Doug Williams ’13 has a specific rule about writing news copy: You can only use the phrase “only time will tell” if your story is about clocks. It’s a piece of advice he received from Professor Emeritus Richard Landesberg, and he uses it subconsciously every morning behind the anchor desk for CBS New York.

Whether he is recapping a local strike or reporting from a war zone, those lessons from his professors remain the backbone of his daily scripts.

“I realistically use those teachings with every single script I write,” Williams said. “Everything is copy. Everyone has a story.”

Anthony Hatcher, professor of journalism and chair of the Journalism Department, vividly remembers that drive.

“Several things stood out about Doug when he was my student,” Hatcher said. “He was naturally curious and asked good questions. He was also smart and a go-getter. When he was assigned stories in my Media Writing class, he had an instinct for finding people… and getting good quotes.”

For many, the Jane and Brian Williams Studio in McEwen is a landmark of the university’s state-of-the-art facilities. For Doug, it is a reminder of why his parents “bought into” the Elon experience. Though neither attended the university, they were impressed by the real-world training Doug received as a broadcast journalism major. They were blown away that he was already writing, shooting and editing as an undergraduate.

“I think the ‘legacy’ was made possible by the professors I learned from and the education I left with,” Williams said. “It was a way for my parents to express their gratitude for that, while paying it forward”.

Hatcher notes that Williams’ composure was evident even during a study abroad trip.

“He has a calm demeanor that sets other people at ease,” Hatcher said. “When he traveled with me on a Winter Term study abroad, I never worried about him getting left behind. He absorbed the material quickly and made the most of his time.”

Initially, Williams believed his future was set in stone; in a 2017 interview, he intending to stick strictly to sports. However, after seven years at SNY, a period he describes as “magic,” he began to feel the risk of becoming too comfortable.

Following the advice of his mentor and former boss, Curt Gowdy Jr., Williams decided to diversify his skillset. The transition was a “humbling leap” that didn’t immediately lead to a new desk. Williams spent a year navigating the “crickets” of the job market, an experience that forced him to build his networking muscle from scratch.

During this time, he embraced an entrepreneurial spirit, taking overnight shifts and freelancing for MLB Network Radio, CBS Sports Radio and WFAN. He credits these grueling live radio sessions with making his current TV ad-libbing feel easy by comparison.

Since starting at CBS New York in January 2023, Williams has found a new sense of purpose in local journalism. While he traded clubhouse interviews for the unpredictable world of breaking news, the move was put to its highest test in late 2023 when he spent . This assignment remains his most challenging to date, leaving him with a profound perspective on his own luck and a professional hope to be called for such vital reporting again.

Today, the “magic” of his career has evolved from the baseball diamond to the grit of the morning news cycle. He now reports on high-stakes human interest stories, from the to sensitive criminal investigations.

“The job shatters the walls of your comfort zone every day,” Williams said, noting that the lack of routine is exactly what he now loves about the role.

Professor Hatcher, a print journalist by trade, isn’t surprised by Doug’s success in the transition.

“I stress accuracy, context, fairness, self-editing, and completeness… I’m not surprised Doug puts those qualities into practice as he writes news copy, primarily because he’s a consummate professional.”

While his professional excellence is expected, Williams continues to surprise the industry through his dedication to his alma mater. Hatcher emphasizes that Williams’ willingness to mentor current students and network with majors has a “huge impact on elevating the Journalism Department.”

Throughout his rise in the New York market, Williams has navigated the unique pressure that comes with a famous last name. It was a challenge his parents prepared him for early on, advising him that he would often have to “destroy assumptions” people might have about his path.

“People will assume you’re going to be a certain type of person before they meet you,” Williams said, echoing his parents’ guidance. “It’s up to you to surprise them.”

While he credits his family for that foundation, Doug has made that mission his own, focusing on his unique craft to ensure his work, not his name, defines his reputation in the newsroom.

Now a father to a one-year-old son, Williams’ current advice to students is focused on balance. He warns that while fun doesn’t disappear after graduation, it stops happening by accident.

“Fun is now something I have to put on my calendar,” he said.

Do you know an alum who has an interesting story to tell, maybe even yourself? Please feel free to share your feedback or those stories online: elon.edu/u/advancement/alumni-in-action-feedback/.

“As soon as I finished moving in, I walked over to the McEwen Communications Building and met a guy named Joe Bruno and a woman named Julie Morse, and not 72 hours later, I was in a car on my way to Charlotte, as part of Elon Local News’ (Elon News Network) Democratic National Convention coverage,” he recalled. “Sure, I was carrying a tripod around the streets of Charlotte for one of the senior reporters, but I was there. And that was just the beginning.”

That “beginning” launched a trajectory that would take him from the student-run newsroom of Elon Local News to the heart of the nation’s capital as a reporter for NBC News. Today, Grumbach is a key player in the network’s reporting, covering everything from the Supreme Court to the criminal trials of some of the most important people in American politics.

Grumbach credits his success to the immersive, high-pressure environment of Elon Local News.

“We took ourselves very seriously at Elon Local News. Some might say too seriously,” he said. “But we did that, because we loved it. We loved learning, we loved reporting, we loved breaking news, and we loved the people we did all of that with.”

Over the next four years, Grumbach traveled from Raleigh, North Carolina, to Des Moines, Iowa; from Concord, New Hampshire, to João Pessoa, Brazil, reporting on everything from North Carolina’s controversial bathroom bill to the future of the internet.

Reflecting on the fast-paced newsroom environment at Elon, Grumbach sees how directly those experiences translated to his career today.

“Whether it was 1 a.m. in the edit suites finishing a piece for the morning show, or 5:59 p.m. in the control room trying to load all of the video into the system, the adrenaline kept you going,” he explained. “After graduating, I realized that same feeling crosses the stage with you.”

The hustle and dedication he developed at Elon Local News carried over to national television, where, as Grumbach puts it, “the show goes on the air at its scheduled time, whether or not you’re ready.”

He points to specific mentors, like Professor of Journalism Janna Anderson, whose Reporting for the Public Good class pushed students to find, write and submit stories within hours.

“It was a fast, exhilarating, stressful experience—but so is real-life journalism,” he said.

Grumbach also credits recently retired professor Richard Landesberg, along with faculty members Anthony Hatcher and Staci Saltz, as key influences in shaping him into the journalist he is today. Grumbach knew Elon was the school for him after his first tour, led by a family friend.

“I picked Elon because of the incredible broadcast journalism program,” he said. “From top to bottom, there is no School of Communication like Elon’s. Professors don’t just know about broadcasting—they’ve worked in broadcasting.”

That foundation helped Grumbach transition seamlessly from the classroom to a career at one of the biggest broadcast news organizations in the country.

“At NBC News, millions of viewers and readers rely on you for fast, accurate, and digestible information,” he explained. “Having the opportunity to learn those core tenets through Elon Local News and in the classroom was invaluable.”

Since joining NBC News, Grumbach has been on the front lines of history. He has traveled to 41 states and Canada, covering Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders on the 2020 campaign trail, and as part of the NBC News White House team covering the G-20 Leaders’ Summit in Hiroshima, Japan.

On the trail, his daily life often resembled a one‑man production crew.

“I did it all with a camera, tripod, LiveU satellite backpack, luggage and two phones in my pocket,” he said. “I shot video, logged video, broke news, walked backwards following the candidate in a parade—and that was just before lunch.”

One of Grumbach’s proudest professional moments came during the 2024 Hunter Biden gun charges trial. Inside a federal courthouse where phones and computers were prohibited, Grumbach needed a creative way to beat the competition in reporting the verdict.

“In the media room of the federal courthouse in Wilmington, Delaware, there are windows that look down to the street below,” he explained. “The nice thing about windows is that they work both ways.”

Grumbach and his team devised a plan using color‑coded pieces of paper labeled “G” for “Guilty” and “N” for “Not Guilty.” As the verdict was read, Grumbach held up the papers for each count. By the time the judge finished, three pieces of paper read “G.” NBC News beat every other television network to the story.

“The other networks may still be trying to get out of that building,” he jokes.

Grumbach notes that some of the hardest moments in his job come while covering high‑tension events such as protests. He emphasizes the importance of situational awareness as conditions can change quickly.

“I’m thankful NBC News takes our safety and security in the field seriously and doesn’t take any chances,” he said.

On the technical side, large crowds such as those at protests present additional challenges.

“When tens of thousands of people are streaming, tweeting and texting at the same time, it can be difficult to get a quality live signal,” Grumbach said. That requires creativity and ingenuity.”

Despite the intensity of his career, Grumbach says one of his favorite parts of the job has been connecting with people on the ground.

“What I found most interesting, particularly from covering candidates on the campaign trail, is that from Nevada to Iowa to South Carolina to Vermont, the answers from voters weren’t all that different,” he said. That realization has reinforced his commitment to reporting the truth and helping connect people across the country.

Despite his national success, Grumbach remains deeply connected to his roots. He was recently selected as one of Elon’s Top 10 Under 10 Alumni, a recognition he views with immense gratitude. For him, the “Elon bubble” never truly burst; it just expanded. He now lives and works with fellow alumni and had nearly two dozen of them attend his wedding.

Looking ahead to the next decade in a rapidly changing media landscape, Grumbach’s goal remains simple—to keep the public informed.

“There’s nothing I love more than explaining breaking news to colleagues and viewers—from the latest lawsuit filed to a complicated Supreme Court decision,” he said. “Having the opportunity to tell people something that could truly impact their lives, and making sure that information is easy to understand and fact‑based, will always be important.”

Since 2011, 51±ŹÁÏÍű has honored 10 recipients each year with the Elon Top 10 Under 10 Alumni Award, recognizing their significant professional achievements. This award celebrates accomplished alumni from the last decade who not only excel in their careers but also actively contribute to their communities and serve as dedicated alumni role models.

Do you know an alum who has an interesting story to tell? Please share your feedback or those stories online:

Six judges, comprising two panels, heard oral arguments in two cases inside the law school’s Robert E. Long Courtroom on Wed., April 15. Following recess, they held an extended Q&A session with students in the courtroom where they shared lessons drawn from decades of experience on and off the bench.

Among their advice to young lawyers:

• Be willing to concede a point — then quickly move on to explain why your client still prevails.
• It’s OK to say, “I don’t know,” rather than risk your credibility. Return to your argument about why your client should win the case.
• Structure legal briefs as clear roadmaps of your argument for the Court.
• Be concise in your writing. Make your point, support it with the law and move forward.
• Use caution with AI: Verify facts and citations before submitting any work to the court. Large language models often hallucinate legal matters.

Judges hearing arguments and interacting with students were:

• The Hon. Chris Dillon, Chief Judge of the N.C. Court of Appeals
• The Hon. John Arrowood
• The Hon. Jefferson Griffin
• The Hon. Toby Hampson
• The Hon. Donna Stroud
• The Hon. John Tyson

Judges heard arguments in two very different cases.

The first, , centers on whether certain residential units should be classified as townhomes or duplexes under local building codes, a distinction with significant regulatory consequences — and now potential financial consequences for individual property owners.

The second case, , out of Forsyth County, involves the state’s appeal of a trial court’s decision to dismiss charges after testimony referenced a prior case, raising questions about prejudice and appropriate remedies.

“It was an incredible experience for our students to observe six judges from the North Carolina Court of Appeals and four highly skilled appellate advocates in action, particularly as our first-year students prepare to present their own appellate arguments in their required Legal Method & Communication course in a few weeks,” said Alan Woodlief, vice dean and professor of law. “Several of the judges visiting today consistently welcome Elon Law students to their chambers for their Residencies-in-Practice, summer internships, or full-time clerkships after graduation. It was great to have several current Residency students accompany their judges to the oral arguments.”

Elon Law students’ takeaways

Law students listened intently to judges’ lines of questioning, but also to the ways appellant litigators structured their arguments, responded to jurists’ questions and addressed the court.

“I was paying attention to everything. I could understand why this is such a complicated case — codes changing, proposals changing, multiple parties — and I appreciated the judges asking why it got to this point and where responsibility lies,” said Lamarie Austin-Stripling LF ’29. A student in Elon Law’s part-time Charlotte Flex Program, Austin-Stripling drove from her home in Concord, North Carolina, to hear arguments before returning to the Queen City for classes that night.

Greensboro law students were just as engaged.

• “What struck me most is how much of what I’ve already been doing — in the classroom, in residency, and in internships — showed up in these arguments. It reinforced that I’m learning the skills I’ll need to be in that position one day.” – Tyler Sesker L’26, of Upper Marlboro, Maryland, who earned her undergraduate and graduate degrees at Hollins University and the University of Virginia.

•  “I was surprised by how collaborative the process is — judges discussing cases with each other and their clerks before and after arguments. It was valuable to see how the pros do it and what approaches seemed to resonate.” – Tom Desch L’27, of Cornelius, North Carolina, who earned his undergraduate degree at the University of South Carolina

• “One of the most impactful takeaways was hearing from the judges that if an attorney doesn’t know an answer, it is okay to say, ‘I don’t know.’ Being honest about the limits of your knowledge is much better than risking your credibility.” – Paulina Escobar L’27, of Ecuador, who holds a law degree from the University of the Americas in Quito, Ecuador.

Elon Law alumnus argues in his home court

For one attorney arguing before the court, the visit marked a return to where his legal career began.

Reginaldo Williams L’11, now an attorney with the North Carolina Department of Justice, presented arguments in State v. Cuadra. His path to appellate advocacy, however, was far from certain.

“I was that person wondering, ‘Why did I do this?’” Williams said following hearings, recalling his time as a law student. “I didn’t feel like I fit as a prosecutor or a public defender. But when I did my first oral argument, I knew — this is it.”

Williams credits guidance from Professor of Law Catherine Ross Dunham with helping him stay the course at a moment when he considered leaving law school altogether. That decision ultimately led him to appellate practice, where he now represents the state in criminal appeals.

“There are a lot of students who may not feel like they’ve found their place yet,” he said. “But you will. And when you do, it makes all the difference.”

Moeller has made a name for herself as a five-time Emmy-nominated senior producer at E! Entertainment Television, who now works as a producer at Entertainment Tonight.

“Back in high school, I used to watch all the red carpets and read all the entertainment magazines,” she explained. “I knew I wanted to work in entertainment television, and I knew 51±ŹÁÏÍű had one of the best schools for communications in the country.”

Recognizing that Elon was the perfect fit for her academic and personal aspirations, it became clear that she had to attend. Upon arriving at the school, Moeller dove right into her classes and even picked up a minor she had never considered.

“I majored in broadcast communications and minored in theater arts because I was told the Theatre Arts minor would be helpful with an on-camera presence,” she said. “My junior year in 2007, I studied abroad in London, and I now credit an entire career in entertainment news, due to Elon helping me acquire an internship abroad.”

Moeller remembers Elon asking her to choose her top three companies she would want to work for in London, and E! Entertainment was her first pick. With Elon’s help, she secured exactly what she’d hoped for.

The initial internship with E! during her London study abroad changed her trajectory for the better.

“I kept in touch with the London office, so when I did Elon’s inaugural ‘Elon in LA’ program in the summer of 2008, I was able to land my second internship at E!,” she explained. “One week after graduation in 2009, I moved back to LA without a job. I hustled and kept in touch with the E! team, getting my first paying gig with them in 2010, working in the international department, all thanks to my first internship in London.”

Moeller made the switch from the international department to the domestic department at E! News and then rose through the ranks, from intern to senior producer. Over her 15 years at E! News, she was nominated for five Emmy Awards, and interviewed people like Steve Carell, Charlize Theron and 50 Cent. She also had the privilege of working on the red carpet at the Oscars and Golden Globes.

“I think one thing that’s gotten me far in this business is realizing celebrities are just normal people too, and they want to be treated that way,” she explained.  “When working with and writing scripts for celebs and hosts, I’ve always had success connecting with them on a personal level and not treating them like royalty.  They will always feel more comfortable around people who treat them normally and give them honest feedback, good or bad.”

Moeller credits her continued success to strong relationships with her coworkers, interviewees, and former hosts, always keeping in contact with them even after some of their shows had ended.

When reflecting on her favorite experiences so far in her career, she recalls being able to work on one of the biggest pop culture stages as a top moment.

“I recently worked the Golden Globes red carpet this year with our host Keltie Knight, and it was my first time doing a major awards show red carpet; we were positioned right at the limo drop where we saw all the celebs exiting their cars, like George and Amal Clooney, Julia Roberts, and Leslie Mann, to name a few.”

This unforgettable experience solidified for her that she was in the right career.
Another memorable project was producing live coverage for Kobe Bryant’s memorial service in 2020, outside of the Staples Center.

“It was just me, my host Will Marfuggi, and a cameraman. We were reporting live from downtown LA, getting footage and statements of the fans showing up to mourn his death.  It was a surreal experience to be in the presence of that historic moment,” she said.

Moeller’s journey at E! News was marked by steady growth in leadership, as she took on a variety of roles throughout her time at the company. When E! News was cancelled in September 2025, she unexpectedly lost her job. However, the strong professional relationships she had built over the years quickly became a source of support and opportunity.

“One meaningful connection I made along the way was with Jerry O’Connell, who at the time was hosting ‘The Talk.’ After our interview, he followed me on Instagram and has been a huge supporter of my career ever since. When E! News was cancelled in September, we went out to lunch to talk through opportunities and strategies. He even reposted my Instagram announcement when I shared that I had landed a new job at Entertainment Tonight,” said Moeller.

Building on her professional network, she transitioned from a freelance role at Entertainment Tonight in October to a full-time position in January of this year. She credits this milestone to her connections and a pivotal, “game-changing” internship in London.

Elon’s top-notch curriculum and amazing professors helped her feel prepared for the real world, knowing she could succeed outside the classroom. Elon’s study abroad center helped many students, including Moeller, afford transformative international experiences. Opening doors to life-changing internships and meaningful global connections while abroad.

Moeller has come a long way through courage and perseverance, and now she works for a nine-time Emmy Award-winning nationwide show.

“This business, especially out in LA, is 100% about who you know, but it’s how good you do that is what keeps you there,” she explained.

“My main advice is to take the internships, do the study abroad, make the connections, and always keep in contact with people and never burn bridges,” she said. “You never know who’s going to end up where and who can help you down the line. And when you’re on top, know that it can always change in an instant, so always be kind to the people below you, as one day you may be working for them.”

Do you know an alum who has an interesting story to tell, maybe even yourself? Please feel free to share your feedback or those stories online.

April 16, 2026 | 4:30 – 5:30 p.m.
Pathways to Amazon: Navigating the Hiring Process
Where: Sankey Hall 316
Hosted by Amazon
Join an Amazon recruiter for an inside look at the company’s hiring process and full-time job opportunities. Learn what recruiters are looking for, how to position yourself as a competitive candidate and strategies to stand out in the application process. The session will conclude with time to network and ask questions directly. Light refreshments will be provided.
Ideal for School of Business students graduating in May or August 2026 | Limited to 25 students
RSVP required using .

April 16, 2026 | 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.
Accenture x Elon Consulting Challenge – Final Presentations
Where: Koury Business Center, La Rose Theater
Hosted by Accenture
Ready to think like a consultant? 51±ŹÁÏÍű would like to extend an invitation for you to join Accenture for a consulting challenge and put your skills to the test. Work in teams to tackle a real-world business challenge, develop innovative solutions, and present your ideas to Accenture professionals.

Gain hands-on experience in problem-solving, collaboration, and strategic thinking, just like real consultants do. If selected, you will be assigned to a 3–5-person team to explore and solve the business case, alongside an Accenture mentor to provide guidance and help as needed. You will then be expected to coordinate meetings with your assigned team and mentor throughout the following two weeks to create your solution. Final presentations, in front of Accenture judges, will take place in person at 51±ŹÁÏÍű on Thursday, April 16th, from 5:30-7:30 pm. Teams will be given 8-10 minutes to present their final presentation.

April 21, 2026 | 3:00 – 4:00 PM
Bank of America Employer Information Session
Where: Virtual
Explore a Career in Accounting at Bank of America Virtual Event!
Are you an accounting major curious about where your degree can take you? Join us for a virtual panel hosted by Bank of America, where you’ll hear directly from professionals who have grown into impactful roles within one of the world’s leading financial institutions. You will also learn more about the 2027 Finance Management Summer Analyst Program internship opportunity. There will be time for Q&A from students.

Please follow the to register for the event. The Webex link will be emailed closer to the event date.

April 22, 2026 | 12 – 1 p.m.
Wells Fargo Corporate Risk Lunch & Learn
Where: Sankey Hall 314
Hosted by Wells Fargo
Join Wells Fargo representatives for a networking lunch focused on their Corporate Risk Early Careers Program. Learn about career paths in risk management, what the program offers, and how to prepare for opportunities within the organization. This session also provides a valuable chance to connect directly with recruiters and professionals in a smaller, more personal setting.
First 25 students admitted. RSVP is required to secure your spot.

April 22, 2026 | 3 -4 p.m.
Bank of America Employer Information Session
Where: Virtual
Explore a career in corporate finance at the Bank of America virtual event!
Join Bank of America for a virtual event to hear from a panel of members from the Corporate Financial Officer (CFO) Group at Bank of America. Presenters will share how they launched their career after college & have been able to expand their knowledge and grow in their career at Bank of America. You will also learn more about the 2027 Finance Management Summer Analyst Program internship opportunity. There will be time for Q&A from students.

Please follow the to register for the event. The Webex link will be emailed closer to the event date.

April 22, 2026 | 5:00 – 6:00 PM
AlphaSights Employer Information Session 
Where: Virtual
You must register on Zoom; registrations only in Handshake will not be accepted.
Join the webinar to learn more about AlphaSights and our internship opportunities. Attendees will receive early access to our Summer 2027 Internship application (for 2028 grads).
Founded in 2008, AlphaSights is the global leader in knowledge on demand. We connect investors and business leaders with the knowledge they need to succeed.

April 23, 2026 | 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Honda Mobility Day
Where: IQ Founders Hall & Koury Business Center
Hosted by Honda Motor
Curious about careers in mobility, innovation and emerging technology? Spend the day with Honda Mobility and explore a variety of interactive experiences. Attend classroom presentations, connect with company representatives at information tables and network over lunch. For a hands-on highlight, students will even have the opportunity to ride a Honda ATV. Drop in anytime during the event – you won’t want to miss this engaging, immersive experience.

April 23, 2026 | 12 – 1:30 p.m. 
Clinical Mental Health Counseling 
Where: Moseley Center
Whether you’re curious about career opportunities in mental health, interested in graduate study options, or simply want to learn how this program can help you make a meaningful impact, this is a great chance to connect. Chat with knowledgeable staff, ask questions, and explore how this exciting new program can support your goals.

Questions? Contact the Student Professional Development Center:
careerservices@elon.edu
336-278-6538

Results from the February 2026 exam were released Wednesday, April 1, by the . Elon Law’s result far exceeds the statewide first-time passage rate of 74.78% and the school’s previous high of 82%, set by Elon Law’s charter class in 2009.

The Class of 2025’s success reflects a sustained, school-wide focus on teaching, preparation, and student support, all aimed at helping graduates succeed not only on the bar exam, but in their legal careers.

“This is what Elon Law is all about,” said Zak Kramer, dean of Elon Law. “We’re in the dream-making business. The better our students perform, the faster they can begin making an impact as lawyers.”

An upward trajectory

In recent years, faculty and staff have aligned around the mission of excellence on the bar exam. They adopted a new motto and mindset: “One and Done.”

The gains are striking. First-time passage has climbed from 52.8% for the Class of 2021 to 91.96% for the Class of 2025, with steady increases along the way, including 79.4% for the Class of 2023, and 73.5% for the Class of 2024.

These efforts are part of a broader vision. Elon Law’s faculty continuously refine how they teach for real-world lawyering. The school’s 2.5-year J.D. program accelerates students’ path to the profession — with a December graduation and February bar exam — while reducing the cost of a legal education. Recognized nationally for practical training with an A+ rating from PreLaw Magazine, Elon Law prepares graduates to enter the profession with confidence and experience.

“We’re so proud of our students who took the bar,” said Jenny Lane, assistant dean for academic success. “We gave them the mission, ‘Commit, complete, conquer,’ and that’s exactly what they did.”

With its highest bar pass rate in recent history and a multi-year trend of steady growth, Elon Law is on a sustained upward trajectory.

“Big things are happening at Elon Law,” Kramer said, “and we’re just getting started.”

51±ŹÁÏÍű Elon Law

Elon Law is the preeminent school for engaged and experiential learning in law. With a focus on learning by doing, it integrates traditional classroom instruction with a required residency-in-practice field placement for all full-time students during the winter or spring of their second year. The law school’s distinctive full-time curriculum provides a logically sequenced program of professional preparation and is accomplished in 2.5 years, which offers exceptional value by lowering tuition and permitting graduates early entry into their careers.

Elon Law has graduated nearly 2,000 alumni since opening its doors in downtown Greensboro in 2006. Its annual enrollment now tops 500 students. The law school is regularly featured in PreLaw Magazine’s “Best Schools for Practical Training” rankings, maintaining a Top 10 placement and an A+ rating each year since 2023. Elon Law was also among schools highlighted by Bloomberg Law in 2023 for its innovative approach to student development.

51±ŹÁÏÍű has applied to the American Bar Association to open a full-time, 2.5-year J.D. program in Charlotte beginning in fall 2027. The Elon Law Flex Program, a part-time, in-person program of legal study, launched there in 2024. Designed for students balancing work, family and other commitments to earn their J.D. in under four years, it enrolled its second cohort in fall 2025.

At 51±ŹÁÏÍű, she majored in environmental and ecological science and minored in statistics, laying the foundation for her career in public service.

“I found Elon while I was touring colleges in the South, and if I’m honest, what initially captivated me was the beautiful campus,” says Nighswander. “It was quaint, but not too small, and I immediately felt comfortable there. I also learned that they offered the environmental science program I was interested in, as well as plenty of extracurricular activities, so it was a pretty easy choice.”

Once on campus, Nighswander immersed herself in student life and began shaping her sense of self, playing on the women’s rugby club team and working as a referee for Elon’s Campus Recreation intramurals program all four years.

Beyond extracurricular involvement, Elon also nurtured her academic and professional growth.

“I received a scholarship through the Elon College Fellows program, which gave me financial aid as well as a program that really helped me succeed at Elon,” she said. “The program itself was fairly rigorous, and I credit the academic standards and research requirements for starting me on the path that got me into graduate school and ultimately, my career at the EPA.”

Through the Elon College Fellows program, she spent her junior and senior years conducting undergraduate research on wetland ecology, an experience that sparked her passion for environmental research.

She continued her education at the University of Florida, earning her master’s degree while discovering a new passion for CrossFit and the strong sense of community it fostered. After graduating in 2019, she moved back to Washington, D.C., to live with her parents and begin her job search. When COVID-19 upended those plans, she adapted, taking on side gigs and consulting work while also teaching CrossFit once gyms reopened.

“I met some members at CrossFit who worked at the EPA. I had told them that I really wanted to work there, and they sent me a few positions that were hiring,” she said. “The positions were in the Office of Pesticide Programs, which I wasn’t sure I was qualified for since I had very little knowledge about pesticides,” she explained. “When I interviewed, I leveraged my experience with statistics, entomology, and data analytics, and was lucky enough to get hired and start working there by the end of 2020.”

Today, her work at the EPA remains fast-paced, with priorities shifting quickly and requiring constant adaptability. “I work in pesticide regulation, and more specifically, I manage both public and proprietary pesticide usage data and analyze said data as part of assessing the benefits and risks of a given pesticide active ingredient,” Nighswander said.

Her time at Elon continues to influence her professional approach.

“My experience conducting research at Elon helped me a lot. It helped refine my skills in developing and testing hypotheses, technical writing and public speaking,” she said.

She is especially energized by projects that blend science and technology.

“My favorite project currently is using a mapping software called ArcGIS to develop Pesticide Use Limitation Areas (PULAs) to protect endangered species from pesticide exposure,” Nighswander said.

Her career as a public servant has been complex, but she explains that it also makes her work rewarding.

“What gets me to work every day is knowing that I am working to help protect human health and the environment. I have always wanted to have a successful career where I can still balance my love for the environment. At the same time, I also must make members of the industry, the general public, and environmental groups happy, which is very challenging,” she explained.

The past year has brought additional demands amid broad changes across the federal workforce. Even so, she feels grateful to remain in her role and grounded in the purpose behind her work to safeguard the environment.

Looking back, Nighswander offers simple but powerful advice to her younger self: “Know that you have all the tools you need to be successful. You don’t have to be the smartest kid in the class or the loudest voice. Just trust your instincts, love yourself, and you’ll find your way.”

She approaches the future with the same openness. “I have no idea where I will be in my future, and I kind of love that,” she said. “There was a period last year where every week, I was worried if I would still have a job. A year later, I am still here, serving the public, and I am grateful for that. I trust myself enough to know when it is time to move on and make a change, and I am sure that time will come, but for now, I am enjoying the work that I do. The uncertainty, while scary at times, can be the most beautiful part of life.”

Do you know an alum who has an interesting story to tell? Please feel free to share your feedback or those stories online.

While much of the marketing world is obsessed with algorithms, Weickert focuses on the “science and soul” of human interaction. Her work aims to combat the modern “loneliness epidemic” by creating spaces that foster psychological safety, trust and a genuine sense of belonging.

“In today’s world, people aren’t buying the product anymore,” Weickert explains. “They are buying identity and how a brand makes them feel. That’s the future of experiential.”

Her expertise has earned her a spot on the 2024 Women We Admire’s Top 50 Women Leaders in North Carolina, a testament to her influence on the up-and-coming industry.

“There’s not a ton of experiential representation in our state, so it was nice to put our agency and our industry on the map,” she said.

Weickert’s reach extends globally as well through her work with the World Experience Organization, where she collaborates with fellow creators to design experiences that connect people.

“Experiences are the best form of ads and will be the only channel that matters in a world that is being inundated with AI, mistrust, a loneliness epidemic and a polycrisis,” she said.

Her rise to the top of the experiential marketing world began with a deep-seated curiosity about the human experience. Her career started in traditional advertising, where she quickly became exposed to the greater marketing ecosystem. Seeing all the many facets of marketing allowed her to find her true calling in experiential work.

“There was something soulful about experiential marketing; it was much deeper than a human being exposed to a digital ad on the screen, and I was drawn to that,” she said. “I felt instantly connected to this idea of using brand stories as a powerful tool to create connection and belonging amongst strangers.”

Weickert’s career was heavily influenced by her experience at Elon. She credits her classes at Elon for helping her thrive in her current role.

“My Business Communications class and my Public Speaking class both taught me how to effectively communicate with others in a concise yet compelling way, with lessons that I still use in my current role today,” she said.

Winter Term ended up being one of the most meaningful parts of her experience at Elon, especially due to one class centered on Woodstock.

“My Winter Term class explored the music surrounding the Woodstock era, both the cultural and artistic influences that led up to it and the ones that emerged in its wake,” she said. “What struck me most about the class was how deeply it invited us to reflect on the creative act itself. It taught me the biggest lesson above all: to always engage in experiences that leave you inspired, stay curious about the human experience, and expand your world into new realms of thinking.”

That mindset has stuck with her, and she now makes a point to seek out experiences that spark inspiration and bring those insights into her everyday work. Her work as head of strategy at XD Agency involves working with her team to discover “how people make sense of the world and turn it into category-shifting advantages for brands,” she explains.

Her job also consists of constant travel and high-pressure environments. For Weickert, she maintains a level head with a disciplined sense of gratitude, reminding herself how lucky she is to feel tired from a long week of traveling the world and how fortunate she is to meet unexpected people around the globe. She also looks to stay present through mid-day meditation or simply appreciating the moments.

Weickert points to one standout project as her favorite: Camp Poosh at the 2025 Coachella Festival, created for Kourtney Kardashian Barker’s brand Poosh.

The team transformed a massive Palm Desert estate into something entirely immersive, blending “color, texture, sound, nostalgia, and ritual” to create a space that tapped into what people crave most: novelty, belonging, and pleasure. What made the event especially memorable for Weickert was its carefully crafted sensory journey, which Weickert was a main part of creating. Guests flowed through an environment filled with contrasts, moving between workout classes, cold plunges, sound baths, DJ sets, and late-night celebrations that blurred self-care with nightlife.

“The brain loves contrast, so we leaned into it,” she explained, highlighting how each moment was designed to keep energy and engagement high. That philosophy culminated in a surprise performance by Heidi Montag, which, “turned the entire house electric.” The result was a perfectly balanced experience: “wellness that didn’t feel preachy” and “indulgence that didn’t feel guilty,” capturing what she calls a seamless blend of inscape and escape.

Her advice for those following in her footsteps? Put down the phone and connect with others.

“The only way you can understand what it means to be human is by exposing yourself to things that fundamentally make us human,” she said.

Weickert emphasizes the importance of prioritizing time outdoors to stay grounded. As algorithms increasingly shape our digital lives, it is essential to nurture a curiosity for the physical world, enabling us to become better communicators.

Do you know an alum who has an interesting story to tell, maybe even yourself? Please feel free to share your feedback or those stories online.

While in the city, the ensemble also had the opportunity to meet with Elon alumni currently performing on Broadway.

During the week, students attended performances of “Aladdin” and “The Book of Mormon.” Alumni currently performing in the productions took time to meet with the students after the shows to share stories of their experiences on Broadway.

Michael Callahan ‘13 and Campy Rodriguez ‘26 welcomed one group of students following the March 10 performance of “Aladdin” for photos and a backstage tour. Callahan is cast as a swing — covering multiple ensemble roles, dance captain, fight captain and understudy to Iago and Omar. Rodriguez is making his Broadway debut as a henchman, ensemble member and understudy to Aladdin.

Callahan and Rodriguez gave the students a behind-the-scenes tour of the theatre, offering students a rare look backstage at the production. Students were able to see props and technical elements used in the show and learn more about what it takes to bring the Broadway production to life each show.

“Getting to meet Michael and Campy made such a big city feel like a small world, knowing I had an Elon connection to people doing such amazing things on Broadway,” said Alana Driver ‘27, a flutist in the Wind Ensemble. “It was inspiring to hear about their journeys and see how their experiences at Elon helped lead them to where they are now. 
 Standing on the stage and realizing Elon alumni are part of what makes those productions possible was incredibly meaningful.”

Andrew Stevens Purdy ‘20 invited another group of students onto the stage for a photo following a March 10 performance of “The Book of Mormon” where he is making his Broadway debut in the ensemble cast.

“Meeting an Elon alumni on Broadway showed me that with hard work and perseverance, you can achieve the seemingly unattainable goals you set for yourself,” said Ian Wong ‘28, a flutist in the Wind Ensemble. “At one point, he was in the exact position I am in now — a first-year student at Elon, striving to work hard and make a name for myself. Being able to go backstage and walk on a Broadway stage was an incredible experience. Seeing first-hand the complexity of the props, lighting and all the details that go into making a show run smoothly was really eye-opening.”

The Broadway shows were one of several experiences the Wind Ensemble enjoyed during their trip in New York City, culminating in their performance at Carnegie Hall, the first time an Elon ensemble has performed at the venue.

The alumni were excited for the opportunity to meet current Elon students and share a part of their world with them.

“I had a wonderful time meeting this group of Elon students and, hopefully, helped them bridge the gap between dream and reality in some small way,” Callahan said. “I remember the Elon alumni who were, and still are, resources for me as I graduated and pursued a career in New York City. I’m honored to pay it forward.”

Dates:

• Monday, March 30, 2026
• Tuesday, April 14, 2026
• Tuesday, April 28, 2026
• Tuesday, May 12, 2026

Free Professional Photo Days
Make your first impression picture perfect. Stop by for a professional headshot you can use on platforms like LinkedIn and other professional profiles.

Dates:

• Tuesday, March 31, 2026
• Wednesday, April 15, 2026
• Wednesday, April 29, 2026
• Wednesday, May 13, 2026

Free Resume Printing Days
Bring your resume, leave with polish. Print copies of your resume for free and receive an Elon-branded folder and thank-you cards to help impress employers and alumni.

Dates:

• Wednesday, April 1, 2026
• Thursday, April 16, 2026
• Thursday, April 30, 2026
• Thursday, May 14, 2026