News Type: Alumni

BUCKHANNON, West Virginia  –  When he is not wielding a camera on the sidelines of West Virginia Wesleyan College’s athletic contests or crafting an endless stream of press releases, WVWC Sports Information Director Pete Galarneau ’98 may just be working on an idea for his next novel.

Two new books were published in time for the spooky season: “A Coupla’ Cool Cars”  and “The Trash Man and The Legend of Ashbury Creek.”

In the novella, “A Coupla’ Cool Cars,” Galarneau spins a story of a man returning to the West Virginia hills to handle family business during the COVID-19 pandemic. On a bike ride one day, an encounter with some people on a back road leads to an adventure.

“It was inspired by me being out riding and seeing a drift car where a drift car should not be,” Galarneau said. “The story is really about COVID. Anytime I write something, there is something about me that has to do with how I handle struggles in write. I write novels. I knew people who had died from COVID including some close family members. I kind of encapsulate those feelings. People who know me well will recognize that. People who don’t will just get a really good story.”

In the novel, “The Trash Man,” Galarneau sets the novel at a race track, an idea he first had in the early 1990s and had set aside until more recently. A man who picks up extra work during the summers at a local race track ends up making a deal with a shadow creature to save the life of a little girl who was very sick. However, the man pays a heavy price as readers will discover.

Although a published author, this is the first time Galarneau wrote two stories simultaneously. He began writing “The Trash Man” when the idea for “A Coupla’ Cool Cars” came to Galarneau on a bike ride.

Galarneau will have a book signing at Argo Books, Main Street, Buckhannon, on Friday, Nov. 1 from 4 to 6 p.m. The books will be available exclusively at Argo Books and at petergalarneau.com

ABOUT WEST VIRGINIA WESLEYAN COLLEGE
West Virginia Wesleyan College (WVWC) is a private, four-year residential liberal arts and sciences college in Buckhannon, West Virginia. A tradition of excellence for more than 130 years, West Virginia Wesleyan is home to 14 Fulbright Scholars. The Princeton Review ranked Wesleyan as one of its 2025 Best Colleges in the Mid-Atlantic Region of the United States. U.S. News & World Report’s 2025 Best College Rankings designated Wesleyan ninth in Best Value – Regional Universities (South). WVWC offers students nearly 60 majors and 40 minors; graduate programs in athletic training, business administration, creative writing, nursing and clinical mental health counseling; 20 NCAA Division II athletic programs; multiple performing arts groups; and more than 50 organizations. Founded in 1890, the College is closely affiliated with the United Methodist Church and abides by the Wesley doctrine that emphasizes service to others. For more information, visit wvwc.edu.

BUCKHANNON, West Virginia  –  Twenty-seven West Virginia Wesleyan College students had an incredible opportunity recently to travel to Washington, D.C.  for some high-impact professional networking and career development training.

The trip was hosted and sponsored by Tad Rupp, a partner at Targeted Victory, according to Dr. Justin Bowers, Director of Career Services and Experiential Learning at WVWC.

“He and his team helped plan an amazing day that included meetings on Capitol Hill with staff members from the office of both Senators Shelley Moore Capito and Joe Manchin, “ Bowers said. “We also spent time at the Philips office where we heard from Angel Riley ’99, David Young ’87, Phil A. Hancock ’02 and Dana Madden regarding internship opportunities, professional branding, and high-impact relationships.

“The evening was full of inspiration from both Paul D. Daugherty ’00 and the honorable Kimberly Reed ’93 sharing about the impact they’ve had on the world and how it all started at Wesleyan. We ended the day with a beautiful rooftop reception looking over D.C.,” Bowers said.

Prior to the trip, students also had an opportunity to connect with many of the trustees and others during a networking dinner held Homecoming Week.

Zeinah Abdelsalam ’25, of United Arab Emirates, said, “Grateful to the shared wisdom of everyone involved in this trip, I ended the day in D.C. with a wealth of knowledge about the city’s professional and social culture. As a current student, it has also deepened my pride in being part of Wesleyan’s alumni network—a network that continuously gives back in ways that are both generous and transformative.”

Bray Boggs ’27, of Scott Depot, West Virginia, said, “I had been to Washington, D.C. once before as a sightseer, but it was a unique experience being able to bask in the professional world in our nation’s capital. As a political science major, exploring the opportunities in the field – from political consulting and lobbying to working for congressional staffs – and talking to passionate individuals gave me a renewed sense of confidence for my future.

“The biggest takeaway I can share from the trip is that no matter who you are or what your interests might be, there is a career path available. Work relentlessly to discover new horizons, and keep your eyes open at all times; you never know who or what you might bump into! Thank you to the faculty and alumni who helped organize this matchless event. It is a blessing to have such a dedicated network of support here at West Virginia Wesleyan College!”

Bowers added, “I cannot express how humbled I was to be in the presence of such knowledge, experience, and passion. Each of our guests, and so many Wesleyan alumni demonstrated servant leadership and our students soaked in the day.

“The other side of this was how well our students engaged. They took risks, stepped out of comfort zones, and represented themselves and Wesleyan with poise and coachability. It was a proud day to be a Bobcat and I was reminded of the gift of this role I am in.”

ABOUT WEST VIRGINIA WESLEYAN COLLEGE
West Virginia Wesleyan College (WVWC) is a private, four-year residential liberal arts and sciences college in Buckhannon, West Virginia. A tradition of excellence for more than 130 years, West Virginia Wesleyan is home to 14 Fulbright Scholars. The Princeton Review ranked Wesleyan as one of its 2025 Best Colleges in the Mid-Atlantic Region of the United States. U.S. News & World Report’s 2025 Best College Rankings designated Wesleyan ninth in Best Value – Regional Universities (South). WVWC offers students nearly 60 majors and 40 minors; graduate programs in athletic training, business administration, creative writing, nursing and clinical mental health counseling; 20 NCAA Division II athletic programs; multiple performing arts groups; and more than 50 organizations. Founded in 1890, the College is closely affiliated with the United Methodist Church and abides by the Wesley doctrine that emphasizes service to others. For more information, visit wvwc.edu.

BUCKHANNON, West Virginia – Area youth are invited to a short concert by the WVWC Marching Bobcats for some ghoulish tunes, sweet treats and a “spooktacular” time.

A brief but festive Halloween Concert by the WVWC Marching Bobcats will be held at 5:30 p.m. in the Virginia Thomas Law Center for the Performing Arts. Aside from a smattering of some Halloween—themed tunes, children in costume will be treated to some goodies. 

Director of Athletic Bands Dr. Robert Palmer said, “The opportunity to perform for a younger crowd will be one of the highlights of the season. The band will dress up in their own costumes and let loose for the kids who come. Having performed in concerts like this in the past, I know both the audience and band will have an excellent time!

“Children who come will have the opportunity to showcase their costumes, win prizes, and get some candy at the end. Being the first time we’ve ever done something like this, I’m anxious to see the turnout from the Upshur County community.”

ABOUT WEST VIRGINIA WESLEYAN COLLEGE

West Virginia Wesleyan College (WVWC) is a private, four-year residential liberal arts and sciences college in Buckhannon, West Virginia. A tradition of excellence for more than 130 years, West Virginia Wesleyan is home to 14 Fulbright Scholars. The Princeton Review ranked Wesleyan as one of its 2025 Best Colleges in the Mid-Atlantic Region of the United States. U.S. News & World Report’s 2025 Best College Rankings designated Wesleyan ninth in Best Value – Regional Universities (South). WVWC offers students nearly 60 majors and 40 minors; graduate programs in athletic training, business administration, creative writing, nursing and clinical mental health counseling; 20 NCAA Division II athletic programs; multiple performing arts groups; and more than 50 organizations. Founded in 1890, the College is closely affiliated with the United Methodist Church and abides by the Wesley doctrine that emphasizes service to others. For more information, visit wvwc.edu.

BUCKHANNON, West Virginia  –  The West Virginia Wesleyan College Department of Theatre & Dance presents a murder mystery whodunnit that would baffle even the greatest detectives:

Three years ago, rising actor Derry Freefall was poisoned onstage during a performance, but her killer was never found. Now, auditions for roles at national theatres from across the nation are interrupted by a murder most ridiculous, and hysteria reigns as egos are unleashed and we see just how good bad actors can be at lying to their audiences! No one is safe as the clues bring us closer and closer to the truth. Oh, the humanity!  Oh, the drama! Oh, the overacting! There’s food, there’s music, there are laughs and zany antics galore as we try to solve one of the craziest mysteries to hit the stage!

The show is written and directed by Dr.  Greg Mach, associate professor, who explained that the show includes scripted and improvised segments so no two shows are the same.

“We started doing these dinner theatre mysteries 10 years ago, and we have such a blast every time,” he said. “It’s a great way to showcase our talent and the great food at these restaurants. The audience has so much fun because they are a part of the action- they have to figure out ‘whodunnit,’ or sit back and laugh while other people figure it all out. Either way, it’s two hours of fun, great food, and great music.”

“Doing these shows helps our students to learn the ins and outs of improvisational theatre. They never know what the audience will say or will ask them, so they have to figure out how to answer in character and in a way that will help their character get away with it, or implicate another character, or just move the plot along. And usually they’ll give us a good laugh along the way.”

Cast members include Makya Bradshaw ’28, of Summersville, West Virginia as ZaZa; Leigh Rice ’28, of Philippi, West Virginia as Mel; Sadie Huynh ’28, of Princeton, West Virginia, as Sam; Kostadena Matina Hartley ’27, of Buckhannon, as KC; Elijah W. Dickey ’27, of Chloe, West Virginia; as Ollie; Rhyan Sebring ’27, of Caldwell, Ohio, as Juice and WVWC’s Director of the MFA Program Dr. Doug Van Gundy as ChaCha.

Stage Manager is Emme Castellow and Hartley is the assistant stage manager and costumes.

Mach added,“Students learn how to build broad characters and play in a variety of spaces, adjusting the show each time they tour the show to a new venue. The Department of Theatre & Dance makes no profit from the shows, but uses them to help local businesses pull in new customers who might not have been to the venue before. It’s a lovely partnership between the C ollege and the local communities.”

Performances:

Nov. 10, 2 p.m.  The Lodge in Alpena, Bowden, WV

Menu:
Strychnine Salad with Fresh Bread
Petite Cyanide Filet
VX Mashed Potatoes
Arsenic Green Beans
Pineapple and Hemlock Upside Down Cake or Sarin Cheesecake
Price: $50

To make reservations, please call 304-636-1470

 

Nov. 13, 6:30 p.m., French See Dining Hall at WV Wesleyan College, Buckhannon, WV (College Community with ID only)

Menu:

Hemlock and Pasta Salad
Strychnine Garlic Bread Sticks
Lasagna (Beef, Cyanide, and Vegetarian)
Nightshade Sweet Potatoes
Green Beans Almondine (for nut allergies)
Tetrodotoxin Cupcakes and Amotoxin Brownies

Price: Free with meal plan, or $11.53 for Wesleyan Community, friends, and family

Phone number/email for reservations: 304-473-8037/theatreboxoffice@wvwc.edu

 

Nov. 15, 6 p.m., The Lunch Box, Elkins, WV

Menu:

Cyanide Salad Bar
Deadly Nightshade Baked Steak”
Tetrodotoxin Mashed Potatoes
Strychnine Green Beans
Arsenic Cobbler
Uranium Tea and Soft Drinks

Price: $35

Info and reservations at: (304) 642–6083

Nov. 16, 6:30pm, Lambert’s Winery, Weston, WV

Menu:
Fresh Strychnine Salad
Chardonnay and Mercury Baked Chicken Breast
Garlic and Cyanide Baby Baked Potatoes
Tetrodotoxin Green Beans
Hot Baked Arsenic Artisan Rolls
Assorted Amatoxins Gourmet Desserts
Pay bar with Domestic Beer and Six Lambert Wines to choose from

Price: $45

Website for reservations:  lambertswinery.com. and  (304) 269-4903

ABOUT WEST VIRGINIA WESLEYAN COLLEGE
West Virginia Wesleyan College (WVWC) is a private, four-year residential liberal arts and sciences college in Buckhannon, West Virginia. A tradition of excellence for more than 130 years, West Virginia Wesleyan is home to 14 Fulbright Scholars. The Princeton Review ranked Wesleyan as one of its 2025 Best Colleges in the Mid-Atlantic Region of the United States. U.S. News & World Report’s 2025 Best College Rankings designated Wesleyan ninth in Best Value – Regional Universities (South). WVWC offers students nearly 60 majors and 40 minors; graduate programs in athletic training, business administration, creative writing, nursing and clinical mental health counseling; 20 NCAA Division II athletic programs; multiple performing arts groups; and more than 50 organizations. Founded in 1890, the College is closely affiliated with the United Methodist Church and abides by the Wesley doctrine that emphasizes service to others. For more information, visit wvwc.edu.

BUCKHANNON, West Virginia  – West Virginia Wesleyan College welcomed six new trustees to the Board of Trustees during Friday’s Founders Day Convocation bringing  years of  experience across diverse fields including education, health care and law.

Sam Fox ’86 earned his J.D. from West Virginia University College of Law in 1980 and is a health care layer at Flaherty Sensabaugh and Bonasso PLLC in Charleston, specializing in medical malpractice, defense, risk management and health care licensing. He has served as chair of the West Virginia State Bar’s Law and Medicine Committee and teaches business law and sports law at the University of Charleston.

Stephen Ranjan ’01 earned a bachelor’s degree in computer science from WVWC and his Master of Business Administration from the University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Business. He is the Global Head of Digital Health for Roche Pharma personalized healthcare where he and his team are leading, co-creating and implementing the next generation of digital health concepts across the Roche Pharma functions and the Roche Group. With more than 20-plus years of experience in the pharmaceutical, medical device and health IT industry, Ranjan has extensive experience driving open innovation and establishing novel collaborations with customers and technology players such as Amazon, Verily and other digital health startups.

Danette Ifert Johnson ’90 is provost of Kalamazoo College in Michigan where she oversees academic vision, faculty development, curriculum and student access to experiential learning. Johnson also serves as a peer reviewer for the Higher Learning Commission. Johnson earned her B.A. in speech communication and history from WVWC, a master’s in educational psychology from WVU and a master’s and doctorate in communication studies from Northwestern University.

The Rev. Debra Wallace-Padgett began her new role as Bishop of the West Virginia Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church in September. She also continues as Bishop of the Holston Conference. Wallace-Padgett holds degrees from Berea College, Scarritt College, Lexington Theological Seminary and Asbury Theological Seminary. She was first elected a Bishop of the UMC at the 2012 Southeastern Jurisdictional Conference.

Dr. Jesse Oldroyd serves as chair of the faculty senate at WVWC. He is an associate professor in the Department of Mathematics and Computer Science. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science in mathematics from the University of Alaska Anchorage in 2010 and his Master of Science and Ph.D. in mathematics from the University of Idaho, specializing in applied harmonic analysis. He has been a member of the faculty at WVWC since 2016.

Brenda Friend ’07 earned a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education (Multicategorical Special Education and Specific Learning Disabilities K-5, 6-A) and went on to teach at Buckhannon-Upshur High School and write project-based learning, assessments and content standards for the West Virginia Department of Education. She has been the assistant controller at WVWC since March 2012 and is a professional income tax preparer and enrolled agent. Friend is staff council chair.

The six new trustees join Brian Brouillette ’82, Michael Bush ’10, Jason Fiegel ‘00, Jamion Wolford ’08, Bill Fahrner ’96 and MBA ’02; David Young ’87; Martha Ognibene ’79, Arria Foster-Hines ’95, Alan Letton, Rev. Dr. Ellis Conley ’73, Justin Raber ’08, Craig Welsh ’93, Kevin Spear ’16, Angel Riley ’99, Rev. Amy Shanholtzer ‘87, Curtis Wilkerson ’99, and Sadie Nichols ’25, as president of the Student Senate.

ABOUT WEST VIRGINIA WESLEYAN COLLEGE
West Virginia Wesleyan College (WVWC) is a private, four-year residential liberal arts and sciences college in Buckhannon, West Virginia. A tradition of excellence for more than 130 years, West Virginia Wesleyan is home to 14 Fulbright Scholars. The Princeton Review ranked Wesleyan as one of its 2025 Best Colleges in the Mid-Atlantic Region of the United States. U.S. News & World Report’s 2025 Best College Rankings designated Wesleyan ninth in Best Value – Regional Universities (South). WVWC offers students nearly 60 majors and 40 minors; graduate programs in athletic training, business administration, creative writing, nursing and clinical mental health counseling; 20 NCAA Division II athletic programs; multiple performing arts groups; and more than 50 organizations. Founded in 1890, the College is closely affiliated with the United Methodist Church and abides by the Wesley doctrine that emphasizes service to others. For more information, visit wvwc.edu.

BUCKHANNON, West Virginia – An alum of West Virginia Wesleyan College who discovered his call for pastoral ministry after a 15-year law career will be the speaker at the annual Homecoming Chapel Service Sunday, Oct. 13 at 10 a.m.

Monty Brown ’74 earned his Bachelor of Arts in Bible and Religion from West Virginia Wesleyan College and then attended law school. After being admitted to the WV State Bar in 1977, he practiced law for 15 years in Marion County,
including two terms as the elected prosecuting attorney.

In 1992, Monty quit running from a call to pastoral
ministry and attended The Methodist Theological School
in Ohio. He was ordained an elder in the United
Methodist Church, and served in active pastoral ministry
for 25 years before retiring.

Now an artist, represented by Gallery Eleven, Brown has many wondering if the lawyer turned pastor turned artist will ever decide what to be when he grows up.

Along the way he was blessed with 50 years with his late wife, Jane Wentz Brown, and with two children, Josh and Bethany, and five grandchildren. Since his retirement from active pastoral ministry, Monty is occasionally called upon to fill a pulpit. But, he is always clear that he is no longer a preacher. He is a storyteller.

ABOUT WEST VIRGINIA WESLEYAN COLLEGE
West Virginia Wesleyan College (WVWC) is a private, four-year residential liberal arts and sciences college in Buckhannon, West Virginia. A tradition of excellence for more than 130 years, West Virginia Wesleyan is home to 14 Fulbright Scholars. The Princeton Review ranked Wesleyan as one of its 2023 Best Colleges in the Southeastern Region of the United States. U.S. News & World Report’s 2022-2023 Best College Rankings designated Wesleyan seventh in Best Value – Regional Universities (South). WVWC offers students nearly 60 majors and 40 minors; graduate programs in athletic training, business administration, creative writing, nursing and clinical mental health counseling; 20 NCAA Division II athletic programs; multiple performing arts groups; and more than 50 organizations. Founded in 1890, the College is closely affiliated with the United Methodist Church and abides by the Wesley doctrine that emphasizes service to others. For more information, visit wvwc.edu.

BUCKHANNON, West Virginia – West Virginia Wesleyan College will recognize alumni who have contributed to their communities and alma mater during Homecoming 2024. Awards will be presented during the Founder’s Day Ceremony on Oct. 11 in Wesley Chapel.

Alumni Service:

Adena D. Barnette-Miller ‘03

Adena Barnette-Miller graduated from Ripley High School in 1999 and earned her undergraduate degree in Secondary Social Studies Education from West Virginia Wesleyan College in 2003. Barnette-Miller was named the 2011 WV James Madison Memorial Foundation Fellow which funded this degree and provided her graduate-level instruction in American constitutionalism. She has won awards including  the 2021 Gilder-Lehrman Institute’s West Virginia History Teacher of the Year, the 2016 WV Daughters of the American Revolution’s Outstanding Teacher of American History, and third place in the 2016 National DAR Outstanding Teacher of American History contest. In 2023, the DAR presented Barnette-Miller with the Woman in American History Award. She also teaches AP Microeconomics and AP Macroeconomics for the WV Department of Education’s Virtual School program. She is married to David W. Miller. Their shared passions include watching Cincinnati sports and working together to create a place-based YouTube Channel entitled “WV History with Mrs. B.” where they share stories about the Mountain State of West Virginia, its people, and its history. She is an ambassador for WVWC wherever she goes.

Dr. Benedict Tantillo III ‘74

Dr. Tantillo graduated from West Virginia Wesleyan College in 1974. His post-college endeavors were initiated as a NJ secondary-school English, Social Studies, and Phys Ed teacher which also included the start of his football and baseball student coaching passion. In addition to all of his professional achievements that would follow, this sideline extracurricular effort resulted in him being named NJ’s 1983 Baseball Coach of the Year. That tribute occurred the year he resumed his NJ teaching career after a three-year interim return to Wesleyan with his college- sweetheart wife Barbara (Liske, ’75). Here they were again part of the Wesleyan community, this time on the faculty side, Barb in the Counseling Department, Ben as Wesleyan’s assistant football coach while attaining his master’s degree. Following his first retirement in 2010, an opportunity led to five additional years as Superintendent of Schools in Duxbury, Massachusetts where his revered direction led to Duxbury High School being designated as one of the top three public high schools in the state (out of 405) by The Boston Globe, the Massachusetts Department of Education commending Duxbury Public Schools for their high state-testing status, and the National Association of Music Merchants acclaimed Tantillo’s Massachusetts region as one of the country’s best music programs.

Within three years of his term at Duxbury, he was the recipient of the 2013 Administrator Award presented by the Massachusetts Association of School Superintendents and the Massachusetts Technology Committee. His lifelong advocacy of the value of education also includes all four of his children receiving their Bachelor’s Degrees, all from different universities.

Alumni Achievement:

Rhonda Holyfield Mangieri ‘74

Rhonda Holyfield-Mangieri, a Cincinnati, Ohio resident is a 1974 graduate of West Virginia Wesleyan College. Rhonda was named the 94th President of The Cincinnatus Association. For Cincinnatus, she served as VP, Treasurer, and co-chair of the prestigious Donald and Marian Spencer “Spirit of America” Awards. Cincinnatus is a 104-year-old nonpartisan and non-profit organization located in Cincinnati, Ohio. Mangieri also served on the Board of Directors of the FBI Cincinnati Citizens Academy Alumni Association. She also volunteers for the International Friendship Inc., AARP and provides pro bono resume and career support for individuals and leadership development training to nonprofit organizations. Over the years she has been recognized for her outstanding service. She received an Outstanding Pittsburgh Society of Association Executives Award and Slippery Rock University’s President Award for Outstanding Service. In 2021, she received AARP’s Ohio’s 2021 Andrus Award for Community Service. She has been an AARP volunteer since 2014 and has been featured in several AARP articles. For the past 36 years, she has been active in her churches; teaching Sunday school, developing curriculum, serving as a youth and missions’ leader, and teaching adult Bible Studies. She is a frequent speaker, panelist, and moderator for various non-profit and civic organizations.

Lance M. Lindauer ‘06, MBA ‘07

Lance graduated from WVWC with his BS in both International Business and Economics in 2006 (minor in Spanish) and MBA in 2007, where he was the Graduate Assistant for the Housing & Residence Life Department. While an undergraduate, he received the undergraduate International Business Student of the Year; an Outstanding Senior; and the Rao Global Awareness Award winner, amongst other academic accolades, and participated in two study abroad programs. Lance Lindauer has spent his career working across the public, private, nonprofit, and academic sectors, all of which involved roles and initiatives related to public policy, innovation, and emerging-technology, notably AI. Lindauer is presently the Co-Founder and Executive Director of the Partnership to Advance Responsible Technology (PART), a Pittsburgh-based non-governmental organization dedicated to integrating responsible and ethical technology and innovation into solving global problems via research, education, and consultation. Along with co-founding PART, He worked at the RAND Corporation for 10 years, holding roles in National Security (Director of Operations for the National Defense Research Institute) and Innovation Architecture (Principal Consultant). Lindauer is also Founder and CEO of Lindauer Holdings where he advises clients in areas such as AI, finance, healthcare, and defense manufacturing.

Dr. Rebekah Reed Honce ‘16

Honce graduated Summa cum Laude in 2016 as a biology major with a concentration in Molecular Biology and Biotechnology. She immediately entered the Integrated Program in Biomedical Sciences: Microbiology, Immunology and Biochemistry at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center, in the laboratory of Dr. Stacey Schultz-Cherry at the St Jude Children’s Research Hospital. She earned her PhD in 2020, defending her dissertation entitled “Attenuation of Interferon Responses in the Obese Host and Ramifications for Influenza Virus Evolution.” students. In 2021, Rebekah received the Young Investigator Award from the American Association of Immunology. In 2020, Rebekah was interviewed with Dr. Katherine Wu in The New York Times “Studies Begin to Untangle Obesity’s Role in Covid-19,” and again in 2021 in The Atlantic in “Why No One is Sure If Delta is Deadlier.” Honce is also an accomplished artist. She has contributed cover art for the Jan 15, 2019 issue of the Journal of Virology. Honce also wrote and illustrated the children’s coloring book, “Connie has CoronaVirus.” Through her professional affiliations with the American Society for Virology and as coordinator of the Burlington, Vermont chapter of Science on Tap, she is involved in communicating and clarifying scientific findings to the public and policymakers. Outside of the laboratory, you can find her hiking with her rescue dog Maple, trying to teach tricks to her two tabby cats, or concert-going with her partner Chris (who is also a WVWC grad!)

Phyllis J. Smith ‘13

While at Wesleyan, Phyllis Smith  interned at WDTV in Bridgeport, West Virginia. She was hired as a weekend reporter in her junior year at Wesleyan. She continued to work there for two years, eventually becoming a full-time reporter and anchor. Phyllis learned the ropes at WDTV and met some of her closest friends. During her time at WTAP, Phyllis won four Ohio Associated Press awards, one West Virginia Broadcasters Association Excellence in Broadcasting award and one Virginias Associated Press award. Other awards include: Best Anchor Small Market West Virginia Broadcasters Association 2024 first place, Best Producer Ohio APME 2022 second place, Best Broadcast Writing Ohio APME 2022 second place, Best Anchor Ohio APME 2021 second place, Best Producer Ohio APME 2021 second place, and Best Producer Virginia’s AP Broadcasters 2021 second place. She has been at WTAP for nine years and enjoys being the 6 and 11 p.m. anchor and producer in her hometown of Parkersburg. Smith has been the emcee for several charitable organization events. Smith represents Wesleyan wherever she goes in a positive light. 

  

ABOUT WEST VIRGINIA WESLEYAN COLLEGE
West Virginia Wesleyan College (WVWC) is a private, four-year residential liberal arts and sciences college in Buckhannon, West Virginia. A tradition of excellence for more than 130 years, West Virginia Wesleyan is home to 14 Fulbright Scholars. The Princeton Review ranked Wesleyan as one of its 2023 Best Colleges in the Southeastern Region of the United States. U.S. News & World Report’s 2022-2023 Best College Rankings designated Wesleyan seventh in Best Value – Regional Universities (South). WVWC offers students nearly 60 majors and 40 minors; graduate programs in athletic training, business administration, creative writing, nursing and clinical mental health counseling; 21 NCAA Division II athletic programs; multiple performing arts groups; and more than 50 organizations. Founded in 1890, the College is closely affiliated with the United Methodist Church and abides by the Wesley doctrine that emphasizes service to others. For more information, visit wvwc.edu.

BUCKHANNON, West Virginia – West Virginia Wesleyan College’s esports program under the direction of head coach Ethan Hayes is working with middle and high school programs to foster the growth of esports across the Mountain State.

Hayes was hired as the head coach of West Virginia Wesleyan College’s esports program in time for the start of year two in August 2020. The program was celebrated as being the first varsity esports program in the state of West Virginia as well as the first program in the nation to offer a varsity scholarship for the game of Fortnite.

Reflecting on four years of growth with the College’s program, Hayes said, “I am proud to look where we have grown. From the initial class of 11 students to a roster of 30-plus scholarship and walk-on athletes, Wesleyan continues to be an institution proud to offer opportunities for West Virginia students with a passion for gaming to leverage their abilities to provide themselves with a brighter future through a degree.

“One thing that was brought to my attention when I began working at Wesleyan was the College’s desire to not just be a place where students could come for esports, but act as an organization that could extend a helping hand to anyone who may be interested in fostering esports for students within their counties and towns,” Hayes said.

“This has culminated in the combined efforts of a team of teachers who have formed an organization dubbed the West Virginia Scholastic Esports League or WVSEL for short. This cohort of high school and middle school staff came together to solve some of the accessibility issues we as a state were facing in the esports world,” Hayes continued.

“As of last semester, the WVSEL has successfully launched their first free to play esports league for students, providing an alternative for any school that may find national leagues too expensive or schools that were looking for more familiar opponents than faceless schools at the national level,” Hayes said.

“These coaches serve as a shining example of the efforts Wesleyan is proud to help champion and as such we wanted to thank some of these coaches so that they may know that their hard work and efforts have not gone unnoticed by the college and by our communities.”

Thank you to Chase Jarrell, Ravenswood High School; William Cottrell, Wirt County High School; Emily Eskew, Elkview Middle School; Robert May, Cabell County Career Tech; Martin Nicolay, George Washington High School; Anita Lambert, Braxton County Middle School; Abbigale Wells, Brooke High School; Scott Vogelsong, Greenbriar East High School; Judy Pitzer, Tucker County High School; Jeremy Hubbard, Hedgesville High School; Jordan O’Dell, John Adams Middle School; Brody Potter, Saint Albans High School; Will Totten, Spring Valley High School; Corey Mease, Spring Mills High School; Tim Wine, Calhoun-Gilmer Career Center; Gerad Hunter, Ripley High School; Oscar Lopez, Doddridge County Middle School; Chris McGrew, Mid-Ohio Valley Technical Institute; Missy Taylor, St. Mary’s High School; Janelle Gamoe, West Virginia School for the Deaf and Blind; Thomas Akers, Robert L. Bland Middle School; Brigette Barlow, Monongalia County School District; Deon Jones, Martinsburg High School; Karen Dawson and Trevor Hutchinson, Spring Mills Middle School.

“These coaches were the original faculty from schools who decided to take up the cause of providing more opportunity for their students to have access to esports and the scholarship and lifestyle opportunities it could provide,” Hayes said. “Without their hard work, this state would not be seeing the growth at the rate that it does and Wesleyan is deeply honored to be trusted to assist and advise the growth of the league alongside them.

“As we look forward to esports in the state, Wesleyan looks to continue our efforts of supporting schools and the WVSEL. We are excited to continue to provide a home for West Virginia students interested in esports after graduation as well as assisting the schools as they grow and create new opportunities for competition through the leagues they oversee.”

Those interested in bringing esports to their West Virginia school or in sponsoring these programs should contact Hayes at hayes.e@wvwc.edu.

BUCKHANNON, West Virginia –  Alumni are invited back to their Home Among the Hills for a weekend of celebration and reunion at West Virginia Wesleyan College Thursday, Oct. 10-Sunday, Oct. 13.

The WVWC Department of Theatre and Dance will perform “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee” Thursday and Friday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. in the Virginia Thomas Law Center for the Performing Arts. Winner of the Tony and the Drama Desk Awards for Best Book, come along for the hilarious and touching antics of six mid-pubescents vying for first place in the bee. Tickets are $10 at the door ($8 for seniors and $5 with a WVWC ID). 

The bonfire and pep rally, a reinstated tradition in its second year, will take place at 8 p.m. at the end of Camden Avenue. Show your school spirit and cheer on our fall sports teams. There will be music, snacks and limited giveaways for the first 50 people. 

Registration for all Homecoming activities begins on Friday, Oct. 11 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in Rockefeller Center. While there, be sure to tour the Wesleyan Past to Present Exhibit.

The annual Johnny K. Myers Golf Tournament tees off at 9 a.m. at Bel Meadow Golf Club to benefit the golf team. Registration is required by logging on to wvwc.edu/homecoming

The Class of 1974 will have their 50th reunion social from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Others are invited to an alumni and student lunch at noon in the faculty parking lot adjacent to the Annie Merner Pfeiffer library. Tickets available at the link above or at the registration booth in Rockefeller. 

Founder’s Day Convocation with the announcement of some special alumni award winners will be held at 3 p.m. in Wesley Chapel. Join the classes of 1974, 1979, 1984, 1989, 1994, 1999 and 2004 for an all classes reunion at the Event Center at Brushy Fork beginning at 7 p.m. 

A new event happening on Saturday, Oct. 12 is the WVWC Paw Parade in the Chapel Oval. Bring your favorite furry friend for the parade and blessing of the pets with Dean of the Chapel Jonathan Acord. Register at the link above. 

Young Alumni including those from the Classes of 2009, 2014 and 2019 are invited for a reunion at Jimbo’s Bar and Grill at 11:30 a.m.

At 1 p.m. WVWC will host Fairmont State for football. Come early to honor the men’s soccer National Championship teams of 1984, 1989 and 1994. 

On Sunday, Rev. Monty Brown ‘74 will speak at the Chapel Service beginning at 10 a.m. Stay on campus for the men’s soccer game vs. Point Park University at 1 p.m.

For a full list of events and registration information, visit www.wvwc.edu/homecoming

ABOUT WEST VIRGINIA WESLEYAN COLLEGE
West Virginia Wesleyan College (WVWC) is a private, four-year residential liberal arts and sciences college in Buckhannon, West Virginia. A tradition of excellence for more than 130 years, West Virginia Wesleyan is home to 14 Fulbright Scholars. The Princeton Review ranked Wesleyan as one of its 2023 Best Colleges in the Southeastern Region of the United States. U.S. News & World Report’s 2022-2023 Best College Rankings designated Wesleyan seventh in Best Value – Regional Universities (South). WVWC offers students nearly 60 majors and 40 minors; graduate programs in athletic training, business administration, creative writing, nursing and clinical mental health counseling; 21 NCAA Division II athletic programs; multiple performing arts groups; and more than 50 organizations. Founded in 1890, the College is closely affiliated with the United Methodist Church and abides by the Wesley doctrine that emphasizes service to others. For more information, visit wvwc.edu.

BUCKHANNON, West Virginia – August is National Will Month and the West Virginia Wesleyan College Office of Advancement offers a way for alumni and friends to support the College by leaving a lasting legacy. Read on for more.

Who was John W. Reger?

Rev. Dr.  John W. Reger was a Methodist Episcopal pastor in the 1800s who served churches in West Virginia and Maryland for over 40 years. He retired to Buckhannon and became involved in the community.  One of the significant projects he supported was the Seminary being built in Buckhannon-today known as West Virginia Wesleyan College.  It is said that he was on campus daily to observe and supervise the building of the first building.  He became one of Wesleyan’s first trustees and major benefactors.  Today we honor him thru the Reger Society.  

What is the Reger Society?

When Alumni or friends share their intention to leave a portion of their estate or make the college a beneficiary in their will, they become members of the Reger Society.  Members of the Reger Society leave a legacy and make a lasting impact on WVWC.  This community of individuals are recognized for being champion of the WVWC student experience.  We celebrate the Reger Society members during a special breakfast event held at Homecoming each year.  

Now is a great time to update or create your will.  Want to include Wesleyan in your will as part of your legacy?  It’s easy!  Reach out to Nettie Aiosa ’91, Director of the Reger Society,  aiosa.a@wvwc.edu or 304-473-8486.  

“We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.” — Winston Churchill.

#HereYouCanLeaveALegacy