Campus Events

Professor Phil Guilfoyle's exhibition will be on view from August 15 - December 15, 2026. Opening Reception is scheduled for Thursday, September 3 from 5 - 7 p.m.

Social Work Faculty, April Christman and Dr. Benjamin Dobrin will present "AI and the Future of Social Work Practice" in the Athenaeum Forum from 12-1pm.

Presented by Hofheimer Library. Attendees are welcome to bring snacks/lunch to the event. Faculty are encouraged to invite their classes to attend sessions relevant to their courses.

A Conversation with Lewis Brogdon, MDiv, PhD

What does faith look like when it moves beyond belief and into action? Dr. Lewis Brogdon, Executive Director of JustFaith Ministries, explores how faith can inspire ordinary people to confront injustice, strengthen relationships, and build communities of hope. Also hear stories of local JustFaith participants whose experiences have deepened their faith and transformed their communities. The evening concludes with an opportunity to learn about upcoming JustFaith small groups and explore how you can put faith into action alongside others in our community.

For more information, contact the Robert Nusbaum Center at 757.455.3129 or NusbaumCenter@batten.edu. This opportunity is offered in partnership with Sowers of Justice of Hampton Roads and Virginia Catholics for Racial Justice.

Your next great professional opportunity starts with a conversation. Whether you are a student launching your career or an alumnus looking to advance or give back, Building Batten Bridges is your gateway to success. Gather with us on the Hofheimer Library Forum to exchange insights, discover career paths, and forge powerful connections with industry leaders and the Batten network. This networking event is open to Batten University students, alumni, faculty and staff as well as employer partners.

Any organizations interested in connecting with Batten University students should contact Career and Professional Development at careerdevelopment@batten.edu for more information or to register for the event.

25TH ANNIVERSARY OF 9/11

Most college students today were not alive on September 11, 2001. As we mark the 25th anniversary of 9/11, this brief outdoor gathering explores a different question: When does someone else's story become our story? Together, we reflect on the tragedy, the extraordinary ways people came together in its aftermath, and the shared memories that shape our communities across generations.

For more information, contact the Robert Nusbaum Center at 757.455.3129 or NusbaumCenter@batten.edu.

NUSBAUM AT NIGHT: FIRESIDE CHATS OVER ZOOM
Terry Lindvall, PhD

Celebrate the 150th anniversary of Mark Twain's The Adventures of Tom Sawyer in this lively online conversation. Professor Terry Lindvall explores how Twain used humor, humility, and satire to expose hypocrisy, bridge differences, and strengthen community. Part of the Nusbaum at Night series with Batten University faculty, this 30- to 40-minute Zoom discussion examines classic works celebrating milestone anniversaries and their continuing relevance today.

Registration required by noon on the day of the program. Register by contacting the Robert Nusbaum Center at 757.455.3129 or NusbaumCenter@batten.edu.

Librarian, Abe Nemon will present "Politics and Science Fiction: 100 Years of Strange Nova" in the Athenaeum Forum from 12-1pm.

Hosted by Hofheimer Library. Attendees are welcome to bring snacks/lunch to the event. Faculty are encouraged to invite their classes to sessions that are relevant to their courses.

CONSTITUTION DAY 2026
Timothy G. O'Rourke, PhD

As the nation celebrates its 250th anniversary, what can the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution still teach us about citizenship, self-government, and finding common ground? Political scientist Tim O'Rourke explores how these founding documents continue to provide an enduring—though imperfect and amendable—framework for addressing America's challenges. In recognition of Constitution and Citizenship Day, this timely conversation considers how the principles of the nation's founding can help strengthen civic life and encourage more constructive disagreement.

For more information, contact the Robert Nusbaum Center at 757.455.3129 or NusbaumCenter@batten.edu.

Explore Possibilities. Make Connections. Shape Your Future.
Ready to discover your passion and plan your path? Join us for the 2026 Major, Minor & Experience Festival at Batten University — your one-stop event for exploring academic options and real-world experiences!

With 42 majors, 31 minors, and 19 pre-professional tracks, this festival is your chance to dive into all the opportunities offered. Meet representatives from academic departments, ask questions, and gain insight into potential majors, minors, and special programs that align with your goals. But that’s not all — this event also connects academics with action. Employers and community partners will be on-site with information about internships, part-time jobs, and career-building experiences that can help you gain hands-on skills while working toward your degree. You'll be able to also enjoy some friendly competition and fall themed snacks.

Join Us in Batten on September 24th!

Teddy Wansink, MA

What can the first generation of video creators teach us about today's social media? Long before YouTube and TikTok, the video revolution of the 1960s and '70s inspired bold hopes for transforming media, politics, and community life. Media historian Teddy Wansink explores the forgotten Guerrilla Television movement and the activists who used portable video cameras to advance community justice. Their story offers fresh insight into the promises—and pitfalls—of today's digital media landscape.

For more information, contact the Robert Nusbaum Center at 757.455.3129 or NusbaumCenter@batten.edu.

Mathematics major, Emma Sipes will present "Rough Draft Math: A Look into Middle School Math Classrooms" in the Athenaeum Forum from 12-12:45pm.

Hosted by Hofheimer Library. Attendees may bring snacks/lunch to the event. Faculty are encouraged to invite their students to sessions relevant to their courses.

Explore your future at the Batten University Graduate and Professional School Fair on October 1, 2026. Connect with admission reps, discover advanced degrees, and find your next step.

- Meet recruiters from a variety of graduate and professional programs.
- Get answers about application deadlines, requirements, and testing.
- Explore options in law, medicine, business, arts, and sciences.
- Plan ahead for scholarships, fellowships, and funding opportunities.

This event is free and open to all current students, alumni, facuty, staff and guests.

Craig Wansink, PhD

Today, "Jesus is Lord" sounds like a religious statement. In the first century, when the Roman Empire already claimed a lord and savior, it carried unmistakable political meaning. Join Ancient Christianity and New Testament scholar Craig Wansink as he traces how a movement whose founder and earliest leaders were executed by the state came to wrestle with questions of power, patriotism, empire, and Christian nationalism. This historical perspective invites reflection on the enduring challenge of balancing faith, citizenship, and the common good in a diverse democracy.

For more information, contact the Robert Nusbaum Center at 757.455.3129 or NusbaumCenter@batten.edu.

Three days of Marlin pride, all in one weekend. From alumni games and the FinFest celebration to the Athletic Hall of Fame induction ceremony and live theater at the Goode Center, there's something for every Marlin, every family member, and every generation. Come back to campus, reconnect, and make some new memories.

Linda Ferguson, PhD; Larry Hultgren, PhD; and Steve Mansfield, PhD

What did newly freed slaves have to do with the University? What message is hidden in the John Wesley statue? Why did a grove of trees spark controversy on campus? Join professors emeriti Linda Ferguson, Larry Hultgren, and Steve Mansfield for a walking tour of often-overlooked "sacred" spaces on campus. Along the way, discover stories of remembrance, reflection, and community that have shaped the University's history before concluding in the University Archives.

The tour begins at the Monumental Chapel and ends in the University Archives (2nd Floor, Hofheimer Library). For more information, contact the Robert Nusbaum Center at 757.455.3129 or NusbaumCenter@batten.edu. This opportunity is in collaboration with Batten University Alumni Relations and Homecoming & Alumni Family Weekend.

NUSBAUM AT NIGHT: FIRESIDE CHATS OVER ZOOM
Eric M. Mazur, PhD

Sixty years after the USS Enterprise first appeared on television, Star Trek continues to imagine a future where people from different backgrounds, beliefs, and cultures work together for the common good. Professor Eric M. Mazur explores why Gene Roddenberry's optimistic vision still offers timely lessons about curiosity, disagreement, diversity, and shared purpose. Part of the Nusbaum at Night series with Batten University faculty, this 30- to 40-minute Zoom conversation celebrates a cultural classic on its milestone anniversary.

Registration required by noon on the day of the program. Register by contacting the Robert Nusbaum Center at 757.455.3129 or NusbaumCenter@batten.edu.

English Faculty, Dr. Carol Johnson will present "Emerging Grammar: Why Students' Grammar Mistakes Aren't Always Wrong" in the Athenaeum Forum from 12-12:45pm.

Hosted by Hofheimer Library. Attendees may bring snacks/lunch to the event. Faculty are encouraged to invite their students to sessions relevant to their courses.

Dr. Carol Johnson will present, "Emerging Grammar: Why Students' Grammar Mistakes Aren't Always Wrong."

Presented by Hofheimer Library. Attendees are welcome to bring snacks/lunch to the event. Faculty are encouraged to invite their classes to attend sessions relevant to their courses.

Andy Edwards ’98, PhD; Chris Ross McLain ’98, MDiv; and Christa Mercer Springstead ’07, MDiv

"Methodist" began as a nickname for students whose disciplined habits and commitment to serving others set them apart. How did that small movement grow into one of the world's largest Christian traditions? Three alumni explore what John Wesley understood about creating communities through shared practices, meaningful relationships, and common purpose. Whether in neighborhoods, classrooms, workplaces, or congregations, this conversation offers timeless insights into what helps people truly belong.

For more information, contact the Robert Nusbaum Center at 757.455.3129 or NusbaumCenter@batten.edu.

Biology Faculty, Dr. Caitlin Williams will present "Incorporating Research into Courses: Developing a CURE for Genetic Students" in the Athenaeum Forum from 12-12:45pm.

Hosted by Hofheimer Library. Attendees may bring snacks/lunch to the event. Faculty are encouraged to invite their students to sessions relevant to their courses.

James Moskowitz, MA; Arin Shatto, MA; Kate Slayton; and Donna Tucker, MDiv

It's easy to check out when it feels like your voice doesn't matter or that one person can't make a difference. History tells a different story. Lasting change has often begun with ordinary people who chose to show up, speak out, and work together. In recognition of Vote Early Day, join civic leaders, educators, and community advocates for a conversation about how everyday acts of leadership and civic engagement—far beyond voting alone—can strengthen communities and remind us that our voices still matter.

For more information, contact the Robert Nusbaum Center at 757.455.3129 or NusbaumCenter@batten.edu. This panel discussion is in collaboration with Batten University's Office of Civic Engagement and Service Learning in recognition of Vote Early Day on October 27.

VCIC WORKSHOP

Most of us have learned how to argue. Far fewer have learned how to have a productive conversation. Whether the topic is politics, religion, race, AI, gender, or everyday life, disagreement doesn't have to damage relationships. In this interactive workshop, led by
professionals from the Virginia Center for Inclusive Communities (VCIC), discover why conversations often go off the rails, learn practical strategies for navigating difficult discussions, and practice skills that foster understanding, thoughtful dialogue, and genuine connection.

For more information, contact the Robert Nusbaum Center at 757.455.3129 or NusbaumCenter@batten.edu.

Earth and Environmental Sciences major, Laila Jones will present "Statistical Analysis of Radio AGN Jets" in the Athenaeum Forum from 12-12:45pm.

Hosted by Hofheimer Library. Attendees may bring snacks/lunch to the event. Faculty are encouraged to invite their students to sessions relevant to their courses.

COOKSON LECTURE
Jonathan Zur

After two decades helping schools, businesses, nonprofits, and communities strengthen relationships across Virginia, Jonathan Zur reflects on what he has learned about creating genuine belonging. Why do some efforts bring people together while others deepen division? Which conversations make a lasting difference, and which approaches fall short? In one of his final public presentations as President & CEO of the Virginia Center for Inclusive Communities, Zur shares the lessons, surprises, and practical insights from a career dedicated to building stronger, more connected communities.

For more information, contact the Robert Nusbaum Center at 757.455.3129 or NusbaumCenter@batten.edu.

DELIBERATIVE DIALOGUE

Few issues spark more passionate debate than immigration. Should the priority be compassion or security? Opportunity or order? National identity or human dignity? Through facilitated small-group conversations, participants explore three distinct approaches to U.S. immigration policy, consider the trade-offs of each, and engage respectfully with differing perspectives. Rather than seeking easy answers, this deliberative dialogue invites curiosity, thoughtful reflection, and a shared commitment to wrestling with one of our nation'ss most challenging issues.

For more information, contact the Robert Nusbaum Center at 757.455.3129 or NusbaumCenter@batten.edu. This discussion is offered through collaboration with the Batten University's Office of Civic Engagement and Service Learning.

NUSBAUM AT NIGHT: FIRESIDE CHATS OVER ZOOM
Craig Wansink, PhD

Sixty years after its release, The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly remains more than a classic Western. Beneath the gunfights and unforgettable characters lies a timeless question: What if the people standing between you and your goal are also the only ones who can help you reach it? Join Professor Craig Wansink as he explores what Sergio Leone's iconic film can teach us about rivalry, cooperation, and learning to live with people we'd never choose as companions. Part of the Nusbaum at Night series with Batten University faculty.

Registration required by noon on the day of the program. Register by contacting the Robert Nusbaum Center at 757.455.3129 or NusbaumCenter@batten.edu.

Professor of Classics, Dr. Benjamin Haller will present "Polycrates, Petubastis, and the Poets: Betrayal, Murder, and Empire in a Sixth Century Greek Tyranny" in the Athenaeum Forum from 12-12:45pm.

Hosted by Hofheimer Library. Attendees may bring snacks/lunch to the event. Faculty are encouraged to invite their students to sessions relevant to their courses.

Michael Panitz, PhD

Can people who deeply disagree remain one community? In the 19th century, Rabbis Isaac Mayer Wise and Solomon Schechter offered competing visions for unifying American Judaism while navigating profound religious differences. Their debate raised a question that remains just as relevant today: Is unity possible without uniformity? Rabbi Michael Panitz explores how these influential leaders wrestled with disagreement, identity, and belonging—and what their efforts can teach us about sustaining diverse communities in our own time.

For more information, contact the Robert Nusbaum Center at 757.455.3129 or NusbaumCenter@batten.edu.