Whaley, a junior Environmental Biology major, presented his research paper, “Interaction of Physical Factors and Sampling Methods on Assessment of Hellgrammite Populations.”

Noah Humphrey and Andrew Pfau, both senior Biology Pre-Medical majors, presented “Controlling Membrane Permeability through Protein-Lipid and Cation-Lipid Interactions.”

All three students were also a part of MVNU’s Summer Program for Undergraduate Research (SPUR) in 2023.  

The Symposium for Undergraduate Research and Creative Work is an annual gathering that provides students with the opportunity to present extended research projects, exemplary class assignments, or other independent scholarly work. This event provides students with a true capstone experience. This year featured 38 presenters who were reviewed by university faculty for the quality and sophistication of their projects as well as the clarity of their presentation.  

Over 200 faculty, staff, student, and extended community members attending the symposium. 

For more information on sURC, visit .

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The students prepared both in and out of the classroom for the interviews, selecting to interview with three or four of their priority school districts.

“One of our goals in the department is to find placements for graduating seniors,” said Ross Carter, P-12 Education Partnership Coordinator. “Last year we had several job offers come from the interview fair itself. Networking also gives them opportunities for further interviews.”

Noelle Dudgeon, a senior Elementary Education and Intervention major, praised the Education Department for prioritizing interview preparation in the classroom. In addition, Gary Swisher, Director of Career Development, worked with each student to develop crucial skills needed to make a good impression in an interview setting. 

“We went through several seminars and training sessions with Mr. Swisher,” said Dudgeon. “As someone who has never had to build a resume before, he had a lot of insight — we got a lot of tips on how to dress professionally and how to go through interviews.”

Students aren’t the only beneficiaries of the career fair; school district representatives had the opportunity to evaluate a myriad of candidates to fill entry-level positions in their schools. Cody Reese, Principal of East Knox Junior/Senior High School, and alumnus of MVNU, was among the district representatives conducting interviews. 

“We like to be a part of the process of [interacting with] young teachers — getting opportunities to talk with them and giving them opportunities to stay in the area,” Reese remarked, “it’s a great opportunity and a win-win for both sides.”

While most students won’t accept a position with a school district until June or July, four students have already solidified teaching positions through the interview fair.

“Overall, the day was a great success and we look forward to seeing where the Lord leads our graduating seniors in their teaching careers,” said Carter.

For more information on all MVNU’s programs, visit .

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“Our Campus Tree Advisory Committee exists to cultivate sustainability and stewardship on MVNU’s campus,” explains Tim Radcliffe, committee chair. “The goals for our committee are to protect and maintain the campus trees by managing the impact of development and construction on [them].”

Additionally, Radcliffe emphasizes the importance of ensuring that in the event of a tree removal on campus, replacement considerations are made.

Several students joined Committee members at the planting including Tucker Dougherty, Caleb Woodworth, Jessica Bock, Morgan Gibson, Caila Charles, Ashlynn Scott, Zach Ballenger, Faith West, Dominic Rose, and Sara Bash. The number of students participated double since 2023.

The Committee is comprised of nine members:

• Ben Cook — Director of Facilities Operations and Campus Safety 
• Open position — Grounds Coordinator
• Dr. Jon Bossley and Tim Radcliffe (Chair) — Faculty Representatives
• Darryl George and Heather Hoag — Staff Representatives
• Sarah Bash and Tucker Dougherty — Student Representatives
• Dr. Randy Cronk — Community Representative
  
  

The Committee will continue to plan for the care of trees on campus, which includes removals of damaged or diseased trees, as well as planting new or replacement trees,” said Radcliffe about next steps. “In addition, the committee has been working on a self-guided tree tour that will highlight some of the key tree species on campus.”

For their dedication and efforts toward conservation, 51����earned distinction as a Tree Campus from the Arbor Day Foundation’s Tree Campus Higher Education program. This is now the fifth consecutive year 51����has received this honor.

To learn more about MVNU’s Campus Tree Advisory Committee, visit .

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Seniors are Luke Bortner, Cameron Cearns, Allison Durst, Ben Kindberg, Jordan Hall, Mayleea Hansen, Taylor Nazeck, Abigail Oliver, Brooklynn Rockwell, Zoë Schaum, and Cody West.

An opening reception will take place at the Schnormeier Gallery on April 26 from 5:30-8 p.m.

Rise represents the ability of the senior graphic design class to rise above setbacks and overcome challenges. This advanced group of designers uses their skills to subvert expectations and bring about creative solutions by integrating design knowledge, innovation, and history. As designers, they see every obstacle as an opportunity to adapt and grow. Regardless of the circumstances they move upwards.

The Schnormeier Gallery is located at 221 S. Main St., Mount Vernon, on the first floor of MVNU’s Buchwald Center. It is open Monday through Friday, from 1-5 p.m. For more information, contact the Schnormeier Gallery at artgallery@mvnu.edu.

For more information on MVNU’s graphic design program, click .

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The concert will include a wide variety of music featuring the Symphonic Wind Ensemble, Jazz Band, String Ensemble, Flute Choir, Collegians Chorale, Goliards Chamber Choir, Treble Singers Women’s Choir. The ensembles will close the concert with an arrangement by Jay Rouse of “Let There Be Peace on Earth,” with combined choirs and instrumentalists.

Instrumental ensemble directors are Dr. John Packard, Chuck Dettmar, Dr. Juan Carlos Ortega, and Jennifer Packard. Choral directors are Dr. Robert Tocheff, Carrie Vail, and Sabina Anderson. 

For more information on this or other musical events, contact tressa.daley@mvnu.edu or call (740) 397-9000 ext. 3000.

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“As we start a new chapter here at MVNU, I am reminded today of the new opportunity set before each of us,” said Dr. Castleman. “I say ‘us’ because today is not simply about me. It is about the ‘whole’ organization and the commitment to building on the past and forging ahead to a new and bright future together. Today is a day of decision and destination for us as a Christ-centered academic community committed to changing the world with the love of Jesus Christ. We must stake a claim today that we are going to move forward, honor the past, and, more importantly, move ahead and do things that many will not do.”

During his inaugural address, Dr. Castleman spoke directly to 51����students, faculty and staff on his loyalty to the University.

“As President, I want to assure you that I am fully committed to the values and mission of 51���� and the Church of the Nazarene. I believe that education has the power to transform lives, and I am dedicated to providing our students with an environment that fosters intellectual growth, spiritual formation, and a heart for service. I will strive to lead with integrity, transparency, and a deep sense of responsibility.”

Dr. Castleman concluded his speech by inviting those around him to accept both the great opportunities and difficult tasks that lie ahead with unwavering faith.

“As we stand on the precipice of endless possibilities, I challenge each and every one of you to open your eyes and see the opportunities that lie before us. Let us not be bound by limitations or fears but rather embrace these opportunities with a deep faith rooted in Christ Jesus,” said Dr. Castleman. “Faith, after all, is the belief in things unseen, the trust in Jesus Christ guiding our paths. It is this very faith that can empower us to overcome any obstacles that may come our way. This faith enables us to see beyond the surface, recognize the potential in every situation, and seize the moment. 

“So, I implore you to take a leap of faith. Dare to dream big, to think beyond what we have always known, and to challenge the status quo. Let us approach every endeavor, every decision, and every interaction with a perspective that challenges us to lean on Christ and ask Him for help, guidance, direction, and grit. Let us find inspiration in our shared values and beliefs, never give up, and remember we can do all things through Christ, who gives us strength.” 

The 51����Board of Trustees unanimously elected Dr. Castleman as the University’s eighth president on Aug. 11, 2023, and vowed support during the inauguration.

“We believe that God has called 51���� into existence. In addition, God has called forth this man to provide leadership to 51����for such a time as this. So, today, we will participate in a liturgy that will remind us of our calling and purpose. We will be reminded of our challenges and opportunities. We will charge our President to lead this institution, and we will pledge ourselves to support through prayer and our resources,” said Edward Phillips, J.D., Chair, 51����Board of Trustees.

Additional charges to the President were given by Dr. Castleman’s wife, Dr. Angela Castleman, on behalf of the family; Joey Lopez and Emily Walker, on behalf of 51����students; Rev. David Mills, on behalf of 51����faculty and staff; and Dr. David Wright, representing the Council of Christian Colleges and Universities.

Speakers included Johnna Vanover, MVNU’s Vice President for Enrollment & Marketing; Mount Vernon Mayor Dr. Matthew Starr; and Chancellor Mike Duffey, Ohio Department of Higher Education. A prayer of dedication was given by David W. Graves, General Superintendent Emeritus, Church of the Nazarene. Scripture, Isaiah 40:28-31 NIV, was read by Claire (Castleman) Perry. Special music, “The Blessing,” was provided by Dr. Angela Castleman and her sister, Amy Miller, with piano accompaniment by Mike Williams. Dr. Castleman was introduced by Gregory L. Sizemore, J.D., 51����Foundation Partner.

Dr. Robert Tocheff directed the Collegians Chorale in the performance of “We Believe,” as well as the Congregational Hymn, “Great is Thy Faithfulness,” featuring soloists Aubrey Bailey and Dr. Eric Stetler, Vice President for Graduate and Professional Studies.

For more information on Dr. Castleman’s inauguration, visit mvnu.edu/inauguration. Photos from the inauguration and reception are available at . To watch the inauguration, visit mvnu.tv and select “On Demand.”

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Goliards, an a cappella chamber choir, consists of 20 auditioned members under the direction of Mrs. Carrie Vail. This concert entitled “Beginnings & Endings” will showcase a variety of unaccompanied selections, some in Latin and German texts, covering early music to current repertoire. 

Quary Chapel is located at l10930 Quarry Road in Gambier, Ohio. 

For more information about MVNU’s Music Department, visit .

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This special presentation, directed by Professor Carrie Vail, will feature 19 51����students who will perform a variety of music in lighter styles. Popular hits from musicals such as The Last Five Years, Jekyll & Hyde, Dear Evan Hansen, The Little Mermaid, Frozen and others will be featured. Students will sing as soloists, in small groups and as a full ensemble.

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Gallery Talks will take place at the Schnormeier Gallery on April 11 and 12, starting at 5 p.m., followed by a reception each night from 6-8 p.m.

ALIGN is a group exhibition that addresses multiple approaches to the creative process. Seven seniors explore an eclectic mix of mediums including: Painting, sculpture, mixed media, installation, printmaking, and drawing. The bodies of work although different, align in the manner of personal growth through artistic expression. Artwork in this exhibition is the culmination of the course work done by graduating students during their senior year in the 51����Art program.

The Schnormeier Gallery is located at 221 S. Main St., Mount Vernon, on the first floor of MVNU’s Buchwald Center. It is open Monday through Friday, from 1-5 p.m. For more information, contact the Schnormeier Gallery at artgallery@mvnu.edu.

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MVNU’s Collegians Chorale and Treble Singers Women’s Choir will each offer a wide variety of music from their spring choir tour repertoire. The ensembles will also join together for the gospel song “I Sing Because I’m Happy.”

Collegians Chorale is a select 35-voice mixed choir directed by Dr. Robert Tocheff.  Treble Singers is a select women’s choir directed by Mrs. Sabina Anderson. Both groups present music for praise, worship and testimony through gospel arrangements, sacred classics, spirituals, hymns and contemporary Christian songs. 

These choirs perform in a variety of events each year including special chapel services, the Christmas service, the annual presentation of Handel’s Messiah, and the Music Department’s spring ensemble concert. They also tour the 51����educational region of Ohio, West Virginia, and eastern Kentucky, and sing at various local schools and events as their schedules allow. Students representing several states, a variety of academic majors, and a number of different denominational backgrounds participate in the choirs.

Lakeholm Church of the Nazarene is located at 16001 Glen Road, Mount Veron, Ohio.

For more information on musical opportunities at MVNU, visit .

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