You may know Aysha Bodenhamer ’10 as a Radford University alumna and faculty member in the Department of Sociology. Earlier this year, however, Bodenhamer began a new role, serving as her alma mater’s newest sustainability manager. It’s a position she said will allow her to do more to “instill a culture of sustainability” in the Highlander community.

I’yonah Cartwright has made the most of her time at Radford University. From her achievements in the classroom to her work with civic engagement and organizations on campus, her efforts are a testament to the mission that guides her work: to see others succeed.

Every two weeks, Highlander Highlights shares with readers some of the extraordinary research and accomplishments happening on and off campus through the tireless work and curiosity of our students and faculty. 

With the quick snip of scissors, a purple ribbon split and gently fell to the floor. Thus began the grand opening of the Lavender Lounge, a new resource space for Radford University’s LBGTQ+ community.

A runaway pingpong ball back in 2020 led to a chance meeting between freshmen Rachel Garrison and Patrick Keplinger. As their relationship blossomed, their academic focus turned to business. Today, on the cusp of their commencements, the pair has evolved into something of a power couple, Davis College-style. 

Radford’s animal therapy program welcomed three new canine graduates and their handlers, all of whom undertook extended training courses to join the group.