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Ceremony honors 2026 Cords of Distinction recipients

Ryan Cornell with photos by Jon Styer/At Ease Design & Consulting — Tue, 28 Apr 2026 18:01:49 +0000

Ten graduating 91��Ƶ seniors were honored as Cords of Distinction recipients at a ceremony on Friday, April 24, in Martin Chapel.

As one of the university’s most valued, cherished, and meaningful awards given each year, the Cords of Distinction honor recognizes those who have positively influenced on-campus communities, actively pursued 91��Ƶ values, engaged in and valued social and community involvement, and reflected academic excellence and social accountability. Recipients of the award are nominated by faculty, staff, administrators, and students and are chosen by the Cords of Distinction selection committee.

“These students participate in high levels of engagement outside of classes and recognize the importance of the social and civic aspects of engaging in the local community,” said Celeste Thomas, director of Multicultural Student Services, CoachLink coach, and co-chair of the Cords of Distinction committee. “They embody ‘To whom much is given, much is required.’ They have chosen to make the community better than when they entered it, and we thank you all for that.”

The 10 recipients were presented with blue and gold cords to wear at Commencement, which will be held Sunday, May 3, 2026.

They are:

Sophia Armato
Irais Barrera Pinzon
Leah Beachy
Leah Frankenfield
Genesis Figueroa
Arelys Martinez Fabian
Dibora Mekonnen
Sarah Prroj
Roumany Sefin
Emily Suarez Nunez

Click each recipient’s name above to jump to their section.

Sophia Armato

A Spanish language & Hispanic studies and education (PreK-12) licensure major from Manheim, Pennsylvania, she was honored by Sydney Metz, head field hockey coach.

Armato embodies what it means to be a Royal, choosing excellence in the classroom, dedicating hours of service to others, and living out her faith by loving like Jesus, her coach said. She has also raised the standard of integrity within 91��Ƶ’s athletic community, Metz said, recalling a conversation they shared about the culture they hoped to build for the field hockey program.

“Our program was in a fragile place, and even one wrong move could set us back further,” Metz said. “But in that conversation, we also talked about what it means to do the right thing, even when it’s difficult. … You showed a willingness to lean into this challenge, to start a standard, and to grow in every area of your college experience.”

Metz said that Armato has made the most of her 91��Ƶ experience. “You could find ‘Soph’ coming to practice after a long day of student teaching, then leaving practice to help others understand a Spanish conversation,” she said. “She would end her evening working at home on projects for her small business, continuing her homework, only to wake up early to serve coffee at Common Grounds. And through it all, she was living out her faith daily.”

Irais Barrera Pinzon

A political science and Spanish language & Hispanic studies major from Richmond, Virginia, she was honored by Celeste Thomas, director of Multicultural Student Services.

The first time Thomas met Pinzon, she knew immediately the student would change the tapestry of 91��Ƶ.

Pinzon, with her infectious smile, high energy, and “urgency to get down to business,” motivates those around her to “get on board and, not just say something, but do something,” Thomas said. “You exude kindness toward everyone and have a genuine concern for the well-being of others. You are always seeking ways to make the world a better place, and when you set out to do something, you do not stop until you reach the goal.”

That was especially evident in the menstrual hygiene project she led, securing a $1,200 grant and installing 10 dispensers across campus, Thomas said. Pinzon also served on the board of the Latinx Student Alliance (LSA), fed the unhoused, and participated in the International Food Festival, the Latino student banquet, and Hispanic Heritage Month events.

“Being a first-generation immigrant college student with your own challenges, you were able to look beyond your own needs and assist others who may be less fortunate,” Thomas said. “You shared that your goal was to inspire other first-generation Latino students to keep dreaming by showing them that no goal is too big.”

Leah Beachy

A nursing major from Salem, Oregon, she was honored by Dr. Kate Clark, associate professor of nursing.

Beachy represents the very best of what it means to be both a nurse and a servant leader. She demonstrates keen intellect, discipline, perseverance, and a deep sense of purpose. “But what makes Leah truly exceptional goes beyond academics,” Clark said.

During her four years on the women’s soccer team, Beachy exemplified courageous leadership, advocating for change, gathering teammate feedback, engaging administrators, and pursuing solutions grounded in accountability, Clark said. As senior captain, she helped rebuild trust and integrity within the program, contributing to one of its strongest seasons both competitively and culturally.

Through 91��Ƶ’s nursing program, Beachy learned to unite clinical excellence with justice-oriented patient care, seeing health care not just as treatment, but as a pursuit of dignity, equity, and compassion. Shaped by her intercultural experiences in Guatemala and Mexico, she helped facilitate a trauma-informed support group at Our Community Place for individuals recently rehoused after homelessness.

“And yet, even with all these accomplishments, Leah is most known for her warmth, her authenticity, and her limitless joy,” Clark said. “Whether serving as a tour guide, an ambassador for 91��Ƶ, or simply showing up for others, she builds community wherever she goes and has a lot of fun doing it.”

Leah Frankenfield

A psychology major from Moraga, California, she was honored by Annalise Livingston, project coordinator for Royal RISE.

Frankenfield has been involved in just about every part of campus, always making an effort to connect with and support others, Livingston said.

“You are one of the most compassionate, driven, and engaged people I know, and your persistent dedication to caring for and including those around you is wildly inspiring,” she said. “Your determination to ensure that everyone feels they belong and have a safe space to be themselves, drawn from your own experience and vulnerability, shines through in your many involvements across campus.”

Through her leadership across various clubs and organizations, including Asian-Pacific Islander Student Alliance (APISA), University Women’s Empowerment Network (UWEN), Student Government Association, and Royal RISE, the senior psychology major—who will join 91��Ƶ’s graduate counseling program this fall—planned programs and events to create welcoming environments and encourage connection.

Frankenfield also served as a TA and peer tutor, ensuring students felt seen and supported. She’s provided students with a warm, friendly presence through her work at Common Grounds, the dining hall, the advancement and admissions offices, the library, and beyond. “You embody authenticity and humility,” Livingston said, “managing your hectic schedule in a semi-baffling way that leaves everyone around you wondering how on earth you do it all.”

Genesis Figueroa

A political science and Spanish language & Hispanic studies major from Millersburg, Ohio, she was honored by Interim President Rev. Dr. Shannon W. Dycus.

From her first day on campus, Figueroa has shown up consistently and with care, Dycus said.

As a conversation partner with the Spanish community and through her leadership roles—first as a senator, then secretary, and eventually co-president—Figueroa has shaped 91��Ƶ in ways both visible and deeply felt, building connection and belonging across campus. Those roles require navigating complexity, listening deeply, and representing others with integrity, Dycus said, and Figueroa has carried them with a steady, grounded presence.

“What stands out most is not just what you’ve done, but how you’ve done it,” she said. “Again and again, people describe you as someone who listens deeply, brings warmth, and helps others feel seen. That kind of leadership shapes culture. That’s what you’ve done for 91��Ƶ.”

Figueroa carried that spirit into the Latinx Student Alliance, as president of Young Democrats, and as a senior class officer, helping others learn together.

“One nominator said it best: ‘Genesis rises to any occasion, leading with initiative, creativity, awareness, and a deep commitment to collective learning and action,’” Dycus said. “Alongside it all, you remain committed to your academic work, bringing discipline, focus, and purpose as a political science and Spanish major, as well as engagement with immigrant communities in Harrisonburg.”

Arelys Martinez Fabian

A Spanish language & Hispanic studies and education (PreK-12) licensure major from Winchester, Virginia, she was honored by M. Esther Showalter, instructor of Spanish language and Hispanic studies.

In a fast-paced world, Martinez Fabian knows when to pause and be fully present with others, actively listening and walking alongside those in need, Showalter said.

During Martinez Fabian’s first year at 91��Ƶ, Showalter’s childhood best friend unexpectedly passed away. In the midst of that loss, the student came to her office to offer support. She brought a small houseplant to honor her friend, and over the years, it has grown from a foot tall to four feet high. “It is by far my healthiest plant,” Showalter said. “Many people comment on how great it looks, and I tell them the story of my friend and how you, Arelys, have comforted me in my time of need, as you have for so many others.”

Along with Figueroa, Martinez Fabian served as co-president of the Student Government Association, becoming the first Latinx women in that role. She led with heart and humanity, Showalter said, strengthening communication between students and administrators and ensuring student voices shaped key campus decisions. Her leadership also increased involvement from underrepresented students, contributing to a more inclusive and engaged campus culture.

“Arelys has lived the 91��Ƶ experience to its fullest,” Showalter said. “She is an inspiring leader, a curious learner, and an empathetic friend.”

Dibora Mekonnen

A political science and social work major from Silver Spring, Maryland, she was honored by Deanna Durham, associate professor of social work and sociology.

Whether leading the social work student organization, the Young Democrats, or the University Women’s Empowerment Network (UWEN), or serving as a Community Advisor, hall director, dialogue facilitator, student chaplain, or development office assistant, Mekonnen has consistently worked toward a vision of 91��Ƶ at its best. She has also been involved with the Campus Activities Council, Student Government Association, and the 91��Ƶ Washington Semester. “Over the past four years,” Durham said, “is there anything you did not say ‘yes’ to?”

Mekonnen’s leadership and deep commitment to building a more inclusive and welcoming university have touched every corner, building, and space on campus, Durham said. This past semester, that impact extended into the local community through her senior social work practicum, where she worked with Harrisonburg Mayor Deanna Reed. “You are a multitasker extraordinaire,” Durham told Mekonnen. “Your ability not only to generate ideas but also to bring others along with you is impressive. You have embodied the belief that we are always better together.”

As hall director of Elmwood, Mekonnen fostered a community grounded in inclusion, social awareness, and belonging, Durham said. “You have pushed for change on campus and have never remained silent when there was potential for harm to another student.”

Sarah Prroj

A business administration major from Shkoder, Albania, she was honored by Tyler Goss, director of student engagement and leadership development.

Goss remembers his first interaction with Prroj. The International Student Organization (ISO) was preparing for its popular International Food Festival. Dozens of cooks would soon gather on Thomas Plaza, and he and other volunteers were setting up decorations, including more than 50 flagpoles. Each flag came with its own challenge, Goss said, noting the political significance of their placement.

“In the midst of all that chaos and decision-making, there was Sarah, a first-year student, stepping up, directing, delegating, and leading with confidence and ease,” Goss said. “That moment was just the beginning.”

The Albanian international student dedicated her four years at 91��Ƶ to the ISO, but her impact extends beyond that community. She served as a Community Advisor and Royal Ambassador and led the Good Business Gathering Club. At Common Grounds, she began as a barista and became its financial manager. She also served as student government treasurer. Away from campus, she volunteered at Young Life camp and shared her story at the Perspectives of World Missions Conference.

“From ISO president to community volunteer to SGA treasurer, and all the hours of Common Grounds’ financial tasks in between, Sarah leads every space with dependability, vision, and a deep desire to help each community flourish,” Goss said.

Roumany Sefin

A business administration and medical lab science major from Port Said, Egypt, he was honored by Dr. Jim Leaman, associate professor of business.

It’s the rare undergraduate student who publishes original research and presents it at a prestigious academic conference, Leaman said, yet Sefin did so halfway through his undergraduate career. “Then, he leveraged that innovation to launch an entrepreneurial venture to serve the needs of others,” the professor said.

Sefin combines world-class science with a true heart for service. As a dedicated researcher and founder of ROUMATICS, he’s already made a mark in the medical field, Leaman said. “His cancer research at 91��Ƶ and Harvard was chosen for an American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) meeting, a huge honor for any scientist.”

One of his nominators wrote: “In my many years as an instructor and mentor, I have seldom seen a student with more commitment to academic and moral excellence.”

Sefin supports his peers on campus by tutoring across three academic disciplines and guiding international students as they navigate English and adjust to life in the United States. He is also an active volunteer at a local nonprofit and serves as a deacon at his church.

“Whether he’s leading Bible study or teaching DNA workshops locally, Roumany leads with kindness and excellence,” Leaman said. “He truly represents the best of this community.”

Emily Suarez Nunez

A nursing major from McGaheysville, Virginia, she was honored by Allen Clay Jr., associate dean for campus life.

From student chaplain to hall director, Suarez Nunez’s time at 91��Ƶ has reflected her deep commitment to the well-being of the campus community, Clay said.

As hall director, she led first-year students with poise and compassion. She approached difficult conversations with empathy and clear boundaries, and worked through conflict in ways that built both accountability and belonging.

“Her supervisors speak of her as a trusted leader who embodies 91��Ƶ’s values of academic excellence, peace, justice, and social responsibility,” Clay said.

Suarez Nunez’s impact reaches well beyond residence life through her involvement in the Student Government Association, student chaplains, and Y-Serve. She has spent countless hours in service, led spring break trips to Atlanta and Puerto Rico, and helped coordinate volunteer opportunities that connect 91��Ƶ students with communities in need.

Her coworkers describe her as someone who can brighten a room, even while balancing the rigorous demands of a nursing degree. “Her patients will encounter not just medical expertise but a caregiver who knows how to listen, honor difficult moments, and help people feel seen,” Clay said. “That is a gift that Emily will carry forward in the next steps of her life.”

In his closing remarks at the ceremony, Jonathan Swartz, dean of students and co-chair of the Cords of Distinction committee, noted the many things the recipients will carry with them after graduating from 91��Ƶ: their cords, degrees, relationships, and memories.

“You also carry responsibility, because the world you are entering does not need more impressive resumes nearly as much as it needs people who are willing to live with clarity, compassion, and courage,” Swartz said. “[It needs] people who will ask not just what can I achieve, but what can I repair; not just where can I succeed, but where am I needed? If these cords mean anything beyond today, it’s this: you’ve already begun to answer those questions with your lives, and we trust you will keep answering them.”

The 2026 Cords of Distinction committee members: Jonathan Swartz, Celeste Thomas, Kate Clark, Deanna Durham, Justin McIlwee, Dawn Neil, and Aundrea Smiley. Special thanks to Jennifer North Bauman for her help and to Thaddeus Jackson ’25, who performed music for the event.

Watch a video recording of the ceremony below!

Q&A with Elie Hoover, student soloist in Friday’s spring concert

Ryan Cornell — Tue, 21 Apr 2026 03:32:14 +0000

Concerto/Aria Orchestra Concert
Date: Friday, April 24
Time: 7 p.m.
Location: Lehman Auditorium
Cost: Free (no registration needed)

Junior vocalist Elie Hoover (soprano) and senior saxophonist Jadon Harley will perform as student soloists with the 91��Ƶ Orchestra at its spring Concerto/Aria Concert at 7 p.m. this Friday in Lehman Auditorium.

We caught up with Hoover, a social work and music interdisciplinary studies major from New Carlisle, Ohio, ahead of the event.

What piece will you perform at the concert?

I will be performing “Una donna quindici anni” from Mozart’s Così fan tutte. My voice teacher helped me choose a piece that fits my voice well. It’s a lively selection that I have a lot of fun singing.

Is there a specific teacher you’ve been training with?

Shannon Kiser has been working with me to make this piece the best it can be. He encourages me in many ways and always offers insightful guidance to help me improve. [Music Professor] Benjamin Bergey has also worked hard to prepare the orchestra and integrate me into the process.

What excites you most about this concert?

I’m especially excited to sing in this concert because it’s a unique opportunity to perform as a soloist with such a large and talented group of musicians as an undergraduate student. It’s truly an honor to share the stage with my peers as well as musicians from the community. I hope they have as much fun performing with me as I do with them.

What’s your favorite thing about 91��Ƶ Music?

The 91��Ƶ Music Department has been a home for me over the past couple of years. The ensembles and classes vary in size and level, allowing them to meet students where they are. I always know I have people who will help me improve and classmates I can grow closer to and share this journey with.

Livestream the concert on the .

91��Ƶ announces 2026 Cords of Distinction honorees

91��Ƶ Communications — Fri, 10 Apr 2026 16:55:00 +0000

Ten graduating seniors are 91��Ƶ’s recipients. They will wear blue and gold cords signifying their achievement during the 2026 Commencement. A special ceremony honoring the recipients will be held on Friday, April 24, at 10:10 a.m. in Martin Chapel.

The Cords of Distinction Award honors the efforts of up to 10 graduating students each year who have made outstanding contributions to the university, community, or society. It was established in 2000 to recognize and honor graduates who have demonstrated creative learning and achievement, exemplary leadership and engagement across communities, and a commitment to the values of the university: academic excellence, peace and justice, and active faith.

The cords are blue and gold. Blue honors the strength of conviction that one person can help restore hope across communities. Gold celebrates excellence and the courage to practice and pursue peace.

The 2026 Cords of Distinction recipients are:

• Sophia Armato, with majors in Spanish language & Hispanic studies and education (PreK–12) licensure from Manheim, Pennsylvania;

• Leah Beachy, a nursing major from Salem, Oregon;

• Arelys Martinez Fabian, with majors in Spanish language & Hispanic studies and education (PreK–12) licensure from Winchester, Virginia;

• Genesis Figueroa, with majors in political science and Spanish language & Hispanic studies from Millersburg, Ohio;

• Leah Frankenfield, a psychology major from Moraga, California;

• Dibora Mekonnen, with majors in political science and social work from Silver Spring, Maryland;

• Emily Suarez Nunez, a nursing major from McGaheysville, Virginia;

• Irais Barrera Pinzon, with majors in political science and Spanish language & Hispanic studies from Richmond, Virginia;

• Sarah Prroj, a business administration major from Shkoder, Albania; and

• Roumany Sefin, with majors in business administration and medical lab science from Port Said, Egypt.

Nominees are:

• Miranda Beidler
• Nia Boyd
• Kylik Bradshaw
• Chase Comer
• Anne Marie Cornelius
• Zazkia De la Vega
• Benjamin Friesen Guhr
• Madelynn Hamm
• Jackie Jackson
• Sara Kennel
• Lydia Longacre
• Maria Longenecker
• Ethan Neufeld
• Jenna Oostland
• Royale Parker
• Marianne Short
• Eli Stoll
• John Stover
• Joshua Stucky
• Levi Stutzman
• Guadalupe Tenorio Ramirez
• Erik Wilkinson

Joyce Beachy ’25 found friendship in faculty at 91��Ƶ

Ryan Cornell — Thu, 09 Apr 2026 14:20:59 +0000

Joyce Beachy ’25 first arrived on 91��Ƶ’s campus as a student in January 2023. It was midway through the academic year, and everyone else already seemed well-acquainted with the campus and its community. Beachy, who was in her mid-30s and was more experienced in life and career than most of her peers, had trouble fitting in.

“That first or second week, I thought, ‘I’m not gonna make it. This is my last semester here, and I’m not coming back,’” she recalled.

But then, she said, she began forming deep connections with her professors.

“Going to school with students nearly half my age, I felt a little more connected with my professors than with my fellow students,” she said. “When I started making those connections, I had this feeling that I was going to be OK after all.”

She had met her advisor, English Professor Dr. Kevin Seidel, during an open house the previous fall. “He checked in one day to make sure I was doing all right,” Beachy said. “We talked about how my experience was going, and that was super helpful.”

These days, Joyce Beachy ’25 works as a literacy coordinator at Christian Light Publications in Harrisonburg.

Beachy graduated with degrees in English and writing studies last spring after five semesters at 91��Ƶ. She had transferred to the university from online classes at Blue Ridge Community College. By the time she enrolled at 91��Ƶ, she had already spent four years teaching at the church school she graduated from and another 10 years developing curriculum at in Harrisonburg.

When Beachy, who lives in Staunton, expressed interest in pursuing a bachelor’s degree, a co-worker at Christian Light recommended 91��Ƶ. He thought the close-knit community would be a good fit for her, and he was right.

“The fact that 91��Ƶ is small makes it more personable,” she said. “I feel like you get to know your professors better. I didn’t know that when I started, but I’ve enjoyed that.”

She mentioned Dr. Marti Eads and Chad Gusler as faculty members she’s grown close to. “I appreciate the connections I made here, and I feel that some of my professors are still my friends,” she said. “They’re people I connect with when I see them, which is really useful.”

Beachy worked part-time at Christian Light while taking classes as a full-time student and tried to find courses that fit her busy schedule. When the registrar suggested she take a sociology class, she enrolled in Dr. Gaurav Pathania’s class.

She described the sociology professor as “very personable” and fondly recalled that he served chai and cookies in class. “That was something I always enjoyed,” Beachy said. “We would have discussions outside of class, too, and it was interesting to hear his perspectives on life in India versus life here.” She enjoyed his introductory sociology class so much that she signed up for more classes with Pathania. Those sociology classes helped her think about the world differently and better understand social issues.

Pathania remembers Beachy as never missing a class and demonstrating a level of thoughtfulness and maturity that set her apart. “Joyce is truly one of the most exceptional students I have encountered in my five years of teaching at 91��Ƶ,” he wrote.

The English and writing studies grad on a trip to Iceland after graduation.

Through a “Local Context” intercultural program, Beachy spent a summer studying various neighborhoods and social groups in Harrisonburg. That experience led her to try different ethnic restaurants in the area. “I still enjoy doing that to this day,” she said.

Last spring, Beachy served as an editorial intern for 91��Ƶ’s marketing and communications department, writing many well-received articles for 91��Ƶ News. She attended the 2025 Intercollegiate Peace Fellowship Conference and wrote a recap about it. Her story about the intercultural to Guatemala and Mexico was one of the most read stories of 2025. She also wrote about an initiative by the Latinx Student Alliance to distribute “Know Your Rights” cards to members of Harrisonburg’s immigrant community. At the same time, she volunteered to help adult English learners at 91��Ƶ’s Intensive English Program, which was at the heart of another article written by her.

Near the end of her time at 91��Ƶ, Beachy was promoted to the role of literacy coordinator at Christian Light Publications. She said her employer is helping reimburse her for tuition costs.

“In the (conservative Mennonite) setting where I come from, it’s not as common for people to pursue higher education,” she said. “They didn’t have any program in place to help with tuition costs, but now they want to offer it to others who want to go to college, which I’m really excited about. It means some reimbursement for me, but it also opens a path for other people.”

Joyce Beachy and her fiancé, John Gingerich, are set to be married later this month.

Beachy said there are advantages to attending college as a nontraditional, older student. She met students who knew what they wanted to do and were serious about studying, as well as others who were in college because their parents wanted them there. “They didn’t know what they were doing,” she said. “I always felt sorry for them and wished they could just go out and work for a couple years and figure out what they actually wanted to do.”

She mentioned reading The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, a short story by F. Scott Fitzgerald that was turned into a Brad Pitt movie a couple decades ago.

“It’s about a guy who’s born an old man, and he goes through life backwards,” she said. “I’ve thought about that story sometimes with my experience at 91��Ƶ. I felt like I was doing things backwards. Most people go to school and then start their careers. I did my career first, then went to school. But I’m really glad I did it. Now, if I have friends in their 30s who say, ‘Oh, I want to go to college,’ I tell them, ‘Yeah, you should. It’s absolutely worth it.’”

For the record: Olga Salama ’29 finds passion and purpose

Ryan Cornell — Mon, 09 Mar 2026 12:30:00 +0000

Editor’s Note: This profile is the third of six stories about students and alumni leading up to the 10th annual Lov91��Ƶ Giving Day on April 1. For more information about the day and how to donate, visit .

Olga Salama, a first-year biology major who came to the United States through refugee status, grew up in Burundi, East Africa, where access to affordable health care and education was limited. It’s also where she found her passion and her purpose.

The oldest of eight, she would take her younger siblings to school. One day, as she dropped off the tuition check to pay for their education, she overheard a mother asking whether her child, who had an intellectual disability, could attend classes with the other children.

“She was denied,” said Salama. “She was told, ‘This would be too difficult, and that little child would be too difficult for the other children.’”

“I kind of understood it,” she added, noting that many cultures in Africa lack support for people with disabilities. “But, for me, that didn’t seem right.”

That experience drew her to study biology and fuels her passion for improving the lives of others. Her dream is to graduate from medical school and become a pediatrician.

“When you save the life of a child, you save the future,” she said. “When a child is surrounded by good people, that affects how they grow.”

Salama and her family arrived in the U.S. in July 2021. At the time, she spoke Swahili and French, but no English. She quickly became a rising star at Charlottesville High School, where she received the top scholarship from the . Past recipients include Sandra Day O’Connor and Caroline Kennedy.

As a high school senior, the first-generation college student applied to nine schools. Each of them could guide her toward her passion. Each of them offered her substantial financial aid packages. But, only one of those schools had values that matched her own, and that was 91��Ƶ.

“My high school counselors told me I could go anywhere I wanted, because I had all this scholarship support,” said Salama. “I had to choose where I saw myself thriving and being impacted the most, and 91��Ƶ was that place for me.”

She said she was struck by how friendly and communicative everyone was at 91��Ƶ, from her admissions counselor and professors to fellow students. “People are there for you,” she said. “Everyone’s welcoming.”

She added that, out of the nine schools she applied to, only one of them, 91��Ƶ, sent her a card for her birthday. “That was different, and was beyond my expectations,” Salama said. “That’s the sign of a place that cares.”

Like the 100% of undergraduate students at 91��Ƶ who receive financial aid, Salama is the recipient of numerous awards, including the highly selective President’s Scholarship.

“I knew I wanted to go to college and, although I had a little bit of fear about the financial part, I trusted that God was going to provide,” said Salama. “If he called me to do this, then he will provide.”

Your support helps students like Olga pursue a quality college education without financial barriers. Join us for the 10th annual Lov91��Ƶ Giving Day and contribute to the scholarships that empower future 91��Ƶ students. On April 1, let’s show that our generosity knows no bounds…for the record!

For the record: Arelys Martinez Fabian ’26 found a community that cares

Ryan Cornell — Mon, 02 Mar 2026 14:00:00 +0000

Editor’s Note: This profile is the second of six stories about students and alumni leading up to the 10th annual Lov91��Ƶ Giving Day on April 1. For more information about the day and how to donate, visit .

91��Ƶ senior Arelys Martinez Fabian caught the teaching bug in first grade.

The Winchester, Virginia, native would print out math worksheets for her younger sister to complete. With a classroom of stuffed animals gathered around them, she taught her sister, then a preschooler, basic lessons in addition and subtraction.

For the first time in Lov91��Ƶ history, a new challenge will be dedicated to raising funds to support 91��Ƶ’s first-generation college students.

“I’ve switched my career choices through the years, but I’ve always gone back to teaching,” said Martinez Fabian, an education and Spanish double major. “When you make a connection with students and they realize, Oh, I can do it, that’s my favorite part of teaching.”

A first-generation college student, Martinez Fabian fully immersed herself in 91��Ƶ’s rich campus life. She served as co-president of the Student Government Association and as orientation leader, worked as product manager for Common Grounds Coffeehouse, and held leadership roles with the Latinx Student Alliance (LSA). She also served as a student representative on the Interim President Search Committee last spring.

It’s difficult for her to imagine herself anywhere other than 91��Ƶ. That wasn’t always the case.

During her senior year at Millbrook High School, she learned she had been accepted to the University of Virginia. It was her lifelong dream school. The decision should’ve been an easy one.

“At the same time,” she said, “I kept seeing signs that I should attend 91��Ƶ.”

High school teachers would unexpectedly mention 91��Ƶ in passing. A coworker at her day care job shared how impactful her own 91��Ƶ education had been.

When 91��Ƶ accepted her and offered its highest academic award, the four-year, full-tuition Yoder/Webb Scholarship, the choice became clear: she would become a Royal.

Looking back, she’s sure she made the right call.

She believes 91��Ƶ’s nationally accredited teacher education program has prepared her well for the realities of the classroom. As a student teacher at Bluestone Elementary in Harrisonburg, she spent the first week of school last fall observing how teachers set rules and expectations.

91��Ƶ’s small class sizes have allowed her to form close relationships with professors. She said she has always felt comfortable seeking their guidance and support.

During recent immigration-related crackdowns across the country, Martinez Fabian, who has relatives from Latin America, said professors regularly checked in with her to make sure she felt safe.

“I knew I could go to them for support,” she said. “I was able to get through some tough times because of them.”

Your support helps students like Arelys pursue a quality college education without financial barriers. Join us for the 10th annual Lov91��Ƶ Giving Day and contribute to the scholarships that empower future 91��Ƶ students. On April 1, let’s show that our generosity knows no bounds…for the record!

For the record: Leah Frankenfield ’26 learned to lead

Ryan Cornell — Mon, 23 Feb 2026 16:40:00 +0000

Editor’s Note: This profile is the first of six stories about students and alumni leading up to the 10th annual Lov91��Ƶ Giving Day on April 1. For more information about the day and how to donate, visit .

Take a look around campus and you’d be hard-pressed to find someone involved in leading as many clubs and organizations as Leah Frankenfield.

In addition to leadership roles as a Royal Ambassador and with 91��Ƶ’s Royals RISE program, the senior psychology major has either led or helped start a number of athletic and advocacy clubs on campus: Badminton Club, Bike Club, Pickleball Club, Asian-Pacific Islander Student Alliance (APISA), and University Women’s Empowerment Network (UWEN). This year, she is representing her peers as Student Government Association co-president.

The Northern California native grew up hearing about the magic of 91��Ƶ from her father, James Frankenfield ’81, who shared stories of sledding down the 91��Ƶ Hill on trays from the caf. “He mostly talked about the impact 91��Ƶ had on his career,” said Leah Frankenfield. “He attributes a lot of his success in life to his chemistry degree from here.”

So when the time came for her to pick a college, 91��Ƶ was at the top of her list. The university’s tight-knit campus and her family connections—her cousins Greta Schrag ’24 and Libbie Derstine ’25 are recent graduates—added to the charm. She was also intrigued by the Mennonite culture her father grew up in. Plus, it didn’t hurt that the surrounding city of Harrisonburg, with its plentiful shops and restaurants, had so much to experience.

“91��Ƶ offers a great balance between being in a rich cultural environment near a large university and having a small campus that provides personalized attention and opportunities to build deep relationships with professors,” said Leah Frankenfield.

She said many of her professors allow students to take mental health days. “They want you to develop holistically as a person first,” she said. “They want you to prioritize your health, show up in the best way you can, and communicate with them. I’ve really appreciated that flexibility.”

Another benefit of attending 91��Ƶ is the wealth of scholarships and financial aid available to students. Leah Frankenfield is the recipient of a merit scholarship and the Pioneer College Caterers Scholarship, and is among the 100% of undergraduate students at 91��Ƶ who receive financial aid.

These days, the college senior is busy applying to grad school, with an eye toward counseling or school psychology. Whichever path she takes, she feels a twinge of bittersweetness.

“I have these mixed feelings,” she said. “Sometimes I think, I can’t wait for the next step. At the same time, 91��Ƶ has challenged me to grow and explore my identity and explore how I make a new environment feel comfortable. I like the way I’ve made 91��Ƶ my home and, at the end of the day, it’s going to be sad to leave.”

Your support helps students like Leah pursue a quality college education without financial barriers. Join us for the 10th annual Lov91��Ƶ Giving Day and contribute to the scholarships that empower future 91��Ƶ students. On April 1, let’s show that our generosity knows no bounds…for the record!

Incoming athlete says faith led her right to 91��Ƶ

Ryan Cornell — Tue, 06 Jan 2026 15:30:00 +0000

Prospective students choose a college for many different reasons. For Reese Fitton, a senior standout on the Luray High School volleyball team, faith led her right to 91��Ƶ.

“My faith is extremely important to me and was the biggest deciding factor in choosing a college,” said Fitton, a member of Divine Unity Community Church in Harrisonburg. “I didn’t want to go to a big party school, but instead wanted to grow in my faith and use my testimony to inspire others.”

Fitton, who enjoys leading Bible studies, praying over people, and bringing others to Christ, said she’s excited to become a part of 91��Ƶ campus ministries this fall. “91��Ƶ offers campus worship, Bible studies, and more opportunities that you can’t find on other campuses,” she said. “Many players on the volleyball team also openly express their passion for Christ, which is important to me.”

The volleyball star was named Region 1B Player of the Year and received honors as a first team selection at the All-District, All-Region, and All-State levels this past season. She will play for the Royals this fall and said Coach Casey Steinbrecher was another major reason for her choosing 91��Ƶ.

“I remember one of my first conversations with him, he just wanted to get to know me outside of volleyball,” Fitton said. “Other coaches wanted to know my interests and that kind of thing, but Casey stuck out to me by wanting to get to know what my family was like, my background, and more before getting to know me as a player.”

When she’s not on the court, she plans to pursue a bachelor’s degree in business management. She said she will graduate high school with a cosmetology license and plans to earn her esthetician license either during or after college. Eventually, she said, she hopes to own and manage her own spa.

A ‘life-changing’ opportunity

Fitton said her decision to attend 91��Ƶ “felt right.” When she visited the campus early last year, she was struck by everyone’s friendliness toward her. “Everyone I walked past asked me how I was, without even knowing me,” she said. “The atmosphere on campus is refreshing. It’s quiet and peaceful while also being welcoming.”

She said she looks forward to forming close connections with classmates and professors and taking advantage of 91��Ƶ’s distinctive intercultural program. “I love to travel and expand my understanding of the world,” Fitton said. “I believe an experience to study abroad is life-changing and opens doors for opportunity. When I visited, I knew 91��Ƶ was a place I could see myself for the next four years.”

Read more about Reese
: Fitton named Region 1B Player of the Year and headed to 91��Ƶ
: Luray’s Reese Fitton used faith, love to lead team during special season

Aviation student sets sights on career as air traffic controller

Ryan Cornell — Wed, 17 Dec 2025 18:07:44 +0000

Just 10 days after graduating from 91��Ƶ’s aviation program in May, senior Sarah Miller will begin three months of intense training at the FAA Academy in Oklahoma City to become an air traffic controller.

The training is highly selective, demanding, and rigorous. To be considered for the academy, applicants must be physically and mentally fit and meet FAA standards for vision, hearing, and cardiovascular, neurological, and psychological health, according to the . Less than 10% of those who apply are accepted into the academy.

Trainees, who receive an hourly salary while enrolled at the academy, use tabletop models of airports and control tower simulators to replicate managing plane takeoffs and landings while in a high-stress, high-stakes environment. Each year, about 1,500 trainees pass through the doors of the FAA Academy and roughly 35% of them drop out.

“Everyone I know who has been through the academy says I would be a good fit for it,” Miller said.��

Once she completes her training at the academy, Miller will be assigned to work at an airport and must gain one to three years of on-the-job experience before becoming a certified professional controller. Within three years in the field, she can expect to earn more than $160,000 per year, the average salary for a certified professional controller, according to the FAA.

For Miller, a native of York, Pennsylvania, becoming an air traffic controller is about more than money. She said the plane crashes in Philadelphia and Washington D.C. in January 2025 prompted her to reflect on how she could contribute more effectively to the safety and security of the National Airspace System.

“Those crashes opened my eyes to the critical need for more air traffic controllers,” Miller said. “Aviation has given me so much, and I want to give back by becoming a controller.”

A place to land

While in high school, Miller earned a private pilot license and realized her love for flying. She attended Mount Saint Mary’s University, a private Catholic university in Emmitsburg, Maryland, for a year while she explored how to channel her passion into a career. That’s when she discovered the growing aviation program at 91��Ƶ Lancaster.

91��Ƶ 91��Ƶ’s aviation program
The four-year program, which was established in 2018, offers a bachelor’s degree in Leadership and Organizational Management (LOM) with a concentration in aviation focusing on professional flight training. Students are paired with flight instructors through 91��Ƶ’s flight training partner Aero-Tech Services Inc. at the Lancaster Airport in Lititz, Pennsylvania.��

While the program provides at least 270 hours of flight time, many students earn up to 1,000 hours by the time they graduate. Nearly 100 percent of students find jobs within their first year of graduating.

Miller thrived as a student in the program. She became the third recipient of the school’s Robert J. Rummel Aviation Scholarship, which supports 91��Ƶ students who have demonstrated an enthusiastic commitment to their academic studies and flight training. The scholarship is distributed over four years and provides an annual award of $5,000.

Miller said her favorite part of the 91��Ƶ aviation program is the small class sizes and the many ratings and certificates students can earn. “Not many schools have the type of program that 91��Ƶ does,” she said. “I would totally choose 91��Ƶ again and again. I’ve had nothing but great experiences.”

Cleared for takeoff

These days, Miller works as an administrative clerk at the FAA’s Flight Standards District Office in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. She passed her Flight Instructor Checkride on Tuesday, qualifying her to teach student pilots as a certified flight instructor.

Her mentor, John Sibole, an adjunct faculty member in the aviation program and a longtime FAA inspector at the Flight Standards District Office, said that he’s heard glowing reports about her. “She’s such a positive, hardworking young woman, and I look forward to hearing about her success as a leader in the aviation world,” he said.

Amber Lynn, customer service manager for Aero-Tech Services, said that Miller brings a safety-first mindset and a genuine love of learning to her flight training. “I believe she will use the leadership skills and aviation knowledge she has gained over the past few years to become the best air traffic controller she can be,” Lynn said. “The aviation community is lucky to have her.”

Music Department’s ‘KPop Demon Hunters’ parody video blows up

Ryan Cornell — Fri, 12 Dec 2025 20:41:46 +0000

Benjamin Bergey says the three heroines at the heart of Netflix’s latest megahit, KPop Demon Hunters, are like allegorical music and peacebuilders.

“They use their singing to defeat the darkness, the evil,” said Bergey, associate professor of music at 91��Ƶ and architect of its distinctive’s Music and Peacebuilding undergraduate major. “I thought, This is a big hit right now. What if we rewrote the lyrics and made a parody?”

That’s exactly what he did.

Late one night at the office during 91��Ƶ’s Fall Break last month, Bergey sat down and, in a flurry of creative inspiration, started writing the lyrics to a parody of “,” one of the hit songs from the popular animated film.

“I wrote something up and then thought, It would be even better if we had a video to go with it,” recalled Bergey. “I remembered that Isaac (Andreas) makes parody music videos. I sent him the audio and said, ‘This is a crazy idea, what do you think?’ And then he got to work.”

“He asked me if I would be interested, and of course I was. I was super excited,” said Andreas, who graduated from 91��Ƶ in 2022 with computer science and mathematics degrees. “This is the kind of stuff I do for fun, for free, and he was going to pay me for it.”

Andreas, a computer programmer and videography hobbyist living in Harrisonburg, produced, filmed, and edited the video. Nearly all of the filming, other than some B-roll footage, was shot from noon to 6 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 6. He spent the following three days editing the video using a free tool called DaVinci Resolve. The video released on the 91��Ƶ Music Department’s and on Thursday, Dec. 11.

In addition to Bergey, who lends his singing chops, the video features 91��Ƶ students and Chamber Singers members Elie Hoover, Ciela Acosta, and Samuel Castaneda in leading roles.

Some behind-the-scenes trivia

The family seen at the start of the video is that of 91��Ƶ Professor Daniel Showalter. “(His two daughters) were the first people to tell me about KPop Demon Hunters,” said Andreas. “They were like, ‘This is the hit of the summer.’”
Bergey said his two children have been scared to watch KPop Demon Hunters but have been watching the parody music video “on repeat.”
One of the scenes in the music video was filmed in the “rave room” of a house near campus. Andreas said his friends, who are renting out the property, let him film at the house for free.

is Netflix’s most-watched title of all time. It spent eight straight weeks at No. 1 in the Netflix Top 10. “That’s part of why we thought this would be a good idea,” Bergey said. “Many of our videos reach viewers older than college age, but to connect with prospective students, we need to reach younger viewers. This seemed like a fun way to get the algorithm to reach them.”

Watch the music video below:

Incoming volleyball star named Athlete of the Week

Ryan Cornell — Mon, 01 Dec 2025 16:08:24 +0000

Luray High School senior Reese Fitton, who will play collegiate volleyball for the Royals next year, was profiled by the Daily News-Record as its Athlete of the Week. “I love [91��Ƶ head] coach Casey [Steinbrecher],” she told the newspaper. “I think he’s such a great coach, and I’ve been to some of their recruiting camps. I just loved the way he coached, so it was almost just God’s calling pushing me there. I knew that’s really where [God] wanted me to be to grow my faith, grow as a player and in my education.”

Keeping its promise: 91��Ƶ expands tuition-free initiative to even more students

Ryan Cornell — Fri, 21 Nov 2025 21:43:16 +0000

91��Ƶ Promise Grant increases access for families earning below $75K

After a full day of classes at 91��Ƶ, Kevin Garcia clocks in at 5 p.m. for his eight-hour shift at George’s Inc., a poultry plant in Harrisonburg. By the time he gets home, it’s 1:30 a.m. and he’s eager to get some much-needed sleep. In less than seven hours, he’ll be back on campus bright and early for his 8 a.m. class.

The hardworking, indefatigable first-year student emigrated from Cuba three years ago to join his family in Harrisonburg. He graduated from 91��Ƶ’s renowned Intensive English Program (IEP) this spring. When he learned he could transfer 15 credits from his IEP classes to his college degree and that he would receive the 91��Ƶ Promise Grant, which fully covers the tuition costs for eligible students, he knew his future belonged at 91��Ƶ.

The biology and Spanish double major, whose full-time job helps support his family with their expenses, said his parents both graduated from college in Cuba. “They had an expectation that I needed to go to college, as well,” said Garcia, who is interested in the emerging and rapidly expanding field of epigenetics. “Without the Promise Grant, that wouldn’t be possible.”

Garcia is one of 76 first- and second-year students at 91��Ƶ who have access to an exceptional, tuition-free college education thanks to the 91��Ƶ Promise Grant. The initiative is open to Virginia residents whose adjusted gross family incomes are below $75,000. It is for first-time, full-time undergraduate students. See checklist below for more eligibility criteria.��

Checklist: Who is eligible?

You meet the basic criteria for 91��Ƶ Promise Grant eligibility if:
☐You file the (include 91��Ƶ), and we receive a FAFSA report with a valid as determined by Federal Student Aid.
☐You are a first-time, full-time (12 to 18 credit hours per semester) undergraduate student admitted to a degree-seeking program. Those pursuing second degrees are not eligible.
☐Your family’s 2024 federal income tax returns reflects an Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) of $75,000 or less. Visit for information about how FAFSA defines family.
☐You are a resident of Virginia who is eligible for , and you complete the VTAG application prior to the Sept. 15 deadline.��

Students who maintain eligibility can receive the 91��Ƶ Promise Grant for all four years. For more details about eligibility and a sample of frequently asked questions, visit .

The 91��Ƶ Promise Grant covers 100 percent of all remaining tuition costs after state, federal, and institutional grants or scholarships have been awarded. It does not cover any fees or living expenses.

Now in its second year, the tuition-free initiative continues to tackle systemic barriers by offering more financial aid, in alignment with 91��Ƶ’s 2023-28 strategic plan, Pathways of Promise: Preparing Tomorrow’s Unifying Leaders.

Troy Martin, director of financial aid for 91��Ƶ, said that raising the income threshold for Promise Grant eligibility (it was previously set at $65,000) ensures that a college education at 91��Ƶ is accessible to more students in Virginia than ever before. “We don’t want money to stand in the way of a student choosing to attend 91��Ƶ,” he said.

“We have lots of prospective students who show promise, and our promise is to help them fulfill their promise,” Martin added. “We offer a transformative education for these students and allow them to achieve their educational goals and dreams in a setting that will support them every step of the way.”

While there is no deadline to apply for the 91��Ƶ Promise Grant, the deadline for submitting a VTAG application is Sept. 15, 2026.

For more information about the 91��Ƶ Promise Grant, visit .

Let Braydon Hoover, vice president of enrollment & marketing, walk you through the 91��Ƶ Promise Grant in the video below.

Q&A: Transfer students say why they chose 91��Ƶ

Ryan Cornell — Tue, 11 Nov 2025 18:50:23 +0000

Whether they’re transferring from a large state school, a small private institution, or a community college, 91��Ƶ’s transfer students are a vital part of the student body and contribute to the vibrancy of our campus.

Hear why some of them chose 91��Ƶ as their new home!

Jose Lopez Vasquez

Hometown: Harrisonburg, Virginia
College/University you transferred from: Blue Ridge Community College (Weyers Cave, Virginia)
Major: Computer science

Why 91��Ƶ?
The primary reason I chose to transfer to 91��Ƶ was because it felt like home. When I was searching for where I would go to finish my degree, 91��Ƶ welcomed me and showed me there was a genuine spirit of connection and support. Even though it’s close to home and I was awarded a STEM scholarship, the ultimate deciding factor was that 91��Ƶ made me feel like I belonged here.

What was transferring like for you?
Transferring to 91��Ƶ was a smooth and welcoming experience. From the beginning, they guided me through each step and made sure I had everything I needed. Not once did I feel at a loss during the process.

Any advice for students starting their college transfer search?
My advice to other transfer students is to look for a school where you truly feel a connection. Choose a place that makes you feel comfortable and supported, but also challenges you to grow and push yourself.

What extracurricular activities are you enjoying at 91��Ƶ?
I’m a tutor for other students majoring in computer science. I’m also part of the NSF-STEM Scholarship Program, which has given me opportunities to connect with other students in STEM fields. I’m an active member of Latinx Student Alliance (LSA) and enjoy taking part in their events.

Benjamin Elliott

Hometown: Broadway, Virginia
College/University you transferred from: Blue Ridge Community College (Weyers Cave, Virginia)
Majors: Political science and peacebuilding & development, with sociology minor

Why 91��Ƶ?
My father has been a PA announcer for basketball and volleyball at 91��Ƶ since 2009, and this school has been a part of my life since then. I love 91��Ƶ’s commitment to radical justice and change.

What was transferring like for you?
It’s been easy. Shout-out to Liz (Heilbronner) and the wonderful admissions team. Dayton and the staff at BRCC helped as well.

Any advice for students starting their college transfer search?
Find what you’re passionate about and what program best fits that interest. The more passionate you are about the subject, the better your experience will be.

What extracurricular activities are you enjoying at 91��Ƶ?
Peace Fellowship, Mennonite Action, and writing opinion pieces for The Weather Vane. I’ve met a ton of great people in these groups who all share the same commitment to justice that I do.

Hezekiah Brown

Hometown: Stafford, Virginia
College/University you transferred from: Lesley University (Cambridge, Massachusetts)
Major: Business administration

Why 91��Ƶ?
I chose to transfer to 91��Ƶ because my old coach was let go, and this school had a really solid and sound campus environment. My parents actually mentioned the nice little coffee shop in the Commons (Common Grounds Coffeehouse!) as they were visiting for a JMU football game. I also chose this school because of the facilities it has to offer. My last school didn’t even have its own gymnasium, which makes a world of difference.

What was transferring like for you?
Transferring was an easy transition because everyone here is so welcoming.

Any advice for students starting their college transfer search?
My advice to other transfer students would be to put yourself out there and socialize as much as possible in your first few weeks to find out who your people might be. And to look for a school that has strong and helpful resources like 91��Ƶ. I actually got registered to come here the week before school started, and I have people from the admissions team like Lexi, Liz, and a few others to thank for all their help in such a short amount of time.

What extracurricular activities are you enjoying at 91��Ƶ?
Before my basketball season started, I enjoyed pickleball, gospel choir, the outdoors club, and biking around town with friends, along with being a part of Student Government Association (SGA) and working at Royals’ Den. They have so much to offer at this school!

Micah Wenger

Hometown: Hutchinson, Kansas
College/University you transferred from: Bethel College (North Newton, Kansas)
Major: Music and peacebuilding

Why 91��Ƶ?
I felt unfulfilled at Bethel, socially. I had expected to meet other young Mennonites with similar interests and felt as though there weren’t a lot of those people at Bethel. At 91��Ƶ, there’s more of those people. I worked for two summers at Rocky Mountain Mennonite Camp, where there’s a pretty big Mennonite contingent from 91��Ƶ, so I met a lot of people from 91��Ƶ there, thought about transferring, and decided 91��Ƶ might be the place for me.

What was transferring like for you?
People I knew from camp were quick to include me in social things, so I felt included and secure since day one, which is abnormal, I think, for a lot of transfers.

Any advice for students starting their college transfer search?
Similar to being a freshman in college, just being willing to go out and do things and chat with people makes a big difference. People here tend to be pretty friendly. I found they’re usually happy to chat.

What extracurricular activities are you enjoying at 91��Ƶ?
A lot of music: I take piano lessons, I’m in the orchestra, and on the choir. I’m also part of the group that’s working to put on a theater show next semester.

Interested in 91��Ƶ? Start the conversation by , scheduling a campus visit, talking with a professor or coach, or meeting your admissions counselor. Learn more about transferring to 91��Ƶ at .

91��Ƶ celebrates its first-gen students

Ryan Cornell — Fri, 07 Nov 2025 20:23:25 +0000

91��Ƶ observed First-Generation College Celebration Day with tasty treats and giveaways.

On Friday, Nov. 7, outside the University Commons, 91��Ƶ staff members handed out hot cider, fresh doughnuts from Strite’s, and raffled off a colossal 12-inch doughnut. 91��Ƶ students who identify as first-generation, meaning neither parent nor guardian earned a four-year college degree from a U.S. institution, could pick up free First-Gen T-shirts and keychains.��

The celebration included a raffle to win a giant 12-inch doughnut.

The annual , held on and around Nov. 8, brings together hundreds of colleges and universities across the country to recognize the achievements of the first-generation community and raise awareness of the unique challenges first-gen students face. The day commemorates the signing of the Higher Education Act of 1965 by then-President Lyndon B. Johnson, which created federal financial aid programs to fund students’ educations and made key investments in colleges and universities.

91��Ƶ is a member of the FirstGen Forward Network, which recognizes schools that display a demonstrated commitment to improving experiences and advancing success for first-generation college students. According to 91��Ƶ’s annual fall census numbers from Sept. 8, 48% of first-year undergraduate students identify as first-generation college students. That figure is a 13% increase from last fall’s numbers.

Tara Kishbaugh, dean of faculty and student success at 91��Ƶ and a first-generation college alumna herself, said the celebration aims to elevate the experience of first-gen students. “They’re highly capable, highly driven, super courageous, and don’t necessarily know who to ask for advice or insight,” she said. “We want to remove that stigma about seeking help and show them they’re not alone.”

91��Ƶ’s First Generation Working Group includes Tara Kishbaugh, Jonathan Swartz, Yeimarie Lopez, Trina Nussbaum, Tyler Goss, Luke Litwiller, Dawn Neil, Deanna Reed, Celeste Thomas, and Annalise Livingston.

‘A part of the journey’: Ceremony honors trio of summer IEP graduates

Ryan Cornell with photos by Macson McGuigan/91��Ƶ — Mon, 27 Oct 2025 11:00:00 +0000

Jeremy Samsoe likened the latest crop of graduates from 91��Ƶ’s Intensive English Program (IEP) to travelers on a road trip.

One of the goals of a road trip is to reach your destination, but that’s not its only purpose, said Samsoe, director of IEP, speaking at the program’s graduation ceremony on Thursday, Oct. 23, in Martin Chapel. Oftentimes, the purpose of a road trip is to see exciting things along the way, meet new people, and learn things that you didn’t know before, he explained.

“It’s a bit like your experience here,” Samsoe said. “And I would say that your time at IEP isn’t actually the road trip but a part of your road trip—a step toward some of the bigger goals you have in your life. Completing IEP isn’t your destination, but it’s a part of the journey to whatever destination you have planned.”

Thursday’s ceremony celebrated the accomplishments of three graduates who completed Level 6, the highest level of classes offered at IEP, during the summer 2025 term. These graduates, who hail from different countries, languages, and cultures, burst into laughter and fought back tears as they described how meaningful the program has been in their lives. They received graduation certificates and stoles, each emblazoned with both the flag of their home country and the U.S. flag.

The summer 2025 IEP graduates, along with their home countries, are:

Kensly Cassy, Haiti
Olga Lara, Mexico
Kateryna Zharkova, Ukraine

Those attending the ceremony included Tynisha Willingham, 91��Ƶ’s provost and vice president of academic affairs; Jon Swartz, dean of students; the graduates’ friends and family members; and students enrolled in IEP. The ceremony was followed by a potluck meal held in 91��Ƶ’s Roselawn Building.

Read on to learn more about each graduate.

Kensly Cassy

Cassy, who has been in the U.S. for two years, joined IEP for Level 6 and described the program as “the best place to start and finish English.”

“It’s fully intensive,” he said. “I tried all the other places (to learn English), but they were all about basics—things I already mastered—so I never fit in anywhere else but here.”

“I learned a lot and we got to know each other,” he added. “Thanks to this program and the help of everyone, I could decide what I’m going to do with my life.”

Cassy is now midway through the semester as a student at 91��Ƶ’s Center for Justice and Peacebuilding, where he is pursuing a master of arts in conflict transformation. “I’m from Haiti, where we have a lot of conflict,” he said. “When I went (to CJP), I realized it wasn’t only political or social conflict, but that we as human beings have a lot of conflict inside us. … IEP helped me a lot by helping me discover CJP.”

Olga Lara

Lara immigrated to the U.S. from Mexico about 20 years ago, and began her studies at IEP as a part-time student in Level 3 two years ago. She works at COSPU (Coalicion Solidaria Pro-Inmigrantes Unidos), a Harrisonburg nonprofit that empowers immigrant families through help and support, leadership mentoring, cultural and civic education, and advocacy.

She said IEP has helped her feel more confident. “It doesn’t matter how old you are; age is only a number,” the 56-year-old Lara said. “If you feel inside you need to improve your language, you can do that.”

Kateryna Zharkova

Originally from Ukraine, Zharkova started at IEP in Level 4 last fall and hopes to begin pursuing a master of business administration at 91��Ƶ in January. Following the graduation ceremony, she described feeling “overwhelmed” with emotion.

“Each person at IEP is really important to me,” she said. “They became my family. I have improved my English language and it’s helped a lot with my goals for the future.”

“You have inspired me to keep learning, growing, and discovering new things,” Zharkova said in a speech to her teachers. “Thank you for always making learning exciting and for your patience and for believing in me.”

91��Ƶ the Intensive English Program

91��Ƶ’s Intensive English Program (IEP) helps English language learners from all around the world find their voice and build a better life for themselves. In a typical semester, IEP has 60 to 80 students representing 15 to 20 different countries.

For more information about IEP, visit .

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