After what he’d seen in the South Pacific, Elmer Morris Jr. ’50 was ready to get back to college. But the school where he’d started was full. So he enrolled at his mother’s alma mater, near his hometown. Just for a few classes. Just until he could get back to Williamsburg. Enter Marceline Weatherly ’50. Drum Major. May Queen. Class President. Daughter Sent to an All-Girls School to NOT Meet a Boy. Unbeknownst to her parents, Mary Washington College of the University of Virginia would welcome men, including Elmer Morris, in 1946, the year Marcy arrived, more than two decades before going officially co-ed. Who could have guessed an agreement to admit World War II veterans would change everything for a 17-year-old beauty from South Carolina and a sailor lucky to be alive? Or that their love for each other – and for the magical place that brought them together – would still be unfolding today? “Joined at the hip,” Marcy said, reflecting on her 67-year romance with the man she … [Read more...]
Surgeon Scholar
Dr. Balvant Arora, MBA ’13 could have been content with his achievements. He’d succeeded professionally in his native India and in the United States, participated in groundbreaking surgery, and taught medical school. More recently he had moved to Fredericksburg to work for Mary Washington Healthcare as a plastic, reconstructive, and cosmetic surgeon, a career he chose for its balance of science and art. But as the Affordable Care Act brought the business aspects of the health industry into political and social focus, Arora identified a gap in his own knowledge – and an opportunity to contribute constructively. He approached the leadership at Mary Washington Healthcare about the possibility of getting an MBA with a concentration in health care and was granted permission and financial support. In 2010, at age 50, he went back to the classroom as a student in the University of Mary Washington’s College of Business. And in May, after 3½ years of a rigorous schedule and … [Read more...]
Modern Family Room
From the hallowed grounds that once housed Chandler Hall, a modern living room is emerging. When it is finished in 2015, the new four-story Campus Center will live up to its name. It will be at the center of the grounds, and it will serve as the living room – or, more aptly, the family room – for the campus community. The Campus Center will help University of Mary Washington stay competitive with colleges of similar size while also meeting the evolving needs of students. One of the main benefits will be improved dining facilities. Students have been eating at Seacobeck Hall since it opened in 1931 – back when young academics were expected to dress for dinner and show up at assigned tables precisely on time. Today’s students cherish Seacobeck for its history, but not for the long lines they wait in to be served. In 2013, the building serves about 60 percent more people than it was designed to serve in 1931. It also is home to student organizations, but offers little space … [Read more...]