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News
JWU Charlotte Campus Celebrates 20 Years of Community and Success
This fall, Johnson & Wales University’s Charlotte Campus marked its 20th anniversary with an event that brought together over 300 students, alumni, faculty and staff — a testament to the tight-knit community JWU has fostered. Beneath a massive tent on a perfect autumn afternoon, laughter, shared memories and heartfelt conversations filled the air.
“Seeing so many past and present supporters of Johnson & Wales University in Charlotte was inspiring, especially given the significance of the milestone,” shared David Bateman-Schieler, M.S., director of student engagement and an integral member of the event planning committee.
The celebration was set to a lively beat, thanks to a performance by the talented Carl Newton’s Review, featuring JWU’s own RJ Kilgore, director of academic success and accessibility services, on the drums. The music created the perfect blend of nostalgia and festivity, setting a tone that resonated with everyone in attendance.
“This anniversary event felt like a family reunion. It was great to see a collection of students and alumni with current and former employees enjoying food and fellowship and great music,” shared Mark Norman, executive director of operations and a twenty-year employee of the Charlotte Campus.
With delicious food and beverages generously provided by JWU alumni and partners, the event truly showcased the best of the university’s tight-knit community.
“It was wonderful to reconnect with my former professors, chefs and staff members who played a role in my college experience. I felt proud to be part of the 20-year history of the Charlotte campus,” shared Nathaniel E. Pennington '21.
The overwhelming turnout demonstrated the powerful, lasting bonds within the JWU family. It was heartwarming to witness the mingling of students, faculty, staff and alumni, as they reconnected and shared stories.
“For me, events such as this solidify a non-stop sense of belonging at JWU and establishes a residual fresh JWU memory for all JWU pioneers,” shared MaShona McAfee, director of Campus Student Financial Services and a twenty year employee of JWU Charlotte.
“Events like this are so incredibly important because it gives alumni and former employees an opportunity to reconnect and reflect on their shared experiences while mingling with students and their friends and family. Current students were able to talk with alumni and learn about the pathways they have taken and interact with faculty and staff in a relaxed social setting,” said Ruthie Mihal, director of advancement and community relations and primary project manager for this event.
“Seeing all the different directions JWU alumni have chosen, from running restaurants to having bakeries and catering companies and even running wineries, was incredibly helpful to me. Seeing the real-life outcome of a JWU education was inspiring especially as an upcoming graduate myself,” said Mali Towe '25, Culinary Nutrition major from Greensboro, North Carolina.
Strengthening the Spirit of JWU
Events like the 20th Anniversary Celebration are about more than just milestones — they are essential in building the spirit of camaraderie that defines JWU.
“Any event that provides an opportunity for memorable experiences while connecting and interacting with professors, students, staff and alumni is a chance to strengthen our JWU community,” remarked Harry Peemoeller '05, senior instructor in the College of Food Innovation & Technology, certified master baker and a proud JWU alum.
This shared experience reflects the enduring dedication of JWU to connect its members and build on a foundation of success.
“No matter how long it’s been since being at JWU, I know that there will always be staff members who still remember me and continue to help me achieve my goals,” said Nathaniel.
“It was a true honor to participate in celebrating JWU Charlotte's 20th Anniversary Celebration. I thank our university leadership for making the event very special by inviting previous staff and students to join us. It really felt like a family reunion,” said McAfee.
“And for those who missed out this time, no need to worry; there certainly seems to be plenty of energy to do it again,” Bateman-Schieler brightly remarks.
