Giving Stories

UMW Students Win Prestigious Perkins Awards at Summer Science Symposium

August 19, 2025 1 Comment

Cold bottled water can be refreshing on a hot day, but hydration might not be its only effect. A chemical called DEHP can leach from plastic into drinking water, combining with bodily enzymes to form small molecules called metabolites.

Participants of the Irene Piscopo Rodgers '59 Summer Science Institute pose for a photo with their faculty mentors after the symposium held on July 23 in the Cedric Rucker University Center's Chandler Ballroom. Photo courtesy of Betsy Lewis/College of Arts and Sciences. — Participants of the Irene Piscopo Rodgers ’59 Summer Science Institute pose for a photo with their faculty mentors after the symposium held on July 23 in the Cedric Rucker University Center’s Chandler Ballroom. Photo courtesy of Betsy Lewis/College of Arts and Sciences.

“Research into their health effects is lacking,” said University of Mary Washington chemistry major Lily Gruss ’27, so she and Professor of Chemistry Davis Oldham spent the summer synthesizing them in a Jepson Science Center lab. “It will make it easier to isolate and study them.”

Lily, along with environmental science and biology major Joey Gasink ’26, presented research that placed first at Mary Washington’s Irene Piscopo Rodgers ’59 Summer Science Institute (SSI). Both earned awards through the John C. and Jerri Barden Perkins ’61 College of Arts and Sciences Student Research Endowment, which will support their future studies and fund other high-impact learning opportunities – such as attending academic conferences – that are an integral part of the UMW experience.

The 10-week SSI program, now in its 26th year, gives undergraduate students the chance to engage in intensive research with their professors and peers. Thirty participants spanning STEM-related disciplines – biology, chemistry, computer science, Earth and environmental science, physics, mathematics, and geography – shared their findings at a symposium last month at the Cedric Rucker University Center.

“I was struck by not only the depth of the students’ research but by their eloquence and passion,” said Dr. Jerri Barden Perkins ’61, who watched the presentations via Zoom. “Knowing that these awards will support their journeys is deeply rewarding.”

Dr. Perkins, who has established six scholarships and fellowships at her alma mater, earned a bachelor’s degree in chemistry from Mary Washington and a medical degree from the Medical College of Virginia. She conducted groundbreaking research on rheumatoid arthritis at the National Institutes of Health and reviewed data at the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to protect patients in clinical trials.

Introduced in 1999 and supported by a DuPont grant, SSI has given over 500 UMW students the opportunity to conduct hands-on research with their faculty mentors on campus and in the field. Last year, the Institute was named to honor Irene Piscopo Rodgers ’59, whose $36 million estate gift – the largest in University history – established full-ride scholarships for out-of-state students. It also created the Piscopo Rodgers Science Fellows Program, a competitive funding opportunity available to Mary Washington students starting this fall.

“Without the generous support of Dr. Perkins and Mrs. Rodgers, I wouldn’t have become the researcher I am today,” said Joey, who studied freshwater snails exposed to environmental contaminants and extreme heat to understand how other living organisms might be affected.

Eric Torres ’26 (center left) and Lily Gruss ’27 (center right) pose with their faculty mentors, Professor of Geology and Environmental Science Ben Odhiambo Kisila (left) and Professor of Chemistry Davis Oldham (right). Torres and Gruss placed first and second in the oral presentation category at the Irene Piscopo Rodgers ’59 Summer Science Institute symposium, which earned them funding through the John C. and Jerri Barden Perkins ’61 College of Arts and Sciences Student Research Endowment. Photo courtesy of Betsy Lewis/College of Arts and Sciences.

Joey Gasink ’26 (left) and Summer Orledge ’26 (right) with their faculty mentor, Associate Professor of Environmental Science Tyler Frankel (center). Gasink and Orledge placed first and second in the poster presentation category at the Irene Piscopo Rodgers ’59 Summer Science Institute symposium, which earned them funding through the John C. and Jerri Barden Perkins ’61 College of Arts and Sciences Student Research Endowment. Photo courtesy of Betsy Lewis/College of Arts and Sciences.

Environmental science major Summer Orledge ’26 took second place for her research on pollutants collected near an Indian reservation in eastern Virginia.

“It’s rare for students to engage in this level of research as undergraduates,” said Summer, who honed skills in field sampling and processing, instrumentation, statistical analysis, writing, and more. “It was labor intensive but prepared me well for graduate school.”

Fellow runner-up Eric Torres ’26, also an environmental science major, analyzed neurotoxic trace metals found along riverbanks in Central Appalachia, a region that has seen increased rates of cancer and other serious illnesses. He found it beneficial to hear from past SSI participants Kristen Lewis Lawson ’12, Ryan Meek ’23, Maddie Killian ’23, and Adrian Coello ’24, who shared their experiences during a luncheon at the symposium.

“Seeing alumni in medical and graduate school and those already practicing careers in medicine who were in the same program helped instill the confidence that this was a sustainable future for me,” said Eric, who plans to pursue a Ph.D. “I want to thank donors for supporting a program that gives budding scientists a tremendous opportunity to engage in meaningful research.”

Learn more about the Irene Piscopo Rodgers ’59 Summer Science Institute and support UMW’s College of Arts and Sciences.

– Article by Assistant Director of Advancement Communications Jill Graziano Laiacona ’04

UMW Foundation, Alumni Association Boards Welcome New Members

August 11, 2025 Leave a Comment

The University of Mary Washington announced in August the newest members of the UMW Foundation Board of Trustees and the Alumni Association Board of Directors. These accomplished Mary Washington alumni and supporters will help guide the University’s continued growth, philanthropic outreach, and alumni engagement.

“We’re thrilled to welcome these dedicated individuals to our boards,” said Katie Turcotte, vice president for advancement and alumni engagement and executive director of the UMW Foundation. “Their leadership, experience, and passion for Mary Washington will be instrumental as we continue to advance the University’s mission and strengthen our alumni community.”

UMW Foundation Board of Trustees:

Martha “Marty” Abbott ’72 holds a bachelor’s degree in Spanish with a Latin minor from Mary Washington and a master’s degree in Spanish linguistics from Georgetown University. She retired as executive director of the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages, representing language educators nationwide. She spent over 30 years in Fairfax County Public Schools as a teacher, foreign language coordinator, and director of high school instruction. Marty has served on numerous national taskforces, the College Board’s Academic Advisory Committee, and the National Assessment of Educational Progress Foreign Language Exam steering committee. She was president of the Foreign Language Association of Virginia and was appointed to the National Security Education Board by President Barack Obama. At UMW, she has served on the Board of Visitors and as an Educator-in-Residence keynote speaker. She also received UMW’s Distinguished Alumnus Award in 2004 and is recognized among Mary Washington’s Alumni of Distinction. A member of UMW’s Washington and Heritage societies, she established the Abbott International Study Abroad Scholarship and the Craig Family Scholarship and has a planned estate gift.

Irene Cimino Roberts ’86, who earned a bachelor’s degree in English from Mary Washington, is regional director for U.S. Sen. Tim Kaine for northeastern Virginia. She retired from Dominion Energy’s corporate offices, where she managed the title sponsorship of a multi-year PGA TOUR Champions playoff tournament. Her career also includes roles as deputy press secretary in the Virginia governor’s office and as a broadcast journalist. Irene serves on the board of directors for Scouting America’s Heart of Virginia Council and volunteers with Micah Ecumenical Ministries’ Jeremiah Project. Irene and her husband, Curry Roberts, are longtime sponsors of the William B. Crawley Great Lives Lecture Series at Mary Washington.

Alumni Association Board of Directors (AABOD):

Judith Henley Beck ’68 received a bachelor’s degree in Latin from Mary Washington and taught the subject in Roanoke and at the Samuel Ready School. She was also director of Pleasant Hill Nursery School. Since 1973, she has held multiple leadership roles in the Baltimore/Annapolis regional network at Mary Washington. Judith was the Class of 1968 reunion coordinator for almost 50 years and previously spent eight years on the AABOD, serving as president for two years. She supported the Jepson Alumni Executive Center building campaign and received UMW’s Frances Liebenow Armstrong ’36 Service Award in 2003.

Janet Hedrick ’73 holds a bachelor’s degree in mathematics from Mary Washington and a master’s degree in education from the University of Virginia. A fundraising professional for 45 years, she worked in higher education, healthcare, and association foundations and consulted for hospitals and public broadcasting stations. She also authored the book Effective Donor Relations. A member of UMW’s Washington and Heritage societies, Janet is an active donor through current gifts and her estate plan, co-chaired her 40th reunion committee, helped plan her 50th reunion, and raised funds for the Class of 1973’s endowed scholarship. She regularly attends University events and has traveled extensively with other Mary Washington alumni through the On the Road program. Janet received UMW’s Distinguished Alumnus Award in 2023.

Susan Leavitt ’83 earned a bachelor’s degree in economics and French literature with an Italian minor from Mary Washington and a master’s degree in international relations, with a focus in Africa studies, from Johns Hopkins University. She spent over a decade working on Wall Street and has 25 years of experience as a D.C.-area realtor. A member of UMW’s Washington and Heritage societies, Susan has contributed to the Mary Washington First Campaign as well as the College of Arts and Sciences’ (CAS) Beyond the Classroom initiative while serving on its Advisory Board. She also established the Susan Leavitt ’83 Scholarship to help students in need, named a Hurley Convergence Center space, and served on reunion committees. She received UMW’s Frances Liebenow Armstrong ’36 Service Award in 2024.

Devon Williams Cushman ’93 earned a bachelor’s degree in political science from Mary Washington and a J.D. from the University of Richmond School of Law. She spent eight years on UMW’s Board of Visitors, including serving as its rector. A former litigator for several top Richmond law firms, Devon was recognized by Virginia Business as “Legal Elite” and by Virginia Super Lawyers as a “Rising Star.” She has also been an adjunct law professor, assistant general counsel at Capital One, pro bono attorney, and entrepreneur.

Alex Clegg ’17 received a bachelor’s degree in communication and digital studies with a minor in economics from UMW and later pursued graduate studies at the University of Washington in Seattle. He is an account executive at HUB International and was previously a senior client advisor at Forest Capital Management, LLC. Since graduating, Alex has stayed involved with UMW, serving on the Young Alumni Council, CAS Advisory Board, and Rugby Alumni Foundation Board.

Casey Breslin, MBA ’22 holds a bachelor’s degree in history from Saint Anselm College and an MBA from UMW’s College of Business. He is a senior consultant at Iberia Advisory LLC, a D.C.-based Service-Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business. Before entering federal consulting, he developed corporate financial planning and analysis and treasury courses and managed data migrations for financial learning management systems. As an AABOD member, Casey aims to help UMW graduate alumni share ideas and build networks.

Learn more about the UMW Foundation Board of Trustees and the Alumni Association Board of Directors.

-Written by Assistant Director of Advancement Communication Jill Graziano Laiacona ’04

UMW Physics ‘PING’ Program Inspires High Schoolers, Empowers Future Educators

July 22, 2025 Leave a Comment

Tristan Towle and Zubair Mohammadzai take turns lobbing colorful cotton balls at a black canvas hanging in a University of Mary Washington parking deck. The splatters they create with washable paint remind Tristan, a junior at Brooke Point High School, of fireworks, but Zubair has another theory.

“We’ve been talking about stars, red giants and white dwarves,” said the Osbourn Park High School senior, thinking back to the astrophysics lesson led by UMW faculty members as well as current physics majors Hannah Steele, Aliya Ather, and CJ Hulleman. “They look like different colors based on temperature.”

The activity, combining both astronomy and art, is part of Physicists Inspiring the Next Generation (PING), introduced at Mary Washington this summer as an expansion of a program that began at Michigan State University (MSU). For two weeks, regional high schoolers curious about majoring in physics in college are exploring astrophysics, electronics, and computer coding, under the guidance of UMW Physics faculty members.

Hannah Steele ’26, who earned a Noyce Scholarship at UMW, demonstrates to high schoolers Zubair Mohammadzai (left), Michael Young (center), and Maiwand Barakzai (right) how to soak the cotton balls in washable paint before throwing them at black canvases hanging in UMW’s Alvey Parking Deck. Photo by K Pearlman Photography.

From left: High schoolers Michael Young, Alexander Rosas, and Vincent Phan dip cotton balls in washable paints before lobbing them at black canvases to create artwork resembling evolving stellar clusters, which they learned about in an astrophysics lesson. Photo by K Pearlman Photography.

Alexander Rosas, a senior at Stafford High School, shows off his strategy of using heavily painted cotton balls on the right side of the canvas and reused cotton balls on the left side to demonstrate that the amount of energy put into an object correlates to its outcome. Alexander, who is involved with robotics and technology clubs in high school, said he was excited to connect with members of the physics community in Fredericksburg by participating in the PING program. Photo by K Pearlman Photography.

Tristan Towle (center), a junior at Brooke Point High School, chucks a painted cotton ball at the canvas, while Zubair Mohammadzai, a senior at Osbourn Park High School, and UMW Physics Chair and Professor Matt Fleenor watch. Photo by K Pearlman Photography.

High schooler Maiwand Barakzai chucks a painted cotton ball at a canvas while his classmates look on. Photo by K Pearlman Photography.

Supported by a Fund for Mary Washington Impact Grant totaling $4,500, the program also provides stipends for three UMW student mentors majoring in physics and open to teaching at the high school level.

“This program would’ve expanded my avenues if I participated in it during high school,” said Aliya, a Mary Washington sophomore who is serving as a PING mentor this summer. “I’m excited to share my knowledge about physics but also how to collaborate in this field and how important it is to integrate the creative side into physics.”

UMW Professor and Chair of Physics Matt Fleenor estimates that over half of high school physics classrooms in the U.S. are taught by someone without a degree in the field. “So, our aim is to cultivate interest in physics locally among high school students while supporting the potential futures of high school physics instructors,” he said.

Dr. Fleenor reached out to high school physics teachers in the greater Fredericksburg area to recruit applicants, resulting in a cohort of six students in Mary Washington’s inaugural PING program. Statistics show that 80% of UMW physics majors come from a 90-mile radius, he said. “They grow up here, come to school here, and end up teaching or working at Dahlgren or somewhere close by.”

Kenya Wallach, former math and science supervisor for Stafford County Public Schools, had long wanted to bring such a program to the region. Last fall, she and Dr. Fleenor were surprised to discover they were seated in the same row at a conference in Houston, listening to Ms. Wallach’s 16-year-old daughter, Emma, speak about her experiences in PING at MSU.

“From the time my children were little, we talked about physics and mathematics and how they touch every aspect of our lives,” said Ms. Wallach, who leads PING’s parent group, Promoting Opportunities for the Next Generation (PONG). All three of her children participated in the program, and now her 19-year-old daughter is earning a Ph.D. in physics at MSU. “In order to see yourself doing something, you have to see people like you succeeding at it.”

Hannah Steele ’26, a UMW student mentor and Noyce Scholarship recipient, guides high schoolers Vincent Phan (left) and Alexander Rosas in creating a circuit. Photo by Katie VanHouten ’26.

From left: CJ Hulleman ’28, one of the PING program mentors, demonstrates to high schoolers Michael Young and Maiwand Barakzai how to construct a circuit that measures the effect of resonance, a physics concept that can be applied to engineering, biomedicine, and technology. Photo by Katie VanHouten ’26.

High schoolers Maiwand Barakzai (left) and Michael Young make notes as they learn about creating circuits. Photo by Katie VanHouten ’26.

UMW Physics Chair and Professor Matt Fleenor demonstrates how to construct a circuit to high schooler Zubair Mohammadzai (center), while UMW student mentor Aliya Ather and volunteer mentor Emma Wallach (right) observe. Photo by Katie VanHouten ’26.

High schoolers Zubair Mohammadzai (left) and Tristan Towle (right) are guided in a lesson by volunteer mentor Emma Wallach, a Stafford High School sophomore who already participated in the PING program at Michigan State University, and UMW mentor Aliya Ather '28 (background). Photo by Katie VanHouten '26.

High schoolers Zubair Mohammadzai (left) and Tristan Towle (right) are guided in a lesson by volunteer mentor Emma Wallach, a Stafford High School junior who already participated in the PING program at Michigan State University, and UMW mentor Aliya Ather ’28 (background). Photo by Katie VanHouten ’26.

Emma, who is serving as a volunteer mentor, and her mother designed the paintball splatter activity and helped Fleenor create a curriculum that gives participants the chance to create circuits, make measurements, plot graphs, learn Python coding, and explore evolving star clusters using cutting-edge technology. The students are also touring the UMW campus and learning about research Mary Washington students and faculty are doing in the Irene Piscopo Rodgers ’59 Summer Science Institute.

Hannah, a senior mentor who aspires to teach physics after graduating from Mary Washington, learned from Ms. Wallach how to employ an explicit inquiry-based instruction model. By writing in reflection journals and engaging in role-play, the mentors learned how to provide the high school students with a solid foundation for the material and ask guided questions to help them reach their own conclusions.

“It allows them to struggle productively until they find the answer on their own,” said Hannah, who received a Robert Noyce Teaching Scholarship through UMW’s College of Education partnership with the National Science Foundation.

Alexander Rosas, a Stafford High School senior, experienced his own “a-ha moment” while engaging in the physics painting activity. His strategy? Tossing cotton balls dripping with paint to create a grouping resembling a stellar cluster and then reusing them to create a contrast on the other side of the canvas.

“I wanted to show that the amount of energy put into an object correlates to its outcome,” said Alexander, who hopes PING will help him make connections within the physics community in Fredericksburg. “This project showed me a different perspective of what physics could be.”

Participants in the PING program show off their paintball splatters, reminiscent of evolving stellar clusters. From left: UMW Physics Chair and Professor Matt Fleenor; UMW mentor Aliya Ather ’28; volunteer mentor Emma Wallach, a Stafford High School junior who participated in the PING program at MSU; high schoolers Alexander Rosas, Vincent Phan, Tristan Towle, Zubair Mohammadzai, Michael Young, and Maiwand Barakzai; and UMW mentors CJ Hulleman ’28 and Hannah Steele ’26. Photo by K Pearlman Photography.

UMW’s Fund for Mary Washington Impact Grants program is made possible through donors’ gifts to the Fund for Mary Washington. These gifts are vital to the University’s ability to improve the student experience and support faculty, providing crucial flexibility to respond to emerging challenges and seize opportunities as they arise. When alumni, parents, friends, faculty, and staff give to the Fund for Mary Washington, they are choosing to be part of a community that is committed to giving back and making the world a better place – enabling students to make positive change through programs like the Fund for Mary Washington Impact Grants.

-Article written by Assistant Director of Advancement Communications Jill Graziano Laiacona ’04

-Photography by Karen Pearlman ’99/K Pearlman Photography and UMW digital communication major Katie Van Houten ’27

UMW Honors 2025 Alumni Award Recipients at Reunion Weekend

June 12, 2025 Leave a Comment

A few weeks after earning a bachelor’s degree in economics, Jenifer “JB” Blair ’82 returned to her alma mater to volunteer at Reunion Weekend.

The University of Mary Washington's Alumni Association Board of Directors held its annual Alumni Awards ceremony during Reunion Weekend 2025, honoring Rob Eastman-Mullins '00 and Jenifer 'JB' Blair '82, as well as Shirley Martey Hargis '14 (not pictured). Here, they pose for a photo with Alumni Awards Vice President Lisa Maloney Keyser '05 and UMW President Troy Paino. Photo by Karen Pearlman. — The University of Mary Washington’s Alumni Association Board of Directors held its annual Alumni Awards ceremony during Reunion Weekend 2025, honoring Rob Eastman-Mullins ’00 and Jenifer ‘JB’ Blair ’82, as well as Shirley Martey Hargis ’14 (not pictured). Here, they pose for a photo with Alumni Awards Vice President Lisa Maloney Keyser ’05 and UMW President Troy Paino. Photo by Karen Pearlman.

Since she graduated, JB has donated her time every year at the University of Mary Washington celebration, so it’s only fitting that she received the Frances Liebenow Armstrong ’36 Service Award during Reunion Weekend 2025. JB also spent more than 20 years working in UMW’s Office of Admissions and over a decade on the Alumni Association Board of Directors (AABOD), including two years as its president.

“I know the transformative nature of the education here, and I believe in it so much,” she said. It was an honor to receive the award, she said, especially since she knew its namesake, a dedicated former AABOD member who worked in the Office of the President when JB first began her career at Mary Washington. “Having had such a great experience as an undergraduate made volunteering and supporting UMW so easy for me.”

JB was one of several alumni honored at a May 31 ceremony in Seacobeck Hall’s Weatherly Wing. Alumni, faculty, staff, administrators, families, and friends joined UMW President Troy Paino in recognizing the honorees, including Rob Eastman-Mullins ’00 and Shirley Martey Hargis ’14. The recipients were selected by the AABOD and announced by Alumni Awards Vice President Lisa Maloney Keyser ’05.

President Paino delivered a university update, covering changing student demographics, the impact of artificial intelligence on higher education, facilities updates, fundraising successes, student recruitment and retention, and UMW’s unwavering commitment to the liberal arts. Photo by Karen Pearlman.

President Paino also provided a university update, covering changing student demographics, the impact of artificial intelligence on higher education, and UMW’s unwavering commitment to the liberal arts. He touched upon facilities projects like the new theatre and renovation of duPont, Melchers, and Pollard Halls and thanked those who contributed to fundraising efforts, especially the record-breaking $1.3 million in donations on Mary Wash Day.

He touted ongoing student recruitment successes, citing UMW’s 85% retention rate – higher than the national average – and highlighted how the University will continue to lean into strengths, focusing on small class sizes, personalized attention from faculty, and its robust network of alumni who give back to the University through their philanthropy and engagement.

“We still believe that every individual student matters, and your investment in their lives can have a dramatic impact, not only on them and their families, but on the communities where they’ll work and serve,” the president said. “That’s what makes Mary Washington so special. That has not changed, whether you graduated 50 years ago or just a few weeks ago.”

JB Blair ’82, who has volunteered at Mary Washington for over 40 years, receives a standing ovation as AABOD President James Llewellyn ’87 looks on. Photo by Karen Pearlman.

JB Blair ’82 receives the Frances Liebenow Armstrong ’36 Service Award, named for a late member of the Alumni Association Board of Directors (AABOD) who worked in the Office of the President when JB was a student. JB, who knew Mrs. Armstrong, later served 14 years on the AABOD, with two years as its president. Photo by Karen Pearlman.

JB Blair ’82 hugs President Troy Paino after receiving the Frances Liebenow Armstrong ’36 Service Award. Photo by Karen Pearlman.

JB Blair ’82 (center), recipient of the Frances Liebenow Armstrong ’36 Service Award, poses for a photo with Barbara Dixon ’82 (left) and her sister, Courtney Blair (right). Photo by Karen Pearlman.

JB Blair ’82 (center) poses with past and present members of the Alumni Association Board of Directors, as well as Executive Director of Alumni Engagement and Advancement Communications Mark Thaden ’02 (far left, back) and her former colleague, UMW Dean of Admissions and Associate Vice President Melissa Yakabouski ’94 (far left, front), and Barbara Dixon ’82 (far right). Photo by Karen Pearlman.

Nominated by AABOD member Lori Foster Turley ’81, JB joined the Terrapins synchronized swim team as a student and lived in Framar Hall, then the senior women’s honors/leadership house. She also worked as a DJ at WMWC Radio, which she recently supported with generous donations both to the station and to its Fund for Mary Washington Impact Grant.

After graduation, she moved up through the ranks of the Admissions team, eventually becoming dean of undergraduate admissions. She now serves as vice president of enrollment management at the South Carolina Governor’s School for Science and Mathematics. JB holds an M.Ed. in social foundations of education and an Ed.D. in higher education administration from the University of Virginia.

JB spent 14 years on the AABOD and became a director emeritus in 2024. She also served six years on the Washington Scholars interview committee, helping award the prestigious full-ride scholarship to in-state students.

Shirley Martey Hargis '14 received the Outstanding Young Alumnus Award during Reunion Weekend 2025. Photo courtesy of Shirley Martey Hargis. — Shirley Martey Hargis ’14 received the Outstanding Young Alumnus Award during Reunion Weekend 2025. Photo courtesy of Shirley Martey Hargis.

Shirley Martey Hargis, who was unable to attend the ceremony, earned the Outstanding Young Alumnus Award, recognizing graduates of the last 15 years who’ve distinguished themselves serving UMW or their professions and communities.

Shirley has over a decade of experience in security-related foreign affairs and domestic politics of the People’s Republic of China and Taiwan and has worked in D.C. think tanks and government agencies, using her Chinese language skills and experience in high-security work for a U.S. government contractor. She has published numerous articles and provided commentary to Politico, Al Jazeera, BBC News, and Bloomberg.

At UMW, Shirley earned a bachelor’s degree in political science. She was president of the Pi Sigma Alpha national political science honor society and was inducted into the Pi Gamma Mu international honor society, among others. She also earned a Fulbright English teaching assistantship and many other scholarships and fellowships. She is now enrolled in the Harvard Kennedy School’s mid-career Master in Public Administration program.

“Of the more than 4,000 students that I’ve taught at UMW, I’ve never known a student who worked as hard as Shirley,” said Professor Emerita of Political Science and International Affairs Elizabeth Larus, the department’s former chair.

Rob Eastman-Mullins received the Distinguished Alumnus Award, honoring graduates who’ve made significant contributions in their professions and communities, while being leaders in their fields.

At Mary Washington, Rob crafted a theatre management major, blending theatre and business courses and gaining experience as an actor, technician, designer, and director. He graduated summa cum laude with departmental honors and was inducted into the Alpha Psi Omega theatre honor society, among others. He earned the Albert R. Klein Scholarship, and in turn, he and wife Andrea established the Eastman-Mullins Scholarship for Theatre at UMW.

Rob Eastman-Mullins ’00 poses for a photo with his wife, Andrea, after receiving the Distinguished Alumnus Award during Reunion Weekend. Photo by Karen Pearlman.

Rob Eastman-Mullins ’00, who received the Distiguished Alumni Award, gives remarks while AABOD President James Llewellyn ’87 looks on. Photo by Karen Pearlman.

From left: President Troy Paino, Vice President for Advancement and Alumni Engagement and UMW Foundation Executive Director Katie Turcotte, JB Blair ’82, and her family and friends listen to the remarks by Rob-Eastman-Mullins ’00. Photo by Karen Pearlman.

Rob Eastman-Mullins ’00 (right) poses for a photo with Professor and Chair of Theatre & Dance Gregg Stull ’82. Eastman-Mullins called his former professor an ‘absolute treasure’ and thanked him for his support throughout his time at Mary Washington and in his career. Photo by Karen Pearlman.

Rob is artistic director for the U.S. submission to the 2027 Prague Quadrennial and has spent over two decades creating award-winning scenic, lighting, and costume design for theatrical productions across the country. He has taught at several institutions, most recently as a professor of performance design at Wake Forest University. He also founded the aWAKEn International Scenic Design Competition, participated in theatre festivals in Egypt and Uganda, and has advocated for intellectual property rights. Additionally, he has contributed to over 30 national and international academic presentations and co-authored Scenic Design: A Global Perspective, scheduled for publication by Routledge Press in 2026.

Rob thanked his wife as well as Professor and Chair of Theatre and Dance Gregg Stull ’82, whom he called an “absolute treasure.”

“He’s always been there when I called upon him,” said Rob, who also gave a strong endorsement of the liberal arts education at Mary Washington. “There’s no other state school that I know of that’s like it.”

Learn more about previous Alumni Association Award recipients. Nominations for 2026 will be open in January.

-Article written by Assistant Director of Advancement Communications Jill Graziano Laiacona ’04

Mary Washington Alumni Come Home for 2025 Reunion Weekend

June 5, 2025 Leave a Comment

Living across the Atlantic couldn’t keep Rachel Selle ’05 from celebrating her 20th Reunion Weekend at the University of Mary Washington.

Now a teacher and young-adult author in Germany, she looked forward to staying overnight in Randolph Hall, where she served as a resident assistant two decades ago. “I’m really excited to reconnect with classmates and see what life – and Mary Washington – has brought us all since we graduated,” she said.

Rachel was among the hundreds of alumni to return for UMW’s Reunion Weekend, held May 30 to June 1. The forecast called for rain, but showers soon gave way to clear skies, sunshine, and even a rainbow as classes ending in 0 and 5 participated in parties and picnics, faculty lectures, campus tours, beverage tastings, family festivities, a fun run, and cool treats at Carl’s.

Rachel Selle ’05 (second from left) and fellow 2005 alumni join 1980 alumni for a photo on Campus Walk during Reunion Weekend. This year’s event celebrated classes ending in 0 and 5, but all graduates are welcome to participate in the annual celebration held at the end of May. Photo by Karen Pearlman.

Alumni participate in the time-honored tradition of visiting Carl’s for its famous frozen custard. Photo by Karen Pearlman.

Alumni families take a photo by the fountain on Palmieri Plaza on Saturday after the Ball Circle picnic. Photo by Karen Pearlman.

Alumni enjoy the Ball Circle picnic in front of the Cedric Rucker University Center. Photo by Karen Pearlman.

The forecast called for rain, but showers soon gave way to clear skies, sunshine, and even a rainbow over the University of Mary Washington campus. Photo by Karen Pearlman.

Alumni pose for a picture after the Virginia wine, beer, and cider tasting, held in Monroe Hall this year. Photo by Karen Pearlman.

Syd Collson Chichester ’60, a member of the 1908 Society (for alumni who graduated 50 or more years ago), said she became more involved after co-chairing her 50th reunion. “It brought me back to this place,” said Syd, who still gets emotional when she sings UMW’s Alma Mater.

“Hosting Reunion Weekend is a highlight for our team each year,” Executive Director of Alumni Engagement Mark Thaden ’02 said. “Seeing alumni return to visit their favorite places on campus, connect with friends and faculty, and spend a few days reliving their college days brings us so much joy.”

Renee Allen Kuntz ‘85 said being back on campus with Lisa Taylor, Alison Metzger LaMura, Kim Slayton White, and Cuff Gibbons Kunkel “was just like coming home again.” The five friends, all who graduated in 1985, spent Friday morning picking the perfect matching Mary Washington sweatshirts in the UMW Bookstore while reminiscing about watching the soap opera General Hospital together and calling their parents from the residence hall phone booths.

“At what other point in your life do you get to spend all your time with your best friends?” said Shelby Hill Brooks ’95, who toured campus on a golf cart with her husband and Michelle Arcari Rose ’95. As recent grad Shadwick Yoder ’25 drove the cart past Virginia Hall, Shelby said, “It wasn’t that long ago that was my window.”

Members of the 1908 Society, for those who graduated 50 or more years ago from Mary Washington, pose for a photo on the Lee Hall steps. Photo by Karen Pearlman.

Recent grad Shadwick Yoder ’25 gave golf-cart tours of campus throughout Reunion Weekend. Photo by Karen Pearlman.

From left: 1985 graduates Kim Slayton White, Alison Metzger LaMura, and Cuff Gibbons Kunkel pose for a photo during the welcome reception. Typically held at Brompton, the event was moved to the Cedric Rucker University Center’s Chandler Ballroom due to passing thunderstorms. Photo by Karen Pearlman.

Courtney Quinn Hampton ’00 silkscreens a Mary Washington College bag with Assistant Professor of Studio Art Coorain Devin as part of an Alumni College lecture. Photo by Karen Pearlman.

Executive Director of Alumni Engagement Mark Thaden ’02 (front row, right) and members of the Alumni Association Board of Directors pose for a photo during the 2025 University of Mary Washington Reunion Weekend. Photo by Karen Pearlman.

Members of the Class of 1975, who celebrated their 50th reunion and entrance into the 1908 Society, pose for a photo on the Lee Hall steps. Photo by Karen Pearlman.

Mary Helen Dellinger ’90 recalled looking out of those same windows to check how long the line was to get into the Underground, a popular campus hang-out, and engaging in an epic snowball battle on Ball Circle.

Mary Washington students have a lot of fun, Mary Helen said, but the perk of attending a smaller school is always having faculty, staff, and administrators looking out for you. “When people care about you, it makes you want to work harder and treat others with kindness and respect,” she said.

Maggie Lovitt ’15 and Melissa Schmidt Estevez ’00 praised UMW’s supportive professors. “They have a vested interest in your outcome,” Melissa said. “You don’t always realize it when you’re here, but the University truly cares for your whole being.”

Jason Ford ’20 and Karen Lebo ’75, who both served as Student Government Association president – 45 years apart – spoke about how their alma mater inspired them to pursue leadership roles. “This place makes you aspire to your best self,” Karen said.

Her classmate, AJ Jenkins ’75, reminisced about being one of the first male students after Mary Washington went co-ed. “We had a true feeling of brotherhood,” he said of the 11 young men who lived together on Trench Hill, now the location of the Jepson Alumni Executive Center.

After attending the Class of 1975’s 50th reunion dinner in the building and reconnecting with his female classmates, AJ said, “I found myself thinking what strong women graduated from Mary Washington and how I benefited from going to school with them.”

From left to right: Artist Nicole Horn poses with Professor Emerita of Art Carole Garmon, Dean of Student Life Emeritus Cedric Rucker ’81, and UMW President Troy Paino after the unveiling of Cedric’s portrait inside the Cedric Rucker University Center. The building was named for the longtime – and beloved – Mary Washington administrator. Photo by Karen Pearlman.

Members of the staff, including Director of First Year Admissions Sarah Lindberg ’08 (front), and the Alumni Association Board of Directors clap for Rucker following the unveiling of his portrait. Photo by Karen Pearlman.

Live entertainment by the 10 Spot was part of the all-class party festivities during the 2025 Mary Washington Reunion Weekend. Photo by Karen Pearlman.

Alumni take part in a Virginia wine, beer, and cider tasting outside of Monroe Hall. Photo by Karen Pearlman.

A group of Mary Washington alumni pose for a photo on Campus Walk during the recent Reunion Weekend. Photo by Karen Pearlman.

From left to right: Mary Washington alumni Karmel James ’13, Sean Lynch ’95, Vicki Sprague Ravenel ’77, and Alumni Association Board of Directors President James Llewellyn ’87 join Kelly Paino, wife of UMW President Troy Paino, and Vice President for Advancement and Alumni Engagement and UMW Foundation Executive Director Katie Turcotte during the 2025 Reunion Weekend. Photo by Karen Pearlman.

On Friday, the University honored Associate Vice President and Dean of Student Life Emeritus Cedric Rucker ’81, who provided visionary leadership in student affairs during his 33-year career at Mary Washington. A crowd gathered for the unveiling of his portrait, completed by Fredericksburg artist Nicole Horn and featuring a wood frame made by artist and adjunct instructor Larry Hinkle ’00. The painting will hang on the first floor of the Cedric Rucker University Center.

“I love the University of Mary Washington … because it has been and continues to be a place that invigorates and works with the community and the region,” said Cedric, who also was the first Black male student to live on campus. “I’ve had the opportunity to grow in so many ways – in so many heartfelt ways – and I’m delighted that I’ll continue to be a part of this place forever.”

More photos from Reunion Weekend 2025 will be uploaded to the UMW Alumni SmugMug in the coming weeks. Learn about upcoming Alumni Engagement events.

-Article written by Assistant Director of Advancement Communications Jill Graziano Laiacona ’04

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