know how or where to ask for help.

鈥淚 was keeping it all to myself, which was probably the worst thing to do,鈥� he said.

When he returned home to Newport News after being dismissed from the school, he felt lost.

鈥淚 was stuck,鈥� McGhee said. 鈥淚 was like, 鈥極K, everything you worked for isn鈥檛 coming to fruition, so what are you going to do?鈥欌��

He took his first full-time job, bussing tables and working the raw bar at a seafood and oyster restaurant near his home, while attending night classes at Thomas Nelson Community College (now known as Virginia Peninsula Community College). Though he continued playing recreational volleyball to stay sharp, the former high school standout had all but given up on competing at the collegiate level.

During a trip to Richmond to cheer on his friends and former coaches at a volleyball tournament in early 2020, opportunity came knocking. Less than 10 minutes after arriving, McGhee felt a tap on his shoulder. When he turned around, he saw Danielle Lickey, 91短视频’s head men’s volleyball coach at the time.

After hearing how his volleyball career had stalled, Lickey invited him to visit campus. 鈥淲e could use someone like you,鈥� he recalled her saying.

McGhee toured campus over spring break and quickly fell in love with its picturesque mountain setting and close-knit feel. 鈥淭his is my second chance,鈥� he remembered thinking. 鈥淚 have to take it.鈥�

That fall, he transferred to 91短视频 as a sophomore. Over his (2021-24), he ranks 11th all-time in career kills and earned Third-Team All-CVC honors in 2023. In the summer of 2023, he represented the United States on a team in Italy.

鈥淚 thought volleyball was over for me, but that鈥檚 how I got back into it,鈥� he said. 鈥淚f she hadn鈥檛 tapped me on the shoulder that one day, I probably wouldn鈥檛 be here [at 91短视频] right now.鈥�

Nate McGhee ranks 11th all-time in career kills over his four seasons with the 91短视频 men鈥檚 volleyball team (2021-24). He earned Third-Team All-CVC honors in 2023 and represented the United States on a team in Italy that summer.

Learning to lead

Off the volleyball court, McGhee found a firm footing in 91短视频鈥檚 classrooms and campus community. He earned a spot on the Dean鈥檚 List, an honor given to students with a semester GPA of at least 3.75. He grew more comfortable opening up to others on campus and seeking help when needed. He credited his advisor, Dr. Jim Leaman, associate professor of business, with helping keep him on track.

鈥淚 probably wouldn鈥檛 have graduated without him,鈥� McGhee said. 鈥淗e became a mentor to me and was with me every step of the way.鈥�

He said his parents鈥� love and support also helped him persevere when times were tough. 

鈥淔or a while, I felt like I was letting them down and failing at life,鈥� he said. 鈥淏ut they told me it鈥檚 what you do after failing that makes it a failure. If you stay down and give up, then you鈥檝e failed. But if you get up and learn from your mistakes, then the mistake is history.鈥�

After graduating with a degree in business administration and marketing in spring 2024, McGhee stayed at 91短视频 as a graduate assistant coach for head men鈥檚 volleyball coach Omar Hoyos Aliff while pursuing his MBA, which he completed this past spring.

McGhee plans to use his degrees to build a career in sports marketing. He鈥檚 applied for positions with professional athletic organizations such as League One Volleyball.

鈥淭hat鈥檚 really what I have a passion for,鈥� he said. 鈥淓ventually, maybe five years down the line, I would love to open my own business sponsoring athletes and getting them more exposure.鈥�

While coaching was never a career path he considered as a player, his experience as a graduate assistant has shown him that he has a knack for it and genuinely enjoys it. 鈥淚 like seeing player growth,鈥� he said. 鈥淚 look at volleyball as an art. You can always build on it and learn something new.鈥�

McGhee said that multitasking, time management, and resilience are all skills he learned while at 91短视频. 鈥淚鈥檝e definitely developed a lot of confidence in my craft,鈥� he said. 鈥淚 didn鈥檛 have a lot of confidence before I came here in anything I did, and at 91短视频 I鈥檝e learned how to lead with confidence.鈥�

When the Royals men鈥檚 volleyball team traveled to Ashland in April for the 2026 ODAC Championship match against Randolph-Macon, it was a full-circle moment for McGhee. The Yellow Jackets ultimately prevailed in the , but the match reminded him of the many times he had faced his former team, including a conference quarterfinal at Randolph-Macon during his senior year when the Royals swept the Yellow Jackets.

鈥淭hat was unreal,鈥� McGhee said. 鈥淲henever I played games there, I always did poorly because I felt there was something hanging over me. But that game, and this last game we played, really showed me how much I鈥檝e grown.鈥�

Watch Nate talk about the close-knit community and support he found at 91短视频.

This story appears in the summer 2026 issue of Crossroads magazine.

91短视频 announced on Thursday it has named Nathan K. Leopard as its new vice president for advancement. Leopard, who most recently served as director of development for Virginia Tech鈥檚 Pamplin College of Business, starts in the role on June 1.

Interim President Rev. Dr. Shannon W. Dycus announced the appointment in an email to faculty, staff, alumni, and friends on Thursday morning. The hire concludes a nationwide search that began in January.

Leopard succeeds Kirk Shisler 鈥�81, 91短视频鈥檚 vice president for advancement since 2005, who is transitioning to a new role as senior advisor for gift planning. Shisler has said the transition will allow him to focus exclusively on securing major gifts to sustain 91短视频鈥檚 mission.

Leopard will continue a comprehensive advancement operation encompassing fundraising, alumni and constituent engagement, communications, and advancement services. He will also expand connections among alumni, donors, faith communities, foundations, and regional partners in support of the university鈥檚 mission.

鈥淎s vice president for advancement, I look forward to strengthening our culture of generosity, expanding our philanthropic reach, and helping secure the resources necessary to sustain and grow this mission,鈥� Leopard said.

Dr. Dycus remarked on Leopard鈥檚 鈥済enuine alignment鈥� with 91短视频鈥檚 mission and community. 鈥淲hat stands out most about Nathan is his values-driven, relational approach to advancement,鈥� she said. 鈥淗e views fundraising not as a series of transactions, but as a meaningful partnership that invites alumni and friends into a shared vision for impact.鈥�

Two decades of experience

Leopard brings two decades of fundraising and advancement experience leading alumni relations, annual giving, event-based fundraising, and interdisciplinary major gifts.

At Virginia Tech, he led fundraising and stewardship operations for the Pamplin College of Business, where he personally secured more than $17 million in gifts since August 2022 and helped direct development efforts that generated nearly $50 million in support for the school. He also co-led the college鈥檚 Giving Day strategy, which saw substantial growth in donor participation.

Prior to that, Leopard served as senior director of major gifts at Penn State University鈥檚 Smeal College of Business, where he played a key role in the college鈥檚 success during the six-year A Greater Penn State for 21st Century Excellence fundraising campaign. The $2.2 billion campaign generated more than $116 million in gifts and commitments for the college, exceeding its goal by more than 22%.

He also served as associate director of development for Penn State鈥檚 Schreyer Honors College, where he led the development and launch of an initiative that significantly boosted parent giving.

Leopard鈥檚 nonprofit experience includes serving as the first distinguished giving director for the American Cancer Society.

He holds an MS in college student personnel from Miami University (Ohio) and a bachelor鈥檚 of science in public relations from Northwest Missouri State University. The Show Me State native, who began his career in student affairs and whose wife, Dr. Jennifer Grossman Leopard, is the director of student life at James Madison University, described himself as a 鈥渂ig believer鈥� in the holistic experience.

鈥淭he people I鈥檝e met at 91短视频 have been genuine, thoughtful, and caring,鈥� he said. 鈥淗aving the opportunity to be at a place like 91短视频, where I can embrace the whole person and support others in embracing their full selves, is truly meaningful.鈥�

91短视频鈥檚 focus on preparing graduates who make the world a better place aligns with his personal mission, Leopard said. 鈥淭hey鈥檙e not just going out and leading companies, reforming laws, treating illnesses, or educating people, but they鈥檙e changing the world,鈥� he said. 鈥淚 want to help people change the world.鈥�

Building on positive momentum

Leopard joins the university at an exciting time. 91短视频 is three years into its first-ever, five-year Forward Together comprehensive campaign, which has raised more than $32 million, or 80% of its $40 million goal. Enrollment is also on the upswing. The university announced this week it received 3,000 undergraduate applications for the first time in its history.

In addition to building on that positive momentum, Leopard said he looks forward to getting to know each of the members of the advancement team and working with Dr. Dycus and the board of trustees to shape their vision for the future of 91短视频 while connecting with donors.

Leopard lives in the Harrisonburg area with his wife, Jennifer, and their two children, Caroline and Jack. Their daughter has participated in 91短视频鈥檚 Shenandoah Valley Children鈥檚 Choir and in several camps held on campus.

Quoting the soccer coach from the comedy series Ted Lasso, Leopard said he aims to 鈥渂e curious鈥� as he steps into his new role.

鈥淚鈥檓 going to be a sponge and learn as much as I can about 91短视频, including about our students, our alumni, our stakeholders, and our events and culture,鈥� he said.

2026 retirees

The 2026 retirees honored at the ceremony were: Howard Zehr (30 years of service), professor of conflict studies; Doug Graber Neufeld (26 years), professor of biology; Deanna Durham (23 years), associate professor of social work and sociology; JD McCurdy (23 years), head softball coach; Kevin Seidel (17 years), professor of English; and Chad Gusler (16 years), associate professor of language and literature.

The following employees, who represent an additional 430 years of commitment to 91短视频, celebrated milestone years of service:

40 years

Renee Leap (left) and Audrey Shenk (right) reached 40 years of service. 

30 years

Howard Zehr (left) and Melody Cash (right) reached 30 years.

25 years

Mark Metzler Sawin (not pictured) reached 25 years.

20 years

Left to right: Beth Brunk, Laura Yoder, Jim Leaman, and Travis Trotter reached 20 years. 

15 years

Left to right: Kathy Evans, Wendy Carr, Braydon Hoover, Ron Shultz, and Melvin Felix Garcia (inset) reached 15 years.聽

10 years

Left to right: Tim Seidel, Paul Yoder, Alena Yoder, Ericka Gingerich, and Trina Trotter Nussbaum reached 10 years. 

Five years

Left to right: Lexi Fotis-Brown, Stephanie Mason, Debra Pardini, Courtney Joyner, Justin McIlwee, and Ann Butwell reached five years. Not pictured: Carolyn Kirby, Krista Murray, Gaurav Pathania, Erin Weldon, Mary Ann Zehr, and Nina Zhang also reached five years.

The luncheon was a highlight of the Spring 2026 Faculty & Staff Conference, which provided a time to pause, reflect, and celebrate the close of the academic year together. View the full program of the conference .

For her, that moment came during the traumatic birth of her youngest child two years ago. Perez, a graduate of 91短视频 at Lancaster鈥檚 Leadership and Organizational Management (LOM) program, shared that she failed out of her studies during that experience. But rather than quit, she pushed forward and kept fighting. She came back stronger, enrolling in the next cohort and earning Dean鈥檚 List honors throughout her time in the program. The road didn鈥檛 become easier, she said, but her resilience grew stronger.

That same resilience, she told the Class of 2026 graduates, lies in every single one of them. Many of them, who are nontraditional adult learners, balanced their coursework with jobs, families, and other responsibilities. 鈥淲e showed up tired, we showed up overwhelmed and stretched thin, and sometimes we showed up broken,鈥� she said. 鈥淩egardless, we still showed up.鈥�

When her mother was hospitalized and passed away in January, Perez said her classmates, who had become a support system, showed up for her. 鈥淚n one of my hardest seasons,鈥� she said, 鈥渋t was this community that reminded me I wasn鈥檛 alone.鈥�

Graduates recess following the Commencement ceremony.

Angelita Perez (left) was one of three graduates who shared their perspectives at Commencement. Dr. Jamie Mak (right), assistant vice president of academic and program growth for 91短视频 at Lancaster, opens the ceremony. 

Perez was one of 21 graduates of 91短视频 at Lancaster鈥檚 degree and graduate certificate programs who walked across the stage and were joyfully sent off into the world during the annual Commencement ceremony at Forest Hills Mennonite Church on Friday, May 8. This year, 91短视频 at Lancaster awarded 21 undergraduate degrees, 13 graduate degrees, and 13 graduate certificates.

Dr. Jamie Mak, assistant vice president of academic and program growth for 91短视频 at Lancaster, welcomed the family members, friends, and guests gathered in celebration and commended the courage and commitment shown by the graduates.

鈥淎s you leave today, you carry more than just credentials,鈥� she said. 鈥淵ou carry the values that define this community: peacebuilding, social justice, service, and compassion. You are entering a world that needs those values more than ever.鈥�

91短视频 at Lancaster awarded 21 undergraduate degrees, 13 graduate degrees, and 13 graduate certificates.

Graduates Will Stover (left) and Alejandro Ulloa (right) share their perspectives.

In addition to Perez, graduates Will Stover and Alejandro Ulloa shared their reflections.

Stover, a graduate of the aviation program, highlighted his cohort鈥檚 accomplishments鈥攁ccumulating over 7,000 hours of flight time in their four years together鈥攁nd shared some of the lessons they learned in the program. He encouraged graduates to 鈥渢ake the first step鈥� when presented with challenges and opportunities, continue supporting one another and 鈥渒eep 鈥檈m flying,鈥� and find the positive in times of adversity. Echoing the mantra of the U.S. Navy Blue Angels flight squadron, he called on graduates to embrace being 鈥済lad to be here.鈥�

鈥淭here are days that are difficult, when we feel defeated, lost, and unsure of what鈥檚 next,鈥� he said. 鈥淭here are also days that feel easy, motivating, and full of hope. The phrase 鈥楪lad to be here鈥� is a reminder that, regardless of the day, resiliency ultimately wins.鈥�

When Ulloa was growing up, he often heard his mother say, 鈥渃ada cabeza un mundo entero.鈥� That phrase, he said, translates to 鈥渆ach head is a whole world.鈥�

鈥淢y mom鈥檚 words are a consistent reminder that God created each of us with uniqueness and complexity and finds each of us worthy of love,鈥� said Ulloa, who graduated with an MA in education with a concentration in Trauma and Resilience in Educational Environments (TREE).

After teaching at Lancaster Mennonite High School for 11 years, he said God called him to a different setting about four years ago. That鈥檚 when he applied to the program at 91短视频 at Lancaster to 鈥渟tay in touch with these faith-infused tenets of education and daily practice.鈥�

鈥淚鈥檓 so thankful for this program and its professors, who encouraged us to view our students in their entirety, to approach them with care and empathy first and foremost, and to remember that there鈥檚 an entire world in their heads,鈥� he said. Ulloa added that he leaves the program 鈥渕ore committed than ever鈥� to meet his students where they are, get to know them, and support them however he can.

91短视频 at Lancaster鈥檚 Class of 2026 graduates celebrate after walking across the stage.

Lancaster Mayor Jaime Arroyo (left) delivers the Commencement address. Interim President Rev. Dr. Shannon W. Dycus (right) offers welcome remarks during the ceremony.

Lancaster Mayor Jaime Arroyo delivered the Commencement address. A first-generation college graduate and avid runner who became the first Latino mayor in the city鈥檚 history, he spoke about the process of training for a marathon and connected it to broader lessons in life.

Preparation, he told the graduates, is both a choice and an ongoing process. 鈥淪ometimes that means taking a step back and readjusting your training plan,鈥� he said. 鈥淪ometimes it鈥檚 just a check-in with yourself that brings you back to the basics. It鈥檚 about questioning your choices and making sure you鈥檙e on the right path.鈥�

鈥淭hink deeply about your choices, find a way to quiet the noise, listen to what truly matters, and make sure the commitments you make are for the greater good,鈥� Arroyo added.

In her remarks to the graduates, Interim President Rev. Dr. Shannon W. Dycus expressed appreciation for the ways they have shown up for one another and for the 91短视频 community. 鈥淵ou鈥檝e wrestled with hard questions, you鈥檝e listened across differences, and you鈥檝e continued to pursue rigorous learning in a way that reflects both care and conviction,鈥� she said.

Kirk Shisler 鈥�81, vice president for advancement, welcomed the graduates as new members of the 91短视频 Alumni Association. 鈥淵ou join some 21,000 fellow alumni who distinguish themselves as people who serve and lead with distinction locally, regionally, nationally, and around the world,鈥� he said.

Dr. Tynisha Willingham, provost and vice president of academic affairs, presented and commissioned the graduates. Dr. Dycus conferred the degrees and offered the closing blessing. Jess King 鈥�96, an 91短视频 parent and member of the 91短视频 Board of Trustees, led the opening invocation. Derek Kline, director of the aviation program, and Dr. Mak recognized the graduates.

In addition to King, board members Janet Lind, Gloria Diener 鈥�76, and Jane Hoober Peifer 鈥�74, MDiv 鈥�97, attended the ceremony.

The conference, 鈥淭hriving in Ministry: Family Systems Theory as a Resource for Faith Communities,鈥� was hosted by the seminary in partnership with The Bowen Center for the Study of the Family and supported by the Lilly Endowment Inc. and the Joe Carolin Memorial Fund.

Throughout the conference, participants explored family systems theory as a resource for understanding and strengthening relationships and congregational life. Ordained and lay leaders, along with others interested in family systems thinking, considered how Bowen theory and differentiation of self, along with their faith traditions, could guide reflection and cultivate thriving in ministry.

Keynote speakers Rev. Dr. Robert Creech and Dr. Dan Papero presented from their expertise in the fields of practical theology and psychotherapy, respectively. Over the two days of the conference, Dr. Creech shared keynote addresses about the intersection of language between systems thinking and Christian theology, as well as how the practice of differentiation of self enhances pastoral care. Dr. Papero spoke about the most recent neuroscientific research regarding the impact of stress on brain functioning. Both contributed to panel discussions with other presenters.  

Conference keynote speaker Dr. Dan Papero (left) has been a faculty member of The Bowen Center since 1982. He has written numerous articles and book chapters on various aspects of family systems theory and family psychotherapy. The Rev. Dr. Robert Creech (right), a former pastor and faculty member of Baylor University鈥檚 George W. Truett Theological Seminary, is the author of 鈥淔amily Systems and Congregational Life鈥� (2019) and co-author of 鈥淭he Leader鈥檚 Journey鈥� (2020), both with Baker Academic.  

Workshops and presentations included discussions on preaching, biblical studies, parenting, and tools to help participants thrive in ministry and daily life.

Among the goals of the Thriving in Ministry conference were to help participants:

• grow in their capacity to differentiate self through an increased understanding of the science of human relationships in families and congregations
• apply family systems theory to the work of faith leaders in pastoral care, preaching, youth work, religious education, and other ministry settings
• explore practical applications, including family diagrams, triangles, and other ways of shifting from an individual to a systems perspective

Other guest presenters included Chaplain Penny Driediger, the Rev. Melanie Lewis, Pastor Lana Miller, Janis Norton, the Rev. Dr. Emlyn A. Ott, the Rev. William Pyle, and the Rev. Chet Yoder. Faculty presenters included Dr. Kenton T. Derstine, Kathleen Cotter Cauley, the Rev. Randall Frost, Dr. Barbara Laymon, the Rev. Jennifer Long, and Amie Post.

For more information about the conference, visit .

Royals Freshman Athlete of the Year

Female Freshman of the Year:聽听(蝉辞蹿迟产补濒濒)

Judd had an outstanding season for the Royals softball team and was one of just four players to start all 34 games. She hit .304, third-best on the team, while totaling 35 hits, second-most on the roster. In 115 at-bats, she struck out only nine times. Defensively, Judd posted a .985 fielding percentage with just two errors in 132 chances while playing first base, catcher, and the outfield.

鈥淎liza Judd 鈥� great attitude, and she brings it every day,鈥� said head softball coach JD McCurdy. 鈥淪he was our leadoff hitter and an immediate impact player. If you ever come to see her play, you鈥檒l never know whether she鈥檚 0-for-5 or 5-for-5; she鈥檚 ice cold. She checks all the boxes as a great player and a great leader.鈥澛�

Male Freshman of the Year:聽聽(men’s track and field)

Rucker burst onto the scene for 91短视频, placing ninth in the shot put and 12th in the weight throw at his first collegiate meet, the Liberty Kickoff, which featured many Division I and II programs. The following weekend, he won the shot put and finished second in the weight throw, beginning a dominant indoor season in which he consistently won events while climbing the 91短视频 track and field record books. He set the program record in the indoor weight throw, ranks second in the indoor shot put, set the outdoor discus record, and ranks second in the outdoor hammer throw.

At the indoor ODAC Championships, Rucker earned Second Team All-ODAC honors in the shot put, and at season鈥檚 end he was named USTFCCCA All-South Region in both the shot put and weight throw. He followed with a stellar outdoor season, winning ODAC titles in the hammer throw and discus while finishing second in the shot put. He currently ranks 29th in Division III in the hammer throw and 50th in the shot put.

鈥淚 think one of the most impressive things about Koran is that, for the last couple of months, the throwers have had to pretty much coach themselves,鈥� said Director of Cross Country, Track & Field and Triathlon Bob Hepler. 鈥淗e鈥檚 shown a lot of character through his work ethic, and we are very blessed to have him.

Royals Athlete of the Year

Female Athlete of the Year:聽 ’26聽(women’s soccer)

Beachy was named Female Athlete of the Year following arguably her best season as a Royal. She scored 10 goals in her senior campaign, including a two-goal performance in a 4鈥�1 home win over Hollins on Senior Day. Beachy finished the season ranked seventh in the ODAC in goals, third in game-winning goals (5), and 11th in points (20), earning Third Team All-ODAC honors鈥攖he first All-ODAC selection for 91短视频 women鈥檚 soccer since 2017.

Her on-field production and leadership helped guide 91短视频 Women鈥檚 Soccer to one of its strongest seasons in recent years. The Royals finished 6鈥�11鈥�1 in 2025, recording their highest win total since 2019 and qualifying for the ODAC Women鈥檚 Soccer Tournament for the first time since that same year.

鈥淚t鈥檚 an honor to recognize Leah,鈥� said Royals head coach Leo Alcoreza. 鈥淗er impact on our program goes far beyond stats. Come game day, Leah consistently delivered in the biggest moments, stepping up time and time again when we needed her most. As a team captain, she led by example every day. She鈥檚 not just an incredible athlete, she鈥檚 an even better teammate, person, and leader, and 91短视频 is better because of her.鈥�

Male Athlete of the Year:聽 ’26听(产补蝉别产补濒濒)

A four-year starter for the Royals, Miller played in and started 38 games this season and delivered one of the best individual campaigns in 91短视频 baseball history. He led the team with a .427 batting average, which ranked third in the ODAC for the 2026 season. Miller also paced the Royals and ranked second in the ODAC with 61 hits, the sixth-most in a single season in program history. On the bases, he stole 25 bags, leading the ODAC and tying the 91短视频 single-season record.

He helped guide 91短视频 to 14 regular-season wins, the program鈥檚 highest total since the 2019 season.

鈥淎idan should be getting his second All-Conference award later this month, and he鈥檒l finish in the top 10 in multiple categories in our record book, but that stuff is really irrelevant to what he鈥檚 meant to our program,鈥� said Royals head coach Adam Posey. 鈥淚f you guys listen, his nickname right now is 鈥楽kip,鈥� as in skipper of the team. He鈥檚 very passionate about what he does and very loyal, and we鈥檒l miss all of those things next year.鈥�

President鈥檚 Award

Female President’s Award:聽 ’26聽(women’s soccer)

Beachy is from Grants Pass, Oregon, and is a nursing graduate who achieved a 4.00 GPA during her time at 91短视频. She plans to work as a nurse on a medical-surgical floor and join an adult soccer league.

A four-year member of the women鈥檚 soccer team, Beachy was named Third Team All-ODAC in 2025. During her career at 91短视频, she played 5,391 minutes across 72 games. She led or co-led the team in scoring for three seasons, totaling 21 goals and eight assists. Beachy is the co-record holder for most single-game assists and points and ranks fifth all-time in career points (50) and sixth in career goals (21).

She was a four-year member of the Dean鈥檚 List and the All-ODAC Academic Team, a two-time VaSID Academic All-State selection, and a two-time CSC Academic All-District honoree. She was also a member of the Honors Program. Off the field, Beachy served as a Royal Ambassador, tour guide, peer tutor, and member of the Sigma Theta Tau Honor Society of Nursing and the Nursing Student Association. She also served as a student-faculty representative for the nursing program and as an Honors Program facilitator.

鈥�91短视频 Athletics gave me the rare opportunity to play soccer while receiving a phenomenal nursing education, providing an outlet to exist purely as a competitor amid the demands of college,鈥� Beachy said. 鈥淭he joys and challenges of athletics expanded my capacity to serve and lead not only as a teammate, but also as a nurse, friend, and community member. I leave 91短视频 Athletics with precious relationships, lasting memories, and a deeper love for the game. It has been a true privilege.鈥澛�

Male President’s Award:聽 ’26 (baseball)

Hall is from Chesapeake, Virginia, and is a health and physical education graduate with minors in kinesiology, exercise science, and coaching. He achieved a 3.74 GPA during his time at 91短视频 and plans to pursue a career in physical education.

A four-year member of the baseball program, Hall played in 103 games for the Royals. He holds a career batting average of .278 with 87 hits, 17 doubles, and 46 RBI. In 2024, he was hit by a pitch 25 times, and he has been hit 47 times in his career, both 91短视频 baseball records.

Academically, he was named to the Dean鈥檚 List five times, the All-ODAC Academic Team four times, and is a CSC Academic All-District honoree. Off the field, he was a member of Every Nation Campus.

鈥�91短视频 Athletics is more than a season, more than a game, more than a practice, more than a result, and more than a feeling,鈥� Hall said. 鈥淚t is an outlet, it is a community, it is cherished moments and friendships that will last a lifetime. I felt at one point that I was defined by results. Coach Posey has helped me find my identity鈥攏ot in results, not in statistics, but in our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. 91短视频 Athletics has been a place where myself and others can grow in our faith and develop our foundation on a Kingdom that is everlasting.鈥�

Stay up to date with 91短视频 Athletics through its聽听补苍诲 聽accounts or visit its聽.

HARRISONBURG, Va. 鈥� 91短视频 and Virginia Mennonite Retirement Community announced Monday, May 11, a strategic partnership that strengthens and expands their long-standing relationship, allowing VMRC to plan for future growth while providing 91短视频 with the resources to advance its educational mission.

As part of the agreement, VMRC will acquire Park Woods, a 13-acre oak-hickory forest it shares with 91短视频, with a commitment to continue stewarding and preserving the urban green space as an enduring asset to the community. The partnership also includes a five-year plan for VMRC鈥檚 potential expansion through its purchase of the land upon which the 91短视频 baseball field now sits, along with the construction of a new ballfield at another location on the university campus.

The partnership, which has been approved by each institution鈥檚 board of trustees, supports their long-term strategic goals by strengthening financial sustainability, expanding opportunities for intergenerational engagement, and reinforcing their shared presence as mission-driven organizations serving the public good.

Leaders of the neighboring Harrisonburg institutions describe the partnership as a 鈥渨in-win,鈥� supporting both VMRC鈥檚 capacity to serve current and future residents and 91短视频鈥檚 ability to invest in academic excellence, student access, and community engagement.

鈥淭his partnership honors our history while giving us the flexibility and capacity to plan for long-term vitality,鈥� VMRC President and CEO Jake Bell said. 鈥淚t allows us to continue providing high-quality care and community while strengthening our connection to 91短视频 and the region we both serve.鈥�

鈥淭his partnership reflects who we are and how we want to lead,鈥� 91短视频 Interim President Shannon W. Dycus said. 鈥淚t builds on decades of relationship, shared geography, and common values, while positioning both institutions to respond thoughtfully and responsibly to the future.鈥�

91短视频 and VMRC share a foundation of Anabaptist-Mennonite values and a commitment to community, service, and care for the whole person. The two institutions have long been neighbors and partners, and this agreement positions them to collaborate more intentionally on academic, cultural, and community initiatives that benefit students, residents, employees, and the greater Harrisonburg region.

Media Contact:
Ryan Cornell
Senior Writer & Communications Manager
ryan.cornell@emu.edu
(540) 432-4059