McDonald Presents “My Time with Cy” in Vienna

The internationally celebrated artist Cy Twombly remained dedicated to his hometown of Lexington, Virginia, and created many of his most important later works at his studio downtown  during his annual visits. Col. Rob McDonald, associate dean for academic affairs and professor of English and fine arts at VMI, was an acquaintance of Twombly. He often photographed Twombly’s home and in his studio. McDonald’s photographs and mixed-media works are the subject of a solo exhibition at the Anzenberger Gallery in Vienna, Austria, which opened May 11 and runs through August 18. McDonald’s daughter Grace, Class of 2021, living in Edinburgh, joined him in Vienna for the opening reception and lecture. 

Cadets Participate in Datathon 2023

Facing the topic of “Unmasking Maternal Mortality” were Komsun Samngamkeao ’24, Mitchell Meyer ’24, and Jesse Dennis ’24, at this year’s Virginia Datathon held at the Library of Virginia in late April. Each year, a complex challenge is presented, and participants must develop an innovative solution and present their proposed solution. The VMI team took a close look at maternal mortality rates based on age and ethnicity, as well as the leading causes of death. Solutions focused on equal opportunity among public health care plans, regardless of race and age, and to ensure health care workers have knowledge about the disparities in health factors and health care among the different groups.

Norwegian Foot March

Just shy of 300 participants undertook the Norwegian Foot March, or Marsjmerket, Sunday, April 23. In addition to VMI cadets, other college ROTC program cadets, exchange students, and even some serving at bases across the country joined the event in Lexington. This march is a physical challenge to ruck 18 miles with at least 25 pounds in their pack. Upon completion within the time standards based on age, participants receive the Norwegian Proficiency Badge. Cadets will be eligible to wear this badge on their uniforms, and potentially wear it on their future military uniforms.

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