MBU in the News: January 2024

A selection of news stories and media mentions featuring Mary Baldwin University alumni, students, faculty, and staff from the month of January.

Alumna Lands on Roanoke “40 Under 40”

Natesha Ross, who earned her MA in teaching from MBU, has been named to the Roanoker’s “40 Under 40” list for her work as assistant director of programs at The Foundry.

Ross has previously worked as a teacher and site manager, and is currently furthering her education at William and Mary.

Seremet Named to Selection Committee

Molly Seremet

Molly Seremet ’16, a two-time graduate of MBU’s Shakespeare and Performance Program and current assistant professor of theatre at Mary Baldwin, has been named to the 2024 play-reading committee for New York City’s Hedgepig Ensemble Theatre.

This theatre group focuses on the works of under-celebrated and underrepresented playwrights from the past. The theatre’s “Expand the Canon” initiative is particularly aimed to elevate women and non-binary playwrights.

MBU Alum Among “Influential Women in Law”

Nicole Brenner, was named to Virginia Lawyers Weekly‘s 2024 “Influential Women in Law” list.

Brenner has been at Reed Smith LLP since 2016 and has developed a reputation in that short time as a “go-to resource for clients and lobbyists and is widely recognized as a leading public policy advocate.”

Kidd Receives Leonard W. Sandridge Award at UVA

Jolene Kidd ’08, MBU ’21 received the Leonard W. Sandridge Award, which recognizes an outstanding University staff or team member who demonstrates dedication to service through individual efforts, group contributions, and commitment to our larger community.

Hunt Gallery Exhibition Makes the News

Hunt Gallery, located on MBU’s main campus on the first floor of Hunt Dining Hall, is hosting an exhibition of the Black American Artists Alliance.

The exhibition is running through February 23 and its closing reception is Friday, February 23, 4:30-6 p.m.

Laura Weaver Becomes VP at FaithSearch Partners

Laura Weaver has been named as the VP in the Mission Enterprise Division at FaithSearch Partners. Weaver has worked in human resources and talent acquisition for years at a variety of posts, including Lehman Brothers and Dean Foods.

For the past three years, she has worked with children’s homes in Southeast Asia.

Alumni Rejuvenating Roofs in Western Tennessee

Leslie Granberry ’84 and her husband Marc have been running Roof Rejuvenate of Western Tennessee since January 2020.

They spoke with their local news radio station about their journey to entrepreneurship.

Jerrica Seay Promoted at Bank of Botetourt

Jerrica Seay earned a major promotion to Assistant Vice President, Operations Officer, at the Bank of Botetourt, which is based in Buchanan, Virginia.

Seay joined the bank’s staff 12 years ago after graduating from Mary Baldwin, and her new role oversees electronic banking, card services, and loan operations for the bank.

Dr. Tillerson-Brown’s Upcoming Black History Month Engagement

Dr. Amy Tillerson-Brown, professor of history and history department chair, as well as dean of the College for Women, is scheduled to speak at the Waynesboro Union Baptist Church on Feb. 11 at 3 p.m.

This speaking engagement is presented by the Waynesboro chapter of the NAACP as part of their annual Black History Month program.

Amy Tillerson-Brown

MBU Senior Featured for Filipino Heritage

Jaden Ignacio, a key player for Mary Baldwin University’s men’s basketball team, gained attention in high school after being selected as the sole representative for the United States in a showcase camp for young Filipino players in Manila, Philippines.

He has continued his journey as MBU’s men’s basketball captain for three years.

London Gallery Displays Late Alumna Judith Godwin’s Work

Judith Godwin’s exhibition, “Expressions of Life,” at the Pippy Houldsworth Gallery (London, England) challenges the traditional narrative of Abstract Expressionism, offering a fresh perspective on the movement.

Her paintings, such as “Elegy to a Slain Deer” (1978), capture moments of violence and movement with clarity. If you find yourself in London, take time to enjoy this MBU alumna’s lauded work.