Virginia Governor Bob McDonnell has appointed Liberty University Chancellor Jerry Falwell, Jr. to the Commission on Higher Education Reform, Innovation and Investment.

The Commission’s objectives include improving higher education by preventing tuition increases, attracting more college-age Virginians, developing innovative ways to deliver quality instruction and preparing students to meet workforce demands.

“We must make higher education more affordable and accessible for Virginians, and expand pathways to earning a college degree,” McDonnell said. “Our institutions of higher learning are known worldwide for their innovation, research and quality. Here in Virginia they are job-creators and economic drivers. We must ensure they continue to operate at the highest levels while remaining accessible to Virginia students.”

Joining Falwell on the Commission will be the presidents of eight Virginia colleges and universities as well as several business, education policy and government officials. (See list below).

The Commission will submit a final report with recommendations by Nov. 30.

Position: Professor of Communication Studies

Years at Liberty: 4

Spouse: Suzette (married 29 years)

Children: Christiana, 21, and Christopher, 18
Education: Ph.D. in Communication Theory and Research, Bowling Green State University
M.A. in Speech Communication, California State University at Long Beach
B.A. in  Speech Communication, California State University at Long Beach

Why did you choose to teach at Liberty University?
Practically, the door opened to me very clearly. I had heard great things about Liberty from friends who had told me that it was a great place to teach. Spiritually, I believe that God called me to teach here. I not only love teaching, but I love the kids. If there was a secret to teaching, it is that God has given me a love for young people.

What do you enjoy doing during your free time?
I love music. In my class one day, I was playing music and forgot about it and allowed it to play the entire class. My students raved about it, so now I almost always play instrumental music during my classes. It has great, calming effects.

I enjoy walking and hiking. I also enjoy reading. My family and I love watching movies. When the movie is done and all the popcorn is eaten, we have rich discussions about the movie and its moral premise.

What would people be surprised to know about you?
My last name is Kelly and I don’t have a drop of Irish blood. It was my adopted name. I am actually half Hispanic and half Jewish.

The Alumni Mentoring program is slated to launch to alumni mentors on Friday, Aug .6 and to student mentees on Friday, Aug. 27.

The program, which was spearheaded by Liberty University and Liberty alumnus, Giles Hoback III, is designed to connect current students — residential and online — with graduates and friends of Liberty University in the workplace. Mentors will serve as guides to students as they search for the right career. This program will reconnect alumni with Liberty and provide a way for them to give back to their alma mater.

There are currently more than 500 alumni mentor volunteers enrolled in the program, but more are needed. Volunteer online today to begin impacting the careers and lives of future Liberty alumni.

The four-story Arthur S. DeMoss Learning Center models the actual size of Noah’s ark. Its dimensions match those specified in Genesis 6 for the ark, which measured 300 cubits in length, 50 cubits in width, and 30 cubits in height. The building, which was expanded to four stories in 2000, houses the Grand Lobby, Visitor’s Center, classrooms, study lounges and computer labs.

As a Liberty alumnus, a great way to display your allegiance to your alma mater is through apparel or a car sticker. But, we want to know what other kinds of items you would like to purchase online from the Liberty University bookstore to show your school spirit. Tell us what you think, and see what others are requesting, by visiting the Liberty University Alumni Association Facebook page.

We are pleased to announce the launch of our latest Alumni Chapter in Kansas City, Kan. There are now 30 chapters around the nation.

While you’re away on vacation, the last thing you want to worry about is burglars invading your home and stealing your personal belongings. So before you leave, take these precautions:

• Lock all windows and use dead-bolts on exterior doors
• Leave a few shades or curtains open to maintain a “lived-in” appearance
• Set light timers in a few rooms so that it appears people are at home
• Suspend newspaper and mail delivery
• Store cash, jewelry and other valuables in a bank safe-deposit box
• Install and activate a security system

Finally, ask your neighbors to keep an eye on your property and to notify you if they suspect a problem. Even better, ask a friend or relative to house sit or check the house periodically.