Based in the Nelson Good House in the Brookland neighborhood, WCSC hosts students each semester and over the summer from 黑料正能量 and other partner institutions. It鈥檚 been a valued program since the 1970s.

The event was an opportunity for President Susan Schultz Huxman, in her ninth month in office, to meet program faculty and staff and hear from alumni about its impact. Undergraduate Dean Deirdre Smeltzer, as well as five faculty members, also made the trip.

The day included a presentation by WCSC director , visits to internship sites, a Nelson Good house tour and a meet-and-greet evening with university and program alumni. 听

Living and working in D.C.

Lunch at an Ethiopian restaurant on the H Street Corridor ended with a quick history lesson from Schmidt, offering a peek into the urban seminar courses that students take at WCSC. Schmidt described the stretch of businesses now gentrifying nearly five decades after riots decimated the African-American commercial hub. 听

The group then made visits to two intern sites. In a plaza near the Capitol, social work major Peter Dutcher described his 5:45 a.m. runs with , an organization that supports those experiencing homelessness through an innovative running program. 黑料正能量 visitors formed a circle reminiscent of the program鈥檚 routine morning member circle while Dutcher and his supervisor described the organization鈥檚 impacts and the broader world experiences that such internships offer.

At the historic E, Bluffton student Anna Cammarn has been applying her majors in both music and psychology in a unique music therapy role serving students with behavioral needs.

鈥淔rom the time I was a freshman in college, I didn鈥檛 know if I wanted to be a music therapist or a clinical psychologist,鈥� Cammarn told the group. 鈥淚nterning at this institution has made me realize that even though I am not a music therapy major, this profession is something I can do with my life.鈥�

Program alums continue their support

After a meet-and-greet with local alumni, the group moved to the Nelson Good House for hors d鈥檕euvres and continued conversation.

Phil Baker-Shenk was a participant in 1976-77 to Washington Study Service Year, a year-long program that was the precursor to today鈥檚 WCSC.

鈥淚 haven鈥檛 stopped dreaming big out-sized dreams about building and nurturing institutions,鈥� he said. 鈥淲ithout WSSY, this path and these dreams would not have been possible for me. WSSY and its younger sibling WCSC is surely one of the gems in the Mennonite crown. […] Let鈥檚 all guard this crown jewel.鈥� 听

Recent alum Kiersten Rossetto Nassar shared how visiting the Nelson Good House during her college search process impacted her decision to attend 黑料正能量. She spent a semester in the program, which eventually led her to make her home nearby in the city. 听

Alums and supporters also heard updates from Associate Director of Development about the growth of the new WCSC and the potential to start awarding program scholarships to break down cost of living barriers to students with financial need. 听

Sonia Balasch, PhD, assistant professor of Spanish
Balasch earned an MA in Spanish (Hispanic linguistics) and a PhD from the University of New Mexico. Originally from Venezuela, she brings five years of faculty experience teaching Spanish and has most recently been a visiting assistant professor of Spanish at George Mason University.

David Berry, PhD, assistant professor of music
Berry earned a BM from the Eastman School of Music and an MM and DMA from The Julliard School. He brings experience as a solo pianist and chamber musician in a variety of innovative and nationally-recognized touring chamber ensembles.

Ryan Good, PhD, assistant professor of applied social sciences and assistant director of Washington Community Scholars’ Center
Good earned a BA from Goshen College and master鈥檚 degrees from Associated Mennonite Biblical Seminary and Temple University. Good completed his PhD in planning and public policy from Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey. He has taught at Rutgers and Eastern universities.

Michael Horst, MA, instructor
Michael Horst has worked at 黑料正能量 for many years, and begins this year with a new title. He earned a BS in Psychology and MA in Counseling from 黑料正能量 and is currently a PhD candidate in Counselor Education and Supervision at James Madison University.

Ji Eun Kim, PhD, assistant professor of political studies
Kim earned a BA from the Catholic University of Korea, an MA from Seoul National University and a PhD in political science and peace studies from the University of Notre Dame. Her research interests focus on political violence and conflict, transitional justice, post-conflict reconciliation and human rights.

Joohyn Lee, PhD, assistant professor of recreation leadership
Lee earned a BA from the Catholic University of Korea, an MA from Radford University and a PhD in leisure studies from Pennsylvania State University. She has teaching experience in the leisure, recreation and sport industry field at both Florida State University and the University of Florida.

Irma Mahone, PhD, assistant professor of RN-BS Nursing
Mahone earned a BS in nursing from 黑料正能量 and an MS in psychiatric nursing and PhD in nursing from University of Virginia. Mahone鈥檚 extensive experience includes case management, individual and group therapy, and emergency intervention along with her psychiatric nursing experience. Mahone was most recently a research assistant professor at the University of Virginia.

Meg Sander, PhD, assistant professor of education and director of MA in Education
Sander earned a BA from Virginia Tech, an MEd from JMU, a JD from the University of Richmond School of Law and a PhD in education from Virginia Commonwealth University. Sander brings teaching experience in special education, law and ethics, and educational foundations. Most recently, she was a research associate at the Virginia Commonwealth University School of Education.

Kristopher Schmidt, PhD, assistant professor of biology
Schmidt earned a BS from Trinity Western University, an MS from the University of British Columbia and a PhD from Simon Fraser University. Schmidt brings teaching experience mostly recently from Goshen College in biology and also as director of the premedical sciences program.

Ann Smith, PhD, associate professor of nursing
Smith earned a BS in nursing from the University of Virginia and a PhD in community college leadership from Old Dominion University. In addition to experience working as a nurse, Ann brings extensive college teaching and administrative experience, including service as the director of nursing programs at Piedmont Virginia Community College.

Andrew Suderman, MT, instructor of theology
Suderman, who came to 黑料正能量 for the spring 2017 semester, earned a BA in philosophy from Canadian Mennonite University and an MT in theological studies from Conrad Grebel University. Suderman anticipates completing a PhD in systematic theology from the University of KwaZulu-Natal in South Africa this year. He brings international and cross-cultural experience from living in Costa Rica, Bolivia, Columbia, and South Africa.

Ryan Thompson, PhD, assistant professor of psychology
Thompson earned a BA from Berry College and both an MA and PsyD from George Fox University. He has teaching experience as an assistant clinical professor and as a clinical psychologist.

With love in action as the guiding theme of the 2017 , several 黑料正能量 and Eastern Mennonite Seminary faculty and staff are sharing their research and wisdom at the Orlando, Florida, event.

Among the featured speakers to address youth is Assistant Professor of Social Work Melody Pannell, who wrote in a , 鈥淚 sense a strong call for the church to continue shifting our response to injustice.鈥�

She continues: Instead of showing love with just our words, we must begin speaking truth to power and taking deliberate and sustainable action in love. 鈥淟ove is a Verb鈥� is more than just a 鈥渢heme.鈥� This is a call to a higher level of discipleship and a deeper willingness to sacrifice ourselves and embody the love of Jesus Christ. It is a call to 鈥渓ay down our lives for our brothers and sisters鈥� in a way that utilizes our collective and individual power, influence and resources to dismantle gender discrimination, address historical harms and resist structural racism.

Pannell, who was born and raised in Harlem, New York City, grew up attending Seventh Avenue Mennonite Church in Harlem and attended 黑料正能量. After graduating in 1997, she worked and earned both a Masters in Social Work and a Master of Divinity degree.

At the conference, Pannell shares her personal story and the challenges of finding and living in her own 鈥溾�� in a presentation for youth, as well as three other presentations on sexualization and healthy sexuality, a restorative approach to broken boundaries in congregational life, and her work as founder of Destiny鈥檚 Daughters Empowerment Ministry.

Other presenters include:

• , director of athletics and author of 鈥�,鈥� speaking to both adults and youth about living and playing with a healthy balance;
• , professor at EMS, speaking to youth about decision-making for the future and the relationship of sports and faith;
• , associate dean at EMS and professor of Bible and religion at 黑料正能量, on 鈥淢ine, Ours, and Yours: Taking Care of Stuff鈥�;
• , professor of education, pairing with Lorraine Stutzman Amstutz, restorative justice coordinator for Mennonite Central Committee, to host two sessions for youth on restorative justice for difficult conversations and the basics of circle processes.

Among the featured speakers were alumni Lisa Cameron ’99, director of empowerment services at the YWCA Lancaster, and Phil Kniss ’82, MDiv ’95, pastor at Park View Mennonite Church, as well as two authors who have spoken at 黑料正能量, and .

Other faculty, staff and student involvement

Numerous 黑料正能量 faculty, staff and students are at the convention as delegates for church-wide business sessions representing their home congregations, or as youth group sponsors from their home congregations. These include , undergraduate academic dean, representing Park View Mennonite Church; Ronda Rittenhouse, assistant to the undergraduate dean and youth sponsor for Lindale Mennonite Church, and others.

President is taking part in activities and will bring greetings to an alumni gathering hosted by Jeff Shank, director of alumni and parent engagement. More than 175 黑料正能量 and Eastern Mennonite Seminary graduates have registered for the reunion.

Leah Wenger, a sophomore, played a key role in planning this year’s new program for youth.听The goal of 鈥淪tep Up鈥� is to prepare and launch young people into future involvement as denominational delegates and church leaders who are involved with the broader church. Read more .

Shana Peachy Boshart听’86 led the planning for the Step Up program; she is an 黑料正能量 board of trustee member听听and听Conference Minister for Christian Formation and听Youth Ministry for the denomination’s Central Plains Mennonite Conference.

Senior Nicole Litwiller is representing 黑料正能量 at the , a “gathering to imagine an Anabaptist future for Mennonite Church USA.” , affiliate associate professor at 黑料正能量’s , is facilitating the summit.

Collaborative Mennonite higher ed branding

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.

Diego Barahona

Diego earned his degree in biochemistry and environmental sustainability, with minors in biology and chemistry. He is from Tegucigalpa, Honduras.

Dr. Matthew Siderhurst, associate professor of chemistry, presented the cords.

I didn鈥檛 have the pleasure of meeting Diego in his first year at 黑料正能量 as I was on sabbatical. When I returned, I was looking for new research students and both Tara Kishbaugh and Doug Graber Neufeld told me I needed to talk to Diego. He turned out to be a great fit and it has been a joy to get to know him over the last two years. Together we鈥檝e traveled to Hawaii twice and Guam once on research trips. We鈥檝e hiked through jungle swamps (outfitted with radio trackers), across active lava flows, and over miles of hot dry dunes to reach a secluded green sand beach. He鈥檚 spent countless hours working in a fume hood synthesizing small organic molecules, more hours counting flies, and writing research papers. Through all this, I don鈥檛 think I鈥檝e ever heard Diego complain about anything.听

Because of his hard work and scientific abilities Diego is a co-author on two peer-reviewed scientific paper and has presented several poster and oral talks about his research both on and off campus.

Diego has been an excellent student here at 黑料正能量. He is a thoughtful person who has demonstrated a keen interest in learning and new experiences. While excelling as a biochemistry major, he has also found time to earn minors in chemistry, environmental sustainability and honors.

Diego鈥檚 interests stretch beyond the classroom and have led him to serve with 鈥済entle presence鈥� as a Ministry Assistant for campus ministries, been an active member of Latino Student Alliance, worked with the Sustainable Food Initiative, and was a tutor for the Academic Success Center. Writing in support of his receiving this honor, Diego was described as the 鈥渕ost courteous person I know.鈥澨� Others said, 鈥淗is grace, kindness, and compassion for people is admirable,鈥� 鈥渁lways puts others before himself,鈥� and 鈥渁lways friendly and supportive.鈥澨� I echo these comments.

I know I speak for many other 黑料正能量 faculty and staff when I say that you exemplify many of the characteristics we love in our best students and I am very happy to present you with the Cords of Distinction.

Azariah Cox

Azariah Cox earned his degree in photography, with a minor in digital communications. He is from Forest, Virginia.

Brian Simpson, head track and field coach, presented the cords.

If I were told that I could use only one word to describe Azariah Cox, I would use the word tenacious. Azariah, affectionately called A.C. by those who know him, embodies tenacity. I could list his accolades and accomplishments, but that would only serve to describe A.C. the student. I think that a brief story would give you better insight to the type of man he is.

I took over the duties of head coach for 黑料正能量 track and field this past August and听 heard about A.C. prior to transitioning from Wilson, N.C. I am friends with Jason Lewkowicz who coached A.C. during his tenure as the previous head coach and he told me a story about A.C. that gave me insight into the type of young man that I would be dealing with.

When Jason called to congratulate me on getting the job here, he talked to me about the athletes. The first person that he mentioned was A.C. His exact words were 鈥淵ou鈥檙e gonna have to watch out for A.C.鈥� I asked Jason if A.C. was a problem child. His response was 鈥淣o No! Not at all, Coach! He鈥檚 just the opposite! He鈥檚 one of the greatest kids that you鈥檒l ever meet. He just won鈥檛 quit. Even if the kid is hurting, he simply refuses to quit.”

So Jason proceeds to tell me a story about A.C. He had injured himself during a track meet 鈥� not a particularly debilitating injury but the type of injury that needed some rest which meant that A.C. needed to skip his race in the 110m high hurdles. Jason told A.C. not to run and to watch the race with him so that they could analyze the race together. A few minutes before the race, Jason begins asking if anyone had seen A.C. After several no鈥檚, Jason finally runs into someone who knew where A.C. was: in lane 5 preparing to run the 110m high hurdle final. After throwing his hands up in frustration, Jason accepted the inevitable and sat down to watch the race. A.C. went on to finish fourth in the race.

As Jason is walking towards A.C. to give him a few choice words about ignoring his order to not run the race, he notices that A.C. has this huge smile on his face. Confused, Jason asks A.C. why he was smiling despite finishing fourth and not medaling. A.C. responded 鈥淐oach, I didn鈥檛 win, but I helped my teammates. I just put three points towards our team score.鈥� Jason told me that he stood there speechless as A.C. walked off as happy as a kid in a candy store.

A.C. was happy not because of what he had accomplished for himself. He was happy because of what he had accomplished for others. He refused to quit not for any sort of vainglorious achievement. He refused to quit to make those around him better and this truly makes him a distinct and distinguished person.

Azariah, you have impressed me with your academic accomplishments. Graduating from 黑料正能量 was no easy task. Your athletic accomplishments speak for themselves. What has most impressed about you, sir, is your selfless and tireless pursuit to make those around you better. Never lose the grit and determination that has gotten you to where you are. I love you like a son and will always count it an honor to have been your coach.

Hannah Daley

Hannah earned a degree in chemistry with a concentration in environmental sustainability and a minor in mathematics and physics. She is from Lothian, Maryland.

Dr. Laurie Yoder and Dr. Tara Kishbaugh, professors of chemistry, presented the cords.

Imagine a word cloud: lime green and orange text, an edgy font. In large letters, read 黑料正能量 and Hannah. In only slightly smaller text notice campus, community, hockey, guide; and then served, worked, helped, positive, leader, people, impact, and team. Can you see the picture of Hannah emerging? These are the words that her peers and professors have offered in attempts to capture the many ways that Hannah has shaped the 黑料正能量 community.

As a scientist, she is a creative problem-solver who invites others to appreciate the value of science. Hannah鈥檚 sought many opportunities to practice science: from an internship with NOAA and NASA, to summer experiences testing for caffeine鈥檚 effect on athletic performance or doing geoscience in Michigan, to her many years of studying water quality and stream restoration in Bergton. Hannah has brought her curiosity, a strong work ethic, and optimism to bear on these projects. She has trained others in her protocols and describes her work in an accessible manner, which encourages others to join her in her scientific endeavours. Hannah works in a way that demonstrates keen awareness of the interplay between science and the community. Who else would think to demonstrate the principles of quantum mechanics using sports equipment?

Hannah is warm, welcoming, and encouraging鈥� she builds community wherever she goes.听听 Hannah鈥檚 passion for community plays out in athletics, as she positively impacted the varsity hockey team both on and off the field;admissions, as she enthusiastically led scheduled and impromptu tours for prospective students; student life, through her work in residence life, campus ministries and intramural athletics; and academics, as she served as a peer tutor and learning assistant in chemistry classes.

Hannah鈥檚 deep faith is the foundation of her desire to serve her community at 黑料正能量 and beyond. Through her humility and love for others, she has emerged as a Christ-like servant leader.

So, Hannah, this campus will miss a particular lime green skateboard zipping down the sidewalk. And as you have blessed us repeatedly with your signature line, now we return the same to you: 鈥淕od Bless.鈥�

Quinn Kathrineberg

Quinn earned a degree in English with secondary licensure (6-12). She is from Salina, Kansas.

Amy Springer Hartsell, assistant undergraduate dean, and Student Government administrative representative, and Dr. Deirdre Longacre Smeltzer, undergraduate dean, presented the award.

Amy Springer Hartsell: Quinn offered an opinion piece to the 黑料正能量 community in the Weather Vane two months after her arrival on campus. Her article was titled, 鈥淭ransfer Reflection: Identity Crisis Toward Discovery.鈥� As soon as I finished reading, I was composing an email to Quinn and wrote this: 鈥淚 just finished reading the article you wrote for this week’s Weather Vane and want to commend you for it. Twenty-six years ago, I transferred to 黑料正能量 from Hesston and I experienced a similar transfer process as you described in your article.鈥� I had never met Quinn but hoped I would. Here was a new transfer student who put clear, honest, wise and eloquent words to my own transfer experience 鈥� 26 years ago! Quinn ended that piece by writing, 鈥淭hanks, 黑料正能量, for welcoming me into the community since opening weekend. I鈥檓 looking forward to seeing how I will be impacted here, and also how I can impact 黑料正能量.鈥� Well, Quinn, you鈥檝e made a big impact on 黑料正能量.

Dr. Deirdre Longacre Smeltzer: As a leader, you have exemplified key attributes of effective leadership: you鈥檝e communicated in a clear and positive way; created space for a variety of perspectives; and maintained a non-anxious presence as you navigated difficult decisions. Your commitment to advocating for students and to bringing about positive change in your community is clear 鈥� through the leadership roles you鈥檝e held on the Student Government Association, the Student Women鈥檚 Association, and the Student Education Association, through your hard work as a writing tutor, and through your musical and service outreach to the broader community. All of these activities have been carried out quietly, with cheerfulness, determination, and a commitment to excellence, but without seeking the spotlight for yourself. You have modeled integrity and grace. And through the many ways you鈥檝e made 黑料正能量 a better place, your true north has shone through: that is, to serve as a voice for those on the margins. We are so glad you chose to continue your journey at 黑料正能量.

Oksana Kittrell

Oksana earned a degree in psychology and a minor in youth ministry. She is from Big Island, Virginia.

Celeste Thomas, multicultural student services co-director, presented the award.

It is my distinct honor to present this award to Oksana Kittrell, a young woman, who has truly earned it. Oksana has exceeded the criteria for this award in her service and spiritual endeavors. Oksana is not only academically gifted (graduating in three years), but is creative, athletic, musically inclined, a smart leader, possesses a genuine concern for the well-being of others and has one of the most electric smiles that you will ever see.

Not only has her well-served talents benefitted 黑料正能量, but she has also committed her time and gifts to the greater Harrisonburg and Rockingham County. 听Oksana is a kind, intelligent, honest and genteel young woman.

Oksana is mature beyond her years and possesses a level of responsibility and dependability not rivaled by many. She never settles for mediocrity and has high standards for those with whom she works. She has served as a mentor for a young girl in Harrisonburg, a teaching assistant for developmental psychology, a volunteer for Multicultural and International Student Services, director of the gospel choir, a LEAD lunch coordinator, an intern for University Accord, a leadership team member for Fellowship of Christian Athletes, MLK committee co-chair, and a member of Diversity and Inclusion Committee. In addition, she was the secretary, activities coordinator, and co-president of the Black Student Union. Furthermore, Oksana was instrumental this year in planning and implementing the Town Hall on Race, Civil Rights Tour and the President鈥檚 Ball.

Oksana, Maya Angelou said, 鈥淧eople will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.鈥� You have touched the lives of many through all of your hard work, service and dedication. Many persons鈥� lives changed for the better due to your presence and unselfish dedication, exemplified to the greatest extent during your cross-cultural experience in Egypt where you served the least of your international neighbors. You have the heart of a servant and the fortitude of an extraordinary leader.

Oksana, you live a life that is demonstrative of Luke 12:48, 鈥渢o whom much is given, much will be required鈥�. You are wonderfully created by God and in the words of your favorite poet Maya Angelou:

Now you understand/Just why my head鈥檚 not bowed. / I don鈥檛 shout or jump about/ Or have to talk real loud. / When you see me passing, / It ought to make you proud. / I say, / It鈥檚 in the click of my heels, / The bend of my hair, / the palm of my hand,/ The need for my care. / 鈥機ause I鈥檓 a woman/ Phenomenally. / Phenomenal woman, / That鈥檚 me.

Oksana, you may not know exactly where God will call you in your vocation, but what is known is that your future is bright and you can do and be anything your heart desires, smiling while you do it. I wish you the many blessings God will provide for you as you matriculate into the dual MA of Divinity/MA of Counseling Program in the fall.

Madison List

Madison earned a degree in religious and intercultural studies. She is from Arlington, Virginia.

Lana Miller, undergraduate campus pastor, presented the award.

Brave, consistent, full of heart, spirit of compassion, resilient, clear devotion to God, present, insightful, wise, inspirational, committed, joyful and faithful 鈥� just a few words that come to mind when describing Maddie. Her contagious smile and sparkle in her eyes have encouraged more than one person to persevere, even when the way seemed difficult. I know this encouragement from firsthand experience as Maddie鈥檚 life witnessed to me throughout the first four months of my very difficult pregnancy. And this speaks to her character, as she impacts people in profound ways as she lives her life seeking to follow Jesus.

As a first-year student, Maddie joined campus ministries as a Ministry Assistant. (This is not the norm, as most first year students wouldn鈥檛 be invited to serve in this kind of leadership role before completing their first semester of college.) She started learning how to care for other people as a MA in orientation, even before she knew what it meant to be a first year student. As an MA, she led weekly Bible studies and devotions, while also praying for, encouraging and supporting those on her hall in their faith formation.

In addition to this role, in her first year, she was part of a student-led group that organized a campus-wide vigil during the Listening Process entitled 鈥淐ome Unite,鈥� bringing students with opposing views regarding the hiring policy together to worship God. In latter years, Maddie has provided leadership as a Community Advisor and Pastoral Assistant where she has helped plan worship services and retreats, shared her personal story in chapel, wrote devotionals, mentored, supported and encouraged younger students. Not only has she mentored students at 黑料正能量, but through Intervarsity at James Madison University, has mentored a student who provides leadership to their discipleship team.

Not only has Maddie been involved with learning outside of the classroom, she is deeply invested and contributes greatly to life within the classroom. Nancy Heisey professor in the Bible and Religion Department writes, 鈥淢addie is one of the best student presenters I鈥檝e ever had; she prepares, speaks with authority and clarity, and knows how to round-out a presentation to hold people鈥檚 attention.鈥�

While Maddie鈥檚 accomplishments are impressive, they are even more impressive in light of the fact that she has done this all of this while suffering from the symptoms of Lyme disease and chronic fatigue syndrome. She isn鈥檛 defined by her illness, but rather, she has let the chronic pain she feels be a teacher, helping her to be a more open, vulnerable and sympathetic to others. She has learned to ask for what she needs, recognize her own limitations and also view her limitations as a blessing, in that it has strengthened her reliance on God. Her journey hasn鈥檛 been easy, but her perseverance is a witness.

Maddie, the 黑料正能量 community honors you today with the Cords of Distinction and we encourage you to continue service in the church and community as an expression of God鈥檚 love and faithfulness. We鈥檝e been blessed to journey with you and thank you for your leadership and presence as a student at 黑料正能量. May God bless you as you continue to strive to be a blessing to others.听 听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听

Mariah Martin

Mariah earned a degree in nursing. She is from Greencastle, Virginia.

Lisa King, instructor of nursing, presented the award.

As a nurse, it is important to understand that you cannot always fix people or solve their problems. This can be a discouraging thought when entering a field in which your work is to assist others to healing and wholeness. In a reflection that she wrote for MCUSA about her time in Haiti, Mariah Martin said this: Sometimes love is knowing that your action won鈥檛 solve the problem, but not letting that stop you from doing what you can.

Mariah has embodied this definition of love throughout her time here at 黑料正能量. Her awareness of the ongoing work needed to make this world a more just and loving place to exist has not discouraged her but rather motivated her. Mariah has provided leadership for the Coalition on Sexual Violence Prevention and traveled to Haiti working with Midwives to safely welcome new life into this world. She has volunteered her time with the Blue Ridge Legal Services as an interpreter, served as a youth sponsor at Community Mennonite Church and was the coordinator for flash seminars held last Spring. 听When she could have been discouraged by an injury in her last of four seasons of field hockey, Mariah took it as an opportunity to learn new leadership skills. As a teammate and friend put it, 鈥淢ariah is positive, caring, and intentional in every situation life confronts her with.鈥�

I could go on to list all of the work Mariah has done around the community and here on campus, but I think it鈥檚 most important to hear from Mariah herself about what is behind the wonderful work she does:

鈥淐ollege is a time of self-discovery and exploration. In this journey to find an identity it can be easy to let the world dwindle down to just one鈥檚 self in a single moment. Opening up my world to serving others broadens my view and assures that I do not lose perspective. I am a small piece of a vast and beautiful puzzle. By living in the best ways that I can, I add to the tapestry of humanity.鈥�

Macson McGuigan

Macson earned degrees in digital media and environmental sustainability with a concentration on environmental/social sustainability and a minor in photography. He is from Berryville, Virginia.

Dr. Jerry Holsopple, professor of visual and communication arts, presented the award.

In Lithuania, I suggested to the students that their motto should be 鈥渆mbrace the mystery.鈥� Macson came to personify that from discovering lost family connections, to dipping his feet in the Baltic Sea to get the perfect time-lapse, from exploring the old towns to doing handstands in the forest and even mimicking the ballet moves in Tallinn.

Macson does more than embrace the mystery, he demonstrates joie de vivre in most aspects of his life. He fully engages in his creative work with a sample reel featuring Daughter of the Stars, an advocacy video about protecting the Shenandoah Mountain for the Virginia Wilderness Committee; the inauguration gala videos; O2O Keeping Florida Wildlife Connected: The Ocala to Osceola Corridor produced by a select group of students receiving scholarships to the North American Nature Photography summit in Florida; slider tutorials for VACA; documentaries for Common Grounds; and numerous other student films as camera operator, producer or animator.

Night after night during rehearsal and performance of Distant Witness, he manuvered around the stage under a camera as part of the team integrating live video into the award-winning production. He volunteered time or images at the Nature鈥檚 Best Awards gala in Washington, DC; 黑料正能量 marketing; Wild Virginia; LCC International University and Campus Activities Council.

Beyond these and other accomplishments, he fully embraces life, people and the natural world. His exuberance is contagious. He likes to sing Rain Down, savor a good kebabia, wade a stream, photograph an owl, or have deep conversations over a cup of tea.

Macson welcomes the big challenges, tries out new gear and techniques, remains sensitive to the subject, works the late nights and completes the production with minutes to spare. His commitment to social change and enthusiasm with meeting unique and amazing people remains constant. Macson ran two half-marathons with me. Like any good running companion he pulls you along toward the finish line, and like everything else he does, he will finish strong. Macson, embrace the mystery that is around you and is yet to come.

Mario Valladares

Mario Valladares earned degrees in business administration, economics and accounting. He is from Tegucigalpa, Honduras.

M. Esther Showalter, multicultural student advisor, presented the award.

It is my distinct honor to present this award to Mario Valladares, a young man who exudes joy and brings life to his surroundings. Mario is a charismatic leader who uses his gifts to connect people and take pleasure in life regardless of the circumstances.

Mario is a vibrant student and proof that you can make time to be a good student and be fully involved in college life. I don鈥檛 know how he managed, but he always had a big smile with so much energy and ready to go the extra mile. As a leader for the Latino Student Alliance he was fully committed, helped with the growth of the group and was resourceful in the LSA major events. He often called or texted to say 鈥淲hat do you need? Is there anything else I can do to help?鈥� A good example of that was the banquet. He contacted many musicians so we ended up with more groups than we anticipated and the banquet was beautiful thanks to his many connections. Mario, it is going to be very hard to replace you, especially for our first activity of the year. Who is going to say during the mixer 鈥淪hall we dance?鈥� Mario, your cheerful personality will be greatly missed.

Mario, you are one of kind and we have been blessed to have you in our midst these last four years. Faculty, staff, your peers and I are grateful for your lively presence and involvement with student government association, united student organization, being part of the luncheons with the international student organization, and giving your time and insights to the cross-cultural committee and business department committee. Thank you for representing 黑料正能量 at the International Student Leadership Conference. I am especially thankful that you set aside time to go on Wednesday afternoons to Skyline Middle School to spend time with the teenagers and be part of their lives.

Mario, you have impacted our lives and brought humor and delight into our busy schedules. We have been blessed by your warmth and sweet presence. I have no doubt that you will succeed and enjoy the next chapter of your journey.

Elisabeth Wilder听听听听听听

Elisabeth earned a degree in social work and a minor in pre-law. She is from Hesston, Kansas.

Dr. Carol Grace Hurst, professor of social work, presented the award.

厂丑补办别蝉辫别补谤别鈥檚 Sonnet 29 begins with a depressed person bemoaning the torment and struggle of life caught 鈥渋n an outcast state鈥� and fearing that God is deaf to this suffering until a particular person is remembered. Then, the outcast finds hope–鈥淟ike to the lark at break of day arising, From sullen earth, Singing hymns at heaven鈥檚 gate.鈥� Elisabeth May Wilder came to 黑料正能量 after two years at Hesston where she was awarded Hesston鈥檚 Lark of the Year. She describes herself as an idealist, believing that 鈥渁midst the suffering, chaos, and violence of this world there can be hope, change, and peace.鈥�

Elisabeth packed her 黑料正能量 years full of thinking deeply, making relationship connections, and becoming a leader in the community. When she lived in Parkwood Apartments during her first year, she could frequently be observed interacting with other residents as they came and went from her spot in the hammock on her porch. Elisabeth made an immediate, substantial and significant contribution as a Student Government Association senator and was elected SGA co-president for 2016-17. Elisabeth walked with others with a leadership vision of working within systems, clubs, and organizations to make them better and more collaborative, facilitating between people and spaces, becoming a bridge-builder between groups and administration.

As an appreciative leader, she recognized others鈥� contributions so keenly, she would regularly pen thank you notes. She is vocal in her support for LGBTQ people in the church, and blogs for The Mennonite. Elisabeth was on the Social Work is People leadership team, and part听of听the planning team for Take Back the Night. She was a co-leader听of Student Womens鈥� Association, a member of the Undergraduate Honors Council, and first coordinator of an 黑料正能量 theme house.

Elisabeth also brought her considerable writing, analytic, relational talents and humor and inquiring mind to seeking justice. She is the winner of the Intercollegiate 2016 Francis J. Ryan Undergraduate American Studies Paper Award for a paper titled Caitlyn Jenner, Phyllis Schlafly, and Other Transgender Rights Crusaders. And runner-up in the 2016 C. Henry Smith Peace Oratorical Contest with a speech entry titled Make Change, Not Hashtags. She built effective cross-cultural alliances in summer internships in San Pedro Sula, Honduras and Bogot谩 Columbia. She contributed to a book entitled The Little Book of Restorative Justice: For Kids, and completed her social work practicum furthering immigration justice work with Washington Office on Latin America.

If you find yourself depressed, doubting, downcast, or cynical that your efforts matter, please remember Elisabeth May Wilder. Elisabeth, we want to thank you for walking with us here, thank you for your idealism and your practical engaging make it happen charisma. Thank you for being the Lark at break of day reminding us to sing together and make the world a better place.

听

Soul Fire Farm, located near Albany, New York, is a sustainably managed family farm which employs and empowers people of color, including teenagers in the county鈥檚 restorative justice program. Other Soul Fire strategies for food sovereignty include black, Latino, and indigenous farmer trainings; land-based oppression healing; community education; and a community-supported agriculture program for families without other access to fresh, naturally grown food.

Jonathan McRay, sustainability curriculum coordinator, and Deirdre Smeltzer, undergraduate dean, organized the event.

鈥淟eah and Soul Fire challenge insidious assumptions often held within sustainability and local food efforts 鈥� that these efforts are automatically just, that only white folks start and lead them 鈥� by honoring black agrarianism, revealing the intersection of food justice and Black Lives Matter, and emphasizing land and food as tools to end mass incarceration,鈥� McRay says. 鈥淚 think 黑料正能量 can learn that growing good food and tending the land are inseparable from resisting and healing from spirals of oppression.鈥�

Penniman encourages anyone interested in remedying racial oppression to attend, whether or not they are interested in farming.鈥淭he same forces that cause injustice in the food system are those that cause injustice in education and housing and government, in terms of environmental protection.鈥�

A member of the clergy and daughter of two clergy, she identifies as a 鈥渟piritual activist,鈥� and says she is excited to visit 黑料正能量 to be among like-minded people.

Penniman was first inspired to farm after working for The Food Project in eastern Massachusetts, which brings teenagers and volunteers together to farm and build leadership skills.

She explains, 鈥淎t The Food Project, it was shown to me how through stewarding the earth and producing food for the community, I could also be in service to my people, to the African American urban community in terms of providing fresh, healthy food, and also access to the outdoors and to the land.鈥� Afterwards, she worked for a variety of organic farms and community gardens.

She and her husband Jonah eventually found themselves in the south end of Albany with a toddler and a one-year old 鈥� and no access to fresh food. They decided to build their own farm, and in 2006, bought the land that would become Soul Fire.

鈥淲e started the farm with the motivation to get food to communities that need it most, and to have that food come from someone from the community who looks like the people in the community, and not some sort of external savior that鈥檚 going to perpetuate a harmful power dynamic,鈥� says Penniman.

After five years of house- and infrastructure-building, Soul Fire Farm had 25 families in their 鈥渦jaama farm share鈥� program in their first commercial year. 鈥淯jaama,鈥� which means 鈥渇amilyhood鈥� in Swahili, is one of the seven principles of Kwanzaa, in which the word translates to 鈥渃ooperative economics.鈥� Soul Fire offered almost 100 shares for the 2017 growing season.

Provost Fred Kniss spoke about Nafziger鈥檚 many accomplishments and contributions to the university, for which he was honored by the Board of Trustees with an emeritus administrator title.

鈥淜en has helped 黑料正能量 make important gains in our abilities to serve our diverse community of students,鈥� said Kniss, launching into a list of positive changes Nafziger led in from implementing the program, and expanding career services health services, and multicultural student services, to leading the since its inception in 2005.

鈥淚t has been a privilege to work here with this great group of people,鈥� Nafziger said in his closing comments. 鈥淣one of those accomplishments would have been possible or happened without the wonderful work of my colleagues in the Student Life department鈥� I was fortunate enough to be here at the right time with the right group of people to see a lot of things come to fruition.鈥�

Nafziger and his wife Judy plan to 鈥渢ake a learning break鈥� in Costa Rica to study Spanish. 鈥淚鈥檝e taken special care not to say the word 鈥榬etire,’鈥� he added. 鈥淪ixty is the new 50 鈥� or so I鈥檝e heard.鈥�

Beloved on campus

A host of colleagues took the opportunity to share remembrances, some humorous and many emotional, about working with Nafziger.

鈥淚鈥檝e enjoyed your commitment to developing students, and really all of us, towards personal improvement,鈥� said Dean of Undergraduate Students Deirdre Smeltzer.

Brian Martin Burkholder, campus chaplain, noted the 鈥渟tream of people at your door鈥f it was open and they wanted to meet, you always said, 鈥榶es,鈥� and then when driving by at night on my way home, I鈥檇 see your office light on. You made yourself available even at great personal cost. That was servant leadership and love in action.鈥�

Several colleagues also offered thanks for his skillful and compassionate relationships with everyone in the campus community, whether student, faculty, staff, 鈥渇riend or neighbor,鈥� said administrative assistant Bernadette Griffith, who often accompanied Nafziger to meetings around campus. She praised him as willing to understand differences in individuals, someone who would always take time to talk with students. 鈥淚t was easy to tell how much you love this place and the people here 鈥� I saw this place through Ken鈥檚 eyes, and it鈥檚 quite beautiful.鈥�

A particularly heartfelt thanks came from a faculty member, moved nearly to tears, who spoke 鈥渙n behalf of other parents whose lives you touched鈥� about how Nafziger helped, 鈥渨ith grace and compassion,鈥� her child overcome some difficult issues and eventually graduate from 黑料正能量.

In addition to thanking Nafziger for his leadership and care, Director of Counseling Services Pam Comer read aloud the 鈥淭op 10 Things We Will Miss 黑料正能量 Ken.鈥� A sampling from this list included praise for his wife Judy鈥檚 food and baked goods at potlucks, his knack for knowing and sharing words in other languages, the speedy way he crossed campus “from meeting to meeting to meeting,” his cluttered desk 鈥渢hat made us feel so much better about the state of our own desks,鈥� and his affection for 鈥渁nything Pennsylvania and Penn State.”

The top reason Nafziger will be missed was mentioned several times by other speakers: 鈥渓eading the cheering with the bouncing program at basketball games.鈥�

Nafziger, who graduated from 黑料正能量 with a bachelor鈥檚 degree in math, psychology and secondary education in 1979, went on to teaching positions in Virginia and Kenya with Eastern Mennonite Missions before returning to graduate school.

After earning a doctorate at University of Iowa, which included a one-year rotation at an out-patient psychiatry at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, he was a staff psychologist at University of Iowa鈥檚 counseling services and then assistant director of Penn State University鈥檚 Center for Counseling and Psychological Services and an affiliate faculty member in counseling psychology from 1997-2003.

Proposals from tenured faculty are selected by the Faculty Status Committee, comprised of chair Fred Kniss, provost; Deirdre Smeltzer, undergraduate dean; Michael King, dean of the School of Graduate and Professional Studies and of Eastern Mennonite Seminary; and five elected faculty members who have professor status.

, professor of philosophy, during fall 2016. Early will use his sabbatical to begin working on a book that will build upon claims originating with Dr. Nancey Murphy about the tension between 鈥渃onceptions of biology that highlight competition and a vision of human life guided by love and peace.鈥� Early cites deep interest and relevant reading in this subject over the past couple of years as the starting place for his writing.

, professor of teacher education, during spring 2017. Smeltzer Erb will focus on scholarship and professional development activities. She plans to engage in activities aimed at supporting the development of beginning teachers and subsequent production of a scholarly article, engagement with an innovative public middle school program, and extension of her personal knowledge of instructional technology.

, associate professor of economics, during spring 2017. Leaman will work on a book project, co-authored with two local business leaders. His book subject will be identifying and analyzing the process of designing and building a climate-neutral residential home. The process and book connects with Leaman’s deep personal convictions around sustainability, links to his classroom teaching, and will become a hands-on learning opportunity for students.

, professor of theology at Eastern Mennoite Seminary, during spring 2017. Thiessen Nation will do extensive research and write several essays as preparation for a future book. Essay topics may include Bonhoeffer鈥檚 pacifist/conscientious objection beliefs in the context of Nazi Germany/World War II; the way in which virtue formation was the project of the seminary in Finkenwalde; and engagement with Bohoeffer鈥檚 book, Ethics, which will likely include a discussion of his notion of 鈥渢wo kingdoms.鈥� He plans to visit several Bonhoeffer-related sites in Germany.

, professor of history, during spring 2017. Sawin will work on researching, editing and reissuing books by 19th century authors through a self-run publishing company, Emu Editions.听 Sawin will develop Emu Editions more fully: constructing its web page, developing a marketing program, and setting up a formal editorial board of other 19th-century literary scholars. The project will enable Sawin to provide 黑料正能量 students the opportunity to work on real publishing projects.

, associate professor of English, during both fall and spring semesters. White plans to outline and write at least three chapters of a book on the experience of Quakers in the Seven Years鈥� War and their subsequent embrace of pacifism. Out of this initial work, he anticipates giving at least one conference presentation, incorporating his learnings into the courses he teaches at 黑料正能量, and contemplating connections between the Anabaptist and Quaker peace traditions. White believes this area of research aligns well with the 黑料正能量 mission.

And soon, for the first time ever, CVs like these might include graduation from a at 黑料正能量 (黑料正能量).

For more than 20 years, 黑料正能量 has offered a pre-engineering program, allowing students to begin coursework toward an engineering degree but requiring them to transfer to another school after several semesters. In the fall of 2016, however, a full engineering undergraduate major will be offered.

Prospective students have, for many years, expressed interest in a full engineering program. , a professor in the mathematical sciences department before becoming undergraduate dean in 2013, said offering a full major had also long been discussed at the university but hadn鈥檛 seemed feasible.

That began to change after professors and 鈥� both with PhDs in mechanical engineering 鈥� joined the mathematical sciences department in 2013. and renovations to the Suter Science Center also allow for enough laboratory and classroom space to host a full-fledged engineering program.

鈥淭hat created the opportunity for us to think, 鈥榤aybe we could really do this,鈥欌�� said Smeltzer.

Serious planning, including visits to other small universities with engineering programs and the creation of an advisory committee, began about a year ago.

Seven students already enrolled

The new program will offer a general engineering degree with options to focus on mechanical or computer engineering. As the major grows, Smeltzer said, future emphases might include environmental and biomedical engineering, building on 黑料正能量鈥檚 existing undergraduate and graduate programs in and . The university will likely hire new faculty members in computer science and computer engineering in the near future to support the new program, Smeltzer added.

While undergraduate degrees in engineering can lead to a wide range of careers, all of them involve problem-solving, design and math. These will be important areas of focus in the new curriculum, said King, whose teaching load will include courses in design, analog circuits, fluid mechanics and mathematical modeling.

Though the program has only recently received final approval, seven incoming first-year students have declared as engineering majors, and several others are interested.

One of those new engineering majors is , from Lancaster, Pennsylvania, who plans on a career in architecture. Stutzman had been considering several other schools when he heard that 黑料正能量 was about to launch its new engineering program, and after some thought, decided to enroll.

鈥淚鈥檓 not sure yet what kinds of buildings I want to design, but whatever I do, I would definitely want to focus on green, environmentally-friendly designs,鈥� said Stutzman, who hopes that an engineering background will eventually inform the technical aspects of his architecture.

鈥淚鈥檓 [also] looking forward to having more one-to-one attention from the professors, since the class size will be small and the faculty all seem dedicated and invested in the program,鈥� he added.

Small class sizes a benefit

Advisory committee member Eric Moyer, class of 鈥�03, said small class sizes and close interaction with professors will be important benefits of 黑料正能量鈥檚 small engineering program, which won鈥檛 have access to the same resources and facilities as large schools. Moyer spent three semesters in 黑料正能量鈥檚 pre-engineering program before transferring to Drexel University in Philadelphia, where he and his hundreds of classmates sometimes had to put their student ID numbers rather than their names on all their assignments.

鈥淚 decided to go to 黑料正能量 because I really wasn鈥檛 into the mega-school atmosphere,鈥� said Moyer, now a project engineer working on a new composite airplane wing for Boeing in Everett, Washington. 鈥淗ere we bring in lots of folks from the big state schools. The facilities are great selling points, but I think the thing that鈥檚 going to benefit anyone going to 黑料正能量 over the other schools are smaller class sizes 鈥� and being involved in a community that鈥檚 there for your success.鈥�

黑料正能量鈥檚 broader focus on cross-cultural learning and pursuit of the common good will also help distinguish the new program, which has been designed to accommodate a semester-long cross-cultural program that many students participate in.

鈥淓ngineering schools can spit out good technicians, but what we really also need is technicians who have some heart, and that can apply [their skills] to things that are good for society,鈥� said advisory committee member Johann Zimmermann, a based in Harrisonburg, Virginia.

鈥淭he 鈥榗ommon good鈥� framework we apply to all our academic programs will also be an important part of our approach to engineering,鈥� said Smeltzer. 鈥淭raining engineers who help meet the world鈥檚 needs will fit 黑料正能量鈥檚 mission of preparing students to serve and lead in a global context.鈥�

In addition to Zimmermann and Moyer, the advisory committee that helped 黑料正能量 plan the new program over the past year included:

• (chair) 鈥� professor of mathematics
• Sara Atwood 鈥� assistant professor of engineering听and physics at Elizabethtown College
• Ashley Driver 鈥� director of operations, Howell Metal, New Market, Virginia
• John Swartzendruber ’79 颅鈥� Former computer听engineer, Eli Lilly, Indianapolis, Indiana
• John-David Yoder 颅鈥� chair and professor of mechanical engineering听at Ohio Northern University

The engineering program will begin using classroom and laboratory space in the recently renovated east half of the Suter Science Center. Upcoming renovations to the west half of the building will provide more space for the new program, including a laboratory with specialized equipment like 3-D printers. Future plans also call for the construction of a new machine shop on campus.

The theme this year was the question, 鈥淲hy do I continue to 鈥榗hoose鈥� Jesus?鈥�

The late February event features nightly faculty/staff sharing and conversation in residence halls, special gatherings for women and men, chapel events, retreats, and the much-loved tradition of meeting in the homes of faculty and staff for a meal and fellowship.

More than 100 students signed up for dinners hosted by 20 faculty and staff. 鈥淲e have been trying to do this every semester,鈥� said , undergraduate campus pastor and event coordinator, 鈥渂ut this semester, it was really successful.鈥�

Speakers at the informal nightly discussions included , professor of English, and , professor of visual arts; head baseball coach and assistant coach Adam Posey; physical education professors and ; undergraduate dean and , office coordinator for the Applied Social Sciences Department.

Professors and led a women鈥檚 gathering, while Wes Wilder, a ministry intern, hosted the men鈥檚 luncheon.

spoke in chapel about her years-long journey with glaucoma, a reflection titled “,” which was widely read and shared after posting to 黑料正能量 News and Facebook accounts. Schrock-Hurst teaches youth ministry, spiritual formation, and introduction to Bible courses in the department, in addition to overseeing the .

‘All their stories are sacred’

鈥淚 really enjoyed hearing the stories from the faculty and staff and their perspectives on following Jesus,鈥� said Christina Hershey, a pastoral assistant for campus ministries. 鈥淚t was interesting to go to multiple forums because everyone had very different stories, but all their stories are sacred, and it shows the diversity in the church.鈥�

She added, 鈥淚 really like the opportunity to hear the stories from the faculty and staff and to learn from their vast wealth of knowledge. Many of them do not get the chance to share about their faith in their classroom or other work contexts, and I enjoy hearing their perspectives on faith. I also attended both chapels and the faculty and staff meals.鈥�

鈥淚 admired Adam and Ben鈥檚 willingness to open up and discuss their personal faith journeys,鈥� said senior , who helped to host an evening forum and the women鈥檚 meal, which attracted about 50 participants to the West Dining Room. 鈥淐arl and Carolyn addressed the question, 鈥榃hat is the difference between living like Jesus and living in relationship with Jesus?鈥� [They] brought about a conversation that can be controversial and layered it in the love and grace of Jesus as they related it to attachment theory. They shared personal reflection laced with academic theory and profound passion for relationship with Jesus.鈥�

Care ‘extends beyond the classroom’

, chair of the Department, opened Saturday evening鈥檚 meal with a smile and a Punjabi song to bless the spread of Pakistani dishes before him. He and his wife, Deb, provided curried foods including lentils, chicken, potato with cauliflower, and mustard greens. In addition, they served roti, a flour-based flatbread, achaar, mixed, pickled vegetables, and raita, a tart yogurt condiment with mint and cumin to cool down the spicy Thai dragon peppers.

The dinner was typical of what he and his wife often prepare for special guests. Since a great number of 黑料正能量 students study abroad, Medley thought that the ethnic food would be very much appreciated.

鈥淚t鈥檚 a matter of identity,鈥� Medley says. After living in Pakistan for 11 years, their lifestyle has become heavily influenced by the food and way of living. The influence of Pakistani culture is evident not only in the dishes served, but also in the artwork and ornaments that adorn their home.

In the past, Spiritual Life Week has often involved bringing a well-known speaker to campus. Now those resources are focused on facilitating conversation and relationships between students and their faculty and staff counterparts.

鈥淭his is what is means for faculty and staff to enter into conversation with students, and to talk about life and faith,鈥� said Miller.

First year Grace Burkhart feels that 鈥渢hese meals highlight the fact that faculty care about students in a way that extends beyond the classroom.鈥�

鈥淲e want to ask: How are faculty and staff making themselves available to students out of class?鈥� said Miller. 鈥淎s a community we can sometimes speak better into people鈥檚 lives than a big name speaker would. So now, when you see someone across campus, there is a chance you actually know something about them, but a speaker, you probably will only see once.鈥�

Initially, when Medley received the invitation to host students as well as the indication that students wish to interact with the faculty more, he felt that it was important to open his home. He finds that encouraging community feeling on 黑料正能量鈥檚 campus is an important part of Spiritual Life Week. In the past, the Medleys have invited students and other faculty members in his classes and within the department for dinners and occasional seasonal events. However, Spiritual Life Week has made it easier to do so because of its efficient organization.

鈥淚 thoroughly enjoyed getting to know some people I had seen on campus before but never had the opportunity to get to know,鈥� said junior Maddie Gish. 鈥淚t is amazing how much we can learn from everyone around us. I am so glad I participated!鈥�

Portions of this coverage were reprinted with permission from the March 3, 2016, edition of the Weather Vane.

Abigail Berkey, PhD, visiting assistant professor of biology

Berkey earned a bachelor鈥檚 degree in pre-professional zoology from Ohio Wesleyan University and a master鈥檚 in integrative biology from University of Illinois. She completed her PhD in ecology, evolution and conservation biology from University of Illinois in 2015. Her interests lie in wildlife, ornithology and ecology. Berkey has previously served at University of Illinois as an adjunct instructor.

Marcille Frederick, director of Sadie Hartzler Library

Frederick has served as a librarian at several institutions, including Trinity Christian College, The King鈥檚 University College and Institute for Christian Studies. She earned a bachelor鈥檚 in history from Beloit College, a master鈥檚 in American history and a master鈥檚 of library science degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. She also earned a master of philosophy degree in historiography and philosophy of history at the Institute for Christian Studies in Ontario. As a librarian, she loves bringing people together to create community around ideas and sharing resources to nurture deep reflection and coming alongside as a teaching and mentor.

Samuel Wai Johnson, Jr., visiting instructor of economics

Johnson earned a bachelor鈥檚 in economics from University of Liberia and a master鈥檚 degree in economics from Ohio University. He anticipates completing a PhD this year at George Mason University School for Conflict Analysis and Resolution. He brings experience as a visiting scholar at 黑料正能量 in the Center for Justice and Peacebuilding program and as a visiting adjunct at University of Liberia. Johnson鈥檚 expertise and interest are in economic dimensions of conflict and peacebuilding, economic development and post-conflict development finance.

Lisa King, instructor of nursing

King earned a bachelor鈥檚 degree in nursing at 黑料正能量 and a master鈥檚 in nursing leadership and management also at 黑料正能量. She brings nursing experience in the hospital along with specific training and certification in advanced cardiac life support and end of life and pain management. She has served as an adjunct nursing instructor previously in the nursing program at 黑料正能量.

Audrey K. Myers, assistant professor of the practice of nursing

Myers bring nursing experience in the hospital setting, both as a nurse and as a pediatric nurse practitioner, to previous instructional positions in 黑料正能量鈥檚 RN-BS nursing completion program. She earned her bachelor鈥檚 degree in biology at 黑料正能量, and two degrees from University of Virginia: a bachelor鈥檚 in nursing and a master鈥檚 degree as a pediatric nurse practitioner.

Melody M. Pannell, assistant professor of social work

Pannell returns to 黑料正能量, where she was director of multicultural services from 2003-2008. She earned master鈥檚 of divinity and master鈥檚 of education in Christian education at Samuel DeWitt Proctor School of Theology this year. Pannell brings experience as a counselor in the university, in-home, youth and clinical counseling. Her interests include church ministries and expertise in diversity and multicultural relations. She also holds two degrees in social work: a bachelor鈥檚 from 黑料正能量 and a master鈥檚 from Fordham University.

Daniel Showalter, PhD, assistant professor of mathematics

Showalter brings international teaching and working experiences in a variety of rich cultural settings, including South Korea and Laos. He earned a bachelor鈥檚 in mathematics from Urbana University, and a master鈥檚 degree in mathematics and a PhD in mathematics education from Ohio University, where he has been an adjunct professor and visiting assistant professo. His interest and passion lie in mentoring students in their personal, spiritual and professional paths. He values working with students holistically, whether teaching online or in the classroom.

Timothy Seidel, instructor of community and international development

Seidel brings experience in international peacebuilding and interfaith engagement, after a 10-year career with Mennonite Central Committee. Currently a PhD candidate at American University School of International Service, Seidel looks forward to 鈥渆ngaging students in critical reflection around issues of politics, development, and peacebuilding.鈥� He earned a bachelor鈥檚 degree in biochemistry from Messiah College, a master鈥檚 degree in international peace and conflict resolution from American University School of International Service, and a master of the theological studies from Wesley Theological Seminary

Michael Spory, assistant professor of art

Spory earned a degree in art from 黑料正能量 and completed a master鈥檚 in architecture in 2015. He brings experience as an architectural intern and worked in marketing at MennoMedia. Spory鈥檚 interests lie in freelance photography, architecture, graphic design and branding. He was selected as a Lilly graduate fellow from 2012-2015.

Johonna Turner, PhD, assistant professor of restorative justice and peacebuilding

Turner brings a wealth of teaching experience from K-12 schools in Washington D.C. to adjunct teaching of undergraduate and graduate students at University of Maryland. She has also taught at 黑料正能量鈥檚 Summer Peacebuilding Institute. As founder and director of the Vision to Peace Project, she has been instrumental in teaching young people leadership skills to prevent violence and promote justice in their communities. Turner earned a bachelor鈥檚 degrees in interdisciplinary studies and news-editorial journalism at University of Missouri, Columbia. She earned a PhD in American studies at University of Maryland, College Park. In addition, she earned a graduate certificate in women鈥檚 studies at University of Maryland, College Park and an urban youth ministry graduate certificate from Fuller Theological Seminary.

Anna Westfall, assistant professor of art

Westfall earned a BFA in ceramic/sculpture from James Madison University and an MFA in ceramic/sculpture at University of New Mexico. Westfall brings prior teaching experience at 黑料正能量, as well as Bridgewater College and Savannah State University. Her interests lie in ceramic and sculpture techniques, three and two-dimensional design, drawing, photography and small scale casting.

Laurie Miller Yoder, PhD, assistant professor of chemistry and chemical hygiene officer

Yoder earned an undergraduate degree in chemistry from 黑料正能量 and a PhD in physical chemistry at the University of Michigan. Most recently, she was lay minister at Lombard Mennonite Church and a communications coordinator at Laurelville Mennonite Church Center. In addition, she was an independent consultant at Brookhaven National Laboratory in New York. Her work and interests are in kinetics (rates) of gas phase (atmospheric) chemistry as well as the rates of biochemical solution phase reactions.

鈥淲e鈥檝e been able to replace under-utilized space with well-utilized space, develop classrooms that would accommodate bigger classes, and create a better working environment for faculty,鈥� said vice president for finance .

In recent years, 黑料正能量鈥檚 growth called for more classrooms and consolidation of office space. Various academic departments occupied available space across campus, usually in former homes acquired by the university. The faculty who occupied these houses often felt disconnected from the greater community, according to , who provides special projects support for the provost鈥檚 office. One goal of the renovation, then, was to consolidate scattered faculty and provide more opportunities for interdepartmental communication and collaboration.

That goal was first met on two consecutive Saturdays in September, when an interdisciplinary group of volunteers and faculty members began the move-in process.

The , , and departments were the first of the five academic departments to occupy Roselawn; and soon followed.

During the lunch break on that first move-in day, faculty and volunteers gathered in one of the new office spaces to share a meal. For Bible and religion instructor , the value of the move was reflected in this small experience of breaking bread with faculty she had occasionally seen in past semesters.

鈥淚t is fun to have a sense of collegiality,鈥� said Schrock-Hurst, whose office was previously located across campus in Blosser House. Being in Roselawn 鈥渉elps me to feel part of the bigger picture.鈥�

Although university planners considered several ideas for occupants of the new space (including moving the advancement division into Roselawn), they settled upon allocating the space to academic departments with a natural 鈥渟ynergy,鈥� said Bert, the vice president who monitors construction and renovation projects.

Bert is also one of the supervisors of the much bigger across campus. Undergoing two major renovations at the same time was not ideal, Bert said, but neither was leaving Roselawn mostly unused for another couple of years. The project reached completion on a very tight schedule 鈥� almost entirely over the summer of 2014.

Built in 1969, Roselawn began as a women鈥檚 residence hall. Until the mid-1980s, it was considered one of the 鈥渘icer鈥� dorms, said vice president , who was a community assistant there from 1985 to 1986.

By 2011, when the dorm ceased to be used for residence life, it desperately needed renovation and was considered the most undesirable on-campus housing option, said Smeltzer.

In 2012, 黑料正能量 revamped the first floor of Roselawn for occupancy by the rapidly growing , which moved from its former cramped location in a small house near the seminary building.

黑料正能量 leadership, in tandem with contractors, paid special attention to energy and design principles that would make Roselawn as sustainable as possible, as has been done for all recent 黑料正能量 buildings and renovations.

View more photos of the renovated Roselawn through

鈥淲hen I first began working听at Eastern Mennonite College,鈥� recalls professor emeritus Wilmer Lehman 鈥�57, 鈥渢eaching at EMC was seen as a kind of mission of the church.鈥� Back in the era of Sputnik, was a carefully calculated national priority, and teachers of mathematics were in high demand. This small private school struggled to compete with the demand for higher-level mathematicians generated by Cold War anxieties, especially given its status as a Christian-pacifist institution that garnered no funding for defense-related work.

But being a devout Anabaptist, Lehman opted to take the proverbial 鈥渞oad less traveled鈥� in U.S. academia and returned to teach at his alma mater two years after graduation. 鈥淲hen I came [for the 1959-60 school year], I did not know what my yearly salary would be,鈥� Lehman says. 鈥淚 found that it was about $2,500, spread over nine or ten months 鈥� all of which it took just to live. We had to scrape by in the summers.鈥� Later, Lehman would earn a with a math concentration from Cornell University and become a full professor at 黑料正能量.

Lehman became the foundation of what has grown into a thriving program in the mathematical sciences. Early in his 40-year career at 黑料正能量, he taught Millard Showalter 鈥�62 and then recruited him to be a fellow faculty member. Lehman鈥檚 education continued, even as he was educating another generation. In the early 1990s, Lehman earned a second master鈥檚 degree (this time an , focusing on counseling) at in order to prepare himself for leadership roles in his congregation, Mt. Clinton Mennonite Church, and the conference to which it belongs.

Like Lehman, Showalter earned his graduate degrees while working for minimal pay at 黑料正能量. Showalter holds two master鈥檚 degrees, one in math from the University of South Carolina and another master鈥檚 in arts (with a math major) from Vanderbilt, and an EdD from the University of Virginia.

鈥淢illard was quite popular,鈥� said Lehman, adding he was gifted at making math understandable and enjoyable. In fact, at one point Showalter鈥檚 students wore T-shirts that read 鈥淢illard鈥檚 Magnificent Mathematicians.鈥�

Lehman and Showalter taught in tandem for decades 鈥� serving under four presidents and seven academic deans 鈥� until Showalter retired in 1998, with Lehman following in 2000. Both were beloved for their willingness to work one-on-one with students having difficulty in math, acting as both tutor and encourager.

In the summer 2011 issue of , Lehman displayed his 鈥渕ission鈥� approach to teaching in an anecdote recounted by Wayne Lawton 鈥�71. Lawton had returned to college as an older adult and was struggling to catch up in math. Serving as a pastor in Waynesboro while taking classes, Lawton sheepishly approached Lehman, asking if more help might be possible. Lehman replied, 鈥淲hen you pastor a church, do you mind people coming to you for help?鈥� When Lawton said no, Lehman replied, 鈥淲ell, I don鈥檛 mind helping you!鈥�

Showalter recalls his years teaching with Lehman at 黑料正能量 as 鈥渢he best years of my life.鈥� Although he struggled both to make math interesting to students and to integrate changes in technology and teaching methods, he credits his students for making his career memorable. 鈥淚 was very fortunate to have had excellent math majors. My students not only challenged me to be a better teacher, but also brought creativity and a desire to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills.鈥� Perhaps because of his infectious enthusiasm 鈥� he once spent an entire sabbatical rewriting lesson plans to adjust to technological changes 鈥� it is no surprise that Showalter says: 鈥淚f I were to again be given the opportunity to choose a life career, I don鈥檛 doubt that teaching mathematics at 黑料正能量 would be my first choice.鈥�

Reflecting on the 鈥渞ipple effects鈥� coming from his lengthy career, Lehman realizes that he鈥檚 internalized some aspects of teaching. 鈥淚鈥檓 always on my best behavior, no matter where I go,鈥� he says. 鈥淚 never know when I鈥檓 going to run into a former student. I鈥檝e run into them as far away as the Nairobi (Kenya) marketplace.鈥�

In addition to Lehman and Showalter, four other 黑料正能量 alumni taught mathematical sciences for extended stints: two members of the class of 1962, Del Snyder and Donald C. Miller (who also attended the seminary in 1976-77); Roy E. Heatwole 鈥�64; and John L. Horst 鈥�60, who taught both physics and mathematics and coached award-winning teams in international math-modeling competitions.

When Joe Mast 鈥�64 was a student at 黑料正能量 in the early 1960s his long-term goal was to be a high school math and physics teacher.听听鈥淎t the time, I did not aspire to teach at the college level,鈥� he says. 鈥淸But] I had a great interest in astronomy and electronics.鈥澨鼿is physics professor, Robert Lehman, encouraged him to pursue astronomy and return to his alma mater.

As a student at 黑料正能量, Mast helped to manage the as chief engineer and station manager and was part of the Astral Society, which focused on astronomy. In the Cold War era, space-race money was available, and he received a special fellowship that allowed him to pursue a master鈥檚 degree and a PhD at the University of Virginia, both in astronomy. Upon returning to then-EMC as a faculty member, the college received its first computer under a grant to small colleges. Mast became 黑料正能量鈥檚 first professor.

On sabbatical in 1978, Mast went to JMU, where he studied computer science courses, and later received a second master鈥檚 degree in computer science. He returned to 黑料正能量, where he ushered in a two-year associate鈥檚 degree in computer processing, followed several years later by a major in computer science.

In response to a need by fellow 黑料正能量 employees for banking services, in 1969 Mast helped to found Park View Federal Credit Union, an idea originating with Dan Bender and developed by Robert Lehman. Three years later Mast began managing the credit union out of his office in the basement of the Suter Science Center, continuing for 10 years.

One of 黑料正能量鈥檚 best-known mathematical sons is Robert P. Hostetler 鈥�59, who retired from teaching in 1996 and only stopped writing textbooks in 2007. He now lives as a retiree within walking distance of 黑料正能量.

Hostetler holds a bachelor鈥檚 degree in secondary education (math certification) from 黑料正能量, a master鈥檚 degree in mathematics, and a doctorate in mathematics education, both graduate degrees from Penn State University.

Hostetler is perhaps one of the most successful authors of math education texts in any language; his books have been used widely by students and teachers for decades. 黑料正能量 300 titles with Hostetler鈥檚 name as author or co-author reside on the Barnes and Noble website. Google Books puts the total count of books, editions, study guides 鈥� anything with his name 鈥� at about 2,400. Some of Hostetler鈥檚 dozens of textbooks have been translated into Spanish, Portuguese and Chinese; they range from college algebra, trigonometry and calculus to The Mathematics of Buying.

One of Hostetler鈥檚 challenges as a professor, he says, 鈥渨as how to share my Christian faith with students,鈥� given the constraints of teaching at a state-supported university, which necessarily is based on the separation of church and state. After consulting with his pastor, Hostetler decided that he would 鈥渟elf-identify鈥� with the faith when introducing himself to each new class. 鈥淚 simply stated that I am a Christian; I believe in a living God to whom I pray for guidance in my teaching and relationships with you students,鈥� he told them. 鈥淚 want to do my best for you.鈥� He says he sometimes learned the outcome of his 鈥渟haring of faith鈥� years later, when former students would get back in touch and tell him, 鈥淒r. Hostetler, guess what鈥擨鈥檝e become a Christian! What you shared in that first day of calculus class, I just couldn鈥檛 get out of my mind over the years, so I鈥檝e made that decision!鈥�

Outside of the university, Hostetler has shared his faith and enthusiasm for teaching and learning as a Sunday School teacher for more than 40 years.

In the spring 2006 issue of Crossroads, Hostetler spoke about an unusual sabbatical he took in 1997-98 during which he taught without pay at 黑料正能量 as a way of 鈥済oing back to my roots.鈥�

In comparing his classes at 黑料正能量 and those at Behrend College of Penn State University, Hostetler said the classes were similarly sized 鈥� about 30 to 32 students, with comparable academic abilities. He used the same textbooks (his own), the same curriculum and grading standards at both universities. Though the percentage of students at the high and low ends of the grading spectrum was the same, it was the middle group of students that surprised Hostetler. 鈥淎t 黑料正能量, the middle group of students went up in their performance [as the semesters progressed]; at Penn State, the middle group shifted downward.鈥�

Hostetler attributed the improved performance of the average student at 黑料正能量 to 鈥渁 more caring faculty, the work ethic of students at 黑料正能量, the community spirit that helped each student to feel valued, and the fact that 黑料正能量 students act with Christian charity toward one another and help each other out.鈥� Plus, he added, 鈥渁ttention was given to all students equally, rather than just to the excellent or the deficient.鈥�

At the University Park Campus of Penn State, James L. Rosenberger 鈥�68 is an internationally recognized statistician, with a master鈥檚 degree from Polytechnic Institute of New York and a doctorate from Cornell University. He says that 黑料正能量 professor Roy Heatwole first sparked his interest in working with statistics. Graduating with a major in math, Rosenberger was able to secure 1-W conscientious objector status during the Vietnam War by working as an analyst and programmer in the Cardiovascular Research Center at New York University Medical Center.

Rosenberger, who is now vice-president of the 18,000-member American Statistical Association, believes statisticians are uniquely situated in positions where ethical decisions are amplified. 鈥淲e are constantly faced with real data which can easily be misrepresented for the benefit of proving a point. Understanding the importance of integrity informs much of my work,鈥� he says. 鈥淚 teach students and consult with researchers to honestly represent the uncertainty in the conclusions of a study or research experiment.鈥�

During the past decade, Rosenberger has guided the development of an online professional master of applied statistics program at Penn State, aimed at mid-career professionals who cannot return to graduate school full time. 鈥淢ore than 500 students enroll in our graduate courses each semester, allowing us to extend the reach of statistics education beyond the campus,鈥� he says.

To Rosenberger, statistics is 鈥渁 wonderful profession.鈥� Not only is it a challenge learning the language of scientific collaboration, but it is a quest for truth. 鈥淲e can get involved in so many interesting disciplines and issues, always facing uncertain information and mountains of data,鈥� he says, 鈥渢o which we apply our tools and skills to uncover the truth.鈥�

Rosenberger鈥檚 accomplishments include: a 2011 Distinguished Service Award from the National Institute of Statistical Sciences, election to Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science, serving as program director at the National Science Foundation, and lecturing around the globe.

One of Millard Showalter鈥檚 students, Merle Reinford 鈥�72, has gone on to earn a graduate degree in math (where most of his courses were easier than those at 黑料正能量, he says) and to devote nearly 40 years to teaching math students at Lancaster (Pa.) Mennonite High School. Some semesters, he also teaches math as an adjunct at Millersville University.

Sharpening the minds of his high school students, he has spent 33 years coaching competitive chess, eventually getting elected president of the regional scholastic chess league.

Reinford鈥檚 coaching successes are dramatic. In 33 years his high school teams won 11 league titles, with runner-up success 13 more times. Reinford鈥檚 chess teams have accumulated a plethora of state competition titles, with a record of 315 wins to 90 losses and 23 ties. 鈥淚 have used my enjoyment of the game to play chess with homeless men,鈥� he says. 鈥淚 am not sure if you could call that a ministry or not,鈥� given how much fun he has.

After graduating from 黑料正能量, Larry Lehman 鈥�79 got a fellowship at University of Virginia, where he earned his doctorate. He credits two of his math professors, Millard Showalter and Del Snyder, with preparing him for his own professorship at University of Mary Washington, where he spent six years as chair of the math department. 鈥淭hey [Snyder and Showalter] emphasized not just knowledge of facts, but consideration of why things are true, how different mathematical concepts fit together.鈥�

Larry Lehman emphasizes the role that 黑料正能量 played in his upbringing from childhood: 鈥淚t was more than a school, but very much my home community.鈥� He has embraced the educational spirit he saw in his 黑料正能量 instructors. 鈥淭eaching has its challenges, of course, particularly with finding new ways to interest and motivate students, but so far I am still enjoying the challenge.鈥�

Wendell Ressler 鈥�80 stayed in Harrisonburg to teach high school math and physics after he graduated from 黑料正能量, and then earned his master鈥檚 degree from James Madison University. Ressler, who now holds a PhD from Temple University, found himself thirsting for more knowledge. 鈥淚 loved studying analytic number theory,鈥� he says. 鈥淚n retrospect, it seems that I kept trying to get off the academic track, but curiosity kept pulling me back. Or, maybe I just liked being a student.鈥�

Now a math professor at Franklin & Marshall College in Lancaster, Pa., Ressler does research in the abstract stream of his field 鈥� automorphic integrals, Dirichlet series, and Hecke correspondence. He has an obvious affection for proofs and logic, which he says was nurtured by his 黑料正能量 profs. 鈥淏y far the most important thing I learned from Millard Showalter and Del Snyder was how to prove things: how to think about proofs, and how to write them,鈥� he says. 鈥淚 didn鈥檛 have as many fancy courses in my background as many other students in graduate school, but that did not matter because I knew how to prove things.鈥�

Ressler has also found himself living many of the core 黑料正能量 values of peace and social justice. 鈥淢y with Ray Gingerich and Titus Bender influenced my thinking a lot. I volunteered with the Mediation Center and Christians for Peace when I lived in Harrisonburg, and with St. Vincent鈥檚 Peace Center in Germantown when I lived in Philadelphia. I did war tax resistance and eventually the IRS garnished my wages.鈥�

Ressler is now focused on pursuing environmental justice. He volunteers at Community Mennonite Church of Lancaster, where he pays a voluntary 鈥済as tax鈥� to discourage driving and fund green upgrades for the congregation. He is an avid bicyclist, another love with roots at 黑料正能量. 鈥淥ne of my housemates at EMC got me to buy a used bicycle. I loved riding around Harrisonburg and started commuting by bicycle to work. I estimate that I have ridden about 50,000 miles since I graduated from EMC.鈥� Ressler believes that bicycles may help save us from the problems of internal combustion.

Deirdre Smeltzer 鈥�87 returned to 黑料正能量 in 1998 after graduating from the University of Virginia with an MS and a PhD in mathematics.

Recalling her undergraduate years at 黑料正能量, Smeltzer credits two professors, Millard Showalter in Calculus II and Del Snyder in Discrete Math, for nurturing her interest in higher-level mathematics.

鈥淢illard made class interesting, and I found myself doing his homework first,鈥� she says. 鈥淚n Discrete Math, I discovered that I really loved the abstract, logical thinking required 鈥� much more than the hands-on labs of chemistry, which was another major that I was considering.鈥�

As an 黑料正能量 faculty member, Smeltzer has taught courses on more than two dozen topics in her field and is author or co-author of a number of peer-reviewed articles and a textbook. In the current academic year, she has directed 黑料正能量鈥檚 extensive cross-cultural programs on a part-time basis. In the late spring, she was named 黑料正能量鈥檚 vice president and undergraduate dean, effective July 1, 2013.

During his time as an undergrad at 黑料正能量, Mark D. Risser 鈥�07 was involved in student government, the student newspaper, and was recipient of a presidential scholarship award. After graduating, Risser worked for 黑料正能量 in the admissions department before being pulled back to the discipline of rigorous academics. 鈥淲orking in admissions was a fantastic experience, and allowed me to sink my roots a little deeper into the greater Mennonite community,鈥� he says. 鈥淏ut as I didn鈥檛 have an outlet for the mathematical side of my brain, I started feeling the draw of returning to school for something math-related.鈥�

After consulting with his former professors, Deirdre Smeltzer and Owen Byer, Risser was 鈥渉ooked鈥� on the idea of grad school, and decided to pursue a PhD in statistics. He is now a doctoral student at Ohio State University and recently received his MS (also at Ohio State), where he is also involved in research on HyFlex (hybrid, flexible) education methods. Risser says he hopes to have the kind of impact on a future generation of college students as his 黑料正能量 teachers had on him.

A common characteristic of all of our alumni in higher-level, academic studies of numbers is a strong appreciation for, and commitment to, the 黑料正能量 community. 鈥淥nce I joined the 黑料正能量 faculty and took on its mission,鈥� Mast says, 鈥淚 was willing to sacrifice many things to advance the program to the best of my abilities.鈥�

The faculty鈥檚 sacrificial efforts seem to have borne fruit: 鈥淢y educational experiences grounded me in a distinctive Christian understanding where the things I believe impact my life style and goals,鈥� says Jim Rosenberger from his perch as the leading academic statistician at the University Park Campus of Penn State. 鈥淚n particular, integrity became a central core value from lessons learned at 黑料正能量.鈥� 鈥� Evan Knappenberger, class of 2014

鈥淒eirdre brings a wealth of experience as an outstanding teacher, scholar, and department chair,鈥� said in an April 5 email announcing the appointment to the campus community. 鈥淪he knows 黑料正能量 well, having served on the faculty since 1998. She has the skills and dispositions necessary for leading the undergraduate programs into their next stage of growth and development.鈥�

Since joining the 黑料正能量 faculty, Smeltzer has held increasingly responsible positions, including chair of the , 2005-2012. During 2012-13, Smeltzer had dual roles as a faculty member and director of 黑料正能量鈥檚 extensive . Smeltzer has been a member of 黑料正能量鈥檚 strategic planning council, faculty senate and undergraduate council executive committee.

Prior to coming to 黑料正能量, she served for four years on the faculty of the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul, Minn. She has taught courses on more than two dozen topics in her field and is author or co-author of a number of peer-reviewed articles and a textbook.

鈥淒eirdre is known by her colleagues for her excellent problem-solving and strategic-thinking skills, and for her commitment to high academic standards,鈥� said Kniss. 鈥淚 am eagerly looking forward to working with her in the years ahead as we move into an exciting period of growth and development for undergraduate programs at 黑料正能量.鈥�

Smeltzer majored in mathematics and minored in at 黑料正能量, graduating in 1987. She earned her MS and PhD in mathematics at the University of Virginia.

Recalling her undergraduate years at 黑料正能量, Smeltzer credits two professors, Millard Showalter in Calculus II and Del Snyder in Discrete Math, for nurturing her interest in higher-level mathematics. 鈥淢illard made class interesting, and I found myself doing his homework first,鈥� she recalled in an interview with the 黑料正能量 alumni magazine. 鈥淚n Discrete Math, I discovered that I really loved the abstract, logical thinking required 鈥� much more than the hands-on labs of chemistry, which was another major that I was considering.鈥�

As a scholar, Smeltzer has published articles on topics such as 鈥淓dge bounds in non-hamiltonian k-connected graphs鈥� and 鈥淓xploring Loci in Geometry鈥� (both with her 黑料正能量 colleague , PhD) and has given presentations on 鈥渁pplications of circular and spherical inversions,鈥� among other topics. She, Byer and a third mathematician, Felix Lazebnik, are authors of a textbook on Euclidean geometry, published by the Mathematical Association of America in 2010. A second book is in the works.

Fulfilling commitments made before her new appointment, Smeltzer will be co-leading an in the fall of 2013. She did a sabbatical in China in 2006, where she taught and wrote.

Smeltzer and husband Sherwyn, a 1986 graduate in accounting, are the parents of Meg, a senior at 黑料正能量, and Claire, enrolled at Eastern Mennonite High School.

And his arrival in the Chinese capital 鈥� home to somewhere around 20 million people who speak a language entirely foreign to his own 鈥� was the first time the Crozet, Va., native had been to a big city.

鈥淭hat as a really big eye-opener for me,鈥� Martin says. 鈥淚 really had no clue what to expect.鈥�

He certainly wasn鈥檛 alone. Trip leader Myrrl Byler estimates that about one-third of the last 黑料正能量 group he led to China was flying for the first time, and the experience often represents students鈥� first time outside the United States. Byler, director of the program (a partnership between several church mission boards and , a relief and development non-profit), has led three-week cross-cultural study trips to China every May since 2004. In 2012, math professor was the faculty co-leader of the trip.

The curriculum includes an introduction to written and conversational Chinese, lectures on Chinese culture, tai chi classes, a several-day homestay with a Chinese family, and plenty of interaction with Chinese university students.

After some sightseeing in Beijing, Byler takes the group to a 鈥渟maller鈥� Chinese city where they spend the majority of their time. In May 2012, the group went west to Nanchong, a Chinese city populated by around 1 million in Sichuan province. (Nanchong also rates 鈥渟mall鈥� by another metric useful for assessing Chinese cities: it has just one McDonald鈥檚).

With the enormous language and culture barriers, the unfamiliar food and the sometimes overwhelming attention that the group can attract from curious Chinese people with little exposure to foreigners, Byler says the trip forces students far out of their comfort zones. The homestay in particular, he says, can cause particular anxiety, although many of the students end up looking back on the experience as one of the highlights of the trip.

鈥淵ou had to build patience,鈥� says Valerie Burton 鈥�10 Moore, who went on the China cross-cultural in the summer of 2010. 鈥淵ou just had to relax.鈥�

New food experiences were among the things that placed demands on Moore鈥檚 patience and, ultimately, widened her horizons. These included all kinds of seafood, noodles for breakfast, unusual (from her American perspective) preparations of chicken, pork, duck and lamb, unfamiliar vegetables and dishes so spicy her nose broke out in a sweat. While she likely wouldn鈥檛 have tried these foods if the decision had been up to her, Moore eventually came around, and after returning home, resisted eating American 鈥淐hinese鈥� food for more than a year 鈥� not wanting to tarnish the memory of the actual, real Chinese food she鈥檇 come to enjoy.

Moore, a four-year member of the 黑料正能量 soccer team, also says the attention she and the other students received from Chinese people took some getting used to.

鈥淭hey almost treated us like celebrities,鈥� she says. 鈥淭hey were gawking all the time.鈥�

The American students鈥� height was often an object of great interest, as were those with blonde or red hair. 黑料正能量 senior Jennifer Blankenship, who went on the 2012 China cross-cultural, recalls Chinese people often crowding around members of her group, asking for autographs, or even pushing babies into the students鈥� arms for photo ops.

鈥淓verybody wanted pictures with us wherever we went,鈥� says Blankenship, a four-year member of the 黑料正能量 basketball team.

At least one basketball or volleyball game is usually on the agenda during the group鈥檚 visits to Chinese high schools and universities 鈥� often the Chinese school鈥檚 varsity team versus an ad-hoc team of cross-cultural students 鈥� as when Blankenship and a few other students played basketball against a Chinese team in Nanchong. Blankenship says the court was surrounded by hundreds of fans 鈥� more than typically attend her games at 黑料正能量 鈥� and the atmosphere was electric.

鈥淲hen I made a good pass or basket, everyone went crazy,鈥� she says.

The attention wasn鈥檛 all positive, however. Dirty looks from men sometimes made female students feel uncomfortable, and Blankenship says some vendors tried to take advantage of the students鈥� na茂vet茅 by ripping them off. Blankenship, who is white, says the experience gave her insight into how minorities in the United States might feel when they are subject to discrimination based on skin color or unfamiliarity with American culture.

Blankenship, Moore and Martin all say one reason they chose the China cross-cultural was because it happens during the summer, when it didn鈥檛 interfere with their sports schedules. (Numerous athletes have been on Byler鈥檚 five summer cross-culturals to China, although he is now planning a semester-long trip for the fall of 2013, to be co-led with math professor .)

In almost all cases, Byler says, his students have arrived back home with new appreciation for travel and interaction with unfamiliar people and places, after being stretched out of their comfort zones by the trip.

Though he discovered he has a strong anxiety about flying, Martin said he 鈥渄efinitely wants to travel abroad again.鈥�

Martin graduated from 黑料正能量 after the cross-cultural, and is now working in Harrisonburg. He will start a baseball-coaching job next spring at his alma mater, Western Albemarle High School outside Charlottesville, Va.

Blankenship returned home equally enthusiastic about the experience.

鈥淚 want to go back,鈥� she says. 鈥淚 have to take my future spouse. I want to share that. I can鈥檛 imagine only going that one time.鈥�

鈥淲e envision the dual degree program as one that will allow students to embrace the Anabaptist mission and vision that 黑料正能量 espouses while also obtaining the training needed to put their skills to work as an engineer,鈥� said Deirdre Smeltzer, PhD, chair of mathematical sciences.

The program commences in the fall of 2012.

Students will spend two years at 黑料正能量, immersed in calculus, physics and introductory science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) courses.

In the fall of the third year, students will transition to 黑料正能量鈥檚 Washington Community Scholars鈥� Center in Washington, D.C., fulfilling their cross-cultural requirement and gaining internship experience and valuable STEM training, according to Smeltzer.

鈥淭hen, in the spring of the third year, students will transfer to CUA and spend two years completing additional requirements,鈥� Smeltzer said.

Nancy Heisey, academic dean at 黑料正能量, said she is excited about bringing together 鈥渢he best gifts of 黑料正能量鈥檚 liberal arts curriculum with the high quality engineering training offered by CUA.鈥�

Upon completion, students will emerge with bachelor鈥檚 degrees from both 黑料正能量 and CUA.

Jake Bontrager-Singer, a first-year mathematics major from Goshen, Ind., said the pre-engineering classes he鈥檚 taken have given him 鈥渁 level of understanding the material you cannot get from a large lecture. In addition, all my classes are interconnected and build on each other giving me the essentials in math, physics and chemistry that I need to advance.鈥�

More information

More information on the engineering program can be found at emu.edu/math/engineering. Interested students can download a sample two-year curriculum (PDF) for review.