Sarah Hughes

Feature Story

Recording More Than Ordinances: Kyle Tetterton’s Meaningful Work in the Richmond Virginia Temple

Nov. 5, 2025 — For Kyle Tetterton (‘20), working in the temple isn’t just a job, it’s a calling that has reshaped both his career and his faith. As recorder for the Richmond Virginia Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Tetterton says he feels a deep sense of purpose each day, one that reminds him of the connections, lessons, and community he found during his time at Southern Virginia University.

Spotlight

Finding Meaning through Poetry: Alumna Ella Foutz’s Debut Book Prepares for Release

Oct. 24, 2025 — When Ella Foutz (‘24) was diagnosed with bipolar disorder in high school, she turned to writing as a way to make sense of her experience. One night, in a rush of creativity, she began putting her thoughts into words–a moment that would later inspire her debut poetry collection, “Lullabies for the Insomniacs,” set to be released November 4, 2025 by Lerner Publishing Group.

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Studying Counterpoint in Paris: Alumna Julia Evans Attends European American Musical Alliance

Sept. 29, 2025 — Recently returned from Paris, France, Julia Evans (‘24) spent this past July immersed in music tradition and history at the European American Musical Alliance (EAMA), building her career as a composer for choral and instrumental works.  

News Release

Ammon Hepworth, Matthew Crandall, and Amy Uber Join Southern Virginia University Faculty

Aug. 19, 2025 — Southern Virginia University is pleased to welcome Ammon Hepworth as assistant professor of computer science, Matthew Crandall as assistant professor of political science, and Amy Uber as instructor of economics.

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Trusting in God’s Guiding Hand in Personal and Career Aspirations

Aug. 8, 2025 — Consistently striving to recognize God’s hand in his life, psychology major Lucas Martin (‘27) feels strongly that he was guided to attend Southern Virginia University after his mission and is seeking to learn the most he can while there.

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Finding a Spiritual Brotherhood on the Basketball Court

Aug. 6, 2025 — From San Clemente, CA, Kade Harrick (‘27) came to Southern Virginia University looking to play basketball and live in a Christ-centered environment. During his freshman year, he was supported by his teammates to serve a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and he has since rejoined the men’s basketball team for a record-breaking season.

News Release

Ben Gaughran, Brady Hanson, and Donnie Tapp Join Southern Virginia University as Assistant Professors

July 25, 2025 — Southern Virginia University is pleased to welcome Ben Gaughran as assistant professor of music and director of choral activities, Brady Hanson as assistant professor of biology, and Donnie Tapp as assistant professor of art.

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Becoming a Full-time Artist: Allison Walker (‘13) and the Pillars She Developed at SVU 

July 25, 2025 — Ignited at Southern Virginia University, Allison Walker Gaughan’s (‘13) artistic career has led her from studying at Scotland’s University of St. Andrew’s and working at national museums, to recently making the leap to open her own studio in New York. 

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Going Overseas–Henry Pullan (’26) Prepares for Diplomatic Internship to Belgium for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

July 8, 2025 — This September, Henry Pullan (‘26) will gain valuable career experience as he travels to Brussels, Belgium as a European Union & Diplomatic Outreach Intern for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

News Release

Successful Spring Giving Campaign Raises Over $1 Million for Scholarships

June 27, 2025 — Thanks to the many generous contributions from the Southern Virginia University community, including a dollar-for-dollar match up to $500,000 from an anonymous donor, Southern Virginia exceeded the full match and raised over $1,000,000 for scholarships.

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Launching Towards a Career in Sports Management 

June 25, 2025 — Tate Rusick (‘25) is using his college education, the support of his professors, and his experience as the first director of football video and technology at Southern Virginia University to prepare him to turn his love of sports into a career.

Spotlight

From University Motto to Life Motto: Taking “Learn that Life is Service” to Heart

June 25, 2025 — When Major Jake Johnson (‘11) stepped on campus as a freshman, Southern Virginia University’s motto “Learn that Life is Service” resonated deeply with him, impacting him and his wife not only during their time as students but years later as he has served around the world in the U.S. Army.