Patrick Murphy G鈥�01

Assistant vice president for financial aid

Patrick Murphy joined Elon at the beginning of 1994 as bursar for Elon College to find a career that would, as he put it, add positivity to his day. Retiring at the end of the month, Murphy has served in a myriad of roles at Elon, including director of financial aid, senior associate dean and director of financial aid and assistant vice president for financial aid.

During the Faculty/Staff Awards Luncheon, Greg Zaiser, vice president for enrollment, credited Murphy with quietly and deliberately supporting Elon鈥檚 growth from a regional college to national and international distinction.

鈥淲hat I know now is because of Pat鈥檚 patience, accessibility and strong desire for success,鈥� added Zaiser.

After retirement, Murphy looks forward to spending more time with his wife and his five grandchildren, who are all under the age of six. He says his favorite memory at Elon was picking up astronaut and former senator John Glenn and his wife from the airport and guiding them across campus to multiple events.

鈥淚 will miss the people I work with,鈥� he said. 鈥淓lon has been the only place I worked where my friends are also people I work with.鈥�

Beth McCain

Assistant teaching professor of accounting

Beth McCain joined Elon in 2016 teaching part-time as an adjunct after teaching at a community college. She was hired permanently in 2021 as a lecturer and also served as the director of the Master of Science accounting program. She retired on December 31, 2025.

While at Elon, McCain led January Term study abroad courses to Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam and was the inaugural faculty member for the Martha and Spencer Love School of Business study abroad program in Singapore.

At the Faculty/Staff Awards Luncheon, Catherine Chiang, professor of accounting and chair of the department of accounting, described McCain as one of the most dedicated and student-centered educators she had the privilege of knowing. 鈥淵our decade of service has shaped careers, strengthened our programs and raised the standards for what it means to be an Elon educator,鈥� said Chiang.

McCain returned the compliments to her department chair and gave a shoutout to Linda Poulson, who gave McCain 鈥渁 chance鈥� and also to her husband, who was in attendance.

Now retired, McCain is volunteering for Guilford County Animal Services in Greensboro and taking a French course at Elon in preparation for a three-month trip to France in the fall. Reflecting on her time at Elon, McCain said, 鈥淚 will greatly miss the amazing faculty and staff that I worked with as well as relationships that I developed with my students over the years.鈥�

Linda Niedziela

Associate professor of biology and chair of the Department of Biology

Linda Niedziela joined Elon in 2001 excited to teach courses in genetics and biotechnology. She was attracted to the university鈥檚 strengths in undergraduate education and undergraduate research. She will retire at the end of May after serving in a myriad of roles, including biology department chair, assistant professor, associate professor, director of the science branch of Elon College Fellows and the Japheth E. Rawls chair for undergraduate research in science.

Niedziela said she will miss what she calls the 鈥渄aily therapy sessions.鈥� She shared that every day during the semester, whoever is able will meet for lunch on the first floor of McMichael and discuss wide-ranging topics, including teaching tips, research reports, personal stories about families and pets and anything else that is on the mind of lunch attendees.

She said, 鈥淚 will miss the wonderful faculty and staff colleagues in the biology department who have become like family to me.鈥�

After retirement, Niedziela and her husband, Carl, an adjunct assistant professor of biology at Elon, who will also be retiring, will travel with their dogs in an airstream travel trailer and spend time in their woodworking shop. She will also be devoting more time training and competing with her Shetland sheepdog in performance dog sports.

Anthony Hatcher

Professor of journalism and chair of the Journalism Department

Anthony Hatcher joined Elon in 2002 and has served as associate professor of journalism, full professor of journalism and the inaugural chair of the Department of Journalism.

Hatcher said he did not have a passport until he joined Elon in his early 40鈥檚. 鈥淪ince 2004, I have taken students to Hong Kong, South Africa and multiple European countries,鈥� he reflected. Hatcher also created a religion and media course in his first year, which he taught every year since.

One of those colleagues, Harlen Makemson, professor of communication design, praised Hatcher at the Faculty/Staff Luncheon for Hatcher鈥檚 empathy and humanity during what he described as a time of upheaval in the media world, brought on by new technologies. 鈥淎nd while it’s true that Anthony Hatcher serves on virtually every major standing committee at Elon, it’s his humanity, his warmth and his care, that is his most impactful service to his university.鈥�

鈥淚 will miss being with students, and I will miss seeing my colleagues 鈥撀爉y friends 鈥撀燿aily or weekly,鈥� said Hatcher. During the ceremony, he added, 鈥淚 hope in addition to teaching all those wonderful students I鈥檝e had over the past nearly quarter century, I hope in some small way, I made their lives a little better because God knows they helped me be better.

After retirement, Hatcher looks forward to biking, hiking, travel and spending time with his granddaughter. 鈥淲riting will be part of retirement as well, since I can鈥檛 sing or paint,鈥� he added.

Robert Moorman

Frank S. Holt, Jr. professor of business leadership and professor of organizational behavior

Robert Moorman joined Elon as the Frank Holt Jr professor of business leadership in 2011, a title he held throughout his time at Elon. Retiring in May, Moorman has also served as the department chair for the Department of Management, Entrepreneurship and International Business.

During the Faculty, Staff Awards Luncheon, Haya Ajjan, dean of the Martha and Spencer Love School of Business and professor of management information systems, shared that Moorman has a gift few others do 鈥撀爐he ability to ask the types of questions that 鈥渕ake you stop walking, look around at where you actually are and suddenly see it鈥 question that stays with you for the rest of your life.鈥� Ajjan offered Moorman a golf club afterwards in the spirit of his retirement.

During the ceremony, Moorman shared that education is so much more than reading books and looking at stats. 鈥淚t鈥檚 really about the relationships we have,鈥� he said. 鈥淚t’s the relationships with our students and the utter joy of seeing people cycle through during this really important time of their lives, you know, touching you and stepping in and stepping out and then seeing them grow as they go.鈥�

Moorman said his favorite memories are those involving friendships with colleagues and partnerships with students. 鈥淚 have fond memories of a few colleagues congregating in my office talking about the joys and frustrations of the day,鈥� he said.聽 鈥淚 also have fond memories of holding classes that just seemed to 鈥榳ork鈥� that day and then talking with students afterward about how they continued thinking about our discussions.鈥�

After retiring at the end of this month, Moorman looks forward to what he calls unstructured adventure. 鈥淚 am looking forward to a time of boredom that then grows into something new, unplanned and adventurous. What fun!鈥�

Charity Johansson

Professor of physical therapy education and chair of the Doctor of Physical Therapy Department.

In 1999, Charity Johnsson joined what would become the Doctor of Physical Therapy program as one of its first faculty. She retired in December 2025 after decades of service in which she held positions of associate professor, full professor, faculty administrative fellow, interim associate department chair, interim department chair and program director, department chair and program director and university parliamentarian.

Johansson said she is already missing the 鈥渄aily exchanges with colleagues whose brilliant minds and genuinely kind hearts鈥� have shaped her over nearly three decades. Likewise, she will miss the students, and their 鈥渋nfectious enthusiasm, their compassion and the joy of watching them transform in ways they hadn鈥檛 even imagined possible.鈥�

During the Faculty/Staff Awards Luncheon, Crystal Ramsey praised Johansson as a 鈥渃ornerstone of the Elon academic community, whose legacy is defined not just by the position she has held, but by the enduring way she has nurtured the hearts, minds and professional identities of future healthcare providers.鈥� Ramsey is an associate professor of physical therapy education and a former student of Johansson鈥檚.

At the ceremony, Johansson reflected on the retirement of Gerry Francis, who served as professor emeritus of mathematics and provost emeritus.

鈥淕erry Francis told me he doesn鈥檛 miss the work, but he really misses the people 鈥� and I get that,” she said.

She also said it was a privilege working with so many in the Elon community who have encouraged her, challenged her and made her laugh to help her be a better a human. 鈥�Fred Rubeck, you鈥檙e among those,鈥� Johansson added, honoring the late professor of performing arts and chair of the Department of Performing Arts.

Now retired, Johansson said she is enjoying time outdoors with family and close friends, planning travel and trying new ventures, including fiction writing.

Marcia Dodson

Program assistant for the Station at Mill Point Neighborhood

Marcia Dodson joined Elon in 2015 and is the proud mother of three sons who graduated from Elon. She will be retiring at the end of May and has served as a service desk analyst for facilities management, program assistant in the Danieley Neighborhood and Station at Mill Point.

A favorite memory of Dodson鈥檚 while at Elon is joining the London Experience for staff, where she built relationships with colleagues she had not yet had the opportunity to meet while working at Elon. 鈥淲hat an awesome experience!鈥� she reflected.

After retirement, Dodson looks forward to being a traveling grandparent with her husband.

Rosemary Haskell

Professor of English

Rosemary Haskell joined Elon in 1985 and will be retiring in August. She has held the roles of temporary instructor and assistant, associate and later, full professor of English.

Haskell said she will most miss her kind and interesting colleagues, as well as the 鈥渆nergizing power of the new class of bright-eyed and bushy-tailed first-years each August.鈥�

One of Haskell鈥檚 favorite memories at Elon is during the transition of the Fighting Christians to the Phoenix. She enjoyed the papier-mache birds and eggs in trees around campus that offered a clue to the new mascot.

After retirement, Haskell said she plans to spend time with her family and do some home improvement work.

Cheryl Riley

Custodian

Cheryl Riley joined Elon in 2013 as a custodian and will retire at the end of May. 鈥淚 will miss the people I work with,鈥� she said. 鈥淎nd I look forward to spending time with my grandkids.鈥�

Linda Dunn

Adjunct assistant professor of Peace and Conflict Studies

Linda Dunn joined Elon in 1998 as the director of the Alamance County Dispute Settlement Center, where she trained a group of students and returned to train several faculty members in mediation skills, who later became volunteer mediators for the center. Dunn鈥檚 official start date on record is 2001, when she taught a two-credit mediation and conflict resolution skills course as part of a new minor called Nonviolent Studies. She retired at the end of December, 2025.

Federico Pous spoke on behalf of Dunn during the Faculty/Staff Awards luncheon, praising Dunn鈥檚 ability to teach hands-on peaceful conflict resolution skills and strategies across different social backgrounds.

鈥淟inda’s way of teaching and interacting with students, staff and professors, makes you feel that you are equal to her in the same community space,鈥� he shared.

鈥淚 will miss the students and their passion the things I teach,鈥� said Dunn. Two of her students attended the luncheon.

After retirement, she plans to attend cultural events on campus and potentially assist in future facilitated discussions on campus. She will also continue to volunteer as a mediator at the Alamance County District court, continue restorative circle skills and mediation and training skills with Restorative Justice Durham and the Orange County District County District court.

鈥淚 will continue to be an activist for restorative justice and peacemaking organizations as we navigate the chaos and violence in our world,鈥� she added.

Elizabeth Bailey

Assistant teaching professor of exercise science

Elizabeth Bailey began her career at Elon in 2004 and, enjoying the vibe of the community, wanted to be 鈥減art of it all.鈥� She started as a lecturer for the required wellness course, lectured for the School of Education before joining Exercise Science.

Retiring at the end of Spring semester, Bailey said she will most miss her colleagues and all the 鈥渇riends among the faculty and staff鈥� she has made while at Elon.

鈥淚 will also miss the opportunities to continue to learn that are available at Elon, whether it be through taking classes or participating in workshops or going abroad,鈥� she added. She said, while at Elon, he has learned a lot.

Bailey said her retirement plans continue to evolve, and she still intends to exercise classes and do some research on the side.

Kim Giles, 鈥�11 G鈥�16

Associate director of communications for the Student Professional Development Center

Since her first role in 1995, Kim Giles has served in various roles at the university, including data entry in admissions and accounting, budget clerk in the physical plant, program assistant for Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Studies, Engineering, Chemistry, and Physics, and assistant director of communications in the Student Professional Development Center.

Giles retired during the summer of 2025. She said she cherishes the opportunity to earn an MBA at Elon along with her daughter. She said about the experience, 鈥渨hat an unforgettable experience that was in crossing the stage along with my daughter to get our MBA鈥檚 together 鈥撀爄t was quite surreal.鈥�

Giles also reflected on traveling with peers and faculty to Vietnam and Singapore, the many evolutions of Staff Appreciation Day, and being honored as the staff member of the year 鈥撀燼n experience she said she will cherish forever.

Since retiring, Giles has taken nine cruises and has done kayaking, camping and gardening. She looks forward to continuing to spend time with family.

Sharon Moss LaRocco

University accompanist and instructor in music

Sharon Moss LaRocco was recognized at the Faculty/Staff Awards Luncheon by Hallie Hogan, associate professor of music. LaRocco joined the Elon Music Department in 1988 as a pianist for musical theater productions, music ensembles and student recitals.

Hogan shared, 鈥淎lthough she kept a very low profile, there was never any doubt about this, because she never missed a beat, much less a note, and maintained high quality for every performance she gave,” Hogan said.

She shared that students developed a strong admiration for LaRocco鈥檚 talent and a deep love for her kind and understanding nature.

Beyond Elon, Sharon has devoted herself to advocating for people with autism, through her work as a leader in the Office of Society of North Carolina, notably promoting autism awareness for the Native American communities of Western North Carolina.

At the awards ceremony, LaRocco shared that one of her favorite memories was the construction of Rhodes Stadium, which signaled to her the emergence of a marching band.

鈥淲ho doesn鈥檛 love a marching band?鈥� asked LaRocco to the audience. 鈥淎nd the spirit and the energy it creates walking through the campus, en route to the games.鈥�

Jana Lynn Patterson

Associate vice president for Student Life/dean of student health & well-being/assistant professor

During the Faculty/Staff Awards Luncheon, Jon Dooley, vice president for Student Life and associate professor of education, described Patterson as someone who is consistent in how she shows up for others, patient when a young leader makes a mistake, honest with students and colleagues even when it is hard and someone who not only believes in others, and one who helps others believe in themselves.

鈥淪he supported students in college through tragedy, advised student organizations, and celebrated their success,鈥� said Dooley. 鈥淪he has created spaces of welcome and belonging, and met the students in their darkest hours, helping them piece together on plans to move forward.鈥�

Patterson was also recognized for her 40 years of service and held back tears while addressing the audience. A first-generation student from Hope Mills, North Carolina, Patterson said her parents could have never dreamed where she is today.

鈥淭o my staff and colleagues, you are the A-Team,鈥� she shared. “But to everyone in this community, I want you to know that every day has been an honor and a pleasure to be a part of this community and to have worked with you.鈥�

Also retiring

Retiring staff members will be recognized on May 29 as part of Staff Appreciation Day.

• Joan Barnatt
• Mona DeVries
• Chris Dockrill, head women’s golf coach
• Sharon Hodge
• John Chinnici, community service officer
• David “DD” Donohue, painter
• Kelly Elliston
• Gloria Graves, custodian
• William “Tom” Hall, telecommunications technician
• Rhonda Kosusko, associate director of career services, education and Elon
• Katherine Rodriguez, assistant director for application processing
• Michelle Stephens, custodian
• Ed Williams, service desk analyst
• Donna Wood , electronic services/ acquisitions librarian

When arrived at 福利亚洲国产精品 as a first-year student, she envisioned a future in physical therapy.

Four years later, the graduating senior leaves Elon not only with two majors, but with published scholarship, national conference presentations, and a growing passion for research that ultimately reshaped her career ambitions.

This winter, the native of Walnut Creek, California, served as lead author on a research publication in the , collaborating with Elon faculty members Alex Traugutt, Caroline Ketcham and Eric Hall. The publication represents the latest milestone in a research journey that began during her sophomore year, when she approached Ketcham about becoming involved with Elon BrainCARE.

鈥淎t the time, I was an exercise science major planning to apply to physical therapy school, so while I was genuinely interested in concussions and brain health, I also saw research as a way to deepen my involvement at Elon and strengthen my future applications,鈥� McAfee said.

As she became more involved with research, McAfee鈥檚 interests evolved beyond concussions and brain injuries. While reviewing existing scholarship, she became increasingly interested in the ways athletics influence student-athletes off the playing field.

鈥淥ne article in particular sparked my curiosity about how sports shape athletes beyond their playing careers,鈥� McAfee said. 鈥淭his led me to explore whether competitive sports help develop career readiness and how athlete identity may influence academic performance.鈥�

Those experiences ultimately inspired McAfee to add sport management as a second major, where she met Traugutt during her first course in the department.

鈥淟ucy is an intellectually driven student researcher who, over nearly three years of collaboration, led data collection, identified research topics and conducted analyses that resulted in two first-author peer-reviewed publications before completing her undergraduate degree,鈥� said Traugutt, assistant professor of sport management.

Traugutt explained that McAfee distinguished herself through both her intellectual curiosity and her ability to connect research with practical application.

鈥淲hat sets Lucy apart is her ability to bridge scholarship and practice,鈥� Traugutt said, noting that she has presented research twice at the Applied Sport Management Conference and participated in multiple SURF and SURE programs.

McAfee said that working closely with Traugutt, Ketcham and Hall helped strengthen both her confidence and critical-thinking skills.

鈥淲hen I first started doing research, I felt uncertain about my future and my own abilities,鈥� McAfee said. 鈥淒r. Alex Traugutt, Dr. Caroline Ketcham and Dr. Eric Hall each played a key role in guiding me, giving me direction, and helping me build confidence in my research skills.鈥�

She especially valued the collaborative nature of the work.

鈥淚 particularly enjoyed our meetings 鈥撀爀specially the ones at The Oak House 鈥撀爓here we would dissect the data together,鈥� McAfee said. 鈥淐onsistently learning and discussing research with such knowledgeable professors pushed me to think more critically and challenged me to contribute insights of my own.鈥�

McAfee鈥檚 recent publication is not expected to be her last contribution to the field. In addition to a forthcoming publication in Case Studies in Sport Management examining career readiness programming for student-athletes, she and Traugutt recently submitted a third research paper examining the NCAA transfer portal and high school recruiting opportunities in college football to the Journal of Applied Sport Management.

That research grew out of McAfee鈥檚 desire to better understand the rapidly changing dynamics of college athletics.

鈥淢y interest in the transfer portal stemmed from conversations during my time at the ACC, where its impact on various stakeholders was frequently discussed,鈥� said McAfee, who completed an internship with the Power 4 conference last summer. 鈥淗owever, I noticed there was limited research regarding its effects on high school athletes. I saw that as an opportunity to contribute meaningful new knowledge to the field of sport management.鈥�

Traugutt said McAfee鈥檚 work stands out for both its academic rigor and its broader relevance within athletics and higher education.

鈥淗er work examining athletic identity, career readiness and student-athlete development is not only carefully designed and executed, but deeply meaningful, directly addressing questions that matter to practitioners and institutions alike,鈥� Traugutt said.

McAfee also served as an executive intern with Elon Athletics, an experience Traugutt said complemented the practical focus of her research.

After graduation, McAfee will pursue a master鈥檚 degree in higher education at Boston College, where she will hold two graduate assistantships 鈥� one as a student-athlete academic adviser within Boston College Athletics and another with Tufts Medical School鈥檚 graduate student services department.

Traugutt said those opportunities speak to both McAfee鈥檚 academic growth and the practical focus she brought to her research throughout her time at Elon.

鈥淭hese achievements reflect a student who takes her work seriously and understands its real-world implications,鈥� Traugutt said. 鈥淚 have no doubt she will carry that same curiosity, independence and commitment into her graduate studies at Boston College and beyond.鈥�

As Commencement approaches, McAfee said her undergraduate research experiences transformed her Elon journey in ways she never anticipated.

鈥淲hen I received my acorn at convocation, I never imagined I would be doing research at this level,鈥� McAfee said. 鈥淣ow, as I prepare to receive my sapling at Baccalaureate, I鈥檓 incredibly grateful for the opportunities and support that made that possible.鈥�

More than 50 students and several teachers from ABSS CTEC Burlington joined Elon鈥檚 Doctor of Physical Therapy Program, Department of Exercise Science and Performing Arts to celebrate National Biomechanics Day, an annual global event held since 2016. All of the CTEC students were on the health science track, making the experience an opportunity to connect their academic interests with potential future pathways.

Students rotated through six stations focused on different aspects of biomechanics, each designed to highlight both fundamental concepts and practical applications.

At the static balance station, participants completed variations of the Balance Error Scoring System (BESS), testing their ability to maintain stability in double-leg, single-leg and tandem stances on both firm and foam surfaces. The neuromotor station focused on coordination and motor learning through activities like mirror tracing, maze completion and target-based drawing tasks. At the strength station, students measured grip strength using handheld dynamometers and observed muscle activation through electromyography (EMG).

Movement was further explored at the tandem gait station, where students walked heel-to-toe along a straight line. As they progressed from forward to backwards walking and added cognitive challenges like counting or spelling backwards, the tasks became increasingly difficult. At the jump station, participants measured their vertical and horizontal jumping ability, learning how lower-body power is assessed in sports and exercise settings. The final station challenged students to think like engineers. Using simple materials, groups built functional models of an elbow joint, aiming to replicate natural movement. The activity highlighted the relationship between biomechanics and design, with connections to prosthetics and rehabilitation technology.

Faculty from exercise science, performing arts and physical therapy, along with student volunteers, led the stations and guided discussions throughout the day. Their involvement created a collaborative environment where participants could ask questions, test ideas and explore new interests.

By the end of the event, students were left with a deeper understanding of how biomechanics applies to everyday movement, health, and performance; as well as a clearer picture of how those interests could shape their future.

Lumen Scholars will work closely with their mentors during the next two years to pursue and complete their projects. Efforts traditionally include coursework, study abroad, research both on and off campus, internships locally and overseas, program development, and creative productions and performances.

“It was another very competitive year, and the Lumen Advisory Board saw many good applications,” said Michael Carignan, director of the Lumen Prize and professor of history. “These 15 represent truly special talent and engagement. We look forward to watching the projects unfold over the next two years.”

The name for the Lumen Prize comes from Elon鈥檚 historic motto, 鈥淣umen Lumen,鈥� which are Latin words meaning 鈥渟piritual light鈥� and 鈥渋ntellectual light.鈥� The words, which are found on the 福利亚洲国产精品 seal, signify the highest purposes of an Elon education.

2026 Lumen Prize Winners

Tajallah Amirkhil
Mentor: Molly Green
Major: Public Health & Biochemistry
Project: Barriers and Resilience: Exploring Mental Health among Afghan Refugee Women in North Carolina

Emma Brice帽o
Mentors: Dan Burns & Tita Ramirez
Major: English (Creative Writing)
Project: The Desert Lighthouse, a Novel: an Exploration of Queerness and Safety through Body Horror, Immortality, and Genre Reinvention

Kelley Calvillo
Mentor: Renay Aumiller
Major: Dance Performance and Choreography
Project: The Body Knows: Developing a Feminist Framework for Distributed Choreographic Authorship

Chloe Cone
Mentors: Eryn Bernardy & Ahlam Armaly
Major: Biochemistry
Project: Solutions in the Soil: Unearthing Novel Antibacterial Compounds from Soil Microbes to Combat Antimicrobial Resistance

Sanai Crosby
Mentors: Lauren Kearns & Matt Wittstein
Major: Exercise Science & Dance Science
Project: Dance and Neural Activity: Examining Neural Activity Across the Choreographic Process and Performance Environments

Fleur Helmantel
Mentor: Scott Wolter
Major: Biomedical Engineering & Chinese Studies
Project: Development of Tissue-Mimicking Phantoms for the Treatment of Breast Cancer

Anna Keller
Mentor: Scott Morrison
Project: Perceptions and Practices of Outdoor Literacy: a Two-Part Mixed-Methods Study

Nevaeh Kimmie
Mentor: Katrina Jongman-Sereno
Major: Psychology & Economics
Project: To Code-Switch or Not to Code-Switch: Authenticity, Psychological Outcomes, and Social Judgement of Black College Students in Predominantly White Academic Spaces

Lisa Kranec
Mentors: Hwayeon Ryu & Efrain Rivera-Serrano
Major: Biomedical Engineering & Applied Mathematics
Project: Mathematical Modeling of Excessive Collagen Production in Cardiac Fibrosis

Jordyne Lewis
Mentor: Steve DeLoach
Major: Economic Consulting & Data Analytics
Refugees, Emotional Wellbeing, and Financial Inclusion in Uganda

Kendall Lewis
Mentor: Jen Uno
Major: Biochemistry & Mathematics
Project: Can the Microbiome Heal the Brain?Evaluating Butyrate鈥檚 Efficiency in Reducing Stroke Severity within the Context of Obesity

Ja鈥橫ir Parham
Mentor: Zack Hutchens
Major: Astrophysics
Project: RESOLVE, ECO, and eRASS: Probing Galaxy Growth through Cold and Hot Gas

Danny Stern
Mentor: Karl Sienerth
Major: Chemistry
Project: From Backlog to Breakthrough: Use of Fluorescence Quenching for the Development of an Explosive Identification Database

Ainsley Thompson
Mentor: Yuko Miyamoto
Major: Biochemistry
Project: Decreasing Platinum Chemotherapy Resistance by Downregulating STAT3 and Upregulating PTEN in the SKOV3 Cell Line

Scout Winter
Mentor: Bill Evans
Major: Exercise Science
Project: Effects of a Whole-Food Plant-Based Diet on Insulin Resistance and Inflammation in Adults with Type 1 Diabetes

The students attending the meeting had access to a wide variety of symposia and tutorials, and they presented their research orally and in posters. Elon student research topics ranged from the impact of high-intensity interval training on body composition to menstrual cycle-based periodized training.

Grayce Bechtel ’28 presented her research as a thematic poster requiring her to orally summarize her study and then face questions from the attending group,.

“This was my first Southeast ACSM conference, and it added immensely to my undergraduate research experience,” said Bechtel. “I enjoyed sharing my research with an academic audience and learning about research studies happening at other universities”.

Student Adam Reisman, who presented a poster, said that he enjoyed the input from students and faculty on his research, giving him some ideas for further questions to pursue, and reinforcing the value of the work he has already completed.

“I am incredibly proud of our undergraduate exercise science students for their outstanding presentations at the SEACSM Annual Meeting,” said Tich Madzima, department chair. “Their dedication to scientific inquiry, professionalism and passion for advancing exercise science was on full display, and they represented our department with excellence. Colleagues at other institutions were very impressed with our students as always, particularly with second-year Scout Winter who gave an excellent podium presentation.鈥�

Since his 2023 arrival at Elon, Kelly has hosted a 鈥榣istening tour鈥� and spent time with each department to hear directly from faculty and staff about what they value. Kelly said that common themes soon emerged from those conversations and the new statement reflects dozens of discussions.

Elon College, the College of Arts and Sciences new vision statement reads: 鈥淭he Heart of an Elon Education: Ignite Curiosity, Engage Challenges, Transform Worlds.鈥�

The mission statement then declares:

鈥淯pholding the centrality of the liberal arts, we explore and apply disciplinary and interdisciplinary knowledge for inquiry, creativity, discovery and problem solving in a complex and changing world.鈥�

The statement lists core values that include accessibility, belonging, critical thinking, diversity, equity and inclusion, integrity, intellectual curiosity, problem-posing and respect for human dignity.

Community Reflections

• 鈥淭here were several opportunities for different groups, departments, branches, interdisciplinary programs, to discuss versions on the table. It was in those conversations where we might learn how a word or phrase was heard within and across disciplines; where we found convergence, deeper awareness, and respect. The both-and of this process modeled what we value and genuinely captures our shared identity as Elon College.鈥� – Caroline Ketcham, associate dean of Elon College, the College of Arts and Sciences and a professor of exercise science
• 鈥淚t was always important to us that this wasn鈥檛 a process where faculty were just asked to weigh in at the end, after the real decisions had already been made. From start to finish, it was grounded in listening to what faculty across the college say we do well and what values they believe guide our shared work. Our task wasn鈥檛 to invent a mission, vision and values, but to clearly articulate what faculty are already living and leading with. I think that鈥檚 why faculty can so readily see themselves and their departments represented in the final statements.鈥� – David Buck, associate dean of Elon College, the College of Arts and Sciences and an associate professor of psychology
• 鈥淗aving shared goals and articulated values helps everyone in the college feel connected as a community, value each other鈥檚 work and prioritize our energies on initiatives that matter to us.鈥� – Shannon Duvall, interim associate dean of Elon College, the College of Arts and Sciences and professor of computer science
• 鈥淚 appreciated the collaborative nature of it all, not just between the dean鈥檚 office and department chairs, but also extending to faculty members across Elon College, the College of Arts and Sciences. It really did involve all of us. What particularly stood out to me were the conversations in our chairs鈥� meetings with the dean where we came to agreements on core values. It鈥檚 inspiring to see that distinctly different types of disciplines uphold the same core values.鈥� – Joel Karty, chair of the Department of Chemistry and 福利亚洲国产精品鈥檚 Sydney F. & Kathleen E. Jackson Professor of chemistry
• 鈥淚 appreciated being part of a process that felt genuinely collaborative. Our participation was not merely symbolic. It felt meaningful, and I experienced the dean鈥檚 office as truly listening. The process itself was also inspirational, and I feel bolstered in leading my own department through similar work. It was powerful to see such a broad, collective effort take shape into something tangible.鈥� – Samantha DiRosa, chair of the Department of Art and a professor of art and environmental studies
• 鈥淭he process of creating a new vision statement, mission statement and core values for Elon College, the College of Arts and Sciences was both thoughtful and deeply collaborative. Over many months, department chairs worked together to reflect on what makes us distinctive and how best to express those qualities in guiding statements. The process intentionally sought input from across departments, ensuring that everyone in the college had the opportunity to contribute their perspectives. Personally, the time spent reflecting with fellow chairs on what makes each of our departments special fostered a deeper sense of shared purpose and collective commitment.鈥� – Carrie Eaves, chair of the Department of Political Science and Public Policy and associate professor of political science and public policy

Kelly said he was pleased the final language resonated with the faculty in the college.

鈥淭he true measure of a successful attempt to lead a group or an organization towards a renewed vision, mission and core values is whether the words and sentiments 鈥榮ound like us鈥�,鈥� he said. 鈥淲hen I heard that some faculty believed my presentation of our vision, mission and core values at our spring faculty meeting 鈥榮ound like us,鈥� I knew that our work together in small and large group settings was a huge success. It means that stakeholders were heard and that the words resonate so much so that the tune or melody is familiar. The vision, mission and core values reflect truly who we are and where we are going with much intention.鈥�

福利亚洲国产精品鈥檚 participants at the might avoid the term 鈥渢hree-peat鈥� 鈥� since it is a registered trademark owned by former NBA coach Pat Riley 鈥� but the sentiment fits all the same. For the third consecutive year, an Elon student captured the top prize in the conference鈥檚 , continuing a remarkable run of national recognition for the Department of Sport Management.

Seven Elon students and two faculty members traveled to Temple University in Philadelphia for this year鈥檚 ASMA Conference, held Feb. 11鈥�13, joining more than 300 academics and industry professionals for three days of research presentations, panels and case study competitions. All seven students presented original research, with four competing in the undergraduate research competition against peers from top sport management programs across the country.

This year鈥檚 top honor in the undergraduate research competition went to , who earned first place for her project, 鈥淒oes Conference Realignment Pay? Evidence from NCAA Division I Institutions,鈥� advised by Assistant Professor of Sport Management Alex Traugutt. Logue鈥檚 win follows first-place finishes by Lena Gunn 鈥�25 in 2024 and Sarah Dawkins 鈥�25 in 2025, marking three straight years atop the competition.

For Khirey Walker, assistant professor of sport management, the sustained success reflects more than strong results 鈥� it signals a culture of preparation, curiosity and confidence among Elon students.

鈥淭here is something truly special about watching our Elon students compete at the ASMA Conference and present research they have genuinely poured themselves into,鈥� said Walker who accompanied the students with Traugutt to Philadelphia. 鈥淵ou can hear it in their voices when they present 鈥� this is not just any project to them, it is a reflection of who they are as future sport management professionals. To then see them compete in the research competition against some of the strongest sport management programs in the country and take home top honors three years in a row 鈥� that doesn鈥檛 happen by accident.鈥�

Walker credited the students鈥� success to a culture of curiosity and the program鈥檚 high standards for undergraduate research.

鈥淭hat鈥檚 a testament to the intellectual curiosity these students bring into the classroom and the standards set within the Elon sport management program,鈥� Walker said. 鈥淒r. Traugutt and I are extremely proud of this group and excited to continue bringing our students to ASMA.鈥�

The 2026 conference offered Elon students a professional stage to present research on topics ranging from NIL policy and international student-athlete experiences to minor league hockey attendance patterns and the impact of conference realignment. The seven Elon presenters included:

• , 鈥淎re MLS Teams Spending Wisely? An Empirical Analysis of Player Performance and Salary Allocation鈥� (advised by Traugutt)
• , 鈥淏eyond Borders: NIL Rights and the International Student-Athlete Experience鈥� (advised by Walker)
• , 鈥淏uilding the Fan Base: Season Ticket Holder Perceptions and Attendance Motivations in Minor League Hockey鈥� (advised by Traugutt)
• , 鈥淒oes Conference Realignment Pay? Evidence from NCAA Division I Institutions鈥� (advised by Traugutt)
• , 鈥淭he Transfer Portal Era: Crowding Out High School Opportunities in Power Four Football鈥� (advised by Traugutt)
• , 鈥淚nternational Student Athletes in NCAA Division I Men鈥檚 Soccer: Motivations, Aspirations, and Issues鈥� (advised by Walker)
• , 鈥淔rom Transactions to Insights: Modeling Attendance Patterns in Minor League Hockey鈥� (advised by Traugutt)

For students, the conference offered more than a platform to present research 鈥� it provided meaningful professional exposure and a chance to connect classroom learning with real-world conversations in the field.

鈥淎SMA is more than a poster presentation,鈥� said Anabella Shpak 鈥�26, a sport management and business analytics double major. 鈥淚t鈥檚 about networking with others in the field, listening to dissertations and presentations of professionals in their area of interest. I鈥檓 extremely grateful for the opportunity, and if any student has the opportunity to do undergraduate research and attend ASMA in the future, I would highly recommend it!鈥�

Lucy McAfee 鈥�26, a sport management and exercise science double major, said presenting at a national conference as an undergraduate helped her better understand the professional relevance of her work.

鈥淚 valued the opportunity to engage in conversations with professionals in the sport industry and learn from other researchers鈥� work,鈥� McAfee said. 鈥淎nd I am extremely grateful that Elon 鈥� specifically the Department of Sport Management 鈥� promotes opportunities like this for students.鈥�

For Maddy Baird 鈥�27, the competition and feedback process reinforced her academic and career interests.

鈥淓ngaging in meaningful conversations, receiving thoughtful feedback, building connections, and learning from fellow students and faculty as they presented their research made this conference both inspiring and impactful,鈥� the sport management and data analytics double major said. 鈥淓xperiences like the ASMA Conference continue to fuel my passion for sport management, data analytics, and research.鈥�

Through the upper-level course Exercise Testing and Prescription, students will work one-on-one with volunteer participants from the Elon community. Students will conduct fitness assessments, learn about participants鈥� health histories and goals, and design customized exercise programs. Throughout the semester, students will meet individually with participants at times that are mutually convenient to help guide progress and make adjustments as needed.

National Physical Activity Guidelines recommend that adults engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity each week, along with two sessions of resistance training. While these recommendations provide a general framework, they often leave individuals wondering how to tailor exercise to their own lifestyles, schedules and health goals.

“The exercise necessary to improve fitness takes time from other things, and exactly what to do to get the benefits you want can be hard to figure out,” said Liz Bailey, assistant teaching professor of exercise science. “The best exercise program for most individuals is one that is designed to meet individual goals and takes into consideration individual likes/dislikes, time and access.”

Research consistently demonstrates the benefits of improved cardiorespiratory and musculoskeletal fitness. Higher fitness levels are associated with a reduced risk of premature death and improved symptoms of mild depression. At the same time, prolonged sedentary behavior 鈥� such as sitting more than seven hours per day 鈥� has been linked to increased risk of conditions including diabetes and dyslipidemia.

“We want to empower participating individuals so they can access some of the many benefits increased fitness can bring,” said Liz Bailey, assistant teaching professor of exercise science. “The opportunity to work with an individual is also a valuable learning聽 experience for the students and me, so participants have the potential to make a lasting impact on us as well.”

Community members interested in participating or learning more are encouraged to contact Liz Bailey, assistant teaching professor of exercise science, at ebailey@elon.edu.

Ten 福利亚洲国产精品 sport management majors will be inducted into the Commission on Sport Management Accreditation (COSMA) , recognizing their exceptional academic achievements and commitment to professional development in the sport industry. The induction ceremony will take place in February during COSMA鈥檚 annual conference in St. Augustine, Florida.

Membership in Chi Sigma Mu is reserved for top-performing students enrolled in COSMA-accredited programs, a distinction Elon鈥檚 Department of Sport Management earned in 2024. That accreditation places Elon among a distinguished group of 36 programs across the United States. Fellow accredited institutions include Liberty University, Louisiana State University, Ohio University and Troy University.

As a COSMA-accredited program, Elon follows a rigorous nomination process to identify eligible students. Faculty members at accredited institutions may nominate up to 10 undergraduate students for honor society consideration. To qualify, sport management majors must complete at least 60 credit hours, maintain a minimum 3.4 GPA, and demonstrate exemplary academic performance, volunteer service, professional development engagement, and efforts to foster a strong sense of community within their program.

This year鈥檚 inductees reflect that standard of excellence across the sport management program. Elon鈥檚 inductees include Emerson Baker 鈥�26, Alli Gerson ’26, Shelby Keel 鈥�26, Carlos Rafael Levy Lanado 鈥�26, Meghan Logue ’26, Lucy McAfee ’26, Zeke Petrou ’26, Lauren Winslow ’27, Will Wranek 鈥�26 and Mia Zebley 鈥�27.

鈥淲e’re excited to have 10 outstanding Elon students inducted into the 2026 COSMA honor society,鈥� said David Bockino, associate professor of sport management. 鈥淭he students selected for this honor have excelled in the classroom, taken advantage of Elon鈥檚 global footprint, and launched innovative undergraduate research projects. They represent the highest standards of professionalism and integrity, and are the future leaders of the sport industry.鈥�

Alex Traugutt, assistant professor of sport management, echoed that sentiment, noting that induction into Chi Sigma Mu captures a fuller picture of student excellence, one shaped by involvement, service and leadership as much as classroom success.

鈥淚nductees must demonstrate exceptional classroom performance, meaningful contributions through service to the institution and community, active engagement in professional development, and leadership that enriches the program,鈥� Traugutt said. 鈥淭his honor not only celebrates our students’ outstanding achievements but also positions them among an elite group of future professionals. We appreciate the positive impact they have had on our program and are excited to see how they will continue to represent Elon sport management as leaders in the industry.鈥�

Inductees

Click the inductees’ names to access their LinkedIn profiles.

• Major: Sport Management
• Graduation Year: 2026
• Hometown and State: Concord, NC
• In Their Words: I have enjoyed sport management because of how much the professors have gone above and beyond. They have pushed me to be the best version of myself, while also offering guidance and support. My love for the sport industry has grown every semester, and I can鈥檛 wait to see where my future in sport takes me.

• Major: Sport Management
• Graduation Year: 2026
• Hometown and State: Dresher, PA
• In Their Words: My experience with the Department of Sport Management has allowed me to explore a wide range of disciplines all centered around sport. The coursework has encouraged me to explore new interests while gaining transferable skills. The strong sense of community and support from both peers and faculty has made this program a meaningful and rewarding part of my college journey.

• Major: Sport Management and Media Analytics
• Graduation Year: 2026
• Hometown and State: Williamston, NC
• In Their Words: The Department of Sport Management has given me a community where I could grow personally and professionally. From faculty and supportive peers who genuinely care about my success to courses that push me to be my best, this program has helped me reach my full potential. I am, and will always be, incredibly grateful for this department and the future it has prepared me for.

• Major: Sport Management
• Graduation Year: 2026
• Hometown and State: Mexico City, Mexico
• In Their Words: I have truly enjoyed studying in the Department of Sport Management because of its strong emphasis on real-world application. Through opportunities such as undergraduate research in the Sports Media Lab, presenting at NCUR, and courses built around real industry scenarios, I was able to apply what I learned in meaningful ways while also building strong, lasting relationships with faculty.

• Major: Sport Management
• Graduation Year: 2026
• Hometown and State: Charlotte, NC
• In Their Words: Studying sport management at Elon has been so meaningful because of the incredible faculty who constantly support and challenge me. They have opened my eyes to the vast opportunities within the industry and helped me turn a passion for sport into a realistic and attainable career. Their mentorship and encouragement consistently push me to aim higher and work harder to make a lasting impact through sport.

• Major: Sport Management and Exercise Science
• Graduation Year: 2026
• Hometown and State: Walnut Creek, CA
• In Their Words: I started sport management later in my college journey, beginning my first class junior year. Throughout all of my classes, the faculty challenged me to think critically about sport and its broader impact. I am extremely grateful for the opportunities the department provides, including internships and undergraduate research that support both academic and professional growth.

• Major: Sport Management
• Graduation Year: 2026
• Hometown and State: Durham, NC
• In Their Words: The Department of Sport Management has been instrumental in shaping me as a student, researcher, and future sport professional. I have been provided with meaningful and unique opportunities to grow, from participating in the Elon in Charlotte Sport Experience to conducting performance analysis research with the Elon men鈥檚 basketball team. The mentorship I鈥檝e received from the sport management faculty has made my undergraduate experience invaluable.

• Major: Sport Management and Strategic Communications
• Graduation Year: 2027
• Hometown and State: Cherry Hill, NJ
• In Their Words: The Department of Sport Management has provided me with invaluable opportunities, from interning with NASCAR and the ACC through the Elon in Charlotte program to conducting sport-focused undergraduate research. Through these hands-on experiences and the guidance of passionate faculty, I have developed both professionally and personally. The department鈥檚 support has helped shape my academic interests and prepared me for a future career in the sport industry.

• Major: Sport Management and Finance
• Graduation Year: 2026
• Hometown and State: Lexington, VA
• In Their Words: My time in the Department of Sport Management opened doors I never imagined. The faculty provided access to internship opportunities both externally and within Elon鈥檚 Athletic Department, and their guidance enabled me to engage in meaningful undergraduate research.聽The encompassing curriculum equipped me with the knowledge and confidence to pursue my passions and navigate the sports industry. I am extremely grateful for the mentors and relationships in the department.

• Major: Sport Management and Media Analytics
• Graduation Year: 2027
• Hometown: Chadds Ford, PA
• In Their Words: The Department of Sport Management has been instrumental in developing my professionalism and preparing me for a career by offering valuable opportunities to grow. The hands-on experiences, coursework, and networking have prepared me for success in the sport industry. What truly sets the program apart are the incredible professors who strive to create lasting relationships with students through mentorship and support. I will forever be grateful for this department.

A faculty leader known across campus for her work in student mentoring, curriculum innovation and wellness-centered teaching has been named the next director of 福利亚洲国产精品鈥檚 Honors Program.

Professor Svetlana Nepocatych from the Department of Exercise Science will bring to her new role extensive experience in undergraduate and graduate mentoring, interdisciplinary program development and faculty engagement. She begins her duties on June 1, 2026.

鈥淎n active scholar and mentor, Dr. Nepocatych鈥檚 proven leadership on curriculum committees, interdisciplinary initiatives, and her service as Faculty Fellow for Wellness and Well-Being reflect her deep commitment to faculty and student success and her inclusive, wellness-centered approach will no doubt enrich the Honors Program and its community,鈥澛� said Rebecca Kohn, 福利亚洲国产精品鈥檚 provost and vice president for academic affairs.

The Honors Program offers a rigorous, four-year academic experience designed for high-achieving students from all majors. The program combines small, discussion-driven courses, close faculty mentorship, undergraduate research, and global engagement to nurture critical thinking, communication, and ethical leadership.

Honors Fellows receive academic and financial support, including significant merit scholarships, specialized coursework, dedicated living-learning communities, and grants for thesis research and study abroad.

Nepocatych鈥檚 responsibilities as director of the Honors Program will include:

• Program leadership and development
• Oversight and assessment of the Honors curriculum
• Coordination and support of the Honors theses process
• Recruitment and selection of incoming Honors Fellows
• Communication with students about Honors policies, expectations, and events
• Support for Academic Advising
• Chairing the Honors Advisory Committee

Nepocatych鈥檚 work with Honors Fellows, particularly through the senior thesis process, has been a defining part of her tenure at the university since joining the faculty in 2011. Many of her students have presented nationally or co-authored scholarly work, an accomplishment she said highlights both their achievement and the visibility of the Honors Program.

鈥淚鈥檓 excited to step into the role of Honors Program director,鈥� Nepocatych said. 鈥淭he program鈥檚 commitment to academic excellence, undergraduate research, and mentoring creates a transformative experience for students. I鈥檓 especially looking forward to supporting Fellows in thriving both academically and personally, with a focus on wellbeing, purpose, and belonging, by partnering with colleagues across campus to strengthen a program that reflects the best of Elon鈥檚 engaged learning mission.鈥�

A thread of Nepocatych鈥檚 own scholarship focuses on evidence-based mentoring frameworks, and she is currently pursuing certification through the International Coaching Federation to deepen her work in student support.

Beyond her mentoring experience, Nepocatych has led academic initiatives across disciplines, serving as coordinator of a Food Studies minor, a faculty leader in the Department of Exercise Science and a Faculty Fellow for Wellness and Well-being. She has developed curricula, led assessment efforts and built programming that integrates wellness, inclusion and resilience into classroom practice.

Nepocatych鈥檚 leadership roles have included directing grant-funded research projects, chairing curriculum committees, coordinating new academic program proposals and supporting faculty through workshops and development programs.

Nepocatych will this spring shadow Professor Steve Bednar, who is concluding his four-year term as director of the Honors Program, formally stepping into the role.

A North Carolina registered dietician, Nepocatych earned her Ph.D. in human performance, a Master of Science in human nutrition, and a Master of Arts in human performance from the University of Alabama. She graduated from Wright State University in Ohio with her Bachelor of Arts in health and physical education.

I鈥檓 especially looking forward to supporting Fellows in thriving both academically and personally, with a focus on wellbeing, purpose, and belonging, by partnering with colleagues across campus to strengthen a program that reflects the best of Elon鈥檚 engaged learning mission.

– Professor Svetlana Nepocatych

Search Committee for the Director of the Honors Program

• Jen Uno, Associate Professor of Biology and Associate Director of CATL (search chair)
• Lori Hubbard, Assistant Professor of Nursing
• Katrina Jongman-Sereno, Assistant Professor of Psychology
• Brian Kremer, Associate Professor of Performing Arts
• Jane O’Boyle, Associate Professor of Strategic Communications
• Will Pluer, Assistant Professor of Engineering
• Katy Rouse, Professor of Economics