MU Today cover photo

Methodist University is pleased to unveil the Spring 2023 edition of “MU Today Magazine”, a publication that shares the latest news, notes, and feature stories of the Monarch community.

Methodist University is pleased to unveil the Spring 2023 edition of “MU Today Magazine”, a publication that shares the latest news, notes, and feature stories of the Monarch community.

As always, there are a variety of staples including Monarch Minutes, Class Notes, In Memory, and the Then & Now sections. However, readers will also find a few feature stories that spotlight some of our alumni, faculty, students, scholarships, and gifts.

The University personally invites you to enjoy the digital version of “MU Today Magazine”, which includes the following:

Cape Fear Valley CEO Michael Nagowski and Methodist University President Stanley T. WeardenPartnership Creates Opportunity for New MU Medical School

 All eyes were on Methodist University and Cape Fear Valley Health when they announced a new partnership with the intent to establish the state-of-the-art Methodist University medical school. Check out this feature to find out more details about what the partnership entails (pg. 2).

Lifelong Monarchs Alumni Stay Connected in Many Ways

Whether you are longstanding alumni with proven success, alumni fresh out of graduation, or somewhere in between, there is no shortage of ways to embrace Methodist University and stay connected. This cover story explores how alumni can make an immediate difference at MU (pg. 8-10). 

Lauryn FisherLife in the Fast Lane: Fisher ’23 Makes the Most of Her Time at MU

Lauryn Fisher ’23 graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Forensic Science and Criminal Justice in May, but she is the perfect example of how students can make the most of their time at MU. From the Student Activities Committee to the Black Student Union to the MU Dance Team, Fisher explains how her busy schedule allowed her to grow as a student and person (pg. 21).

Dr. Javier PabonFluent in Many Talents: Pabón Makes Impact on Students in and out of Classroom

Dr. Javier Pabón grew up in Ecuador and Colombia, teaches language and culture classes, coaches tennis, and even takes classes as a student from time to time. Dive into the story of Pabón and how his “donning many hats” style is impacting students across campus (pg. 23).

Black Alumni Chapter membersSupporting Students of Color: New Black Alumni Chapter Establishes Scholarship and More

Recently, a Black Alumni Chapter was created at Methodist University – forming homecoming traditions and establishing an endowed scholarship from the get-go. Find out how the group formed and how alumni can get involved immediately (pg. 26).

An Honoring Celebration: MU Holds Ribbon Cutting for Naming of Robert J. Chaffin Building

Methodist University welcomed family members of Robert J. Chaffin for a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the naming of its state-of-the-art Nursing building in his honor. This feature shares the story of the Chaffin family and how their gift will impact Methodist University for many years to come (pg. 28).

Caleb SimpsonFrom Fayetteville to Fame: Caleb Simpson ’15 Becomes Social Media Sensation

If you have spent any time on TikTok or YouTube, chances are you are familiar with Caleb Simpson ’15. The Professional Tennis Management graduate is now a social media sensation, creating viral videos of him exploring some of the most unique apartments across the United States. Simpson reflects on his time at MU and its impact on his life (pg. 40).

Please note: The list of donors has been redacted from this edition for online privacy. For the full donor list, please see the print edition.