I intend to use my degree to go to medical school and become an OB/GYN, and in this profession, I hope to help make a push toward making the healthcare industry more equitable for people across different racial groups, ethnic backgrounds, socioeconomic status, and sexual orientation.

Maura Besneatte-Cullinane, Class of 2022

Don’t miss Tatiana Boelen & Civic Innovation at Emory & Henry, with Abbey Neifert, Alexandra Vance, Alexandra, Emaly Allison, Annie Kate Leinius, Kim Hill, Liam Batson, Lauren Powell, and Luis Hernandez.

“The main way I have benefited from an Emory & Henry education has been the fantastic faculty who go above and beyond to make sure students succeed.”

—Graduated Senior Connor Buchanan shared his thoughts on Emory & Henry College

“Go and do! Your college career can be the experience of dreams, but you are responsible for the actions and events you partake in.”

—Emily Bunn, ’22 shared advice for new students at Emory & Henry College

Senior Spotlight: “Follow your gut when it comes to picking a school. You should know walking around on campus if you can see yourself being there or not.”

—Natalie Capone shared her thoughts on choosing Emory & Henry

“I am thankful for the support, knowledge, and wisdom Emory & Henry has shared with me while I’ve been here.”

—Graduated Senior Emily Carbary shared what she is thankful for from Emory & Henry

“My time at Emory & Henry has been tremendous in providing opportunities and preparing me for medical school.”

—Spencer Carter, ’23, on how his experience at Emory & Henry has prepared him for the future

“Emory & Henry was where my academic journey began. It was a life-changing experience, because I was exposed to science in a way that helped me develop not only academically but also emotionally.  The people and experiences helped me create a platform for sharing science with others and inspired a passion for life-long learning.”

—Dr. Beverly A. Clark, III (E&H ’99) B.S. Physics; North Carolina State University ’03 M.S. Physics and ’09 Ph.D. Physics). Columbus, Neb. Dean of Instruction, Academic Education at Central Community College, Nanoscience and microscopy researcher

“Don’t be afraid to try new things. Even if you don’t think it will be something you enjoy, you never know!”

—Madison Codispoti, ’23 shared her advice for new students at Emory & Henry

“After more than a year of thought, planning, and preparation, I stepped on a plane bound for Exeter— where I knew exactly one person.”

—Alex Cooper on learning the land, peppered eggs, and Parliament selfies

“Don’t be afraid to ask for help throughout the college journey. Emory & Henry provides so many resources for their students in order to make sure they succeed.”

—Emily DeBord, ’22 shared her advice for success at Emory & Henry

“Take advantage of the small community, form lifelong friendships, and enjoy everything campus has to offer.”

—Abigail Dillon, ’23 shared her advice for students at Emory & Henry College

“My education at Emory & Henry College has made me a well-rounded member of society and has given me the professional connections that a college student can only dream of.”

—Emily Dougherty, ’22 on what her experience at Emory & Henry has taught her

“One of the biggest ways Emory & Henry has prepared me for my current role is just by giving me such a diverse educational background. I feel like I bring a lot of value to my current role just because I know how to do more than one specific thing. I was hired on as a graphic designer, but I also am able to do much more than that.”

—Christina Druen ’16 Graphic Designer, K-VA-T Food Stores, Inc.

“Emory & Henry College has helped me be successful.”

—Graduated Senior Tyler Easley shared his thoughts on Emory & Henry College

“You can geek out on what you are most familiar with, but it’s humbling and fascinating to learn entirely new things about the nature of matter.”

—Dr. Jamie Ferguson, Associate Professor of Chemistry at Emory & Henry College

Dr. Chris Fielitz, Professor of Biology at Emory & Henry College, has refuted a previous 1981 study on a fossil eel from late Cretaceous rocks of western Kansas, finding it to be related, instead, to a different group of fossil eels. “The clues are sometimes right there,” says Fielitz, “but, sometimes, they are very difficult to understand.” Read more.

“We have a journalism appreciation deficit in this world right now,” Finney says, noting that the importance of good journalism is undervalued. “The ability to identify good journalism is a struggle for most people. One of my goals for both my research and my teaching is for myself and my students to consume and appreciate high-quality journalism.” —Dr. Mark Finney
Read more.

“Reflective teachers are effective teachers.”

—Dr. Sandy Frederick, Assistant Professor of Education at Emory & Henry College, says of her approach to training young professionals in the E&H education program.

“Get involved! There are so many opportunities on this campus, whether it be Greek life or other student activities.”

—Graduated Senior C.J. Freeman shared their thoughts on Emory & Henry College

Senior Spotlight: “Emory & Henry offers a variety of activities and organizations to take part in to connect you with the College and the surrounding area. Step out of your comfort zone!”

—Logan Frye, ’23 shared his thoughts on Emory & Henry College

“My professors really have set me up for success by allowing me grace while also being realistic about what real jobs are like. They’re honest and encouraging.”

—Graduated Senior Destiny Fulton shared what she gained from professors at Emory & Henry

“I chose E&H because I learn better in small classroom environments, and I can tell that the professors truly want to help me succeed.”
—Class of 2022 Jamelyn Gillespie

“My time at Emory & Henry gave me far more than just knowledge. It provided me with the confidence and self-assurance to apply my perspective on graduate research projects that I tackled while interning at Virginia Tech.”

—Rafe Hagee, Class of 2019

“I’m honored to have been selected for this position. I get to work with the nation’s most dedicated and creative environmental teaching professionals as they encourage and inspire our next generation of environmental leaders.”

- Dr. Laura Hainsworth, Chemistry and Environmental Science professor

“Choosing Emory & Henry College was one of the best decisions I have ever made because the faculty here are dedicated to helping students succeed.”

—Graduated Senior Lia Haskins on what Emory & Henry means to her

“Transferring to Emory & Henry was one of the best decisions I ever made. It has helped me learn so much about my future career and grow as an individual. From an internship at a top 100 news station to hosting a weekly, campus TV show, the opportunities I’ve gained here are priceless.”

—Abby on her Transfer experience to Emory & Henry College

The small class sizes were an important factor to foster conversations and allow professors to incorporate real-work experiences into the lessons. The faculty in the Business Department helped me in so many ways.

—Class of 2011 Spotlight Kevin Heideman

“I am very excited to work on the Theatre Department’s Virtual Play Festival “Outbreak: Appalachia in the time of COVID-19” in several different capacities.”

–Mary Eliza Hendricks, Class of 2021

“I’ve always had a passion for helping people and knowing that I could make a positive impact in someone’s life is such a rewarding feeling. I know I’ll be getting a quality education in this program.”

—Skylar Hill ’20 on continuing her education with the Master of Clinical Mental Health Counseling this fall

“Emory & Henry is a great place to start a lifetime of learning.”

—Monica Hoel, ’85, shared her thoughts about Emory & Henry College

“The first year attending college and being on your own can be a scary thing. I know it was for me. Having faith in yourself and finding your people is what makes college worthwhile.”

—Yazmine Holmes shared her thoughts on Emory & Henry

Cody Hubbard, ’23, accepted an offer from the National Institutes of Health to participate in the Summer Research Fellowship at Brown University. Hubbard will be studying “Attention and Perception” trends at this Ivy League institution.

“This college has opened so many doors for me. I’ve been able to connect more deeply with my roots, seeing as both my grandparents attended in the 60s. And, I have been able to access so many more opportunities through the dedication and passions of the students and staff around me.”  

—Layne Hubble ’20 on exploring her connection with Emory & Henry College.

“With my connected liberal arts education, I am able to look at the world holistically and enjoy learning.”

—Class of 2020 Senior Spotlight Victory Ime

“Get involved with extracurricular activities as much as possible. Get as much as you can out of your time at this school.”

—Graduated Senior Sofia Inchuasti shared her advice for success at Emory & Henry

Senior Spotlight: “Take classes you wouldn’t expect to take, it may take you to places you never thought possible.”

—Jazmyn Jackson, ’23 shared her advice for new Emory & Henry students

“Work hard and follow your passions! Give it all you’ve got and it will give back to you.”

—Aubin Jefferson shared her advice for new students at Emory & Henry

“If you were to tell me four years ago that this is where I would be today, I wouldn’t have believed you, but that’s the magic of letting go and trusting the journey.”
—Class of 2020 Senior Spotlight James Jiggetts

“I can see my future brighten every day here at Emory & Henry College. I couldn’t ask for anything more.”

—Destinee Johnson, ’24, on the impact Emory & Henry College has had on her life.

“I am heavily involved in the Student Government Association, Diversity Equity & Inclusion as well as planning MLK Week 2021.”

—Amari Jones on her involvement as a first-year at Emory & Henry College

“I am proud to be part of the station, watching it grow and improve as it contributes greatly to the college and community.”

—Missy on her dedication to community listeners in five counties in Southwest Virginia

I’m involved in Bonner, ΒΛΖ, SGA, Swimming, Rugby and Young Democrats. I am working at the campus radio station, WEHC 90.7 FM, and will be hosting my own show here soon!

—Braxton Justice, Class of 2022

“Graduating and moving on from Emory & Henry is bittersweet because I love this college! Receiving scholarships made a significant difference and I wish I could personally thank all the donors who helped me with their gifts!”

—Kauhlil King ’19 on his enriched E&H experience 

Don’t miss Jay Lawson & Contemporary Research on LGBTQ+ Issues: “It’s Worth It: The Biopsychosocial Aspects of Being Transgender and Transitioning”

“Pack all of your dorm stuff in storage totes and bring a dolly to carry them up and down stairs. Moving in and out is a breeze!”

—Ally Letner, ’23 shared her advice for new students at Emory & Henry

“Emory & Henry has prepared me for life post-college by cultivating my critical thinking skills and networking skills.”

—Class of 2020 Senior Spotlight Landie Maness pursues a law degree.

“Get involved in as many activities as you want and can. Don’t listen to other people when they say that those specific clubs or groups are ‘lame’ or ‘boring.’ When you join these groups, you are not only meeting more people on campus but also making connections that could last a lifetime. Be yourself and don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.”

—2023 graduate Anesia Martin shared her thoughts on Emory & Henry College

“Emory & Henry has prepared me in many ways for post-graduation through experiences like internships and teaching placements. I have learned how to effectively communicate with others and the importance of building relationships.”

—Class of 2020 Senior Spotlight Kat McCall

Dr. Oleski Miranda Navarro Uses Literature to Study the History and People’s Narratives of His Hometown in Venezuela

While his research is personal, he says it also informs his teaching. “I share my research with my students to help explain important issues,” he says, noting that he assigns literature in his courses to better understand the history of Hispanic groups.

“We will always be able to hear the stories of these different people who came from different places,” he says. “I study the human side of these people, not just corporate reports.” Read more.

“Emory & Henry has given me opportunities to excel in my field of study and prepared me to be a successful athletic trainer. The people I have met here have changed my life for the better.”

-Laura Mister ’19 on making a positive impact on her future.  

“Smaller studio class sizes allowed me to form a strong bond with my fellow students and professors. I have worked for the McGlothlin Center for the Arts curatorial and gallery attendant team and have learned many valuable skills from helping install a total of 15 shows.”

-Devin Mitchell ’19 on studying Studio Art & History at Emory & Henry College.

“One of my favorite things about being a student is the emphasis on opportunities for service. Over the summer I was given the chance to better myself and my community when I traveled to Costa Rica to teach ESL and share in the culture there.”

—Megan Mitten ’21 on service-based learning experiences at Emory & Henry

“I have learned that goodness and progress require many hands and many hours.”

—Graduated Senior Carter Momsen-Hudson shared an important lesson learned Emory & Henry College

“I am passionate about creating art, so it was natural for me to pursue an art degree. My favorite thing about here is the ability to work one on one with professors.”

—Birdie Mullins ’17 on her experience at Emory & Henry College.

“From my four-year experience at the radio station which blasted me into my dream internship in the United Nations in Geneva to the coordinated study abroad experience in France which solidified my love and interest for the European broadcasting sector, Emory & Henry prepared me for it all.”

—Class of 2020 Spotlight Sam Mungai

“Emory & Henry may be small and secluded but that’s intentional. This school will make you a kind of go-getter that’s capable of changing the world if you let it.”

—Lauren Naff, ’22 shared her thoughts on Emory & Henry College

“I have had countless support to perform well in and out of the classroom. I was granted the Friends of the Sciences scholarship, which I was able to use to perform research at Wake Forest University and a summer internship with Eastman Chemical Company.”

-Nathan Neisus ’19 on his success and opportunities while at Emory & Henry. 

“I am the 13th person in my family to attend Emory & Henry, so it only felt right to come to school here. I immediately fell in love with the campus as soon as I stepped foot on it.”
—Laura Newton

“I’m pursuing a career in clinical mental health counseling because good mental health is foundational for success. I look forward to equipping people with the tools they need to thrive.”

—Adrienne Osborne on continuing her education with the Master of Clinical Mental Health Counseling this fall

“I will forever be thankful for my undergraduate experience. Emory & Henry has provided me with a well-rounded, amazing education, and I know for certain that the E&H MS-CMHC program will provide me with a high-quality education to prepare me for my future career.”

—Madison Patrick on continuing her education with the Master of Clinical Mental Health Counseling this fall

“I will be able to compete in this field of work because I have real-world experiences others will not have. Emory & Henry has allowed me to find what my passion is and that is to help children who are in the position I was when I was a child.”

—Justin Payne ’19 on his internship opportunities studying Political Science

“Emory & Henry College offers a very diverse education. I am a better complex problem solver because of my education and the adversities I went through academically and in the ROTC program.”

My courses expand my awareness of social relationships and the world. I learn something new every day I come to class. 

—Jada Penn ’19 on being a Sociology major

When I was first admitted into the Geography doctoral program at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, their first remark was how obvious Emory & Henry has prepared me to engage and express in various fields of thought.

—Class of 2020 Senior Spotlight Colt Pierce pursues a PhD program after graduation.

“Make it yours and don’t be scared to ask for help when you need because there are people here to help you but if you don’t ask for help, they will never know that you need help.”

—Senior Bendsondy Pierre’s advice to incoming Emory & Henry College students

“The education department has done everything to prepare me and my fellow classmates for teaching young minds.”

—Savannah Pressley shared her thoughts on her experiences at Emory & Henry College

Senior Spotlight: “The Education Department of Emory & Henry has encouraged me and pushed me this year as I completed my M.ED, while also pursuing my first job as an educator.”

—Savannah Pressley shared her thoughts on Emory & Henry

“Don’t underestimate Emory and Henry because of its size or location. This school provides so many opportunities and even more so an opportunity for connection. I encourage you to take every opportunity even if it’s something you could never imagine yourself doing!”

—Kiera Pugalee shared her advice for new students at Emory & Henry

Don’t miss Emerald Pullon & The Relationship Between Contact Sports and Memory and Cognition in College Students

Don’t miss Neha Rai & Feminist Analysis in Practice: Dating, Sports, and Family Planning, with Jess Branks, Claire Hogg, and Jada Penn

My undergraduate work at Emory & Henry set the stage perfectly for me to take the LSAT, apply to law school and land a great position in the law profession. The wide variety of classes, leadership experiences and relationships with my faculty were the key to my success.

—Jake Rea, Associate Attorney with Thomas, Fisher, Sinclair and Edwards in Greenville, South Carolina

“Classes at Emory & Henry are designed to make students well-rounded both in the classroom and the lab.”

—Sarah Savona shared her thoughts on STEM classes at Emory & Henry College

Brooklyn Sawyers Belk, ’02, is an attorney with Weinberg Wheeler Hudgins Gunn and Dial in Atlanta, Georgia. She is a Partner of Counsel, & Chief Diversity & Inclusion Officer. Acting as the morning keynote speaker for the MLK Day Convocation, “Be the Face of Change,” Sawyers Belk led an impactful discussion concerning law, race, privilege and the history of the United States.

“No matter how well I think I’ve made my plan, there will always be something that changes.”

—Senior Zane Seymore on what he has learned as a student at Emory & Henry College

“Treat every day as some learning experience and thank those around you for everything they do for you.”

—Kinsey Shankles, ’23 shared advice for new students at Emory & Henry College

“Branch out into different aspects of campus life such as clubs and athletics.”

—Lindsay Shaw shared her advice for new students coming to Emory & Henry

“Seeing the area first hand was a very humbling experience for all of us involved. We got to see what the impacts of a natural disaster can have, while being able to help those who needed it.”

—Liberty Sheppard ’20 will talk more about her Intentional Spring Break to the Texas hurricane relief effort at Ampersand Day. 

“I chose E&H because I was offered so many opportunities including Marching Band, the Honors Program, and Bonner Scholars. Visiting campus was the final selling point because everyone I met the first day I came seemed genuinely happy with their college.”

–Alexa on why she chose Emory & Henry College

Spafford uses her performance experiences to mentor her students, sharing that she still has stage fright, too, because there are more aspects to performing than most people realize. “My body. My breath. My face. All the words. Where am I being creative in my interpretation? These are things I am teaching them—how to manage all of that at the same time,” she explains.

“Don’t be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone. You never know what opportunities are waiting for you.”

—Seth Stanley shared his thoughts on Emory & Henry College

“It’s never too soon or too late, go for it with all you have!”

—Graduated Senior Allyson Steadman shared her advice for success at Emory & Henry

“Emory & Henry is home to such a tight knit community and I’m thankful to be a part of it. I’ve had many opportunities that would not have been available if I had chosen to go to a larger school. I’m forever thankful that I came to Emory & Henry because it has given me life long friendships, professional connections and the skills to be the best nurse I can be.”

—Marley Sterling shared her thoughts on Emory & Henry College

“The College has opened doors for me that I never thought possible. It has allowed me to participate in learning and service opportunities such as teaching English as a second language (ESL) in the Copey Learning center in Costa Rica for college credit.”

—Kara Stewart ’20 on traveling with Emory & Henry College.

Don’t miss Kara Stewart & Emory Abroad: Students Share the Joys, Challenges, and Benefits of International Education, with Maggie Crutchfield, Liberty Sheppard, and Kira Boerst.

“I want to encourage change in the places that need it the most—encouraging young women to be more involved in leadership and politics; and helping to reform our immigration system.”

—Carlee Sullins ’24 on how she wants to change the world

I am about to start designing a magazine for my MCOM 404-Advanced Publication & Design class which I am super excited about. I’m expecting to be challenged but I hope to come out a better designer afterward.

Cat Sweigart, Class of 2022

“My advice for new students is to look for opportunity.  There is a great benefit to being an undergraduate student in that people want to help you and find your passions; you just have to seek them out.”

—Amelia Terry shared her advice for success at Emory & Henry College

“Set a vision or goal for yourself, believe in your ability to figure things out and have fun making your dreams happen at Emory & Henry College.”

—Graduated Senior Brinley Thomas shared her experience at Emory & Henry

“The faculty and staff are encouraging and have taught me valuable skills to use in the future. This is the perfect place to be a student-athlete. I play golf competitively, access resources for classroom success and participate in clubs and organizations related to my majors”

—Chandler Thomas ’20 on getting involved

“I feel that my time here really prepared me to handle anything. I will be playing pretty heavy roles back to back to back, and normally someone might pause at that. For me I see it as a great challenge I’m more than capable of handling.”

—Christian Tripp ’18 & graduate student at the University of Alabama, on his theatre experience at Emory & Henry 

“Emory & Henry College has allowed me to grow as an individual from a shy high school student to a confident, educated adult ready to take on the complexities of law school! This College has challenged me to seek new horizons and has opened countless doors for my future success. Since being here, I have found my passions and the direction for my future.”

—Rachel Tucker ’19 on her support from E&H & moving forward to law school.

“Take the time to apply for as many scholarship programs as you can. Being a part of a diverse range of programs will give you more chances to participate in unique learning opportunities that may even have an impact on the communities around Emory.”

—Biology and Environmental Science double major Rachel Turner’s advice to students coming to Emory & Henry College

“I chose Emory & Henry College because I wanted to be more than just a number. I’m excited about making friends and memories for life.”

—Ryan Vaughn ’25 on why he chose Emory & Henry College

“Be willing to branch out from the things you’re specifically looking for and learn about those programs as well.”

—Biology major Sarah Walters shared advice for incoming Emory & Henry students

“Emory & Henry stood out to me because it simply feels like home. With the small campus, you get to know a lot of people, and every time I leave my room I see someone that I know or exchange a hello with someone I don’t know yet.”
—Graham Whitesides

“Embrace the community at Emory & Henry. The relationships you build with your professors is something you can’t get anywhere else.”

—Josiah Wilson shared his thoughts on Emory & Henry College

“Emory & Henry has really given me a place to call home. The small liberal arts environment was such a great choice for me because I was able to receive the attention I needed to grow as a student and also as a person.”

—Zeke Workman E&H ’23 on calling Emory & Henry College his home.

Senior Spotlight: “I would advise prospective Emory & Henry Students to come visit campus to get a feel for the college.”

—Zeke Workman shared his thoughts on Emory & Henry

Senior Spotlight: “There’s always someone to help when you need it.”

—Emily Worley shared her advice on attending Emory & Henry

“My advice to prospective and current students is to put yourself out there and try new things! I feel like I was granted more opportunities and was able to develop deeper relationships with peers and professors than I would have anywhere else.”

—Jaynae Wright ’23 on getting involved at Emory & Henry

“Emory & Henry stood out to me because of the new experience that E&H could offer me, being able to come here and explore the differences between Mexico and the USA.”

- Diego Zamarripa, 2021 Orientation Leader

“Since I was a kid, I have wanted to make history in this world, and I will make it. I joined the Peace Corps team, eager to change the world for a better tomorrow. Today, I am preparing myself to serve in the Peace Corps as a Community Economic Development Facilitator in Fiji.”

—Diego Zamarripa shared his childhood dream and his plans following graduation at Emory & Henry

“This place is special. The education that I’ve gained here has been extremely beneficial in so many ways. I’ve had the opportunity to find what I really love to do during my time here. I have loved my time here at Emory & Henry.”

—Senior Lorin Zehr on her experiences as a student at Emory & Henry College

“Try new things! This campus offers its students an abundance of opportunities to expand knowledge and connections.”

—Lilian Zielinski shared her thoughts on Emory & Henry College