Mary Baldwin Magazine
Thank you for reading the digital Mary Baldwin Magazine! It’s your hub for articles and digital features like the Bluestocking Stories podcast, student profile videos, and interview clips to get you caught up on the action you might’ve missed this academic year.
Issue Features
Kindling the Flame: A Look Back at MBU’s Presidential Inauguration
Mary Baldwin University ushered in a new era of leadership with the inauguration of tenth president, Dr. Jeffrey P. Stein, in October. The ceremony on a clear autumn morning honored the university’s rich traditions while embracing an inspiring vision for the future. From the academic processional to a joyful final dance off stage, Hunt Hill and Page Terrace were alive with the spirit of collaboration, optimism, and purpose.
The Mary Baldwin Signature Takes Shape
At the start of the fall semester, incoming students will meet a newly refreshed undergraduate experience at MBU. Learn how the university community has paved the way for the Mary Baldwin Signature’s launch, blending a classical education with professional preparation.
- Inside scoop on the Neighborhoods living and learning communities
- Interviews with students who have piloted a test drive
- A peek at design and development along the way
Breaking from the Script: A Community-Driven Approach to Theatre at MBU
The Mary Baldwin theatre department has deployed a new approach to selecting its production season in recent years. For students, it means more community, more collaboration, and more excitement for the plays they put on.
Groundbreaking Education with Rural Healthcare at its Heart
Murphy Deming’s nurse anesthesiology (CRNA) program has graduated its first students — and they’re primed to address a critical shortage for their expertise in rural hospitals.
Investing in the Future: Caroline Motley’s Nontraditional Path to Success
Caroline Motley ’25 didn’t take the traditional route to Mary Baldwin University — and that’s exactly what makes her story remarkable. After gap years and career twists, the political science major and standout cross country runner has found her stride both in and out of the classroom. With accolades like USA South Rookie of the Year, a passion for policy sparked by inspiring faculty, and plans for law school on the horizon, Motley is proof that the winding path can be the most rewarding.
Connecting, Optimizing, and Advancing: Listen to the Interview with President Jeff Stein
President Jeff Stein has been busy through his first 18 months at the helm: spearheading initiatives, bringing focus to the student experience, and offering everyone in the community his ear.
Now, as he approaches his third year at MBU, Stein speaks about the Elevate MBU strategic plan, the launch of academic Neighborhoods and the Mary Baldwin Signature, and the big impact recent staff additions will have on campus.
Bluestocking Stories Podcast
Want to hear from some of the people you’re reading about?
Listen to this season of Bluestocking Stories for exclusive audio interviews with President Jeff Stein, Anatomy Professor Dr. David McLeod, McCree Sr. Director Suzie Dull, and men’s basketball players Jaden Ignacio ’24 and Quentin Hart ’24.
Bluestocking Stories are perfect for your daily commute, your time at the gym, or whenever you’re missing your home on the hill.
News Highlights
Ten Years for Murphy Deming, and a New Campaign for the Future
Trustees, donors, students, faculty, and staff gathered in the atrium of Murphy Deming College of Health Sciences to celebrate the college’s tenth anniversary, honor the past decade of growth and development, and look forward to what’s next.
At the event, President Jeff Stein announced a new comprehensive campaign, Made for All Time, which has already raised $11.8 million toward an overall goal of $30 million to fund priorities in academic innovation, scholarships, our campus home, and student success.
Meet Brooke Buffington, MBU’s New Associate Vice President for Career and Professional Development
The McCree Center for Life Success welcomes Brooke Buffington to serve as associate vice president for career and professional development.
Buffington brings a wealth of experience and success in professional development, most recently serving as assistant vice president of the nationally recognized Student Professional Development Center at Elon University.
Jonathan Delgado ’26 Brings Black Business to Campus
Business major Jonathan Delgado ’26 has embraced leadership at every turn — helping grow the Black Business Fair, guiding student organizations, and paving the way for future MBU changemakers.
The Black Student Alliance’s business fair welcomed a variety of organizations from across the commonwealth and beyond to meet the community, share their products, and encourage aspiring business owners.
MBU’s Lavender Lounge Provides Space for Comfort and Community
A welcoming hub for LGBTQ+ students and allies, the Lavender Lounge fosters community, connection, and inclusivity while providing a safe space for relaxation, support, and meaningful programming.
Read the Article
Real Patients, Real Progress: Students Bring Hands-On Occupational Therapy to the YMCA
Throughout the fall semester, students of occupational therapy from the Murphy Deming College of Health Sciences have been dedicating their Thursday afternoons to helping community members at the Staunton-Augusta YMCA.
A Firsthand Look at MBU’s Redesigned Anatomy Education
Thanks to the efforts of faculty and staff, led by Dr. David McLeod, Mary Baldwin is now one of the few institutions in Virginia offering undergraduate students hands-on learning with human cadavers.
Read the Article
Magazine Archive
Looking to revisit past issues of the Mary Baldwin Magazine? Explore our magazine archive for a curated collection of stories, milestones, and memories that reflect the heart of the MBU community.