Maryland Entrepreneur Named Trustee Of Washington College

Chestertown, MD, July 19, 2002 — Richard Bernstein, a business leader who brought electronics manufacturing to Maryland's Eastern Shore, has been appointed to Washington College's Board of Visitors and Governors. Bernstein is president and CEO of BAI Aerosystems, Inc. in Easton and CEO of Lorch Microwave in Salisbury. He also owns and operates Salisbury Pewter, a company of artisans that produces decorative arts and silverwork. As a Trustee of Washington College, Bernstein will work with other members of the College's Board to oversee the administrative, academic and financial operations of the 220-year-old college. His six-year term began July 1, 2002.

BAI is a leading supplier of low-cost unmanned aerial vehicles used for surveillance, radio relay links and jamming in applications where the use of manned aircraft would put human lives at risk. Lorch Microwave, a subsidiary of BAI Aerosystems, manufactures RF, microwave and ceramic filters along with a range of specialized electronic components that are used in the wireless markets. Prior to acquiring BAI, Bernstein was the founder of K&L Microwave, the electronics manufacturing industry that provided jobs for more than 2,000 employees on the Shore.

Bernstein studied engineering at the Virginia Military Institute. He earned his undergraduate degree at Salisbury State University and a master's in business administration from Purdue University. He has received several professional honors and awards, including being named among INC. Magazine's Top 500 privately-held corporations.

Washington College Alumni Beebe, Likens Named Trustees Of The College

Chestertown, MD, July 18, 2002 — Glenn Beebe '81, a legislative director for the Eighth Legislative District of New Jersey, and Elizabeth Likens '96, Director of Development for DRADA (Depression & Related Affective Disorders Association) at Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, were elected by the Washington College Alumni Association to the Board of Visitors and Governors of the College. Their six-year terms began July 1, 2002. As Trustees of the College, they will work with other members of the College's Board to oversee the administrative, academic and financial operations of the institution.

As legislative director for the Eighth Legislative District of New Jersey, Beebe is responsible for supervising the legislative process in his office and ensuring that bills move from ideas to law. He has worked for the New Jersey legislature since his college graduation and has hosted several Washington College students as New Jersey legislative interns. He has served in local government as a mayor and township committeeman, and chaired the New Jersey Coin Committee that selected the New Jersey quarter for the United States Mint. A former class agent and chapter president of the College's Alumni Association, Beebe is past president of the College's Alumni Council. He and his wife, Valerie Hartzell, are members of the College's 1782 Society of donors and have created an endowed book fund for the Washington College library. They reside in Burlington, NJ.

One of the youngest alumni to be elected to the College's Board of Visitors and Governors, Likens is responsible the fundraising efforts and membership recruitment activities of DRADA. Prior to joining DRADA, Likens was Director of Meetings and Exhibitions for the Association of Financial Professionals in Bethesda, MD. She served on the Washington College Alumni Council as President of the College's Washington, DC Alumni Chapter until moving to Baltimore. She is also a committee member of the College's 1782 Society, founded in 1985 by benefactors of Washington College to advance many vital programs, scholarships and activities at the College.

Washington College Awards Nation's Largest Undergraduate Prize At 220th Commencement Ceremony

Senior from Bethesda, Maryland, Wins $65,522

Chestertown, MD, May 19, 2002 — the ceremony brought another reward: a check for $65,522. Blackman's portfolio of poetry, fiction, and nonfiction writing earned her the largest undergraduate literary award in the country — the Sophie Kerr Prize.

The awarding of the Sophie Kerr Prize, given annually to the graduating senior who demonstrates the greatest "ability and promise for future fulfillment in the field of literary endeavor," has in recent decades been a highlight of the commencement ceremony at the 220-year-old liberal arts college. The Prize, worth $65,522 this year, is among the largest literary awards in the world. Washington College has awarded nearly one million dollars in prize money since it was first given in 1968, most often to writers of poetry and fiction. Scholarly and journalistic works, though less often selected, are given equal consideration. Blackman's winning submission — a collection of ten poems, five short stories, and an essay — was one of a record-setting twenty-seven portfolios submitted for this year's prize.Chestertown, MD, May 19, 2002 — the ceremony brought another reward: a check for $65,522. Blackman's portfolio of poetry, fiction, and nonfiction writing earned her the largest undergraduate literary award in the country — the Sophie Kerr Prize.

"Sarah represents the best of liberal arts ideals," said Professor Richard Gillin, chair of the English Department and of the Sophie Kerr Prize Committee that selected Blackman as this year's winner. "Her mastery of so many different genres is evidence of a wide-ranging mind."

Professor Robert Mooney, Director of the College's creative writing program and O'Neill Literary House, cited Blackman's extraordinary facility with language, artistic integrity, and maturity of vision. "Sarah fictively investigates those quiet and important human moments that define character in its destiny," Mooney said. "In the process she shapes a story that is not only worth reading, but worth going back to again and again. Sarah is an extraordinary poet as well, with a sense of condensed language that is fluid, rhythmic, and on the mark."

The daughter of Dr. Melinda Zeder and Dr. James Blackman of Bethesda, MD, Blackman graduated summa cum laude with departmental honors in English. She also received the Emil J. C. Hildenbrand Memorial Medal awarded to the student who attains the highest average in English during four years of study as well as recognition for outstanding community service. Blackman spent her spring break in Georgia working with Habitat for Humanity.

Blackman plans to move to Los Angeles in July, attracted by what she describes as its "thriving literary industry." She plans to continue her education in literature and creative writing, with hopes of teaching writing not only to undergraduates in liberal arts settings but to marginalized youth, prisoners in state penitentiaries and students in adult literacy programs.

The Sophie Kerr Prize is the namesake of an Eastern Shore woman who made her fortune in New York, writing women's fiction during the 1930s and 1940s. In accordance with the terms of her will, one-half of the annual income from her bequest to the College is awarded each year to the graduating senior demonstrating the best potential for literary achievement. The other half funds scholarships, supports student publications and the purchase of books, and brings an array of visiting writers, editors and publishers to campus to read, visit classes and discuss student work. Her gift has provided the nucleus for an abundance of literary activity on the bucolic Eastern Shore campus.

Junior Annette Bangert Leads WC Equestrian Team To First Nationals

Inaugural Year For Equestrian Club And Team

Chestertown, MD, May 8, 2002 — Washington College junior Annette Bangert has led the newly formed Washington College Equestrian Team to its first Intercollegiate Horse Show Association (IHSA) National Championship. Representing the best in Zone 3, Bangert competed against 16 riders from around the nation and placed fourth in the Hunt Seat Equitation Division at the 2002 Championship held May 4, 2002, at Cazenovia College in Cazenovia, NY.

"The IHSA has many different levels of competition, so that every rider, regardless of skill level, can participate," said Bangert, who hails from Germany and is majoring in art at the College. "I rode in Individual Walk/Trot, which is the beginner class. It was a big class—the two best riders from each of the eight IHSA zones in the country. I was very proud to represent Washington College and such a young team against other schools that have been competing for years."

Bangert's showing received fourth in her class in the nation. Coach Sandy Griffiths, who calls her team "the Cool Running of the Eastern Shore," is confident that the club is poised to become one of the top teams in the region.

"This is a significant accomplishment," said Griffiths. "During the season, our team was up against schools that had been fielding riders for years and never sent anyone to the Nationals. For Washington College to have achieved this in its first year is really something to brag about. I am very proud of the team's performance this year."
Bangert's showing received fourth in her class in the nation. Coach Sandy Griffiths, who calls her team "the Cool Running of the Eastern Shore," is confident that the club is poised to become one of the top teams in the region."The IHSA has many different levels of competition, so that every rider, regardless of skill level, can participate," said Bangert, who hails from Germany and is majoring in art at the College. "I rode in Individual Walk/Trot, which is the beginner class. It was a big class—the two best riders from each of the eight IHSA zones in the country. I was very proud to represent Washington College and such a young team against other schools that have been competing for years."

Washington College riders in IHSA competition finished the season in sixth place for the region, beating many larger and more established programs such as the University of Pennsylvania, Gettysburg College, Arcadia University, Bryn Mawr College, Haverford College and Temple University. More than half of the team advanced to the Regional Championships and all finished in the ribbons. Qualifying for regional competition were Morgan Baker, a sophomore from Centreville, MD; Katie Lerner, a freshman from Silver Spring, MD; Lauren Marini, a senior from Mullica Hill, NJ; and Christine Solle, a junior from Maplewood, NJ. Marini garnered High Point Champion at the Delaware Valley Show and Reserve High Point Champion at Field of Dreams in Chesterfield, NJ on March 3, 2003. Baker was Reserve High Point Champion at the Briarwood Show in Reddington, NJ, on February 24, 2002.

Overall, the Washington College Equestrian Team with just eight riders tallied 188 points throughout the season, finishing behind first place powerhouse, the University of Delaware, which fielded 90 riders and finished the season with 316 points.

The Washington College Equestrian Club is open to all students, regardless of riding ability, and competes in Region 2, Zone 3 of the IHSA, which encompasses schools from Maryland, Delaware, New York, Pennsylvania, and parts of Connecticut, New Jersey and West Virginia.

Students do not need to own their own horse to be a member—several lease horses are available and students practice on horses provided by Airy Hill Stables outside of Chestertown. Mounts in IHSA competitions are drawn by lots and provided by the show hosts. Students in the club can also participate in educational field trips, monthly trail rides and riding lessons. In addition to competing in the Intercollegiate Horse Show Association, the Washington College Equestrian Team raises funds for the club by "foalwatching" mares at Thornmar Farm in Kent County. This special opportunity ensures that club members get hands-on experience in the thoroughbred breeding industry working with nationally regarded equine reproduction veterinarian, Dr. Thomas H. Bowman, a five-time Washington College parent.

Milestone: $80 Million And Climbing, Washington College Campaign Surpasses Fundraising Goals

Chestertown, MD, April 30, 2002 — Washington College's capital campaign has surpassed its original five-year $72 million goal and reached nearly $80 million. With almost two years left in the Campaign for Washington's College, the College intends to push on to its planned December 2003 completion, raising as much as possible prior to that date.

"With just two months remaining in the fiscal year, the College has surpassed funds raised last year for all purposes by $4 million, giving us confidence that the momentum of the Campaign will continue to produce record funding levels," said Jack Griswold, Chairman of the College's Board of Visitors and Governors and Chair of the Campaign. "Exceeding all expectations, even in uncertain financial times, the Campaign is enriching academic programs, strengthening the faculty, providing scholarships, and enhancing campus facilities."

Recent major gifts include a grant of $2.5 million from the State of Maryland for a new science building; a $2.4 million distribution from The Hodson Trust and $100,000 from the Clark Charitable Foundation, both for scholarships; and $525,237 from the estate of College alumnus, the late W. Kennon Perrin '31. This final distribution brings Colonel Perrin's total bequest to $5 million. Within the last month, the College also received $200,000 from Willard Hackerman of Whiting-Turner Contracting Company and $100,000 from alumnus Dr. Roy Ans '63 for the new science building with construction expected to begin in the next academic year. The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation also awarded $123,000 for the College's Center for Environment and Society.

To mark the success of the Campaign to date, the College will host a Milestone Celebration on May 18, 2002, for all donors to the Campaign at the 1782 Society $1,200 level and above, as well as descendants of the original subscribers to the first canvass that raised 10,000 pounds to launch the College in 1782. Actor Larry Hagman, whose family established the Mary Martin Drama Scholarship at Washington College in honor of his late mother, will attend the party and receive an honorary degree during the College's 220th Commencement on Sunday, May 19.

Washington College Appoints William Macintosh To Lead College Development, Fundraising

Chestertown, MD, April 26, 2002 — The President's Office and the Board of Visitors and Governors of Washington College are pleased to announce the appointment of William MacIntosh as Vice President for Development and Alumni Relations. MacIntosh will develop new financial resources for the College and continue to press the five-year Campaign for Washington's College to its planned completion in December 2003. The Campaign has already reached $80 million, surpassing its original five-year goal of $72 million.

MacIntosh brings more than 25 years in finance, fundraising and management experience to the College and will work to advance and to strengthen its network of corporate, foundation and individual support. He earned his degree in economics from Harvard College and his MBA from Harvard Business School. MacIntosh has been an independent financial consultant for Crown Central Petroleum and other firms over the past five years and previously served as Vice President of Financial Services for PHH Corporation, based in Hunt Valley, MD, where he managed the firm's financing and investments. Prior to this, MacIntosh served as Director of Treasury Services for Pepsico International in Purchase, NY, and was Vice President of Finance for the Nestlé Trading Corporation in Stamford, CT. He has also been active in the non-profit field as President of Sail Baltimore, the City's official, all-volunteer committee for visiting ships.

Heading the production of its OpSail Baltimore 2000, he worked with participating embassies, local and international corporations, and government agencies to organize this event that brought worldwide attention to Baltimore's rich maritime history and culture. He and his wife Kay, editor of STYLE magazine, currently live in Phoenix, MD, but are planning to relocate to the Eastern Shore with their two boys.

"I am really impressed with Bill's personal attributes and the high regard with which he is held; these strengths will lend themselves to success in this new position," said Jack Griswold, Chairman of the Board of Visitors and Governors of Washington College.

"Bill will be an outstanding leader in development at Washington College and a great asset for us as we work to open new avenues of funding," said Dr. John S. Toll, President of the College. "His proven expertise in management and his ability to build relationships will be invaluable as we move to complete the current Campaign for Washington's College."

MacIntosh will succeed Robert G. Smith, who will retire in June after leading the College's Development Office and directing the Campaign for Washington's College for four years. Smith has been instrumental in growing the College's total endowment from $25 million to well above $100 million and lifting the Campaign well above its original goal 20 months ahead of schedule. He will continue to act as a senior adviser to President Toll and the College's Development Office.

Congresswoman Connie Morella, Actor Larry Hagman To Be Honored At Washington College Commencement May 19th

Chestertown, MD, April 26, 2002 — Connie Morella (R-Md.) will be the keynote speaker at Washington College's 220th Commencement on Sunday, May 19, 2002. Congresswoman Morella will receive an Honorary Doctor of Public Service in recognition of her accomplishments in the public sector, and actor Larry Hagman, of Dallas fame, will be made an Honorary Doctor of Fine Arts. Commencement begins at 10:30 a.m. on the campus lawn.

This Commencement will also see the awarding of the largest undergraduate literary prize in the nation—the Sophie Kerr Prize. A talented graduating senior will receive a check for $65,552 this year, the highest amount given in the 35-year history of the prize.

Congresswoman Morella represents Maryland's Eighth District and is currently serving her eighth consecutive term in the House of Representatives. Since first taking office in 1987, she has focused her legislative efforts on such issues as scientific research and development, education, the federal workforce, equity for women, the rights and needs of older Americans, international human rights and the environment. She chairs the Government Reform Subcommittee on the District of Columbia, has been a longstanding member of the Civil Service Subcommittee, and has been a long-term member of the House Science Committee, currently serving as a member of the Subcommittee on Environment, Technology, and Standards. She has been a national leader in enhancing computer security, in promoting the use of telemedicine and educational technology, and in forming national recommendations to address the underrepresentation of women, minorities and persons with disabilities in the science and technology workforce.

Congresswoman Morella is the former co-chair of the Congressional Caucus for Women's Issues and is recognized nationally for her work on children's rights, domestic violence and women's health, educational and economic equity issues. Last year, her legislation to expand the Violence Against Women Act was signed into law, and she has established herself as a leader in the fight against HIV/AIDS in women with legislation focusing on research and prevention. Because of her work improving the lives of women, Congresswoman Morella was inducted into the Maryland Women's Hall of Fame, and Glamour magazine honored her as a "Woman of the Year." Active in international and human rights issues, Congresswoman Morella was the first woman to chair the Arms Control and Foreign Policy Caucus. She also represented the United States at the U.N. Conference on Population and Development in Cairo and co-chaired the congressional delegation to the U.N. Fourth World Conference on Women in Beijing.

Before her election to Congress, Congresswoman Morella served for eight years in the Maryland House of Delegates. From 1970 to 1985, she was a professor in the English Department of Montgomery College in Rockville, MD. A resident of Montgomery County for 44 years, she lives in Bethesda with her husband, Tony, a law professor. Together they have raised nine children, including her late sister's six children.

From bumbling astronaut to ruthless Texas tycoon, Larry Hagman's acting career has been long and diverse. Hagman began his career on the stage following in the footsteps of his mother, the actress Mary Martin, with whom he appeared as a member of the chorus in the London production of "South Pacific." While in England, he joined the U.S. Air Force and married his wife Maj Axelsson in 1954. After completing military service, Hagman returned to New York to act is series of Broadway and off-Broadway plays and then moved to Hollywood to pursue television. Hagman's first big TV break came with "I Dream of Jeannie," which ran for five years. But it was not until 1977 with "Dallas" that Hagman's career took off, as he became America's most popular love-to-hate character—J. R. Ewing. The series ran for 13 series and the famous "Who Shot J.R.?" episode became the second highest rated TV show in history.

Off-screen, Hagman has contributed much of his time to the anti-smoking campaign of the American Cancer Society and has campaigned for the increased use of clean solar energy, particularly in developing nations and communities. His recent acting work has included Oliver Stone's "Nixon" (1995) and the film "Primary Colors" (1998). In 1997, Hagman visited Washington College to present the first annual Mary Martin Drama Scholarship, named in honor of his late mother and established by graduate Matthew Weir '90, grandson of the acclaimed actress.