A generous gift from ������Ƶ Trustee Bill Slattery and his wife Tish Slattery P’24 P’28 will name the university’s new center for health and wellness and also create 14 additional scholarships in the Odyssey Program to assist talented students with significant financial need.

������Ƶ President Connie Ledoux Book and the Board of Trustees announced the Slatterys’ gift at the board’s spring meeting April 10-11. Book thanked the Slattery family for their generosity and leadership in supporting a center that will integrate academics, wellness, campus recreation and fitness programs to ensure students gain the skills they need to thrive on campus and throughout every stage of their lives.

“The ������Ƶ community is deeply honored to name the HealthEU Center in recognition of the Slattery family,” Book said. “This extraordinary investment from Bill and Tish Slattery will help ������Ƶ meet its mission to transform the mind, body and spirit of every student, and prepare healthy graduates ready to share their gifts with the world.”

The ability to address the health and well-being of students early in their lives inspired the Slatterys to make their gift.

“My career at the intersection of science and investment often requires decades to witness the outcomes of success,” Bill Slattery said. “HealthEU is an opportunity to intervene with our students at an early age and engage in these activities in a more structured, thoughtful way, and hopefully reduce some of their adversities in life.”

“I believe social media has impacted students greatly, and institutions like ������Ƶ that provide centers like HealthEU will be at an advantage going forward,” Tish Slattery said. “Health and wellness encompass so much more than just the physical aspect. I’m incredibly grateful that we’re able to impact ������Ƶ with this gift.”

Slattery Center is a central component to the university’s broader HealthEU initiative that focuses on six dimensions of health and wellness: community, emotional, purpose, financial, physical and social. The three-story center will feature new classrooms, student-faculty research spaces, multiple floors for wellness and fitness activities, and the Mark and Kim Tyson Counseling Center, which will provide individual and group therapy, as well as workshops and outreach programs.

Through coursework, as well as workshops and training programs focused on health and wellness, Slattery Center will impact all students as they progress through their education and learn essential skills and practices related to wellness and well-being. The center is a key priority of the Boldly ������Ƶ strategic plan that will guide the university to 2030. Scheduled to open in fall 2026, Slattery Center will be located within ������Ƶ’s Innovation Quad, home to the university’s engineering and other STEM programs.

The Slatterys’ gift will also endow the William and Tish Slattery Odyssey Program Scholarship, funding 14 new scholarships in the program that gives bright, passionate students with high financial need and/or no family history of college attendance access to ������Ƶ’s nationally recognized engaged learning programs.

These new investments bring the total number of Odyssey Program scholarships to nearly 300, more than halfway to the university’s goal of having a total of 400 Odyssey Scholarships, or 100 scholars per class, as called for in the Boldly ������Ƶ strategic plan. Housed in ������Ƶ’s Center for Access and Success, the Odyssey Program is nationally recognized as a model for need- and merit-based initiatives, with a nearly 100% first-to-second-year student retention rate and an 87% graduation rate, well above the national average.

The Slatterys have been impressed by the educational experience ������Ƶ delivers to students. Their daughter Madelyn graduated in 2024, and their son James is an ������Ƶ sophomore.

“I’ve been very happy to see the school excel at its academic responsibility in education while equally addressing students’ needs as people at the social level,” Bill said. “It’s a pleasant, inviting and warm place that cares for its students.”

“From the moment you step foot on ������Ƶ’s campus, you feel a great sense of community,” Tish said. “The close relationships that students have with their professors makes ������Ƶ stand out among its peers.”

Bill Slattery is a partner at Deerfield Management Company, Therapeutics. Prior to joining Deerfield in 2000, Slattery served as a senior healthcare analyst for 10 years at Amerindo Investment Advisors in New York, where he oversaw biotechnology investments. He has also held various positions in research, including those at National Medical Enterprises, Johnson & Johnson, and HMSS. He is the former chair of Red Door Community, which supports those impacted by cancer and their families.

Bill was elected to ������Ƶ’s Board of Trustees in 2024. Tish is a member of the Slattery Family Foundation and served in administration at Amerindo Investment Advisors. Recently, Tish was named chair of the Miss Hall’s School Arts Advisory Council. The couple reside in Rye, New York.

Members of the Board of Trustees joined with President Connie Ledoux Book and Director of Athletics Jenn Strawley on April 10, 2026, to rededicate a building that has served multiple purposes for more than half a century and two separate locations on campus.

Alumni, parents and friends have contributed $3 million to the expansion of the university’s golf complex, which also includes the W. Cecil Worsley III Golf Training Center. The expansion represents a significant investment in the future of both men’s and women’s golf and places the university’s training facilities among the best in collegiate golf.

Holland House now provides student-athletes with a premier clubhouse environment to learn, train and compete, with new practice and team spaces, and state-of-the-art technology that allows students to pursue excellence academically and athletically.

The complex expansion project also encompassed renovations to the driving range, including the creation of a 17,000-square-foot tee box, and renovation of the short-game area with reconstruction of the bunkers.

Holland House was renovated to create a centralized home base for the golf program. The clubhouse includes locker rooms, coaches’ offices, quiet spaces for academic study, team engagement spaces and player meeting rooms, strengthening team culture and promoting student growth off the course.

The final phase of the project includes upgrades to the existing W. Cecil Worsley III Golf Training Center, a dedicated indoor practice facility that allows players to train in adverse weather conditions. The center opened in 2009 and includes multiple indoor heated hitting bays, a computerized swing analysis center, indoor putting facility and an outdoor lighted driving range.

Worsley, a 1986 ������Ƶ graduate and former member of the golf team, served on the Board of Trustees from 2015 to 2023. He and his wife, alumna JoAnna Sutton Worsley ’87, are the parents of W. Cecil Worsley IV, a 2014 ������Ƶ graduate.

Another critical component of the project was the addition of Trackman Range, a technology that tracks every shot hit by a golfer, giving coaches and student-athletes immediate access to data to improve performance and create greater practice efficiency.

“The repurposing of Holland House marks a transformational moment for ������Ƶ Athletics. It is special to take a building rich with institutional history and create a best-in-class home for our golf student-athletes that honors our past while boldly investing in our future,” Strawley said. “Facilities like this represent our aspirations brought to life, and they only become possible through the generosity of many. I am profoundly grateful to everyone who made this possible, and equally excited for the impact this will have for our golf student-athletes.”

Built in 1963 as the official residence for President Earl Danieley and his family, Holland House stood along Haggard Avenue as a symbol of leadership, hospitality and community at ������Ƶ. The home quickly became part of campus lore, including a memorable student protest led by Student Government Association President and future ������Ƶ Trustee Noel Allen ‘69 and joined by Danieley himself.

In 1973, President Fred Young and his family continued the tradition of welcoming students, alumni and distinguished guests, making the house a center of connection and celebration. In 1985, trustees honored longtime supporter Shirley Thomas Holland by naming the building in his memory, cementing its place in ������Ƶ’s history.

After the presidential residence moved in 1988 to today’s Maynard House, Holland House entered a new phase, serving a variety of campus needs, from development and alumni relations to academic programs and student engagement. In 2009, the building was carefully relocated across campus, where it served as home to the Catholic Campus Ministries Newman Center. Work is now under way to build a new Newman Center.

“Today is a wonderful moment for ������Ƶ, for Phoenix Athletics, and for our investment in golf and the futures of these student-athletes,” Book said in her dedication remarks. “And it holds a special distinction: this is the first new athletics facility opened under Athletics Director Jenn Strawley.”

Book described the renovated Holland House as a testament to the strength of the programs built by men’s head coach Don Hill and women’s head coach Chris Dockrill.

“And to our student-athletes: I know that every donor agrees that this is for you,” Book said. “Every locker, every building, every asset here was about creating a championship home for Phoenix golf, and we’re very excited for the next chapter to unfold and to cheer you on as you make history.”

Jennings Glenn ‘25 G’26, a member of the men’s golf team, and ������Ƶ Trustee Debra Del Vecchio P’22 P’24 also delivered remarks during the ceremony, which was held on the front lawn of Holland House.

“These past five years have been super special to me. I’ve met so many incredible people and built such lasting relationships and created memories I’ll carry with me for the rest of my life,” said Glenn, who thanked donors on behalf of the team. “This is really the best place in the world to be a student-athlete and that’s because of you. Thank you. It’s been amazing to watch this program grow and for me to be a part of it all.”

Del Vecchio thanked Book and the Board of Trustees for their unwavering commitment to students and for an institutional decisiveness that led to the expansion project. She then praised the golf teams for their dedication to the sport and to the university.

“It is all or nothing, a commitment and true discipline needed to be a student-athlete,”  Del Vecchio said. “At times I’m sure it can be quite challenging, juggling classes, assignments, and a rigorous playing schedule. But here you are. Know that we recognize and are extremely proud of all of you. You are the face of ������Ƶ, especially when you walk out on the golf course. You are not only representing yourself but ������Ƶ as well.”

Women’s team captain Ashley Lafontaine ‘26 of Ottawa, Canada, delivered remarks during a dinner program that followed the ribbon-cutting.

“This space gives us something we’ve never truly had before: a home that’s entirely our own,” she said. “It’s a space where we can train, study, connect, and grow together all under one roof. It creates an environment where everything we need to succeed, both as athletes and as people, exists in one place.

“But more importantly, it sends a message. It tells every current and future ������Ƶ holder that they are valued. That their experience matters. That this program is worth investing in. And for future players, I hope this becomes more than just a facility. I hope it becomes their safe space. Their meeting place. Their place to celebrate wins, work through losses, and build the kind of relationships that last far beyond their four years here.”

Renovations have started on what once was a small residence hall but will soon serve as the temporary location for Roberts Academy at ������Ƶ, an all-day private school for children with dyslexia that opens in August.

The top priority for the designers working on those renovations? Create a space where children will learn, grow, and thrive in their confidence as young readers.

“Our team did a wonderful job of thinking through which spaces will be for which purpose, the furniture we’re selecting, how we’re setting up classrooms, and the technology we’ll use,” said Ann Bullock, dean of the university’s Dr. Jo Watts Williams School of Education. “All of those things will make for an engaged, active, multisensory school. It’s going to be great.”

Established in 2025 through a gift from philanthropists Hal and Marjorie Roberts of Lakeland, Florida, the Roberts Academy at ������Ƶ will be the fourth in a series of successful university-based private elementary schools the couple also supported at Vanderbilt University, Mercer University and Florida Southern College.

Each academy employs the Orton-Gillingham multisensory approach to reading instruction. The goal is to return students to their community schools as confident readers after 2-3 years of immersive, hands-on instruction in all core subjects.

The Roberts Academy at ������Ƶ will welcome third and fourth graders this fall to Trollinger House as construction begins on a permanent site along East Haggard Avenue. That location will open for to grades 1-6 starting in Fall 2028.

Bullock was joined on April 9, 2026, for a site visit to Trollinger House where several staff members wore hard hats on their stroll through the building on West Trollinger Avenue. Led by Holly Hodge, ������Ƶ’s director of interior design, staff had a chance to see for themselves what, until then, had only been conceptual.

Hodge highlighted some of the features that, once installed, will nurture students who attend the school: flexible furniture for smaller groups in classrooms with no more than 12 students, desks with writable surfaces, and expansive wall space intended to be layered with student work and their art on display.

“To me, it’s a blank canvas,” Hodge said afterward. “Walking through the space and showing that blank canvas helps imagine a piece of art in the making. I can’t wait for students to then come in and have teachers make the space their own.”

Hodge identified another question for her team: How do you “define” or tell the story of dyslexia? How do you celebrate the amazing talents and strengths of students in addition to their classroom learning?

One thing is certain, she concluded: “Every kid deserves to be confident.”

***

 Families interested in learning more can visit the Roberts Academy website at www.elon.edu/robertsacademy.

The ������Ƶ Alumni Board (EAB) acts as a key link between the University administration and the alumni body. On an individual basis and collectively as a Board, the EAB provides advice, counsel and perspective to staff and leadership on a wide range of strategic issues facing the University.

Katie Corrigan ’02

Katie is a Vice President at MKI Global Partners, an advisory firm focused on how policy, politics and regulation shape financial markets and corporate transactions. She graduated from ������Ƶ in 2002 and values the strong community and network it continues to provide. Her younger sister is also an ������Ƶ alum, Class of 2003.

Katie lives in South Burlington, VT, with her husband, Dan, and their two sons, James (12) and Thomas (9). Outside of work, she enjoys taking full advantage of Vermont’s seasons, from lake days in the summer to skiing and hiking with her family.

Lauren Ludlow ’13

Lauren is the founder of , a New York–based consultancy helping brands and creators build influencer marketing programs that drive long-term growth. She has partnered with leading CPG and retail brands including Sephora, P&G Beauty, Nike, Meta, and No7 Beauty Company.

She is also the co-founder of , a community and networking event series built on the belief that meaningful connection drives better ideas, stronger businesses, and a more collaborative beauty industry. Lauren previously served on the New York ������Ƶ Alumni Board for four years.

While much of the marketing world is obsessed with algorithms, Weickert focuses on the “science and soul” of human interaction. Her work aims to combat the modern “loneliness epidemic” by creating spaces that foster psychological safety, trust and a genuine sense of belonging.

“In today’s world, people aren’t buying the product anymore,” Weickert explains. “They are buying identity and how a brand makes them feel. That’s the future of experiential.”

Her expertise has earned her a spot on the 2024 Women We Admire’s Top 50 Women Leaders in North Carolina, a testament to her influence on the up-and-coming industry.

“There’s not a ton of experiential representation in our state, so it was nice to put our agency and our industry on the map,” she said.

Weickert’s reach extends globally as well through her work with the World Experience Organization, where she collaborates with fellow creators to design experiences that connect people.

“Experiences are the best form of ads and will be the only channel that matters in a world that is being inundated with AI, mistrust, a loneliness epidemic and a polycrisis,” she said.

Her rise to the top of the experiential marketing world began with a deep-seated curiosity about the human experience. Her career started in traditional advertising, where she quickly became exposed to the greater marketing ecosystem. Seeing all the many facets of marketing allowed her to find her true calling in experiential work.

“There was something soulful about experiential marketing; it was much deeper than a human being exposed to a digital ad on the screen, and I was drawn to that,” she said. “I felt instantly connected to this idea of using brand stories as a powerful tool to create connection and belonging amongst strangers.”

Weickert’s career was heavily influenced by her experience at ������Ƶ. She credits her classes at ������Ƶ for helping her thrive in her current role.

“My Business Communications class and my Public Speaking class both taught me how to effectively communicate with others in a concise yet compelling way, with lessons that I still use in my current role today,” she said.

Winter Term ended up being one of the most meaningful parts of her experience at ������Ƶ, especially due to one class centered on Woodstock.

“My Winter Term class explored the music surrounding the Woodstock era, both the cultural and artistic influences that led up to it and the ones that emerged in its wake,” she said. “What struck me most about the class was how deeply it invited us to reflect on the creative act itself. It taught me the biggest lesson above all: to always engage in experiences that leave you inspired, stay curious about the human experience, and expand your world into new realms of thinking.”

That mindset has stuck with her, and she now makes a point to seek out experiences that spark inspiration and bring those insights into her everyday work. Her work as head of strategy at XD Agency involves working with her team to discover “how people make sense of the world and turn it into category-shifting advantages for brands,” she explains.

Her job also consists of constant travel and high-pressure environments. For Weickert, she maintains a level head with a disciplined sense of gratitude, reminding herself how lucky she is to feel tired from a long week of traveling the world and how fortunate she is to meet unexpected people around the globe. She also looks to stay present through mid-day meditation or simply appreciating the moments.

Weickert points to one standout project as her favorite: Camp Poosh at the 2025 Coachella Festival, created for Kourtney Kardashian Barker’s brand Poosh.

The team transformed a massive Palm Desert estate into something entirely immersive, blending “color, texture, sound, nostalgia, and ritual” to create a space that tapped into what people crave most: novelty, belonging, and pleasure. What made the event especially memorable for Weickert was its carefully crafted sensory journey, which Weickert was a main part of creating. Guests flowed through an environment filled with contrasts, moving between workout classes, cold plunges, sound baths, DJ sets, and late-night celebrations that blurred self-care with nightlife.

“The brain loves contrast, so we leaned into it,” she explained, highlighting how each moment was designed to keep energy and engagement high. That philosophy culminated in a surprise performance by Heidi Montag, which, “turned the entire house electric.” The result was a perfectly balanced experience: “wellness that didn’t feel preachy” and “indulgence that didn’t feel guilty,” capturing what she calls a seamless blend of inscape and escape.

Her advice for those following in her footsteps? Put down the phone and connect with others.

“The only way you can understand what it means to be human is by exposing yourself to things that fundamentally make us human,” she said.

Weickert emphasizes the importance of prioritizing time outdoors to stay grounded. As algorithms increasingly shape our digital lives, it is essential to nurture a curiosity for the physical world, enabling us to become better communicators.

Do you know an alum who has an interesting story to tell, maybe even yourself? Please feel free to share your feedback or those stories online.

The 2026 results surpassed the previous high of $46,157.01 set during ������Ƶ Day 2025 and reflected broad engagement from alumni, students, parents and friends of the law school.

“There is an energy at ������Ƶ Law that you won’t find anywhere else,” said Assistant Dean of Development and Alumni Engagement Scott Leighty. “Philanthropy here is more than just giving. Every gift is a direct investment in this special community and the innovative way we prepare students for the profession. Seeing our alumni, students, parents and friends come together like this shows just how much they believe in our mission.”

In total, 178 donors made gifts on March 5, a 24.5% increase from the 143 donors who participated on ������Ƶ Day in 2025.

Participation increased across nearly every constituency group.

• Gifts from students rose sharply to 45 donors, up from eight last year — a 462.5% increase.
• Parent participation increased to 12 donors, up from eight, or 50%.
• Alumni participation also climbed, with 64 alumni making gifts compared with 56 last year, a 14.2% rise.

������Ƶ Day events and competitions were held throughout the day on March 5, including a large “E”-painting competition among student organizations and an evening celebration at Joymongers in downtown Greensboro. Perhaps the highlight was a Pie Your Professor event, with student donors lining up to hurl plates of whipped cream at Dean Zak Kramer, Professors Steve Friedland and Bob Minarcin, and Assistant Professors Erin Fitzgerald and Susan Ross.

Kramer praised the growing support for ������Ƶ Law and the community members who help make the annual day of giving successful.

“I want to thank everyone for their contributions, whether philanthropic, pitching in to make the day special, taking a pie to the face, or all of it,” Kramer said. “These gifts go directly to support our students and the opportunities that prepare them for the profession.”

Kramer also credited Leighty’s leadership in connecting with alumni and supporters, growing ������Ƶ Law’s momentum.

“Scott is doggedly pursuing financial support for our students,” Kramer said. “It’s not easy asking people for money, but our numbers keep increasing in a remarkably steep line. It’s a testament to his hard work and the great investment of our whole community.”

������Ƶ Day gifts help fund scholarships, student programs and experiential learning opportunities that define ������Ƶ Law’s innovative, practice-focused curriculum.

The growth in participation during ������Ƶ Day reflects a broader trend in philanthropy supporting ������Ƶ Law. The law school has seen steady increases in donor engagement over the past several years, underscoring the strength of its alumni network and the community’s investment in the next generation of lawyers.

In her role, McKay oversees academic support, development, health care administration, inclusion and belonging and leadership for student-athletes. She champions community service by organizing student-athlete programs during the ACC’s Unity Tours.

The Unity Tour is a conference-wide, immersive learning experience focused on unity, social responsibility, and civic engagement. McKay and her team have introduced over 300 student-athletes, coaches and administrators to different Unity Tour experiences in Washington, D.C., Charleston, South Carolina, and Selma, Alabama.

McKay graduated with a degree in sport and event management from ������Ƶ University before getting her master’s in higher education/student affairs and doctorate in higher education/higher education administration from The George Washington University.

In 2019, she gave the keynote address at the Department of Sport Management senior banquet and awards ceremony, and has served as an ������Ƶ Career Mentor, mentor to ������Ƶ’s Women Influencers in Sport program and as a member of the Women of ������Ƶ Advisory Council.

Distinguished Alumni Awards 

������Ƶ will recognize five alumni for their leadership, accomplishments and service during this year’s Distinguished Alumni Awards ceremony on May 1 at Snow Family Grand Atrium. Award recipients include:

Kent Strosnider ’91 P’25 
Distinguished Alumnus of the Year Award

This award is presented to an alumnus who has distinguished himself in a profession and in the community and brought honor to ������Ƶ.

A corporate communications major, Kent Strosnider is the managing director of The Strosnider Dudderar Wealth Management Group at Morgan Stanley, where he provides strategies and potential solutions to clients as they prepare for their financial objectives. One of Kent’s daughters, Sophie, also graduated from the university with a degree in strategic communications in 2025. Kent was a former Parents Council member from 2022-2025, and a member of the ������Ƶ Alumni Board from 2012-2015.

Joyel Crawford ’97 Distinguished Alumna of the Year Award

Awarded to an alumna who has distinguished herself in a profession and in the community and brought honor to ������Ƶ.

A psychology major, theater arts minor, and Isabella Cannon Leadership Fellow, Joyel Crawford is currently the CEO, Founder, Career Coach and Motivational Speaker at Crawford Leadership Strategies, LLC. She holds 20+ years of leadership development experience with clients including the U.S. Senate, NASA, The New York Times, ESPN, and Aramark. She is a consistent contributor to ������Ƶ programming as a speaker, webinar host and guest, and has served as an ������Ƶ Black Alumni Network Mentor since 2018.

From 2016-2019, Joyel was a member of the Philadelphia Alumni Board and was a member of the ������Ƶ Alumni Board from 2018-2021. In 2022, Joyel was the recipient of the ������Ƶ Black Alumni Gail Fonville Parker Distinguished Alumna Award, and in fall 2025, she joined President Connie Ledoux Book on the “������Ƶ Beyond the Bricks” podcast.

David Rich ’87 and Sue Hoggard Rich ’85 
Distinguished Service to ������Ƶ Award

Awarded to an organization, business, foundation or individual who has demonstrated outstanding service that promotes the advancement of ������Ƶ.

Alumni couple, David Rich and Sue Hoggard Rich, have shared many of the university’s moments and traditions. Sue, an English -journalism major, retired as the vice president of human resources at Glen Raven in 2023. David, a sociology major, retired as the global director – workplace etchnology support at Atos in 2022. Sue was a member of the ������Ƶ alumni Long Maroon Line at President Book’s inauguration and David served on the ������Ƶ Alumni Board from 2001-2007. David and his friends created the “������Ƶ 7 a.m. Tailgate” that is hosted prior to every home football game. Together, the couple are members of the 1889 society and give generously to the university in their time and unwavering spirit.

Hon. Stephen M. Ross ’73
Distinguished Alumni Service Award

Awarded to an alumnus or alumna who has given extraordinary service to his or her community.

A political science major, Steve Ross has held a long career in public service. A Burlington native, Steve served as the city’s mayor for two terms and on city council for four terms. He is currently serving his sixth term in the North Carolina House of Representatives, chairing both the Commerce and Economic Development Committee and the Finance Committee. Steve has held various volunteer positions and has been named one of Triad’s Most Influential People by the Triangle Business Journal.

Top 10 Under 10

The Office of Alumni Engagement and the Young Alumni Council have announced the 2026 Top 10 Under 10 award recipients, who will be celebrated during a May 2 ceremony in Snow Family Grand Atrium.

These 10 accomplished alumni from the past decade have achieved professional success, continuously work to better their communities and serve as loyal alumni role models.

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Policy Director and Counsel, Congressional Black Caucus 

Morgan Bodenarain graduated with degrees in policy studies and political science at ������Ƶ before completing law school at George Washington University in 2021. Morgan now serves as the Policy Director and Counsel for the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) in the 119th U.S. Congress, leading policy priorities and advocacy efforts for all 61 members. She was honored with the National Black Lawyers’ Top 40 Under 40 Award and the National Bar Association’s Nation’s Best Advocates Award in 2025.

Colby Bracy ’16 
Director of Human Resources & Philanthropy, The Nonantum Resort and Owner, Hello Humans Consulting

Colby Bracy graduated with a degree in accounting. Currently working at her family’s business, The Nonantum Resort, Colby has led the resort’s efforts to become a certified Recovery Friendly Workplace, championing the business’ efforts to hire individuals reentering the community following incarceration. Colby is also the owner of her own human resources consulting firm, Hello Humans Consulting, and holds many roles in local boards and committees. In 2024, she was honored with the North Star Award from the American Hotels and Lodging Association.

Michaela Fogarty ’19 
Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning Specialist; Upstream USA  

Michaela Fogarty graduated with a degree in international economics and began her professional career at Planned Parenthood Federation of America as a data analysis and visualization specialist before completing a Master of Health Science from Johns Hopkins University. After graduating from Johns Hopkins, Michaela worked at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill as a data manager in the division of global women’s health, and is now the monitoring, evaluation and learning specialist at Upstream USA, a nonprofit working to expand contraceptive access for all.

Michael Goldstein ’17 
Vice President, Guggenheim Partners

Michael Goldstein graduated with degrees in finance and accounting. Recently promoted from Investment Banking Associate to Vice President at Guggenheim Partners, Michael focuses on medical devices and technology and has helped advise on transactions exceeding $5 billion. In support of ������Ƶ students, Michael led the creation of the first annual award for an outstanding senior transfer student, as well as a new Goldstein Family Endowed Scholarship for transfer students in the Love School of Business.

Gary Grumbach ’16 
Legal Affairs Reporter, NBC News  

Gary Grumbach graduated with a degree in journalism. As the Legal Affairs Reporter for NBC News, Gary covers the Supreme Court and federal courts on-air and in print. His reporting has been recognized with three NBC GEM Awards, and team honors for coverage of the Trump trial and 2020 and 2024 elections. In 2025, Gary joined President Connie Ledoux Book on the “������Ƶ Beyond the Bricks” podcast.

Emmanuel Morgan ’19 
Sports Reporter, The New York Times

Emmanuel Morgan graduated with a degree in journalism. Having previously served as a Los Angeles Times sports reporter with a focus on the Los Angeles Rams and Chargers, Emmanuel is now a New York Times culture reporter, covering the NFL and combat sports nationally. In 2023, Emmanuel was awarded the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) Salute to Excellence Award – National Sports Coverage for his New York Times feature, “For Dreadlocked N.F.L. Players, Hair Is a Point of Pride”.

Daniela Pereyra ’16 
Real Estate Broker, Dalton Wade Real Estate Group and Founder, Dare to Jump

Daniela Pereyra graduated with a degree in cinema and television arts. Currently a real estate broker licensed in North Carolina and Delaware, Daniela is ranked as a Top Producer within her firm. Daniela is also the Founder of Dare to Jump, a hybrid series of seminars and coaching sessions for individuals and groups, focused on cultivating a growth mindset to elevate productivity and sustainable efforts.

Jensen Roll ’16 
President, Roll Construction

Jensen Roll graduated with a degree in social entrepreneurship and was an Isabella Cannon Leadership Fellow. He is the President of Roll Construction in Graham, North Carolina, a custom homebuilding and remodeling company serving Alamance, Guilford, and Orange counties. Since Roll Construction’s launch in 2018, Jensen has completed projects ranging from tiny homes to breweries and built a real estate portfolio of more than 20 properties by age 30. Jensen also founded The Alamance Mill coworking space and has been involved in the Alamance County Chamber of Commerce.

Nikki Sanz ’18 
Founder & CEO, GIGGS

Nikki Sanz graduated with a degree in sport and event management. After moving to Nashville with the goal of working on the road in the touring industry, Nikki secured diverse gigs from Eric Church to Super Bowl LVII. Nikki publicly launched GIGGS, a professional career platform for the live event industry in 2024, and the site has drawn 20,000 users seeking roles in touring and live events across 1,000 companies. In 2025, Nikki was named a Forbes 30 Under 30 in the music category.

Christian Seitz ’16
Postdoctoral Researcher for epidemic vaccine development, University of Chicago

Christian Seitz graduated with a degree in chemistry from ������Ƶ before completing a doctorate in biochemistry and biophysics with a specialization in multi-scale biology at UC San Diego in 2022. His accolades at graduation included four first author and nine total publications focusing on global diseases and molecular recognition in influenza. Currently a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Chicago, Christian is working with the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Initiative, designing vaccines to prepare the globe for the next pandemic through artificial intelligence in viruses and vaccine development.

The Women of ������Ƶ is an intergenerational network that connects members of the ������Ƶ community on campus and across the globe.

“When this initiative launched two years ago, the name Women of ������Ƶ was intentionally chosen to bring together everyone in the ������Ƶ community. But we also recognized the power within the acronym ‘WE.’ WE represents the collective power of women – how we can lead, learn, and thrive together,” said Michelle Wideman ’00, co-chair of the Women of ������Ƶ Advisory Council.

Held on March 13 and 14, the WEekend began with a kickoff discussion on authenticity featuring Kathie Niven ’89, president and CEO of Biscuitville, in conversation with ������Ƶ Professor of Sociology and Anthropology Alexis Franzese P’29.

Saturday’s programming included breakout sessions covering topics such as mastering LinkedIn, the power of female friendships, managing finances, utilizing soft skills, aging and living fully, protecting your personal brand and using artificial intelligence. A women’s health panel moderated by Dr. Terry Le, university physician, explored the physical, mental and emotional aspects of women’s wellness.

Health and wellness were a major focus of the luncheon fireside chat between President Connie Ledoux Book and nutrition expert Joy Bauer of the TODAY show. Bauer, a featured expert on NBC News Daily and a #1 New York Times bestselling author of 14 books, shared practical advice about nutrition and healthy living.

Speaking to the audience in LaRose Digital Theatre, Bauer encouraged attendees to adopt her “90/10” approach to food — prioritizing healthy choices most of the time while allowing room for enjoyment.

“A lot of people, especially women, they carry a lot of food baggage, and when you allow yourself this percentage or fraction (…) it’s very liberating,” she said.

Recognizing the range of ages in attendance and reinforcing the Women of ������Ƶ’s intergenerational focus, Bauer emphasized that health and nutrition evolve.

“Our bodies are not static,” she said. “But I wouldn’t say they betray us; they are evolving. Have a conversation with it and figure out what you can do to feel better is the name of the game.”

During a Q&A session, Bauer addressed audience questions on topics including the increased presence of protein in food products, planning healthy meals, the rise of GLP-1 medications, supplements and ways to reduce plastic use in the kitchen. She also encouraged attendees to look beyond sensational headlines and social media trends when it comes to nutrition advice.

“Get your blood checked annually and then personalize your nutrition according to that, because your body is not TikTok,” she said. “Charismatic people and influencers on Instagram and TikTok and all these other social platforms, they don’t know what’s going on with your insides, but your physician does, and your blood work does.”

Beyond the programming, the WEekend also highlighted the Women of ������Ƶ’s ongoing work to support students. One key initiative focuses on increasing the number of students who receive need-based internship support. While 88% of ������Ƶ students complete at least one internship, 43% of those internships are unpaid.

Recent support has helped advance that goal. A $250,000 gift from former ������Ƶ trustee Bill Herbert ’68 and his wife Marsha helped the Women of ������Ƶ surpass their $2.5 million fundraising goal three months ahead of schedule, bringing the total raised for internship support to $2,679,610.

“While the Herbert family’s gift helped push us past the goal, it was the collective power of Women of ������Ƶ that made this possible,” said Priscilla Awkard ’95, co-chair of the Women of ������Ƶ advisory council.

To see highlights from the weekend, .

, “WE Talk: Inside Careers in Communications & Entertainment,” moderated by Nneka Enurah ’11 on April 2.

Explore how to get involved by visiting the Women of ������Ƶ website.

William Rudd Jr. ’50 and James Robertson ’50 understood the value of friendship better than most people. After all, theirs lasted close to 80 years.

To honor his father and that friendship, Rudd’s son, Bill Rudd III, made a $100,000 gift to ������Ƶ’s HealthEU Center. In recognition of the gift, a plaque will be installed on the landing between the second and third floors of Dalton L. McMichael Sr. Science Center with the following inscription: “In honor of William G. Rudd Jr., and James E. Robertson, distinguished members of the Class of 1950, for their nearly 80 years as classmates, fellow WWII veterans, business partners and lifelong friends.”

The named space features a comfortable sitting area and plenty of natural light that Bill hopes will inspire students to gather and begin their own lifelong friendships. Rudd and Robertson studied the sciences at ������Ƶ, with Rudd majoring in pre-med and Robertson biology.

“I thought there needs to be a way to honor my father’s life, especially knowing that he and James had such a long friendship,” Bill said. “Nowadays, things are so transitory, including interactions between people, but you can’t put a value on 80 years of friendship.”

Bill Rudd Jr. grew up in the small rural community of Monticello in Guilford County, North Carolina, where he spent many hours working the family’s 75-acre tobacco farm. Robertson was raised about 30 miles north in Leaksville, North Carolina, near the town of Eden in Rockingham County. Both men grew up during the Depression, which made them resilient and appreciate what little money they had.

“I think that’s one of the things that bound them together, the modest circumstances in which they were born and lived,” Bill said.

The two met on ������Ƶ’s campus following their military service in World War II. Drafted in 1944, Rudd served in the Army’s 87th Infantry Division and fought in France during the Battle of the Bulge. Robertson enlisted in the Army Air Corp as a high school senior and served stateside as a radio operator. Both enrolled at ������Ƶ through the GI Bill and bonded over their shared military service, small-town roots and interest in science. When they weren’t studying, they passed the time playing cards and hanging out on campus. If they wanted to go anywhere, they had to hitchhike since neither had a car.

Following graduation, the two men returned to their hometowns, with Rudd working at Sears in Greensboro, while Robertson went to work at Duke Energy at the Dan River Station in Eden. Before long, Rudd joined his best friend at the utility company, where they worked together for nearly four decades.

“It was his first step in getting away from home and was a chance for him to see the world,” Bill recalled. “He did not want to live on a tobacco farm.”

In 1952, while still working at Duke Energy, Robertson opened his own business, Rockingham Insurance Agency, in an 800-square-foot brick building in Eden. His father had a successful career in insurance and Robertson wanted to continue that legacy. Rudd agreed to join Robertson as co-owner, proving that best friends can be successful business partners. They quickly developed a reputation for honesty among their clients and regularly drew on each other’s strengths to grow their business, including Robertson’s mastery of numbers.

“They both worked hard and treated people with dignity,” Bill said. “They never abused the responsibility they had for selling and serving insurance.”

“They were able to communicate with each other in a way that they respected each other and were there for each other in the good and the bad times,” added James’ son, George Robertson. “Life is tough and you have to be there for each other and they were.”

Both men were also loyal donors to ������Ƶ and visited campus as often as they could. Together they amassed nearly 60 years of annual giving to their university, primarily for scholarships, as a way of thanking ������Ƶ for their education.

Rudd and Robertson remained close, even after Rudd entered assisted living. Though his memory was fading, Rudd never forgot his best friend when he came to visit. Rudd passed away on October 3, 2023, and Robertson died four months later.

During a recent visit to campus, Bill Rudd reflected on how happy he was to continue his father’s legacy and that of his best friend.

“I feel a sense of accomplishment and fulfillment that carries on beyond their deaths,” he said. “In some ways, ������Ƶ has helped me to become who I am today, and I am forever grateful for that.”

About the HealthEU Center

The new HealthEU Center will integrate academics, wellness, campus recreation and fitness programs to ensure students gain the skills they need to thrive on campus and beyond.

The center is a key component of the Boldly ������Ƶ strategic plan and ������Ƶ’s broader HealthEU initiative that focuses on six dimensions of health and wellness: community, emotional, purpose, financial, physical and social. The three-story center will feature new classrooms, student-faculty research spaces, multiple floors for wellness and fitness activities, and the Mark and Kim Tyson Counseling Center, which will provide individual and group therapy, as well as workshops and outreach programs.

Currently under construction, the center is located within ������Ƶ’s Innovation Quad, home to the university’s engineering and other STEM programs, and scheduled to open in Fall 2026.

Many naming opportunities remain in the HealthEU Center, beginning at $50,000. Gift commitments may be made in full or with a pledge over five years. To find out how you can make an impact with your gift, contact Brian Baker, associate vice president for university advancement, at 336.278.7453 or bbaker7@elon.edu.