Bethany Alumni Awards Highlight Three Paths Shaped by the College 

BETHANY, W.Va. (Sept. 18, 2026) — From the classroom to public service to investment management, three members of the Bethany College community returned to campus during “Back to the Future” Homecoming with stories that show where a Bethany education can lead.  

Dr. Michael P. Mihalyo, Jr., Richard E. Doran ’78, and Kelly Kowalski ’10 were honored during the Alumni Celebration Dinner on Friday, Sept. 18, recognizing careers shaped by their experiences at Bethany and offering current students and future Bethanians examples of the many paths a college education can open. 

The three honorees represent different areas of study and professions, but each has a vital connection to Bethany. Their stories span music and education, law and public service, and investment management, illustrating how students can build on their interests at Bethany and carry them into careers and communities well beyond campus. 

Dr. Michael P. Mihalyo, Jr. 

Mihalyo received the James E. Allison Award for Teaching Excellence, recognizing his dedication to Bethany students and the College’s academic and musical community. 

His connection to Bethany began in the 1970s, when he studied piano with Bethany College Artist-in-Residence Oliver Manning. He returned to the College in 1995 and has since served in several roles, including faculty member and provost. 

Today, Mihalyo serves as professor of music and chair of the Department of Visual and Performing Arts. He has played a significant role in Bethany’s musical life, including reviving the College Wind Ensemble, Pep Band, and Chamber Choir. 

Richard E. Doran ’78 

Doran received the Distinguished Alumni Achievement Award in recognition of his career in law and public service.

After graduating from Bethany with a degree in English literature, Doran earned his J.D. from Stetson University College of Law. His career included more than two decades with the Tallahassee law firm Ausley McMullen and service as Florida’s 34th attorney general. 

Kelly Kowalski ’10 

Kowalski received the Distinguished Alumni Achievement Award for her accomplishments in investment management and leadership. 

A 2010 economics graduate, Kowalski earned her MBA from Carnegie Mellon University before beginning her career in investment banking. She currently serves as head of investment strategy at MassMutual and chief investment officer for MassMutual Ascend. 

Celebrating Bethany’s Alumni 

The Alumni Celebration Dinner brought together alumni, families, and friends of the College to recognize Mihalyo, Doran, and Kowalski and celebrate the ways Bethanians continue to make an impact in their professions and communities. 

During the celebration, Bethany President Dr. Jamie Caridi reflected on the lasting connections alumni have to Bethany and encouraged them to remember the people and experiences that shaped their journeys. 

“Your stories matter. They inspire us, and they remind us that our history builds our future,” Caridi said. “Together, as alumni, you are our history, our present, and our future, and that makes us proud.” 

The annual Alumni Awards are selected by the Executive Committee of the Alumni Council from nominations submitted by alumni and friends of the College. This year’s awards recognize individuals whose teaching, leadership, service, and professional accomplishments reflect the mission and values of Bethany College.