Student Life Archives - �鶹��Ƶ

Rouson Memorial Lecture: A Legacy of Faith, Family, and Service

Catherine Vickers — Sun, 02 Mar 2025 16:02:37 +0000

The Chapel at �鶹��Ƶ was filled with enthusiasm, heartfelt exchanges, and warm embraces as the Rouson family gathered for the annual Reverend George T. and Luvenia B. Rouson Memorial Lecture. Some traveled from outside North Carolina—including a father and son from Atlanta—making the event a true family reunion. The congregation overflowed, with many standing outside, a testament to the lasting impact of the Rouson legacy.

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

Dr. Rosemary M. Thomas, President of �鶹��Ƶ, 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 �鶹��Ƶ 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 �鶹��Ƶ’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 �鶹��Ƶ, 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 �鶹��Ƶ—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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Student Spotlight: Selene Kentish

Catherine Vickers — Wed, 13 Nov 2024 16:19:54 +0000

Coming from Antigua and Barbuda, Selene Kentish calls �鶹��Ƶ her second home. She is a senior, graduating in Psychology and planning on obtaining an MSW focusing on Health Care. She is also interested in working in the foster care system, with particular concern for children in difficult placements. Kentish is applying at universities in Florida, Atlanta and England for graduate school.

Kentish wishes to eventually return to Antigua and share what she has learned in her studies, helping to build a better system for promoting social change. Antigua and Barbuda are sister islands and very small. She was shocked when she first attended �鶹��Ƶ and students spoke of traveling one hour, even two to attend an event. Driving 40 – 50 minutes was all the time it took to drive from one end of her island to another. Barbuda is simple living with the main industry farming and fishing. Kentish’s family, her mom, dad and younger sister live in Antigua, home to 365 beaches. Kentish’s mother is an accountant and her father a land surveyor.

Selene Kentish is a tennis player, a transfer student from Florida. She loves her teammates and appreciates the entire team culture. Chowan’s smaller campus allows opportunities to be recognized. She is a member of Honors College, Psi Chi and Pi Gamma Mu; Kentish was awarded Outstanding Student 2023-2024 and 2024-2025 and currently serves as Social Media Coordinator for the International Students Club and Women’s Tennis Team Captain.

“�鶹��Ƶ is what you make it.” Her advice is wise beyond her years. “You may be looking for a bigger life, but take advantage of the small things; they can turn into big hopes and dreams.”

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Unveiling Homecoming 2024

Catherine Vickers — Thu, 17 Oct 2024 19:12:35 +0000

“Dream lofty dreams, and as you dream, so you shall become. Your vision is the promise of what you shall one day be; your ideal is the prophecy of what you shall at last unveil.” James Allen

Homecoming 2024 was the joyful, spirited unveiling of a vital �鶹��Ƶ: Revivals with great music and preaching every night; rainfall added to the fun as students, led by Dr. Thomas, brought a little cheer, schedule cards, stickers and rally towels to local businesses on Main Street; a new bookstore in the Hawks Nest unveiled; word of the best of awards for business, sports science and athletic programs, all unveiled; the Religious Heritage Lecture by Brad Ford brought dancing, laughter and fun in learning about life skills. We are here because of our distinguished alumni, who were acknowledged amongst friends and family at a reception and dinner in their honor, as well as half-time during the Homecoming football game. All in honor and unveiling the greatness of �鶹��Ƶ.

Significant to the university’s vision of faith, family and future was the unveiling of Chowan’s Ministry, led by the J Squad consisting of Dr. Jill Awuni, Jason Fowler and Dr. J Brabban. Four revivals, the least of which attendance was 75 were held, as well as Sunday services bookending Homecoming Week. “The people who came to the altar gave their lives to Christ to pray to sing and to join in this journey that we are all experiencing because of the power of these three individuals”(Dr. Rosemary Thomas).

Jason Fowler, Interim Minister at �鶹��Ƶ preaches of God’s love. “Becoming the Interim Minister at Chowan has been the greatest blessing of my time here. With every service and every student that grows closer to God, I receive another confirmation of His calling for me to serve here at Chowan and give of myself, in order to better showcase Him to our students. As a Professor, I have always valued deepening the relationship between my students and myself, and the opportunity to lead in Ministry has taken that to an even higher level. Not only do I have the privilege of imparting knowledge and sharing truth, I also get a chance to make a real impact on their lives and their souls for the rest of their lives. Having only just begun, leading our students, our campus and our community closer to God is a responsibility I already cherish and an honor for which I will always be grateful.”

J Brabban is our Community Outreach Liaison. Dr. Brabban’s role revolves around staying in communication with local churches and associations, to let them know Chowan is open to partnership and ready to build up our community alongside our brothers and sisters in Christ.

“I am excited about how �鶹��Ƶ now states in its requirements that spiritual growth is an essential life skill. Encouraging our students to become more active in developing spiritual growth is a worthy goal, one we have always had, but now is explicitly stated.”

Dr. Jill Awuni works with Chowan Christian Service Association (CCSA) as the connection to maintain and grow relationships with our students and local churches and ensure our students remain connected to the local community.

Jason Fowler, J Brabban and Jill Awuni clearly have one more J on their team. Jesus is at the helm, clearly leading the �鶹��Ƶ community in love. “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another. Just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another”(John 13:34-35)

Unveiling for �鶹��Ƶ’s Hargus Taylor Religious Heritage Series became part of our Homecoming Celebration. Laughter, sitting on the edge of seats to hear what’s said next, dancing on stage, even balls flying into outreached hands tossed by the lecturer made for an exciting, empiric presentation by Brad Ford.

Ford shared with the students that unlike many big universities, at Chowan we get to speak to our faith and be proud of it. Chowan’s message is one of resilience and never giving up, even when life gets difficult. That with God’s help, and love and hugs and caring for one another, we can transform obstacles into successes.

The announcement of a press release unveiling Chowan’s Bookstore to be housed in the Hawks Nest lead to even more momentous disclosures:

�鶹��Ƶ’s Department of Business has been recognized as one of the Best Business Degree Programs in the Country by Research.com in their 2024 edition of the Best Colleges & Universities.

�鶹��Ƶ is named as one of the top ten promising Sports Sciences Colleges in the USA in Higher Education Review Magazine, September 20, 2024

�鶹��Ƶ’s Athletic Program received over 30,000 votes becoming best in the area honored in a contest by the Roanoke-Chowan News Herald.

�鶹��Ƶ’s Athletic Program is one of the first colleges in the country to include Women’s Flag Football beginning in 2025.

The Homecoming doors closed for 2024 with a celebration of Distinguished Alumni including James Elliott Moore, Angie Felton Salerno, Nicola J. Khoury, Christopher J. Moore and Vaughn Edward Byrd. Outstanding Community Service awards were also presented to Grace Graham Brown, Alton W. Parker, Jr. and Mark Elton Parker. Gratitude for family was a common thread woven with care throughout the dinner, during conversations at the tables, and in the introductions of and responses made by the recipients.

Dr. Thomas, in her opening remarks said, “When we talk about the word family it means a lot of different things to different people. Many people in this room are surrounded by your family. Some of them have the same last name as you; some of them share a home with you; some of them, you chose. I know how that works. We know that we have students who come to Chowan and their families may cry and pat them on the back and hold tight as they drive away, and other students who cannot wait to get here because they need to find a family that will hold them close and pat their back and cry when they have to say goodbye.” Effective families help each other emotionally and spiritually; they hold their members accountable and they support one another. Chowan, reaching out to their students, and wrapping their arms around them creates a beautiful chosen family. Because of the warmth this brings, learning and growth can happen.

Dr. Brenda Tinkham introduced Vaughn Byrd with memories of his participation in one of her education classes. “He threw a bag of neckties and everyone learned the proper way to tie a tie. I’m not sure if it was forehand, backhand, whatever. We learned and we had fun. As part of this class also, was attendance at a school board meeting.We had discussed appropriate dress for the board meeting. When we greeted board members after the meeting they offered Vaughn a position as an assistant principal based upon the way he was dressed. No interview required.” Byrd is currently employed with D.C. Public Schools, where he is a Music teacher. His students have performed for The Council of Chief State School Officers Legislative Conference, The Kennedy Center, and Vice-President Kamala Harris. He is also the Minister of Music for Mount Olive Baptist Church in Stafford, VA.

Angie Salerno attended Chowan College in 1985. A third year art program was added before she graduated, and felt very special to become one of the first juniors graduating before attending Christopher Newport University. She works for Suffolk Public Schools as an Elementary Art teacher where she initiated a huge recycling program collecting over 11,000 pounds of plastic. Sheila Dunlap, also a graduate of Chowan, introduced Salerno saying that she is a “very energetic, outgoing, artistic and talented lady. She helped me come out of my shell here at Chowan. I love Chowan and have always loved it but when I first got here it was a little scary. Angie helped me so much. She is my best friend.”

Dr. Thomas introduced Grace Brown for her outstanding community service. “I can stand here and tell you how knowledgeable Grace Brown is, but tonight we are going to honor her for how much she truly cares, that she gives back, and her vision for the future is unparalleled. My friend, our board member, truly is a community service leader.”

Grace Brown responded, “Everytime I come on campus I am absolutely wowed by the talent, the excitement, the enthusiasm, all the learning that is going on here.”

John Tayloe introduced James Moore, “His fingerprints can be found across this campus, in the hallway leading into the president’s office, where his ancestor’s portrait, founder of Chowan, hangs, the music department; a scholarship program here at Chowan, and his desire, along with family members to honor his grandmother, Gladiola Parker Moore with an endowed scholarship has been established. Institutions like Chowan, organizations like Murfreesboro Historical Association thrive by those who will invest time, talent and treasure. James truly is the epitome of that.” James Moore, after a rewarding and successful career mostly in the Army where he worked in historical libraries all over the world has come home.

Christopher J. Moore is a 2014 Cum Laude graduate of �鶹��Ƶ with a BS in Health and Physical Education. He caught the audience’s attention quickly, “I stand before you humbly as a Chowan graduate but also somebody who didn’t start here. My journey started at Virginia Wesleyan University. I had a 0.92 GPA. Moore is currently the first Director of Athletics at Virginia Peninsula Community College, as well as Head Men’s Basketball Coach. He is proud that he has a student transferring to �鶹��Ƶ next year.

Dr. Rosemary Thomas introduced Alton and Mark Parker together. “I have never been in the presence of so much positivity. What do a couple of DJs, a firefighter, an EMT, a performer, technicians – technical careers beyond comparison, a cruise director, and a couple of historians have in common? They make a difference. They make a difference every day because of what they give back.Because of what they give to this community, because of what they challenge this community to give to one another. The word volunteer appears so many times in their biographies we almost wonder how they made enough money to make it this far. But they have and they put a scholarship here to Chowan to identify that level of commitment and that philanthropic spirit that they have.”

Alton Parker Jr. shared that they wanted to honor their family so they established a scholarship in memory of their grandmother, who was class of 1901, and father and uncle who were distinguished alumni of the class of 1939, and also their mom. “Our mom came to Murfreesboro to teach English and she is looking down, smiling at the wonderful Dr. Thomas here. She is pleased that we have such a beautiful, strong female leading this university.”

Mark Parker thanked Chowan instructors for tutoring him. Chowan was his playground. He had a go-cart that he would drive around Squirrel Park. He worked summers painting, doing electrical work and cutting grass. Currently he enjoys volunteer work with the Murfreesboro Historical Association.

Dr. Jill Awuni read Dr. Christopher White’s introduction to Nicola Khoury. Dr. White found Nick in Bethlehem, a Christian Palestinian, a minority amongst minorities. During Dr. White’s years as �鶹��Ƶ’s President, 2,000 Palestinaians received scholarships and Nick was one of them. “Here at Chowan he won the most outstanding student in his class. He was the best student recruiter in Chowan’s history. He became the annual fund director and raised record sums of money. He was recruited and hired by College of William and Mary for the Enrollment Program. This was remarkable, for top tier schools rarely hire young professionals from small schools like Chowan. He’s setting records. I can only imagine what his next professional step will be.”

Nicola Khoury is grateful. “�鶹��Ƶ, you are my family. Your guidance, support and belief in me made all the difference. Let me tell you all, I stand here tonight not just as an individual but as the result of a community that has lifted me up time and time again.

Homecoming 2024 unveiled faith, family and future – a promise of who we are and who we will be.

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Campus Ministry from a Student Perspective

Elizabeth Waltz — Thu, 17 Oct 2024 17:01:51 +0000

When you first enter our beloved Chowan Chapel you will be greeted by the Welcome Team with a brief “Good evening! How are you?” Then you will be guided through two big doors leading to a cross. A cross that so signifies God’s overwhelming love for each and every one who enters into the chapel.

Wednesday evenings in the chapel is an opportunity to worship and fellowship for all students, staff, and faculty who come. Kashara Simpson says, “I personally enjoy a midweek pick me up that is able to last me throughout the rest of the week.” Dr. Shelly Greene adds, “It’s a space where I can center myself spiritually and be part of a supportive Christian community. Coming from a public institution I wasn’t used to seeing students openly worship and express their faith in such a public and genuine way. It is incredibly moving to witness young people so freely sharing their love for God and supporting one another in their spiritual journeys. I am grateful to be part of a community where faith is embraced so openly.”

The chapel also offers a space for students to teach, encourage, and share their faith journeys, giving them time to deepen their relationship with God. Gabe Espiritu states, “My favorite memory is when I got to preach because people share with me that the message touched their hearts and made a difference.” Jason Fowler, Interim Chowan Minister says, “This is the student’s mission field. They study their faith and deepen their relationship with a God who loves them.”

Anyone who has ever attended Wednesday Night Worship has no doubt felt the presence of God in our midst as we worship and praise through music and the Word of the Lord. The Bible states, “For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them” (Matthew 18:20). In our chapel, there are certainly more than two or three gathered in His Name, as we have had up to 100 people on certain nights.

Our adored President, Dr. Thomas, one who attends nearly every Wednesday Night Worship shares, “This is the highest level of reassurance that I am in the presence ofGod. I am here to serve the students, faculty and staff… but on Wednesday nights I am able to sit and receive God’s grace through the music and ministry of the beautiful people in front and all around me. It is my opportunity to fill myself up again and give thanks to God for holding me in His hands.The students inspire me every single night. The music is beautiful. The message is powerful. The reactions of the students is inspiring. The prayer time at the altar is moving. The number of people in the chapel makes my heart swell with pride and gratitude. Thank you God for allowing me to be in this place at this time with these people. ”

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A Look into Chowan’s Campus Ministry

Catherine Vickers — Fri, 04 Oct 2024 01:00:35 +0000

A wooden cross framed in nature showing through a wall of windows is the backdrop for Chowan students, playing instruments and singing praises to the God they love. Their audience, some with eyes closed, moving to the music, experiencing the spirit essential to their well being – all worshiping together. Together with faculty, board members, community leaders and administrators, no one is better than another, all equal in the eyes of God, all forming a community grateful for who they are, where they are and the freedom to worship.

Jason Fowler, Interim Minister at �鶹��Ƶ preaches of God’s love. “Becoming the Interim Minister at Chowan has been the greatest blessing of my time here. With every service and every student that grows closer to God, I receive another confirmation of His calling for me to serve here at Chowan and give of myself, in order to better showcase Him to our students. As a Professor, I have always valued deepening the relationship between my students and myself, and the opportunity to lead in Ministry has taken that to an even higher level. Not only do I have the privilege of imparting knowledge and sharing truth, I also get a chance to make a real impact on their lives and their souls for the rest of their lives. Having only just begun, leading our students, our campus and our community closer to God is a responsibility I already cherish and an honor for which I will always be grateful.”

Fowler was asked by his church in Chesapeake to quit his job at Chowan and become their full-time youth minister. He talked this over with his wife and she told him that she knew he wanted to work in this way for the Lord, but maybe this wasn’t his audience, or God’s plan for him. A week later, Dr. Thomas asked him to be part of the J team (J Brabban, Jill Awuni and Jason) and minister with Chowan’s students. He knew this is where God wanted him.

J Brabban is our Community Outreach Liaison. J’s role revolves around staying in communication with local churches and associations, to let them know Chowan is open to partnership and ready to build up our community alongside our brothers and sisters in Christ.

“I am excited about how �鶹��Ƶ now states in its requirements that spiritual growth is an essential life skill. Encouraging our students to become more active in developing spiritual growth is a worthy goal, one we have always had, but now is explicitly stated.”

Dr. Jill Awuni (one of the J’s of the J Team) works with Chowan Christian Service Association as the connection to maintain and grow relationships with our students and local churches and ensure our students remain connected to the local community.

Jason Fowler, J Brabban and Jill Awuni clearly have one more J on their team. Jesus is at the helm, clearly leading the �鶹��Ƶ community in love. “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another. Just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another”(John 13:34-35)

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Student Spotlight: Gabe Espiritu

Catherine Vickers — Fri, 04 Oct 2024 00:54:06 +0000

You will see Gabe Espiritu, a baseball player, musician and student chaplain, with his guitar on stage singing at Wednesday night Worship. He comes to �鶹��Ƶ from Gloucester, VA. Emory Chopp, an alumnus and coach for Espiritu’s high school travel ball team, encouraged him to look into his alma mater, �鶹��Ƶ. When attending SOAR, Gabe was ecstatic to learn that �鶹��Ƶ was a Christian college, with a strong spiritual foundation. Coming from a faith based background, he embraced the opportunity to have Christianity and baseball with him daily. Chowan’s values of faith, family and future walk alongside Gabe’s strong sense of a good life.

Espiritu’s father is a musician for the Cornerstone Fellowship church, and taught him to play the piano. The guitar was a miracle of COVID, where Espiritu dusted off an old instrument he found in the closet. When returning to Chowan, Brayden Conboy asked him to join a band, leading to his performing on Wednesday Night Worship.

Espiritu’s Dad, Mom and Grandparents have taught him of service, hard work and faith in God and Chowan is expanding his spiritual ideology as it reaches into the hearts of those he serves. Espiritu joined Campus Ministry as a freshman where upperclassmen chaplains Brayden Conboy and Patrick Krack, became Chowanian big brothers, showing Gabe “how to be men who were in the ministry while adjusting to college life.” They also shared a common passion for music (Brayden) and baseball (Patrick).

Espiritu says of this new era of worship, “I have always loved the ministry, but new things are good. Jason Fowler and I have similar views, as do the other student chaplains. Everything has more energy. Worship is joyful. It’s hard not to smile and be excited about being there.” This clearly shows as attendance at Wednesday night Worship services sometimes reaches 100.

“Gabe Espiritu has been a gift to me as I have begun leading our student ministry at Chowan. His leadership on stage with our Worship Team has been invaluable and his heart for his fellow students on his team, and on our campus, has been an amazing reminder, to all of us, that loving others is our first priority. He has leaned into God’s calling on his life and continues to impress me with his ever-increasing ability to encourage those around him and trust God with his future” (Jason Fowler, Interim Campus Minister).

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All in an hour in the Hawks Nest

Catherine Vickers — Fri, 04 Oct 2024 00:08:38 +0000

The Hawks Nest, aptly named for gathering Chowan’s fledgling flock of students, is beautifully designed with large open spaces filled with sofas, cafe tables, big screen televisions, a cafeteria and Starbucks coffee shop. On the perimeter are open offices housing the Department of Student Experience and Success as well as the Director of Business and Industry.

The Department of Student Experience and Success is perfectly named for what they do. Hope Rogers is sitting at her desk in a colorful room with garland swathed from the rafters and motivational posters on the walls. Hope is Chowan’s Student Success Navigator. She comes to us from Davis and Elkins College where she earned a BS in Sports Management. She has a double minor in Business and Nonprofit. While she works with students possibly needing encouragement or assistance adapting to university life, or perhaps help with a class, she is working on her Masters of Organizational Leadership. Hope says with a joyful countenance and a smile on her face, “I love helping people!”

Matthew Follis is in his office with the door open speaking with a student pitching an idea for an activity. Mathew, Students Activity Coordinator, comes from New York. He attended The University of Delaware and Wilmington University in Delaware where he was a Cheerleader. While at the University of Delaware his Division One College team earned two National Championships. His job is multifaceted as he works with the university in providing enriching, fun activities for students. At the Something Sweet activity following move-in day for freshmen they came to the Hawks Nest finding games, music, cookies and brownies and positive upperclassmen to welcome them. Matthew says, “They were laughing, smiling and dancing and having a really good time. It was great to see smiles of joy on their faces.”

Harri Lovett, Director of Business and Industry Partnerships can be seen through the big windows speaking with a local business owner, possibly finding an internship for a student; he could be asking for a mentorship to help a business major interested in how to start his own company. Coming into Mr. Lovett’s space is a comfortable sitting room with soft couches and chairs, counters with computers and visual access to his office. An upperclassman is waiting to see him, possibly for help with a resume or an application for a work study position.

Looking from Mr. Lovett’s windowed office, one can see men playing pool and badminton, a line including students and one professor at Starbucks, and a gathering of young women laughing as they walk towards a grouping of couches. The Hawks Nest, in just an hour, provides community, a connection, and a place to rest while building a better future.

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Two �鶹��Ƶ Students Land Internships with Local Chambers

Catherine Vickers — Fri, 13 Sep 2024 13:58:13 +0000

September 3, 2024 was a momentous day celebrating a partnership with Murfreesboro and Ahoskie Chambers of Commerce and �鶹��Ƶ. Harri Lovett, Director of Business and Industry Partnerships for �鶹��Ƶ, says, “I feel like this agreement, impacting multiple communities, strengthens the unity of Hertford County, continuing the momentum and collaboration shown in recent months.This partnership and agreement makes my heart happy. We have two incredible Chowan students who have bought into the community and the big picture of what makes our University great. Having worked diligently with both the Ahoskie and Murfreesboro Chamber of Commerces, I recognize the significance of both committees respective contribution to Hertford County and its economic growth.

Our Ahoskie intern, Mr. Hassan Mutaasa is as bright as a student you will ever meet. Hassan has overcome so many obstacles on his path to Chowan, which have molded him into a resilient, polite, and extremely talented technician and professional. Under the guidance of President RJ Myers and daily mentorship from Executive Director Connie Poland, Hassan will aid our neighbors in Ahoskie exponentially.”

Hassan says, “I am grateful for the opportunity to be part of this internship. It’s an exciting chance to deepen my knowledge, contribute meaningfully, and grow within a professional environment. I am looking forward to making the most of this experience.” A tour of Ahoskie, Burger King and Connie Poland as his chauffeur, makes for an awesome beginning to an internship.

Mr. Lovett goes on to say, “Anyone who knows Patrick Sullivan, our Murfreesboro Chamber intern, knows this is a match made in heaven. Patrick is gregarious, dependable, and bleeds Chowan blue. It excites me to think about the learning experience Patrick will receive under Executive Director, Daryl Williams and President, Sara Crowder. Patrick’s marketing capabilities will highlight the booming restaurant scene, small business growth, special events, and of course, the Inaugural Murfreesboro Chamber of Commerce Golf Tournament on October 4th. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Board of Trustee Member, Grace Brown, for facilitating the Bynum R. Brown Internship Award.”

Grace Brown is thrilled. “This is a win-win-win situation for all of us. Patrick will gain valuable experience through the Chamber of Commerce operations, the Chamber will benefit from the expertise and knowledge of a promising young marketing major, and Chowan has another active and engaged face in the Murfreesboro community. I am so pleased that we can honor my Father, Mr. Bynum R. Brown in this way through the Internship Award. He would be so proud of the work that Daryl, Harri, (and now Patrick) are doing to enhance Murfreesboro.”

Patrick is the first Chowan intern for the Murfreesboro Chamber of Commerce. Mr. Williams is looking forward to introducing him to all of the local businesses and stated that he will officially be an employee of the Chamber. “We are vested in a relationship with the university, our community and local businesses.”

Meryl Brown, representing Ahoskie Chamber of Commerce, Daryl Williams, Executive Director for Murfreesboro Chamber of Commerce, Harri Lovett, Director of Business and Industry Partnerships, Dr. Rosemary Thomas, �鶹��Ƶ President, Hassan Mutaasa and Patrick Sullivan, Interns, gathered at �鶹��Ƶ to celebrate Chowan’s Connect Program and the fellowship of the Chambers.

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�鶹��Ƶ Pays Tribute to Lives Lost on September 11, 2001

Catherine Vickers — Thu, 12 Sep 2024 00:51:45 +0000

Where were you on September 11, 2001? For some faculty and staff at �鶹��Ƶ, time stood still and the exact moment of realization that the United States of America was under a terrorist attack returns with a switch of memory. For students, many were just a thought in the hearts of their parents. They live history through stories shared by parents and grandparents, and events such as �鶹��Ƶ’s Remembrance Ceremony.

Alex Chappell, Director of Facilities and Grounds, was in his 11th grade shop class. Mr. Sawyer, his teacher, directed his students to stop “making sawdust” and get in and watch the television, which at the time, in schools, sat on rolling carts so they could be moved from room to room.

Brandon Zoch, Associate Vice President for �鶹��Ƶ, was at Dover Campus Center at Gardner Webb walking from the bookstore to the cafeteria and saw the plane hitting the North Tower in a lounge along the way.

The Remembrance Ceremony, sponsored by Human Resources, was narrated by Elizabeth Hedrick, Associate VP of Human Resources. She was in 9th grade when she heard the Twin Towers had been hit by a plane. She thought at first they were talking about somewhere in France.

At 8:46 am, Flight 11 crashed into the North Tower of the World Trade Center

Richard Todd, Registrar, lowered the flag at the Hawks Athletic Center to half mast while those in attendance were silent; not a sound could be heard as people prayed, or meditated in remembrance of those whose lives were lost.

On September 11, 2001, Richard Todd was stationed at Camp Lejeune serving with the 2^nd Tank Battalion. “We had just completed our weekly meeting to review upcoming training and plan for the next week. I returned from our Headquarters building to my office. The phone rang and asked that we return to our original meeting to review. Once I returned, we got briefed and began to make preparations on deployment, but we had no idea where. We all felt somewhat helpless as we could not see an enemy in front of us, but we knew that a day of reckoning would be forthcoming.”

During the time before the second tower went down, Trevon Abrahams spoke, a senior actively involved in campus life, serving in multiple leadership positions, including President of the International Student Club. He is preparing to join the military, with aspirations of becoming a Marine officer, following in the footsteps of his father, who served in the Army for 20 years. “My passion for service drives everything I do, whether it’s on campus, in the community, or beyond.”

He reminded us that “nearly 3,000 lives were tragically taken from us—moms and dads, friends and neighbors, and brave first responders who charged into danger, not for glory, but out of duty and love for their fellow citizens. Their courage in the face of such darkness reminds us of what it truly means to be an American.”

He continued by saying, “As a first responder, I feel deeply connected to the legacy of service and sacrifice that was displayed on that day. It reminds me that America is strongest when we come together in the face of adversity—when we lift each other up, stand side by side, and remain steadfast in our commitment to freedom, justice, and unity.”

Dr. Rosemary Thomas thanked students, staff and faculty for attending the Remembrance Ceremony this morning. This ceremery is dear to her heart as Valerie Silver Ellis, her father’s wife, died on September 11, 2001. She worked for Cantor Fitzgerald, an American Financial Firm, that was located on floors 101-105 in the World Trade Center and lost all 658 employees to the terrorist attack. Dr. Thomas was in a meeting when she received a phone call from her father sharing this news. She reminded all attending that September 11, 2001 was a horrific day, filled with terror as our country was terrorized. September 12, 2001 was a day the country came together, stronger and more unified than ever before. As athletic teams, faculty and staff were gathered by the flagpole at the Hawks Athletic Center, Dr. Thomas’s words of unification touched the hearts of all. “We are a tower of strength, built of individualism and diversity coming together as one – beautiful and unbreakable.”

At 9:03 am Flight 175 crashes into the South Tower of the World Trade Center.

“Today, as we remember the fallen, let us also renew our commitment to the principles that make this nation exceptional—liberty, equality, and the unwavering belief that even in our darkest moments, hope will prevail. We will never forget the sacrifices made, and we will always honor the spirit of unity that continues to light our way forward. May God bless the families of those we lost, and may God bless the United States of America. May we never forget”(Trevon Abraham).

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Founders Day Convocation: The Start of a New Academic Year

Catherine Vickers — Tue, 10 Sep 2024 19:23:54 +0000

Jill Awuni, Assistant Professor of Religion, opened �鶹��Ƶ’s 2024 Founders Day Convocation in prayer, marking a new day, a new beginning for the Class of 2028.

Dr. John Dilustro, Interim Vice President of Academic Affairs, led the Founders Day assembly with an introduction of Dr. Rosemary Thomas, “Today marks a historic moment for �鶹��Ƶ as we welcome our twenty-fourth president— a visionary leader and the first woman to ever hold this esteemed position in our 176-year history.

Dr. Rosemary M. Thomas brings a wealth of experience, a deep commitment to academic excellence, and a passion for growth and transformation. Her personal educational journey has taken her from an undergraduate degree at Clemson University to her master’s degree at the University of South Carolina and then on to her Doctorate at the University of West Virginia. As an educational leader, she has held many leadership roles along the way to �鶹��Ƶ, most recently serving as the Executive Vice President at Davis and Elkins College.

Dr. Thomas’s leadership, grounded in collaboration, vision, and courage, promises a bright and transformative future for Chowan. She has already recognized the immense potential within our faculty, staff, and students, and she is eager to work alongside each of us to create new opportunities and drive continued success for our university. As we embark on a new academic year, her leadership signals a new chapter that honors our heritage while boldly stepping into the future.”

Dr. Thomas, in her remarks, instructed the freshmen that a university convocation is a gathering of students, administrators and professors coming together to celebrate, inducting new students into the welcoming arms of the campus community, giving them a sense of identity, articulating the university’s mission and creating a favorable first impression.

She said, “We want you to know we are proud of your decision to enter college, we welcome you with open hearts and open arms, we want you to feel that you are truly part of a community that believes in your abilities and endless possibilities for success, and we truly hope you love it here! Members of the freshmen class of �鶹��Ƶ,YOU are the guests of honor for this ceremony. Thank you for making this choice – for choosing Chowan.

Dr. Thomas quoted Dr.Martin Luther King, Jr., “Not everybody can be famous but everybody can be great because greatness is determined by service.” She continued by saying, “ I can assure you that you are in the presence of greatness as the people who make up this community, this University, are here to serve the needs of our students.”

Sharing a passage in the Bible,,”How much better to get wisdom than gold, to get insight rather than silver” (Proverbs 16:16). Dr. Thomas spoke of the opportunity they had of gaining wisdom, woven through all of the life skills and experiences they were embracing while studying and learning from dedicated educators and each other. She cautioned that “we must recognize that wisdom is worth far more than gold. Wisdom cannot be taken from you. Wisdom is earned and entrusted with those who choose to learn and accept the teachings of God. Good and sound judgment is priceless as well. It is the foundation on which �鶹��Ƶ is building our life skills university that will prepare you for a future grounded in effective communication, self-care and wellness, coachability, spiritual maturity, problem solving, financial literacy, collaboration, confidence, technical competency, and professionalism.”

Dr. Hunter Taylor, Interim Associate Vice President of Academic Affairs, spoke of the celebratory ringing of the bell, an event occurring after the assembly presentation. He explained that the bell welcomes you to Chowan. “You are taking part in something special. You are not alone. Go forth and pursue excellence; embrace the opportunities ahead.” Following his direction freshmen students traveled on the brick alumni walk leading to the gazebo where the bell is located; welcoming faculty members wearing regalia, surrounded the students on either side of the pathway, clapping, shaking their hands and some simply smiling, all reinforcing Dr. Dilustro’s and Dr. Taylor’s comments in convocation, that they are not alone on this journey. Stepping into the gazebo they were greeted by President Thomas with a warm, infectious smile, and a memorable token of the event.

“Four years later, the same students, only now seniors, will ring the bell once again to signify the completion of their academic studies, saying “well done, now soar” (2020). Before 1880, this historic bell rang for students from two stone pillars, always reminding those hearing it to “go forth”.

Destiny Vaughan, shared, “The ringing of the bell was meaningful to me. After convocation and my first experience ringing the bell, there were times I wanted to call it quits, particularly my sophomore and junior years. I thought I couldn’t continue, but I remembered that I needed to ring that bell. It signified that I had made it and that I was the first in my immediate family to graduate from a four-year college. Even this year, in graduate school and working at Chowan, I still remember ringing the bell to conclude my student journey and enter into adulthood.” Destiny graduated in 2022.

The opening prayer resided in hearts through the entire ceremony, “I ask your blessings on all those who have joined us today and have given of their time, their talents, and their treasure. Today, Oh God, we are so thankful to you for our freshmen, our transfer students, our returning students, our new staff, faculty and our President for such a time as this. Oh Lord, you led them here to build a new legacy fit for Chowan and for themselves. God, above all, may anyone associated with Chowan be changed, transformed, renewed, and healed through the matchless name of Jesus” (Jill Awuni’s prayer).

Smiling faces, hugs and laughter, all are evidence of healing and transformation. “It’s time for us to soar together!”

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