Allegheny Magazine Fall 2024

ALLEGHENY

OPENING MINDS THROUGH CREATIVITY AND RIGOR

Faculty members personify academic excellence

DON’T TELL LLOYD SEGAN ’80 THERE’S NO TIME TO PAY IT FORWARD FORMER TEAMMATES BAND TOGETHER IN A LIFE-SAVING GESTURE

Scene on Campus

This year’s Involvement Fair was buzzing with energy with more than 120 clubs and hundreds of students meeting, greeting, and joining the Allegheny community!

photo Richard Sayer

4 Academic Excellence: Paving the Way for Bright Futures

How is academic excellence delivered? Through the creativity and rigor of our one-of-a-kind faculty. Here we profile just a few amazing examples.

12 A Career Connection Made for Hollywood: Separating Fact from Fiction with Lloyd Segan ’80

A wildly successful alumnus shares not just his enthusiasm for his craft, but a deep appreciation for what Allegheny instilled in him and why it's imperative that other alumni give back.

18

Athletics

These alumni illustrate the unbreakable bond among Gators that lasts across miles, years, and through life-threatening obstacles to search for a miracle.

24 On the Campus

Celebrations, news, and updates from Allegheny.

28 Class Notes

News and events from alumni.

44 Mapping Your Path Through Allegheny and Beyond

Student Elizabeth Smith '25

(photo: Corey Nolen)

CHAIR, BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Steven D. Levinsky ’78

PRESIDENT

Ronald B. Cole ’87, Ph.D.

VICE PRESIDENT FOR INSTITUTIONAL ADVANCEMENT

Matthew P. Stinson

EDITOR

Heather Grubbs

ASSOCIATE ART DIRECTOR/ LEAD MAGAZINE DESIGNER

Brian Martone

CONTRIBUTORS

Penny Drexel

Phil Foxman ’90

Katheryn Frazier

Jenny Goldsmith

Travis Larner

Sara Pineo

Jennifer Rignani

Bernadette Wilson

PHOTOGRAPHY

Doug Eberhardt

Robert Hayes

Derek Li

Ed Mailliard

Corey Nolen

Bill Owen ’74

Richard Sayer

IN for ALLEGHENY – Our Pathway Forward

by President Ronald B. Cole ’87, Ph.D.

Dear Friends,

There’s something about campus around this time of year that inspires reflection. Another new class of eager first-year students are just about finished with their first semester, achieving the academic success we are all so committed to delivering. We know a blanket (or three!) of snow is around the corner, delivering the holiday season to our campus and the surrounding area, bonding us as a community.

This fall brought the launch of our newest major, Healthcare Management, aimed at addressing growing needs in the delivery of preventive health and healthcare services, preparing students with interdisciplinary expertise across the College, including coursework in biology, business, economics, global health studies, philosophy, and psychology. Building on the excitement of our Healthcare Management major, we launched an accelerated Master of Science program in that same area. The program (either 3+1 or 4+1) offers the opportunity for students to earn their BS and MS degrees in an accelerated timeline while continuing to study the field from our uniquely interdisciplinary and applied perspective, core strengths of an Allegheny education.

These themes of academic excellence and community undergird one of the most exciting endeavors of our College history. In October we launched “In for Allegheny –Our Pathway Forward,” a truly inclusive

All of the hard work of every single person who makes Allegheny their home, their career, their academic hearth, have pulled together and embraced not only our Strategic Pathway, which I’ve talked about throughout the year, but the biggest campaign in our history.

campaign, where there is a place for every member of our community to contribute to Allegheny’s future success. I encourage you to read more about this effort to invite students to Allegheny; inspire student outcomes; and invest $250 million into scholarships, teaching and research, and facilities for academics, athletics, and residential life.

Paramount to Allegheny’s future success is our continued academic excellence with strong outcomes for our students — goal No. 1 of our Strategic Pathway. This issue highlights the critical importance of faculty in delivering this goal throughout the Allegheny journey and the role alumni play in supporting faculty and students. We are deeply fortunate to have dedicated graduates like Lloyd Segan ’80, who is profiled for his long-term

commitment to the College. Working with Professor Ishita Sinha Roy for almost two decades, Lloyd has brought countless experts to the classroom to share insights and practical lessons in a range of creative fields and media.

Our students certainly benefit from the dedicated teaching and mentoring of our creative and collaborative professors and our fiercely loyal alumni. Their knack for bringing Allegheny’s unusual major-minor combinations to life is embodied in the handful of examples highlighted in this issue. Selecting which stories to share is no easy task — we have so much compelling content every day, and condensing it into two publications a year is a challenge. This is why we hope you will notice a heightened cadence of content, stories, and an expanded digital footprint to keep you in the loop all year.

Every magazine feels like a gift that inspires me. I can honestly say that this fall I feel more energized than ever before. All of the hard work of every single person who makes Allegheny their home, their career, their academic hearth, have pulled together and embraced not only our Strategic Pathway, which I’ve talked about throughout the year, but the biggest campaign in our history. Calling it “In for Allegheny – Our Pathway Forward” makes complete sense. Our Allegheny community has always been in, and I cannot wait to see where we go together.

Go Gators!

ACADEMIC

PAVING THE WAY FOR BRIGHT FUTURES

by

When talking with alumni about their Allegheny experience, whether they graduated in 1974 or 2024, one thing always stands out — the connection our alumni have with faculty. Our College has a rich legacy of faculty who go above and beyond in their interactions with students, serving as teachers, mentors, facilitators, career connectors, and more.

The Allegheny College Strategic Pathway goal of academic excellence and strong outcomes for every Allegheny student relies heavily on the continued creative and thoughtful work of our esteemed faculty. When speaking about our faculty, alumni often mention unique academic experiences outside of the classroom, experiences that allow them to collaborate with prominent civic leaders, conduct real-life data analysis with someone in another country, or get their hands dirty in a local stream. Additionally, faculty work behind the scenes, often in partnership with others, to build a more inclusive academic experience, whether it is by removing barriers for underrepresented students or producing open-access texts. This work demonstrates Allegheny’s commitment to a liberal arts education and serves as a critical component of our Strategic Pathway.

Everywhere you look on campus, you can find examples of faculty excellence in action. We’re proud to share some of those stories.

Jennifer Rignani photos Doug Eberhardt, Ed Mailliard, Derek Li

ART AND URBAN RENEWAL

PAULA BURLEIGH, PH.D.

It was incredibly exciting to see the downtown mural come to fruition. This is not a simple process, and it was a valuable learning experience for our students to work with Doug to understand how a major public art project becomes a reality — there are a lot of moving parts, from design, to budget, to installation!

ART AND URBAN RENEWEL

Paula Burleigh, Ph.D., assistant professor of art history, co-director of the public humanities program, and affiliated faculty of women’s, gender, and sexuality studies, led a faculty/student collaborative research project in summer 2023. She worked with three students who conducted a research project on public art and a feasibility study for a future public art stewardship program. It was a true Allegheny endeavor.

Chloe MacLaren ’24 (double major in environmental science and sustainability

and art, science and innovation), Katie Duerig ’25 (double major in art, science, and innovation and German), and V Belcher ’26 (public humanities major and philosophy minor) then worked alongside Burleigh to develop a grant application with the Northwest Pennsylvania Investment Cooperative (NWPIC) to support a collaborative mural project in downtown Meadville at one of NWPIC’s cooperativesupported small businesses, Blissful Meads. Allegheny alumna Autumn Vogel ’15 served as the lead collaborator with the NWPIC.

As part of the project, students served as hands-on apprentices to lead artist Doug Eberhardt, a local artist and adjunct instructor in Allegheny's Art Department. Burleigh says, “It was incredibly exciting to see the downtown mural come to fruition. This is not a simple process, and it was a valuable learning experience for our students to work with Doug to understand how a major public art project becomes a reality – there are a lot of moving parts, from design, to budget, to installation!” She notes that the NWPIC is an example of community members coming together, sharing resources and ideas to foster economic

growth in Meadville, which benefits entrepreneurs and residents alike.

Eberhardt's mural, Blissful Bees (pictured left), features a beehive, which is a model for what collaborative hard work can achieve.

INFRASTRUCTURE AND GREENSPACE

Students embarked on many exciting fieldwork projects during 2024, the 50th anniversary of the launch of Allegheny’s environmental science and sustainability (ESS) program. One example is a project led by Casey Bradshaw-Wilson, Ph.D.,

associate professor of environmental science & sustainability and co-director of the Watershed Conservation Research Center, who connected her ESS Junior Seminar classes with Zach Norwood, planning director of the Crawford County Planning Commission. As part of the project, students helped to create the infrastructure and greenspace along a new multipurpose trail being constructed in Meadville. This included identifying plants and wildflower mixes to use and locations to plant them. The students also recommended educational signage, animal boxes, a potential outdoor exercise park, and ideas for how to connect the trail to other places in

Meadville. The project was prompted by a need the county identified.

“Student work included making connections and forming partnerships across the area; they reached out to other community members, with whom the College has partnered over many years, to help with the project, including Ernst Conservation Seed (the largest native seed producer and supplier in the eastern United States), Ernst Trail Association, and the Pennsylvania Game Commission,” Bradshaw-Wilson says. “Partnering with our community is a goal of Allegheny’s Strategic Pathway, so this type of work fits perfectly within the College’s efforts.”

INFRASTRUCTURE AND GREENSPACE

CASEY BRADSHAW-WILSON, PH.D.

Student work included making connections and forming partnerships across the area. … Partnering with our community is a goal of Allegheny’s Strategic Pathway, so this type of work fits perfectly within the College’s efforts.

FOOD ECONOMICS: MULTIFACETED LEARNING

AMELIA FINARET, PH.D.

Allegheny students — and students everywhere in the world, really — care a lot about the food system. They come from many different disciplinary backgrounds and with interests such as public health, environmental science, psychology, biology, nutrition, and agronomy.

FOOD ECONOMICS: MULTIFACETED LEARNING

Amelia Finaret, Ph.D., associate professor of global health and economics, delivers academic excellence by way of her Food Economics: Agriculture, Nutrition, and Health course. She says, “Allegheny students — and students everywhere in the world, really — care a lot about the food system. They come from many different disciplinary backgrounds and with interests such as public health, environmental science, psychology, biology, nutrition, and agronomy.

Studying food economics allows them to engage in solving global problems and

leveraging their existing knowledge and interests to do so.”

Finaret’s students embrace the connection between economics and food because it’s a universal issue.

Economics is the study of how people choose among different options, and we all decide what to eat and how to eat multiple times every day, she says. Since many of these choices are observable, economics is particularly useful for studying choices related to producing and consuming food.

Based on her work in the course over the last nine years, Finaret published her own open-access textbook this year: “Food Economics: Agriculture,

Nutrition, and Health.” Available on SpringerLink, “Food Economics” provides a unified introduction to the economics of agricultural production, business decisions, consumer behavior, and the government policies that shape our food system. The textbook begins with economic principles derived using graphical techniques to explain and predict observed prices, quantities, and other outcomes as a result of individual choices influenced by market structure and public policies. The second half of the book explores available data globally and for the United States, covering a wide range of questions in agriculture and economic development, food marketing, and consumption.

"We wanted to publish it open access so that people around the world would have free and easy access to the material,” Finaret says. “The book covers everything about the food economy for students even if they have never taken an economics class. Typically, higherlevel elective courses in economics are gatekept using intro-level classes, but this class, and the book that goes along with it, teaches the material without needing those prerequisites, allowing students from all majors and minors to learn food economics if they want."

ENSURING STEM ACCESS FOR ALL

In 2021 and 2022, Allegheny, led by a team of faculty in the natural sciences

and mathematics, secured a Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) Inclusive Excellence grant, which advances the discovery and sharing of scientific knowledge for all. This work has evolved over the years and has led to becoming part of a learning community with other academic institutions, including Auburn University at Montgomery, California State University East Bay (CSUEB), Mount Holyoke College, and Vanderbilt University. The team has been exploring how each institution can best increase its capacity for inclusion of all students in science, particularly underrepresented students.

According to Tim Chapp, Ph.D., associate professor of chemistry and grant project director, after graduation,

students who go into STEM fields will be in situations where they're solving problems on a daily basis, and solutions to those problems do not fit solely within disciplinary boxes. This is where a strong liberal arts education becomes essential, instilling the ability to think broadly and draw on concepts and ideas from multiple disciplines. This counters “deficit thinking.” Overall, Chapp says, deficit thinking is a framing device; it amounts to viewing a student’s difficulties from a “glass half-empty” perspective. Because deficit thinking focuses so much on a student’s “deficiencies,” while doing little to help with these issues, the student may feel hopeless and overwhelmed, causing them to feel these deficiencies are inherent.

ENSURING STEM ACCESS FOR ALL

TIM CHAPP, PH.D.

... deficit models have not been effective in addressing racial/ethnic persistence gaps in STEM fields in the past 25 years. We hope that our achievement-oriented approach — which focuses on what we want students to learn and take away from our courses — will improve outcomes for all students.

CRIMINAL VIOLENCE THROUGH A LIBERAL ARTS LENS

SHANNAN MATTIACE, PH.D.

Criminal violence is a very interdisciplinary field, so being at a liberal arts school is helpful in that we are used to looking at problems from a range of different angles and disciplines. … Students are very agile in being able to move from discipline to discipline and insight to insight in order to try to understand this complex and multi-layered issue.

“Deficit thinking is ubiquitous in higher education, and presents an obstacle to inclusive excellence,” said Chapp. “Additionally, deficit models have not been effective in addressing racial/ ethnic persistence gaps in STEM fields in the past 25 years. We hope that our achievement-oriented approach – which focuses on what we want students to learn and take away from our courses –will improve outcomes for all students.”

The project mainly impacts students in biology, chemistry, biochemistry, mathematics, and physics who enroll in introductory STEM courses across these disciplines. The work is focused on addressing a fundamental question: “What would it take for institutions to

make a comprehensive shift from deficitto achievement-oriented frameworks in their approaches to the introductory science experience?” With this approach, faculty hope to develop a more inclusive STEM curriculum and achieve our goal of ensuring that all Allegheny students feel they belong in, and can be successful in, STEM classrooms.

CRIMINAL VIOLENCE THROUGH A LIBERAL ARTS LENS

Professor of Political Science Shannan Mattiace, Ph.D., has focused her work over the last decade on criminal violence in Mexico. Most recently, she has worked with Andy Bloeser, Ph.D., associate

professor of political science and director of the Allegheny College Center for Political Participation; two Mexican political scientists and co-authors, Sandra Ley at the Tecnológico de México and Guillermo Trejo at the University of Notre Dame; and two Catholic church human rights organizations, CIAS por la Paz (Jesuits) and SERAPAZ (Dominican). Their work required a large amount of data interpretation, which two Allegheny students were prepared to tackle.

In the summer of 2024, Caroline Maye ’26, a political science major with a history minor, and Jess Bickart ’26, a political science major and community and justice studies minor, worked on interpreting a major survey that Trejo

and Mattiace conducted, through a team, about rural peoples' trust in the regular police versus the community police systems. The students took stock of the data and presented preliminary interpretations, with Maye’s skills in regression and statistical analysis proving to be critical in analyzing the data. The students’ work will be included in a book Mattiace is writing with Trejo, tentatively titled “Indigenous Resistance to Narco Violence.”

Mattiace says, “Criminal violence is a very interdisciplinary field, so being at a liberal arts school is helpful in that we are used to looking at problems from a range of different angles and disciplines. When I teach sections on criminal violence in my comparative politics courses, I often assign academic pieces from sociology, anthropology, and economics journals. Students are very agile in being able to move from discipline to discipline and insight to insight in order to try to understand this complex and multilayered issue.”

WHICH PROFESSOR MADE A SIGNIFICANT IMPACT ON YOUR LIFE? LET US KNOW.

As you think about your own experience, maybe there’s a faculty member who made a tremendous difference in your life. Why not nominate them for a teaching award? Scan the QR code on the left to nominate someone for the Julian Ross Award for Excellence in Teaching or Thoburn Award for Excellence in Teaching, or share your story about an influential faculty member by scanning the code on the right.

THE ALLEGHENY DIFFERENCE

These are just a small handful of academic excellence examples and extraordinary outcomes delivered by a liberal arts education at Allegheny. Faculty, alumni, and students work together to ask questions, find answers, and make an impact on the community around them. At the end of our students’ four-year journey, Allegheny faculty have prepared our graduates to enter the world with a fully rounded liberal arts perspective as problem-solvers, creative thinkers, and disciplined workers.

ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE IN ACTION

For a more interactive experience, visit our video series by scanning this QR code.

Teaching Awards

Story Submissions

A CAREER CONNECTION MADE FOR

SEPARATING FACT FROM FICTION WITH LLOYD SEGAN ’80

by Jennifer Rignani

campus photos

Richard Sayer

If there were a living, breathing advertisement for why alumni engagement is so impactful, it would come in the form of Lloyd Segan ’80 Bursting with infectious enthusiasm for the College and a conviction that alumni simply must give back, Segan is as part of the fabric of Allegheny now as when he was a student. He is the algorithm for liberal arts education leading to profound career success. Full stop.

Segan is a prominent creative talent and producer whose television series and films have engaged a billion people across the globe. Through his company, Piller/Segan, he works with A-list writers, actors, directors, producers, and others across Hollywood and the media landscape. His connections are the stuff of dreams. And even dreamier, he shares those connections with Allegheny students, understanding that who you know is important. “We have alumni who are titans in their industries, whether it’s education, law, medicine, politics, STEM fields, Wall Street — and every one of them would take a call from a student. We have to take advantage of who we know, who we are, and our collective accomplishments,” he says.

He’s been doing his part to share those connections with students through his teaching with Professor of Communication, Media, and

The idea that an alumnus operating in his field at the highest level is making time to teach a class, to give back to our campus community, and to bring in peers with significant global achievements is a remarkable reflection of the lifelong impact of an Allegheny education.

Allegheny College President Ron Cole ’87,

Ph.D.

Performance Ishita Sinha Roy, Ph.D., in her Media and Cultural Studies class since 2006. In addition to embodying the excellence an Allegheny education delivers, he is an inspiration for where a liberal arts degree can take you. He has a knack for breaking down the complexities of news, entertainment, and popular culture, relating it to just about every major there is, making Dr. Sinha Roy’s classes a hot ticket.

His reverence for truth and understanding of the media landscape

is reflected in the guest speaker roster he’s lined up for Dr. Sinha Roy’s class. They are from the highest echelons of his world, most recently including Phil Griffin, the former president and founder of MSNBC who delivered a timely and critical message about the state of journalism; Allison Lee, PEN America’s Los Angeles director and former chief development officer for TIME’S UP; and screenwriter Billy Ray (“Captain Phillips,” “The Hunger Games,” and many more), who talked about getting the facts right in one of his movies, “Richard Jewel,” about a real-life person wrongly accused of a major crime.

And because Segan is desirous to emphasize the accomplishments and connections that our alumni can bring to students, he recruited the help of alumni from many different classes, representing their expertise. For example, when he wanted to include a more local perspective on the profound changes happening in professional sports, Segan reached out to John Meyer ’04, a former reporter and weekend sports anchor. Meyer introduced Segan to Ted Black ’87, former president of Buffalo Sabres, who joined the class as a guest speaker.

When Segan wanted to recruit expertise about domestic and global cyber security threats, he sought the help of retired general Jon Davis ’80, who made the

Lloyd Segan ’80 gives a talk to students during Reunion Weekend.

introduction to former NSA officers Tim Kosiba and Luca Taylor, who became guest speakers.

All imparted their wisdom and real insight to their experiences.

“This is not something all students at liberal arts colleges get exposed to," says Allegheny College President Ron Cole ’87, Ph.D. “The idea that an alumnus operating in his field at the highest level is making time to teach a class, to give back to our campus community, and to bring in peers with significant global achievements is a remarkable reflection of the lifelong impact of an Allegheny education.”

CRITICAL THINKING

There is a common throughline among Segan and the guests he brought in to speak this past semester: They all talk about the balance between story dynamics and authenticity. “The perception of truth and the reality of truth are two different things, but they also can be conflated. Because perception is reality in our world, we need to understand and be able to discern the difference. All of the people

that we're bringing in are speaking to that,” says Segan.

Because of Dr. Sinha Roy's emphasis on global perspectives, media and cultural literacy, hands-on projects, and community-engaged learning, she and Segan were a match made for students to flourish. The two met when Segan was visiting Allegheny College during the “Celebration of the Liberal Arts” weekend in fall 2002. Dr. Sinha Roy says, “I had the pleasure of talking to him about what it had been like when he was an undergraduate at Allegheny, and how the idea of media studies has shifted since then, and continues to evolve.

“We marveled, for example, at how videoconferencing (the brand-new technology back in 2002) could help folks connect time zones and transform the entire classroom experience by incorporating professional insights. This conversation led to a discussion about the videoconferencing seminar room we had just launched in Murray Hall, and all of a sudden the two of us were shaking hands over the exciting prospect of co-teaching a class on television studies, even thousands of miles apart.”

This has led to a series of virtual co-teaching adventures, and on-site workshops, which are now the norm.

Dr. Sinha Roy says of Segan’s contributions, “I have always been inspired by the words of Martin Luther King Jr. who said, ‘The function of education is to teach one to think intensively and to think critically. Intelligence plus character — that is the goal of true education.’ In every course I have co-taught with Lloyd, he has modeled this to students. Whether we were discussing media ownership, debating how the First Amendment applies across various contexts, deliberating about how AI will shape creativity and affect human labor and artistic rights, or examining the future of media technologies and new worlds, Lloyd always brought discussions back to ethical considerations and the human impact in each session.”

Segan consistently stresses the importance of citizenship above the sole pursuit of financial success. Dr. Sinha Roy says, “I think the ultimate compliment came from a student who said to me, ‘I hope that one day I'll be good enough like him, so you'll invite me to teach a class

Segan signs an autograph for a student during Reunion Weekend.

with you. I want to, some day, inspire students too.’”

The connections Segan has so generously made for students and alumni reads as a who’s who of American life. Among those connections that turned into career opportunities are Jackie Strahota ’10, who received an internship with Marc Advertising in Pittsburgh; Jackie Spirer ’08, who worked as a production assistant with the Sesame Street Workshop; John Meyer ’04, mentioned earlier; and Matthew Dickey ’04, who landed the role of social media manager for Piller/ Segan. In recognition and appreciation of Segan’s outstanding service to the College, he received Allegheny’s Blue Citation alumni award in 2010.

COMING HOME

At the end of the spring 2024 semester, Segan flew in from Los Angeles to celebrate with Dr. Sinha Roy and the students in the COMM 125: Media & Culture course. When he bounded into Vukovich 111, he exuded energy and goodwill. He noted the robust Phi Delt representation in the audience with infectious joie de vivre. Segan’s investment in the students is so authentic that one can’t help but wonder: If he could, would he hire every single person in the room?

He confers an amiable confidence to the students, making them feel comfortable asking him questions like if he’s ever read a certain book or seen a certain movie. Because he still recalls the influence of great teachers throughout his own life, he takes his role as an educator seriously. “My mates and I were together for seder this year talking about our fourth grade

I have always been inspired by the words of Martin Luther King Jr. who said, ‘The function of education is to teach one to think intensively and to think critically. Intelligence plus character — that is the goal of true education.’ In every course I have co-taught with Lloyd, he has modeled this to students.

Ishita Sinha Roy, Ph.D.

teacher. I’m in my sixties and it’s still important how much she meant to us. And with Allegheny, I regularly recall several professors who had a lasting impact on me. It matters!” he says.

He remembers his own freshman year as rocky and cites the various professors who helped him through his entire academic career. Reflects Segan: “Paul Zolbrod (English) taught me to look beneath the texts of the writing. ‘Skipper’ Knights (History) was very paternalistic and caring. Nels Juleus (Speech and Communications) gave me confidence to eventually become a good public speaker. Professor Michael J. Stevens (Political Science) exemplified the meaning of public service, as he eventually became Meadville’s mayor. Professor ‘Brownie’ Ketcham (Philosophy) encouraged my critical-thinking skills and served as the commencement speaker at my

graduation. And finally, Dr. Richard Chafey (Academic Advisor) became my greatest advocate for all the things I wanted to explore during my tenure at Allegheny College.”

A CLASS ACT

During Segan’s visit, the students wanted to know how one could make the near-impossible leap from Meadville to Hollywood, back in the eighties, when you seemingly had to be in L.A. to be in the entertainment business. “My experience at Allegheny helped prepare me for being a producer. Critical thinking is essential. Living in a fraternity house caused me to learn how to navigate a range of personalities. Learning how to communicate, thinking creatively, being expansive in your approach, understanding your community, and having grit to tough it out — these are all components of being a producer,” he says.

He also emphasizes that the friendships and experiences he had at Allegheny instilled the lifelong notion of the importance of being part of something greater than yourself. The formative years of college are utterly critical, believes Segan. He is a tireless champion of the critical thinking the liberal arts provides. He talks about the influences that started him on his pathway to a creative career, primarily, being engaged in the campus community. It’s engagement with others and the world around him that he says propelled him forward to carve out his role as a producer.

Segan is evangelical about the idea that anything that is creatively worth pursuing has to be in your heart and to

Segan and actor James Cromwell on the set of "The Bachelor" in 1998.

Segan posing by a promotional poster for season 2 of "Private Eyes" in downtown Toronto, 2017.

Segan posing with Snoop Dogg for their supernatural horror film "Bones" in 2000.

have the courage of your convictions. He points out that some of the most innovative things in our lives are not at all what people were thinking about. “Think of the iPhone; no one thought we needed that. Think of Hamilton. Who thought we needed a musical about the first Secretary of the Treasury? That’s what liberal arts thinking is all about. Having the liberty and opportunity to do whatever you want. Exploring all the other avenues that are available to you. It will make you much better as a human being and on your career path,” he says.

As is his way, Segan shared practical advice, too. “I’ve hired thousands of people over my career. I want people to come in with different points of view and ideas that may not mesh with mine,” he says. Segan wants people he hires to be community builders who have the courage to express themselves. He strives to find people who are open and expansive, things he feels people learn at Allegheny.

Segan is emphatic that the liberal arts prepare you for anything. “The reality of life is you are not, and should not, be one thing. Einstein was not just a physicist — he was also a philosopher, a writer, and incredibly creative. Be engaged. Get involved in the world around you. Be inspired by yourself.” And again, he told the students, “Take full advantage of alumni. We have an extraordinary cadre of people who graduated from Allegheny. Reach out to them. They are productive, successful people who are more than happy to hear from you. They want to know how they can help you — offering an internship, externship, advice, or even a job.”

In addition to his pragmatic advice, he also shared where he’s coming from creatively. When asked what kinds of stories he likes to tell, he says he prefers to “live in joy.” As such, the shows he produces always have a happy ending, which sounds about right when you meet him. Part of this relates to an important theme in his teaching: Don’t ever start an argument or get ugly to make a point. Make sure you can make your argument. But also, explore and embrace different points of view.

He thinks this has always been important, but even more so in a presidential election year. “You cannot exist in a world where you only hear your own point of view,” he says. He encouraged people to consume multiple media sources, noting, “Once you’ve educated yourself in a rounded way, your perspective is all the more salient and credible.”

It’s as if Segan has a visceral distaste for incuriosity. He says, “Failure is not a mistake — it's an opportunity to learn. We don’t know what we don’t know. Give yourself the strength to step out of your comfort zone.”

His work with Dr. Sinha Roy has a media literacy focus, particularly with our current world of streaming and online information sharing and entertainment. A deep believer in free speech, he is very concerned about our addiction to the internet. “While it's important to have, we need to encourage personal responsibility for the content that is put out,” he says. His own creations, of course, are part of this universe now, which he ensures are responsible and positive.

THE ALLEGHENY AMALGAM

Segan could have attended college just about anywhere. He was smart and grew up in a well-to-do family who valued education. The foundational aspects of his life had been culturally indoctrinated through a childhood filled with music, theater arts, film, and television. He says, “When I got to Allegheny I had rooted interests, but I had to navigate a totally new environment.”

To be sure, he made a conscious choice to put himself in a foreign environment. And Segan’s journey from privileged Jewish suburbs to being a minority in the middle of northwestern Pennsylvania informs much of who he is today. “When I got here, I was one of 60 Jewish students. There were an equal number of Black students. It was so far out of my comfort zone, but that is what I wanted,” he says. No big surprise that he trusted his instincts. Calling on his intellectual and social curiosity was crucial to his success and to his ability to challenge students now.

Segan also champions the idea that no college student in the world should have to know what they want to major in from the beginning or what they want to “be.” Heck, he doesn’t think a senior needs to know. His point is that studying a certain thing does not prepare you to do that thing for a living. Rather, it educates you in a track, but it's everything else you study in a liberal arts college that prepares you for the future. “Taking a bunch of courses in something doesn't make you an expert. It’s exploring and learning a variety of subjects, exploring in real life, and getting into different social settings that make you grow.”

Segan and partner Shawn Piller (far right) posing with the leads of "Wild Cards" (L to R: Giacomo Gianniotti, Vanessa Morgan, Jason Priestley) at the 2024 Cannes Festival in France.

Segan and Piller with the cast of "Greek" during the pilot shoot in 2006.

Segan on the set of "Blown Away" with Jeff Bridges in 1993.

GIVING BACK

Enlightenment is part of a liberal arts education. Part of that is to share what you know, and who you know, with students. Segan is emphatic about this point. “We have to inculcate citizenry to all students, so they know to reach out and then later, that they must be responsive to those reaching out to them,” he says. He wants every student to have an advisor and a person to curate their skills and mentor them and let them know that there is an ecosystem out there for them to join.

Segan challenges fellow alumni to give back as he does. “Imagine the connections that our alumni can provide to graduating students. There are so many incredibly successful alumni who would be willing to connect,” says Segan. That pipeline and access is something that can make a life-altering difference in a person’s career path. Because, as he understands first-hand, career paths are not necessarily straight. The more alumni engage with students to help them in their career choices, the more valuable the investment they and their families make in a liberal arts education. And, let’s face it, the cost of education imbues parents with the expectation of their child landing a good job.

Imagine the connections that our alumni can provide to graduating students. There are so many incredibly successful alumni who would be willing to connect.

Lloyd Segan ’80

The list of alumni that Segan rolls off the top of his head is a who’s who of an incredible diversity of fields. For example, he cites members of his graduating class alone who have careers as the current chief of orthopedic surgery at a world-renowned Los Angeles-based hospital, a senior manager in hospital administration, a CEO of a high-profile east coast ski resort, an owner of an insurance brokerage firm, a leading endocrinologist who has been at the forefront of counseling transgender youth, a real estate developer, a psychiatric social worker, a geologist, a former chair of the urology department at a leading clinic in the Pacific Northwest, a partner in a global accounting firm, the head of a trading floor of a major Wall Street firm, a president of a large regional

bank, a former three-star general who is now a technology entrepreneur. “Any of these people would take a call from an Allegheny student any day of the week,” says Segan.

Segan is determined to recruit other alumni to sell the value proposition of an Allegheny education via their personal influence and connections in the world of work. He says, “Look, kids today are thinking, ‘How will I get a gig when this is over?’ And that’s a fair question. I am saying our alumni exist to ensure these students come out with a job.”

And just when you think Segan could not brim with more excitement about the connection between alumni and students, he offers this: “These young people can also pay it forward, once they get out into the real world. Imagine? It’s a tradition that never stops.”

Segan takes a selfie with President Ron Cole ’87 and others in the Vukovich Center for Communication Arts.

FORMER ALLEGHENY TEAMMATES CHANGE LIVES ON AND OFF THE COURT

by Jenny Goldsmith

Jess Kankoski Goeller ’04 was the fourth all-time leading scorer in Allegheny women's basketball history with 1,150 career points.

Meredith McDonough ’05, a former teammate of Goeller’s, reconnected with Goeller in December to see if there was anything she could do to help spread the word about Lucas

Allison Roberts Hodas ’06 (middle) holds a heartfelt drawing by Lucas Goeller (left), who calls her “My Hero.” As his potential life-saving donor, Hodas represents hope and strength for Lucas, who is waiting for a liver transplant, and his family. Lucas is the son of Hodas’ former basketball teammate Jess Kankoski Goeller ’04 (right).

Tucked away in a quiet corner during a family ski trip to Vermont, Jess Kankoski Goeller ’04 finds a moment of solitude to reflect on her time at Allegheny College. Goeller works full time as a project manager of medical devices at Bayer in Pittsburgh. She’s also a wife and mother of four boys, which makes uninterrupted time hard to come by.

Family comes in many forms, and for Goeller, that network includes fellow alumni.

“Allegheny College is a family unit, and we will always be family. Time will never lessen the love, friendship, and compassion we have for one another,” Goeller says.

It’s been 20 years since she graduated, but the biology major still keeps in touch with her former women’s basketball teammates from time to time, namely her longtime friend from high school and college roommate, Meredith McDonough ’05, with whom she shares a bond and sisterhood that goes well beyond college. The former teammates have reconnected recently to help raise awareness for organ donation, an endeavor Goeller supports on a deeply personal level as her 10-year-old son, Lucas, is in critical need of a liver transplant.

This is the second time the Goellers are seeking a life-saving liver donation for

It’s tough when you leave college and start your careers and family; life gets so busy, but the beautiful thing about having Meredith as an Allegheny Gator and family member is that when I reached out to her, it was like we were still in college. She didn’t hesitate one second, and she already had a plan in her head to support our family.

outdoors, where the four brothers relish in hunting, skiing, fishing, and hiking.

“When Lucas was dying from liver failure when he was two, we found that nature and being outside was so good for us. It helped us get out of the hospital or out of the house and see the beauty in life, which provided us with a lot of hope to keep fighting,” says Goeller.

Jess Kankoski Goeller ’04

Lucas, and the family is feeling a sense of urgency this time around.

“When your liver is failing, you ride such a fine line between life and death – you could be stable one day and very unstable the next day; there’s no way to anticipate where you’re headed,” says Goeller.

The Goeller family continues to seek comfort through their shared love of the

The tight-knit family of six also learned to lean on their support system of family and friends, who are helping to spread awareness about the importance of organ donation through their social media platforms and personal networks. With over 100,000 people on the transplant waiting list, one of their goals is to register as many people as they can on Donate Life America, the nationally recognized nonprofit responsible for managing the National Donate Life Registry at RegisterMe.org.

That’s also where Goeller’s relationship with her former Allegheny women’s basketball teammate, McDonough, came into play. The communication arts and media major and political science minor works for Hearst Media as a news anchor in Orlando, Florida, and reconnected with Goeller in December to see if there was anything she could do to help spread the word about Lucas.

The Goeller family.

“It’s tough when you leave college and start your careers and family; life gets so busy, but the beautiful thing about having Meredith as an Allegheny Gator and family member is that when I reached out to her, it was like we were still in college. She didn’t hesitate one second, and she already had a plan in her head to support our family,” Goeller says.

Teammates for Life

McDonough’s also a mother of four, with kids around the same age as Goeller. As soon as she heard the news about Lucas, she knew she needed to take action. After a story about Lucas aired on WTAE in Pittsburgh, McDonough asked her station to share the segment in Orlando, where Lucas’ doctor coincidentally performs monthly liver transplant surgeries.

“You want to go the extra mile to make sure Lucas’ story is out there because when you’re a teammate, you’re a teammate for life,” McDonough says. “We were a tight-knit community at Allegheny. We were a very close team, and that’s the beauty of being a college athlete – you have a devotion to others in addition to yourself, and you have to put others in front of yourself, which makes a huge difference in how you carry yourself the rest of your life.”

Just as they did as teammates at Allegheny, McDonough and Goeller are working in tandem to share the message about organ donation with their Allegheny community in the hopes of registering as many donors as possible.

“I had always dreamed of making an impact in the community and helping those in

You want to go the extra mile to make sure Lucas’ story is out there because when you’re a teammate, you’re a teammate for life. We were a tight-knit community at Allegheny. We were a very close team, and that’s the beauty of being a college athlete – you have a devotion to others in addition to yourself, and you have to put others in front of yourself, which makes a huge difference in how you carry yourself the rest of your life.

A Teammate Steps Up

On the last Friday in March, Goeller and her family reunited with a handful of former women’s basketball teammates, as well as their former coach, Jennifer Reimer, and former head athletic trainer, Jamie Plunkett, at Allegheny’s David V. Wise Athletic Center for a tearful reunion centered around Lucas and his potential life-saving donor, Goeller’s former teammate Allison Roberts Hodas ’06.

“Here we are on Good Friday, with Allison willing to sacrifice to save Lucas, and it brings chills to me. I run out of words when I think about it. I think that is the definition of a true hero – someone who is willing to sacrifice 12 weeks of themselves so someone else can live,” Goeller says. “The bond we created 20 years ago is inseparable now. Time can’t break that bond.”

Meredith McDonough ’05

need. I never would have dreamed that I would be fighting to save my son Lucas and many like him by spreading the importance of organ donation awareness across the world,” says Goeller. “I now dream of signing up a record number of organ donors while we wait for a generous donor to save Lucas. Let’s save one person at a time and get them back home to their families.”

The bond among alumni is always notable, but in this case, it opened the door to a lifeline for Lucas.

Goeller, a Gator MVP, all-conference, and all-American player, wanted to save her reunion with Hodas until they were both back on the hardwood at the Wise Center–a space filled with many triumphs and challenges. WTAE in Pittsburgh was there to capture the reunion, which was filled with tears of joy and disbelief, as the former teammates shared their memories both on and off the court. Lucas, now armed with a new lease on life, also presented Hodas with a spring bouquet as a symbol of his gratitude.

“We had this saying, 'Once a Gator, always a Gator,' when we were in school. And I just think that it's one of those friendships. When you're teammates for so long, you

Allison Roberts Hodas ’06 and Jess Kankoski Goeller ’04 reunited for an interview with WTAE’s Mike Clark at Allegheny’s David V. Wise Athletic Center on March 29, 2024.

can kind of pick back up right where you left off,” Hodas says.

When the heartfelt WTAE interview was over, the former teammates gathered on the court to join their children, effortlessly shooting hoops as if 20 years hadn’t passed.

"It's been over 20 years since we played on this court," Goeller said. "On this court here, we have fought endless battles for four straight years. I would always tell myself that it's not over until it's over."

After various tests confirming she was the perfect match – and with the support of her husband, their three sons, her parents, and her medical team at UPMC – Hodas agreed to donate a portion of her liver.

But, the process of liver donation is complicated and ever-changing. As of press time, Lucas’ transplant team believes that a liver from a deceased donor or a domino transplant (a complex procedure that involves three patients and three consecutive but overlapping operations) would provide a better match for Lucas, offering improved long-term outcomes and limiting postoperative complications.

"I knew that if I was a match that I wasn't going to say no," Hodas said. “For me to sacrifice 12 weeks of my life to hopefully give Lucas the rest of his, it was an easy decision to make.” As athletes, she said, the women are used to winning and losing, pivoting, and strategizing.

This situation is, of course, far more stressful than any game the former teammates have played together. But they

I knew that if I was a match that I wasn't going to say no.

For me to sacrifice 12 weeks of my life to hopefully give Lucas the rest of his, it was an easy decision to make.

be recognized, and the award really is a beautiful tribute to our entire community.”

In addition, Donate Life America has recognized the Saved Lucas campaign’s methods in spreading awareness, and expressed interest in utilizing the Goellers’ template as a model for securing more organ donors in the future.

Allison Roberts Hodas ’06

are going with the flow and holding up well. Both the family and medical team are closely monitoring Lucas' health, which remains stable yet uncertain.

“A year ago, life was more predictable, Lucas was stronger and more robust,” Goeller says. “Now, I see life becoming less predictable. In a blink of an eye, things change.”

Despite the waiting game of being on the transplant list, Goeller continues to advocate for her son, as well as for others in need of life-saving transplants. Her strength in the face of adversity and her dedication to spreading the message about organ donation set a state record in July 2024 for the most organ donor sign-ups.

“It’s not just my work that is setting records; it’s our entire Save Lucas community,” Goeller says. “Anyone who has liked our posts, shared the story, or took it upon themselves to get others signed up for organ donation truly deserves to

“The reality is, everybody is suffering on some level, so you have to learn to appreciate your journey and know that you’re on this journey for a reason,” Goeller says. “It might take a long time to figure out why you’re going through such a difficult time, but it all has a purpose, and that purpose is greater than you can ever imagine.”

As Lucas waits for a liver, his family urges the community to consider registering as organ donors, a decision that could save lives and bring hope to families like theirs. As to the alumni connection between the women and their families? It’s proven to be a lifeline in more ways than one.

If you’re interested in registering to become an organ donor, please visit: registerme.org/campaign/SaveLucas

To support the Save Lucas campaign on social media, please visit: facebook.com/SaveLucasGoeller instagram.com/savelucasgoeller

In addition to social media outreach, the Save Lucas Campaign includes 25 billboards donated by Lamar Advertising to raise awareness about organ donation and help find Lucas a donor.

GATORS COLLECT NUMEROUS PAC AWARDS AFTER SUCCESSFUL SPRING

by Travis Larner

Allegheny College’s spring sports teams and studentathletes continued to shine on the court, field, links, and track. Not only did every team qualify for postseason competition, the Gators also collected two team

ANTON HEDLUND

championships, two individual championships, and five yearend awards from the Presidents’ Athletic Conference (PAC). From Player of the Year to Newcomer of the Year, here’s a look at all the major PAC awards that Gators won this spring.

PAC Men’s Tennis Player of the Year

Anton Hedlund ’25 (Hovas, Sweden/Katrinelundsgymnasiet) guided the Allegheny men’s tennis team to its second-consecutive PAC championship this spring, and for the second time, was recognized as the best player in the conference. Now a two-time PAC Player of the Year and PAC Championship Tournament MVP, Hedlund won 44 total matches during the 2023-24 season. He was undefeated against conference opponents while playing exclusively at No. 1 singles and doubles. He also helped the men’s tennis team earn its first-ever NCAA tournament victory.

ALEYA BELARDINELLI

PAC Softball Pitcher of the Year

Pitcher Aleya Belardinelli ’25 (Melbourne, Fla./West Shore) proved once again why she’s one of the best to ever wear the Blue and Gold with a noteworthy junior season. Belardinelli, the 2024 PAC Pitcher of the Year, went 12-5 with a career-best 1.91 ERA and 124 strikeouts. Of her 16 starts, 13 ended in complete games, and four were shutouts. One of the biggest highlights of her career came on April 14 when she spun a no-hitter with nine strikeouts in a 15-0 victory over Thiel College. Belardinelli, who ranks fourth in program history with 350 career strikeouts, led the Gators to 26 wins this year, the most in a season in more than a decade.

CASSADY BOUTHET

PAC Men’s Lacrosse Defensive Player of the Year

The 2023-24 SAAC Male Athlete of the Year, Cassady Bouthet ’24 (Vernon, Conn./ Rockville), anchored the defense in what proved to be the best season in five years of varsity lacrosse at Allegheny. As the No. 2 seed in the PAC, the Gators won their firstever postseason contest by defeating Saint Vincent College, 16-12, in the PAC semifinals. Bouthet set a program record with 53 caused turnovers and ranked 12th in Division III with 3.12 caused turnovers per game. As a result, he became the first Gator to win a major conference award as the PAC Player of the Year and the first-ever men’s lacrosse studentathlete to achieve All-America status as a USILA All-America Honorable Mention.

CARTER HASSENPLUG

PAC Men’s Golf Player of the Year

Carter Hassenplug ’25 (North East, Pa./North East) etched his name in Allegheny golf lore with a magnificent shot on the 18th hole in the final round of the 2023-24 PAC Championships. The junior not only solidified his second individual championship - he won by a whopping 11 strokes - but secured the team title for the Gators by chipping in a 30-foot birdie. Hassenplug is the first-ever Gator to earn medalist honors in consecutive conference championships and joins Bob Ruffing '98 and Nathan Smith '01 as the only Allegheny men's golfers with multiple individual conference titles.

KATHERINE SURDYKOWSKI

PAC Women’s Lacrosse Newcomer of the Year

After an outstanding freshman season with the women’s soccer team in the fall, Katherine Surdykowski ’27 (Chesterfield, N.J./Northern Burlington County Regional) enjoyed even more success with the women’s lacrosse team in the spring. Surdykowski took home the PAC’s Newcomer of the Year award after producing 46 points (35g-11a) with 62 draw controls, a team-leading 59 ground balls, and 33 caused turnovers. The do-it-all midfielder finished with a point in all but one game, including back-to-back five-goal performances in the regular-season finale against Franciscan University and in the semifinal round of the PAC Tournament against the eventual champs from Grove City College.

GRANT MILLER

PAC Outdoor Men’s Track & Field Pole Vault Champion

Allegheny’s first-year pole vaulter, Grant Miller ’27 (Punxsutawney, Pa./Punxsutawney Area), followed up a silver-medal performance at the 2023-24 PAC Indoor Track & Field Championships by capturing gold at the conference’s outdoor championship meet in April. And it wasn’t particularly close. Miller cleared 4.51 meters on his first attempt, setting a new personal record. No other student-athlete at the PAC Championships was able to surpass four meters. Miller’s mark ranks second in program history, trailing only two-time Division III national champion and former Olympian Jeremy Scott ’03

MEN’S TENNIS TEAM

Since joining the PAC, the Allegheny men’s tennis team has quickly established itself as the head of its class. This spring, the Gators completed their second-consecutive undefeated conference schedule, earning hosting rights throughout the PAC Championship Tournament. Allegheny defeated Franciscan University in the semifinals and Grove City College in the title match by identical 5-1 scores. After earning the PAC’s automatic bid to the NCAA Championships, the Gators swept Messiah University in the first round to secure the program’s first-ever NCAA Tournament victory. Head coach Dave Hayden was once again named the PAC Coach of the Year, while seven Allegheny student-athletes were included on the All-PAC Teams.

MEN’S GOLF TEAM

The Allegheny men’s golf team avenged a narrow loss to Washington and Jefferson College from last spring with a dramatic finish at this year’s PAC Championship, leading to their first conference championship since 2006. After two rounds in the fall, the Gators trailed W&J by one stroke, and the Presidents led by six strokes heading into the final round at the Mill Creek South Course in Boardman, Ohio. They made a miraculous comeback over the last 18 holes with a tournament-best round of 293. With one group left to play the 18th hole, Allegheny clung to a one-stroke lead, creating a one-on-one, winner-takes-all matchup between Carter Hassenplug and W&J’s Luke Lestini. Hassenplug secured the championship with his 30-foot chip-in for a birdie.

On the Campus

News from Allegheny

Four Elected to Allegheny College Board of Trustees

Allegheny College’s Board of Trustees has added four new members:

Carol St. Clair Chlystek ’90 of Elmhurst, Illinois

Chlystek served as an international trade specialist for the Department of Commerce. She and husband Marty Chlystek ’89 are two of seven Allegheny graduates in the family, which include Carol’s parents, Sally Stewart St. Clair ’59 and Thomas St. Clair ’57, a trustee emeritus. Carol and Marty are strong philanthropic partners and proudly represent the College as class agents at reunions and as Gator Greetings writers, and attend Chicago-area College and alumni events.

Victoria Lipnic ’82 of Arlington, Virginia

Lipnic is a partner in Resolutions Economics, a dispute, investigation, and advisory firm. A nationally recognized expert on employment and workforce, she previously served as a commissioner on the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and as the U.S. Assistant Secretary of Labor for Employment Standards. Lipnic is an active alumna, engaged in Institutional Advancement at regional events and reunion committees. She is a class ambassador and advisor to Kappa Kappa Gamma sorority.

Al Trezza ’01 of Wexford, Pennsylvania

Trezza is an investment strategist at the Bank of New York Mellon. He and wife Megan Bush Trezza ’02 created the Anthony J. Lo Bello Scholarship & Student Support Fund and are consistent annual leadership donors. Trezza was a member of the Allegheny Gators football team and Phi Gamma Delta. He regularly attends Pittsburgh alumni events and is involved with the Institutional Advancement team, including the Center for Career & Professional Development.

Sean Ward ’89 of Hudson, Ohio

Ward is a partner with Blue Point Capital Partners, a global private equity firm, where his career has spanned more than 30 years. He is a board member of several local charities that focus on education for those with special needs, including the Achievement Center for Children. His support of the College is generous and far-reaching, most recently having funded the Ward Family Scholarship and serving as the lead donor for the College’s participation in the Summer on the Cuyahoga experience, an immersive summer internship.

The Allegheny College Board of Trustees is the governing body elected to oversee the College. The Board’s primary responsibilities relate to policy-making and sound resource management. The new members’ four-year terms began on July 1, 2024.

Allegheny Announces $14 Million in New Gifts from Skattum, Tillotson, and Nelson Multi-Generational Families

New gifts totaling $14 million from three multi-generational alumni families will ensure that Allegheny continues to provide an exceptional education, giving students and faculty the freedom to explore new ideas and pursue innovative solutions to real-world problems.

A $7 million gift from Dag Skattum ’84 and Julie Grosjean Skattum ’85 will establish and endow The Center for Faculty Research and Teaching Excellence, which will be the campus hub for faculty development, transformational teaching, research, and educational technology. The center will support faculty and advance Allegheny’s mission to create independent and creative thinkers who excel in a diverse and interconnected world.

A $5 million gift from the Tillotson Family, including $4 million from Carol Hefren Tillotson ’54 and $1 million from Kim Tillotson Fleming and Curt Fleming, will support academic excellence through the modernization of Quigley Hall, transforming it into a state-of-the-art space that reflects the stellar programming and faculty of the business and economics and political science departments that call it home. Quigley Hall is the home of The Bruce R. Thompson Center for Business & Economics, Allegheny’s Center for Political Participation (CPP) – whose work involves both civic education and civic engagement – and Allegheny’s Law & Policy Program, which connects students with leading scholars and political practitioners, research opportunities, and internships.

Building improvements will include an upgraded lecture hall, state-of-the-art technology, and greater accessibility, which will organically enhance the student and visitor experience.

In honor of her 50th reunion in 2023, Christine Scott Nelson ’73 made a $2 million gift to create an endowed fund that will further enhance opportunities for faculty-led undergraduate research, a hallmark of an Allegheny education, as exemplified by the College receiving the inaugural national Award for Undergraduate Research Accomplishments from the Council of Undergraduate Research.

Allegheny Invests to Create Premier NCAA Division III Athletic Center

Allegheny has committed to upgrading and updating the Robertson Athletic Complex facilities by 2025, aiming to create a premier athletic center in NCAA Division III and the Presidents’ Athletic Conference. The initial $1.5 million in funding for the project is a gift from Kevin Baird ’84 and Lisa Fiedor Baird ’84

Kevin was an Academic All-American and All-Conference football player for the Allegheny Gators, as well as a member of the baseball team. He was also involved as a student with his fraternity Phi Gamma Delta (Fiji), The Campus newspaper, and as a resident director.

Lisa was involved as a student with her sorority Alpha Chi Omega, Allegheny Student Government, The Campus newspaper, and Panhellenic Council.

The Bairds’ support will go toward the construction of a 10,000-square-foot facility, which will provide new coaches’ offices and locker rooms for the football program, as well as an expansive meeting room designed for alumni events and customized visit experiences with prospective student-athletes.

Team meeting rooms will also be made available for academic services, including study hours, tutoring, and player support. The new center may be one of the few Division III facilities to have all of these resources under one roof.

The center will be the latest in more than $5.5 million of investments in athletics, including:

• Dedication of the Norm A. Sundstrom Walk of Fame in the David V. Wise Athletic Center. The space pays tribute to Sundstrom, the College’s award-winning basketball coach, golf coach, and director of athletics who oversaw one of the most successful eras in school history, and also recognizes the talents and triumphs of Allegheny's greatest athletic legends. Lead donors to this project include the Fuhrer Family and David Malone '76

• Transformation of Robert M. Garbark Field into the area's premier baseball facility, with the first of three phases of modernization completed, including a state-of-the-art artificial turf infield, upgraded dugouts and bullpens, a new scoreboard, and a branded backstop with professional-style netting. Lead donors

to this project include Frank Fuhrer '48, Dale Hahn '72 and Beth Hahn, and Larry Beuchat.

• Upgrades to the Gator men’s and women’s tennis teams’ Enterprise Performance Center, which include a players’ lounge, study, and nutrition area, as well as a video performance lab. The lead donor to this project was Ruth Ann Peterson-Verell, Ph.D. '57, who went undefeated in doubles tennis and is a member of the Allegheny College Athletics Hall of Fame.

• The installation of a new outdoor track that will be ready for the fall track and field season.

• Expansion of the cross country and recreation trails surrounding the Robertson Athletic Complex.

• Improvements to the women’s basketball locker room, including new lockers, furniture, and branding.

Allegheny Celebrates Transformation of Reis Hall With Groundbreaking Ceremony

While the day started out rainy, the celebration moved inside as key leaders dug in to mark the groundbreaking ceremony held in Schultz Banquet Hall. The celebration marked the start of renovations to Reis Hall, which will be transformed into the Phil St. Moritz ’61 Center for Innovation.

The St. Moritz Center for Innovation represents Allegheny’s long-standing academic excellence that embodies a collaborative, interdisciplinary approach to teaching and learning. Through the center, students will learn and conduct research across disciplines, a hallmark of the Allegheny experience, all supported

by technology developed for careers that span industries and prepare for careers of the future. By bringing together the Allegheny Lab for Innovation and Creativity (ALIC), the Department of Computer and Information Science, and a focus on interdisciplinary learning, Reis Hall will become an integral campus space for Allegheny students to learn and innovate.

“This groundbreaking is symbolic of our commitment to academic excellence and innovation, our commitment to the region, and our vision for preparing our students for an ever-evolving world,” Allegheny President Ron Cole '87 said.

“Allegheny is leading at the intersection of liberal arts and emerging technology. Interdisciplinary learning is a key element in Allegheny’s approach to the liberal arts. Allegheny is one of the only colleges in the country that requires its students to major and minor in diverse academic areas to learn from multiple perspectives, building critical-thinking skills and adding value to the learning experience.”

This project will be funded through the estate of Phil St. Moritz ’61, through funding from the state Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP), and by other donors.

$299,925

Sherman Fairchild Foundation

Allegheny received a $299,925 grant from the Sherman Fairchild Foundation to support student summer research in the sciences. During each year of the three-year grant, funding will cover stipends for summer research students in the sciences, as well as student research supplies, summer housing, and travel to conferences. GRANTS

Jennifer D. Winge Appointed Allegheny Vice President for Enrollment Management

Jennifer D. Winge ’96 has been appointed vice president for enrollment management. In this role, Winge is serving as the College’s chief enrollment officer and is responsible for the overall leadership of the offices of Admissions, Financial Aid, and Marketing & Communications. As a member of the President’s Cabinet, Winge is an active partner in college-wide planning and policy discussions.

“I am elated that Jenn Winge has returned to the Allegheny community,” said

Allegheny President Ron Cole ’87. “Jenn knows Allegheny and knows the landscape of higher education, bringing fresh and innovative ideas from her depth of professional experience.”

Winge has over 25 years of progressively responsible experience in higher education enrollment, financial aid, and communications. Throughout her career, she has optimized enrollment strategies, remained committed to an inclusive recruitment process, and leveraged technology to benefit both recruitment and retention efforts. Winge previously served as vice president for enrollment at The College of Wooster, where she worked

for 13 years and contributed to several committees related to budget, retention, and strategic planning.

“It’s an exciting time to return to Allegheny as the College embarks on a transformative strategic pathway,” said Winge. “As a proud alumna, I look forward to collaborating with President Cole and campus colleagues to develop an enrollment and marketing strategy that will boldly share Allegheny’s compelling story and attract talented students from across the globe.”

Commencement Ceremony Celebrates Class of 2024 and Two Distinguished Leaders

Allegheny honored 300 graduating students and presented honorary degrees to two distinguished leaders at Commencement ceremonies held in the David V. Wise Center in May.

Elisabeth Smith, CEO at Acutec Precision Aerospace Inc. in Meadville, Pennsylvania, delivered the Commencement address. In her remarks, Smith highlighted the

power of a strong community and the difference a liberal arts education can make. “Graduates, your education here has equipped you with knowledge, skills, and a sense of purpose. But beyond the classroom, you’ve also embraced the values of collaboration, empathy, and service — the qualities that form strong communities. Each of you, as you step off this stage, carries a spark — a spark of possibility, of change. Remember that economic development isn’t just about numbers; it’s about lives transformed.”

Honorary doctorates of humane letters were conferred on Allegheny Professor Emerita Amara Geffen and Allegheny Board Member and Vice Chairman of

the Board of Marquette Savings Bank Doug Ziegler.

Board of Trustees Chair Steven Levinsky ’78, Associate Professor Andrew Bloeser, ASG President Nicole Recio Bremer ’25, and President Ron Cole ’87 also addressed the crowd. President Cole shared, “You graduate with the tools to go out into the world with courage; you are equipped with multiple and diverse perspectives, with honed communication skills, with the ability to appreciate the wonders of our world and the wonders of learning.” He charged the seniors “to employ the full measure of your promise and potential in the pursuit of excellence and the service of others.”

Allegheny Named a Best Value College for 2024 by The Princeton Review

Allegheny is one of the nation’s best colleges for students seeking a great education with excellent career preparation and at a relatively affordable price, according to The Princeton Review®.

The education services company named Allegheny as one of its Best Value Colleges for 2024. Allegheny, founded in 1815, is one of the nation’s most historic and innovative four-year colleges, with the unique requirement of completing a major and minor in different academic areas. This multidisciplinary learning

celebrates students’ desire to pursue unusual combinations of interests and breaks the conventional mold to provide creative, independent thinkers with a path for educational depth and intellectual growth, preparing them for careers that may not yet exist.

“We are proud to have earned the Best Value Ranking,” Vice President for Enrollment Management Jennifer Winge ’96 said. “We know that distinct opportunities like our major and minor requirement, guaranteed research in

one’s major, and cutting-edge programs like microcredentials prepare students for a successful launch after graduation. Families seek a return on their investment, and Allegheny’s strategic blend of career exploration and foundation in the liberal arts and sciences results in extraordinary outcomes.”

Additionally, Allegheny is listed among the best schools for Making an Impact, reinforcing the College’s commitment to a vibrant and inclusive community.

Class Notes

News and Events from Alumni

Notes 1910s

Special recognition goes to the late William Brownell 1917, whose bequest made him a member of the William Bentley Legacy Society, a recognition for those who have provided for Allegheny through wills, charitable gift annuities, and/or charitable remainder trusts, or have designated the College as a beneficiary of their life insurance or retirement assets.

Notes 1960s

Special recognition goes to the late Fred Braymer ’61, who became a member of the President’s Society. The President’s Society honors donors who have lifetime cash giving of $100,000 or more to Allegheny College.

Notes 1970s

Special recognition goes to William Barr ’70 and Rhoda Barr, Linda Smith ’71, and John Orehek ’76 and Paula Orehek, who became members of the President’s Society. The President’s Society honors donors who have lifetime cash giving of $100,000 or more to Allegheny College.

Joseph Donley ’74 and Christine Simms Donley ’74, as well as Sarah Flynn Erickson ’76, have joined the William Bentley Legacy Society, a recognition for those who have provided for Allegheny through wills, charitable gift annuities, and/or charitable remainder trusts, or have designated the college as a beneficiary of their life insurance or retirement assets.

’71

Susan Curtis is pleased to announce that "Sokari Douglas Camp: Sensational Steel," a book she wrote about the Nigerian-British metal sculptor (sokari.co.uk), was published in October 2023 by Africa World Press. It is available from africaworldpressbooks.com or on Amazon. “While at Allegheny, I fulfilled my humanities distribution requirement

with three art history courses from Professor Carl Heeschen; despite graduating in sociology, I remained drawn to art history, and eventually (in 2017) earned a Ph.D. at UW-Madison. The dissertation research for that degree resulted in this book,” she says.

’73

Dr. Kevin Hart is serving as the treasurer of MidCoast Senior College, a nonprofit educational organization that offers notfor-credit classes for people 50 years and older to continue lifelong learning. He also teaches a course at the Senior College each fall that reviews the cases decided by the U.S. Supreme Court in its previous term. He moved to Topsham, Maine, so if you are traveling in the area, he encourages you to please get in touch.

Kathy French McGregor passed the final pre-gold partnered ice skating dance. She is working on two of the four goldlevel ice dances. The next level is the international dances, performed during the rhythm portion of ice dancing in the Olympics. McGregor is a Comprehensively Certified Pilates Instructor and retired adjunct lecturer of 23 years at Binghamton University in the Decker School of Nursing, Health and Wellness Department. Over the years she and her husband, Venley McGregor, have traveled in their RV to over 54 of 60 national parks from Maine to Alaska as well as flown to the two in Hawaii.

Rob Smith, executive chairman of Acutec Precision Aerospace Inc. of Meadville, Pennsylvania, received the Gov. Raymond P. Shafer Award for Distinguished Community Service. The award recognizes “an individual who has made a positive impact on the quality of life in western Crawford County through volunteer service.”

Dr. Linda Topp, who retired from her role as director of administration for the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Asheville within the past year, has been named executive director of Asheville Watchdog, a nonprofit news team. She received her bachelor’s degree in geology and her master’s degree in education from Allegheny, and a doctoral degree in curriculum and instruction from Kent State University.

Robert G. "Bob" Wright II has been reappointed by Gov. Abbott for a fourth term to chair the OneStar Foundation, which provides technical assistance, education, information, and other support to Texas’ extensive volunteer community and works to improve and strengthen the state’s volunteerism and community service infrastructure. Wright is the founder and lead attorney of Wright Law and a professor of practice in social entrepreneurship at The University of Texas at Dallas. He received a bachelor’s degree in history from Allegheny and Master of Business Administration and Juris Doctor from Texas Tech University.

’74

Dr. Steve Myers, assistant director of DeSales University’s MFA program in creative writing, was featured on “Poetry Moment,” a weekly radio program featuring the work of contemporary Pennsylvania poets. Myers is the author of a full-length poetry collection and three chapbooks.

’75

Bruce Coryell has been retired for the past few years and is living in Lisbon Falls, Maine. He says he keeps busy with puttering around, photography, and travel.

’76

Stephanie Goloway's pandemic project was to write a book for teachers, “Happily Ever Resilient: Using Fairy Tales to Nurture Children

Through Adversity,” published by Redleaf Press in 2022. Dedicated to her husband, Mike Hospodar ’75, the book draws on Goloway's 2017 doctoral research on trauma, substance use disorders, resilience, and… fairy tales. “Allegheny's ‘Unusual Combinations’ tagline lives!” she says. Goloway is now professor emerita of education and child development at the Community College of Allegheny County in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. She lives in an enchanted cottage on the shores of Lake Erie in Chautauqua County, New York, where she writes a weekly newsletter on fairy tales and resilience, and imagines. She delights in welcoming Gator friends who wander through! sgoloway@gmail.com

June Bechtel Shirey retired in June 2020 from the Snohomish School District (Washington) after 42 years as a high school special education teacher and then as the principal of the Student Learning Alternative Programs (K-12). Two grandchildren have joined her family: Carter James Livesay and Mara Rose Livesay. Parents are Bryant and Sandy Livesay. “The best part of retirement!” she says. Son Adam Livesay developed and started a software company, Elevat Inc. “Sadly my spouse, Bill, passed away after fighting 13 months of cancer. He died peacefully at home at age 76,” she says.

’77

Andrew D. Reisner, Psy.D., went on to obtain a doctorate in clinical psychology from Baylor University, and after working in community mental health and psychiatric hospitals, gravitated

toward forensic psychology. For the past 13 years he has been the executive director of the Forensic Diagnostic Center of District Nine in Cambridge, Ohio. He has published in clinical psychology, neuropsychology, and forensic psychology, attesting to the value of a broad education in psychology and related fields, which started at Allegheny. He is married, has two children, and one brand-new grandchild. He would be glad to hear from classmates at forensicd9@gmail.com.

’74-’76

Dr. Tony Magistrale ’74 shares this photo of Polly Binns ’76, Dr. Martin Stess ’75, and “Mick” (class year unknown) “engaged in the radical experiment of co-ed dorm living in Ravine Hall, circa 1974.”

Submit your news and events for inclusion in Class Notes: allegheny.edu/classnotes

’66 & ’67

Col. Joe Kinego ’67 was honored with an induction into the Florida Aviation Hall of Fame. Kinego, alongside his wife, Beverly Arrowsmith Kinego '66, attended the ceremony at the Florida Air Museum in Lakeland, Florida, where his portrait joined those of past inductees. Joe's 27-year tenure in the U.S. Air Force included piloting various aircraft, such as the RF-4C during 148 missions in Vietnam, and the SR-71 Blackbird, in which he completed over 110 operational high-altitude, high-speed reconnaissance missions during the Cold War. After retiring from the Air Force, Joe dedicated 17 years to managing intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance programs within the defense sector. He also volunteered as a docent, conducting tours at the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum in Washington, D.C., and continues to do so at the National Naval Aviation Museum in Pensacola, Florida.

’75-’87

Bill Demchak ’84 received the Daniel M. Rooney Ambassador’s Award, presented to those who reflect Ambassador Rooney’s leadership, love of Pittsburgh, and contributions to the community. The award was presented during The Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala 2024 in March. As the top leader for PNC Bank for more than a decade, the Fund noted that Demchak “has embodied those attributes to lead the organization into a national banking powerhouse with a major impact across our community.” In attendance at the gala were: Demchak; Debbie Demchak; Bill’s mother, Tina Demchak; Dag Skattum ’84; Paul Malone ’85; Brian Held ’84; Jerry Goodrick ’82; Lisa Matson Goodrick ’81; Dusty Elias Kirk ’75; Maureen Fertig ’84; Ted Black ’87; Amy Eozzo Black ’87; Dr. Chris Brussalis ’87; and Christina Brussalis.

’78

Karen Schmidt O'Connor and Terry O'Connor show off their dry umbrella while visiting Kilkenny, Ireland. “We also had a wonderful time visiting Killarney, with all of the folks at home!” they said.

’77-’04

Three Allegheny alumni met in Denver in February for a strategy meeting in their roles at the Association for Corporate Growth (ACG): CEO of ACG Brent Baxter ’77; ACG – Global Board Director/ACG Denver Board Member (Lion Equity) Aaron Polack ’04; and ACG Denver President-Elect and Board Member (Merion Investment Partners) David Harper ’89. Polack and Harper were also Phi Delta Theta fraternity brothers during their respective journeys at Allegheny. Founded in 1954, ACG has chapters worldwide representing 14,500 members.

’78

Lee Miller says, “I took this picture in November 2023 at La Botticella, a Steelers bar in Rome, Italy, while on vacation with my wife, Rose. There were seven others in the bar, Rose and I, and two couples from Pittsburgh (other unknown). The owner asked me where I went to college, and when I told him Allegheny, he immediately turned and pointed out the pennant.”

’79

Five Phi Delts from the Class of 1979, and their wives, enjoyed eight days in Potrero, Costa Rica, together in mid-January 2024. From left: Dr. Tom Wormer, Melissa Wormer, Barb Gustafson, Phil Gustafson, Rena Spencer, Jonathan Spencer, Kate Bice, Dr. Steve Bice, Beth Goduti, Jim Goduti, Becky Scott, and Rich Scott

’79 & ’80

From left: Leah Zennario '79, Janet Edelman Brendel '79, Lisa Schen '80, and Lynn Zennario '79 visited the Atacama Desert of Chile in March 2024. Says Leah, “We travel together at least once a year and have also been to Panama, Argentina, Spain, and various places in the U.S. Go Gators!”

’80

Bob McGarity ’80, Henry Robin, President Emeritus Richard Cook, and Terry Lahti spent time catching up in Puerto Rico in March 2024. McGarity is a former Trustee, and his husband, Robin, has served as a Zingale Big Idea Competition judge. Cook served as Allegheny's President from 1996-2008. He and Lahti remain close to many Alleghenians from their time at Allegheny.

’78

Jeffrey Dunn has published his new novel, "Wildcat: An Appalachian Romance." Dunn says, “Travel back with a retired English teacher to his roots where he finds a community transformed. The former mine, once a site for tragedy, now thrives as a flourishing mushroom farm, the dairy emerges as a purveyor of life-sustaining organic milk products, and the mill stands as a vibrant hub for sustainable and artisanal creations. Yet amidst this promising rebirth, Wildcat's traumatic history remains. The protagonist must not only grapple with the time of explosions and closures but also with his own dark past — the return of his working-class, hippie-chic girlfriend. Now a BookLife's Editor's Pick, ‘Wildcat’ testifies to the redemptive potential of rediscovered

By Katheryn Frazier

friendship, the restorative power of nature, and our magical capacity for transformation.”

Notes 1980s

Special recognition goes to Robert Locke ’81 and Sara Thorne-Locke ’81, who became members of the President’s Society. The President’s Society honors donors who have lifetime cash giving of $100,000 or more to Allegheny College.

’82

Dr. Pamela Eddy received the Association for the Study of Higher Education Mentoring Award. Information on the award requirements can be found at www.ashe.ws/mentoringaward. You can also see a video presentation on

ALUMNI PROFILE

YouTube by searching ASHE Mentoring Award: Dr. Pamela L. Eddy.

’84

Tracy Carter had her second novel, "Lawyers, Dogs, and Money," published by BookBaby in April (available through numerous retailers). "Veronica and her Chesapeake Bay Retriever, Leda, are back on the case in this second book in the Veronica Kildare K-9 Mystery Series, pivoting from breathtaking wilderness rescues of missing persons into investigation mode. Menace looms as Veronica and Leda try to protect an Estonian woman facing unsettling threats from an unknown adversary. Is it Kadri's social justice advocacy, legal prowess, or something indefinable that has made her a target? Can Veronica and her father

ALLEGHENY GRADUATE GOES FROM CORPORATE VICE PRESIDENT TO KINDERGARTEN TEACHER

It’s never too late to make a change in life. That’s what Jeffrey Dacales ’76 learned after transitioning from a corporate vice president to an elementary school teacher.

“Allegheny College taught me to look at things broadly — to look past a silo, which helped me in education,” says Dacales. “I learned you have to continually learn; Allegheny was great that way.”

After graduating with a bachelor’s degree in economics and political science, Dacales earned his Master of Business Administration in finance from Syracuse University and worked at Citicorp for 14 years.

As he thought about the future, it dawned on him that he didn’t want to remain in a corporate setting. After researching occupations, he realized his interests aligned with teaching, driving him to pursue a master’s degree in early childhood and elementary education from Bank Street College of Education.

Dacales taught for 26 years, with 23 of those years spent at Stowe Elementary School in Vermont, primarily as a kindergarten teacher.

“Teaching rewards you for being kind. I enjoyed interacting with the children and helping them through their day. I made a habit of saying ‘hello’ to each child individually in the morning,” says Dacales. “I enjoyed helping families adjust to public school because, for many families, it was their first child going to school.”

Dacales says his economics background helped him advise on teacher salary negotiations for 20 years. Additionally, his knowledge of political science helped him understand how democracy plays a role in public schools, especially during public meetings.

Outside of the classroom, Dacales got involved in the community by reading Halloween stories and leading a lantern-lighting parade for families during the holidays, which he continues to do each year. He also taught English to children in Greece and volunteered to instruct adults in a refugee camp during the summer.

“There are little things you can do that make a huge impact for kids,” says Dacales. “I loved doing creative projects.”

figure out the puzzle before events turn deadly? The book charges toward a stunning showdown necessitating heroic measures from Leda, and a shocking final twist to the mystery." Carter credits her history and English professors at Allegheny with teaching her how to research and write!

’85

Dr. Kristine Mulhorn was inducted as a Fellow of the Philadelphia College of Physicians based on her dedication to the education of health care professionals and excellence in scholarship in health care, research methods, aging, and disability. The College of Physicians of Philadelphia, founded in 1787, is one of the oldest professional medical organizations in the country. Mulhorn lives in greater Philadelphia and welcomes friends to contact her at mulhornk@yahoo.com.

’86

The Rev. Dr. Mark Hecht continues to serve as senior pastor of First Methodist Church in Warren, Pennsylvania, and as presiding elder of the Warren Circuit. Hecht also published his second book, “Unpacking a Traditional Christmas: 25 Songs and Stories for the Season.”

Amy Souder received the Women Owned Business of the Year Award in Charleston, South Carolina, for 2023. The award was given to her firm, Red Iron Architects, LLC, by the Charleston Regional Business Journal.

’88

Amy Karhu is part of the Golden State Warriors senior dance team, the Hardwood Classics, for the 2023-2024 NBA season. This dance team, for those 55 and older, performs various dance routines at the Golden State Warriors basketball games. “This new chapter of my life is part of a bigger journey started over two years ago that included losing 50 pounds and doing

my first Spartan Challenge 12 days before my 56th birthday, proving that it is never too late to change your life!” she says.

Heidi Schwieger lives and works in southwestern New Hampshire, serving as development director for the Monadnock Center for Violence Prevention. A member of the NH Fulbright Association, she sustains a strong interest in global perspective, exchange of culture, social justice, and peace. The arts remain a powerful force in her life as a thespian, singer, and poet. She makes her home on the shores of Granite Lake, not far from Keene.

’89

CEO for the not-for-profit Korey Stringer Institute, housed at UConn, that focuses on these health/safety issues.

’91

Kim Rowe Crisi retired after 15 years as the laboratory supervisor for ALCOSAN in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and moved to Florida with her husband, Don, and son, Don Jr. She's now the quality assurance manager for KIK Consumer Products, Pool Division, in Palm Coast. She is enjoying the weather and boating on the ICW.

’93

Professor Daniel A. Nathan has been chosen as the next editor of the Journal of Sport History (JSH). A longtime member of the North American Society for Sport History, Nathan has also served as associate editor and as the film, media, and museum reviews editor for the JSH. He is professor of American studies at Skidmore College, where he holds the Douglas Family Chair in American Culture, History, and Literary and Interdisciplinary Studies. The author of the award-winning “Saying It’s So: A Cultural History of the Black Sox Scandal” (2003), Nathan has published essays and reviews in a variety of periodicals.

Notes 1990s

’90

Douglas Casa, Ph.D., ATC, was named a Board of Trustees Distinguished Professor at the University of Connecticut in the summer of 2023, the highest honor bestowed upon a faculty member at UConn. Casa has been a professor in the Department of Kinesiology since 1999. His area of expertise is in the realm of exertional heat stroke, hydration, maximizing exercise performance in the heat, and preventing sudden death for athletes, warfighters, and laborers. Since 2010 he has been the

Anita Buzzy-Prentiss and Lou Castelli ’86 discovered they were Allegheny alumni while working together. Castelli, marketing director of Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre, asked BuzzyPrentiss, owner of Buzzy Photography, to photograph the entire company. “Allegheny encourages students to explore the many sides of themselves, which made it possible to become a photographer who can understand and create images of all kinds of subjects,” Buzzy-Prentiss says. She was a dancer at Allegheny, as well as photographer, actor, and vocalist, and graduated with a degree in communication arts. Castelli also graduated with a degree in communication arts and is an arts marketing leader in Pittsburgh's Cultural District. "We had a vibe all week while shooting, and when we finally made the connection I was like, 'Of course!' There's just something about that Allegheny experience that bonds you."

Max Potter was named a finalist for the 2023 National Magazine Award in the category of Public Interest Reporting.

A contributing editor to Vanity Fair magazine, Potter's piece, "Incident to Service," ran in the January 2023 issue of Vanity Fair. The piece is about a decades-long miscarriage of justice within the United States military. The National Magazine Award is the most prestigious honor in magazines, and it was Potter's third such finalist selection.

The piece won the Military Reporters and Editors James Crawley Award. He most recently took the role of writer/editor with Protect Democracy, “a cross-ideological nonprofit group dedicated to defeating the authoritarian threat and fortifying our democratic institutions.” He served as the editorial consultant to Facebook whistleblower Frances Haugen on her memoir, "The Power of One," published in summer 2023.

’94

Dr. Jennifer Love reports that she has moved from the University of British Columbia to the University of Calgary.

’95

Dr. Jennifer Moorefield Schwanke serves as the deputy superintendent of the Dublin City Schools in Dublin, Ohio.

By Katheryn Frazier

She is the author of four popular books on educational leadership and provides training and professional development for K-12 educators around the United States and Canada. She is also a graduate instructor in educational leadership at Miami University of Ohio.

’96

Jamie Ball announced the successful purchase of the company he has worked at for the last 14 years. Barber's Chemicals Inc. has been in business since 1967 and was a family-owned business until Ball’s purchase in March 2024. This small business has served water, wastewater, and pool customers in Pennsylvania, New York, Ohio, and West Virginia and will continue to operate in those areas. Ball recalls that Dr. Ward Jamison, in speaking about Ball's ability to problem solve and take input from several different people to learn a particularly difficult conducting piece that he was to lead in an emergency,

ALUMNI PROFILE

said that Ball would be an asset to any school or business that he would be part of in the future. Ball says, “I attribute my success to my many mentors at Allegheny, including Dr. Jamison, Dr. Cupper, Dr. Hepler, Dr. Chien, and Dr. Kapfhammer, as well as my Savior and King, Jesus Christ.”

Christopher E. Yokoyama was promoted to geoscience technical specialist in January at Pioneer Natural Resources of Irving, Texas, where he is employed as a petrophysicist. This grade is the highestachievable rank in the scientific technical track and recognizes contributions to both the organization and industry. Prior to his current employer, Yokoyama worked for BP America and Amoco Production Company in Houston, Texas. He received a bachelor’s degree in geology from Allegheny and a master’s degree in geological sciences from Indiana University – Bloomington. He resides in the Dallas-Fort Worth area with his

ALLEGHENY GRADUATE LEADS ERIE INSURANCE HUMAN RESOURCES DIVISION

Karen Skarupski ’83 is inspired to help teams and people achieve their goals at Erie Insurance. As the senior vice president of human resources, Skarupski says Allegheny set her up for success.

“A liberal arts education really fosters curiosity, which has helped me through my legal and business career,” says Skarupski. “The faculty were amazing. The availability of professors and small classes allowed me to develop relationships with them. Schools like Allegheny are really important to develop a well-rounded person.”

After earning her bachelor’s degree in history with a minor in writing, Skarupski pursued a law degree from Case Western Reserve University. Upon graduating, she joined Knox Law Firm and, in 1991, Erie Insurance, where she has been ever since.

“Erie Insurance is an amazing company. It’s a company that is very service-oriented and has a wonderful culture. It supports its employees and the surrounding community,” says Skarupski.

Today, Skarupski leads a team that manages compensation, benefits, and professional development. Before joining human resources, Skarupski had been involved in multiple divisions of Erie Insurance, including law, compliance, and privacy. She also serves as a trustee for the Erie County Bar Foundation.

Skarupksi advises current students to “pick the major you’re most excited about, most interested in, and most curious about. You can foster any type of career so long as you are doing what you love. Take advantage of what a liberal arts education has to offer.”

As a student, one of those opportunities was choir for Skarupksi, and she says her lifelong love of ensemble singing continues to this day. Skarupksi goes on to recognize the impact Allegheny had on her life.

“As I reflect on my Allegheny experience, some of my best friends today are the ones I made there. I’m still best friends with my college roommate; it’s a wonderful community,” says Skarupski.

partner, Dr. Sandy Cope-Yokoyama ’97, and their two children.

’97

Megan Bonner Lyman has been appointed general counsel at Phospholutions Inc., where she will support the expansion of Phospholutions’ business and products portfolio. Prior to this role, she provided strategic intellectual property guidance to venture funds and companies in ag biotech. Lyman has a bachelor’s degree in biology from Allegheny, a master’s degree in molecular biology from the University of Colorado, and a Juris Doctor from Pepperdine University, in addition to being a former National Science Foundation and National Institutes of Health Fellow.

’98

Arthur Payne has been working with drug and alcohol users for the last 15 years in North Carolina since he received his master’s degree. He is now chief at Morse Clinic in Durham, North Carolina.

Ben Schulz has published a smashing new novel, “Needs More Burritos.” “It is a story about the Detroit Lions and one man's dream of winning the Super Bowl. Available on Amazon!”

’99

Amy Overman, Ph.D., was appointed dean of the College of Professional Sciences at Xavier University in Cincinnati as of July 8, 2024. She previously served as assistant provost for scholarship and creative activity and chief research officer at Elon University in North Carolina.

Notes 2000s

’01

Joe Rossi has been named Michigan State’s Secchia Family Defensive Coordinator and linebackers coach. He spent the past seven seasons (2017-23) at Minnesota. Rossi was a four-year letterwinner as a defensive lineman at Allegheny, where he earned a bachelor's degree in history. He earned All-NCAC honors three times while starting in 41

games. As a team captain in 2000, he recorded 12 sacks – tied for the most in school history – along with 19 tackles for loss, and his 23 career sacks still rank fourth most in the Gator record book.

’02

Kelly Mack Boulton, Allegheny College director of sustainability, was recognized as one of the Commonwealth's most influential difference-makers on the City & State Pennsylvania Impact list. In her role, Boulton led Allegheny to become one of just eight U.S. higher education institutions to achieve carbon neutrality in 2020 – efforts that resulted in a White House honor.

Dr. Ashleigh Fox received her Ph.D. in instructional management and leadership from Robert Morris University. Her dissertation explored alternative grading in higher education. Fox was promoted to associate professor and granted tenure at the Community College of Allegheny County in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, where she teaches English, oversees the honors program at her campus, and coordinates the first-year experience program for the college.

she serves as an elected councilperson and lives with her husband, Russ, and their two children, Jake and Zoe.

Kendra Stanton Lee shared a story of an encounter with quicksand on the “This American Life” podcast, episode #821, "Embrace the Suck." Lee teaches high school English at Dexter Southfield School in Brookline, Massachusetts, where she enjoys daily encounters with the head of school and fellow Allegheny alum Todd Vincent ’85.

’03

Shannon McNeill Barron was appointed library services manager of the Allegheny County Law Library (ACLL). ACLL has been supporting the legal needs and research of Allegheny County since 1867 and is now under the management of another historic institution, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh. Before taking on this new role at ACLL, Barron served as head of the Children's Department at Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh - Main. Outside of libraries, Barron resides in the Pittsburgh suburb of Green Tree where

Rachel Wysocki Kent was named an AI Classroom Innovator by Arizona State University and GSV Ventures. Kent was invited to speak at the inaugural ASU + GSV AIRShow on generative AI tools for teachers. She also debuted her forever-free training guide for educators on how to leverage AI tools for teachers in the AI Toolbox for Teachers, www.aitoolboxforteachers. com. In addition, Kent spoke on a panel of artificial intelligence and education experts with the University at Buffalo’s Institute of Artificial Intelligence and Data Science. She is proud to be a curriculum developer for the U.S. market with Curipod, a Norwegian-based educational technology company that leverages AI to create immersive learning experiences for students.

Jon Kowalski, a corporate banking executive at First Commonwealth Bank, was promoted to Metro PA regional president. He joined the bank in December 2022 as a corporate banking group manager. He has an extensive background in corporate banking and credit administration, spanning more than two decades. Kowalski has a bachelor’s degree in economics from Allegheny.

’05

Megan McClean Coval has been appointed interim president of Butler County Community College in Pennsylvania. She served as executive director of the BC3 Education Foundation and external relations. Coval has a bachelor’s degree in political science from Allegheny and a master’s in higher education administration from The Pennsylvania State University.

Sabina Sully, coordinator of expeditionary learning and a special educator at Patterson Park Public Charter School in Baltimore, Maryland, has been selected by National Geographic Society and Lindblad Expeditions as one of 35 pre-K-12 classroom and informal

By Jenny Goldsmith

ALUMNI-LED MARKETING FIRM RECOGNIZED FOR

NONPROFIT WORK

TrailBlaze Creative, an Allegheny College alumni-led Pittsburgh marketing and communications agency, has clinched four prestigious awards at the 19th Annual Davey Awards, as well as two Public Relations Society of America awards for their work with affordable homeownership, creative advocacy, and residential development media relations.

Founded in 2015 by Tim Hindes ’00, who later recruited his college friend Erin Hartong Sogal ’00 to the role of vice president, Trailblaze Creative is dedicated to making a positive impact through innovative communication. The company specializes in crafting content and developing strategic campaigns that drive meaningful change.

“What makes working with nonprofits, small businesses, and communities or municipalities so rewarding for us is the profound impact we can create,” says Hindes, who majored in communication and media, with a minor in art, science, and innovation. “Our motivation stems from the ability to effect substantial change, not only within the organizations themselves, but also through the broader influence these entities exert in their respective communities and regions. Witnessing tangible transformations in people’s lives and communities is incredibly fulfilling.”

The Davey Awards are sanctioned and judged by the Academy of Interactive and Visual Arts (AIVA), comprising top professionals from brand, media, interactive, advertising, and marketing firms. The awards recognize outstanding creative work from small teams and independent creators. TrailBlaze’s dedication to creative excellence has been recognized with three Silver Awards and one coveted Gold Award in diverse categories.

“Winning the Davey Awards holds a special significance for TrailBlaze. It represents not just an acknowledgment of our work, but a validation from our industry peers that the efforts we put into our projects are meaningful and impactful,” Hindes says. “What makes these awards even more significant to us is the context in which we receive them. Our projects often go head-to-head with corporate campaigns that have substantial budgets, far exceeding what our nonprofit clients can allocate. So, when our work competes on an equal footing with these well-resourced campaigns and emerges victorious, it fills us with immense pride.”

Hindes and Sogal’s journey together traces back to their college days, where they were both part of the tight-knit communication and media community, often found burning the midnight oil in

the editing bays of Arter Hall. Their paths consistently converged as they navigated similar courses, collaborated on various projects, and shared a deep admiration for their mentor, Mike Keeley.

“Tim and I also shared the same passion for communications, which led us to work together on various group projects and at ACTV,” says Sogal, who also majored in communication and media with a minor in political science and creative writing. “One of my favorite projects we worked on together was a children’s show for Professor Mike Keeley’s production class. Launching ACTV was also so fun because we had the opportunity to build something that left a legacy at the College. Professor Keeley’s leadership in the ACTV launch, production projects, and my Comp taught me so much, including how to lead and teach others with compassion and intentionality.”

Aside from a shared vision for collaborative communications, Sogal also chose to attend Allegheny to play on the women’s lacrosse team, an experience that continues to shape her professional and personal life.

“I love the sport and also loved being part of a team, and having that experience in college was also a formative experience,” Sogal says. “As a student-athlete, I learned how to manage my time effectively, balancing rigorous academics with practice and game schedules.”

The marketing duo’s connection goes beyond college camaraderie; it’s also a tribute to a shared friend and Allegheny alumna, the late Adriane Aul ’00

Sogal and Aul were roommates and close friends during their time at Allegheny, and their friendship remained strong post-graduation. Aul went on to become a leader in Pittsburgh’s economic development ecosystem, championing causes like vacant lot revitalization, affordable housing, and community improvements. Seven years after graduating, Aul sadly lost her battle with brain cancer. Sogal and Hindes now see their work together at TrailBlaze as a way of honoring Aul’s legacy, carrying forward her mission of building vibrant, thriving communities, and intersecting with many of the same topics and partners that were a driving passion for Aul.

“The most rewarding moments come when we see smiles on the faces of residents going through challenging times and witness the renewal of hope and pride in their communities,” Hindes says. “We firmly believe that such work is absolutely critical for communities to offer opportunity, civic discourse, and a sense of obligation that contributes to the vibrancy of the places we all call home.”

educators from across the continent to be part of their 16th cohort of Grosvenor Teacher Fellows. As a fellow, she will embark on a Lindblad ExpeditionsNational Geographic voyage to Patagonia aboard the National Geographic Explorer. Throughout her expedition, she will get hands-on, field-based educational and research opportunities, as well as a once-in-a-lifetime travel experience that she will use to inform her curriculum and inspire her students to become environmental stewards.

’06

Christina Rivera O’Connor, RPh, PharmD, BCPS, BCIDP, AAHIV-P, received associate appointment at Mayo Clinic in May 2024. Associate appointment is a formal recognition for eligible individuals who contribute in unusually important ways to the three shields of practice, research, and education in both the Department of Pharmacy and Mayo Clinic and sustain that contribution over at least five years. O’Connor also holds joint academic appointment as assistant professor of pharmacy and of medicine at Mayo Clinic College of Medicine.

’07

Lacey Keefer Wilson has been appointed public health director for Chautauqua County (New York). She has more than 10 years of experience in community health, social behavior, aging services, and public health program planning, development, and implementation. Wilson received a bachelor’s degree in psychology with honors from Allegheny and a master’s in public health with honors from University of Albany. She also completed a dietetic internship at Sage Graduate School.

’08

Benjamin Swanekamp shared that as campaign manager, he successfully managed Erie County (New York) Executive Mark Poloncarz's campaign to win a historic fourth term.

’09

Dr. Emily Ricotta joined the faculty of the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences (USU) in Bethesda, Maryland, in March 2024. She is an assistant professor of epidemiology in

the Department of Preventive Medicine and Biostatistics at the F. Edward Hébert School of Medicine. USU provides medical and graduate health sciences education to the armed services and U.S. civilians. There, Ricotta will be continuing her research on infectious disease epidemiology and improving clinical study design while teaching epidemiology and advanced research methods to graduate students.

Notes 2010s

’11

Vince Luvara has been named football coach at Hampden-Sydney College. Luvara played four years (linebacker) at Allegheny. He coached one year at Allegheny and two years at Misericordia University before coaching most recently for nine years at Washington & Jefferson.

’12

income products (i.e., annuities).” As part of Jackson’s Government Relations Department, Caruso engages with public officials on policy issues of importance to Jackson while also creating and maintaining a legislative and regulatory policy monitoring and reporting system. He serves as vice chair of the Insured Retirement Institute’s securities committee and is a member of the Exchequer Club of Washington, D.C. Caruso has a bachelor's degree in political science from Allegheny and was inducted into Pi Sigma Alpha, the National Political Science Honor Society.

’16

Steven Jones Osier earned his master's degree in library and information science at Southern Connecticut State University on May 17, earning a cumulative GPA of 3.91 after completing his special project, “AI in the Stacks & Stores –Standards for Regulating & Monitoring AI-Generated/Assisted Works in the Publishing Industry” and presenting this project to faculty and peers in a hybrid online/in-person forum. Osier is working part time in a rural library near his home of Tolland, Connecticut, developing and executing programming/outreach for all ages to gain experience while maintaining a full-time job in the wholesale grocery industry. He is searching for a full-time position in a public or academic library. He was also the recipient of a $1,200 scholarship from the Association of Rural and Small Libraries to attend the 2024 ARSL Conference in Springfield, Massachusetts, this September.

’13

Joseph A. Caruso III was promoted to assistant vice president and head of public policy for Jackson Financial, “a Fortune 500, NYSE-listed company and leading provider of guaranteed lifetime

Samantha H. Catalano joined Gallagher & Kennedy’s environmental law team in Santa Fe, New Mexico, focusing her regulatory practice on civil litigation, natural resources, and oil and gas law. She brings a unique scientific perspective, having previously worked in lab research, medical administration, and as a veterinary technician. A California native, she earned her Juris Doctor summa cum laude from University of New Mexico School of Law and her bachelor’s degree with honors in biology from New Mexico State University. She also studied cell biology, neuroscience, and Spanish at Allegheny.

’17

Jessie Thiessen Gostowski was picked for the North Coast Athletic Conference (NCAC) women’s soccer 40th anniversary all-decade team. Players had to compete in the NCAC between 2013-23 to be eligible. Gostowski helped the Gators reach the NCAA Division III tournament in 2013 and 2014. In 2013, Allegheny won the NCAC title. Gostowski ranks sixth in program history in points with 79 and is seventh with 29 goals scored.

’19

Jacob Quentin Gagliastri (pen name J.Q. Gagliastro) released their dystopian, debut novel “The Diary of a Sugarbaby” in November 2023. “It is a scathing satire on queer erasure, social class, and outdated gerontocratic policies, among other themes, and is considered the queer baby of Atwood’s ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’

and Orwell’s ‘1984.’ It is a brutally honest tale about J.Q.’s upbringing and, upon its release, has been met with instant success, becoming a #1 New Release in LGBTQ+ Coming of Age Fiction!”

Dr. Dana O’Connor obtained her Ph.D. in materials science and engineering from Carnegie Mellon University in December of 2023. She now works as a machine learning research scientist at the Pittsburgh Supercomputing Center.

Notes 2020s

’20

Dr. Diana Pendleton graduated as a doctor of veterinary medicine from the University of Minnesota Veterinary School in May and was matched to the University of Pennsylvania for a small animal rotating internship. She moved to Philadelphia in June to start her internship at PennVet.

Submit your news and events for inclusion in Class Notes: allegheny.edu/classnotes

Share your own story or experience for Allegheny to feature: allegheny.edu/storyideas

’05-’07

The 40th birthday of Katie Selby DiSantis ’06 was celebrated with a surprise party this May. Alumni in attendance were Jim Scriven ’05, Heidi Hamilton Scriven ’06, Michael DiSantis ’05, Elyssa Prince ’06, David Stainbrook ’07, Jinelle Crosser ’07, Heather Kozlosky ’06, and Christian Gass ’06

’12 & ’13

Carly Casale Fritz '12 and Patrick Fritz '13 founded Caleb’s Crusaders Heart Foundation in honor of their son Caleb’s continued journey with chronic heart disease. In September, they hosted their first annual golf outing at Edgewood Country Club in Pittsburgh and raised over $20,000 in support of UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh and their heart warriors. Carly and Patrick are pictured with their sons Owen (5) and Caleb (3) during a check presentation to the UPMC Children’s Hospital Foundation to help heart families in need. To learn more about Caleb’s journey and to support their mission, visit calebscrusaders.org or follow them on social media.

Unions

’07

Richard “Dick” Palmer ’07 and his wife, Cheyenne, were married on November 11, 2023.

’12

Stephanie Zellers ’12 and Matt Csencsits were married on October 25, 2023, at Anse Chastanet Resort in St. Lucia. Fellow alumna Allie Tallman '12 was also in attendance.

’14 & ’15

Wyatt Good ’14 and Kerri Barron ’15 wed on September 9, 2023, in Erie, Pennsylvania. Wyatt and Kerri began dating at Allegheny, where Wyatt was a brother of Theta Chi fraternity and Kerri was a sister of Alpha Chi Omega sorority. In their wedding party were Allegheny alumni Jordana Tenenbaum Kelly ’14, Edward Kelly ’14, Trey Carbeau ’14, Adam Renchner-Kelly ’14, Lizzy Donaldson Kolbrener ’15, James Barron ’17, and Benjamin Dauber ’14, with many more Gators in attendance. Wyatt and Kerri are thankful to Allegheny for bringing them together.

’19 & ’20

Brittany Imel Zoll '19 and Zachary Zoll '20 got married July 23, 2023, in York, Pennsylvania, surrounded by family and friends. Other alumni in attendance: Rob Smith '73, Nancy Newton Smith '74, Jordan Rawls '20, Zach Andrews '20, Andrew Kirn '20, Devin Spitalny '20, Zach Ecker '21, Anna Poach Ecker

'23, Tyler Stouffer '19, Zach Canali '19, Julia Drozdowsky '19, Megan Hazlett Monteleone '19, Jacob Zoll '24, Arissa Spitalny Caldarulo '19, Marcus Wolf '22, Caden Hinckley '23, Cayton Hornberger '20, and Adele Gilman '20

Arrivals

’12

Caitlin Rothman Andryka ’12 and Dr. Michael Andryka ’12 welcomed daughter Emilia Anne in November 2023. Emilia joins her siblings Elijah Michael and Lena Christine.

George Thomas ’06 and his wife, Megan, welcomed their second son, Jude Andrew Thomas, who was born November 16, 2023.

’09 & ’11

Christopher Cantwell '09 and Nicole Mascia Cantwell '11 welcomed their second child, Christopher Luka Cantwell, into the world on January 7, 2023. Also pictured is big sister Olivia Rose Cantwell.

’12 & ’15

Shane Gallocher ’12 and Emma Brooker Gallocher ’15 welcomed a daughter, Nora, on April 3, 2024.

’17

Brittney Hunt Barclay ’17 and Nick Barclay ’17 welcomed baby No. 3, Giovanni, on May 5, 2024. His sisters, Bella and Mia, are excited to have a baby brother! Kevin C. Dumpe, M.D., ’78 delivered Giovanni at Heritage Valley Beaver.

Notices & Obituaries

Find the full listing at allegheny.edu/magazine

These include death notices reported by June 1, 2024. ’46

James Lambert Weber on May 3, 2024

’47

Martha Jane “MJ” Sector Paul on March 23, 2024

’48

Sally Miller Brooks on January 11, 2024

Sally Frum McGrew on February 17, 2024

’49

Dr. Herman Wexler on March 20, 2024

Dorothy Elizabeth “Betty” Orris Woods on December 3, 2023

’50

James Alfred Edwards on April 15, 2024

Marilyn Werley Shannon on January 19, 2024

’51

Gwyneth Owens Noble on January 29, 2024

’52

John Jarboe on February 17, 2024

William “Bill” Burwell Sample Jr. on January 31, 2024

Dr. C. Deem Schoenfeld on May 19, 2024

James Caldwell Welton on December 1, 2023

’53

C. Edwin Benson on May 2, 2024

Daniel K. Bittler on February 11, 2024

Nancy Archer Walk on April 15, 2024

’54

Michael D'Angelo Jr. on April 5, 2024

Dr. Robert Edward Dininny on January 1, 2024

Marjorie "Jane" Dallas Dunn on December 8, 2023

John Pope Ellis on April 7, 2024

Ann Huston Kazarian, M.D., on December 22, 2023

Suzanne Stockman Lemka on February 18, 2024

Gloria Thompson Miller on April 10, 2024

Lois Jeffrey Harvey Pollard on April 23, 2024

’55

Kathrine Rosalie Dunkle Heath on January 2, 2024

Elizabeth Fish Kohler on December 21, 2023

Lt. Col. Howard Ray Seamens USAF (Ret.) on November 29, 2023

’56

Richard J. Dilts on May 22, 2024

William C. "Bill" Mumaw on May 8, 2024

’57

Joel Richard Gilson on January 6, 2024

Julia Gwen McCartney Ligo on December 4, 2023

Dorothy “Dotty” Tolley Morgan on March 23, 2024

’58

Shelby Gail Brundage Chesko on April 20, 2024

Margaret L. “Ticky” Hendricks on January 24, 2024

’59

Ernest H. Gelman, Esq., on March 15, 2024

Dr. Paul Reed Reeb Jr. on March 30, 2024

’60

Dr. Barbara Hotham Iglewski on December 10, 2023

David W. Laughery Jr. on April 30, 2024

David C. McChesney, DDS, on April 12, 2024

Benjamin Franklin Oswald III on December 20, 2023

Dennis “Tex” A. Swan on January 18, 2024

’61

Dr. Maggie Burns on March 16, 2024

Robert “Bob” Heaton Evans on April 3, 2024

Donald M. Nelson on May 21, 2024

John Peter “Pete” Rushworth on November 7, 2023

Ronald Eugene Steiner on April 26, 2024

’62

John Peter Amato on February 29, 2024

Dr. Michael Brunt on October 1, 2023

Ronald W. Jones on December 3, 2023

James “Jim” Slocum, M.D., on February 9, 2024

Dr. Charles “Skip” William Smith Jr. on January 26, 2024

’63

John H. Esterly Jr. on May 1, 2024

Jean Carol Apthorp Knowles on December 26, 2023

Deane Andrew Shure on March 9, 2024

Kathleen Davis Snider on March 31, 2024

Judy Keck Young on February 15, 2024

’64

Brion J. Hathaway on November 25, 2022

Martha Edwards Hill on October 27, 2023

Robert “Bob” Edward Wilson on November 24, 2023

’65

Patricia Clair Bernhard in April 2024

Elizabeth "Betsy" Martha Miller Blackmar on March 23, 2024

Clarence “Carney” Metzgar on January 16, 2024

Alma Jean Laird Swanson on January 5, 2024

Jane Below Stevens on May 18, 2024

’66

Leonard Craig Harris on April 10, 2024

Eric Loeb on May 11, 2024

Col. James Leland McIntire Jr. USMC

(Ret.) on December 29, 2023

’67

Marcia Lee Brevoort on March 10, 2024

Gary Walter Burg on March 2, 2024

Brenda Whitlatch Doubrava on March 15, 2024

’68

Jack M. Anthony on June 29, 2023

James Shuck Bryan on February 11, 2024

’70

Dianne Lockhart Burke on January 14, 2024

Sarah “Sally” Judson Mays on May 22, 2024

Christine Marie Piscione Parisi on January 20, 2024

’71

Jacquard "Jay" Welsh Guenon on July 20, 2023

Thomas A. Piraino Jr. on March 22, 2024

Walter H. Steinlauf on November 18, 2023

’72

Susan Shefte Connell on December 12, 2023

James Daniel Murphy on June 26, 2023

Carol A. Gustafson Somers on May 5, 2024

’73

John Preston O’Connell on January 22, 2024

’74

Michael “Mike” Ellenberger on May 2, 2024

’76

Laura S. Bradbury Keeney on May 14, 2024 ’77

Aline "Lalla" M. Stolar on May 16, 2024

Dr. Henry C. Van Zanten on March 11, 2024

’79

Wayne K. Cameron on August 4, 2023

Ronald Preston Heasley on April 18, 2024

’80

Robert T. McDermott on May 15, 2024

’81

Barry Johnson on October 2, 2023

’83

Mark James Sydlowski on January 30, 2024

’85

Mary Ann Keller on January 17, 2024

Dr. Roy Robson on January 29, 2024

’88

Gia Mia Celularo on February 7, 2024

’90

John Charles Kieger on March 13, 2024

’91

Barbara Alice Torbjornsen on November 27, 2023

’93

Michelle K. Korinko on January 20, 2024

’94

Geoffrey Allan Turk on May 9, 2024

’07

Alexander James Pavlik on May 12, 2024

Friends

Doris Ann Briggs on February 3, 2024

Jean Carol Lundahl on January 19, 2024

Thomas E. McFate on May 28, 2024

Darwin Johnson Prockop on January 22, 2024

Samuel "Sam" Sterrett Harrison, Ph.D., ’63

Alumnus and Former Professor of Environmental Science & Geology

Dr. Samuel "Sam" Sterrett Harrison died June 22, 2024, at Wesbury United Methodist Community, Meadville.

Dr. Harrison was born in Union City, on February 19, 1941, a son of the late Dr. Paul Harrison 1926 and Emma (Sterrett) Harrison. On June 1, 1963 he married Linda Weed; she preceded him in death on June 7, 2023, sharing 60 years of marriage.

Following his 1959 graduation from Union City High School, Dr. Harrison completed his undergraduate studies at Allegheny in 1963, before earning his Ph.D. from the University of North Dakota in 1968. From 1968-1970 Dr. Harrison was employed as assistant professor of geology at the University of Wisconsin. In 1970 he returned to Crawford County

and became a professor of geology at Allegheny College. He also started a new course of study, Aquatic Environments/ Environmental Science, and taught both subjects in Alden Hall until 1989, when he began working self-employed as a hydrogeologic consultant with Harrison Hydrosciences until his retirement. He also wrote two books, "Meandering Through Saegertown History," sharing stories about Saegertown that had not been written in the past, and "You Start With Your Left Foot: The Amazing History of Saegertown School Marching Band, 1953-1961.” In his younger days, Dr. Harrison played the coronet and trumpet in many bands, and sang in his high school and college choirs, including the Cussewago Jazz Band at Allegheny College.

Dr. Harrison is survived by three children Kelley S. Harrison Levis ’86 (Christopher) of Saegertown, Brooke S. Harrison (Linda) of Edinboro, J. Benjamin Harrison (Tresa) of Pittsburgh; eight grandchildren Jocelyn Levis Windahl ’13 (Kyle), Malorie Zimardo (Matthew), Isaac Levis, Gabriel Harrison, Emma Harrison, Ian Harrison, Quinn Harrison, Alaina Harrison; three great grandchildren; a brother Paul Harrison of Durham, NC; a half brother Paul Harrison of Alexandria, VA; several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents and his wife, Linda, Dr. Harrison was preceded in death by two sisters, Virginia Thompson and Emma Sterre Harrison.

REUNION WEEKEND SAVE THE DATE MAY 29–JUNE 1, 2025

“Being back on campus reminded me what a special place Allegheny is. It truly felt like coming home. Thanks to all who worked to make it a special weekend. My friends and I look forward to attending many more of these in the years to come.”

– Alison Buzzard ’14

REUNION CELEBRANTS

5th: 2020

10th: 2015

15th Generational: 2009/10/11

25th: 2000

30th: 1995

35th Generational: 1989/90/91

40th: 1985

50th: 1975

Torchbearers

Classes of 1974 and prior

ABC (Association of Black Collegians/Association for the Advancement of Black Culture)

Choir (Alumni, current students, and friends of the Allegheny Choirs)

Watch for registration information in your inbox this spring!

For the most up-to-date information about Reunion Weekend, including overnight lodging, please go to allegheny.edu/reunion QUESTIONS Alumni Office (814) 332-5384 | alumni@allegheny.edu

The Last Word

by Lindsay Nagle Mericli ’04 Alumni Council President

Mapping Your Path Through Allegheny and Beyond

I love a good map. The idea that you can sit down, see the relationship between points, explore what is in between – the rivers, the towns, the sites – and you see a beginning and an end. In my new role as Alumni Council President, I have been returning to campus frequently and can’t help but put myself in the shoes of our students. I would imagine that each and every Allegheny student today has their own “map” – a plan where they see themselves in four, three, or fewer years based upon how close they are to graduation.

While your time at Allegheny may have come to an end, I hope you do not feel like you have reached the final stop on your 'Allegheny map.' I encourage you to continue to find ways to engage with the College, whether it’s communicating with faculty, attending Reunion Weekend or an event in your area, or even connecting with a current student to offer career or industry advice on our Gator2Gator platform.

Depending upon your own precociousness as a student, you may or may not have had your “map” planned as you started at Allegheny. You imagined taking certain classes in a certain discipline, marking off notches as you progressed through your studies and – POOF! – at the end of your Allegheny experience you’d reach the other side of your map – a clear path, defined by marked roads and planned stops, with few diversions along the way.

But how many of us actually followed the map that we started with? Certainly a few did (my fellow Allegheny grad husband!), but many of us, I dare say MOST of us, did not. What you initially thought was your path ended up changing. In fact, you moved to an entirely different map! Perhaps this might mean a change in majors, a pivot in one’s career, or exploring a new creative outlet or hobby. How do we manage to stay focused, achieve fulfillment, and even excel when suddenly looking at an unfamiliar map? Luckily, the Allegheny grad is provided with an amazing tool for this: the intellectual and professional resilience created by a higher education firmly rooted in the liberal arts provides a “compass” of sorts, revealing a path forward even when faced with a new map.

You have been reading in this issue about the incredible faculty of Allegheny College. They are on the cutting edge of their disciplines and eager to share their knowledge with today’s Allegheny students. In one of his novels, Reif Larsen shares that “a map does not just chart, it unlocks and formulates meaning; it forms bridges between here and there, between disparate ideas that we did not know were previously connected.” For students, our Allegheny faculty are the ones who illuminate that bridge between the worlds – helping students understand different disciplines and then weave those disciplines together or apply them in unique and interesting ways. The role our faculty play is vital to ensuring that our Allegheny students not only read the “maps'' of today, but more importantly, they are the cartographers of the maps of the future – applying highly unique skill sets to the professional demands of an everchanging world. This is the heart of an Allegheny College liberal arts education.

While your time at Allegheny may have come to an end, I hope you do not feel like you have reached the final stop on your “Allegheny map.” I encourage you to continue to find ways to engage with the College, whether it’s communicating with faculty, attending Reunion Weekend or an event in your area, or even connecting with a current student to offer career or industry advice on our Gator2Gator platform. These are just a few ways that we, as alumni, can ensure that our “Allegheny map” lives on. In doing so, our path can continue the trajectory that started with our Allegheny education. We can bridge the space and time between our campus experience and the campus of today, not only for our benefit, but also for the benefit of future students and for Allegheny in its many years to come.

I’m “In for Allegheny,” and I hope that you will be, too!

Only those who will risk going too far can possibly find out how far one can go.

T.S.

Eliot

Shared by Lindsay Nagle Mericli ’04