Alvernian October 2015 by Alvernia University

October/November 2015

Volume 54 Issue 2

what’s in

The Two Wes Moores

THIS ISSUE

Photo courtesy of Lauren Knecht

By Olivia Cleary Contributing Writer

NACA Conference

Author Wes Moore (left) with first year student Lauren Knecht (right).

The Voice of Alvernia Athletics

AU Men’s Basketball Soon to Start

Rhodes Scholar and author Wes Moore visited Alvernia University in late September to discuss his book “The Other Wes Moore.” Moore’s talk was attended by all first year students, as well as many students from Reading High. Alvernia chose “The Other Wes Moore” as its first year reading this year. The central theme of the book addresses privilege and poverty, as well as the importance of the decisions we make. Growing up in an impoverished area of Baltimore,

Continued on page 3

Peter Keefe Crowned Mr. Alvernia

Preparation for Big Storms

By Jillian Baker Contributing Writer

By Brian O’Shaughnessy Editor

Where can you find lacrosse players performing cheerleading stunts, a first year student with a bamboo crown, a senior Sport Management major hitting on the assistant to the Provost, a Crusader Crazy slinging pizza dough across the stage, and a bunch of guys wearing anything but clothes? In the Francis Hall Theater at the Mr. Alvernia competition. On Thursday, October 15, students stood in line for over an hour hoping to get seats to see six Alvernia students compete to win the title of Mr. Alvernia 2015. Mikey Brutto, Nick Bombard, Eli Benner, Matt Baer, Bryan Sobczak, and Peter Keefe were this year’s contestants. The competitors were judged based on scores they received in the following rounds: pickup lines, talent, anything but clothes, and judges’ question. There was also a penny war and a Mr. Congeniality competition in which students texted the number to indicate their

favorite contestant after the show. Each contestant was to represent an organization that they are a part of on campus, such as clubs, sports teams, etc.. The first round was the pickup line contest. Each male had his turn to use the best line and try to woo Sharon Blair, the Executive Assistant to the Provost. The contestants had prior knowledge of each of the rounds, so they were able to prepare accordingly. “To prepare for Mr. Alver-

nia I practiced my jokes and how to deliver them properly. I felt as though the other competitors were extremely funny. I thought I could have been funnier though,” Eli Benner, Mr. Track and Field, said. Bryan Sobczak, Mr. CAB, was the winner of the pickup line competition. Anything but clothes is just what it sounds like. Each contestant had to put together an outfit using items that are not commonly worn as clothing. Their outfits also had to

Continued on page 5

Photo courtesy of Jenna Harper

Paying Homage to Pope Francis

Moore was exposed to poverty and crime on a daily basis. Moore chose to write about the challenges he faced in his life as a way of dealing with his feelings. Moore’s experiences guided him to become a bestselling author, as well as an Army combat veteran. Moore was a paratrooper as well as a captain in the United States Army. He later served a combat tour in Afghanistan. Moore’s book “The Other Wes Moore,” addresses the story of two boys with the same name who have different fates. One is spending his life trying to make an impact on the world as well as trying

Peter Keefe (center), “Mr. IAB,” wins the title of Mr. Alvernia 2015.

After heavy snows and bitterly cold temperatures last year, Alvernia and the Reading area is preparing for another hard winter. With last year’s snowfall cancelling several days of class and causing hazardous conditions around campus, would most resident students feel safer on campus or at home? Hannah Asbury, sophomore, feels most comfortable staying on campus. “I would stay on campus because I know that the university would do everything in their power to keep us safe as students,” Asbury said. “Nobody can really do anything to prevent a storm. I know Alvernia would do everything in its power to prepare and protect us as a student body.” Shayla Lapp, junior, was not as confident as Ashbury. “I’d definitely go home,” Lapp said. “Honestly, if we are talking about a storm that could be disastrous in anyway and God

Continued on page 3

campus news

October/November 2015

STAFF Managing Editor Amber Nikolaus Layout Amber Nikolaus Section Editors Veronica Cepparulo Leah Green Anne Heck Samuel Mirarchi Brian O’Shaughnessy Contributing Writers Jillian Baker Olivia Cleary Courtney Daniels Siani Flores Shannon Homa Madison Kaley Keith Noonan Jaionna Odom Faculty Advisor Dr. Ryan Lange

The Alvernian is the official student newspaper of Alvernia University. To contact newspaper staff, the office telephone number is 610-796-8358.

Articles submitted for consideration into The Alvernian should be written in some semblance of AP style. Letters to the editor, requests for advertisements, and general comments and questions may be submitted to ryan.lange@alvernia.edu. The editors reserve the right to edit submissions for clarity, accuracy, and length.

The views expressed in The Alvernian are those of the individual writers and do not necessarily reflect the student body, faculty, staff, administration, or sponsors.

Flynn Files: November 2015 Surveys of our graduating seniors confirm the countless observations I hear from students: Alvernia’s faculty are knowledgeable, skilled as teachers, dedicated to students’ learning and exceptionally caring about each student as an individual. At the annual senior leaders’ dinner, I regularly hear about faculty members outside each student’s major whose courses were memorable and who have had a positive, personal impact. None of this is surprising. All of us at Alvernia expect this of our faculty. And our faculty—to their credit— expect it of themselves. Our students take none of this for granted. They recognize that the quality of our faculty’s effort is directly related to the quality of their Alvernia experience. In some fields, students know their faculty members have extensive practical experience, whether as counselors and clinical psychologists, healthcare professionals, business consultants, or other professional practitioners. But most students are not aware that many of their faculty members are productive scholars, with impressive accomplishments. They publish articles and deliver formal, invited addresses. A large number have also published books. Recently, we recognized 15 faculty members who have authored books, an impressive number indeed for a faculty of our size with extensive teaching and other duties. So here is your chance to meet some interesting and distinguished faculty authors! Within the past year, three of our talented young humanities professors—JOSH HAYES (Philosophy), KEVIN DONNELLY (History), and JANAE SHOLTZ (Philosophy and Women’s/Gender Studies)-have published well-received books. • Josh’s area of interest is ancient philosophy, with emphasis on Aristotle. The subject of his innovative coedited volume is Aristotle and the Arabic Tradition. • Kevin teaches European and world history, including courses on the history of happiness, the history of science, World War I, and the global slave trade. His recent book is Adolphe

Quetelet, Social Physics, and the Average Men of Science, 1796-1874. • Janae is currently one of our two prestigious Neag Professors, a distinction that recognizes excellence in teaching and research. Her focus is on 20th century and contemporary philosophy, with special interest in social and political philosophy. Janae’s book is The Invention of a People: Heidegger and Deleuze on Art and the Political. Two senior professors in philosophy—BONGRAE SEOK and SR. JACINTA RESPONDOWSKA—have multiple books. • Sr. Jacinta has published two volumes in her Come Along series, We are Truth-Bound Volumes I and II. She is currently working on Volume III, We are GloryBound. • Bongrae, another Neag Professor, has a new book, Embodied Moral Psychology and Confucian Philosophy, reflecting his interdisciplinary interests and expertise in Asian philosophy. It builds on seven previously published books. Another humanities faculty member, TOM BIEROWSKI (English), author of Kerouac in Ecstasy: Shamanic Expression in his Writings, teaches a range of literature and writing courses and mentors many student writers. Two psychology faculty members, ANA RUIZ and JUDY WARCHAL, collaborated on Service-Learning Code of Ethics, reflecting their pioneering commitment to this important pedagogy. • Ana has also recently co-authored another book, Service Learning in Psychology: Enhancing Undergraduate Education for the Public Good. She teaches a range of courses in our psychology program. • Judy is the lead faculty member in our counseling program and a licensed psychologist. Another impressive collaboration involves three business professors, SCOTT BALLANTYNE, BETH BERRET, and MARY ELLEN WELLS. Their book Planning in Reverse: A Viable Approach to Organizational Leadership combines the trios’ academic expertise with their experience as practitioners.

Photo courtesy of Snavely

t h e alver n ian

Vol. 54 Issue 2

Alvernia University President Dr. Thomas Flynn

• Scott teaches finance and leadership courses and lends his expertise to departments such as education, healthcare science and nursing. • Beth specializes in human resources. • Mary Ellen teaches courses in law, negotiation, conflict resolution and accounting. Similar combinations of technical expertise and field experience are reflected in the work of DOLORES BERTOTI (Physical Therapy and Athletic Training) and CHRIS WISE (Physical Therapy). • Chris specializes in both his clinical practice and research endeavors in the subject of his second textbook, Orthopaedic Manual Physical Therapy: From Art to Evidence. • Dolores teaches courses for several departments in kinesiology, neuroscience, human biology and electrotherapy. Her co-authored textbook, Brunnstrom’s Clinical Kinesiology, is in its 6th edition. It and an earlier volume have been translated into multiple languages. Two more scholars, both former Neag Professors, SPENCE STOBER (Biology

Write for The Alvernian!

& Leadership Studies) and DONNA YARRI (Theology), have published prolifically, both separately and together. • Donna, a specialist in Christian ethics, writes and teaches on the ethical treatment of animals, popular culture, and the intersection of religion and science. She has penned books on topics including The Ethics of Animal Experimentation, and Kafka’s Creatures. • Spence’s interests include environmental sustainability and nature-centered leadership. He has two recent volumes—Transitions to Sustainability: Theoretical Debates for a Changing Planet (co-edited) and Nature-centered Leadership: An Aspirational Narrative (co-authored with Alvernia doctoral students Tracey L. Brown and Sean J. Cullen.) Spence has also published God, Science, and Designer Genes: An Exploration of Emerging Genetic Technologies, co-authored with Donna. So the next time you are facing a daunting writing assignment, students, take heart: you are in good company. There are authors all around you!

campus news October/November 2015

Vol. 54 Issue 2

Photo courtesy of Hank Mitchell, baltophoto.org

Alvernia Meets the Two Wes Moores (Continued pg. 1)

Wes Moore grew up in Baltimore (pictured), where he escaped poverty and crime to become a best-selling author.

to changes the lives of other at risk teens growing up. The other Wes Moore spends his life behind bars for the murder of a retired police officer. Both men grew up in his impoverished Baltimore neighborhood without having a father figure but ended up on very different paths. Moore wrote about a discussion he had while sitting down with the other

Wes Moore one day about the different choices each of them made in their lives and how it impacted them later on. ”I guess it’s hard sometimes to distinguish between second chances and last chances,” Moore said. Moore addresses the reality that because of the decisions that the other Wes Moore made, he will be spending the rest of his life behind bars.

forbid those last few hours could be my last, I’d hands down go home to spend it with [my family] and find any way, shape, or form to save and protect them, even if all the odds were against it.” Lapp’s pessimism may not be justifiable. Edward Heim, Director of Public Safety, says that Alvernia is prepared for extreme weather. “As you could imagine, every scenario would be different depending on whether it was a tornado, hail storm, lighting storm or massive blizzard,” Heim said. “It is recommended during

any major incident that would not call for an evacuation that you remain indoors and keep by social media and your cell phones for constant updates,” he said. “Generally speaking, we would activate the E2Campus system and keep you posted for a ‘Next action’ or update as needed.” Heim also reassured resident students that their basic needs would be accommodated by the university. “Additionally, every building has multiple RA’s and building captains that are aware of emergency sup-

Moore escaped the harshness of the life that he could have lived because of the influence of the other people in his life that supported him, like his mother and siblings. The other Wes Moore was not as privileged since his mom worked constantly to be able to provide for his family, and his older brother was already on the wrong path. The Wes Moore who escaped turned a negative situation into a positive life for himself, which in the end saved him from what could have been. Today, Moore works with underprivileged children all across America to help them become educated in stable environments. Moore’s work includes going to various schools and talking about the importance of education and making the right decisions. Moore emphasizes the importance of pushing yourself to the best of your abilities, and has started vari-

ous programs in order to help those kids who need it. Moore closed his talk with advice for both Alvernia and Reading High students. “When it is time for you to leave this school, leave your job, or even leave this Earth,” he said, “make sure you have worked hard to make sure it mattered you were even here.” Visit Wes Moore’s website by scanning the QR code at the end of this article.

The purple boxes have been sacked. But do you hate BLUE boxes, too?

If you want to fight the good fight against blue boxes, please contact Amber Nikolaus at amber.nikolaus@ alvernia.edu

Photo courtesy of Carey Manzolillo

Is Alvernia prepared for severe weather? “Storm preparations, given our experiences with several just a few years ago, have been particularly thorough,” Dr. Joseph Cicala, Vice President of Student Life, said.

plies and medical equipment stored in each building should that be necessary,” he said. “We would also be in contact with the Reading Police, Fire and emergency personnel as we have an incredible relationship with them.” Alvernia has also learned from the extreme weather events that have happened over the last few years. Dr. Joseph Cicala, Vice President of University Life, said the University is more prepared for big storms now than ever before. “Storm preparations, given our experiences with several just a few years ago, have been particularly thorough. For example, we have installed a generator for the Student Center which would allow for uninterrupted service of hot meals in an overall power outage.” According to Cicala, when a severe storm took our power for several days a few years back, Food Services served three meals per day, with at least one hot meal, using outdoor grills and food storage trucks. Dr. Cicala also described how a variety of Alvernia community members work together to maintain constant vigilance and preparedness

Public Safety blocks a road due to a fallen tree after a storm on October 9.

for extreme weather. “Alvernia has an Emergency Preparedness Committee with members representing many university constituencies, and which regularly reviews our readiness for a wide range of emergency situations,” All students should review the emergency procedures outlined in their Student Handbook, and should be sure they are properly signed up for E2Campus. The E2Campus sign-up web page is available at https://www.e2campus.net/ my/alvernia/.

The QR code below will take you to Alvernia’s E2Campus login page.

Photo courtesy of Brian O’Shaughnessy

Preparation for Big Storms (Continued pg. 1)

campus news

October/November 2015

Vol. 54 Issue 2

By Shannon Homa Contributing Writer

Photo courtesy of Macy Storm

Where do all the performers who visit Alvernia’s campus every semester come from? Alvernia finds performers and acts to schedule for campus events at the fall conference of the National Association for Campus Activities (NACA). At Alvernia, the Campus Activities Board (CAB) works with Student Activities to schedule events that will pique the interests of the

student body. The events CAB and Student Activities choose from are pitched to a variety of universities at the NACA Conference every year. The NACA conference is a weekend-long event packed with information sessions, discussion panels, and plenty of live performances. The conference attracts the campus activities boards and student activities divisions of numerous colleges and universities across the country. The conference also

Students and performers mingle during the NACA conference.

allows various schools to hold discussions about advertising and performance set-up. This year’s conference, held in Buffalo, NY, offered educational sessions each day with programs like “Are You Still Marketing Like It’s 1999?” which focused on publicity techniques geared toward this generation. NACA also gives various acts an opportunity to show off their skills for potential booking across the country. Conference attendees receive a packet with information and pricing on performers upon arrival. This allows CAB to seek out particular performers of interest and keep a list of performers to fall back on. “Picking our entertainment comes down to which performers we like and if the price is right,” said Jocelyn MacAleese, CAB’s Vice President of Programming, This is not to say that a performer is automatically out of the running

Helping Children Through Apples By Veronica Cepparulo Editor

Photo courtesy of Veronica Cepparulo

Over 200 students picked 1500 pounds of apples during Alvernia’s annual St. Francis Day of Service at the Angora Fruit Farm. The 23 acre Angora Fruit Farm was a family owned farm, but the original owners recently passed on. Today, the Berks County Parks and Recreation Department runs the farm as an educational center to teach area children about environmental issues. The Alvernia team marshalled in front of the Student Center at 8:30 a.m. Each student received a t-shirt from the Holleran Center to

wear during the day’s events. After an introductory talk by Jay Worrall, Director of Community Engagement for the Holleran Center, the Alvernia delegation left for the apple farm. Once at the farm, members of Berks County Parks and Recreation Department told Alvernia students what they would do that day. Berks County Parks and Recreation Department employee Brendan Lederer told the Alvernia students that they would divide the apples into two categories. The “good” apples would be sent to the Greater Berks Food Bank, while the “bad” apples would be sent to local

One of the many groups that helped clean apples throughout the day.

farmers. “Good” apples were considered the apples you could take right from the tree and eat. “Bad” apples were the ones that had already fallen from the tree, or apples with holes, dirt or bruises on them. Though you could not eat the bad apples, they could be sent to the farms to be juiced for apple juice. After Alvernia students were taught how to use the apple picking equipment, they were divided into groups of ten to get to work. First year students Marissa Washburn and Samantha Rothman were in the group that would clean the apples. “We would get what was considered the good apples, and we cleaned them with water and brushes. We then put them in boxes that would be sent to the food bank,” Washburn said. “That was most of our day.” This was both Washburn and Rothman’s first community service project, other than the Orientation Weekend service. They both enjoyed picking apples, and agreed that having service projects available to them throughout the year is helpful. Miranda McIntyre, junior, was in one of the many

Photo courtesy of Macy Storm

Campus Activities Board Takes on Buffalo

Alvernia’s NACA Attendees (L to R): Macy Storm, Jocelyn MacAleese, Amber Nikolaus, Genesis Lopez, Joe Benyish, and Nick Yando.

just because of their cost. A “CAMP” is held during the conference where performers and their agents can answer questions and negotiate with organizations on the spot. After watching countless performances, Alvernia’s CAB members were able to select some of their favorites to come to campus this spring. Students can look forward to a top-notch comedy act by Dulce, a creative performance by a magician and hypnotist, and the return of the pop duo Adelee & Gentry. Dates for these performances will be announced at the start of the next semester.

groups that picked apples throughout the day. “My friends and I had a lot of fun actually. We came up with a bunch of ways to get the apples down.” One method McIntyre and company used to pick apples was a cheerleading pyramid. Though McIntyre was not involved in the actual stunt, she did enjoy watching her friends figure out the different ways to get them down. McIntyre has participated in every Saint Francis Day of Service since she has been at Alvernia. “This is one service project my friends and I make sure we do,” McIntyre said. “It’s always fun to be out helping the community, but doing it with my friends makes it ten times better.” “It’s not just about picking apples and cutting down trees,” Lederer said, “it’s about helping the community.” For more information about service opportunities, visit the Holleran Center in Bernardine Hall 102.

“We spent the weekend trying to find the best acts to bring to campus and we hope that everyone enjoys them as much as we enjoyed selecting them,” Macy Storm, CAB Secretary, said. While at the conference Alvernia’s CAB represented the school by winning three of the competition categories. Genesis Lopez took home the title of Outstanding Undergraduate Student Leader. Death by Chocolate from Spring 2015 won Outstanding Social program, and Sarah Englert’s coffeehouse coffee cup display won Best Miscellaneous Publicity.

Check out CAB on Twitter @AlverniaCAB #vernCAB

Check out the Holleran Center on Twitter @HolleranCenter

#GotServiceAU

campus news October/November 2015

Vol. 54 Issue 2

Peter Keefe Crowned Mr. Alvernia (Continued pg. 1) of the previous CAB events such as the “Make Your Own Bamboo Plant,” and “Make Your Own Homemade PlayDough.” Following each contestant’s stroll across the stage, they each were required to answer a question from the

judges. The talent portion of Mr. Alvernia always brings out the character of the contestants. There were songs, dances, and even a storyteller. Benner gathered a couple of his buddies and acted out a “modern version” of “Goldi-

Photo courtesy of Jenna Harper

represent each contestant’s organization. Matt Baer, Mr. Resident Assistant, wore a cape and name tag themed shorts. Peter Keefe, Mr. IAB, sported a referee outfit. Sobczak came out wearing a mod podge outfit representing a few

The 2015 Mr. Alvernia contestants and judges (L to R): Mikey Brutto, senior; Matt Baer, sophomore; Sharon Blair, Executive Assistant to the Provost; Nick Bombard, sophomore; Peter Keefe, senior; Bryan Sobczak, first year; Eli Benner, senior; Kelly Caddy, Director of Campus Ministry; John Lichtenwalner, Assistant Professor of Social Work.

Paying Homage to Pope Francis Philadelphia-area Catholics had an opportunity this fall to take a once in a lifetime pilgrimage to see Pope Francis in person. Alvernia sent 50 members of its community to Philadelphia on Sunday, September 27 to try to see the Pope. The bus into the city left early Sunday morning. The mood on the bus was positive, but the riders knew that getting into and through Philadelphia that day would be challenging. Despite the physical challenges of moving through the city, the Alvernia delegation saw their trip as a great spiritual journey. “I wanted to see the Pope because it was a once in a lifetime experience,” Kerry Johnson, junior, said. “As a Catholic I wanted to be part of that.” The bus took the Alvernia delegation to a SEPTA Regional Rail station to ride into Philadelphia. Arriving in Philadelphia that day was different from on other days. The only vehicles on the streets were Philadelphia Police or National Guard Humvees barricading inter-

sections. The initial scene seemed similar to a moment in an episode of “The Walking Dead,” where Rick Grimes walked through what seemed to be an empty city before turning a corner to see a horde of zombies. The Alvernia delegation also suddenly encountered an enormous number of people when they reached the first checkpoint into the “Pope Zone.” The bottlenecks at the checkpoints compressed thousands of people in a narrow corridor down five city blocks trying to get through a set of security checkpoints. It took nearly an hour to travel from the first barricade to the line into the first checkpoint. The line was sometimes unruly, which distracted from the spiritual experience. Groups attempted to cut forward in line using various tactics. As the day grew longer, and the line into the checkpoint only crawled forward; tensions began to rise. The Alvernia delegation only reached the checkpoint into the “Pope Zone” at 5 p.m. after spending nearly eight hours working slowly through the line. “The line was outrageous!”

Carolyn Stabile, junior, said. “But I am glad they are taking measures to keep the Pope safe.” While the delegation missed most of the Mass, they were still able to receive communion. Emily Reed, junior, was stuck by the power of the moment. “I finally got through security and ran into the crowd and saw that they were still distributing communion,” she said. “I ran over to the minister and fell to my knees crying of the overwhelm-

The winner of the penny wars was Eli Benner, Mr. Track and Field. Mr. Congeniality was Mike Brutto, Mr. Crusader Crazies. Judges’ Choice/ Best Pick Up Line was Mr. CAB, Bryan Sobczak. The second runner up was Nick Bombard, Mr. Men’s Soccer. The first runner up was Matt Baer, Mr. Resident Assistant. Coming in first place, and earning the title of Mr. Alvernia 2015 was Mr. IAB, Peter Keefe. “Winning Mr. Alvernia was such a great feeling,” Keefe said. “The competition was tough this year, and there were more people in it than previous years, so to claim the title of Mr. Alvernia was an amazing feeling.” Keefe had aspired to be Mr. Alvernia ever since he first arrived at Alvernia. “I have wanted to partake in this competition since freshman year, so when I won it just felt even better.”

ing awe and beauty. [When a minister said] ‘The body of Christ,’ I sobbed ‘Amen.’ I thanked the minister over and over. He reached out to touch my shoulder and said, “We wouldn’t leave without you.” This was my favorite moment.” Suzanne Leger, a first year student, shared Reed’s intense response to receiving communion. “Getting to receive communion moved me to tears,” she said. “I would do it all over again.” The adventure was difficult

for many on the Alvernia bus, but some would repeat the experience in spite of its difficulties. “Today did not go how I thought it would, but nevertheless, I would do it again in a heartbeat,” Janessa Rasmus, senior, said. Many Alvernians found the pilgrimage to be a cleansing experience that provided a reminder of the beauty and mystery of the Catholic faith.

Photo courtesy of Samuel Mirarchi

By Samuel Mirarchi Editor

locks and the Three Bears.” Sobczak and his partner, Michael Tierney, played Troy and Gabriella from “High School Musical” and sang a song. Sobczak was a little nervous to perform his act because he had to “fill Vanessa Hudgen’s shoes and she’s flawless.” Keefe and his brigade performed a rendition of “The Yes Dance,” which is from YouTube. “One of my biggest struggles was getting the timing down of the song because the music changes throughout the song based on what’s happening,” Keefe said, “so I wanted to be in sync with that.” “Another thing I had trouble with was finding people to help me out. Luckily I found a great group of people to help me out. I thought it went very well.” At the end of the night, the lights were dimmed and the votes, and pennies, were counted.

Picture of all of the Alvernia University pilgrims before embarking onto their journey to Philadelphia.

spotlight

October/November 2015

Vol. 54 Issue 2

By Amber Nikolaus Managing Editor Ryan Shannon, who has worked his way up to senior status in the past four years, has also risen in the Alvernia athletics world. He may not play any particular sport, but he can be heard on most of the sports webcasts that occur during home games at the university. In 2012, Shannon met Jon King, who tried his best to recruit him for the men’s golf team. After learning of Shannon’s interests, King realized he may be good for the job of videotaping the games. The crew included him and a couple others, but not much more than that. After a few months, he found himself with a job he enjoyed and a project he would take on for the next few years. Shannon was asked to do a play-by-play of a field hockey game the first time he sat down in front of a microphone. Like any person being

thrown into a new position, Shannon was a bit nervous to be heard by people who cannot even see him face-toface. After being told to act like he is just having a regular conversation about the game, Ryan Shannon went for it. He had an eye opening experience, and from then on decided that was what he was here at Alvernia to do. Years later he still remains the main voice of Alvernia athletics. Shannon has helped to expand the sports information area of the athletics department with webcasts, filming and recognizable play-by-plays. Shannon works hard each week to make schedules for his fellow workers and to be at the games to be the voice behind the webcasts. Shannon’s senior year is here and graduation is fast approaching. He is questioning who he believes may be best for the job he takes on. He believes it takes someone

who understands sports, but someone who cannot be nervous of talking behind a camera. “It’s not just talking,” Shannon said. “People are going to know you by your voice not your face.” Shannon said not to be embarrassed and if there is something you want to do, but are unsure of, just go for it. When it came to his job he was nervous at first, but he is now known on campus for his voice. He enjoys sports and loves talking about them. That is what he does with his job everyday. “If you love sports and have passion just go with it,” Shannon said. Over the years, the sports information has expanded and webcasts are a regular part of game day. Webcasts can be easily found on the Alvernia athletics website, along with Ryan Shannon’s voice for a few

Photo courtesy of Christian Bencie

Ryan Shannon: The Voice of Alvernia Athletics

Ryan Shannon (left) interviews Lamont Clark (right) after the MAC championship of 2015.

more months. If you want to check out some sports webcasts, go to athletics.alvernia.edu/watch. If you are interested in sports information or have a passion for sports talk, contact Ryan

Shannon at ryan.shannon@ alvernia.edu.

By Anne Heck Editor Sharon Helms embodies Alvernia’s core value of service. Helms, an Alvernia employee for 26 years has earned an undergraduate degree in Theology (1997), and a master’s degree in Liberal Studies (2005). Sharon Helms currently works in the Registrar’s Office and is an example of one person making that positive difference in the world. Helms was among more than 1,000 volunteers that helped prepare Philadelphia for Pope Francis’ historic visit. Helms began helping with the event through her church in January 2015, which was linked to the World Meeting of Families (WMOF). St. Benedict’s, Helms’ home congregation from Mohnton, PA, took two buses carrying 104 people to Philadelphia for the closing Papal Mass on September 27. “I volunteered because I wanted to be part of this historic visit,” Helms said, “and to offer hospitality to those who come from near and far.” Helms was faced with challenges along the way. Corresponding with her 104

passengers from St. Benedict’s with continued travel updates required diligence. It remained a moving target with government officials needing additional information about those who would be in attendance. Another noted challenge was the coming together of all the different nationalities and cultures. Helms said, “We are one group of worship, with many different cultural ideologies. We have different ideas of personal space and appropriate customs. At times, patience and understanding were necessary for communal harmony.” Helms and the other volunteers had a busy week in Philadelphia. Helms assisted visitors leading group tours of the special exhibit at the Franklin Institute, “Vatican Splendors.” She also helped with distribution of shirts and items for those attending the WMOF Conference. Helms was chosen as a volunteer to assist priests with the distribution of Communion at the Papal Mass. Parishioners attending could identify the Communion spots by the yellow and white umbrellas volunteers

Photo courtesy of Anne Heck

Sharon Helms: Following in Pope Francis’ Footsteps

Sharon Helms with the Philadelphia papal mass umbrella she used during communion. “What a blessing and memento,” she said.

carried. “I am so honored,” Helms said. “The Philadelphia Archdiocese/WMOF 2015 allowed us to keep our Papal Mass umbrellas – what a blessing and memento.” Overall, the experience touched and changed Helms’ life forever. “I am a better person, wife, mother, grandmother because I am more receptive to look-

ing for the positive in each encounter, just as Pope Francis modeled,” she said. “It was a whirlwind of a memorable week I will cherish forever!” The diligent work of people like Sharon Helms is why Alvernia leads the way nationally in community service. Alvernia University was recognized early this year by the Carnegie Foundation

for its commitment to community service and civic engagement. This award was bestowed on only a handful of institutions in the state of Pennsylvania. Helms is an outstanding example for Alvernia students to identify with. It reinforces the idea that giving something back is a lifelong endeavor.

sports October/November 2015

Vol. 54 Issue 2

Crusader Men’s Basketball Soon to Start Alvernia men’s basketball has been full of success for the last three seasons. Over the last three years, the Crusaders earned a third straight Commonwealth conference championship as well as Coach Mike Miller’s 200th win. Last year, the team had 18 wins on their way to a MAC championship, and the year prior had 24 wins on the way to the title. “Were trying to win our fourth championship in a row, so obviously everyone is out to get us,” Miller said. Returning for his senior campaign is Chuck Cooper, who led Alvernia with 474 points last year. Harrison Deyo was the second highest scorer on the team last year, but has graduated. Deyo leaves his position vacant at center for the 201516 roster, as well as starting forward Kirby Turner, and

Photo courtesy of Alvernia Athletics

By Keith Noonan Contributing Writer

Coach Mike Miller (center) talking to last season’s leading scorer Chuck Cooper (right).

1,000 point scorer point guard Lamont Clark. “We lost a lot, so we are going to be very young and inexperienced,” Miller said. The incoming players are going to have a lot of spots open to compete for a starting role. With not a lot of size to go on, Coach Miller said that the team may have four guards

starting at the same time. Since the team is small, the Crusaders will need to be “very efficient” on the offensive side of the ball. “Since we are small, we have to make up on rebounding and interior defense,” Miller said. Fortunately, the Crusaders will be a good three point shooting team with Mike

By Leah Green Editor Shouting and chants could be heard from the quad as the Alvernian men’s and women’s soccer teams took on their rivals for the annual Fill the Hill games. On October 13 and 14, despite the chill, the hill overlooking the turf was filled with family, friends and fans of the Crusaders. With complimentary s’mores and cider, it was hard to resist the sporting atmosphere. The Alvernia women beat Albright 2-1 with goals scored by Taylor Smith and Melissa Stahl. The team gained their first conference win of the season with the victory. The Crusaders scored late in the first half and were able to maintain the lead for the rest of the game. The women’s game had fans chanting back and forth due to controversial referee calls and almost goals. At one point a group of fans got into a heated debate over a call with the Alvernia goal keeper and Albright forward. Luckily the shouts turned to laughs with no harm done to the positive atmosphere. Victoria Gowland, junior, is not a sports fan, but enjoys

the crowd and the energy it brings. “You definitely have more crowd participation because it is a rival game,” Gowland said. “It gets you more engaged because everyone else is cheering, so you want to watch instead of just talking to your friends.” Gowland comes often with her friends, but she spent more time focusing on the players than her friends. The Alvernia men’s team also won their first Middle Atlantic Conference Commonwealth game when they overtook the Albright Lions in a 3-0 shutout. Nick Bombard scored twice early in the second half of the game, followed shortly after by a third goal by Chris Guth. “It feels great to beat our rivals. Just to know that we have the bragging rights until our next game is a great boost.” Matt Reinoehl, an Alvernia defensive player, said. Reinoehl was excited to have the school cheering his team on as they took to the field. He noted that there sometimes feels like more pressure on the team to perform well under such a large

schedule will decide if Alvernia will be a playoff team. Coach Miller said he expects this team to get great shots and score a lot of points, but the Crusaders will have to play defense a little differently. He notes that this is a long year, but he expects this team to be successful. The Crusader men’s basketball team plays its home opener on November 13 at 7 p.m. versus Delaware Valley College, who is projected to win the Freedom Conference this season.

Follow the Men’s Basketball Team on Twitter @Alvernia_MB

Photo courtesy of Leah Green

Filling the Hill for Crusader Soccer

Miller Jr. as well as Cooper. Alex Shippen also saw a lot of time on the court last season and will be a “big part” of the Crusaders’ year, Miller said. This year’s team will rely on great shooting percentage rather than the size they used to rely on. Alvernia can certainly compete because of the offense they still have left over from last year. The new Crusaders will need to learn how to react to the spotlight, as Jack MacCloskey Court is usually packed for home games. The place can get loud and passionate especially during rivalry games with Albright. The Crusaders also face a tough schedule this season. The last 13 games of the season will be played against Commonwealth teams. “There are 52 Division III leagues, and the Commonwealth is ranked in the top ten,” Miller said. “That speaks for itself.” The late in-conference

The Alvernia fans chat during half time, discussing referee calls and plays.

crowd but welcomed the challenge. The team likes to put on a show for the home crowd and definitely succeeded with their victory. The crowd also seemed to want to put on a show. A group of Alvernia fans called out to others to start the iconic crowd wave. They repeated the cheer through-

out the game and progressively grew louder as the scoreboard changed. Fill the Hill is sponsored by Student Activities and the Athletics department.

Undergraduate & Graduate Courses

Winter SessÄąon Starts December 14

Undergraduate and Adult Education: ART 122-W1: Introduction to Digital Photography BIO 109-W1: Human Biology COM 290 or ENG 290-W1: North American Folklore & Culture HIS 112-W1: The Study of American History MAT 208-W1: Introductory Statistics PED 304-W1: Wellness for Life PHI 105-W1: Introduction to Philosophy PHI 210-W1: Professional Ethics PSY 101-W1: Introductory Psychology PSY 208-W1: Human Development Across the Life Span PSY 215-W1: Multicultural Issues SOC 111-W1: Principles of Sociology THE 105-W1/W2: Foundations of Theology THE 210-W1: Medical Moral Theology THE 225-W1: Global Issues: Gospel Perspective

Graduate: COR 520-W1: Ethics and Moral Leadership

r e t s i ! g e R day To

MBA 520-W1: Marketing Services MBA 620-W1: Managerial Economics MED 535-W1OL: Issues Concerning Special Education Programs

Get ahead this winter break! Two accelerated formats - Online and Blended All courses are accredited. Credits are readily transferable. Financial aid may be available.