Office of the president Archives - 黑料正能量 News /now/news/tag/office-of-the-president/ News from the 黑料正能量 community. Mon, 22 Jun 2026 18:04:08 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9 Rev. Dr. Shannon W. Dycus named 10th president of 黑料正能量 /now/news/2026/rev-dr-shannon-w-dycus-named-10th-president-of-emu/ /now/news/2026/rev-dr-shannon-w-dycus-named-10th-president-of-emu/#comments Mon, 22 Jun 2026 15:54:10 +0000 /now/news/?p=61780 黑料正能量 announced Monday, June 22, that it has named the Rev. Dr. Shannon W. Dycus as its 10th president.

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

鈥淚’m humbled to continue the bold legacy of 黑料正能量,鈥 Dycus said. 鈥満诹险芰 leaders have been courageous and visionary stewards of this sacred community. Being called to serve among them is a responsibility I鈥檓 excited and honored to step into.鈥   

The 黑料正能量 Board of Trustees unanimously voted to appoint Dycus as president during its June 12 meeting.

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

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

The Rev. Dr. Shannon W. Dycus, who begins her term as 黑料正能量’s 10th president on July 1, meets with students on the Campus Center balcony.

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Rev. Dr. Shannon W. Dycus addresses a packed Lehman Auditorium during her first Opening Convocation as interim president in August 2025.

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

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

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

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

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

Rev. Dr. Shannon W. Dycus greets members of the local community at the Harrisonburg Holiday Parade in December 2025.

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

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

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

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

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

An inauguration ceremony on Oct. 10 during 黑料正能量鈥檚 annual Homecoming Weekend will celebrate Dycus as the university鈥檚 10th president during its 110th year. Invitations and additional details will be shared later.

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

Rev. Dr. Shannon W. Dycus dances with students during Royals Go Downtown in September 2025.

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

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Called to serve and lead /now/news/2026/called-to-serve-and-lead/ /now/news/2026/called-to-serve-and-lead/#comments Tue, 03 Mar 2026 10:00:00 +0000 /now/news/?p=60695 Eight months into her interim presidency, Rev. Dr. Dycus reflects on progress made and the path ahead

When the Rev. Dr. Shannon W. Dycus took the reins as 黑料正能量鈥檚 interim president last July, she worried that she would lose the authentic relationships she developed with students over the years as the former head of student affairs. While it鈥檚 true there鈥檚 now a greater distance, both figuratively and literally, between Dycus on the third floor of Campus Center and the hundreds of 黑料正能量 students who cross the Front Lawn below her, it hasn鈥檛 been as far as she feared.

Over the past several months, Dycus said, she鈥檚 found ways to engage with students and show up for them. And so when a pair of student clubs asked her last month to participate as a panelist in a Valentine鈥檚 Day-related 鈥淗ow to Flirt鈥 session, it was another reminder her approach was working.

鈥淢y initial reaction was, 鈥業s this something a president should do?鈥 And then I realized that they wanted someone who could speak honestly and authentically, so it was actually an honor they included me,鈥 said Dycus. 鈥淚t was a wonderful opportunity for me to be with students again and to talk about things that matter a lot to them.鈥

Dycus isn鈥檛 the typical university president. The first Black woman to lead 黑料正能量 in the role, even in an interim capacity, she鈥檚 brought courage and boldness to the presidential suite. That confidence comes from a deep devotion for the university and its mission, shaped by years of serving its students. She said she鈥檚 learned to love engaging with donors and stakeholders, sharing stories of the school鈥檚 successes and expressing what excites her, well beyond the corners of campus.

鈥淚鈥檝e actually found that to be one of the things I enjoy most about this role,鈥 she said. 鈥淢y passion for 黑料正能量 gets concentrated in conversations I get to have.鈥

As the calendar flips from Black History Month to Women鈥檚 History Month and she approaches the ninth month of her two-year appointment, the ordained minister and educator reflected on her leadership, the mentors who have molded her, and her goals moving forward.


CLOCKWISE FROM TOP PHOTO: Interim President Rev. Dr. Shannon W. Dycus leads a line dance at the Turner Pavilion in Downtown Harrisonburg during the fourth annual Royals Go Downtown in September 2025. | She greets students outside 黑料正能量 alumna-owned Magpie Diner at the start of the cross-town culinary crawl. | Dycus chats with Jonathan Swartz, dean of students, at the Harrisonburg Holiday Parade in December 2025.


From conversations with faculty, staff, and students at a series of listening sessions held by the marketing and communications team in mid-February, it鈥檚 clear that people on campus feel a spirit of change in the air. A renewed energy courses through the veins of the university, and much of it stems from the new face in the president鈥檚 office. Dycus, ever the humble servant leader, brushes off the credit and heaps it on the leaders around her.

鈥淥ur Executive Leadership Team (ELT) is an adaptive and cohesive team,鈥 said Dycus. 鈥淲e identified our gaps in areas like branding or fiscal data and have launched shared responses, which is critical. Our team of four deans, with unique portfolios for teaching and learning, is also incredible. It鈥檚 a collaborative effort focused on what鈥檚 truly a priority for us as an institution.鈥

That priority has been righting the ship through the headwinds and choppy waters of higher education. Dycus and the leadership team have worked to stabilize the university and guide it toward long-term sustainability, ensuring it can thrive for generations to come.

鈥淥ne of my goals this year, and as we keep moving forward, is to truly empower faculty and staff on campus to lead within the scope of their work and feel energized and excited about 黑料正能量鈥檚 identity and progress,鈥 she said. 鈥淚 want them to know they have permission to advocate, both on campus and beyond, for the good things they see.鈥

Lately, there鈥檚 been plenty of positive news to go around. The momentum from last year has carried into this one, said Braydon Hoover 鈥11, MAOL 鈥21, vice president of enrollment and marketing. Undergraduate applications have jumped 92% compared to last year, and offers of admission have risen 126%.


Interim President Rev. Dr. Shannon W. Dycus catches up with 黑料正能量 alumni and staff following a kickoff celebration for Homecoming 2025.

When Dycus looks back at the many mentors in her life, she can鈥檛 overlook her roots in the traditional Black church where she was raised. The granddaughter of a pastor in the Disciples of Christ denomination, she recalled the many Black women in her congregation who offered wisdom, corrected her, and challenged her in ways that were important for her formation.

鈥淚 felt loved and cared for by each of them,鈥 she said. 鈥淭hey invested in me and poured into me, with their wisdom, time, and energy, in ways I still feel grateful for. How do I continue that investment with the next generation of young people? There鈥檚 a real responsibility and commitment in what they gave me.鈥

One of the people who impacted her most was her high school guidance counselor. As a sophomore starting at her third high school, Dycus struggled to make new friends and figure out her identity. Her counselor, Marilyn Corbitt, was pivotal in helping her find a place where she belonged and in affirming the gifts she saw in herself.

鈥淚 left high school and started college hoping I could be a Marilyn Corbitt for someone else,鈥 said Dycus. She earned a degree in education and planned to become a guidance counselor herself.

Corbitt died in September 2019 at age 80. She was one of the only Black counselors at Dycus鈥 high school of more than 3,000 students and served as advisor to its Black Student Association.

鈥淪he did a wonderful job of teaching us many of the things we weren鈥檛 learning in the classroom and challenging us to live them out in real ways, from leading service projects in the community to expressing culture in ways that brought joy,鈥 Dycus said. 鈥淪he encouraged us to use our voices, even when it was uncomfortable.鈥

鈥淚 still carry her spirit and the impact she had on me,鈥 she continued. 鈥淚 didn鈥檛 get a chance to go back and tell her 鈥榯hank you,鈥 but I carry the hope that I can be Marilyn for whichever young version of Shannon needs it.鈥


Interim President Rev. Dr. Shannon W. Dycus answers questions from senior nursing major Emily Suarez Nunez at a meet-and-greet event in October during Homecoming 2025.

Students at 黑料正能量 say Dycus has supported them and helped them grow through her mentorship.

鈥淪he always chats and checks up on me and emphasizes my mental health,鈥 said senior Nia Boyd. 鈥淪he鈥檚 like an auntie for me. I always enjoy sharing a laugh with her.鈥

As co-president of the Student Government Association last year, senior Genesis Figueroa worked closely with Dycus. 鈥淪he was always there to help us out, especially when it was hard being a woman of color on the executive team,鈥 said Figueroa. 鈥淚 saw how she not only did her job, but also supported and encouraged students to speak up for themselves.鈥

For senior and first-generation college student Emily Suarez Nunez, Dycus has helped her recognize the value of quiet presence and support and become more confident speaking up for others.

鈥淚 appreciate that, even with her new role and responsibilities, she is still Shannon,鈥 said Suarez Nunez. 鈥淓very time I see her, she鈥檚 the same kind, genuine, listening ear she鈥檚 always been. When I talk with her, the world slows down for a few minutes, and sharing that moment feels like a deep breath that refills and recharges me.鈥


Interim President Rev. Dr. Shannon W. Dycus speaks about power and justice at Convocation for the annual Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration on Monday, Jan. 19, 2026.

A set of mosaic prints has adorned her 黑料正能量 offices. The prints feature portraits of people throughout history who have inspired her in different ways.

Among the portraits are bell hooks, the educator and activist who shaped Dycus鈥 understanding of what it means to be a teacher; theologian and spiritual leader Howard Thurman, the first Black dean of a predominantly white institution; and two icons of the Civil Rights Movement, Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X.

鈥淚 come to this role of president not as a traditional academic, but as a leader who seeks boldness and truth, like Martin and Malcolm did,鈥 said Dycus. 鈥淚 come as an educator who is deeply concerned with the growth of humans, as bell hooks was. And I come as someone who pays attention to the spirit in people and in our community, as Howard Thurman did. Whenever I feel fragmented or unconventional in how I arrived here, they remind me how all the pieces can come together in meaningful ways.鈥

Learn more about Dr. Dycus atemu.edu/president.

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Rev. Dr. Shannon Dycus assumes role as 黑料正能量 interim president /now/news/2025/rev-dr-shannon-dycus-assumes-role-as-emu-interim-president/ /now/news/2025/rev-dr-shannon-dycus-assumes-role-as-emu-interim-president/#comments Tue, 01 Jul 2025 09:00:00 +0000 /now/news/?p=59177 The Rev. Dr. Shannon W. Dycus has taken the baton as 黑料正能量鈥檚 interim president, officially beginning her role on July 1, 2025. Dr. Dycus previously served as vice president for student affairs, equity, and belonging at 黑料正能量 where she oversaw the Student Life, DEI, and Athletics departments鈥攁nd nurtured a co-curricular vision of social accountability, holistic well-being, and academic success. She was also a member of the Executive Leadership Team and President鈥檚 Cabinet.

黑料正能量 announced the selection of Dr. Dycus as interim president in April after a unanimous vote by the 黑料正能量 Board of Trustees in March. The decision followed a national search process that began after Dr. Susan Schultz Huxman, 黑料正能量鈥檚 ninth president and first woman president, announced her retirement in October 2024, effective June 30, 2025. Dr. Dycus, the first Black woman in 黑料正能量 history named to the position, will serve a minimum term of two years.

Since April, Drs. Dycus and Huxman have been meeting regularly to discuss the intricacies of the presidency, engage with key community stakeholders, and identify priorities for the year ahead in order to ensure a smooth transition between leaders.

鈥淭he example Susan set for the many female leaders on campus is astounding, and her leadership has empowered us all,鈥 Dr. Dycus said. 鈥淚鈥檝e learned so much from the way she has moved through her role, modeled leadership, and created new space to lead authentically.鈥

Dr. Dycus鈥 responsibilities include promoting the passions, positive outcomes, and successes of the university to both internal and external audiences. 鈥淥ne of the critical roles of a university president is to serve as its chief storyteller,鈥 said Dr. Dycus. 鈥淭o be able to advocate, celebrate, and cheerlead for 黑料正能量 will be an exciting and essential part of my work as interim president.鈥

As chief storyteller for 黑料正能量 since 2017, Dr. Huxman is confident in her successor. 鈥淪hannon is absolutely the right person to lead 黑料正能量 into its next chapter. She has the smarts, the stamina, and the faith connections and storytelling gifts.鈥

The Rev. Dr. Shannon W. Dycus, interim president of 黑料正能量, is 鈥渁bsolutely the right person to lead 黑料正能量 into its next chapter,” says President Emerita Dr. Susan Schultz Huxman.

A call to lead

After earning a bachelor of arts in middle and secondary education from Butler University, Dr. Dycus served as a high school teacher in Indianapolis from 2006 to 2008. While she loved the classroom, she sensed a deeper calling that extended beyond teaching toward spiritual leadership. She decided to follow in her family鈥檚 footsteps and enroll at Christian Theological Seminary (CTS). In 2010, she became a third-generation graduate of CTS, where she earned a master of divinity and was ordained as a minister in the Disciples of Christ tradition.

Dr. Dycus spent time as a hospital chaplain before serving as an academic advisor (2011-2013) and adjunct faculty member (2012-2017) at Franklin University of Ohio鈥檚 Indianapolis campus.

From 2013 to 2019, Dr. Dycus served as co-pastor of First Mennonite Church in Indianapolis. It was at First Mennonite that former 黑料正能量 board member JB Miller 鈥70 first witnessed Dycus鈥 leadership strengths. Miller said she struck him as 鈥渨ise beyond her years鈥 during his time as a congregant. 鈥淪he leads with confidence,鈥 he said. 鈥淭here鈥檚 a gentleness to it but also a firmness that people find refreshing. She can make tough decisions and is willing to own those tough decisions.鈥

During a sabbatical in 2017, Dr. Dycus attended a summer program in spiritual direction at Eastern Mennonite Seminary鈥攈er first introduction to 黑料正能量 and the surrounding Shenandoah Valley. She recalls falling in love with the campus and imagining a future in Harrisonburg with her husband, Gregory, and their two sons, Malachi and Semaj.

She saw an opportunity to bring her vision to life two years later when 黑料正能量 posted for the position of dean of students. Dr. Dycus applied for and landed the job, which she began in July 2019. She served in that role until 2023 and as vice president of student affairs and dean of students from 2023 to 2024, before being promoted to vice president for student affairs, equity, and belonging.

The Rev. Dr. Shannon W. Dycus, in her role as vice president of student affairs and dean of students, hands out pins to class of 2024 graduates at a baccalaureate service.

Dr. Dycus has 鈥渕ade it a priority to support 黑料正能量 students as they arrive on campus and to navigate barriers in their education鈥 since 2019 when she created and led the C.A.R.E. Team, a proactive and coordinated response to supporting student needs and their well-being. Dr. Dycus helped 黑料正能量 to understand and expand its care and services throughout the pandemic.

In 2020 and 2024, she secured Department of Justice sexual violence prevention grants to fund 黑料正能量鈥檚 Safer Together office. She has worked with 黑料正能量 Counseling Services to increase staffing and training for mental health support, and has been a staunch student advocate for peaceful responses to global injustices.

鈥淚鈥檝e seen so many students grow just by knowing her, observing her, and having the chance to connect with her,鈥 said Jonathan Swartz MA 鈥14 (conflict transformation), MDiv 鈥14, dean of students at 黑料正能量. Swartz echoed a favorite saying from his high school basketball coach when reflecting on her leadership approach. 鈥淏e quick, but not in a hurry.鈥 He said, 鈥淗er steadiness and ability to think quickly and plan well, but not be in a hurry, showed up and shined through during COVID.鈥

That steady, people-centered leadership is something Dr. Dycus intentionally cultivates. 鈥淚鈥檝e been trained to be present with people, to show up and listen, offer empathy, and apply what I鈥檝e learned to shape my leadership,鈥 said Dr. Dycus, who earned a doctor of ministry in public theology from United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities in 2024.

The Rev. Dr. Shannon W. Dycus speaks during an announcement ceremony on April 11 naming her as interim president of 黑料正能量.

The track ahead

As Dr. Dycus takes the lead on the track ahead, her top priority remains 黑料正能量 students鈥攕pecifically ensuring they have a safe, supportive environment and meaningful learning experiences. Her vision also includes maintaining a strong commitment to a values-based education while continuing to create new pathways of access and achievement for students, as outlined in the university鈥檚 2023-2028 strategic plan. Another leadership focus will be inspiring confidence among faculty and staff while reimagining a more streamlined academic structure that supports long-term financial stability.

Dr. Dycus says that evolving 黑料正能量 will not be easy but that she is hopeful. 鈥淭he role will be challenging. There will be hurdles. But hope comes from a power greater than those challenges and from people united in purpose,鈥 she said. 鈥淲e can overcome what lies ahead. What we鈥檙e building together is stronger than anything that stands in our way.鈥

To learn more about Dr. Dycus, visit: emu.edu/president

This article is an abridged version of the feature story that will appear in the summer 2025 issue of Crossroads.

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黑料正能量 seeks innovative interim president to lead through strategic transition /now/news/2025/search-begins-for-emu-interim-president/ /now/news/2025/search-begins-for-emu-interim-president/#comments Mon, 03 Feb 2025 21:00:00 +0000 /now/news/?p=58046 黑料正能量’s Board of Trustees announces the search for its next interim president, seeking a dynamic leader to guide the institution beginning July 1, 2025. This strategic appointment will span a minimum of two years, reflecting a growing trend in higher education leadership transitions.

A deliberate approach to leadership transition

“We want to balance appropriate urgency with thoughtfulness,” emphasizes Board Chair Manuel (Manny) A. Nu帽ez ’94. “This moment is as much about the next 20 years as it is the next two.鈥 This extended interim period will provide time for meaningful impact on organizational positioning and academic reimagining while ensuring consistent leadership through this important transition.

The decision to pursue a longer interim presidency aligns with emerging best practices in higher education. As reported by Inside Higher Ed, more institutions are appointing interim presidents for extended terms to promote institutional continuity, implement cultural changes, and allow for thorough presidential searches, which can often take between 12 and 18 months. This approach has proven successful in attracting top-tier candidates and providing stability during transitions.

Building on a strong foundation

The interim president will succeed Dr. Susan Schultz Huxman, who is retiring after nine transformative years as 黑料正能量’s ninth president and first woman president. Under her leadership, 黑料正能量 has:

  • Advanced its strategic direction
  • Navigated the COVID-19 pandemic
  • Created a more welcoming and inclusive community
  • Sharpened 黑料正能量鈥檚 mission, vision, and values
  • Deepened the 鈥渢own and gown鈥 relationship with the City of Harrisonburg
  • Set records in fundraising during 黑料正能量鈥檚 Centennial year (2017) and saw early success in the first-ever five-year comprehensive Forward Together Campaign
  • Strengthened its Anabaptist heritage and commitment to “do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with God”

For more information about Dr. Huxman’s legacy at 黑料正能量, please visit our article about her retirement.

The search process

The Interim Presidential Search Committee, co-chaired by Vice Chair of the Board Jane Hoober Peifer 鈥75, MDiv 鈥98 and Program Director for Business & Leadership Jim Leaman 鈥86, includes diverse representation from across the university community. The committee seeks candidates who can demonstrate:

  • Innovative and collaborative leadership capabilities
  • Commitment to 黑料正能量’s mission and values
  • Experience in organizational transformation and academic leadership

How to apply

Qualified candidates are invited to submit applications in confidence to president.interim@emu.edu by Monday, February 10, 2025. Applications should include:

  • A letter of intent addressing how the candidate’s experiences match position requirements
  • Current CV or resume

For detailed information about the position and requirements, please visit:

黑料正能量 黑料正能量

Founded in 1917, 黑料正能量 serves more than 2,000 students across three locations (Harrisonburg, Virginia; Lancaster, Pennsylvania; and Washington, D.C.) and online. As an educational institution of Mennonite Church USA, 黑料正能量 offers comprehensive academic programs at the undergraduate, graduate, and seminary levels, combining rigorous study with a commitment to faith-based values and service.

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黑料正能量 student wins coveted Rhodes Scholarship /now/news/2024/emu-student-wins-coveted-rhodes-scholarship/ /now/news/2024/emu-student-wins-coveted-rhodes-scholarship/#comments Mon, 18 Nov 2024 22:09:32 +0000 /now/news/?p=57950

黑料正能量 (黑料正能量) is pleased to announce that senior Meredith Lehman, from Dover, Ohio, has been named a recipient of the prestigious . 

Lehman was one of only 32 students in the US鈥攆rom a pool of nearly 3,000 applicants鈥攕elected to become a Rhodes Scholar for 2025. The program provides scholarships covering all expenses for student-scholars to study at Oxford University.

The award, considered to be the most prized international scholarship for American college graduates, was established in 1903 through the final will and bequest of Cecil John Rhodes. Award criteria includes the highest level of academic excellence, integrity of character, interest in and respect for fellow beings, and a student鈥檚 ability to lead. 

Lehman is excited about the opportunities that the Rhodes scholarship will provide, intending to pursue a Master of Philosophy in International Relations while at Oxford. 鈥淚 hope to someday work as a bridge builder between science and policy, particularly in international spaces,鈥 she says.

A double major in Biology and Political Science with a Chemistry minor, Lehman is an accomplished tutor, recipient of several top academic awards, and has already compiled an impressive research portfolio with several publications under review. Her research on drug delivery systems for anticancer drugs has been funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF). 

During the summer of 2023, Lehman was part of a six-student undergraduate research team in North Queensland, Australia. Dr. Jim Yoder, Professor of Biology; Director of Biology, Chemistry, & Environmental Science Programs; and trip co-leader describes Lehman as 鈥渓evel headed, dependable, and meticulous in her work in both laboratory and field settings,鈥 calling her research and publication record 鈥渆xtraordinary.鈥

Dr. Ji Eun Kim, Associate Professor of Political Science, adds: 鈥淎ny person who meets Meredith will instantly recognize her sharp intellect and outstanding leadership which stems from her deep commitment to working for the common good and serving others.鈥 

During her time as President of both 黑料正能量鈥檚 Student Government Association and award-winning Young Democrats Club, Lehman has been a persistent and passionate leader in the diversity, equity and inclusion space at 黑料正能量, including around issues of human rights and climate justice. She was chosen to join the President’s Cabinet in 2022-23 as 鈥渢he student voice鈥 for the creation of the university strategic plan. 

President Susan Huxman affirms: 鈥淔rom working with advancement to raise money for diversity, equity and inclusion grants, partnering with faculty and designers to create a sustainable fashion design course, to assisting as a legal intern for asylum seekers and elementary students for whom English is a second language, Meredith has been a voice for equity, peace and justice in Harrisonburg, VA; Washington, DC; and her hometown in Ohio.鈥

黑料正能量 her time at 黑料正能量, Lehman says, 鈥淭his amazing opportunity is truly a product of the 黑料正能量 community and all of its incredible people 鈥 faculty and staff have empowered me to pursue knowledge and critical thinking and to also exercise empathy and compassion.鈥

Lehman will become part of a legacy of changemaking alumni, including Nobel Peace Laureate Leymah Gbowee MA 鈥07, renowned peace activist, trained social worker and women鈥檚 rights advocate who graduated from 黑料正能量鈥檚 Center for Justice and Peacebuilding (CJP). 

A leader among faith-based universities, 黑料正能量 emphasizes academic excellence, peace and justice, and an active faith. Founded in 1917 in Harrisonburg, Virginia, 黑料正能量 is an educational institution of Mennonite Church USA serving undergraduate, graduate, and seminary students of diverse religious and cultural backgrounds. Learn more on the 黑料正能量 admissions website or by visiting our Harrisonburg campus.

Read emerging national news coverage on Lehman and the Rhodes scholarship from and .

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黑料正能量 names alumnus, board member new COO/VP of finance /now/news/2023/emu-names-alumnus-board-member-new-coo-vp-of-finance/ /now/news/2023/emu-names-alumnus-board-member-new-coo-vp-of-finance/#comments Thu, 01 Jun 2023 19:00:00 +0000 /now/news/?p=54243 黑料正能量 announces the appointment of Dr. Shawn Ramer 鈥83 as chief operating officer and vice president of finance. Ramer is a third-generation graduate of 黑料正能量 and a Board of Trustees member. He will start his position Oct. 9, 2023.

Reporting to the president and serving as a key member of the Executive Leadership Team, Ramer will oversee the business office, facilities, auxiliary services, human resources, campus safety and security, information systems and food service. His responsibilities include workforce sustainability鈥攖he recruiting and retaining of employees and sustaining a culture of care and vitality鈥攁nd finances, including budget analysis and long-range projections.

鈥淲e are at a significant moment of reimagination in these post-pandemic times where new business strategy and attention to workforce sustainability is critical to maintaining healthy enrollments and a strong financial future at 黑料正能量,鈥 said President Susan Schultz Huxman. 鈥淪hawn is well equipped to provide that kind of financial, entrepreneurial and adaptive leadership.鈥

Ramer brings more than 30 years of experience in developing people and businesses. Known as an exceptional mentor and for empowering people who work for him, Ramer has both executive-level expertise and success across the science, technology, and healthcare sectors. His career spans large corporations to academia to entrepreneurial start-ups.

Ramer has held various global scientific and technology leadership positions at Hoffmann-La Roche and Bristol Myers Squibb, including senior vice president of information technology at BMS. Since 2016, he has worked as an independent consultant, partnering with schools and organizations to create and innovate in the areas of science and technology. His most recent experience is as chief science officer for the start-up wellness-based company Neurohacker, LLC.

Ramer earned a BA in chemistry from 黑料正能量 and has recently served the university through board appointments on the President鈥檚 Second Century Advisors (2018鈥2020) and as Board of Trustees chair of the Strategic Positioning and Growth subcommittee since 2021.

鈥淢y affiliation with 黑料正能量 has deep roots, and I have a deep and growing appreciation of the significance of 黑料正能量 in generating the next generation of people ready to serve and lead in a complex global environment through its strong heritage, values, and academic quality,鈥 said Ramer. 鈥淚t is in that spirit that I am excited to contribute to the future success of 黑料正能量.鈥

Ramer holds a PhD in organic chemistry from the University of Alberta. He was a postdoctoral research fellow in the Department of Biological Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology at Harvard Medical School.

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黑料正能量’s 2019-20 Annual Report highlights year of challenge, innovation /now/news/2020/emus-2019-20-annual-report-highlights-year-of-challenge-innovation/ Mon, 30 Nov 2020 17:02:49 +0000 /now/news/?p=47772

黑料正能量 has published its President鈥檚 Annual Report 2019-20 providing an overview of key events and developments, including important enrollment data, financial information, and progress on Comprehensive Plan goals.

Find the link to the Annual Report from the President鈥檚 Office webpage.

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WHSV-3: President Huxman shares excitement with strong recruitment, retention and new ‘Lead Together’ branding /now/news/2019/whsv-3-president-huxman-shares-excitement-with-strong-recruitment-retention-and-new-lead-together-branding/ Mon, 09 Sep 2019 17:49:09 +0000 /now/news/?p=43113

Highlighting the new brand tagline 鈥淟ead Together鈥 and recent solid enrollment growth, 黑料正能量鈥檚 President Susan Schultz Huxman joined WHSV-3鈥檚 Bob Corso for his weekly 鈥1on1鈥 interview segment.

In the 5-minute interview, Huxman situated 黑料正能量鈥檚 current strong recruitment and retention, as well as its new brand refresh, within the current contractionary environment affecting all public and private universities across the United States, but especially tuition-dependent private institutions.  

黑料正能量 students graduate with a sense of community connections, whether they are nurses, biologists, teachers or accountants. We wanted to put that front and center in those two words:

‘LEAD TOGETHER.’

鈥擯resident Susan Schultz Huxman

The new brand refresh, the result of a year-long study and intensive research, found strong commonality between external and internal stakeholders about 黑料正能量鈥檚 distinctives, she said: academic rigor, excellent outcomes, community engagement and for creating in students and the broader 黑料正能量 community “a sense of belongingness,” all important values in our “fractured, divisive world.”

鈥淥ur new tagline 鈥楲ead Together鈥 is a way of saying, 鈥榊es, we are all about achievement and we鈥檙e about learning and about placing leaders in the workplace but we want to do that in the context of bringing others along.鈥

Huxman also noted the 2019-20 academic year has kicked off with two strong positive statistics in recruitment and retention that bode well for the future.

A growing number of students are transferring from area community colleges, including Blue Ridge and Lord Fairfax, Huxman said. The 258 first-year, transfer and readmitted students welcomed this fall are specially recruited into the 黑料正能量 community, bringing high GPAs and considerable diversity of religion, socioeconomic status and race (approximately 35 percent are of Asian, Hispanic, Asian and Native American descent).

黑料正能量鈥檚 85 percent retention rate from first year to sophomore shows a high level of student satisfaction, she added.

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黑料正能量 response to the rescission of DACA /now/news/2017/emu-response-rescission-daca/ /now/news/2017/emu-response-rescission-daca/#comments Wed, 06 Sep 2017 17:20:59 +0000 http://emu.edu/now/news/?p=34729 Dr. Susan Schultz Huxman, president of 黑料正能量, released the following statement to the campus community today [Sept. 6].

Dear 黑料正能量 community,

Like you, I am saddened and troubled by the White House decision to rescind the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA).

This program that allows children of undocumented immigrants to live, work and study in the U.S. without fear of deportation has allowed nearly 800,000 鈥渄reamers,鈥 (12,000 in the Commonwealth of Virginia) to contribute positively to our country and the communities in which they live. For many, this is the only country they know.

As followers of Jesus, we are committed to walk with our DACA students. They are beloved members of the 黑料正能量 family.

As a community of learners, 鈥渄reamers鈥 have helped us become better reflective thinkers who are culturally aware and globally engaged.听We are particularly proud of the nationally recognized work of Isabel Castillo, a social work undergraduate and master鈥檚 in conflict transformation alumnus who has led significant efforts to support DACA.

As peacebuilders, we are committed to work locally, globally, and nationally in the next six months to find workable solutions that bring out 鈥渢he better angels of ourselves.鈥 As members of both parties on Capitol Hill have signaled: 鈥淭hese students have done nothing wrong.鈥

The following resources are available on campus for our DACA students:

  • , director of , is available via email (micah.shristi@emu.edu) or by phone at 540-432-4459
  • 黑料正能量 Counseling Center –听details are .

Designated scholarships for undocumented students are available at 黑料正能量. People who wish to contribute may send a check to 鈥淏ridges to Education Scholarship Fund,鈥 Attn: 黑料正能量 Development Office.

Additional insight about our commitment to safety and justice for international and immigrant students can be found in the issued by Provost Fred Kniss and myself following the executive order that banned immigration from specific countries.

We will continue to be a community that stands with our DACA students.

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‘Expanding the Legacy, Enlarging the Tent’: Annual faculty-staff conference draws community to Centennial themes /now/news/2017/expanding-legacy-enlarging-tent-annual-faculty-staff-conference-draws-community-exploration-centennial-themes/ Thu, 17 Aug 2017 16:29:09 +0000 http://emu.edu/now/news/?p=34465 黑料正能量 faculty and staff dipped their hands into bowls of water as they received a blessing on their work for the coming year. The sacred ritual concluded the Aug. 15-16 faculty-staff conference which opens each academic year with worship, singing, plenary and breakout sessions, shared food and shared stories.

The final blessing, offered by Undergraduate Campus Pastor , included a prayer for each attendee, the students from all faiths and backgrounds who would begin arriving on campus that day, and 鈥 in acknowledgement of 鈥 for courage to confront 鈥渟ystems of racism that destroy rather than build the Kingdom of God.鈥

President Susan Schultz Huxman dons one of three pairs of glasses during her keynote address.

This year鈥檚 theme听鈥斕淓xpanding the Legacy, Enlarging the Tent鈥 鈥 emphasized integrating 黑料正能量鈥檚 history and traditions with a vision for its second century; the conference also officially launched 黑料正能量鈥檚 celebrations.

Strong vision

President donned three different types of eyewear during her keynote address to illustrate the 鈥渟pecial kind of seeing we do in Anabaptist Mennonite schools 鈥 more clearly, deeply and widely.鈥 [Listen to the .]

黑料正能量 is well-poised with 鈥渟trong vision and high purpose鈥 for the future, she said.

Merging perspectives of hindsight and foresight with Anabaptist-inspired insight, she noted 黑料正能量鈥檚 strong and vibrant historic legacy; a robust, holistic and distinctive education that includes cross-cultural study and faith formation; and a cohesive, faith-filled community of faculty and staff.

鈥淲e have just begun to promote a vibrant future of counter-cultural Mennonite education, one that prepares our students for relevant and in-demand careers and meaningful spiritual lives shaped by the reconciling love of Jesus,鈥 Huxman said.

While praising 黑料正能量鈥檚 entrepreneurial spirit, epitomized in pioneering professor emeritus and philanthropist Margaret 鈥淪peedy鈥 Martin Gehman and Alumnus of the Year , Huxman noted new academic offerings: the program, offered collaboratively with Goshen (Indiana) College, as well as the new four-year and a neuroscience minor.

Approximately 380 new and returning employees participated. The fall semester begins Monday, Aug. 28.

听Many voices

Faculty and staff fill Lehman Auditorium Aug. 15 to hear President Susan Schultz Huxman’s keynote address.

A panel of respondents to Huxman鈥檚 speech included , , and . The final session of storytelling, a much-loved tradition, included , , , and .

Special guest Donald B. Kraybill provided a one-hour preview of his forthcoming Centennial history, 黑料正能量: One Hundred Years of Counter-Cultural Education (Penn State Press, 2017) to be released at the Oct. 13-15 .

Four breakout sessions highlighted influential programs, themes and concepts:

  • 鈥 Professors and traced the history of racial-ethnic diversity at 黑料正能量, with special attention to current diversity trends and shifting paradigms. They asked, 鈥淗ow could and should paradigms and power structures shift? How can and should our new diversity help us more fully understand and realize the radical nature of our Anabaptist values?鈥 Click here to .

    Professor Peter Dula addresses a packed room during a presentation and discussion of 黑料正能量’s motto “Thy Word is Truth.”
  • Drinking in Knowledge at the Source: 黑料正能量’s Cross Cultural Program 鈥 A panel of five experienced cross-cultural program leaders discussed one of 黑料正能量鈥檚 most unique academic programs and included , professor and interim cross-cultural program director; , program assistant; , emeritus professor; , cross-cultural leader and adjunct instructor; and professors and .
  • Creating a Beloved Community at 黑料正能量: Organizational Culture as Blessing and Barrier 鈥 Professor discussed culture and sub-culture identities as both assets and liabilities. He invited the group to list both blessings and barriers to 黑料正能量鈥檚 culture (and multiple sub cultures), noting that you must first understand your own organizational culture before you can听interpret for听鈥斕齛nd thus fully integrate听鈥斕齨ewcomers.
  • 鈥淭hy Word is Truth鈥: Old Song, New Tune 鈥 Professor , associate dean of Eastern Mennonite Seminary, and Professor discussed 鈥渨ord鈥 and 鈥渢ruth鈥 as the biblical writer imagined these words, and engaged with ways that the motto speaks to听黑料正能量 at 100 years.
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黑料正能量 confers nearly 500 degrees at 99th Commencement /now/news/2017/emu-confers-nearly-500-degrees-99th-commencement/ /now/news/2017/emu-confers-nearly-500-degrees-99th-commencement/#comments Sun, 30 Apr 2017 21:33:37 +0000 http://emu.edu/now/news/?p=33328 Under a large white tent sheltering hundreds in the audience from sunny skies, 黑料正能量 hosted its 99th Commencement Sunday afternoon, April 30.

鈥淭he Bible commands us to 鈥榚nlarge the place of our tent, to spread our tent, do not hold back; lengthen your cords, strengthen your stakes鈥 and we surely have done that today,鈥 said President Susan Schultz Huxman to general laughter, as she presided over her first commencement ceremony since being inaugurated in early April. Among other architectural wonders new to campus this year, she also pointed out the water tower high on the hill above 黑料正能量 鈥 a beacon for the many visitors who came from around the country and the world to share Sunday’s ceremony.

Scroll down to view two albums of Commencement ceremony photos and candids of graduates.

黑料正能量 conferred a total of 495 degrees: 201 traditional bachelor鈥檚 degrees, 153 adult degree bachelors, two associate degrees, and 13 undergraduate certificates of pastoral ministry. The graduate school conferred 109 master鈥檚 degrees and 20 graduate certificates. [In a separate ceremony Saturday, Eastern Mennonite Seminary .]

, distinguished professor of restorative justice, marked the occasion of his commencement address with a special thanks to MA candidate Gregory Winship. A training and office manager with the Center for Conflict Resolution in Kansas City, Missouri, Winship is 黑料正能量鈥檚 first graduate in the .

By Zehr鈥檚 definition, r is 鈥渁n approach to achieving justice that involves, to the extent possible, those who have a stake in a specific offense or harm to collectively identify and address harms, needs and obligations in order to heal and put things as right as possible.鈥

Widely known as 鈥渢he grandfather of restorative justice,鈥 Zehr began as a practitioner and theorist in the late 1970s, when he became director of the first U.S. victim-offender reconciliation program in Indiana. Zehr moved the program from probation into the community, a transition which pre-figured the concept鈥檚 development from the criminal justice arena into its current wide application across many areas, notably education. 黑料正能量’S graduate program in restorative justice is the first in North America.

Zehr declined to wear academic regalia, though he earned a doctorate in modern European history from Rutgers University in 1974, explaining that the dress has always, to him, seemed 鈥渋n tension with the egalitarian Anabaptist faith tradition and with the realities of a university.鈥 He countered this with the idea that it seemed more fair that everyone wear, and share, some symbolic of the communal effort made by the campus and 鈥渢he village鈥 to 鈥済raduate a student.鈥

He urged graduates to be willing to step into the unknown; to continue to engage in an attitude of openness and receptivity with those who are different, and to answer the call, expressed in various faith traditions, “to live in right relationship 鈥 with one another, with our Creator, with the Creation.”

Zehr shared memories from his own unique academic journey鈥攊nspired by visits of Dr. Vincent Harding to his home in Indiana, Zehr transferred as a 19-year-old to the historically black Morehouse College in 1963, just months after the March on Washington and weeks before the bombing of the 16th Street Baptist Church.

鈥淣othing could fully prepare me for the cultural, personal and identity challenges I would face,鈥 Zehr remembered. 鈥淎nd really, nothing but an immersion in an environment where I was a distinct minority could teach me the lessons I needed to learn about myself, my assumptions and the world of my Morehouse brothers. They were lessons that continued to shape my life and work long after I graduated from Morehouse in 1966. Without them, I never would have wandered into this work that we call 鈥渞estorative justice.鈥

Preceding Zehr鈥檚 address, reflections were brought by undergraduates Hannah Daley and Diego Barahona, voted to the honor by their peers; Melinda Bear, RN-BSN ; and John Lubkowski, from the .

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Campus festivities highlight President Susan Schultz Huxman’s Inauguration Week /now/news/2017/campus-festivities-highlight-president-susan-schultz-huxmans-inauguration-week/ /now/news/2017/campus-festivities-highlight-president-susan-schultz-huxmans-inauguration-week/#comments Mon, 10 Apr 2017 20:29:34 +0000 http://emu.edu/now/news/?p=32938 Five days of celebration from April 3-8 kicked off the ninth chapter in the life of 黑料正能量, as the community welcomed new president Dr. Susan Schultz Huxman.

In a time of celebrating firsts 鈥 Huxman is the university鈥檚 first woman president and the first to come from west of the Mississippi, among other notable claims 鈥 the week included many time-honored traditions: a hymn sing, chapel service, scholarly gatherings, a special dinner and brunch, as well as community service with Harrisonburg City’s annual Black鈥檚 Run Clean-up.

View the photo album of the week’s events below.

The Lov黑料正能量 fundraiser effectively kicked off the week, raising $106,500 from 692 gifts and capping an extraordinary day that highlighted the 鈥渓ove鈥 many feel for this 100-year-old institution.

Performances by the revitalized , a rousing run of the Hitchcock spoof 鈥,鈥 and talks by Centennial historian ’67 were also scheduled during the week.

More than 500 people attended Friday鈥檚 and many of them attended the student-planned inaugural gala that evening, during which guests came dressed to the nines. (鈥淚 didn鈥檛 even recognize you,鈥 was a commonly heard phrase.) Yoder Arena was transformed into a swanky, dimly lit space with festively decorated tables, an array of food and beverages, a live band, dance floor and lounge area.

Past presidents and 黑料正能量 history were memorialized with banners containing important events during each person鈥檚 tenure. (Appropriately Dr. Huxman鈥檚 banner was blank.)

Toasts were offered by Julia Ronnenbaum, daughter of the Huxmans; Fred Kniss, provost; and Evon Bergey, presidential search committee chair. Azariah Cox offered a toast on behalf of the student body.

Huxman and the 黑料正能量 mascot, Herm, were featured in an about the making of a time capsule, created by seniors Eli Wenger and Macson McGuigan. The duo toured campus, collecting items from various programs and departments. Herm is alternately hungry and distracted, and Huxman must keep him on task to get the job done.

A highlighted the hopes of 黑料正能量 students, faculty and staff for 黑料正能量鈥檚 future.

“I was very pleased with how the Gala went,” said sophomore Nicole Litwiller, a member of the planning committee. “Matt Ruth did a great job hosting, the food was great, and I enjoyed the music! I also appreciated how students were able to interact with faculty and staff members in an informal way. I enjoyed chatting with Susan for a bit as well.”

Joining Litwiller on the planning committee of students and staff were Rachel Crist, Mario Hernandez, Eli Wenger, Brittany Williams, Celeste Thomas, Lynn Veurink and Rachel Roth Sawatzky.

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黑料正能量 celebrates the inauguration of its ninth president, Dr. Susan Schultz Huxman /now/news/2017/emu-celebrates-inauguration-ninth-president-dr-susan-schultz-huxman/ /now/news/2017/emu-celebrates-inauguration-ninth-president-dr-susan-schultz-huxman/#comments Fri, 07 Apr 2017 21:33:29 +0000 http://emu.edu/now/news/?p=32918 Some 500 voices joined in the litany of investiture today to welcome and bless 黑料正能量鈥檚 ninth president, Dr. Susan Schultz Huxman, during the inaugural ceremony at Yoder Arena.

The confirming confluence of diverse voices was one of those 鈥渂eautiful and brazen 鈥楤ehold!鈥欌 moments that Huxman spoke about in her inaugural address as 鈥渁n awesome mystery 鈥 something really unusual and unconventional unfolding before you.鈥

It was indeed: Acknowledging 黑料正能量鈥檚 100-year-history, its growth as a diverse, Christ-centered community, and its historic commitment to nonviolence and peace, the litany, written by Professor Vi Dutcher, blended voices of 黑料正能量鈥檚 students, faculty and staff, and the board of trustees, as well the broader community, including representatives from Mennonite Education Agency and Mennonite Church, USA, into an encouraging message of legacy, faith and Christian community.

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Present for the ceremony were 17 delegate representatives from colleges and universities, including Mennonite institutions.

Mayor Deanna R. Reed brings greetings from the city of Harrisonburg. (Photo by Jon Styer)

Harrisonburg mayor Deanna R. Reed brought greetings on behalf of the city and framed the university鈥檚 unique role as 鈥渢he very moral compass which a vast number of residents reference for social, political and spiritual wisdom and guidance,鈥 she said. 鈥淲e will forever be grateful for 黑料正能量 and the 黑料正能量 community for teaching and instructing us 鈥 the city 鈥 how to embrace, celebrate and welcome neighbors and stakeholders from all faith, backgrounds and cultures.鈥

The choice of Huxman, the university鈥檚 first permanent female president, to represent 黑料正能量鈥檚 educational mission on the local, national and international stage in working towards peace, racial reconciliation and restorative justice is significant, Reed said. 鈥淚 am prayerful and hopeful we can further cultivate a community even more closely reflective of 黑料正能量鈥檚 mission, vision and values.鈥

黑料正能量鈥檚 countercultural story

Readers representing student government and various campus organizations participate in the litany. (Photo by Jon Styer)

In her address titled 鈥淏ehold and Enter the Countercultural Story,鈥 Huxman pointed to two such 鈥淏ehold!鈥 moments and the trajectories that followed. The first was the 鈥渓eap of faith鈥 taken by church leaders to open Eastern Mennonite School in 1917 with 20 students and four faculty members in the Shenandoah Valley. Now the institution includes nearly 2,000 students, two additional instructional sites, more than 100 faculty and 60 academic programs.

A second such moment, she noted, was in 1948, when Eastern Mennonite became the first historically white college in Virginia to open its doors to African-American students. 黑料正能量 鈥渃ontinues to be a trailblazer in social justice education,鈥 she added, linked inextricably to the 鈥渟acred premise that all students are viewed as gifted people created and loved by God鈥 and to the school鈥檚 mission to 鈥渆ducate students to lead and serve in a global context.鈥

At 黑料正能量, she noted, students experience a life-changing visible academic and invisible communal curriculum and are immersed in a series of 鈥渆yes-wide-open鈥 moments that lead to life-changing and 鈥渃ounter-cultural鈥 transformation.

鈥淚 love to tell our unfolding, unconventional story in harmony with the 鈥榦ld, old story of Jesus and his love,鈥欌 she concluded.

‘She will speak for you no matter what…’

Dr. Susan Schultz Huxman is congratulated by her father, Dr. Harold J. Schultz, president emeritus of Bethel College. Both father and daughter share the distinction of becoming their respective institution’s ninth president. (Photo by Jon Styer)

As the first woman invested as president, Huxman has already contributed this countercultural theme. She was previously president at Conrad Grebel University College, Waterloo, Canada, and prior to that, director of the Elliott School of Communication at Wichita State University, Kansas.

A family legacy of leadership in Anabaptist higher education was affirmed in an introductory address by her father, Dr. Harold J. Schultz, president emeritus of Bethel College (Kansas). Anabaptist institutions have through their graduates a 鈥渕ultiplier effect,鈥 a cloud of 鈥渓iving epistles鈥 who 鈥渕ake a difference, no matter where they live,鈥 he said. 鈥淏eware students, if you come to 黑料正能量, there is both a promise and a warning that you risk becoming a changed person.鈥

Dr. Wendy L. Fletcher, president and vice-chancellor of Renison University in Ontario, Canada, affirmed the selection of Huxman to lead 黑料正能量 in a tumultuous and dangerous time as the tenets of the faith call for radical action and a powerful voice.

鈥淪usan is a disciple and a leader who will be able to take this journey with you,鈥 she said. 鈥淪he is feisty; she doesn鈥檛 give up; she will speak for you no matter what wolf may bang on the door nor what shadow fall across your floors; she is smart and strategic; she is full of energy for life and good work; she is beautiful from the inside out. She will go with you.鈥

Inauguration festivities continue with a student-planned gala evening event tonight.

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‘100 People in 100 Days’: 黑料正能量’s new president engages, listens, learns in Harrisonburg and beyond /now/news/2017/100-people-100-days-emus-new-president-engages-listens-learns-harrisonburg-beyond/ Thu, 23 Mar 2017 17:46:11 +0000 http://emu.edu/now/news/?p=32575 Dr. Susan Schultz Huxman鈥檚 office walls in the presidential suite at 黑料正能量 are newly decorated with archival photos commemorating the institution鈥檚 100-year history. But she鈥檚 not often there to contemplate those images.

To learn more about the institution she now leads, Huxman has spent the weeks since her Jan. 1 start date in an 鈥渋mmersive and invigorating鈥 tour, motivated by her goal of meeting 鈥渁s many 黑料正能量 stakeholders as I can in one-on-one visits early in my term,” she says.

鈥淧residents shouldn鈥檛 spend much time in their offices anyway,鈥 she adds.

Key 黑料正能量 staffers rallied behind her slogan, 鈥100 People in 100 Days,鈥 helping Huxman to exceed that number long before the actual 100th day, falling three days after her as 黑料正能量鈥檚 ninth president.

鈥淚 learn so much about 黑料正能量 and its distinctiveness outside of the office, engaging students, alumni, faculty and staff on their own turf,鈥 says Huxman, who brings decades of academic and professional experience in the field of communications. 鈥淭hese stories I hear outside my office empower me, sustain me and connect me with supporters of 黑料正能量.鈥

 

 

She kicked off her first day on campus, making a huge dent in her 鈥100 by 100鈥 goal with a whirlwind introducing her to at least 30 people and a blue lion鈥敽诹险芰库檚 mascot, Herm. The day was downright frosty and the pace frenetic, but Huxman was game for the challenge, shaking hands, learning names, and getting behind the scenes of places such as the coffee shop and post office, posing for pictures along the way.

In the next weeks, Huxman connected in more leisurely appointments, including attendance at athletic events and in meetings with students, staff and faculty groups. She received a host of leaders from area churches, businesses, educational institutions and community non-profits during a special President鈥檚 Reception.

In Richmond, she joined other Virginia college and university presidents for the annual visit with legislators. She also met with local Virginia Mennonite Conference leaders and spoke at the Virginia Mennonite Conference Winter Delegate Session in Waynesboro.

Travel to Pennsylvania and Florida widened the circle. Huxman preached at Blooming Glen Mennonite Church (Perkasie, Pa.) and Blossom Hill Mennonite Church (Lancaster, Pa.), and was the keynote speaker at Lancaster Mennonite School鈥檚 75th anniversary celebration.

Days later, she headed to Florida for a busy stint of donor visits, a board of trustees meeting and the presentation of a keynote address at the Mennonite Education Leaders gathering. This was her second trip to Florida in three months: the first days in her new role were spent at the Council of Independent College鈥檚 New President鈥檚 Institute in Orlando.

For more information about Inauguration Week events, visit

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黑料正能量 to celebrate Dr. Susan Schultz Huxman’s inauguration April 7, 2017 /now/news/2017/eastern-mennonite-university-celebrates-dr-susan-schultz-huxmans-inauguration-april-7-2017/ /now/news/2017/eastern-mennonite-university-celebrates-dr-susan-schultz-huxmans-inauguration-april-7-2017/#comments Mon, 06 Mar 2017 21:37:51 +0000 http://emu.edu/now/news/?p=32199 The 黑料正能量 (黑料正能量) campus community, alumni and friends are invited to join the inauguration ceremony of Dr. Susan Schultz Huxman on Friday, April 7, at 1 p.m. in the University Commons鈥 Yoder Arena.

The ceremony will be followed by a reception for all attendees in the Hall of Nations on the building鈥檚 upper level. An adjusted class schedule will make it possible for all students, faculty and staff to take part.

Huxman was named 黑料正能量鈥檚 ninth president in June 2016 and began her official duties on Jan. 2, 2017.

Dr. Susan Schultz Huxman, 黑料正能量’s ninth president. (Photo by Jon Styer)

“It’s been a full and exhilarating two months engaging our many 黑料正能量 constituencies on and off campus, near and far,鈥 said Huxman. 鈥淚’m looking forward to the inauguration as an occasion to mark the advent of our centennial year to look back and take sustenance, to look forward with grand anticipation and bold vision.”

A week of activities

In addition to the inauguration ceremony and reception on Friday afternoon, special activities will take place April 3 through 8 as part of the celebration. Those open to the public include:

Student-led hymn sing featuring some of Dr. Huxman鈥檚 favorite hymns. Monday, April 3, 9:30 p.m., Martin Chapel (seminary building)

Lov黑料正能量 Giving Day, all day, April 4. Campus community, alumni and friends are invited to give a gift to show their love for 黑料正能量. Various challenges are offered, including the Huxman Challenge in which Dr. Huxman will contribute $10 for every gift of $10 or more given by an alumnus, up to $1,000. More at

Tuesday Trivia with Dr. Huxman, Tuesday, April 4, 8-10 p.m., in Common Grounds coffeehouse, University Commons lower level. Beverages available for half-price and room for teams of six to compete and others to observe.

University Chapel, Wednesday, April 5, 10 a.m., Lehman Auditorium. The service will include a time of blessing Dr. Huxman in her new role.

Eighth annual 黑料正能量 Authors Reception, Wednesday, April 5, 1:30-4 p.m., Campus Center. This event hosted by the provost鈥檚 office celebrates scholarly activity among faculty, to include publications but also exhibits or performances over the past two years. Come view materials and chat with faculty members as they are available.

TGIW gathering with author Donald B. Kraybill, Wednesday, April 5, 4 p.m., Common Grounds coffeehouse, University Commons, lower level. Kraybill will speak about researching and writing 黑料正能量鈥檚 history, 黑料正能量: A Century of Countercultural Education, published by Penn State Press University Press. The book will be released in October 2017.

Theater production: The 39 Steps, Thursday, April 6, 7:30 p.m., Main Stage Theater (University Commons) a fast-paced 鈥渨hodunit.” This two-time Tony庐 and Drama Desk Award-winner is packed with laughs featuring more than 150 zany characters played by a small cast. Tickets are available through by calling 540-432-4582 from 10:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. weekdays.

Community service: 20th Annual Blacks Run Clean-Up Day, Saturday, April 8, 9 a.m., , Harrisonburg. 黑料正能量 hopes to involve 100 volunteers. Dr. Huxman will bring greetings at the 9:30 a.m. kick-off with the event running until 11:30, followed by lunch. .

Invitation-only events

In addition, a number of invitation-only activities are planned for smaller group recognitions and celebrations with Dr. Huxman. These include:

  • A reception for 黑料正能量 retirees;
  • A breakfast reception for 黑料正能量 Business & Professional Club members;
  • A donor dinner;
  • A formal Gala Celebration for the campus community and invited guests.

Live stream available

A live stream of the event will be available.

All details about the inauguration, including the livestream link, are available at

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