Ferrum College is once again offering FloydFest 19~Voyage Home attendees comfortable lodging on campus through the Learn & Lodge Program during festival days, July 24–28, 2019. Room packages at $80 per night for a single room, or $135 per night for a double room, include breakfast and daily shuttle service to and from the FloydFest site. Visitors also have the opportunity to learn about the folk heritage of the Blue Ridge region and the Crooked Road Music Trail at the Blue Ridge Institute and Museum while staying on campus.
During the festival, festival-goers can stop by the College’s sponsor tent and the popular Ferrum College Workshop Porch Stage, which offers an intimate listening environment as well as opportunity to engage with musicians as they share songs, stories, and techniques in a hosted, workshop-style environment. They can also visit the Outdoor Adventure Tent to sign up for the Ferrum College 5K Trail Running Race to be held on Sunday, July 28 at 9:30 a.m. Top runners will receive prizes in several categories. The race incorporates parts of the FloydFest site and two laps on the Moonstomper Trail. In addition, there will be College-sponsored opportunities to learn fly-tying, fly-casting, and screen printing scheduled throughout the festival.
Reserve a room for FloydFest here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/floydfestplus-learn-lodge-july-24-28-2019-registration-53736892492.
Read more about FloydFest 19~Voyage Home, order festival tickets, see the Ferrum College Workshop Porch schedule, and find information about the FREE Ferrum College 5K Trail Running Race here: https://floydfest.com/.
Learn more about Ferrum College’s partnership with FloydFest here: https://dev.ferrum.edu/calendar/floydfest/.
Learn more about the Blue Ridge Institute and Museum here:www.blueridgeinstitute.org.
Dig deep into nature’s medicine cabinet at the Blue Ridge Herb Lore Gathering, which will be held 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, June 15, 2019, at the Blue Ridge Institute & Museum on the Ferrum College campus. This one-day wellness and healing experience is for everyone so take this unique opportunity to begin your personal journey of wellness. Learn from herbalists whose expertise draws from Traditional Chinese Medicine, the Wise Woman Tradition, regional customs, as well as Rastafarian beliefs. And, experience onsite acupuncture, the best herbal vendors in the region, a nutritious lunch (with vegan options) sponsored by Blue Hills Market of Abingdon, and morning yoga to get you going (if you like)! Herbalists and aspiring herbalists of all levels are welcome. The $75 registration fee includes lunch and a snack. Register now using the form below! For more information, call 540-365-4412 or email bri@ferrum.edu.
On Saturday, May 11, 2019, 211 Ferrum College graduates walked the commencement stage on Hart International Plaza on campus to receive their diplomas. The commencement exercises began at 10 a.m. and included award presentations under threatening skies that eventually gave way to a light spring rain. The keynote speaker was Rev. Bruce Hitchcock, advocate for inclusion and district superintendent of The United Methodist Church’s Ohio Valley District, who roots his work in service not only to Ohio but to our local Appalachia region, as well.
Provost Aimé Sposato opened the commencement ceremony to welcome the crowd of family, friends, faculty, and staff on hand to celebrate the graduates’ achievements. “Commencements are often thought of as bittersweet endings,” Sposato noted. “But as the word ‘commence’ means, we are truly celebrating beginnings on our campus today. This is your moment to shine.”
Following the invocation given by Dean of the Chapel Jan Nicholson Angle, President David Johns greeted the crowd and instructed the graduates to thank their friends and families for their love and support, as “great achievement requires a group effort.” Johns then reminded the students of Mother’s Day, stating, “Your mother will always be smarter than you!”
In closing, Johns reflected: “Amazing things happen here at Ferrum College each and every day – sometimes in big and splashy ways, but very often, in small and incremental ways. And, before you know it, we gather together in this place to celebrate the transformation of lives that has taken place.”
Ferrum College Board of Trustees member Suzanne Smith ’98 and Alumni Association Vice President Twyla Tatum ’04 each gave their greetings on behalf of their respective boards. Five distinguished faculty members, who will retire after 154 years of combined service to the College, were recognized: Dr. Faye Angel, Dr. William “Dub” Osborne, Dr. Bob Pohlad, Professor Susan Spataro, Dr. Carolyn Thomas, and Dr. Demetri Tsanacas.
The presentation of awards followed. Associate Professor of Biology, Katie Goff, received the Exemplary Faculty Award, which recognizes a full-time faculty member at Ferrum College who exemplifies excellence and commitment to teaching. Goff, who was recently honored at the College’s employee recognition lunch for 10 years of service to the institution, is beloved by her students and passionate for the campus community. Along with her commitment to guiding students on their career pathways, she is the dedicated advisor for Minds-N-Medicine, a club that supports students’ experiences as early career health professionals.
Three graduates received the Senior Academic Excellence Award: Leya Deickman, of Fayetteville, NC; Koby McMahon, of Annapolis, MD; and Joshua Wright of Stuart, VA. The award is based on grades earned in all college courses by a full-time student, including those taken at Ferrum, as well as those received in transfer from other colleges or universities. All three seniors maintained a 4.0 GPA. Deickman earned a Bachelor of Arts in psychology; McMahon received a Bachelor of Science in criminal justice; and Wright received a Bachelor of Science in mathematics.
Leya Deickman ’19 also received the Arthur S. Owens Leadership Award, which is presented annually to the senior chosen by the faculty who best exemplifies the qualities leadership, initiative, honor and outstanding character. Recipients of this award must also hold an excellent academic record, have participated in extra-curricular activities, and shown creative initiative in making Ferrum College a better place to study, work, and live.
Following the awards presentations, Rev. Hitchcock addressed the graduates. “Life is yours,” he said. “There is nothing that can hold you back. You were educated for a purpose.” Hitchcock closed with a charge to the graduates: “You are going to change the future; we depend on you. Ferrum, get busy living!”
Student Government Association President Lawrence Baranski ’19, of Williamsburg, Va., then introduced Senior Class President Andrew Meadows ’19, of Chatham, Va. After presenting the senior class gift to President Johns, Meadows introduced Deickman as the senior class speaker.
After thanking the class of 2019 for the honor of being asked to speak, Deickman referenced her extraordinarily busy schedule as a full-time student, full-time mother to her four-year-old son, residence hall advisor, and athlete, among other activities. She explained that she was able to do it all with the support of this graduating class. “Whether we do it intentionally or not, we all contribute to the success of others by simply supporting them in both small and large ways,” Deickman said. She closed with advice: “While this moment will pass us by, just as all of the experiences of college, let us be mindful of those who surround us in support and who have led us to this very day. Be willing to accept help when it is offered so you can be successful…and always be willing to give help, so you can be that support for someone else.”
After the conferring and awarding of degrees by Johns and Sposato, a celebratory picnic lunch was held under tents on Franklin Hall quad for all in attendance. The weekend events also included a traditional Baccalaureate service on Friday evening in Vaughn Chapel followed by a candlelight ceremony at Hart International Plaza symbolizing the light of knowledge that the new graduates will carry forth into the world.
Set up continues for Ferrum College’s 103rd commencement.
Ferrum College will celebrate the 103rd commencement on Saturday, May 11, 2019 in Hart International Plaza in the center of campus. The College is expecting approximately 211 seniors to walk the commencement stage to receive their diplomas. The ceremony, beginning at 10 a.m., will include the presentation of student, faculty, and alumni awards.
Advocate for inclusion and longtime friend of President David Johns, Rev. Bruce Hitchcock, will address the 2019 graduates. “I am pleased Bruce Hitchcock will join us for this year’s commencement ceremony,” said Johns. “We both grew up in Ohio and I am eager to introduce him to Virginia’s Blue Ridge and to the fine people of Ferrum College.”
Graduates will also participate in a traditional Baccalaureate service on Friday evening at 7:30 p.m. in Vaughn Chapel. The service will conclude with a candlelight ceremony at Hart International Plaza to symbolize the light of knowledge that the new graduates will carry forth into the world.
Please note:
Ferrum College’s 103rd commencement speaker is Rev. Bruce Hitchcock, an advocate for inclusion within the United Methodist Church. He is pictured here with his wife, Melissa.
Advocate for inclusion, Rev. Bruce Hitchcock, believes all are welcome within the United Methodist church. He will address Ferrum College’s 103rd graduating class as commencement speaker on Saturday, May 11, 2019, at 10 a.m. in Hart International Plaza on the College’s campus. Over 200 seniors are expected to walk the commencement stage to receive their undergraduate degrees.
Hitchcock, who currently serves as Ohio Valley District superintendent, believes “a Christian [can be] a brother and a sister of someone who has a different thought. We have to discover God within, in other people, and all around us, and the more we do that, the more human, the more decent, the more compassionate we become.”
United Methodist Church Bishop Tracy Malone described Hitchcock as “a visionary leader, a strategic thinker, and one who brings many learnings and experiences from serving in a variety of ministry settings. He has a deep faith and has demonstrated throughout his ministry a strong commitment to discipleship, evangelism, and mission.”
President David Johns met Rev. Hitchcock during their college days and the two remained in contact throughout the years. “I am pleased Bruce Hitchcock will join us for this year’s commencement ceremony,” said Johns. “We both grew up in Ohio and I am eager to introduce him to Virginia’s Blue Ridge and to the fine people of Ferrum College.”
Read more about Rev. Bruce Hitchcock in this East Ohio Conference announcement and in this Herald-Star article.
More about Rev. Bruce Hitchcock: Hitchcock was ordained a deacon in 1987 and then an elder in 1989. While serving as pastor of Pleasant Grove United Methodist Church in Carroll County, Ohio, he obtained his bachelor’s degree from Malone College, and then his Masters of Divinity from United Theological Seminary while pastoring State Road United Methodist Church in Germantown, Ohio. Additionally, he has served other Methodist churches: East Rochester-Bayard UMC (1989-1993), East Sparta UMC (1993-1996), and Huron UMC (1996-2002). Hitchcock worked as executive director of Urban Mission for nine years before pastoring at Geneva UMC in the Western Reserve District from 2011 to 2018. Hitchcock currently resides in Ohio with his wife, Melissa. They have two sons and one daughter.
The campus community celebrated Ferrum College students during its annual Academic Awards Ceremony on Friday, April 12, 2019 in Vaughn Chapel.
After Dean of Chapel Jan Nicholson Angle offered the invocation, President David Johns welcomed students and their families, faculty, and staff, and expressed his pleasure in “celebrating today students who are not content with doing the minimum—meeting basic expectations. These students know that to be successful means stretching and daring to do a little more.”
“I am proud of our honorees,” continued Johns. “Let’s do more than congratulate them today; let’s thank them—because when they strive for and achieve excellence, they inspire us to do the same.” He closed by presenting the President’s Cup to senior Alexandria Dixon who is about to receive her bachelors degree in business administration with concentrations in management and finance, and a minor in philosophy. Awards were then presented to students by the dean of their school and their professors.
Provost Aimé Sposato bestowed special awards and closed the ceremony with these words of encouragement: “In just a few weeks, you will be walking across the Commencement stage — ready to take on the world. As you begin your next journey, carry a little bit of Ferrum College in your heart as you reach for the stars. We are honored to call you Panthers!”
A list of award recipients and honor society members follows.
See photos from the event here.
The Iron Blade Editor Commendation
AnnGardner Eubank
The Chrysalis Editor-in-Chief Award
AnnGardner Eubank
The Chrysalis Staff Member of the Year Award
Leya Deickman
The Eric Lee Baker Award for the Outstanding Student in English
Heather Ellis
The Outstanding Student of Russian Award
Suzanne Maines
The Spanish Award
Olivia Webster
The C.P. Minnick Award
Lorrie Ellis
The Acey-Wood-Rose Award for Excellence in Religious Studies
Christian Haley
The Jasse Scholarship in History Awards
Christian Haley
Pedro Arrocena-Jacuinde
Jack Sheehan
Jennifer Stough
Erica Tuck
The Outstanding Undergraduate Scholar in History Award
Claire Bailey
The Art Department Award
Atenoya Morris
The Theatre Arts Achievement Award
Sierra Pearson
Jasmine Williams
Lacey Matthews
The Dance Achievement Award
Sierra Pearson
Malcolm McRae
The Outstanding Music Student Award
Sierra Pearson
Corey Sutphin
The Agricultural Sciences Award
Sean Trollinger
The Biology Award
Quentin Montgomery
The Chemistry Award
Christina OubkeoThe Environmental Science Award
Katherine Anderson
Tamiah Palmer
The Environmental Studies Award
Caitlin Spencer
The Health Sciences Award
Taylor Atkinson
Hayden Storms
The Pre-Professional Health Sciences Award
Jared Williamson
The Pre-Professional Science Award
Chantal Aaron
The Mathematics Award
Joshua Wright
The Award for the Outstanding Student in the School of Natural Sciences and Mathematics
Chantal Aaron
The Management Award
Noah Collins
Alexandria Dixon
The Finance Award
Christian Cromer
Jake Martin
The Decision Support Award
Emma Grammer
The Marketing Award
Chanté Elam
The Hamblin Accounting Award
Sierra Roach
The Outstanding Student Researcher Psychology Award
JC Hazelwood
The Outstanding Student in Psychology Award
Rachael Ellis
The Health and Human Performance Award
Anton Traquair
The Recreation Leadership Award
Samantha Davis
The Jane Addams Social Work Achievement Award
Guy RamseyThe Outstanding Social Work Student Award
Alexandra Young
Taylor Woods
The 2019 Dr. Ken McCreedy Outstanding Criminal Justice Graduating Senior Award
Koby McMahon
The Dr. Betty N. Bailey Silver Weaver Award
Bethany Fletcher
The Delta Kappa Gamma Outstanding Woman in Education Award
Cheyenne Strickland
The Charles A. and Marion C. Skinner Award for Excellence in Education
Elementary Education
Molley Massey
Rachel Lowe
All-Level
Kelsey Mosley
Joshua Grimard
The Frank Benjamin Hurt Award
Matt Wright
The Rising Star Award
Gabrielle Reichard
Model United Nations
The Most Effective Delegate
Zachary Bullard
Model United Nations
The Most Effective Delegation
Zachary Bullard
AnnGardner Eubank
The Advisor’s Choice Award
Zachary Bullard
President’s Cup
Alexandria Dixon
The Algernon Sydney Sullivan Awards
Student Recipient
Mark Kellam
Faculty Recipient
Dr. Delia Heck
Non-Student Recipient
Dr. Ed Cornbleet
The Lillie Warwick Slaven Award
Alexis Hatcher
The James T. Catlin Citizenship Award
Lawrence BaranskiChantal Aaron
Pedro Arrocena-Jacuinde
Katherine Anderson
Taylor Atkinson
Claire Bailey
Lawrence Baranski III
Zachary Bullard
Noah Collins
Christian Cromer
Samantha Davis
Leya Deickman
Alexandria Dixon
Chanté Elam
Heather Ellis
Lorrie Ellis
Rachael Ellis
AnnGardner Eubank
Bethany Fletcher
Emma Grammer
Joshua Grimard
Christian Haley
Alexis Hatcher
JC Hazelwood
Mark Kellam
Rachel Lowe
Suzanne Maines
Jake Martin
Molly Massey
Lacey Matthews
Koby McMahon
Malcolm McRae
Quentin Montgomery
Atenoya Morris
Kelsey Mosley
Christina Oubkeo
Tamiah Palmer
Sierra Pearson
Guy Ramsey
Gabrielle Reichard
Sierra Roach
Jack Sheehan
Caitlin Spencer
Hayden Storms
Jennifer Stough
Cheyenne Strickland
Corey Sutphin
Anton Traquair
Sean Trollinger
Erica Tuck
Olivia Webster
Jasmine Williams
Jared Williamson
Taylor Woods
Joshua Wright
Matthew Wright
Alexandra YoungChantal Aaron
Bryce Beard
AnnGardner Eubank
Dakota Fletcher
Suzanne Maines
Nancy Shoaf
Victoria WagnerTaylor Brown
Samantha Combs
Kevin Ramirez
Charissa Reter
Satin Alicia Lee WilliamsMarquis LeeHallie ChappellOlivia Fox
Amber Scott
Mallory ScottMegan Allen
Renee Alleyne
Elina Baltins
Ametria Booker
Makenna Carden
Graham Doucette
Mikayla Floyd
Dominique Harper
Brady Hentz
Danielle Johns
Lauren Jutras
Abigale Light
Morgan McCoy
Kenzie Mosley
Amber Osborn
Hunter Tharpe
Ayanna Virgin
Carissa WilliamsAbigail Baker
Lawrence Baranski III
Katelin Benton
Hunter Berrier
Cayla Berry
Ysabella Bettilyon
Matthew Boyd
Mia Brower
Ashley Charters
Kimberly Clements
Samantha Combs
Taylor Darnell
De’Asia Darrington
Leya Deickman
Dakota Fletcher
Christian Haley
Rachel Hancock
Clifford Harrison
Caitlin Hodges
Sarah Peyton Hodges
LaErica Hubbard
Jonathan Iraggi
Jenna Janicki
Zack Jones
Gabriella Kermon
Rachel Knick
Lindsay Koogler
Allison Kurfees
Kayla Lentini
Alexzondra Mattson
Mikayla Moreno
Atenoya Morris
Autum Murray-Burns
Christina Oubkeo
Tamiah Palmer
Addison Philpott
Casey Raggett
Gabrielle Reichard
Destiny Roane
Davon Robinson
Amber Scott
Morgan Scott
Natasha Shelton
Cayla Stephens
Victoria Wagner
Brittany Warren
Grant Welch
Haley Yates
Rebecca YearyJamecia SmithPedro Arrocena-Jacuinde
Nancy Shoaf
Erica TuckLeya Deickman
Sierra Helton
Mallory Hall
Brianna Martin
Christopher RodriguezKathryn Bonner
Ametria Booker
Susan Cook
Leya Deickman
Kayla Divers
Daishi Dudley
Chanté Elam
Koby McMahon
Autumn Potkay
Mary Stoudt
Jasmine WilliamsJasmine Agee
Mark Allen
Jason Anstice
Max Baker
Cayla Berry
Jacob Blaukovitch
Tanner Brooks
Taylor Brown
Tucker Brown
Sianna Burgos-Altman
Mikayla Cannaday
Henry Carkhuff
Antonio Carrabotta
Chris Clarke
Dominick Claxton
Kimberly Clements
Noah Collins
Bailey Cooper
Taylor Darnell
Konner Deeds
Leya Deickman
Alexandria Dixon
Taylor Dodson
Moore Dolue
Miranda Dougherty
Alison Ford
Benjamin Foster
Tyler Fullem
Abigael Germeroth
Raekwon Giggetts
Courtney Gosslin
Hunter Goulart
Nick Helton
Anitria Henderson
Layura Henley
Shannon Johnson
Alicia Jones
CJ Kaashif
Lindsay Koogler
Breanne Kretzer
Allison Kurfees
Brooke Lewis
Michael Lyons
Brian Mann
Jake Martin
Alex Mattson
Ashley McAllister
Koby McMahon
Kevon McNeil
Hailey Meyer
Vicki Meza
Kiani Mohica
Christian Mosier
Travis Murray
Tim Ortega
Sirena Pangelinan
Austin Pennington
Matthew Poirier
Kevin Ramirez
Sierra Roach
Courtney Rudd
Samantha Sabater
Brendon Schrantz
Kali Setzer
Jack Sheehan
Kasey Sheets
Nancy Kathryn Shoaf
Brett Sommers
Cheyenne Strickland
Payton Stuart
Brandon Turner
Victoria Wagner
Shane Walker
Jasmine Wilson
Gloria Wood
Robert Ziehfreund
The fourth annual Moonshine Heritage Car Show will take place at Ferrum College on Saturday, April 27, from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. This unique car show will showcase vehicles that were actual transporters of moonshine or the type of vehicle that was used for the hauling of illegal spirits. Admission is free so bring the family for a day of fun!
There will be plenty of storytelling and bragging about the exploits and history of these special cars and trucks from the actual drivers. After the show, participants will cruise down to Twin Creeks Distillery in Rocky Mount for a moonshine tasting. Also visit the special moonshine souvenir tent with models of stills, mash sticks, and Virginia is for Moonshine Lovers hats, t-shirts, and bumper stickers.
Food will be available onsite from the legendary Bowling’s Hotdogs of Waidsboro.
This event is sponsored by the Blue Ridge Institute and Museum of Ferrum College with the assistance of the Outlaw Cruisers Car Club of Franklin County, VA.
For more information, call the Blue Ridge Institute at 540-365-4416 or email bri@ferrum.edu. To register a car for the car show, please complete a registration form here: https://ferrumcollege.wufoo.com/forms/m17zr5tu1d37fh6/.
To learn more about the Blue Ridge Institute and Museum, visit: https://dev.ferrum.edu/blueridgeinstitute/.
Ferrum College Theatre Arts will present Beth Henley’s Crimes of the Heart April 24 – 26, at 7 p.m., in the Black Box Theatre in Schoolfield Hall on campus. Entrance is free for Ferrum College students and faculty; $5 for non-Ferrum College students; and $10 for adults. Reserve tickets here. This production contains adult language and situations.
Set in Hazlehurst, Mississippi, three sisters, each with unique life circumstances including spinsterhood, a failed career, and the possibility of jail time, await their grandfather’s death in the local hospital. Through hilarious yet touching twists and turns, the sisters escape their pasts and make strides toward their futures. A New York Times review remarked: “While this play overflows with infectious high spirits, it is also, unmistakably, the tale of a very troubled family. Such is Miss Henley’s prodigious talent that she can serve us pain as though it were a piece of cake.”
The play, which won the 1981 Pulitzer Prize and the New York Drama Critics Circle Award, has been described by the New York Post as having “heart, wit, and a surprisingly zany passion that must carry all before it…it would certainly be a crime for anyone interested in the theatre not to see this play.”
Learn more about Ferrum College Theatre Arts here.
More about Beth Henley: Henley’s plays have been translated into over ten languages. Broadway productions include Crimes of the Heart and The Wake of Jamey Foster. Off-Broadway productions include: The Miss Firecracker Contest; Am I Blue; The Lucky Spot; The Debutante Ball; Abundance; Impossible Marriage; and Family Week. Her additional works have premiered at the McCarter Theatre and South Coast Repertory Theatre (Ridiculous Fraud); the Geffen Theatre (The Jacksonian, 2012); and Studio Theatre (Laugh, 2015). Awards include: the Pulitzer Prize in Drama and the New York Drama Critics Circle Award for Best American Play (Crimes of the Heart); American Theatre Wing 1998 Award for Distinguished Achievement in Playwriting and Susan Smith Blackburn Finalist (Crimes of the Heart and Ridiculous Fraud); Richard Wright Literary Excellence Award (2000); New York Stage and Film Honoree (2007); and ATHE Career Achievement Award (2010). Henley hails from Jackson, Mississippi; serves as a theatre arts presidential professor at Loyola Marymount University, Los Angeles; and is a member of The Fellowship of Southern Writers, the Dramatist Guild and the Academy of Arts and Science.
Darrian Marshall, a junior majoring in musical theatre, will display his own production, The Empowerment Concert, on January 19 in Schoolfield Hall’s Sale Theatre, on the Ferrum College campus. The event will begin at 8 p.m. and is free and open to the public. Tickets are not necessary. Please note that this performance contains content that is not suitable for children.
Darrian Marshall ’20
Hailing from Gloucester, VA, Marshall’s passion for theatre arts began when he performed in The Wiz, an African American remake of The Wizard of Oz, at the tender age of 13. Since his freshman year at Ferrum College, Marshall has participated in every theatre arts production on campus. His inspiration for The Empowerment Concert originated from the Black Power Movement along with pop culture influences.
Marshall wishes to express sincere appreciation to the Concert’s production team and dancers, to include: dance captains Mia Brower; Autumn Murray-Burns; and Tamiah Palmer; dancers Laura Aylor; Jenise Venible; Ellie Eckrote; and Jay Moy; executive producer Precious Leonard; director of sound Marie Mance; concert host Jasmine Williams; and vocalists Lacey Matthews and Lechelle Smith.
While at Ferrum College, Marshall intends to audition for professional theatre companies in hope of landing a career in theatre after graduation in May 2020. Marshall also plans to perform for Universal Orlando Entertainment in Florida. “No matter where I’m at or where I’m going, I will always perform at 100 percent from my heart, while inspiring and empowering the hearts all around me,” said Marshall.
Find more details about Marshall’s upcoming performance here.
The Blue Ridge Institute and Museum of Ferrum College is hosting “Christmas in the Blue Ridge: Open House” on Thursday, December 13, from 4 to 6 p.m. The open house will be held at the Institute on Ferrum College’s campus at 20 Museum Drive, Ferrum, and will include refreshments, vendors selling Christmas gifts, caroling, plus a huge live tree decorated with traditional ornaments. This holiday event is free and open to the community, so please bring the family!
Meatless Monday is a global movement that encourages people to choose not to eat meat one day a week. Reducing your intake of meat and animal products, particularly from industrial sources, can help protect your health, the health of the public, and the environment. Even a small change – like cutting meat from your diet once per week, can make a difference.
When: Monday, April 16, all day
Where: Franklin Hall Cafeteria
The solution to many of our most pressing environmental problems was invented over a hundred years ago. The bicycle is a simple, ever-evolving machine that benefits individuals, communities, the economy and the environment. Drop by Franklin Hall and see some icons of bicycle history.
When: Monday, April 16 from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Where: Franklin Hall Atrium
Explore campus while searching for different items found in nature. Come by the info table to pick up instructions and your score card. Take selfies and use the hashtag #FChunt for the chance to win a gift card. Winner will be announced on Friday, April 20. Sponsored by REC 450 Special Event students.
When: Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Where: Franklin Hall Atrium
Explore career options within the fields of sustainability, alternative energy technologies, and ecotourism along with variety of other green careers.
When: Monday, April 16 from 11:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Where: Franklin Hall Atrium
Get active and have fun with friends! Come out to Bassett field for a best of three Ultimate Frisbee championship. The winning team win gift cards. Sponsored by REC 450 Special Events students.
When: Monday, April 16 from 4 to 6 p.m.
Where: Bassett Field
Get some exercise and challenge yourself during our week outdoor climbing tower sessions. Contact Ferrum Outdoors for directions to the climbing tower at ferrumoutdoors@ferrum.edu. Sponsored by Ferrum Outdoors.
When: Monday, April 16 at 4 to 7 p.m.
Where: Ropes Course
Poet Michael Chitwood, native of Rocky Mount, Virginia, is a lecturer in the Department of English and Comparative Literature at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He is also the author of several books of poems inspired by growing up in Appalachia. Sponsors are the English program, the Boone Honors Program, and Chrysalis.
When: Monday, April 16 at 7 p.m.
Where: Panther’s Den
The ENG 211: Literature and the Environment class will be leading a hands-on learning experience about Henry David Thoreau on-site at the Thoreau cabin.
When: Tuesday, April 17 from 11:15 a.m. to 12:10 p.m.
Where: Thoreau Cabin Follow the signs from the tennis court trailhead.
Take a walk in the woods on the campus trails. Sponsored by Ferrum Outdoors.
When: Tuesday, April 17 from 12 to 1 p.m.
Where: Campus Trails. Meet at the Tennis Court Shelter
The Ferrum College Giving Garden is a volunteer-run initiative located at the Titmus Agricultural Center. The Giving Garden was started by students, staff and faculty with the mission to grow fresh produce for local families in need in our community. To date, have donated nearly 4,000 lbs of produce to feed local families. When volunteering at the garden, please wear closed toed shoes and clothes that can get dirty and bring a water bottle. Contact Dr. Angie Dahl with questions, adahl@ferrum.edu.
When: Tuesday April 17 from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Where: Titmus Agricultural Center
Keep Ferrum College forever green by collecting trash in our forest and creeks. Trash bags and work gloves provided.
When: Tuesday, April 17 from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Where: Meet at Burrows-Skeens Tennis Complex picnic shelter
Our blue planet is part of an unfathomable and endless Universe. Using Augmented Reality software, we will explore the night sky, the constellations and the myths and stories we have created to explain them. Hosted by Todd Fredericksen and Chris Mayer
When: Tuesday, April 17 at 8:30 p.m.
Where: Meet at the tennis court picnic shelter at 8:30 p.m.
Walk to School Wednesday urges everyone to avoid driving their cars to class for one day. Walking to school saves gas and gives our environment a break from all the toxins that cars release in the air. This also gives us time to bond with one another in a creative way. Sponsored by REC 450 Special Events students.
When: Wednesday, April 18 all day
Where: Atrium of Franklin Hall
Healthy People Healthy Planet is an event for community members that promotes living a life of overall wellness. Topics will feature physical fitness, nutrition, finance, and mental health. Workshops will include money saving tips on how to eat healthy on a budget as well as information on how to start your own home garden. Interactive competitions for parents and children will offer fabulous prizes while teaching how to live a life of wellness.
When: Wednesday, April 18 from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Where: Ferrum YMCA
Gather with friends and family around the campfire for an evening of S’mores, lemonade and live acoustic music. This family-friendly event will take place at the fire ring located in the Ferrum forest on campus. Bring a flashlight or use the one on your phone. Start at the tennis court trailhead and follow the signs to the fun. An ATV utility cart to bring up those who have mobility issues.
When: Wednesday, April 18, 7:00 to 9:00 p.m.
Where: Meet at the fire ring just beyond the Thoreau cabin or at the tennis courts and follow the signs.
Seven students from REC 421 Issues in Sustainable and Ecotourism have chosen topics about sustainability, nature, and ecotourism and developed their own TED Talks.Come out and support them.
When: Wednesday, April 18 from 12:15 to 1:15 p.m.
Where: Panther’s Den
Mountain Biking is a great way to exercise, have fun and get out with friends. Stop by the quad next to Franklin Hall and try out some of Roanoke Mountain Adventure’s sweet rides.
When: Wednesday, April 18 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Where: Quad next to Franklin Hall
There will be two guided rides on the campus trail. Roanoke Mountain Adventures will be providing expert instruction and their sweet mountain bikes. First come first serve! Or you can bring your own mountain bike to join the ride. Sponsored by Ferrum Outdoors.
When: Wednesday, April 18
Where: Meet at the Cycling Center next to the YMCA
Presenters: Dr. Chris Mayer and a Distinguished Panel of Opinionated Professors. Healthy refreshments will be served.
When: Wednesday, April 18 from 4 to 5 p.m.
Where: LEAP studio in the Stanley Library
Challenge yourself with this fun and popular activity. Experience zipping through the trees in the dark. FREE! Sponsored by Ferrum Outdoors.
When: Wednesday, April 18 from 7:30 to 10:00 p.m.
Where: Ropes Course. Get directions from Ferrum Outdoors at ferrumoutdoors@ferrum.edu
Register by Monday 4/16 at www.ferrumoutdoors.eventbrite.com
Join certified instructor, Leah Yetzer, on this hour-long outdoor yoga session that will feature meditations and poses inspired by Mother Earth. Mats will be provided or bring your own if you prefer.
When: Thursday, April 19 from 8 to 9 a.m.
Where: Dyer Hall Patio
We will discuss the health benefits of Earthing also known as Grounding. Scientific evidence supports the miracles that this simple activity can provide. Come find out what it is and what it can do for you! Be prepared to be barefoot!
When: Thursday, April 19 from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m.
Where: Panther’s Den
We have bottles/cans that are set up on shelves and people will throw balls of trash at them and attempt to knock them down and win a prize. Sponsored by REC 450 Special Events students
When: Thursday, April 19 from 1:15 to 3:00 p.m.
Where: Quad
Disc Golf is great exercise and fun. Discs and instruction provided if needed. Sponsored by Ferrum Outdoors.
When: Thursday, April 19 from 5:15 to 7:15 p.m.
Where: Practice Tee next to Tennis Court Shelter
Humans were first inspired to create music by the multitude of sounds within nature that surrounded them. Music has the ability to stir thoughts, feelings, emotions, and passions. It is our hope that this concert under the trees will stir these things within the listener, just as nature inspired humans to create it. Hosted by Ferrum Collegiates, Concert Choir, and Theatre Arts
When: Thursday, April 19 from 5:15 to 6:00 p.m.
Where: Huge Oak Trees in front of Bassett Hall
Showing of a 2009 documentary on Lyme Disease -“Under Our Skin” by director Andy Abrahams Wilson. “This documentary investigates the epidemic we are now facing and traces its flourishing to a negligent and corrupt health care system. Interviews with patients and doctors paints a clear picture of a medical industry that has decided to place profits ahead of the health of the people it is supposed to be treating.”
When: Thursday, April 19 from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m.
Where: Panther’s Den
Seven students from REC 421 Issues in Sustainable and Ecotourism have chosen topics about sustainability, nature, and ecotourism and developed their own TED Talks. Come out and support them.
When: Friday, April 20 from 12:15 p.m. to 1:15 p.m.
Where: Panther’s Den
Bring your own shirt and add a bit of earth art to it! Student leader will assist.
When: Friday, April 20, 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Where: Quad
Come fly with us! Celebrate and learn about butterflies and their critical role as pollinators. Fly butterfly kites and plant seeds for flowers they need to live. Each participant will receive a pollinator seed package so that he/she can plant a butterfly garden at home. Sponsor: REC 450 Recreation Special Events students
Where: Meet at the Quad in front of Franklin Hall
When: Friday, April 20 from 2:00 p.m to 4:00 p.m.
Come and climb trees like researchers in the Amazon Rainforest. Using safe professional arborist equipment you will scale to new heights.
When: April 20 from 5:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Where: Large oak trees in front of Bassett Hall
Grab two of your friends and compete in a 3-on-3 tourney. Winning team will receive gift cards.
When: Saturday, April 21 from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Where: Outdoor basketball courts on Lakeside.
Spend some quality time on the water this Earth Day. Transportation, equipment and instruction provided. FREE! Sponsored by Ferrum Outdoors.
When: Sunday, April 22 from 1:00 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Philpott Lake. Meet at the Franklin Lower Parking Lot.
Register by Friday, 4/20 at www.ferrumoutdoors.eventbrite.com
Nature’s wonders both large and small have served as artistic inspiration throughout our history. Participants will discover and collect small natural items such as feathers, branches, flowers, and rocks to incorporate into a watercolor painting. Poems, quotes, and earth inspired writings will be incorporated into your art. Watercolor and lettering techniques will be explored to create a unique framable sign that will continue to motivate and inspire a commitment to honor and protect the earth everyday! Free.
When: Sunday, April 22 from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Where: Dyer Hall Conference Room and Patio.
Get outside and enjoy Earth Day! Get a round of disk golf in while learning more about Earth Day!
When: Sunday April 22 from 12:30 p.m. to 4:00 pm.
Where: Tennis court shelter.
Prayer Labyrinths have long been a source of introspection and divine guidance. Walk the maze and contemplate your connection to nature and the Divine.
When: Sunday, April 22 from 3:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Where: Vaughn Chapel
In recognition of Black History Month, Ferrum College will honor the contributions of African American golfers in the advancement of the game of golf with an event on Mon., Feb. 19, 2018, featuring special guest Albert R. Green, the first African American Class A PGA Professional in the Mid-Atlantic Section of the PGA, and a viewing of the documentary Uneven Fairways. The program will take place from 6 – 9 p.m. in the Blue Ridge Mountain Room on the Ferrum College campus. A reception will follow the documentary screening and Q&A session.
The Uneven Fairways documentary, narrated by Samuel L. Jackson, reveals the little-known stories of African-Americans who were forbidden to play golf at its highest level but refused to accept their exclusion. The documentary celebrates the men and women of the United Golf Association — the “Negro Leagues” of golf — who challenged segregation and paved the way for future stars of the game. While it is a sports documentary, the issues it raises are an important part of American history.
“By detailing the struggles that these African-American players went through and the challenges they overcame, our hope is that their dedication and perseverance will inspire other men and women of all ages and races to take up the sport, or moreover, to have the courage to overcome obstacles and blaze trails in all of their endeavors,” said Dr. Lynise Anderson, dean of student affairs and campus wellness at Ferrum College.
For additional information or to RSVP for the event, please contact the Ferrum College Office of Student Affairs and Campus Wellness at 540-365-5049 or email iterrill@ferrum.edu.
