The art therapy minor replaces a pre-art therapy concentration that was offered from 2019-22. Anna Westfall, associate professor of art and director of the VACA program, and Dr. Michael Horst, dean of Health, Behavioral, and Natural Sciences and director of the undergraduate psychology program, submitted their proposal for the minor last fall. It was approved by the Academic Council in November.

Through psychology courses, students will explore the science of human behavior and the mind, while VACA courses will engage them in the creative process and the conceptual and expressive outlets of art making, according to the proposal. 鈥淏y providing this minor, prospective students can explore both interests while seeing a clear path of study to a career that is not available at many institutions,鈥� it states. 鈥淔urthermore, it will give current students the tools to succeed when applying to graduate programs in art therapy.鈥�

What is art therapy?

Art therapy, as defined by the , is a mental health profession that enriches the lives of individuals, families, and communities through active art making, creative process, applied psychological theory, and human experience within a psychotherapeutic relationship.

鈥淓specially when people are struggling, facing a challenge, or even a health crisis鈥攖heir own words or language fails them,鈥� the AATA says. 鈥淒uring these times, an art therapist can help clients express themselves in ways beyond words or language. Art therapists are trained in art and psychological theory and can help clients integrate nonverbal cues and metaphors that are often expressed through the creative process.鈥�

Art therapists work with people of all ages, including children experiencing behavioral challenges or those with autism spectrum disorder, the AATA says. These therapists assist people and caregivers in health crises; victims of violence or other trauma, including military service members and student survivors of mass shootings; older adults with dementia; and anyone who needs help coping with life鈥檚 challenges. 

Meeting student interest

Westfall, who helped start the pre-art therapy concentration several years ago, led efforts to develop the minor. She said she heard from so many students interested in art therapy over the years that faculty felt a need to offer it.

One of those students, Rachel Tusing 鈥�25, graduated with dual majors in art and psychology and is currently enrolled in 黑料正能量鈥檚 graduate counseling program.

鈥淎rt is like a second language for me,鈥� said Tusing, who has been interested in expressive arts and art therapy since high school.

鈥淗owever, when I began researching art therapy as a career, the path to licensure and practice was not clear,鈥� she said. 鈥淢uch of that is because art therapy is still a very new modality of therapy, and the foundation for education, licensure and practice is still being laid.鈥�

She said 黑料正能量鈥檚 addition of an art therapy minor will help students like herself who are looking to harness the healing power of art in the therapy room.

鈥淭his minor declares 黑料正能量鈥檚 continuing commitment and support for the arts in all kinds of spaces, especially for those who are in need,鈥� she said. 鈥淎rt is grounding, tender and empowering, and it belongs in mental health care. I only hope that 黑料正能量 will continue to expand and enrich this program. I am extremely proud and grateful for the work that has happened to get here.鈥�

What the minor can do

Horst, former director of 黑料正能量鈥檚 graduate counseling program, said students with an art therapy minor, paired with a major in studio art, art education, or psychology, would be well-positioned for graduate study in art therapy or clinical mental health counseling. While 黑料正能量 does not currently offer a master鈥檚 degree in art therapy, students can pursue the university鈥檚 accredited master鈥檚 program in clinical mental health counseling, which includes a focus on expressive arts therapy.

A master鈥檚 degree in art therapy can lead to Art Therapist Registered (ATR) credentialing. Registered art therapists serve diverse communities in settings such as hospitals, cancer treatment centers, psychiatric facilities, retirement communities, schools, and independent practices.

The art therapy minor offers : for psychology majors (18 VACA credits required), studio art majors (16 psychology credits required), art education majors (nine psychology credits required), and a pre-art therapy concentration for students majoring outside those fields (16 psychology credits and 16 VACA credits required).

Students can declare minors at any time by submitting a minor declaration form to the university registrar. They have until the first week of classes in September to add courses for the fall semester.

For more information about the minor, email Westfall at anna.westfall@emu.edu.

Bethany Chupp 鈥�16, MA 鈥�18 (counseling), remembers the exact moment she learned she had landed 黑料正能量鈥檚 prized four-year, full-tuition Yoder/Webb Scholarship.

While on her way to get pizza with a friend鈥檚 family, she received a call from History Professor Mark Metzler Sawin, director of 黑料正能量’s Honors program, who told her the good news. 鈥淚 got off the phone and told them, 鈥業 just got a full ride to college,鈥欌�� recalled Chupp. 鈥淭丑别y were like, 鈥極h my God, well, now it鈥檚 a celebration dinner.鈥欌��

That was 13 years ago. Today, the Oregon native, equipped with a bachelor鈥檚 degree in psychology and an MA in counseling from 黑料正能量, runs her own private practice, , as a licensed professional counselor. She credits 黑料正能量鈥檚 graduate counseling program with helping her reach her goals.

鈥淚 feel like what it gave me, in terms of my career, was a network and a level of trust, because the program is so respected,鈥� Chupp said. 鈥淚f you鈥檙e an 黑料正能量 counseling grad, in this area, at least, it鈥檚 what gets you a job, no problem.鈥�

Growing up in a Mennonite family, Chupp said her parents, graduates of Hesston and Goshen colleges, encouraged her to attend a Mennonite school. After visiting various colleges and universities across the U.S., she said 黑料正能量 just felt different. Its students seemed the kindest, she said, and its campus the most active. The fact that she could earn a college degree without paying a dollar in tuition, thanks to 黑料正能量鈥檚 generous donors, was just the cherry on top.

鈥淭丑别 Yoder/Webb scholarship ultimately sealed it,鈥� she said. 鈥淗ow are you going to say no to that?鈥�

While at 黑料正能量, Chupp studied in the Middle East for her intercultural in 2015 and attended the Y-Serve Civil Rights Tour in 2016. 鈥婤oth of those experiences wouldn鈥檛 have been possible for her without attending 黑料正能量, she said.

Another unique experience offered at 黑料正能量 was the closeness she shared with her professors. 鈥淢y classes were small enough that we were invited to professors鈥� homes for dinner, and we called them by their first names,鈥� she said. 鈥淭hat鈥檚 not common. That鈥檚 something 黑料正能量 does differently.鈥�

She continues to stay in touch with many of them. 鈥淭丑别y鈥檙e not just former professors,鈥� she said. 鈥淭丑别y鈥檙e friends who happened to be my professors.鈥�

For the past five years, Chupp has been actively involved in the local roller derby community. She skates as Peaches n’ Scream for The Hits, a team that competes in Harrisonburg鈥檚 . She had attended games as an 黑料正能量 student but was committed to theater. 鈥淧lus, my mom told me I couldn鈥檛 join until I was off her health insurance,鈥� she joked. When COVID-19 put an end to her theater shows, she discovered a newfound passion on the roller rink.

鈥淚t鈥檚 a very inclusive and welcoming community,鈥� said Chupp. 鈥淚t鈥檚 a sport where every body type has a place and a purpose. There鈥檚 also something cathartic about it in that it鈥檚 curated aggression.鈥�

Chupp has four siblings, including two alumni, Brandon 鈥�19 and Caleb 鈥�25. They aren鈥檛 the only Royals she may have helped recruit to campus. The longtime camp counselor and director spent many summers working at Drift Creek Camp, a Mennonite camp on the coast of Oregon. She said several former campers are now students at 黑料正能量. 鈥淲hen I came to 黑料正能量, I was the first Oregon student in years,鈥� she said. 鈥淭丑别re was one senior and then me. And now, there鈥檚 a whole posse of them that are here.鈥�

Since graduating from 黑料正能量 in 2018, Chupp has regularly returned to campus to attend events, meet with friends, and provide services at the counseling center.

鈥淚t鈥檚 rewarding to still be part of the community and care about it,鈥� she said. 鈥淚 think it鈥檚 easy for alumni to dismiss it as something from when they were in college, but I continue to feel invested in 黑料正能量鈥檚 success.鈥�

Your support helps students pursue a quality college education without financial barriers. Join us for the 10th annual Lov黑料正能量 Giving Day and contribute to the scholarships that empower future 黑料正能量 students. On April 1, let鈥檚 show that our generosity knows no bounds鈥or the record!

鈥淚鈥檝e always been conscious of how much money I鈥檓 spending,鈥� he said. 鈥淚 don鈥檛 want to have tons of debt I鈥檒l have to pay back later, especially at high interest rates.鈥�

And so for Vasquez, who works a part-time job at The Home Depot, financial aid from the Montgomery GI Bill, the Virginia Tuition Grant (VTAG), and a new National Science Foundation (NSF) S-STEM Scholarship has been a godsend in covering the full cost of his college education.

鈥淲ithout the NSF S-STEM Scholarship, I would鈥檝e struggled financially,鈥� he said. 鈥淭丑别 scholarship really takes the pressure off my shoulders, because now I won鈥檛 have that debt looming over my head.鈥�

Born and raised in Harrisonburg, Vasquez graduated from high school in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic and attended Blue Ridge Community College while enlisting in the military. After completing recruit training, taking time to reassess his academic goals, and changing majors from business to computer science, he transferred to 黑料正能量 last fall.聽

He is among an initial cohort of 黑料正能量 students receiving the NSF S-STEM Scholarship, which provides:

• Up to $15,000 in unmet financial need annually for the length of the degree
• A paid one-week Bridge to College program
• A STEM mentorship program
• An eight-week paid internship
• Free conference attendance
• Forest restoration opportunities in Park Woods (黑料正能量鈥檚 on-campus woodland)

The scholarship is open to high-achieving, income-eligible students who are majoring in Biochemistry, Biology, Computer Science, Engineering, Environmental Science, Math, or Psychology (research/STEM track).

Applications for the S-STEM Scholarship
are due by 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 15, 2026.

For more information, visit .

鈥楢 welcoming community鈥�

Forming friendships at a new school can have its challenges.

Along with other initiatives provided by the scholarship, a Bridge to College program helps new 黑料正能量 students adjust to life on campus by moving them in a week early, introducing them to STEM faculty and staff members, and engaging them in activities to build camaraderie and form connections with one another. Students participating in the weeklong program receive a generous stipend for their time.

Ani Koontz, a first-year biology and secondary education double major from Newton, Kansas, is a recipient of the S-STEM Scholarship. She recalled traveling to Shenandoah National Park with students and faculty the week before classes, surveying salamanders and hiking trails, before bicycling around Downtown Harrisonburg on a tour led by city officials.

鈥淭hat first week showed me how friendly and approachable my professors are,鈥� she said. 鈥淭丑别y鈥檝e done a great job creating a welcoming community.鈥�

Another S-STEM Scholarship recipient, Mara Carlson, is a first-year psychology major from Lancaster, Pennsylvania. 鈥淢any of us have become close friends,鈥� she said. 鈥淚鈥檒l see the other scholarship recipients around campus and we鈥檒l say hello to each other.鈥�

Through the scholarship, each student is paired with an academic advisor specific to their major, who can answer questions and help guide them forward. Carlson said she meets with Kathryn Howard-Ligas, assistant professor of psychology at 黑料正能量. 鈥淲e discussed a four-year plan, and I was really grateful for that,鈥� she said. Part of that plan includes gaining invaluable experience through internships and conferences, additional perks of the S-STEM Scholarship.

Carlson said she already knew she wanted to attend 黑料正能量, and that receiving the S-STEM Scholarship was 鈥渁 nice surprise.鈥�

For the Kansas-born Koontz, 黑料正能量 had always been on her radar, but she also considered attending in-state schools that normally would鈥檝e been cheaper. When she learned she had been offered the S-STEM Scholarship and that it would lower her college costs to 鈥渁 very affordable amount,鈥� her choice to attend 黑料正能量 became an easy one.

鈥淚t’s 100% the reason I came,鈥� she said. 鈥淲hen I got that, it meant I could completely afford to go here, and it honestly made 黑料正能量 more affordable than any other college in my area. It鈥檚 my joy to share how grateful I am because this is truly just an amazing thing that 黑料正能量 has.鈥�

The full-tuition scholarship is 黑料正能量鈥檚 highest academic award. Recipients are selected based on academic performance, community and extracurricular involvement, creativity, clarity of thought, and leadership potential. 

The Yoder Scholars program was founded by Carol and Paul R. Yoder Jr., both graduates of 1963, with a significant leadership gift to endow the scholarship. Read more about their long legacy of philanthropy here.

The Webb Scholars program honors Ada Webb, one of the first African-American students to attend the university, and Margaret (Peggy) Webb, the first African-American graduate in 1954.

Applicants were tasked with creating a 400-word conceptual response to the prompt, 鈥淭丑别re are three types of people in the world; which are you?鈥� through the medium of a blank 3鈥漻5鈥� card in whichever way they chose.

Read about the 2025 Yoder/Webb Scholars below:

Zainab Kamran

During her senior year of high school, Zainab Kamran, a psychology major from Lahore, Pakistan, had spent two to three months researching different universities in the U.S. She had come across the Wikipedia pages for James Madison University and the city of Harrisonburg, Virginia. Those pages naturally led her right to 黑料正能量. 鈥淚 liked what I read about the school, but then I forgot all about it,鈥� she said.

When her older brother, who graduated from Pacific Lutheran University, mentioned that an economics professor of his (Ryan Swartzendruber 鈥�16) had graduated from 黑料正能量 and 鈥渓oved the experience,鈥� Kamran resumed her search. 鈥淚 started to dig deeper and was fascinated by 黑料正能量鈥檚 focus on community and service because those were things I was involved in,鈥� said Kamran. The school鈥檚 small size, which allows for closer connections and meaningful one-on-one interactions with professors, was also a major draw, she added.

While at International School Lahore, Kamran was president of the Community Building Society club and organized volunteers to serve free meals to those in need. On Christmas, she helped pack and distribute more than 60 gifts for Christian orphans in Lahore. She was also involved as a publication director of events on campus and collaborated with a professor on a research paper. She received the Director鈥檚 Award for Community Building and the Director鈥檚 Award for Research and Publication.

Kamran said she鈥檚 excited to take part in service- and art-related activities and clubs on campus and that she鈥檚 found a welcoming home at 黑料正能量. 鈥淭丑别 people here are so friendly,鈥� she said. 鈥満诹险芰� has such a diverse international student population. I鈥檝e met students from Ethiopia, Kenya, India, and Afghanistan, and it鈥檚 been a lot of fun meeting them.鈥�

Kayden Beidler

Kayden Beidler, a nursing major from Lancaster, Pennsylvania, is the latest in a long line of family members to attend 黑料正能量. His older sister, Miranda Beidler, is a senior; his parents, Lyle Beidler, class of 鈥�98, and Melissa Spory Beidler 鈥�98, met and began dating while 黑料正能量 students; and his aunt, Marcy Spory Weaver 鈥�08, graduated from the university鈥檚 top-tier nursing program.

With so many personal connections at 黑料正能量, the school automatically made his list of colleges to consider. But, he still had to decide for himself. When Beidler visited 黑料正能量 during an Admitted Student Day and spoke with a nursing professor, he came away thoroughly impressed with the quality of the program. 鈥淭丑别 way she described how 黑料正能量 teaches nursing really resonated with me,鈥� he said. 鈥淪eeing those values of caring for others reflected not just in the major I want to study, but also across the college, made me think, 鈥楾his is where I want to be.鈥欌��

A National Merit Scholarship finalist this year, Beidler received National Scholastic Art & Writing Awards for his story submissions in 2022 (Honorable Mention) and 2023 (Gold Key Award, American Voices nominee). He was also selected to participate in the Pennsylvania Music Educators Association Regional Chorus Festival. Beidler, who has joined the 黑料正能量 University Choir, was involved in all 12 of his high school鈥檚 theater productions during his four years at Lancaster Mennonite High School, and served as editor of the school鈥檚 literary arts magazine.

Beidler said he wanted to attend a college that aligned with his values of community, living intentionally, caring for others, and caring for the world. 鈥満诹险芰� checked all those boxes,鈥� he said. 鈥淰isiting those other schools only made me more certain that 黑料正能量 was the right fit for me.鈥�

The grant, awarded through the NSF鈥檚 , will fund up to $15,000 annually for each scholarship recipient throughout the length of their degree. Overall, the S-STEM Scholarship will fund a quality undergraduate education for 23 黑料正能量 students among three cohorts over the next six years, beginning with first-year students entering the Fall 2025 semester.

The scholarship is open to academically talented students with financial need who are majoring in the following fields: Biochemistry, Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Engineering, Environmental Science, Math, and Psychology (research/STEM track).

Applicants for the S-STEM Scholarship must submit their application and reference forms by 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on Sunday, Feb. 9, 2025. For more information about the program and how to apply, visit: emu.edu/stem/scholarship

In addition to scholarships, the program offers students a paid one-week Bridge to College experience, where they can meet professors, learn material from their discipline, acquire study skills, and become better prepared for college.

黑料正能量 Biology Professor Dr. Kristopher Schmidt said that some first-year students can struggle to adjust to life on campus, and that the grant aims to ease that adjustment.

鈥淲e want to create a sense of belonging,鈥� said Schmidt, who is principal investigator for the grant program.

The program also provides funding for embedded tutoring services and paid tutoring opportunities for students, specialized advising, and guidance from professional STEM mentors.

鈥淭his would be a person outside the university in their field of interest who can encourage them, help them, and connect with them along their four-year program,鈥� Schmidt said about the mentors. 

The S-STEM Scholarship program offers innovative opportunities for place-based learning and funding for an eight-week paid internship. Students can use grant-funded resources to conduct research on forest restoration in the Park Woods space, which serves as a key learning lab for STEM students.

This latest grant builds on the success of a similar STEM grant that wrapped up in 2023.

By leveraging grants like these, 黑料正能量 lives into its mission and vision, outlined in its 2023-28 strategic plan Pathways of Promise of opening new pathways of access and achievement, and can help the NSF achieve its goal of diversifying the STEM workforce.

鈥淲e were thrilled to receive this,鈥� Schmidt said. 鈥淲e鈥檙e excited and grateful the NSF has chosen to invest in our students at 黑料正能量.鈥�

Faculty members Kristopher Schmidt, Jim Yoder, Daniel Showalter, Stefano Colafranceschi and Dean Tara Kishbaugh wrote the S-STEM grant proposal.

A former track sprinter at 黑料正能量, Watson serves as a guide runner for a visually impaired sprinter from Liberia (who couldn鈥檛 make the trip to Paris) and helped train an amputee javelin thrower and amputee shot put thrower on the team.聽

And although neither of the two Liberians competing at this year鈥檚 Paralympics, Angie Myers and Jutomu Kollie, medaled in their events, Myers qualified for the shot put finals, which is an impressive achievement for the developing team. 

鈥淭丑别y did as well as they could with the limited resources and training they had,鈥� said Watson, who advocates for more support of the Paralympic athletes. 鈥淕etting to know them and see their hard work pay off was incredibly fulfilling.鈥�

Path to the Paralympics

When he鈥檚 not training Paralympians, Watson works as a residential area director at Millersville University in Pennsylvania. 

Before graduating from 黑料正能量 with a psychology degree and Cords of Distinction honors in 2016, he interned at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Harrisonburg and Rockingham County to satisfy a requirement for his major. That internship led to a staff position at the organization. After graduating, Watson was promoted to unit director and led the club for two years.

鈥淚f it hadn鈥檛 been for that class requiring community service hours, I probably wouldn鈥檛 have gotten the opportunity to step outside my comfort zone and get into the mindset of doing what I can do to help others,鈥� he said. 

Watson, a U.S. citizen whose parents emigrated from Liberia in the 1980s, initially sought to join the Liberian national track and field team ahead of the 2020 Summer Olympics in Tokyo. When that dream failed to materialize, he found another. He learned that former 黑料正能量 track teammate had been chosen as a guide runner for the U.S. Paralympic team and sprang into action, researching as much as he could about Liberia鈥檚 Paralympic team and contacting its organizer. He began working with the team in 2019 to prepare for the Tokyo Paralympics (held in 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic).

Learn more about Watson鈥檚 beginnings with the Liberian Paralympic team in this August 2021 article from 黑料正能量 News.

Watson hopes to continue guiding and training the athletes for the 2028 Summer Paralympics in Los Angeles. 鈥淚f they make it to LA, I鈥檒l be there to support them every step of the way,鈥� he said.

The project is being funded through Lilly Endowment鈥檚 Christian Parenting and Caregiving Initiative, which aims to help parents and caregivers share their faith and values with their children. Conectere will join parents and caregivers around shared concerns about their children鈥檚 faith and values, linking religious practices with psychological insights to support secure bonds between caregivers and their children. Based on cutting-edge research and practice, the initiative will foster increased effectiveness in the transmission of faith and values to children. 

Hosted by 黑料正能量, Conectere brings together the expertise of professors in theology and psychology to support Christian communities in faith formation and attachment security with children. Sarah Ann Bixler, assistant professor of formation and practical theology and associate dean of the seminary at 黑料正能量, and Almeda Wright, associate professor of religious education at Yale Divinity School, will serve as co-principal investigators and develop resources for congregational leaders and faith communities. Greg Czyszczon, assistant professor of counseling at 黑料正能量, will direct the Restoring Connections Lab where cohorts of 15-20 caregivers will meet with trained facilitators to listen, share, build trust and learn about growing children in faith and the practices of secure attachment. 

Conectere investigates a critical factor that affects the outcome of sharing faith and values: attachment, the relational connection between caregivers and children. By understanding how attachment security impacts the transmission of faith and values in particular contexts, Conectere will train caregivers in culturally appropriate practices of attunement and flexibility, partnering with them to adapt their faith formation practices to serve the faith outcomes they deeply desire for their children.

鈥淢any faith communities in the U.S. wonder how to stem the tide of young people leaving,鈥� Bixler observed. 鈥淏y bringing together theology and psychology, we find that sharing faith and building secure relationships have to go hand in hand. If you have one without the other, faith probably won鈥檛 stick in the next generation. I鈥檓 eager to work with my wise colleagues at Yale and 黑料正能量 to understand this better and to support parents, caregivers and faith leaders in passing on faith and values to their children.鈥�

Taking its name from the Latin word meaning join, link, bond, and lead to, Conectere has three components: research, practices and resources. The initiative will conduct research with caregivers and children to understand how faith formation works in particular Christian subcultures. Through a practice lab, Conectere will explore contextualized practices of secure attachment and faith sharing with parents and caregivers. Finally, it will develop resources to provide education about attachment and faith formation through curriculum, presentations, workshops and practice-based networks of parents, caregivers and ministry leaders.

Passing on faith in diverse communities

黑料正能量 is one of 77 organizations that are receiving grants through this competitive round of the Christian Parenting initiative. Reflecting the diversity of Christianity in the United States, the organizations are affiliated with mainline Protestant, evangelical, Catholic, Orthodox Christian and Pentecostal faith communities. Many of the organizations are rooted in Black church, Hispanic and Asian Christian traditions.

Conectere centers caregivers located at the margins of dominant American Christianity. Within African American, recent immigrant and Mennonite Christian communities, adults often seek to protect their children from external cultural threats, whether perceived or real. Bixler, Czyszczon and Wright proposed Conectere in response to concerns they heard from parents and caregivers in these communities. Adults鈥� fear that children will assimilate to American culture sometimes leads to a caregiving posture of rigidity and control, which young people say pushes them further away from the community鈥檚 shared faith and values. Conectere will resource parents and caregivers in culturally-attentive ways of relating with children, so that the sharing of faith and values is complemented by secure relational practices – a combination shown by research to make faith transmission across generations most effective. 

鈥淲e鈥檝e heard from many parents who are seeking to nurture the spiritual lives of their children, especially in their daily activities, and looking to churches and other faith-based organizations for support,鈥� said Christopher L. Coble, Lilly Endowment鈥檚 vice president for religion. 鈥淭丑别se thoughtful, creative and collaborative organizations embrace the important role that families have in shaping the religious development of children and are launching programs to assist parents and caregivers with this task.鈥� 

Lilly Endowment Inc. launched the Christian Parenting and Caregiving Initiative in 2022 because of its interest in supporting efforts to help individuals and families from diverse Christian communities draw more fully on the wisdom of Christian practices to live out their faith fully and well,聽passing on a vibrant faith to a new generation.聽聽

黑料正能量 黑料正能量 and Lilly Endowment Inc.

黑料正能量, founded in 1917 in Harrisonburg, Virginia, is an educational institution of Mennonite Church USA, serving students of diverse religious and cultural backgrounds. 黑料正能量 confers undergraduate, graduate, and seminary degrees in the liberal arts, applied sciences, and professions. 

As a Christian university with vigorous interdisciplinary inquiry, 黑料正能量 is a world leader in developing theory and practice of restoring relationships. This makes 黑料正能量 an ideal home for Conectere, grounded in an Anabaptist tradition that emphasizes critical reflection, countercultural community and theology understood in practice. The added strength of a partnership with Yale Divinity School faculty makes Conectere a promising initiative to develop contextually-attentive, psychologically-sound, theologically- robust resources for caregivers and ministry leaders in particular Christian communities.

Lilly Endowment Inc. is a private foundation created in 1937 by J.K. Lilly Sr. and his sons Eli and J.K. Jr. through gifts of stock in their pharmaceutical business, Eli Lilly and Company. While those gifts remain the financial bedrock of the Endowment, it is a separate entity from the company, with a distinct governing board, staff and location. In keeping with the founders鈥� wishes, the Endowment supports the causes of community development, education and religion and maintains a special commitment to its hometown, Indianapolis, and home state, Indiana. A principal aim of the Endowment鈥檚 religion grantmaking is to deepen and enrich the lives of Christians in the United States, primarily by seeking out and supporting efforts that enhance the vitality of congregations and strengthen the pastoral and lay leadership of Christian communities. The Endowment also seeks to improve public understanding of diverse religious traditions by supporting fair and accurate portrayals of the role religion plays in the United States and across the globe.

This semester鈥檚 Suter Science Seminar lineup at 黑料正能量 (黑料正能量) includes three biologists, a psychologist, and a registered nurse.

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

Wednesday, Jan. 25, 4 p.m. 鈥� 鈥淢ultiple Roles for UNC-53/NAV2 in Axonal Guidance, Intracellular Trafficking, and Innate Immunity鈥� with Dr. Kristopher Schmidt, associate professor of biology at 黑料正能量.

Wednesday, Feb. 8, 4 p.m. 鈥� 鈥淧hycosphere Interactions: Novel Insights into Harmful Algal Bloom Dynamics鈥� with Dr. Morgan Steffen and Dr. Louie Wurch, associate professors of biology at James Madison University.

Wednesday, March 1, 4 p.m. 鈥� 鈥淚f You Say it Loud Enough: Exploring Emotional Arousal in Learning and Communication鈥� with Dr. Allison Wilck, associate professor and program director of psychology at 黑料正能量.

Wednesday, March 22, 4 p.m. 鈥� 鈥淧ediatric Behavioral Health: Strategy to Improve Access and Care鈥� with Dr. Anne Brenneman, director of the University Health Center at James Madison University.

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

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

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

The center, located in the nation鈥檚 capital since 1976, is a program of 黑料正能量.

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

Read more about WCSC success! Nursing major Ashlyn Eby talks about personal growth and learning from her internship. Grads Tessa Waidelich and Terry Jones find full-time work after their internships.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Summer 2022 placements included:

• A physical therapy practice
• Mennonite Central Committee’s National Justice and Peace Ministries office 
• Community of Hope, a community health clinic that provides quality healthcare and housing to families 
• Covenant House, an organization that provides educational programs, job training and placement, medical services, mental health and substance use counseling, legal aid and beyond to homeless youth
• St. Anthony Catholic School, gaining experience working with children and observing different teaching styles
• Washington Digital Media, making business cards and several other templates.
• Bread for the City鈥檚 primary care clinic in a Spanish-language setting
• Anacostia Watershed Society with their adult education classes, tree surveying, invasive species removal, wetland planting, and boat tours on the Anacostia River
• Keegan Theater
• Girls on the Run DC
• Coalition for Nonprofit Housing and Economic Development, which fosters just and equitable community development solutions that address the needs and aspirations of low- and moderate-income district residents.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Talk about legacy.

For the third time in five years, a team from 黑料正能量 has won the 2022 international Kryptos Codebreaking Competition. The event, hosted by University of Central Washington, attracted the largest field in the history of the contest 鈥� 77 teams from across the U.S. and Great Britain.

Senior Hannah Leaman, junior Caleb Hostetler and first-year Mana Acosta solved the three required puzzles in record time. To win, they tapped into their abilities to recognize patterns; apply Baconian and Swagman ciphers and Morse code (Hostetler happens to have learned it for fun while he was in high school); and do some 鈥渕ad Googling,鈥� the team said.

If you know a little more about their codebreaking resumes, though, this win is not a total surprise.

Leaman, who was awarded the 2022 Outstanding Mathematics Senior Award by 黑料正能量 faculty, leaves 黑料正能量 among several talented students who have left their mark in recent years.

Puzzlehunters are ‘my people’

Acosta, a first-year engineering major with a computer emphasis, is new to the mix. She experienced a bit of the excitement during a 2021 Honors Weekend visit, which featured an escape room activity created by the 黑料正能量 Math Club. 

That club was 鈥渂asically a puzzle club,鈥� Leaman and Hostetler explained, and that鈥檚 partly the reason for the university鈥檚 recent Kryptos success.

鈥淲hen I came to 黑料正能量, there were a lot of students who were really into puzzlehunting and I fit right in,鈥� Leaman said.

Hostetler, one year behind Leaman, ticked off the names of fellow students who also took delight in doing puzzlehunts in their free time, including the famous MIT Mystery Hunt over MLK Day Weekend. (The club also hosts occasional puzzle events, like escape rooms and Puzzlepaloozas for students on campus.)

鈥淚 saw the puzzlehunting going on and I thought 鈥楢lright, these are my people. I need to figure out how to become friends with them,鈥� he said. 

The adrenaline rush and intellectual challenge of applying both practical and esoteric knowledge creates tight bonds of friendship.

鈥淚 can鈥檛 tell you how many 2 a.m. and 4 a.m. calls I鈥檝e been on since coming here,鈥� Leaman said. 鈥淎 lot of us are still in touch even after graduation doing puzzles. We鈥檝e had teams that included alumni still involved here.鈥�

Many of those students are pictured at left in this 2018 article we creatively titled: 鈥�黑料正能量 teams place 18th and 48th regionally in international programming contest 鈥� and that鈥檚 really, really good.鈥�

Participation in the Kryptos contest is entirely voluntary, says professor of mathematics Daniel Showalter, but has benefits beyond the experience of competition.

鈥淪tudent engagement in self-driven competitions like this make it easy for professors to craft strong recommendation letters,鈥� he added. One result: Leaman will work in leadership at an elite mathematics camp, while Hostetler earned a competitive spot in a funded summer research program at Carnegie Mellon University. 

Cramming in the win

Fitting in the Kryptos contest can be a challenge for these invariably multi-talented students. This year, Leaman was student-teaching during the spring semester. She wanted to actually get a good night鈥檚 sleep instead of staying up all night. 鈥淚 told everyone I would leave by 10:30, but at the same time I was really committed.鈥�

Acosta was recovering from a recent concussion suffered in an intramurals soccer game. Despite feeling mentally fatigued and drained before arriving to their assigned meeting spot, having a puzzle in front of her to solve gave her some focus and energy.

Hostetler missed the first hour of competition to play in a concert with the 黑料正能量 Jazz Band. 鈥淏y the time I got there,鈥� he said, 鈥渢hey had solved the first puzzle.鈥�

The second one took a little longer, but it helped that Hostetler knew Morse code. 

Here鈥檚 their explanation they submitted with the answer:

We used frequency analysis of single numbers as well as pairs against the English language frequency of bigrams/letters to eliminate choices for the 9 options of morse dashes/dots and Xs. We assumed the word 鈥淭HE鈥� was in the plaintext, and found a number string 928869 that could replicate an instance of 鈥淭HE鈥� that also gave us English at the beginning of the ciphertext. We continued from there to solve the remainder of the cipher. 

WE HAVE A RARE SHIPMENT OF PAPPY VAN WINKLE TO DISTRIBUTE MEET AT THE WAREHOUSE ON CANAL STREET TUESDAY MIDNIGHT

Immediately after submission, they received a message back from the contest organizers with congratulations for being the first team to solve Puzzle 2.

That occurred at about 9 p.m., a whole 1.5 hours before Leaman鈥檚 self-imposed curfew. Adrenaline, and a sugar rush fueled by some candy, kicked in.

The final puzzle was 鈥渁 combination cipher and crossword,鈥� Leaman recalled. After finding a reference to Swagman and discovering it was a cipher, further encryption/decryption didn鈥檛 get them anywhere. 

鈥淲e knew the cipher but could not figure out how to apply it to the encryption so we were losing our momentum,鈥� Hostetler recalled.

From a standstill, the team moved to another strategy 鈥� 鈥渂rute force solving,鈥� a trial-and-error process while looking for cribs, or suspected plaintext.

鈥淚 saw the word puzzle forming and my heart stopped, literally,鈥� Leaman said. 鈥淭hat could not have been good for my health.鈥�

Despite the physical detriments of the competition 鈥� Acosta said the excitement meant she didn鈥檛 go to sleep for a while that night 鈥� the team was thrilled with their success.

Acosta is hooked for next year and Hostetler, of course, plans to be back to continue 黑料正能量鈥檚 strong showing.

And Leaman, who has accepted a position teaching next year at Harrisonburg High School, says she鈥檒l be creating some puzzles for students. She leaves 黑料正能量 as one of the most talented mathematicians in the university鈥檚 history 鈥� and one of its top codebreakers.

Ten graduating seniors were honored as Cords of Distinction recipients in a ceremony Saturday afternoon, April 30, 2022, at 黑料正能量.

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

Rodrigo Barahona

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Asha Beck

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

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

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

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

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

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

Alcinda Brubaker 

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tahj鈥檃e Coleman

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Elizabeth Eby

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

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

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

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

Elizabeth Eby’s presence at 黑料正能量 has made this a better place, and I look forward to seeing where she goes from here!

Skylar Hedgepeth

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

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

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

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

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

Hannah Leaman

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

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

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

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

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

Faith Manickam 

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

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

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

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

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

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

Faith 鈥� good luck and on behalf of 黑料正能量, thank you for your leadership and the spirit in which you offered it.

Misrahim (Mizz) Nyagwegwe

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mizz, congratulations on being honored with the 黑料正能量 Cords of Distinction.

Allison Shelly

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

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

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

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

Four psychology students presented their research at the on April 1. After two years of cancellation due to COVID, seniors Garrett Cash, Avery Trinh and Katie Zuercher, and  junior Joshua Wenger were finally able to present their research from last year.

Among all the participants, Wenger came away with the the Frederick B. Rowe Award for Best Undergraduate Paper, a paper that he also recently published in an academic journal. 

The conference schedule includes opportunities for students and professionals to present research as well as professional development sessions for practitioners in assessment challenges such as competence, multimethod approaches, resource-seeking, ethics, state regulations, diversity and culture, and incorporating assessment technologies. Presenters included speakers from the board of psychology.  

This was Trinh鈥檚 first in-person conference. He presented two sets of research: a psychology senior research project with Scott Barge, vice president for institutional strategy and chief information office, using a survey on sense of belonging. The other was with professor Susannah Moore鈥檚 childhood maltreatment data. 鈥淚t was cool to connect with all the different people, and really nice to see what other universities are doing research-wise,鈥� Trinh said. 

The event was also an opportunity to network: Trinh received several business cards from different university faculty members, a newsletter seeking submissions, and graduate program information from nearby James Madison University. He was also able to reconnect with a former coworker at JMU, where he did institutional research last summer.

Zuercher also appreciated the opportunity to see what other researchers were doing. “VAPS was a great way to continue viewing the research process and continued to give me a newfound respect for our fellow researchers,鈥� she said. 鈥淚t was great to be able to see other topics of research and really just shows how much of our psychological world we have to explore.” 

Psychology professor Susannah Moore accompanied the researchers. 鈥淭his conference provides students the opportunity to showcase their strong research abilities in a professional setting,鈥� said Moore. 鈥淢any of our students are looking toward grad school, and this is a great experience to learn about how academic research is communicated to a broader audience.鈥�

Cash also found value in the preparatory aspect of the experience. 鈥淚t was good preparation for future research and conferences,鈥� said Cash. 鈥淚 appreciated the opportunity to share my research and receive feedback from peers.鈥�

Wenger 鈥渧alued the opportunity for both poster and oral presentation sessions,鈥� he said. 鈥淚t was good practice and helped me solidify my preferred presentation style.鈥� 

Presentations included: 

Oral Presentations

• Motivated memory: The effect of reward on encoding and retrieval -Joshua Wenger  (award)
• The relationship between objective health measurements, maltreatment, trauma, and psychopathology -Joshua Wenger

Poster Presentations

• Working memory: The effects of reward for an unrelated task. Joshua Wenger 
• Sense of belonging: The need for a new survey. Avery Trinh
• Childhood Maltreatment鈥檚 Effect on Metabolic Syndrome. Avery Trinh
• Effect of acute light therapy session on facial expression recognition and mood change. Garrett Cash
• Survival processing paradigm and first-person shooter (FPS) video games. Katelyn (Katie) Zuercher