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Twelve New Scholars Join VWU Faculty
The first in a series on new faculty members: Alumna April Christman ‘14
University News | September 17, 2024
A new academic year brings new opportunities, new experiences and some new faces. Over the next few weeks, we’ll introduce new members of the VWU Faculty; getting to know more about each of them, including their diverse backgrounds, areas of expertise, special interests, and what they are most looking forward to as they begin their time at VWU.
We open our new faculty series with a familiar face in a brand new role.
April Christman, an alumna of Virginia Wesleyan University (VWU), is stepping into a new role as an assistant professor of social work this semester. Her journey with VWU began as an undergraduate student, and she has since become a familiar and respected figure on campus, holding various positions including executive assistant for the provost, executive assistant for the vice president of campus life, and director of student health and counseling.
Christman’s newest role involves teaching courses such as “Direct Social Work Practice with Individuals and Families” (SW 401) and “Human Sexuality” (SW 361). She is also taking on the role of Social Work Field Education Coordinator, where she will be responsible for facilitating spring internship placements for senior social work students, ensuring they gain practical experience aligned with their career goals.
After earning her Bachelor’s in Social Work from Virginia Wesleyan in 2014, Christman pursued further education at Smith College, obtaining a Master’s in Social Work (MSW) in 2016, and then earning a License in Clinical Social Work (LCSW).
Christman is deeply committed to ethical social work practice, believing it is crucial for delivering excellence to clients. Her passion extends to suicide prevention and clinical supervision. She values the profound impact social work can have on individuals’ lives and is enthusiastic about shaping the next generation of social workers through her role on the faculty at VWU.
“I love social work,” Christman reflects. “Being a social worker has been a huge part of my identity for more than a decade. There is no greater honor in life than the opportunity to join someone in affecting positive change in their life. That is what being a social worker means to me. The BSW degree at VWU is a transformative experience and I am motivated to continue that reputation for years to come.”
In coming weeks, we’ll get to know more about these new faculty members:
Sarah Derosa, Research & Electronic Resources Librarian
Kelsi Dunman, Outreach and Access Services Librarian
Derek Eley, Assistant Professor of Digital Art
Jenelle Fortunato, Visiting Assistant Professor of Chemistry
Allisa Ganley, Visiting Lecturer in Biology
Drian Glyde, Assistant Professor of Management, Business and Economics
Anna K. Herrington (Katie), Assistant Professor of Psychology
Tyler A. Lehrer, Assistant Professor of History
Joshua Ruiter, Visiting Assistant Professor of Mathematics
Levi Tenen, Assistant Professor of Philosophy
Derek Whaley, Assistant Professor of Sports and Recreation Professions