WESLEY SPRING 2010

www.weare.wesley.edu









WESLEYA Magazine for Wesley College Alumni & Friends SPRING 2010









Sustain!

says Mr. Spain

Fred Spain ’58 is in the midst of

showing the world how it’s done









INSIDE: HOMECOMING 2010 | ARTS IN THE PARLOR | SERVICE IN MISSISSIPPI

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE





“Try to forget yourself in the service of others. For when we think too much of

ourselves and our own interests, we easily become despondent. But when

we work for others, our efforts return to bless us.” -Sidney Powell

DEAR ALUMNI AND FRIENDS,

An opportunity arose recently in which I was asked to speak to a group of professionals about higher education

and the special nature of a Wesley College education. It was easy to articulate the personal experience that is

provided at Wesley in which our students gain

Front row, from left:

a rich understanding of the liberal arts and

Ervin Johnson (student),

Rev. Charlotte Nichols ’73 develop their unique talents. Through inten-

(District Superintendent tional involvement and nurturing from faculty

of the Salisbury District),

and staff, the level of engagement among our

John Gula (Director of

Food Services, Aramark), students continues to grow at Wesley.

Bishop Peggy Johnson, Students are engaged in undergraduate

Ashleigh Maser (student),

research, campus activities, theatre presenta-

Amberlyn Oldham ’10.

Back row, from left: tions, concerts and athletics. They also are

President Johnston, investing their time and energy in assisting

Rev. Dr. Sandra Steiner

with the needs of both the local community

Ball, (Director of

Connectional Ministries– and the world. This type of engagement

Peninsula-Delaware centers on service to others — caring enough

Annual Conference),

to intervene and taking action. It not only

Dr. Mark Pruett-Barnett,

Rev. Boyd Etter allows students to transcend to a new level of academic and social achievement and responsibility, but also helps

(District Superintendent them form a religious, moral and philosophical foundation that provides a compass for living.

of the Dover District),

Many experiences this spring provide perfect examples of how our students are engaged and learning to

Rev. Bill Sterling (District

Superintendent of the make a difference in the world around them. These include a service trip to rebuild homes in Biloxi, Mississippi;

Easton District), Rev. student-led efforts that provided over $1,900 for the United Methodist Committee on Relief to assist in Haiti; and

Dr. Bill Fitzhugh (District

a food drive that secured 2,994 pounds of donated food for the Food Bank of Delaware.

Superintendent of the

Wilmington District), I encourage you to increase your engagement in the life of Wesley. Visit campus, attend athletic and cultural

Rev. Derrick Porter events, volunteer, or provide financial support for a program, major or for student scholarships. I look forward

(District Superintendent

to speaking directly with you about Wesley and how your participation can make a tremendous impact in the

Designate of the

Wilmington District). educational experience we offer our worthy students.



Very best wishes,









William (Bill) Johnston

wnj@wesley.edu





S E N I O R A D M I N I STR ATI O N B OAR D O F TR U STE E S Rev. Dr. Sandra Steiner Ball A LU M N I A S S O C IATI O N B OA R D O F D I R E CTO R S

Dr. William N. Johnston Charles R. Dashiell, Jr., Chair William J. Strickland Stephanie Smith Christiano ’98,

President Ann Burton, Vice-Chair Harry D. “Skip” Willis ’70 President

Dr. Patricia Dwyer Rev. Dr. James T. Seymour, Secretary William H. Willis, Jr. ’66 Lynn Schmid Knable ’67,

Vice President for Academic Affairs Frank Andrews Dr. Rafael Zaragoza Vice President

Chris Wood Dr. Basilio Bautista Anne Buckler ’62, Secretary

Vice President for Thomas W. Burn, Jr. ’79 TR U STE E S E M E R ITI Tamra Antanaitis ’90, Treasurer

Institutional Advancement Rev. Boyd B. Etter, ex-officio Rev. David A. Baker Richard Bradley ’70

Eric Nelson ’85 Robert V.A. Harra, Jr. Rev. Jonathan E. Baker ’70 Tad Fox ’95

Vice President for Finance Rev. Dr. Patricia Bryant Harris Hon. Eugene D. Bookhammer Barry Hawlk ’72

William Firman D. Wayne Holden Elizabeth M. Barber ’52 Kirsten Higgins ’98

Dean of Enrollment Management Kathleen Jennings Lillian Burris Daniel Kimmel ’95

Mary-Alice Ozechoski Rev. W. LeRoy Jones ’53 Dr. George V. Kirk Debra Kubacki ’91

Dean of Students Alan B. Levin Dr. Thomas C. Roe ’31 Thomas J. Leary ’70

Dr. Mark Pruett-Barnett Donald L. Masten Mr. Gilbert S. Scarborough, Jr. Matt Lindell ’03

Chaplain/Director of Dorothy McLaughlin Bishop Peter D. Weaver Louisa Jane MacDonald ’60

Church Relations Chad Robinson ’05

Contents President and Mrs. Bill Johnston visit with

Bob and Jane (Kearney) MacDonald ’60 (center)

at the “Arts in the Parlor” event.

WESLEY

SPRING 2010 VOLUME XXXVIII, NO. 2



MANAGING EDITOR

Leigh Ann Coleman ’09

COPY EDITOR

Amanda Downes ’06

Cathy Anderson

Director of the Wesley Society

(302) 736-2410

andersca@wesley.edu

Amanda Downes ’06

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Director of Alumni Affairs

Cathy Anderson (302) 736-2318

Leigh Ann Coleman ’09 downesam@wesley.edu

Amanda Downes ’06

Emily Ennis ’10 Jennifer Telles ’09

Director of the Annual

Geoff Goyne Wesley Fund

Abigail Hill ’12 (302) 736-2317

Jennifer Telles ’09 tellesje@wesley.edu

Steve Clark

DESIGN + PRODUCTION

Coordinator of the W Club

MSK Partners, Inc. (302) 736-2330

clarkst@wesley.edu



INSTITUTIONAL Leigh Ann Coleman ’09

ADVANCEMENT STAFF Director of Publications

& Campus Photographer

Dr. William N. Johnston (302) 736-2315

President colemale@wesley.edu

(302) 736-2508

wnj@wesley.edu Geoff Goyne

Director of News &

Chris Wood Sports Information

Vice President for Institutional (302) 736-2450

Advancement goynegeo@wesley.edu

(302) 736-2316

chriswood@wesley.edu Amanda Jackson ’09

Administrative Assistant

(302) 736-2467

jacksoam@wesley.edu









12 Wesley is published three times per year by the

Office of Institutional Advancement.



POSTMASTER: Send Changes to:

Office of Institutional Advancement

Wesley College



Features Departments 120 North State Street

Dover, DE 19901



10 BILOXI DUES 0 2 HIGHLIGHTS

Six intrepid Wesley College students

and Chaplain Dr. Mark Pruett-Barnett

play a part in the ongoing recovery from

18 SPORTS

26 CLASS NOTES WESLEYonline!

www.wesleymagazine.wesley.edu

Hurricane Katrina. 32 ADVANCEMENT

Wesley magazine online has all the

12 ARTS IN THE PARLOR content of the print edition and gives you

Special event raises funds for scholarships as a reader the ability to post comments

and pays tribute to departed friend and and view web exclusives like photo

long-time trustee Dr. Joseph S. Bellmeyer. albums and reader polls.

Opt to receive email notification when

14 SUSTAIN the newest issue is released and help

Fred Spain holds the blueprints for Wesley reduce paper usage and postage

the first of its kind—a 100% sustainable costs.

and carbon-free community. To change your preferences:

1. Log on to We Are Wesley

2. Click “Update my Information”



WEARE.WESLEY.EDU

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WEARE .WESLEY.EDU 1

HIGHLIGHTS | News and views

from Wesley College





Service Abounds at Wesley

Founders Day

Food Drive

FOR WESLEY’S 137th Founders Day

celebration, the planning committee inte-

grated a community service project as a

demonstration of the College’s Methodist

values and history of service to the area.

Grocery bags were distributed around

campus to faculty, staff and students as

well as area residents so that participants

could collect non-perishable food items to

donate. Student athletes did their part by

filling two campus vans with donations

they collected at the Super Fresh and

Acme markets in Dover on March 17. By

the time the Food Bank picked up the

College’s donation, the Wesley community

had collected 2,994 pounds of food that

would benefit the reported 241,600 people

who receive emergency food each year

through the Food Bank of Delaware. ■





123 = ABC: In 1 Day, 20 Blocks in Downtown Dover Will

Receive Over 300 Hours of Volunteer Service Resulting in

A Beautiful Community.

ON AUGUST 21, the incoming Class of 2014 will take

to the streets as Wesley College partners up with the

Dover Housing Authority, the Central Delaware

Habitat for Humanity and the Office of Senator

Thomas Carper in one of the biggest clean-up projects

the city of Dover has ever seen. The clean-up crew will

consist of approximately 500 incoming freshmen, as

well as faculty and staff, community members and

returning student athletes.

The 123=ABC event is a one day community clean-up

project focusing on improving curb appeal and

streetscape. Volunteers will work on several streets

within a 20 block radius in downtown Dover, picking up

trash, painting curbs and planting flowers and shrubs.

Interested in learning more or becoming a

volunteer? Visit weare.wesley.edu/123ABC ■









2 WESLEY COLLEGE :: Spring 2010

student life | HIGHLIGHTS









Helping Haiti

IT DID NOT TAKE LONG for an cafeteria meals. The cost of those meals for display around the campus. These

earthquake to change Haiti forever. was donated by Aramark Food Service proceeds directly supported the Haiti

It also did not take long for the to the United Methodist Committee on Plunge Project’s Relief Fund for Haiti,

Wesley College campus to organize. In Relief (UMCOR), an agency that is which is helping to create sustainable

response to the horrifying catastrophe, currently on the ground in Haiti, helping development through agricultural

the Wesley community came together in the recovery of the country from its cooperatives in the mountains of Haiti’s

to demonstrate its compassion and disastrous earthquake. central plateau. The RHA also held a

support. For several weeks in January and clothing drive and collected new and

Over a two day period in January, a February, the Residence Hall Association gently used clothing for the Red Cross

total of 248 students contributed to the (RHA), under the leadership of resident in conjunction with Senator Thomas

cause by fasting and giving up 342 assistant Ashleigh Maser, sold $1 hearts Carper’s office. ■









Residential Living

The Residence Hall Association

is There to Help

BY EMILY ENNIS ’10 organization can address any

concerns or suggestions the

FOR AN INCOMING freshman, adjust- residents might have to improve

ing to dorm life can be a scary experience. student life and the residential

The toilet is overflowing. Now what? My atmosphere.

roommate is a bully. Who can help me? Although the organization

Luckily, the newly instated Residence Hall was not officially approved until

Association (RHA) exists to help with recently, the RHA has already From left: Megan Varga, Amber Bell, Tanner Polce, RHA

these problems and other issues that developed a following and has Advisor Kevin Hansbury ’00, Ladonna De’Souza, Bryan

students commonly face when learning to begun to make its mark on the Zarou, Devon Reynolds and Jessica Barranco.

live away from home. The RHA serves all College’s campus. Since

residents at the College, providing repre- community service is a priority for the represented through RHA,” said

sentation and programming opportunities RHA, the group has already helped with Hansbury.

for students living in Wesley’s various food drives and other charity causes such Involvement in the RHA not only

residence halls, including the Joseph S. as the Giving Tree program this past enhances the living experiences for the

Bellmeyer Honors House. December. As part of this program, the students but also those of fellow local

The RHA has been approved by the members purchased Christmas gifts for residents. Students can become familiar

Student Government Association to foster children and held an event on with their new Dover home by volunteer-

become an official student organization in campus in which they gave each child a ing and helping to shape their campus and

the fall, and it will be composed of a bag of gifts and provided dinner and the community into an even better place.

campus-wide executive board with an activities for the participants. The night The program currently has 14 members,

executive director, executive business concluded with a visit from Santa Claus. but with a new semester this fall and a

manager, special programs chair and The RHA also has donated clothing and new incoming class, the group expects its

executive secretary. The executive board food for the Haiti relief efforts. membership to grow significantly.

was elected this spring and each residence The RHA looks forward to “RHA is a great tool, for first-year

hall will hold elections in the fall for its collaborating with other student students in particular, to have an easy

individual hall council, consisting of a organizations for community projects. entry to engagement at Wesley,” said

president, vice president, treasurer, “The RHA is a great way for students who Hansbury. It is a welcome addition among

program coordinator and secretary. “The live on campus to get involved with the Wesley student organizations and one that

RHA is there to represent the voices of the local and greater communities, and will further strengthen residence life at the

students,” said Director of Residence Life quickly engage with other students. College and make Wesley even more

Kevin Hansbury ’00. He explained how the Students know that their interests are community-oriented. ■







WEARE .WESLEY.EDU 3

HIGHLIGHTS | student life





Wellness Takes Off in 2010

BY ABIGAIL HILL ’12



THE WELLNESS CENTER at Wesley is services and healthcare are now in the Center. It now offers six separate rooms

new and improved in 2010. Its purpose same location for the first time in for evaluation, compared to the four

has always been to provide free, quality Wesley’s recent history. The central dispersed dorm rooms that were

healthcare services on campus so students location in Carpenter Hall is still previously used. Each of the new

don’t have to outsource their medical beneficial for all students, since it is in evaluation rooms is also larger in size

needs. Now however, having recently close proximity for commuters coming to and can more comfortably accommodate

relocated to the basement of Carpenter and from classrooms and is surrounded patients.

Hall, the Center is much better equipped by residence halls so it is easily accessible The move also has created added

to meet the demands of a growing student for on-campus students. benefits for patient confidentiality and

population. In addition, wellness at Wesley But location isn’t everything. Jill practicality. With the space to now serve

now means both physical and mental Maser, director of health services, dual purposes for medical and mental

well-being in one convenient location. appreciates all the square footage they healthcare, having students in one general

Before the move, the College nurse’s have gained with the move to the waiting room provides anonymity of

office was located on the first floor of ground floor. “We love the space. It’s their awaiting services among fellow

Carpenter Hall and needed a keycard nice because we now have a triage room, patients. Ann Rogge, director of counsel-

for entry. Since the move, health services a treatment room, a check-in area, and ing services, explained, “The increase in

have become keycard free, meaning no client inter-office space,” Maser said. confidentiality has been a really positive

IDs are necessary. Convenience in terms The additional space has been a much thing. The move has been terrific in

of services offered is the most significant needed improvement and will allow for reserving that confidentiality.” The

advantage, as both the counseling increased functionality of the Wellness counseling office was previously located





Director of Counseling Services Ann Rogge,

Director of Health Services Jill Maser and

Nursing student Brandon Hoskins in the

new Wellness Center.









4 WESLEY COLLEGE :: Spring 2010

around campus | HIGHLIGHTS





in the Office of Student Life, a very public

environment near the main lobby area in

the College Center. Rogge feels her clients

appreciate the change of scenery and

New Members

improved sense of privacy. Combining

the resources of the counseling center

and the health center also makes good

on the Board

sense for treatment purposes, since often

times, students with certain medical con-

ditions are struggling with stress and

of Trustees

BY LEIGH ANN COLEMAN ’09

anxiety surrounding that. Now they can

seek counseling at the same time and in

ALUMNUS WILLIAM “BILL” WILLIS, JR. ’66 and

the same location.

proud Wesley parent Kathleen Jennings became the

Aside from the new Wellness Center

newest members of the Wesley College Board of

area being a more comfortable and

Trustees in March. “I am elated that Ms. Jennings and

convenient environment for students, the

Mr. Willis have joined Wesley’s Trustees. They bring

improvements also have changed the way

talents and experience that will complement our Board

students at Wesley are thinking about

as we continue to grow as an institution. Each is

wellness as part of their lifestyle. “It is

articulate, energetic, actively involved in the life of

moving students away from just going

Delaware, and shares a vision for Wesley College. Their

to see the nurse or the doctor, or the

perspectives and expertise will be helpful as we shape

counselor. They are really starting to

Wesley for the future,” said President Bill Johnston.

think about what they are doing to keep

Willis is president of Willis Chevrolet, with dealer-

themselves healthy, because it is a multi-

ships in both Smyrna and Middletown, Delaware. After graduating from Wesley

dimensional thing,” stated Mary-Alice

College and West Virginia Wesleyan College and then serving two years in the U.S.

Ozechoski, dean of students. “So, to us

Army, Willis returned to work for the family business and make an impact in his

this feels like an opportunity to say to

community. He serves on the Board of Blue Cross Blue Shield Delaware and is an

students that as you graduate from

active member of Asbury United Methodist Church. He has 40 years of service in

college and you think about adulthood,

the automobile industry and is a

and as you get older, wellness becomes

more and more important.”

former president of the Delaware Each is articulate, energetic,

Automobile and Truck Dealers

The Wellness Center has introduced

Association (DATDA). He also actively involved in the life of

new programming and wellness lifestyle

sessions to go hand in hand with the new

represents Delaware as a member Delaware, and shares a

of the National Automobile

outlook among students. One new

Dealers Association (NADA). vision for Wesley College.

program is a weight loss support group,

Jennings is an attorney and

in which individuals are coming together

partner at Biddle & Reath, LLP in Wilmington, Delaware, practicing criminal

once a week to talk about what is working

defense and regulatory enforcement, among other fields of law. She was previously

for them in terms of dieting and fitness.

a partner at WolfBlock, LLP as well as Oberly, Jennings & Rhodunda P.A., both in

They are getting more regular exercise,

Wilmington. From 1993 to 1995, she served as chief deputy attorney general. Prior

weighing in, and gaining valuable

to that position, Jennings was acting state prosecutor in the criminal division and

nutritional information as a result.

deputy attorney general. An alumnus of the

“These are the types of programs that

University of Delaware and Villanova University

we think this Center will allow us to con-

School of Law, Jennings is also a fellow of the

tinue to do,” Ozechoski explained. The

American College of Trial Lawyers. Her daughter

Wellness Center staff hopes its expanded

Rebecca is a current sophomore at Wesley.

services will engage more students and

“Personally, I have always valued education for

help them to develop and maintain a

its ability to enrich our intellectual awareness of the

healthy lifestyle one step at a time.

world and to open doors for success in America.

For more information on the

The future of our youth, and for that matter this

Wellness Center, go to wesley.edu,

country, resides in the success of our educational

click on “Student Life” and then select

system. There is no higher priority,” said

“Counseling and Health Services.” ■

Jennings. ■









WEARE .WESLEY.EDU 5

HIGHLIGHTS | student profile







that Conte is married with two teenage

children has not stopped her from being

highly active with campus life at Wesley.

She is a member of the Student Nurses

Association, an SGA representative for

the International Student Association

and serves on both the Student Activities

Board and the Orientation Panel. She

was even asked to sit in on an employ-

ment interview for a professor who could

potentially become one of her teachers.

“Wesley is extremely transparent, like

with town meetings. They don’t do that at

other schools. I was so astonished when I

went to this meeting and they started

talking about what’s going on in my

department of study. Wesley has made



Feels Like itself more student-oriented than other

schools. Even though it’s a smaller

school, I believe that in the long run it’s



Home going to help with the satisfaction and

retention.”

Conte’s family is very supportive of

Veronica Conte her educational endeavors and they

help her juggle the roles of wife, mother,

BY EMILY ENNIS ’10 volunteer and student. This gives her a

chance to attend to her studies. In her

time away from the classroom, Conte

ALTHOUGH SHE easily blends in with three different schools at once, including also does extensive volunteer work. Her

her fellow students at the Student Central Texas University and St. Leo husband of 18 years was in the military

Government Association (SGA) meeting University, in order to fulfill her goal. for 10 years and during that time, Conte

or when she’s assisting with Orientation Despite the heavy course load, Conte was volunteered for various programs. Now

programming for next year’s freshman a Dean’s list student and a member of the she is in the process of becoming a Red

class, Veronica Conte is not your honor society in psychology. Cross certified disaster relief volunteer

ordinary coed. Not only is she an adult After beginning her next pursuit for a and is scheduled to help with a Habitat

learner with a family of her own, but degree from an accelerated nursing pro- for Humanity project in her hometown.

she also has been on enough college gram, Conte attended Drexel University, She also participated in Wesley's Relay

campuses to know what she wants in a but then transferred to Wesley. She for Life program to support the

higher education institution. And she explained, “I live in Middletown, American Cancer Society.

knew immediately when she found Delaware and Drexel is about an hour’s Although Wesley College is the small-

that in Dover, Delaware. drive. It’s a lot of traffic and the commute est institution that Conte has attended,

Conte is a first-year nursing student was not working out for me, particularly she is most proud to be a Wesley student.

at Wesley College working towards her in an accelerated program.” Conte felt Her professors’ accessibility is a welcome

second bachelor’s degree. She received that not living near campus put her at a change for her, and she has great respect

her first undergraduate degree—a disadvantage academically. “With my in particular for her advisor, Dr. Robert

Bachelor of Science in psychology— from family demands and two hours a day Contino. She also praises the administra-

Northwestern University. She earned this being eaten up by travel, I was not readily tion, especially President Johnston and

in only two years, sometimes taking 32 available to study after classes in the lab or Dean Mary-Alice Ozechoski, who always

credits a semester. Since Northwestern work on group projects as the students have time to stop and chat with her and

allowed at most 22 credits a semester with living on or near campus could.” ask about her family. “I am happy to have

special permission, Conte was enrolled at As a non-traditional student, the fact found a place that feels like home.” ■







6 WESLEY COLLEGE :: Spring 2010

student profile | HIGHLIGHTS









Proud to Be

A Wolverine

Tanner Polce

BY EMILY ENNIS ’10





AS AN 18-year-old rising sophomore at Wesley, Tanner Polce

has already experienced more than many middle aged adults

have in their lifetimes. He is a double major in political science

and international affairs, with a minor in history. He is also

president-elect of the Student Government Association (SGA)

for the 2010-2011 school year. Polce is equally at home on the

soccer field with his fellow Wolverines or in Washington D.C. are even more impressive considering the health challenges he

working as a Senatorial intern. And although his effusive energy has had to overcome. Polce suffers from Crohn’s disease and

and optimism give no indication, he has battled Crohn’s disease ulcerative colitis. He now has had chemotherapy every 6 weeks

for the past 10 years. for the past 8 years. “That really made me mature and age, and

Polce attended Southern Garrett High School in Oakland, put life into perspective.” He is fortunate to have a strong family

Maryland and then Easton High School in Easton, Maryland, support system behind him, including his mother and stepfa-

where he graduated in the top five percent of his class. ther, Rebecca and Mike Kilgus, and his father, Fred Polce, whom

Academically, he is considered a Wesley junior, having attended he describes as his “hero.” “I have the greatest family ever,” he

Chesapeake Community College during his senior year in high said, explaining how supportive they have been of him, and why

school. Polce was very active in student organizations and he considers himself very family-oriented.

played varsity soccer at the high school level, and he has contin- Polce’s maturity and seasoned point of view have influenced

ued to pursue his interests at Wesley. He is treasurer for the his abilities as a student leader and made him an effective public

Lincoln-Jackson club, a member of the Wesley Democrats, a stu- speaker. He recently addressed the College’s Legal Society in

dent ambassador, a player on the men’s soccer team, former vice Wells Theater on campus. He spoke about life’s struggles and

president of the SGA and president of the Williams Hall the themes of self-definition, self-motivation and inspiration. He

Residence Association. freely shares his talents on campus as well as within the local

Given his past high school involvement in the Model United area. Believing in the importance of working together for the

Nations club and Junior Statesmen of America as well as his community and for the people, he is a volunteer for Habitat for

leadership roles in student government and political groups on Humanity. In addition, he plans to take his fellow residents of

Wesley’s campus, it is not surprising that Polce aspires to be a Williams Hall to volunteer in the organization’s central

politician. He likes to work as a problem-solver with the students Delaware ReStore, which provides affordable building and

and “give voices to those who don’t have voices.” After his home goods to needy families and has saved tons of usable

expected college graduation at age 20, Polce plans to attend materials that would otherwise litter landfills. He also has

law school to study constitutional law and then get involved participated in the Curbside Cleanup program.

with politics, hoping to run for Congress or the Senate “years Polce’s love for life and Wesley College shines through in all

down the road.” the activities in which he participates. He fits the mold for the

Polce is already becoming well-prepared for a Senatorial perfect Wesley student ambassador to lead campus tours and

position, as he is an intern for Delaware Senator Thomas Carper market the College to prospective students and their parents.

and works at the Senator’s office in Dover. In his internship, he “I love open houses, tours and everything else. It’s great because

fields calls from constituents and relays messages to the Senator, I get to speak volumes about how much I love Wesley.” The

among other duties.“There’s never a dull moment in the office,” College community is smitten with the charisma, drive and

he said. He enjoys doing “whatever he is asked to do” and sees incredible perseverance of new student body president Tanner

his position in assisting the Senator as a tremendous Polce. And fortunately, the affection is mutual. Polce expressed,

opportunity. “I’m proud to say I’m a Wolverine. I’m proud to say I go to

The can-do attitude and ambitious spirit that Polce exhibits Wesley. I never doubt that this was the right decision for me.” ■







WEARE .WESLEY.EDU 7

HIGHLIGHTS | student life





The Road to Success

Project Success offers personalized learning atmosphere to students

BY: ABIGAIL HILL ’12

“Typically freshmen coming in are not tion, and in college it’s just the opposite.”

FOR MANY STUDENTS the transition prepared for the great disparity between Project Success was designed to

from high school to college academics high school and college study require- address the common lack of preparation

can be a very difficult one. Students are ments,” said Director of Academic Support and various other challenges that present

often thrust into a world of higher Services Charlene Stephens. “In high themselves in this time of transition.

education with little to no idea of what school you spend inordinate amounts of The ARP requirements specify that the

to expect. The fast pace of classes and time in class and very little time in prepara- students complete 10 hours of weekly

the differences in assignments and

grading scales can leave new students at

a loss. Towards the end of the semester,

many often find themselves with a

plummeting GPA and are unsure

where to turn for help.

This particular scenario is where

Project Success found its purpose. Part of

a mandatory, one semester long academic

recovery plan for Wesley students on

academic probation, the program’s

primary goal is to motivate students to

raise their GPA and to increase the

overall number of students returning

the following semester.

“The goal of Project Success is to work

with freshmen who, after their first

semester, are on academic probation,”

Mary-Alice Ozechoski, dean of students,

explained. “It is to provide them some

structure and some resources to get

themselves off probation.” The program

hopes to help students early in their

college career while it is easiest to repair

a wounded GPA.

The Academic Recovery Program

(ARP) involves a mandatory meeting on

the Sunday before spring semester classes

begin, during which a PowerPoint

presentation provides students with

information to help them improve

their study habits and strengthen their

academic standing. The students then

meet with their academic advisor within

the next two days in order to schedule

repeat courses in which they received a

letter grade F or D. If the student

participants pass the course the following

semester, their previous scores will be

exchanged with the new ones. Thomas Vaccaro '10 serves as a peer facilitator for freshman Elisa Fermin.









8 WESLEY COLLEGE :: Spring 2010

study time in the Academic Resource The Project Success workshops are run The participants also have seen the

Center (ARC), where their studying is by staff or faculty members and include benefits of Project Success. Annette

monitored by the TutorTrac software. upperclassmen volunteers who serve as Bookman, a student who participated in

The students also must attend weekly As

peer facilitators. “ a freshman, I felt the the program, expressed, “It has taught

Project Success workshops and seek struggle and there was no program for me,” me better time management. By planning

tutoring when needed. In addition, they said Thomas Vaccaro ’10, one of the Project in advance, I have found I have more

are required to attend six academic skills Success peer facilitators. “The program has time for myself and have a lot more time

seminars between January and February, rewarded me because I am able to help to do my work.”

along with five mandatory professor somebody and have a successful feeling Students in the Project Success

meetings and evaluations, all followed by knowing that now there is something to workshop series initially are provided

personal reflection. help the incoming freshmen.” with a collegiate planner to help them

develop organizational skills and keep

track of assignments, as well as a

reflective journal so they can write about

their academic shortcomings and the

ways they have learned to overcome

them. The various weekly workshops

cover topics such as time management,

goal-setting and study skills. In general,

the courses help college freshmen to

understand the unfamiliar aspects of

higher education and how academics in

college differ from high school in regards

to work load as well as the nature of

assignments and instructions. The

workshops also aim to equip student

participants with the self motivation

needed to succeed in a collegian

“Even though I am still

atmosphere.

not 100 percent at the level ARP has only been in effect for one

where I should be, I’m not academic year and has already yielded

going to stop until I reach impressive results. “We had students last

that level and beyond. As year who went from a 1.3 to a 2.8 GPA,”

Mrs. Stephens said, ‘I am Ozechoski said.

worth more than an F.’ Those Instrumental to the program’s success

words touched me because has been student attendance tracking

shesaw something in me through the ARC, which has helped in

significantly shrinking the number of

that I couldn’t see in myself.”

missed classes. ARP and the Project

— Freshman Elisa Fermin

Success workshops are just one of the

many ways that Wesley College is

offering a personalized learning

atmosphere to meet its students’ needs.

Increased student retention rates would

be an added benefit as a result of the

program. “I think it’s the right thing to

do,” Ozechoski expressed. “If we

know of someone who has not done

well academically, as a small institution

we reach out and say, ‘how can we

help you?’ ” ■









WEARE .WESLEY.EDU 9

HIGHLIGHTS | student life









Biloxi

Dues

A Service Trip to Mississippi

Chaplain Dr. Mark Pruett-Barnett gives a firsthand

account of the Wesley College Spring Break

Service Project Trip to Mississippi from March 1–4

that he coordinated and then had the joy of

experiencing with a crew of six Wesley students.

If you were to drive on Route 90 around Biloxi, Mississippi,

you would find it hard to believe that Hurricane Katrina had

mauled the businesses, homes and lives of so many people just

4 1/2 years ago. Everything now is brand new—the shopping

malls, the casinos, beautiful upscale homes—all within easy

walking distance of the beautiful Gulf Coast beaches. However,

when you go just a couple of blocks inland, it is hard to believe

that so little has been done in the same time frame. People’s

homes and businesses stand in dire need of repair. A different

kind of flood—that of volunteers—has been in Mississippi since

2005 helping people get back on their feet.

Over spring break, six intrepid Wesley College students—

Yong Duan, Amanda Fetterolf, Amanda Hudson, Sydney

Kahan, Nicole Oyola, Bryn Warner—and I were privileged to go

and play a part in the ever-ongoing recovery from Hurricane

Katrina. We met the Volunteer in Mission leaders for our trip,

the Rev. Dr. Richard Vance and Linda Culp, at Baltimore

Washington International Airport for our flight down to New

Orleans. After a pleasant flight, we took a van to Keesler Air

Force Base in Biloxi where we would stay.

“I became close to this small group and I understand everyone

better now. This trip has changed my views of the damage of the

hurricane—the loss damage was to the people, not the land.”

—Amanda Hudson

For four days, the Wesley crew worked on people’s homes.

The first day, Monday, March 1, the crew worked at spreading

pesticide on studs and beams of a Katrina-devastated house in

order to get rid of mold. What a stench! Everyone wore respira-

Yong Duan

tors in order to keep the smell down. On the second day, the

crew had a very “concrete” experience—literally! While wearing







10 WESLEY COLLEGE :: Spring 2010

special suits to keep in body heat (it was very cold in Biloxi for

Sydney Kahan, Amanda Fetterolf and

most of the trip), we hauled bags of concrete, drilled holes and Yong Duan apply a fresh coat of paint.

placed rebars and then mixed, poured and smoothed out the

concrete. Wednesday saw us back at the first house, painting the

studs and beams. That was all there was to paint, since the

entire inside of the house had to be gutted after Katrina.

Eventually, future crews will put on new siding and finish the

inside of the home. Thursday saw us at a house owned by

Frank. Frank is a waterman who we got to know very well as

the crew painted the exterior of his house. He had many stories

of his family and life in Biloxi.

“The event that touched my heart the most was when a woman by the

name of Phyllis came and talked to us while we were eating lunch. She

asked where we were going to be working the rest of the day and we

told her, not thinking anything of it. The next thing we know, Phyllis is

standing before us with a huge cake, just for us.” —Amanda Fetterolf

We had a chance to do more than work. We also ate! We had

the opportunity to eat at D’vine’s, a wonderful BBQ place.

Norma is the owner who has been on The Food Network’s

“Dinner: Impossible.” She told us about her TV adventures as

well as her Christian testimony about how she obtained her

restaurant. Her sister Brenda shared her harrowing story about

how her family narrowly escaped death in Katrina by going up

through the roof of their house and getting into a tree. Before we

left, we had a chance to go by Brenda’s house and see the famous

tree. It was gigantic—a true tree of life for her family.

We had a rollicking time at The Shed, which also had been on

the Food Network’s “Diners, Drive-ins and Dives.” The wonder-

ful congregation of Prince of Peace Baptist Church also fed us

some “down home Mississippi cookin’” one evening. Even better

were the times of fellowship and worship we had with this con-

gregation. The work this congregation has done in the area after

Katrina could not be matched by churches many times its size.

“Mississippi was an incredible, life-changing experience. Sydney Kahan and Yong Duan

Not only do the people of Mississippi inspire you, they help

you believe and have faith in good.” —Sydney Kahan

We left on Friday for a short visit to New Orleans before our

flight left for home. We were tired and ready to go, but we would

miss the people we met and we were happy with the work we

had done. Pastor Darrell Taylor of Prince of Peace had told us he

thought that the volunteers, which now included us, who gave

their time, energy and skills in the 4 1/2 years since Katrina, had

done more than all of the government agencies combined. One of

the things that really gratified me was a comment made by

Jimmy Travino, our site supervisor. He said that out of all the

groups with which he had worked (and there have been a lot),

the Wesley crew was his favorite. I could not have asked for any

better than that. ■

“I grew so much from this experience and if I had the chance,

I’d do it over and over again. I guess I know where I’m going every

Back row, from left: Sydney Kahan, Amanda Hudson, Bryn Warner and

Spring Break from here on out...I can’t wait to go back!” mission leader Linda Culp. Front row, from left: Yong Duan, Amanda

—Bryn Warner Fetterolf, Nicole Oyola and mission leader Rev. Dr. Richard Vance.







WEARE .WESLEY.EDU 11

HIGHLIGHTS | special event



Dr. and Mrs. Johnston chat

with Dr. R. Jervis Cooke and

Mae (McCabe) Dukes ’31.









Wesley Dessesow (far left) sings to the

guests gathered at “Arts in the Parlor.”









BY CATHY ANDERSON





THE WESLEY COLLEGE Board of Trustees with Wesley

President Bill Johnston and his wife Susan hosted an elegant

evening affair on Saturday, April 10 to raise funds for Wesley

College scholarships and pay tribute to departed friend and

long-time trustee Dr. Joseph S. Bellmeyer. Over 80 guests,

including community leaders, alumni and friends of the College,

enjoyed the first ever “Arts in the Parlor” at the president’s

A Celebration of the Arts in beautiful historic home, the Annie Jump Cannon House.

Support of Student Scholarships Attendees enjoyed a unique event highlighted by perform-

ances and displays from talented musicians and visual artists

from the College and the surrounding community. Harpist and

faculty member Mike Nielsen played beautiful music as guests

first arrived, and a captivating monologue was delivered by Jeff







12 WESLEY COLLEGE :: Spring 2010

Mike Sandy and David Laganella





Wesley Society President Bill Strickland addresses the crowd.







of everyone, Susan Johnston presented several of her original

watercolors throughout her home.

“Arts in the Parlor” also provided a creative dining

experience. The menu featured delicious tapas, common to

Spanish cuisine, which Chef Pete Buoncristiano was on hand to

describe. The serving of tapas allowed everyone to eat, mingle

and enjoy the artists throughout the house at the same time.

Ann Horsey served as the “wine artist,” informing guests about

the various wines offered with dinner. The food was generously

donated by Aramark Corporation, who provides food services

for Wesley College.

During the evening’s program, President and Mrs. Johnston

and Board of Trustee Chair Charles “Chip” Dashiell, Jr. each

Jeff Mask, Ivey Mask, Mike Nielsen and Joseph Mullan thanked attendees for their friendship and collaborations with

the College. They shared that “Arts in the Parlor” was designed

as a special occasion to bring individuals closer to Wesley and

embrace community involvement, while also celebrating the

Mask, professor of religion, philosophy and American studies. arts. Bill Strickland, trustee and president of the Wesley Society,

During the course of the evening, musicians performed in differ- eloquently expressed why Wesley, with its prominent social

ent rooms throughout the house. Pieces included piano selec- and economic presence in the area and mission in educating

tions by Jonathan Emmons, instructor of music and tomorrow’s leaders, is so deserving of support. He asked guests

director of choirs and College organist, and several stirring to consider joining the newly formed Wesley Society, which

guitar duets by Associate Professor of Music David Laganella recognizes individuals and organizations committed as partners

and talented Wesley students Nick Hancock and Mike Sandy. with Wesley through financial gifts of $1,000 or more annually.

Two soloists, staff member Amy Kellen ’08 and freshman There are currently 119 charter members of the Wesley Society.

Wesley Dessesow, and a quartet of Emmons, Kellen, Dessesow Due to the combined generosity of Aramark and several

and Advancement staff member Jennifer Telles ’09 entertained other businesses and individuals, 100 percent of the proceeds

guests with enchanting vocal performances. provided needed scholarship funds, and each guest’s ticket

Throughout the Cannon House, visual art was exhibited by price was fully tax-deductible. Given the success of this year’s

Debra Stelling, a noted Delaware Valley artist. Photographer “Arts in the Parlor,” there are plans to continue this as an annual

and Wesley instructor Joseph Mullan shared his talents through fundraising function to increase support for students attending

the display of three black and white photographs, and Connie Wesley College and showcase the artistic talent within the

Imboden exhibited her unique photography. And to the delight College community and beyond. ■







WEARE .WESLEY.EDU 13

HIGHLIGHTS | alumni profile









I

t is near impossible to

get a nation, let alone

the world, to commit to

a new lifestyle unless it has been done before and

proven to be successful. After over 50 years in real

estate and development, Fred Spain ’58 is in the midst of

showing the nation how it’s done. Along with his partner,

world renowned LEEDS architect Douglas H. Carter, Spain

has acquired the land and is acquiring the funds to develop

an entire town that addresses the realities that lie ahead:

global warming, rising energy costs and scarcity of

resources. In the near future, Ranson, West Virginia will

be a shining example of how Americans can live a new

lifestyle that is eco-friendly and attainable.







Attainable+

Sustainable BY LEIGH ANN COLEMAN ’09







14 WESLEY COLLEGE :: Spring 2010

WEARE .WESLEY.EDU 15

HIGHLIGHTS | alumni profile





Attainable+Sustainable

SUSTAINABLE COMMUNITIES NOT ONLY

CONSERVE BUT PRODUCE POWER BY

EMBRACING THE LATEST WIND, SOLAR,

HYDROGEN AND BIOMASS TECHNOLOGIES.

THE DESIGN OF URBAN INFRASTRUCTURES

SUCH AS STORM WATER MANAGEMENT

HELP AVOID MASSIVE , POWER AND

RESOURCE CONSUMING TREATMENT

PLANTS IN FAVOR OF GENTLER, MORE NAT-

URAL AND YET MORE EFFECTIVE SYSTEMS.









Spain has had an appreciation for natural some convincing of Spain’s parents, the passed since his days at Wesley, Spain

life since he was a boy. Just after World 18-year-old from Delanco officially can still recall a course assignment that

War II, his parents bought a 50 acre became a Wolverine. has forever shaped his perspective. He

apple and peach farm in Delanco, New

Jersey, right on the Delaware River. As

Spain grew up, his memories broadened “I think I can say without hesitation,

from life on the farm to life on the river.

During that time, he hunted ducks and

that all of us from the Class of 1958

geese, trapped muskrats and fished the

rivers and creeks in New Jersey. He has

believe that without Wesley, we would

owned several boats during his life and

now is captain of "Reel Easy," a 55-foot

never have seen the bright light of day

sport fishing boat. This easily explains

the nickname of “Mark Trail” listed

and what the world truly offered.”

under his class photo in the Eukairia, “My two years at Wesley were my reminisced, “My most memorable

Wesley’s yearbook. growing up years,” said Spain. Wesley experience of ‘awakening’ my spirit

Although he was a natural guide was a new beginning where he found happened when Professor Wells gave us

when it came to exploring the outdoors, lifelong friends by joining the Student an assignment to write about what we

Spain was on the receiving end when a Council and the football team. He also experienced when we read ‘Seeing Life’

high school friend named Al Snow led found strong mentors like Dean Sterling by Alexander Baron. I have been trying to

him to discover Wesley Junior College, and Lewis “Uncle Louie” Wells. “I think I see life every day since.”

where he would begin his higher can say without hesitation, that all of us Spain became interested in real estate

education. Snow was going into the from the Class of 1958 believe that without when he transferred to American

Seminary, a path Spain also had Wesley, we would never have seen the University after Wesley. In 1959 he landed

entertained, so the United Methodist bright light of day and what the world his first real estate job and obtained his

institution had a unique draw. After a truly offered.” license. Almost 20 years later, Spain, with

meeting with President Slaybaugh and Even though more than 50 years have his wife Barbara, bought the Better







16 WESLEY COLLEGE :: Spring 2010

the past.” The land boasts beautiful fields,

mountains and rivers, yet is close enough

for residents to commute to Washington,

D.C. while enjoying a 33 percent lower

cost of living. With business already

thriving in its surrounding area, Ranson

has all the potential needed to set the new

standard. “We are set to prove that our

project can produce enough pure energy,

From left: Fred’s yearbook portrait, football pose and Student Council photo for the yearbook with electric and hydrogen being the

(Fred is in the back row, far right). Below: Fred and Barbara Spain pose with Wally, Wesley’s power supply and reserve, to run our

mascot, at Homecoming. houses, transportation and businesses

from the utilization of wind, solar and

Homes and Gardens real estate franchise For the past five years, Spain has biological degeneration of waste.”

for the Washington metropolitan area. In worked tirelessly to obtain properties and Existing on clean and renewable energy

addition to operating his realty business, research the latest technologies that are sources, the urban design and architec-

he developed numerous commercial and required to create a sustainable city. ture of RansonGreen will provide a home

residential projects covering more than “With the economy so stressed these to more than 12,000 individuals and

3,000 acres in Prince William, Fairfax, days, we have found that the investors families as well as major corporations

Culpeper and Loudoun counties in and manufacturers of green products and small businesses. The vision is an

Virginia. He later sold his real estate need a place to display them — in a true all-encompassing community that offers

offices to the broker managers so that he world working environment where these a variety of shopping and entertainment

could focus exclusively on land acquisi- new products can be seen and tweaked,” along with recreational, civic and cultural

tion and development. In 1988 the Spains activities for its

purchased a 200 acre apple farm in residents.

Fauquier County, Virginia, which the Beyond all the

couple owned for about 10 years before hard work they do

moving back to Washington to a house every day, the

on the Potomac River. Spains continue to

Among the many posts throughout enjoy the life they

his career, Spain is a past first vice presi- lead and try to

dent of the Northern Virginia Board of keep up with their

Realtors and past chairman of its Fair 13 grandchildren.

Housing Committee. He is a member of “We appreciate

Jefferson County Citizens for Economic the many oppor-

Preservation and National Association of tunities that

Realtors and earned the distinction of going green has

being named among the “Oustanding offered us with

Young Men in America” in 1976. new technologies

The Spains are now the principal developed by

brokers for American Realty and wonderful people

Management in Maryland and Virginia. who are working

He and Barbara also own the West End toward building

Group Investors, LLC, ADS Developers, said Spain. “There is no better place to do an environment that supports and

LLC and Grand Vista, LLC, which serve this than in homes and commercial build- defends planet Earth,” Spain remarked.

Martinsburg and Ranson in West Virginia. ings that are using them in their daily While persevering in order to complete

The West End Group and Grand Vista routines.” the RansonGreen project, he and

are currently developing over 1,300 acres Situated in one of the most historic Barbara see a future filled with green

of residential and commercial land to areas of the country and neighboring cities “for generations of humans to

eventually become “RansonGreen: A Charles Town and Harper’s Ferry, the come forth and enjoy the beautiful

West Virginia Community for a Carbon town of Ranson could not be a more ideal planet as we have been able to during

Free Future.” location to “build the future on the best of our many years of life.” ■







WEARE .WESLEY.EDU 17

Wolverine



SPORTS

BY GEOFF GOYNE





For all the latest scores and highlights,

visit the athletics website at

gowesleyathletics.com







NCAA ELITE Wesley tied a school record with a 13-1

record and finished fourth in Division III in the final

national rankings. They also won both the ECAC Team

of the Year Award and the distinguished Lambert-

Meadowlands Trophy, the annual award given to the

best teams in the East in college football Divisions I-AA,

II and III.





Aaron Jackson

18 WESLEY COLLEGE :: Spring 2010

review | SPORTS





FOOTBALL Wolverines turned it into a game of keep





NCAA worthy away, holding the ball for over 40

minutes in a 12-0 win.

Wesley then made its third trip to the

No. 4 in Division III, Lambert-Meadowlands national semifinals since 2005, heading to

top ranked Mount Union College. The

Trophy, NCAA Semifinalists Wolverines trailed just 10-7 in the fourth

ENTERING THE 2009 SEASON, only for four touchdowns in the game and the quarter before the Purple Raiders scored

two programs in all of Division III foot- defense held the Warriors to just one twice late in the game to end the

ball had won more playoff games since score in a 34-7 win. Arch rival Salisbury Wolverines’ season.

2005 than Wesley College — perennial followed on Halloween. Two touchdown When it was all said and done, Wesley

powers Mount Union and Wisconsin- catches by All-American tight end Sean had tied a school record with a 13-1

Whitewater. The Wolverines kept pace as McAndrew and a 76-yard touchdown record and finished fourth in Division III

one of the nation’s elite programs in 2009, run by Jackson built Wesley a 21-6 in the final national rankings. They also

handling each of its first three postseason halftime lead as the Wolverines cruised won both the Eastern College Athletic

opponents with ease before the Purple to a 30-12 victory to claim their fifth Conference (ECAC) Team of the Year

Raiders of Mount Union ended Wesley’s straight conference championship. Award and the distinguished Lambert-

run in the national semifinals. The regular season came to a close Meadowlands Trophy, the annual award

The groundwork for the postseason with perhaps the two best teams on the given to the best teams in the East in

run was set during a perfect regular schedule, Lake Erie College and Ohio college football Divisions I-AA, II and III.

season. The season opener looked to be Dominican, both scholarship programs “It is a great honor to be recognized

a tough test for a defense that had lost from Ohio. The Storm played well, but the with other programs, like Penn State and

some valuable parts from the previous Wolverines had two goal line stands inside Villanova,” Wesley Head Coach Mike

year, with nationally ranked Christopher the one yard line and went on to win 28-13. Drass noted. “We are humbled by the

Newport led by preseason All-American The Panthers entered Dover with a high- prestige of this award. To be recognized

running back Tunde Ogun. The new unit powered offense and for the first time all as the best team in the East is a step

was up to the task, however, holding season, Wesley trailed heading into the towards our goal of being the best team

Ogun to just eight yards in the game and fourth quarter. Wesley scored the game’s in the nation.”

trouncing the Captains 34-0. final two touchdowns, however, to erase a Several Wesley players received acco-

After a road win against scholarship 15-point deficit and win 32-28. lades as well. Mike Ward, Aaron Benson,

Division II program North Greenville, The Wolverines’ 10-0 regular season Chris Mayes and McAndrew each

Wesley traveled to Delaware Valley, who earned them the top seed in their bracket earned All-America honors. Mayes was

had handed Wesley its only loss of the and a home field advantage in the first named the D3football.com South Region

2008 regular season. The story was differ- three rounds of the NCAA playoffs. In Defensive Player of the Year and teamed

ent in 2009, however, as the Wolverines the first round, Wesley turned a close with Ward for 23 sacks and 58 tackles for

routed the Aggies, 31-13. A lopsided win game into a rout with 35 second half loss on a dominant defensive front.

over a 2008 playoff team, LaGrange, sent points in a 55-23 win over North Carolina Benson intercepted seven passes and

Wesley into a Homecoming matchup Wesleyan. Nationally ranked Mississippi returned two for touchdowns. Nineteen

with Frostburg State at 4-0. The College brought one of Division III’s top Wolverines were named to the All-ACFC

Wolverines received six touchdown offenses to face the Wolverines in the team, including McSweeny and Ward,

passes from Shane McSweeny against the second round. McSweeny tossed three who earned Offensive and Defensive

Bobcats, including three to Ellis Krout, first half touchdown passes to Krout, Player of the Year Awards. Drass joined

and dismantled their conference rivals 44- however, and the defense shut down the them as the circuit’s Coach of the Year.

19. It was back on the road to face another Choctaws for a 43-9 victory. Long time Offensive Coordinator Chip

Atlantic Central Football Conference Johns Hopkins, the Cinderella team of Knapp coached several offensive players

(ACFC) rival in Apprentice, but the the postseason, had already won two to stellar seasons. McSweeny earned

Builders fell 39-0 as the Wesley defense playoff games on the road before traveling ECAC Player of the Year honors after

pitched its second shutout of the year. from Baltimore for the South Region passing for 29 touchdowns and over 2,900

Wesley’s final four games were all Championship Game. After two weeks of yards and rushing for nearly 800 more

scheduled home games at Scott D. great weather in the first two rounds of and eight additional touchdowns. Krout

Miller Stadium. Another game against the postseason, Dover was slammed with set a school record with 20 touchdown

a scholarship program opened the low temperatures, wind, rain and sleet receptions and Jackson overcame a

homestand as Webber International on game day. The weather made the field midseason injury to rush for over 1,000

came to Dover. Aaron Jackson rushed conditions less than desirable, but the yards. ■







WEARE .WESLEY.EDU 19

MEN’S BASKETBALL

Building Upon Success

Wesley opened hitting 55 percent from the floor and

the season with a won 94-81 to advance to the CAC

rematch against a Championship for the second straight

North Carolina year and set a new Division III school

Wesleyan program record with the squad’s 19th win.

that had defeated In the championship, the Wolverines

the Wolverines the faced a nationally ranked St. Mary’s

previous year. (Md.) squad. The Seahawks held a

But after 29 points 14-point lead with 16 minutes left in the

from Thomas, the game, but Wesley used a 20-9 run to trim

Wolverines opened the lead and later took the lead before

their season with a two buckets in the final minute lifted

win. After the St. Mary’s to the win, 80-76.

promising win, Wesley then awaited word on a

Wesley was just 4-4 potential NCAA bid and when the

over its next eight brackets were announced, the

games and entered Wolverines were going to the tournament

the Eastern College for the second straight year. In the first

Athletic Conference round, Wesley was sent to Kings Point,

Chris Douglas (ECAC) Holiday New York to face the Merchant Marine

Festival just a single Academy. Freshman Paul Reynolds

ENTERING THE 2009-10 SEASON, game above .500. The Wolverines exploded for 32 points and 11 rebounds

several questions faced the Wesley defeated a Ramapo team that would in the game, but the defensive-minded

College men’s basketball team. Yes, the win 18 games and then took out a Mariners limited the chances for the

Wolverines were coming off a record nationally ranked UMass-Dartmouth rest of the team and ended Wesley’s

setting season in which they won their squad to capture the Festival season, 67-61.

first Capital Athletic Conference (CAC) Championship. Reynolds, the former Gatorade High

championship and advanced to the But it was not until after two more School Player of the Year in Delaware,

NCAA Division III Tournament for the losses that fans saw just how strong the was named CAC Rookie of the Year and

first time in school history, but the team team actually was. The Wolverines won joined Thomas on the All-Conference

lost All-American Rashawn Johnson and the next eight contests over the span of a team. Reynolds also was recognized as

All-CAC pick Evan Martin, along with month to build momentum and finished an ECAC Division III South All-Star and

five other players from that team. Would the regular season by winning 10 of their finished fifth in Division III with a .655

Wesley build upon the success of the last 11 contests. The hot finish tied Wesley field goal percentage—a school record.

previous year? Or, were the Wolverines for second place in the CAC regular Wright etched his name among the

a one-year wonder? season standings, but the Spartans of school’s all-time leading scorers and

While the team had lost key players York (Pa.) held a tie breaker and received rebounders, and Johnson joined him on

from the previous year, Head Coach a first round bye in the conference tour- the all-time scoring list.

Jerry Kobasa’s cupboard was not bare. nament, along with St. Mary’s (Md.), the The season also capped a successful

Returnees Alphonzo Wright, Rudy regular season champions. five year run for Wesley. The Wolverines

Thomas and Kevin Johnson had all Wesley, seeded third in the tourna- .624 winning percentage is the highest

started on last year’s team and Jacques ment, hosted sixth-seeded Salisbury in among four-year institutions in the state

Bowe joined Wright as a team captain. the first round and hit 17 of its first 21 of Delaware. Also, Wesley is the only

Also returning were steady players shots to open the game and cruised past school to make the NCAAs over that time

Chris Douglas and Sean McAndrew, and the Sea Gulls, 82-64. The win earned period. With the return of nine players

Kobasa restocked the roster with five the Wolverines a trip to York in the from this year’s team, including four

newcomers. On paper, it looked like the semifinals, where they tied the 2008-09 starters, the Wolverines will look to

Wolverines could be competitive, but team’s Division III school record with 18 continue to build the program into one

how good was anyone’s guess. wins. Wesley kept up the hot shooting, of Division III’s elite. ■







20 WESLEY COLLEGE :: Spring 2010

review | SPORTS



WOMEN’S BASKETBALL

Finishing Strong

EVERY SEASON for every team has a Athletic Conference (ECAC) South a three in her first two seasons, she shot

key moment. For Wesley College’s Tournament, where Wesley’s season 42 percent from behind the arc. The

women’s basketball team, that moment came to an end with a 17-11 record. team’s lone senior, Michele Mules,

came in the Wolverines’ own holiday Owens and Boyd were named to the finished her career fourth at Wesley with

tournament. Injuries were derailing All-CAC team and Owens earned both 122 career three-point field goals, and

what looked to be a promising season ECAC All-Star and D3hoops.com All- reserve Shavonda Cephas emerged as

and the team had lost six of its past Region honors. Boyd became Wesley’s one of the top long distance shooters

seven games entering the second day all-time assist leader and ended the year in the conference, hitting 40 percent of

of the tournament. with over 100 more than her nearest her attempts.

Wesley was facing an always tough competitor. Owens scored her 1,000th The year continued the rebuilding of

Widener team and needed a win. The point late in the season, becoming the the program under fourth-year Head

Wolverines came out and never trailed eighth player in the Division III era to do Coach James Wearden. His two most

in that game to get momentum going in so. She also grabbed 226 defensive recent teams have put together 34 total

the right direction. Another win over rebounds to set Wesley’s single season wins and two ECAC bids after his first

Rowan kept it going and after six straight record and climbed to be among the two tallied just 19 wins. With four

conference wins, Wesley was right back school’s all-time leaders in rebounds starters and nearly every key reserve

in the thick of the playoff hunt in the and blocked shots. returning next year, Wesley will look to

Capital Athletic Conference (CAC). Owens also added the three-point carry this season’s strong finish into

Overall, Wesley won 15 of its last 18 field goal to her arsenal. After not hitting 2010-11. ■

regular season games and finished third

in the CAC.

During the impressive finish, Wesley

got healthy and the newcomers improved

as the year went on, in part due to extra

time gained when other players were

injured earlier in the year. Junior forward

Angie Owens stepped up and earned

three Conference Player of the Week

awards and a D3hoops.com National

Team of the Week accolade during the

second half of the season. Classmate

Cory Boyd again was ranked among the

national leaders and paced the CAC in

assists. Freshman Jazmine Miller scored

17 or more points in a game on three

occasions.

The Wolverines entered the playoffs

facing off with Gallaudet and Conference

Player of the Year Easter Faafiti. The

Bison kept pace with Wesley in the first

half, but the Wolverines opened the

second half with a 22-2 run and never

looked back to advance to the CAC

semifinals for the second straight year.

National power Marymount (Va.) halted

Wesley, but the opening round win over

Gallaudet was the squad’s 17th of the

season. That total was enough to earn the Michele Mules ’10

Wolverines a trip to the Eastern College







WEARE .WESLEY.EDU 21

SPORTS | athlete profile





Jacques of All Trades

Jacques Bowe ’10

BY GEOFF GOYNE



SOME PEOPLE like to stay busy. Then the gym. As a junior, he added the three- for the second straight year. Wesley’s win

there’s Jacques Bowe ’10. It’s hard to find point shot to his arsenal and set career in the CAC Semifinals was the team’s

an organization in which this 2010 highs in nearly every category as a key 19th—a school record at the Division III

graduate was not involved during his reserve on the Wolverines’ run to the level. The Wolverines fell in the

time at Wesley. A captain on the men’s CAC Championship and first NCAA conference title game, but still earned

basketball team, Bowe was the president Tournament appearance. their second straight NCAA berth.

of the Wesley College Student Athlete But Mr. Everything wasn’t done yet. Among his off-campus activities,

Advisory Council, the vice president of After another summer of hard work, Bowe takes great pride in his volun-

the Capital Athletic Conference (CAC), a Bowe was named one of two team cap- teerism, knowing it makes a difference

member of the Fellowship of Christian tains for his senior year. He also emerged to others. This is particularly true in his

Athletes, a resident assistant in as a scoring threat, and his numbers in role at the Old Manor Nursing Home.

Malmberg Hall, a student ambassador almost every category across the board “We minister to the residents and also

for the Admissions Office, a member of surpassed those of his first three seasons just spend time with them, talking,” he

the College’s Gospel Choir, an employee combined. When injuries among team- noted. “Basically we just try to brighten

in the Office of Student Activities, vice mates struck and he was given his first someone’s day while we’re there.”

president of the campus Legal Society career start, he did

and a member of the Advisory not disappoint. He “There was never a time that it was

Committee for Legal Studies. And hit five threes on his Jacques first, team second. And that’s

that’s just on-campus involvement. way to a career high

Outside of school, Bowe has been 17 points. Bowe

what makes him a successful leader.”

active in his church, the Pentecostal remained in the — Head Coach Jerry Kobasa

Church of God (PCOG) in Lincoln, starting lineup for

Delaware; a drummer in both the six more games and averaged 10.9 points Now that Bowe has graduated from

Pentecostal Highlights and the Future per game over that time. Wesley, he plans to attend law school and

Generation; a member of the National “Before this year, Coach [Kobasa] told his past endeavors have prepared him for

Youth Department Planning Committee me I’d be a captain,” he said. “We went that path. As president of the Legal Society,

for the PCOG; and he volunteers at the over how I would need to take on a he organized different events for students

Old Manor Nursing Home in Milford, leadership role with the team and devel- in the program, including workshops to

Delaware. oped a plan with coaches. Come early, prepare for the LSATs. In addition, as a

When he first came to Wesley, Bowe stay late.” student representative on the Advisory

had plans to play both football and The decision to make Bowe a captain Committee for Legal Studies, a group

basketball. After two years of both was an easy one for the coaching staff. made up largely of lawyers, judges and

sports, he gave up football to focus on “Jacques has always put the team first,” other legal professionals, he has gained

basketball. “When I became an RA, Kobasa observed. “There was never a exposure to a professional network in the

playing two sports was too much,” he time that it was Jacques first, team field. In preparation for his future plans,

said. “That’s when I became dedicated second. And that’s what makes him a Bowe also is doing an internship with the

to improving on the court.” successful leader. The team knew that law firm of Donovan & Hopkins. He

Head Coach Jerry Kobasa also noticed when he said something, it had meaning assists in trial preparation, conducts

the hard work. “When Jacques came into and substance.” research for cases, and aids in formulating

our program, he was an outstanding “Jacques is the kind of player that if trial strategies. He will spend this summer

athlete who happened to play basketball,” you had a son, that’s who you’d want him studying for the LSATs and getting ready

he recalled. Over the years, he just to be like,” Kobasa continued. “He always for law school.

worked harder and harder to become best represented the program and the “Jacques is the kind of worker that is

a better player.” school.” always successful,” Kobasa observed.

The move paid off. After averaging In part because of Bowe’s play, the “He is not afraid of challenges or putting

only 8.4 minutes per game and just 1.5 Wolverines kept rolling through the in the effort to reach any goal he sets for

points and an equal number of rebounds regular season and into the CAC himself. That’s what will make him

as a freshman and sophomore, Bowe hit Tournament, earning a trip to the finals successful in the real world.” ■







22 WESLEY COLLEGE :: Spring 2010

WEARE .WESLEY.EDU 23

SPORTS | athlete profile





Knowing Your Niche

Michele Mules ’10

BY ABIGAIL HILL ’12 “Residence life has taught me about the importance of

professionalism,” Mules said. This lesson will serve her well as

WHEN MICHELE MULES ’10 came to Wesley College, she she moves on to law school and her future career. She may be

came with a mental checklist. She wanted a small school, traveling across the country to pursue her next educational

Division III athletics and professors with heart. She also is a goal, but she will always have a home back at Wesley. ■

young woman with her eyes set on the prize. After just

graduating from Wesley in May, she feels satisfied that her

undergraduate goals have been met and she is prepared for her

next step in life. This August, she will head to University of

Chicago in Illinois with a passion to follow corporate law.

Mules came to Wesley to play basketball, and found that the

school had a lot more to offer. Shortly after arriving, she found

her niche at Wesley and prospered from her involvement on

campus. As a dual-sport athlete in basketball and softball, she

learned how difficult it can be to manage being a part of a team

while keeping up with academics. However, sports became her

saving grace and taught her valuable life lessons. “Sports have

kept me on track and taught me time management,” she

explained. “I have also learned teamwork, and that it is always

okay to ask for help.”

After finding her way on and off the court, Mules began

contemplating her future aspirations. She pursued a double

major in English and legal studies, hoping to settle on her career

path. Mules expressed, “The small classroom sizes and the one-

on-ones I have had with my professors have been very

important to my education.” She gives credit to the faculty for

providing an intellectual and personal college education. “Our

professors care,” she stated. Through the efforts of faculty

members such as Dr. Linda De Roche, a provider of guidance,

and Dr. Flora Hessling, Mules’ inspiration, she found her

passion and chose to pursue it.

In addition to allowing her the opportunity to shine in the

classroom and among the campus community, the small school

environment at Wesley also afforded Mules a chance to shine on

the playing field. A three-year starter for both the women’s

basketball and softball teams, she improved each season. On the

basketball court, she established herself as a strong defender

and her 122 career three-point field goals rank her among the

school's all-time leaders. On the softball diamond, she emerged

to lead the team with a .370 batting average as a junior.

Residence life at Wesley was one of the most meaningful

ingredients in Mules’ college experience. It offered her a

sense of community of which she will forever feel a part,

knowing that many individuals she met will become lifelong

friends. In the College’s future, she hopes that residence life

programs will continue to reinforce the Wesley community

bond and thus help keep more students on campus, active and

out of trouble.







24 WESLEY COLLEGE :: Spring 2010

news | SPORTS







Big Move

Wesley Athletics Relocates to ‘Little School’

THE WESLEY COLLEGE Athletics the DuPont College Center to Wesley build a beautiful new facility in town—

Department recently found a new home, West. The office space vacated by The Little School at Kids Cottage. The

as several offices were relocated to what Athletics has been reassigned to the Little School’s administration was glad to

was formerly the Little School on North Nursing Department, another campus see their former home put to good use.

Queen Street in Dover. When the Little program happy to have some extra room. The Wesley administration certainly

School moved in 2009 from its old The Little School is one of the oldest shares the sentiment.

location to a new building on Mont Blanc preschools in Delaware, having served “The Little School has been an icon

Boulevard in Dover, Wesley was able to over four generations of children in the in the community for generations and

acquire the former site, conveniently building on North Queen Street. It was Wesley College is very pleased to be the

located adjacent to Wesley West founded in 1954 by Hattye Mae Biddle, next generation of caretakers of this

Fieldhouse and one block away from who then passed the reins to her hand- property,” President Bill Johnston

Scott D. Miller Stadium. picked successor, Jane Richter, in 1975. expressed. “The reputation for care and

The acquisition of much-needed office When it came time for owner and interest in our youth, which began with

space has been an exciting development operator Richter to consider the future Mrs. Biddle and Mrs. Richter, will

for the College and the Athletics of the Dover preschool, she decided to continue through the college students

Department specifically. It has precipitated join with two local Little School alumni served on this site.” ■

repositioning of many team and coaches’ and parents, along with the owners of

Head Football Coach Mike Drass, Jane

offices to consolidate the Department in the popular Kids Cottage in Lewes, Richter, Hattye Mae Biddle and President

one central area, making operations Delaware, to form a new partnership and Johnston outside the new Athletics House.

more efficient as well as

more convenient for

prospective students and

families.

To fill what is now

being called the Wesley

Athletics House, the

Department’s administra-

tive office, the sports

information office and

track & field offices were

moved from the ground

floor of the DuPont

College Center. The

football offices were repo-

sitioned from the Football

House on Governors

Avenue and the men’s

soccer office, formerly

located in the Interna-

tional House on State

Street, also shifted to the

newly acquired space. The

women’s lacrosse office

also found a new home in

the Athletics House,

freeing up space for the

baseball office to move

from the ground floor of







WEARE .WESLEY.EDU 25

CLASS NOTES

To post your latest news, visit the alumni website at weare.wesley.edu/classnotes

or include with the return envelope provided.



Congratulations

Class of 2010!

On May 8, 235 graduates received their

Wesley College diplomas at Spring

Commencement. To read the full article and

download photos from the graduation events,

visit weare.wesley.edu/commencement









Graduate Brad Bivins with

sister Caty (Bivins) Beron

Wesley New Castle graduates John Pratt, ’05/’07 and proud parents

Todd Lionberger, Carla High and Karla Miller. Mark and Patty Bivins.









Amanda Parisi









President Johnston addresses the 2010 graduates.









26 WESLEY COLLEGE :: Spring 2010

SAVE THE DATES

ARTHUR and DR. KATHLEEN JACOBS memories of Wesley ensued. The class- Phillies Game Alumni Event: Aug. 7

celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary mates, namely Gail, EUGENE MEREDITH, Homecoming 2010: Oct. 15-17

on Sunday, April 11 with family, friends and PHIL SCALI and spouses Ralph, Kathie and Tampa, FL Area Alumni Event: Nov. 9

dignitaries at the Dover Downs Liberty Suite Mary, then traveled to the apartment of Homecoming 2011: Sept. 30-Oct. 2

in Dover, Delaware. Arthur is director of ROBERT DEVILBISS (known as “Dribbie”)

admissions and Kathleen is professor of

business management at the College. Family

and friends drove and flew to Delaware to

who joined them for an evening of dining,

reminiscing and fun at a local restaurant.

Gail writes, “The time we shared together

’64

HARVEY KENTON, JR. has announced

participate in the special event put together was far too short but a great time was had

his candidacy for Delaware’s 36th

by the couple’s three children. The couple by all.”

Representative District. A lifelong Milford,

received a gold trimmed greeting card from 1 Clockwise, from left: GENE MEREDITH,

Delaware resident and businessman, Harvey

the President of the United States and the PHIL SCALI, GAIL VAIN and BOB

is campaigning for the Republican nomina-

first lady—Barack Obama and Michelle DEVILBISS (seated).

tion to succeed Representative George

Obama. A tribute from Governor Jack Markell

Carey when he retires at the end of his

and Lt. Governor Matthew Denn of Delaware The latest work of BRUCE STORES was

current term. He spent nearly two decades

was also received by the couple and read at published in 2009. Titled “The Isthmus:

as an agricultural salesman with the Milford

the event by their youngest daughter. The Stories from Mexico’s Past, 1495-1995,”

Fertilizer Company. He retired from the

CEO of Dover Downs, Denis McGlynn, was it is a historical fiction book based on his

Marvel Real Estate and Insurance Agency in

also in attendance to join the couple in their research of the history and culture of Mexico,

2009 after 16 years. Harvey is president of

celebration. specifically the Isthmus of Tehuantepec,

People’s Place properties board and Felton

which is the bottom of the “scorpion’s tail” of

’48

GABRIEL CHUCHANI wrote in “to inform

the country, over a 500-year period. A book

review describes Bruce’s use of storytelling.

Bank board of directors. He also sits on the

executive board of the Delaware State Fair

and is a director for the Greater Milford Boys

“His take on historical fiction paints a human,

my unforgettable Wesley and Alumni and Girls Club and the Milford Community

everyday face on the historian’s cold mask of

Association members that I still am active in Cemetery.

dates, places, and wars.” To read the full

scientific research works.” His career efforts

have been directed toward one goal - to

establish a tradition of scientific research in

review of his book, visit

weare.wesley.edu/classnotes ’68

’62

Venezuela, particularly in the field of chem- KEN MCWILLIAMS writes, “Still think of

istry. One of his professional achievements the fun times we had at the little Wesley

was the foundation in 1958 of the Chemistry College. What a strange, different, fun bunch

ANNE (PITTINGER) BUCKLER and

Center at the Venezuelan Institute for of people thrown together. Had a great time!

husband Lew report that their oldest son,

Scientific Investigations, IVIC, of which he I’m not real good at the website, email,

Michael, has completed a two year commit-

was the head for a period of 16 years. In Facebook stuff, but still alive and kickin’!”

ment teaching high school in Malawi Africa

addition to all his research and innumerable

publications, in recent years Gabriel has

lectured basic and advanced courses in

for the Peace Corps. Recently, he went to

work for the federal government (like his

Dad), specifically the National Park Service.

’69

physical organic chemistry to graduate stu- On March 20, five members of the Class of

The first year back from his assignment, ’69—SUSAN (CHAMBLISS) DUFFY,

dents of IVIC. He also has lectured topics of

Michael worked part-time and put together a DARLENE EASTON, CAROL

his specialties in Venezuelan and foreign

book about his two years serving in the (SAMWORTH) EWING, SALLY

institutions.

Peace Corps. He is hoping to find a publish- (GREGORY) MAY and SANDY (STREET)



’51 er and get the book printed, with proceeds

from the sale of the books to be directed to

a scholarship fund. The first three recipients

SEGRETO—met at Newark Airport to travel

to Naples, Florida and visit with SUSAN

The Washington Township Chamber of (CLARKE) and TOM SCANGARELLO. The

Commerce has selected RALPH “ARKY” will be the three boys he shared his home group enjoyed four wonderful days visiting,

OWEN, president of Kiley Owen, as the with while teaching high school. Anne and seeing some of the local attractions and

recipient of the 2010 Rick Zammer Hall of Lew’s other son Bob received his MBA from enjoying the warm weather.

Fame Business Person of the Year Award. George Washington University in May 2009 3 SANDRA (STREET) SEGRETO,

This honor was awarded to Ralph for his and he and his wife Jess and 1-year-old SUSAN (CHAMBLISS) DUFFY, SALLY

efforts and contributions to the Washington daughter Morgan moved to Huntersville, (GREGORY) MAY, SUSAN (CLARKE)

Township business community. North Carolina, just north of Charlotte. Anne SCANGARELLO, CAROL (SAMWORTH)

writes, “Our granddaughter Morgan is the EWING and DARLENE EASTON.

’58 light of our lives.” Anne is now serving in her

second term on the Wesley College Alumni

’87

The first weekend in March 2010 a Board and in 2009 was elected secretary of

the executive committee. “We enjoy traveling MICHAEL REISMAN is proud to report

small group of classmates from the Class

back to Wesley to help with the work of the that he now has three published books out.

of 1958 gathered at the home of GAIL

board and enjoy our time with friends.” His first book is “Incredible Short Stories,” his

(HEMHAUSER) VAIN for a “mini-reunion

2 Morgan Buckler second book is “Where Angels Tread,” and

much like our old snackbar sessions,”

his third book is entitled “On Loves Path.”

writes Gail. Lots of laughs, fellowship and







WEARE .WESLEY.EDU 27

LESLEY (KNABLE) LOUDER and her also signed with the Hamilton TigerCats of

’95 husband Darrell are pleased to announce the

birth of their first child, Ethan Robert Louder,

the Canadian Football league after the AF2

season, before being scooped up by the

Attention BSU members past and present! born Tuesday, April 6. He weighed 8 lbs., 3 UFL.

CHESLEY MCNEIL ’94 and YALONDA oz. and was 22 inches long. Ethan joins a

(WILKINS) ADAMS are requesting that you family of many Wesley graduates, including MELISSA CAMERON is pleased to

be available for Homecoming Weekend Lesley’s mother and father and proud announce her engagement to Maurice Tooles,

2010. “There will be a memorial dedication grandparents, LYNN (SCHMID) KNABLE Jr. The couple got engaged on November 15,

for Debbie Evans and scholarship presenta- ’67 and GERALD KNABLE ’68, and Aunt 2009. Melissa is originally from Jamaica and

tion in honor of her and to show appreciation ELISE KNABLE ’09. lived in Baltimore, Maryland, and her fiancé is

for her many acts of kindness and dedication 5 Ethan Robert Louder from New Jersey. Both of them now reside in

to many of us throughout our Wesley Delaware, where Melissa is a full-time gradu-

careers. In addition, there will be networking

and social events planned. See you there!” ’05 ate student at Wilmington University working

towards a Master of Science in community

To stay in touch about the BSU reunion, DEB PACE has recently formed her own counseling and Maurice is in the United

request Yalonda on Facebook and explain business. She has paired her writing skills States Air Force. The couple is planning a

who you are. Her cell # is 443-514-8561. with nearly two decades of writing, editing, June 2011 wedding.

marketing, public relations, radio and

’99 television broadcasting, and other

communications experience and is now

6 MELISSA CAMERON and Maurice

Tooles, Jr.

SANTAE M. (BOYD) COOPER is pleased

to announce her marriage to Kris Cooper.

The couple wed on November 21, 2009 at

president and CEO of BizCom LLC, a full-

service professional business communica-

’08

tions firm. Deb was a freelance journalist with COLLEEN MCELWEE and her fiancé

St. Paul UAME Church in Wilmington, The Mergermarket Group and Debtwire, David Primavera, Jr. are proud to announce

Delaware. divisions of London-based Financial Times the birth of their son, David Primavera, III.

4 SANTAE (BOYD) COOPER and KRIS Group, for more than four years. She spent David was born on February 19 at 4:54 p.m.

COOPER time at The Wall Street Journal Radio He weighed 8 lbs., 7oz. and was 203/4

Network in Princeton, New Jersey, Texas inches long.

VANESSA D. NESBIT is pleased to Radio Network and KRLD radio in Dallas, 7 David Primavera

announce the recent release of her new The Villages News Network television station

book, “Rivers Running in Desert Places.” in central Florida, and was a U.S. Navy CAROL (OLSEN) ’71 and ROBERT

Released by PublishAmerica, the book is a Journalist. She is also an editor at NEYLAN ’72 announce the engagement of

collection of epic poems about the search EditAvenue.com and EditFast.com and has their daughter, SUSAN MARIE, of Atlanta,

for life-sustaining sources of refreshing in the built and runs her own website www.bizcom- Georgia to Paul Alton Dreher, Jr. of

often brutal dry-spells of our lives. Mimicking llc.com. She has an MBA from Wesley Birmingham, Alabama, son of Paul A. and

the ebb and flow of a river, the author uses a College and a bachelor’s degree in commu- Isabelle K. Dreher of Birmingham. The bride-

mixture of itinerant and gushing verse, and nication management from Wilmington to-be is a 2003 graduate of Dover High

vivid imagery to highlight universal themes University. School and graduated from Wesley in 2008

of love, self-hatred, regret, introspection, with a Bachelor of Science in education.

triumphant victory and self-realization. The

collection celebrates what it is to recall the ’07 She is employed by the Cobb County

School District/Austell Elementary School,

mantra “where there is water, there is life.” BRENDAN BYRNE, who graduated from Powder Springs, Georgia, as a fourth grade



’03 Wesley with a master’s degree in teaching,

has completed a master’s degree in

Renaissance literature at the University of

teacher. Her fiancé is a 2004 graduate of

Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama, with

a Bachelor of Science in business

TOMMI BARRETT-GREENLY reports

York in Yorkshire, England (2010 graduate). administration and is a heavy metal broker

that she and her husband Bryan Greenly, a

He is currently in a PhD program in for Jefferson Iron and Metal Brokerage of

junior physics major at Delaware State

Renaissance literature at the University of Birmingham. An October 9, 2010 wedding

University, have been selected as Delaware

Reading, Berkshire, England. is planned in Chelsea, Alabama.

ambassadors for National Aeronautics and

8 SUSAN NEYLAN and PAUL

Space Administration (NASA). After both of

Former Wesley College All-American DREHER, JR.

them had internships at the company, the

defensive end BRYAN ROBINSON from

two were chosen among 105 NASA

Harrington, Delaware has made the 2010

ambassadors nationwide. They will do

presentations in the Delmarva region, work

opening day roster of the Cleveland

Gladiators of the Arena Football League.

IN MEMORIAM

at job fairs for the agency and conduct other F. Bryan Bailey Jr. ’47

In the summer of 2008, he was among the Richard L. Everett ’51

outreach endeavors for the space agency.

final cuts of the Arizona Cardinals in the NFL. Frank Vasfailo ’95

Tommi is currently pursuing graduate studies

He played in the United Football League for Joseph S. Bellmeyer

in education technology at the University of

the New York Sentinals last fall after playing Marian J. Fillman

Delaware. She also is a teacher at the Morris

for the Manchester Wolves of arenafootball2 Susan Matusak

Early Childhood Center in Lincoln, Delaware,

during the summer, finishing ninth in AF2 Lehman R. Tomlin Jr.

where she has been named the 2010

with 10 sacks for the Wolves. He had

Milford School District Teacher of the Year.







28 WESLEY COLLEGE :: Spring 2010

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WEARE .WESLEY.EDU 29

30 WESLEY COLLEGE :: Spring 2010

alumni events | C L A S S N OT E S









ANNUAL GOLF OUTING On May 7 Wesley Football held its annual alumni golf outing at Jonathan’s Landing in Magnolia, Delaware. Front row,

from left: Jon Lanouette ’09, Mike Root ’92, Jim Carnival ’93, Jim Steene ’93, Andrew Verlander ’05, Brian Culver ’05, Petie Davis ’67, Mike Mollo

’77, Jon Hardy ’95, Mark Botvinis ’95, Steve Azzanesi ’00, Calvin Griffin ’91, Tim Butler ’94, Coach Bob Andrus, Jerry Kobasa ’69. Second row,

from left: Bryan Robinson, Tim Daut ’02, Dave Baszkowski ’01, Bryan Sorenson ’06, Chris Sfamurri ’10, Sean Dunn ’00, Chris Becker ’01, Coach

Chip Knapp, Coach Mike Drass, Joe Broccoli ’94, Ken Pippin ’92, Coach Jason Bowen, Rob Stiles ’96, Jimmy Connolley ’95, Ryan Yakabosky

’96, Frank Edwards ’94, Rob Dobak ’92, Rick Vogel ’92, Bernie Nowakowski ’95, Glenn Courtney ’75. Third Row, from left: Matt Ferguson ’09,

Jason Schatz ’09, Joe Mangano ’97, Pat Schneider ’03, Tim Bayles ’07, Jim Newcome ’01, Forrley Gunby ’02, Bill Laphen ’99, Bob Scittina ’99,

Jamie DeAngelo ’75, Tom Trento ’75, Jim Binder ’93, Coach Jack Fisher, Craig Stephenson ’72. Fourth row, from left: Matt Sellitto ’67, Don Diblasi

’67, Mike Shockley ’99, Mike Haly ’74. Back row, from left: Tom Parker ’66, John Araneo ’67, Bill Emrich ’69, Mike Simmons ’75, Jason Gareau

’99, Tom Hodnett ’98.









NYC ALUMNI EVENT Wesley College held its first ever

GOLDEN GRADUATES A beautiful spring afternoon over Dover Days weekend in

alumni event in New York City on Friday, April 23. A group

Delaware’s capital city was a perfect time for graduates of Wesley Junior College

of graduates, hailing from different parts of the New York

to reunite and reminisce with one another. The College’s “Golden Graduates” —

metro area and representing classes ranging from ’71 to

alumni from the class of 1960 and all classes prior – were invited to a luncheon on

’04, gathered in a private room at the Heartland Brewery in

Sunday, May 2 at President Bill Johnston’s home, the historic Annie Jump Cannon

Manhattan’s Times Square. Pictured, from left: Alumni

House. Front row, from left: VP for Institutional Advancement Chris Wood, Joanne

Director Amanda Downes, Tom Pergola ’71, Rob Gebhardt

Bassett, Carla-Donna Martin, Doris (Wyatt) Boys ’45, Kate (Bishop) Breeding ’51,

’00, Kelli (Geary) Gebhardt ’02, Alicia (Sohn) Ellis ’86, Jeff

Nancy (Powell) Kinnamon ’45, President Bill Johnston. Second row, from left:

Ellis ’88, Tom Trento ’75, Saboor Kelley ’04 and VP for

Clarence Martin ’60, Marie Reynolds ’54, Frances (Stubbs) Conley ’45, Anna

Institutional Advancement Chris Wood.

Wright ’45. Third row, from left: Frank Boys, Russ Bassett ’57, Allan Rusten, Muriel

“Terri” (Bacon) Rusten ’54. Back row, from left: Alumni Director Amanda Downes,

Bill Hufnal ’60, William Kinnamon and Ray Breeding.



In an effort to be more cost-efficient and green, the College has begun reducing numbers of print event invitations via U.S. mail, only

sending to segments of alumni within a small radius of the event location. However, we welcome all Wesley alumni at events, which

are posted online at weare.wesley.edu/events and announced through our alumni newsletter via email. Please make sure we have

your current email address so you can be on the lookout for details on upcoming Wesley alumni activities in which to participate!









WEARE .WESLEY.EDU 31

A D VA N C E M E N T | Wesley Society





Solid Relationships

Enthusiasm and Dedication Drive Partnership for Success



AS PRESIDENT of one of Delaware’s largest independent insur- As president of the Wesley Society, Strickland sees his role as

ance agencies, L & W Insurance, Board of Trustee member and a facilitator in developing and strengthening the relationships

dedicated Wesley dad William J. Strickland has already proven between Wesley and its donors, not only in the context of giving,

to be a natural fit to lead Wesley’s most dedicated constituents. but in having a sense of ownership in the future of the College.

He was recently appointed the first president of the Wesley He will serve as an ambassador for Wesley and work closely

Society, a cultivation group for annual donors of $1,000 or more with staff member Cathy Anderson, hired in December as

who have pledged to become instrumental partners in Wesley’s director of the Wesley Society, in providing insight to current

advancement efforts. The enthusiasm Strickland has shown and potential Society members on the great initiatives going

through his involvement with the local community and his dedi- on at the College.

cation to the College thus far have set the stage for a prosperous Strickland knows that Wesley cannot accomplish significant

new beginning for the Wesley campus improvements without

Society under his leadership. stronger financial support from

Strickland first became alumni, parents, community

involved with Wesley College members and other donors. He

through his son Justin, who said, “Wesley Society members

earned both a bachelor’s are partners who share a com-

degree and master’s in business mon goal of helping the College

administration at Wesley. maximize its potential to better

“While at Wesley, Justin serve our growing student

gained a great education, body.” He explained that there

played football and baseball are many institutional needs

and grew as a person. His that will not be addressed

Wesley experience was first- without an ongoing strong

rate and as a parent, I am very financial commitment, and he

appreciative of the significant emphasized that the Wesley

role that Wesley played in his Society is the vehicle that will

development,” said Strickland. provide that commitment.

He and his wife Okemah have Strickland encourages those

always felt a tremendous sense who have not already done so

of gratitude toward the College to spend time with President

for the impact it has had on Bill Johnston. “Bill’s dynamic

their son, and they see their vision and ‘can do’ attitude are

contributions as small tokens so inspiring and create a high

of their appreciation. level of confidence about our

Strickland expressed, “It is my future,” he expressed.

desire to help Wesley College “Becoming a Wesley Society

ascend to a higher level as an member will allow alumni,

institution and frankly speak- parents and friends to support

ing, it takes money to do so.” Bill’s vision for our future.

Strickland is equally quick to point out a community Overall, your membership will solidify your relationship with

perspective of why giving to Wesley is so important. As a savvy Wesley College and directly impact what is a most promising

businessman, he knows firsthand the profound economic future for this institution.”

impact that the College has on the greater Dover area, due to For more information on how to become a charter member

students and staff patronizing local businesses, restaurants of the Wesley Society, visit weare.wesley.edu/wesleysociety or

and retail stores. “I feel Wesley is going to be a catalyst for the contact Cathy Anderson, director of the Wesley Society, at

ongoing effort to revitalize the downtown Dover area,” he said. 302-736-2410 or andersca@wesley.edu ■







32 WESLEY COLLEGE :: Spring 2010

“I chose

Wesley

because

it is where

I knew I

could be

somebody.”









“Thank you for helping me become

the leader I always knew I could be.”





Since his transformation from a shy Be one of among hundreds of alumni

teenager to the well-rounded campus and friends whose contributions

leader he is today, Jarrhin Thomas continue the infinite opportunities for

has wanted to inspire others. With current Wesley students. Please send

assistance from scholarship funding, he your gift in no later than June 30 by

soon acquired the skills and knowledge simply completing and returning the

to fulfill his dreams. Read more about provided gift envelope, or give online at

Jarrhin’s journey by visiting weare.wesley.edu/onlinegiving

weare.wesley.edu/JarrhinThomas Thank you!

W E S L E Y Non-Profit Organization

DELAWARE’S OLDEST PRIVATE COLLEGE



Founded 1873 U.S. Postage

PAID

120 North State Street Baltimore, MD

Dover, Delaware 19901-3875 Permit No. 0000





A D D R E S S S E R V I C E R E Q U E ST E D









Find your DID YOU KNOW the We Are Wesley

community includes an online directory

of Wesley alumni? You can search by





Wesley name or class year to find your long-lost

roommate or the old gang from your

dorm and send them a note through the







friends

site or an email. Update your information

in the directory at the same time because

who knows what Wesley friends may be

looking for you.



It’s all at your fingertips.

Log on and start clicking.

For first time users, find your login

ID # above your mailing address.

Questions? Contact

alumni@wesley.edu or

302-736-2467.









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