Only the LSA reunion remains. This event is in University Commons 211 from 1:45-3 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 13, during EMU鈥檚听. (LSA is also active throughout the year; stay tuned for their fourth annual popular Easter-time alfombra creation and worship service. Read more here and follow .)

On Friday evening, approximately 190 guests enjoyed savory food prepared by local restaurants Las Chamas, Pollo A La Brasa, El Milagro and El Charro.

LSA officers Ariel Barbosa and Fred Flores-Cano mc鈥檈d the event, which included speakers Keyri Lopez-Godoy 鈥�17 and Andrew Suderman, professor of theology, peace and mission who spent 10 years living in Costa Rica, Bolivia and Colombia, as well as reflections from students who had traveled on relevant cross-culturals.

The Jazz Combo and Jazz Ensemble, led by Kaleb Branner and Bob Curry respectively, provided musical interludes, and two dances were performed: a Bolivian folk dance called 鈥淭aquirari” by听Maria Ren茅 Saucedo and Rachel Loyer听and the merengue dominicano by nursing professor Laura Yoder and Otoniel Suero Escalante.

Fuller professor speaks

LSA also hosted Fuller Theological Seminary professor 闯耻补苍听惭补谤迟铆苍别锄 earlier this month for a series of talks, including a worship service at Eastern Mennonite Seminary, a convocation address in Lehman Auditorium, and an evening event, open to the public, with students in Professor Adriana Rojas鈥� 400-level Spanish course that engages with the theme of marginalized voices.

Mart铆nez shared a historical perspective that challenged the American narrative regarding the annexation of northern Mexico and then recounted his own experiences with discrimination in the education system and racial profiling, Rojas said in an email. He went on to discuss immigration and deportation, specifically addressing 鈥渨ays to advocate for immigrants and continue conversations with people that support border walls and deportation.鈥�

鈥淒r. Martinez stressed that, instead of debating values and morals or resorting to tribalism, our narratives have the power to shift dominant narratives to create more inclusive nation,鈥� Rojas said. 鈥淗e also expressed the need for humanizing language to talk about migrants. In conclusion, he argued that the deportation of Latinos, who whether protestant or Catholic tend to profess and practice their faith, is in fact making the U.S. less Christian.鈥�

Student Elizabeth Nisly said she appreciated hearing from Martinez that arguments themselves don鈥檛 work to change minds, and 鈥渢hat first we have to change our own narrative 鈥� to to build common bridges between people, by talking about work that immigrant people do that is a blessing others or by joyfully talking about our own immigration narrative.鈥�

“I think the most important thing he said, for those of us who already consider ourselves ‘pro-immigration”‘ is to be in relationship with migrant people, not in a position of power, of ‘helping,'” Nisly reflected. “He challenged us to listen to stories and also be willing to share our own, to serve and to be served.”

Voices from the margins hold wisdom, vision

In his convocation address,听Mart铆nez spoke on the challenge of finding a clear path in times of darkness and confusion.

The path is indeed not always clear for followers of Christ, Martinez said. Yet, in the Bible, 鈥渋n those moments when the people of God seem on edge and have lost their hope, when many just give up, some pray and seek out God, and in that process 鈥� out of those difficult times, those with eyes to see find that God has always been there creating new paths.鈥�

鈥淕od puts in our mix people that God wants to use to speak into our lives and in for our future,鈥� Martinez said. Many times these are the marginalized, the outsiders, the fresh converts who see with new eyes and bring a new perspective.

Consider the vibrancy of the churches and followers of the global south, he pointed out. 鈥淐hristians around the world are in places where they don’t have power or they can’t go to a Christian university. They live where they often have to hide the fact that they are followers of Jesus Christ or they suffer because they are followers of Jesus Christ. Many of these churches are poor and on the margins of society, yet they seem to be intuitively missional in their approach to be in church.鈥�

Mart铆nez has served in multiple roles at Fuller since 2001, including vice president for diversity and international ministries, vice provost, associate provost for diversity and international programs, and director of the Center for the Study of Hispanic Church and Community.

He joined Fuller from the Latin American Anabaptist Seminary in Guatemala City, Guatemala, where he served as rector for nine years. A Mennonite Brethren pastor,听Mart铆nez听also has experience in church planting and teaching in both religious and secular venues. He served as director of Hispanic Ministries for the Pacific District Conference of the Mennonite Brethren Church and of Instituto B铆blico del Pac铆fico, a Mennonite Brethren Bible Institute.

Read more

Read more about Latino Student Alliance, which started on EMU’s campus in 1996, and is led during the 2018 by officers听Ariel Barbosa, Anastasia Dronov, Kayley Scottlind, Fred Flores-Cano, Joshua Gomez and Donaldo Lleshi. Ana Cruz 补苍诲听Maria Esther Showalter are the advisors.

Since 1996, Latino Student Alliance celebrates cultural pride and offers a welcoming space to all

Faculty, staff and fellow students nominated the recipients, who were cited for their 鈥渟ignificant and verifiable impact鈥� on the university and on student life; for their contributions to developing the institution鈥檚 positive image; for substantial contributions to the Harrisonburg/Rockingham County area and beyond; for their high academic and social standing; and their embodiment of EMU鈥檚 shared values of Christian discipleship, community, service and peacebuilding.

Emily Clatterbuck: presented by Paul J. Yoder, PhD, assistant professor of teacher education听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听

Emily Clatterbuck has confidently declared that 鈥淭eachers are leaders,鈥� contending that 鈥淭eachers work to create positive change through their leadership. They set examples for their students and colleagues, and they help one another: students and colleagues. Teachers teach because they have been called to lead.鈥� In her sense of conviction鈥攁nd more importantly through her actions in both classrooms here on EMU鈥檚 campus and in local public schools鈥擡mily Clatterbuck exemplifies the EMU Teacher Education mission of 鈥渢eaching boldly in a changing world through an ethic of care and critical reflection.鈥�

Emily has put her commitment to the EMU community and the teaching profession into practice through many leadership and service engagements. As the secretary and then president of the Student Education Association, Emily planned a book drive and canned food drive aimed at giving back to the local community. She contributed to the professional development of current education students through planning a panel for first-year teachers. Emily also contributed to the life of the university through organizing childcare during EMU Homecoming and planning a Language & Literature Department chapel with professors Kirsten Beachy and Carol Snell-Feikema.

Emily has helped to communicate EMU鈥檚 mission to those beyond the campus community. She contributed to recruiting local prospective education students through her work in Admissions and volunteered her time to assist in the Education Department during Scholarship Day. Emily has also intentionally sought opportunities to extend her learnings from her cross-cultural semester in Guatemala and Colombia through utilizing her Spanish fluency in the classroom and attending events that support local immigrant communities.

A native of Rockingham County, Emily has continued to invest in the local community. She volunteers with fundraising events at the Grottoes Volunteer Fire Department. Emily also seeks opportunities to work with children such as reading to young people at Second Home Childcare and doing crafts with participants of Ridgeway Mennonite Church鈥檚 Kids Club.

Finally, Emily has excelled in the classroom. She is an engaged and conscientious student. More importantly, however, is the balance Emily strikes, being quick to speak up in class, yet making room for multiple voices during class discussion. Emily is the recipient of the Carroll Yoder Award for Teaching Excellence in recognition of her academic excellence in both literary studies and education courses. Emily was also one of five Teachers of Promise awardees. We applaud Emily for all she has achieved already and for answering the call to be a teacher who authentically cares for students of all backgrounds and thus leads by example.

听顿rew Diaz: presented by Maria Esther Showalter, MA, multicultural student advisor

We are living in times when people seek power or a position of leadership to benefit themselves. However, a few leaders shine even brighter because their leadership style is so different. In 1970, Robert K. Greenleaf published his first essay, entitled “The Servant As Leader,” which introduced the term “servant leadership.” Of his philosophy, Robert Greenleaf wrote, “The servant-leader is servant first… Becoming a servant-leader begins with the natural feeling that one wants to serve, to serve first.鈥�

Drew Diaz has impacted our campus with his gentleness and genuine care and service for others. A popular saying describes Drew very well, 鈥淎ctions speak louder than words.鈥� His ability to listen empathetically is unique and a gift to those who surround him. His professors say that he is great at building community in his classes, encouraging and willing to work hard, helping others is part of who he is. Drew makes people special simply by listening to them and walking with them. He accepts people for who they are. His friends and classmates think highly of Drew and feel comfortable around him because he treats people with respect and he is always ready to lend a hand at all times. From the very first time that Drew joined the Latino Student Alliance, he was ready to roll up his sleeves and do any kind of work. He always asked, 鈥淗ow can I help?鈥� It is evident that he enjoys serving people and gladly goes the extra mile. One of my favorite memories about Drew was when his peers nominated him to lead the new student orientation mixer. He said it was out of his comfort zone and he had never done anything like that before. He did an incredible job and a natural leader was born before our eyes.

Drew has been consistently committed and responsible to his studies while being an active member of the Latino Student Alliance. He was always dedicated and faithful to the many events organized throughout the year. He was also a support for the Multicultural and International Student Services. Drew volunteered with On the Road Collaborative that empowers young people at Skyline Middle School. He also volunteered with Medical Ministry International in Honduras. This experience made a huge impact in his life. He actively tried to incorporate these experiences within his daily interactions at EMU.

Drew, we want to thank you for servant heart and your willingness to help at all times. We know that you will continue caring for others. Just as Maya Angelou once said, 鈥淚鈥檝e learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.鈥�

Harrison Horst: presented by Jenni Holsinger, PhD, associate professor of sociology

There’s a theme that underlies Harrison’s extensive involvement across EMU鈥檚 campus. It is important to understand this theme if you want to understand the connection between solar panels and saxophones.听What many people recognize about Harrison, including those who nominated him for this award, is his collaborative energy and his attention to building community.

Read more about Harrison Horst’s many involvements at EMU.

Indeed, Harrison is motivated by a radical vision for a more nuanced form of community.听His understanding of community is not limited to some narrow, superficial conceptualization.听I suggest that Harrison has added three dimensions to the idea of community that are desperately needed.

First, Harrison exemplifies a broad sense of community that is inclusive of all life around us.听Harrison鈥檚 community includes the natural environment that connects all of our lives. We see this in his dedication to Earthkeepers, the first student club he joined upon arriving at EMU from Pennsylvania.听His advocacy for the environment remained strong through his four years at EMU. It included a research position with the new Center for Sustainable Climate Solutions, and culminated in the form of a well-received podcast entitled “Shifting Climates” which he developed, in partnership, for his capstone project in the honors program.

Second, Harrison understands community-building to be key in solving our social and environmental problems.听An example of this is the work he was involved in connecting low-income homeowners in Harrisonburg with free energy auditing service.听He has served his local urban community by volunteering with groups like Renew Rocktown and Harrisonburg Renaissance, and he has served local communities elsewhere by leading service trips over school breaks.

Lastly, Harrison demonstrates the power and responsibility that comes from being an individual who is part of a larger institution.听Harrison has given tirelessly for four years from the gifts he has been given and as a multi-talented individual he has many gifts.听As a skilled musician he helped to revitalize the EMU jazz band. As an expert wordsmith he served as staff and editor for EMU鈥檚 newspaper.听Even his strong academic skills he looked to share through formal and informal tutoring for his peers.

Harrison has been an inspiration to me.听Not only does he exhibit an extraordinary sociological imagination but he has shown that students can leave a legacy.听He has asked EMU to challenge itself.听And he has provided a model for us to follow.听Harrison has made the most out of every moment here, even up to the last week of his senior year by way of his second semester-long cross cultural trip.听And I suspect he will continue to be involved in the student solar project even after he walks across the stage.

Harrison, we honor you today with the Cords of Distinction and we encourage you to continue building communities. You will be missed in the capacities you have served here but I trust that you will continue to influence our lives in new ways.听Blessings as you 鈥渓eap forward in faith of a greater plan.鈥�

Maleke Jones: Presented by Kirby Dean, MS, head men鈥檚 basketball coach

Maleke Jones represents everything that administration, faculty, staff and alumni want to define 草莓社区 graduates. Of all the young men I鈥檝e had the opportunity to work with at EMU over the last 15 years, in none have I witnessed so much growth as I have seen in Maleke 鈥� in the classroom, on the basketball floor, concerning social issues, and in all facets of life. Four years ago I encountered a teenager in Charles Town, West Virginia, who had unlimited potential but was blind to the great things he was capable of accomplishing. Today a mature man stands before me who has found himself while here at EMU and yet still has only scratched the surface of the positive influence he can have on this world moving forward.

听

The thing that separates Maleke from his peers is the sacrifices he has been willing to make to find success here at EMU. Few have been privy to these sacrifices as I. I often wonder how many student athletes would be willing to work through school breaks for facilities management, including spring break as well as all summer long, instead of going home and hanging with friends or heading to the beach, in order to be able to afford school?听 I鈥檓 often curious as to how many student athletes would go through the re-habilitation of tearing every ligament in their ankle and return as ?

I鈥檇 love to know how many student athletes had to go through an appeals process just to get admitted to a college and yet carry a high GPA during their senior year at that same college. We live in an environment of statistics, probabilities, and projections; I wonder what the probability of Maleke Jones graduating from EMU was back when he committed to EMU in the spring of 2014?听 I鈥檇 say the probability was less than 5 percent and yet here we stand today to celebrate his graduation, present him with Cords of Distinction, and relish all the positive things he has brought to the EMU community.

Maleke鈥檚 list of involvements is stellar: Whether working with Campus Activity Council or the Black Student Union, doing volunteer work with the Special Olympics or Unified Games, speaking his faith at Aletheia Church, playing basketball or singing his rhymes of racial equality and social justice, Maleke always seems to be involved in activities that benefit others in some way. The measure of a great basketball player is the ability to make those around him more successful, I鈥檇 say Maleke does this on the basketball floor as well as in life. It has been an honor to recruit Maleke, coach Maleke, and present him with his Cords of Distinction.听 Thank you Maleke, and I can鈥檛 wait to see all the great things you are going to do with the rest of your life!

Keyri Lopez-Godoy: Presented by Ron Schultz, MEd, instructor in teacher education, PK-6 program coordinator

There was something notably special about Keyri from the moment she arrived at EMU three short years ago. Her inquisitive nature, passion for life, gracious and humble spirit, and her care and concern for others are qualities that have endeared her to many at EMU and the local community. The scope of Keyri鈥檚 influence is evidenced in the comments of those across campus who nominated her for this special recognition, ranging from peers to professors and staff personnel from various departments. The adjectives used to describe Keyri included: conscientious, caring, dedicated, sincere, compassionate, brave, articulate and inspiring!

Read more about Keyri’s journey to EMU and her calling to teach.

Keyri views service as a calling, and as a way to pass on the blessings that she has received from many others. She says,

I am an instrument of God (who has the opportunity) to make a difference in somebody else鈥檚 life, even if it is just with a smile. When I am in service I enter into relationship, I walk the path with others, I enter into an endless world of possibilities and the chance to spread the most powerful tool any human has: love.

Her motivation to serve is also rooted in the modeling of her family, beginning with the influence of her grandparents during those early childhood years in El Salvador, and the determination, work ethic and unwavering faith as exemplified by her parents during the process of relocating to the United States when Keyri was in third grade. Throughout her educational journey, many teachers, mentors and peers have inspired her to set high expectations and give her best effort in everything she does. Those early experiences of learning English as a second language have also served as a motivation to teach young students during such an influential time in their lives.

After just her first semester at EMU, Keyri accepted the role of ministry assistant as an opportunity to encourage others in their faith journey. During the last two years, she has served as a community advisor while also filling the role of secretary for the Student Government Association for a semester. Other on-campus involvements have included participation in EMU鈥檚 Rotaract Club, the Latino Student Alliance Club, and as a conversation partner for international students in the Intensive English Program.

Keyri鈥檚 acts of service have extended beyond campus through her involvement in other local initiatives and organizations. She engaged with the Alterna Community in Georgia during a Y-Serve trip; she has used her bilingual skills to translate documents for local schools; and she has helped to inspire local high school students who have the opportunity to become first-generation college students. Perhaps one of the more courageous forms of service in the last year has been her advocacy work in raising social awareness to immigration and Differed Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA)-related issues. She helped to coordinate events on and off campus by sharing her own story, including an EMU chapel service, Q&A sessions, and a march in downtown Harrisonburg in an effort to gain support for those impacted by DACA legislation and the Dream Act.

Service has clearly characterized Keyri鈥檚 contributions to the EMU community; and although current legislation makes the future somewhat uncertain, Keyri鈥檚 faith and compassion for others will continue to motivate her efforts wherever she goes. Thank you, Keyri, for the many ways you have blessed our community at EMU.

Michaela Mast: Presented by Judy Mullet, PhD, professor of psychology

Imagine a world where

• we only invest financially in corporations that support climate and social justice;
• education prioritizes relationships as the flag ship for living;
• it鈥檚 an everyday matter to grow and market food for the local community;
• there are ample tutors, counselors, community advisors, kids club leaders and mentors for everyone to feel valued and supported;
• we welcome visitors beyond nation borders and learn each other鈥檚 languages and share perspectives not possible with in-groups;
• we run the hills just for sake of running;
• where we raise our voices in three-part harmony to connect hearts, minds and souls;
• And finally, imagine a world where Jesus shines so brightly as 鈥渓ove in practice.鈥�

Michaela writes, 鈥淟ove in practice transforms a contentious, destructive world into a reconciled world 鈥� and a Mennonite church into light for community, reconciliation and the way of Jesus.鈥�

We can imagine such a world because of someone like Michaela who lives into this vision as if the second coming is already here. Integrity. Grace. Humility. Kindness. Wisdom. And a holy spirit of connection.

At EMU, she lived the seven dreams painted above as both advocate and mediator. She camped out with DivestEMU to encourage investments in renewable energy companies, worked in campus gardens and coordinated the distribution of garden produce. She joined the leadership team of the Coalition for Climate Justice, walked with kindred spirits in the historical Women鈥檚 March in D.C., and shared vigils for Standing Rock.

As well-rounded as any student can be, Michaela leads from any chair. She at the ODAC cross-country championship meet in her first cross-country season. She sang in Emulate, served as an Honors Council member, senior class officer, Intensive English Program tutor and Summer Peacebuilding Institute assistant.听 In her backyard she welcomed children as a camp counselor, helped start a Kid鈥檚 Club at Park View Mennonite Church, and led Friendship Camps that extended that yard into Romania. Rich in mind and soul, she remains a stellar scholar, earning the G.R. Lehman Award for Outstanding Research in Psychology, and a poster session entry at the Virginia Association for Psychological Science.

Next year she embarks on a journey that she describes as 鈥渢he apex of my education, bringing together many areas of thought while also elucidating the connection between the Anabaptist tradition I identify with, my belief in holistic, radical love, and a topic that has threaded its way through my time here.鈥� This , sponsored jointly by EMU, Goshen College and Mennonite Central Committee鈥檚 Center for Sustainable Climate Solutions, will send Michaela across the U.S. in co-creating climate change literacy podcasts for youth.

We can only imagine where 鈥渓ove in practice鈥� will lead her in the future. May the dream continue, for the sake of our shared future.

Katrina Poplett: Presented by Jonathan Swartz, MA, MDiv., director of residence life, student accountability and restorative justice

鈥淲e have to change ourselves in order to change the world,鈥� said author, activist, philosopher, and feminist Grace Lee Boggs. Interpreting this quote further, Adrienne Maree Brown writes that 鈥渢his doesn鈥檛 mean to get lost in the self, but rather to see our own lives and work and relationships as a front line, a first place we can practice justice, liberation and alignment with each other and the planet.鈥� This work of changing ourselves is the work of learning. It is the work of paying attention, of being awake to our lives and the lives of those around us. It is also the work of action. It is the work of taking risks in order to build trust, create change, support relationships, and show up for each other.

Katrina Poplett鈥檚 four years as an undergraduate student at EMU have been packed full of showing up. From her engagements as a community advisor in her sophomore year, to various involvements in Team Accord, the Weathervane, Divest EMU, Peace Fellowship, RJ Steering Committee, Take Back the Night, Committee on Diversity and Inclusion, and peer restorative justice facilitation; Katrina has made and continues to make an indelible mark on the EMU campus and beyond. Interviewing restorative justice scholar and activist Fania Davis during chapel at the end of the ACE Festival seemed to be a fitting capstone to Katrina鈥檚 nearly endless (undergraduate) engagement with the EMU campus.

Katrina鈥檚 resilience came through in new ways in this past year as she spent most of the year managing the aftereffects of a broken leg. She experienced what it was like to receive the care and concern that she has so often given to others.

Not only has Katrina impacted the EMU campus, she has also offered her gifts to the Harrisonburg community as a co-facilitator of restorative conferences and circles in conjunction with the Fairfield Center and the Harrisonburg Restorative Justice Coalition. Katrina is Shalom Mennonite Congregation鈥檚 representative to the local Faith in Action Initiative, and she has worked with Gemeinschaft Home as a restorative justice educator. In her 鈥渄own time鈥� during the summers in Minnesota, Katrina has worked as a case coordinator for Restorative Justice Community Action and been involved in social action with Black Lives Matter and Standing Up for Racial Justice.

Katrina, you have left an enduring legacy at EMU. Your impact has spread from EMU to Harrisonburg and even to Minnesota. You have also learned that changing the world is hard work 鈥� perhaps impossible work 鈥� but it is work that cannot be done alone. I am grateful that I have had the opportunity to witness your years here. Keep showing up.

Caleb Schrock-Hurst: Presented by Brian Martin Burkholder, MDiv, campus pastor and director of campus ministries

Caleb Schrock-Hurst: hard-working, involved, active and vibrant, present, a blessing. These are descriptors used by faculty and students who nominated Caleb for the Cords of Distinction. Indeed, with only two years on campus, Caleb has made a substantial contribution to the life of the EMU campus and broader community after having done the same at Hesston College for the first two years of his college experience.

Among other things, Caleb has been engaged as a pastoral assistant, chapel planner, musician and speaker for chapel, preacher for the Seminary School for Leadership Training and Park View Mennonite Church, staff writer and copy editor for the Weathervane, a member of Peace Fellowship, youth sponsor at his church, participant in the Ministry Inquiry Program, and a Student Government Association senator and co-president. One person noted that 鈥渉e does a good job of furthering EMU鈥檚 core values of peacemaking, community involvement, discussion and sustainability.鈥�

When asked, 鈥淲hy do you choose to do service or volunteer work?鈥� Caleb responds, 鈥淯nderstanding my talents as not only talents but as products of racial and economic privilege has always driven me to participate in as many and as wide a variety of events as possible to support whatever community I am a part of at a given time. I鈥檝e been able to do this through various church and school communities through music, academic and athletic ability, and whatever else needs to be done. Nothing exists without a dedicated community, and members willing to sacrifice their own time and effort for the good of the whole is what creates and sustains that community. I love making the most of whatever opportunities come my way.鈥�

And plenty has come his way. The good news is that Caleb pays attention and responds to needs. When it seemed prudent to energize the EMU campus community around engaging dynamics and timely opportunities, Caleb was instrumental in implementing the Podcast Like No Other. He lined up interviews with faculty, staff and students, served as the interviewer and recorder, and posted the podcasts. In short, he got the job done. He also responded favorably to offering a farewell reception for beloved faculty who were finishing their teaching at EMU. He helped host spaces for students to engage the challenges around budget reductions and a changing academic schedule.听 He demonstrated care and concern enough to bring people together. He also stepped in to complete the spring semester series of Friday Announcements at the close of Friday chapels.

As a gifted and skilled writer, Caleb also contributes to community engagement and well-being through this medium. I expect we will hear more from him through the years as he offers perspectives and insights in the form of blogposts, articles, commentary and editorials. Surely he will keep us connected, thinking, and engaged in ways that benefit all and for this we are grateful.

Brittany Williams: Presented by Joohyun Lee, PhD, assistant professor of recreational leadership

听鈥淎s each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God鈥檚 varied grace鈥� 鈥� 1 Peter 4:10.

God says we all live to serve, that by helping others we fulfill our own mission. Ever since she started her studies at EMU, Brittany Williams has participated in a broad swath of organizations, clubs and volunteer activities. She relished every opportunity she could find to work with people and to help others. She reveled in the joy that comes with feeling that she makes a difference in their lives. In every one of her altruistic endeavors, she obtained a sense of fulfillment, happiness and a surge of energy. Serving others became her mission and passion. She exemplifies the core attributes of a servant leader.

Brittany was one of the most outstanding students I have encountered in my first year at EMU. In my course, she always sat in the front row and engaged intensely with the lecture materials. However, her serious academic pursuit is not what captured my attention. It was her willingness to help others. When classmates were struggling in a problem set that required a budget calculation, she immediately volunteered to guide and assist them. When I needed a student research assistant to help with data collection and coding of my research, she stepped up and pitched in. Throughout all these activities, and whenever serving others, she was consistently passionate and pleasant. Overall, she was the most dedicated and involved student I have known.

Brittany has been engaged in leadership roles with numerous organizations on campus. She was a vital member of Black Student Union and organized a variety of social activities. She was a pastoral assistant for Campus Ministries and did a lot of behind-the-scenes work to prepare for various campus ministries event. She also made a significant contribution as . She walked with the team in a strong and supportive leadership role, providing a steadfast, calming and mature presence during transitional periods. She greatly assisted the new interim head coach in communicating key information to team members while serving as a role model in focusing on academic and athletic pursuits. She was also elected as the President of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. In addition to taking leadership roles in many capacities on campus, Brittany also served on an array of important committees. She was a member of the student planning committee for President Huxman鈥檚 inauguration. She served a student member of the track and field/cross country head coach search committee. She also served on the planning committee for EMU鈥檚 first Academic and Creative Excellence festival guest speaker. She was always thoroughly engaged, demonstrated active listening, and creatively contributing to the activities with which she was involved.

Brittany also volunteered with a plethora of local community organizations, including the Virginia Mennonite Retirement Center, Harrisonburg International Festival Research, Community Mennonite Church Food Pantry, Martin Luther King Community Service Events, and Sister Care-Mennonite Women USA.

If I may quote Brittany鈥檚 comments about her desire to serve others, she says,

God has given us all different gifts and interests. When I serve others, I do it because it is a passion. I genuinely enjoy working with people and experiencing the feeling when completing a task. As I continue to do service with others, I learn more about myself, my community, and other people around me. It allows me to have an insight for the environment I am working. Service for me isn鈥檛 just about going in and making changes for others, but also learning to live a better lifestyle for myself.

Brittany, you have been a blessing to all of us. You have inspired us with your faith, your action, your service, your leadership and your compassion. Thank you for walking with us and I wish you great successes in the next chapter of your life.

Elizabeth Kate Witmer: Presented by Kathleen Roth, MS, director of the Intensive English Program

I first met Elizabeth Witmer听in early August 2015.听We met at Red Robin Restaurant in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, for an interview for a work-study position in the Intensive English Program (IEP) that would begin in the fall of Elizabeth鈥檚 freshman year at EMU.听I was impressed with Elizabeth鈥檚 humility and her obvious joy in life.听This was the beginning of a four-year involvement for Elizabeth at the IEP.听Over these years we鈥檝e learned that Elizabeth, along with the humility and joy that she takes into her relationships and involvements, has a keen intellect, dedication to detail, a passion for justice, and the commitment to do things RIGHT.

In her time at EMU, Elizabeth has used her passion, personality and skills to be active in a number of involvements.听In the summer 2017, Elizabeth took part in the Ministry Inquiry Program to help her determine if her call to service might involve the pastorate. During this time, she worked at a community-organizing project that helped to hone her interest in working to alleviate injustice and suffering in the world.

The list of projects, activities and commitments that Elizabeth has been involved with while a student is long and totally consistent with her desire to be a faithful follower of Christ.听At IEP, her dedication to the students led her to become a conversation partner and a student tutor in addition to her work hours.听Her work has exposed her to the plights of the immigrant and refugee students and the cultural adjustments of the international students, so that she has become an advocate for these students and become universally appreciated by them.

Elizabeth鈥檚 involvements haven鈥檛 been limited to the classroom or the international student areas of university life. She has also been a member and co-president of the Coalition for Climate Justice which has helped her to be aware of the environmental perils we face and the opportunities we have to be activists in its protection. She has been a member and co-president of the Third Culture Kid Student Fellowship where she has been involved in dialogue and program development. Elizabeth has been a member of the Peace Fellowship through which she has been active in campus/community events such as protests, vigils, workshops, and conferences that have included the Mennonite Central Committee United Nations and Intercollegiate Peace Fellowship.

Other involvements have included the International Student Organization, Take Back the Night, DACA Dialogue Committee, Latino Student Association, Social Work is People, Mennonite Central Committee East Coast Board as the student representative from EMU, Asamblea de Derechos Civiles, Patchwork Pantry, New Bridges Immigrant Resource Center, and the nursing home and prison worship team. These many involvements are rounded out and motivated by her faith and her ongoing relationship with her family and home congregation and have helped her to stay grounded and kept her desire to be like Christ foremost in her thinking.

Elizabeth says, 鈥淚 want to work at root causes of issues, and travel the world my passions include immigration, women鈥檚 rights, creation care, and prison abolition. One day I may run for public office, although I see myself as more of a grassroots organizer.鈥� With Elizabeth鈥檚 passions, Spanish fluency, skills, and energy, she is well placed to make an impact for good wherever she will find herself in the future.

鈥淒o you know what an EMU graduate should do and be when you are no longer on campus? Think of these things, of the people who invested in you because they believed in you. 鈥� Be a very good ambassador,鈥� he urged.

Though many of students present perhaps thought beyond impending finals to consider their future plans, the ceremony was the first time to put on their caps and gowns and the first inkling of the celebration to come. During the May 6 Commencement ceremony, each of the 33 will wear a special stole, some made of kente cloth but others of satin fabric symbolizing heritage, roots within one or various communities, or citizenship.

The formal presentation of these stoles was the reason for coming together with family, friends and EMU community members Wednesday evening. The ceremony celebrates the accomplishments of graduating students of color as well as the history of black students’ and students of color achievements at the university, according to Multicultural Student Services Director Celeste Thomas, who started the first event three years ago.

See this event and more in EMU’s Centennial timeline chronicling diversity on campus.听

鈥淲e gather here to honor these students, some of whom are the first of their family to graduate from college, and to wish them well on their way forward,鈥� she said in her welcome. 鈥淔or those of you who our graduates have selected to place the kente cloth over their shoulders, it is a great honor.鈥�

Micah Shristi, co-director of international student services and advisor to the International Student Organization, and M. Esther Showalter, advisor to the Latino Student Alliance, also co-hosted the event.

Read 2017 and 2016 coverage of the event.听

Donning of the Kente participants

Eyman Alasbali is graduating with an MA in education. Her father Ghorm Alasbali and mother Abdiah Alshebri presented the stole. She plans to take additional classes for a second concentration and then return to help her community.

Genesis Arzu 听is earning a degree in digital media 补苍诲听plans to work in a production studio as an audio engineer after graduation. Celeste Thomas presented her stole.

Natasha Bridge is earning a degree in kinesiology and exercise science. Carolyn Stauffer, professor of sociology, presented her with the stole. Natasha plans to move home and work and further her education within the next two years.

Jazmine Carter is earning a degree in business administration, and plans to attend graduate school in the spring. Andrew Miller, instructor of business, awarded her stole.

Kevin A. Clark is earning a degree in Spanish with a minor in digital communications. Ann Hershberger, professor of nursing, presented his stole.

Phoebe Coffie is earning a degree in biology. After graduation, she plans to take the MCAT and continue shadowing and volunteering, working towards medical school entrance. Micah Shristi presented her stole.

Kimberly Daley is graduating with a degree in nursing. Marcia Pusey, instructor of nursing, presented her stole. Her goal is to be debt-free within three years.

Drew Diaz is earning a degree in biology and hopes to go to medical school His mother Pam Diaz awarded the stole.

Fabiana Espinal has earned a degree in liberal arts with a concentration in psychology. Amanda Styer and Alex Bowdey presented the stole. She plans to continue to be involved in the community following an internship related to Title IX and restorative justice. She鈥檒l begin graduate school in fall 2019.

Denait Gebretsadik is graduating with a degree in history and a minor in Spanish. She was gifted her stole by Asmait Asgedom, and it was presented by Mark Sawin, professor of history.

Jerome Jones will graduate with a degree in psychology and plans to pursue a master鈥檚 degree in clinical psychology. Melody Pannell, professor of sociology, presented his stole.

Maleke Jones is graduating with a degree in psychology and a minor in pre-law. He will work for a local police department. Melody Pannell presented his stole.

Emmanuel Kampanga earned a degree in biology. He plans to take the MCAT and apply for medical schools in Europe. Micah Shristi presented his stole.

Keyri Lopez-Godoy is graduating with a degree in liberal arts and a PK-6 elementary education endorsement. She will teach in Harrisonburg City Schools. Mentor Louise Gallagher presented the stole.

Luisa Angel Mallard is earning a degree in communication. She hopes to eventually earn a master鈥檚 degree in restorative justice. Micah Shristi presented her stole.

Lania McKoy will graduate with a nursing degree and a psychology minor. Lamarr Wharwood presented her with the stole. She plans to celebrate this accomplishment, study for the nursing boards and then be the best nurse she can be.

Mandy Miller is earning a degree in social work. She wants to work for two years and then return for a master鈥檚 degree. Celeste Thomas awarded her stole.

Kennedy Okerere is earning a degree in business administration. He will return to his home state of Maryland to begin a new job.听Celeste Thomas awarded his stole.

Louisa Quaynor will graduate with a degree in nursing. She plans to work in a Richmond area hospital after graduation. Marcia Pusey, instructor of nursing, awarded her stole.

Alejandra Tejada Rivera is earning a degree in nursing. She plans to work at Sentara RMH in the orthopedic unit. David Diaz presented her stole.

Da鈥橨ahnea Robinson is earning a degree in psychology. Charisse Robinson presented her with the stole. Da鈥橨ahnea will continue her studies in the MA in Counseling program at EMU.

Chang Tan will graduate with an MA in biomedicine. He will work as a research coordinator while preparing medical school applications. Fellow graduate student听Thi Do Lovo presented his stole.

Delight Tigoe has earned a degree in accounting. Her stole was presented by Lana Miller, undergraduate campus pastor, and Andrew Miller, instructor of business.

Myneshia Walker is graduating with a degree in sociology and a minor in coaching. She plans to return to her hometown and begin working. Sandy Brownscombe, professor of physical education, presented her stole.

Adila Wahdat graduates with a degree in digital media. She will work in marketing for a jewelry company. Friend Asmait Asgedom gifted her stole and was also the presenter.

Aminata Wallet-Mohamed will graduate with a degree in sociology. Friend Asmait Asgedom gifted her stole and was also the presenter.

Alexa Weeks is earning a degree in liberal arts with licensure in elementary education. Lana Miller, undergraduate campus pastor, presented her stole. Alexa hopes to find a teaching job in the Harrisonburg area after graduation.

Brittany Williams is earning a degree in recreation, leadership and sport studies. She plans to stay in Harrisonburg and work. Celeste Thomas presented her stole.

Isaiah Harris-Winn is earning a degree in business administration. Carolyn Stauffer, professor of sociology, presented his stole. He hopes to continue his basketball career overseas.

Elizabeth Witmer is earning a degree in social work with minors in sociology and Spanish. Ann Hershberger, professor of nursing, presented her stole. She will complete her social work practicum this summer in Guatemala and then continue working as office coordinator in the Intensive English Program.

Ryan Yates is earning an MA in interdisciplinary studies and a graduate certificate in transformative leadership. He plans to move to Los Angeles, California, and 鈥渃reate opportunities that will live on well beyond my years.鈥� Deanna Durham, professor of social work, and Celeste Thomas presented him with his stole.

Brianna Zook is earning a degree in kinesiology and exercise science with minors in business and coaching. Kevin Griffin, head women鈥檚 basketball coach, presented her with the stole. She plans to attend graduate school.

]]> /now/news/2018/emu-representatives-join-fellow-leaders-of-color-at-third-annual-mc-usa-hope-for-the-future-conference/ Thu, 22 Feb 2018 14:36:17 +0000 /now/news/?p=37037 Three representatives from 草莓社区 attended the seventh annual Hope for the Future conference hosted by Mennonite Church USA (MC USA).

Melody Pannell, professor of social work, M. Esther Showalter, advisor to the Latino Student Alliance and instructor in the Intensive English Program, and Celeste Thomas, director of Multicultural Student Services, traveled to San Antonio, Texas, for the Feb. 8-11 event. Pannell also chairs EMU鈥檚 Committee on Diversity and Inclusion; Thomas is also a member.

Their participation was sponsored by the President鈥檚 Office.

They joined approximately 70 pastors, leaders, directors, coordinators, educators and artists 鈥� the majority people of color 鈥� to 鈥渆xplore the ways that power, privilege and racism function in the Mennonite denomination.鈥�

This is the seventh annual conference bringing together leaders of color to network, share support and galvanize for change.

The conference theme 鈥� 鈥淭he People are Marching, Where are the Saints?鈥� 鈥� was drawn from Dr. Vincent Harding鈥檚 . In it, he urged the true believers to join the beggars, 鈥渢o march out of conformity and into the terror of the roaring night 鈥� The Master is already on the road and He says, 鈥業 am the way; follow me.鈥欌��

鈥淗aving so many of our leaders of color throughout the Mennonite Church in one space together was empowering,鈥� said Pannell, who in her third conference served as worship leader and moderator. 鈥淪ince I was raised in the Mennonite Church, it was also like attending a family reunion and recognizing who we are individually and acknowledging who we are collectively. It was also a significant time to celebrate the richness of our heritages and honor those leaders of color who have gone before us.鈥�

One conference highlight occurred on Friday morning, when MC USA announced that Glen Guyton, chief operating officer and director of convention planning, would be the denomination鈥檚 next executive director. He is the first African American to hold the position.

The room 鈥渆rupted in shouts, clapping, and cheering,鈥� according to an .

Thomas later framed the moment in her larger context. Used to working the 鈥渧ery white Mennonite space鈥� at EMU, she was 鈥渆mpowered to be in a Mennonite space that is majority persons of color.鈥�

鈥淏eing in that space and then hearing the announcement that Glenn Guyton was appointed as the next executive director of Mennonite Church USA was powerful,鈥� she said, 鈥渆specially having the opportunity to congratulate him in person as well as to gather around him and pray for him.鈥�

Guyton, a former board member at EMU, was one of four featured speakers. Others included Sue Park Hur, co-director of the Los Angeles, California-based ReconciliAsian peace center; Juan F. Mart铆nez, professor of Hispanic Studies and Pastoral Leadership, at Fuller Theological Seminary, Pasadena, California; and Chantelle Todman Moore, co-founder and lead coach at unlock Ngenuity, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Showalter also called the conference 鈥渆mpowering鈥� and 鈥渋nvigorating.鈥�

鈥淲hat gave me the most energy was spending time with other Latino leaders, learning more about their passions and how they are serving their communities,鈥� she said. 鈥淥ur sister in Christ, Sue Park-Hur, reminded us leaders that we are to bring life to people, to awaken and be courageous together.鈥�

The participants gathered towards the end of the conference to reflect on the theme, contributed by Harding, and to send a similarly prophetic letter, Pannell said, calling for the church to

Be centered in Christ and led by the Holy Spirit;

Love one another as Christ has loved us, despite our differences;

Be visibly active in making a difference in the world;

Bring young people along as we journey together.

Pannell added her closing prayer: 鈥淚 pray that as we seek to advocate on behalf of those that continue to be marginalized in our society, church and institutions that we join in with the people and march together in unity, love and justice for all.鈥�

The conference was sponsored by Everence, Mennonite Central Committee U.S., MC USA Executive Board, Mennonite Education Agency and Mennonite Mission Network.

Academic Success Center

Linda Gnagey, director of the Academic Success Center, and Professor Vi Dutcher, with the Writing Program, recognized the following tutors concluding their service in December: Hannah Gross, Harrison Horst, Kat Lehman and David Nester.

Campus Ministries

Ministry assistants completing their service are: Kyra Lehman, Holly Mumaw, Laura Rittenhouse, Jenna Lile, Clara Weybright, Anali Martin, Seth Peters, Aaron Gusler, Sarah Kline, Kate Kauffman, Hannah Wheeler and Joseph Harder.

Pastoral assistants are Alexa Weeks and Nathaniel Nissley. Undergraduate Campus Pastor Lana Miller provided the recognition.

Center for Justice and Peacebuilding

Professor Roxy Allen Kioko recognized the following students:

• Hannah Kim for her听outstanding听work as a graduate research assistant;
• Kajungu Mturi and Brenna Case for their work with the Brazil delegation that spent five days on campus learning more about restorative justice [read more here];
• Trina Trotter Nussbaum for her commitment to community-building at CJP;
• Andrea Moya Urena and Renata Loberg for their leadership with the DACA Dialogue Planning Committee [read more here];

Department of Applied Social Sciences

Katrina Poplett and Jonatan Moser were recognized for their leadership over the past two years of Take Back the Night by Professor Deanna Durham, faculty advisor [read more here].

Sociology major Harrison Horst was recognized by Professor Jenni Holsinger for his academic work and service. Read about Harrison’s many

Theater Department

Professor Heidi Winters Vogel recognized the nomination of Emma Roth, Clara Bush and Renata Loberg 鈥� actors in the fall production of MacBETH 鈥� to the Irene Ryan Scholarship competition and Amber Hooper for the stage management competition at Kennedy Center American Theatre Festival.

Latino Student Alliance

Co-presidents Ariel Barbosa, Alejandra Rivera, Anna Messer and Mario Hernandez were recognized by M. Esther Showalter, faculty advisor. [Read about their fall activities here.]

Business and Economics Department

Ryan Faraci, Jacob Sloan and Erik Peachy were recognized for extraordinary academic performance by Professor Tammy Duxbury. Brittany Williams was recognized for her leadership, academic performance and service by Professor Joohyun Lee.

Multicultural Student Services

Director Celeste Thomas recognized the Alpha Omega Dancers for Christ: Hannah Shultz, Delight Tigoe, Qing Wang (Freya), and Kellie Serrell.

The Black Student Union Board of DeVantae Dews, Childra Nwankwo, Ivan Harris, Jess Washington, Precious Waddy, Jourdyn Friend and Clarrisa White were also recognized for their steadfast leadership.

Music Department

Luke Mullet was honored by Professor Ryan Keebaugh for achievement in composition and choral music (Professor James Richardson presenting). Read about Luke’s many talents.

Nursing Department

Professor Audrey Myers, advisor of the Nursing Student Association, presented the department’s biannual awards: Dylan May, academic achievement award; Kim Heatwole, servant leader award; and Annie Trinh, Sacred Covenant Award.

Student Life

Rachel Holderman and Nicole Litwiller, student leaders of the Royals Cup competition, named Elmwood Residence as the top points accumulator of the fall semester.

The “fall individual MVP” was Andrew Troyer, followed in second place by Andrew Reimer-Berg. Third place was a three-way tie with Cameron Byer, Sarah Ressler and Lucas Wenger. In fourth place was Aaron Horst, Skylar List, Adam Peachey and Kayla Sauder. Rounding out the top 10 MVPs is Lauren Hartzler.

Student Government Association

Outgoing members were recognized: from the executive council, Nicole Litwiller, vice president and Luke Mullet, secretary; and from the senate: Nathaniel Nissley, Abigail Shelly, Leah Wenger and Ben Zook.

Athletic Honors

Student-athletes receiving honors and awards during the fall semester were also recognized. For more coverage, visit .

Read more about and about .

Latino Heritage Month is from mid-September to mid-October, and includes several important days: September 15 is Independence Day for five Central American countries, while September 16 is Mexico鈥檚 independence day and September 18 is Chile鈥檚.

From his experiences living, working and traveling across Mexico and Latin America, Clymer focused on three similarities of Hispanic cultures: personal space and intimacy, the spirit of community and hospitality, tying each to the theme, which he alternately translated as, 鈥淲here two fit, three fit.鈥�

Among those experiences, which Clymer later matched to scripture, was the generosity of neighbors sharing grief after the death of a youth in the community, being offered the only mattress in a home while the hosts slept on reed mats, and a woman who always prepared more food than necessary in anticipation of unforeseen guests.

鈥淎 lot of that was so familiar,鈥� said LSA co-president Ariel听Barbosa听afterwards. 鈥淰isiting my dad’s side of family in Brazil this past summer, I felt their sacrifice and hospitality deeply. There was always enough, even when it seemed like there shouldn’t have been.”

Members welcomed the audience afterwards to a gathering in the Campus Center for coffee and pan (sweet bread).

The month-long celebration includes Saturday鈥檚 in Harrisonburg at Hillandale Park. Held annually for the past 19 years, the free day of fun draws thousands of visitors to celebrate the area鈥檚 rich cultural diversity through art, dance, music and food.

Members say they are also concerned and offering support to fellow students and community members who may be uneasy with the current government actions related to the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA). LSA provides a safe and encouraging place for everyone, said Barbosa, adding that the club is open to all students. [Read EMU president Susan Schultz Huxman’s statement on the rescission of DACA.]

Currently, though, there is special care, consideration and prayers being said for those LSA members and campus community members affected by DACA, she said.

鈥淲e have a responsibility as a student club to walk alongside students who are being affected by the decision to end DACA,鈥� said co-president Anna Messer. 鈥淎s Latino Student Alliance, we want to encourage these students who are finding their footing and building a foundation for their future. We want people to be supported and empowered to thrive as students, athletes, artists and community members. We ask the same of our campus community, to continue to serve as a safe and welcoming home and refuge. ”

Latino Heritage Month closes with the popular and well-attended LSA Banquet, a formal-dress event on Friday, Oct. 6, which has traditionally included food from different cultures, speakers and live music, followed by dancing with a DJ. By necessity, attendance is capped at 200.

LSA meets weekly at 3:30 on Friday afternoons for conversation, planning, comraderie and 鈥渁lways food,鈥� the members say.

The leadership team includes co-presidents Ariel Barbosa, Mario Hern谩ndez, Alejandra Rivera and Anna Messer; secretary Valeria Hern谩ndez; treasurer Drew Diaz; and Gillian Zehr, who handles marketing.

Faculty, staff and fellow students nominated the recipients, who were cited for their 鈥渟ignificant and verifiable impact鈥� on the university and on student life; for their contributions to developing the institution鈥檚 positive image; for substantial contributions to the Harrisonburg/Rockingham County area and beyond; for their high academic and social standing; and their embodiment of EMU鈥檚 shared values of Christian discipleship, community, service and peacebuilding.

Diego Barahona

Diego earned his degree in biochemistry and environmental sustainability, with minors in biology and chemistry. He is from Tegucigalpa, Honduras.

Dr. Matthew Siderhurst, associate professor of chemistry, presented the cords.

I didn鈥檛 have the pleasure of meeting Diego in his first year at EMU as I was on sabbatical. When I returned, I was looking for new research students and both Tara Kishbaugh and Doug Graber Neufeld told me I needed to talk to Diego. He turned out to be a great fit and it has been a joy to get to know him over the last two years. Together we鈥檝e traveled to Hawaii twice and Guam once on research trips. We鈥檝e hiked through jungle swamps (outfitted with radio trackers), across active lava flows, and over miles of hot dry dunes to reach a secluded green sand beach. He鈥檚 spent countless hours working in a fume hood synthesizing small organic molecules, more hours counting flies, and writing research papers. Through all this, I don鈥檛 think I鈥檝e ever heard Diego complain about anything.听

Because of his hard work and scientific abilities Diego is a co-author on two peer-reviewed scientific paper and has presented several poster and oral talks about his research both on and off campus.

Diego has been an excellent student here at EMU. He is a thoughtful person who has demonstrated a keen interest in learning and new experiences. While excelling as a biochemistry major, he has also found time to earn minors in chemistry, environmental sustainability and honors.

Diego鈥檚 interests stretch beyond the classroom and have led him to serve with 鈥済entle presence鈥� as a Ministry Assistant for campus ministries, been an active member of Latino Student Alliance, worked with the Sustainable Food Initiative, and was a tutor for the Academic Success Center. Writing in support of his receiving this honor, Diego was described as the 鈥渕ost courteous person I know.鈥澨� Others said, 鈥淗is grace, kindness, and compassion for people is admirable,鈥� 鈥渁lways puts others before himself,鈥� and 鈥渁lways friendly and supportive.鈥澨� I echo these comments.

I know I speak for many other EMU faculty and staff when I say that you exemplify many of the characteristics we love in our best students and I am very happy to present you with the Cords of Distinction.

Azariah Cox

Azariah Cox earned his degree in photography, with a minor in digital communications. He is from Forest, Virginia.

Brian Simpson, head track and field coach, presented the cords.

If I were told that I could use only one word to describe Azariah Cox, I would use the word tenacious. Azariah, affectionately called A.C. by those who know him, embodies tenacity. I could list his accolades and accomplishments, but that would only serve to describe A.C. the student. I think that a brief story would give you better insight to the type of man he is.

I took over the duties of head coach for EMU track and field this past August 补苍诲听 heard about A.C. prior to transitioning from Wilson, N.C. I am friends with Jason Lewkowicz who coached A.C. during his tenure as the previous head coach and he told me a story about A.C. that gave me insight into the type of young man that I would be dealing with.

When Jason called to congratulate me on getting the job here, he talked to me about the athletes. The first person that he mentioned was A.C. His exact words were 鈥淵ou鈥檙e gonna have to watch out for A.C.鈥� I asked Jason if A.C. was a problem child. His response was 鈥淣o No! Not at all, Coach! He鈥檚 just the opposite! He鈥檚 one of the greatest kids that you鈥檒l ever meet. He just won鈥檛 quit. Even if the kid is hurting, he simply refuses to quit.”

So Jason proceeds to tell me a story about A.C. He had injured himself during a track meet 鈥� not a particularly debilitating injury but the type of injury that needed some rest which meant that A.C. needed to skip his race in the 110m high hurdles. Jason told A.C. not to run and to watch the race with him so that they could analyze the race together. A few minutes before the race, Jason begins asking if anyone had seen A.C. After several no鈥檚, Jason finally runs into someone who knew where A.C. was: in lane 5 preparing to run the 110m high hurdle final. After throwing his hands up in frustration, Jason accepted the inevitable and sat down to watch the race. A.C. went on to finish fourth in the race.

As Jason is walking towards A.C. to give him a few choice words about ignoring his order to not run the race, he notices that A.C. has this huge smile on his face. Confused, Jason asks A.C. why he was smiling despite finishing fourth and not medaling. A.C. responded 鈥淐oach, I didn鈥檛 win, but I helped my teammates. I just put three points towards our team score.鈥� Jason told me that he stood there speechless as A.C. walked off as happy as a kid in a candy store.

A.C. was happy not because of what he had accomplished for himself. He was happy because of what he had accomplished for others. He refused to quit not for any sort of vainglorious achievement. He refused to quit to make those around him better and this truly makes him a distinct and distinguished person.

Azariah, you have impressed me with your academic accomplishments. Graduating from EMU was no easy task. Your athletic accomplishments speak for themselves. What has most impressed about you, sir, is your selfless and tireless pursuit to make those around you better. Never lose the grit and determination that has gotten you to where you are. I love you like a son and will always count it an honor to have been your coach.

Hannah Daley

Hannah earned a degree in chemistry with a concentration in environmental sustainability and a minor in mathematics and physics. She is from Lothian, Maryland.

Dr. Laurie Yoder and Dr. Tara Kishbaugh, professors of chemistry, presented the cords.

Imagine a word cloud: lime green and orange text, an edgy font. In large letters, read EMU and Hannah. In only slightly smaller text notice campus, community, hockey, guide; and then served, worked, helped, positive, leader, people, impact, and team. Can you see the picture of Hannah emerging? These are the words that her peers and professors have offered in attempts to capture the many ways that Hannah has shaped the EMU community.

As a scientist, she is a creative problem-solver who invites others to appreciate the value of science. Hannah鈥檚 sought many opportunities to practice science: from an internship with NOAA and NASA, to summer experiences testing for caffeine鈥檚 effect on athletic performance or doing geoscience in Michigan, to her many years of studying water quality and stream restoration in Bergton. Hannah has brought her curiosity, a strong work ethic, and optimism to bear on these projects. She has trained others in her protocols and describes her work in an accessible manner, which encourages others to join her in her scientific endeavours. Hannah works in a way that demonstrates keen awareness of the interplay between science and the community. Who else would think to demonstrate the principles of quantum mechanics using sports equipment?

Hannah is warm, welcoming, and encouraging鈥� she builds community wherever she goes.听听 Hannah鈥檚 passion for community plays out in athletics, as she positively impacted the varsity hockey team both on and off the field;admissions, as she enthusiastically led scheduled and impromptu tours for prospective students; student life, through her work in residence life, campus ministries and intramural athletics; and academics, as she served as a peer tutor and learning assistant in chemistry classes.

Hannah鈥檚 deep faith is the foundation of her desire to serve her community at EMU and beyond. Through her humility and love for others, she has emerged as a Christ-like servant leader.

So, Hannah, this campus will miss a particular lime green skateboard zipping down the sidewalk. And as you have blessed us repeatedly with your signature line, now we return the same to you: 鈥淕od Bless.鈥�

Quinn Kathrineberg

Quinn earned a degree in English with secondary licensure (6-12). She is from Salina, Kansas.

Amy Springer Hartsell, assistant undergraduate dean, and Student Government administrative representative, and Dr. Deirdre Longacre Smeltzer, undergraduate dean, presented the award.

Amy Springer Hartsell: Quinn offered an opinion piece to the EMU community in the Weather Vane two months after her arrival on campus. Her article was titled, 鈥淭ransfer Reflection: Identity Crisis Toward Discovery.鈥� As soon as I finished reading, I was composing an email to Quinn and wrote this: 鈥淚 just finished reading the article you wrote for this week’s Weather Vane and want to commend you for it. Twenty-six years ago, I transferred to EMU from Hesston and I experienced a similar transfer process as you described in your article.鈥� I had never met Quinn but hoped I would. Here was a new transfer student who put clear, honest, wise and eloquent words to my own transfer experience 鈥� 26 years ago! Quinn ended that piece by writing, 鈥淭hanks, EMU, for welcoming me into the community since opening weekend. I鈥檓 looking forward to seeing how I will be impacted here, and also how I can impact EMU.鈥� Well, Quinn, you鈥檝e made a big impact on EMU.

Dr. Deirdre Longacre Smeltzer: As a leader, you have exemplified key attributes of effective leadership: you鈥檝e communicated in a clear and positive way; created space for a variety of perspectives; and maintained a non-anxious presence as you navigated difficult decisions. Your commitment to advocating for students and to bringing about positive change in your community is clear 鈥� through the leadership roles you鈥檝e held on the Student Government Association, the Student Women鈥檚 Association, and the Student Education Association, through your hard work as a writing tutor, and through your musical and service outreach to the broader community. All of these activities have been carried out quietly, with cheerfulness, determination, and a commitment to excellence, but without seeking the spotlight for yourself. You have modeled integrity and grace. And through the many ways you鈥檝e made EMU a better place, your true north has shone through: that is, to serve as a voice for those on the margins. We are so glad you chose to continue your journey at EMU.

Oksana Kittrell

Oksana earned a degree in psychology and a minor in youth ministry. She is from Big Island, Virginia.

Celeste Thomas, multicultural student services co-director, presented the award.

It is my distinct honor to present this award to Oksana Kittrell, a young woman, who has truly earned it. Oksana has exceeded the criteria for this award in her service and spiritual endeavors. Oksana is not only academically gifted (graduating in three years), but is creative, athletic, musically inclined, a smart leader, possesses a genuine concern for the well-being of others and has one of the most electric smiles that you will ever see.

Not only has her well-served talents benefitted 草莓社区, but she has also committed her time and gifts to the greater Harrisonburg and Rockingham County. 听Oksana is a kind, intelligent, honest and genteel young woman.

Oksana is mature beyond her years and possesses a level of responsibility and dependability not rivaled by many. She never settles for mediocrity and has high standards for those with whom she works. She has served as a mentor for a young girl in Harrisonburg, a teaching assistant for developmental psychology, a volunteer for Multicultural and International Student Services, director of the gospel choir, a LEAD lunch coordinator, an intern for University Accord, a leadership team member for Fellowship of Christian Athletes, MLK committee co-chair, and a member of Diversity and Inclusion Committee. In addition, she was the secretary, activities coordinator, and co-president of the Black Student Union. Furthermore, Oksana was instrumental this year in planning and implementing the Town Hall on Race, Civil Rights Tour and the President鈥檚 Ball.

Oksana, Maya Angelou said, 鈥淧eople will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.鈥� You have touched the lives of many through all of your hard work, service and dedication. Many persons鈥� lives changed for the better due to your presence and unselfish dedication, exemplified to the greatest extent during your cross-cultural experience in Egypt where you served the least of your international neighbors. You have the heart of a servant and the fortitude of an extraordinary leader.

Oksana, you live a life that is demonstrative of Luke 12:48, 鈥渢o whom much is given, much will be required鈥�. You are wonderfully created by God and in the words of your favorite poet Maya Angelou:

Now you understand/Just why my head鈥檚 not bowed. / I don鈥檛 shout or jump about/ Or have to talk real loud. / When you see me passing, / It ought to make you proud. / I say, / It鈥檚 in the click of my heels, / The bend of my hair, / the palm of my hand,/ The need for my care. / 鈥機ause I鈥檓 a woman/ Phenomenally. / Phenomenal woman, / That鈥檚 me.

Oksana, you may not know exactly where God will call you in your vocation, but what is known is that your future is bright and you can do and be anything your heart desires, smiling while you do it. I wish you the many blessings God will provide for you as you matriculate into the dual MA of Divinity/MA of Counseling Program in the fall.

Madison List

Madison earned a degree in religious and intercultural studies. She is from Arlington, Virginia.

Lana Miller, undergraduate campus pastor, presented the award.

Brave, consistent, full of heart, spirit of compassion, resilient, clear devotion to God, present, insightful, wise, inspirational, committed, joyful and faithful 鈥� just a few words that come to mind when describing Maddie. Her contagious smile and sparkle in her eyes have encouraged more than one person to persevere, even when the way seemed difficult. I know this encouragement from firsthand experience as Maddie鈥檚 life witnessed to me throughout the first four months of my very difficult pregnancy. And this speaks to her character, as she impacts people in profound ways as she lives her life seeking to follow Jesus.

As a first-year student, Maddie joined campus ministries as a Ministry Assistant. (This is not the norm, as most first year students wouldn鈥檛 be invited to serve in this kind of leadership role before completing their first semester of college.) She started learning how to care for other people as a MA in orientation, even before she knew what it meant to be a first year student. As an MA, she led weekly Bible studies and devotions, while also praying for, encouraging and supporting those on her hall in their faith formation.

In addition to this role, in her first year, she was part of a student-led group that organized a campus-wide vigil during the Listening Process entitled 鈥淐ome Unite,鈥� bringing students with opposing views regarding the hiring policy together to worship God. In latter years, Maddie has provided leadership as a Community Advisor and Pastoral Assistant where she has helped plan worship services and retreats, shared her personal story in chapel, wrote devotionals, mentored, supported and encouraged younger students. Not only has she mentored students at EMU, but through Intervarsity at James Madison University, has mentored a student who provides leadership to their discipleship team.

Not only has Maddie been involved with learning outside of the classroom, she is deeply invested and contributes greatly to life within the classroom. Nancy Heisey professor in the Bible and Religion Department writes, 鈥淢addie is one of the best student presenters I鈥檝e ever had; she prepares, speaks with authority and clarity, and knows how to round-out a presentation to hold people鈥檚 attention.鈥�

While Maddie鈥檚 accomplishments are impressive, they are even more impressive in light of the fact that she has done this all of this while suffering from the symptoms of Lyme disease and chronic fatigue syndrome. She isn鈥檛 defined by her illness, but rather, she has let the chronic pain she feels be a teacher, helping her to be a more open, vulnerable and sympathetic to others. She has learned to ask for what she needs, recognize her own limitations and also view her limitations as a blessing, in that it has strengthened her reliance on God. Her journey hasn鈥檛 been easy, but her perseverance is a witness.

Maddie, the EMU community honors you today with the Cords of Distinction and we encourage you to continue service in the church and community as an expression of God鈥檚 love and faithfulness. We鈥檝e been blessed to journey with you and thank you for your leadership and presence as a student at EMU. May God bless you as you continue to strive to be a blessing to others.听 听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听

Mariah Martin

Mariah earned a degree in nursing. She is from Greencastle, Virginia.

Lisa King, instructor of nursing, presented the award.

As a nurse, it is important to understand that you cannot always fix people or solve their problems. This can be a discouraging thought when entering a field in which your work is to assist others to healing and wholeness. In a reflection that she wrote for MCUSA about her time in Haiti, Mariah Martin said this: Sometimes love is knowing that your action won鈥檛 solve the problem, but not letting that stop you from doing what you can.

Mariah has embodied this definition of love throughout her time here at EMU. Her awareness of the ongoing work needed to make this world a more just and loving place to exist has not discouraged her but rather motivated her. Mariah has provided leadership for the Coalition on Sexual Violence Prevention and traveled to Haiti working with Midwives to safely welcome new life into this world. She has volunteered her time with the Blue Ridge Legal Services as an interpreter, served as a youth sponsor at Community Mennonite Church and was the coordinator for flash seminars held last Spring. 听When she could have been discouraged by an injury in her last of four seasons of field hockey, Mariah took it as an opportunity to learn new leadership skills. As a teammate and friend put it, 鈥淢ariah is positive, caring, and intentional in every situation life confronts her with.鈥�

I could go on to list all of the work Mariah has done around the community and here on campus, but I think it鈥檚 most important to hear from Mariah herself about what is behind the wonderful work she does:

鈥淐ollege is a time of self-discovery and exploration. In this journey to find an identity it can be easy to let the world dwindle down to just one鈥檚 self in a single moment. Opening up my world to serving others broadens my view and assures that I do not lose perspective. I am a small piece of a vast and beautiful puzzle. By living in the best ways that I can, I add to the tapestry of humanity.鈥�

Macson McGuigan

Macson earned degrees in digital media and environmental sustainability with a concentration on environmental/social sustainability and a minor in photography. He is from Berryville, Virginia.

Dr. Jerry Holsopple, professor of visual and communication arts, presented the award.

In Lithuania, I suggested to the students that their motto should be 鈥渆mbrace the mystery.鈥� Macson came to personify that from discovering lost family connections, to dipping his feet in the Baltic Sea to get the perfect time-lapse, from exploring the old towns to doing handstands in the forest and even mimicking the ballet moves in Tallinn.

Macson does more than embrace the mystery, he demonstrates joie de vivre in most aspects of his life. He fully engages in his creative work with a sample reel featuring Daughter of the Stars, an advocacy video about protecting the Shenandoah Mountain for the Virginia Wilderness Committee; the inauguration gala videos; O2O Keeping Florida Wildlife Connected: The Ocala to Osceola Corridor produced by a select group of students receiving scholarships to the North American Nature Photography summit in Florida; slider tutorials for VACA; documentaries for Common Grounds; and numerous other student films as camera operator, producer or animator.

Night after night during rehearsal and performance of Distant Witness, he manuvered around the stage under a camera as part of the team integrating live video into the award-winning production. He volunteered time or images at the Nature鈥檚 Best Awards gala in Washington, DC; EMU marketing; Wild Virginia; LCC International University and Campus Activities Council.

Beyond these and other accomplishments, he fully embraces life, people and the natural world. His exuberance is contagious. He likes to sing Rain Down, savor a good kebabia, wade a stream, photograph an owl, or have deep conversations over a cup of tea.

Macson welcomes the big challenges, tries out new gear and techniques, remains sensitive to the subject, works the late nights and completes the production with minutes to spare. His commitment to social change and enthusiasm with meeting unique and amazing people remains constant. Macson ran two half-marathons with me. Like any good running companion he pulls you along toward the finish line, and like everything else he does, he will finish strong. Macson, embrace the mystery that is around you and is yet to come.

Mario Valladares

Mario Valladares earned degrees in business administration, economics and accounting. He is from Tegucigalpa, Honduras.

M. Esther Showalter, multicultural student advisor, presented the award.

It is my distinct honor to present this award to Mario Valladares, a young man who exudes joy and brings life to his surroundings. Mario is a charismatic leader who uses his gifts to connect people and take pleasure in life regardless of the circumstances.

Mario is a vibrant student and proof that you can make time to be a good student and be fully involved in college life. I don鈥檛 know how he managed, but he always had a big smile with so much energy and ready to go the extra mile. As a leader for the Latino Student Alliance he was fully committed, helped with the growth of the group and was resourceful in the LSA major events. He often called or texted to say 鈥淲hat do you need? Is there anything else I can do to help?鈥� A good example of that was the banquet. He contacted many musicians so we ended up with more groups than we anticipated and the banquet was beautiful thanks to his many connections. Mario, it is going to be very hard to replace you, especially for our first activity of the year. Who is going to say during the mixer 鈥淪hall we dance?鈥� Mario, your cheerful personality will be greatly missed.

Mario, you are one of kind and we have been blessed to have you in our midst these last four years. Faculty, staff, your peers and I are grateful for your lively presence and involvement with student government association, united student organization, being part of the luncheons with the international student organization, and giving your time and insights to the cross-cultural committee and business department committee. Thank you for representing EMU at the International Student Leadership Conference. I am especially thankful that you set aside time to go on Wednesday afternoons to Skyline Middle School to spend time with the teenagers and be part of their lives.

Mario, you have impacted our lives and brought humor and delight into our busy schedules. We have been blessed by your warmth and sweet presence. I have no doubt that you will succeed and enjoy the next chapter of your journey.

Elisabeth Wilder听听听听听听

Elisabeth earned a degree in social work and a minor in pre-law. She is from Hesston, Kansas.

Dr. Carol Grace Hurst, professor of social work, presented the award.

厂丑补办别蝉辫别补谤别鈥檚 Sonnet 29 begins with a depressed person bemoaning the torment and struggle of life caught 鈥渋n an outcast state鈥� and fearing that God is deaf to this suffering until a particular person is remembered. Then, the outcast finds hope–鈥淟ike to the lark at break of day arising, From sullen earth, Singing hymns at heaven鈥檚 gate.鈥� Elisabeth May Wilder came to EMU after two years at Hesston where she was awarded Hesston鈥檚 Lark of the Year. She describes herself as an idealist, believing that 鈥渁midst the suffering, chaos, and violence of this world there can be hope, change, and peace.鈥�

Elisabeth packed her EMU years full of thinking deeply, making relationship connections, and becoming a leader in the community. When she lived in Parkwood Apartments during her first year, she could frequently be observed interacting with other residents as they came and went from her spot in the hammock on her porch. Elisabeth made an immediate, substantial and significant contribution as a Student Government Association senator and was elected SGA co-president for 2016-17. Elisabeth walked with others with a leadership vision of working within systems, clubs, and organizations to make them better and more collaborative, facilitating between people and spaces, becoming a bridge-builder between groups and administration.

As an appreciative leader, she recognized others鈥� contributions so keenly, she would regularly pen thank you notes. She is vocal in her support for LGBTQ people in the church, and blogs for The Mennonite. Elisabeth was on the Social Work is People leadership team, and part听of听the planning team for Take Back the Night. She was a co-leader听of Student Womens鈥� Association, a member of the Undergraduate Honors Council, and first coordinator of an EMU theme house.

Elisabeth also brought her considerable writing, analytic, relational talents and humor and inquiring mind to seeking justice. She is the winner of the Intercollegiate 2016 Francis J. Ryan Undergraduate American Studies Paper Award for a paper titled Caitlyn Jenner, Phyllis Schlafly, and Other Transgender Rights Crusaders. And runner-up in the 2016 C. Henry Smith Peace Oratorical Contest with a speech entry titled Make Change, Not Hashtags. She built effective cross-cultural alliances in summer internships in San Pedro Sula, Honduras and Bogot谩 Columbia. She contributed to a book entitled The Little Book of Restorative Justice: For Kids, and completed her social work practicum furthering immigration justice work with Washington Office on Latin America.

If you find yourself depressed, doubting, downcast, or cynical that your efforts matter, please remember Elisabeth May Wilder. Elisabeth, we want to thank you for walking with us here, thank you for your idealism and your practical engaging make it happen charisma. Thank you for being the Lark at break of day reminding us to sing together and make the world a better place.

听

The Kente is a colorful cloth stole native to Ghana, said Celeste R. Thomas, co-director of and the event鈥檚 host. Kente was developed in the 17th century by the Ashanti people with roots in a long tradition of African weaving dating back to about 3000 B.C. Often reserved for special occasions or royalty, the stole is a visual representation of history, philosophy, ethics, oral literature, religious beliefs, social values and political thoughts.

Last year was the first year of . Students will wear the Kente during commencement ceremonies this weekend.

Keynote speaker , professional director of James Madison University鈥檚 MBA Program, spoke about transitioning from being a student to starting a career. She encouraged the graduates to practice mindfulness as they prepare to enter the workforce. Ntiamoah, whose research interests include transition theory, gave several tips: take time to understand the work culture; have humility, be slow to form alliances and quick to network; get involved in the community and give back to their institution.

鈥淚t doesn鈥檛 matter what your context has been up to this moment, what hardships you may have had,鈥� she said. 鈥淲hat matters is the choices you make to go forward and how you choose to make that transition in your life.鈥�

For the donning of the Kente, each student was joined on stage by an individual who had made an impact while at EMU. These friends, faculty or family members were invited to speak about the student and drape the stole across their shoulders.

The Kente recipients have already began giving back to EMU. Thomas read aloud their advice for underclass students.

Theatre major Ezrionna Prioleau encouraged students to 鈥渢ry something new and have fun while in school.鈥�

鈥淒on’t give up!鈥� said Azariah Cox, who will graduate with a degree in photography and digital media. 鈥淭hings will try to knock you down, but don’t let it shape who you are. Achieve, achieve, achieve.鈥�

Recipients of the Kente with their chosen speaker

Azariah Cox 鈥� Brian Simpson, head track coach

Lance Crawford 鈥� Professor Teresa Haas, director of the MA in Counseling program

Carlos Garcia 鈥� Will Stanley

Jonae Guest 鈥� Professor Deanna Durham, applied social sciences.

Oksana Kittrell 鈥� DeVantae Dews, co-president of Black Student Union

Chinazo A. Nwankwo 鈥� Chidera Nwankwo

Chidera T Nwankwo – Chinazo A. Nwankwo

Ezriona Prioleau 鈥� Professor Justin Poole, theater department

Eduardo Robles 鈥� Maria Esther Showalter, Latino Student Alliance advisor

Fernando Sarmineto 鈥� Maria Esther Showalter

Mario Valladores 鈥� Maria Esther Showalter

Also recieving the kente but not present for the ceremony were Diego Barahona, Natasha Buskey, Alexander Short and Julian Turner.

The song is fitting for the moment: Rick Casta帽eda, who co-founded the club with four others in 1996, has just finished sharing about the club’s origins and early activity. One of the first things he told the gathered group was that festivity, with refreshments, has always been integral to the organization.

‘Each meeting was a celebration of relationship’

Intentionally, from the very beginning, every meeting was a celebration of relationship with each other. That was the goal. We had business to take care of, we had things to talk about, and Latinos are dynamic, wonderful, beautiful, smart people. And we can strategize, and we can meet, and can create these wonderful, amazing plans, where it鈥檚 not just about the party 鈥� but it鈥檚 also about the party. 鈥擱ick Casta帽eda

Casta帽eda first envisioned a student organization for Latinos during a Washington Study Service Year in 1995-96. During that year, he learned that his Latino roommate had suffered intense bullying while on campus. The harassment was so relentless that the once-straight-A student was now dealing with depression and on the verge of academic failure.

Casta帽eda became determined to improve Latinos鈥� experiences at EMU. Having graduated from Lancaster Mennonite High School, he was more comfortable in the Anabaptist culture than some Latinos at EMU. At the same time, though, he recognized that the culture could be exclusive: 鈥淚 kind of picture it as this beautiful, arm-in-arm group, these Mennonites. Arm-in-arm in a circle together, singing this four-part harmony. And it draws people to it 鈥� It鈥檚 very supportive, very loving, very caring 鈥� if you can figure out how to get into that circle.鈥�

While in Lancaster over the summer, Casta帽eda took his idea of a support group to close friends and family.

鈥淚 quickly realized it wasn鈥檛 my idea, it wasn鈥檛 my vision,鈥� he says. 鈥淚t was automatically this amazing symbiosis, this shared vision, and I had never had that experience before, and have never had it since.鈥�

His sister, Moniqua Casta帽eda Acosta, her husband Dionicio (Nick) Acosta, and their friends Dave and Liliana Vega, all EMU students, began planning a club to support and celebrate Latino students on campus.

The 鈥淟ancaster five,鈥� as Casta帽eda calls them, were soon joined by Costa Rican graduate student Willroy Grant, who became their first adviser in the fall of 1996. They wrote three purposes into the constitution: to provide encouragement, strength, support, celebration and pride for Latino students; to give a voice to Latino students and educate non-Latinos about Hispanic culture; and nurture the spiritual lives of each member.

And, of course, every meeting needed coffee, maybe a little pastelito, music and dancing鈥� for Latinos, and for all.

‘We want educate you … to learn about you.’

Latino Student Alliance wanted to say,听 “We鈥檙e Latinos, we鈥檙e not apologizing for it, but we also want to learn about you. We want to educate you about who we are, but we also want to learn about you. … Because that real honesty, working together despite differences, of loving each other despite differences, only comes from genuine, mutual love and respect, which only comes from actually building relationships with each other. 鈥擱ick Casta帽eda

Casta帽eda says that his friendship with a Caucasian roommate from Ohio helped form this philosophy. To this end, LSA held dances, hosted chapels, joined in Celebration hymn sings, and welcomed all into their meetings.

Art was a key strategy of both collaboration and education. Grant created a photography exhibit: black and white portraits of Latino students accompanied with responses to the question, 鈥淲hat does it mean to you to be Latino at EMU?鈥�

A Nicaraguan artist, co-sponsored by the art department and Student Government Association, designed a mural which covered the retaining wall behind the southwest corner of the Campus Center. Art students and LSA members joined together in the effort.

鈥淭hat was a huge source of pride for us,鈥� Casta帽eda says. Among other themes, the mural linked Latinos on campus with the larger community; a poultry plant symbolized Latinos鈥� economic contributions, but also recent immigration raids, during which U.S. citizens were also detained.

鈥淪ome EMU students were detained … Latino U.S. citizens who studied here but were also working [there],鈥� says Casta帽eda. (Several years later, after the paint began to flake, the wall was eventually scraped down and repainted.)

Casta帽eda brought his own border consciousness to the group鈥檚 activities: as a boy in Eagle Pass, Texas, his grandfather remembers watching U.S. agents mark what would become the official border. Before this, the Casta帽eda family had considered themselves Mexican citizens, but their home was a few hundred feet on the U.S. side. Casta帽eda feels that the privilege of U.S. citizenship, which fell on his family by happenstance, holds him accountable to advocate for undocumented immigrants.

鈥淚 always felt 鈥� and many of us in the group felt 鈥� to whom much is given, much is expected.鈥�

‘A labor of love’

Through the years, LSA has been this labor of love for us; it鈥檚 been like a child of ours. All the founders feel that way 鈥� when we all left, we all had to kind of let go, like letting a child go off to school for the first time. Watching you do your work from afar has brought me a lot of joy, brought me a little bit of sadness, but it鈥檚 always been filled with emotion. I appreciate the leaders of this organization for doing the work to keep people coming. 鈥擱ick Casta帽eda

After graduation, Casta帽eda worked as a home-school liaison in Harrisonburg City Schools for 13 years and is now with Rosetta Stone. Advisor M. Esther Showalter invited him to visit.

Casta帽eda asked to hear about current activities. The club is busy, hosting freshman mixers, socials, a formal banquet, vigils and chapels in addition to regular LSA meetings. This semester, two to four members each week mentor local middle school students in the On the Road Collaborative after school program.

After the visit, club president Mario Vallardes said he enjoyed 鈥渒nowing the reason why LSA was founded, and how we have to keep that story alive. Part of our mission is to help every Hispanic student and every minority feel welcome in EMU’s community. We want to be able to help everyone feel welcome, no matter where they are from or who they are.鈥�

Mario Hernandez, the club鈥檚 vice president, adds, 鈥淎t first the meetings were made possible due to the cultural similarities of Hispanic students that acted as a middle ground, but now we have members who don’t exactly 鈥榮hare鈥� this middle ground but nevertheless decide to join LSA. They seamlessly join us and become friends … and additionally they make the group’s middle ground richer for anyone else who might decide to come meet with us, too.鈥�

Two decades after the first LSA meeting, twenty-some students with Central and South American citizenship, heritage or interests gasp, nod and laugh while Casta帽eda shares the history of their club. Two cousins from Honduras, a Mennonite Central Committee volunteer from Guatemala City, a white student from New Market who traces ancestors back to Cuba 鈥� they are all part of the fabric of a Latino Student Alliance 20 years in the making.

Upcoming events: On April 2, LSA will host the Celebration worship service, and on April 12, a Semana Santa, or 鈥淗oly Week鈥� chapel. For Holy Week, they will continue the Central American tradition of creating an alfombra听, or colorful art 鈥渃arpet鈥� out of rice and sawdust.

The four sections of the alfombra, made of rice, flour and other materials and created by EMU鈥檚 Latino Student Alliance (LSA), represented immigration and refugees, salvation, hope and suffering.

Celebrants formed a processional around the artwork, walking together for brief periods of silent meditation between scripture readings and hymns sung in both Spanish and English.

A devotion of time

Members of the LSA, assisted by Professor , started creating the artwork on Monday. They would eventually invest approximately 40 hours in the creation. Their painstaking work drew the attention of the and WHSV (to view coverage, click .)

鈥淭丑别蝉别 alfombras are made to welcome Jesus in remembrance of His entrance in Jerusalem during Palm Sunday,鈥� said LSA leader Rebecca Cardwell, welcoming the community to the service. 鈥淚nstead of palms, the communities prepare these colorful rugs to welcome Him as their King.鈥�

Cardwell is one of 鈥� including Ana Cruz, Fernanda Hernandez and Paola Diaz 鈥� who have helped the Latino Student Alliance become more of a presence on campus. One goal of the group is to prominently feature the vibrant diversity of Hispanic culture.

Additionally, the group has hosted a variety of activities to strengthen ties with local Latino students, many of whom commute to campus, in addition to raising awareness among the broader EMU community. Their annual banquet, held in September, is a sign of their success: With attendance growing each year to 180 people in 2015, they catered their last event.

Excitement generates ideas

Initial plans were to remove the alfombra before Easter break, but , director of multicultural student services, says interest from local church groups coming to campus to view the alfombra has changed plans and the artwork will be remain through March 31. [The university is closed for Easter break March 25-28 and will reopen March 29.]

Because of the excitement generated by this project, Lepley suggested that a wider Holy Week event and bilingual worship service could be a possibility for next year, with community groups and congregations invited to design and create their own alfombra.

The EMU campus community has many connections to Central and South America in addition to students, faculty and staff native to those countries, including the club’s advisor, , a native of Bolivia. Noted in the crowd were many faculty and staff who have lived and worked in Central and South America. Additionally, a is spending the semester in Guatemala and Cuba, with Elaine Zook Barge and her husband, former MCC workers in El Salvador, Nicaragua and Guatemala for 15 years.

For more information about visiting campus, call (540) 432-4000.

听

Their friendship actually began with LSA, which makes for four long years of learning and growing together, most commonly communicating 鈥渋n Spanglish,鈥� they say. Though each has held formal leadership positions in the club, in reality 鈥渢here is no hierarchy,鈥� says one.

• Meet Ana Cruz, of New Market, Virginia, who plans a career in elementary school . She鈥檚 calm and cool under pressure, and always willing to represent the group at meetings. When tensions rise, she is always the one to break the ice.
• Fernanda 鈥淔er鈥� Hernandez, a senior major, is from Honduras. 鈥淔er is the most organized and detail-oriented of us all,鈥� says one of her friends. 鈥淲e would throw ideas out and the next meeting she鈥檇 have a plan.鈥�
• Paola Diaz, from McGaheysville, Virginia, is a major, double minoring in psychology and coaching. A consummate networker who is well-known in the local community, she鈥檚 鈥渁ll about the connections.鈥�
• And there鈥檚 Rebecca Cardwell, from Maryland, who is a and TESOL major, who has been 鈥渨elcomed with open arms鈥� into the Latino community, she says. Her strength is a contagious enthusiasm that provides momentum. 鈥淲e always say that her heart is definitely Hispanic,鈥� says club advisor Maria Esther Showalter, a native of Bolivia.

The four friends have been 鈥渇abulous leaders,鈥� says , director of . 鈥淭hey have grown in confidence, learned to stand up when the situation warrants, to manage conflict effectively and persevered when things did not work out 鈥� they show this leadership not just on campus, but in their churches and communities, too.鈥�

Latinos 鈥榤ore than just immigrants鈥�

When the foursome joined LSA, the club had only a few members and was coming off a stretch in which activities of the club revolved around political activism in favor of immigration reform. With the support and encouragement of Susannah Lepley, the four women decided to emphasize Latino culture in all its breadth and diversity. Since 2014, , who teaches in the , has continued to support and 鈥渆mpower us as student-leaders to make choices,鈥� said Rebecca.

Latino culture, they decided, would be a meeting point for EMU鈥檚 Latino students, most of whom were local commuters, and the broader EMU community.

鈥淲hile the DREAM Act and immigration reform are important, we didn鈥檛 want to be defined by that. We are more than just immigrants,鈥� says Fernanda. 鈥淲e wanted to show what our culture is like 鈥� food and culture and bright colors 鈥� We really wanted to change the focus.鈥�

Banquet grows annually

Latino Heritage Month, which falls in September, provided a natural focus for the club鈥檚 events, which includes a chapel service, always followed by caf茅 con pan dulce (coffee with sweet bread); a welcome luncheon; movie screenings; and other activities, the most successful of which has been an annual banquet.

Staging the banquet was the first major event for the then-sophomore leaders, who underestimated the crowd and the amount of work involved. Fernanda says the four chefs 鈥渄id all the cooking for 100 people at my house.鈥� Then they rushed it all to EMU, arriving with the smells of plantains and chicken clinging to their clothes.

鈥淚n the recent years we have catered the Pollo a la Braza, pl谩tanos fritos, pupusas, flan, tres leches, and other side dishes from local Hispanic restaurants,鈥� says Maria Esther Showalter, 鈥渂ut many students also volunteer to cook. We always think we will have enough food but we always have more students than we expect.鈥�

With music, storytelling and post-dinner salsa dancing, the event has grown every year, with a crowd of about 180 attending the 2015 event.

This year, LSA partnered with two departments to host Chilean-American writer . They also helped during the Noche Bohemia, which showcases the creativity and language skills of Spanish language learners in a fun, supportive environment.

Volunteering has also been a part of the club鈥檚 efforts: they鈥檝e set up a Christmas program with Skyline Literacy and worked with a multicultural family literacy program in Washington D.C.

Club now more present to first-years, Latino community

One result of the club鈥檚 successful banquet was an invitation from to take over the mixer for first-years on the final night of orientation. Instead of square dancing, LSA teaches salsa dancing. Rebecca says one student who saw her on campus recognized her and said he met all his friends that night.

鈥淟SA is part of what first-year students see and participate in when they arrive on campus that first week,鈥� Rebecca said. 鈥淔irst-years see a diverse community here. Then we carry that awareness through into Latino Heritage Month. It鈥檚 been really important and helpful to have that presence from the start of the school year.鈥�

鈥淲e鈥檝e come a long way from when we started, when the Latino community really wasn鈥檛 represented on our campus in a strong, visible way,鈥� says Fernanda. 鈥淐onnecting with our Latino students, who are often commuters who are working and many are first-generation college students, has also been very meaningful to us. We want to nurture Latinos coming here, because even if you grow up in the States, you might not feel comfortable here on campus.鈥�

Paola says by being present and sharing their stories, some of which involve overcoming prejudice, there is growing potential for LSA members to nurture and support first-generation college students.

Among a host of other possible activities to get involved with, LSA has been their main interest over the years, the women say, because they have made an important difference in the campus community.

鈥淲e have chosen to invest time in LSA because we want to grow together, and we want to share our love for our culture and build cultural competency on the campus,鈥� Ana says. 鈥淲e鈥檝e been able to do that, but also support our other groups, like International Student Organization and Black Student Union, so that we all have representation.鈥�

They鈥檙e leaving EMU with many accomplishments to celebrate besides the foundation they鈥檝e laid for LSA. Two of the four seniors have one more semester on campus, which means they will all be present for the celebrations, as damas de honor, at Paola鈥檚 fall 2016 wedding.

LSA meets Tuesdays at noon for informal conversation in the dining hall, and also from 3:30-4:30 p.m. on Fridays in the Multicultural Student Services office.