January 2023

Dear Friends,

Believing. Belonging. Building.

Dr. James McDonald ’73 provided wisdom and inspiration to our December graduates using those three words. One of the particularly striking aspects of his address is that it was spoken at our first-ever December commencement.

In years past, we had a celebration for our summer and fall graduates; however, if they wanted to don their caps and gowns and walk across the stage to receive their diplomas they had to return to campus in May. This year not only did we have an official commencement ceremony for our summer and fall undergraduate students, we also included our graduate students in the same ceremony.

It was gratifying to witness our graduate students alongside our undergraduate students as we honored their accomplishments and celebrated this milestone. Dr. McDonald’s inspiring words resonated throughout the venue as we welcomed all our graduates to the Long Magenta Line.

You will note many examples in this newsletter of the ways in which we believe in our students, create a sense of belonging, and continue to build the Muskingum of the future. We are always grateful for the many ways in which you support this important work.

With warm regards,

President Sue Hasseler

IMPACT

Women's Leadership Forum

A select group of first-year women took part in a day-long Women's Leadership Forum, launching a new pilot leadership initiative. The initiative includes follow-up seminars during the spring semester and throughout the students' undergraduate careers.

First Indoor Track and Field Meet Hosted in BHWC

Muskingum's first ever indoor track and field meet was held on January 14. The Alumni Mile, with President Sue Hasseler as the starter, was the historic meet's first event.

ACADEMICS

Regional Planning Students Present in Washington, D.C.

Students in Assistant Professor of Political Science William Toombs' class were selected to present the strategic plan they have been developing for Downtown Zanesville at the Appalachian Teaching Project symposium.

New Dual Licensure Program

The new program combines Primary Education - grades PreK-5 - and Intervention Specialist Mild to Moderate - grades K-12. It is open both to licensed educators and to those who hold a bachelor's degree and wish to become licensed educators.

Spotlight on Faculty Work

View our online collection of recent faculty publications and accomplishments, including an interdisciplinary collaboration between English and Geology faculty members. Congratulations to all!

ALUMNI

James McDonald '73 Addresses December Grads

President and Chief Executive Officer of Allwell Behavioral Health James McDonald '73 was the featured speaker of our first formal December commencement ceremony, addressing undergraduate and graduate degree recipients.

Alumni Join in Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service

For the first time, alumni joined faculty, staff, and students in a Day of Service for Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. To quote Dr. King, "The time is always right to do what is right."

ARTS

JOIN US FOR MUSIC ALUM NIGHT ON FEBRUARY 3

Connect with music alums, faculty, staff, and students at a Columbus reception, held in conjunction with the OMEA Conference. Read The Muskingum Beat for more music news.

ATHLETICS

Muskies Attend NCAA Div III Student Immersion Program

Quinten Collins '24 and graduate student Taylor Brown '21, Assistant Director of Athletics Communication, were among 40 students selected nationwide to attend the 2023 NCAA Convention for networking and leadership training.