Rain and all, nearly 200 receive degrees at 2013 Commencement
On April 27, Warren Wilson inaugurated its seventh president, Steven L. Solnick, on Sunderland Lawn just before a heavy rain settled in. Exactly three weeks later, on May 18, there was no such luck with the elements; the 2013 Commencement had to be moved across the road to DeVries Gymnasium because of a persistent morning rain. But the quickly coordinated efforts of many people both inside and outside the gym made the last-minute location work.
Of course, there’s at least a slight upside to nearly every shift in plans. As the College’s minister, the Rev. Steve Runholt, observed just before delivering the invocation, the Commencement location had been moved from lovely Sunderland Lawn to the hardwood home of the 2013 men’s basketball national champions. And, yes, the banner recognizing the Owls’ USCAA Division II title hangs on the wall the Commencement audience was facing.
But as always, the stars of the Commencement show were the nearly 200 bachelor’s degree recipients who had earned B.A. and B.S. degrees. The graduating class was Warren Wilson’s 45th as a four-year college.
Speaking of graduates, one of the College’s many distinguished MFA Program for Writers alumni, N.C. Poet Laureate Joseph Bathanti, delivered an engaging main address, which is available online.
This year’s graduating senior top honors went to Courtney Newsome, Pfaff Cup winner, and Felicia Hall, Sullivan Award recipient. Barnaby Ohrstrom was chosen by his classmates to be senior class speaker. Top teaching awards went to Laura Vance (faculty), professor of sociology and gender/women’s studies, and to Stan Cross (staff) of the College’s Environmental Leadership Center.
Dawn Medley named Vice President for Enrollment and Marketing
Dawn Medley, Director of Student Success and Assistant Professor at Missouri Valley College, has been named to the new position of Vice President for Enrollment and Marketing.
Medley’s appointment was announced by President Solnick, with approval from the College’s Board of Trustees.
Medley will oversee and fully integrate the offices of undergraduate Admission, Financial Aid and Marketing. Among other duties, she will direct all image, branding, communication and public relations efforts of the College, in order to ensure increased understanding of Warren Wilson College in the higher education marketplace.
"We're thrilled that Dawn Medley will be joining us to lead our efforts in enrollment and marketing," Solnick said. "She brings a broad range of skills and experience that will help us continue spreading the word about our Triad of strong academics, work and service, unique among liberal arts colleges in America."
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