College of William & Mary students will head to Switzerland for a physics research program. Jamestown-Yorktown Foundation has a new senior director within its organization. Governor’s Land earns recognition as the best managed community association, and York County honors a veteran employee for his service.
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W&M Juniors Chosen for Program at Elite Physics Research Center
Two College of William & Mary students will spend the summer researching at CERN in Switzerland, the site of the discovery of the Higgs boson particle.
Will Bergan and Rachel Hyneman, both junior physics students, were chosen to attend a summer program at CERN as part of the Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU), which is funded by the National Science Foundation.
The students leave for the program June 6 and will spend eight weeks working at CERN with some of the world’s top scientists.
Bergan and Hyneman, two of 12 U.S. students chosen for REU at CERN, have not yet received their research assignments for the summer.
“It is great to see that the W&M Physics Department is being recognized as having a top undergraduate program that prepares students, through extensive pre-senior research opportunities, for these high-profile research positions,” said Wouter Deconinck, assistant professor of physics at W&M.
The Higgs boson, also known as the god particle, explains why some particles have mass. It was discovered at CERN in 2012.
JYF Picks New Senior Director of Museum Operations
Peter Armstrong will join the Jamestown-Yorktown Foundation on Wednesday as the senior director of museum operations and education.
Armstrong is an internationally known leader in the museum work with more than 25 years of experience in the field. He joins JYF after 10 years as creative development and commercial director of the National Museum of Arms and Armour in the U.K.
JYF named Armstrong — who will oversee exhibits, special programs, educational programs and visitor services among other responsibilities — after a national search to fill the role, previously held by the late Joseph A. Gutierrez Jr.
“I am eager to join the Jamestown-Yorktown Foundation museums and to bring my passion for history and education to these nationally important institutions,” Armstrong said in a news release, adding he is looking forward to opening the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown.
WCA Appoints Spiritual Life Director
Karen Koob will serve Williamsburg Christian Academy as the spiritual life director for kindergarten through 12th grade.
Koob, who has led the high school mission trip with her husband for the past two years, also serves as the secondary school’s Bible teacher.
In her new role, Koob will develop the Bible curriculum, as well as prayer and encouragement ministries for students and staff. She will also supervise all high school mission trips and community service projects for kindergarten through eighth grade.
“Karen is an answer to our longtime prayer for a campus chaplain as part of WCA’s strategic plan,” Head of School Gwen Martin said.
Koob is currently pursuing a master’s degree in biblical studies from Liberty University.
York County Recognizes Employee for 20 Years of Service
The York County Board of Supervisors recognized Adam Frisch last month for serving the county for 20 years.
Frisch, chief of computer support services, oversees 19 employees who are tasked with keeping the county technologically connected to the community.
He has a doctorate in marine science and served on the Wetlands Board for 24 years, leaving that board in 2012.
“Adam has been an asset to York County and other computer programs, including the network which links the county government to our citizens,” Deputy County Administrator Vivian McGettigan said. “… I believe I can speak for York County when I say that we hope Adam remains with us for at least another 20 years.”
Chesapeake Trust Names President
Jean H. Light has been promoted to president of Chesapeake Trust Company.
Light has been with Chesapeake for about 33 years, moving through the ranks from assistant trust officer to senior vice president before stepping into her latest role after a recent Board of Directors meeting.
“Jean has been an instrumental part of our Trust Department in helping clients with their trust and estate planning needs,” said John Sadler, president of Chesapeake Investment Group, in a news release.
Governor’s Land Foundation Earns Award
The Southeast Virginia Community Associations Institute named Governor’s Land Foundation as the best on-site managed community association of the year.
The foundation is the homeowner’s association for The Governor’s Land at Two Rivers in Williamsburg. It maintains the grounds of the community, which includes 10 miles of nature trails, parks, playgrounds and landscaping.
“The award recognizes a community association for outstanding efforts in caring about its members and their property,” according to a news release from the foundation.
