This fall, six new faculty members joined the Eastern Mennonite University community. Representing psychology, film, nursing, engineering, social work, and business, they bring a wide range of expertise and passion to our community. We at the Weather Vane are glad to welcome these new faculty members to continue learning from and with them in the semesters ahead.
Bryce Van Vleet – Assistant Professor of Psychology
Dr. Bryce Van Vleet is a developmental psychologist who studies adulthood in rural communities. He earned his PhD from North Dakota State University and is establishing the Rural T.R.U.S.T. Lab here at EMU, where students can join projects.
Van Vleet explains that EMU felt like a natural fit: “I wanted a university community that saw students as people instead of just a revenue stream but that would also allow me some time and space to work on research.” He also shared that moving to Harrisonburg has given him the chance to grow in his faith. One fun fact is that he broke his hand while carrying a Brita filter pitcher. Turns out that made dissertation writing quite the challenge.
Elizabeth Miller-Derstine – Assistant Professor of Visual and Communication Arts
Elizabeth Miller-Derstine is an award-winning documentary filmmaker whose work often highlights joy as resilience. Her most recent short documentary, “Once Upon a Wetland,” qualified for the 2025 Academy Awards in the Short Documentary category. Her earlier feature-length project, “Bloom,” has been used in different educational settings across the U.S.
Miller-Derstine says she has felt at home here at EMU: “I grew up Mennonite, so communities that prioritize peace and justice, like EMU, hold a special place for me. I love working with students and getting a glimpse of the future of storytelling through their projects.” Outside of filmmaking, she’s a regular at the local movie theater and loves chatting about favorite films with anyone who stops by her office.
Anushika Athauda – Assistant Professor of Engineering
Dr. Anushika Athauda brings more than eight years of teaching experience in physics and engineering to EMU. She earned her PhD in physics from the University of Virginia, and her research focuses on the structure-property relationships of materials.
Athauda says she is eager to teach and mentor students in EMU’s community: “I’m very happy to be here at EMU—it’s a beautiful campus filled with wonderful people.” Outside of her academic work, she enjoys gardening, hiking, and reading.
Ann Schaeffer – Associate Professor of Nursing
Professor Ann Schaeffer is dually certified as a nurse-midwife and a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She has practiced nursing in Virginia for 27 years, has attended over 1,000 births, and has taught in a wide variety of academic settings. Schaeffer is a strong advocate for lifelong learning, having earned multiple degrees throughout her career.
Schaeffer shared that she was drawn back to EMU because of the community: “It’s inspiring to see nurses who graduated from EMU practicing here in Virginia!” Outside the classroom, she loves gardening, reading, and watching “The Great British Bake Off.”
Yeimarie Lopez – Assistant Professor of Social Work
Dr. Yeimarie Lopez grew up in Harrisonburg and is a first-generation college graduate. She earned her Bachelor of Social Work from Virginia Commonwealth University, a Master of Social Work from the University of Michigan, and returned to Virginia Commonwealth University for her Doctorate in Education. She’s dedicated her professional work to supporting immigrant and refugee families across Virginia.
Lopez says EMU has inspired her since arriving on campus, “I’ve been blown away by EMU and its commitment to peace and justice. Every day, I learned so much from students and colleagues, which is a real gift. This is a special place!” In her free time, she enjoys crafting, trying out local restaurants, swimming, and adventuring with her husband and two sons.
Cherelle Johnson – Instructor of Business and Leadership
According to EMU’s website, Professor Cherelle Johnson brings more than ten years of experience in leadership development, organizational strategy, and teaching in higher education. She’s been part of EMU’s Business and Leadership program since 2019 as an adjunct instructor and is currently pursuing a PhD in organizational leadership.
In addition to her academic work, Johnson is a certified HR professional and executive coach. She is the founder of Dream City LLC and IronDresses Inc., organizations where she’s trained leaders across the U.S. and internationally. Her research and teaching have a focus on leadership development, group dynamics, and women’s empowerment.
We are excited to see these new faculty members on campus. Whether in the classroom, conversation, or through the unique paths that brought them here, each contributes to the mission of EMU in meaningful ways. Welcome!
