Read about the MBU alumni and community members making an impact in their communities.
Above: Outside the Admissions Office doors, Ham and Jam received a makeover ahead of the 2025 commencement ceremonies.
Stori Ayers Nominated for Home on Broadway
MBU Alum Stori Ayers ’09 can cross another dream accomplishment off her bucket list — she was nominated for the Distinguished Performance award at the 2025 Drama League Awards. Ayers was nominated alongside acting titans like George Clooney, Sandra Oh, Idina Menzel, and Denzel Washington.
Susan Swecker ’77 Steps Down After Decade as VA Democratic Party Chair
After a career dedicated to public service, Susan Swecker was elected the chair of the Democratic Party of Virginia in 2015, and reelected in 2022.
Elizabeth Oliver ’72 Receives Lifetime Service Award
Oliver was presented with the American Accounting Association’s Jim Benjamin Lifetime Service Award at the organization’s Leadership in Accounting Education Section Seminar on Feb. 14.
Virginian Review Profiles Kolby Hiner’s ’23 Work as a Teacher
Kolby Hiner has been changing children’s lives as a standout teacher in the Virginia Preschool Initiative (VPI) at Mountain View Elementary School.
Colonel Jessica Goffena ’02 Takes Command of Tulsa Army Corps of Engineers
Colonel Goffena has served in a variety of locales on her way to a command position with the Tulsa District Army Corps of Engineers, most recently as a Division Chief at the Joint Operations Division Europe.
