From the first moment Lucas Pels stepped onto Â鶹ĘÓƵ’s campus, it was clear he would leave an impression. Sometimes that impression came poolside, sometimes in the classroom, and sometimes—unforgettably—in a romper while energizing the student section at a volleyball game.

“He stood out immediately,” said Shannon Williams, associate professor of accounting. “He was the life of the student section. It was obvious he had a great sense of humor—something that helped him connect with people in every setting.”

That ability to balance joy with responsibility became a defining characteristic of Pels’ time at Chowan. As a student-athlete, he was known not only for his work ethic in the pool, but for his attentiveness in class and his genuine investment in learning.

“In class, Lucas was always very attentive and willing to put in the work,” Williams said. “I was especially impressed by his eagerness to connect coursework to the real world, particularly in his senior capstone project.”

But Lucas’s impact extended far beyond academics. When Williams recruited him to help with a community Reading Fest, his leadership immediately surfaced.

“He encouraged his teammates and friends to help with posters and games to engage the kids,” she recalled. “His excitement was contagious—and the kids absolutely loved him.”

That blend of leadership, enthusiasm, and care for others followed Lucas long after graduation—and ultimately led him back to where it all began.

A Full-Circle Return

Returning to Chowan as head swim coach marked a new chapter for Pels—one that felt both surreal and familiar.

“Coming back to Chowan as a coach almost felt like I never left,” Pels said. “Having already had the Chowan experience as a student-athlete made it easy to get things going with the team right away.”

Practice began his very first day back on campus, a reflection of both the program’s readiness and Pels’ hands-on leadership style.

For Lucas, returning wasn’t simply a career move—it was the fulfillment of a dream he had carried since his sophomore year.

“I already knew I wanted to coach,” he said. “And I wanted to give other athletes the same opportunity I had here. There’s something special about Chowan—I swear there’s something in the water.”

Learning How to Lead

Lucas credits his time as a Chowan swimmer—and the variety of coaching styles he experienced—with shaping his approach today.

“Swimming has changed a lot over the past decade,” he explained. “Some things that were normal when I was younger aren’t best practice anymore. Being at Chowan taught me how I wanted to coach—and how I didn’t.”

After graduating, Pels returned to his home state of Florida and worked with Planet Swim Club in Ponte Vedra, gaining experience in one of the nation’s most competitive swimming environments. There, he learned that long-term success is driven by culture as much as talent.

That preparation proved critical in 2023, when Pels served as acting head coach for Chowan’s men’s and women’s teams during a mid-season transition. Leading the Hawks at the Conference Carolinas Swim Championship in Tennessee, he guided the teams to multiple podium finishes across both the men’s and women’s events, demonstrating resilience, unity, and belief under pressure.

Building More Than a Team

While competitive success matters, Pels is quick to emphasize that his vision extends far beyond results.

“My biggest goal is to create a healthy environment,” he said. “One where athletes work hard, support each other, and enjoy the process.”

Williams sees that philosophy as an extension of who Lucas has always been.

“He always balanced work with play,” she said. “I think Lucas found a little bit of fun in everything he did—whether in class, in the pool, or around campus.”

That joy, paired with discipline, is what Pels hopes his athletes carry with them beyond Chowan.

“I want them to love what they do—not just swimming, but life,” he said. “To care about others, to get back up when they’re knocked down, and to help lift others up too.”

Confidence from Leadership

Chowan Athletics leadership shares that confidence in Pels’ vision and ability.

“We feel fortunate to have Lucas join the staff officially,” said Patrick Mashuda, Associate Vice President for Athletics and Compliance. “Lucas has a ton of talent as a young coach, and his enthusiasm for the sport is off the charts. I can’t wait to see what Lucas can do with the program that he helped to build as a former CU Hawk swimmer.”

Still Becoming

For Pels, coaching has never been about titles, recognition, or legacy.

“I don’t coach because of money or career building,” he said. “I coach because I love seeing people succeed through hard work and adversity.”

As Chowan swimming moves forward, Lucas Pels stands at the helm not just as a coach, but as a mentor shaped by the same classrooms, community, and culture he now leads.

And in true Lucas fashion, he’s doing it with heart, humility—and just enough fun to make the hard work worthwhile.

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“Our academic leaders are the foundation of Chowan’s transformative learning experience,” said Dr. Dilustro. “Together, they ensure that every academic space—whether in psychology, sports science, or the registrar’s office—reflects our commitment to preparing students for purposeful lives and careers.”

Among the leaders advancing this vision are Dr. Mary Mitchell, who now leads the Department of Psychology; Dr. Ted Kian, who heads the Department of Sports Science; and Mrs. Elizabeth Cox, who now serves as University Registrar. Each plays a vital role in shaping the academic life and success of Chowan’s students.

Dr. Mitchell brings enthusiasm for psychological inquiry and mentorship, helping students explore human behavior, mental health, and research with curiosity and compassion. Dr. Kian, a scholar and practitioner in sports science, has quickly become a key contributor to Chowan’s growing programs in health, exercise science, and athletics-related careers. Meanwhile, Mrs. Cox’s steady leadership as Registrar anchors Chowan’s academic integrity and student success—her deep institutional knowledge ensuring that the University’s academic processes run seamlessly from enrollment to graduation.

“These leaders exemplify the heart of Chowan’s academic community,” said Dr. Taylor. “They are building bridges between tradition and innovation—honoring the University’s history while advancing its mission for the future.”

Together, this team reflects Â鶹ĘÓƵ’s continued investment in academic quality and collaboration—ensuring that every program, department, and student experience is marked by the pursuit of excellence, faith, and service.

From Right to Left
Dr. Ted Kian, Dr. Mary Mitchell, and Mrs. Elizabeth Cox

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MURFREESBORO, N.C. — October 14, 2025 — Â鶹ĘÓƵ hosted its Distinguished Alumni Dinner gathering alumni, students, faculty, staff, and friends to celebrate Hawks whose lives reflect Chowan’s mission of faith, learning, and service.

“Tonight we honor alumni who lead with integrity, lift others, and invest in their communities,” said Dr. Rosemary Thomas, President of Â鶹ĘÓƵ. “Their stories show our students what’s possible—and why the Chowan experience matters.”

2025 Distinguished Alumni Honorees

Calvin Baldwin Jr., MBA — A respected leader and mentor, Baldwin formerly served as Director of the Jenkins Center at Â鶹ĘÓƵ and has built a remarkable career as an insurance professional, author, and motivational speaker. As founder of Reset and Rise, Inc., a nonprofit dedicated to giving second chances, and creator of the popular Coffee Break series and Amara’s Adventures, he continues to inspire others to “master the mind” and live with purpose.

Stephen Dunn — Founder of Graphix Solutions, Dunn has transformed the visual landscape of Â鶹ĘÓƵ through his creative vision and partnership. His company designed and installed Chowan’s new campus signage, enhancing wayfinding and pride for visitors and students alike. Beyond his professional contributions, Dunn has invested in Chowan’s graduates—employing five alumni, including four recent graduates, as valued members of his growing business.

Dr. Alexandria “Allie” Evans — A trailblazer in rural education, Dr. Evans serves as Director of Exceptional Children & Federal Programs for Northampton County Schools and recently earned her Ed.D. from William & Mary (2025). Her career includes leadership roles in the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction, as well as in school improvement and accountability. Selected for both the Smithsonian Rural Leadership Cohort and the NC Aspiring Superintendents Program, she is a passionate advocate for expanding opportunity and equity in underserved communities across Eastern North Carolina.

Lance Jenkins — A proud Chowan graduate and two-term Student Government Association President, Jenkins continues to exemplify leadership and initiative in his professional life. After serving in both the public sector and insurance industry, he founded Oak & Elm Realty Group in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. His entrepreneurial spirit and enduring commitment to his alma mater reflect the confidence and character Chowan instills in its students.

David Glenn — A gifted Christian artist, Glenn’s music has touched audiences across the nation through heartfelt songwriting and performances that center on faith, hope, and authentic worship. Whether on stage, in church, or at community gatherings, his lyrics and melodies invite others to encounter Christ in everyday life. During this year’s Heritage Lectures, Glenn was honored as a Distinguished Alumnus—his songs playing throughout the evening’s celebration, a fitting tribute to his lasting influence on Chowan’s spiritual and artistic community.

2025 Community Service Award

Daryl Williams — A lifelong servant leader, Williams retired as Captain with the North Carolina Department of Public Safety before taking on his current role as Executive Director of the Murfreesboro Chamber of Commerce. A devoted civic and church leader, he has strengthened community bonds through decades of volunteerism and was awarded the prestigious Order of the Long Leaf Pine for his distinguished service to the state.

“Each honoree embodies the best of Chowan—perseverance, service, and a commitment to mentoring the next generation,” said Harri Lovett, Director of Development. “Their impact is felt on campus and throughout our region.”

As the University reflects on its heritage and looks toward the future, this year’s honorees remind us that Chowan’s mission endures not only in classrooms and careers, but in the countless lives changed through faith, leadership, and service. Their stories are proof that the spirit of Chowan lives far beyond campus—shining brightly in every community they touch.

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Davis currently serves as a Board of Trustees Member at Â鶹ĘÓƵ. He was presented with the Distinguished Alumni Award in 2023, inducted into the Â鶹ĘÓƵ Athletics Hall of Fame in 2001, and named All-Conference during his tenure at Chowan (1979-1981). Davis’ recognition reflects not only his personal accomplishments but also the values of perseverance, character, and leadership that Chowan instills in its students and alumni.

Â鶹ĘÓƵ President Dr. Rosemary M. Thomas shared, “Freddie Davis’ legacy is one that continues to inspire our students and alumni alike. His dedication to excellence, leadership, and service reflects the very best of what it means to be a Chowan Hawk. We are proud to celebrate this well-deserved recognition.”

Davis’ achievement joins a long tradition of alumni success stories that highlight Chowan’s commitment to developing leaders prepared to impact their professions and communities.

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The revival opened with a moving worship service in Chowan Chapel, led by Interim Campus Minister Jason Fowler. Chowan alumnus Pastor Michael Moore returned to campus with a heartfelt message, praying, “I pray that this last night of campus revival is the beginning of something really special at Chowan—where students are unafraid and unashamed of the gospel of Jesus Christ and bold in sharing His message with their peers.”

Preaching from Romans 10, Pastor Moore emphasized knowledge, conviction, and commitment as the heart of saving faith. Sharing his own testimony, he reminded students that no matter their background or struggles, God is able and willing to transform lives.

One of the most powerful moments of the week came when fifteen students publicly professed their faith through baptism. Before the baptisms, Jason Fowler led a prayer of gratitude, celebrating the students’ boldness and the transformative work happening in their hearts. Pastor Jill Awuni, affectionately known as “Mama Jill,” joined Pastor Fowler in baptizing the following students: Ariana Vizcaya, Desiree Cumbea-Hailey, Courtney Massingill, Kamari Matthews, Antwone Godley, Kris’Shyia McKoy, Jesmelly Lugo-Tirado, Jadyn Hammonds-Dickens, Teray Cherry, Jayden Andrews, Jaimire Rogers, Abigail Lugo-Tirado, Michael Litchfield, Sarai Sanders, and Janaya Perry.

Closing the service, President Dr. Rosemary Thomas offered words of encouragement: “We all have faith. We are part of a family that is unparalleled. And we are not afraid of the future, because we are walking into it together.”

At Chowan, the Holy Week Revival is more than a campus tradition — it is a sacred time when lives are changed, faith is renewed, and the love of Christ is boldly proclaimed.

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Originally from Bogotá, Colombia, Manuela earned her B.S. in Mathematics from Â鶹ĘÓƵ in 2024, after two years on a tennis scholarship at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University. Reflecting on her time at Chowan, she shared: “I loved the tranquility and the possibility of focusing on my studies. I like the small classes and the idea that you get to actually talk to your professors. There is a strong sense of community.”

An accomplished student and athlete, Manuela served as President of the International Club, Captain of the Tennis Team, and was a speaker at the Senior Banquet. She’s also a puzzle enthusiast, enjoying logic challenges like Sudoku.

This academic year, Manuela was selected for the prestigious Sloan Sports Analytics Conference Mentorship Program, organized by MIT’s Sloan School of Management. At the Boston conference, she participated in workshops, networked with professionals, and began a six-month mentorship with an industry expert — an experience she describes as invaluable for her professional development.

Manuela credits her success to the mentorship she received from Chowan faculty. “I have so much to thank her for. She is very encouraging. I don’t think I can ever repay her for all that she does for the international students,” she said of Dr. Jill Awuni.

Looking ahead, Manuela is eager to teach beginning statistics next fall and aspires to be “a professor who is well loved” during her graduate school journey. Her long-term goal is to gain professional experience in the United States before returning to Colombia, where she hopes to apply her skills in sports analytics, whether on the business side or in player performance analysis.

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Rademacher, a 2023 graduate of Chowan and former standout pitcher for the Hawks, was signed as a free agent in 2023 by the San Francisco Giants. He spent last year in San Jose with the Giants in Single A before moving up to High-A this year in Eugene. 

Rademacher tossed a gem for the Eugene Emeralds on April 13th against the Tri-City Dust Devils. He threw 5.0 innings, giving up one hit and striking out three Dust Devil batters. Rademacher has appeared in two games this season with nine innings pitched, five strikeouts and a 1.00 earned run average. 

To follow Rademacher this season in Eugene, . 

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David, originally from Virginia Beach, came to Chowan to play baseball. He majored in Exercise Science with a minor in Coaching, and by his senior year, he had earned NCCAA All-American and Region honors. After graduation, he worked as a personal trainer until 2011, when he made a pivotal career change by joining the U.S. Navy as a Special Warfare Combatant-Craft Crewman (SWCC).

While much of David’s work remains classified, open-source information paints a picture of a highly demanding and specialized role. SWCC sailors are trained at the Naval Base in Coronado, where they master boating, weapons tactics, and clandestine infiltration and exfiltration techniques in support of SEALs and other special operations forces. Today, David serves as a Chief Warrant Officer—a position held by highly skilled technical experts responsible for directing complex operations around the world.

Yet, for David, his years at Chowan still echo in his military career. He often recalls Coach Aaron Carroll’s intense baseball “boot camps” during pre-season practices. That foundational toughness continues to serve him well today.

Courtney, a native of Gates County, North Carolina, came to Chowan as a cross-country runner and graduated with honors as a History major. Though her love for history didn’t immediately translate into a career, she found purpose in an unexpected field. “One of my history professors, Dr. Krapauskas, used to joke that if all else fails, go into finance,” Courtney laughs. “And that’s exactly what I did.” She is particularly grateful to Dr. Greg Taylor, her advisor and history professor. “He literally transformed learning for me and paved the way for many milestones.”

Today, Courtney works remotely in the finance sector, building spreadsheets and performing profit-loss analyses for mortgage companies. While her work may seem far from her historical roots, it gives her the flexibility to pursue her passions for travel and reading. As a military spouse, she has lived in some exciting locations and frequently visits family back home in North Carolina. Currently, the Hughes are stationed in San Diego.

While David’s military role may draw attention, Courtney has carved out her own path of adventure and endurance. She has evolved from a collegiate cross-country runner to an ultra-athlete, competing in ultramarathons (ranging from 26 to over 100 miles) and Ironman Triathlons (which combine a 2.4-mile swim, 112-mile bike ride, and a 26.2-mile run). Her athletic achievements have taken her across the U.S., as well as to Guam, Thailand, and the Philippines. Most recently, she completed the Ironman 70.3 North Carolina. “Vacations usually involve some type of race,” she says.

Beyond their individual careers and athletic pursuits, David and Courtney are deeply committed to serving the military community and the environment. Courtney volunteers with Saddles in Service, a nonprofit dedicated to helping active-duty and retired military personnel struggling with PTSD through equine therapy. The couple also owns a horse, further fueling Courtney’s passion for the program.

Service is a constant thread in the Hughes’ lives. Wherever they are stationed, they seek opportunities to give back—whether it’s cleaning beaches, participating in underwater trash dives, or volunteering at an elephant sanctuary in Thailand. “We try to find ways to contribute wherever we go,” Courtney says. “We’re incredibly fortunate, and giving back is part of how we stay grounded.”

From the baseball fields of Â鶹ĘÓƵ to special operations missions and endurance races across continents, David and Courtney Hughes continue to live a life defined by service, resilience, and adventure.

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Born on November 20, 1863, just one day after President Lincoln delivered the Gettysburg Address, Olevia Frances Benthall Jenkins was raised on the Benthall family farm near Menola, North Carolina. She pursued her education at the Chowan Baptist Female Institute, which would later become Chowan College and eventually Â鶹ĘÓƵ. Her time at Chowan reflected her commitment to learning and personal growth, values she carried throughout her life.

In 1880, Olevia married Joseph Henry Jenkins, moving to the Jenkins family farm in St. Johns, where they raised eight children. Despite personal hardships, including the loss of their infant son, Kelly, she remained a steadfast pillar of her family and community. After relocating to Aulander in the early 1900s and later losing her husband in 1934, she managed her household finances and co-managed farming operations with her family—an extraordinary feat for a woman of her time.

Admired for her wisdom and hospitality, she welcomed family, friends, dignitaries, and elected officials into her home, leaving a lasting impression on all who knew her. She passed away peacefully on December 7, 1967, leaving behind a legacy of strength, resilience, and devotion to her family and faith.

The newly donated portrait now hangs within the Wayland Jenkins Fine Arts Center at Â鶹ĘÓƵ, displayed alongside other portraits of Wayland Jenkins and his family. This addition holds deep significance, further linking Chowan’s history to the families who have helped shape its legacy. The donation by Drs. William and Stephen Marsh ensures that their great-grandmother’s influence, dedication, and pioneering spirit continue to inspire generations to come.

Â鶹ĘÓƵ extends its deepest gratitude to the Marsh family for their meaningful contribution and invites the community to view the portrait as a testament to the enduring impact of Olevia Frances Benthall Jenkins.

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Established in 2003 as a collaboration between the Town of Murfreesboro, Â鶹ĘÓƵ, and the Murfreesboro Historical Association, the lecture honors individuals who make a meaningful impact on their community.

Dr. Rosemary M. Thomas, President of Â鶹ĘÓƵ, opened the service with Psalm 118:24:
“This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.”

She reflected on the values embodied by the Rouson family: faith, family, and future—faith guiding ministry, family fostering compassion, and the future ensuring education. She reminded attendees, “We are here to celebrate a legacy, share memories, and create new ones.”

Murfreesboro Mayor Hal Thomas introduced Mayor Pro Tem Berna L. Stephens, who presented awards to community members exemplifying the Rouson spirit.

Captain Derek A. Burke – Futrell/Ruffin Community Service Award

Captain Derek A. Burke, of the Murfreesboro Police Department, was recognized for his decades of service. A former Military Police Officer in the U.S. Air Force, he later worked in law enforcement with the Virginia Department of Corrections, Halifax County Sheriff’s Office, and Â鶹ĘÓƵ Campus Police.

Beyond his professional roles, Captain Burke made a lasting impact on the community, volunteering with the Murfreesboro Recreation Department and managing the youth basketball program. “Our league emphasized fundamentals, discipline, and sportsmanship, incorporating Â鶹ĘÓƵ’s men’s and women’s basketball teams to inspire young athletes,” he shared.

Brunet V. Parker – Minnie Wood Perkins Humanitarian Award

Recently retired after a 30-year career in education, Brunet V. Parker was honored for her dedication to youth empowerment. A graduate of multiple institutions, including Â鶹ĘÓƵ, Elizabeth City State University, and East Carolina University, she holds an MBA and is a Certified Professional Mentor.

In 2011, she received the Roanoke-Chowan News Herald Front Page Award for enriching students’ lives through Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA), which she chartered at Hertford County Middle School. Her motto, “The greater the obstacle, the more glory in overcoming it,” continues to inspire.

Words of Wisdom: Choosing the Right Path

Linda Pierce, a Hertford County native and active First Baptist Church member, spoke about the importance of education and making wise choices. She quoted Robert Frost’s “The Road Not Taken,” emphasizing:

“Two roads diverged in a wood, and I—
I took the one less traveled by,
And that has made all the difference.”

She urged attendees to believe in themselves, seek wisdom, and choose friends wisely. Quoting George Carlin, she reminded the congregation, “We have learned how to make a living, but not a life. We have added years to life but not life to years.” She concluded with a powerful reflection: “The decisions we make control our destiny. What road will you take today?”

Continuing the Rouson Legacy

The Rouson family remains deeply connected to Â鶹ĘÓƵ—not just through their endowment but through their service in art, youth work, and business. Around 30 Rousens were in attendance celebrating their love for their heritage, each other, their community and Chowan. Reverend Willie Elliott, responsible for sharing information with Jill Awuni, who worked tirelessly to find them all, was ecstatic to see relatives he hadn’t been with for years, as well as meet new family members. He closed the gathering with prayer thanking the Lord for “this auspicious day to share the Rouson legacy—a legacy of family, service, and support for others.”

The Rousons are a talented family with members in public service, working with youth, in finance and entrepreneurs, including a legacy of professional artists. Homer Rouson, son of Reverend George Thomas and Luvenia Baker Rouson was an artist. John Hairston, Jr. Kathy Rouson’s son, is a commercial artist and owns All City Studios, where he blends political satire, social commentary and obscure pop-culture references into art. Hairston’s work is on display in various art galleries all over the world.

Jill Awuni, Assistant Professor of Religion, Director of International Affairs and organizer of The Rouson Lecture was thrilled. “What a magical experience to bring family members together for such an inspirational event. We feel deep gratitude to Reverend George Thomas and Luvenia Baker Rouson for being influential trail blazers whose heritage continues to bring family, students and community together.”

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