Fall 2015 - Cal U Review

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2015

FALL

ORES AND MORE MINERAL COLLECTION FINDS A NEW HOME


The California University of Pennsylvania Magazine

CAL U REVIEW FALL 2015 • VOL. 43 - NO. 3 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

I meet California graduates on campus, at local stores and restaurants, and even when I travel. Cal U alumni are everywhere, and I’m always pleased when you stop me to say hello. I enjoy learning about your experiences since graduation. I like hearing about your families and your careers. It’s gratifying to know that a Cal U education has been a positive force in so many lives. Our University measures its success, in part, by the accomplishments of our graduates. Our alumni roster includes men and women who are national leaders in business, education, science, the arts and the military. But just as important are the entrepreneurs and small-business owners who bolster the local economy … the human services workers who make a difference for families and individuals … the scientists and technicians who keep our complex world ticking … the teachers who educate our children … the retirees who share their wisdom with a new generation … and so many more. One and all, you are our Cal U community. The value of your contributions is beyond measure, and your University takes pride in your achievements. Did California University open doors for you? If so, I ask you to share that message. Direct a high school student to our Cal U website, or visit our homepage and Recommend a Vulcan. Encourage a friend to reach The Finish Line with our new fast-track degree completion program. Point a work colleague toward a career-focused master’s degree or professional program. And by all means, please stay engaged with Cal U. When you share a unique gift with our students (see pages 4 and 9), support a scholarship fund, mentor an intern or hire a recent graduate, your actions strengthen our campus community and raise the value of every California University degree. As a proud Cal U alumna, I’m always pleased to meet a fellow graduate, whether I’m on campus or out and about. I hope we’ll have a chance to meet — or meet again — very soon. With warm wishes,

CHANCELLOR

Frank T. Brogan

BOARD OF GOVERNORS

Guido M. Pichini, chairman Marie Conley, vice chair; chair, Academic and Student Affairs David M. Maser, vice chair Sen. Richard Alloway II Rep. Matthew E. Baker Jane M. Earll Christopher H. Franklin Sarah Galbally, Governor's designee Rep. Michael K. Hanna

Ronald G. Henry, chair, Finance, Administration and Facilities Jonathan B. Mack, chair, Audit Daniel P. Meuser Secretary of Education Pedro A. Rivera Sen. Judy Schwank Harold C. Shields Robert S. Taylor Aaron A. Walton, chair, Human Resources Governor Tom Wolf Three vacancies

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 Dr. Nancy Pinardi, vice president for Student Affairs

COUNCIL OF TRUSTEES

Lawrence Maggi '79, chair Annette Ganassi, vice chair Roberta M. Betza James T. Davis '73 Sean T. Logue

Michele M. Mandell '69 Robert Miner Jr. '78 Thomas Uram Aaron Walton '68 Frank T. Brogan, chancellor, ex-officio

ALUMNI ASSOCIATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Lynne (Moltz) Stout ’94, president Brian Fernandes ’99, ’00, vice president Jesse Hereda ’04, secretary Alan James ’62, treasurer Bobbi (Williams) Fetsko ’75, ’83, immediate past president Colleen (Murphy) Arnowitz ’75, ’97 Justin Binion ’11 Robert Crall ’12 Shelly (Fetchen) DiCesaro ’94 Mindi D'Auria-Fisher ’07

David Gwyer ’65 Charles Kacsur ’08 Chase Loper ’10, ’12 Erica McDill ’92 Melissa McKean ’07 Dante Morelli ’02 Marc Quann ’88 Ashley Roth ’10, ’12 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. Jones ’72, ’80, interim University President Anthony F. Mauro ’92, ’93, associate vice president for University Development and Alumni Relations

Leslie (Berdar) Fleenor ’08, director of Alumni Relations Lawrence Maggi ’79, chair, Council of Trustees Steven Stout ’85, president, Foundation Board Barbara Hess, president, APSCUF

STUDENT MEMBERS

Kelsey DeNardo Jacob Giffin

Daniel Meighan

SAI BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Daniel Bickerton, student Hope Cox, alumna Jessica Curry, student Kathryn DelVerne, secretary, student Kelsey DeNardo, president, student Justin DiPerna, student Ryan Jerico, alumnus

Brendan Linton, student Marc Roncone, alumnus Ashley Roth, alumna Bryan Schuerman, graduate student Tallen Stroman, vice president, student Randy Tozzle, alumnus

EX-OFFICIO MEMBERS

Dr. Nancy Pinardi ’95, ’96, ’98, interim vice president for Student Affairs Leigh Ann Lincoln, chief financial officer, SAI Larry Sebek, associate vice president for Student Affairs

FOUNDATION FOR CALIFORNIA UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA

Geraldine M. Jones Interim President, California University of Pennsylvania

Interim President Geraldine M. Jones communicates regularly with the campus community via 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.

Steven P. Stout ’85, president Armand E. Balsano ’74, vice president William R. Flinn ’68, secretary Paul Kania ’87, treasurer William R. Booker ’74 Robert E. Eberly III Chelsea Gump Dr. Annette M. Kaleita ’55

Robert Lippencott ’66 Reginald A. Long ’81 Lawrence Maggi ’79 Anthony J. Saludis Dr. Harry E. Serene ’65 Linda H. Serene ‘64 William G. Stough

EX-OFFICIO MEMBERS

Geraldine M. Jones ’72, ’80, interim University President Lynne Stout ’94, alumni board president Anthony Mauro ’92, ’93, associate vice president for University Development and Alumni Relations

EDITOR

WRITERS

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Christine Kindl

Wendy Mackall Jeff Bender Bruce Wald ’85

Greg Sofranko Kelly Tunney


PAGE 22 Pull-ups are on the training list for students (from left) Jesse Sylvester, Willy White, Michael Reese and Ryan Edie at the new SAI Farm Fitness Course.

INSIDE DEPARTMENTS CAMPUS CLIPS

FEATURES

12–15

HOMECOMING

16–17

ALUMNI CALENDAR

18–19

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT

20–21

SPORTS ROUNDUP

24–25

Ores and More

4

MILESTONES 27–33

Crossing the Finish Line

7 CALIFORNIA AMONG SAFEST COLLEGE TOWNS Security experts at SafeWise, an independent reviewer of home security systems, have ranked California, Pa., among the 50 safest college towns in America. The rankings are based on the most recent FBI crime statistics available, coupled with the company’s own research into safety-related initiatives. The University’s full-time professional police force works closely with local law enforcement. For a video about Cal U’s community-focused approach to campus safety, visit www.calu.edu; click on “News,” then “Cal U Review” and choose “As Seen in the Review.”

The Earth Sciences Department receives a collection of minerals and fossils gathered from mines and quarries across the country.

A new initiative allows sidetracked students to complete their college degrees in less time and at less cost than they imagined.

Bigfoot Walks the Red Carpet

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Freshmen beware! A filmmaker brings his send-up of Pittsburgh’s ‘yinzer’ stereotype to New Student Orientation.

Far and Away

Students travel overseas to embrace unfamiliar cultures and explore possible careers.

Olympic Dreams

A three-time NCAA Division II swimming champion trains for the 2016 Olympic trials.

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.”

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An alumnus donates his remarkable rock collection to the Earth Sciences Department

E Edward Gursky’s career took him to mines and quarries across the country. ‘I started picking up things,’ he says.

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dward Gursky ’64, ’71 saw his first museum-quality rock collection in the foyer of Old Science Hall. A veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps, Gursky had come to California State College as a transfer student, looking for an efficient route to a teaching degree. A class with the late Dr. Gabriel Betz, the geography professor who had organized the college’s mineral collection, “opened up the door for me,” he says. Gursky earned a degree in social studies, began teaching in the Laurel Highlands School District, and returned to California to study geology and earth science with Betz as his graduate school adviser. “I was taking these courses, and I started picking up things — mostly ores

and fossils that I could use in my classes,” Gursky recalls. Over a long career that included secondary and college-level teaching, work for a now-defunct manufacturer of rock-handling equipment, and 21 years as a hydrogeologist for the state Department of Environmental Protection, he assembled a remarkable collection of his own. This September Dr. Kyle Fredrick, a professor in Cal U’s Department of Earth Sciences, boxed up more than 1,000 samples of mineral ores — rocks mined to produce metals — that had been displayed on floor-to-ceiling shelves in Gursky’s Brownsville, Pa., home. The donated collection will find a new home at California University.


My classes at California, and that ‘rock museum’ in the foyer of Old Science … that was what got me into the field where I made my career. It was a great journey. Edward Gursky ’64, ’71

Here, there, everywhere

Fredrick estimates that Gursky’s gift has expanded his department’s collection by almost 50 percent. “There is such a diversity of samples. To see all these samples from so many different places is unheard of,” he says. “And because of Ed’s interests, there are quite a number of marine fossils here, too.” Before he retired, in 2005, Gursky’s career took him to mines and quarries across the country. Ores from more than 100 locations are included in his collection. “Every specimen is unique,” he says. “Some of these mines are closed up now, so no one will get into them again.” The collection is particularly valuable because of Gursky’s meticulous recordkeeping. Using what he jokingly calls “1960s technology” — paper labels cross-referenced to 3-by-5 index cards covered with handwritten notes — he identified each sample and the location where it was collected. There are ores from the last operating zinc mine in Pennsylvania, a gold mine in Nevada, a uranium mine in Utah. There’s a specimen from the quarry that provided stone for the Empire State Building, and another from the Spindletop dome in Texas, where the first oil “gusher” changed the course of the U.S. petroleum industry. “The fact that they all are catalogued and labeled increases what we can do with these samples in our classes,” Fredrick says. “As teachers, it increases our confidence. We know with a greater degree of certainty what we’re bringing to our students. “Entry-level geologists can expect to be traveling between 10 percent and 70 percent of the time,” he adds. “Knowing where each of these samples was collected reinforces the message that geology is a field that can take you all across the country, and even around the world.”

Teaching tools

Students in the burgeoning geology program already are planning to catalogue the collection in an electronic database. Some of Gursky’s ores will be absorbed into the department’s current collection, stored in file drawers and retrieved for use in petrology, mineralogy, environmental and Earth resources classes. “Even within the same type of rock, every specimen is different. So the more variety you have, the better you can show students their similarities and how they differ from other types of minerals,” Fredrick explains. Some duplicate specimens may be cut into wafer-thin slices, so students can study their structure under a microscope. Still other samples are destined for the glass display cases in Eberly Hall. Fredrick envisions a rotating exhibit of the most intriguing samples, each backed by a map that points out its place of origin. Educational material would illustrate how

each mineral is used. “Along with a lithium sample, for instance, we might show a cellphone battery,” Fredrick says. “We want to help students and other visitors see the connection between these specimens and their everyday lives.” Gursky is pleased to know that his collection will be put to good use at his alma mater — the school where his wife, Peggy, also attended, where his two daughters, his son-in-law, his brother-inlaw and his niece all earned their degrees, and where his grandson is enrolled in graduate school. “As an undergrad, I never thought of (geology). My classes at California, and that ‘rock museum’ in the foyer of Old Science … that was what got me into the field where I made my career. It was a great journey.” By Christine Kindl, communications director at Cal U FALL 2015 CAL U REVIEW 5 n


DOCTORAL PROGRAM

POISED FOR LAUNCH

First cohort set to begin coursework for Doctor of Health Science

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ith the start of the spring semester, Cal U will join the ranks of universities that offer doctoral degrees. The new Doctor of Health Science will focus on health science and exercise leadership. It will be the University’s first doctorate and the first D.H.Sc. available within Pennsylvania’s State System of Higher Education. “This degree is a natural outgrowth of our successful bachelor’s and master’s degree programs in exercise science,” says Dr. Bruce Barnhart ’83, ’89, ’01, acting provost and vice president for Academic Affairs. “There is a growing demand for highly qualified health care professionals as our population ages and the health care system shifts its focus from treating disease to promoting wellness and fitness. This program addresses that demand.”

Interest in this program has been high since the day it was announced. Offering a doctorate raises the University’s academic profile. Geraldine M. Jones

INTERIM UNIVERSITY PRESIDENT

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Online coursework

Courses in the new D.H.Sc. program will be taught by Cal U faculty and delivered through Cal U Global Online. Students will complete their coursework online, visiting campus only to defend their dissertations and present their research findings at the annual Exercise Science and Sport Studies graduation reception, held in conjunction with Winter Commencement. The new program’s asynchronous, Internet-based delivery is designed to meet the needs of working professionals. Graduates of the 50-credit program will be prepared to work in higher education, or as leaders in areas such as athletic training, physical or occupational therapy, exercise physiology, wellness and fitness, rehabilitation science, and allied health care professions. The first cohort of students will begin their coursework in the upcoming spring semester. “Interest in this program has been high since the day it was announced,” says interim University President Geraldine M. Jones. “Offering a doctorate raises the University’s academic profile. I am confident that this will not be our University’s only doctoral-level program.”

Competitive edge

In Pennsylvania, the Center for Workforce Information and Data Analysis projects significant employment growth in health

science occupations relevant to the new degree, with nearly 10,000 new jobs being added by 2022. Nationally, nearly 1.1 million new jobs are anticipated within the same time period. The D.H.Sc. program will maintain the University’s existing relationships with the National Academy of Sports Medicine, the National Association of Speed and Explosion, and WellCoaches Corp., all leading organizations in the field. Certifications from these and other specialized organizations are recognized within the sports medicine industry. They add value for graduates, giving them a competitive edge within this fast-growing field. “Achievement of the D.H.Sc. in Health Science and Exercise Leadership will provide career advancement and enhancement,” says program coordinator Dr. Marc Federico, an associate professor in the Department of Exercise Science and Sport Studies. “For more than 10 years, graduates of our Master of Science in Exercise Science and Health Promotion have felt strongly about the high-quality education they received. They want to continue at Cal U and achieve a terminal degree.” Applications are being accepted now for the Doctor of Health Science: Health Science and Exercise Leadership program. To learn more, e-mail DHSc@calu.edu.


YOU CAN REACH THE

‘Coaches’ map the fastest path to completing your college degree

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ometimes life gets in the way. Finances, family matters, even an unanticipated job opportunity can keep us from reaching our goals. A new Cal U enrollment initiative gives sidetracked students another chance. The Finish Line maps out an efficient, cost-effective route to a bachelor’s degree for thousands of former students who earned some college credits but never completed their studies. Those students now can request a complimentary check of the credits they’ve already earned. Then a Finish Line success coach will help them develop a personalized plan for completing a degree. “As an adult student, it can be hard to get back to school,” says Brian Makrush ’15, of Oakdale, Pa. “But it’s so rewarding in the end.”

Back on track

Makrush made several detours en route to graduation. After earning an associate degree at a community college, he enrolled at Cal U in 1999. His education was interrupted by the birth of two children and changes at work. Yet Makrush was determined to graduate, fulfilling a promise he’d made to his late grandfather. After several stops and starts, he completed Cal U’s multidisciplinary studies program in science and technology. He graduated in May 2015.

“It’s helped my career more than I ever imagined,” says Makrush, who is now a departmental supervisor at Highmark. “I’d worked my way up, gotten promoted, but I was about to come up against a wall. To apply for this job, I needed a bachelor’s degree.”

On campus or online

For some returning students, oncampus courses are the quickest path to a California University diploma. Evening classes are available, and enrolled students may even be eligible for credits based on prior learning or on-the-job experience. Online learning is another option, especially for students who have work or family obligations. Cal U is one of the nation’s Top 100 Online Degree Universities, according to U.S. News & World Report. The University’s deans have been working with the Cal U Global Online office to optimize courses so students can earn a B.A. in liberal arts or a B.S. in science and technology 100 percent online.

“Like all our Global Online programs, these are taught by the same expert professors who teach our on-campus courses,” says Stephanie Franks-Helwich, executive director of Graduate Admissions and Global Online. “With our cohort model, students enrolled in any of our online degree programs have opportunities to interact with one another, as well as with their professors. But they can study and learn whenever it’s most convenient.” Eventually, The Finish Line may be in sight for the 1.2 million Pennsylvanians who have some college coursework but never completed a degree. It also may be a convenient option for the estimated 570,000 Pennsylvania residents who hold an associate degree but have not yet completed a bachelor’s. “It is such a wonderful feeling when you accomplish that goal,” Makrush says. “My education has opened up worlds of opportunity for me.” By Christine Kindl, communications director at Cal U

every credit counts For a complimentary check of the college credits you’ve already earned, or for more information about The Finish Line degree completion program, call 866-595-6348 or e-mail finishline@calu.edu. Learn more online at finishline.calu.edu.

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COUNTDOWN

TO COMMENCEMENT Four-Year Graduation Plan helps students save time, money

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s the oldest of four children, Morgan Patterson understands both the value and the cost of a four-year degree. “I chose Cal U because the commercial music technology major is one of the only ones on the East Coast to offer what I wanted,” says Patterson, a freshman from the area near Williamsport, Pa. But getting to California required her to hit “pause” for a year after high school, in order to help her family with the cost of her education. Patterson worked in a grocery store and played guitar in clubs around town to “get real-life experience related to my major — and tips.” “My dad was hesitant for me to take a year off, but then he realized it would give me an understanding of the value of money,” she says. The cost of a four-year education at Cal U is nearly $79,000, including room and board, tuition and books. A fifth year alone costs about $62,000, mainly because a student misses out on income from that first year of work. About 700 first-year, full-time freshmen enrolled in Cal U’s Four-Year Graduation Plan this year. According to a survey taken last spring, 14 percent say the plan was a factor in choosing Cal U.

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That compares to 99 students — the first to enroll in the plan when it was implemented four years ago — who are on track to graduate in May 2016. In all, more than 1,160 students are enrolled in the plan. Why the growth? “We introduced the plan differently this year, to students and parents during New Student Registration,” says Cynthia Young, plan coordinator in the Office of Family and Parent Engagement. “We know that parents see the value in graduating in four years. Five years is the national average, and that’s a lot of money and time wasted.” Students come to see value in being held accountable for their academic progress, Young says. “They also appreciate the layers of support we provide.” Students in all four-year degree programs offered at Cal U are eligible for the Four-Year Graduation Plan. “Meeting with Cynthia and my adviser has been really beneficial, just to get connected with someone on campus who knows what’s going on, because I didn’t as a freshman,” Patterson says. “And help with scheduling is a really big deal.” By Wendy Mackall, assistant communications director at Cal U

ABOUT THE PLAN Students who join the Four-Year Graduation Plan agree to:

• Attend Cal U full time. • Develop an academic plan. • Complete a Career Assessment. • Use advising and scheduling services to be sure courses fulfill degree requirements. • Complete at least 28-30 credits per year. • Maintain the grade-point average required by the University or the major. Cal U also has responsibilities:

• Provide advising and scheduling services. • Help students develop an academic plan. • Monitor progress and notify the student of failure to fulfill responsibilities. • Administer a positive action plan when needed. • Furnish access to Degree Works degreeaudit software and instructions on its use. • Make the Career Advantage Program and Activities Transcripts available. To learn more, visit www.calu.edu and type ‘graduation plan’ into the search box.


Filmmaker returns for outdoor movie screening

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redit Jared Show ’02 with bringing Bigfoot to California. Freshmen were midway through their New Student Orientation when the filmmaker arrived for a meet-and-greet and an outdoor showing of Bigfoot: The Movie. Show wrote, produced and directed the full-length feature film. “I had not been on campus for more than 10 years, and it was really cool to check out all the changes,” says Show. He especially liked seeing the Bigfoot poster on the Convocation Center’s digital marquee. The movie mocks the Pittsburgh “yinzer” stereotype, as well as the Sasquatch legends. Filmed in Ellwood City, Show’s hometown, it features appearances by western Pennsylvania celebrities including Joanie Dodds of America’s Top Model, standup comic and radio personality Jim Krenn, and former

TV news anchor Darieth Chisolm. Web series actor Curt “Pittsburgh Dad” Wootton, who has a starring role in Bigfoot, joined Show on Cal U’s red carpet. Show got his start with the campus TV station while he worked toward a degree in communication studies. “I started making short movies, and we’d premiere them on campus and then on CUTV, which was really great,” he says. “To come back for this screening really felt like I was back in college.” Show also was a Cal U orientation leader, recalls Kevin Eggleston, assistant director in the University’s Welcome Center. “Not that many years ago, he was right where these students are today. It was great to have him back.” After more than 10 years in the TV and movie industries, Show’s credits include bit parts in several films, stints as a production coordinator for FX Networks

projects, and behind-the-scenes work on shows such as Sons of Anarchy and Wilfred. He is now the founder and CEO of JS Pictures Corp., which produced Bigfoot. “Ever since I started shooting movies at Cal U, I knew I wanted to direct,” says Show. “I went out to California and worked in the industry for a long time … and finally made the dream happen.” Show says he made some lifelong friends at Cal U, and that summer job as an orientation leader taught him “how to work with people.” That skill is being put to the test as he travels to movie theaters and film festivals seeking a nationwide audience for Bigfoot. “Hopefully by next year it will be out in Wal-Marts and Redboxes all across the country,” he says. “That takes some time, but it will be worth it.” By Bruce Wald ’85, information writer at Cal U FALL 2015 CAL U REVIEW 9 n


Destination:

Study abroad takes student to northern Africa

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he name “McGrew” resonates with Dr. Sean Madden, a professor of history and director of the University’s international studies program. “Tony McGrew was as close as I had to a mentor when I came to Cal U, and he always felt strongly about getting involved with students,” Madden says of the emeritus faculty member who still volunteers as an academic adviser for student-athletes. “So when his nephew Justin arrived as a freshman, he showed up at my door and said, ‘Hi, I’m new here and don’t really know what I’m doing, and my uncle said I should introduce myself at your freshman seminar class.’” What a difference four years makes. Today, Justin McGrew is an international studies major with a concentration in global issues. And he has expanded his horizons far beyond Cal U’s campus. This summer he spent 11 weeks participating in the Meknes Language, Culture and Society summer program at the Isa Meknes Study Center in Morocco, a nation in northern Africa where Berber and Arabic are the official languages. Funding was provided, in part, through a scholarship from Pennsylvania’s State System of Higher Education. “Justin’s story is so interesting,” Madden says. “He comes here as a quiet young man. His Uncle Tony encourages him. He’s the joy of what comes out of Cal U, proof there’s no limit to what our students can do.” During his experience, organized by International Studies Abroad, Justin McGrew took courses in Arabic, which he studies at Cal U; Moroccan gender studies; Islamic society and politics; and peace and conflict resolution. Service-learning opportunities focused on volunteering with programs that assist at-risk

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youths in Morocco. “I’m passionate about youth development,” Justin McGrew says. “I would work in Morocco tomorrow, if I got the opportunity. It’s important to let the youths there know there’s something bigger than themselves.” His biggest surprise: The quiet, family-oriented way of life that is typical in Morocco. “I didn’t really know what to expect, because Americans aren’t exposed to Moroccan culture,” he says. “But children there are very curious about our culture.” That type of cultural exchange is important in correcting misperceptions, says Dr. Razak Abedalla, a former Fulbright scholar who teaches Arabic at Cal U. “I’m sure Justin was able to say something about our culture when he was there. And I’m sure he is going to share his experience here.” Abedalla and Elizabeth Bennellick, director of International Programming, are planning a 2016 trip to Morocco. It would be the first Universityorganized learning excursion to that country. “Our goal is to find the right personal, academic and professional fit for our students who wish to study abroad,” Bennellick says. “It’s a life experience that opens doors. It jumps off the page of a resume.” Justin McGrew is doing his part in recruiting Cal U students. “I talked to Dr. Madden’s international studies class this semester,” he says. “I felt like they actually listened to me.” Madden hopes they did. “Pick a major you want,” he advises students. “Do really well in it, get some international experience, and the rest will take care of itself.”


Shadowing doctors in

Pre-med internships expand career options

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ooking for an edge as they consider careers in medicine, Cal U juniors Heather Mason and Alexis Sirnic decided to “go big.” And far. The women, both biology majors with minors in chemistry, spent a month in Phitsanulok, Thailand, on pre-medical internships with Gap Medics, shadowing doctors at two hospitals. It was Mason’s first airplane ride. It was Sirnic’s first trip outside the United States. And both say it was a valuable experience. “Totally worth it,” Mason says. “I got to see a knee replacement and a hip replacement. I didn’t think I wanted to do surgeries, but this made me think about orthopedics.” “The cleft palate surgery was amazing to see,” Sirnic adds. Both women say the experience has led them to think about working as physician assistants. “You see a wide variety of conditions as a physician assistant,” Sirnic says. “You also get to talk to the patients more than doctors do sometimes. “You can have better hours and better flexibility with your personal life. Plus, it’s less expensive than medical school.” Mason and Sirnic acknowledge they could have found internships closer to home. But the unique educational experience — not to mention the exposure to another culture — made it worth the 8,500-mile trip. “There are lot fewer boundaries,” Mason says of the medical system in Thailand. “Even though we weren’t allowed to treat patients, since we aren’t medical-school students, we had a lot more access to the patients as they were discussing their conditions. “I stood right next to the surgeon during an openheart surgery. We got to observe all sorts of things.” The women’s experiences are exactly why internships are so important, says Tracie Beck,

who directs the Internship Center at Cal U. In 2014, more than 2,300 Cal U students participated in an internship or other “experiential education,” which includes clinical placements and field experiences. “Internships allow students to explore what careers they are most interested in — or not interested in,” Beck says. “Networking is also crucial; it’s making those connections with people in their field or industry that will help students, as well.” The Gap Medics internship cost Mason and Sirnic $1,290 a week, but they each earned a Rutledge Internship Award to make the experience affordable. The awards prioritize “geographically diverse” opportunities. “I couldn’t possibly have afforded to go otherwise,” Sirnic says. The Thailand trip also allowed for some leisure time, which Mason and Sirnic enjoyed to the fullest. “Elephants!” Sirnic exclaims. “I absolutely love them, and it was definitely an added bonus — even though I was terrified at first.” “We got to ride an elephant bareback in the river,” Mason says. “You wouldn’t do that in America.” By Wendy Mackall, assistant communications director at Cal U

EXPLORE MORE To learn more about opportunities for Cal U students to study abroad, visit www.calu.edu/international. To learn about internships, visit www.calu.edu/internships.

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CAMPUS C L I P S

Student center rededicated Three hundred red, black and white balloons tumbled into the Heritage Lounge as the campus community celebrated a new era at the Natali Student Center. University Trustees and other dignitaries joined students, faculty and staff Sept. 16 to rededicate the building after a two-year renovation project. “This facility has been through a number of transformations over the years, but it has always played a central role in campus life,” said interim University President Geraldine M. Jones ’72, ’80. Alumnus Larry Maggi ’79 remembered attending the building’s initial dedication more than 40 years ago. He spoke both as chair of the Council of Trustees and as a Washington County commissioner. “Higher education is very competitive these days, and students have choices,” he said. “This improved facility shows that Cal U continues to move forward.” Larry Sebek, associate vice president for Student Affairs, was emcee for the event. Other speakers were Doug Shuck, of WTW Architects; Dr. Nancy Pinardi ’95, ’96, ’98, vice president for Student Affairs; Dr. Bruce Barnhart ’83, ’89, ’01, acting provost and vice president for Academic Affairs; and Robert Thorn, vice president for Administration and Finance. Brendan Garay ’15, a graduate student who is serving a second term as Student Government president, spoke on the students’ behalf. “It seems like just yesterday we were voting on this, and now this dream has become a reality,” he said. “This is our student center. We need to treat it like home.” 12 CAL U REVIEW FALL 2015 n

Gift provides tablets for special ed classes

Rooms designated for meditation, prayer

With support from the Edith L. Trees Foundation, the Department of Special Education provided mobile iPad carts to special education classrooms at Ringgold Middle School in Finleyville, Pa., and Intermediate Unit 1’s Colonial Campus in Grindstone, Pa. Each cart holds 10 tablets pre-loaded with a variety of educational “apps.” The devices will be used by students with special needs, their classroom teachers, and Cal U teachers-in-training who are involved in fieldwork and clinical experiences at the schools. A tablet can support learning, reinforce appropriate behavior and even serve as a virtual job coach, says Dr. Katherine Mitchem, who holds the Edith L. Trees Charitable Trust Endowed Chair in Education at Cal U. And the ubiquitous digital devices don’t stigmatize students with special needs. “As a teacher, I want all children, with or without disabilities, to use the same tools,” Mitchem says. “Everybody uses iPads.”

Campus community members of all faiths now have a space for devotions, meditation and prayer. The University has designated two rooms in the Carter Hall Multicultural Center as meditation rooms. Two rooms have been set aside because some religious traditions require men and women to pray separately. Restrooms are nearby for the convenience of those whose faith requires ritual washing of hands and feet. Out of respect for all the various spiritual and religious traditions represented on campus, the meditation rooms contain no permanent symbols specific to any one faith. No food, drink, electronic devices or open flames may be brought into the rooms, and photography is not allowed. “Having this designated space helps our students fulfill their personal needs while their academic needs are being met,” says Sheleta Webb ’89, ’94, director of Multicultural Affairs and Diversity Education. “Now they have a quiet place in a specific location to pray or meditate.”

Let’s get moving Members of Acacia and Tau Kappa Epsilon fraternities help move first-year students into their residence halls at the start of the fall semester. Nearly 150 volunteers helped new students settle in on Move-In Day. Freshmen had a chance to return the favor, and create the first entry in their official Activities Transcript, by helping upperclassmen move in two days later. Students from all 50 states, three U.S. territories and 30 countries are enrolled at Cal U this year.


Professors’ expertise shapes music, TV Several Cal U professors are working behind the scenes in the entertainment industry. Among them are Ralph Guzzi, an instructor in the Music Department, whose arrangements are featured on Pittsburgh-area singer Jackie Evancho’s latest CD. Guzzi, who plays trumpet, also is a composer/arranger for the Balcony Big Band, a modern jazz ensemble that has been performing since 1988.

Dr. Cassandra Kuba

Dr. Emily Sweitzer

Dr. Cassandra Kuba and Dr. Emily Sweitzer ’92, ’93 are consulting with researchers and writers for television dramas. Kuba continues to share her expertise in forensic anthropology with programs including Bones, now in its 11th season on the air. Sweitzer consults on the psychological and socio-cultural aspects of cults, mental illness and deviant behavior for shows such as The Blacklist, Lucifer and Rosewood. Both professors use their fictional cases to spark classroom discussions. Criminal justice professor Dr. John Cencich is a commentator for Hunting Hitler, an eight-part television series Dr. John Cencich on HISTORY. A former United Nations war crimes investigator, Cencich reviewed recently declassified documents that may call into question the established view that Adolf Hitler died by suicide at the close of World War II. Some theorists believe the files point to a scheme to fake Hitler’s death and spirit him away to South America. In addition to filming in Los Angeles, Cencich traveled to Colombia with a HISTORY team that visited sites mentioned in the declassified files.

Remembering Jennie Carter Flanked by philanthropist William Carter and interim University President Geraldine M. Jones, Shanita Carmichael ’08 receives the 2015 Jennie Carter Leadership Award during a ceremony in the Convocation Center courtyard. The annual award honors the spirit of Elizabeth ‘Jennie’ Adams Carter, Class of 1881, the University’s first African-American graduate. Carmichael is a production engineer at PPG Industries and an online instructor for Southern New Hampshire University. With her mother and siblings, she is the co-founder of Our Youth Our Future, a nonprofit organization for children in Philadelphia. At Cal U Carmichael earned degrees in computer engineering technology and industrial engineering technology. ‘Jennie Carter was the definition of a superwoman,’ Carmichael says. ‘I know I am not there yet, but this award confirms for me that I’m on the right path.’

Graphics and multimedia program measures up

Name reflects department’s mission

The graphics and multimedia technology program has received a fouryear reaccreditation from the Accrediting Council for Collegiate Graphic Communications Inc., an independent body of education and industry professionals who promote excellence in graphic communications education. Accreditation ensures a quality learning experience for students by guaranteeing that programs meet the highest academic and industry standards. Nationally accredited since 2007, Cal U’s graphics and multimedia program is one of only 11 ACCGC-accredited programs in the United States. The program’s lab in Helsel Hall has a wide range of equipment, including a digital prepress, digital press lab, screen/ flexography lab and a two-color offset press.

The former Department of Academic Development Services has a new name: the Department of TRIO and Academic Services. The name reflects the University’s longstanding participation in TRIO, a set of federally funded programs that support first-generation and incomeeligible students in their pursuit of a college degree. The department administers the Student Support Services program, which aims to improve participants’ retention and graduation rates, and it operates the Tutoring Center and Reading Clinic, which are available to all University students. It also hosts Upward Bound programs, which help to prepare eligible high school students to succeed in college. The programs at Cal U target students at five high schools in Fayette County and four in Greene County, Pa. FALL 2015 CAL U REVIEW 13 n


CAMPUS C L I P S plans more programs addressing topics suggested by students themselves. “We want these to be something different, not just students listening to someone from Generation X speaking,” she says. “We want to take an interactive look at issues that concern this generation.”

Universities star in weekly program

Creative encounter Abby Dessart, a junior at Trinity High School, giggles while creating a digital ‘pumpkin person’ during the AWE event, when Cal U professors hosted visual art and writing workshops for more than 200 middle and high school students from Fayette, Greene and Washington counties. AWE (Art & Writing Experience) sparks creativity in advance of the 2016 Scholastic Art & Writing Awards of Southwestern Pennsylvania. The exhibition and awards ceremony is scheduled for February in Manderino Library.

New hotel checks in Interim University President Geraldine M. Jones was among the speakers at a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new Hampton Inn & Suites hotel in California Technology Park, about a mile from campus. The President called the hotel “a welcome addition to our community” and an added convenience for alumni, students, families and Convocation Center visitors who travel to California from out of town. The 85-room hotel sports a red-andblack color scheme and is decorated with photos of the University. “I felt right at

Ribbon cutters: AVI CEO Anthony Payiavlas, President Jones and Larry Maggi ‘79.

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home when I walked into the lobby,” the President says. Washington County Commissioner Larry Maggi ’79, chair of the University’s Council of Trustees, also spoke at the opening event, and Cal U choir members performed. The hotel was developed by Southpointe-based Summit Consulting Group and AVI Food Systems Inc., the University’s food service vendor.

Students think about ink At a discussion hosted by the Sociology of Deviance Club, students sought to dispel the stereotypical view that tattoos are a sign of rebellion. A student panel discussed this contemporary art form while a local tattoo artist inked a design and described how his trade has changed over the past 15 years. According to a 2013 Pew research study, 45 million Americans now have at least one tattoo. “Tattoos explain something about you or hold a story for you,” one student panelist said. Dr. Emily Sweitzer, director of the new B.A. in Sociology: Deviance concentration,

Infinite Opportunities, a 30-minute television program featuring Cal U and the 13 other universities in Pennsylvania’s State System of Higher Education, airs Sundays on PCN, the Pennsylvania Cable Network. The program features stories about new initiatives, academic offerings and student life at the 14 State universities. BlueSystem - RGB 21, 61, 109; ItCMYK 100, 50, includes profiles of campus newsmakers and interviews with university and State Gold - RGB 242, 200,119; CMYK: 5, 20 System leaders. Each week’s episode is available online the following Wednesday at www.passhe. edu/infinitepossibilities, where past programs also are archived.

Presidential search now under way A search committee approved by Pennsylvania’s State System of Higher Education and the University’s Council of Trustees is seeking a president for Cal U. Geraldine M. Jones has filled the University’s top leadership position as acting/interim president since May 2012. As outlined in State System Policy 1983-13-A, which governs the “Process for Recommending Presidential Appointment,” the search committee consists of three Cal U Trustees, one executive, two faculty members, two non-instructional personnel, one student, one Cal U graduate, and one (non-voting) current or former president of a comparable university. The Cal U homepage includes a link to updated information about the ongoing search, including the names of the committee members. For the latest information, visit www.calu.edu.


Speakers celebrate LGBT History Month With a theme of “Rights to Respect … Inclusivity for All,” Cal U celebrated October as LGBT History Month. The Lambda Bridges LGBTQA Program Office sponsored talks by three speakers: Presbyterian Alex Patchin McNeil, the first openly transgender person to head a mainline Protestant organization; Ted Martin, head of the Equality Pennsylvania political advocacy organization; and Jewelle Gomez, an award-winning writer and activist.

Lambda Bridges promotes a welcoming environment on campus and provides diverse, thought-provoking and educational programs, activities, services and resources centering on issues of importance to the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered communities and their allies.

Future pilots take flight Six students from two area school districts took to the skies after winning the Future Pilots League competition, a gamebased learning activity sponsored by the Cal U Center for Innovation at Southpointe. In the league’s first season, teams of three to nine players from 12 different schools used flight-simulation technology on loan from Cal U to take on the roles of air traffic controller, first officer and pilot. Together, each team worked to master the challenges of air travel logistics and piloting an aircraft. Professional pilots served as judges while students completed their flight-related “missions.” Members of the winning teams — from Peters Township High School and Pleasant Hills Middle School, in the West Jefferson School District — were invited to meet aviation experts and take a short flight with state Sen. Camera Bartolotta, who flies a Cessna single-engine airplane out of Washington County Airport. The Cal U Center for Innovation serves as a resource for the community, forming links between the University and the region’s businesses, schools and residents.

‘Just Around the River’s Bend’ Biology professor Dr. David Argent explains ‘What Fish Have to Tell Us About Appalachia’ at a conference sponsored by the Northern Appalachian Network. Two hundred students, faculty and community members attended the conference, where speakers and community groups outlined water’s role in industrialization, the region’s environment, recreation and tourism, and the area’s boatbuilding history. The Northern Appalachian Network is a multidisciplinary network of scholars, artists and residents concerned with the region comprising Pennsylvania, southern New York, northern West Virginia, northwestern Maryland and northeastern Ohio.

State Sen. Camera Bartolotta prepares to take Future Pilots League winners Sam Hazo (center) and Joska Troutman for a ride.

Veterans’ tribute continues to expand More than 50 commemorative banners saluting California University service members and veterans were displayed on campus this fall. The program, which began in 2013, featured 11 new banners this year, says Robert Prah ‘06, 10, director of Veterans Affairs. The all-weather banners were installed across campus in time for Veterans Day and remained in place through Winter Commencement. The public was invited to visit campus and view the patriotic display. Each banner includes a photo of the Cal U student, graduate, employee or family member being recognized, along with details about his or her military service. Those who submit a veteran’s name are recognized on the banner, along with a business or community sponsor, if applicable. All members of the U.S. armed services are eligible to be recognized on a banner, including current, former or reserve members of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines and Coast Guard. Each honoree has a direct or family tie to the campus community or to Cal U Global Online. “In our third year for the banner program, we’ve had a lot more families take part,” says Prah. “This is exactly why we initiated the banner program — to honor our Cal U family.” Applications for banners will be accepted again in August. Anyone interested in purchasing a banner should e-mail the Office of Veterans Affairs at veterans@calu.edu.

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Delta Zeta sisters (front from left) Kayla Bell and Maureen Bradley lead a cheer as they march.

Superheroes show up for Homecoming

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tars shone onstage and superheroes swarmed the campus as the University celebrated Homecoming 2015. The second annual President’s Showcase brought some of Cal U’s most generous donors to a Friday-night fundraiser, “Our Next Great Chapter,” supporting the Student Scholarship Fund for Academic, Arts and Athletics. After a reception and dinner in the Convocation Center, those guests adjourned to Steele Hall Mainstage Theater for Our Showcase of Stars, featuring performances by students, faculty and staff. About 250 audience members enjoyed jazz and rock music, a cappella and gospel singing, musical theater, step dancing and more. Short videos spotlighted academic programs, and appearances by Cal U’s national championship women’s basketball and cheerleading squads showcased Vulcan athletics and club sports.

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For the finale, interim University President Geraldine M. Jones channeled Diana Ross as she joined the Cal Singers for a rousing rendition of Ain’t No Mountain High Enough. Caped crusaders turned out in force for Saturday’s traditional Homecoming parade. The Cal U Marching Band led the way for a lineup of “superheroes” floats created by student groups and Greek Life organizations. Bands from a half-dozen area high schools kept the beat as kids scrambled for candy tossed to the curbside crowd.

Clarinet player Rudeene Jackson marches with the Cal U Marching Band.

Sport management graduate David Bastedo ’05, manager of the new Dick’s Sporting Goods store in Uniontown, Pa., brought his children Alex, 9, and Aurora, 6, to join the family-friendly fun. “My kids love the parade and all the things going on before it, such as the petting zoo,” he says. “They like knowing that their dad went here. It makes them feel like Cal U is theirs, too.”

During Our Showcase of Stars, interim University President Geraldine ‘Motown’ Jones joins the California Singers.


President Jones congratulates the 2015 Homecoming King and Queen, Ernest Brakins Jr. and Shannon Barnett. Behind them are the 2014 King and Queen, JaQuan Cornish and Sarah Barger.

Theater students raise the roof in a number from ‘Urinetown, the Musical.’

Cast members from the Department of Theatre and Dance’s upcoming production of ‘Miracle on 34th Street’ join the parade to preview their performance.

The Superman crew includes Phi Sigma Sigma brothers Joe Karnash (left) and D.J. Dodd.

Women’s basketball player Miki Glenn steals the basketball, and the spotlight, from Our Showcase of Stars emcee Dr. Yugo Ikach.

Alpha Sigma Alpha and Alpha Kappa Lambda take first place in the float contest with their military tribute, ‘Not All Superheroes Wear Capes.’ Thanking the troops are (clockwise from top) Koeara Ashworth, Nicole Stephens and Megan Pendleton.

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APRIL S

ICE OF FROM THE OFF ONS! ALUMNI RELATI

ALUMNI CALENDAR

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MARCH SPRING TRAINING CAMP e mark d to 2016, pleas As you look ahea one d plan to attend your calendar an ng mi co events in the or more alumni ering in ring we’re gath months. This sp se, right hia and, of cour Florida, Philadelp . We’ll nia tern Pennsylva here in southwes ect, have ther to reconn be getting toge ws ar the latest ne some fun and he Cal U. d progress at about people an to seeing you! I look forward

nor ’08 Leslie Berdar Flee ions ni Relat Director of Alum

Calling all Florida-area alumni! Cal U will be heading to McKechnie Field in Bradenton, Fla., for our annual alumni event at a Pittsburgh Pirates spring training game. Check your mailbox for the date and other details.

APRIL 7 PHILADELPHIA ALUMNI GATHERING Philadelphia-area alumni are invited to meet us from 6-8 p.m. at Lo Spiedo restaurant, 4503 Broad St., Philadelphia, for an evening of networking, good food and great conversation. We hope you will plan to attend.

APRIL 21 CAL GALS LUNCHEON All retired female schoolteachers are welcome at the annual Cal Gals spring luncheon in the Kara Alumni House. If you are interested in attending or would like more information, call Staci Tedrow in the Office of Alumni Relations at 724-938-4418.

APRIL 22 ATHLETICS HALL OF FAME DINNER

ALUMNI ASSOCIATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS

CALL FOR NOMINATIONS Are you interested in becoming more involved with your alma mater? Would you like to become a member of the Cal U Alumni Association Board of Directors? Selections will take place this spring, with eight (8) seats to be filled.

Candidates will be screened by the Nominating Committee for Board Members. All candidates must complete a nomination form to be considered. Nomination forms must be received by the Nominating Committee no later than April 1, 2016. To download the nomination form and the position description, visit www.calu.edu/alumni or contact the Office of Alumni Relations at 724-938-4418.

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The University recognizes Vulcan sports standouts at its annual Cal U Athletics Hall of Fame dinner. Look for more information, including a list of honorees, on the Vulcan athletics website, www.calvulcans.com.

APRIL 23 ALL ATHLETICS ALUMNI DAY Are you a former Cal U student-athlete? If so, please join the lineup for our first All Athletics Alumni Day. We’re planning a variety of activities both on campus and at Roadman Park, including a picnic at the alumni pavilion from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. We hope to see you there!

JUNE 20 CAL U GOLF OUTING We’re teeing up the 35th annual Cal U Golf Outing! Please join us for this popular event at Southpointe Golf Club in Canonsburg, Pa. Proceeds benefit the General Athletic Scholarship Fund. To learn more or register your foursome, call Staci Tedrow in the Office of Alumni Relations at 724-938-4418 or e-mail alumni@calu.edu.

For more information about these and other events, visit www.calu.edu/ alumni or call the Alumni Relations Office at 724-938-4418.


HERE’S WHAT’S BEEN HAPPENING: Alumni from the Baltimore area gathered on Sept. 10 at the Sheraton Inner Harbor. Interim University President Geraldine M. Jones ’72, ’80 provided a campus update for the group. Dr. Emily Sweitzer ’92, ’93, of the Department of Modern Languages, Philosophy and Socio-Cultural Studies, described the new bachelor’s degree program in Sociology: Deviance.

Picnic pals Phil Shushnar ‘66 (left), of Elizabeth, Pa., and Gene Ritsert ‘65 of Ocean City, N.J., catch up at the Picnic on the Patio outside the Kara Alumni House.

Together again Alumnae (from left) Julie Russell ‘09, of Uniontown, Pa.; Marguerite Haldin ‘09, ‘11 of Homestead, Pa.; and Marie Turnbull ‘12 of Cumberland, Md., meet at the Kara Alumni House before the Homecoming parade.

Reunited Sigma Kappa sisters from the Class of 1974 arrive for Homecoming in school colors. They are (from left) Jennifer (Smarto) Blout, of Uniontown; Patty (Salvador) Panseri, of Mt. Lebanon; Dorie (Leson) Karner, of Canonsburg; Linda (Gaylord) Bretin, of Scott Township; and Debbie (Ali) Pascarella, of Upper St. Clair, Pa.

Board meeting Alumni Board members who stopped by for Homecoming include (from left) Chase Loper ‘10, ‘12 and Mindi Fisher ‘07, both of Pittsburgh, Pa.; Dante Morelli ‘02, of Long Island, N.Y.; and Robert Crall ‘10, ‘12, of Greensburg, Pa.

Sisters forever Alumni members of the Phi Sigma Sigma sorority enjoy the Alumni Tailgate event at Roadman Park.

She’s got proof Wendy (Blakey) Simmons displays the Cal U Alumni Association card she’s carried in her wallet since she graduated in 1985.

Members of the Class of 1965 returned to campus Sept. 19 to celebrate their 50th Class Reunion. More than 30 alumni came from as far away as Florida to attend the Pioneer Dinner at the Kara Alumni House. Classmates shared their stories and reminisced about the good old days at “Cal State.” New York City alumni met Oct. 1 at Etcetera, Etcetera restaurant for an evening of fun and networking. Acting Provost Dr. Bruce Barnhart ’83, ’89, ’01 provided campus updates, including news about the University’s first doctoral program, a Doctor of Health Science with a focus on health science and exercise leadership. On Homecoming Day, Oct. 24, alumni gathered outside the Kara Alumni House for a Picnic on the Patio event, then headed to Third Street for the traditional parade of floats and bands. Alumni then made their way to Roadman Park to socialize at an Alumni Tailgate party before watching the Vulcans take on the Clarion Golden Eagles.

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ALUMNI S P O T L I G H T

Athletic trainer Bob Tarpey ‘05 talks with a Fisher Cats player.

Photo: Dave Schofield/NH Fisher Cats

LEAGUE’S TOP TRAINER

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inor League Baseball’s 16 leagues comprise teams from Albuquerque to Winston-Salem. Athletic trainers work with every team, and Bob Tarpey ’05 is this year’s best of

the best. Last summer Tarpey was the athletic trainer at the Futures Game, part of the 2015 Major League Baseball All-Star Game festivities in Cincinnati, Ohio. That’s a position reserved for the Minor League Athletic Trainer of the Year, an honor awarded by the Professional Baseball Athletic Trainers Society.

There isn’t a day that goes by that I don’t benefit from my education at Cal U. Going to graduate school at Cal U was absolutely the best thing I ever did for my career. No question. Bob Tarpey '05 MINOR LEAGUE BASEBALL ATHLETIC TRAINER

Tarpey, who has spent 10 years with the Toronto Blue Jays organization, has chalked up six seasons with Toronto’s Double-A affiliate, the New Hampshire Fisher Cats. The team competes in the MiLB’s Eastern League, which also named him its top athletic trainer. Preparing for the Futures Game “was a busy but fantastic time,” says Tarpey, a native of York, Maine. “Hearing my named called out at Great American Ballpark was really special.” He may be a long way from Charleroi High School, where he worked with young athletes while earning his master’s degree at California University. But Tarpey says the lessons he learned have stuck with him. “There isn’t a day that goes by that I don’t benefit from my education at Cal U. Going to graduate school at Cal U was absolutely the best thing I ever did for my career. No question.” He singles out Human Anatomy, in which he worked with human cadavers, as the finest course he ever took. Anatomy professor Dr. Ed Zuchelkowski and his other professors were “true professionals,” he says. A number of students from his undergraduate alma mater, the University of Maine at Presque Isle, have attended Cal U, Tarpey says, and several of his baseball colleagues have studied through Cal U Global Online. “I really enjoyed my time at California,” he says. “Going there just brought everything together for me.” By Bruce Wald ’85, information writer at Cal U

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TO PROTECT, SERVE ... AND LEARN

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he police are the people, and the people are the police.” It’s the basic philosophy that guides Robert Jolley, who earned his master’s degree in legal studies through Cal U Global Online in 2011. He is chief of police for Dallas Township, in Luzerne County, Pa., where he leads a force of nine officers. In July, he became president of the Pennsylvania Chiefs of Police Association. The statewide organization has 1,000 command-level law enforcement officers on its rolls. It oversees the accreditation process for police departments, administers an online training program, provides testing and consulting services, and serves as a resource for its members. “Dallas Township is not an island,” Jolley says. “What affects us affects communities around us. Sometimes there are common solutions to the issues that many forces face, such as lower budgets and higher expectations. “We need to be a resource for one another.”

Jolley says fostering better communitypolice relations is among his top priorities. “After 9/11, everyone thought first responders were wonderful; now, they’re not so sure,” he says. “Today, everyone is talking about body cameras for police officers. But interpersonal skills are still very important.” A recent Dallas Township outreach program for residents with special needs drew almost 50 people. “We were surprised to have that many people in attendance,” Jolley says. “It was just an afternoon to meet the police and allow us to convey that we are here to serve the whole community. “I think most police officers want to do the best they can. It’s a calling, which is a good thing.” Jolley, 59, earned his first college degree in his 40s, and he speaks passionately about the value of higher education. “It’s not easy to earn a degree when you’re dealing with a job and a family. If it was, everyone would do it,” he says. “A degree shows that you have the

Dallas Township Police Chief Robert Jolley ‘11

ability to learn and see things through. I guess I’m not going to quit learning until I get to the end (of my career), and then I’ll shift gears and move on.” By Wendy Mackall, assistant communications director at Cal U

NOW HEAR THIS

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earing assessments are Dr. Cristina Yorke’s specialty. A newly minted doctor of audiology with a degree from Kent State University, Yorke ’11 is trained to diagnose and treat hearing loss and balance disorders.

Audiologist Dr. Cristina Yorke ‘11

She is employed by Audiology Distribution LLC, and under a pilot program she is the audiologist at a new CVS Hearing Center at the pharmacy chain’s site in Mayfield Heights, Ohio. “The center’s location makes services more accessible to the general public, and I’m planning some outreach programs to make the community more aware,” Yorke says. “We can provide full diagnostic evaluations, custom ear products and pediatric services.” Yorke’s assessment of Cal U’s bachelor’s degree in communication disorders? She says the program prepared her well for advanced studies with the Northeast Ohio Au.D. Consortium. During her four years in the Au.D. program, she studied at Kent State, the University of Akron and the Cleveland Clinic, and she earned the 2015 School of Health Sciences Outstanding Doctoral Student in Audiology Award. She also completed a one-year externship at the Cleveland Clinic Foundation.

“I owe all of my success to my time in Morgan Hall,” home of Cal U’s Department of Communication Disorders. “Especially Dr. (Ralph) Belsterling,” she adds. “He’s an audiologist, too, and a big reason why I’m here today, doing what I’m doing. “All of the professors at Cal U did an excellent job helping students to see life beyond the University, to get us involved with professional organizations and to help us decide what we wanted to do after graduation.” Cal U operates an on-campus Speech and Hearing Clinic that is open to the public. The clinic provides diagnostic and therapeutic services performed by students who are closely monitored by faculty. “When I came to the consortium, a lot of students from bigger universities hadn’t had that type of opportunity,” Yorke says. “The hands-on experience Cal U provides at the clinic was very valuable.” By Wendy Mackall, assistant communications director at Cal U

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leap over Ryan Edie (left) and under station. e it h W y verWill es at the o the obstacl

Vanessa Martik (fr on Reed try out the pu t) and Angela sh the Fitness Challen -up station on ge Course.

OutDOORS

Fitness moves

Students create ‘challenge course’ at SAI Farm

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reated by Cal U students, the new Fitness Challenge Course at the SAI Farm moves workouts out of the gym and into the great outdoors. The course features 13 exercise stations along a 1.25-mile trail that weaves through fields and wooded areas on Cal U’s upper campus. Stops at the tire flip, balance beam, parallel bars, push-up platforms and heavy rope swings help users stay in shape. Although community fitness is the ultimate goal, the course began as a collaborative student project. Athletic training students figured out which exercises to include. The Technology Education Club built platforms to support each exercise. And parks and recreation management students are studying how the course is being used. “I have never seen anything like this on a school campus,” says senior Michael Reese, a parks and recreation major. “It’s an alternate way to get outside and change your workout routine. It’s something the entire community can enjoy.” Vulcan athletic teams also embraced the project. “We use the course to challenge teams … to come together and overcome obstacles,” says strength and conditioning coach Jessie Sylvester. “People are having fun and getting a complete workout. It is a great asset to the University.”

By Jeff Bender, PR/Web writer at Cal U 22 CAL U REVIEW FALL 2015 n

n Amerson Student Christia ith the w th ng re st s build ings at the heavy rope sw tness Fi w ne SAI Farm’s se. ur Co e ng le al Ch


It’s really motivating when you have Jessica Hardy training right next to you every morning. We’re going through the same thing, so it’s really encouraging.

SPORTS P R O F I L E

Melissa Gates '12 3-TIME NCA A CHAMPION

SWIMMING TOWARD

Former collegiate national champion trains for 2016 trials

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hree-time NCAA Division II national swimming champion Melissa Gates ’12 has relocated to the West Coast and set her sights on making the 2016 U.S. Women’s Olympic Swim Team. She is training at the University of Southern California’s McDonald’s Swim Stadium with USC coach Dave Salo, a member of the American Swimming Coaches Association Hall of Fame. The U.S. Olympic Trials start June 26 at the CenturyLink Center in Omaha, Neb. A 10-time All-American, Gates won the national title in the 50-yard freestyle as a Cal U junior, then captured national crowns in both the 50- and 100-yard freestyle during her senior year. She earned a degree in environmental sciences and was teaching preschool science in Charlotte, N.C., before she headed to Los Angeles in May. “I was training 20 hours a week while working 45 hours a week, and it was just really hard, so I moved out here,” Gates says. Now she helps to coach a middle school girls’ team after her morning training and weight-lifting routines. Her Olympic training is similar to what

she experienced under Cal U swim coach Ed Denny, who suggested she work with Salo. “(Coach Salo) believes in less yardage and more sprint-focused training. We also use fins and paddles during training, which makes you stronger. I really like it.” Gates says she never considered Olympic competition until she won her first NCAA national title. “I looked online at the Olympic Trial ‘cut times,’ and I was like, ‘Oh, my gosh, I am close to that,’” she says, laughing. “When I made my first cut time, I remember crying and thinking, ‘This is going to be a reality. I’m actually going to compete against the best in the United States and try to make the team.’” Gates competed in the Olympic Trials in 2012. In the 50-meter freestyle she finished 25th in a field of 154, missing the semifinals by 0.08 seconds. In the 100-meters, she came in at No. 73. “I remember being so nervous walking up to the blocks. Since then I’ve been to many big competitions. I am definitely better off having done it once before.” Still, Gates faces an intense challenge in the 2016 trials.

“There are only 26 spots for women on the U.S. team,” she says. “You could be third in the 50 (-meter race) and miss out by one one-hundredth of a second, but if you’re not in first or second place, you don’t go.” Her college coach is in her corner. “Just making the Olympic trials is quite an accomplishment,” Denny says. “The stress and pressure once you’re there is phenomenal.” Salo trains many top athletes, including Jessica Hardy, who earned bronze (4x100 freestyle) and gold (4x100 medley) medals at the 2012 Olympic Games. “It’s really motivating when you have Jessica Hardy training right next to you every morning,” Gates says. “We’re going through the same thing, so it’s really encouraging.” But she hasn’t given up on a teaching career. “I want to eventually return to environmental education. I do miss teaching science,” she says. “That’s something I’ll pursue after I’m done with this dream, whatever may come of it.” By Bruce Wald ’85, information writer at Cal U FALL 2015 CAL U REVIEW 23 n


SPORTS R O U N D U P

DOUBLES TENNIS TEAM DELIGHTS Tennis duo Kiefer Shaw, a junior, and Lena Dimmer, a sophomore, won both the Pennsylvania State Athletics Conference (PSAC) and the Intercollegiate Tennis Association (ITA) Atlantic Regional women’s doubles tennis championships in September. This marked the second straight league title for Shaw, who won the 2014 event with Jesse Burrell ’15. In singles competition, Dimmer placed second by winning four of five matches, including a 6-4 upset of top-seeded Shaw in the quarterfinals. At the regional competition, the tandem won four straight matches to advance to the ITA National Championships in Sumter, S.C. Shaw also placed second in singles competition at the regional event by winning four of five matches. Shaw and Dimmer concluded the fall season by finishing seventh at the ITA National Championships. This spring Cal U women’s tennis team will hope to win an unprecedented 10th consecutive PSAC team championship and advance to the NCAA Division II post-season for a 12th straight year.

70 Vulcans earn achievement awards

Women’s golf second in PSAC championships

Seventy Cal U student-athletes, representing all sports, earned Division II Athletics Directors Association Academic Achievement Awards for the 2014-2015 academic year. The D2ADA program announced the awards at the start of the fall semester. They recognize the academic accomplishments of student-athletes in NCAA Division II who have a cumulative grade-point average of 3.5 or higher, have attended a minimum of two years of college, and have been active members of an intercollegiate team during the last academic year. Academic excellence has become a hallmark of Cal U’s athletics program. For 11 consecutive semesters Vulcan sports teams have compiled a cumulative GPA of 3.10 or higher. Last spring’s cumulative GPA was 3.12, and 27 Vulcans achieved a perfect 4.0.

The women’s golf team rounded out its fall season by placing second at the PSAC Championships, held in Hershey, Pa. Cal U narrowly missed winning its sixth conference crown in eight years, finishing just one stroke behind Millersville University. The Vulcans finished with a 65-over par 633 — coincidentally, the same score they posted to win the 2014 conference tournament. Individually, juniors Rachel Lim and Carla Maestre led Cal U; they finished in third and tied for fourth places, respectively. Sophomore Cai Yan Ho placed 14th, and sophomore Stephanie Perkins tied for 21st. The Vulcans have finished either first or second at the PSAC Championships every year since 2008. They won the league title in 2008, 2009, 2010, 2012 and 2014. Cal U’s women’s golf also tied for

24 CAL U REVIEW FALL 2015 n

Rachel Lim

second place at the 15-team Illinois Springfield Preview Tournament, and they scored a third-place finish at the nine-team Ashland (Ohio) Eagle Invitational.


Men’s golf ties for fifth at tourney

Kirby Manown

Cal U’s men’s golf team tied for fifth at the PSAC Championships with a 50-over par 618. Sophomore Kirby Manown led the Vulcans by finishing third in the 40-golfer field with a 4-over-par 146. He posted the highest individual finish by a Vulcan player since 2012. Juniors Tyler Robinson and Matt Cioffi were Cal U’s next highest-scoring individuals, finishing in 13th and 24th place, respectively. Earlier this fall, the men’s team won the 18-team Charleston (W.Va.) Glade Springs Invitational and placed second at the nineteam Wheeling Jesuit (W.Va.) Invitational.

Big baseball summer for Vulcans’ slugger Senior David Marcus, a first baseman for the Vulcans baseball team, was selected both the Mike Schmidt Player of the Year and the Roland Hemond Pro Prospect of the Year by the Prospect League. David Marcus

Last summer he played for the Butler (Pa.) BlueSox of the Prospect League, a summer league composed of college players who have NCAA eligibility remaining. Marcus led the 12-team league and set a franchise record with 11 homers. He paced the league with 49 RBI, finishing fourth with a .363 batting average (81-for-223). He also led the league with 18 doubles, 30 extra-base hits, 134 total bases and a .601 slugging percentage.

Last spring, Marcus started all 47 games for the Vulcans and batted .391. He tied the single-season school record with 15 home runs and set a single-season RBI record, with 62.

Julie Friend

Cross country qualifies for national championships For the first time in program history, women’s cross country competed as a team at the NCAA National Championships, qualifying for the Nov. 21 competition behind standout efforts by junior Julie Friend, senior Alex Zanella and sophomore Summer Hill. Friend placed third at the NCAA Division II Atlantic Regional Championship with a time of 20:45.8, and Zanella finished seventh with a time of 21:05.6. Hill placed 21st at 21:47.8. All three runners earned all-region honors by placing among the top 25. Earlier in the season, the team won three regular-season meets and placed fourth at the PSAC Championships, the program’s highest finish at the conference meet in 35 years. Friend and Zanella earned first-team all-conference honors with fourth- and sixth-place finishes, respectively. Hill earned second-team recognition, finishing at No. 27. On the men’s side, senior Morgan Huegel placed 44th at the Atlantic Regional Championships and was Cal U’s top individual finisher in the team’s final five races.

Alex Zanella

By Bruce Wald ’85, information writer at Cal U

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DEPARTMENT OF THEATRE & DANCE PRESENTS ITS SPRING 2016 SEASON

DEATHTRAP

YET ANOTHER FUNERAL

BY IRA LEVIN

BOOK BY ANTHONY N. CARROLA MUSIC & LYRICS BY DOMINIC A. CARROLA

Feb. 25, 26 and 27 at 8 p.m. Feb. 27 at 2 p.m.

n

April 21, 22 and 23 at 8 p.m.

STEELE HALL MAINSTAGE THEATRE

Don’t miss the first original musical jointly produced by Cal U’s departments of Theatre & Dance and Music. Commercial music technology major Dominic A. Carrola wrote the music and lyrics for this romantic comedy about a dissatisfiedwith-life hotel clerk, a down-on-his-luck journalist and a mysterious stranger.

and its nationally accredited Department of Theatre & Dance welcome the public to all performances. Visitors may park in the Vulcan Garage, off Third Street near the campus entrance, or use the pay-by-license metered parking in Lot 11, behind Gallagher Hall. 26 CAL U REVIEW FALL 2015

AN EXPLORATION OF SELFACTUALIZATION THROUGH DANCE

April 7, 8 and 9 at 8 p.m. April 9 at 2 p.m.

BLANEY THEATRE IN STEELE HALL

Settle in for a suspense-filled evening of theater! This comedy-thriller by playwright Ira Levin, of Veronica’s Room and Rosemary’s Baby fame, leaves the audience guessing from the first line of dialogue until the curtain comes down.

TO ACHIEVE OR NOT TO ACHIEVE: THAT IS THE QUESTION STEELE HALL MAINSTAGE THEATRE

Dancers delve into psychologist Abraham Maslow’s theory that individuals are motivated by a “hierarchy of needs” on their journey to self-actualization. Performed by students with a major or minor in dance, each piece in this concert explores the struggle to reach one’s full potential.

PATRONS $12 FOR OF ALL AGES

TICKETS FOR MOST PERFORMANCES ARE AVAILABLE AT THE DOOR FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO ORDER TICKETS (WITH A CREDIT CARD) BY PHONE, CALL THE STEELE HALL BOX OFFICE

FOR CAL U ¢ 50 STUDENTS

WITH VALID CALCARD, PLUS A $5 DEPOSIT REFUNDED AT THE SHOW

724-938-5943


CAL U M I L E S T O N E S 60s Dennis Wisnosky ’65 is a new member of the board of trustees of the Conservation Foundation. Dennis studied physics and math at Cal U. In 1997, Fortune Magazine named him one of five “heroes of manufacturing.” He is senior adviser/consultant for the Enterprise Data Management Council. He and his wife, Rosemary, live in Naperville, Ill.

70s Dr. Linda Gamber Ewing ’71 of Palm Beach Gardens, Fla., recently retired from two roles: as a professor with the Center for Environmental Studies at Florida Atlantic University and as a science teacher with the Palm Beach Florida School District. She was awarded the Presidential Award for Excellence in Science Teaching by former President Bill Clinton, received an Einstein Fellowship from the U.S. Congress to work with the National Science Foundation in Washington, D.C., and was awarded a NASA Fellowship for her work in the Teacher in Space Program. After completing her astronaut training at Marshall Field in Alabama, Linda spent two years training with Soviet cosmonauts who were preparing to fly their proton rocket to the former MIR space lab. She received her doctorate from the University of Alabama, where she taught in the Aerospace Engineering Department. She has two daughters, Heather and Kryston, and four grandchildren. Georgann Reichel ’72, of Sunrise, Fla., is retired. She studied elementary education at Cal U and was a member of the Flying Dutchman and Kappa Delta Epsilon. Ernie Spisak ’72, the author of Pittsburgh’s Forgotten Civil War Regiment: A History of the 62nd Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry, recently spoke at a meeting of the Civil War Roundtable, which meets at California University. He studied elementary education at Cal U. Nancy Batko ’72 recently co-directed a production of Moon Over Buffalo at the Red Barn Theatre in Franklin Township, Pa. She studied communications and theater at Cal U. William Mastropieri ’74 is chief executive officer of Asian-American Land Investment for AsianAmerican Properties Investment Corp. and a teacher in the Arlington (Texas) Independent School District. He majored in special education at Cal U and was involved with the school newspaper, debate club and campus security. He and Lei-Jane Chou live in Mansfield, Texas.

Dr. Marilyn Louis Freeman Carter ’74 recently traveled to Sierra Leone, West Africa, to develop and facilitate professional development activities in early literacy skills for the administration and faculty members of the Macaulay Memorial Community School in the Maforay Village. Marilyn is an independent educational consultant and serves as a peer reviewer for Early Childhood Education Journal, Springer Science + Business Media LLC. At Cal U she studied elementary education and was a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority, Kappa Delta Epsilon sorority and the Ski Club. She and her husband, James, live in Hershey, Pa. Curtis Rice ’77, of Speers, Pa., is the manager of public safety at Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh. He also sits on the Speers Borough Council and is a member of the Charleroi (Pa.) Police Board. He and his wife, Kathy, are the parents of two girls, Lori and Anne ’11. Lannie Dietle ’74 received his 33rd U.S. patent on Sept. 1, 2015, during his 33rd year of employment with Kalsi Engineering Inc., Sugar Land, Texas. Tom Nesbitt ’75 retired after 33 years with General Electric, where he installed and repaired CT scanners in many hospitals in western Pennsylvania. He was affiliated with technical support at company headquarters in Milwaukee, Wis., for his last 13 years.

Jeanne Lynn Kiss ’79 of Greensburg, Pa., is retired after a career with Westmoreland (Pa.) Intermediate Unit 7. She majored in special education at Cal U. Peter Duklis ’79 works in senior executive service for the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. He studied environmental science at Cal U, where he participated in ROTC, swimming and football. Peter and Elisabetta Canova Duklis live in Springfield, Va.

80s Retired U.S. Army Lt. Col. Mark S. Gallo ’80 and his wife, Lisa, have lived in The Villages, Fla., since 2011. In retirement they have been enjoying life by playing golf, riding their Harley FatBoy, participating in volunteer work and traveling. Zeb Jansante ’81 is the manager of the Bethel Park, Pa., American Legion baseball team. He played football at Cal U and has 30 years of experience as a baseball and football coach.

Gregory Shufran ’76 has retired from the Penn State University Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering. He earned his degree in education at Cal U.

Jo Ann Lugar ’82 has been awarded the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award for Volunteerism by President Barack Obama for her more than 4,000 hours of volunteer work with Animal Friends, a no-kill shelter near Pittsburgh, Pa. She studied medical technology at Cal U and is a patient services supervisor at Quest Diagnostics.

Richard Carothers ’76 is the assistant parking director for Bethany Beach, Del. At Cal U he studied secondary education and psychology. He also was a member of Delta Sigma Phi and president of the Interfraternity Council. He and Fran Carothers live in Selbyville, Del.

Robert Monaghan ’78, ’82 retired after 18 years as principal at Moore Elementary School, part of the Brentwood (Pa.) School District. He earned his bachelor’s degree in elementary education and his master’s degree as a reading specialist, both at Cal U.

EMPLOYER OF THE YEAR Brianna Riggi ’10, manager of agency recruiting at Prudential, is the 2015 recipient of the Cal U Career Advantage Advisory Board’s Employer of the Year Award. Offered through the University’s Career and Professional Development Center, Career Advantage is a four-year program that helps students discover a suitable career path and graduate on schedule. Riggi is president of the program’s advisory board; she also has sponsored a women’s networking event and shared job search tips with students.

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CAL U M I L E S T O N E S R. Carlyn Belczyk ’83 is chair of the boards of Monongahela Valley Hospital and its parent company, Mon Vale Health Resources. She majored in accounting at Cal U.

she was the small-business developer for Loudoun County, Va. She and Dr. Mort Gamble own a small farm in Washington, Pa., and have a rescued cat named Bob.

Mary Elizabeth “M.E.” Yancosek Gamble ’85, chair of the Business, Communications and Media Arts Department at Bethany College, received the West Virginia Public Relations Educator of the Year Award from the state chapter of the Public Relations Society of America. The award recognizes a PRSA member who has made a significant contribution to the advancement of public relations education through college or university teaching. Mary Elizabeth teaches integrated marketing classes for Bethany College and serves as adviser to the college’s chapter of the Public Relations Student Society of America, which was named Chapter of the Year in 2012. Before teaching at Bethany she was the state director of the Small Business Division of the West Virginia Development Office. Prior to that,

Richard Colelli ’86, a technology education teacher, traveled to the International Technology and Engineering Educators Association conference in March 2015 to receive two teacher awards, from ITEEA and Epsilon Pi Tau. Richard was awarded the Warner Professional Practice Award for Region I, which consists of New England, New York, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland and New Jersey. The award recognizes academic excellence of teachers devoted to the study of technology. Epsilon Pi Tau is the premier academic and professional honors group for technology professionals in practice. Colelli also received ITEEA’s Distinguished Technology Educator Award, which recognizes educators who have demonstrated a high level of competence and conscientiousness in the field. Ian Imber ’87, of Tinton Falls, N.J., is an engineer. At Cal U he majored in engineering technology and was a member of Roosterhead Rugby, the soccer team, and Phi Kappa Sigma. Joanne Caesar Berwick ’89 now works for First National Insurance Agency as an account executive. She studied communications at Cal U. Julie Davis ’89 is a paralegal for Randall R. Myers, a land surveyor. She lives in Daisytown, Pa. She studied automation technology and robotic systems at Cal U. Chef Randy Tozzie ’89 is the owner of Bakn, a new restaurant in Carnegie, Pa., that specializes in menu items that include bacon.

90s Chris Heater ’90 is in his first year as head wrestling coach at Kiski (Pa.) Area High School, after 23 years as the program’s assistant coach.

HONOR SOCIETY’S ADVISER HONORED Dr. Karen (Posa) Amrhein ’88, director of First Year Experiences and Mentoring, has been named the executive director’s choice for Adviser of the Year for Alpha Lambda Delta, the freshman honor society. Under her direction, the University’s ALD chapter has been one of the top five chapters in the United States for the past five years, and Cal U members have received $20,000 in scholarships from the national society. Amrhein was recognized this summer at the ALD council meeting in Birmingham, Ala.

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James Chaffee ’90 is the dean for information technology and facilities for the Tippie College of Business at the University of Iowa. Kathy Tirimacco ’91 received the 2015 Woman of the Year Award from the Canonsburg (Pa.) Business and Professional Women. She is retired after many years in nursing and is a volunteer with Domestic Violence Services of Southwestern Pennsylvania. Todd Soisson ’91 works in information technology for Tokio Marine North American Services. He majored in math and computer science at Cal U. He and Patti Soisson ’93 live in Lansdale, Pa. Rachel Wilson ’93, who majored in theater and dance at Cal U, lives in Dayton, Ohio. At Cal U, she was a member of Sigma Kappa.

Bill Fink ’93 has been elected chair of the state Department of Environmental Protection’s Citizens Advisory Council. He is an environmental management specialist at Country View Family Farms, with operations in Pennsylvania, Ohio and Indiana. Heidi Bushko ’94, of Bushko Insurance Group Inc. in Clearwater, Fla., has graduated from the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors Leadership in Life Institute held in Tallahassee, Fla. Michael Grace ’95 has been appointed president of UPMC Mercy hospital, in Pittsburgh, Pa. He earned his master’s degree in business administration from Cal U. Allen Westrick ’96, of Houston, Texas, is a librarian at the Houston Public Library. He studied journalism at Cal U and was a member of the California Times, Flipside, WVCS and CUTV. Brian Schill ’97 is executive director of the Peters Township (Pa.) Chamber of Commerce. He studied geography and regional planning at Cal U. Thomas Maglicco ’97 is city controller for McKeesport, Pa. The U.S. Army veteran also is the chief of staff for state Rep. Marc Gergeley, of White Oak, Pa. Thomas majored in education at Cal U. Steph Ball Hopkins ’98 is an assistant in the Carroll County (Md.) Public Schools. She studied gerontology at Cal U and was a member of Phi Alpha Psi and the Gerontology Club. She and Robert Hopkins live in Manchester, Md. Bryan Dillner ’99 works for the National Institutes of Health. He studied industrial management at Cal U and lives in Odenton, Md.

00s Kary Coleman ’00 is director of development for Penn State New Kensington. Brian Fernandes ’99, ’00, a member of the board of directors of the Cal U Alumni Association, recently was recognized for his commitment to students as director of enrollment services at Carnegie Mellon University, in Pittsburgh, Pa. Dr. Marie Leichliter-Krause ‘01 is the associate dean for first-year programs at Waynesburg (Pa.) University. She earned her master’s degree from Cal U and went on to earn her Ed.D. from West Virginia University, where she worked for more than seven years as director of programming. Lynn Boissin ’01 is a fourth-grade teacher at William Penn Elementary School in the Elizabeth Forward School District, in Allegheny County, Pa. She earned her master’s degree in elementary education from Cal U.


CHANGE OF U.S. Army Lt. Gen. Alan R. Lynn ’79 has stepped into dual roles as director of the Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA), a combat support agency of the U.S. Department of Defense, and commander of the Joint Force Headquarters–Department of Defense Information Networks (DoDIN) (Cyber), based at Fort Meade, Md. As DISA’s director, he leads a global organization of some 15,000 civilian and military personnel responsible for the U.S. military’s commandand-control capabilities, and an information technology infrastructure that directly supports the President, Secretary of Defense, Joint Chiefs of Staff, combatant commanders, Department of Defense components, and other mission partners — a role equivalent to serving as CEO of a $10 billion information technology company. As commander of Joint Force Headquarters– DoDIN (Cyber), he is responsible for coordinating efforts to secure and defend key elements of the military’s worldwide network of computer systems. The year-old Joint Force Headquarters works cooperatively in cyberspace with a number of other military organizations. “Alan Lynn was cyber before cyber was cool,” said Lt. Gen. James “Kevin” McLaughlin, deputy commander of U.S. Cyber Command, at a

change-of-command ceremony in July. “He has spent a career getting ready to do this job.” Alan joined the U.S. Army in 1979 and transferred to the Signal Corps in 1984. His military career has included command assignments at every rank from captain to lieutenant general. He served overseas during operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm, in peacekeeping operations in Bosnia, and in Operation Iraqi Freedom. His domestic assignments have taken him to U.S. Army bases across the country. On Sept. 11, 2001, he directed firefighters at the Pentagon, keeping Defense communications operational despite the terrorist attack. Among his numerous military awards and decorations are the Defense Superior Service Medal, a Legion of Merit, two Bronze Star Medals and a Defense Meritorious Service Medal. Alan holds a master’s degree in national resource management from the Industrial College of the Armed Forces, and a bachelor’s degree in English from Cal U, where he was an ROTC Distinguished Military Graduate. He addressed graduates at California University’s 2015 Winter Commencement.

Ricci Rich ’01 is the athletic director at Trinity High School, in Washington, Pa.

operations. He had been the transit authority’s executive director since 2010.

Josh Gray ’01 is a member of the Charleroi (Pa.) Area Sports Hall of Fame Class of 2015. He played football and soccer at Cal U.

Jamie Nathan ’03 of Scott Township, Pa., is aquatics director at the South Hills Jewish Community Center in Scott Township.

Joel Seelye ’03, a lawyer in Blair County, Pa., is president of the Pennsylvania Bar Association’s Young Lawyers Division. He is a partner in the Altoona, Pa., law firm of Grabill & Seelye PLLC. Joel earned his degree in psychology at Cal U.

Matthew Yatsko ’00, ’03, of Mt. Pleasant, Pa., is a clinical supervisor at Pressley Ridge. He studied psychology and community agency counseling at Cal U.

David Safin ’03 has produced a film, A Ride Around Roscoe, that pays tribute to his hometown in Pennsylvania. David is an assistant professor of communications at St. Vincent College, near Latrobe, Pa. Marc Roncone ’03 is vice president of business development for MV Transportation, the Mid Mon Valley Transit Authority’s carrier, which provides drivers, maintenance and daily service

Jeremy Mohler ’05 has been ordained as a priest. He studied communications at Cal U. Tracy Reick Bromberg ’05 is assistant principal in the Fairfax County (Va.) Public School District. She studied technology education at Cal U, where she was a member of Delta Zeta, the Technology Education Association of California, and Habitat for Humanity. Jared Dumm ’05 is a member of the Charleroi (Pa.) Area Sports Hall of Fame Class of 2015. He played football at Cal U and played professional football in Germany from 2006-2010. Melissa Risko Intrepido ’05 is assistant director of alumni advancement at the University of New

England. Melissa earned her master’s degree in business administration from Cal U. She and Patrick Intrepido ’12 live in Raymond, Maine. Douglas Szokoly ’02, ’05 is principal of Cornell High School in Coraopolis, Pa. Kristen Schuth ’07, athletics director at Genesee Community College in Batavia, N.Y., was named the Region II Athletic Director of the Year for 2014-2015. Brett Kern ’07 recently exhibited his work, “30 Going on 13,” at West Liberty (W.Va.) University. He studied ceramics at Cal U. Michael Ward ’08 is a Realtor for Keller Williams. He studied business administration at Cal U and was a member of the 2007 Homecoming Court and the Student Marketing Association. He and Rebecca Avakian ’08 live in Roswell, Ga. Michael Dufrene ’08 is the principal at John Handley High School in the Winchester (Va.) Public Schools. He earned his master’s degree in education administration from Cal U.

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CAL U M I L E S T O N E S Allan Bilinsky ’08 is the assistant principal and athletic director in the Mt. Pleasant (Pa.) Area School District. He earned his K-12 principal certification from Cal U. Louis Zadecky ’08 is the director of athletics at Penn State Fayette, the Eberly Campus, near Uniontown, Pa. For the past 15 years, Lou served as a health and physical education teacher in the Yough School District and as the head women’s basketball coach at Penn State Greater Allegheny. He was named the Penn State University Athletic Conference Coach of the Year in 2014. He earned his master’s degree in sports administration and management from Cal U. Joseph Greany ’08, of the Omaha Storm Chasers, has been named the Pacific Coast League Strength and Conditioning Coach of the Year by the Professional Baseball Strength and Conditioning Coaches Society. This is his third consecutive year to receive the award. The Storm Chasers are a minor league team affiliated with the Kansas City Royals of Major League Baseball. Sekora Wallace-Henderson ’08 is a member of the International Association of HealthCare Professionals. Sekora is a chiropractor for Aligned for Life Chiropractic in Gap, Pa. At Cal U she majored in biology, with a pre-professional concentration. Dong Lien ’09 is strength and conditioning coach for the Lehigh Valley (Pa.) IronPigs, part of the Philadelphia Phillies baseball organization. He earned his master’s degree from Cal U and has developed a program for children aimed at helping them lead active, healthy lifestyles.

Emily Marshman ’09 earned a Ph.D. in physics, with a research concentration in physics education, from the University of Pittsburgh. She is now a postdoctoral teacher scholar and assessment consultant at Pitt’s Discipline-Based Science Education Research Center, where she is continuing her research into teaching upper-level physics courses and working with faculty and teaching assistants who want to try evidencebased teaching strategies in their classrooms. At Cal U, Emily was an education major and a recipient of the Faculty Scholarship. She also was a tutor and participated in outreach activities involving Science Olympiad tournaments and the Girls in Math and Science partnership. Angela Dolph Gunning ’09 is a kindergarten teacher at Philadelphia Montgomery Christian Academy, in Glenside, Pa. She married Brian Gunning on March 23, 2013.

10s Jamie Pena ’10 is an assistant principal at Ridley High School in Folsom, Pa. She earned her master’s degree and administrative certificate from Cal U. Kim-Sue Tudor ’10 is director of medical laboratory technology at Volunteer State Community College in Gallatin, Tenn. She earned her master’s degree in exercise science and health promotion at Cal U.

IN PRINT Paul Gentile ’62 has written his second book, Salvatore and Maria: Finding Paradise. This nonfiction work tells the immigrant story of his grandfather, Salvatore Ciccone, who left Italy in 1902, worked in the mines of Colorado, and eventually relocated to Aliquippa, Pa., where he worked in the steel mills. Paul was born in Aliquippa and has a 32-year career in education. He is also the author of the travel memoir Dolce Far Niente: Sweet Doing Nothing. Lauren and Ilen Bell ’11, a husband-and-wife team from Tucson, Ariz., recently launched a magazine, Black Fitness Today. The publication complements an online fitness website, blackfitnesstoday.com, that the couple developed in 2011.

Bethany Bernard ’10 is an assistant athletic trainer in the Sports Medicine Department at Middlebury College, in Vermont. She held a similar position at Gwynedd Mercy University, in Pennsylvania. Steven Sierra-Franco ’10 lives in Pottstown, Pa. He earned his master’s degree in exercise science and health promotion from Cal U. Allison Juchem ’10, who earned her bachelor’s degree in sport management, is a manager at Planet Fitness. She lives in Marietta, Ga. Gary Martell ’10 is director of career and technical education at the Northern Tier Career Center in Towanda, Pa. He has almost 20 years of experience in education. He earned his principal’s certificate from Cal U. Ashley Hickey ’11 is an artist whose recent exhibition, “I’ve Been Out Walking,” featured abstract and conceptual sculptures inspired by nature. She is a member of the Associated Artists of Pittsburgh and president of Pittsburgh’s Society of Sculptors. Ashley majored in art at Cal U. Danielle Easton ’11 is the interim softball coach at Shepherd University, in Shepherdstown, W.Va. She recently completed her fourth year as the program’s assistant coach. Heather Kearney ’11 is the associate women’s basketball coach at Coastal Carolina University in Conway, S.C. Ryan Morris ’11 and Brittany Morris ’12 live in Charleston, S.C. Ryan played quarterback at Cal U from 2007-2011. Bethany Davies Nixon ’12 is a mine clerk for Consol Energy Inc. She earned her master’s degree in business administration from Cal U. She and Chad Nixon live in Bridgeport, Ohio. Denise Brown ’12, of Paterson, N.J., is manager of athletic operations for Maritime College. She majored in exercise science and sport studies at Cal U. Devon Lawrence ’12, who studied human resource management at Cal U and was a member of the Human Resource Management Club, is a food and beverage manager for Hershey Entertainment and Resorts. Devon and Allura Alonso live in Lebanon, Pa. Luke Passerotti ’12 has joined the Millcreek Township (Pa.) Police Department. Erik Schwager ’12 is the new director of strength, conditioning and sports performance, and head strength and conditioning coach, at Newberry (S.C.) College. He earned his master’s degree in exercise science and health promotion from Cal U. Jill Fleming-Salopek ’12 is the principal at J.E. Harrison Middle School in the BaldwinWhitehall (Pa.) School District. She earned her principal’s certification from Cal U.

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Blayre Holmes ’12 is listed in the inaugural edition of Who’s Who in Black Pittsburgh. Melissa Mahnke ’12 is head volleyball coach at the University of Mount Union, in Alliance, Ohio. She studied sports psychology at Cal U. Coral De Alba ’12 is the gymnastics director at Girls Inc. of Greater Santa Barbara (Calif.). Coral earned her bachelor’s degree in sport management from Cal U. Garrett Sturges ’13, of Pittsburgh, Pa., is a team leader at Giant Eagle. He earned his master’s degree in business administration from Cal U, where he was a member of Tau Kappa Epsilon. Linda Syers ’13 is a global information systems specialist for WPI. She majored in geography/ geographic information systems at Cal U, where she was a member of the Equestrian Team and the GIS Club. Catherine Conlisk Moore ’13 and Dr. Clifford Moore live in Worthington, Ohio. Moira Blados Twigg ’13, who studied communication disorders at Cal U, works for Children’s Behavioral Health. She and Stephen Twigg live in Ridgeley, W.Va. Shay McGlynn ’13 is the athletic trainer for the Texas Stars, the American Hockey League affiliate of the NHL’s Dallas Stars. Shannon Crombie ’13 is the assistant principal for grades 11 and 12 at North Hills High School, near Pittsburgh, Pa. She most recently was assistant principal of Plum Senior High School and previously taught social studies at CanonMcMillan High School, where she created and taught an after-school study skills program. Kayla Fransko ’13 is the girls varsity soccer coach at Ringgold High School, in Monongahela, Pa. Justin Aspegren ’13 is an assistant baseball coach at Appalachian State University, in Boone, N.C. He earned his master’s degree in exercise science and health promotion from Cal U. Meredith Progar ’13 received the 2015 High School Masters of Mathematics Award from the Pennsylvania Council of Teachers in Mathematics. Meredith, who earned her master’s degree in teaching from Cal U, works in the North Allegheny Intermediate High School, near Pittsburgh, Pa. Rochelle Barry ’13 is the parks and recreation director for Collier Township, Pa. Leroy Collins ’13 is president of the Syracuse Strong Amateur Football team and owner of LC Elite Sport Consulting and PBF Studio. Collins played in the National Football League for the Washington Redskins and Jacksonville Jaguars. He earned his master’s degree in sport management from Cal U.

Kimberly Kelly Humbert ’07, ’13 is a teacher in the Belle Vernon (Pa.) Area School District. She and Matthew Humbert ’07, ’08 live in Jefferson Hills, Pa. James Botti ’12, ’13 is a wellness director at the YMCA of Delaware. He studied sport management at Cal U. He and Alison Botti live in Rehoboth Beach, Del.

GOOD ADVICE Two Cal U grads provide counseling and encouragement to others:

Jeff Knox Jr. ’14 is a motivational speaker who recently participated in training camp for the Saskatchewan Roughriders, a professional football team in Canada. At Cal U he earned a social sciences degree. Krista Costanza ’14, Miss Pennsylvania United States 2015, recently competed in the Miss United States pageant in Washington, D.C. Krista studied biology at Cal U. Leanne Levenduski ’14 is an athletic trainer for Oil Valley Physical Therapy, providing services for athletes at Titusville (Pa.) High School. Alex Watson ’14 is a territory development representative for Medtronic. A graduate of the sport management program, Alex credits the skills he learned at Cal U with his career success. Clarissa Enslin ’14, who received an NCAA post-graduate scholarship and is pursuing her master’s degree in the Department of Geosciences at Idaho State University, recently made a presentation at the Western Consortium for the Watershed Analysis, Visualization and Exploration tri-state meeting. Clarissa was a member of the women’s swim team at Cal U.

Michael K. Pecosh ’97 is a licensed professional counselor specializing in individual, couples/family, and anger management therapy in private practice in Washington, Pa. Mike has more than 10 years of experience as a therapist, providing support and practical feedback to help clients effectively address personal life challenges. Recently he was featured on a national counseling podcast, “The Practice of the Practice.” To listen, visit www.practiceofthepractice.com and search for “Michael Pecosh.”

Matt Shorraw ’15 is assistant band director at Monessen (Pa.) High School and president of the city’s amphitheater committee. Jose Tienda ’15 is a trainer for the Wenatchee (Wash.) Wild, a member of the British Columbia Hockey League. Nikki Kinstlich Popielarcheck ’15 and John Popielarcheck live in Washington, Pa. Nikki is the assistant director of graduate admissions at Cal U. Ryan Fisher ’15 was one of five finalists for the Ellsworth C. Dent Man of the Year Award, a Sigma Tau Gamma fraternity national award that recognizes leadership, scholastic achievement, extracurricular activities, and service to the chapter and university. Other recent finalists from Cal U were Nate Dixon ’12 and Michael “Gage” Crosen ’14. Carrie Ritterbusch Angelo ’08, ’15 earned degrees in liberal studies and legal studies and an aging specialist certificate from Cal U. She and Rocco Angelo ’05, ’06 live in Belle Vernon, Pa.

Justin Leader ’05, ’07 has used his personal struggles to become the person he is today to begin work on a book intended to inspire others. At Cal U, Justin studied biology and exercise science. He was a resident assistant and details his experience with a former student at www.justindleader.com/ blog. Currently Justin is vice president of an employee benefits firm. He also is on the local council for Junior Achievement and volunteers for the York County (Pa.) School of Technology. At the American Heart Association, he organized a committee of young professionals that raised more than $20,000. Justin lives in Wrightsville, Pa.

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CAL U M I L E S T O N E S Chris Wilson ’14, ’15 is head coach of the women’s soccer team at Elizabethtown (Pa.) College. He earned his bachelor’s degree in sport management and his master’s degree in exercise science.

ENGAGEMENTS Matthew Staniszewski ’00 and Melanie Aiken are engaged. Matthew is director of community and economic development for the city of New Castle, Pa. They plan to be married in 2016. Bethany Jurczak ’11 and Scott Fraley are engaged. Bethany is an elementary school teacher in the Carmichaels (Pa.) Area School District. They are planning a wedding for July 2016. Aaron Barnes ’03 and Christy Beckett are planning a May 2016 wedding. Aaron works for Cumberland Trail Fire District in St. Clairsville, Ohio.

WEDDINGS Joseph Giandonato ’10 and Kelli Tomassoni were married in August 2014. Joseph earned his master’s degree in exercise science from Cal U. He is manager of health promotion and recreation at Drexel University, in Philadelphia, Pa., and an adjunct professor at Immaculata University, in Malvern, Pa. Kelli is a vaccine specialist. They live in Harleysville, Pa. Nikki Guthrie ’12 and Daniel Phillips were married in September 2015. Nikki is a coordinator of administration at the Washington County (Pa.) Chamber of Commerce.

Kelly Lynn Lloyd ’12 and Adam Gill were married in July 2015. Kelly, who earned a teaching degree from Cal U, is a corporate trainer in Baltimore, Md. They live in Maryland.

Todd Bosch ’10 and Diandra Wetzel were married June 27, 2015, in Morgantown, W.Va. Todd is a data specialist at Morgantown Printing and Binding.

Samantha Stitzel ’09, ’10 and Zachary Adams ’10 of Canonsburg, Pa., are engaged. Samantha, who has a degree in psychology, leads a community based treatment program for individuals with both an intellectual disability and a mental health diagnosis. Zachary’s degree is in business administration. He owns and operates a bakery and pizza shop in Bridgeville, Pa. Samantha and Zachary, who met while they were students at Cal U, are planning a May 2016 wedding in the Pittsburgh area.. Anthony Canzonieri ’10, ’15 and Victoria Hartman ’13 are planning an April wedding in Las Vegas, Nev.

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Chaleece McCracken ’12 and Patrick Trapuzzano ’12 were married on June 20, 2015. Chaleece studied early childhood and special education at Cal U; she is a kindergarten teacher at Washington Park School, in the Washington (Pa.) School District. Patrick earned his master’s degree in sport management. He works at Washington (Pa.) Hospital.

Shara Johnson ’11, ’14 and David Zoeller were planning a September 2015 wedding. Shara’s degrees are in communication disorders and clinical mental health counseling. She is an outpatient child therapist at Family Behavioral Resources.

Jordan Verbofsky ’06, ’12 and Amy Steinbuch were planning a November 2015 wedding. Jordan is a personal banker at Key Bank. He earned his degrees in education from Cal U.

Jennifer Kilmer ’12, ’14 and Joshua Palmquist ’11, ’15 are planning a February 2016 wedding. Jennifer has an undergraduate degree in elementary education and a graduate degree in STEM education. Joshua has undergraduate degrees in psychology and criminal justice, and a graduate degree in applied criminology. Jennifer works at the Carnegie Science Center in Pittsburgh, Pa., and Joshua works as a case manager for Southwestern Pennsylvania Human Services.

Rick Nosky ’96 and Amber Ward were married July 25, 2015. Rick, who earned his master’s degree in business administration at Cal U, works as a budget accountant at SPHS Inc., in Charleroi, Pa., and is a founding partner of Tactical Gains Investment Fund. They live in Republic, Pa.

Tiffany Hollis ’10 and Greg Jones were married May 23, 2015, in Belle Vernon, Pa. Tiffany, who majored in communications, works as the front office manager at Baw Plastics.

Brittany Prater ’09 and Dr. Douglas Zaruta were married recently. Brittany studied sport management at Cal U and is athletics office coordinator at Nazareth College in Rochester, N.Y.

Jillian Anderson ’11 and Carl Peitz ’11 were married on June 20, 2015. Jillian is a direct mail production manager at a printing company in Laurel, Md. Carl is a technology education teacher in the Baltimore County public school system in Owings Mills, Md.

Bianca Morton ’14 and Joshua Hanna ’14 were married June 28, 2015, in Castle Shannon, Pa. Kari Jones ’14 and Gregory Behling ’13 were married in July 2015 at Linden Hall, in Dawson, Pa. Kari studied graphic communications and multimedia; she works for Applebee’s in Morgantown, W.Va. Gregory works for Mylan Pharmaceuticals in Morgantown. Jolene Hrinda ’02 and Christopher Taylor were married May 3, 2014. They live near Charlotte, N.C. Jolene studied meteorology at Cal U.

ANNIVERSARY William ’64 and Audrey Jones ’64 Wessel of Massillon, Ohio, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in June. William works part time in Canton, Ohio. He taught industrial arts in Washington, Pa.; worked at McGraw Edison in Canonsburg, Pa., as a senior proposal engineer; worked at ENSR Operations in Canton as a project engineer; and was a pastor in Illinois and Pennsylvania. Audrey is retired, having taught elementary school in Washington, Pa., and worked in various office positions.


BIRTHS

Genevieve Lawton-Kegley ’04 and Robert Kegley welcomed daughter Phoebe Belle on May 21, 2015. Phoebe weighed 7 pounds, 7 ounces. She joins big sisters Chloe and Kendall.

Kimmy Miller Ferry ’06 and Chris Ferry, member development specialists for KEYS Service Corps, an AmeriCorps program, welcomed their first child, Cosmos Kambe, on April 24, 2015.

Kelly DeRosa Judy ’03, ’06 and Dylan Judy welcomed their first child, Elsa Grace, on May 30, 2015. Elsa weighed 6 pounds, 7 ounces. Kelly is a teacher, reading specialist and content writer. Dylan is a technical trainer.

IN MEMORIAM George D. Anderson ’83 Angeline DeMarco Bartman,* former administrative assistant Dorothy Louise “Dottie” Bowers ’64 Bonnie Sue McAdoo Bryner ’95 Terry Lane Bubonovich ’71 Mary Frances Cataney ’58 John Samuel Citro Jr. ’93 Robert L. Densmore ’71 Dr. Robert William Dillon Sr.,* emeritus professor of English John J. Doyle III ’11 Jean Plavetich Drop ’63 Cara Lee Fisher-Chalmers ’82

Dee Wallace Galiffa ’64 Brenda Mae Goldsmith ’95 Kaitlyn “Katie” Leigh Greco* Charles D. Jacobs ’63 Thomas M. Jefferson ’63 Barbara Jean Reib Johnston ’03 Robert Andrew Kerr ’09 Paul L. Krivacek ’64 Fred L. Lebder ’42 Minnie Marie Rippel Lehman ’30 Patricia A. Devenney Lindsay ’88 Kimberly Ann Boyle McNamara ’91 William Medina ’54 William E. “Bill” Morgan ’61 Margaret Dale Morris ’51 David Barron Moses ’70 Vera Ruth MacBurney Nickman ’70 Edward C. “E.C.” Palla ’64, ’78 James O. Powney ’52 Drew A. Rainey ’86 Dr. Horace Seymour Rockwood III,* emeritus professor of English John Skrypak Jr. ’56 William Franklin Snider Sr. ’63 Phyllis A. Sprowls ’99 Andrew N. “Butch” Szoyka ’67 Joseph Lawrence “Larry” Todaro ’69 Ralph “Sonny” Todd ’82 George Varkonda Jr. ’50 Ronald I. Vid ’64 Rose Marie Carrescia Warco ’70 John Brooks Watkins* Dennis Thomas James Wynder ’85 *Class year not on file

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.

Information will be published as space and deadlines allow. Please indicate on another sheet what activities or sports you participated in while you were a student. We welcome high-resolution electronic photographs. Please e-mail images to revieweditor@calu.edu; put the words “Milestones photo” on the subject line of your e-mail, and be sure to tell us your name, year of graduation and the identity of everyone in the picture. Please do not send computer printouts or low-resolution digital photos, as they will not reproduce well in this magazine.

Stay connected to the Cal U Alumni Association’s online community! Your personal ID number is on this magazine’s mailing label.

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PLANNED G I V I N G

HAVE YOU INCLUDED CAL U IN YOUR WILL? When it comes to making a long-term impact on education at California University of Pennsylvania, there are many giving options to choose from. As part of your estate plan, you can support Cal U through provisions in your will, an insurance policy, a trust or proceeds from your financial planning. Whether you want to put your donation to work immediately or design a plan that provides benefits after you’re gone, you can feel good knowing that you are helping to shape the future of Cal U and its students. People often assume that planned gifts are only for the wealthy, but this could not be further from the truth. In fact, several of California University’s most generous donors were people just like you — men and women who wanted to make a difference in the lives of our Cal U students, both now and well into the future.

What’s in your plan? If you’ve already included Cal U in your estate plans, we need to hear from you. As with any donation, we want to know your intentions, so your gift can be put to work according to your wishes. We also will talk with you about the best way to recognize your gift. To learn more about how to include California University of Pennsylvania in your estate planning, please contact the Office of University Development and Alumni Relations at 724-938-5775 or send e-mail to mauro@calu.edu.

WE’RE READY FOR OUR

CLOSE-UP

Is someone you know ready to apply to college? Cal U is ready to meet them! Learn about our programs of study. Meet with professors and students. Tour our residence halls and newly renovated student center.

See for yourself what Cal U has to offer.

SPRING ACADEMIC

OPEN HOUSE Monday, February 15 Saturday, March 19 Saturday, April 9 To register for an open house or plan a visit on your own schedule, contact the Cal U Welcome Center at 724-938-1626 or e-mail Carrie Pavtis at pavtis@calu.edu.


VULCAN

PRIDE

Shop the latest in Cal U apparel and gifts at the Cal U Student Bookstore

Cal U Student Bookstore calupashop.com | 724-938-4324


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Light up the sky Fireworks fill the air to mark the close of New Student Orientation. Before classes begin, first-year students spend a weekend getting to know one another and learning about University services and Cal U traditions.

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