The award celebrates the outstanding teaching work of faculty in three categories: adjunct faculty who teach part time at EMU, instructors and assistant professors, and professors and associate professors.

A total of 49 nominations were sent in this year for 21 different teachers. The winners are:

Adjunct faculty: David Pruett

Pruett is a retired professor of applied mathematics at James Madison University. He teaches adjunct courses at EMU.

One student wrote about how adept Pruett is at sharing his engineering experience and encouraging students to dream about what they might do. This student praised his ability to use “both professor-led instruction and project-based instruction” and concluded, “Dr. P has left an impact on me as a student and as a future educator, making me reflect on how I will serve my students and ignite their passion through enthusiasm and kindness.”

Instructors and assistant professors: Allison Wilck

Wilck is an assistant professor of psychology at EMU.

One student wrote, “Allison has been a steady source of support, encouragement, and advice. She teaches students with passion and encourages and expects students to think about how the material applies to them and their lives. It is clear that she puts thought and time into her teaching and makes changes as necessary to better engagement.”

Another student wrote: “She is the best professor I have ever had. She takes time with all her students to make sure we understand the materials she brings forward. Allison is always willing to help. … Also, she has a very good sense of humor.”

And another student wrote, “Allison has made the 8 a.m. neuropsychology class I’m taking with her feel really accessible and more approachable than I was expecting. She’s managed to make even the least science minded folks (including me) feel at least O.K.” This same student added, “She really seems to put a lot of thought and effort into how she teaches, engages with us and presents the information while still being open to suggestions to better meet student’s needs. I find myself asking more in depth questions in her class than is typical for me (especially at 8 a.m.), which I think says a lot about her and the environment she creates in the classroom.”

Associate professors and professors: Ji Eun Kim

Kim is an associate professor of political science at EMU.

One student wrote, “She is a great professor, one of the smartest people that I know, an expert in her field, and is always there if you need help.” Her kindness and understanding helped this student “navigate her class and college in general.”

Another student wrote that Kim “is exceedingly knowledgeable in the field of political science and international relations, yet she has consistent patience with every student question and perspective, validating the viewpoints and contributions of every individual.” 

A third student praised her “exceptional skills in structuring class and fostering participatory engagement among students. Her approach to assignments involves a perfect balance of challenge and support. What sets her apart is not only her prowess as an educator but also her exceptional listening skills and willingness to support students individually. She goes beyond traditional teaching methods, creating an environment where students not only learn but experience true growth.”

Eligibility for the awards were informed by the following criteria: Impact on students, effective teaching practices, subject knowledge, and continual growth. The awards committee includes Seidel, previous award winners Laurie Yoder and Ben Bergey, Athletic Director Carrie Bert and junior Cassidy Walker.

An icon created by Eastern Mennonite Seminary alumnus Derek Yoder ’23, M.Div., graces the cover of the of Anabaptist World magazine. Yoder designed the digital artwork, titled “Christ of the Wheelchair,” for his master’s of divinity capstone project in 2022.

For his project, Yoder searched through Scripture, art and ecclesial history for symbols that display the image of God revealed in persons with intellectual disabilities, people who are central to his ministry. In the absence of such symbols, he developed an icon that serves as a “celebration of and blessing for my community, who bear the image of God.”

“When you meet someone with intellectual or developmental disabilities, do you recognize the image of God?” Yoder asks in an article in the issue. “‘Christ of the Wheelchair’ is a prayer for me, my community and the church. It emerged from the recognition that the church rarely considers people in my community when it contemplates the Image of Dei (image of God). Yet, in my community I encounter Jesus every day.”

Read the “Christ of the Wheelchair” article online .

Anabaptist World began as a print magazine in 2020 from the merger of The Mennonite and Mennonite World Review, starting with a circulation of 8,200 paying subscribers. It seeks to be “the flagship Anabaptist publication, in print and online — the place where a diverse community comes together to explore and strengthen Anabaptist values and encourage one another to follow Christ faithfully,” its website states.

In addition to the cover image, another article in the magazine issue mentions Yoder and Faith & Light, an inclusive worship gathering he leads for people with intellectual disabilities. The article follows the process of baptizing someone with an intellectual disability and the work that goes into ensuring it’s done in a way that reflects their relationship with God.

Read the article, “A baptism just a bit unpredictable,” online .

“I am glad that Anabaptist World’s most recent issue celebrates the gifts and contributions of persons with disabilities in the Church,” Yoder said. “In my communities (at Pleasant View and Faith & Light in Harrisonburg and Rockingham County), my friends with intellectual disabilities constantly lead me to Christ. I’m grateful that Eastern Mennonite Seminary provided the chance to deepen my ministry in those communities.”

Yoder lives in Harrisonburg, Virginia, with his wife Laurie, a chemistry professor at EMU. He is the pastor at Pleasant View, an organization that supports people with intellectual disabilities in living out their goals for meaningful work, relationships and spiritual development. Pleasant View is a conference-endorsed ministry of Virginia Mennonite Conference. He worships at Shenandoah Valley Faith & Light and Community Mennonite Church in Harrisonburg.

“It’s a hard world for pastors to navigate right now,” said Joyner, director of the Thriving in Ministry grant at Eastern Mennonite Seminary. “We wanted to address that and equip them with tools to better be able to minister in their local context.”

Shalom Academy 2024, held at the seminary from Monday, Jan. 8, to Wednesday, Jan. 10, is themed “Pursuing Community in a Divisive World.” It offers a place to learn and reflect on the practices that move congregations past divisiveness and toward peace both within their walls and in their larger communities. The deadline for standard registration pricing is Saturday, Dec. 9.

Learn more
and register.

New Name

This is the first time that Shalom Academy, formerly known as the School for Leadership Training (SLT), will be using its new name. For 54 years, SLT has equipped pastors with tools needed for deepening the effectiveness of their ministries.

“As we build on the solid foundation of SLT, we recognize the need to more overtly emphasize justice, peacebuilding and conflict transformation from a faith-based lens,” Joyner said.

She said the name change projects this focus while also distinguishing the conference as one of the programs under the umbrella of EMS’s new Shalom Collaboratory.

“Shalom Academy is a place for both education and connection,” Joyner said. This year, Shalom Academy will feature keynote speakers and workshops that give fresh perspectives on justice-inspired shalom, small-group spaces to connect around shared interests and excursions that provide relaxation and recreation with friends. 

Keynote speakers

Rev. Melissa Florer-Bixler, an author and the pastor of Raleigh Mennonite Church in North Carolina, is the chair of L’Arche North Carolina, an organization that provides housing, support and care for adults with intellectual disabilities. Her address on Monday evening is titled, “Ministry During the Election Cycle: Politics Without Despair,” and will discuss how church leaders can faithfully and hopefully lead congregations in the months ahead. 

The other keynote speaker is Rev. Adam Russell Taylor, president of Sojourners, a Christian media and advocacy organization that works toward social and racial justice. His address on Tuesday is titled “Where Do We Go From Here: Toxic Polarization or the Beloved Community?” and will focus on the tools for overcoming polarization in our society, our politics and our churches.

Excursions

A new addition to the activity schedule this year is excursions. The excursions provide a space for participants to get to know each other outside of conference events, Joyner said.

“We wanted to incorporate an afternoon where people can relax, connect with each other, have fun and build relationships in a playful way,” she said.

The excursions for Shalom Academy 2024 are:

• Ice skating at Generations Park;
• a tour of the Frontier Culture Museum;
• a tour of Shenandoah Caverns;
• a tour of the Brethren Mennonite Heritage Center; and
• a performance of the play Bonhoeffer: Cell 92 at EMU’s MainStage Theater.

The play depicts the life of German dissident and theologian Dietrich Bonhoeffer, who was imprisoned and murdered for his opposition to Hitler and the Nazi regime in World War II.

“This play aligns so well with our conference theme because Dietrich Bonhoeffer lived in a deeply polarized society in which he stood up for faith and justice,” Joyner said. 

Workshops

A schedule for Shalom Academy 2024 includes conversation circles, teaching sessions, worship services and workshops. 

The workshops, held Tuesday and Wednesday, are:

• “Leading Difficult Conversations” with Rev. Dr. Sarah Ann Bixler;
• “Moral Discernment within Community” with Rev. Dr. Jacob Alan Cook;
• “Understanding Polarization: The Good, the Bad and the Useful” with Rev. Melissa Florer-Bixler;
• “Preaching in a Divided Church” with Rev. Jim Joyner; and
• “Building Bridges with First Responders” with Rabbi Jeffrey Kurtz-Lendner.

Registration is available for both in-person and virtual participation. Online registration offers virtual access to the keynote addresses, teaching sessions and the Wednesday panel discussion. For more information about The Shalom Collaboratory at Eastern Mennonite Seminary, visit .

EMU News often publishes event previews. Visit  to view the latest postings or to subscribe to the news digest to receive the Tuesday morning weekly update.

November 2023

Nov. 1 — Suter Science Seminar: Ángel A. García Jr. “Using Karst as a Central Theme to Establish Multidisciplinary Research Around the World.” Dr. Garcia is a geoscientist interested in using cave and karst science to study the intersection between society and karst terrain around the world. In this talk, he will be discussing current research related to cave and karst in Virginia and Puerto Rico and other parts of the world. 10:10 a.m., SSC 104.

Nov. 3-5 — This and That Theater Showcases. Student and community artists share one-act plays, monologues, song, poetry, spoken word and solo pieces. Friday and Saturday at 7 p.m., Sunday at 2 p.m., MainStage Theater.

Nov. 5 — Massanutten Brass Band. Join the Shenandoah Valley’s very own British-style brass band in concert as they present Old, New, Borrowed, Blue! This concert features pieces by Shostakovich, Gershwin, Graham, and more! 6 p.m., Lehman Auditorium.

Nov. 6 — STEM Teaching Gathering. “Lessons Learned from 24 Years in Education” from Brian Nussbaum. This session will highlight three significant transformations in thinking that have influenced Brian’s approach to teaching and share the importance of how learning from failure can be the most important rule as an educator. 10:10 a.m., SSC 109.

Nov. 8 — Convocation: Celebrating EMU’s Mennonite Identity. A panel of students, faculty and staff will discuss what it means to be a Mennonite university today. There will also be music performances and singing. 10:10 a.m., Lehman Auditorium.

Nov. 10 — EMU Music 2023 Gala. Together. This special concert celebrating connectedness and community across the globe will feature dance, poetry, world music, the world premiere of two new compositions, and the beloved “Ode to Joy” movement from Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9. There will be special performances by guest artists Paula Facci, Andreá Bellamore, Makinto as well as all EMU music program ensembles. 7 p.m., Lehman Auditorium. Suggested donation $10-$20.

Nov. 15 — University Colloquium: Cathy Rittenhouse. “Improving Chlamydia and Gonorrhea Test Utilization on a College Campus.” For students to succeed in their educational endeavors, it is essential for colleges to work to meet health needs. Measures that raise awareness about sexually-transmitted infections and reduce barriers to testing are steps in this direction. 4 p.m., SSC 106.

Nov. 17-Dec. 15 — Dittenber/Schram Art Exhibition, featuring the art of Asheville, North Carolina, artists Suzanne Dittenber and Thomas Schram. Gallery opening 4 p.m. Nov. 17, MMG Gallery.

Nov. 18 — Music Faculty Artist Series Recital: Olivia Rominiyi, voice, and Jeremiah Padilla, piano. This recital features EMU faculty members Rominiyi (soprano) and Padilla (piano) performing music of Smith Moore, Clara Schumann, Tchaikovsky, Menotti, Rossini, Price, Lane and Puccini. 7 p.m., Martin Chapel.

Nov. 19 — Shenandoah Valley Children’s Choir and Shenandoah Valley Youth Symphony joint fall concert. 4 p.m., Lehman Auditorium. By donation.

Nov. 29 — Convocation: Insights and Stories from Howard Zehr, featuring an interview with Howard Zehr about his new book, . 10:10 a.m., Lehman Auditorium.

Nov. 30 — EMU Music Program Student Recital. This final student recital of the semester showcases solo performances by EMU music students. 12:10 p.m., Lehman Auditorium.

December 2023

Dec. 1 — Tis’ the Season: An EMU Christmas Concert. A special fun-filled Christmas event, this concert featuring performances by all EMU ensembles and several EMU faculty members will include music ranging from timeless Christmas jazz favorites to the “Hallelujah” chorus from Handel’s Messiah. 7 p.m., Lehman Auditorium.

Dec. 2 — Senior Recital: Judith Hoffman, violin. Senior music education major Judith Hoffman presents her senior violin recital with EMU faculty pianist Jeremiah Padilla. 7 p.m., Martin Chapel.

Dec. 4 — Caroling Christmas: Narrating Nativity. This gathering immediately after the Lighting of the Green, in the warmth of the Student Union, features Christmas caroling and one of the biblical stories of Jesus’ birth. 5:30 p.m., University Commons Student Union.

Dec. 7 — Senior Recital: Indigo Gott, flute. Senior Interdisciplinary music major Indigo Gott will present their senior recital featuring special guest collaborators from across the EMU music program. 7 p.m., Martin Chapel. 

Dec. 9-10 — Shenandoah Valley Children’s Choir Christmas Concert with the Washington Symphonic Brass. Saturday at 7 p.m., Sunday at 4 p.m. Lehman Auditorium. Tickets

Dec. 10 — Conducting Class Recital: Recollections. EMU Music conducting class students present their end-of-the-semester recital, featuring an eclectic mix of their own chamber music arrangements. 7 p.m., Martin Chapel.

Dec. 14 — Convocation: Europe Intercultural. The Europe Intercultural group shares about their travels to Vienna, Austria, and areas that were once under the rule of the Hapsburg Empire. 10:10 a.m., Lehman Auditorium.

MMG Gallery = Margaret Martin Gehman Gallery

SSC = Suter Science Center

More information

Arts at EMU To learn more about music, theater, and visual and communication arts at EMU, visit www.emu.edu/arts.

Center for Interfaith Engagement The Center for Interfaith Engagement (CIE) at ��ݮ���� promotes collaboration among religious and nonreligious scholars and practitioners, provides education in our principles and practices, and creates a safe space for developing authentic relationships and mutual understanding both between and within communities. CIE partners with people and organizations for interfaith education and service to promote a more just and peaceful world.

 Each year, a variety of expert scientists visit EMU’s campus to share their insights. Refreshments provided.

University Chapel A community gathering place for worship and forum, chapel reflects an Anabaptist/Mennonite perspective alongside the gifts, traditions and cultures of the broader Christian faith. Faith, hope and love are nurtured in the way of Jesus. Faculty, staff, students, and community members are invited to gather every other Wednesday at 10 a.m. for campus worship in Martin Chapel. A student-led song, prayer and worship service is held most Sunday evenings at 9 p.m. in Martin Chapel. Podcasts available.

Writers Reads and Spanish Language Film Series events sponsored by the language and literature department. Writers Read features authors who read from and comment on their work; refreshments are provided. Spanish language films will have English subtitles; introductions and student-led discussions are in English.

Sara, a first-year EMU student and softball player from Elkton, Virginia, lost her life in a car accident early Saturday morning in Harrisonburg. Two other first-year EMU students, Kendyll Eddins and Silas Gwathmey, are recovering from non-life-threatening injuries sustained in the accident. 

Those gathered this morning at Thomas Plaza came together in remembrance of Sara through music from EMU strings, commemoration of her life, prayer and a candle-lighting vigil.

In her , President Susan Schultz Huxman celebrated the beautiful life lived by Sara and shared the outpouring of testimony from those who knew her.  

Sara was known by many for her unwavering kindness and adventuresome spirit and was described by her Northlawn hallmates as “the life of the floor.” Friends were quick to remember Sara’s infectious smile and how she lit up a room.

“Sara’s first-year adviser and Transitions instructor, Chad Trevitte, says Sara brought a great sense of humor to class discussions,” Huxman said. “Her psychology professor, Kathryn Howard, reflects: ‘Sara was always a warm and smiling presence in class. Her zest for life shined.’”

“Her writing professor, Melody Wilson, notes: ‘I feel as if I have known Sara far longer than the short span in which we spent together on campus. That’s the impression she has left on me and on everyone in our class. She was an exceptionally caring and empathic student.’”

“Softball coach J.D. McCurdy called Sara ‘a hardworking and wonderful teammate.’”

Sara leaves behind a legacy of academic excellence and athletic achievement at East Rockingham High School, Huxman said. She called for prayers for Sara’s family and the wider East Rockingham community, as well as for healing for Kendyll and Silas.

“We pray for roommates and hallmates and teammates and classmates who are especially shattered by this loss and wondering: ‘What are we going to do without her?’ Huxman told the crowd. “Lord, hear our prayers for all those hurting.”

“In the darkest of times and at moments of tragic rupture and loss of a young life full of so much promise, we still come together to support one another and to affirm that God is with us. God has not abandoned us.”

Jennifer Cline, a member of the graduate counseling department at EMU, spoke about how grief was a journey. She shared some of the emotions that people might feel in the wake of the loss, including sadness, anger, guilt and confusion. Others might feel numb and question if there’s something wrong with them, she said. “All of these emotions are completely normal,” she said. 

She encouraged people to care for one another and use the resources available on campus, including the support space in the University Commons and extended counseling hours. An informal gathering for faculty and staff to process their grief was held Monday afternoon in the dining hall.

Students are invited to write a card for Sara, Silas or Kendyll with the supplies in the President’s Reception Room of the University Commons over the next several days.

Counseling services have made special arrangements to provide support for students. Students should contact counseling services at 540-432-4317 or email counselingservices@emu.edu. Walk-in hours are held between 1 and 2 p.m. from Monday through Friday.

It is with deep sadness that we share with you the loss of one of our EMU student-athletes. Sara Monger, a first-year softball player from Elkton, Virginia, died in a car accident in Harrisonburg early this morning. Sara was described as a “hard-working and wonderful teammate” by EMU softball coach J.D. McCurdy.

Two other first-year students, Kendyll Eddins and Silas Gwathmey, were involved in the accident. Both sustained non-life-threatening injuries and are recovering.

We extend prayers of comfort to Sara’s family and to members of the EMU community, especially the EMU Softball team. EMU Athletics is holding moments of silence for Sara during its competitions today.

Staff is available for grief counseling in the Northlawn Great Lounge as of noon today. We will share more information on support services in the days ahead.

In deepest sympathy,

Susan Schultz Huxman, President
Shannon Dycus, Vice President of Student Affairs and Dean of Students
Carrie Bert, Director of Athletics

Tenure

School of Theology, Humanities and Performing Arts

Ben Guerrero, assistant professor of music. BM, Berklee College of Music; MM, New York University; PhD, Eastman School of Music.

School of Sciences, Engineering, Art and Nursing

Shravan Akula, instructor of engineering. BE, JNTU; MS, University of South Alabama; PhD (ABD), University of North Dakota.

Kathryn Howard, instructor of psychology. BA, James Madison University; MA, Wake Forest University; PhD (ABD), University of Illinois Chicago.

Hongtao Li, assistant professor of biology. MD, Tongji Medical College; PhD, Indiana State University.

Non-tenure

School of Theology, Humanities and Performing Arts

Jacob Cook, visiting assistant professor, seminary grant program director. BA, Friends University; MDiv, Mercer University; PhD, Fuller Theological Seminary. Started in January 2023.

Patricia Lehman, professor of communication. BA, ��ݮ����; MA, Georgetown University; PhD, California Institute of Integral Studies.

School of Sciences, Engineering, Art and Nursing

Brandon Cunningham, clinical assistant professor of nursing. BSN, MSN, FNP, James Madison University.

Monica Heck, assistant professor of nursing. BSN, ��ݮ����; MSN, University of Virginia; DNP, Frontier Nursing University. Started in January 2023.

Holly Herr Stravers, clinical assistant professor of nursing. BA, ��ݮ����; MSN, NP, The University of Texas at Austin.

Lacey Johnson, instructor of mathematics. BA, Bridgewater College; MEd in piano performance & MEd in mathematics, James Madison University.

Samantha Johnston, instructor of nursing. MSN, Western Governor’s University. ​Started in January 2023.

School of Social Sciences and Professions

Joe Cole, associate professor of restorative justice. BS, Pennsylvania State University; PhD, Duke University.

Holly Rusher, assistant professor of education. BS, MEd, James Madison University; MEd, EdD, Shenandoah University.

Nang Raw, visiting practitioner-in-residence. BAS, Yezin Institute of Agriculture; MA in public administration, Yangon Institute of Economics; MA in international development policy, Duke University; graduate certificate in international peace and conflict studies, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

All Campuses

Noel Abeje, a Computer Science major from Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Mana Acosta, an Engineering major from Salem, OR
Ben Alderfer, a Business Administration, Business Analytics major from Broadway, VA
Abby Aleshevich, a Nursing major from Fishersville, VA
Bri Allen, a Social Work major from Weyers Cave, VA
Rebekah Amstutz, an Environmental Sustainability (Env Sci concen.) major from Harrisonburg, VA
Iris Anderson, a Psychology, Sociology major from Corvallis, OR
Kaitlyn Anderson, a Nursing major from Rockingham, VA
Seth Andreas, a Mathematics, Computer Science major from Bluffton, OH
Carolyn Ansel, a Nursing major from Harrisonburg, VA
Sophia Armato, a Spanish Language & Hispanic Studies, Education Licensure, PreK-12 major from Manheim, PA
Ethan Ball, an Engineering major from Canfield, OH
Valentina Barahona, a Digital Media and Communication, Marketing major from Harrisonburg, VA
Christine Barb, a Leadership and Organizational Management major from Woodstock, VA
William Bartel, a Chemistry major from Hesston, KS
Sarah Bascom, an English, Secondary Education Licensure, 6-12 major from Front Royal, VA
Kosish Bastakoti, a Computer Science major from Chitwan, Nepal
Hayden Bastion, a Nursing major from Woodbridge, VA
Zach Bauman, an Environmental Science major from Harrisonburg, VA
Joyce Beachy, an English major from Staunton, VA
Leah Beachy, a Nursing major from Grants Pass, OR
Hannah Beck, a Psychology major from Linville, VA
Miranda Beidler, an English, Secondary Education Licensure, 6-12 major from Akron, PA
Sabrina Bellar, a Sociology major from Hesston, KS
Laura Benner, an Engineering, Computer Science major from Telford, PA
Maria Bettilyon, a Mathematics, Secondary Education Licensure, 6-12 major from Ashburn, VA
Anil Bhusal, a Nursing major from Malarani, Nepal
Will Blosser, a Biology major from Stanley, VA
Mary Kate Bomberger, a Nursing major from Lititz, PA
Becca Boone, a Photography, Business Administration and Marketing major from Winchester, VA
Olivia Bower, a Nursing major from West Augusta, VA
Nia Boyd, an Art, Writing Studies major from Richmond, VA
Ashlyn Breneman, a Social Work major from Harrisonburg, VA
Coleman Briguglio, a Computer Science major from Lititz, PA
Ella Brubaker, a History, Political Science major from Lancaster, PA
Micah Buckwalter, an Environmental Sustainability (Env Sci concen.) major from Fulks Run, VA
Daisy Buller, an Art, Psychology major from Newton, KS
Lane Burkholder, a Mathematics major from Harrisonburg, VA
Mild Butsridoung, a Nursing major from Culpeper, VA
Mary Cain, a Social Work major from Advance, NC
Natalie Cassel, a Nursing major from Manheim, PA
Ashley Catalano, a Nursing major from Stephens City, VA
Taylor Chandler, a Nursing major from Gordonsville, VA
Caleb Chupp, a Business Administration major from Canby, OR
Liza Churchill, a Nursing major from Harrisonburg, VA
Erin Clayton, a Biology major from McGaheysville, VA
Alexandrya Click, a History major from Linville, VA
Laney Cline, a Business Analytics, Business Administration major from Radford, VA
Reah Clymer, a Music and Peacebuilding major from Collinsville, MS
Skylar Coffey, a Psychology major from Elkton, VA
Hayley Collins, a Psychology major from Prince George, VA
Rileyanne Collins, a Recreation and Sport Management major from Prince George, VA
Chase Comer, a Political Science major from Bridgewater, VA
Gracie Conner, a Sociology, Psychology major from Clifton Forge, VA
Rebekah Copeland, a Computer Science, English major from Harrisonburg, VA
Laura Craft, a Chemistry, Environmental Science major from Staunton, VA
Savanna Crawford, a Nursing major from Swoope, VA
Thomas Cunningham, a Liberal Arts major from Ashville, NC
Kaitlyn Custis, a Nursing major from Chester, VA
Zazkia De La Vega Yupanqui, a Business Administration, International Business major from Cusco, Peru
Libbie Derstine, a Psychology major from Harleysville, PA
Jailyn Diaz, a Social Work major from Harrisonburg, VA
Jennifer Dottin-Carter, a Leadership and Organizational Management major from Harrisonburg, VA
Mesa Dula, an Accounting, Business Administration major from Lancaster, PA
Jason Dwyer, a Political Science, History major from Fairfax, VA
Sarah East, a Nursing major from Washington, VA
Kurtis Easton, a Leadership and Organizational Management major from Westfield, PA
April Eavers, a Nursing major from Rockingham, VA
Thomas Erickson, a History & Social Science, Photography major from New Carlisle, OH
Laurel Evans, a Bible, Religion, and Theology major from Marion, IL
Anna Filipkowski, a Business Administration, Accounting major from Troy, VA
Kaitlyn Fletcher, a Nursing major from Harrisonburg, VA
Abigail Forrest, a Biology major from Middletown, VA
Leah Frankenfield, a Psychology major from Moraga, CA
Grace Fravel, a Business Administration major from Fulks Run, VA
Benjamin Friesen Guhr, an Engineering major from Newton, KS
Henry Friesen Guhr, an Art major from Newton, KS
La`akea Fujita, an Accounting, Business Administration major from Coopersburg, PA
Olivia Galbraith, a Nursing major from Millersburg, OH
Maggie Garber, a Music and Peacebuilding major from Broadway, VA
Kenzie Gardner, a Photography major from Harrisonburg, VA
Noussaiba Garti, a Digital Media and Communication major from Orlando, FL
Becky Geiser, a Nursing major from Middletown, VA
Amanda Gilbert, a Psychology major from Lanham, MD
Erica Gordon, a Leadership and Organizational Management major from Lancaster, PA
Sophia Gott, a Music: Interdisciplinary Studies, Social Work major from Bluffton, OH
Maggie Groetsch, a Recreation and Sport Management major from Asheville, NC
Alex Gulisano, a Liberal Arts, Elementary Education Licensure, PreK-6 major from Chesapeake, VA
Aliyyah Haggard, a Psychology major from Norristown, PA
Nardos Haile, a Social Work major from Lancaster, PA
Tanner Haines, a Leadership and Organizational Management Aviation major from Lititz, PA
Dylan Hall, a Health & Physical Education, Education Licensure, PreK-12 major from Chesapeake, VA
Lauren Hall, a Nursing major from Harrisonburg, VA
Mya Hamlet, a Business Administration major from Lynchburg, VA
Daisy Hamsher, a Psychology major from Sugarcreek, OH
Allie Hanson, a Liberal Arts, Elementary Education Licensure, PreK-6 major from Palmyra, VA
Grace Harder, an Environmental Sustainability (Env Sci concen.) major from Bridgewater, VA
Lyndsay Harris, a Liberal Arts, Elementary Education Licensure, PreK-6 major from Stuarts Draft, VA
Casey Hartman, a Psychology major from Harrisonburg, VA
Luke Haynes, a Music: Performance major from Staunton, VA
Naaman Hedge, a Leadership and Organizational Management major from Mount Joy, PA
Samantha Hensley, a Psychology major from Elkton, VA
Abigail Hickok, a History & Social Science, Secondary Education Licensure, 6-12 major from Hickory, NC
Eli Hochstedler, a Business Administration, Business Analytics major from Goshen, IN
Judith Hoffman, a Music, Education Licensure, PreK-12 major from Woodstock, VA
Makenna Holz, a Nursing major from Harrisonburg, VA
Anna Hoover, a Chemistry major from New Carlisle, OH
Elizabeth Horn, a Psychology major from Dover, DE
Veronica Horst, an Art, Psychology major from Landisville, PA
Caleb Hostetler, an Engineering, Mathematics major from Marshallville, OH
Karla Hostetter, an English, Secondary Education Licensure, 6-12 major from Rockingham, VA
Grace Hughes, a Nursing major from Rosedale, MD
Anika Hurst, an Environmental Science major from Conestoga, PA
Adrianna Jacobs, a Health & Physical Education, Education Licensure, PreK-12 major from Ashland, VA
John Jantzen, a Biology major from Newton, KS
Adesola Johnson, a Biology major from Dallas, TX
KK Johnson, a Social Work major from Woodbridge, VA
Anya Kauffman, a History & Social Science major from Goshen, IN
Clay Kauffman, an Environmental Sustainability (Env Sci concen.) major from Broadway, VA
Evan Kauffman, a Biology major from Leamington, ON
Abby Kaufman, a Biology major from Maplewood, MO
Erin Keith, a Health & Physical Education, Education Licensure, PreK-12 major from Stuart, VA
Sara Kennel, a Global Development major from Souderton, PA
Jordan Kerr, a Nursing major from Inwood, WV
Catherine Kirby, an Environmental Science major from Round Hill, VA
Lizzy Kirkton, a Business Administration major from Goshen, IN
Joel Kornhaus, an Engineering major from Fredericksburg, OH
David Koval, a Leadership and Organizational Management Aviation major from York, PA
Kate Krabill, a Biochemistry major from Elkhart, IN
Naomi Kratzer, a Music, Education Licensure, PreK-12 major from Goshen, IN
Daphne Kropf, a Liberal Arts, Elementary Education Licensure, PreK-6 major from Hubbard, OR
Natalie Ladd, a Social Work major from Hesston, KS
Claire Landis, a Nursing major from Bridgewater, VA
Hannah Landis, a Spanish Language & Hispanic Studies, Writing Studies major from Sellersville, PA
Kate Landis, a Psychology major from Sellersville, PA
Micaiah Landis, an Engineering major from Croghan, NY
Aja Laun, a Nursing major from Santonio, TX
Lydia Lee, a Nursing major from Staunton, VA
Meredith Lehman, a Biology, Political Science major from Dover, OH
Nate Lehman, an Environmental Science major from Blacksburg, VA
Shiloh Lehman, a Leadership and Organizational Management Aviation major from Chambersburg, PA
Grant Leichty, a Accounting, Business Administration major from Harrisonburg, VA
Morgan Leslie, a Liberal Arts major from Louisa, VA
Lydia Longacre, an English, Secondary Education Licensure, 6-12 major from Quakertown, PA
Maria Longenecker, a Biology major from Lancaster, PA
Erika Lopez, a Liberal Arts, Elementary Education Licensure, PreK-6 major from Goshen, IN
Christina Louk, a Clinical Lab Science major from Hague, VA
Rocky Lowe, a Nursing major from Palmuyra, VA
Avanelle Luhn, a Nursing major from Luray, VA
Gene Martin, a Leadership and Organizational Management major from Manheim, PA
Tace Martin, a History & Social Science major from Eugene, OR
Arelys Martinez Fabian, a Spanish Language & Hispanic Studies, Education Licensure, PreK-12 major from Winchester, VA
Agustina Martinez-Pandolfi, a Leadership and Organizational Management major from Harrisonburg, VA
Halie Mast, a Nursing major from Rockingham, VA
Jacob Mathers, a Leadership and Organizational Management Aviation major from Lititz, PA
Hebron Mekuria, an Engineering, Computer Science major from Harrisonburg, VA
Maria Menjivar, a Spanish Language & Hispanic Studies, Peacebuilding major from Silver Spring, MD
Taylor Metzler, a Nursing major from Harrisonburg, VA
Dylan Miller, a Leadership and Organizational Management Aviation major from Halifax, PA
Hollyn Miller, an Art, Psychology major from Lancaster, PA
Jansen Miller, a Mathematics, Business Analytics major from Lancaster, PA
Megan Miller, a Biology major from Millersburg, OH
Quintas Mills, a Nursing major from Harrisonburg, VA
Kaitlyn Minga, a Nursing major from Smithfield, VA
Elaine Miranda Perez, a Biology major from McGaheysville, VA
Aween Mohammed, a Nursing major from Harrisonburg, VA
Zoey Mongold, a History & Social Science, Secondary Education Licensure, 6-12 major from Mathias, WV
Lauryn Moore, a Political Science, Sociology major from Arlington, VA
Sarah Moore, a Psychology major from Weyers Cave, VA
Samr Morcos, a Leadership and Organizational Management Aviation major from Harrisburg, PA
Makayla Morris, a Liberal Arts major from Stanardsville, VA
Christiana Murray, an Art, Writing Studies major from Dalton, OH
Brooke Myers, a Nursing major from McGaheysville, VA
Levi Myers, a Business Analytics major from Archbold, OH
Gabe Nafziger, an Environmental Science major from Crozet, VA
Ethan Neufeld, a Biology major from Newton, KS
Lys Nolt, a Peacebuilding major from Dalton, OH
Emma Nord, a Mathematics, Secondary Education Licensure, 6-12 major from Greenville, IL
Garrett Nyce, a Business Analytics, Economics major from Souderton, PA
Caleb Oesch, an Engineering major from Caldwell, ID
Nathan Oostland, a Marketing major from Goshen, IN
Eli Ours, a Marketing major from Kalona, IA
Sarah Peak, a Psychology major from Woodbridge, VA
Travis Pence, a Leadership and Organizational Management major from Woodstock, VA
Sarah Pereverzoff, a Nursing major from Akron, PA
Molly Piwonka, an Art, Education Licensure, PreK-12 major from Salisbury, PA
MeLeah Porter, a Nursing major from Wilmington, NC
Claiborne Poston, a Nursing major from Midlothian, VA
Trinity Price, a Nursing major from Chesterfield, VA
Anahi Ramirez, an Art, Psychology major from Mount Jackson, VA
Conner Rhoades, a Leadership and Organizational Management Aviation major from Wrightsville, PA
Miriam Rhodes, a Music and Peacebuilding major from Rockingham, VA
Afton Rhodes-Lehman, an Art major from Dayton, VA
Michael Rice, a Leadership and Organizational Management major from Annville, PA
Maddi Rittenhouse, a Nursing major from Center Valley, PA
Kenzie Ritter, a Nursing major from Lyndhurst, VA
Yasmin Rodriguez, a Nursing major from Harrisonburg, VA
Emma Ryman, a Nursing major from Harrisonburg, VA
Chris Santisteban, a Business Administration major from Ashburn, VA
Nicole Sayre, a Leadership and Organizational Management major from Front Royal, VA
Kaden Schrock, a Biology major from Dalton, OH
Nati Seifu, a Biology major from Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Katelyn Sellars, a Nursing major from Souderton, PA
Marciella Shallomita, a Biology major from Philadelphia, PA
Sarah Shank, a Social Work major from New Paris, IN
Ava Shenk, a Nursing major from Harrisonburg, VA
Evelyn Shenk, a Environmental Science major from Paonia, CO
Marianne Short, a Nursing major from Dalton, OH
Forrest Shuey, a Recreation and Sport Management major from Staunton, VA
Nathan Smeland, a Leadership and Organizational Management Aviation major from Chalfont, PA
Kylie Smith, a Psychology major from Harrisonburg, VA
Maya Smith, a Social Work major from Charlottesville, VA
Luke Snader, a Leadership and Organizational Management Aviation major from Leola, PA
Allison Southfield, a Nursing major from Arlington, VA
Isaac Spicher, a Biology major from Harrisonburg, VA
Joe Staples, a Leadership and Organizational Management Aviation major from Warminster, PA
Imogen Stephens, a Nursing major from Waynesboro, VA
Rodney Stoltzfus, a Nursing major from New Holland, PA
Will Stover, a Leadership and Organizational Management Aviation major from Lititz, PA
Joshua Stucky, a Nursing major from Princeton, NJ
Kate Stutzman, a Biology major from Lakewood, CO
Levi Stutzman, an Engineering major from Centennial, CO
Lleyton Stutzman, an Engineering major from Harrisonburg, VA
Kristina Suslaev, a Nursing major from Harrisonburg, VA
Noah Swartzentruber, a Computer Science, Mathematics major from Lancaster, PA
Guadalupe Tenorio Ramirez, an Engineering major from Hopewell, VA
Chuck Tirtasaputra, a Computer Science major from Philadelphia, PA
Susan Trego, a Nursing major from North Cumberland, PA
Rachel Tusing, an Art, Psychology major from Edinburg, VA
Andreas Unzicker, a Digital Media and Communication major from Benson, IL
Lucy Unzicker, a Spanish Language & Hispanic Studies, Education Licensure, PreK-12 major from Benson, IL
Nic Wade, a Peacebuilding major from Harrisonburg, VA
Cassidy Walker, an Art, Education Licensure, PreK-12, Photography major from Mechanicsville, VA
Loni Waters, a Nursing major from Lancaster, PA
Jenna Weaver, a Nursing major from Harrisonburg, VA
Julie Weaver, a Biology major from Harrisonburg, VA
Ally Welty Peachey, a Biology, Environmental Science major from Champaign, IL
Dorothea Wengerd, a Nursing major from Sandy Springs, GA
Blanche Wetzel, a Leadership and Organizational Management major from Fulks Run, VA
Aden Weybright, a Biochemistry major from Manheim, PA
Alice Wheeler, a Nursing major from Harrisonburg, VA
Joseph Whetzel, a Writing Studies major from Broadway, VA
Erik Wilkinson, a Business Analytics major from Fairfax, VA
Imani Williams, a Liberal Arts major from Baltimore, MD
Elizabeth Willis, a Nursing major from Sparta, NJ
Dawson Woodruff, a Health & Physical Education, Education Licensure, PreK-12 major from Flint Hill, VA
Aidan Yoder, a History, Political Science major from Kalona, IA
Brynn Yoder, a Psychology, Writing Studies major from Harrisonburg, VA
Cedon Yoder, an Engineering major from Hesston, KS
Elliott Yoder, a Biology major from Millersburg, OH
Karina Yoder, a Liberal Arts, Elementary Education Licensure, PreK-6 major from Milton, PA
Nate Yoder, an Engineering major from Wooster, OH
Sam Yoder, a Psychology major from Apple Creek, OH
Virginia Zelaya, a Marketing major from Harrisonburg, VA
Andrew Zook, an Organizational Leadership major from Canton, OH

Check out our 2023 Commencement photo galleries of graduation, Lavender Graduation, and the Cords of Distinction and Donning of the Kente ceremonies!

In his Commencement address, Dr. John Lowe ’81 spoke to graduates about the importance of connecting to their purpose. “You each have been given a purpose. During your journey as a student at EMU, your purpose has been challenged, nurtured, come into enlightenment and discovery. Lowe continued in the words of Micah 6:8: “You have committed to ‘do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly’ with your creator, God. Never give up on your purpose. Never stop searching and seeking the truth of your purpose.”

Graduate perspectives were offered by Nardos Haile, Dallas Organek, and Amarea Witt.

Haile, a social work major, BSA executive board member and Cords of Distinction honoree, encouraged the graduating class to “be vulnerable, and be your most authentic self” as well as “to never forget the connections you made here.”

She expressed gratitude to “all the Black women who have served as an inspiration” to her, including Celeste Thomas, Shannon Dycus and Mayor Deanna Reed.

Organek, a business administration and marketing double major, captain of the men’s soccer team and Cords of Distinction honoree, shared that he “quickly learned EMU is a place where you are encouraged to excel both in the classroom and on the field.”

“It was not just the victories and defeats that made my time as a student-athlete at EMU special. It was the sense of community I felt both within the team and across campus,” said Organek.

Witt, who earned a master’s degree in biomedicine, echoed Organek’s comments. “Professors have created an inviting atmosphere both inside and outside the classroom. How often do you get to enjoy s’mores and jump on a trampoline with your classmates in your professor’s backyard or hike a trail to Machu Picchu in Peru?”

Inspired by the African proverb “it takes a village to raise a child,” Witt says the “village lasts a lifetime” and that her family village has been expanded by the one built at EMU. “Regardless of what pathways we continue on, our village here will remain,” she said.

President Susan Schultz Huxman presided over the ceremony, and Provost Dr. Fred Kniss commissioned the graduates. The commencement was Kniss’ final one; he will retire at the end of June after serving as provost since 2009.

Cords of Distinction

Ten graduating seniors are 2023 Cords of Distinction recipients. They were honored in a on May 5, 2023, and wore blue and gold cords signifying their achievement during EMU Commencement.

Lavender Graduation

EMU hosted its second Lavender Graduation on May 6, 2023, to honor LGBTQ+ graduates and alumni. The annual event recognizes LGBTQ students of all races and ethnicities and acknowledges their achievement and contributions to the university.

The program honored 15 graduates and alumni and featured an EMU greeting from Jackie Font-Guzmán, vice president of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion; undergraduate and graduate speakers, who shared their stories about being a part of the LGBTQ+ community; and a keynote address from Asha Beck ’22. Font-Guzmán and Professor of Education Kathy Evans presented participants with rainbow stoles to wear during EMU Commencement.

Donning of the Kente

EMU held its eighth on May 6, 2023, at Lehman Auditorium. The annual event recognizes and rewards achievement; honors those who contributed to the graduate’s success; connects graduates to their heritage and international roots; and encourages them to continue striving for excellence. 

Each graduate received a stole of kente cloth, a symbol of prestige in many African societies, handwoven for each graduate, or a satin sash with flags from the countries they feel a connection with. Among the many countries represented were Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Liberia, the Republic of Korea, and the Philippines.

Each student selected an individual to place the stole or sash around his or her neck. Many seniors wore the stole at Commencement as an important component of their academic regalia.

Hosts of the ceremony were Shannon Dycus, vice president of student affairs and dean of students, and Micah Shristi, director of international student services. Drummers with Drums for Wellness and Community Inclusion performed musical selections during the processional and recessional of graduates. Brian Martin Burkholder, university chaplain, gave the blessing.

Photos by Jon Styer/At Ease Design & Consulting and The Downtown Creative

“Graduation is a celebration of learning,” said CJP Academic Director and Professor Gloria Rhodes to an enthusiastic crowd of family, friends, faculty and guests who gathered to support the group of graduates who “began their study during a time of global uncertainty caused by a pandemic, wore masks, joined classes through Zoom, kept their distance, and contributed to the learning community that is CJP.”

Tarini Nagasaila Suresh (pictured left), an MA in conflict transformation graduate, encouraged her fellow graduates to lean into the messy, confusing and uncomfortable parts of life.

“If we embrace and nurture our turmoil, it can facilitate transformational growth in our lives. If we expect and hope to change the world, we must be the change we hope to see,” said Suresh, who credits CJP with teaching her that she will always be a student of life.

MA in conflict transformation graduate Anne Coyne (pictured right) spoke about the doubts she and others feel about the world and the way those doubts are nourished by fellow classmates. “I have learned that this doubt is not in opposition to hope or purpose, but rather it feeds hope and purpose,” shared Coyne, who says she found a “network of genuine care” at CJP and learned that holding “deep convictions and the worth of every person are intertwined skills.”

The 2023 grads represent four countries—India, Liberia, Mexico and the Republic of Korea—and six U.S. states: California, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Pennsylvania and Virginia.

Graduates will work in the fields of restorative justice, human and victims’ rights, the ministry, environmental justice, peace education, counseling, LGBTQ+ social justice advocacy, and urban studies, among many others.

Keren Kandel (pictured above), who earned an MA in conflict transformation, is also one of the first (along with Grant Miller) to earn a graduate certificate in faith-based peacebuilding. The new certificate for 2022-23 is a partnership between Eastern Mennonite Seminary and the CJP.

Kandel shared her appreciation for the values, principles, models, analysis tools and course content she learned at CJP, but said she holds most closely her “companions and their way of being in the world.” “They have inspired me to continue the ever so daunting, yet incredible work of peace, justice, and transformation.”

Rounding out the celebration was a graduate “sending” by Justice Robert Yazzie, a citizen of and Chief Justice Emeritus of the Navajo Nation; a graduate slideshow; and a ukulele solo of Paul Williams and Kenneth Ascher’s “Rainbow Connection” by MA in conflict transformation graduate Elizabeth Eby.

CJP Class of 2023 Graduates

Master of Arts in Conflict Transformation

Erin Campbell – Afton, Virginia

Hyojin Chang – Namyangju, Republic of Korea

Anne Coyne – Selinsgrove, Pennsylvania

Elizabeth Eby – Goshen, Indiana

Keren Kandel – Kouts, Indiana

Tarini Nagasaila Suresh – Chennai, India

Philip Quoqui – Monrovia, Liberia

Graduate Certificate in Conflict Transformation

Tony Fisher – Naples, Florida

Amelia Morrison – Harrisonburg, Virginia

Master of Arts in Restorative Justice

Jill Heine – New Holland, Pennsylvania

Graduate Certificate in Restorative Justice

Jenny Davidson – Lexington, Virginia

Paula Holtzinger – East Berlin, Pennsylvania

Pi Martinez – Santa Barbara, California

Helen Momoh – Harrisonburg, Virginia

Master of Arts in Transformational Leadership

Crisol González García – Cuauhtemoc, Mexico

Haley Smith – Rome, Georgia

Academics

Academic Success Center (ASC)

Seniors Hannah Giagnocavo and Joshua Wenger were selected as Tutors of the Year for “the way they make the ACS better,” said Vi Dutcher, ASC and Writing program director.

Biology, Chemistry and Environmental Sustainability

• Ethan Neufeld: Outstanding First-Year Chemistry Student 
• Aden Weybright: Outstanding Senior Chemistry Student 
• Meredith Lehman: Outstanding Second-Year Biology Student 
• Abigail Forrest: Outstanding Second-Year Biology Student
• Isaac Spicher: Outstanding Senior Biology Student 
• Micah Buckwalter: Outstanding Senior Environmental Science Student
• Natnael Seifu: Award for Excellence in Research 
• Ally Welty Peachey and Laura Craft: Award for Exceptional Service

Business and Leadership

• La`akea Fujita: Outstanding Accounting Senior 
• Maggie Groetsch and Forrest Shuey: Outstanding Seniors in Recreation and Sports Management
• Matt Leavy: Outstanding Business Student
• Andrew Zook: Outstanding Senior in Organizational Leadership
• Allyssa Breidigan: Outstanding Senior in Marketing
• Matt Leavy: Award for Exceptional Service
• Alyssa Breidigan: Award for Exceptional Leadership

Education

Five education students were named as 2023 Teachers of Promise, among 100 of the best and brightest pre-service teachers in Virginia: 

• Morgan Evans, from Dayton, Va.; Biology, Secondary Education, 6-12
• Amanda Kibler, from Woodstock, Va.; Music Education; PreK-12
• Stephanie Palomino, from Goshen, In.; English as a Second Language (ESL), PreK-12
• Caitlin Weaver, from Rockingham, Va.; Elementary Education, PreK-6
• Carrie Yoder, from Harrisonburg, Va.; History & Social Science, Secondary Education, 6-12

Molly Piwonka was selected by department faculty for the annual Courage to Teach Award, modeled after principles in Parker Palmer’s book of the same name. Department faculty selected Piwonka for her dedication and success in teaching, her genuine caring for students, reflective practice, highly-principled behaviors, and her courage to navigate challenging experiences. She was presented with a copy of Palmer’s book.

EMU faculty selected Ashley Schoenhardt for the Virginia Woman’s Scholar Award from the Virginia State Organization of Delta Kappa Gamma Society International. The award is for an outstanding graduate with the promise of being a key woman educator.

History

Alexa Lorenzana was recognized with the Outstanding History Senior Award, for demonstrating excellence in history research and writing for her Humanities Seminar paper “The Living Legacy of the Honduran Coup.”

Mathematics, Engineering and Computer Science

• Ben Bontrager-Singer and Caleb Hostetler: Outstanding Seniors in Engineering Award, awarded by the faculty as the highest honor for the graduate/s demonstrating academic excellence, service, and contributions to community and culture at EMU.
• Caleb Hostetler: Outstanding Senior in Mathematics Award, awarded by the faculty as the highest honor for the graduate demonstrating academic excellence, service, and contributions to community and culture at EMU.
• Seth Andreas and Noah Swartzendruber: Outstanding Seniors in Computer Science Award, awarded by the faculty as the highest honor for the graduate/s demonstrating academic excellence, service, and contributions to community and culture at EMU.
• Winners of the 2023 international Kryptos Codebreaking Competition: Mana Acosta, Laura Benner and Caleb Hostetler.

Psychology

• Casey Hartman was awarded the Galen R. Lehman Outstanding Achievement in Research Award for excellent work in developing an original research project, including design, data collection, analyses, and dissemination of research in the senior psychology research course.
• Anahi Ramirez received the Judy H. Mullet Award for Internship Excellence, for excellent performance, engagement and commitment in a senior psychology internship field placement.

Campus Life

Campus Activities Council (CAC)

Natallie Brown, Aliyyah Haggard, Katelyn Sellars and Marciella Shallomita were each given a CAC Excellence in Leadership Award.

Brandon Ewing was recognized with the CAC Outstanding Volunteer Award for logging more than 200 hours during his two years as volunteer.

Common Grounds

Laura Benner, La’akea Fujita and Merry Yirga and were recognized by Shannon Dycus, vice president of student affairs and dean of students, for their outstanding leadership through the Common Grounds’ move this past year.

Office of Faith and Spiritual Life

Micah Buckwalter: Senior Student Chaplain for Sustainability, for three semesters of nurturing a faithful awareness and ethic of sustainability.

Philip Krabill: Senior Student Chaplain for Interfaith Engagement, for offering numerous opportunities for interfaith literacy and engagement on campus over three semesters.

Multicultural Student Services

Director of Multicultural Student Services Celeste Thomas recognized the leaders of the Black Student Alliance with the Beloved Community Award, for creating a brave, supportive space for African American/Black students to learn about and experience pride in belonging to the African diaspora. 

Student Government Association

Co-presidents of the Student Government Association Hannah Beck, Ella Brubaker and Meredith Lehman and were recognized for outstanding leadership by Shannon Dycus.

Hannah Beck and Iris Anderson will serve as co-presidents for 2023-24.

Athletics (includes winter and spring seasons)

Athletic Department Awards

Freshman of the Year – Laney Cline: �´dz����’s Volleyball and Keenan Fulwood: Baseball
Athlete of the Year – Ray Ray Taylor: �´dz����’s Track & Field and Alijah Johnson: Men’s Track & Field
President’s Award – Becca Boone: Softball and Jansen Miller: Men’s Cross Country and Track & Field

Men’s Basketball

Aviwe Mahlong – Royals & ODAC Athlete of the Week

DaiJordan Brown and Michael Watlington – Royals Athlete of the Week

�´dz����’s Basketball

Mya Hamlet – Royals Athlete of the Week & Second Team All-ODAC

Lauryn Moore and Brii Redfearn – Royals Athlete of the Week

Men’s Indoor Track & Field

Alijah Johnson – Royals & ODAC Athlete of the Week (also, Second Team VaSID Sprints)

Jansen Miller and Damon Morgan – Royals Athlete of the Week

Distance Medley Relay (Abenezer Abebe, Bellamy Immanuel, Michael Michael, Dawson Woodruff) – Third Team All-ODAC

�´dz����’s Indoor Track & Field 

Ray Ray Taylor – Royals & ODAC Field Athlete of the Week (also, Third Team All-ODAC High Jump, Second Team All-ODAC Long Jump, Second Team All-ODAC Triple Jump, First Team All-ODAC 400m, First Team VaSID Multi, Jumps)

Distance Medley Relay (Elili Asefa, Vanessa Gardiner, Halie Mast, Lucy Unzicker) – Royals Athlete of the Week

Kendra Oguamena – Royals Athlete of the Week

Men’s Volleyball

Nate McGhee – Royals & CVC Athlete of the Week (also, Third Team All-CVC)

David Ward – Royals Athlete of the Week

Baseball

Natty Solomon – Royals Athlete of the Week

Men’s Outdoor Track & Field

Bellamy Immanuel – Royals Athlete of the Week 

�´dz����’s Outdoor Track & Field

Halie Mast – Royals Athlete of the Week

Ray Ray Taylor – Royals & ODAC Field Athlete of the Week 

Lacrosse 

Cristal Narciso – Royals Athlete of the Week

Disc Golf

Zach Bauman, Sean McClary, Ethan Spicher and Noah Swartzentruber finished 4th out of 51 Men’s A teams in the second-level division of the 2023 College Disc Golf National Championship.

Seth Andreas, Will Bartel, Aaron Moyer and Caleb Oesch finished 21st out of 42 Men’s B teams in the third-level division at Nationals.

For the first time, EMU sent two women’s teams to compete at Nationals. Out of 28 teams, the A team of Rebekah Amstutz and Lindsey White finished 9th and the B team of Kara Kornhaus and Maddie LaFlamme was 26th. 

Lindsey White finished 13th in the nation in the women’s individual competition.

Among the highlights of the trip include singing in—and visiting—two historic cathedrals in Germany: the Thomaskirche in Leipzig, where J.S. Bach worked for many years, and the Frauenkirche in Munich. Students will also have the opportunity to “receive European Mennonite hospitality,” as many of the churches will host them for a night.

“I am excited to share this experience with students in these incredible locations and to share our music with these various communities,” said Professor Benjamin Bergey, director of the Chamber Singers.

The program includes songs such as “Shenandoah,” a classic song about the Shenandoah Valley; “Sing Each Other Home,” a piece the Chamber Singers and EMU’s music and peacebuilding program commissioned the Harrisonburg-based Walking Roots Band to write; and “Could It Be That God Is Singing,” a hymn in the Southern Harmony tradition by Mennonite poet Becca J R Lachman.

Other songs include “A New Leaf” by Bradley Lehman, a local composer and father of choir member Afton Rhodes-Lehman; “Eagles’ Wings” by EMU alumnus Sam Kauffman ‘12; and “Wake Up, My Spirit” by Virginia-based contemporary African American composer Adolphus Hailstork.

Performances are free of charge, and a live offering will be taken to support the choir’s travel expenses.

The EMU Chamber Singers is an auditioned touring chamber choir now in its 44th year. The mixed-voice choir is made up of more than 15 EMU students of different ages and majors. The ensemble tours in the U.S. each spring break and will tour abroad every other May starting with this international tour, which is the first of any EMU ensemble since music professor Ken J. Nafziger led the Chamber Singers to Cuba in 2003.

Schedule 

May 9, 7:30 p.m. 
Doopsgezinde Kerk (Singelkerk) – Amsterdam, Netherlands 

May 10, 7:30 p.m. 
Doopsgezinde Kerk – Utrecht, Netherlands 

May 11, 8 p.m.
Doopsgezinde Kerk – Witmarsum, Netherlands 

May 13, 5 p.m. 
Thomaskirche – Leipzig, Germany 

May 14, 10 a.m. 
Evangelische-Mennonitische Freikirche – Dresden, Germany 

May 16, 7:30 p.m. 
Mennonitengemeinde – Ingolstadt, Germany 

May 17, noon 
Frauenkirche – Munich, Germany 

May 18, 7:30 p.m. 
Mennonitengemeinde – Owingen, Germany 

May 19, 8:15 p.m. 
Eglise Evangelique Mennonite – Ingersheim, France 

May 20, 7 p.m. 
Mennonitengemeinde – Weierhof, Germany 

May 21, 10 a.m. 
Mennonitengemeinde – Enkenbach, Germany

Members

The choir includes:

Iris Anderson, Corvallis, Oregon

Reah Clymer, Meridian, Mississippi

Maggie Garber, Broadway, Virginia

Thaddeus Jackson, Harrisonburg, Virginia

Philip Krabill, Elkhart, Indiana

Naomi Kratzer, Goshen, Indiana

Hannah Landes Beck, Linville, Virginia

Hollyn Miller, Lancaster, Pennsylvania

Aaron Moyer, Broadway, Virginia

Jacob Nissley, Canton, Ohio

Canyon Penner, Goshen, Indiana

Afton Rhodes-Lehman, Dayton, Virginia

Sophia Sherrill, Goshen, Indiana; Higashikurume, Tokyo, Japan

Savannah Smith, Key West, Florida

Joshua Stucky, Princeton, New Jersey

Brynn Yoder, Harrisonburg, Virginia

Andrew Zook, Canton, Ohio

Find the EMU Chamber Singers on and .

Honorees demonstrate a strong potential to impact students in the classroom, high academic standing, and commitment to the teaching profession. EMU’s Teachers of Promise were chosen by EMU teacher education program faculty. “I know these five future teachers will be a positive influence in the lives of their students,” said Professor Barbara Wheatley, the students’ faculty advisor.

EMU’s 2023 Teachers of Promise are:

• Morgan Evans, from Dayton, Va.; Biology, Secondary Education, 6-12
• Amanda Kibler, from Woodstock, Va.; Music Education; PreK-12
• Stephanie Palomino, from Goshen, In.; English as a Second Language (ESL), PreK-12
• Caitlin Weaver, from Rockingham, Va.; Elementary Education, PreK-6
• Carrie Yoder, from Harrisonburg, Va.; History & Social Science, Secondary Education, 6-12

“The institute was an exciting opportunity to bond with EMU education students as well as other Virginia college education students,” said Yoder, who was also able to get advice from a mentor educator about her first year of teaching. Palomino was honored to be nominated for the institute and says she left feeling “inspired and re-energized” about her future career as an ESL educator.

EMU’s education program values experiential learning, offering early practicum experiences that help candidates determine their professional path. Teacher candidates choose from 15 different licensure programs, which are approved by the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) and accredited by the (CAEP).

The was established in 2004 to identify and recognize the best prospective teachers from college and university schools of education across Virginia. The Institute is funded by The Teachers of Promise Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization based in Roanoke, Virginia, and is organized by a team of practicing educators. To date, the Institute has honored more than 3,650 Teachers of Promise from more than three dozen institutions of higher education.

The new track and field complex is a strategic initiative of the university’s Forward Together Capital Campaign; $3.05 million has been raised, more than halfway toward the $6 million campaign goal. The new track will include an upgrade from six to eight lanes; the regrading and installation of a 10-millimeter full-pour polyurethane surface; and on-location throwing areas and steeplechase. The complex will support EMU student athletes and coaches, EMU’s enrollment goals, and the campus and local communities at large.

The event program features comments from EMU President Susan Schultz Huxman, Harrisonburg Mayor and EMU Regional Advancement Director Deanna Reed, and EMU Director of Athletics Carrie Bert ’97. The EMU track and field team will also recognize its 10 seniors during the event.

For more information on the new track and field complex, visit emu.edu/campaign/track-and-field. To livestream the groundbreaking event, visit.

That’s a gain of more than $5,000 over last year’s totals.

“Every single dollar we raised together goes toward making this special place more affordable for more people,”  said Braydon Hoover ‘11, MA ‘21 (organizational leadership), associate vice president of advancement. “That means scholarships, belongingness initiatives, resources for retaining our exceptional faculty and staff, and much more. I am so proud of this community for showing up and showing out, and helping us “Pay it Forward Together.” THANK YOU for all you did to make LovEMU a major success!”

In addition to the fundraising successes of the day, LovEMU merged with SGA Day, an initiative of the Student Government Association to bring students together with faculty and staff in meaningful ways outside of the classroom. Because of this partnership, the energy on campus was palpable, as the community understood the importance and impact of such a day of generosity. Check out the social media wall at love.emu.edu to see how this energy manifested online!

Read on to learn about the LovEMU Challenges completed throughout the day and view photos:

LovEMU Early Challenge: Because we received 100 gifts before LovEMU Giving Day even began, a generous alumni couple contributed an additional $10,000. 111 out of 100 gifts needed were given!

Breakfast of Champions Challenge: Looming anxiety of student loan debt? We eat it for breakfast. Because 75 early birds made their gift between 6 and 9 a.m., $15,000 to the UFund was unlocked. 79 out of 75 gifts needed were given!

The ‘Vost with the Most Challenge: Dr. Fred Kniss ‘79 is retiring after 14 years of exemplary service as Provost of EMU. To celebrate his tenure and to wish him well in this next chapter, a generous alumni couple matched 125 gifts to The University Fund given between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m., up to $10,000. 138 out of 125 gifts needed were given!

SGA Day Pays It Forward Challenge: We’re teaming up with the Student Government Association by combining LovEMU with the wildly successful SGA Day. These student leaders are always looking to make the world a better place, and that starts right here on campus. Because we received 300 gifts to ANY focus fund between 2 and 6 p.m., $20,000 was unlocked to support student initiatives like this through The University Fund. 300 of 300 gifts needed were given!

Explore Together Challenge: Of all the memorable experiences graduates of EMU carry forward, our renowned intercultural programs are among the most highly regarded and meaningful. It is vital that no student feels barred from this cherished experience for lack of funds. Because we received 100 gifts in support of student scholarships for the intercultural program between 7 and 9 p.m., we unlocked $10,000 in additional support…. allowing more students to “Explore Together.” 102 of 100 gifts needed were given!

Athletics Hustle & Heart Challenge: Because we received 100 gifts to the Athletics Annual Fund between 9 and 11:59 p.m., a generous athletics alum matched all funds raised up to $10,000. 114 of 100 gifts needed were given!

Thanks to the many who donated and shared of their time to tell us how you LovEMU!

While there are MANY people working behind the scenes to pull off LovEMU, special thanks to the LovEMU Day Team: 

Amelia Morrison, annual giving coordinator; Graham Stauffer ‘19, data analytics coordinator; Marci Myers ‘84, event & volunteer coordinator; Monica Pangle ‘10, constituent engagement assistant; Laura Daily, director of advancement services; Lindsay Martin ‘05, CJP advancement director; Deanna Reed, regional advancement director; Braydon Hoover ‘11, MA ‘21 (organizational leadership), associate vice president for Advancement; and Kirk Shisler ‘81, vice president for advancement.Not pictured: Tim Swarzendruber ‘95, senior regional advancement director; Chris Randolph, regional advancement director; Jennifer North Bauman, director of alumni & parent engagement; and Emily Della Ratta, social media manager.