Performing Arts | Today at 乱伦视频 | 乱伦视频 /u/news Fri, 17 Apr 2026 21:14:42 -0400 en-US hourly 1 Four 乱伦视频 alumnae selected for the Fulbright U.S. Student Program /u/news/2025/06/19/four-elon-alumnae-selected-for-the-fulbright-u-s-student-program/ Thu, 19 Jun 2025 13:07:45 +0000 /u/news/?p=1020644 Three members of the Class of 2025 and one member of the Class of 2020 have been selected as finalists for the Fulbright U.S. Student Program. Founded in 1946, the Fulbright Program is the U.S. government鈥檚 flagship international educational exchange program designed to cross-cultural exchange and mutual understanding for the promotion of a more peaceful world. Finalists are not just funded to teach or research鈥攖hey are expected to serve as valuable cultural ambassadors in their respective host countries, both representing the United States and learning about their new communities.

乱伦视频 has been repeatedly recognized for the number of its alumni who participate in the Fulbright Program as teachers and researchers and has been named a top-producer of Fulbright students in six separate years. This year, 50% of 乱伦视频鈥檚 28 applicants were named semi-finalists in January.

The Fulbright Program has experienced unprecedented disruptions since January 2025. The review process, which is governed by extensive and detailed treaties between the US and host countries, requires an initial US review phase (during which semi-finalists are determined) followed by host-country review phase (during which the finalists are determined). This process ensured that host communities have the final say in which applicants are selected. This year, the host-country review phase was, according to multiple reports from host countries, followed by an additional round of scrutiny by the US State Department, and some host countries reported that upwards of 40% of their selected applicants were rejected. It is unclear if fewer grants were awarded overall as a result of this scrutiny.

A significant portion of the Fulbright U.S. Student Program staff were furloughed in March, which led to severe delays in fund dispersal and finalist announcements. This month, the Fulbright Foreign Scholarship Board, the presidentially-appointed board of directors that oversees the Fulbright Program, but is not responsible for its day-to-day operations, overwhelmingly voted to resign in response to the Trump Administration鈥檚 interference in the 2025 review process. The future of congressional funding for Fulbright remains in question.

Those who received awards this year are:

Margo Buchanan 鈥25

Margo Buchanan ’25

A double major in theatrical design & technology and political science with a minor in German studies, Margo Buchanan has been selected for a Fulbright grant to teach English in Germany. She is from Raleigh, North Carolina.

A Phi Beta Kappa graduate, Buchanan took every opportunity she could while at 乱伦视频 to learn about Germany. She conducted two-years of independent research about opera scenic design in Germany as an 乱伦视频 College Fellow, served as president of the German Club, and spent a semester studying abroad in Heidelberg, Germany. It was her semester abroad that inspired her to return to the region after graduation.

In addition to the Fulbright US Student Program in Germany, Buchanan was selected for the Teaching Assistantship Program of the Austrian Federal Ministry of Education (BMB), administered by Fulbright Austria. She will spend this summer working as a stage crew lead for the Santa Fe Opera before heading to Austria to teach English, where she is eager to build on the teaching and mentoring experience she began in high school.

Buchanan鈥檚 乱伦视频 mentors include her German professors, Kristin Lange and Scott Windham, and Luis Silva, technical director for the Department of Performing Arts.

Rachel Maccini 鈥25

Rachel Maccini ’25

Rachel Maccini, a double major in special education and middle grades mathematics with minors in psychology and German studies, has been selected for a Fulbright grant to teach English in Germany. The Phi Beta Kappa and Omicron Delta Kappa graduate is from Westford, Massachusetts.

At 乱伦视频, Maccini was a dedicated student educator who also served as the captain for the 乱伦视频 Cheer Team. She blended her interests in teaching with German studies, serving as a teaching and learning assistant for a German language course and earning entry into Delta Phi Alpha, the National German Honor Society. Maccini鈥檚 desire to live in Germany after graduation was solidified during her Winter Term course in Germany, and the Fulbright English Teaching Assistantship in Germany is what she describes as 鈥渢he perfect fit.鈥 After Fulbright, she plans to return to the US to work in education and hopes to utilize her experiences in German classrooms to support multilingual and neurodiverse students.

Maccini鈥檚 most influential 乱伦视频 mentor is Kristin Lange, who initially encouraged her to apply for Fulbright.

鈥淒r. Kristin Lange has made a huge impact on me,鈥 said Maccini. 鈥淗er love for the German language and her passion for teaching are truly contagious. Anyone who takes a class with her can feel it.鈥

Cristy Marin茅 鈥25

Cristy Marin茅 ’25

A double major in cinema & television arts (BFA) and strategic communications, Cristy Marin茅 has been selected for a Fulbright grant to pursue a master鈥檚 degree in creative industries at the University of Exeter in the United Kingdom. She is from Caracas, Venezuela and Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

Marin茅 was a highly engaged 乱伦视频 student who completed five internships鈥攊ncluding one in Los Angeles with E! News, and another with a photography studio in Sorrento, Italy鈥攁nd directed three short films. One in particular, 鈥淐orazones Dulces,鈥 centered on a Latina who grieves the loss of her grandmother through baking, and was the only film in Spanish at 2024 Cinelon Film Festival. The master鈥檚 in creative industries at Exeter, which will allow her to blend creative and business courses while interning with a British creative agency, is the natural next step in Marin茅鈥檚 goal of making short films that tell authentic聽stories about underrepresented groups.

Marin茅鈥檚 constellation of mentors is wide, including Staci Saltz, Youseff Osman, Kai Swanson, Jessalyn Strauss, Sylvia Mu帽oz and MJ Larrazabal.

鈥淎ll of my mentors at 乱伦视频 have challenged me in ways that have helped me grow into the person聽I am today, she said. 鈥淔or that, I am forever grateful.鈥

Celia Roskin 鈥20

Celia Roskin ’20

Celia Roskin, an elementary education major (policy studies minor) from the class of 2020, has been selected for a Fulbright grant to teach English in Taiwan. She is from Durham, North Carolina.

At 乱伦视频, Roskin cultivated her passions for teaching, language learning and cross-cultural exchange. She spent a Winter Term in Malawi teaching English to primary school students and a summer in Cordoba, Argentina, taking Spanish language classes at the local university. She also completed the Peace Corps Prep Program and volunteered with the Village Project and the Boys and Girls Club. These experiences prepared her for her current role as an Educational Resources Specialist at the Library of Congress, where she creates, coordinates and facilitates professional development for educators by utilizing primary sources from the Library’s collections.

鈥淚 continue to feel a calling to classroom聽teaching,鈥 she explained. 鈥淚’m ready to get out of my comfort zone and explore a new culture and different approaches to early education.鈥

A year as an English teaching assistant in Taiwan will allow Roskin to expand her teaching philosophy and pedagogy while exploring the Taiwanese approach to literacy education. She plans to return to the Library of Congress with new skills and resources to provide for US educators.

Roskin鈥檚 乱伦视频 mentors include education professors Erin Hone and Marna Winter.

乱伦视频 students and alumni interested in the Fulbright program or other nationally competitive fellowships are invited to contact the National and International Fellowships Office.

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An Evening for 乱伦视频: NYC celebrates the bold innovations of the university /u/news/2025/05/06/an-evening-with-elon-nyc-celebrates-the-bold-innovations-of-the-university/ Tue, 06 May 2025 17:01:35 +0000 /u/news/?p=1015061 More than 600 guests gathered on April 30 at Cipriani 42nd Street, New York City, to hear updates on 乱伦视频鈥檚 campus and celebrate their shared connection to the 乱伦视频 community.

A warmly lit, ornate auditorium displays two illuminated 鈥溌衣资悠碘 logos on the stone walls, with a large screen showing a colorful campus image on the right
The inside of the Cipriani 42nd Street, New York City.

The guests started the night mingling to the tune of smooth jazz at an event reception before being ushered to their seats to watch a video showcasing the connections alumni continue to foster with their alma mater. Kelsey McCabe 鈥16, New York City alumni chapter president took the stage to share her love for the university as well as congratulate the New York chapter on the community they鈥檝e built.

鈥淭his year we鈥檝e thrown some of our classic happy hours, amped up Women of 乱伦视频 activities even more, including the Central Park Walk scheduled for May 17, and have increased our social media presence,鈥 said McCabe.

After thanking the guests for their generosity towards the current students, she introduced President Connie Ledoux Book to the stage.

President Book began her university update by thanking Joan and Trustee Ed Doherty P’07 as it was their generosity that helped 乱伦视频 plant the roots of this gathering in New York years ago.

President Connie Ledoux Book speaks at a podium
President Connie Ledoux Book gives her remarks to the audience.

鈥淭hese evenings have a certain rhythm to them,” said Book. “The energy is warm and the conversations easy. There鈥檚 always this sense that we already know each other because at some point in our lives, we were shaped by the same place. That place on the bricks, in the classrooms, in the late nights and early mornings of our own becoming.鈥

Book pivoted to speak on Boldly 乱伦视频 the university’s strategic plan for 2030. She noted that the plan has already driven significant improvements, resulting in 乱伦视频 being ranked #1 nationally for undergraduate teaching by U.S. News & World Report.

鈥淭he nation鈥檚 best faculty are at 乱伦视频鈥攁head of Brown, Princeton, and others. That distinction speaks to the core of who we are: a university that puts students first鈥攁nd backs that promise up every day, in every classroom, in every interaction,鈥 said Book.

Two well-dressed men smile and raise glasses of wine at a formal event, surrounded by other attendees in an elegant venue.
Two guests pose together at the Evening for 乱伦视频 in New York event.

Her remarks also covered the improvement across campus. 乱伦视频鈥檚 Martha and Spencer Love School of Business, which was ranked #38 overall and in the top 25 among private colleges and universities in the nation by Poets&Quants’, is welcoming Haya Ajjan as the new dean of the school in June.

In the School of Communications, 乱伦视频 has added a new major in digital content management. Finally, in the arts, 乱伦视频 is one of the top 10 most-represented colleges on Broadway. That kind of recognition Book reflects is not just by talent but brought on by a community where artists are deeply supported鈥攁nd prepared to perform.

Attendees also learned that the Eco-Village is thriving as a living-learning community developed with a sustainable design and a leader in the university鈥檚 sustainability efforts. On the heels of the Eco-Village, 乱伦视频 launched a new Sustainability Master Plan, doubling down on efforts to be carbon neutral by 2037 leaving the community a cleaner, healthier place for all.

Book wrapped up by touching on HealthEU the second largest capital project in 乱伦视频鈥檚 history, a campus-wide center for wellness before introducing Stephanie Ainsworth 鈥21 and Reagan Ogle 鈥18 to the stage.

Stephanie Ainsworth 鈥21 and Reagan Ogle 鈥18 performed their rendition of 鈥淕et Happy/Happy Days Are Here Again鈥 originally sung by Barbra Streisand and featuring Judy Garland.

Two people sing on a stage with microphones
Stephanie Ainsworth 鈥21 and Reagan Ogle 鈥18 performed their rendition of 鈥淕et Happy/Happy Days Are Here Again.鈥

Jim Piatt, senior vice president for university advancement and external affairs, provided closing remarks, focusing on growing stronger together, ending the night with the well-known song, 鈥淣ew York, New York.”

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乱伦视频 exercise science, performing arts and physical therapy collaborate to celebrate National Biomechanics Day /u/news/2025/04/16/elon-exercise-science-performing-arts-and-physical-therapy-collaborate-to-celebrate-national-biomechanics-day/ Wed, 16 Apr 2025 15:55:50 +0000 /u/news/?p=1012721 More than 50 students and four high school teachers from Burlington joined 乱伦视频鈥檚 Doctor of Physical Therapy Program, Department of Exercise Science and Performing Arts students, staff and faculty to celebrate National Biomechanics Day, which has been held annually since 2016.

A group of students and an instructor gather around a table in a classroom setting. One student is arm wrestling while others observe and engage. The atmosphere appears hands-on and collaborative, with medical or technical equipment visible in the background.
Participants arm wrestling while wearing the electromyography sensors to record muscle activity at the strength station under Associate Professor of Exercise Science Matt Wittstein鈥檚 supervision.

All the students who attended are on the health science track at CTEC, and the high school faculty were also health science teachers, so the event helped showcase potential endeavors for these students at 乱伦视频.

鈥淭hey could see the campus, departments, and labs and what they could look like,鈥 said Srikant Vallabhajosula, professor of physical therapy education. 鈥淲hen we train our volunteers, we tell them to explain the purpose of the activity at their station, some applications based on what they learned in their class and in their clinical experiences, how they鈥檙e seeing it being used or where it could be used, or how you can use these tests from the stations to evaluate health. We try to give a comprehensive perspective on the applications of the activities at the stations.鈥

The students were divided into four groups to work on different stations related to biomechanics. They included movement activities like measuring jumping, balance, heel-to-toe walking and strength. The high school students also saw a live demonstration of state-of-the-art technology like how a marker-less motion capture system works in the biomechanics lab, which can be applied for health and sports science fields.

鈥淚t was something fun and educating for them,鈥 said Vallabhajosula. 鈥淭he beauty of it was we had faculty members from exercise science and physical therapy departments, DPT students and undergraduate students as volunteers. It was nice that the high school students could see them as role models. It was a good mix of both volunteers who were showing how to do the stations, and the students who attended.鈥

Three students are gathered around a balance-testing machine. One student stands on the circular platform of the device while looking at the screen, while the other two observe and monitor the process. They are in a brightly lit room with a whiteboard in the background, indicating a classroom or lab setting.
A high school student tests her limits of balance as part of the balance station with the DPT and undergraduate volunteers guiding her.

Exercise Science faculty members, Jacob Gdovin and Matt Wittstein, along with physical therapy education faculty members 聽Alys Giordano and Katy Bales, helped conduct the event.

“As health science educators, we聽value the opportunity to provide our students with hands-on learning opportunities. Our partnership with 乱伦视频 does just this! What an enriching day Biomechanics Day was for our students, to learn from professors and students in state-of-the-art labs through simulations is an experience our students will long remember,鈥 said Terri聽Andrews, CTEC health science educator, who attended the event with her students.

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Dance Works strikes a pose on Feature Phoenix /u/news/2024/12/11/dance-works-strikes-a-pose-on-feature-phoenix/ Wed, 11 Dec 2024 20:44:43 +0000 /u/news/?p=1002843 The Feature Phoenix series is a way for all students to learn about student organizations and clubs and how they are being inclusive on campus. Episode 14 introduces Mackenzie Perry ’26, who serves as vice president of operations for 乱伦视频鈥檚 Dance Works.

Dance Works is a student-run dance organization that invites all interested in dance to join.聽The organization’s goal is for those with a passion for dance to come and find their home with Dance Works. There are multiple styles of dance taught in class ranging from ballet, jazz, hip hop and more.

Along with dance classes for all, Dance Works also has a Winter Showcase and Spring Showcase. Everyone is allowed to participate in these events, where student choreography is highlighted. The showcases are an opportunity to show what the student dancers have learned through teaching and choreography during their performance.

The Dance Works offers information about upcoming events, and a calendar. The organization strives to build confidence, inspire, create friendship and more. Dance Works email, social media accounts and upcoming events are available on聽. The organization also posts about classes, auditions, merchandise and more on their .

鈥淎 value that Dance Works holds close to our hearts is praxis, especially our board. We definitely hold each other accountable when it comes to reserving space, requesting food or chairs and more,鈥 said Perry.

In the video, Perry shares some goals of Dance Works and how the organization聽is inclusive: “All the costumes fit everyone, there is diversity within sizes,” she said.

Feature Phoenix is a great way to learn about the clubs and organizations that 乱伦视频 has to offer and how inclusive excellence is ingrained on the 乱伦视频 campus. The series features clubs and organizations of different types that bring together people around a range of topics. Find the newest video on the鈥Inclusive Excellence website鈥痑nd visit the鈥痶o find past videos.

 

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Danielle Biggs ’15: A lifelong desire to give back /u/news/2024/10/22/danielle-biggs-15-a-lifelong-desire-to-give-back/ Tue, 22 Oct 2024 21:02:16 +0000 /u/news/?p=998903 Danielle Biggs 鈥15 exemplifies servant leadership, demonstrating how an 乱伦视频 education can inspire a lifelong commitment to community service and meaningful change. Biggs came to 乱伦视频 on scholarships that significantly impacted her journey.

“Those financial investments in my college education helped me complete my academic programs and allowed for some of the most life-changing international and domestic study abroad opportunities I participated in,鈥 said Biggs.

Danielle Biggs '15
Danielle Biggs ’15

Among these opportunities was a transformative Winter Term in Ghana. This opportunity connected her to her African heritage, igniting her passion for service and her desire to uplift communities through her work.

鈥淎 family scholarship made it possible for me to have a signature 鈥樎衣资悠 study abroad experience鈥 by spending the entire 2014 Winter Term in Ghana as part of a 14-student performing arts and history tour of the West African nation led by former 乱伦视频 dance professor Jason Aryeh,” explained Biggs.

乱伦视频鈥檚 commitment to community engagement resonated deeply with Biggs, especially through the Isabella Cannon Leadership Fellows Program.聽The program instilled in her the importance of using one鈥檚 unique skills and networks to bring about meaningful change.

鈥淭he mantra of 鈥榯hink globally and act locally鈥 has framed much of my life鈥檚 work,鈥 said Biggs. 鈥淲hen we all act locally, the ripple effect can be felt on a global scale. Every generation can advance our local and global society if we each play our unique parts.鈥

The ideas she took out of the Leadership Fellows program inspired her life of service to others. Biggs鈥 career began with her early passion for the arts. Initially aspiring to join a professional dance company, but her time at 乱伦视频 shifted her focus toward arts administration.

鈥淚t was at 乱伦视频 that I started to become fascinated with the business aspect of the arts, the behind-the-scenes foundation that makes all of our access to the arts possible,鈥 says Biggs.

By double-majoring in arts administration and dance choreography, Biggs laid the groundwork for a career that combined her love for the arts with her commitment to community service.

Three people stand together at the Delacorte Theater
Danielle Biggs working on a Delacorte Theater event in New York City in 2019.

After graduating, she entered the nonprofit sector, working at the McCarter Theatre Center in Princeton, New Jersey, where she developed her fundraising and development skills. This role solidified her belief in the power of the arts to bring people together. Biggs acknowledges that some of her skill set is largely thanks to the classes and experiences she had during her time at 乱伦视频.

鈥淚 credit a lot of my confidence with public speaking and taking command of a meeting room, giving presentations and overall aspects of leadership in the workspace to countless hours spent in the bright lights of McCrary Stage at 乱伦视频,鈥 she explained.

Danielle Biggs dancing at Whitley Hall with other dancers
Danielle Biggs dancing at Whitley Hall after her Ghana trip.

Biggs continued to expand her expertise through positions in notable arts organizations, including The Public Theater in New York City. Throughout her transitions, her dedication to servant leadership remained evident. Biggs had several different careers, but throughout them, she noticed the strength of 乱伦视频 and the success of the alumni.

鈥淲hen I encounter fellow 乱伦视频 alumni in a professional or personal setting, the environment is elevated and shifts 鈥 we know to expect the best and we naturally strive for greatness,鈥 she said.

In the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, Biggs seized the opportunity to pivot her career toward the corporate sector. Seeking to reconceptualize her relationship with the arts, positioning it as a cherished aspect of her life rather than her sole profession.

鈥淚 knew it was time for a career shift because I wanted to reach back and support the nonprofit sector that laid the foundation for my career,鈥 she said.

This decision led her to earn a master鈥檚 degree in education policy and leadership at American University in Washington, D.C. Now,聽she is a proud member of the Aon business community, a global corporation dedicated to social responsibility. The company provides insurance, risk management and other financial services to companies and communities around the world. This switch to corporate America was a new but exciting challenge to undertake, but Biggs knew that she wouldn’t be leaving her past of social service behind.

鈥淚 love that Aon has values and a mission rooted in the betterment of society through the strengthening and protection of communities,鈥 says Biggs.

Her previous nonprofit experience allows her to contribute meaningfully to corporate social responsibility initiatives, blending her professional responsibilities with her commitment to community enhancement.

鈥淭hough I am now part of corporate America, I contribute much of my life鈥檚 success to the performing arts and to the training I received in the dance and arts administration programs at 乱伦视频,鈥 she explained.

Danielle Biggs ’15 in 2014.

She remains committed to her role as a servant leader in her community, even after relocating to New York City: 鈥淭he opportunities to contribute as a servant leader are endless in there,” she said.

Biggs has taught Zumba and dance fitness classes in East Harlem, promoting health and wellness in her new community. Her involvement continues through her work with the Sullivan Foundation, which was created to support and honor service-oriented college students and faculty. Biggs received the Algernon Sydney Sullivan Award in 2015.

鈥淭o be recognized not just for academic achievements, but for service and leadership鈥攊t felt like the perfect end to my time at 乱伦视频,鈥 Biggs reflected.

The award is given out to students with exemplary acts in leadership, service, and a commitment to others. Biggs continues to serve as a leader for the organization, including as a masterclass coach, a member of the alumni advisory council and a local alumni community organizer.

鈥淢y time at 乱伦视频 instilled in me the importance of community engagement and effective leadership,鈥 said Biggs. 鈥淩egardless of where my career has taken me, the focal point has and will always be community development and the strengthening of society.鈥

Her journey reflects the profound impact of 乱伦视频 on her commitment to
servant leadership, while her multifaceted roles鈥攕panning the arts, nonprofit, and corporate sectors鈥攄emonstrate her dedication to fostering positive change in her community. As she continues to inspire others through her various endeavors, she remains a shining example of how education can fuel a lifelong desire to give back and create a lasting impact.

Danielle Biggs in cap and gown with diplomas
Danielle Biggs at 乱伦视频’s commencement in 2015.
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乱伦视频 dance program hosts dance company Urban Bush Women /u/news/2024/07/17/elon-dance-program-hosts-dance-company-urban-bush-women/ Wed, 17 Jul 2024 12:31:59 +0000 /u/news/?p=988989 The Brooklyn based dance company, Urban Bush Women (UBW), held workshops with 乱伦视频 students during a residency in February 2024.

The visit was hosted by the Department of Performing Arts Dance Program.UBW was founded by Jawole Willa Jo Zollar as a 鈥減erformance ensemble dedicated to exploring the use of cultural expression as a catalyst for social change.鈥 UBW is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year and one of their performance engagements includes the American Dance Festival in Durham, North Carolina on July 17 and 18. The founder will receive the American Dance Festival Lifetime Achievement award on opening night.

Co-Artistic Director of Urban Bush Women Chanon Judson, taught a class to Performing Arts majors.

Associate Professor of Dance Jen Guy Metcalf organized the UBW residency along with faculty in the dance program. Members of the company led workshops on February 19 and 20 for students enrolled in dance courses. Assistant Professor of Dance Keshia Wall had the opportunity to observe her students participate in a class.

鈥淭he members of UBW conducted an engaging and insightful class, seamlessly blending elements of dance, community building, and historical perspectives. The session left a lasting impression on both the students and myself, instilling a sense of inspiration and motivation to further cultivate the connections and discussions introduced during their session.鈥

Performing Arts students in dance class workshop taught by members of Urban Bush Women.

Over 50 students from the Department of Performing Arts participated in the classes. Madi Boyer 鈥24, a dance science major, said that the class provided a meaningful way to connect her recent study abroad experience to the art of dance.

鈥淢y experience in class with Urban Bush Women was pure bliss for multiple reasons. However, my favorite part of the class was the emphasis of the African diaspora. This emphasis allowed me to apply my recent experience in Tanzania, Africa to my art and connect on a deeper level. Layering past experiences to new experiences helped me focus on not only the dance moves but the heart behind it all.鈥

Some students noted the emphasis on community during the classes facilitated by members of UBW. Jessica Werfel 鈥24, a double major in dance performance & choreography and arts administration, said the company members reignited her passion for community-based dance. Evelyn Ealey 鈥26, a double major in dance performance & choreography and strategic communications appreciated the approach to the class.

鈥淭he experience that Urban Bush Woman provided for us was unique, dynamic, and highlighted the importance聽of community in the performing arts space. Their family-like approach to class fostered a safe, supportive, and creative space for both the dancers and company members to express themselves through movement.鈥

Performing arts students in dance class workshop taught by members of Urban Bush Women.
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Paying it forward: McDonnell family makes $100,000 gift to HealthEU Center /u/news/2024/06/11/paying-it-forward-mcdonnell-family-makes-100000-gift-to-healtheu-center/ Tue, 11 Jun 2024 15:46:19 +0000 /u/news/?p=986704 乱伦视频 parents Michael and Marissa McDonnell P’24 have made a $100,000 gift to support the university’s new聽HealthEU Center.

The Mendham, New Jersey parents wanted to show their gratitude to 乱伦视频 by supporting the center, which will be a hub for health and wellness initiatives located within the Innovation Quad.

鈥淲e wanted to give something back to 乱伦视频 given the great experience our family has had and the wonderful education our daughter Whitney received,鈥 Michael McDonnell said.

The McDonnells believe strongly in the mission of the HealthEU Center and educating students about all aspects of wellness and well-being, including taking care of their physical and emotional health. This is particularly important following the COVID-19 pandemic and the rise of social media, which can further isolate young people.

鈥淲e are big believers that mental health awareness and getting treatment options are critical to our society,鈥 Michael said.

Dr. Marissa McDonnell, a retired pediatrician, agrees, noting that many students missed out on important milestones in their lives, including high school proms and graduations due to the pandemic, which led to a loss of community.

鈥淐reating community again and bringing those elements and services together in one center is so important,鈥 Marissa said. 鈥淲ithout question this is something that is a great fit for us to help with.鈥

乱伦视频 has set a $25 million fundraising goal to help make the HealthEU Center a reality. To date, donors have contributed $7 million to the project, which will bring academic, wellness, campus recreation and fitness programs together under one roof to support student success.

A rendering of the courtyard and main entrance of the new HealthEU Center to be built at 乱伦视频.

The new center is an integral component to the university鈥檚 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, workshops and training programs focused on health and wellness, the HealthEU Center will impact all students as they progress through their education and learn essential skills and practices to thrive on campus and throughout each stage of their lives.

The McDonnells were impressed with 乱伦视频鈥檚 thoughtful design of the facility and its focus on educating the mind, body and spirit of every student.

鈥淥ne of the big objectives we always had with our children鈥檚 education was that they learn how to think,鈥 Michael said. 鈥淲hatever career you are going into, you need to be able to think clearly and know how to deliver consistently. It鈥檚 hard to be consistent when you鈥檙e struggling with mental health, so if this center can help young people learn how to manage their mental health and be consistent in their activities, this will help them be successful.鈥

鈥淚 hope that other universities pay attention to what 乱伦视频 is doing,鈥 added Marissa. 鈥淚f everyone had access to a model similar to the HealthEU Center, it would make a tremendous impact on improving the mental health of our young adults.鈥

A ‘rock-steady foundation’

Whitney McDonnell 鈥24 graduated with a degree in drama & theatre studies and arts administration, along with a minor in . Among the highlights of her education was participating in the Semester at Sea program in partnership with the International Student Exchange (ISE), which took her to Amsterdam, Cyprus, Dubrovnik, Morocco and Kenya among other locations.

鈥溌衣资悠 ignited my passion for the entertainment industry and encouraged me to bring my perspective to make the arts more inclusive and innovative,鈥 Whitney wrote on LinkedIn. 鈥淚 am truly grateful for the rock-steady foundation upon which I will build a career and make a difference in the creative sector.鈥

The McDonnells鈥 gift will also establish an 乱伦视频 Engagement Scholarship to help enroll students eager to take advantage of the university鈥檚 nationally recognized engaged learning curriculum.

Michael McDonnell serves as executive vice president and chief financial officer at Biogen and Marissa McDonnell is president of Schiff Natural Lands Trust in Mendham, New Jersey.

Make An Impact

Many naming opportunities are available in the HealthEU Center, beginning at $50,000. Gift commitments may be made in full or with a pledge over a period of 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.

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乱伦视频 in Los Angeles students make new 鈥淔riends鈥 /u/news/2024/02/13/elon-in-los-angeles-students-make-new-friends/ Tue, 13 Feb 2024 17:37:48 +0000 /u/news/?p=971346 After an exciting first week in Los Angeles that included unprecedented rainstorms and a small shake from an earthquake, 乱伦视频 in LA students celebrated the arrival of great weather this past Saturday with a great day at Warner Bros. Studios.

乱伦视频 in LA students visit the set of “Friends.” From left, top row: Mason Kaiser, Will Calkins, Cristy Marine, Aniya Arnold, Kaitlyn Hannan, Christian Kelly, Jose Alex. From left, bottom row: Kelly Locke, Jenivee Bevan, Kaelyn Rosenberg, Claire Cohen, Griffin Powell.

Their behind-the-Hollywood-magic tour included a visit to the set of the blockbuster sitcom hit 鈥淔riends,鈥 which was just one highlight of the day.

Students started their second week of the program today with a full schedule ahead of great opportunities and fascinating discoveries.

Students attending spend their semester in academic classes taught by industry professionals, at internships that offer up invaluable learning experiences, and being immersed in the exciting culture, history and diverse communities of greater Los Angeles.

Applications for the summer and fall programs are open through March 15.

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乱伦视频 Cares 2024 to raise resources for Broadway Cares/Equity Fights Aids /u/news/2024/01/09/wednesday-elon-cares-2024-to-raise-resources-for-broadway-cares-equity-fights-aids/ Tue, 09 Jan 2024 15:44:55 +0000 /u/news/?p=968155 The Gender & LGBTQIA Center (GLC) is excited to partner with a group of 乱伦视频 performing arts students for 乱伦视频 Cares 2024, the annual benefit cabaret to support the national nonprofit . The nonprofit helps people聽receive lifesaving medications, health care, nutritious meals, counseling and emergency financial assistance.

This year’s group of students has been rehearsing since early January for dual performances on Jan. 10 at 7 and 9 p.m. Both performances will be in the Yeager Recital Hall.

鈥溌衣资悠 Cares is such a beautiful opportunity to not only showcase student work, but also to celebrate queerness,” said聽Derick Donato Roberto ’26, who is on the creative team.

After doubling their fundraising goal in 2023, the students are hoping to raise $2,000 this year. For more information about the event including how to help 乱伦视频 Cares meet its fundraising goal visit鈥www.elon.edu/glc/eloncares. Each donation comes with an entry into a raffle for various prizes. Prizes from previous years have included tickets to see Broadway shows, signed Broadway Playbills and posters, and one-on-one online coaching sessions with Performing Arts Alumni.

鈥淭his event is used to center queer community, joy, art, and resources. It鈥檚 been an honor to serve as one of the Artistic Directors for my second year 鈥 it鈥檚 a lot of work given, but everyone works so hard to put on a great show and the outcome is always really spectacular,”聽Roberto said.

Donations聽by cash or check will be collected at the performances. To make online donations, visit for more information about Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS.

“So many 乱伦视频 Music Theatre alumni who are on Broadway, national tours or working in the industry in some capacity are super eager to donate their time/services as a raffle for this event,鈥 Roberto said.

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A Will to Lead: Generous estate gift from 乱伦视频 alumnus Wayne T. Moore 鈥49 endows professorship /u/news/2023/12/14/a-will-to-lead-generous-estate-gift-from-elon-alumnus-wayne-t-moore-49-endows-professorship/ Thu, 14 Dec 2023 14:00:51 +0000 /u/news/?p=966262 Alumnus Wayne T. Moore 鈥49 dedicated his life to teaching and sharing his passion for classical music with students.

In 2009, he and his wife, Elizabeth, made a $500,000 estate gift to establish the Fletcher Moore Distinguished Emerging Scholar Professorship to support faculty and honor the achievements of his late brother, a 1934 alumnus and gifted pianist and organist who was a member of 乱伦视频鈥檚 music faculty for more than 40 years. Wayne Moore passed away in 2022 and proceeds from his estate have now funded the professorship.

Moore鈥檚 niece, Laurel Moore Bradley G鈥89, who earned her MBA at 乱伦视频, and niece-in-law, Darlene Moore, fondly recall their uncles.

鈥淲ayne and Fletcher Moore were the 鈥榤usic men鈥 of our family,鈥 they said. 鈥淭hey were both truly talented and shared their love for music through their long careers in teaching and performing.鈥

鈥淭he 乱伦视频 community is grateful to Wayne and Elizabeth Moore for this wonderful gift that will strengthen the university鈥檚 national leadership in engaged teaching and learning,鈥 Provost Rebecca Kohn said. 鈥淭he legacy of Wayne and Fletcher Moore will live on in the work of outstanding scholars who will hold this professorship.鈥

The Moore family has strong ties to 乱伦视频 that span multiple generations. After earning his undergraduate degree in music in 1949, Wayne Moore went on to earn a master鈥檚 degree in music from Columbia University the following year. He then served in the Army in Virginia and Germany before returning to teach music at 乱伦视频 and serve as organist and choirmaster at the Church of the Holy Comforter in Burlington.

Following a year of music study in Vienna, Austria, Moore returned to Columbia and earned a doctorate in education. He later taught organ at Mississippi Woman鈥檚 University and the University of Northern Colorado before joining the music faculty at Auburn University, where he taught for 31 years before being named professor emeritus. During his teaching career, Moore performed organ recitals throughout the Southeast as well as at the National Cathedral in Washington, D.C. He also presented annual recitals in New York, performing at the Cathedral of St. John the Divine, St. Patrick鈥檚 Cathedral, St. Thomas Episcopal Church and Columbia University.

Wayne and Elizabeth Moore鈥檚 philanthropy at 乱伦视频 spanned seven decades, including gifts to scholarships and athletics and to name a faculty office in the Center for the Arts for Fletcher Moore. The couple also endowed a music scholarship in Wayne鈥檚 name and made a gift to Belk Library to expand its book and score collection of classical music and opera, which Wayne said were 鈥渓ike the Bible or Shakespeare.鈥

鈥淓very time you listen, even if you鈥檝e read them 100 times, you learn new things,鈥 said Moore. Elizabeth Moore was a vocalist and pianist and taught voice at 乱伦视频 from 1953 to 1956. She passed away in 2004.

Fletcher Moore ’34

After graduating from 乱伦视频, Fletcher Moore studied music at The Juilliard School and Teachers College at Columbia University, where he earned a master鈥檚 degree in 1935. Following service in the Army, Fletcher returned to 乱伦视频 and served as a member of the music faculty from 1937 to 1980, inspiring generations of students and alumni to pursue careers in music and the performing arts. In 1990, 乱伦视频 established the C. Fletcher Moore Award in his honor, which is given each year to an outstanding patron of the arts. Fletcher Moore died in 1994.

Additional family members with ties to 乱伦视频 include Laurel Moore Bradley鈥檚 husband, Richard Bradley 鈥88, and her parents, Willard and Betty Moore, who both attended 乱伦视频.

Brian Feeley 鈥03, assistant vice president for university advancement and director of planned giving, said the estate gift from Wayne and Elizabeth Moore helps build an essential pipeline of funding for 乱伦视频 in the decades ahead.

鈥淲hen alumni place 乱伦视频 in their estate plans, they make a powerful statement about their belief in an 乱伦视频 education and talented faculty to transform lives,鈥 Feeley said. 鈥淲e believe there is no better investment than 乱伦视频 students and helping prepare outstanding leaders to guide our future.鈥

A Will to Lead is a special initiative to encourage alumni, parents and other members of the campus community to establish a legacy at 乱伦视频 by placing the university in their estate.

To learn more about making an estate gift to 乱伦视频, contact Brian Feeley 鈥03 at (336) 278-7474 or bfeeley@elon.edu. You may also visit for more information on planned giving.

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