Class Notes

Fall and Winter 2012 Class Notes
Inspired by the President's Climate Commitment, the Fall & Winter 2012 class notes are published below rather than in the current issue of the Wesleyan Magazine. Enjoy catching up with your sisters! Our next magazine (with full class note coverage) will include notes submitted from December 2012 through April 2013. To submit class notes online, click here or mail to: Alumnae Office, Wesleyan College, 4760 Forsyth Road, Macon GA 31210.

“I celebrated my 95th birthday in March and so far I feel great,” writes “Dottie” DuPuis Mackin ’38 of Silver Spring, MD.  “Things are going well at Riverwood Village, where I live.  There are 2,800 of us and many, many, activities to keep us busy.  I still enjoy shuffle board, water aerobics and Wii bowling tournaments.  And believe it or not, I am in two ukulele clubs (we do have gigs -  3 or 4 a year). My family is near by, so I see them often.  Life is good - even at my age!

“I am still enjoying good health.  I feel especially blessed to have four wonderful children who are very attentive adults, 14 grandchildren and 25 great grand children.  At 95, I am in the independent section of my retirement home community in New Orleans, LA.  I survived hurricane Isaac with a few difficulties like power outages,” reports Bernardine “Bunny” Smith Thomas ’38.

From her home in Hendersonville, NC, Bettye Milton Paden ’45 sends love to her classmates as she was unable to attend reunion.

Sara Green Fraley ’45 of Statesville, NC, is alive and well! She resides in an assisted living facility in Statesville, where she enjoys resident activities and plays cards all day and night. Our apologies to Sara, who was reported deceased in the 2012 Alumnae Directory.

Emily Bradford Batts ’46 of Charlotte, NC, is grateful to have her oldest grandson back in the USA.   She is proud to report that, after two tours of duty, he is in Captaincy School in Fort Sill, OK.

“Visual problems and walking difficulty keep me homebound lately,” shares Laura Jones Turner ’46 of LaGrange, GA.

“I now have 14 great grandchildren, including two sets of twins –  two girls (7 years-old) and two boys (six months-old). I enjoyed our Wesleyan Luncheon at the Chatham Club in Savannah,” writes Helen Proctor Morris Watson ’46 from Statesboro.

In February, Emily Britton Parker ’47 and husband Pledger relocated to Hermitage, TN, when he had to move to long-term care after becoming ill from a virus.  She remains in assisted living.  “I visit him two or three times daily,” Emily writes.  The couple celebrated their 65^th wedding anniversary on July 1^st.

Maconite Elizabeth McCants Drinnon ’48 is proud of her two grandsons who are both at Duke.  “Lou Leskosky, a Duke graduate, is academic coordinator for the Duke TIP program for gifted high school students,” she reports.  A current senior at Duke, Rett Jackson worked this summer doing neuroscience research and is a pre-med student.

Jean Cowart Fleming ’48 has a new address! “I moved to Century Pines, a nice residential area for us older folks in Albany, GA. I still swim everyday except Sunday,” writes Jean.

 “I had a delightful visit in July from Susan Allen,who caught me up on friends from Wesleyan and Carrollton,” writes Mary Nims Hogan ’48 of Asheville, NC.

Elizabeth Pittman Claiborne ’49 of Brownsville, TN, sadly shares that Elisabeth Kinney Windrow Pope ’50, also of Brownsville, passed away on May 12.  She leaves behind her husband and three children.  (See In Memoriam)

Betty Buntyn Googe ’49 and Joe live in Knoxville, TN, and continue to enjoy their family, friends, and house at Tybee Island, GA. “We still volunteer at Univ. Tennessee Hospital - 45 years for me and 18 for Joe. Six of our eight grandchildren have graduated from college and have jobs; two are still in college -   Margaret is a senior at Wake Forest and John is a sophomore at Sewanee.

“We were married 62 wonderful years and were truly blessed,” writes Beth Parker Hunt ’49 of Cedartown, GA, who lost her husband, Van Garlington Hunt, in December.  (See Sympathy)

Dr. Faith Munford Price ’49 and her husband, Everett, are in Austin, TX, where they live in a retirement community near son Charley, daughter-in-law Sarah, and their new grandson (their sixth!).  “We’re babysitting tonight!” she reports.

 From Virginia Beach, VA, Sara Frances Johnston Fowke ’50 loves to receive news about Wesleyan, her classmates, and her friends.

Martha Ann Wood Robertson ’50 of Rocky Face, GA misses her sister, Adeline Wood Wilkes ’47, who died just before Thanksgiving last year from complications after emergency surgery. (See Sympathy, Summer 2012.)

From Americus, GA, Georgia Anne “Gi Gi” Milligan Arthur ’51 recalls, “I have often remarked how proud I am that my daughter, Anne Arthur ’87, graduated from Wesleyan.  We both agree her Wesleyan experience has greatly influenced her ability to be the success she has become in many ways.” 

Jane Schmidt Catlin ’51 has moved to a retirement home in Columbus, OH, to be near her family.  She reports, “I tried it out twice and like it very much!”

From her home in Clearwater, FL, Anne McKay Garris ’51 happily exclaims, “Berle and I celebrated our 59^th wedding anniversary in June!  We now have five great grandchildren to enjoy.”

Mina Collins Jolley ’51 is still editor of the Chattanooga Area Historical Journal, but continues working on recovery improvements to her Signal Mountain, TN, family home, which stood in the direct path of the April 2011 tornadoes.

Golden Heart Helen Youngblood Kendrick ’51 of Greenville, SC, has moved to the memory support unit at The Woodlands, where she and her husband, Moffett, live. It seems that Moffett has a golden heart too, as he plans to continue to support Wesleyan for Helen. Wesleyan is so grateful for his loyalty to Helen’s alma mater.

“I loved being a Golden Heart at Wesleyan for four, fulfilling, wonderful years.  At 82, I am doing my best and leaving the rest to the Lord,” writes Frances Hiers Whitworth ’51 from Fitzgerald, GA.  “I was blessed to take care of my mom, Frances Denmark Hiers, in the home she was born in – my grandparents’ home. She went to be with the Lord on July 16, 2010, at age 101!  God is always good.”  In October, Frances returned from a trip to Maine, where she visited with her children and their families.

Virve Paul Martin ’52 of Atlanta shares that she and her husband, Al (’53), enjoyed her 60^th reunion and are looking forward to celebrating another special 60^th – their anniversary – with children and grandchildren in Hilton Head Island, SC.

“I will soon be 80 years old and I still cherish those four years I spent at Wesleyan,” writes Mayson Thornton Bissell ’53 of Cordele, GA.  “Thanks for the wonderful memories, Wesleyan!”

To celebrate her 80^th birthday this past year, Merrilyn Welch Eastham ’53 of Marietta, GA, enjoyed a trip every month.  “In August, we went to Silver Bay, NY, for a family reunion. During Thanksgiving week we took our children and grandchildren on a cruise!”

Matthew Turner, age 3, is the joy of his grandmother’s life.  During time not spent with her grandson, Claire Houser-Dodd ’53 of Fort Valley, GA, still works, writes, and travels.  She went on a cruise this fall with Joyce Hall Pelphrey ’54, who lives in Marietta, GA.

To celebrate her 80^th birthday on October 9, Gerry Fain Dixon Eddy ’53 of Pensacola, FL, rode her recumbent tricycle for 80 kilometers (50 miles) on Pensacola Beach! As a surprise from her husband and children she also received a book of remembrances from friends and family. Gerry looks forward to reunion in 2013.

“Mama is jealous!” writes Jen Jennings Norton ’53 of Green Cove Springs, FL.  Her daughter, Jeanne Norton Rollberg ’79 teaches journalism at The University of Arkansas at Little Rock and spent most of last May in London, Paris, Rome, and Barcelona while doing family genealogical research. 

The number four is especially significant for Grace Maxwell Sparrow ’53 of Macon. “I have a new great grandchild, a little girl named Sagan.”  This makes four children, four grandchildren, and four great- grandchildren for her.

Life in Wilson, NC, remains calm and peaceful for Caroline Eagerton Upperco ’53.  She and her husband are active in their United Methodist church and live near their daughter and her family.  Granddaughters Caroline and Elena are in college, while her son and his family are in Virginia.   

“I am heartbroken to have lost my first son, David, at the age of 55,” Autumn Cook Ireland ’54 of Ormond Beach, FL, sadly reports.  He was cancer-free for two years before an unusual recurrence gave him six weeks to live.”  (See Sympathy, Summer 2012)

From Largo, FL, Leah Wallat Odden ’54 reports, “We went on a fabulous Baltic Sea cruise in August. Visited many countries we hadn’t seen before – Estonia, Latvia, Poland and Finland.  It was whirlwind tour but thoroughly enjoyable. Next on the list is the Panama Canal. Our best to all of you – Leah and Red.”

“The children and I lost Joe (Rev. Joseph Porterfield, Sr.) on December 30, 2011. He was a wonderful father and husband. I was so gratified that Wesleyan was well represented at his funeral,” writes Donnie Donaldson Porterfield ’54 from Savannah.

From Gainesville, FL, Libby Truitt Furlow ’55 writes, “Leonard and I celebrated our 56^th anniversary – we have four wonderful granddaughters!”  On their trips North to visit them, they also see Betty Upchurch Hasty ’55 and Carolyn Gleaton Cox ’55.  Sadly, in May, they lost their daughter, Beth, who fought non-Hodgkins Lymphoma for three years. (See Sympathy, Summer 2012)

Joyce Ann Loudermilk Richards ’55 of Marietta, GA, is proud to announce that in May, her daughter, Kimberly Richards Denmark ’78,received an education specialist degree in teacher leadership from Piedmont College. The degree is her six year degree (between a master’s degree and Ph.D.).

“Hey, dear people!” writes Lucy Neely Adams ’56 of Lake Junaluska, NC.  “I still have my Woody, our four children, our 14 grandchildren, and two additional greats to add to our first, now 3 years- old.”

Lloyd Young Flanders ’56 lives in Darien, GA, where she still travels, plays bridge, reads, and serves on the Altar Guild at St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church.

“Thank you all for the kind expressions of sympathy you showed to me during my husband’s illness and death on June 4, 2012.  Don and I had been married for 56 years. Hope to see you all at our next reunion,” writes Martha Sisson Gaston ’57 from her home in Atlanta. (See Sympathy)

Nancy Caroline Doss Holcombe ’58 and her husband live in Arizona City, AZ, where they celebrated the birth of their fourth great-grandson in June.  “All are living in Arizona so we can enjoy seeing them.”

Medra Lott Keyser ’58 of Fernandina Beach, FL, shares news of marriage!  Her grandson, Ben, married Christina Kim in July 2011.  They live in Mumbai, India, where Ben is employed with Goldman-Sachs.  Medra’s granddaughter, Rachael, married Michael Kunzer in September 2011 at Amelia Island. The couple lives and works in Columbus, Ohio. Medra’s daughter, Laura Arnold ’79, is mother to both Ben and Rachael.

“Life is wonderful, as are my memories of my years at Wesleyan,” writes Joan Nachbaur Rathbun ’58 from Longview, TX.

Anne Lee Alley Earnshaw ’59 of Jacksonville Beach, FL, loves to receive her Wesleyan Magazine.  “Great content and improved page design! I can read!”

Congratulations to Dr. Sheila Nichols McNeill ’60 of Tampa, FL, who was appointed to the Administrative Office of the Courts (Federal) Working Group for 2011-2013.

“Guy and I have been in Colorado enjoying the grandsons and cool weather. My next trip is to speak at the NEH conference in Washington DC (I am mentoring 4 college faculties for them) then to Dayton, OH, for a project at the Kettering Foundation.  I am Regent for our DAR chapter in Panama City - the last of my two years as Regent - and I will represent our chapter at the State Conference in Orlando in March 2013,” reports Dr. Ginger Sumerford York ’60, who lives in Panama City, FL, when she’s not traveling!

Andrea Morris Gruhl ’61 of Columbia, MD, is serving her final term as vice president of the United Nations Association of the National Capital area.  She is also active with her church work. 

“My college sweetheart, Walter Scott Dillard, and I married in June.  He was a cadet at West Point when we dated 54 years ago and we have been catching up on all those years since Scott moved to St. Simons Island last October. We strolled around the Wesleyan campus last spring when we passed through Macon so he could finally get a look at it. T’was about time!” writes Betsy Lester Cobb Dillard ’61. (See Marriages)

Charlotte Thomas Marshall ’63 of Athens, GA, is presently editing The Tangible Past of Athens, Georgia, a compilation of essays by a group of lovers of Athens history. Sadly, Charlotte’s husband, George, died in September. (See Sympathy)

Shirley Wise Richardson ’63 of Longwood, FL, tells us that her mother, Lucile Flow Wise, age 92, passed away on June 14, 2011.  She had been a lifelong resident of DeFuniak Springs, FL. (SeeSympathy)

Brenda Lee Barclay ’64 of Orange Park, FL, can now say she has studied at Oxford!  She took a week-long course on Christ Church campus last summer.  “The campus reminded me of Wesleyan, and spirits of Dr. Gin and Miss Munck were there.”  A surprise 70^th birthday party was thrown for Brenda by her daughter, Jodi, and then a week-long celebration trip to New York followed.  “Life is good!”

Glenda Barrett Bull ’64 of Evans, GA, shares, “This has been a tough year for our family.  My second grandson, Shane Alexander Bull, was born Sept. 7, 2011, with a heart condition known as TGA.   He had open heart surgery at MCG Children's Medical Center at five days old.  It was a success, and he is doing great.  We are so thankful for all the prayers said for him.  My mother, Bee Seebrest, had gall bladder surgery the first of March, and to top things off, my husband fell Easter Sunday, cracking a bone in his leg, which required surgery and rehab.” Glenda was glad to report that she took four students and their mothers to STUNT weekend.  “We were thrilled that the Green Knights won and had a wonderful time.  I hope to bring others next year and would encourage other alumnae to do the same.  What better way to showcase the ‘Oldest and Best!’” 

Regarding the passing of her husband, Steve, last February, Jane Brockinton Earhart ’64 of Palm Coast, FL, asks for continued prayers.  As he had been sick for a short while, his death was unexpected.  “It is very hard without him.” (See Sympathy, Summer 2012)

Frances Strickland Masse ’64 of Lake Mary, FL, is looking forward to her 50th reunion.  “Right now, I am just loving being Nana to my 9 and 11-year-old grand-girls.”

“I have at last retired after 32 years as a psychotherapist. Now I devote myself to mixed media art, gardening and my five grandchildren,” says Linda Marie Wilson ’64 of Jacksonville, FL.  “The youngest, Marley, is a future Green Knight -  I hope!”

Katherine Champion Smelley ’65 of Savannah, GA, has a new edition to brag about!  “We have added our fifth grandchild, Emery Scott Smelley, on February 22, 2012.  She is precious and we are so proud of her and all our grandchildren.”  With sadness, Katherine also reports the loss of a son.  “We lost our oldest son, Scott, August 18, 2011, to a massive heart attack.  He was only 46 and had recently become engaged to a wonderful girl.  It has been a hard year, but we go on and are sustained by good memories, friends and family.”  (SeeSympathy)

After 15 years in New York City, Karen Witschi Wight ’65 of Lawrenceville, NJ, remains in the Princeton, NJ, area, where she has been since 1982.  Karen received a Master of Music degree in organ performance in 1989, worked as an audiovisual cataloger for Princeton Public Library, and is now retired and still active!

Congratulations toformer Poet Laureate of North Carolina Kathryn “Kay” Stripling Byer ’66 of Cullowhee, NC, who was inducted into the NC Literary Hall of Fame, along with Maya Angelou, in October!  Her sixth book of poetry, Desceat, was published by LSU Press this fall.   

Barbara Brubaker Hightower ’66 tells us her husband retired in February.  “We are settled in Tyrone (GA) next to our grand girls, ages 9 and 11.”

Jo Bogan Prout ’66 of Tahlequah, OK, still works full-time as director of CASA of Cherokee County (a non-profit that trains volunteers to become advocates for abused and neglected children).  Equally important to note is that she loves every moment spent with her “three sweet, lively, grandsons.”  Jo tells us she really enjoyed a visit with Susan Allen in April – “What a treat!”

Retired from school administration in Collier County, FL, in June 2011, Carolyn Brandes Wilson ’66 has relocated to Gainesville, FL, to be near her daughter and grandson. 

Since 2007, Flo Williams Douglas ’67 and husband Curt who live in Millegeville, GA, have spent summers working in Grand Teton National Park. Inspired by the physical beauty of the mountain landscape, they took a “leap of faith” for four months of every year and have been blessed to have been given this opportunity.  Each year Flo has recounted summer adventures in her Lizard Creek Gazette, which was e-mailed to friends and family for the last time in August.

Retired for the second time, Glenda Grist Beardsworth ’68 of Lilburn, GA, states it simply:  “Exercise, time with grand girls, keeping my hands in the dirt!”

Beth Rogero Bowen ’68 of St. Augustine, FL, has just completed her third book, St. Augustine in theRoaring Twenties.  Published by Arcadia Publishing, all proceeds are donated to the St. Augustine Historical Society.

Mary Ann Ward Dudley ’68 of Douglas, GA, writes, “What a treat I had this year!  I attended the 2012 Alumnae Association’s Annual Meeting as a guest of Charlotte Jolly Hale ’62.  Charlotte was honored with a distinguished alumna award for community service.  I joined her husband (my first cousin), family, and friends to celebrate this wonderful tribute.  Charlotte and I spent the afternoon visiting our beloved professor, Margaret Phillips.  I can hardly wait for our GK ’68 reunion in 2013!”

“Life is a wonderful gift,” writes Laura Byington Ludman ’68 of Yulee, FL.  “I will have my 5 1/2 year check-up for my heart transplant in August.  So far, so good.”

Maconite Mary Jo Fincher Plowden ’68 updates us on her family.  Daughter Caroline, son-in-law Matt, and 3 year-old grandson Oliver live in Spartanburg, SC., where Caroline is a diagnostic radiologist. Her other daughter, Mary Elisabeth, lives in San Francisco and works in finance.  Her son, Wallace III, lives in Frisco, CO, and married his wife, Shannon, last June.  He works for the city and in their store, The Shoe Inn and Boutique. Husband Warren continues to practice law with Jones, Cork and Miller.  As for Mary Jo, she says, “I am now painting landscapes.”

“We love our new home, despite boxes that have yet to be unpacked!” reports Susan Jones Shulman ’68 of Jacksonville, FL. 

Jo Slover Smith ’68 of Tampa, FL, looks forward to her next class reunion. “I’m missing all of you!  Probably some young thing is reading this and thinking ‘Oh my God, 1968!’”

Retirement suits Judy Floyd Smith ’68 of Florence, SC.  “I find more time to keep in touch with my wonderful Wesleyan classmates.  What a joy!”

With a grateful heart, Ginger Sanders White ’68 of Lexington, KY, writes in honor of her mother, Virginia P. Sanders:  “Thanks for 100 years of boundless giving to her family, parents, sister, husband, son, daughter, grandchildren, extended family, and to her many fortunate friends.”  The new centenarian turned 100 on October 7, 2012, and celebrated with family and friends at the retirement center in Lexington where she lives. Ginger’s sister-in-law, Kathryne Meeks Sanders ’65, of Charlotte, NC, also attended the party.

Many thanks to Dell Hitchcock Bailey ’69 of Dalton, GA, who represented Wesleyan at the presidential inauguration held at Covenant College in October 2012.

Despite her continued work as breast feeding coordinator at the PBC Health Department, Lou Ellen Semler Boyes ’69 of Juno Isles, FL, managed to travel to Ireland and Scotland in 2011, and to England this year.  On her itinerary for next year: Retirement!  “I met with Dede Smith ’69and Sally Kohlbacher Oliver ’69in May.  So fun to reminisce!”

Diana Hall Richardson ’69 of Columbus, GA, and husband Fred welcomed their fourth grandchild, Tyler David Robinson.  He joins brother John (4), and cousins Caroline (7) and Clayton (2).

Pat Ondo Snyder ’69 of Columbus, OH, has completed courses for a master’s degree in applied positive psychology from the University of Pennsylvania.  She is conducting research for her capstone project on what makes women flourish in the practice of law.

Following her husband’s chemotherapy and surgery, Mary Ella Gibson Bernard ’70 of Fort Worth, TX, is thankful that her husband has finished radiation.  “God’s mercy and the prayers of His people enabled him to persevere and teach his full load, throughout all.  Blessings to all of you.”

Nancy Conner Coxwell ’70 lives in Fernandina Beach, FL. She’s recovering from surgery on 3 vertebrae in her neck. “Still no feeling in my hands yet!”

Kate Goldman Gholston ’70 and husband are new to Miramar Beach, FL.  “After 40 years with Chrysler Corporation, Joe retired and we came back South.  What fun I have had hearing from ’70 PKs on Facebook!”

After teaching in elementary school for 42 years, Stephie Cheney Hendry ’70 of Cocoa, FL, retired in May 2012. She’s excited about a grandbaby on the way.

Ann Scott Terry ’70 of Catawba, SC, is still active in American Association of University Women.  After serving as branch president for five years, she has taken over again as state president. This fall Ann represented Wesleyan College as a delegate at the inauguration of Catawba College’s new president. The academic procession for the event put her near the front of the line because of Wesleyan’s 1836 founding date.

The WCAA thanks Peggy Parrish Hasty ’71 of Atlanta, who served as an alumna panelist for an October convocation entitled “Wesleyan Women,” moderated by Ruth Knox ’75. The convocation was part of Alumnae Among Thee Week.

“I visited with classmates Lindy Anderson ’71 and Jane Crawford Conn ’71in May,” writes Carolyn Berger Krutoy ’71 of Tucker, GA. “Great to see them!”

Gloria Turner Lockridge ’71 of Cedar Bluff, AL, is enlisting the help of her talented Wesleyan sisters.  “Does anybody want to come perform for school children in Cherokee County, AL?  We do not have any of the ‘arts’ here.  We started a certified Art Council, but could use the help of my Wesleyan friends.” 

Jan Shelnutt Whalen ’71 of Griffin, GA, proudly announces a grandchild.  Grandson Oliver Denis O’Day was born on January 13, 2012. 

From Riverdale, GA, Sonya Tomlinson Holland ’72 writes: “I was touched by your tribute to the First Five at Fall Convocation. It was an honor to come and view current students and staff. I consider Wesleyan home and grew up on campus spending summer there at the Governor’s Honors Program.” Sonya retired after teaching for 37 years in the Atlanta Public School System after the loss of her husband a year ago but has the support of her friends and family. Her brother retired from Delta and is a detention officer. Her sister married her college sweetheart and serves on the President’s University Accounting Team at Georgia State University that was responsible for transferring the Olympics money to Georgia State. Her niece is a Spellman and Johns Hopkins Medical College graduate who is on staff at Dekalb General Hospital. Her baby niece is entering grad school at SCAD in Savannah and currently interns at PBS television studio. “My mentoring and carefully guiding younger siblings is over, (smile)” writes Sonya.

M. C. Collins O’Kelley ’72 of Snellville, GA, excitedly announces the birth of a second granddaughter.  “Catherine gave birth to Carolina Elizabeth Fore in August 12^th.  She weighed in at a dainty 9 lbs., 7 oz., and is just perfect!  She will be a PK of 2034, following her big sister, Mary Corinne, GK of 2032!  Let’s just hope that comes true! Brooke is already trying to figure out how to pay for two weddings, and, as I reminded him, two Wesleyan educations!  Ed and I were there to welcome Carolina home and I was able to spend two weeks on Signal Mountain to spoil her and her big sister!” (See Births)

“I just moved to a small coop apartment overlooking the Potomac and the DC monuments I so love,” says Janice Mays ’73 of Arlington, VA.  “At the moment all is chaos, but I have high hopes!”

Linda Brown Walker ’73 of Raleigh, NC, reports, “In April, I became a grandmother!  Son Lee and his wife, Elizabeth, are the parents of granddaughter Anna Louisa Walker.” Sadly, Linda’s mother-in-law, Sallie Lee Walker, died on July 28, 2012. “I am so sad as I miss her terribly. She was a beautiful person inside and out ... my first new friend when I moved to Raleigh as a bride 35 years ago.  Someday we will be together again in Heaven,” writes Linda.

Tina Farkas Williams `74 of Tallahassee, FL, is a new grandmother. Daughter Elizabeth Hollingsworth Hages and son-in-law Michael are proud parents of CoIette Hollingsworth Hages born on January 17, 2012. Great grandmother Betty Anderson Farkas ’42 is delighted to have a future Wesleyanne in the family, too.

Marti Andrews Willis ’74 of Panama City, FL, writes “My father, Sandy W. Andrews, passed away on July 10, 2011, in Lynn Haven, FL.  He grew up in Macon right across the street from Wesleyan on Tucker Road.  His father was the head grower for Idle Hour Nurseries.  He loved Wesleyan and we grew up hearing stories about the College from his youth.  His two sisters attended Wesleyan - Elsie Andrews Johnson ’38 and Helene Andrews Arrington ’45, both deceased.  Every summer he would travel to Macon on vacation to visit family and friends.  Some of those friends not only had ties to my Dad’s childhood, but the College as well (Dr. & Mrs. Gignilliat and sons, John and Bill, with whom he maintained a friendship all his life, and Dr. and Mrs. Akers, Edna Crawford, and others).” (SeeSympathy)

Marina Showalter Chancery ’75 continues her 32-year career in school counseling at Neal Elementary School in Brewton, AL, where she lives.  She and her forester husband, Roy, are enjoying their home on the bluffs of Murder Creek.  She has two grand daughters, Helen and Elizabeth, ages 4 and 2.  “We all enjoy kayaking on the Creek,” writes Marina.

Betsy Wakeford Thompson ’75 continues to teach at the Kinkaid School in Houston, TX.   Her son, Wakeford, is vice president at Amegy Bank and just received his MBA.

Sally O’Neal Veatch ’75 of Gainesville, GA, has finally called it quits (from teaching, but not much else)!  Having retired last year, she recently completed the Master Gardening program through the UGA extension service.  Sally volunteers with this group, and at the Medical Center, History Center, and in various programs at First Baptist Church.  “Life is good!” she says.  

“Steve and I were thrilled and proud this year when our youngest daughter, Geneva (3rd grader), who won the Braille Challenge Regional Competition for Georgia in February, 2012, finished off her summer with a trip to Los Angeles, CA, in June where she won 3rd Place in the National Braille Challenge. Students from grades 2-12 competed in spelling, grammar, proofreading, and dictation. Our oldest daughter, Lily, (5th grader) is a safety guard at her school this year, is studying piano, and singing in the chorus. She has been a straight A student all last year and her first quarter of this year. Not bad for two China girls who came home in 2006, speaking NO English! God is so GOOD!” writes Patti Eakes-Harris ’76 in Kennesaw, GA.

Wesleyan students enjoyed attending a convocation presented by Leigh Lambert Goff ’78 of Atlanta. Her fun and informative presentation was entitled “Leading After Leaving” and was part of the 2012 Fiscal Fitness Series sponsored by the College.

With a grateful heart, Janet Ort ’78 of Birmingham, AL, simply says, “Thank you to the Oldest and Best!”

Beth Perdue ’78 of Laurel, MD, proudly announces her daughter’s graduation from Richmond University in London, England.  Charlotte graduated in May 2012 with honors. 

 “I’ve become bicoastal since the birth of my third grandson, Nathan, in Los Angeles - two days before Thanksgiving 2011!” announces Cathy Bradach Rockoff ’78 who lives in Woodstock, GA.

Jan Waters Hebbard ’80 lives on St. Simons Island, GA, but stays on the road – a lot! Son John is a 2nd year Medical student at Mercer Medical School. Daughter Carleigh is in the M.D./PH.D. Program at the University of Illinois Medical School in Champaign, IL. Husband Carl works for Koch Headquarters in Atlanta.  “I travel between Atlanta, Macon, St. Simons Island and IL!” reports Jan.

“Thanks to the Admissions Office and Alumnae Association for a fun Welcome to Wesleyan Weekend,” writes Cindy Cobb ’81 of Grayson, GA.  “I visited Wesleyan with my daughter, Elizabeth Paulsson, for STUNT and had a great time!” 

From Jacksonville, FL, Mary Thompson Monfort ’81 shares updates on her family. “My oldest daughter, Katie, graduated from the University of Florida in 2010 with a degree in tourism and hospitality. After working for two years at The King and Prince Resort on St. Simons Island she started a new job as sales & events coordinator for the Jekyll Island Convention Center and lives with my parents in Brunswick.  Anne Marie graduated from the University of Central Florida with a degree in English literature in December 2011.  She’s hoping to get a teaching certificate.  Madeleine is in 11th grade and wants to study  engineering.  Victor is in 9th grade and Anthony is in 3rd grade.  They keep me busy.  My husband, Victor, and I celebrated 27 years of marriage in February!”

Atlanta resident Stephanie Parker ’81 was selected by Law 360 to be profiled in their “Top Female Trial Attorneys” series.  She was also elected as president-elect of the Vanderbilt Law School Board.

 “Sadly, I lost my mother, Rita V. Brotschul, last summer,” writes Marianne Brotschul ’85 of West Chester, PA.  “She had a full 91 years on earth and has now joined my father, Stephen J. Brotschul, who left us in 1993.  Both were avid Wesleyan fans and are missed.” (See Sympathy)

Leslie Bradberry Mastroianni ’88 and her family live in Chicago, IL, where she currently works as the director of major gifts for Francis W. Parker School. Previously, Leslie and her family lived in Charleston, SC, and moved back to Chicago in 2006 when Leslie accepted a position as the director of travel programs and membership at the Art Institute of Chicago.  There she was responsible for coordinating trips worldwide to art museums and galleries for trustees and major donors. In 2009, Leslie worked for the John G. Shedd Aquarium in Chicago as the director of major gifts. She also hosted Wesleyan’s 2009 Summer Leadership Institute in Chicago.  Leslie looks forward being back on campus for her 25^th reunion in April. 

Another WESLEYAN FIRST! Roz Evans Weiss ’88 of Palm Bay, FL, reports, “In October, I was hired as the first ever communications and development director for Brevard Achievement Center. Founded in 1968 in Rockledge, FL, the center assists people with disabilities to live life independently.” 

With sadness, Tara Joyner Haussler ’90 of Bonaire, GA, shares the passing of her father, William Robert Joyner, on November 17, 2011, after battling cancer for nearly three years.  (See Sympathy)

Maconite Hope Hahn Shields ’91 celebrated her 11^th year at Merck as a senior pharmaceutical representative.  She also runs a wreath business (www.wreathsbyhope.com or on Facebook, “Wreaths by Hope”).  Her daughter, Ella Wade, is 2.  

The WCAA thanks Cyndey Costello Busbee ’92 of Macon, who served as an alumna panelist for an October convocation entitled “Wesleyan Women,” moderated by Ruth Knox ’75. The convocation was part of Alumnae Among Thee Week.

Karin Fulford Smithson ’92 of Atlanta, GA, completed her Ph.D. from Georgia State University in counselor education and practice (specializing in lifespan transitions).  Her dissertation, “The Relationship Between Social Connectedness, Meaning in Life and Wellness for Women in Levinson’s Mid-Life Transition Stage,” provides research on women ages 38-45.

Congratulations to Cheryl Anderson ’93 of Savannah, GA, who is the new director of alumni development in the Office of Advancement at Armstrong Atlantic State University.  Previously, Cheryl worked at Kennesaw State University for 16 years, where she established the professional arts box office, created an alumni magazine, implemented a donor recognition program and served as director of public relations and director of development for the College of Arts. Prior to her work at KSU Cheryl served Wesleyan as the program coordinator for MidSummer Macon and the Center for the Arts.

The WCAA thanks Melanie Filson Lewis ’93 of Fayetteville, GA, and Mary Cay White McCullough ’93 of Macon, who served as alumnae panelists for an October convocation entitled “Leading in Your Community.” The convocation is part of the College’s 2012 Fiscal Fitness Series.

“I received my LAPC (licensed associate professional counselor) in October 2011 and have been working at River Edge Behavioral Health as a child and family therapist for children and their families since August 2011. I work mainly with children on issues surrounding ADHD, depression, cutting, self-esteem, anxiety, adoption issues, etc. Also, on July 6, 2012, Mark and I welcomed our first child to the world, Nicholas Jay Wilson. We are so excited to be parents,” writes Jacqui Dravis Wilson ’94 of Macon. (See Births)

“My wonderful husband of nine years and I have a beautiful, intelligent daughter with a fabulous sense of humor. I’m already teaching her Wesleyan songs and cheers! I recently received my master’s degree in counseling psychology. I plan to transition out of teaching and into the counseling field in the next year or two. I’d love to connect with alumnae in the Nashville area.” writes Laura Weems Deitrick ’96 who lives in Madison, TN.

It’s official! Joy Mastrangelo Kaczor ’96 of Lorton, VA, was promoted to Lt. Col. in November. She invited Wesleyan sisters and friends in the DC area to celebrate with her at the Pentagon Reception at Sine’s Irish Pub in Pentagon Row following the promotion ceremony. Congratulations to Joy who was the 2001 recipient of the Alumnae Association’s Young Alumna Award.

Elizabeth Mathis ’96 of Garden City, GA, is director of graduate recruitment at Savannah College of Art and Design.

Jena Frazier Passut ’96 of Fairfax, VA, has been named Editor-In-Chief of EyeWorld Magazine, an ophthalmology publication of the non-profit American Society of Cataract & Refractive Surgery.  Jena has worked for ASCRS and EyeWorld for two years and travels worldwide representing the magazine.  Before EyeWorld, she worked as a newspaper writer and editor. Jena and husband Charlie have two sons, Charlie (8) and Jamie (6).

Sherry Boyd ’97 lives in Meriden, CT, and works as an art instructor at Platt Technical High School in Milford, CT.

Now a certified nursing assistant, Maris Williams Cripps ’97 of Charlotte, NC, is preparing to enter Nursing School. “An exciting new journey has begun!”

September marked the six-month anniversary of the tornadoes that struck Hamilton County and several others. Laura Facey Sullivan ’98 and her then 2 year-old daughter, Jenna, of Harrison, TN, survived their Woodland Bay house crashing around them. They had scrambled to a stairwell closet. Laura huddled over Jenna and screamed for help. About 45 minutes later, neighbors rescued them. Laura broke her hip, but has since run a sprint marathon!  Since then, the family has moved into a relative’s available house. Thanks to an outpouring of compassion, the transition has been smooth. Laura said, “We’ve been so supported by our churches, families and friends. It’s been an amazing journey to see how many people have really helped us throughout the last six months. People we knew and then people we didn’t even know.”  The family said they won’t rebuild because it would be too hard with two small children. Instead, they’re looking to buy a new home. Laura said Jenna still mentions the tornado, noting “our house is broken,” but overall Jenna has adapted well.

Congratulations to Missy Ryan ’98 of Greenville, SC, who was promoted to senior director of university development for Clemson University.

Lindsay Abernethy ’00 of Erie, CO, reports on classmates:  Jessica Salter ’00 married Charles Speziale in Rhode Island on June 23, 2012; Kelly Pharis Baete ’00 and husband James Doyle are expecting their second child in December ’12, and the couple recently celebrated the first anniversary of their new vet clinic in Fort Mill, SC.

Jess Salter ’00 married Charles Speziale at Mount Hope Farm in Bristol, RI, in June. By her side as bridesmaids were GK ’00 sisters Kelly Baete, Erin Young, Amber Velasquez, and Lindsay Abernethy. Joining in the festivities as guests were other sister Wesleyannes, Dana Karstensen-Bryan ’99 and Nichole Arnault ’99. (See Marriages)

Missy Bowen Brown ’01 of Winterville, GA proudly announces, “My husband and I welcomed baby girl Aubrey Evelyn Brown into the world in February 2012.  We appreciate all of the prayers and well wishes sent our way and feel blessed to have her in our lives.  She could be a member of the 2034 Wesleyan class!” (See Births)

The WCAA thanks Pilar Wilder ’01 of Macon, who served as an alumna panelist for an October  convocation entitled “Leading in Your Community.” The convocation is part of the College’s 2012 Fiscal Fitness Series.

Catherine O’Kelley Fore ’02 and husband Brooke, of Signal Mountain, TN, proudly announce the birth of their second Wesleyanne-to-be, Carolina Elizabeth Fore, on August 12.  She weighed 9 lbs., 7 oz. and was welcomed home by big sister, Mary Corinne. (See Births)

“I am the joyfully proud new mother of Charlotte Grace, PK Class of 2034! She was born June 23, 2012, and I could not be happier or more in love! My husband and I have been married two years now and are thrilled to be starting the adventure of parenthood! I am also still in graduate school, working to obtain my master’s degree in family counseling and hope to enter the field of palliative care counseling,” reports Bria Andrew Kitchens ’02 of Bonaire, GA. (See Births)

After graduating from Florida State University’s College of Medicine in 2009, Dr. Kelly Jones ’04 of Seattle, WA, is now finishing up her pediatric residency at the University of Tennessee in Memphis.  She will return to Seattle to begin a fellowship in medical genetics.

Megan Odom ’04 lives in Seattle, WA, where she reports working for REI’s flagship store.  “REI has been a retailer of outdoor gear since 1938 and is the world’s largest merchant co-op with more than 3.5 million members,” she tells us.  

Elizabeth Eichelberger Adler ’05 of Peachtree City, GA, was featured on the Dr. Oz Show in September. After Dr. Oz interviewed Michelle Obama who focused on the show’s theme of fitness, a taped feature of women who have successfully battled weight loss was shown.  The tape included Elizabeth in a black bikini! In August, Elizabeth was on campus for GK Move-In Day where she helped members of the GK Class of 2016 move into the dorms.

Maconite Amy Moore Martin ’06 is working in administration for Meals on Wheels of Middle Georgia. 

“I am so grateful for my educational experience and growth during my undergraduate years at Wesleyan through my interactions with the highly dedicated professors and wonderful friends I made, as these years have contributed significantly to the person I am today,” shares Ihus Mbata ’06 of Pittsburg, PA.  After leaving Wesleyan, Ihus earned a master’s degree in health policy and financing from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM) and the London School of Economics (LSE) in 2011. In addition, she graduated from Duke University School of Medicine in May 2012. “I am excited to start my residency in internal medicine (global health and under-served populations track) at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center.”

Christine Morana ’06 of Spring Hill, FL, sends a spirit-filled shout-out to her sisters, “'PKs #1! May God bless Wesleyan!”

The WCAA thanks Melanie Reed Williams ’06 of Lawrenceville, GA, who served as an alumna panelist for an October convocation entitled “Wesleyan Women,” moderated by Ruth Knox ’75.The convocation was part of Alumnae Among Thee Week.

Jessica Dermody ’08 is enjoying being a new resident of Atlanta!  “I began working at the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC) at the Atlanta Financial Center in February as the operations assistant.  I love my job!  I get to talk with people from all over the country and internationally every day.  My office is on the 8th floor of the East Tower and there is even a doorman at each entrance!”

Congratulations to Heather Mathis Glow ’08 of Honolulu, HI, who married Dr. Jason Glow in March 2012. Heather received her master’s degree in public health in December 2011. She works as a research associate with the Hawaii Cancer Center where her focus is on anti drug study and intervention. (See Marriages)

In September, Kimberly Minor ’09 presented a convocation at Wesleyan on Native American Art entitled “The Material of Masculinity: The 1833 Portraits of Four Bears.” Kimberly earned her master’s degree at the University of Nebraska and is working on her Ph.D. at the University of Oklahoma. Her areas of interest include 19^thcentury art of the American West, Native American ledger drawings, and material culture.

Hannah Gardner Doan ’12 lives in Macon andworks for Wesleyan as the assistant to the Director of Auxiliary Services. She is also the director of Wesleyan Market.

Emma Slier ’13 lives in Tallahassee, FL, where she does social work for the Agencyfor Persons with Disabilities. Emma transferred to FSU to pursue a social work program but still loves Wesleyan since her mother, Peggy Sheffield Slier ’77, and other relatives are alumnae of the College. Emma looks forward to being with Wesleyan sisters at the next Tallahassee area alumnae event.