SUMMER
2014
TWO-PART HARMONY Music program, history center honor Pittsburgh's jazz legends
The California University of Pennsylvania Magazine
CAL U REVIEW SUMMER 2014 • VOL. 42 - NO. 2 The Cal U Review is published by the Office of Marketing and University Relations and is distributed free. Third class postage paid at California.
FROM THE INTERIM PRESIDENT The Cal U family comprises many generations, and the connections among them are part of what makes our University so special. As we prepare for the start of the fall semester, our first-year students are anticipating the college adventure that lies ahead. Soon they will meet not only their classmates, but also the upperclassmen who serve as orientation leaders, residence hall assistants, peer mentors and tutors. These “big brothers and sisters” are available to offer advice and reassurance as our first-year students settle in. Our upperclassmen need similar guidance as they prepare to enter the workplace. Faculty and staff members can educate and advise, but we also count on generations of Cal U graduates to share the wisdom that comes only through firsthand experience in the workforce. Among Cal U’s 55,000 living alumni are men and women who have built distinguished careers in nearly every field you can name. Their accomplishments are one measure of our University’s success. And because Cal U takes great pride in our alumni, we want to leverage their experience and know-how to benefit our students. As a proud Cal U graduate, you have many ways to connect with the University and our students. Some alumni serve on advisory boards that help to ensure the quality and relevance of our academic programs. Others support scholarships or welcome Cal U students to their workplaces for job shadowing, co-ops or internships. Alumni share their expertise as classroom speakers and work one-to-one with students through the Cal U Career Coach program. They attend networking sessions organized by the Career and Professional Development Center and keep in touch online through the Cal U Career Network on LinkedIn. And they make valuable connections with fellow graduates, near and far, at Cal U Alumni & Friends events. These interactions are a tremendous benefit for our students — and for our alumni, too. In addition to the satisfaction that comes with helping someone set out on a career path, many employers report that Cal U is a rich source of well-qualified workers who are eager to succeed. I encourage you to become an active member of our Cal U family. Reach out to the Office of Alumni Relations (alumni@calu.edu) or the Career Center (careers@calu.edu) and ask how you can get involved. We’ll look for you on Saturday, Oct. 11, at Homecoming 2014!
Geraldine M. Jones Interim President, California University of Pennsylvania
Interim President Geraldine M. Jones communicates regularly with the campus community vie e-mail and online. To see all her messages, visit www.calu.edu; click on “About Us” and choose “Meet the President.” To stay up-to-date with the latest happenings at Cal U, alumni may send their e-mail addresses to alumni@calu.edu.
CHANCELLOR
Frank T. Brogan BOARD OF GOVERNORS
Guido M. Pichini, chairman Laura E. Ellsworth, vice chair Ronald G. Henry, vice chair; chair, Finance, Administration and Facilities Sen. Richard Alloway II Rep. Matthew E. Baker Jennifer G. Branstetter, governor’s designee Marie Conley, chair, Human Resources Gov. Tom Corbett Sara J. Dickson Carolyn C. Dumaresq, acting Secretary of Education
Christopher H. Franklin Todd Garrett Chelsea E. Getsy Rep. Michael K. Hanna Jonathan B. Mack, chair, External and Public Relations David M. Maser Joseph F. McGinn, chair, Audit Robert S. Taylor Aaron A. Walton, chair, Academic and Student Affairs Sen. John T. Yudichak
CALIFORNIA UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA
Geraldine M. Jones, interim University president Dr. Bruce Barnhart, acting provost and vice president for Academic Affairs Robert Thorn, vice president for Administration and Finance Craig Butzine, vice president for Marketing and University Relations/ interim vice president for University Development and Alumni Relations. Dr. Nancy Pinardi, interim vice president for Student Affairs COUNCIL OF TRUSTEES
Lawrence Maggi ’79, chair Annette Ganassi, vice chair R. Tyler Courtney Peter J. Daley II ’72, ’75 James T. Davis ’73 Michele M. Mandell ’69
Robert Miner, Jr. ’78 Michael Napolitano ’68 Thomas Uram Aaron Walton ’68 Kembia Munsanje, student member Frank T. Brogan, chancellor, ex-officio
ALUMNI ASSOCIATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Lynne (Moltz) Stout ’94, president Brian Fernandes ’99, ’00, vice president Alan James ’62, secretary Jesse Hereda ’04, treasurer Barbara (Williams) Fetsko ’75, ’83, immediate past president Colleen (Murphy) Arnowitz ’75, ‘97 Justin Binion ’11 Robert Crall ’12 Trinette (Schmidt) Cunningham ’93 Shelly (Fetchen) DiCesaro ’94
Mindi (D’Auria) Fisher ’07 David Gwyer ’65 Charles Kacsur ’08 Donald Lee ’69 Chase Loper ’10, ‘12 Melissa McKean ’07 Dante Morelli ’02 Fred Retsch ’62, ’68 Abigail (Grant) Scheg ’07 Bryan (Tolle) Schuerman ’09 Judy (Durko) Zilkowski ’77, ’83
LIFETIME HONORARY MEMBERS
Paul Gentile ’62 Len Keller ’61 Anthony Lazzaro ’55
Michael Napolitano ’68 George Novak ’55
EX-OFFICIO MEMBERS
Geraldine M. (Johns) Jones ’72, ’80, interim University president Craig Butzine ’84, vice president for Marketing and University Relations/ interim vice president for University Development and Alumni Relations
Steven P. Stout ’85 Barbara Hess Leslie (Berdar) Fleenor ’08
SAI BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Daniel Bickerton Zachary Bogardus Sam Jessee Brendan Garay Emily Lorrence
Brian Proud Tallen Stroman Marc Roncone Ashley Roth
EX-OFFICIO MEMBERS
Dr. Nancy Pinardi ’95, ’96, ’98, interim vice president for Student Affairs Leigh Ann Lincoln, chief financial officer, SAI Larry Sebek, interim associate vice president for Student Affairs FOUNDATION FOR CALIFORNIA UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Steven P. Stout ’85, president Armand E. Balsano ’74, vice president William R. Flinn ’68, secretary Paul Kania ’87, treasurer David L. Amati ’70 William R. Booker ’74 Robert E. Eberly III Ryan Fisher Dr. Annette M. Kaleita ’55
Mitch Kozikowski Robert Lippencott ’66 Reginald A. Long ’81 Lawrence Maggi ’79 Michael A. Perry ’63 Dr. Harry E. Serene ’65 Linda H. Serene ’64 William G. Stough
EX-OFFICIO MEMBERS
Geraldine M. Jones ’72, ’80, interim University president Craig Butzine ’84, vice president for Marketing and University Relations/ interim vice president for University Development and Alumni Relations Barbara (Williams) Fetsko ’75, ’83, alumni association president CAL U REVIEW EDITOR
Christine Kindl WRITERS
Wendy Mackall Jeff Bender
Bruce Wald ’85
PHOTOGRAPHERS
S.C. Spangler
Greg Sofranko
ON THE COVER Commercial music technology student Josh Howell and retired music professor Max Gonano fine-tune the sound in a series of music videos produced for the Senator John Heinz Regional History Center.
PAGE 6
INSIDE DEPARTMENTS CAMPUS CLIPS
Science and technology take center stage when the robots come out to play at the Cal U Convocation Center.
FEATURES
14–16
ALUMNI CALENDAR
19
ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT
20–21
SPORTS ROUNDUP
26–27
PAYING IT FORWARD
28
Two-Part Harmony
4
Commercial music technology students join Cal U alumni and professors in a project honoring Pittsburgh's jazz legends.
MILESTONES 29–34
10
Wider Horizons
Extraordinary students. Amazing opportunities. See what happens when Cal U brings them together.
Commencement 2014
Board Member Chelsea E. Getsy, president of Cal U’s Student Government Association, is one of three students serving on the Board of Governors for the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education. A business administration major with a concentration in marketing/ management and a minor in leadership, she also has been vice president of the Student Association Inc. board of directors and president of the National Society of Leadership and Success. “I have had the best experience I could imagine at a PASSHE school,” Getsy says. “If I can give a portion of those opportunities back to students, then I will have done my job.”
12 17 25
As graduates face the future, a distinguished alumnus challenges them to change the world for the better.
Clean and Clear?
Students pull on their boots to assess water quality at a public park.
Sochi Slide
A Cal U alumnus speeds to a bronze medal at the 2014 Winter Olympics.
A NOTE TO OUR READERS The Cal U Review is published three times a year to keep you updated with alumni news and information from all four Colleges at California University. Both the current edition and back issues are available in an easy-to-read format online at www.calu.edu/news/cal-u-review, along with photos, videos and other special features “As Seen in the Review.”
SUMMER 2014 CAL U REVIEW 3 n
two-part
harmony Commercial music technology program collaborates with the Heinz History Center to recognize Pittsburgh’s jazz legends
T
he historians wanted to jazz things up. The “musician-techie” students needed a challenging, real-world project to take learning beyond the classroom. Together, in a collaboration between the Senator John Heinz Regional History Center and Cal U’s commercial music technology program, some beautiful music videos are being made.
Cal U connections
The Heinz History Center’s plans for a series of 20 videos spotlighting jazz legends with Pittsburgh connections had hit a bit of a sour note. “We don’t have all the expertise,” volunteer program director Sandra L. Baker told Alan James ’62. James, who retired from Cal U as dean of student affairs, now chairs the volunteer jazz program committee at the history center. “We knew the history. We had the dates. We had song lists. But we didn’t know how to fade music out, or cut a song off at the bridge,” Baker says, naming some techniques used in music video production. Fortunately, James knew whom to call: Former colleague Max Gonano, who was chair of the Music Department when he retired in 2012, and who was instrumental in developing the commercial music technology program, which launched that same year. The CMT program requires students to be musicians who can read, write and analyze musical scores before they learn the basics of acoustics, how to create, manipulate and edit music files, and more.
Alan James ’62 records an audio track for the 'Steel City Grooves' project.
Students and faculty in the program, Gonano knew, would have the perfect combination of skills for the history center’s project, dubbed “Steel City Grooves.” After a meeting with the jazz committee, he came to CMT instructor Greg Davis for some brainstorming. “(Davis) suggested doing more of an iMovie and getting students involved as a practicum,” Gonano says. “The magic came when I came down to Cal U to meet Mr. G and talk with (Music Department chair) Yugo Ikach,” Baker says. “Yugo said, ‘Sounds perfect; let’s do it!’ And Greg Davis said, ‘I’m going to walk these kids through it.’” Gonano and CMT students Josh Howell and David Kiss, under Davis’ guidance, got to work on a sample video featuring pianist
We sent Cal U all the ingredients, and they sent us back something remarkable, and in record time. Sandra L. Baker VOLUNTEER PROGRAM DIRECTOR, HEINZ HISTORY CENTER
and composer Billy Strayhorn to present to Baker and others in the volunteer ambassadors program. They loved it. “This was my baby, something I wanted to do for a long time,” Baker says of the jazz history project. “We sent Cal U all the ingredients, and they sent us back something remarkable, and in record time. “Every single person was perfect for the job.”
Labor of love
Heinz History Center ambassadors, all volunteers, make PowerPoint presentations to groups and organizations to spark interest about a topic and encourage audience members to visit the center and learn more. This time, because the subject of jazz so obviously lends itself to a combination of music and biography, they will use Cal U’s videos. Gonano, working from biographies researched by history center volunteers, worked with Kiss to develop the storyboard. Howell added music, photographs and other video enhancements. So far, Cal U has produced videos, each about 10 minutes, on jazz greats Strayhorn, Billy Eckstine, Erroll Garner, Maxine Sullivan, Johnny Costa and Henry Mancini. In all, the CMT program is committed to producing 20 videos by April — Jazz Appreciation Month — of 2015. After debuting to rave reviews this spring at a Heinz History Center event, the finished videos also were shown prior to events at The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust and Manchester Craftsmen’s Guild. Production of the first batch of videos proved to be very time consuming, as everyone learned on the job.
“It was as much of a learning process as you can imagine,” Davis says. “I commend Josh and David for all their volunteer hours.” “Over 400 hours,” Howell adds, or the equivalent of 10 credits. “When you think about music technology, you think about recording music and playing music,” he says. “But you forget about the other parts of the technology — voiceovers and all the other things. It was interesting to see how important that is, but also how hard it is to splice together people talking as compared to someone singing.” Kiss will take over for Howell, who graduates in December, as production continues on the remaining videos. Another student will assume Kiss’ role. “It has taught us a lot about teamwork and how to take a project from an initial concept to a finished product,” Kiss says.
That’s entertainment
Cal U’s relationship with the Heinz History Center — which also includes an Honors Program project to support the area’s local history centers — excites Davis. “I would hope that this gives us exposure. That would allow this program to grow and allow us to continue to produce quality products.” He emphasizes the importance of having students who are musicians first. An audition is required for acceptance into the CMT program. “When we think of being entertained, a lot of it has to do with being shown things at just the right time, just the right moment,” Davis says. “As musicians, as people who study timing and introducing events in time,
we were able to look at these pictures, this history, and time it out in such a way that it is very entertaining.” Technology, he says, is just another instrument. “My job isn’t to teach students how to turn the knobs and press the buttons. My real job is to teach them to turn knobs and press buttons at the right time. Music technology is learning how to use technology to make art.” Gonano likes the term “musiciantechies.” “They’re going to know which buttons to push, but they’re also going to know why or when. Because if you don’t know why, you won’t get an artistic product. You’ll get a technically correct product. But that’s sterile.” When you get it just right, as Cal U has done? “It’s the difference between a really nice, very pedestrian history of jazz and a Ken Burns production,” Baker says. “It’s the subliminal timing that brings people along,” Gonano says. “It’s emotional manipulation. That’s what art does.” By Wendy Mackall, assistant communications director at Cal U
HEAR ‘STEEL CITY GROOVES’ To view some of the videos featuring Pittsburgh’s jazz legends, visit www.calu.edu/news. Choose ‘Cal U Review’ and click on ‘As Seen in the Review.’
Commercial music technology students David Kiss (left) and Josh Howell synchronize sound and video under the watchful eye of retired music professor Max Gonano and CMT instructor Greg Davis.
SUMMER 2014 CAL U REVIEW 5 n
Zany costumes are a tradition at FIRST Robotics contests, where Team L.I.F.E. member Zachary Webster gets a robot ready to roll. Interim University President Geraldine M. Jones visits with students from the Vulcan Robotics team, based at Springside Chestnut Hill Academy in Philadelphia, Pa.
At the BotsIQ finals, President Jones (center) joins a group of dignitaries as they cut the ribbon to open the new Cal U Arena at BotsIQ.
‘Bots large and small bring science-minded students to campus
T
he Cal U Convocation Center is building a reputation as the place where robots come out to play. This spring two high school robotics contests brought thousands of high school students, teachers and fans to the arena, turning a spotlight on the University and its science and technology programs. The Greater Pittsburgh Regional FIRST® Robotics Competition rocked the Convocation Center in March, followed by the Southwestern Pennsylvania BotsIQ Finals in April. The two organizations are “a bit like Coke and Pepsi, competitors in the same field,” one organizer says. But for the student participants, as well as the University, each one has a winning formula. 6 CAL U REVIEW SUMMER 2014 n
Games and battles
FIRST robots are big, about 120 pounds, and created to meet a specific challenge. This year, students had just six weeks to design and build a robotic player for Aerial Assist™, a game that resembles a cross between basketball and soccer. On the 25-by-54-foot playing field, straddled by a truss suspended above the floor, two “alliances” of three robots each compete to move 2-foot-diameter balls across the court, over the truss, and into the high and low goals. Cooperative play earns bonus points, and after a brief “autonomous” period when the robots move on their own, student drivers grab the controls. Under their guidance the robots roll, pass, toss
and catch the balls during two-minute rounds of fast-paced play. Fans and teammates cheer from the stands, chanting and dancing between matches while the “pit crews” fine-tune the robots. It’s a FIRST tradition for team members and fans to appear in costume — everything from “titanium” silver pants to fuzzy cow-head hats. “This is not just robotics going on here,” says Michael Amrhein, director of Cal U’s Office of Outreach and Integration for TEAMS (Technology, Engineering, Arts, Math and Science). “It’s also business planning, marketing and presentations. It’s a very holistic approach to engaging kids in real-time, hands-on learning experiences.”
BotsIQ shares the same hands-on approach to learning, but this contest is all about the battle. Some of the custom-built 15-pound BotsIQ robots are armed with spinning blades than can slice an opponent to bits. Others are powerful enough to crush another ’bot’s shell or send it sailing into the air. Between bouts the teams’ troubleshooters keep one eye on the competition as they haul their battered ’bots back to the pits, assess the damage and make onthe-spot repairs. “These projects aren’t built out of a kit,” says team mentor Sam Smail ’00, a technology education teacher at Derry Area High School. “After this, you can send these kids to any job, and they can figure out what they’re supposed to do.”
Industry input
For safety’s sake the BotsIQ robots mix it up inside clear, impact-resistant arenas that contain the flying parts. This year Southwestern Pennsylvania BotsIQ dedicated a new Cal U Arena emblazoned with the University’s logo. Constructed by Hamill Manufacturing, a longtime supporter of BotsIQ in southwestern Pennsylvania, the 12.5-foot cube is made of polycarbonate sheets donated by Bayer MaterialScience. The collaboration between education and industry is significant. Advanced Manufacturing adds more than $70 billion to Pennsylvania’s economy each year, reports the state Department of Community
and Economic Development, and the need for skilled workers is growing annually. “BotsIQ is a manufacturing workforce development program disguised as a high school robotics competition,” says William Padnos, executive director of BotsIQ. “It provides students with a true manufacturing experience, and it’s opened up a career path for many of the participants.” Both FIRST Robotics and BotsIQ teams actively seek industry partners to provide mentorship, professional advice and financial support. Both contests award prizes for industry-valued skills such as engineering, project management and documentation, as well as the robots’ performance. And both competitions attract attention from legislative leaders. Dale Hammonds, Pennsylvania’s assistant Secretary of Education, doffed his suit jacket at the FIRST Robotics opening ceremony and joined the corps of volunteers that keeps the contest running smoothly. At the BotsIQ finals, U.S. Reps. Timothy Murphy and Michael Doyle took part in a forum on the resurgence of manufacturing in western Pennsylvania. And state Rep. Brandon Neuman, of Washington County, presented a resolution marking STEM Initiative Week. “If there are local jobs, we want local people to fill them,” he told the students. “This competition will help you prepare for your future.”
Pleased to meet you
For many high school students, the route to a career in advanced manufacturing includes a college degree. Because Cal U has a special mission in science and technology, robotics competitions are a natural fit — and an opportunity for the University to introduce itself. “These are exactly the type of students we’re looking for,” says Dr. William Edmonds, dean of admissions. “They’ve already identified an area of interest. They are serious about their future. And Cal U has excellent programs that can help them reach their goals.” Continued on page 8
It provides students with a true manufacturing experience, and it’s opened up a career path for many of the participants. William Padnos EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, BOTSIQ OF SOUTHWESTERN PENNSYLVANIA
GREATER PITTSBURGH REGIONAL FIRST® ROBOTICS COMPETITION WHEN March 27-29, 2014 WHO 48 teams (about 1,100 students) from Pennsylvania, Florida, Indiana, Maryland,
Ohio, Virginia, West Virginia and Ontario WHY “Like everyone, I want to win, but seeing these students learn means everything
to me.” — Jason Mols ’14, former FIRST competitor and a longtime mentor for the McKeesport High School team
BOTSIQ SOUTHWESTERN PENNSYLVANIA FINALS WHEN April 25-26, 2014 WHO 66 teams (more than 800 students) from throughout southwestern Pennsylvania WHY “This really gets the kids involved and promotes 21st century learning and careers.
To see the look on my students’ faces when we climb the ranks is incredible.” — Larry Johnson’07, adviser for the Ringgold High School team
SUMMER 2014 CAL U REVIEW 7 n
STEM
CELEBRITY
When Dean Kamen walks onto the floor at a FIRST Robotics Competition, the teenage competitors go wild. They snap photos and take “selfies” with him. They beg him to sign their team T-shirts, their toolkits and their robots. These students consider Kamen a rock star. An inventor and entrepreneur, he’s the creative mind behind the Segway Personal Transporter and dozens of life-changing medical devices. And he's the founder of FIRST® (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology), which sponsors a series of science and technology contests for students from elementary school through high school and beyond. “FIRST was set up to compete for the hearts and minds and passions of kids,” says Kamen, who flew in to see the Greater Pittsburgh FIRST Robotics Competition at the Cal U Convocation Center. “It was set up to model the best of what sports can be. It’s aspirational — you have to work hard to get on a team. It’s all-encompassing. It’s a celebration, as well as a competition. “The only difference between our sport and all the others is that every kid on every team has the opportunity to turn pro.” Kamen’s own firm, DEKA Research and Development Corp., hires many FIRST alumni. “We’ve developed a supply chain of talented, passionate kids,” he says. “We need to keep that going. “We do not have a job shortage in this country; we have a skills shortage. And that will be solved by these students who are excited about science and engineering, technology and math. “Get them involved in these contests and you’ll see them light up. You’ll see their passion. And you’ll see the future.”
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During breaks in the action at the Convocation Center, admissions staff discussed Cal U’s programs in STEM fields such as mechatronics, electrical engineering technology and robotics. Student Ambassadors led tours and answered questions about campus life. Dr. Jennifer Wilburn, an assistant professor in the mechatronics engineering technology program, volunteered as a judge at both contests. She also was one of several University representatives to appear on KDKA-TV, which filmed the competitions for a pair of 30-minute television shows presented by Cal U. “I hear a lot of questions from girls who are concerned about turning to STEM because they aren’t entirely sure that it’s a girl-friendly field,” she says. “But I find that more and more companies are receptive to hiring women because their presence improves the workplace.” Word of the University’s enthusiastic support for robotics reached Dean Kamen, the founder of FIRST, who flew in to see the contest firsthand. He spoke with interim University President Geraldine M. Jones and watched a round or two of Aerial Assist before heading into the pits, where crowds of students snapped cellphone photos to share on social media.
When Kamen departed, a few lucky teams showed off their autographed robots. “It’s perfect now,” one student said with a grin. “This is like having Bill Gates sign your computer!” Kamen seemed satisfied, too. In fact, he invited Cal U to attend the national FIRST Robotics Championship in St. Louis, Mo., where regional winners compete in the 70,000-seat Edward Jones Dome and some of the nation’s top-tier schools meet with prospective students on Scholarship Row. “It was a very productive visit,” says Craig Butzine ’84, vice president of Marketing and University Relations. “Our admissions team connected with hundreds of students. Cal U clearly has some programs with national appeal.” The University is looking forward to the robots’ return in 2015. So is Mike Steeber ’04, who mentors the Frazier High School robotics team. “The students have to brainstorm, come up with a solution to problems, market (the team) and generate funds,” he says. “And anytime you can make something competitive, it’s going to generate excitement. “I think the kids get as much or more out of this project than any class out there.” By information writer Bruce Wald ’85 and communications director Christine Kindl, both of Cal U
Protected from flying parts, BotsIQ judges watch the robots battle inside the Cal U Arena.
It's a victory for the alliance of teams from the Sarah Heinz House, Pittsburgh; Westmont Hilltop High School, Johnstown; and Forrest Career and Technology Center, Leonardtown, Md.
PRESENTED BY CAL U To see the robots in action, watch the 30-minute television shows featuring FIRST Robotics and BotsIQ that aired on KDKA-TV. Visit www.calu.edu/news, choose ‘Cal U Review’ and click on ‘As Seen in the Review.’
K-9 OFFICER JOINS THE CAMPUS POLICE FORCE
A
new member of the California University Police Department announced himself briefly at Commencement — by giving a well-timed bark. Bas, a 1-year-old Belgian Malinois, is the first canine member of Cal U’s campus police force. Purchased from Battle Ridge Kennels and K9 Services in West Virginia, the dog is trained in obedience, patrol, tracking and narcotics detection skills. “This is another element of our department’s community policing approach,” says Cal U police Chief Edward McSheffery. “Our No. 1 job as police officers is to make this campus a safe environment for both our students and our employees. Bas can help with that — but he’s also here to help us build relationships between the police force and our students. “That’s what community policing is all about, and this dog has just the right personality for the job.” The American Kennel Club describes the Belgian Malinois as “an alert, high-energy breed” that resembles a smaller, lighterboned German shepherd. “Intelligent and trainable, the Belgian Malinois possesses a strong desire to work,” the kennel club reports.
Students Darcy Bostich (left) and Taylor Thomas greet Bas outside the Natali Student Center.
Bas is partnered with Sgt. Robert Kwiatkowski, who joined the campus police department in 2013. The pair has been training together since January at Garrow Canine Training in Charleroi, Pa. “Bas is a public relations officer, as well as a patrol officer,” Kwiatkowski says. “He’s a very social dog, smart and well trained. He knows when it’s time to go to work.” The pair is together around the clock. They patrol the campus, visit with students and appear side by side at special events. Bas is learning to find lost objects and missing persons. And he's begun to represent Cal U at community gatherings.
But he’s also a working police dog, trained to protect his human partner and enhance campus safety. He travels in a specially marked patrol car “and should be treated with the same respect as any police officer,” his handler says. After their workday, Bas sheds his police vest and goes home to relax with Kwiatkowski and his family. “When that vest comes off, he’s like a regular house dog. We go home and take a walk, he gets a bite to eat, then he lies down at my feet and goes to sleep.” The region’s business community has given Bas a warm welcome. Clover Farm Veterinary Clinic, in Fredericktown, is providing medical care. Tractor Supply Co. in Belle Vernon will provide dog food, and the Walmart store in West Brownsville has donated various pet supplies. Poochies, in North Huntingdon, will groom the dog, and many others have made donations toward his care. “I can’t thank these community partners enough,” McSheffery says. “Their generosity will help us to give Bas everything he needs to be a healthy and productive member of the department.” By Christine Kindl, communications director at Cal U
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Anthropology professor Dr. Cassandra Kuba (left) talks shop with student Casey Bricker, who studied skeletons this summer at the Smithsonian's National Museum of Natural History.
WIDER HORIZONS
At home and abroad, Cal U students spread their wings … and soar
H
e’s a celebrity. When I met him, he took my breath away,” says senior Casey Bricker, bubbling with enthusiasm at the memory. “He” is Dr. Douglas Owsley, division head of physical anthropology at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History in Washington, D.C. His high-profile work includes identifying victims of the attack on the Pentagon on Sept. 11, 2001. For 10 weeks this spring and summer, Bricker interned with Owsley for the 2014 Natural History Research Experience, funded by the National Science Foundation and hosted at the museum. Bricker, a forensic anthropology major with minors in justice studies and forensic science, was one of just 17 undergraduates selected for the highly competitive program, which included a $5,500 stipend and housing at The George Washington University. She assisted Owsley in analyzing the remains of four adults and two children in cast-iron coffins from mid-19th-century America. Bricker’s undergraduate research has focused on the human skeleton — in particular, determining ancestry and 10 CAL U REVIEW SPRING 2014 10 CAL U REVIEW SUMMER 2014 n n
gender from skeletal remains. “I was meant to study skeletons, to give them a voice,” she says. She has presented her findings at the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education Undergraduate Research Poster Symposium and worked with high school students at mock archaeological digs and demonstrations on ancestry and forensic analysis. “We push our undergraduates to have a really solid background in skeletal analysis,” says Dr. Cassandra Kuba, an assistant professor and forensic anthropologist at Cal U, whose glowing recommendation of Bricker caught Owsley’s eye. “Casey had numerous chances to work with bones. That really makes a difference.”
Junior Jessica Laguerre-Joseph, who has dual majors in international studies and sociology and a minor in women’s studies, spent June at the Centre International d’Antibes, in southern France, through the CEA Study Abroad Program. Gilman Scholars received up to $5,000 toward their study-abroad program costs. The U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs sponsors the scholarships, which aim for diversity in both the students and their destinations. Laguerre-Joseph developed her French language skills to prepare for a career abroad.
Gilman Scholars
Madagascar and France were the destinations this summer for Cal U’s first two recipients of the nationally competitive Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship. Junior Breanna Lincoski, a biology major with a pre-veterinary concentration and minors in chemistry and leadership, traveled to Madagascar for a five-week field school program.
Jessica Laguerre-Joseph (left) and Breanna Lincoski were awarded 2014 Gilman International Scholarships.
“My ultimate goal is to be stationed in the Democratic Republic of Congo or Haiti and work on projects to alleviate poverty, eradicate illiteracy and advocate for women’s rights,” she says. Lincoski wants to study veterinary medicine at The Ohio State University. She counts on her experience in Madagascar, where she was trained in research methods, to help her graduate school application stand out. “The animal groups we studied included lemurs, reptiles, amphibians and birds,” she says. “This program added to my understanding of research, and it showed my interest in biological studies.” “Study abroad is a transformational experience,” says Elizabeth Bennellick, Cal U’s director of international programming. “Scholarships such as the Gilman award make study abroad more accessible to students who may not otherwise be able to afford it.”
Zoo directions
Jessica Brown ’14 was set on studying to become an orthodontist — until she completed a few biology courses and realized she would rather work with animals. So in her final semester at Cal U, Brown completed an internship with the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium. While every day led to a new adventure at the zoo, she primarily worked in the aquarium’s rescue program. “It is definitely nice to show I have experience working with and feeding animals at one of the largest collections of marine life in the area,” says Brown, who graduated in May. “I enjoyed giving animals that were found nearly dead in the wild a second chance at life.” As a zoo intern, Brown often was challenged to complete a day’s work completely on her own. Some of her tasks included maintaining appropriate aquaculture for animals, feeding penguins and helping to care for an octopus, one of her favorite animals. While her internship provided job experience, it also confirmed that her transition from teeth to tentacles was the right choice. Brown now hopes to conduct cephalopod research and continue working with octopi. “The Pittsburgh Zoo literally threw me into a job that solidified my decision to study marine biology. I wanted to go down a different path than most, and my education and experience is helping me do just that.”
Presentations in Paris
Two Cal U students traveled to France this summer to present their work at the 28th International Congress of Applied Psychology. Allyssa Patton, a school counseling major, and Jake Wheatley, who is studying clinical and mental health, joined faculty members Dr. Susan Allyssa Patton Morris-Rutledge and Dr. Grafton Eliason at the conference in Paris. Every four years the International Association of Applied Psychology organizes the world congress, which draws psychologists from more than 80 countries. Patton presented “Educating the Immigrant Student,” which examines the challenges posed to schools by rapid increases in immigrant populations. In the United States, for example, non-Englishspeaking youths are the fastest-growing student population in public schools. “School counselors or psychologists must serve as a bridge between the different members of the school community to ensure the academic and socio-cultural success of immigrant youth,” she says. Wheatley presented “Life after Dying: A Model of Grief, Loss and Death Anxiety for Survivors of Life-Threatening Diagnoses.”
We just want them to find something they are passionate about and make everything a part of the learning experience. Dr. Grafton Eliason PROFESSOR, DEPARTMENT OF COUNSELOR EDUCATION
“There has been much research on the topic of dying,” he says. “However, there has been little research on what a person experiences Jake Wheatley after he or she is cured — and obviously there are lingering emotions.” Both students’ papers began as class projects in Eliason’s Research Methods in Counseling course. “Students write papers, but we really want them to see results by publishing or presenting them,” he says. “We just want them to find something they are passionate about and make everything a part of the learning experience.” By Wendy Mackall, Bruce Wald ’85 and Jeff Bender, all of Cal U
Jessica Brown '14 feeds a penguin during her spring internship at the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium.
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YOU CAN, YOU MUST AND
YOU WILL
Allyshia Nunez leads a procession of undergraduates across the Quad to Commencement ceremonies in the Convocation Center.
ATTORNEY CHALLENGES CLASS OF 2014 TO ADDRESS SOCIAL ILLS
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elebration mingled with a sense of purpose at California University’s 178th Commencement, where attorney Reginald A. Long Sr. ’81 urged graduates to embrace challenges and make changes in the world. “You should be able to walk into any room … and be confident that based on your education here at Cal U, you Reginald A. Long Sr. '81 can effectively handle any challenge that is presented to you,” Long told the graduates assembled in the Cal U Convocation Center. “Remember, the challenges presented to you are nothing more or nothing less than your opportunity.” Master’s degree candidates were vested in their academic hoods before receiving their diplomas on May 9. Graduation ceremonies for bachelor’s and associate degree candidates were held on May 10. In all, interim University President Geraldine M. Jones conferred degrees upon nearly 1,200 students. During her welcoming remarks, President Jones praised the graduates for their accomplishments but emphasized their work is just beginning. “You have important work ahead of you — the work of building a meaningful life and contributing as a member of this global society we live in.
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“I am very much aware of the role each of you will play in the future of our country and our world. It is up to you as knowledgeable, purposeful and caring human beings to change lives, reshape communities and make the world a better place.”
From classrooms to boardrooms
A native of Pittsburgh’s Hill District, Long is a specialist in the legal practice areas of commercial real estate, corporate finance, zoning and land use. He is a partner in the law firm of Love and Long LLP, with offices in Newark, N.J., and Philadelphia, Pa. In addition to a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Cal U, Long holds an MBA from the Fordham University Graduate School of Business and a juris doctor degree from New York Law School. He is a member of the bar in New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania. At both graduation ceremonies, Long reminisced about his student days in old Johnson Hall, which has since been demolished, and he encouraged the Class of 2014 to employ three basic skills: critical thinking, communication and problem solving. “I believe the training you’ve received during your time at Cal U also has equipped you with the 3 C’s: competence, confidence and correctness. These attributes … will lead to your success,” he told them.
Angela Summers (left) congratulates daughter Savanna Morris, who received her degree in forensic science.
Interim University President Geraldine M. Jones checks her academic cap and gown before Commencement.
“However, your experience at Cal U gives you an advantage — common sense.” Long laid out a series of social ills ranging from the nation’s low graduation rate for African-American males to corporate greed and gridlock in Washington. Then he challenged students to address them. “You can change the classroom. … You must instill a sense of ethics while making a profit. … You will, in the words of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., transform the dangling discourse of our nation into a symphony of brotherhood. … “Embrace these challenges and recognize them as opportunities for change. You can, you must and you will, because we are depending on you.”
President Jones accepts the 2014 Senior Class Gift from graduate Amy Dunn.
JoNell Elkins adjusts her son's cap. Darin Elkins, of Alexandria, Va., is an adviser to the Army Surgeon General and a graduate of the exercise science program offered through Cal U Global Online.
Senior gift
Before undergraduates received their diplomas, Amy Dunn, chair of the Senior Gift Drive Committee, presented President Jones with a check for more than $15,000 contributed by graduating seniors and their families. More than $75,000 has been raised for an endowed scholarship since the first senior class donation in 2010. “Those of us who worked on and contributed to the 2014 Senior Class Gift Drive certainly embrace the idea of a lifelong relationship with Cal U,” Dunn said. President Jones acknowledged Heather A. Kerestine and Tracy Benjamin Long for earning bachelor’s degrees while attaining a perfect 4.0 with at least 90 credit hours at Cal U. Nine other students earned two separate degrees simultaneously, she announced. As she welcomed Cal U’s newest alumni, President Jones urged each of them to live life to the fullest. “Find your passion, whatever it may be. Become it, and let it become you, and you will find great things happen for you, to you, and because of you. “Keep your dreams alive.”
SEE THE CEREMONIES To view Cal U’s 178th Commencement ceremonies and read the complete text of the speakers’ remarks, visit www.calu.edu and search for “Commencement videos.”
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CAMPUS C L I P S
Two-time Recovery Champion award winner Dr. Carol Bocetti examines a Delmarva fox squirrel.
Another species back from the brink Dr. Carol Bocetti, an associate professor in the Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, has received her second Recovery Champion award from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The annual award honors individuals whose conservation work has helped threatened or endangered species reach the point where they are secure in the wild and no longer need protection — the goal of the federal Endangered Species Act. Bocetti received the 2013 award for her work with the Delmarva Fox Squirrel Recovery Team, which she joined in 1995. The squirrel first was listed as an endangered species in 1967. Today, more than 20,000 of the silver-gray rodents now inhabit the Delmarva Peninsula of Delaware, Maryland and Virginia.
Bocetti received the 2011 Recovery Champion award for leading the Kirtland’s Warbler Recovery Team. The songbird, found only in Michigan, Wisconsin and Ohio, also has been brought back from the brink of extinction. “I am not aware of a Recovery Champion chosen with so few years between the awards,” says Ann Haas, an endangered species program specialist with the Fish and Wildlife Service. “Although Dr. Bocetti is not unique in this recognition, she is surely a rarity. She deserves applause for sharing her expertise for the benefit of another species in another region.”
Theatre professor marks 50th for ‘Fiddler’ Dr. Michele Pagen '90, of the Department of Theatre and Dance, was one of two assistant directors for Raise the Roof, the 50th anniversary Dr. Michele Pagen performance of the classic musical drama Fiddler on the Roof. Grammy Award winner Joshua Bell joined a cast of original Broadway, revival and film stars for the performance at Town Hall Theatre in New York City. The production honored award-winning lyricist Sheldon Harnick and The National Yiddish Theatre – Folksbiene, which marked its 100th season this year.
Light my fire Jim Bové, an assistant professor in the Department of Art and Design, adjusts a flame during an arts class. Bové was an artist-in-residence this summer at Haystack Mountain School of Crafts, considered one of the top craft schools in the nation. In addition to offering studio-based workshops in clay, glass, metals, blacksmithing, weaving, woodworking and other crafts, the school at Deer Isle, Maine, also invites renowned scientists, designers and writers to cultivate discussions with the artists. Bové’s work at Haystack will become part of his solo exhibition in January at the Appalachian Center for Crafts at Tennessee Tech University in Smithville, Tenn.
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Pagen was invited to participate by Gary John LaRosa, who performed in a revival of Fiddler and served as codirector for Raise the Roof. As an artistin-residence at Cal U, LaRosa was guest director for the theatre department’s 2011 production of Twilight of the Golds.
Cal U’s still green, says Princeton Review A commitment to energy savings and environmental stewardship powers Cal U. And once again the University has been listed among the “greenest” schools in North America. Look for Cal U in the 2014 edition of The Princeton Review's Guide to 332 Green Colleges, a free, downloadable book published in partnership with the Center for Green Schools at the U.S. Green Building Council. Cal U has been profiled in the guide annually since 2010. Schools are selected based on data in 25 fields, including sustainability-related policies and programs that prepare students for “green” careers. Among Cal U’s academic offerings are programs of study in geology, environmental earth science, conservation ecology, environmental studies, fisheries and wildlife biology, meteorology, and more. For a complete listing, visit www.calu.edu.
Career-focused programs delivered 100% online Cal U has announced a variety of new online programs designed with busy, working professionals in mind. • Classes began in June for a new certificate program in Student Affairs Practice offered by the School of Graduate Studies and Research. The nine-credit program, which can be completed in just three terms, prepares counselors and other professionals to work with college students in areas such as university admissions, financial aid, residential life, career services and more. • Beginning this fall, students can prepare for challenging positions in
the oil and gas industry with two new programs offered through Cal U Global Online. Both the Bachelor of Arts in Jurisprudence: Land Management and the Land Management Certificate emphasize legal topics, oil- and gasrelated land management issues, geology, and geographical information science. • Cal U Global Online also will launch its online Master of Business Administration: Entrepreneurship this fall. Designed for recent college graduates and business professionals who seek advanced managerial skills, this concentration addresses industry trends facing today’s business professionals. Full-time students can complete the MBA program in just 12 months; a part-time schedule also is available. More information about Cal U’s academic programs is available online at www.calu.edu/academics.
Tip for scholars: Check your profile Reflecting on her journey from Cal U to New York City and a career in television production, Shendy Hershfield ’09 encouraged the Shendy Hershfield '09 University’s Presidential Scholars to be aware of their online reputations, as well as their resumes, as they launch their careers. Hershfield delivered the address at the 2014 Honors Convocation. “Most people coming out of college do not have a lot of real-life job experience,” said Hershfield, a digital product manager at Fox News Channel and Fox Business Network. “So what employers do is go online and Google you.” Interim University President Geraldine M. Jones congratulated the nearly 400 undergraduate and graduate students honored at the convocation. “I encourage all of our students here today, our best and brightest, to welcome the roadblocks and setbacks, as well as the satisfying moments of success,” she said. “Experience them all, good and bad, and you will grow in maturity, judgment and wisdom.”
In Uniform Nicholas Granfield watches his uncle Robert Clinton (left), sister Genevieve and wife Vivian pin his second lieutenant’s insignia on his uniform during the Department of Military Science’s Reserve Officer Training Corps commissioning ceremony. Cal U cadets Erin Flickinger and Alex Peplinski (right) also received the gold bars signifying their new rank, as did Janna Yoder, of Washington and Jefferson College. Interim University President Geraldine M. Jones and Lt. Col. Paul Darling, of the Army National Guard, addressed the new officers and their families at the ceremony, held May 9 in Steele Hall Mainstage Theatre.
Faculty authors take a bow With a festive reception and a monthlong display of their works, Manderino Library recognized faculty members who have published books during the past five years. Several faculty authors spoke at the April event, and each received a certificate. Special bookplates will identify their books in the library’s permanent collection. “We wanted to showcase our faculty creativity and scholarship, which plays such an integral role on this campus,” said research and instruction librarian Monica Ruane Rogers. Douglas Hoover, dean of Library Services, served as emcee for the event. Authors John Cencich, Clarissa Confer, Paul Crawford, Bob Diotalevi, Grafton
Faculty authors (from left) Dr. Clarissa Confer, Dr. Laura Tuennerman and Dr. Craig Smith.
Eliason, Brent House, Raymond Hsieh, John Patrick, Christine Romani-Ruby, Ben Rueter, Jeff Samide, Ryan Sittler, Craig Smith, Laura Tuennerman, Carol Waterhouse and Margo Wilson were recognized.
Donors, recipients meet at reception “Thank you” was the theme of the day when more than 200 donors, scholarship students and other guests attended the annual Scholarship Reception Teri N. Dunn '80 April 3 in the Convocation Center’s south wing. The invitation-only event honors donors who have created privately funded scholarships through the Foundation for California University, and it gives them an opportunity to meet the students who benefit from their generosity. Alumna Teri N. Dunn ’80, who helped to establish the Marcy Rye Blout and Patrick Miller Scholarship in Communication Studies, spoke on behalf of donors. Jared M. Schaut, a business administration and accounting major, represented the scholarship recipients. A member of the University Honors Program, he is a recipient of the Balsano Family Scholarship.
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CAMPUS C L I P S Athletic training professor honored
Dr. Vanessa MacKinnon, internship coordinator for the professional golf management program, discusses proper form with young golfer Farrah Reader.
Golf opens door for girl-to-girl talks No one knows whether the next LPGA champion was among the 8- to 10-yearolds at the Professional Golf Management’s free program for girls. But the young golfers undoubtedly learned some valuable skills, on and off the course. Activities included strength training, cardiovascular conditioning and yoga, along with educational material from the Women’s Sports Foundation’s GoGirlGo! curriculum. Dr. Vanessa MacKinnon, internship coordinator for the PGM program, says the 12-week program used golf as a “gateway” for talking girl-to-girl about issues such as proper eating habits, stress prevention and positive body image. With guidance from PGM students and staff, the young golfers also practiced putting and chipping. They perfected their swings and spent time on the PGM simulators. Then they headed to local golf courses, where they put their skills to the test. PGM student Chris Rhein, who aspires to be a head golf professional, says the top golf facilities often ask interns to conduct junior clinics. “A lot of our teaching will be with young people, and this really prepares us,” he says.
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Dr. Thomas West, a professor in the Department of Health Science, is a 2014 recipient of the Pennsylvania Athletic Trainers’ Society Distinguished Dr. Thomas West Merit Award. The award recognizes BOC-certified athletic trainers who have been in practice in Pennsylvania for at least 15 years and who demonstrate distinguished professional achievement in the practice of athletic training in their respective employment settings. Past recipients of the award include Cal U faculty members Dr. Linda Platt Meyer, who was honored in 2012, and Dr. William Biddington, a 1997 award winner.
the Girls, a nonprofit group that supports victims of human trafficking in Mozambique. • Staff member Bridgett Nobili, of the Career and Professional Development Center, is the career adviser to the College of Education and Human Services and related graduate and Global Online programs. She was recognized for activities that included organizing a Women’s Networking Reception to connect successful female alumni with Cal U students. • Faculty member Dr. Susan Jasko, of the Department of Communication Studies, was honored for her work with the National Weather Service, where she has contributed to efforts aimed at improving communication about approaching storms.
Commission honors three dynamic women The President’s Commission for the Status of Women regularly honors women for their contributions to the University community. The commission recognized its Spring 2014 Women of the Year March 6 at the Women’s History Month Banquet. • Student Daelynn Roach’s concern for women reaches across the globe. Among other activities, she organized last year’s campus bra drive for Free
Spring 2014 Women of the Year (from left) Daelynn Roach, Dr. Susan Jasko and Bridgett Nobili.
Lavender Graduation Sheleta Webb ’89, coordinator of the Lambda Bridges and LGBTQA Program Office, addresses the audience at Lavender Graduation. The event recognized the personal and academic achievements of 10 lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and ally students who graduated this year. Webb read remarks sent by Janice Zivic ’64, who has assisted Cal U’s LGBTQA community through Lambda Bridges funding, a scholarship, a speaker series and support for library resources. Dr. Nancy Pinardi ’95, ’96, ’98, interim vice president for Student Affairs, also addressed the students, who each received a certificate and lavender cords to wear at Commencement as a sign of community pride.
Biology majors Sarah Chattin (left) and Christina Santmyer wade into an inlet to conduct research into water quality at Indian Lake Park in Westmoreland County.
We are getting real-world experience, and it is a lot of fun at the same time. Sarah Chattin BIOLOGY MAJOR
Biology students research water quality at Westmoreland County park
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iology and environmental studies students pulled on their boots so a Westmoreland County community could learn more about the lake in its public park. As part of a water pollution class offered during the spring semester, Cal U students assessed the water quality at Indian Lake Park in North Huntington, Pa. The township asked Dr. Robert Whyte, a professor in the Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, to help assess — and potentially improve — water quality at the lake. “This is a nice area for our students to study, because we have a six-acre lake, streams that run into the lake and wetlands in one location,” Whyte says. “There are several subdivisions around the lake, and people like to use fertilizer in their yards. All of those chemicals can run into the water.” The class traveled from campus to the park each week during the designated lab time for the course. At the lake they tested for a number of water quality indicators, including dissolved oxygen, water temperature and nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus. Teams of students also were responsible for mapping the park and its watershed and taking photos to document the process. “It is great to participate in a study like this while still in college,” says Eric Myers, an environmental science major. “Instead of our professor collecting samples and bringing them into the lab for us to analyze, we’re learning how to do the work ourselves and be part of a great cause for this community.”
Students also conducted a “bio-blitz” in the park, inviting the community to help create an inventory of all plant and animal species at the site. As part of this event, the students described their water-quality research, shared their findings with residents and demonstrated the equipment they used. “I want to pursue field research after I graduate, so this is perfect experience for me,” says biology major Sarah Chattin. “We are getting real-world experience, and it is a lot of fun at the same time.” Whyte hopes that his students’ work at Indian Lake will showcase Cal U as a resource for area townships and boroughs. He would like to establish a course that helps to solve environmental problems for communities in the region. “There are so many different studies we can perform that would be beneficial for both our students and local communities,” he says. “We want communities to come to Cal U for their solutions.” By Jeff Bender, PR/Web writer at Cal U
VISIT INDIAN LAKE To see the student project at Indian Lake Park, visit www.calu.edu/news. Click on ‘Cal U Review’ and choose ‘As Seen in the Review.’
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ALUMNI C A L E N D A R Greetings from the Office of Alumni Relations! Please save the date and plan to join us for any — or all! — of these exciting alumni events. When you visit campus, be sure to stop in at the Kara Alumni House. We’re always glad to see our Cal U graduates.
Leslie Berdar Fleenor ’08 Director of Alumni Relations
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SEPT. 21 BRUNCH AT THE AVIARY
ALUMNI & FRIENDS ... AND BASEBALL!
Spread your wings and pay a visit to the National Aviary, located at 700 Arch St. on Pittsburgh’s historic North Side. A program beginning at 10:30 a.m. will include brunch and an update on the latest news from Cal U.
California University heads to the ballpark — and you’re invited. Hear the latest news about Cal U, network with your fellow graduates and cheer for the Pittsburgh Pirates!
SEPT. 25 ‘CAL GALS’ ALUMNI GATHERING Retired teachers from southwestern Pennsylvania get together for lunch at 11:30 a.m. in the Kara Alumni House. The “Cal Gals” meet twice a year to socialize and reminisce as they raise scholarship funds for Cal U education majors. For details, contact the Office of Alumni Relations at 724-938-4418.
SEPT. 27 FAMILY DAY Celebrate a University tradition and join the Cal U family for a fun-filled day of activities. Students, families, alumni and community members may take part in The Wildlife Society’s annual Family Field Day activities or visit the Kids Zone sponsored by the Black Student Union. Then watch the Vulcan football team take on the Edinboro Fighting Scots. For more Family Day information, visit www.calu.edu/events.
SEPT. 11 Alumni & Friends at Citizens Bank Park, Philadelphia Philadelphia Phillies vs. Pittsburgh Pirates, 7:05 p.m.
SEPT. 12 Cal U Night at PNC Park, Pittsburgh Chicago Cubs vs. Pittsburgh Pirates, 7:05 p.m.
SEPT. 25 Alumni & Friends at Turner Field, Atlanta Atlanta Braves vs. Pittsburgh Pirates, 7:10 p.m. For detailed information about these and other Cal U Alumni & Friends events, visit www.calu.edu/alumni or check the latest edition of Under the Towers, your alumni e-newsletter.
OCT. 10 CAL U TALENT SHOWCASE
VULCAN HUDDLE
Start Homecoming off right! Take a seat in Steele Hall Mainstage Theatre for an evening of entertainment featuring our talented students, staff and alumni. The show starts at 7:30 p.m. All proceeds benefit student scholarships.
A Vulcan Huddle Tailgate begins two hours before every home football game. All alumni, students and friends are welcome. Look for us in the Alumni Pavilion to the left of the ticket booth entrance at Adamson Stadium.
OCT. 11 HOMECOMING Don’t miss this full day of activities. Your friends and classmates will be looking for you! 8:30 a.m. Alumni Board of Directors meeting, Booker Great Room, Kara Alumni House 10 a.m. African American Alumni Society annual meeting, Multipurpose Room, Carter Hall 10 a.m.–noon
Pre-parade activities for kids of all ages, throughout campus
Noon
Traditional parade, featuring music, floats and more!
1:30 p.m.
Vulcan Huddle, Adamson Stadium at Roadman Park
3:30 p.m.
Kickoff: Cal U vs. Slippery Rock, Adamson Stadium
For details, contact the Office of Alumni Relations at 724-938-4418 or e-mail alumni@calu.edu. Or visit our website, www.calu.edu/alumni.
Cal U vs. Virginia State University Kickoff at 1 p.m.*
SEPT. 6
SEPT. 27
OCT. 11
Family Day • Cal U vs. Edinboro Kickoff at 1 p.m.* omecoming • Cal U vs. Slippery Rock H Kickoff at 3:30 p.m.*
Cal U vs. IUP Kickoff at 1 p.m.*
OCT. 18
Cal U vs. Gannon Kickoff at 1 p.m.*
NOV. 1
Cal U vs. Lock Haven Kickoff at 1 p.m.*
NOV. 15
*All times are subject to change; for last-minute details, check our website, www.calu.edu/alumni.
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ALUMNI S P O T L I G H T
Air, water, waste, natural resources … our operations have a potential impact on all of it. ... I love my job and doing what I do. Kevin A. Gurchak '84 MANAGER, ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE , PITTSBURGH INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS
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uring his 14 years as the manager of environmental compliance for the Allegheny County Airport Authority–Pittsburgh International Airport, Kevin A. Gurchak ’84 has covered a lot of ground — 8,800 acres of airport property, in fact. “Air, water, waste, natural resources … our operations have a potential impact on all of it,” says Gurchak, who has been in the environmental compliance field since 1989. “So managing that is my effort. And it’s a coordinated effort, because we are trying to meet the expectations of regulatory agencies and the communities we deal with.” Gurchak estimates that water quality issues consume two-thirds or more of his time. The airport has over 11 million square feet of pavement, and every inch of rainfall equals 27,000 gallons per acre. “So 1 inch on my airfield creates 7 million gallons of water that we need to manage.” Some challenges are unique to the airport environment, where an eighth of an
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inch of clear ice on an aircraft will prevent it from taking off. In one winter alone, about 1 million gallons of propylene glycol was used to de-ice planes on the airport’s de-icing pads. “We have streams of water (on the airport property), and any de-icing fluid that gets away from us can have an impact on a stream.” Gurchak has spoken to Cal U classes, and this fall he plans to take students from Dr. Robert Whyte’s wetlands ecology course to the airport grounds for research. Meanwhile, he keeps a watchful eye on the airport property, where streambank stabilization, mine reclamation, timber harvesting and wildlife hazard management are all in a day’s work. Minimizing the environmental impact on streams and wetlands is always a goal, and it’s required under the National Environmental Policy Act. “You have to replace what you take,” he explains. “If I impact or culvert a stream and take out 1,500 feet, I have to replace
Kevin A. Gurchak '84 manages the environmental impact of opertions at Pittsburgh International Airport.
that somewhere within my watershed.” Gurchak takes a down-to-earth approach to managing so much land. “It’s just prioritizing based on the need of the day,” he says. “I love my job and doing what I do.” By Bruce Wald ’85, information writer at Cal U
A GUIDE ON LIFE’S JOURNEY
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anelle Buchheit ’02, ’06 revels in helping people discover their best selves and create a “fulfilling, meaningful and purposeful existence.” After eight years as a successful school counselor, she now operates New Heights Coaching, which guides adults, kids, teens and college students as they develop greater self-awareness and make positive changes in their lives. The first step was to follow her own advice. “In the process of growing as an individual, I really started to listen to my intuition and heart, which told me it was time to fully express my unique gifts,” says Buchheit, a certified counselor, school counselor and life coach.
Having my own business allows me the freedom to create the life I want to live. Janelle Buchheit '02, '06
“Having my own business allows me the freedom to create the life I want to live. That’s something I encourage with my clients, as well, to help them to live out their calling, creating a career they love.” Although New Heights Coaching is based on Pittsburgh’s South Side, Buchheit’s work is done primarily by telephone or online via Skype and Google+. Information is available at www.newheightscoaching.com. She also co-authored a book, My Snack Size Skills: 8 Life Lessons for a Healthy & Happy Me! Buchheit describes it as a fun-filled book of powerful life lessons and interactive activities that empower children in grades K-5 to live happy and healthy lives. “When I left the schools, I wanted to work on a project where I could help a lot of kids,” she explains. “As adults we’re still trying to learn skills to be happy and healthy, but we can start teaching kids these skills at an earlier age, when it’s so much easier for them to embrace and live them.” An honors graduate, Buchheit speaks fondly of Cal U, where her mother, Geri ’72, and sisters Jackie ’99 and Jennifer ’04 are also alumnae.
Photo by Michael Kilgore
Janelle Buchheit '02, '06 guides adults, teens and children as they make positive changes in their lives.
“Working on my (undergraduate) marketing degree taught me the power of professionalism and presentation,” Buchheit says. “The master’s degree program in counselor education was personally transformative and provided the necessary skills to help others in a positive way. “If I could come back and do it all over again, I would.” By Bruce Wald ’85, information writer at Cal U
CARING FOR ALL AGES
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ina Yakich ’89 never knew that taking care of her grandmother would lead to a career in gerontology. At least, not until Cal U introduced her to the field. “I wasn’t really thinking of it as a career, but my family was taking care of my grandmother and I received some information from the University about their gerontology program,” she says. “It seemed like a natural fit.” Now, Yakich is the executive director of Presbyterian SeniorCare’s Southmont campus in Washington, Pa. The organization is a nonprofit, faith-based network of living and care options based in Pennsylvania that serves the needs of more than 6,500 older adults each year. Yakich’s main role is to ensure that the Southmont facility’s more than 350 employees provide exceptional care to its 155 residents.
“Cal U’s gerontology program helped me become a better administrator,” she says. “I have training in economics, accounting, pharmacy operations and wide variety of other fields. It gives a more holistic approach to helping others.” Helping and interacting with people are her favorite parts of the job, says Yakich, who has kept up strong ties to Cal U. She frequently hires interns and employees from the University’s gerontology program, and she comes back to discuss the field of senior care with current Cal U students. “It takes a great mentor to learn about gerontology,” says Yakich. “Professor Mary Hart at Cal U was a great mentor for me, and I hope to have the same positive effect on the students I meet.” By Jeff Bender, PR/Web writer at Cal U
Tina Yakich '89 takes a holistic approach to helping others as executive director of Presbyterian SeniorCare’s Southmont campus.
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Eight outstanding faculty members receive awards The best professors combine academic rigor with a genuine love of teaching. Scholars in their own right, they build high-quality academic programs; educate, challenge and mentor students; and make innumerable other contributions to University life. Because an engaged and expert faculty is central to Cal U’s academic mission, the University President annually recognizes faculty members who have excelled in teaching, service and research. The Faculty Professional Development Committee (FPDC) also recognizes excellence among its members.
PRESIDENTIAL AWARDS This year’s recipients of the Presidential Distinguished Merit Awards for Excellence were introduced at Honors Convocation in April, and they wore their medallions proudly at spring Commencement. In addition to the faculty awards, a scholarship will be awarded in each recipient’s area of study.
DR. JODI DUSI,
associate professor in the Department of Health Science, received the Presidential Award for teaching. Director of the physical therapist assistant program, she utilizes technology including textmessage polls, Facebook and wikis to encourage collaborative learning among students. Dusi also developed an integrated learning project involving California and Slippery Rock universities that uses videoconferencing so physical therapy and PAT students can work cooperatively in mock-patient scenarios.
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DR. CRAIG SMITH,
associate professor in the Department of History and Political Science, accepted the Presidential Award for service. He has been president of the Faculty Senate since 2011, and was appointed chair of the Task Force to Study Shared Governance at Cal U. An active member of the Faculty Professional Development Committee, Smith is vice president for the local chapter of APSCUF, the Association of Pennsylvania State College and University Faculties.
DR. LAURA TUENNERMAN,
a professor in the Department of History and Political Science, received the Presidential Award for research. Her scholarly investigations focus primarily on ways in which race, gender and class shape the American experience. Formerly a department chair and interim dean of the College of Liberal Arts, Tuennerman is the co-author of At the Border of Empires: The Tohono O’odham, Gender, and Assimilation, 1880-1934.
FPDC AWARDS FPDC Merit Award recipients are chosen by faculty committees and recognized at Commencement. The awards are intended to assist faculty as they strive to develop their skills and expertise in order to provide high-quality education for Cal U students. The 2014 FPDC Merit Award winners were honored at a luncheon on May 9.
DR. SARAH MEISS, an associate professor in the Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, received the FPDC Technology Merit Award. She has used iPad tablets to help biology students learn more about the cellular features of plants, fungi and other life forms. Chair of the FPDC’s High-Impact Practices (HIP) Task Force, she has worked with students to film 5-minute videos focusing on students’ biology research. These videos will be posted on the new FPDC HIP website and covered in the HIP newsletter.
DR. SHELLY DICESARO, an assistant professor in the Department of Health Science, received the FPDC Grants and Contracts Merit Award. She works closely with Cheryl Vogrig and the Office of Sponsored Programs and Research to secure funding that benefits faculty, staff and students. Since 2010 DiCesaro has secured grants for the Cal U Healthy Eating Initiative, Experiences in Stress-Relief Techniques, Cal U Walk for Wellness and the Cal U High School Student Athletic
Faculty Professional Development award winners (seated, from left) Dr. Sarah Meiss, Dr. Shelly DiCesaro and Dr. Mary Seman; (standing, from left) Dr. Kyle Fredrick and Dr. Sean Madden.
Trainer Workshop. An additional grant for Volunteer Youth Soccer Coaches Athletic Injury Recognition and Treatment Knowledge is under review.
DR. MARY SEMAN, a professor in the Department of Special Education, received the FPDC Service and Service-Learning Merit Award. For 15 years she has been the academic adviser for the Council for Exceptional Children student organization, which sponsors dances for nearly 200 adults with disabilities. Seman also has directed volunteer efforts at Head Start classrooms and worked with the Nursing Department to provide distance learning classes for the Jamaican International Project, directed at improving the lives of impoverished children and their caregivers.
DR. KYLE FREDRICK, an associate professor in the Department of Earth Sciences, received the FPDC Research Merit Award. An expert in hydrology, he incorporates topics of interest to students into his classes through data collection
exercises and more robust individualized research projects. Fredrick studies the flow and contamination of local streams at research sites in the Pike Run Watershed and other parts of Washington County, and he addresses landscape development questions related to landslides and fluvial geomorphology in southwestern Pennsylvania.
DR. SEAN MADDEN, a professor in the Department of History and Political Science, received the FPDC Teaching and Learning Merit Award. Currently the director of Cal U’s international studies program, he has been a department chair, academic dean and University provost. Madden is a Fulbright Specialist, and in 2013 he conducted a 10-day faculty development seminar in Russia that focused on learning and teaching. He has been awarded a fellowship with the Harvard Institute for Leadership in Higher Education, as well as Cal U’s first fellowship with ACE, the American Council on Education.
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FOUNDATION RECOGNIZES
EXTRAORDINARY
SUCCESS
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fficers elected this winter continue to guide the Foundation for California University as Cal U begins the 2014-2015 academic year. The Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, solicits and receives funds to hold, administer, invest and disburse on behalf of the University. Its leadership includes Steven P. Stout ’85, president; Armand Balsano ’74, vice president; William R. Flinn ’68, secretary; and Paul Kania ’87, treasurer; and a Foundation Board composed of alumni and University friends. Each year the Foundation recognizes individuals and organizations for accomplishments that reflect positively on the University or further its mission. “Whether it’s a graduate who has had extraordinary success outside of the University, an individual who has served the University selflessly in some capacity or an organization that has aided the University in some manner, the Foundation Board members appreciate how these all reflect well on the University as a whole,” Stout says. “We use our awards as a way to say ‘congratulations’ and ‘thank you.’”
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The award winners
Thomas L. Crumrine ’64 is this year’s recipient of the Foundation’s Job Johnson Award for leadership and community service. Named for one of the school’s founders, the award recognizes alumni who have received recognition for excellence, innovation, community service or other notable achievements outside the University. Crumrine, retired CEO/president of Nationwide Agencies, serves on the Foundation Board and, during its existence, the Board of Presidential Advisors and its Capital Campaign Steering Committee. He and his wife, Nancy ’66, have been generous benefactors to Cal U, supporting student success through the endowed Thomas L. and Nancy L. Crumrine Family Scholarship and providing support to other University initiatives. Mitchell Kozikowski received the Dixonians Award for service to the University. The award is named in honor of John N. Dixon, the "Grand Old Man" among Cal U’s founders, who served on the Board of Trustees for 46 years. Kozikowski, a public relations expert with more than 50 years of executive experience, accepted the award before he retired this spring as associate vice
Accepting the Foundation for California University’s annual awards are (from left) Mitchell Kozikowski, Jeffrey Peters and Steve Bugajski of U.S. Steel Corp., and Thomas L. Crumrine ’64.
president for leadership giving in the Office of University Development. During his nine years at Cal U, Kozikowski worked tirelessly to raise money for student scholarships and other University needs. He and his wife, Cheryl, have endowed the Mitchell and Cheryl Kozikowski Scholarship. U.S. Steel Corp. received The Society of 1852 Award, presented for distinguished contributions to the enhancement and excellence of California University. Through its United States Steel Foundation, U.S. Steel has provided scholarships for Cal U students and program funding for other initiatives. Nearly 90 Cal U alumni are employed at U.S. Steel, and company representatives frequently visit campus to recruit graduates for technical positions. The corporation also makes internships available to Cal U students, and U.S. Steel employees sit on several University advisory boards and have built strong relationships with faculty members. Accepting the award on behalf of U.S. Steel were Jeffrey Peters, campus relations specialist, and Steve Bugajski, general manager of corporate business services. By Bruce Wald ’85, information writer at Cal U
SPORTS P R O F I L E
I have a lot of perseverance. I knew I loved the sport and wasn’t going to give up. Matt Antoine '09 Olympic Bronze Medalist, Sochi 2014
Alumnus rides speedy skeleton to 2014 Olympics platform
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att Antoine ’09 became interested in the sliding sport of skeleton when he watched American Jimmy Shea race headfirst down an icy track to win gold at the Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City, Utah. Twelve years later, Antoine stepped onto the Olympic podium in Sochi, Russia, the first American to medal in skeleton since Shea’s victory in 2002. Antoine’s four-run total of 3 minutes, 47.26 seconds was enough to earn him a bronze medal. “It’s still an amazing feeling,” he says. “You almost appreciate the accomplishment more now than you did in the moment. It is without a doubt the greatest moment of my life.” A Wisconsin native, Antoine attended a sliding school in Lake Placid, N.Y., in 2002 but was told he wasn’t good enough for high-level competition. “I’ve always had a stubborn personality,” says Antoine, now 29. “I have a lot of perseverance. I knew I loved the sport and wasn’t going to give up.” The following year he returned to Lake Placid. By 2008 he’d placed fourth in the Junior World Championships and third in
the U.S. National Championships. In 2009 he was named the U.S. Men's Skeleton Athlete of the Year. He missed the 2010 Olympics by one spot. The first time he watched the sport, “the sight of a person rocketing down an ice chute headfirst at 80 to 90 miles an hour gave me chills," he recalls. “You definitely have to have an enjoyment and appreciation for speed, and I suppose a little bit of a daredevil mentality. … Everything’s going so fast, but over time you process it much slower and everything slows down in your head. That’s when you begin to assess the situation and understand what to do.” Antoine won gold in the mixed team event at the 2012 FIBT World Championships and took third in the 2013-2014 World Cup. By February 2014 he was ready for Sochi. Today he’s still training six days a week, spending summers at Colorado Springs, Colo., and returning to Lake Placid in October. Antoine hopes to slide in the 2018 Olympics and then capitalize on his education.
He’d tried a traditional college program while training at Lake Placid, but long commutes and international travel got in the way. Cal U Global Online was a perfect fit. “I wanted to finish my degree online, but at a good, reputable university,” Antoine says. “I spent a lot of time researching and found Cal U’s online program in sport management with the focus on wellness and fitness. It was right up my alley. “I want to stay involved with sports on the marketing side or management side of a team, and there’s no question the degree will lead into what I want to do” after his next Olympic run. Meanwhile, Antoine is savoring every moment of his Olympic experience. “Walking out for the opening ceremonies is a special memory, for sure,” he says. “To represent your country and walk out (in front of) 40,000 people, including your family, and the millions around the world watching on TV — that is certainly something you never forget.” By Bruce Wald ’85, information writer at Cal U
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SPORTS R O U N D U P
VULCANS WIN DIXON TROPHY
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or the second time in school history, the Cal U athletics program has won the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference’s Dixon Trophy, awarded annually since 1995 to the PSAC university with the most successful all-around athletics program. This year’s winner was determined by calculating the average of every sport sponsored by each participating school. Women’s teams made an especially strong showing for Cal U, winning conference championships in soccer, softball and tennis. The women's golf, volleyball and men’s golf teams earned runner-up conference finishes to boost the Dixon point total. Only eight PSAC schools have won the
trophy, which is named for the late F. Eugene Dixon Jr., former chairman of the Board of Governors of the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education. Just four schools have claimed the trophy more than once. The Vulcans also brought it home in 2008-2009. “This award symbolizes the hard work of our coaching staff, athletic staff and faculty who work day in and day out toward the success of our studentathletes,” says Dr. Karen Hjerpe, Cal U’s athletic director. “The award also symbolizes the success of each student-athlete at Cal U who committed part of his or her collegiate experience to representing the institution through athletics.”
Track standouts shine
5,000-meter run. A rising sophomore, she owns school records in both events. In June she was tabbed the PSAC Outdoor Track and Field Freshman of the Year. Classmate Summer Hill also competed at NCAA Nationals, in the 1,500-meter run. In March, Hill was named the PSAC Indoor Track and Field Freshman of the Year after winning the 1-mile run. Rising senior Alex Zanella won the PSAC 5,000-meter outdoor title. She was part of Cal U’s conference-winning distance medley relay team during the indoor season, when she ran with Friend, Hill and rising senior Allison Hall.
Rising senior Aaron Dinzeo earned AllAmerican honors in both the 10,000- and 5,000-meter runs by placing third and fifth, respectively, at the NCAA Division II National Track and Field Championships this spring. Aaron Dinzeo
Tennis reaches NCAA quarterfinals
Dinzeo now has won All-American honors four times for track and twice for cross country. He also was named the PSAC Outstanding Track Athlete of the Year. Runner Julie Friend earned NCAA AllAmerican honors with a sixth-place finish in the 3,000-meter steeplechase, and she claimed the PSAC championship in the
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The women’s tennis team finished the spring sports season with a 15-3 record and an eighth straight PSAC championship, then advanced to the NCAA Division II national quarterfinals for the sixth consecutive season. Lucie Sipkova, who graduated in May, and rising senior Lucie Rey both earned Intercollegiate Tennis Association AllAmerican honors after going 24-3 in doubles play. Sipkova also earned AllAmerican status in singles play, with a 25-4 mark.
Baseball chalks up winning season
This spring the Vulcan baseball team achieved its 15th consecutive winning season consisting of 25 or more victories. Five players earned all-conference honors, including first-team selections first baseman Derrik Zeroski (.369, 23 stolen bases), a recent graduate, and shortstop Matt Peters (.325), a rising senior. Derrik Zeroski
Archers hit the mark
Rising senior Justin Bradley and rising junior Kannsas Michaels were part of a 12-person delegation that represented the United States this summer at the 10th World University Archery Championships in Legnica, Poland. Members of Cal U’s Archery Club, the pair won places at the world contest when they competed in April at the headquarters of the National Field Archery Association in Yankton, S.D. The Yankton trials included separate competitions for men and women, and for archers who use compound and traditional recurve bows. Shooting with compound bows in their respective divisions, Bradley took first place and Michaels second.
Golfer takes titles
Rising sophomore Carla Maestre — the first golfer in league history selected as both the PSAC Golfer and Freshman of the Year — finished in 44th place at the NCAA Division II National Championships. She qualified with a sixth-place tie at the East Super Regional Tournament. Carla Maestre
The women’s golf team finished in fifth place at the regional contest and made its eighth consecutive NCAA post-season appearance. The men’s golf team competed in the NCAA post-season for the seventh consecutive year, finishing eighth at the Atlantic/East Super Regional. Cal U’s top individual finishers were rising seniors Chris Bushey, who tied for 11th place, and Jordan Eck, who tied for 38th. Both earned all-conference honors.
Giovanni Morales
Jesse Burrell
Cal U students Kannsas Michaels (left) and Justin Bradley competed at the 10th World University Archery Championships in Legnica, Poland.
Hockey clubs skate to nationals
The women’s hockey team competed in the American Collegiate Hockey Association (ACHA) Division II National Tournament for the third consecutive season. Advancing to the national semifinals for the first time in program history, they finished fourth in the nation. Before heading to the national tournament, the women won the Collegiate Hockey East (CHE) championship and finished their season with 19 victories. Defenseman Margo Laboon and forward Kelsey DeNardo were named ACHA firstteam All-Americans, while forward Megan Cooper ’14 and goalkeeper Maria Sciacca received second-team honors. The CHE men’s hockey team qualified for the ACHA Division III National Tournament for the eighth time in 10 years, and fell one win short of making the national semifinals. The men finished their season with a 24-4 overall record.
New head coach for soccer
Cal U has tapped coach Glenn Francis to lead the women’s soccer program. Francis was an assistant coach last fall when the Vulcans won the PSAC championship and were ranked 12th in the National Soccer Coaches Association of America Top 25 poll. The program’s fifth head coach, he previously served as a head coach at Ashland (Ohio) and West Virginia Wesleyan universities.
Softball captures conference crown
The softball team followed a perfect 20-0 divisional season by winning the program’s seventh PSAC championship. The Vulcans finished 37-7 overall and competed in the NCAA Division II postseason for the 23rd time. Catcher Natalie Wideman (.454, 22 stolen bases) received National Fastpitch Coaches Association (NFCA) First-Team All-American honors, and pitcher Alex Sagl (25-4, 1.49 ERA), a rising junior, was a third-team selection. Wideman also was named a Capital One First-Team Academic All-American. She graduated in May with a 3.92 cumulative grade-point average and a degree in sport management. By Bruce Wald ’85, information writer at Cal U
Natalie Wideman
PAYING IT F O R W A R D
PROFESSOR’S DAUGHTER
CONTINUES A FAMILY LEGACY Scholarship fund will assist generations of geography students
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arm-raised and graduating from high school in the teeth of the Great Depression, Dr. Gabriel P. Betz thought that higher education was out of reach, until he was awarded a small scholarship to a two-year “work college.” That opportunity led him to a career that spanned more than 20 years as a geography professor and dean at California State Teachers College, now known as Cal U. Later, he “paid it forward” by establishing the Gabriel P. Betz Scholarship in Geography and Earth Sciences. Although both Gabriel Betz and his wife, Helen, have passed away, the scholarship remains in good standing thanks to their daughter, Katherine Betz. “My mother and father both recognized the value of an education,” she says. “My father believed it was important for all of us to understand the role of geography in our lives. Today's popularity of computerized Earth-viewing systems, made possible by geo-synchronized satellites, shows we still want to know not just who we are, but also where we are.” Gabriel Betz made his way into Cal U history during his time on campus. In addition to teaching, he was chair of the Department of Geography and Earth Sciences, a member of the search committee responsible for selecting a replacement for Cal State President Michael Duda, and the first dean of the 28 CAL U REVIEW SUMMER 2014 n
College of Liberal Arts. He also played a role in the early days of the Association of Pennsylvania State College and University Faculty (APSCUF), the faculty union. After Gabriel Betz retired in 1976, he received the C.B. Wilson Distinguished Faculty Award. While his teaching accolades were impressive, the professor and his wife were more focused on providing opportunities for students, his daughter says. “I remember when I was growing up, Dad would hire some of his students to help him out with yard work (to help pay for college),” she says. “Some of his students went on in geography, and some went into other fields of work, but I think they all appreciated his teaching.” After her parents passed away, funding for the scholarship fell behind. But Katherine Betz decided she would help to preserve it for generations to come. “We are routinely seeing more examples of second generations continuing their families’ legacy at Cal U,” says Lynn Baron, director of donor relations and stewardship for Cal U. “We appreciate Katherine’s exceptional generosity, which is helping her to live the legacy that her parents began.” Katherine Betz attended only a few summer classes at California, but childhood memories of Old Main, the Noss Laboratory School for grades K-6 and the
Some of his students went on in geography, and some went into other fields of work, but I think they all appreciated his teaching. Katherine Betz DAUGHTER OF DR. GABRIEL P. BETZ
huge buckeye trees on the Quad keep her forever connected to the campus, she says. “It is wonderful to read the letters of thanks that are written by scholarship recipients,” she adds. “I am grateful that, at this time in my life, I can contribute something to the scholarship fund. I know my parents would both be glad that they have done something to help, in some small way, future generations of Cal U students.” To learn how you can support a scholarship or continue a family legacy at Cal U, visit www.calu.edu/giving or call the Office of University Development and Alumni Relations at 724-938-5687. By Jeff Bender, PR/Web writer at Cal U
CAL U M I L E S T O N E S 40s Ruth Webster Gee ’45 lives in Columbus, Ind., with her husband, G. Parker Gee ’46. She studied education at Cal U and participated in archery and swimming.
60s Roger McGary ’60 is retired. He studied secondary education at Cal U, where he was sports editor and photographer for the Tower Times, a member of the tennis team and founding president of Alpha Kappa Lambda. He and his wife, Nancy, live in Takoma Park, Md. William Bodnar ’65 is retired. He majored in industrial arts at Cal U and lives in Viera, Fla. George Simmons ’65 has received the Human Rights Award from the NAACP Washington (Pa.) Branch. He is president of the Mon Valley NAACP and a life member of the organization. George retired as regional director of the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission. Gayle Gear ’65 of Gardendale, Ala., was a candidate for a state Senate seat. She has been an attorney in private practice since 1991 and studied secondary education at Cal U. John Tweardy Jr. ’66 recently merged his financial planning practice with the Musuneggi Financial Group in Pittsburgh, Pa. John and his wife, Pat Zanardelli Tweardy ’68, live in Bethel Park, Pa., and have recently welcomed their sixth grandchild. Gene P. Grilli ’68 is the vice president for administration and chief financial officer at Wheeling (W.Va.) Jesuit University. He was the associate vice president for administration and finance at Cal U for 30 years and the vice president for finance administration at Youngstown State University. James Ruby ’69 is retired. He studied education at Cal U, where he was a football manager from 1965-1969. He and his wife, Clare, live in Colorado Springs, Colo. Michael Fekete ’69, of Frederick, Md., is a retired teacher/instructional specialist for Montgomery County (Md.) Public Schools. He studied industrial arts education at Cal U. Bill Lemonovich ’69, of Carroll Township, Pa., is a disc jockey and coach of the Trinity High School forensics team. He is a retired teacher from the Montgomery County (Md.) School District.
70s Charles Ealy ’70 is a retired teacher. He also launched Tri-State Designs in Claysville, Pa., which specializes in custom trophies, plaques, medals and ribbons for various teams and groups. The business is now run by his daughter, Melissa Stagon ’99.
William Ashton ’71 has joined the board of directors of Galena Biopharma. Most recently, he served as vice president of corporate and government affairs and vice president of sales for Amgen Inc. Georgann Reichel ’72 is retired. She lives in Sunrise, Fla. Deb Novotny ’72 is a full-time, licensed battlefield guide at Gettysburg National Military Park. She recently spoke at the Civil War Roundtable that meets monthly at Cal U. Dianne Naccarato ’72 recently retired after 28 years as a secretary for the Westmoreland County Magisterial District Court in Monessen, Pa. Doug Sten ’73 is a machine safety consultant for Pilz Automation Safety LP. He works from the corporate office in Canton, Mich. Daniel Church ’74 is retired from the U.S. Department of Navy. He and his wife, Patricia, live in Venice, Fla. At Cal U, Daniel was a member of the track and field team and Epsilon Pi Tau. He also was a resident assistant. Charles Nyswaner ’74 is retired from teaching in the Washington School District. He lives in Washington, Pa. At Cal U, Charles was involved in theater and the Phi Sigma Pi honorary fraternity. Frederick Berestecky ’74 recently was elected to represent the active certified membership of the Public School Employees’ Retirement Board. He studied elementary education at Cal U and is a middle school social studies teacher in the Ringgold School District. Frederick is a member of the Pennsylvania State Education Association and the National Education Association. He served as assistant football coach, local president, chief negotiator, treasurer, vice president and president of the PSEA Southwestern region. He serves on the PSEA board of directors. Doug Thomas ’74 owns Thomas Construction in Grove City, Pa. The company received the Safety Award in the 2014 Contractor of the Year competition organized by Equipment World magazine. Adam Sedlock Jr. ’75 is a psychologist. He and his wife, Kathy ’77, live in Chalk Hill, Pa. William Bradley ’76 is an inspector for State Farm. He studied education at Cal U. He and his wife, Debbie, live in Bethel Park, Pa. Laura Yarris Rozich ’77, of Johnstown, Pa., is an account representative for General Mills. At Cal U she was a member of Alpha Xi Delta and the Panhellenic Council. Laura was Miss California State College in 1976. Kenneth Thornton ’77 is a senior project manager in the Carlisle, Pa., office of Dewberry, a professional services firm. He studied geology at Cal U and retired from the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation in 2013.
Susan Kohl Guthrie ’78 and her husband, Joseph Guthrie III, live in Cutler Bay, Fla. Susan majored in environmental science at Cal U and was active in the International and Astronomy clubs. Linda Simpson ’76, ’78 is a retired police detective. She studied anthropology and psychology at Cal U. Linda and Jeri Simpson live in Kent, Wash.
80s Teena Williams Adams ’81 co-owns Atlas Bookkeeping Solutions LLC. She studied business administration at Cal U. Teena and her husband, Charles, live in Rosenberg, Texas. At Cal U, she was active with the Black League, women’s basketball, Student Government and Kappa Kittens. She was a member of the Homecoming Court. Deborah Stavischeck Stoner ’82, of Irwin, Pa., is a medical technician for UPMC. She studied medical technology and biology at Cal U. Carol Schinkovec Guthrie ’83 received the 2014 Lucas-Hathaway Teaching Excellence Award at Waynesburg (Pa.) University, where she teaches mathematics. Christine Cernuska Dunlevy ’83 is program director for The Arc of Baton Rouge (La.). She studied social work at Cal U and lives in Clinton, La. James Ferry ’84 is the manager of the Ashtabula, Ohio, office of Northwest Savings Bank. He earned his degree in business administration at Cal U. At the bank James is responsible for customer service, administration, consumer lending and business development. Stephen Bucar ’83, ’84 is the public safety director for the City of Pittsburgh, Pa. He previously was a supervisory special agent section chief in the FBI’s counter-terrorism division in Washington, D.C. Stephen, who earned degrees in accounting and business administration from Cal U, has more than 30 years of federal, state and local law enforcement experience. He is originally from Washington County, Pa. Gary Lee ’86, president of Harrisburg, Pa.based GNL Consulting Group, is the director of administration for Erie County, Pa. He studied graphic communications technology at Cal U. Julie Uhlman Zeli ’86 is office manager at Apex Companies. Richard Colelli ’86 received the Emerging Leader Award from the International Technology and Engineering Educators in Orlando, Fla., at the group’s annual International Conference in March. ITEEA’s Emerging Leader honor is a coveted mark of distinction in technology and engineering education. It recognizes technology, innovation, design and engineering educators who have demonstrated a high level of competence and professional activity in the field of technology and engineering education.
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CAL U M I L E S T O N E S Jim Ferguson ’88, of Monongahela, Pa., is a math teacher at Ringgold Middle School in Finelyville, Pa. A Vietnam veteran, he received the Purple Heart, Distinguished Flying Cross, two Bronze Stars and 15 other medals for his service in the U.S. Army.
90s Katherine Snyder Finfrock ’90 is a business owner. She studied elementary education at Cal U and was a member of Delta Zeta and Student Government. She lives in Greensburg, Pa., with her husband, Ronald. Sharon Wolf ’91 is the new executive director of North Hills Community Outreach, based in Hampton Township, Pa. The organization oversees more than 20 programs to help the needy in the greater Pittsburgh area. Michelle Reinking Ludwig ’91 recently attained a doctorate in educational leadership from Immaculata University. She is an adjunct faculty member in the Special Education Department at York College of Pennsylvania. Michelle Adams ’92 lives in Orlando, Fla. She studied social work at Cal U. Thomas Sweeney ’92 is chief advancement officer for Catholic Guardian Services, where he oversees fundraising, development and communications activities. Most recently, he was senior development officer at the Metro New York North Chapter of the American Red Cross. Jennifer Burns George ’96 was a candidate for the Queen Anne’s County (Md.) Board of Education. She majored in English at Cal U. Richard E. “Eric” Cardwell ’96 is one of 13 people nationwide to be named most valuable athletic trainers by Training and Conditioning magazine. He is the senior athletic trainer at Allegheny General Hospital in Pittsburgh, Pa. He also works with student-athletes and coaches in the North Hills School District. Marcy Park ’93, ’96, a district manager for Walmart, was one of four recipients of the 2014 Women of Integrity Award from the Pittsburgh Professional Women. She was honored for her volunteer activities. Erin McVey Hart '97 and her husband, Dan, are serving as this year's March of Dimes Pittsburgh March for Babies Ambassador Family. The Harts were selected as a result of their commitment to the March of Dimes, which began after the couple lost their twin sons to prematurity in March 2007. The couple has two other children: Kaelin Reese, 5, and Kelsey Grace, 2. Marykate “Katie” Brown Evans ’98, of California, Md., is an operations officer for Tekla Research. She majored in education at Cal U. Danielle Russell ’98, of Richmond Hill, Ga., is a teacher in the Paulding County Schools. She majored in secondary education at Cal U.
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Jay Burkhart ’98 is superintendent of the East Pennsboro Area School District in central Pennsylvania. He had been the district’s assistant superintendent. Randy Finfrock ’98 is a member of the Greensburg (Pa.) City Council, where he oversees the city’s finances. Randy studied business administration at Cal U. Teresa Ribar Caracciolo ’98 is the 2013-2014 Teacher of the Year at North Port High School in Sarasota County, Fla. She teaches anatomy and biology and is chair of the science department. Liz Green Johnson ’99 is a stay-at-home mom. She and her husband, Lee, live in Sebastopol, Calif. At Cal U, where she studied geography and tourism, Liz was active with Phi Sigma Sigma, the yearbook staff and the costume crew for the Nutcracker productions.
00s Michael Perry ’00 is marking his 10th year as an owner/licensed real estate broker. Mike established his own business in 2004. He heads CONSULT Realty & Management in Tampa, Fla., where he lives with his wife, Colleen Cunningham Perry ’02, and their daughter. The Rev. William Lechnar ’86, ’00 is interim administrator of Church of the Good Shepherd Parish in Indiana County, Pa. He also is director of pilgrimages for the Diocese of Greensburg (Pa.). Dana Bauer ’01 is executive director of the American Red Cross, Westmoreland-Armstrong and Indiana (Pa.) chapters. She earned her master of social work at Cal U. She and her husband, Carl, live in Latrobe, Pa. Cynthia James ’02 is executive director for Community Bridges Inc. She studied political science with a pre-law concentration at Cal U. Cynthia lives in Beltsville, Md. Ryan Gialames ’02, of Pittsburgh, Pa., is a senior director of product strategy and user experience for Acatar. He studied theater at Cal U. Dan Godla ’03, founder and chief executive officer of ThoroughCare, a health care technology company, recently spoke at an entrepreneurs roundtable at the Hershey Center for Applied Research at Penn State University. Mark Stanko ’02, ’03 has obtained his real estate license and joined the Pittsburgh North office of Keller Williams Realty. Anthony Barbati ’04 is a product manager for Aesynt. He studied information technology and computer science at Cal U. Anthony and his wife, Jennifer ’04, live in Gibsonia, Pa. Brad Geyer ’04 works for the Private Industry Council of Westmoreland/Fayette Inc. as a grant supervisor. He also is a Connellsville (Pa.) councilman. He studied political science at Cal U.
Gregg Farnam ’04 is the head trainer for the Minnesota Timberwolves of the National Basketball Association. Chris Boyd ’04 is a project engineer for Integrated Mill Systems. He studied electrical engineering technology at Cal U, where he was active in residence life, the Engineering Technology Club, and the concert and jazz bands. Chris and Constance Boyd ’04 live in Belle Vernon, Pa. Nelson Gunby ’04, of Emsworth, Pa., is an engineering technician for Geosyntec. He studied geology at Cal U. Michelle Maksymik ’02, ’04 of Boswell, Pa., has won the community service award from the YWCA Greater Johnstown. She works at Pennsylvania Highlands Community College as executive assistant to the president’s office. In 2009 she established the college’s Community Involvement Committee, which organizes and promotes volunteerism and giving. Angela Yowler ’05 is a teacher in the Orange County Public Schools. She lives in Orlando, Fla. Jay Taylor ’05 is coordinator of compensatory education at Rowan-Cabarrus Community College, in North Carolina. Dr. Vanessa Drew-Branch ’05 and her husband, Elliott Branch ’05, operate GrassRoutes Counseling Services, in Monessen, Pa. Vanessa is also an instructor in the Cal U Department of Social Work. Elizabeth Cowie O’Connell ’06 is a math teacher at Bolingbrook High School, near Chicago, Ill. She and her husband, Tim, live in Lockport, Ill. Dr. William Davis ’06 is an assistant professor of physical education at Black Hills State University, in South Dakota. He teaches physical education pedagogy in the BHSU School of Education. Tanner Huffman ’06 is associate director for research, special projects and assessment for the International Technology and Engineering Educators Association’s STEM Center for Teaching and Learning. He studied technology education at Cal U. Richard Ruck ’07 and his wife, Dr. Kerri Ruck, live in Easton, Pa. Richard is a professor at East Stroudsburg University. He majored in legal studies at Cal U. Matt Humbert ’07 is the head football coach at Belle Vernon (Pa.) Area High School. Matt played quarterback for the Cal Vulcans. Varun Jain ’07 is a self-employed businessman living in Jalandhar, India. Abigail Wilson ’07, of Jeannette, Pa., teaches family and consumer science in the McGuffey School District, in Washington County, Pa. She majored in communication studies at Cal U and was a peer mentor.
Kelly Tyron ’08, who earned her master’s degree in community agency counseling at Cal U, is a clinician. She lives in Fort Myers, Fla.
Eric was director of sports medicine at Mount St. Mary’s University, supervising the health and safety of the school’s Division I athletic teams.
Nicholas DeWitt ’08 is a high school teacher in the Brookville (Pa.) Area School District. He earned his bachelor’s degree in secondary education and was active in Residence Life and the marching, jazz and concert bands at Cal U. He lives in Clarion, Pa.
Nadine Hawk Dulis ’08 lives in Wilkinsburg, Pa. She studied history at Cal U.
Alicia DuCote ’08 is an area director for Young Life. She earned her master’s degree in health promotion from Cal U and lives in Heber Springs, Ark., with her husband, Lee. Megan Gustaevel ’08 lives in Akron, Ohio. She earned her master’s degree in exercise science from Cal U.
Tyler J. Phillips ’08 is a technology education teacher in the Turkeyfoot Valley Area School District, in Somerset County, Pa. Danielle Fields Vincenti ’08 is a sales manager for Richmond (Va.) Regional Tourism. She recently received a “Connect Magazine 40 Under 40” award. The magazine focuses on the association, professional organization and specialty group meetings industry. Danielle majored in tourism studies at Cal U.
Steven Morganti ’08 is a production manager for Appeeling Fruit Inc. He lives in Reading, Pa.
Karly Kunkle ’09 is a library media specialist for Karns City (Pa.) School District. She lives in New Bethlehem, Pa.
Eric Hansen ’08 is director of sports medicine for Maryland-based Righttime Medical Care. He will oversee the HeadFirst program, which focuses on education, evaluation and treatment of head injuries and concussions. Previously,
Kelly Pascarella ’09 is a teacher in the Mt. Lebanon (Pa.) School District. Kelly, who lives in Pittsburgh, Pa., earned a master’s degree in educational leadership and administration from Cal U.
2014 ALUMNI ASSOCIATION The California University Alumni Association recognized these California graduates with its 2014 Awards of Distinction. The association has presented these awards annually since 1967. JOHN R. GREGG AWARD FOR LOYALTY AND SERVICE Adelaide Guesman ’38 A lifelong educator and philanthropist, she and her late husband, Ivan ’41, have endowed scholarships and supported construction of a guest room in the Kara Alumni House. A Cal U residence hall is named in their honor. C.B. WILSON DISTINGUISHED FACULTY AWARD Dr. Don Thompson After 37 years as a Cal U professor and administrator, he retired as provost and vice president for Academic Affairs in January 2007.
Troopers Antwjuan Cox ’08 and Mateo Herrera ’08 were honored at the Pennsylvania State Police Department Personnel of the Year awards ceremony. Antwjuan won the Purple Heart award, given to troopers injured in the line of duty. He and Mateo also received the Commissioner’s Area Command Significant Achievement Award. Matthew Weiss ’09 is a special education/ autistic support teacher in the Rochester Area School District. He studied history and political science at Cal U, where he was a student senator and a member of the football team and History Club. He lives in Rochester, Pa.
AWARDS OF DISTINCTION
W.S. JACKMAN AWARD OF DISTINCTION Vanessa DeSalvo Getz ’93 Named one of Pennsylvania’s 24 “Most Politically Powerful Women,” this campaign strategist and fundraiser is Greenlee Partners’ managing director for western Pennsylvania. MICHAEL DUDA AWARD FOR ATHLETIC ACHIEVEMENT Dennis Laskey ’84, ’06 He compiled 258 wins in his 27 years as head coach for Vulcan men’s soccer team. He also coached the women’s soccer team from 1991-2001.
PAVLAK/SHUTSY SPECIAL SERVICE AWARD Dr. Bruce Barnhart ’83, ’89 Cal U’s acting provost and vice president for Academic Affairs, he joined the faculty in 1984 and directed the athletic training education program from 1991-2006.
PROFESSIONAL EXCELLENCE AWARD Karen Smith ’83 A vice president with JPMorgan Chase Consumer & Community Banking, she manages Enterprise Architecture programs and works to promote corporate diversity. YOUNG ALUMNI AWARD Bryan Burnstein ’05 An adjunct faculty member since 2008, he is the strength and conditioning adviser and a certified athletic trainer with the renowned Cirque du Soleil in Las Vegas.
MERITORIOUS AWARD Renette Oklewicz ’69 Dedicated to improving conditions for children and families in need, she is the first program officer and founder of the Freddie Mac Foundation, based in Washington, D.C.
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CAL U M I L E S T O N E S Ian Moffitt ’09 is a senior user interface developer for BarkleyREI. He studied computer information systems at Cal U. Ian and his wife, Lauren ’10, live in Clairton, Pa. Melissa Nelson ’09 is the assistant principal at Mellon Middle School in the Mt. Lebanon (Pa.) School District. Previously, she was a fourthgrade teacher in the Canon-McMillan School District. She also worked in the Pittsburgh Public Schools at Dilworth Traditional Academy as the American Sign Language coordinator and instructor for K-5, at Pressley Ridge School for the Deaf, and at Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic. Dan Klaus ’09 is the head men’s soccer coach at Harper College, in Illinois. He earned his master’s degree in exercise science from Cal U.
10s Rodney Taylor ’10, who majored in English at Cal U, now lives in Indiana, Pa. Meghan Pitcock ’10 is a dynamic image producer for eBay. She earned her degree in graphic communications at Cal U. She lives with her husband, Colin Campbell ’10, in Philadelphia, Pa. Meghan is a sister of Alpha Sigma Tau, Beta Phi Chapter. Laura Loeser ’10 is studying black bear re-colonization strategies in Texas.
Mike DeFino ’10 is the southeastern Pennsylvania daily forecaster for the online Eastern PA Weather Authority. He majored in earth sciences with a concentration in meteorology at Cal U. Ashley Weaver ’10 is the mayor of Beallsville (Pa.) Borough, and Courtney Kubicar ’10 is the mayor of Deemston (Pa.) Borough. Both graduates of Bethlehem-Center High School and both younger than 30, they were featured in an article in the Washington Observer-Reporter focusing on their civic-mindedness. Jeremy Shepherd ’10 was a candidate for the New Martinsville (W.Va.) City Council. He owns Prodigy Wellness Center with his wife, Sarah. Susan McCauley ’10 has received the George C. Oehmler Award for excellence in teaching from the World Affairs Council of Pittsburgh. Susan is an educator at Quaker Valley High School in Leetsdale, Pa. Jareem Dowling ’11 is the director of player development for the men’s basketball team at the University of Tennessee. He earned his master’s degree in sport management from Cal U. Amanda Woodford ’11, of Portland, Ore., is the northwest regional sales manager for Bar-Ray Products. At Cal U, she was an alumni ambassador and a member of Delta Zeta. Kelli Rodriguez Currie ’11 lives in Seattle, Wash. She majored in sport management, wellness and fitness concentration at Cal U. Victoria Hartman ’12 is a child development specialist at the Bradley Center. She lives in South Park, Pa., and studied social work at Cal U. Kira Lopresto ’12 is an outreach specialist with Greenbriar Treatment Center of Washington, Pa. Adrienne Reeves Day ’12, of Uniontown, Pa., is a high school learning support teacher in the Uniontown Area School District. At Cal U, she was active with the Council for Exceptional Children, Pennsylvania State Education Association, Habitat for Humanity and the National Science Teachers Association.
ACHA HALL OF FAME After induction ceremonies in Naples, Fla., B.J. DePaoli ’08 (center) savors his new status as a member of the American Collegiate Hockey Association Hall of Fame with Justin Berger (left), head coach for Vulcan hockey, and Jamison Roth, the hockey teams’ general manager and Cal U’s director of sports clubs. DePaoli is the first Division III player to be inducted into the ACHA Hall of Fame. His 179 goals, 234 assists and 413 points remain school records. Playing under Berger’s coaching and with Roth as a teammate, DePaoli led Cal U to the 2008 ACHA III national title.
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Michael Bibbo ’12 is in his second season as athletic trainer for the Batavia Muckdogs minor league baseball team, an affiliate of the Miami Marlins of Major League Baseball. He earned his master’s degree in rehabilitative science from Cal U. Trooper Benjamin Thorn ’12 has been assigned to the Moorefield Detachment of the West Virginia State Police. He earned a degree in criminal justice from Cal U. Erika Varner ’12 has received a prestigious National Science Foundation Graduate Fellowship Award. She is pursuing her Ph.D. in chemistry at the University of Pittsburgh. NSF graduate fellows receive a three-year annual stipend along with an allowance for tuition and fees, and opportunities for international research and professional development.
Melissa David ’13 is an account coordinator for Stuntman PR. She studied public relations and marketing at Cal U and now lives in Maplewood, N.J. At Cal U she was on the cross country and track and field teams, and a member of the Public Relations Student Society of America. Rebekka Patton ’13, of Finleyville, Pa., works for Family Behavior Resources. She majored in communication disorders at Cal U. Sherry Yancosek ’97, ’13 is a nurse in the critical care unit of Washington (Pa.) Hospital and program coordinator of practical nursing at Penn Commercial Business /Technical School. Matthew Hladio ’14, of Ambridge, Pa., earned a degree in earth sciences, with a meteorology concentration, from Cal U. Levie Kirkland ’14 lives in Allison, Pa. She studied computer engineering at Cal U and was a part of the Black Student Union, the Young and Gifted Gospel Choir and the Engineering Technology Club. Carissa Aloisi Gans ’14 earned her master’s degree in school counseling at Cal U. She lives in Pittsburgh, Pa., with her husband, Michael. Lindsay Mitchell ’14, an education major, lives near Greensburg, Pa. James Puskar ’14, of Greensburg, Pa., graduated with a degree in technology management. James Ridgeway ’14 is a robotics technician for Hamilton. He lives in Reno, Nev. James studied industrial technology and technology management at Cal U. Jacob Wieland ’14 lives in Carnegie, Pa. He earned an associate degree in industrial technology at Cal U, where he was involved in the Student Activities Board, Student Government, Japanese Animation Club and Games Club. Jesica Kauffman ’14 studied psychology at Cal U, where she was in Alpha Lambda Delta and the Psychology Club. She also was a peer mentor. Jesica lives in Belle Vernon, Pa.
ENGAGEMENTS Charles W Boig III ’05 and Nicole Holik are planning a spring 2015 wedding. Charles is a district engineer for Great White Pressure Control. Nicole is a certified home hospice aide for Heartland Hospice. Jodie Ilgenfritz ’07 and Daniel Luchesa are engaged to be married in October 2014. Jodie works at Country Meadows Nursing Center. Daniel works for UPMC Health Plan. Brigette Hovanic ’10, ’13 and Mark Chick Jr. ’14 plan to be married in September 2014 in Uniontown, Pa. Brigette studied education and works for the Laurel Highlands School District in Fayette County, Pa. Mark, who earned his degree in business, works for Enterprise Rent-A-Car in Uniontown, Pa.
FREDERICK DOUGLASS INSTITUTE AWARD Nick Brusich ’05 proposed to Jennifer Buzan on June 16 in Brazil at the 2014 FIFA World Cup soccer match between the United States and Ghana. The moment was captured on video and posted at yahoo.com. At Cal U, Nick was a member of the Vulcan men’s soccer team. A wedding date has not been announced.
WEDDINGS Joshua Shallenberger ’09 and Laura Temprine were married May 24, 2014, in Stroudsburg, Pa. Joshua, who earned a degree in athletic training from Cal U, is a physician assistant for the 1108th field artillery unit of the Army National Guard, Carlisle, Pa. He also is a physician assistant at the State Correctional Institute at Waymart. Rebecca Meyers ’06 and Ryan Lieb were married June 28, 2014. Becky earned her degree in elementary and special education at Cal U and is a teacher in the Canon-McMillan School District in Washington County, Pa. Katiera Carey ’12 and Gary Nettles were married June 21, 2014. Katiera works for Montoursville (Pa.) Area High School as a physical education teacher and cross-country and track and field coach. She earned her master’s degree in exercise science and health promotion from Cal U. Gary is a marketing coordinator for Learfield Sports. Christina Cibik ’14 and David Burciaga were married June 14, 2014. Christina earned her master’s degree in communication disorders from Cal U. David works as an analyst for Remote Database Experts in Pittsburgh, Pa. Kevin Emerich ’10 and Katrina Trusa were married July 12, 2014, in Wilkes-Barre, Pa. Kevin is a cryptologic network engineer in the U.S. Air Force and is stationed at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas. Katrina is a district behavior facilitator for general education in the North East Independent School District in San Antonio. Lindsay Kuhn ’10, ’12 and Travis Moore were married June 14, 2014. Lindsay earned her degrees in education and is a first-grade teacher in the Jefferson-Morgan School District, in Greene County, Pa. Travis is a warehouse supervisor for Alliance Resources. Linette Tressler ’10 and Wesley Wagner were married Oct. 19, 2013, in Salisbury, Pa. Linette studied education at Cal U and works for the Uniontown (Pa.) Area School District. Wesley is a respiratory therapist at Ruby Memorial Hospital in Morgantown, W.Va. They live in Farmington, Pa. Ben Hogan ’06 and Victoria Ballant ’08, ’11 were married July 5, 2014, in Masontown, Pa. Vicki studied elementary education and earned her master’s degree as a reading specialist. She works as a reading recovery teacher at Hutchinson Elementary School in the Laurel Highlands School District, Fayette County, Pa. Ben is a route sales associate for Frito-Lay.
The Frederick Douglass Institute at Cal U has established the Caryl Sheffield Faculty Excellence Award, named for the University’s interim associate provost and vice president for Academic Affairs. Caryl ’73 has been at Cal U for more than 20 years as a professor, chair of the Department of Early, Middle and Special Education, and currently as an administrator. The first recipient of the award is Dr. Ayanna Lyles ’03, associate professor in the Department of Health Science, who was recognized for her commitment to diversity via her teaching, service and research.
Dr. Caryl Sheffield
Dr. Ayanna Lyles Jordon Fisher ’10 and Katey Pursglove ’11, ’13 were married July 12, 2014, in Brownsville, Pa. Katey, who studied communication disorders, is a speech-language pathologist for Aegis Therapies at Golden Living Center in Hagerstown, Md. Jordon, who studied criminal justice and has a teaching certificate in technology education, teaches at Waynesboro (Pa.) Area Senior High School. Krysten Guthrie ’12 and Gary Hancheck II were married Jun 21, 2014. Krysten earned her degree in early childhood/elementary education. Mark Schuessler ’05 and Katie Magerko ’07 were married June 21, 2014. Katie is a nurse at the Southwestern Endoscopy Center in Uniontown, Pa. Mark is a secondary mathematics teacher in the Albert Gallatin Area School District, near Uniontown, Pa. Eric Reger ’09, ’10 and Mary Materkowski ’07, ’10 were married July 27, 2013, in Connellsville, Pa. Eric earned his degrees in physics and physics educationat Cal U and is a teacher at Penn-Trafford High School in Westmoreland County, Pa. Mary earned her degree in English and is a teacher for the Connellsville Area Junior High School. Melissa Brant ’03 and Thomas Wilson were married Aug. 3, 2014, on Hatteras Island, N.C. Melissa is a kindergarten teacher at Waynesburg (Pa.) Central Elementary School. She also is active with the Central Greene Education Association, the Central Greene School District Relay for Life team and the Greene County Coordinated Bargaining Council. Thomas teaches third grade at New Freeport Elementary School. Brittany Molnar ’11 and Colby Phillips were married May 20, 2014, in Mexico. Brittany earned her master’s degree in education from Cal U. She is a substitute teacher and works at Speer Street Grill. Colby is a bricklayer for Mariani and Richards. They live in Monongahela, Pa.
ANNIVERSARY Marion Collins ’70 and Jim Collins, of Confluence, Pa., celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary on June 4, 2014. Both retired from Somerset (Pa.) State Hospital, Marion as a registered nurse and Jim as an aide.
IN MEMORIAM Glenn P. Anderson II ’78 Donald Joseph Baker ’66 Phyllis Pryor Blackhurst ’68 Elizabeth M. “Betty” Bailey Brothers ’43 Julia T. Campbell,* retired librarian Rosalie Famularo Carroll ’72 Ronaele DeiCas Cekola ’65 Ruth Burry Chester ’45 Theodore F. “Ted” Cramer ’59 William L. Crouse Sr.,* maintenance department Brendan Thomas Cypher ’09 Patricia L. Stanchak Duff ’69 Ashley Wynn Evans ’95 Abram J. Foster, Ph.D. ’36 Hazel Smith Slabaugh Franks ’68 George Gardiner ’51 Frank F. Ghinassi ’49 Frances “Jane” Hermann Graham ’76 Paul G. Grimm ’81 Helen Ann “Hecka” Morich Harenchar,* former employee Don Hepler ’50 Rose Ann Koziel Hough ’74 Glenn T. “Ted” Kerns Jr. ’69 Cynthia Ketterling ’77 Fred M. Kinder Jr. ’72 Walter J. Konjolka ’61 James Kupets ’54 Wilma K. Leighty ’33 Ruth Lewis ’46 Irene Ann Mazza* Jack Moskovitz ’65 Helen Lorraine Hickle Musser,* former administrator Bertha Francine Nesser,* master’s degree student Francis W. Ola* Thomas J. “Skip” Oreski ’50 Kelly R. Patterson ’03 Herman Preseren ’39 John Paul Reilly ’60 Margaret Lally Rishel ’70 Betty Shine-Hill ’74 Edward L. Shriver ’72 LaVerne Pearsol Simpson ’54 Vincent D. Smith ’85 Loretta E. Jefferson Taylor ’69 Brian S. “Charlie” Wade ’79 *No class year on file
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PUT YOURSELF IN GOOD COMPANY WHEN YOU JOIN THE ROBERT M. STEELE SOCIETY
I
f you have named Cal U or the Foundation for California University in your estate planning, you qualify for membership in the Robert M. Steele Society. Society members are individual alumni, parents, faculty, staff and friends of the University who have planned gifts to benefit Cal U students and programs after their lifetimes. To join the Robert M. Steele Society, you can name Cal U: • In your will, for a specific amount, a percentage or a contingent provision. • As a life insurance policy or group insurance beneficiary, for the full or partial amount. • As a beneficiary of a retirement plan, such as a pension, 401(k) or Individual Retirement Account (IRA). • To receive trust funds that benefit you now and can support Cal U later. To learn more about the Robert M. Steele Society, visit www.calu.edu/plannedgiving and click on the “Robert M. Steele Society” link. For printed information, to join the society or get answers to your questions, contact Gordon Core, director of planned giving, at 724-938-5985 or core@calu.edu.
A portrait of Dr. Robert M. Steele, Cal U's first president (1928-1952), hangs in the Grand Hall of Old Main. The society that bears Steele’s name was established in 1996 to recognize individuals who have made planned gifts to Cal U and the Foundation for California University.
Send your Milestones news or address changes by e-mail to alumni@calu.edu, by fax to 724-938-5932, or by mail to Alumni Relations, P.O. Box 89, California, PA 15419. Questions? Call 724-938-4418.
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Dixon Trophy returns Interim University President Geraldine M. Jones is all smiles as she holds the Dixon Trophy, awarded annually to the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference school with the most successful all-around program. This is the second time in school history that the Vulcans have won the trophy. Joining President Jones at the presentation in Harrisburg were (from left) Pablo Montana, women’s tennis coach; Dr. William Biddington, faculty athletic representative; Dr. Nancy Pinardi, interim vice president for Student Affairs; and Matt Kifer, sports information director. For more about the trophy and Vulcan athletics, see page 26.