MURFREESBORO, N.C. – Under clear blue skies and beautiful spring weather, �鶹��Ƶ celebrated the Class of 2026 during its 167th Commencement Ceremony on May 9, 2026, at the Hawks Athletic Center.

Family members, friends, faculty, staff, trustees, and supporters gathered to honor 135 members of the Class of 2026 as they marked the culmination of years of academic achievement, personal growth, and perseverance.

�鶹��Ƶ President Dr. Rosemary Thomas congratulated the graduates and reflected on the journeys that brought them to Commencement Day.

“It is a day to celebrate the accomplishments of you and your classmates,” Thomas said. “The road to this day has not always been one without interruptions, surprises, twists, and turns, but you made it.”

Thomas challenged graduates to carry forward the lessons they learned at Chowan and use them to make a positive impact in their communities and professions.

“Chowan did not teach you what to think, but rather how to think,” she said. “We are counting on you to be thoughtful, grounded individuals who are wise as they take their turn to shape this world.”

The ceremony celebrated students who distinguished themselves through academic excellence, leadership, service, athletics, faith, research, and artistic achievement. Graduates were recognized not only for earning their degrees but also for the contributions they made to campus life and the broader Chowan community.

They heard reflections from fellow graduates Gabriel Espiritu, Genesis Joyner, Destiny Makanjoula, Gracie Ross, and Darryl Swinson, who shared personal stories of growth, perseverance, faith, friendship, and achievement. Through their experiences, the student speakers encouraged classmates to pursue their goals with confidence, purpose, and a commitment to making a positive impact in the world.

�鶹��Ƶ also recognized excellence among its faculty as Dr. Mary Mitchell received the 2025-26 Excellence in Teaching Award, one of the University’s highest honors for teaching and student engagement.

Selected by fellow faculty members, the award recognizes dedication to students, effectiveness in the classroom, continued professional growth, service to the University, and positive relationships with colleagues and students. Dr. Mitchell, who joined the Chowan faculty in 2022, was recognized for exemplifying these qualities and for her commitment to student success.

Dr. Antenette D. Stokes ’11, Chair of the �鶹��Ƶ Board of Visitors, challenged graduates to move forward with courage, purpose, and integrity.

“You earned resilience. You earned perspective. You earned the ability to navigate hard conversations, uncertain moments, and evolving spaces with strength and clarity,” Stokes said. “That is the real power of your education.”

As the Class of 2026 turned their tassels and celebrated this milestone achievement, they prepared to begin new chapters in careers, graduate programs, ministry, military service, and communities across the country.

“Life is good, and it is about to take 135 different directions for this group,” Thomas said. “The future is bright because of your commitment to the values of faith, inclusion, imagination, and engagement.”

The 167th Commencement Ceremony served as a celebration of achievement, resilience, and possibility as �鶹��Ƶ sent forth another class prepared to lead lives of purpose, faith, and impact.

You can view the live stream and photos at

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�鶹��Ƶ proudly celebrates President Dr. Rosemary M. Thomas for being recognized as the 2026 University President of the Year by *Education Insider Magazine*, honoring her visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to student success, Christian higher education, and institutional growth.

Featured in the publication’s national leadership spotlight, Dr. Thomas was recognized for her dedication to preparing students not only for careers, but for meaningful lives grounded in faith, leadership, service, and purpose.

Since becoming president of �鶹��Ƶ, Dr. Thomas has championed a student-centered approach focused on academic innovation, spiritual development, and personal growth. Under her leadership, the University has continued strengthening enrollment initiatives, expanding student support services, investing in campus improvements, and advancing Chowan’s mission as a Christian liberal arts institution.

“�鶹��Ƶ is more than a place of learning — it is a community built on relationships, faith, and opportunity,” said Dr. Thomas. “Everything we do is centered around helping students discover their purpose and preparing them to make a positive impact in their communities and professions.”

The *Education Insider Magazine* feature highlights Dr. Thomas’ belief that higher education should focus on developing the whole person. Her leadership continues to shape initiatives that emphasize experiential learning, servant leadership, career readiness, and life skills development while preserving the close-knit culture that defines �鶹��Ƶ.

Throughout her tenure, Dr. Thomas has remained committed to ensuring students feel supported both inside and outside the classroom. Her leadership has strengthened partnerships across the region, expanded opportunities for students, and reinforced Chowan’s reputation for fostering personal connections and transformational educational experiences.

Members of the Chowan community celebrated the recognition as a reflection of both Dr. Thomas’ leadership and the collective work of faculty, staff, students, alumni, and supporters who continue advancing the University’s mission together.

Founded in 1848, �鶹��Ƶ has maintained a longstanding tradition of faith, education, and service in northeastern North Carolina for more than 175 years. Today, the University continues preparing students to lead lives of purpose while building a strong future rooted in Christian values and academic excellence.

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�鶹��Ƶ is proud to announce the appointment of Harri Lovett as Interim Vice President of Advancement, bringing with him a deep commitment to the University and a passion for strengthening relationships across the Chowan community.

Originally from Wrexham, Wales, Lovett was first drawn to �鶹��Ƶ through his passion for soccer. During his time as a student-athlete, he became an integral member of the Chowan Men’s Soccer program as a 3-year captain. A five-time All-American, Lovett helped lead the Hawks to two conference championships while building a strong connection to the University and its mission.

While earning a Bachelor of Arts in Business and later a Master’s degree in Organizational Leadership from Chowan, Lovett completed several internships within the University’s Office of Development before transitioning full-time into advancement and community engagement leadership roles. His experience in alumni relations, donor engagement, and fundraising reflects a strong understanding of Chowan’s mission and the importance of building meaningful relationships that support the University’s future.

“Harri’s dedication to �鶹��Ƶ and his passion for building meaningful relationships make him an outstanding fit for this role,” said �鶹��Ƶ President Dr. Rosemary Thomas. “He understands the importance of fostering connections that strengthen the University and support our students, faculty, and programs. I am excited to see him continue advancing the mission of �鶹��Ƶ.”

Throughout his time at Chowan, Lovett has played an important role in strengthening alumni engagement initiatives, supporting fundraising efforts, and cultivating a spirit of generosity and service across campus and within the broader community.

Beyond his work at Chowan, Lovett remains actively involved throughout the region. He serves as a board member for the Ahoskie Chamber of Commerce and Committee of 100, is Secretary of the Murfreesboro Rotary Club, and represents �鶹��Ƶ through NCICU Economic Development and NCICU Development initiatives. He also serves as Chowan’s representative for Hertford County Connections and the Project Green Lantern Workforce Development Committee, while volunteering with the Murfreesboro Historical Association.

“I have experienced first-hand how life-changing this institution can be,” Lovett said. “All aspects of this community have helped me grow into the position I find myself in today, and I am bursting with pride to be able to represent Chowan as we continue strengthening the future of the University and the lives of our students. 

I have been fortunate to work for, and with, some outstanding leaders in the Chowan Advancement department over the past seven years. I hope to emulate the best of John Tayloe, Dr. Shelley Greene, Andy Wilson, Kay Thomas, Twyla Duke and Kim Bailey through my daily practices with our Chowan family. 

I am incredibly grateful to Dr. Rosemary Thomas for her faith in me, the local community for embracing a young man far from home, and my family – especially my wife Ashton – for supporting me in this exciting step.” 

As Interim Vice President of Advancement, Lovett will oversee advancement initiatives, alumni relations, fundraising efforts, and community engagement while continuing to support the mission and future growth of �鶹��Ƶ.

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MURFREESBORO, N.C. — �鶹��Ƶ has announced the appointment of Taylor Furlough as Interim Vice President of Enrollment, effective immediately.

�鶹��Ƶ is proud to announce the appointment of Taylor Furlough as Interim Vice President of Enrollment, bringing with him a longstanding connection to the University as a student-athlete, coach, administrator, and proud alumnus.

A proud Chowan alumnus and longtime member of the University community, Furlough brings a deep understanding of Chowan’s mission, traditions, and student-centered culture to the role. His leadership experience spans athletics, admissions, student engagement, and higher education administration, reflecting more than two decades of service to the institution.

“Taylor’s lifelong connection to �鶹��Ƶ, combined with his proven leadership and passion for student success, make him an exceptional fit for this position,” said �鶹��Ƶ President Dr. Rosemary Thomas. “He understands the heart of this institution and the importance of building relationships with students and families. I am excited to see him continue helping shape the future of �鶹��Ƶ.”

Furlough entered Chowan College in the fall of 2001 after graduating from Columbia High School in Columbia, North Carolina. During his time as a student, he was actively involved in campus life as a student-athlete in both football and baseball while building lasting connections within the Chowan community.

After graduating in 2006 with a Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics, Furlough began his professional career at Chowan through coaching and student development roles before eventually transitioning into enrollment leadership. He later earned a Master’s Degree in Sports Management in 2011 and is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Global Sports Leadership through East Tennessee State University.

Furlough served as Head Baseball Coach at �鶹��Ƶ for 11 seasons, leading the program through one of its most successful eras, including an NCAA Division II Tournament appearance and a CIAA Championship. He concluded his coaching tenure as the program’s all-time leader in NCAA-era coaching victories.

Most recently serving as Director of Admissions, Furlough has remained committed to helping prospective students and families discover the opportunities available at �鶹��Ƶ.

“I am honored to be selected to serve in this role for the University,” Furlough said. “�鶹��Ƶ has provided me with countless opportunities for personal and professional growth, and I am excited to continue serving an institution that has had such a meaningful impact on my life. I look forward to working alongside our faculty, staff, and coaches to strengthen the future of �鶹��Ƶ while continuing to impact the lives of our students.” 

As Interim Vice President of Enrollment, Furlough will oversee enrollment strategy, recruitment initiatives, and student outreach efforts while continuing to advance �鶹��Ƶ’s mission of developing students academically, spiritually, and personally.

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CONCORD, N.C. — More than 30 female leaders representing all levels of leadership from Conference Carolinas’ 16 member institutions gathered Wednesday morning to hear from Rosemary M. Thomas, president of �鶹��Ƶ. Thomas served as the keynote speaker for the annual Conference Carolinas EmpowHER Breakfast Seminar for female leaders.

Following introductions from around the room, Thomas opened the session with a parable centered around a simple towel. She gifted each attendee a towel accompanied by a note explaining its deeper meaning for those working in higher education — particularly in college athletics.

A towel may wipe sweat from the floor or comfort a teammate after their final game. It may blot perspiration from a brow or serve as a tourniquet in a moment of injury. Though simple in appearance, Thomas explained, the towel symbolizes service, compassion, and support.

“It’s not just a simple towel; it’s the humble purpose the towel serves that matters most,” said Thomas.

The EmpowHER Breakfast brought together a wide range of conference administrators, including Senior Woman Administrators, university presidents, conference office staff, Faculty Athletic Representatives, Deputy Athletic Directors, and Athletic Directors from across the league’s 16 campuses.

Thomas later guided the group into roundtable discussions using a quote from the poet Rumi: “Be a lamp, or a lifeboat, or a ladder.”

She encouraged attendees to change one word in the quote to better reflect the realities of women in leadership.

“As women, we can change one word in this quote,” Thomas said. “Change the ‘or’ to ‘and,’ because oftentimes we are all three things at the same time. Be a lamp, and a lifeboat, and a ladder.”

One by one, female leaders shared examples of how they serve their campus communities in each of those roles.

One story that emerged from the discussion centered on how Ferrum College served as a lifeboat for Lees-McRae College following the devastating impact of Hurricane Helene in 2024. Ferrum opened its campus to Lees-McRae student-athletes and coaches after the storm caused catastrophic damage throughout Banner Elk.

Ferrum President Mirta M. Martin said the university felt honored to host Lees-McRae student-athletes during the difficult time.

“What mattered most was that the student-athletes, coaches and administrators built friendships before they ever became competitors. That is the beauty of athletics and of Conference Carolinas- we can compete fiercely on the field and still care deeply for one another beyond it. The bonds created during Lees-McRae College’s time on our campus remain strong today, a lasting reminder that shared experiences and genuine human connection are far greater than any scoreboard,” shared Martin. 

Martin and Thomas, the league’s two female presidents, created a powerful moment for every female leader in attendance simply by being in the same room together.

The morning ultimately served as a reminder of the importance of mentorship, collaboration, and representation within collegiate athletics. As the seminar concluded, attendees left not only with a towel in hand, but with a renewed sense of purpose and connection — encouraged to continue serving as lamps, lifeboats, and ladders for the next generation of women leaders across Conference Carolinas. 

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“I’m going to tell a story,” Jay Ward says, his voice measured, intentional. “But I want to get it right.”

For Ward, storytelling is not casual. It is a responsibility.

Raised in Rich Square, North Carolina, Ward carries the rhythms, contradictions, and complexities of the South into every line he writes. Today, as a poet, performer, and Charlotte’s inaugural poet laureate, his work reaches national audiences—but it never loses its sense of place.

Because for Ward, place is not just where a story happens.

It is the story.

To understand Ward’s urgency, you have to understand the history he writes against.

For generations, the South—and Southern writers—have been misunderstood, dismissed, and misrepresented. Early critics like H.L. Mencken once reduced the region to a cultural void, describing it as intellectually barren and artistically lifeless. Those words, and the mindset behind them, helped shape a narrative that Southern writers have long had to confront.

Ward does not simply respond to that narrative.

He rewrites it.

“When I talk about place,” Ward explains, “I don’t just mean landscape. I mean something that feels real. Something lived in.”

That distinction is everything.

In Ward’s work, place is not a backdrop—it is a living presence. Built through memory, voice, and detail, it reflects the people who shape it and the stories they carry. His poetry resists stereotype, replacing it with nuance, complexity, and truth.

For Ward, this is more than craft.

It is obligation.

“As a Southerner, sometimes we feel the need to explain the South,” he says. “But as a Southern writer, I think we absolutely feel an obligation—to explain it and to do it right.”

That commitment has not gone unnoticed.

In recognition of his powerful voice and lasting contributions to the arts, Ward is named the recipient of the Mary Frances Hobson Prize for Distinguished Achievement in Arts and Letters at �鶹��Ƶ.

Established by the Hobson Family Foundation in memory of journalist and poet Mary Frances Hobson, the award honors individuals whose work has made a meaningful impact in the arts and literary world. Each year, the recipient is invited to deliver the Mary Frances Hobson Lecture, sharing insight and inspiration with the university community and the citizens of Hertford County.

For Ward, the recognition is both an honor and an extension of his mission.

His work already speaks to audiences far beyond the page—through performance, mentorship, and community engagement. Now, through the Hobson Lecture, that voice reaches even further, inviting listeners to reconsider how stories are told and whose stories are heard.

Today, Ward stands as one of North Carolina’s most resonant contemporary voices—not only because of what he writes, but because of what his work represents.

Through collections like Composition and Sing Me A Lesser Wound, and through his performances on national stages, he reclaims the narrative of the South. He replaces outdated perceptions with lived experience, inviting audiences to see the region not as it has been labeled, but as it truly is—layered, complex, and deeply human.

He shows that Southern writing is not something to defend.

It is something to understand.

Ultimately, Ward’s message is simple—but not easy.

To tell a story is to carry responsibility.
To write about place is to represent people, history, and memory all at once.

To do it carelessly is to flatten something rich into something hollow.
To do it well is to preserve it.

“We are telling the story,” Ward says. “It is our name. It is our place.”

And getting it right matters.

Because for Junious “Jay” Ward, storytelling is not just about expression.

It is about truth.
It is about legacy.
And it is about making sure that the places that shaped us are not just seen—

but understood.

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President Thomas shared that, “Rob Burke brings a proven record of leadership, integrity, and deep commitment to student-athlete success to this role. We are confident his vision and energy will elevate Chowan Athletics and strengthen our culture of excellence both on and off the fields of play.” 

Burke will maintain his position as Head Men’s Basketball Coach while also serving in the role as Director of Athletics. Burke brings with him 26 years of coaching experience at all levels of basketball, giving him invaluable experience that will assist him in his new journey as Director of Athletics. 

“I am honored and especially thankful for this opportunity to impact �鶹��Ƶ in a different light,” said Burke. “I understand the leaders that have come before me and I am humbled to take on the challenges in this collegiate environment.”

Burke, a 1999 Chowan graduate, returns home, this time on the sidelines.  Burke played for his father, legendary Chowan head coach Bob Burke, from 1995-1999, where he ranks in the top-10 in Chowan’s Division III program history in three point field goals made, assists, and points.

“Chowan is unique in how we impact student athletes,” continued Burke. “This university impacted my entire 25-year career in so many different ways. I hope to take on the challenge of the new age student-athlete in helping them have the same type of experience that I had as a student-athlete here.”

“I am excited to lead our team of coaches and to continue the building process of each program here at Chowan. I know this will be a major task but with the guidance and expertise of our Deputy Athletic Director  and the remaining athletic administrative staff, I know we can continue to meet the needs of our student athletes”.

“Rob and I have known one another since we were 18 years old when we were student-athletes ourselves here at Chowan,” said , Deputy Athletic Director. “Rob brings energy and enthusiasm to our department and experiences on a lot of other college campuses that will help us as we nurture and continue to grow our department in the coming years. This transition will be as smooth as it can be because we have an excellent support staff, starting at the top with our President, Dr. Thomas,  and trickling down into each department on this campus.” 

Prior to coming back to Chowan, Burke was the assistant men’s basketball coach at Division III Colorado College for one season under Coach Conarroe.

Burke spent four seasons at UNC Wilmington climbing the ranks within the program starting as the director of basketball operations in 2017 before being promoted to assistant coach during the 2018-19 campaign, and later served as the interim head coach for the latter half of the 2019-20 season.  Burke would go 5-8 as the interim while helping Shykeim Phillips to an All-CAA Rookie Team selection.

Prior to arriving in Wilmington, Burke served as the director of basketball operations at Georgia Southern for two seasons. 

Before moving up the ranks in the Division I level, Burke spent six seasons (2004-10) at NJCAA Spartanburg Methodist, where he guided the Pioneers to a 112-67 overall record, averaging 19 wins a season.  Burke was named Region X Coach of the Year in 2008-09 and sent 32 players to Division I and II.

Burke spent the 2008 summer as a pro staff skill development trainer for the Nike Regional Skills Academy.

Prior to becoming a head coach, Burke spent two seasons at Campbell (2002-04) as an assistant coach and two seasons at Limestone (2000-02).

Burke was a four-year member of the then-Chowan College, where he ranks in the top-10 in program history in made three-point field goals and in assists.  Burke graduated from Chowan in 1999 with a bachelor’s degree in Sport Management and a minor in Business Administration.

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Traub shared the exciting news after officially completing her Ph.D., marking a significant academic milestone in her already impressive journey.

After transferring to Chowan from the University of Tampa and Northern Virginia Community College, Traub completed her Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science in 2022. She immediately continued her education at Chowan, enrolling in the Master of Organizational Leadership program in the summer of 2022 and graduating in the summer of 2023.

Reflecting on her time at Chowan, Traub credits the University with laying the foundation for her doctoral success.

“My experience at Chowan laid the foundation for everything that came after it — academically, professionally, and personally,” Traub said. “As a student-athlete, I learned discipline, resilience, and the importance of balancing high expectations in the classroom and in sport. The academic rigor I encountered in the MOL program strengthened my critical-thinking skills and pushed me to engage with complex ideas in meaningful ways. By the time I began my Ph.D., the habits of inquiry, reflection, and perseverance that I developed at Chowan had already prepared me to thrive.”

Traub described the Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership program as transformative in shaping both her leadership philosophy and professional confidence.

“The MOL program taught me that leadership is not about the title you hold, but the impact you make,” she said. “I found my voice as a leader — one rooted in empathy, service, and accountability. What I learned empowered me to step confidently into my career, so much so that I became a college professor at just 22 years old. That opportunity wasn’t about being the youngest in the room; it was about being prepared.”

Today, Dr. Traub serves as an Assistant Professor of Exercise Science at Newberry College, where she is investing in the next generation of health and exercise science professionals. She continues to draw upon the foundational lessons she gained at Chowan — lessons that shaped not only her leadership style, but the way she supports and mentors others.

Traub also expressed deep gratitude for the faculty and mentors who influenced her journey.

“The faculty in the MOL program invested in me not just as a student, but as a whole person,” she said. “Their belief in my potential gave me confidence in moments when I didn’t fully see it in myself.”

She also reflected on the impact of her experience as a member and captain of the women’s soccer team, where early mornings, shared challenges, and a culture of accountability helped shape her character.

In addition, Traub credited Dr. Hunter Taylor for encouraging her to pursue doctoral studies.

“He saw something in me that I hadn’t yet learned to see in myself,” she said. “I remember staying on long Zoom calls asking question after question while I felt overwhelmed and unsure. He never once made me feel out of place. His patience and belief helped me push through some of my toughest moments. I truly think that’s what Chowan is all about — the people there.”

For current and future MOL students, Traub offers this advice:

“Lean into the process. The MOL program will challenge you, but it will stretch you in all the right ways. Seek mentorship, ask questions, and don’t shy away from uncomfortable moments — those are often where the most growth happens. And most importantly, trust that you belong in every room your hard work leads you to.”

To those considering pursuing a doctorate after completing the MOL program, her message is simple:

“Go for it. The transition to doctoral-level study is absolutely achievable with the foundation Chowan provides. If you approach it with purpose, discipline, and the belief that your voice matters, there is no limit to what you can achieve.”

�鶹��Ƶ congratulates Dr. Traub on this outstanding accomplishment and celebrates the lasting impact she continues to make in higher education.

—

About �鶹��Ƶ
is a Christian liberal arts university located in Murfreesboro, North Carolina, committed to preparing students to discover their purpose through academic excellence and experiential learning.

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From the first moment Lucas Pels stepped onto �鶹��Ƶ’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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The roots of the Rouson legacy date back to 1924, when Rev. and Mrs. Rouson planted deep roots in the Murfreesboro community. Through decades of commitment to education, civic leadership, and ministry, they exemplified lives devoted to service, generosity, and advocacy for others. In recognition of their significant contributions, the Rouson Memorial Lecture was formally established in 2003 through a joint venture of the Town of Murfreesboro, �鶹��Ƶ, the Murfreesboro Historical Association, and local historian Alice Eley Jones.

As part of this year’s program, �鶹��Ƶ recognized two outstanding individuals whose lives reflect the spirit and values of the Rouson legacy.

Mr. Johnnie Reid was honored as the recipient of the Community Service Award. A retired educator with more than 30 years of service in Hertford County Public Schools, Mr. Reid has dedicated his life to bringing hope, guidance, and opportunity to generations of students. His enduring commitment to education and community uplift continues to leave a lasting impact.

Rev. Sonya Askew Williams received the Minnie Woods Perkins Award in recognition of her exceptional service and leadership. Rev. Williams has devoted nearly four decades of service to ECU Health Roanoke-Chowan Hospital and currently serves as the Manager of Community Health Improvement – Chaplain & Volunteer Services, faithfully supporting individuals and families throughout the region.

The keynote address was delivered by Rev. Dr. Mary Harrell, who shared a powerful message titled “Let Us Rise and Shine.” Drawing from Psalm 37 and personal reflection, Rev. Dr. Harrell emphasized the responsibility of using one’s God-given gifts to serve others and strengthen communities. She reflected on the Rousons as public servants who freely gave their time, talents, and resources to make the world a better place.

“Your gifts are not for you alone,” Rev. Dr. Harrell shared. “They are meant to be scattered to bring light, hope, and purpose to the lives of others.”

Welcoming remarks were provided by Dr. Rosemary Thomas, President of �鶹��Ƶ, who spoke to the deep alignment between the Rouson legacy and the university’s mission. Dr. Thomas highlighted Chowan’s guiding pillars of faith, family, and future, emphasizing the institution’s commitment to empowering students through education, service, and community.

“This is a place where education and faith intersect unapologetically,” Dr. Thomas said. “We are grounded in Christian faith, dedicated to transforming lives and preparing students to lead with purpose.”

University leadership, civic officials, honored guests, members of the Rouson family, and community members gathered in Chowan Chapel to commemorate the occasion and reaffirm the importance of service, faith, and shared responsibility in shaping a better future.

The Rouson Memorial Lecture remains a powerful reminder that lives devoted to purpose, generosity, and service leave a legacy that continues to shine.

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