Wow, 2014. You were a big year for Shenandoah.
A new, state-of-the-art academic building opened, a conservatory professor created and funded a new scholarship in an absolutely delightful and healthy fashion, a blind pianist drew attention for his talents as he prepared to graduate, an edgy Broadway musical had its college premiere, and the president of the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond offered a cautiously optimistic take on the economy.
Check out what people read and watched about SU this year in two terrific Top 5’s filled (for a fabulous Top 10) with information and images that promise to leave you delighted, amazed, impressed, inspired and moved.
So what piqued the interest of readers, near and far? Here’s our Top 5:
5. Richmond Federal Reserve Bank president predicts modest growth, remains optimistic about economy
The Harry F. Byrd Jr. School of Business brought Jeffrey Lacker, president of the Federal Reserve Bank in Richmond, to Shenandoah’s Stimpson Auditorium in February. In his presentation, Lacker provided a realistic view of the economy and answered questions about a variety of topics, ranging from unemployment to income disparity. Find out more here.
4. College premiere of Green Day’s “American Idiot” kicks off Conservatory’s Main Stage Series
Shenandoah rolled out the red carpet for the rock musical, performed in September and October at Ohrstrom-Bryant Theatre under the direction of Associate Professor of Music Theatre Jonathan Flom, M.F.A. Based on the GRAMMY® Award-winning album by Green Day, “American Idiot” the musical follows three disillusioned youths searching for freedom beyond suburban America. The show finished its national tour in May, and Shenandoah was the first school to premiere the work at the non-professional level. Find out more about the show’s debut here.
3. Media outlets rush to tell blind pianist’s story
Andrew Tompkins, ‘14 graduated from Shenandoah Conservatory at SU with a flurry of media attention. Washington D.C.’s Fox 5 interviewed the blind pianist in early December, and The Winchester Star also profiled the musician. Tompkins is a student of Dr. Bob Larson who finished his degree in jazz studies in December. Using his “ears as his eyes,” Andrew has performed in the Jazz Ensemble, played impromptu favorites in the Allen Dining Hall and the Brandt Student Center, and more. From Dave Brubeck to Disney, Andrew’s talents have truly graced the campus of Shenandoah University.
2. “100-Mile Joe” raises money for scholarships with an unusual run
Adjunct Associate Professor of Music/French Horn Joe Lovinsky, M.M., galvanized the entire community with his continuous 100-mile run in March to raise money for French Horn scholarships. His story is a fascinating one. He raised $8,500 for French horn scholarships, two of which were awarded in September.
1. Health and Life Sciences building opens
The 71,000-square-foot building serving the university’s athletic training, biology, chemistry, nursing, respiratory care and pre-health programs greeted faculty and students in the fall 2014 semester. The design, which includes a cutting-edge simulation suite along with standard and active-learning classrooms, fosters innovation and collaboration among students being prepared to enter a health care environment defined by interprofessional teamwork. Here’s the full story.
And then. . . . what did they watch this year? You’ll love what you see in our Top 5:
5. About Us: The Stats
Sometimes you need information about Shenandoah fast, fast, fast. Here’s a rundown of what the university offers in 46 seconds, flat.
4. Gabriella Miller’s Day at Shenandoah University
Gabriella Miller was. . . beyond inspiring. Miller, a 10-year-old girl from Loudoun County, became an SU student for a day in October 2013 through the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Miller, who had an inoperable brain tumor, experienced a full day that culminated with her being awarded an honorary degree. Gabriella lost her battle with the disease later in the month. Watch and be overwhelmed by the astonishing beauty of this child’s spirit.
3. Shenandoah University — Move-In Day 2013
Ah, that glorious, glorious day! Familiar faces are sure to abound!
2. Perfecting Their Craft: A New Acting Program at Shenandoah Conservatory
Shenandoah Conservatory acting students study with Meisner-trained faculty and master artists, including Larry Silverberg, who joined the faculty full-time this academic year. Silverberg is the man who literally (and we use that term correctly) wrote the book about the Sanford Meisner technique of acting. A student of Sanford Meisner, Silverberg, a master teacher, actor and author of the four-volume series, the “Sanford Meisner Approach,” is an integral part of the program, directed by Assistant Professor of Theatre/Acting J.J. Ruscella, M.F.A. Learn all about the program that, in four years, takes students from novices to adepts, preparing them as professional, working actors for stage, simulation, television, new media, and film.
1. Why We Chose Shenandoah University
Shenandoah is a place where students establish real friendships quickly, feel close to professors and revel in a welcoming atmosphere. Just listen to what our students have to say:
– by Stephanie Mangino