Alumni Spotlight: Dr. Michael Weatherly, Class of 2002
Entrepreneur and former Marlin Baseball Player has earned degrees in Education, Psychology and Religion
University News | June 4, 2024
Originally from Currituck, North Carolina, Dr. Michael Weatherly is the Founder of government contractor C5BDI, Sports Innovation X, Ecco Adesso Winery, Vet First Inc., and Atlantic Frontier. He’s also co-owner of the of Norfolk Admirals hockey team, and a former minority owner of the 2023 World Series Champion Hickory Crawdads (Texas Rangers High-A Affiliate). A member of the Marlin Baseball team, he's earned degrees in Education, Psychology and Religion. 
What are your current connections with VWU?
Presidents Council and always excited to donate back to the baseball/softball programs when I can! Also working to develop an internship program where we hire graduates from VWU across our ecosystem of companies.
While at VWU, what activities were you engaged in? 
Resident Assistant (RA) for three years and Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) for four years.
What was your favorite place on campus?
The Chapel. It is such a sacred place, and every time I would enter, I was reminded of the beauty of silence and the power of faith. In the chapel, I was able to take a deep breath and reconnect with myself. As we all know, the college athlete life can be a lot on anyone.
What inspired you to major in Psychology, Education, and Religion?
I felt all of these gave me a unique perspective on understanding the human mind, facilitating learning, and exploring spiritual dimensions of life. With these different majors, the opportunities are endless through a unique lens. I am passionate about empowering others through learning and fostering environments where everyone succeeds.
How did your time at Virginia Wesleyan most impact your success?
Virginia Wesleyan impacted my success by the diverse range of academic and extracurricular opportunities that helped me discover my passions and talents.
Best memory of your time at VW?
ODAC Championships and South Regional Championship Tournaments
Professors/coaches who had greatest impact on you:
Coach Nick Boothe, Dr. Craig Wansink, and Dr. Larry Hultgren