A new album of original compositions from Dr. David Berry, associate professor of music and chair of the music department at 91����, brings the melodies of African American spirituals into the classical piano tradition.

The album, Spirit, Body and Soul: Concert Spirituals for Solo Piano, was released Sept. 4 through the Grammy Award-winning Navona Records label. It is available on all major streaming platforms, including Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music. 

The nine-track album features Berry’s solo piano compositions based on beloved spirituals such as “Joshua Fought the Battle of Jericho,” “Nobody Knows the Trouble I’ve Seen,” “Go Down, Moses,” and “Swing Low, Sweet Chariot,” as well as a special improvisation on “Lift Every Voice and Sing.”

“These are songs I’ve known practically my whole life,” Berry said. “All of this music has deep meaning for me, and so it’s definitely been an engaging and emotional process writing these pieces, contemplating the lyrics of these spirituals, and interpreting them in sound.”

Berry began working on the project in November, shortly before his sabbatical last semester. He had already written several of the pieces for recitals and other performances at 91���� and seen how popular they were. When people began asking where they could find recordings of his reimagined spirituals, he saw an opportunity to turn them into his solo debut album. He recorded the tracks in January at GBH Fraser Performance Studio in Boston.

Berry’s style, praised as “touchingly introspective” by Gramophone, blends the power, sweep, and virtuosity of the classical piano tradition with elements of various Black music styles, according to the album’s description.

“These songs came organically from my soul and from all the music that lives in me,” Berry said. “You hear the influences of composers like Liszt and Rachmaninoff, but you also hear the sound of the blues, of gospel music, and jazz.”

The result, Berry said, is “a human journey of emotion.”

“Those feelings we carry with us of perseverance through adversity, sorrow, grief, joy, isolation, community, all of those things,” he said. “Every sort of feeling you can imagine is in these spirituals. And that’s what the title tries to encapsulate: Spirit, Body and Soul. Those are the ingredients for this project.”

Album release concert

An album release concert on Friday, Oct. 2, at 7 p.m. at 91����’s Lehman Auditorium will feature Berry’s piano compositions alongside vocal performances from local singers he has worked with in the Harrisonburg area.

This concert is sponsored by , who will be providing a special Yamaha CSX 9-foot concert grand piano for the concert in collaboration with  of Frederick, Maryland.

“It’ll be a fun celebration of my work as an artist, but also of how this project was birthed through this community,” he said.

Berry plans to release the sheet music for his compositions at .

For more information about the album, visit .

Hear Dr. Berry talk about the inspiration behind “Spirit, Body and Soul.”

Dr. Megan Moran, assistant professor of environmental science
Dr. Moran is a wildlife ecologist who completed her master’s degree in environmental science at Christopher Newport University and her PhD in fish and wildlife conservation at Virginia Tech, where her research focused on wildlife population and disease dynamics, with a particular emphasis on bats affected by white-nose syndrome. Using long-term acoustic monitoring and spatial modeling methods, she investigates patterns of bat occupancy, activity, and persistence across the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic. Her work aims to better understand how bat populations are responding to disease and changes in their environment and how long-term monitoring can help inform wildlife conservation. 

Dr. Andrea Nord, associate professor of biology
Dr. Nord earned her BA at Goshen College and her MS and PhD in ecology from Penn State University. She and her husband spent three years in Honduras with Mennonite Central Committee, working on community environmental concerns at the village level. She comes to 91���� with 13 years of teaching environmental biology at Greenville University, and with her husband has co-taught summer courses in forest ecology and sustainable tropical agriculture courses for the Au Sable Institute for nine years. Her favorite part of teaching is getting students outside into God’s creation.

For more information about 91���� Natural Sciences, visit emu.edu/biology.

The program, A Seminary for Every Congregation, will bring theological education and resources to the congregations at no cost. It will run through December 2030 with support from the Lilly Endowment’s Seminary Extended grant. Ethan King, project coordinator for the grant, said the seminary will partner with each congregation around “a central holding question.”

“That could be anything from ‘We’re looking to start a renovation of our grounds and we’re trying to think about the theological dimensions of placemaking’ to ‘We’ve had an influx of children at our church and want to think about reformatting around being an intergenerational church,’” King said.

“The seminary would come alongside a church, its pastor, and some of its layleaders for a year and help them explore their question, connect them with resources, and bring them a baseline education around community organizing, trauma-informed care, and leadership through tension and conflict resolution,” he added.

King said the partnership will offer research opportunities for seminary students and internships for students pursuing a master of divinity degree. “It will also help our seminary learn from people who are on the ground doing day-to-day ministry to inform our coursework,” he said.

“We’re looking to build a network of collaboration and relationships,” King said. “Hopefully it will cut down on some of the pastoral isolation and burnout we’ve seen in our research.”

For more information about the program, including for pastors interested in getting involved, contact King at ethan.king@emu.edu.

New DMin program

Funded through Lilly Endowment Inc.’s Pathways for Tomorrow initiative, Seminary Extended: Strengthening Pastoral Leadership supports a collaborative partnership between Eastern Mennonite Seminary, Union Presbyterian Seminary, and Louisville Presbyterian Theological Seminary.

The grant also supports a new Doctor of Ministry in adaptive leadership program, expected to launch at all three seminaries in 2027. Students in the joint degree program will have access to shared resources, coursework, and projects across the three schools.

Additionally, the grant funds three new shared faculty members to teach students from all three schools.

King joins seminary staff

King began his new role as project coordinator in June. The Harrisonburg native holds a master’s degree in theological studies from Candler School of Theology at Emory University and bachelor’s degrees in religion and philosophy, political science, and economics from Emory & Henry University.

For the past four years, he worked in outreach and communications for the Church of the Nazarene in Harrisonburg. He said the experience gave him a unique perspective on ministerial work and the rigors that pastors face on a daily basis.

“When this grant opportunity came along, focused on connecting pastors with resources and training and education that is practically and contextually significant to their ministry, I thought it sounded like a great program and wanted to get involved,” King said.

“We are delighted to have Ethan coordinating our collaborative initiatives to foster theological formation in local faith communities,” said the Rev. Dr. Sarah Ann Bixler, dean of Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences. “He brings a keen understanding of the realities facing pastors and congregations, along with a hope-filled passion for equipping them to impact their communities in concrete ways. We are eager to see how God’s Spirit will move among us all.”

Faculty and staff members gathered for the Fall 2026 Faculty and Staff Conference from Aug. 18-19. Many returned to campus after a restful and restorative summer, while others joined the 91���� community for the first time.

Hosted by the offices of the president and the provost, the conference cultivates community at the start and close of each academic year and provides space for faculty and staff to reconnect, welcome new colleagues, engage with thought-provoking ideas, and share in conversation and fellowship.

“I hope this conference leaves us not only informed, but inspired, connected, and ready to do the work ahead together,” said Dr. Tynisha Willingham, provost and vice president for academic affairs. 

Dr. Tynisha Willingham, provost and vice president for academic affairs, catches up with Dr. Jamie Mak, assistant vice president of academic and program growth for 91���� at Lancaster, and M. Esther Showalter, instructor of Spanish language and Hispanic studies.

LEFT: President Rev. Dr. Shannon W. Dycus presents the presidential address at the Fall 2026 Faculty and Staff Conference on Aug. 18. RIGHT: Kirk Shisler ’81, senior gift planning advisor, chats with Braydon Hoover ’11, MAOL ’21, vice president of enrollment and marketing, and Christopher Jones, director of marketing and communications, at the conference.

The conference kicked off with an address from the Rev. Dr. Shannon W. Dycus, who officially became 91����’s 10th president on July 1. She called on those gathered at Martin Chapel to find the courage to “build a university our mission calls us to become.”

“This means…we become more aligned across a shared purpose, less defined by our individual areas, and more connected by the students and communities we are here to serve,” she said. 

Dycus shared encouraging enrollment news, announcing historically high numbers of applications and admitted students to 91����. The incoming first-year class is projected to be between 10-15% larger than last year’s class. Of those students, 43% are student-athletes, 52% identify as students of color, 55% identify as first-generation college students, and 78% are from Virginia.

“This tells us something important: students and families are seeing value in what 91���� offers and they are choosing us,” she said.

As 91���� moves into the third year of its five-year Forward Together Campaign, it has secured $33.5 million of its $40 million goal. Alumni participation, which has been declining nationally and at 91����, has taken an upward turn, Dycus said, citing a number of new estate commitments and corporate unrestricted giving.

“Let’s make this year one that we get serious about retention, clear-eyed about our finances, and build a bold future that we can together be proud of and continue supporting,” she said. 

LEFT: Faculty and staff members connect during a coffee break. RIGHT: Lorraine Stutzman Amstutz ’81 leads a plenary session during the first day of the conference.

The conference theme, “Power & Equity: Power is a Verb,” built on this year’s university theme and offered an honest look at how power moves through a university and what it means to hold it responsibly.

Lorraine Stutzman Amstutz ’81 led a plenary session on “Faith, Power & Belonging.” She serves as denominational minister for peace and justice for Mennonite Church USA, where she resources conference ministers, conferences, and pastors and coordinates peacebuilding initiatives throughout the denomination. Prior to joining MC USA, she spent more than 25 years coordinating Mennonite Central Committee’s Restorative Justice program. She has a BSW from 91���� and an MSW from Marywood University (Scranton, Pennsylvania).

She led participants to reflect on their own social identities, power, and privilege and where they fall within each dimension.

“As leaders and educators, I think one of our highest responsibilities is ensuring that every student who arrives here in a state of uncertainty finds the same power to reshape their story,” she said.

LEFT: Faculty and staff members connect over a coffee break held in the lower level of Suter Science Center. RIGHT: Luke Litwiller ’19, MATL ’24, director of undergraduate admissions, presents a learning session on workflow and AI.

The second day of the conference began with a coffee break and welcome ceremony recognizing the faculty and staff members who have joined 91���� in the past year. 

“We are so glad you are here,” Dycus told them. “You bring gifts, experiences, perspectives, questions, and possibilities that we need.”

Faculty and staff members participated in a variety of learning sessions throughout the day, with topics ranging from AI and campus safety to student mental health and employee satisfaction.

At a faculty learning session held in Suter Science Center 106, Dr. Paul Dean, professor of sociology and department chair at Ohio Wesleyan University, led a presentation on “Understanding Class Cultures: A Two-Pronged Approach to Supporting Working-Class, First-Gen Students.” Dean is an award-winning instructor and author of several books whose work focuses on class inequality and the experiences of first-generation students.

At another session, Braydon Hoover ’11, MAOL ’21, vice president of enrollment and marketing, presented on “Enrollment Literacy: How Every Faculty and Staff Member Can Help Grow 91����’s Future.” He provided an overview of the higher education environment, including some of the threats that small, private colleges and universities face.

“Students expect personalization and immediacy, and that’s where small schools like 91���� can shine,” he said. “Unlike our big public counterparts, we engage directly with students and their parents.”

Visiting campus is among the strongest predictors of enrollment. 91���� offers a $1,000 Visit Grant, renewable for up to four years, for students who visit campus before Jan. 1 and enroll in fall 2027. Eligible students can receive up to $4,000 over four years.

One student who visited 91���� this year had the opportunity to meet Cyndi Gusler, professor of art, who guided her through a one-hour watercolor session.

“That made the difference for her,” Hoover said. “She was applying to 10 schools all around Virginia, and because Cyndi took the time to sit with her, talk about her goals, and do something engaging, that student made the choice to come to 91����.”

The conference wrapped up with a couple of hours of activity time. Faculty and staff members could enjoy frozen treats from Rita’s Italian Ice & Frozen Custard and play basketball, pickleball or disc golf, walk on the 91���� track, or knit and crochet.

The recipient of 91����’s 2025 Outstanding Young Alum Award, the Rev. Brittany “Smash” Caine-Conley MDiv ’14, will teach trauma and resilience studies at Eastern Mennonite Seminary this fall.

She will also teach at 91����’s Center for Justice and Peacebuilding and work with the Seminary Extended grant in collaboration with Union Presbyterian Seminary and Louisville Presbyterian Theological Seminary.

An ordained minister in the United Church of Christ, Caine-Conley grew up in Harrisonburg and described returning to teach at 91���� as “a dream.”

“91���� attends to the fact that students are whole people, and it’s a gift for me to be part of an institution that understands that and strives toward educating the whole person,” she said. “…There seems to be a concerted effort to prepare students to engage with what is really a complex and challenging society in ways that are both nuanced and hopeful.”

The pastor, organizer, and leader in movement chaplaincy has extensive experience supporting communities through crisis, healing, and transformation. She was instrumental in founding and leading Congregate Charlottesville, which helped faith communities respond to collective trauma in the aftermath of white supremacist violence in 2017. In recognition of her work, she was honored by the National Council of Churches as a co-recipient of the President’s Award for Excellence in Faithful Leadership.

She said her experiences in a class on racial healing and whiteness, taught by Dr. David Evans, while she was a seminary student, were especially formative.

“That was where I began, for the first time in my life, to examine white supremacy culture and the limitations of certain types of allyship,” Caine-Conley said. “It was that foundation that allowed me to move into organizing toward a different orientation, one of embodying anti-racist solidarity.”

The Rev. Dr. Sarah Ann Bixler, dean of Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences, said Caine-Conley brings a dynamic combination of academic scholarship, pastoral leadership, trauma-informed community care, and social justice engagement.

“As an alumna of Eastern Mennonite Seminary, Rev. Caine-Conley remains deeply connected to our mission of peacebuilding and transformative education,” Bixler said.

Caine-Conley is currently completing her PhD in religious studies from the University of Denver and Iliff School of Theology, where her research explores the intersections of theology, identity, power, social transformation, and human experience. She served as adjunct faculty at Iliff, teaching courses on identity, power, vocation, and community engagement. Prior to doctoral studies, she gained valuable pastoral experience through church planting, worship ministry, and ministering with university students.

“We look forward to the pastoral wisdom, experience in faith community organizing, and compassionate leadership she will bring to our students and campus this fall,” Bixler said.

Learn more about Eastern Mennonite Seminary at emu.edu/seminary.

Dycus, who has led the university as interim president since July 2025, begins her five-year term on July 1, 2026.

“I’m humbled to continue the bold legacy of 91����,” Dycus said. “91���� leaders have been courageous and visionary stewards of this sacred community. Being called to serve among them is a responsibility I’m excited and honored to step into.”   

The 91���� Board of Trustees unanimously voted to appoint Dycus as president during its June 12 meeting.

Jane Hoober Peifer ’74, MDiv ’97, chair-elect of the board, said Dycus demonstrated consistent and collaborative leadership over the past year as interim president that “continues to unite the campus.” She also highlighted her ability to listen attentively and build effective teams.

“She cares deeply about students and their success, and she works to create a good working environment for faculty and staff,” Peifer said. “91���� is very fortunate to have the gifts and leadership of Rev. Dr. Shannon Dycus as its 10th president.”

The board’s decision followed several months of feedback gathered by its Presidential Succession Planning Committee from representatives across the 91���� community, including faculty, staff, students, senior administrators, alumni, donors, church constituents, and other key stakeholders, regarding her potential appointment. 

A report of the committee’s findings, presented to the board in May, recommended appointing Dycus without launching a costly and time-consuming national search. 

Based on “the institutional knowledge, relationships, and trust that she has already established, the university is not being asked to take a chance on an untested leader. Instead, [91����] has already completed the most meaningful leadership assessment possible: observing the candidate serve successfully in the role itself.”

It cited her demonstrated leadership, character, vision, and effectiveness as positioning her to lead 91���� into its next chapter. It also noted the unusual level of alignment from those consulted throughout the process.

“The committee found broad and consistent support for Dr. Dycus across nearly every constituency engaged during this process,” the report said. “Stakeholders repeatedly described her leadership as authentic, relational, transparent, collaborative, strategic, mission-centered, and deeply aligned with 91����’s values.”

The analysis concluded that Dycus demonstrates the leadership capacity, institutional understanding, and community trust needed to guide 91���� during a pivotal period in its history. Together, the board’s unanimous vote and the consistent, enthusiastic affirmation expressed across stakeholder groups reflect a shared confidence in Dr. Dycus’s leadership and in 91����’s future.

Over the past year as interim president, Dycus has fostered renewed optimism, deeper collaboration, greater transparency, and growing confidence in 91����, the report said. She helped create a healthier organizational culture while guiding the university through significant challenges.

During her tenure, Dycus has helped position the university for enrollment growth, financial stability, and sustained donor confidence. Undergraduate applications have doubled during this cycle, and 91���� is projecting a larger incoming class than last year, which itself was up 10%.

91����’s first-ever Forward Together comprehensive campaign has surpassed 80% of its $40 million goal with two years remaining. As student and workforce needs evolve, the university continues to reshape its academic programs to ensure its transformative educational offerings remain relevant in a changing higher education landscape.

A recently finalized strategic partnership with Virginia Mennonite Retirement Community positions the university to invest in programs and people that move it forward. An academic restructuring during the 2025-26 academic year has also expanded opportunities for cross-departmental collaboration.

“This is an incredibly exciting time for who we are as an institution,” Dycus said. “We are growing, we are sustaining, and there’s joy around who we are.”

An educator and ordained minister, Dycus has more than 20 years of experience in learning communities and ministry settings, including the past seven at 91����. Prior to serving as interim president, she was vice president for student affairs, equity, and belonging. She previously served as dean of students from 2019-23 then vice president for student affairs and dean of students from 2023-24 before being promoted to vice president for student affairs, equity, and belonging (2024-2025).

Before coming to 91����, she was an academic adviser and adjunct faculty member at Franklin University of Ohio (Indianapolis campus) and co-pastor at First Mennonite Church in Indianapolis.

She holds a doctor of ministry in public theology from United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities, a master of divinity from Christian Theological Seminary in Indianapolis, and a bachelor of arts in middle and secondary education from Butler University.

Dycus is the first Black woman to lead 91���� as president. She succeeds President Emerita Dr. Susan Schultz Huxman, who served as the university’s ninth president from 2017-25.

She lives in Harrisonburg with her husband, Gregory, and sons Malachi and Semaj.

An inauguration ceremony on Oct. 10 during 91����’s annual Homecoming Weekend will celebrate Dycus as the university’s 10th president during its 110th year. Invitations and additional details will be shared later.

Manuel Nuñez ’94, chair of the board of trustees, reflected on the significance of the appointment. “As 91���� steps into its next century, we are grateful to have found in Dr. Shannon Dycus a leader uniquely suited to this moment,” he said. “Dr. Dycus brings academic depth, a gift for listening, and a deep commitment to building community. Her leadership reflects clarity, wisdom, and a fierce commitment to our students and to the distinctive mission and witness of 91����.” 

Members of the Presidential Succession Planning Committee included Janet Lind (chair), Jake Bell, Ral Obioha, Steve Kriss, and Amy Yoder McGloughlin.

Dr. Dycus reflects on being selected as 91����’s 10th president.

91���� announced on Thursday it has named Nathan K. Leopard as its new vice president for advancement. Leopard, who most recently served as director of development for Virginia Tech’s Pamplin College of Business, starts in the role on June 1.

Interim President Rev. Dr. Shannon W. Dycus announced the appointment in an email to faculty, staff, alumni, and friends on Thursday morning. The hire concludes a nationwide search that began in January.

Leopard succeeds Kirk Shisler ’81, 91����’s vice president for advancement since 2005, who is transitioning to a new role as senior advisor for gift planning. Shisler has said the transition will allow him to focus exclusively on securing major gifts to sustain 91����’s mission.

Leopard will continue a comprehensive advancement operation encompassing fundraising, alumni and constituent engagement, communications, and advancement services. He will also expand connections among alumni, donors, faith communities, foundations, and regional partners in support of the university’s mission.

“As vice president for advancement, I look forward to strengthening our culture of generosity, expanding our philanthropic reach, and helping secure the resources necessary to sustain and grow this mission,” Leopard said.

Dr. Dycus remarked on Leopard’s “genuine alignment” with 91����’s mission and community. “What stands out most about Nathan is his values-driven, relational approach to advancement,” she said. “He views fundraising not as a series of transactions, but as a meaningful partnership that invites alumni and friends into a shared vision for impact.”

Two decades of experience

Leopard brings two decades of fundraising and advancement experience leading alumni relations, annual giving, event-based fundraising, and interdisciplinary major gifts.

At Virginia Tech, he led fundraising and stewardship operations for the Pamplin College of Business, where he personally secured more than $17 million in gifts since August 2022 and helped direct development efforts that generated nearly $50 million in support for the school. He also co-led the college’s Giving Day strategy, which saw substantial growth in donor participation.

Prior to that, Leopard served as senior director of major gifts at Penn State University’s Smeal College of Business, where he played a key role in the college’s success during the six-year A Greater Penn State for 21st Century Excellence fundraising campaign. The $2.2 billion campaign generated more than $116 million in gifts and commitments for the college, exceeding its goal by more than 22%.

He also served as associate director of development for Penn State’s Schreyer Honors College, where he led the development and launch of an initiative that significantly boosted parent giving.

Leopard’s nonprofit experience includes serving as the first distinguished giving director for the American Cancer Society.

He holds an MS in college student personnel from Miami University (Ohio) and a bachelor’s of science in public relations from Northwest Missouri State University. The Show Me State native, who began his career in student affairs and whose wife, Dr. Jennifer Grossman Leopard, is the director of student life at James Madison University, described himself as a “big believer” in the holistic experience.

“The people I’ve met at 91���� have been genuine, thoughtful, and caring,” he said. “Having the opportunity to be at a place like 91����, where I can embrace the whole person and support others in embracing their full selves, is truly meaningful.”

91����’s focus on preparing graduates who make the world a better place aligns with his personal mission, Leopard said. “They’re not just going out and leading companies, reforming laws, treating illnesses, or educating people, but they’re changing the world,” he said. “I want to help people change the world.”

Building on positive momentum

Leopard joins the university at an exciting time. 91���� is three years into its first-ever, five-year Forward Together comprehensive campaign, which has raised more than $32 million, or 80% of its $40 million goal. Enrollment is also on the upswing. The university announced this week it received 3,000 undergraduate applications for the first time in its history.

In addition to building on that positive momentum, Leopard said he looks forward to getting to know each of the members of the advancement team and working with Dr. Dycus and the board of trustees to shape their vision for the future of 91���� while connecting with donors.

Leopard lives in the Harrisonburg area with his wife, Jennifer, and their two children, Caroline and Jack. Their daughter has participated in 91����’s Shenandoah Valley Children’s Choir and in several camps held on campus.

Quoting the soccer coach from the comedy series Ted Lasso, Leopard said he aims to “be curious” as he steps into his new role.

“I’m going to be a sponge and learn as much as I can about 91����, including about our students, our alumni, our stakeholders, and our events and culture,” he said.

2026 retirees

The 2026 retirees honored at the ceremony were: Howard Zehr (30 years of service), professor of conflict studies; Doug Graber Neufeld (26 years), professor of biology; Deanna Durham (23 years), associate professor of social work and sociology; JD McCurdy (23 years), head softball coach; Kevin Seidel (17 years), professor of English; and Chad Gusler (16 years), associate professor of language and literature.

The following employees, who represent an additional 430 years of commitment to 91����, celebrated milestone years of service:

40 years

Renee Leap (left) and Audrey Shenk (right) reached 40 years of service. 

30 years

Howard Zehr (left) and Melody Cash (right) reached 30 years.

25 years

Mark Metzler Sawin (not pictured) reached 25 years.

20 years

Left to right: Beth Brunk, Laura Yoder, Jim Leaman, and Travis Trotter reached 20 years. 

15 years

Left to right: Kathy Evans, Wendy Carr, Braydon Hoover, Ron Shultz, and Melvin Felix Garcia (inset) reached 15 years. 

10 years

Left to right: Tim Seidel, Paul Yoder, Alena Yoder, Ericka Gingerich, and Trina Trotter Nussbaum reached 10 years. 

Five years

Left to right: Lexi Fotis-Brown, Stephanie Mason, Debra Pardini, Courtney Joyner, Justin McIlwee, and Ann Butwell reached five years. Not pictured: Carolyn Kirby, Krista Murray, Gaurav Pathania, Erin Weldon, Mary Ann Zehr, and Nina Zhang also reached five years.

The luncheon was a highlight of the Spring 2026 Faculty & Staff Conference, which provided a time to pause, reflect, and celebrate the close of the academic year together. View the full program of the conference .

Commencement address

Dr. Angela J. Lederach, assistant professor of peace and justice studies at Chapman University, delivered the Commencement address in Yoder Arena.

The author and anthropologist, whose father, John Paul Lederach, co-founded the Center for Justice and Peacebuilding, spoke about the lessons she’s learned from peacebuilders and CJP alumni around the world.

Undergraduates Dylan Hall and Arelys Martinez Fabian, along with MA in Counseling graduate Yenifer Dottin-Carter ’23, presented the graduate perspectives.

This was Rev. Dr. Shannon W. Dycus’ first Commencement as interim president.

Celebration of Blessings

The Center for Justice and Peacebuilding sent 17 graduates into the world with words of tribute during its annual Celebration of Blessings on Sunday afternoon, following Commencement. This year marks the 30th anniversary celebration of the CJP. 

Graduates LaToya Fernandez, Jamila Gaskins, Hannah Gilman, and Jacob Sankara offered their perspectives.  

Graduate Celebration and Sending

91���� honored members of the Class of 2026 at its Graduate Celebration and Sending service on Saturday evening in Lehman Auditorium.

The event featured a faculty address by Dr. Tara Kishbaugh, senior class salutations from co-presidents Genesis Figueroa and Arelys Martinez Fabian, and the presentation of the senior class gift, along with prayer, music, and poetry from graduates.

Donning of the Kente

Family, friends, faculty, and other supporters gathered in the MainStage Theater on Saturday to honor the perseverance, compassion, and determination of this year’s graduates at 91����’s 11th annual Donning of the Kente Ceremony.

The event recognized 49 graduates celebrating their African and international heritage.

Nurse Pinning

Sixteen 91���� nursing graduates marked a major milestone Saturday morning during a pinning and commissioning ceremony in Lehman Auditorium.

Dr. David Rosie, an emergency medicine physician at Sentara RMH Medical Center in Harrisonburg, delivered the keynote address.

Lavender Graduation

91���� recognized 11 graduates at its fifth annual Lavender Graduation on Friday evening in the Old Common Grounds space. The ceremony honors LGBTQ+ graduates and alumni while celebrating their unique experiences, achievements, and contributions to the university.

Sarah Peak and Jamila Gaskins delivered the keynote addresses.

91���� at Lancaster will award 21 undergraduate degrees, 13 graduate degrees, and 13 graduate certificates at its Commencement ceremony on Friday, May 8, at 7 p.m. at Forest Hills Mennonite Church in Leola, Pennsylvania. Lancaster Mayor Jaime Arroyo will deliver the address.

Stay tuned for a recap of the Lancaster ceremony.

As part of its ninth annual Academic and Creative Excellence (ACE) Festival, 91���� held its 17th annual Authors’ Reception and Award Presentation on Thursday. The ceremony, hosted by the Provost’s Office in Old Commons Grounds (University Commons 177), celebrated the university’s Excellence in Teaching Award winners.

The awards honor three outstanding educators who exemplify excellence in teaching across four dimensions: impact on students, effective teaching practices, subject knowledge, and continual growth. This year’s recipients are:

• Dr. Ryan Good (professor or associate professor category)
• Dr. Kathryn Howard-Ligas (assistant professor or instructor category)
• Kevin Carini (adjunct faculty category)

Dr. Ryan Good
Associate professor of urban studies and director of the 91���� Washington Semester

Professor Good’s teaching extends far beyond the classroom. He invites students into the lived realities of Washington D.C., helping them critically engage issues of race, space, and inequality. His deep knowledge of the region, combined with intentional course design, creates transformative learning experiences. Students describe “eureka moments” that reshape how they understand the world and their place in it. Ryan is reflective in his teaching, constantly refining his approach, and deeply committed to his students’ academic, professional, and personal growth. Simply put, he is the heart of the program.

“Not only does he work hard to prepare lessons that get students to think critically about what they are seeing in the city, he brings the city to them,” a colleague wrote. “They visit key organizations and events so that they can experience the real D.C. and gain deep insights about this city’s issues and how residents are overcoming them.”

“Ryan is enthusiastic about Washington and all the lessons it has to offer young minds,” another colleague wrote. “He loves this place. And he helps students to fall for it as well. A good number of our alums end up staying here afterwards or returning at a later point to live and work here.”

“Ryan would be the first to say that teaching and learning is a dance, and he is only a partner in their process, but I would say that he lays down the right tune and tempo and steps for them to succeed,” wrote another.

Dr. Kathryn Howard-Ligas
Assistant professor of psychology

Students consistently speak to Professor Howard-Ligas’s dynamic presence in the classroom. Her ability to balance interactive learning with deep disciplinary knowledge makes her courses both engaging and accessible. Drawing on her background in theater, she brings energy and clarity to complex psychological concepts. More importantly, she is intentional about connection, ensuring students feel supported, seen, and able to succeed.

“I appreciate the ways Kathryn connects with her students and ensures they have the support they need,” a colleague wrote. “Kathryn has been a great addition to the psychology department and has felt like a steady presence during all the transitions that the psychology department has endured.”

“Dr. Ligas is the most energetic teacher I have ever come across,” a student wrote. “Early morning classes are not for the weak but she speaks with such enthusiasm that it keeps you engaged throughout the class. And I genuinely love how she makes us do a ton of group activities, which to me, are a great way to learn. She also has great mastery over psychology concepts and clears all confusion and doubts with absolute clarity.”

Kevin Carini
Adjunct faculty in natural sciences

Students describe Professor Carini as deeply caring, engaging, and committed to their success. Even in challenging moments, he meets students with understanding and encouragement. His classroom is one of respect and energy, where learning physics becomes interactive, creative, and even joyful. Whether incorporating students into problem-solving or bringing humor into complex concepts, he creates an environment where students feel both challenged and supported.

“He takes time to listen and actually wants to see us succeed,” one student wrote. “In the classroom, he always incorporates the students into learning by writing his own problems with our names in them or making silly noises while crossing out variables to keep us interested and focused. He brings a positive and enthusiastic attitude to the classroom and 91����.”

In addition to the teaching awards, Dr. Tynisha Willingham, provost and vice president of academic affairs, recognized three faculty members who reached significant milestones at 91���� this year:

• Dr. Hongtao Li has been awarded tenure and promoted to associate professor
• Dr. Timothy Seidel has been promoted to full professor
• Dr. Kristopher Schmidt has been promoted to full professor

Student writing awards

The ceremony recognized recipients of 91����’s First-Year Writing Awards, given to first-year students for their “excellent research papers.” The recipients are:

• First place: Ash Dixon for “The Environmental and Economic Effects of Fast Fashion”
• Second place: Monica Ehrenfels for “Assessing the 15-Minute City: Walkability in Modern Urban Spaces”
• Third place (tie): Malia Yoder for “Protecting our Forests: The Fight Against Deforestation” and Joshua Henkel for “AI Among Students”

Student academic awards 

The winners of 91����’s student academic awards were also announced at the event. Dr. Michael Horst, dean of Behavioral, Health and Natural Sciences, and the Rev. Dr. Sarah Ann Bixler, dean of Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences, presented the awards.

Behavioral, Health and Natural Sciences

• The Judy H. Mullet Award for Psychology Internship Excellence: Hollyn Miller
• The Galen R. Lehman Award for Outstanding Achievement in Research in Psychology: Lauren Kauffman and Leah Frankenfield
• Outstanding Second-Year Biology Student: Malachi Peachey-Stoner
• Outstanding Senior Biology Student: Maria Longenecker
• Award for Excellence in Undergraduate Research: Maria Longenecker
• Natural Sciences Award for Exceptional Service: Sophia Nguyen and Dulce Shenk Zeager
• Outstanding First-Year Chemistry Student: Lisa Zimmerman and Mara Zimmerman
• Outstanding Senior Chemistry Student: Ethan Neufeld 
• Outstanding Senior in Engineering: Levi Stutzman
• Outstanding Senior Environmental Science Student: Madelynn Hamm and Jenna Oostland
• Outstanding Senior in Computer Science: Rebekah Copeland
• Outstanding Senior in Mathematics: Katie Tanous

Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences

Music

• Outstanding Student in Music: Naomi Kratzer and Eli Stoll
• Excellence in Musical Leadership: Jacob Nissley

Business and Leadership

• Outstanding Business Administration Senior: Sarah Prroj
• Outstanding Business Analytics Senior: Erik Wilkinson
• Outstanding Accounting Senior: Guadalupe Tenorio Ramirez
• Outstanding Achievement Award: Fadi Michael
• Outstanding Marketing Senior: Zazkia De la Vega
• Exceptional Research in Business and Leadership: Roumany Sefin
• Exceptional Service Award: Zazkia De la Vega
• Exceptional Leadership Award: Ben Knutsson

Center for Justice and Peacebuilding

• CatiAdele Slater for the dedicated organizing work as a graduate assistant, particularly the D.C. field trip
• Hannah Gilman for the innovative work advancing peacebuilding and conflict transformation tools in education through your practicum
• Toya Fernandez for the innovative work on restorative justice and racial healing, particularly bringing the Sankofa Circles to 91����
• Mercy Francis-Harris for your dedicated, thoughtful and quality work in all your classes
• Tyler Stanley for the dedicated work developed in all your classes, particularly PAX 509

Undergraduate Teacher Education

• Virginia Scholars Award in Undergraduate Teacher Education: Arelys Martinez Fabian

Authors’ Reception

The event showcased faculty and student scholarly works published since Jan. 1, 2025. Featured authors included:

Faculty

Ann Schaeffer, associate professor of nursing; James M. Yoder, professor of biology; Bryce Van Vleet, assistant professor of psychology; Mary Ann Zehr, assistant professor of rhetoric and composition; Wendell J. Shank, instructor of Spanish; Carol Grace Hurst, associate professor of social work; David F. Evans, professor of history and intercultural studies; Jacob Alan Cook, assistant professor of Christian ethics; Doug Graber Neufeld, professor of biology; Kathryn Mansfield, adjunct faculty for Center for Justice and Peacebuilding; Stephanie Day Powell, assistant professor of Hebrew bible; Timothy Seidel, associate professor of community and international development; Mark Metzler Sawin, professor of history; Debbi DiGennaro, instructor of social work; Heike Peckruhn, associate professor of religious studies; Jeff Copeland, professor of biology; Paula Ditzel Facci, assistant professor of peacebuilding; Dr. Cherelle Johnson, instructor of business and leadership; Benjamin Bergey, associate professor of music; Mary Sprunger, professor of history; Daniel Showalter, professor of mathematics; Benjamin J. Guerrero, assistant professor of music; and Steven David Johnson, professor of Visual and Communication Arts.

Students

Ash Dixon, first-year psychology major; Monica Ehrenfels, first-year music major; Joshua Henkel, first-year sociology major; and Malia Yoder, first-year natural sciences major; as well as the authors and artists of The Phoenix (2025), which was edited by Alexis Lewis and Zoey Mongold.

First-year student Monica Ehrenfels and junior Micah Wenger, both music and peacebuilding majors, provided music for the authors’ reception.

Photos by Aric Berg and Jon Styer/At Ease Design & Consulting

Johnson’s photography of the pond and its bountiful wildlife—think butterflies, hummingbirds, and frogs—are beautifully captured on the magazine’s cover and its glossy pages, as well as online.

Read his story and view the photos .

As a result of the project, Johnson wrote, “we went from seeing an occasional wandering toad to now having a fully functioning ecosystem.”

“For me, this is a story of hope,” he said. “Tackling the extinction crisis can seem overwhelming, but everyday folks can transform their backyards into an oasis for wildlife.”

Those faculty members are:

• Dr. Katherine Evans: Jesse T. Byler Endowed Chair in Education
• Dr. James Leaman: Longacre Endowed Chair in Business and Leadership
• Dr. Peter Dula: Myron S. Augsburger Endowed Chair of Theology
• Dr. James Yoder: Daniel B. Suter Endowed Chair of Science

Dr. Tynisha Willingham, provost and vice president of academic affairs for 91����, said these faculty members were chosen as endowed chairs because of their demonstrated leadership, service, teaching, and research, as well as their capacity to be champions of their programs at 91����. 

“Endowed chairs are a critical component of 91����’s academic vitality,” she said. “Our goal is to elevate the recognition of our faculty who hold this honor and to celebrate the donors whose generosity helps to support academic excellence in this way.”

The endowed chair positions provide funding for each faculty position within a particular discipline, along with scholarships for students in the discipline and funds for program initiatives. Chairs receive professional development funds to support their research and scholarship. An endowed chair appointment is one of the highest honors a faculty member can receive at 91����, supporting their continued excellence in scholarship and teaching, said the Rev. Dr. Sarah Ann Bixler, dean of Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences.

Keep reading for bios of each professor.

Dr. Katherine Evans

Professor of Teacher Education and director of the Undergraduate Teacher Education program
Jesse T. Byler Endowed Chair in Education

Kathy Evans is a professor of Teacher Education at 91����, teaching courses in educational psychology, special education, and restorative justice in education. She earned her PhD from the University of Tennessee in educational psychology and research. Her research, teaching, and scholarship focus on ways in which educators participate in creating more just and equitable educational opportunities for all students, including those with disability labels, those who exhibit challenging behavior, and those who are marginalized for a variety of reasons, including race, ethnicity, language, religion, sexual orientation, and gender identity. 

During her 15 years at 91����, Evans has helped develop 91����’s graduate program in Restorative Justice in Education (RJE), which supports educators as they create learning environments that promote relational approaches to teaching and learning, justice and equity in schools and classrooms, and transformational approaches to conflict and harm. She is the co-author of The Little Book of Restorative Justice in Education and has published several articles and book chapters related to restorative justice in education, school culture and climate, and school discipline practices, focusing on the ways in which restorative justice is applied to educational contexts. 

How do you feel to be granted this position?

It’s an honor to be appointed as the Jesse T. Byler Endowed Chair in Education. The Byler endowment has historically been such a gift to the Teacher Education Program at 91����, providing support for pre-service teachers in the way of fee waivers for testing and licensure, conference registration for networking with other pre-service teachers, scholarships, and resources that support their success through their 91���� program. We are in a season of growth and expansion and I am grateful for the opportunities I will have in this position to support that growth, both in the recruitment of talented and dedicated teachers and in the ongoing professional development for our faculty. At this moment in time, we need teachers who are committed to justice and peacebuilding. Embedding restorative justice within our teacher education program at both the undergraduate and graduate levels opens up spaces to support educators who want to not only excel as educators, but to be educators who nurture the well-being of each student. The Byler endowment helps us to do that work better.

What do you love about 91����?

This is my 15th year at 91���� and I am more hopeful about 91����’s future today than I have been since I arrived. The commitment to peacebuilding and justice—even when we don’t fully live into that commitment—means that there is a unifying set of values that guide our collective work. I see our students, staff, and faculty working to honor those values and that mission. Our students are amazing and they remind me every day that the work of justice is ongoing, intergenerational, and worth it.

What is a fun fact about you?

When I’m not working, I might be fishing—bass fishing at Silver Lake or fly-fishing at Dry River. I find the water so peaceful.

Dr. James M. Leaman

Associate Professor of Business and director of the Business and Leadership program
Longacre Endowed Chair in Business and Leadership

Jim Leaman chairs the Business and Leadership Program, where he teaches undergraduate courses in management, finance, and economics, and graduate courses in organizational and leadership studies. His industry experience spans both private business and nonprofit administration, including 12 years of service with an international non-governmental organization (INGO) in Kenya. The 91���� alumnus has a PhD in Public and International Affairs from the University of Pittsburgh.

The perspective Leaman adds to his field is analyzing and teaching about the role and impact of business and organizations within ecological limits and dynamic social systems, resulting in an integrated lens of sustainability, stewardship and justice. Leaman researches and publishes in the areas of sustainable housing and energy, and his most recent scholarly work is a management textbook, with which he collaborated with an international team of authors to publish in the creative commons, resulting in lower resource costs for students. 

How do you feel to be granted this position?

It is an honor to hold the endowed chair position in business and to steward the gifts and vision of the Longacre family as the program serves and prepares the next generation of business leaders.

What do you love about 91����?

The 91���� mission to prepare students to serve and lead in a global context becomes more relevant with each new innovation and global integration.

What is a fun fact about you?

In awe of the vastness and complexity of the universe, I’ve gained an avocational interest in learning as much as I can about the cosmos.

Dr. Peter Dula

Professor of Religion and Culture
Myron S. Augsburger Endowed Chair of Theology

Peter Dula is the professor of Religion and Culture at 91����. The 91���� alumnus received a PhD from Duke University in theology and ethics in 2004. He is the author of Cavell, Companionship, and Christian Theology (Oxford, 2011). Before coming to 91���� in 2006, he was the Mennonite Central Committee Iraq Program Coordinator. He has taught at Lancaster Mennonite High School and at the Meserete Kristos College in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, where he was a Fulbright scholar in 2001-02.

This is his 20th year at 91����. He teaches primarily in the undergraduate program, as well as one class each year at the seminary and the Bioethics course in the MA in Biomedicine program. He is married to Ilse Ackerman and they have two children, Simon (17) and Nina (15). 

What do you love about 91����?

Two things I love about 91���� are its smart and interesting faculty colleagues and its location in the Shenandoah Valley.

What is a fun fact about you? 

I planted 500 trees over the last couple of years. The latest Weather Vane issue has . Along with Trina Trotter Nussbaum at the Center for Interfaith Engagement, I organized last month’s consultation on Judaism, the Bible, and Anabaptism. The Weather Vane also has . 

Dr. James Yoder

Professor of Biology and director of the Natural Sciences programs
Daniel B. Suter Endowed Chair of Science

Jim Yoder is the chair of 91����’s Department of Natural Sciences, advising environmental science and biology majors and teaching evolution, ecology, and conservation biology. A 1994 alumnus of 91����, he earned his PhD from The Ohio State University, where he studied the effects of habitat fragmentation on ruffed grouse movements at large spatial scales. His research interests include conservation, landscape and behavioral ecology, animal movement, invasive species, stream restoration, nitrogen and carbon footprint tracking, and insect movement using harmonic radar. He has also led multiple intercultural programs to New Zealand, the Navajo Nation, and Washington D.C. (upcoming), as well as three research trips with undergraduates to Australia. In his free time, he enjoys cooking, traveling, and hiking with his wife Kathy. 

How do you feel to be granted this position?

I’m honored to be named the Suter Endowed Chair of Science and work to continue the level of scholarship and teaching Daniel Suter established in the natural sciences at 91����. Coordinating the long-running Suter Science Seminar Series with a diverse array of speakers and increasing collaborative research among our science faculty and undergraduate students are two aspects of being Suter Chair that I’m most excited to focus on. 

What do you love about 91����?

Wonderful colleagues, a diverse student body, and the beautiful Shenandoah Valley—it’s a great place to be a field biologist!

What is a fun fact about you?

My wife and I recently moved into a loft apartment in the heart of downtown Harrisonburg above . It keeps us young at heart!  And we are soon to be grandparents for the first time!

In our series of student and alumni stories, social media posts, and letters and emails, we invited you to become part of Lov91���� history by making this year’s Giving Day the best one yet. You answered the call, giving $402,722 to scholarships and financial aid, direct support for faculty and staff, 91����’s life-changing intercultural programs, and, for the first time, resources for first-generation college students.

Together, we surpassed the $400,000 goal set by Lov91���� organizers and topped our previous record of $365,512, raised last year, by an impressive 10%.

In an email sent Thursday, Nicole Litwiller ’19, MA ’20 (conflict transformation), annual giving and donor communications specialist, expressed gratitude for the generosity shown by 91���� alumni, friends, and fans.

“It is inspiring and humbling to witness the outpouring of support our community showed—with every gift, text to a family member or friend, or post to social media, you helped us meet our goal. We are incredibly grateful.” she said.

Among the highlights from this year’s Lov91���� Giving Day, she shared, were:

• Unlocking every challenge of the day;
• watching hundreds of alumni, employees, donors, and students connect and celebrate during the Lov91���� Community Meal; and
• welcoming 19 future Royals who visited for the day into the 91���� community.

“Thank you again for showing up for 91����,” Litwiller said. “Your support has a direct impact on current students, future students, and the entire 91���� community.”

Students, faculty, staff, and alumni fill Yoder Arena for Wednesday morning’s Lov91���� Pep Rally.

The day kicked off with the third annual Lov91���� Pep Rally at Yoder Arena. The rally had it all: a dramatic entrance by Herm on an e-bike, the return of the BaZOOKa T-shirt cannon, and performances by the top three athletic teams from the previous night’s Lip-Sync Battle.

Read a recap of the pep rally below!

Sights and sounds from the University Festival: Past, present, and future Royals meet with Herm (top photo), snap pics at the Lov91���� photo booth (left), and bob for apples (right) at one of the Student Union club booths.

Following the pep rally, the University Festival in the Hall of Nations connected faculty members with prospective students and featured games and activities hosted by student clubs. 

Mathematics Professor Dr. Daniel Showalter brought his two daughters and his dad, Dennis Showalter ’73, to the event. He said he gives to scholarships such as the HDH and Flora Showalter Endowed Scholarship, which supports math and computer science students, on Lov91���� Giving Day.

“This is my dream job,” he said. “I want to do whatever I can to keep the atmosphere vibrant and living. I feel really grateful that I get to wake up every morning and go to a job that is meaningful and enjoyable.”

Jacob Horsley ’22, MBA ’25, associate director of undergraduate admissions, said he chooses to give back to the university on Lov91���� Giving Day because he’s a “repeat Royal.”

“I’m a double-alumnus,” he said. “I have experienced the impact of this supportive community, and I want to make sure that it continues.”

The Lunch & Lawn Party returned to Thomas Plaza with a free student lunch and various lawn games.

The campus community enjoyed Wednesday’s warm weather at the Lunch & Lawn Party on Thomas Plaza, where they savored Korean beef bowls and competed in lawn games. The annual student appreciation lunch, free for all students and hosted in partnership between Pioneer College Caterers and the Campus Activities Council, included the traditional egg toss and a Bubble Bus that filled the Front Lawn with giant bubbles.

From 2 to 4 p.m., members of 91����’s MA in Counseling program led self-care activities at the Student Union.

As 91����’s night owls kept the energy alive, Lov91���� participants had plenty more activities to enjoy. Back by popular demand and hosted by the Student Government Association, the Real Life Mario Kart Race returned to the University Commons indoor track, where teams of three raced on scooters, dodged obstacles, and collected prizes. Later, from 10:30 p.m. to midnight, the Art After Dark craft event featured live music from 91����’s jazz trio.

View the full schedule of events at .

Leaderboard competition

The winners of the 2026 Lov91���� leaderboard competition are:

Academic program

• First place ($1,000 prize): Nursing
• Second place ($500 prize): Natural Sciences
• Third place ($250 prize): Education

Student club/org

• First place ($1,000 prize): Muslim Student Alliance (a new org formed this year!)
• Second place ($500 prize): Black Student Alliance
• Third place ($250 prize): 91���� Outdoor

Athletic team

• First place ($1,000 prize): Women’s Volleyball
• Second place ($500 prize): Women’s Basketball
• Third place ($250 prize): Men’s volleyball

Challenges (all unlocked)

Donors unlocked all $170,000 in challenge match funds for the University Fund, student scholarships, intercultural programs, athletics, and, new to Lov91���� this year, support for first-generation college students.

Lov91���� Early Challenge: We received more than 120 gifts before the start of Lov91���� Giving Day to unlock $15,000 for the University Fund.

All-day challenges

Loyal Royal Challenge: More than 250 alumni made gifts to 91���� during Lov91���� Giving Day to unlock $20,000 for student scholarships.

Friends of 91���� Challenge: More than 175 non-alumni made gifts to unlock $15,000 for the University Fund.

Future Royal Challenge: Because 19 prospective students who were in attendance on Lov91���� Giving Day paid their tuition deposit, either on the day or beforehand, we unlocked $19,000 in scholarship funds.

Timed challenges

Early Herm Gets the Worm: We received 75 gifts before 9 a.m. on Wednesday to unlock $15,000 for student scholarships.

First-Gen Match of 10: In a first-ever Lov91���� challenge of its kind, a “match of the match” through a NetVUE grant, we raised $10,052 to support first-generation students.

Lov91���� at First Sight: We received 110 gifts between noon and 3 p.m. to unlock a whopping $30,000 for the University Fund.

What a Wonderful World: We received 80 gifts from 5-7 p.m. to unlock $20,000 to ensure all students are able to access 91����’s impactful intercultural experiences.

The Generosity Marathon: We received 55 gifts from 7:30-9 p.m. to unlock $10,000 for 91���� Athletics.

Late-night Leadership: We received 100 gifts from 9 p.m. to midnight to unlock $20,000 for the University Fund.

Thanks to everyone who donated, shared their time to celebrate their love of all things 91����, and joined in the festivities on campus! Special thanks to the 2026 Lov91���� planning team: Nicole Litwiller, Arelys Martinez Fabian, Cassandra Guerrero, Kyle Dickinson, Leah Frankenfield, Luke Litwiller, Maria Longenecker, Omar Hoyos, Steve Johnson, and Tyler Goss.

Swipe through our photo album from the day below!

The world has changed in many ways since the inaugural Lov91���� Giving Day was held on April 4, 2017.

One thing that’s remained constant through the years, says Nicole Litwiller ’19, MA ’20 (conflict transformation), is the outpouring of donor support during the annual Lov91���� Giving Day.

“This year is our 10th annual giving day, so it feels very significant,” said Litwiller, annual giving and donor communication specialist. “Having been a student when Lov91���� Giving Day began, I experienced the impact of donor support directly through financial aid to ensure I could access my education at 91����. Now, I work in the Advancement office and get to see the ways our donors channel their passion through giving to support 91���� and our students. We’re so grateful for all of the support our community has shown and continues to show.”

Participate in our 24-hour giving day extravaganza, in which alumni, faculty, staff, students, parents, and friends come together to support and celebrate the wonderful university we all love. Help us set a new record! Last year, we raised $365,313 from 360 unique donors. With your help, we can all make a difference by contributing to scholarships and financial aid, direct support for faculty and staff, life-changing intercultural programs, and, for the first time ever, resources for first-generation college students.

Lov91���� Day Events

Clockwise from top left: Adam Stoltzfus ’25 fires shirts into the crowd during last year’s giving day pep rally. | Students play lawn games on the Front Lawn during the Lov91���� 2025 Lunch & Lawn Party. | Tyler Goss zooms down the indoor track during the Real Life Mario Kart Race. | The 91���� community gathers inside the Hall of Nations to celebrate during an evening meal together. (Photos by Macson McGuigan ’17)

Plenty of events will be held throughout the day to demonstrate your Royal pride and unleash your Lov91���� spirit. Tag #Lov91���� and #ForTheRecord in your social media posts and tell your friends and family about Lov91���� Giving Day.

Tuesday, March 31

Lip Sync Battle
8 p.m. | Yoder Arena
91����’s athletic teams will compete in their annual Lip Sync Battle, hosted by the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee. Come out to cheer on your favorite teams.

Wednesday, April 1

Throughout the day, the 91���� merch store, staffed by representatives from the University Outpost, will sell apparel and other 91����-branded merchandise at the Student Union from 9 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Lov91���� participants and guests can also stop by the Lov91���� hub inside the Hall of Nations at any time during the day to win prizes, collect a free T-shirt while supplies last, and make a gift in-person.

Lov91���� Pep Rally
10:15 a.m. | Yoder Arena
The 10th annual Lov91���� Giving Day kicks off with a high-energy pep rally to get everyone in the giving mood. Come early for the doughnuts, but stay for the performances featuring the previous night’s Lip Sync Battle winners.

Lunch & Lawn Party
Noon-1:30 p.m. | Thomas Plaza
The annual student appreciation lunch, free for all students and hosted in partnership between Pioneer College Caterers and Campus Activities Council, returns to Thomas Plaza. A description of the event promises “good food, lawn games, and prizes.”

Lov91���� Community Meal
5:30-7:30 p.m. | Hall of Nations
Join the campus community for an evening of live music, food, and a celebration of all things 91����. Dinner is free and open to all students, prospective students, faculty and staff, alumni, donors, and families. .

For a full list of events, including the first-ever Lov91���� dating show, the return of the popular Real Life Mario Kart Race, and an Art After Dark craft night, visit .

Lov91���� Day Challenges

This year’s Lov91���� Giving Day features $170,000 in challenge match funds from generous donors, split between full-day and timed challenges. It’s the most challenge match funds ever, Litwiller said.

“That’s huge,” she said. “We’re really counting on our community to come together and unlock all those funds throughout the day.”

The day also marks the return of the popular leaderboard competition. Each gift of $10 or more is eligible to cast a vote for your favorite academic program, student club or organization, and athletic team. First place in each category will receive $1,000, second place receives $500, and third place receives $250.

Lov91���� Early Challenge (almost there!)

Help us reach our goal of receiving 120 gifts before Lov91���� Giving Day to unlock an additional $15,000 toward the University Fund, our top fundraising priority.

All-Day Challenges

Loyal Royal Challenge
If 250 alumni make a gift to 91���� before midnight, $20,000 to student scholarships will be unlocked.

Friends of 91���� Challenge
If 175 non-alumni participate in Lov91���� Day, $15,000 to the University Fund will be unlocked.

Future Royal Challenge
Admissions is once again teaming up with Lov91���� Day. For each prospective student who attends Lov91���� Day AND pays their tuition deposit (either on the day or prior to it), we’ll unlock $1,000 for 91����’s scholarship funds. This challenge is funded by two graduates from the class of 1958.

Timed Challenges

Give early and often to help us unlock over $150,000 in matching funds.

Early Herm Gets the Worm
6-9 a.m.
If we receive 75 gifts before 9 a.m., we’ll unlock $15,000 for student scholarships.

First-Gen Match of 10
10 a.m.-noon
In this first-ever challenge of its kind, each gift made for first-generation student support will be matched up to $10,000. Plus, a NetVUE grant will match the match—all money raised through the end of next year will be matched up to $60,000. These gifts provide programming for first-gen students to explore vocation in a way that celebrates discovery, fulfillment, and calling. Give from 10 a.m.-noon and have 4x the impact.

Lov91���� at First Sight
Noon-3 p.m.
On our first Lov91���� Giving Day, we had a total of $30,000 to unlock throughout the entire day. Now, in celebration of our 10th giving day, a generous donor has committed that much for just one massive challenge. With 110 gifts between noon and 3 p.m., we’ll unlock a whopping $30,000 for the University Fund.

What a Wonderful World
5-7 p.m.
In honor of his late wife Christine Good Shenk ’83, Ed Shenk ’83 has put forward a $20,000 match for Intercultural Programs. Christine’s cross-cultural to the Middle East during her time at 91���� was incredibly transformative for her. With 80 gifts from 5-7 p.m., we will unlock $20,000 to ensure all students are able to access 91����’s impactful intercultural experiences.

The Generosity Marathon
7:30-9 p.m.
If we receive 55 gifts from 7:30-9 p.m., we’ll unlock $10,000 for 91���� Athletics thanks to an alumni couple from the class of 2020 and an anonymous donor couple.

Late-night Leadership
9 p.m.-midnight
In celebration of Interim President Rev. Dr. Shannon W. Dycus‘ first year in office, two generous donors have put up $20,000 in this final challenge of the day. One-hundred gifts from 9 p.m. to midnight will earn us a final boost for the University Fund to close out the day.

Other ways to show your 91���� love

From March 25 to April 1, stop by Common Grounds Coffeehouse and enjoy “The Blue Monarch,” a naturally blue tea steeped from butterfly pea flower petals, swirled with milk, white chocolate, and blueberry, and topped with cold foam—all to celebrate Royal pride. Feeling extra regal? Add boba! Plus, with any order during that week, you can choose to add a small donation that will support student scholarships.

You can also show your 91���� love by supporting a couple 91���� alumni-owned businesses.

The is partnering with 91���� again this year. From now through April 1, enjoy a “Blue & Gold” Blueberry Mango Trifle, and profits will support 91����’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Fund. This fund directly supports 91����’s commitment to creating a community of learners where everyone feels connected, accepted, valued, and respected.

In honor of Lov91���� Giving Day, the owners of AJ’s Gentlemen’s Barbershop are giving back to their alma mater. When you stop by and mention Lov91����, 10% of your service will go directly to support 91����’s Intensive English Program. Book online at or stop by, and don’t forget to say Lov91����.

How to give

You can give online via credit card, Apple Pay, and Google Pay at , by calling 800-368-3383, written check or check by mail, donor-advised gifts, IRA gifts or establishing recurring giving. All gifts are tax-deductible. You can also stop by the Lov91���� hub on April 1 and make your gift in person.

For more information about Lov91���� events and challenges, visit .