A credit to ODU
I am writing to you concerning Dr. Dennis E. Gregory [assistant professor of educational leadership and counseling].

We had some little concern about a dorm, which led me, perhaps by error, to Dr. Gregory. Within an hour of sending an e-mail we received the kindest letter from this man. I don’t think he is even responsible for the area of the inquiry but he insisted that we call him anytime we had any question, however small, because “I am here to serve the students and their families and this is my pleasure in life.” Now, what do you think of that? He even asked us to bring by my nephews, who are just beginning [at ODU], so he can meet them.

I believe that this gentleman does more credit to Old Dominion University than the slickest advertising campaign could ever accomplish.

ODU will soon have to offer our family a group discount. First my mother went there, then my niece who followed up with a master’s degree in physical therapy. Then my nephew graduated in the undergraduate school and now another, Samuel Burton, is starting his undergraduate work in oceanography. Finally, another nephew, Jonathan Dillion, much to my pride, is starting in the M.F.A. program under the wonderful poet Tim Seibles. I couldn’t be happier he is going to work with Mr. Seibles.

Naturally, we are excited to add yet two more of our family to the ODU community.
–Timothy Carter, M.Div.
Secaucus, N.J.

Enjoy the magazine
I received the summer edition of Old Dominion University magazine and, as I flipped through the pages, was pleasantly amazed at how far and wide our alumni stretch throughout the world, and the successful strides we have made in the name of business, community and freedom (as the cover references).

I was doubly pleased to see the ad for the partnership between the Alumni Association and the ODU Career Management Center. In particular, the “Cyber Coach” service offered is truly needed and a value-added to anyone serious about a job search and/or career transition.
–John Haynes ’95
Bowie, Md.

I really enjoy Old Dominion University magazine. Thanks for doing such a great job compiling it. In every issue, I’m able to see someone I recognize. I’ve even reconnected with a few lost friends.
–Amanda Cole Hill ’96
Alexandria, Va.

As an alumna living outside the United States, I would like to confirm my wish to continue receiving Old Dominion University magazine. I am happy to have this connection with my alma mater. The magazine is a great opportunity for me to have some hot news about the university.
–Anatasiya Gorbunova (M.B.A. ’02)
Kiev, Ukraine

I am glad to catch up on the news of ODU from Old Dominion University. I always enjoy reading the magazine. It reminds me of my good old days there, though I graduated from the university over 18 years ago.

In January, I joined Credit Suisse, based in Singapore. Since returning to Bangkok in January 1987, I have worked continuously in banking. My success so far has been due to a good educational background from ODU.
–Sumalee Chooratchareon (M.B.A. ’86)
Bangkok, Thailand

Thanks for the stories
I’m absolutely delighted with how the article [“Following Her Heart,” summer 2004] turned out. Thank you so much for pursuing the topic so that we have additional exposure for Oasis of Peace and our work.
–Allison Greene (M.A. ’97, Ph.D. ’03)
Marlton, N.J.

Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to “visit” with old acquaintances of decades past. I’ve received several phone calls regarding the article [“Alum Wages Coopers-town Campaign for Murray,” summer 2004].
–Ed Tyree ’56
Virginia Beach, Va.

Fund established for alumnus with ALS
Two very dear friends of mine, Rhonda ’97 (M.S.Ed. ’00) and David Osisek (M.P.T. ’96) of Virginia Beach, have been living with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), aka Lou Gehrig’s disease, since David was diagnosed with this incurable disease in October 2001 at age 35.

My husband, Beau, and I have established the Osisek Therapeutic Initiative and Support fund (OTIS) to help raise money for their medical expenses and to raise awareness about ALS. Rhonda not only must work full time to support the family, but she also serves as David’s sole care-giver. In addition, she cares for their 1-year-old son, Graham.

As a result of the disease progression, David had to leave his job as a physical therapist in May 2003. He receives disability benefits, but it is just a fraction of the estimated $250,000 per year in medical expenses associated with ALS.

The OTIS fund is an attempt to provide an improved quality of life for the family by helping defray their medical expenses. Additionally, a portion of the contributions will be set aside for Graham’s education.

Visit www.otisfoundation.org for more information. Contributions may be sent to me, with checks made out to Tidewater United Church of Christ (memo: OTIS Fund), at P.O. Box 1313, Virginia Beach, VA 23451.
–Brittany Smith ’97 (M.S.Ed. ’98)
Virginia Beach, Va.


To send a letter to the editor, an update for the Class News section or a change-of-address notice, you may contact us via e-mail, sdaniel@odu.edu; fax, 757-683-5501; or by regular mail, Editor, Old Dominion University magazine, 100 Koch Hall, Old Dominion University, Norfolk, VA 23529.

You may reach us by phone at:
Alumni Association and Alumni Relations Office: 757-683-3097 or 888-ODU-3435
Old Dominion University magazine: 757-683-3093