Alumni News – May 2026

Upon graduating with her degree in business administration from Roanoke, Ava Vanek ’25 stepped into the role of marketing manager for Abbott Bus Lines in Roanoke, Virginia. She initially accepted a job with WDBJ7 but was drawn to Abbott because it is a family-run company. Vanek herself grew up with a family business, and she wants to see the Abbott legacy live on. In addition to her full-time role, she recently became an Orangetheory Fitness coach, allowing her to network and become more involved with her community.

Vanek said Roanoke College taught her that “home isn't a place, it's the people.” She encourages the class of 2026 to pursue their passions and to try and lead a life with no regrets. If you find your current career isn’t fulfilling, she suggests considering what other possibilities exist. 

After earning his computer science degree from Roanoke, Michael Ramsey ’25 started his career as a software engineer at 4RIVRS. The company is on a mission to safeguard the environment by helping companies better manage their stormwater pollution prevention plans using automation. Ramsey is passionate about servant leadership and is driven by the desire to impact the lives of those around him for good, which his job allows him to do.

Roanoke educated him to “embrace the uncomfortable,” he said. “Whether it was through school, sports, leadership opportunities or jobs, learning how to take leaps to things that are not 100% secure has been incredibly impactful. It has brought an insurmountable amount of growth in my confidence, has drastically helped with stress management and overall improved my quality of life.” Roanoke College is always ready to support its students as they learn more about themselves and the world. 

On May 14, 2026, Joanne Leonhardt Cassullo ’78 received the Sheila S. Strauss Art Award at the Taubman Museum of Art’s Women’s Luncheon. The honor is awarded to “an outstanding leader in arts education and volunteerism in partnership with the Taubman Museum of Art.” She is a member of the museum’s board of trustees and chairs the collections committee. Cassullo is passionate about supporting arts and culture and has been instrumental in expanding the Taubman’s reach beyond the Roanoke Valley. 

Cassullo is a loyal and generous alumna who currently serves on the Roanoke College Board of Trustees. In 2008, she was awarded Roanoke’s highest honor, the Roanoke College Medal. She is also a member of President’s Society, the Society of 1842, the Cornerstone Society and the Monument Club.