Magazine
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Issue Features
Groundbreaking Education with Rural Healthcare at its Heart
Murphy Deming’s Nurse Anesthesiologist program is graduating its first students this spring — and they’re primed to address a critical shortage for their expertise in rural hospitals.
The Road to the Neighborhood
At the start of the Fall Semester of 2025, incoming students will meet a brand-new undergraduate experience at MBU. This transformation into a more career-minded, collaborative campus community has been in the works for some time, but how did we get here?
This article has the inside scoop on the neighborhoods, including:
- Interviews with students who have piloted a test drive
- A peek at the challenges and victories design teams encountered along the way
- An insider explanation of the future of education at MBU.
Breaking from the Script: A Community-Driven Approach to Theatre at MBU
The Mary Baldwin Undergraduate Theatre Department has deployed a new approach to selecting its production season in recent years. Students have embraced the approach, meaning more community, more collaboration, and more excitement to put on plays.
Investing in the Future: Caroline Motley’s Nontraditional Path to Success
Caroline Motley 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; the president has been spearheading initiatives, building out the executive staff, and offering everyone in the community his ear.
Now, as he approaches his third year at MBU, Dr. Stein is here to talk 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 Interim 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.
Whether you’re interested in staying connected with the people making waves in the MBU community or you’re just looking to hear a unique perspective, Bluestocking Stories is here for you.
News Highlights
Ten Years for Murphy Deming, and a Vision 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 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
Starting this summer, MBU’s McCree Center for Life Success will welcome 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, a Junior Business Major, Brings Black Business to Campus
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 businesses 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, Mary Baldwin University’s Lavender Lounge fosters community, connection, and inclusivity while providing a safe space for relaxation, support, and meaningful programming.
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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 the MBU 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.
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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.