In its young 79 years, ODU has evolved to offer its students a diverse educational experience filled with possibility. Our faculty has been at the forefront of designing innovative curriculum that attracts high-performing students from a wide array of backgrounds and experiences. Likewise, our students have been integral in shaping ODU, as the university has aimed to meet their individual needs.

As a result, campus thrives as a profoundly diverse community with a wide array of academic programs, organizations and events–where undergraduate Honor's College students enjoy research opportunities in the classroom one day then witness championship athletics the next or where professionals who have long since left lecture halls return years later to pursue a dream.

In this issue we share a small glimpse into some of the people and programs that provide today's ODU student experience. You'll learn about some of the opportunities they enjoy and we hope that you will be inspired by their success.

P.S. The Athletic Updates section in this edition is dedicated to Monarch Basketball and tournament action! Check out the details and download the ODUAA guide to the post season Monarch Basketball. You don't want to miss out on these celebrations!

In Metzger's own words, he wanted to provide an experience that would result in alumni who "not only know the problems we face, but are also smart enough to look a them in a new way and ultimately solve them."

Read about the recent evolution of the Honors College and how Dean Metzger has transformed the undergraduate experience of its students.

Today's Professional, Tomorrow's Teacher: Darden College of Education Programs for Untraditional Students
ODU's own William Owings, professor of educational leadership, has been studying teacher effectiveness for over 15 years. Two recent reports, sharing findings on the quality of graduates from the national "Troops to Teacher's" program has gained international attention and even a BBC interview as of late. One of Owing's most consistent findings: a teacher's success in the classroom, as evidenced by both supervisor review and student performance, often is the result of his maturity level and knowledge of the subject.

The Darden College of Education recognizes this unique combination for effective teaching, and in a time where teachers are at a high demand, has developed programs that attract quality candidates for post graduate licensure and equip them with skills to succeed upon graduation. One of these programs, The ODU Career Switcher Program, has trained thousands of educators in the ten years since its inception. A new option, The Teacher Immersion Residency Project, will be offered for the first time in August.

Discover how these two programs in the Darden College of Education are meeting Virginia's challenges and producing quality educators.

Dana's Desk
Assistant VP Dana Allen shares her own ODU student experience. She may be minus the Trapper Keeper, but she definitely gives us fresh perspective as a future ODU alumna. Read her note here.

Feeling Nostalgic for Your ODU Experience?
When you register with the Alumni Association on the Lion's Den, you'll receive access to our online alumni directory.

While you're there, make sure we have correct records on your student experience under your profile.

Search, find and reminisce with your past classmates by registering on the Lion's Den today!

ODUAA's 9th Annual Golf Tournament
Spring is right around the corner and warmer weather is coming our way! Make your plans to join us for our 9th Annual Golf Tournament on April 22 at Cedar Point Country Club in Suffolk, VA.

Proceeds benefit the Adam Thoroughgood Scholarship, helping ODU recruit outstanding students.

Space is limited, so register today! Want to help even more? Sponsorships are also available.