Unlike many other tongues, English is a magically flexible

language in which the trade-off for precision is a grammatical

and lexical freedom that allows nouns to become verbs;

further, an array of definitions can be attached to a single

word. Take the term “promise” for example: a relatively

simple word, but one of myriad definitions depending on the

context in which and for which it is being used.

For purposes here, I am opting to wield the word “promise”

in the context of two of its meanings (there are nine in most

dictionaries); both are nouns: (1) promise – an indication of

future excellence or achievement, and (2) promise – an

express assurance or declaration that something will be done. By apprehending and

embracing these definitions alone, Beacon College has prospered to its present

enviable station and can expect a trajectory in the development of our community that

is equally remarkable, if not more so.

Long before today’s recognition in rankings and media outlets – the leading indicators

of Beacon’s promise for the future – the College’s Founders were wrestling with the

very practical matters of creating an undergraduate institution from scratch, and a very

specialized one at that. The sheer survival of such a singular and fledgling community

demanded of the Institution’s pioneers a shared promise that they would bind

together and persevere over every programmatic, financial, and jurisdictional dispute

and obstacle that fortune placed before them.

And so, our promise of future excellence and service to all of higher education

through the College’s distinct undergraduate model, demands a collective promise

now that is no different from those that were sought from and delivered by our

Founders. All who have inherited this singular “academic home” are bound by the

promise – the declaration and assurance – that we will dedicate our energies to an

ambitious future that continuously challenges and empowers our students and the

very learning community that is inspired to serve them.

The pursuit of excellence is hard work and demanding of well-thought-out and

articulated direction. This is the primary function of Beacon’s Strategic Plan [2016-

2020] framed over the spring semester and to be adopted by the Board of Trustees

for implementation in August. (This Board-approved strategic document will be

available on the College’s website on August 15, 2016.)

A Presidential Note:

A COMMUNITY OF BOUNDLESS PROMISE

Beacon

Navigator S U M M E R 2 0 1 6 V O L U M E V I , I S S U E 1 I

Know Your World and Its Challenges. Chart Your Course and Succeed.

Gain. Learn. Grow.

Continued on page seven...

I N S I D E T H I S

I S S U E :

Message from

the Board Chair 2

Students Attend

J.P. Morgan

Event

6

Faculty Member

Publishes Book

Chapter

6

Performance

Club Season

Finale

8

Class Embraces

Real-World

Project

9

Pumped Up

About Our

Fitness Interns

9

Appointments in

Administration 10-

11

Class Trip to

Four Seasons 12

Alumni Reunion

Success Story 13

S P E C I A L

P O I N T S O F

I N T E R E S T :

Honoring

Beacon’s Retirees

Commencement

2016

Students’ Study

Findings in

Leading

Publication

George J. Hagety

P A G E 2

B E A C O N N A V I G A T O R

CAN THIS BE BEACON COLLEGE?

If I had returned to Beacon College for the first time this spring, following the long stretch of time

since my son Christopher’s graduation in May 1997, I think I might be asking myself many questions.

Is this Beacon College, and who are all these people? Where is the former Administration Building,

and when did the City of Leesburg construct the beautiful Library and Police Station? Are the

students still dining on the first floor of the Stoer Building, and are the classrooms still located on the

second floor along with the College Library? Do students really live in Beacon-owned apartments?

For the current Beacon College community, these questions hint at an earlier campus they have difficulty even imagining. When the founding

parents of Beacon College set out to establish a post-secondary collegiate

experience for their sons and daughters, they couldn’t envision the

campus as it is today or dare to imagine a student body of 277 learners

supported by a distinguished cadre of faculty, learning specialists, and staff

who are all committed to the baccalaureate education of the growing

Beacon College student body.

Over the last three years, many of the founding Trustees and parents have

been invited to return to the Beacon campus to be introduced to

President George J. Hagerty and to be included in various activities

honoring them for their vision and drive. They set out to create a learning environment unimagined

by nationally recognized education leaders. Many naysayers opined that the Beacon dream was

impossible; yet, here we are in the midst of still more plans for growth in the size of the student

enrollment, enhancement of high quality program offerings, and facilities expansions.

At present, there are 12 Trustees serving on the Board, representative of various professional

preparations and backgrounds. Of this body, five of the members are women, while seven are men.

One of the 12 members is the parent of a current student, and three are parents of alumni. As a

result, the governing body of the College is comprised of members who are both professionally

prepared for their roles and well informed of the needs of the student body and the concerns and

interests of their parents.

This summer, while the faculty, staff, and students enjoy their well-deserved vacations, and the recent

graduates set out to enter graduate school or the world of work, the Board of Trustees along with

the College Administration, will be deeply engaged in designing a new Strategic Plan to guide the

College from 2016 through 2020. We shall draw our inspiration from the Board Members and

Administrators who preceded us, and most importantly, from the students and families whom we are

privileged to serve. The goal of arriving at a new Strategic Plan will be the outcome of innumerable

hours of strategic thinking over the past several years.

As you prepare to depart the Beacon campus, please take with you our very best wishes for a wonderful summer of fun, adventure, and rejuvenation. Rest assured that the Trustees and

Administrators will keep you ever in their thoughts as they set about bringing to fruition what you

have been repeatedly promised – the best is yet to come.

Just watch Beacon College grow!

Eileen Marinakis, Board of Trustees Chair

Eileen Marinakis Board Chair

Nancy Berger started her career at Beacon College as the Director of the Writing

Center then located in the space that is currently the Mathematics Lab. As Director, Nancy also taught four academic courses each semester. In her spare time, Nancy

designed and then implemented the current Robert & Jane Weiner Writing Center, increasing both the Center’s square footage and the number of workstations so as to

serve Beacon College students more efficiently and effectively. Two years ago, Nancy transitioned to a full-time English instructor position. For those students needing extra

help with writing, Nancy developed a Writing Lab course designed to be taken concurrently with College Composition. Devoted to the writing process, Nancy has

worked diligently, tirelessly, and effectively to help each student accomplish his/her writing goals.

Cyrus Van Galyon has been the driving force of the arts at Beacon College since 1999. He has transformed a single Art Appreciation course into what is now the Studio

Arts Department. Van’s devotion to student success and creativity has built a supportive environment where students can find their educational niche and freely express

themselves through the art making process. Van founded the Art Club where members can learn new skills, converse and critique with their fellow students, and experiment

with new processes and materials outside of the stresses of the classroom. Van also took the initiative to gauge student interest in designing and implementing new

classes. Through this he built a stained glass program by seeking funds, materials, and equipment from the public. Van’s dedication to allowing students to have a creative

outlet within their academic pursuits has enriched our baccalaureate culture and has given many students the ability to find their place here at Beacon College.

Terri Ross has worked as a faculty member, learning specialist, and academic advisor at Beacon College for the past 20 plus years and is currently our longest serving faculty

member. Dr. Ross is known for her creative teaching methods in the area of anthropology and it is not uncommon to see her students throwing spears, digging in the

dirt, or sorting through garbage as part of an interactive learning lesson. Terri has always been a big supporter of each and every Beacon College student, and has provided exemplary service to each student not only in the classroom but also as chair of the

former Liberal Studies Department. Terri also developed Beacon’s first travel abroad program, and has sponsored a number of clubs including the early sorority, Tri Mu. Dr.

Ross developed a training program for new faculty designed to provide them with strategies and skills for working with Beacon students. Terri also coordinated the Interdisciplinary Studies

Traveling Scholars program to Cuba. Terri has been an invaluable asset not only to our students, but also to other faculty members and Beacon College itself.

Cal Sanson, MBA, began his educational path in the field of Information Technology. He later changed his major to accounting which led him to becoming a consultant at Beacon

College. In June of 2009, Cal was recruited to be the College’s Vice President of Finance. In his Vice Presidential role, Cal has been instrumental in making sure the College had

successful audits, in performing analytical work and following up on new initiatives for the College, and in creating the first capital budget in the College’s history.

We deeply thank each retiree for their dedication while serving the Beacon College community and its interests and wish them all well as they begin a new chapter in their

lives.

HONORARY SPOTLIGHT ON EACH OF BEACON’S RETIREES

P A G E 3 V O L U M E V , I S S U E 1 I I

P A G E 4

T H E B E A C O N N A V I G A T O R

On a sunny spring day that matched the joyous mood of the occasion, members of the Beacon College community came together to celebrate Commencement Exercises for the Class of 2016, the College’s 27th graduating class.

In the days leading up to the big occasion, seniors made their final memories as Beacon College students with formal and informal celebrations, including the beloved annual traditions of Senior Luncheon, Senior Trip, and the Parent & Grandparent Reception held the day prior to Commencement. At the Senior Luncheon, awards were presented and students were recognized for their contributions to fundamental College programs, such as the Peer Tutor, Teacher Assistant, and Resident Assistant Programs. Qualified graduates were inducted into Psi Tau Omega Honor Society. Senior Trip this year involved the students enjoying a Victory Casino Cruise out of Port Canaveral with an overnight stay and day at the beach. The Friday Parent & Grandparent Reception provided an opportunity for faculty, staff, and Board members to mingle with families and graduates, as well as a chance for the College community to express pride at the graduates’ accomplishments and for the graduates to thank everyone who had supported them throughout their college experience.

The Commencement Ceremony was held on Saturday, May 7th at Lake Receptions in Mount Dora. The room was packed with happy families and friends, excited graduates, and proud faculty, staff, and board members. Provost Shelly Chandler presided over the ceremony. Associate of Arts degrees were conferred on 26 students, and 35 students received Bachelor of Arts degrees.

Students were recognized and honored for their academic achievements. A total of 15 students graduated cum laude, 10 magna cum laude, and 14 summa cum laude, as indicated by their yellow honor cords displayed atop their academic regalia. Tiffani Clause, Audra McGowan, and Michael Tabankin were recognized for having earned the highest GPAs in their respective departments. Cari Ann Beecham was also presented as the Class Valedictorian (shown above), and Antonio Naumann as

Continued on next page...

Celebrating Graduates at Beacon’s 26th Commencement

P A G E 5 V O L U M E V I , I S S U E 1 I

the Salutatorian. At this year’s Commencement, the College renewed the tradition of a President’s Award for a member of the graduating class who has significantly influenced the quality of the “Beacon experience and culture” during his/her tenure. Dr. Hagerty awarded the 2016 President’s Award to Carl Fredrick Casimir for his many and distinct contributions of talent and expertise to the Beacon community since his arrival as a freshman. One of the most solemn moments of the Commencement Ceremony involved the posthumous awarding of the Bachelor of Arts degree to Mitchell Pospyhalla. Accepting his degree were his parents, Jim and Beth. This particularly moving portion of the Ceremony was made all the more memorable by the words of reflection and encouragement offered prior to receiving Mitch’s degree by his father, Jim. In addition to a scholarship program in Mitch’s honor, a memorial garden to be designated as “Mitch’s Place” is scheduled to be created this summer connecting Burbank Hall and Stoer Building. Commencements at Beacon College always are emotional and inspirational, but none more so than the 2016 exercises capped by grateful graduate and new Beacon College Alumni Association member Janine Martin's heartfelt a cappella rendition of Josh Groban's "You Raise Me Up." Please view her performance at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_eJSD5JLs8Y&feature=youtu.be. Also during this important occasion, Beacon College awarded an honorary degree to U.S. Rep. Daniel Webster, a three-term congressman serving Florida’s 10th Congressional District, which includes the City of Leesburg. According to Dr. Hagerty, the College community was pleased to honor Congressman Daniel Webster, “known for his thrifty stewardship of taxpayer money, but perhaps lesser known for championing the mission to educate the public about the realities of learning disabilities. He has opened the door for Beacon College to assume a pivotal role in the discourse revolving around supporting with federal dollars the college dreams of students with learning differences.”

In his final remarks, Dr. Hagerty reminded all gathered that the graduates who had been awarded

their degrees at this Ceremony where “Beacon’s most

enduring legacy.” He used this occasion as well to have

the community join him in gratitude for the dedicated

service of three retiring faculty, Professors Nancy

Berger, Cyrus Van Galyon, and Dr. Terri Ross; (see

page two of this publication.) View all the photos on

Flickr at https://www.flickr.com/photos/beacon_college/

sets/72157667546384670.

On May 19th, President Hagerty presented

Congressman Daniel Webster, in his office on Capitol

Hill, a framed calligraphy copy of the text proclamation

of the Honorary Doctorate the College awarded the

Congressman at the Commencement exercises (shown

right).

...continued from page 4

Contributed by Susan Ward, Coordinator of the Career Development and Outreach Center

Beacon College students had the opportunity to attend the Early

Advantage Program hosted by JPMorgan in April. The two-day event in

Dallas, Texas hosted freshman and sophomores from diverse

backgrounds to assist in their professional development while engaging

them in an introduction to different business lines within the company.

Beacon College students (three pictured left), Nilijah Alston, David

McDonough, Hugo Potts, and Cody Schuetz, were four of 86 college

students that attended the event.

Leadership training sessions included an opportunity to learn about

presentation skills and resume building with an opportunity to

participate in mock

interviews. During the

luncheon on day two, the

students heard from a

panel of JPMorgan employees about how to create a personal

brand. Each member reiterated a lot of what Beacon College

students learn in the Career Center such as promoting personal

strengths and using LinkedIn professionally to connect with

others. The panel also discussed the diversity of JPMorgan and

even though they are a financial institution, their employees have

every degree possible, not just finance. The Beacon students

found the sessions to be a leveraging and unique experience

while making invaluable networking connections.

Students Attend “Early Advantage Program” by JPMorgan

P A G E 6

T H E B E A C O N N A V I G A T O R

Dr. Christopher Huff, Assistant Professor of History, recently had a chapter

appear in a new book entitled, Graduate Study in the USA: Surviving and

Succeeding. The book provides advice for prospective and current graduate

students on everything from the application process to choosing an advisor to

maintaining your physical and mental health. Dr. Huff's contribution,

"Navigating Traditional Graduate Programs as a Non-Traditional Student," lays

out the challenges, opportunities, and potential pitfalls faced by students who

enter graduate school after having been in the working world for several years

or more. The essay is based largely on his own experience. More than a

decade after earning his B.A. degree, during which time he served in the United

States Air Force and worked in the financial offices of several major

universities, Dr. Huff made the decision to pursue a doctorate in history.

Having successfully navigated the graduate school experience, Dr. Huff

provides sound advice, conveyed with a sense of humor, to those looking to

embark on the same journey.

Read All About It: Dr. Huff on Graduate Study

P A G E 7 V O L U M E V I , I S S U E 1 I

In accordance with this Plan, Beacon’s evolution over the next five years – the means through which our institutional

ambitions and promise can effectively be realized – will be deliberately set in motion around five overarching objectives: (1) a focus on decennial reaffirmation (by SACSCOC), (2) continued dedication to sustaining a superior undergraduate program

and student experience, (3) the creation of a leading-edge residential collegiate campus, (4) a commitment to financial security and strength, and (5) the introduction of new and innovative means to extend the message and mission of Beacon

College.

The pursuit of and success in achieving each of these objectives will be defined by the community’s effectiveness in

undertaking a series of associated, measurable tasks that, taken as a whole, will both strategically and tactically advance the College, whether it is a new building, investments in new programs, personnel, and technology, or the exploration of new avenues for Beacon to fulfill its educational and service mission.

In the years immediately ahead, we are called to take upon ourselves the mantle of those who came before, who made the promises of dedicated action one of the most powerful hallmarks of the Beacon Experience. The promise of future

excellence for Beacon College resides with each of us now who have inherited this singular learning community. If we have learned anything in our first 27 years, Beacon’s promise, like that of our students, is boundless.

(continued from page one)

A Note on Presidential Vision...

A learning animal behavior newsletter recently published the work of seven Beacon College students that investigated the

impact of human interaction on captive snake behavior. The Animal Behavior Management Alliance, an international organization focused on animal behavior, training and enrichment, published the students’ research in The Wellspring, a

newsletter edited and refereed by leading experts in animal behavior. Student researchers included Matt Czachur, Diana Haddad, Dean Logus, Sean Marley, Michelle Packard, Cyrus Rhodes, and Jason Williams. (The septet, however, aren’t named

as study authors. Because academic journals generally publish only credentialed authors with professional experience, the Alliance listed the students’ teacher, Professor Brian Ogle as co-author.)

Byline protocol aside, Ogle says what most matters is that because the Alliance focuses on “enhancing animal care through training and enrichment,” and that the Beacon “findings will

be read by practitioners in zoological institutions and research facilities across the globe who directly influence or oversee protocols related to behavior in zoological collections.”

The seven students in last summer’s “Introduction to Animal Behavior” course designed the study to examine whether captive snakes reacted differently because of direct human

contact or interaction. The study featured 20 eastern indigo snakes (Drymarchon corais couperi), “a large, black, nonvenomous snake found in the southeastern U.S.” that is listed

in Florida as a threatened species, according the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service website. The study population included two age groups: mature adults (five years or older) and juvenile animals (under nine months). Students subjected the snakes to three levels of human contact and measured the snakes’ behavior before, during, and after

exposure. Behaviors included body postures, positioning within the enclosure, direction of attention, and tongue flicks per 20 seconds.

Preliminary data suggests that human interaction elevates arousal in captive snakes. “These findings highlight the potential human interference may have on welfare, breeding success, and the potential to influence the snake in behavioral studies and

observations,” Ogle says. Not that Ogle and his student researchers are finished. The findings from the published study will inform the methods in a follow-up study. That desire to continue probing, he says, gets to the heart of why animal science

works well for Beacon students.

“As an educator, the most rewarding aspect of this does not center on their final product being made available to

professionals across the globe, but seeing their excitement for the process,” Ogle says. “All seven students noted the research project was their favorite part of the class. To see students engage in questioning and examination of how the

world works is very exciting to me.”

Snakes Alive! Students’ Study Findings in Leading Publication

P A G E 8

T H E B E A C O N N A V I G A T O R

Contributed by Darryl E. Owens, Director of Communication

The time had come. The show must go on. And Brennan Korshavn was eager to bring it.

He stepped to the stage, clenched the microphone, drew it to his lips and let it flow. Sporting a black suit, Korshavn didn’t wander from the white chair in which he sat during his performance (pictured). However, when he stood to exit the stage, it was clear that the energy from the applauding audience unchained an incomparable joy in his heart.

That was just first of many acts during the finale of the Beacon College Performance Club — where students are free to channel their inner Beyoncé, Baryshnikov, or (Lenny) Bruce.

About 40 students and others gathered inside the Student Center April 15th to watch performers entertain during a show that was part “American Idol” with a dash of “So You Think You Can Dance? and “America’s Got Talent.”

Performers included Brennan Korshavn, Yendis Collie, Aaron Lagunoff, Grady McGill, Hugo Potts, Danielle Bannister, Alana Simon, Dan Monahan, Brianna Quilla, Taylor Creech, Lucas Stewart, Tyriq Davis, and Nathan Korell.

“It was fun to help them in the practices and I was happy to see all the practice pay off,” said Eleanora Moore, Performance Club president.

Then there was the dynamic duo, Ethan Meus and Nathan Korell — the hosts with the most unique comedy stylings.

Introducing one act, Meus, a senior and club vice-president threw a scare into campus security: “Do you guys like pyrotechnics?”

The variety show (mercifully) was short of rockets’ red glare. Still, plenty of fireworks erupted as Lagunoff belted out Shakira’s “Try Everything” with lyrics that hit home.

Birds don’t just fly; they fall down and get up Nobody learns without getting it wrong

McGill cranked out a rollicking version of Florida Georgia Line’s “This is How We Roll.”

What some lacked in melody they more than made up in gusto.

As Rachel Platten’s “Fight Song” blared, Bannister punched, kicked, glided and undulated across the performance space in a spirited dance as though the tune too was her fight song, her life song.

Monahan, elegant in a black suit, revisited the old school, serenading coeds with Chris de Burgh’s “Lady in Red:”

The lady in red is dancing with me, cheek to cheek There’s nobody here, it’s just you and me It’s where I want to be

Once the applause faded for Monahan, Korell didn’t miss a beat: “Isn’t our next performer a lady in red?”

Indeed.

Quilla, in a ruby red blouse, seized the mic, and made The Band Perry’s “If I Die Young” her own. Even when for some singers the lyrics went AWOL, the audience shouted encouragement and wildly applauded, giving performers the strength to go on.

Performing, Moore says, not only is fun, but also “shows that anyone can do anything.” It provides “stress relief from finals and actually builds up their confidence, to be honest. … We wanted to make it actually enjoyable and I hoped everyone did enjoy it.”

The first rule of Performance Club is “You do not have the blues when involved with Performance Club.” The second rule of Performance Club is “You can sing the blues, if you like, when involved with Performance Club.” Though on this triumphant night, no one really did.

Performance Club Finale Shows Beacon’s Got Talent

P A G E 9 V O L U M E V , I S S U E 1 I I

Class Takes on Real-World Project for Local Company

The “Systems Analysis and Design” class worked on a

semester long real-life project. The project was to examine

Saxon-Clark Interior Design's business processes and then

design a system that would help improve their processes.

Students held meetings with the company both in-person

and through Skype. Project Manager, Torin Miller, organized

the team to research ways to improve how Saxon-Clark

does business. On May 2, 2016, the class went to Saxon-

Clark to present their findings (as illustrated by Ian Devilbiss,

shown right).

Students were able to experience how a Systems Analyst

implements new systems into organizations. Members of

Saxon-Clark were impressed with the students' work.

Contributed by Dr. James E. Fleming, Business and Technology Department Chair

This is a special thank you to Bill Baldwin and Lauren Roberts for donating their time and energy as Interns in the

Fitness and Athletic Department here at Beacon College. Both of them went far beyond ordinary expectations in their

roles. Their efforts enabled Nate Judge, our Residential Experience Coordinator, and me to reach out to many

students – affording them fun, physically active

opportunities.

Bill offered every student a great personal training

experience. He stayed pretty booked with students.

In his limited free time, he constantly reached out to

students to let them know that he was available. It

did not matter if you were an expert in the gym or

“green as grass,” Bill was there to help you.

Sometimes students would have to make a difficult

decision, whether to train with Bill or go to one of

our other fitness recreation activities. I am thrilled

that Bill has recently accepted a position at the

College as a full-time Personal Trainer.

Lauren was very helpful, not just donating her time,

but often on the front lines helping Nate and me

setup for intramurals, Wednesday special events activities, and striking a cord with many of our students. Her exciting

marketing videos have allowed the campus to see what is happening in the fitness program. As a long time Leesburg

resident, she was also able to help me connect with the resources available throughout this town to really help our

fitness/recreation program. I am happy that she is returning as a part-time Intern next school year.

These two volunteers made my transition into a newly created position as Director of Fitness and Athletics, much

easier and more successful for our students. If you see Bill or Lauren around campus, please give them plenty of

accolades for their contributions to Beacon this year.

Pumped Up About the Fitness Center’s Interns Contributed by Steve McDaniels, Director of Fitness and Athletics

P A G E 1 0

B E A C O N N A V I G A T O R

As we have shared, the 2016-17 academic year will be one of continued growth and programmatic

advancement. Over the past three years, I believe that we have all sought to create an academic and institutional

culture that is more planned, thoughtful, and deliberate. Prior to my arrival, the Trustees framed this expectation

both in Board resolutions and in the summary of presidential requirements set before all applicants for the post in

which I am now privileged to serve.

It may appear unusual for me to speak about the prospective academic year before the current one has drawn to a

close. However, the agenda ahead is certainly considerable. Thus it is “the-sooner-the-better” in the priority of

organizing the leadership demanded to successfully complete what must be done programmatically and on campus

in the months ahead.

Today, with the approval of the College’s Board of Trustees and with an eye on efficiency in communication, I

wish to announce four appointments related to Beacon’s permanent senior management.

Two of these changes are in title for senior administrators who have truly been fulfilling for some time the

responsibilities befitting their newly Board-authorized posts.

The Appointment of a Provost for the College: Dr. Shelly Chandler

During the summer of 2014, the previously separated Divisions of Academic

Affairs and Student Affairs were melded into one administrative unit. This

action was taken to support the development of a more closely aligned system

for the delivery of the College’s educational and student support

programming. At that time, this combined Division was placed under the

guidance and oversight of Dr. Shelly Chandler. Dr. Chandler has well served

the Institution as a professor and senior administrator for more than 14 years

and has most recently capably served with the title of Vice President of

Academic and Student Affairs. She has also been the trusted “point person”

for all matters pertaining to the College’s accreditation. With this and many

other elements in her professional portfolio, the Board and I have determined

that her work and level of performance is that befitting the title of Provost.

With the authorization of the Board of Trustees, it is my privilege to appoint

Dr. Shelly Chandler as the Provost of Beacon College, a position which will

report directly to the President.

The Appointment of a Vice President of Admissions and Enrollment

Management: Ms. Dale Herold

Certainly, the arrival of Dale Herold at Beacon College has ushered in a time

of healthy growth consistent with the plans and expectations of the Board of

Trustees. Over the course of her tenure of just over two years, she has

transformed the operations of our Office of Admissions and carefully managed

a professional staff responsible for recruiting new students and awarding the

financial resources necessary for admitted students to attend Beacon

College. Proceeding her time at Beacon, Ms. Herold served at the level of

Vice President in admissions and enrollment at a series of institutions, a status

of which she is deserving given her record of performance at the College.

With the authorization of the Board of Trustees, it is my privilege to appoint

Ms. Dale Herold as Vice President of Admissions and Enrollment

Management. In this capacity, Ms. Herold will report directly to the President.

A Presidential Message on the Appointment of New Senior Administrators and the Dean of Student Affairs

P A G E 1 1 V O L U M E V I , I S S U E 1 I

The remaining two appointments welcome new professionals to the Beacon community, one in the position

being vacated by the retirement of Mr. Cal Sanson, and the second, the function in which Ms. Carrie Santaw has done an excellent job in an Acting capacity in the arena of Student Affairs.

The Appointment of a new Chief Financial Officer: Mr. Otis Vance, MBA, CPA

With the pending retirement of Cal Sanson, the Board of Trustees expedited the search and selection for an experienced Chief Financial Officer, who would bring higher education

experience with significant professional qualifications. With this goal in mind, we immediately pursued a national search via the respected National

Association of College and Universities Business Officers (NACUBO) membership. One name was consistently mentioned, that of Mr. Otis Vance,

presently the Chief Financial Officer and Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Maine College of Health Professions (MCHP) in Lewiston, Maine. In addition to

earning a MBA and professional recognition as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE), Mr. Vance possesses significant

auditing and management experience in health care. One additional advantage in the appointment of a professional of his caliber is that Mr. Vance is very familiar with the SONIS platform currently in use at Beacon.

The Appointment of Dean of Student Affairs: Dr. Kerry Greenstein

As was announced on our webpage, the College has concluded a search for the Dean of Student Affairs. We are pleased that Dr. Kerry Greenstein has accepted our offer to assume this position on July 1st. Dr.

Greenstein has a significant background in the arena of Student Affairs and joins us after an eight-year tenure at Georgia Southern University (GSU).

In serving as Associate Dean of Students for student advocacy at GSU, Dr. Greenstein oversaw the Alcohol

and Other Drugs Office, coordinated official communication to students, and supported the school’s Office of Student Conduct, Multicultural Student Center, Fraternity and Sorority Relations, Student Media, and the

Student Government Association. Under his leadership, the division boosted its professional development activities and community engagement. He also

created the university’s student communication plan to bolster campus safety and keep students abreast of campus events and university business.

Greenstein has also has taught leadership classes and served as Assistant Dean of Students. Prior to his tenure at Georgia Southern, he served as Assistant

Director of Admissions at Radford University. Greenstein, an Eagle Scout, earned his B.A. from Rider University, his M.E. from the University of

Delaware, and his Ed.D from George Southern.

The Dean of Student Affairs oversees the College’s Division of Student Services, manages the operational units of Housing and Judicial Affairs, Student

Experience, and Health and Wellness, and directs the development and maintenance of a healthy student culture.

We welcome the newest members of the Beacon community and congratulate all introduced here on their

new appointments. I am certain that you will take the opportunity to offer best wishes and support to Shelly and Dale and to reach out to Otis and Kerry upon their arrival.

— President George J. Hagerty

P A G E 1 2

B E A C O N N A V I G A T O R

As they entered the hotel, it didn’t take students in Simon Vaz’s “Introduction to Business” class long to realize they weren’t in

Kansas anymore (and booked at an Econo Lodge). Inside, marble everywhere. Chandeliers big and brilliant as starbursts. High-end

flourishes. And an intoxicatingly alluring aroma that was hard to identify. It was, oh yes, the smell of money. Old and new money.

To burn.

How a hotel makes a good first impression was the first lesson Beacon College students learned Monday during a field trip to the

Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort. The group included Nilijah Alston, Chase Bartholomeo, Devon

Brown, Taylor Creech, Kelvin Dent, Michael Grams, Sterling Jackson, Joshua Kincaid, Aaron Laganuff, Fahad Majid, Grady McGill,

Sarah Rosser, Sondrina Sanders, Stephen Scott-Edwards, and Eleanor Waring. Checking into the chain’s winning business model

complemented an ongoing class simulation project in which students manage a small 50-room hotel.

“Students get to see how a five-star hotel operation with the No. 1-rated

customer service in the world is run and what it takes to consistently

deliver that level of service,” says Vaz, an instructor of business and

hospitality at Beacon College. “Students learn what it takes to work at

such a hotel and what it takes to be successful. They also get to see how

a hotel like this is marketed.”

Laganuff, for one, hoped to discover “what management skills are

required to run a hotel.” Led by Jennifer Schmelter, operational learning

and development manager at the hotel, students toured dining and

residential areas within the hotel and absorbed Four Seasons corporate

culture.

First, however, they

received a Four Seasons history lesson. They learned how Isadore “Issy”

Sharp opened his first Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts in 1961, how The

Four Seasons started stocking the mini soaps and shampoos travelers stuff in

their toiletry bags on checkout day that now every quality hotel provides, and

how powered by the chain’s focus on luxury, the Four Seasons brand

mushroomed from a single property to 98 hotels in 41 countries.

At 443 rooms, the Disney-area property — a nearly $440 million investment

that was 15 years in development — is the largest jewel in the Four Seasons

crown. The hotel’s average nightly rate runs five times higher than the

median Orlando hotel rate. “Four Seasons wanted to set the bar, set the

mark and be the best in the market,” Brian Plott, Director of Sales, told Vaz’s

students.

During the tour, students learned Plott wasn’t kidding after they saw how a $17,000-a-night Presidential Suite with a panoramic

view looks. Hint: OMG. After that, Schmelter and Plott fielded students’ questions. There was time for advice too.

While some may consider working at the Four Seasons as the pinnacle of the hoteling business, Plott reminded students that

hospitality is “a humbling business and to truly serve, I think you have to start at the bottom.” Meanwhile, Schmelter noted

experience opens doors for college graduates. “Coming out of college with experience on your resume is very important,” she

said. “By coming out and having examples on your resume give you a little bit of an edge on others when looking for a job.”

Nearly three hours later, it was time for students to checkout after an experience that may have convinced some to check into, if

not hoteling, pursuing the corporate life. “The trip to Four Seasons was very fun to me,” Waring said. “I loved learning about the

hotel business because it may be something I would be interested in doing.” Brown agreed: “I got a lot out of the trip. It made me

think about opening my own business. The Four Seasons has a great background and way of handling business. I really enjoyed the

field trip. The Four Seasons really gives me hope to successfully open my own fashion company.”

Contributed by Darryl E. Owens, Director of Communication

Four Seasons Field Trip Helps Students Check Out High-End Hospitality

P A G E 1 3 V O L U M E V I , I S S U E 1 I

Alumni Reunion Reunites, Strengthens Beacon Bonds

Forty alumni — nearly doubling the inaugural event — enjoyed the two-day festivities that opened with a social event Friday

night at the Via Port entertainment center in Leesburg and continued with get-togethers, speeches, and enrichment workshops

Saturday. After Friday’s bowling and bonding at Via Port, the Saturday activities opened with President George Hagerty’s State

of the College address. He gave context regarding the extreme makeover to facades and new buildings that recently have

modernized the campus.

Alumni paid their respects to Chris Hall, Beacon’s

long-time Director of Facilities and New

Development, who died in February. Faculty and

alumni ignored the clock at the well-attended,

emotional memorial service at United Methodist

Church for a man beloved for as much for his

music and sports prowess as his love of life.

Keynote speaker John Crossman, President of

Crossman & Co., one of the Southeast’s largest

real estate management companies, struck a chord

sharing his “secret shame” of dyslexia and how it

powered his success in his speech, “Slaying the

Giants: Overcoming Doubt and Disability for

Victorious Living.”

“I believe as we go through our lives that we have wounds,” he said. “It’s important to process them and use them as tools to

be better adults and successful. … I learned at 42 that I was ‘super-duper’ dyslexic. It was helpful to know that I am not

stupid.” He added, “Peace, contentment, and joy come with finding peace with yourself and giving back to others.”

Two enrichment workshops preceded a campus tour, a social hour mix and mingle, and an alumni dinner. Susan Ward,

Coordinator of the Career Development and Outreach Center at Beacon College, presented “New Career Resources and

Changes for Beacon College Alumni.” Alumni appreciated her round-up of resume-building, interviewing, and job-hunting

services now available for their career pursuits. “We had several alumni say during and after her workshop that this was so

helpful, and they can’t wait to use all the new resources to help them further their career,” said Chelsea Eubank, Director o f

Alumni and Parent Relations.

Meanwhile, Dr. Rosalyn Johnson, clinical supervisor and coordinator of therapeutic services at Community Health of South

Florida in Miami, Fla., conducted a workshop on how to “Prepare for Success in Graduate School.” She provided tips for

succeeding in graduate school and setting aside valuable “me” time. When she wasn’t presenting, Johnson frolicked with her

Class of 2009 classmates. “It felt refreshing and wonderful to be reunited with so many familiar faces … many of whom I had

not seen in the seven years since I graduated,” says Johnson, Beacon College’s first Ph.D. “I look forward to [the reunion]

every year getting better and better as the Alumni Association continues to grow. I hope that the number of alumni who

attend the [reunions] continues to grow as well.”

Andrew Marvin, Class of 2010, now Beacon’s Assistant Director of Admissions, also gave his thumbs up. “We are almost 27

years old as an institution and as the second alumni campus reunion, it was a great showing,” he said. “I hope for many more

times when we can come together as a community of diverse learners and share our lives.”

Beacon’s most recent graduating classes represented alumni from the classes of 1999, 2001, 2003, and 2006-2015. “Of course,

I would love to see every class year attending the reunion,” Eubank said. However, “I know as we grow that will for sure

happen.” To that end, the Class of 2016 received invitations to hobnob at a Saturday social hour with their soon-to-be fellow

alumni. Five future alumni embraced the early opportunity to network.

“We had more people attend that were out-of-state alumni,” she said. “The guest speaker hit it out of the ballpark. I was just

so happy overall with the turnout.” Still, in keeping in step with myriad changing alumni tastes, she vows an evolution next

year. “It still is in the works,” she said, “but we are thinking something a bit more social and that it might include adventure.”

Adventure, huh? Tally ho!

Contributed by Darryl E. Owens, Director of Communication