IN THE FIELD
Applied education expands the learning environment
The California University of Pennsylvania Magazine CAL U REVIEW Vol. 41 - No. 4 The Cal U Review is published by the Office of Marketing and University Relations and is distributed free. Third class postage paid at California. CHANCELLOR Frank T. Brogan
FROM THE INTERIM PRESIDENT
Practice makes perfect. We’ve heard that so often, it’s become a cliché. Yet most of us find that it’s true. Once we master the basics of any subject, practice helps to cement our learning and sharpen our skills. Personally, I see the value of practice on Sunday mornings at Mt. Zion AME Church, where I’ve been the church pianist since I was 14. Yes, I have a degree in education with a concentration in music, but I’ve also spent countless hours at the keyboard. That blend of academic training and hands-on practice has made me a better musician. It’s no different for students at California University. Once they understand the theories, study the history and acquire the vocabulary of their chosen field, they are eager to put their academic education into practice. Because the application of knowledge is so important, our Cal U professors provide plenty of opportunities for hands-on learning. In high-tech classrooms and laboratories, our Cal U students use the same equipment they’re likely to find in the workplace. At SAI Farm, they perfect field techniques under real-world conditions. And at academic conferences, even our undergraduates have a chance to interact with scholars and like-minded peers. Some even present their own work. Upper-level students learn professional practices through fieldwork, clinical practice or student teaching. Study-abroad programs expand their worldview. And, of course, job-shadowing, co-ops and faculty-guided internships provide on-the-job experience. These practical learning activities — and so many more — allow our Cal U students to build on their classroom studies. In many cases, they also begin building a resume, even before they graduate. In this edition of the Cal U Review, we offer a glimpse of the real-world, applied education that sets Cal U apart. Given these opportunities to practice what they’ve learned, there’s no telling how far our graduates will go. With warmest wishes,
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 of 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.
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BOARD OF GOVERNORS Guido M. Pichini, chairman Laura E. Ellsworth, vice chair Ronald G. Henry, vice chair; chair, Finance, Administration and Facilities Sen. Richard Alloway II Rep. Matthew E. Baker Jennifer G. Branstetter, governor's designee Marie Conley, chair, Human Resources Gov. Tom Corbett Sara J. Dickson
Carolyn C. Dumaresq, acting Secretary of Education Christopher H. Franklin Rep. Michael K. Hanna Jonathan B. Mack, chair, External and Public Relations David M. Maser Joseph F. McGinn, chair, Audit Robert S. Taylor Aaron A. Walton, chair, Academic and Student Affairs Sen. John T. Yudichak
CALIFORNIA UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA Geraldine M. Jones, interim president Dr. Bruce Barnhart, acting provost and vice president for Academic Affairs Dr. Charles B. Mance, vice president for University Technology Services Robert Thorn, vice president for Administration and Finance Craig Butzine, vice president for Marketing and University Relations / interim vice president for University Development and Alumni Relations. Dr. Nancy Pinardi, interim vice president for Student Affairs COUNCIL OF TRUSTEES Lawrence Maggi ’79, chair Annette Ganassi, vice chair R. Tyler Courtney Peter J. Daley II ’72, ’75 James T. Davis ’73 Michele M. Mandell ’69
Robert Miner Jr. ’78 Michael Napolitano ’68 Thomas Uram Aaron Walton ’68 Kembia Munsanje, student member Frank T. Brogan, chancellor, ex-officio
ALUMNI ASSOCIATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS Barbara (Williams) Fetsko ’75, ’83, president Brian Fernandes ’99, ’00, vice president Lynne (Moltz) Stout ’94, secretary Alan James ’62, treasurer Lorraine Vitchoff, ’74, immediate past president Anthony Lazzaro ’55 Colleen (Murphy) Arnowitz ’75, ‘97 Donald Lee ’69 Loralie (Koerbel) Bruce ’05 Chase Loper ’10, ‘12 Trinette (Schmidt) Cunningham ’93 Melissa McKean ‘07 Shelly (Fetchen) DiCesaro ’94 Dante Morelli ‘02 Mindi (D’Auria) Fisher ’07 Michael Napolitano ’68 Paul Gentile ’62 George Novak ’55 David Gwyer ‘65 Abigail (Grant) Scheg ‘07 Jesse Hereda ’04 Bryan (Tolle) Schuerman ‘09 Len Keller ’61 Tim Susick ’76, ’78 Marc Keller ’94 Judy (Durko) Zilkowski ’77, ’83 Autumn Koerbel ’02 EX-OFFICIO MEMBERS Geraldine M. (Johns) Jones ’72, ’80, interim president Craig Butzine ’84, vice president for Marketing and University Relations / interim vice president for University Development and Alumni Relations Michael Slavin ’74, APSCUF president Leslie (Berdar) Fleenor ’08, director, Office of Alumni Relations STUDENT MEMBERS Michael Crosen Jonothan Dashiell
Amy Dunn Elizabeth Lynerd
SAI BOARD OF DIRECTORS Hope Cox, alumna Brendan Demmy, student president Brendan Garay, student treasurer Chelsea Getsy, student vice president Sam Jessee, alumnus Kembia Munsanje, student
Marc Roncone, alumnus Jasmin Runner, student Bryan Schuerman, graduate student Shane Speicher, student Nia Sullivan, student secretary Dr. Donald Thompson, emeritus faculty
EX-OFFICIO MEMBERS Dr. Nancy Pinardi ’95, ’96, ’98, interim vice president for Student Affairs Leigh Ann Lincoln, chief financial officer, SAI Larry Sebek, interim associate vice president for Student Affairs
FOUNDATION FOR CALIFORNIA UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA BOARD OF DIRECTORS Dr. David L. Amati ’70, ’72, president Steven P. Stout ’85, vice president Armand E. Balsano ’74, secretary Paul Kania ’87, treasurer Robert Lippencott ’66 William R. Booker ’74 Reginald A. Long ’81 Courtney E. Cochran ’12 Lawrence Maggi ’79 Robert E. Eberly III Michael A. Perry ’63 William R. Flinn ’68 Dr. Harry E. Serene ’65 Richard C. Grace ’63 Dr. Annette M. Kaleita ’55 EX-OFFICIO MEMBERS Geraldine M. Jones ’72, ’80, interim president Craig Butzine ’84, vice president for Marketing and University Relations / interim vice president for University Development and Alumni Relations Barbara (Williams) Fetsko ’75, ’83 alumni association president
CAL U REVIEW EDITOR Christine Kindl WRITERS Wendy Mackall Jeff Bender
Bruce Wald ’85
PHOTOGRAPHERS S.C. Spangler Greg Sofranko
Abby Kraftowitz
IN THE FIELD:
Field experiences take students across the state and around the world. Here, student Ryan Alderson uses global positioning equipment to map roadway signs in Washington County. This one is posted outside James Chapel United Methodist Church, built in 1817. Page 4
INSIDE DEPARTMENTS CAMPUS CLIPS
FEATURES
8–10
ALUMNI NEWS
16–17
ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT
20–21
SPORTS ROUNDUP
24–25
PAYING IT FORWARD
Eyes on the skies
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A storm-chase program and real-time weather center prepare meteorology students for diverse careers.
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General commands attention
MILESTONES 29–34
11 Once again, Cal U joins ‘Best in the Northeast’ For the ninth consecutive year, The Princeton Review has named California University of Pennsylvania among the best universities in the northeastern United States. The nationally known education services company selected Cal U as one of the 226 institutions profiled in the Best in the Northeast section of its “2014 Best Colleges: Region By Region” listing at www.PrincetonReview.com. Schools are selected primarily for their “excellent academic programs,” The Princeton Review says. Data also is collected during school visits, and input is solicited from high school guidance counselors and students themselves. Nationally, only 643 colleges — about 25 percent of the country’s 2,500 four-year institutions — were named as best in their region this year.
Former Secretary of State Colin Powell salutes diversity on a visit to the Convocation Center.
A trip down Memory Lane
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A 97-year-old alumna reminisces about her teaching career, which began in a one-room schoolhouse.
Slovak connection
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A Cal U delegation visits Bratislava to forge a strategic partnership with the Slovak Ministry of Education.
Meet the Trustees
The 11-member Council of Trustees convenes regularly to discuss University business.
A NOTE TO OUR READERS To address rising costs, we have made some changes in the Cal U Review. Your University magazine will arrive three times a year to keep you updated with alumni news and information from all four Colleges at California University. As always, 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.” FALL 2013 CAL U REVIEW 3 n
ins, Kaitlyn mantha Jenk luvial rom left) Sa t al (f ou ts en ap m ud St cher d Brittani Ei ifornia. al C Stewar t an in , ey t. Whitn fans near M
EXPANDING BOUNDARIES Field experiences supplement classroom learning
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ducation starts in the classroom, but it doesn’t end there. Reading, writing and class discussions remain essential as students build a solid base of knowledge. But to equip future graduates with marketable skills, Cal U faculty members are exploring new ways to provide handson — and sometimes eye-opening — learning experiences. “It’s not just about graduating with a diploma anymore,” says Dr. Thomas Mueller, a professor in the Department of Earth Sciences. “We want to provide our students with real-world experience that will set them apart from other candidates when it comes time for them to get a job.”
On the map
When he’s not teaching, Mueller is on the phone with government agencies and private organizations. He’s looking
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for projects that will let his students hone their skills and add to their resumes, even before graduation. His persistence has paid off. During the fall semester geography students helped Centerville Clinics, a Washington County-based health care provider, analyze demographics to determine the medical needs of surrounding counties. “It’s a win-win situation for all parties involved,” says Mueller. “The companies we are working with get a service from Cal U, and our students gain knowledge and expertise.” Mueller’s global information systems (GIS) classes are working on projects with the Washington County Department of Public Safety and with the North Fayette County Municipal Authority. They also are mapping recreational facilities for Hempfield Township Parks and Recreation, in Westmoreland County. “We at Hempfield decided to
involve students at Cal U because of the high-quality work they provide,” says Patrick Karnash, assistant director of recreation for sports and facilities at the township’s recreation department. “We know we will get a high-quality, finished product from the students. And in the end, they will get the opportunity to work on a real-world project.”
A different landscape
Some experiences expand students’ horizons, as well as their skill sets. Dr. Kyle Fredrick and Dr. Chad Kauffman, professors in the Department of Earth Sciences, this summer led 15 students to the Grand Canyon, Death Valley and Yosemite National Park for an intensive geological field experience. The group explored unfamiliar terrain, mapping the uppermost rock layers of the Grand Canyon and a cinder cone and fault scrap near Death Valley. In
Dr. Kyle Fredrick (left) and stude nts John Skoff and Nick Patton look over a colle ction of rock samples in Death Valley.
a landscape totally unlike Pennsylvania’s, they interpreted the relationship between landforms and geological history, and viewed glacial geological features related to the last Ice Age. “It was an amazing experience,” says junior Dominic DeCesaris, a geology major. “It really helped me with my courses. Everything we talked about in the classroom now clicks.” For future geologists, the chance to explore a totally new environment is invaluable, Fredrick says. “Many of them had not been west of the Mississippi River, and the travel alone was an eye-opening experience. But the chance to apply what they learned in their traditional classes in a dynamic, exciting setting like they saw on this trip makes all the difference to their growth, not only as young people and students, but also as geologists and scientists.”
Conservation research
For eight Cal U students, banana plantations and jungle field stations were the backdrop for a study of environmental conservation in Costa Rica. The weeklong field experience was led by Dr. Carol Bocetti and Dr. Sarah Meiss, of the Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences. “The conservation of biodiversity and agricultural sustainability are dovetailed harmoniously in Costa Rica,” Bocetti explains. “Costa Rica educates its citizens to think about their culture, ecology and economics and how to maximize those three components where they intersect. “We had a lot to learn from them — and our students ate it up.”
During their trip, students learned from local guides about Costa Rican culture and the nation’s conservation efforts. The travelers slept in various field stations, each in a different type of ecosystem, and studied the indigenous plants and wildlife. They even saw firsthand the impact that a banana plantation can have on the environment. “To watch the students interact and apply what they’ve learned in the classroom was amazing,” says Meiss. “Students go into (environmental conservation) because they love it and believe they can add to the field. I think this trip showed them what can be done.”
Altering perspectives
At Cal U, exploration isn’t limited to the sciences. Students in the Department of Justice, Law and Society traveled to Great Britain, where they interacted with London Metropolitan Police and honed their investigative skills by re-examining
the notorious “Jack the Ripper” case. Students from the Department of Theatre and Dance took a close-up look at the London theater scene. “The sheer experience of actually being there and physically seeing and touching what you are studying really helps you absorb the information,” says senior Caitlin Birmingham, an environmental studies major who took part in the Costa Rica study. “Plus, we got to meet local people who know so much about the environment. We could connect with them because they have the same passions we do.” In any field, students benefit from witnessing different landscapes and cultures, not to mention working with classmates outside the campus setting. “The friends they make, the places they see, and the things they do will stay with them for the rest of their careers — and their lives,” Fredrick says. “Most professors would agree that the best part of their job is the opportunity to take students to places that alter their view of the world in a positive and permanent way.” By Jeff Bender, PR/Web writer at Cal U
Western adventure Ben Trask explores a jungle ecosystem in Costa Rica, where Cal U students studied conservation and sustainability.
Online student Victoria Collins (cen ter), of Georgia, spends time with London Metropolitan Police during a field trip to London with students from the Department of Justice, Law and Society.
photos of the To see more experience ld geology fie an West, visit in the Americ news, click u/ ed www.calu. se ew ’ and choo on ‘C al U Revi .’ ew vi Re e th ‘As Seen in
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Eyes on the skies Career options ‘diverse’ for meteorology graduates
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he weather. More than a topic of idle conversation, it’s one constant that affects everyone, everywhere, every day. It’s on our minds when we plan for fun and for emergencies, and when leaders consider policies that impact our environment. At Cal U, graduates of the meteorology program are at work in all of these areas, bringing us daily forecasts, conducting research in areas such as climate change, and guiding planning decisions for businesses and sporting events. “There are very diverse career choices,” says Dr. Mario Majcen, assistant professor in the Department of Earth Sciences. He estimates that in a class of 70 meteorology majors, 30 percent go on to graduate school, 50 percent go to work for private industry or the National Weather Service, and 20 percent work in the media. “Our program is fully aligned with the American Meteorological Society’s guidelines,” Majcen says. In addition, Cal U prepares graduates for the next steps in their careers by offering real-world experiences in the Cal U Weather Center. A storm-chase program sends students out West to follow severe weather, and the annual StormFest at the Carnegie Science Center in Pittsburgh puts Meteorology Club members in charge of events that explore geology, geography and meteorology. Dr. Patrick Taylor ’04 is a research scientist at the NASA Langley Research Center in Virginia. He works on the Clouds and the Earth’s Radiant Energy System (CERES) experiment. A goal of the project is to better understand climate change by studying the role of clouds as they reflect solar radiation but also emit less radiation to space. “In 2002, I went to the American Meteorological Society’s annual meeting in Orlando,” Taylor says. “My eyes were really opened to everything that is within the field of meteorology. That’s when I decided I wanted to focus more on the research side.”
Dr. Chad Kauffman demonstrates a projection system inside the Cal U Weather Center.
Janice Bytheway ’05, a graduate student at Colorado State University, also is working on reducing uncertainty, by improving forecasting. “By finding new ways to combine sources of precipitation data — satellites, radar, gauges and so on — we can get a better estimate of precipitation over land and also may be able to monitor precipitation as climates change,” she says. “I did the storm chase as a student, and it was awesome! We ended up in Fort Collins, Colo., and that’s when I fell in love with the CSU campus and decided on grad school there.” Dave Nussbaum ’01 and Guy Nestor ’05 are experts in broadcast meteorology. Nussbaum works for WBRZ-TV, an ABC affiliate in Baton Rouge, La., and earned his master’s degree at Mississippi State University. As an undergraduate, he completed internships at WPXI-TV and the weather service at Pittsburgh International Airport. “I was the director of the Cal U Weather Center,” Nussbaum recalls. “We provided the forecast for the Cal U radio station, and during one snowstorm, they relied on our forecast to decide to close the campus.” Nestor works for Mobile Weather Team Inc., which provides forecasts for business and industry. He provides daily weather monitoring and forecasting for golf tournaments around the world, including Professional Golf Association events outside the United States. If the weather turns dangerous, he also decides when to suspend PGA play. “It can be stressful when you have a lot of important decisions riding on your forecast and you have to make the call,” he says. “But I do love my job.” By Wendy Mackall, assistant communications director at Cal U
Dave Nussbaum broadcasts weather forecasts.
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CHARTER SCHOOL CHOICE Educators find rewarding careers in an urban environment
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our Cal U graduates are leaning on their education — and one another — as they provide educational opportunities for children in urban Philadelphia. Morgan Banks, Ashley Jannett, Brooke Carson and Nicole Shirk all landed jobs with Mastery Charter Schools when they graduated from Cal U in 2009. With 10 schools inside Philadelphia’s city limits, Mastery is a nonprofit organization known nationally for sparking school turnarounds and dramatic gains in student achievement. “I was attracted to Mastery because of their strong teacher support and their belief that all students can learn and achieve regardless of their background,” says Banks. “I believe that I am educating our future leaders and making a difference in their lives.” While opportunities to inspire students are abundant at Mastery, the foursome found that Philadelphia’s urban environment is very different from the rural communities near Cal U. “Most of our students do not come from traditional family situations, and many have parents who are incarcerated,” says Carson. “At the end of the day, we are more than teachers to these students. We are parental figures, and you can tell we are truly making a difference in their lives.” The teachers agree that having real-world experience helped them make the transition to city schools. All four attended the Philadelphia Urban Field Experience, a two-week intensive field course. Each year, the field school introduces teacher candidates from Cal U and other regional universities to the unique challenges and joys of teaching in an urban classroom. Participants work in city schools during the day and attend evening seminars at La Salle University. On weekends, they take part in community service projects. “This total immersion into the culture of the urban communities and schools always had a great impact on our teacher candidates, as well as myself,” says Dr. Connie Armitage, a retired Cal U professor who coordinated the field school.
at Our students learn th d places although people an ren are diverse, all child that can learn in a setting ning. is conducive to lear e Dr. Co nn ie Ar mitag
R, RE TIR ED CA L U PR OF ES SO
Class of 2009 alumnae (from left) Brooke Carson, Nicole Shirk, Ashley Jannett and Morgan Banks teach for Mastery Charter Schools in Philadelphia. Carson teaches at the Harrity Campus; the others teach at the Hardy Williams Academy.
“Our students learn that although people and places are diverse, all children can learn in a setting that is conducive to learning.” The four Cal U alumnae say they support one another through difficult times. They frequently discuss difficulties encountered in the classroom, share teaching ideas and occasionally collaborate on class projects, says Carson. “It has been a priceless experience,” adds Banks. “Having gained urban classroom experience while at Cal U and knowing I would have support from friends made moving to Philadelphia an easy choice.” While the four Cal U graduates continue to shape the lives of children in eastern Pennsylvania, they also are setting an example for teacher candidates at their alma mater, says Dr. Caryl Sheffield, interim associate provost. “Most of our teacher candidates attend high school, go to college and then want to teach in rural areas because that is what they know,” she says. “These women went outside of their comfort zones, and we are very proud of them. We hope they inspire others to do the same.” By Jeff Bender, PR/Web writer at Cal U
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CAMPUS C L I P S Residence hall named for Greene County couple
With the unanimous approval of the University’s Council of Trustees, Cal U renamed the former Residence Hall C to honor Ivan ’41 and Adelaide Ivill ’38 Guesman, lifelong educators who have been generous supporters of both the University and their Greene County community. As the recommendation to the Trustees noted, “This special California University alumni couple exemplifies the University’s core values of integrity, civility and responsibility, and they have been demonstrating those values in their professional and personal lives for many years.” Both dedicated their careers to excellence in education. Ivan Guesman was an elementary-school teacher and a school district superintendent before joining the faculty at California State College, where he taught in the Department of Education from 19681981. Adelaide Guesman enjoyed a rewarding career as a high school teacher, retiring after 35 years in the Jefferson Morgan schools. In 2008 the Guesmans received honorary doctorates from Cal U, the first
Spin doctor?
Ivan and Adelaide Guesman take their first look at a photo and plaque installed inside Guesman Hall.
couple in the University’s history to be so honored. After accepting their degrees, they charmed the graduates and their families by singing a song together. Lyrics to that song, “Everywhere you go, sunshine follows you,” are included on a plaque placed inside the residence hall, and the couple sang it again at the building’s dedication on Oct. 14. “Through the years, this wonderful couple has brought ‘sunshine’ to so many places,” says interim University President Geraldine M. Jones. The Guesmans, of Jefferson, Pa., funded one of the guest rooms in the Kara Alumni House; it was dedicated
Junior Robert Stinner, a business administration major, spins a wellness education wheel during the 26th annual Cal U Health Fair. More than 1,600 students, employees and alumni visited the Convocation Center for the educational event, which included a blood drive, flu shots, free screenings and information from more than 40 vendors, health care agencies and University offices.
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in honor of their parents. Recipients of awards from both the Cal U Alumni Association and the Foundation for California University, they also have created scholarships and contributed to fundraising events. “From this day forward, your names will be a permanent part of our campus landscape,” President Jones told the couple at the dedication ceremony. “Our students will know your story — and for those who live in Guesman Hall, you will be a presence in their campus home. Thanks to you, there will always be sunshine in California.”
Social Equity director’s door is open
Cal U’s new special assistant to the President for EEEO hopes his South Hall workspace will become a haven for the entire campus community. “I want this office to be an office of justice, wisdom and tranquility, where people can come even without a problem,” says Dr. John Burnett, who began his new duties at the start of the fall semester. Burnett brings nearly 30 years of experience to his position as Cal U’s director of the Office of Social Equity. Most recently he served as director of compliance at the University of Texas A&M Kingsville. At Cal U, Burnett seeks to foster a working and learning environment where everyone’s rights are respected. He wants to ensure that the University’s practices and policies are equitable and designed to give all members of the campus community an opportunity for full participation. Although his ties to Florida reach back seven generations, Burnett says he and his family are thrilled to be living in Pennsylvania. “My wife (Cathy) and I are very interested in this area’s history,” he says, “and we are all looking forward to colder weather and experiencing all four seasons.” Burnett succeeds Dr. Lisa McBride, who now serves as chief diversity officer at the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine.
Cal U retains ‘military friendly’ designations
Two organizations again have recognized Cal U’s commitment to military service members, veterans and their families. For the fifth consecutive year, Cal U has been honored as a Military Friendly School by Victory Media, publisher of G.I. Jobs magazine. The designation is awarded to only 20 percent of colleges, universities and trade schools in the country. The University also has been listed in the 2014 Guide to MilitaryFriendly Colleges and Universities, published by Military Advanced Education, a journal of higher learning for service members. Cal U has been listed in the guide since its inception. In addition to their magazines, both media outlets publish websites for men and women in uniform who are seeking a college degree and veterans who are pursuing higher education. “Cal U has a culture that embraces service members and veterans,” says Capt. Robert Prah, director of the Office of Veterans Affairs at Cal U. “We have a First-Year Seminar that specifically addresses the needs of veterans and service members who are new to the University. And our Veterans Club is a source of support, as well as a great social outlet, for many Cal U students. “Our staff is here, every day, to make their transition to University life easier and to steer them toward success.”
Winter College poised for debut
For the first time, Cal U will offer a five-week Winter College session during the break between the fall and spring semesters. Four graduate and 20 undergraduate courses will be offered for current Cal U students, as well as visiting students from other colleges and universities.
Cal U Hockey Night
Interim University President Geraldine M. Jones drops the puck in a ceremonial faceoff to start the men’s game at Cal U Hockey Night, held during Homecoming Week at the Rostraver Ice Garden. Between the women’s and men’s games, hockey fans enjoyed a public skate and a chance to meet Pittsburgh Penguins forward Joe Vitale and the Pens’ Iceburgh mascot. During the event Cal U honored U.S. Army Spc. Patrick McIlvain, a former Cal U hockey player and Theta Xi fraternity brother who was severely wounded in Afghanistan in 2010.
All courses will be offered 100 percent online. Topics include oral communication, personal finance, criminological theory, college algebra, music, psychology and exercise science. “This is an opportunity for students to pick up an extra course or two during the winter break,” says Kathy Gavazzi, director of the summer and winter college programs at Cal U. “Online courses are especially convenient for students who may be busy with work or family obligations between semesters.” A complete list of Winter College courses is available online, along with information about tuition and fees, financial aid, library services, and technology support. For details, visit www.calu.edu, keyword “winter college.”
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CAMPUS C L I P S ‘People’ shares student’s story
A social work student at Cal U has made a big change in her emotional and physical health — and it landed her on the cover of People magazine. “Before” and “after” photos of senior Maria Jarosh appeared in People’s Aug. 8 edition, along with a story about her remarkable weight loss. Jarosh dropped more than 100 pounds, and her healthy transformation has changed her outlook on life. Before getting fit, she was shy and felt isolated, Jarosh says. Now she’s looking forward to a career as a social worker, and she’s writing a popular blog that includes exercise tips, healthful recipes and anecdotes that she hopes will inspire others. “I do believe that the ‘new me’ will help me with my career and job searching,” Jarosh says. “I actually hold my head up high, walk with confidence, and I know the right career is out there waiting for me.”
The graphics and multimedia program originally was accredited in 2007. The current reaccreditation continues through 2015. Accreditations provide assurance that academic programs meet the highest standards. More than 80 percent of Cal U's academic programs are accredited by national agencies.
Greek Life adviser accepts Sigma Tau Gamma award Joy Helsel ’83 has been named the inaugural recipient of the Sigma Tau Gamma Distinguished Interfraternal Leadership Award. The campus adviser to Sigma Tau Gamma’s Beta Iota Chapter, Helsel is employed by the Student Association
Inc. at Cal U as director of fraternity and sorority life. She also oversees production of the Monocal yearbook and other special publications. Helsel has a long history of working with fraternity and sorority members at Cal U, and with the Sigma Tau Gamma organization. She was instrumental in re-opening the Beta Iota Chapter on campus in 2008 and obtaining its charter in 2011. Beta Iota was among Cal U’s first fraternities, chartered originally in 1959, but its charter had lapsed. Today the chapter is one of the largest fraternities on campus. A Sigma Kappa sorority member, Helsel also is a member of the Association of Fraternity/Sorority Advisors and chair of the Student Affairs Conference Committee for the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education.
Graphics program earns reaccreditation
Cal U’s graphics and multimedia program has earned reaccreditation from the Accrediting Council for Collegiate Graphic Communications Inc., an independent accrediting body supported professionally by leaders in education and management-level personnel in the graphic communications industry. The program is one of just 11 associate and bachelor’s degree programs nationwide to receive this ACCGC distinction. The accreditation was renewed after faculty in the Department of Applied Engineering and Technology conducted an extensive self-study of the program and hosted a site visit by a three-member team of education and industry experts. In its visitation report, the ACCGC team noted that students they interviewed “believed their education was ‘top notch’ and they were well prepared for the print media career field.”
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The art of reading
Taking advantage of a beautiful autumn day, business administration major Justin McGrew reads while seated on ‘Ever and Anon,’ a piece of functional public art not far from Noss Hall. A self-guided art tour introduces campus visitors to the public art on Cal U’s campus. To download the tour guide, visit www.calu.edu, keyword ‘public art.’
GENERAL'S VISIT
COMMANDS ATTENTION
Above: Gen. Colin Powell, former chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, greets Pfc. Adama Traore, a member of the 990th Engineer Company, U.S. Army Reserve, who participated in the Joint Service Color Guard organized by the Office of Veterans Affairs.
Colin Powell, former Secretary of State, addresses leadership conference
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ormer Secretary of State Colin Powell believes that America has no greater responsibility than educating its children and instilling the value of service. Powell, a retired U.S. Army general and former chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, delivered the keynote address at the fourth annual Pittsburgh Diversity and Leadership Conference, held Sept. 19 in the Convocation Center. In addition to the 300 conference registrants, about 1,200 students, employees, alumni and local residents turned out to hear his talk, courtesy of the National Diversity Council. “Diversity and inclusion must start early in life,” Powell told the audience. “The world is changing, and our children and grandchildren
are going to lead that change.” Before his 45-minute address Powell met with conference VIPs and chatted with interim University President Geraldine M. Jones, who received a conference award honoring her as one of the region’s Most Powerful & Influential Women. Powell also stopped to shake hands with alumni and students, greet ROTC cadets, and review the Joint Service Color Guard that provided a ceremonial escort. “This is my first visit here, and I am impressed by the students, the faculty and the progress this school is making,” Powell said. “The education of a diverse body of young people is so important, because the minority will someday become majority.”
Powell reminisces about his careers in the military and in public service.
Interim University President Geraldine M. Jones joins Powell in the Convocation Center.
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Ferne Hentz Hay '35, '63 signs the guest book in the Kara Alumni House.
AT 97, A DISTINGUISHED ALUMNA RETURNS TO HER ALMA MATER
W Ferne Hay accepts the medallion of distinction award from interim University President Geraldine M. Jones.
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hen you are 97 years old and haven’t been back to California for decades, there is a lot to see on a driving tour of the Cal U campus. For Ferne Hentz Hay ’35, ’63, one building, surprisingly, was high on the list: Herron Recreation and Fitness Center. “I exercise at the gym (at home in Somerset, Pa.) three times a week,” she says. “I tell the people there, ‘You people make me feel young.’ And they say, ‘You give us wisdom.’” In September, the University awarded Ferne Hay the Medallion of Distinction, which honors alumni who have distinguished themselves through professional and personal achievements, service to society and contributions to Cal U.
She is the seventh recipient of the award. Ferne Hay was a teacher for almost 45 years and supervised three students from Cal U during their student-teaching experience. And her fond memories of the University helped to persuade her great-grandson Josh Hay to attend Cal U. “When I look at Ferne, I see exactly what we mean by Cal U for Life,” interim University President Geraldine M. Jones said at the ceremony to honor her. “Over the years, this University has helped her to build a wonderful career. And in turn, this Cal U alumna has shared her time and talents with our students and represented our University well.” The honor coincides with the
50th anniversary of Ferne Hay’s second graduation from California, with a bachelor’s degree in teaching. She earned a teaching certificate from California State Teachers College in 1935.
Times change In the 1930s — following in the footsteps of siblings John and Mary, who attended in the ’20s — a young Ferne Hentz arrived in California with the necessities: two suitcases of clothes, a Bible and a dictionary. She ate in the dining hall, where waiters served the formal dinners. Dances and ping-pong matches followed in the social room, she recalls, and lights were out by 11 p.m. “Today,” she observes, “students take more things for their rooms, such as computers, cell phones, TVs and much more, than I did many years ago. And technology has changed the methods of teaching.” A career in the classroom in the mid1930s looked much different, as well. She started her career in 1934 at the Flickinger School, a one-room school in Berlin, Pa. The job paid $100 a month. She walked to work. Female teachers could not be married, could not smoke and could not drink alcohol. Everyone used the outhouse. There was no electricity. If something at the school needed to be repaired or tidied up a bit, that was the teacher’s job, too. In 1935, her school consolidated with the Berlin School District, where she taught third grade from 1935-1939. After taking time off to raise her
family, Ferne Hay re-entered the teaching profession and taught at Kingwood Elementary School in the Rockwood Area School District from 1958-1978. Amenities at her new school included “a janitor, cafeteria, kitchen, classrooms, playground equipment, teachers aide, daily physical education classes and a guidance counselor.” While teaching full time, Ferne Hay took evening classes at Cal U in the winter and a full schedule of classes in the summer, driving a total of 75 miles to and from campus. She earned her bachelor’s degree in 1963.
Family ties “It’s a gift for the family to be able to reflect on my mom’s college days,” says daughter Audrey, who attended the luncheon in her mother’s honor along with her brother George and his wife, Judy. There are five children in all, including Grace, Bryan and John. Grandson Chris and his wife, Laurie, were also at the event, held in Kara Alumni House. Great-grandsons Josh and Mike also were in attendance. “She saw to it that we all have a college education,” her daughter says. “Her faith, her family and her career have kept things in perspective.” “We literally traveled down ‘memory lane’ to get to this event,” George Hay says. “We drove here using the same route she would have driven as a student. Our family is blessed to have her with us for so many years.” Most of the Hays still live on the family farm in Somerset County. Josh Hay, one of six great-
Joshua Hay, a Cal U student, lends a hand to his greatgrandmother Ferne Hay during her visit to the Kara Alumni House. Watching is Ferne Hay's daughter, Audrey.
I am sure that my education has helped me be prepared to accept many new challenges in my life. Ferne Hentz Hay '35, '63 CAL U ALUMNA
grandchildren, is a senior environmental studies major at Cal U. He says his greatgrandmother’s experiences influenced his decision to attend the University after he earned an associate degree from Penn State Fayette, the Eberly Campus. “He made the choice — but I told him it was a good choice, and I was happy he went to Cal U,” Ferne Hay says. “When I was making my college decision, she sat me down and told me little stories that made me look at the school again,” Josh Hay says. “She has always been one of the strongest women I know. What I love about her now is she can have a conversation with you for as long as you want and never skip a beat.”
Advice from a life well lived “I’ve traveled to all 50 states, Canada, Israel, Italy, Switzerland,” Ferne Hay recalls, with a touch of pride. As a retiree who wintered in Florida, she was known as a champion shuffleboard player and loved for her lemon pies. She quickly lists other notable events in her life, especially being a caregiver for her husband, Jennings, for six years before his death. She also has volunteered at her local hospital and taught Sunday school classes at her church. “I am sure that my education has helped me be prepared to accept many new challenges in my life,” she says. And while the college experience has certainly changed, it remains as important as ever. “This is still a wonderful place to get an education. To today’s students I would say, ‘Don’t waste your life; live your life. Your attitude is very important.” By Wendy Mackall, assistant communications director at Cal U
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A new office seeks to recruit more foreign students, encourage study abroad
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hether students are coming to Cal U from overseas or leaving campus to study abroad, Elizabeth “Bessy” Bennellick believes that international experience is invaluable. “These experiences enrich the entire University,” says Bennellick, director of Cal U’s new Office of International Programming. “International students enroll at Cal U and receive a great education, while the domestic students learn about different cultures and people. It can also be interesting for faculty to have a different type of perspective in their classroom. “And consistently, every student who’s gone abroad has said it’s the best experience of his or her college career,” she adds. “It really is a transformative experience that helps students grow and develop in ways they never expected.”
Connections overseas
Bennellick comes to Cal U after nearly six years as director of study-abroad programming at St. Vincent College, in Latrobe, Pa. She served previously as director of international programs at Chatham University, in Pittsburgh, and as assistant
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director of the University of Pittsburgh’s Center for International Legal Education. At Cal U she anticipates recruiting students from overseas, as well as overseeing the University’s study-abroad programs. And she’ll draw on both professional and personal experience: Before earning her master’s degree in international education/ anthropology from The American University, she spent three semesters as a Penn State undergraduate studying abroad. Her passport continues to get a workout. This fall she traveled to India, where she met with families of prospective Cal U students. And she’s exploring the potential of similar recruiting trips to Turkey and Brazil, where the government provides 18-month scholarships for undergraduates in STEM fields. “International students are focused on outcomes, job placements and rankings when looking into schools,” she says. “They really are dynamos. “We are working with current connections, tapping into networks and building relationships. Cal U is fortunate to have faculty with international connections and a good number of foreignborn professors. Successful international collaborations are built upon faculty and
Elizabeth 'Bessy' Bennellick believes that international travel can be a transformative experience for students.
I am trying to convince my cousin and friends to come here, because it’s a really good school. Lubos Kubik, OF THE CZECH REPUBLIC
academic relationships that lay the foundation for future international activities.” Faculty also can play a vital role in promoting study-abroad experiences, especially to students who may not have considered the benefits of traveling and learning in another country. “That’s a pretty easy area of growth, because the time commitment for students to be abroad is typically short, usually several weeks or a semester,” Bennellick explains. “It’s also really nice to get faculty involved, because it gives them ownership, and it gives the program more permanency that will help to build momentum going forward. An example of this is Dr. Summer Arrigo-Nelson’s field studies course in Madagascar, which provides students with a wonderful opportunity to study with one of our professors.”
Sharing the news
This fall Cal U welcomed 60 international students, from 26 different countries. Along with John Watkins, assistant dean of student exchange programs, Bennellick is encouraging them to spread the word about California. “We are hoping that when they go back home, they will share their great experiences and talk about how much they like it at Cal U.” Sophomore Lubos Kubik, a sport management studies major, did exactly that when he returned to his hometown
of Pardubice, in the Czech Republic. On his own initiative, he arranged to speak with elementary school students about his education at Cal U. “I have found it easy to get help and to talk to other students,” says Kubik, an all-conference defender on the men’s soccer team and a member of both the International and the Sport Management clubs. “I am trying to convince my cousin and friends to come here, because it’s a really good school.” Bennellick says she was intrigued by Cal U because she sensed the administration’s true commitment to expanding its international programming, and she was drawn to the “great challenge and opportunity” of building a multi-faceted program. “We are very pleased to have someone with Bessy’s background and international experience join us at Cal U,” says acting provost Dr. Bruce Barnhart. “She has comprehensive knowledge of how to establish and operate all facets of an international student program, as well as extensive recruiting experience in both the typical and not-so-typical places around the world. “In addition, her work with our faculty on study-abroad programs and other international activities will enhance the diversity of our University community and our retention of students.”
SLOVAK CONNECTION Cal U is forging ties with the Slovak Republic, where national education officials are encouraging people around the world to learn the Slovak language. This fall, interim President Geraldine M. Jones led a delegation to Bratislava, the Slovak capital, where she was the sole representative of a U.S. university invited to speak at the international conference “Slovak Language in the World — Current Situation and Perspective.” She also met with Slovakia’s Minister of Education to formalize a strategic partnership among the ministry, Comenius University of Bratislava and iLearn Civic Association to promote Slovak language learning in the United States. President Jones was accompanied by Dr. William Edmonds, dean of admissions, and Dr. Gary DeLorenzo, associate professor of computer science and information systems at Cal U. “Our region is home to thousands of people of Slovak heritage, and our University looks forward to becoming a gateway to Slovak language learning,” the President says. “In addition, we are exploring opportunities for academic exchange and study-abroad programs for our faculty and students.” Western Pennsylvania is home to the largest concentration of SlovakAmericans in the United States, making it an ideal U.S. hub for the international outreach effort. As an initial step, the University is preparing to offer continuing education courses in the Slovak language through its website, www.calu.edu. Cal U will handle online registration, and the Web-based learning modules will be developed and maintained by the ministry. User testing is under way, but no starting date for the online courses has been announced.
Exchanging documents: Slovak Education ˇ Minister Dušan Caploviˇ c and President Jones
By Bruce Wald ’85, information writer at Cal U
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ALUMNI N E W S GREETINGS FROM THE OFFICE OF ALUMNI RELATIONS! In August, a new class of freshmen began their college careers at our alma mater. In addition to learning their way around campus and meeting new friends, they also are learning Cal U traditions and creating memories of their college experience. We all have favorite memories of our time at Cal U: a professor who challenged us to work harder, a classmate who became a lifelong friend or an opportunity that we never thought we would have. These memories remind us that, on some scale, our time at Cal U played a part in shaping our future. I encourage you to continue to add to your Cal U memories throughout your alumni years. Join us at alumni events on campus and elsewhere, so you can meet and network with other Cal U graduates. If you haven’t been to campus in awhile, I invite you to come back to visit and see the many changes that have taken place over the years. Consider volunteering your time and talents by mentoring our students, accepting Cal U interns at your place of employment or joining a campus advisory board. Refer students to Cal U. As alumni, you are our University’s greatest ambassadors, so spread the word about your positive experience at our alma mater and encourage prospective students to apply. And finally, consider donating to the University’s annual fund, or create a scholarship to help our students attend Cal U and stay to finish their degrees. All gifts, large or small, make a difference. It is the goal of the Office of Alumni Relations to engage more alumni, and it is my hope that you will consider increasing your level of engagement. As a Cal U graduate, you are an invaluable contributor to the success of our alma mater, and I thank you for your continued support. Go, Vulcans!
UNDER THE TOWERS C A L I F O R N I A U N I V E R S I T Y O F P E N N S Y LVA N I A
A MONTHY E-NEWSLETTER FROM THE OFFICE OF ALUMNI RELATIONS
NEW ‘UNDER THE TOWERS’ DESIGN MAKES IT EASY TO KEEP IN TOUCH Cal U alumni are always on the go, so we’ve redesigned your alumni e-newsletter, “Under the Towers,” to make it easier to read on smartphones, tablets and other mobile devices, as well as your home computer. The electronic newsletter is delivered to subscribers each month, using your e-mail address. Each full-color edition contains the latest University news, along with stories and photos from campus, and information about upcoming events at your alma mater. “Under the Towers” subscribers also get word of alumni events in cities across the country. Want to spread some Cal U news? “Under the Towers” lets you connect with family and friends using Facebook, Twitter or other social media. It’s easy to share photos on Pinterest or watch the latest Cal U videos, too. Whether you’re a recent graduate or a longtime alumnus, you won’t want to miss a single edition of “Under the Towers.” It’s concise, it’s up-to-the-minute and best of all, it’s free! To sign up to receive “Under the Towers,” visit www.calu.edu/ alumni or call the Office of Alumni Relations at 724-938-4418.
ALUMNI ASSOCIATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS
CALL FOR NOMINATIONS Would you like to stand for election to the Cal U Alumni Association Board of Directors? Or would you like to place the name of a fellow alumnus on the ballot?
ELECTIONS WILL TAKE PLACE THIS SPRING, WITH EIGHT SEATS TO BE FILLED. Leslie Berdar Fleenor ’08 Director of Alumni Relations
Candidates will be screened by the Nominating Committee for Board Members (NCB). All candidates must submit a nomination form, a brief essay and a color photo. Nomination forms must be received by the NCB no later than April 4, 2014. For candidates’ qualifications, details about the nominating process and an official nomination form, visit www.calu.edu/alumni.
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Jennie Carter Award winner
Shujuane Brown Martin ’01, ’03 (center) accepts the 2013 Jennie Carter Award from interim University President Geraldine M. Jones ’72, ’80 and William Carter, a descendant of Elizabeth ‘Jennie’ Adams Carter, the University’s first AfricanAmerican graduate. Martin, a former member of the Vulcan women’s basketball team, earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in business administration at Cal U. Today she is the director of Head Start, Early Head Start and PA Pre-K Counts in Fayette County, programs offered through the Private Industry Council of Westmoreland/Fayette Inc. She also serves as a board member for the Westmoreland County Food Bank, Fayette County Human Services Council and the Dolly Parton Imagination Library in Fayette County. The Jennie Carter Award is presented annually to a young leader who exemplifies the spirit of Jennie Carter, Class of 1881. Martin accepted the award at a luncheon in the Kara Alumni House on Oct. 8.
Young alumni
Recent graduates Melissa David '13 (left) and Elizabeth Johnston '12 enjoy meeting President Jones at an alumni networking event held at Etcetera Etcetera restaurant in New York City. The gatherings are open to alumni from any class, and they are a wonderful way for recent graduates to connect with one another, or to network with established alumni in their area.
In the Big Apple
Alumni Michael Perry '63 and Michele Mandell '69, a member of the University’s Council of Trustees, spend time catching up during a recent alumni gathering in New York City. The informal get-togethers give graduates an opportunity to reconnect, meet new people and learn about current initiatives at their alma mater.
Team spirit
A group of football players from the 1960s returned to campus for the Homecoming football game. Enjoying the Vulcan Huddle are (front row, from left) Jim Boggio ’68, Pat Terlingo ’65 and Pete Gialames ’65; along with (back row) Joe Lutz ’68, Vincent Morich ’70 and Dan Iacurci ’68.
Harrisburg happy hour
Jeff ’89 (left) and Lisa Kuhns '91 join Daniel "Bo" Koishal '94 to reminisce about their days at Cal U. The trio caught up during an alumni gathering at the Appalachian Brewing Company in Harrisburg, Pa.
Together again
Among the Cal U friends and former classmates who reunited at Homecoming are (from left) Valerie Haley '82, Jill Hartwell-Smith '86, Melissia Starkes-Council '85, Barbara Ney '90 and Nina Gray '87. Haley is secretary of the newly formed Philadelphia Alumni Chapter, and Gray is the chapter’s co-chair. Each year these friends from Pittsburgh, Philadelphia, New Jersey and Virginia spend time together when they visit their alma mater.
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Interim University President Geraldine Jones joins the Homecoming king and queen, Shawn McCoy and Amy Dunn, during halftime ceremonies at Adamson Stadium.
Cal U alumni, students and fans gather to see the Homecoming performance by former Cal U student Brynn Marie in Steele Hall Mainstage Theatre.
HAPPY DAYS At the candlelight ceremony that closes New Student Orientation, first-year students (from left) Victoria Smith, Troy Frazier and Milani Frierson officially join the Cal U family.
CAL U GREETS NEW STUDENTS, RETURNING ALUMNI
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s the new academic year began, Cal U was delighted to welcome a freshman class of nearly 1,200 that includes students from 42 states and nine different countries. Showers greeted the earliest arrivals on Move-In Day, but by lunchtime the sun was shining and firstyear students were ready to begin their three-day Cal U for Life New Student Orientation. After learning about the University’s programs, student services and traditions, the newcomers celebrated with a candlelight ceremony on the Quad and a shower of fireworks overhead. Just six weeks later the University again rolled out the welcome mat, this time for hundreds of alumni who returned to campus for Homecoming festivities. Graduates reconnected along the parade route, watching bands and floats interpret this year’s theme, “Under the Sea.” Then they were off to Adamson Stadium for an afternoon of Vulcan football and the crowning of the Homecoming King and Queen. A free concert by former student Brynn Marie, a rising star in Nashville, capped off the celebration. A founding member of the Cal U Dance Team, she invited the current dance team to join her onstage for a special number. As she made her way through the crowd downtown, Diane Kownacki ’84, of Mt. Lebanon, echoed the sentiment of many returning graduates: “Every time I come back, I see something or someone new. Homecoming is always fun.”
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The Cal U Marching Band heads onto the field at halftime.
Football fans cheer on the Vulcans during the Homecoming game at Adamson Stadium.
President Jones and her husband, Jeff, share a laugh with students and families during the Move-In Day lunch in the Convocation Center.
Feature twirler Ashley Hughes leads the Cal U marching band during the 2013 Homecoming parade.
Early-morning rains provided a wet welcome as students and families arrived on Move-In Day.
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ALUMNI S P O T L I G H T
We’re trying to get people to take ownership. We want to create a community where people feel empowered. Ilen '11 and Lauren Bell,
BLACK FITNESS TODAY
Closing the fitness gap
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hat if a healthier lifestyle was just a click away? That’s the idea behind Black Fitness Today (BFT), the online fitness website developed in 2011 by Ilen ’11 and Lauren Bell, a husband-and-wife team from Tucson, Ariz. “It’s geared toward African-Americans between the ages of 18 and 35,” Ilen Bell says of blackfitnesstoday.com. “We provide ideas for exercise and healthy living. We’ve also done some celebrity interviews to show how they juggle their busy lives and to tie that in with everyday people.” The website aims to “close the gap in health and fitness,” he says, adding that African-Americans often have higher rates of heart disease, hypertension, diabetes and some cancers. In June the couple launched “I Am Black Fitness Today,” a national campaign that asks participants to sign a pledge to commit to healthy living through fitness and nutrition. It uses social media to celebrate personal fitness achievements and encourage others. “We’re trying to get people to take ownership,” Ilen Bell says. “We want to create a community where people feel empowered.”
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Ilen Bell earned his master’s degree in exercise science and health promotion through Cal U Global Online, the University’s Internet-based learning community. While studying online, he worked as a strength coach for professional football players. “I loved the Cal U program,” he says. “Everything we learned I was able to use right away, because I was working with the NFL players at the same time.” His goal is to make fitness a full-time occupation, but for now he works full time as an interrogation instructor for an independent contractor at Fort Huachuca in Arizona. Lauren Bell’s background is in public relations, marketing and social media, and she is also a certified fitness chef. “She has a full-time role for BFT,” Ilen Bell says. “She comes up with the ideas and content plans and calendars for social media. And she can definitely cook. That’s her thing. She likes to take unhealthy recipes and make them better. “I’m more the fitness guy. And with the Internet, you can reach a lot of people at once.” By Wendy Mackall, assistant communications director at Cal U
Racing into radio
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ony Stevens ’05 knows that happy accidents can happen when you’re racing toward a goal full-throttle. The self-described “racing fanatic” called his first Grand-Am Rolex Sports Car Series race for the Motor Racing Network (MRN) in August, but the broadcast booth was not where Stevens imagined he would find a career. After earning his degree in communication studies from Cal U, he moved to Charlotte, N.C., to hone his skills as a pitcrew member and mechanic. “The announcing and broadcasting part of it happened by complete accident,” Stevens says. “I always thought it was fun to do fantasy broadcasts when I was a kid, and I morphed those into some simulated racing Web streams in high school and college. “The right people heard me, liked me and offered me jobs at actual racetracks.” As a contract-based employee, Stevens finds himself wearing multiple hats at racetracks around the country. One week he may be the track announcer, and the next week he’ll be calling races for radio broadcasts, operating a television camera or interviewing teams for television segments. Stevens says the diverse skills he learned at Cal U made him an asset to potential employers and eventually helped him land a tryout with MRN, the primary broadcast source for NASCAR stock car racing and related radio programming.
Tony Stevens ’05 interviews racers at Charlotte Motor Speedway.
Although Stevens still finds time to work on cars and occasionally participate in races, he’s steering his career toward becoming a full-time live broadcaster during NASCAR’s premier circuit events, the Sprint Cup Series. “It’s not exactly what I had planned,” he says. “But every day is still as fun as I ever could have imagined it would be.” By Jeff Bender, PR/Web writer at Cal U
Painting the town
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Artist Jessica Lotman '08 paints on found objects, as well as creating artworks for gallery shows.
essica Lotman ’08 has painted on saw blades, bongo drums and even an ironing board. Although she enjoys painting landscapes and other natural settings, she believes the unusual canvases intrigue viewers and get them more involved with her art. “I love color and the contrasts and textures you can get from painting on found objects,” she says. “It’s not so much about subject matter for me. It’s more about playing with different forms.” Lotman was the Fayette County Law Library’s Artist of the Month this summer, with 20 pieces of art on display in the library throughout July. Her work appears regularly along the Sheepskin Trail in Dunbar, on the panels at the caboose welcome center in Connellsville, and at other southwestern Pennsylvania events such as Music on the Mountain in Ohiopyle and Art on the Yough at Yough River Park. Lotman’s commissioned work includes
murals that decorate the walls of homes and offices. She also creates artwork for display in galleries and shows. “I was inspired not only by the faculty at Cal U, but also by the students,” she says, recalling her undergraduate days. Faculty in the Department of Art and Design, including associate professor Todd Pinkham, let students follow their own paths once they had mastered the basics. “That was refreshing, because you could go with your passion, your own thoughts and ideas. Yet I felt they were very much behind you.” When she’s not painting, Lotman works as a clerk with the Fayette Country Drug and Alcohol Commission. “I love art as a hobby, but as far as steadily paying the bills, that’s where the other jobs come in,” she says with a laugh. “It’s always a dream to live off what you make from your art, but it’s really all about getting your art out there.” By Bruce Wald ’85, information writer at Cal U
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LARRY MAGGI ’79, CHAIR Washington County commissioner Council member since 2009 “I am currently serving my third term as a county commissioner, and I appreciate having the opportunity to work for the residents of Washington County at this level of government. I also have been a wrestling official with the PIAA Division for 42 years, and I truly enjoy officiating at the high school level.”
ANNETTE D. GANASSI, VICE CHAIR Realtor, Howard Hanna – Ligonier office Council member since 2009; also served 1994-2000
MEET THE TRUSTEES Council gathers to address University business
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t least four times a year, a select group of volunteers gathers in Old Main. Like their colleagues at all 14 state-owned universities in Pennsylvania, they review and approve policies recommended by the University President, approve new academic programs, and receive regular reports from the University’s leadership team. Meet California University’s Council of Trustees, 11 men and women appointed “to assist the president in developing proper relations and understanding between the institution and its programs and the public,” among other duties. Act 188, which established the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education, outlines the role of trustees at the PASSHE universities. By law, one member of each university’s council is a full-time undergraduate student. The remaining members are nominated and appointed to six-year terms by Pennsylvania’s governor, with the approval of the state Senate. At least two alumni must serve on each council. Here is a brief introduction to the current California University Council of Trustees:
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“My degree is a B.S. in home economics, which most folks can’t believe. But my emphasis was housing, so after being a car dealer for 16 years, I’m putting my degree to good use as a Realtor and building homes with my husband. And I love to cook, do needlework and garden, too!”
MICHELE M. KARNASH MANDELL ’69 Chief operating officer, Talbots (retired) Council member since 2012 “My own family, my Talbots family and my Cal U family have enriched my life beyond my wildest expectations. One of my proudest moments? Being the first female recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award presented by our alma mater in 2011. I’m grateful for my experiences at Cal U, for the values instilled, and I am honored to serve our students and our University as a member of the Council of Trustees.”
AARON A. WALTON ’68 Senior vice president, Highmark Inc. (retired); senior vice president, Silver Eco-Solutions, Indianola, Pa.; Academic and Student Affairs Committee chair, Board of Governors, Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education
Council member since 1995 “The motivation for the level of involvement I have in the community is based on the example that my late father, the Rev. Mack Walton, taught me: ‘Leave a legacy of service, so that the works that you have done will speak for you.”
JAMES T. DAVIS ’73 Founder and partner, Davis and Davis Attorneys at Law, Uniontown, Pa. Council member since 2009 “My time as a student at California State College was extremely enjoyable and rewarding. During that four-year period I came to appreciate and enjoy learning, and I met and later married the love of my life, Martha Davis ’74. California was the perfect fit, affording a boy the opportunity to grow into manhood and prepare him for the challenges that life inevitably brings.”
MICHAEL NAPOLITANO ’68 Michael J. Napolitano Sales and Management Consulting, greater Pittsburgh area Council member since 2009 “In addition to my passions for sales and management consulting, public speaking on attitude development concepts, and helping my alma mater, I’ve been asked to play a role in an upcoming movie being filmed in Pittsburgh. I also enjoy coaching baseball, traveling and spending quality time with my family, especially my six beautiful grandchildren.”
PETER J. DALEY II ’72, ‘75 R. TYLER COURTNEY Westmoreland County commissioner Council member since 2013 “I live in Greensburg, Pa., with my wife, Tracy, and three children. I’ve been a small business owner since 2000, and I’m committed to improving community resources and local business opportunities. I believe education and professional development are key priorities for all individuals to prosper.”
BOB MINER ’78 Owner, Donegal Construction Corp. and related companies, Greensburg, Pa.; owner, Delta Contracting Inc., Haw River, N.C. Council member since 2012 “I am currently president of the Constructors Association of Western Pennsylvania, an organization of more than 200 companies that work in the highway construction industry and employ over 16,000 people in central and western Pennsylvania. With that responsibility, along with working full time in my businesses, I was at first hesitant in accepting the governor’s offer to become a Trustee. But when I thought back to what Cal U had done for me, I was honored to serve.”
KEMBIA MUNSANJE, STUDENT MEMBER Cal U junior, majoring in political science and economics Council member since 2013 “My internship (at law firm Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP, in Philadelphia) reaffirmed my notion of what it takes to be a top-flight attorney. … I had a keen interest in the business and finance department, and it made me think to pursue a career in investment banking.”
State representative, 49th Legislative District; attorney and owner, Peter J. Daley and Associates P.C., California, Pa. Council member since 2003 “Attending California University (then California State College) was the greatest experience of my life. It taught me everything I needed to know to enable me to have a successful legal and legislative career.”
THOMAS J. URAM Financial services representative with Metlife, Pittsburgh, Pa. Council member since 2013 “I work in financial services, but I also have been an avid numismatist for much of my life. Last year I was honored to be appointed to the Citizens Coinage Advisory Committee, which advises the Secretary of the Treasury on theme or design proposals relating to circulating and bullion coinage, Congressional Gold Medals and other medals produced by the U.S. Mint. I am active in a number of numismatic associations and coin clubs, and I currently serve as president of the Pennsylvania Association of Numismatists.”
ACT 188 To read Act 188, which established the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education, or to learn more about the powers and duties of the Council of Trustees, visit www.passhe.edu/inside/ policies/Pages/.
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SPORTS R O U N D U P
VULCANS HONORED FOR ACADEMICS
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s the fall semester began, Cal U received word that 66 of its studentathletes, representing all sports, had earned Division II Athletics Directors Association Academic Achievement Awards for the 20122013 academic year. The D2ADA awards program recognizes the academic accomplishments of student-athletes in NCAA Division II. To be eligible, a student-athlete must have a cumulative grade-point average of 3.5 or higher, have attended a minimum of two years of college, and have been an active member of an intercollegiate team during the last academic year. Academic prowess also is recognized within the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference, where the Vulcan men’s soccer team and the Cal U swimming team each collected a 2013 PSAC Team GPA Award. The award honors the team with the top cumulative grade-point average in each of the conference's 23 sponsored sports. Academic excellence has become a hallmark of Cal U’s athletics program. For 14 consecutive semesters Vulcan sports teams have compiled a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher. Last spring’s cumulative GPA was 3.185, and 33 Vulcan players achieved a perfect 4.0.
New coach for men’s soccer
A new era in Vulcan men’s soccer began this season when Emedin Sabic ’07 became the program’s first new head coach in more than two decades. He replaces coach Dennis Laskey, who retired last summer after guiding the Vulcans for 27 years.
Coach Emedin Sabic
Sabic played for Cal U from 20032006, then spent three seasons as an assistant with the women's soccer program. He joined the coaching staff for Cal U men’s soccer in 2010.
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The new head coach has big soccer shoes to fill: Laskey guided the program as it rose from club status to become an NCAA Division II varsity program in 1984. From 1991-2000 he coached both the men's and women's soccer teams, and he was inducted into the Mid-Mon Valley Sports Hall of Fame in 2007. Overall, Laskey compiled a 258-22341 record as head coach of the Vulcans. His career victory total ranks second in PSAC history and is tied for 26th in the history of NCAA Division II. Sabic’s new role is just one of several changes in Cal U coaching rosters. Defensive coordinator Mike Lopez has joined the football staff, and new assistant coaches include Katie Tetzlaw (women’s basketball), Mihaela Tripon (track and field), Brady Sanders (men’s soccer) and Glenn Francis (women’s soccer).
Cross country runner Alex Zanella
Kutztown universities, the Vulcans were ranked 20th in the U.S. Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association Coaches’ Poll. It is the first national ranking for the program. Junior Alex Zanella won her first career title at Ohio Valley, and four Cal U runners finished in the top 15 while competing against two nationally ranked programs at the 16-team Kutztown Division II Challenge. The women’s soccer team also attained a national ranking this fall, the fifth consecutive season it has won such recognition. The Vulcans climbed steadily, and by the season’s seventh National Soccer Coaches Association of America Top 25 poll, they were ranked sixth in the nation. At its peak last year, the team reached No. 4 in the NSCAA rankings.
Two women’s teams earn national ranking
The steady improvement of the women’s cross country team under eighth-year head coach Daniel Caulfield is being noticed. After beginning the season by winning team titles at Ohio Valley and
The women's soccer team is earning national recognition.
Vulcans in the NFL
Pro football fans my have noticed some former Vulcan players wearing National Football League uniforms this season. Offensive lineman Eric Kush was selected by the Kansas City Chiefs in the sixth round of the NFL Draft last April, and he has been team’s backup center this fall.
Safety Rontez Miles signed a freeagent contract with the New York Jets shortly after last spring’s NFL Draft, and he was activated during the season. The 2009 PSAC-West Defensive rookie of the Year, Miles twice was named a first-team All-American, and he was the PSAC-West Defensive Player of the Year in both his junior and senior seasons with the Vulcans.
Team to watch: Women’s tennis
Eric Kush
A three-year starter and secondteam All-American during his days at Cal U, Kush was named a D2Football. com second-team All-American and earned first-team all-conference honors in 2012. He was one of just five players from NCAA Division II programs invited to the prestigious East-West Shrine Game in January. Former Cal U defensive back Tommie Campbell was chosen by the Tennessee Titans in the seventh round in 2011, and he remains a key contributor on the squad’s 53-man roster. Heading into this season, Campbell had appeared in 29 NFL games. He scored an 84-yard kickoff return touchdown in 2011 and a 65-yard punt return touchdown in 2012. Offensive lineman Rishaw Johnson, who finished his Cal U career by earning first-team all-conference honors in 2011, joined the active roster for the Kansas City Chiefs this fall after beginning the season on the practice squad. James Nixon, a star defensive back on Cal’s 2011 team, started the season on the Green Bay Packers’ practice squad and was promoted to the team’s active roster in October.
As the fall tennis season got under way, the Vulcan women’s team continued its dominance of the PSAC Individual Championships by winning both the singles and doubles titles for the seventh consecutive time. Senior Lucie Sipkova repeated as the singles champion and teamed with junior Lucie Rey to win the doubles crown for the second straight season. Sipkova, last spring’s PSAC-West Athlete of the Year for women’s tennis, defeated teammate Ramona Czakon in the singles finals after winning four previous matches. Rey and Sipkova won four matches, including a three-set victory over Czakon and sophomore Alexandra Borgenhoff in the finals.
Rontez Miles
This spring, Cal U women’s tennis and 12th-year head coach Pablo Montana will strive for an unprecedented eighth straight PSAC and NCAA Division II Atlantic Region championships. By Bruce Wald ’85, information writer at Cal U
Lucie Sipkova
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SIX NEW NAMES IN
HALL OF FAME BANQUET ALSO HONORS 2008 PSAC CHAMPION SOCCER TEAM
The roster of sports standouts inducted into the Cal U Athletic Hall of Fame grew by a half dozen this fall. The 19th Hall of Fame class increases the total number of honorees to 166. Interim University President Geraldine M. Jones inducted the six new members, and recognized a standout soccer team, at the annual Hall of Fame Banquet.
Bill Coleman ’61 A four-year letterman and starting cornerback for the Vulcan football squad from 1957-1960, Coleman led the defense in interceptions three times and helped the 1958 PSAC championship team compile a perfect 8-0 record. The Vulcans won 21 of 24 games over Coleman’s final three seasons and recorded eight shutouts. After graduation Coleman worked as a teacher and a licensed Pennsylvania psychologist. He was a supervisor for the California Intermediate Unit from 1970 until his retirement in 1993. Coleman still works part-time for Alliance Health Wraparound in Uniontown, Pa., where he supervises therapists who work with children with disabilities. He and his wife of 55 years, Susan ’62, reside in Connellsville, Pa. They are the parents of four grown children: William H. ’81, Mary Ann Bauer ’82, Nancy Moser and John. The couple also enjoys six grandchildren.
Christine Dillner ’95 Dillner was a threetime all-conference and all-region centerfielder for the softball team from 1992-1995. She received National Fastpitch Coaches
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Association All-American honors in 1995. Dillner helped the Vulcans win four PSAC-West titles and advance to three PSAC finals, with four NCAA tournament appearances and the program’s first NCAA Division II regional title, in 1994. Cal’s cumulative record during the Dillner years was 151-39-1, with a 47-3 divisional mark. She batted .468 her senior year, which still ranks as fifth best in school history. Her 80 hits and 54 runs scored that season still rank second for a single season, and her 54 RBI are fourth. She finished her playing career with a .376 career batting average. Dillner now is a health care provider for individuals with developmental disabilities. She resides in Leicester, N.C., with her young daughter, Madison, and three people she cares for.
Kim Kottmeier-Whitlock ’96, ‘98 Kottmeier-Whitlock was a star forward for the women’s soccer team from 1992-1995. She scored 14 goals with seven assists for 35 points as a freshman. Her goal and point totals that season still rank eighth in singleseason school history. In 1994 Kottemeier-Whitlock registered 14 assists, which is still tied for first in single-season school history. She earned all-conference honors for a second straight season in 1995 and finished her playing career with 30 goals, 35 assists and 95 points.
Kottmeier-Whitlock remains Cal U’s career leader in assists and is fourth in career points. From a conference standpoint, her single-season and career assist totals rank fourth and fifth, respectively. Today she is a global account manager for BSI Management Systems. She lives in Haymarket, Va., with her husband, Mike ’95. They have two sons, Alex and Crosby.
Seth Martin ’02 A three-time firstteam all-conference and two-time AllAmerican forward for the Vulcan basketball team from 1998-2001, Martin finished his career with 1,459 career points and 541 career rebounds. His career 59.5 field goal percentage still ranks 11th in PSAC history. Martin helped the 1999 team win the PSAC title and finish 24-6 overall. The following year he led the team in scoring, and Cal U repeated as PSAC-West champions. As a senior Martin was Cal’s top scorer and rebounder, averaging 19 points and 6.3 rebounds per game. He led the league in field goal percentage (62.8 percent) and was third in scoring. Today Martin is the head boys’ basketball coach at Westland High School in Galloway, Ohio, where he also is an intervention specialist. Martin and his wife, Katie, live in Zanesville, Ohio with their children Cale, Mia and Keynen.
Tim McCutcheon
Bradley Rager ’08
McCutcheon was a versatile offensive lineman for the Vulcan football team. A two-time American Football Coaches Association first team AllAmerican and a two-time Associated Press All-American, he was a first-team all-conference selection in each of his four seasons, from 2004-2007. In 2005 his blocking led Cal to its first PSAC-West title in 21 years. After the Vulcans repeated as PSAC-West champions in 2006, McCutcheon helped the 2007 team win its first 13 games and advance to the NCAA Division II national semifinals in their first-ever playoff appearance. McCutcheon was a national finalist for the Gene Upshaw Award. Now McCutcheon is a highway laborer for Union Local 1058. He lives in Scottdale, Pa., with his girlfriend, Ashley Snyder, and daughter Amarah.
Rager won a school-record 14 PSAC track and field championships, which included four consecutive 400meter indoor titles and three consecutive outdoor titles in both the 200- and 400-meter runs. All told, Rager won eight outdoor and six indoor conference championships for the Vulcans. He was a two-time AllAmerican as part of Cal U’s 4 x 400 relay team, which topped the conference both indoors and outdoors in 2008. Winner of the PSAC Freshman of the Year Award for both the indoor and outdoor seasons, Rager was named the Most Valuable Player of the 2005 and 2008 indoor and outdoor PSAC championship meets. He was also a four-time PSAC Scholar Athlete and a 2008 Academic All-American.
After working as a chemist for two years, Rager entered the military. 1st Lt. Rager now serves as an Army platoon leader in Vilseck, Germany.
2008 Vulcan Soccer Team Coached by the recently retired Dennis Laskey, the 2008 men’s soccer team won the first PSAC championship in program history. Cal U won seven of nine games down the stretch, including consecutive wins over 22nd-ranked Slippery Rock in the regular season finale and PSAC semifinals. The team capped off its conference tournament run with a dramatic 3-2 win at fifth-ranked Millersville in the title game. The 2008 Vulcans finished the season with 13 wins. The team competed in the conference championship game for the sixth time nine years; it was the team’s seventh PSAC Final Four appearance in that same time period. By Bruce Wald '85, information writer at Cal U
Cal U inducted members of its 19th Athletic Hall of Fame Class on Oct. 11 in the Performance Center. At the annual banquet were (seated, from left) Katie Witcop, representing her nephew, 1st Lt. Bradley Rager ’08 (track and field), Christine Dillner ’95 (softball), Kim Kottmeier-Whitlock ’96, ’98 (women’s soccer) and Bill Coleman ’61 (football); also (standing) interim University President Geraldine M. Jones, Seth Martin ’02 (basketball) and Tim McCutcheon (football).
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PAYING IT F O R W A R D
BUILDING BRIDGES Alumna makes it her mission to educate and support LGBTQA students
T
iming, says Sheleta Webb ’89, ’94, really is everything. “I’ve always been passionate about my work supporting the LGBTQA (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, questioning, ally) campus community at Cal U,” says Webb, who is a resident hall director in the University Housing Office. “I’ve worked at Cal U for 21 years, and I’ve been an adviser to the Rainbow Alliance student organization since 1994. But recently, I felt there should be a professional office that focuses on LGBTQA issues.” Now there is, thanks to alumna Janis Zivic ’64, whose mission is to provide Cal U students with access to education and support that wasn’t available when she was a student. The Lambda Bridges LGBTQA Program Office opened earlier this year, with Webb as the coordinator. Lambda Bridges, in Carter Hall, provides educational programs, resources and services. It also coordinates the Cal U Ally program, which identifies faculty and staff who can provide a “safe zone” for LGBTQ students. Zivic is supporting Cal U students and the campus community through the endowed Janis M. Zivic Scholarship, which was awarded for the first time this fall. Two students received the scholarship.
To learn more about the Lambda Bridges office at Cal U, visit www.calu.edu, keyword “lambda bridges,” or e-mail lambdabridges@calu.edu.
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Janis Zivic: 'This is important.'
In addition, a speakers program has been established to bring successful public members of the LGBT community to campus, and videos, books, magazines and online research information on LGBT issues are being added to Manderino Library. “This is important,” Zivic says. “The increase in LGBT teen suicides is tragic. I’m doing this in hopes that students will say, ‘I can get help if I need it, or I can get information if I want it, or I can have greater access to the world around me.’” Zivic, who is a community activist in the San Francisco Bay Area, was instrumental in bringing Kate Kendall, executive director of the National Center for Lesbian Rights, to Cal U in March 2013 as the opening event for the new Lambda Bridges office. In September, Lambda Bridges, the Rainbow Alliance and the Women’s Studies program partnered to bring LGBTQA educator, speaker and award-winning activist Robyn Ochs to campus. Since graduating from Cal U, Zivic has been an educator and a successful businesswoman often honored for her community leadership and philanthropic work. Last year she graduated with a Master of Fine Arts in creative writing from the University of San Francisco. She has since published fiction and essays and is now working on a story about her teen years in Pittsburgh. Having made a complete recovery from both a traumatic brain injury and brain cancer, Zivic understands the need to make the most of every day. She’s proud that her daughter, Jessie, 27, has already learned that lesson, as well. “Follow your passion. Pay attention to people. You have to give back in whatever way you can,” Zivic says. “Everything you do comes back — one way or the other.” By Wendy Mackall, assistant communications director at Cal U
CAL U M I L E S T O N E S 50s Dr. Andrew Machusko ’59 was featured in an article in the Herald-Standard newspaper. Andrew played baseball at Cal U and was inducted into the University’s Athletic Hall of Fame in 2006. He lives in Brownsville, Pa., with his wife, Janice ’62.
60s Joseph Testa ’65 is a retired high school principal. He lives in Winthrop, Maine, with his wife, Candice. Dr. Dennis M. Spinella ’66 recently retired as superintendent of the Frazier School District. He remains active in education by working as an adjunct faculty member at Point Park University, as a program reviewer with the Pennsylvania Department of Education, and as an educational consultant for the multimedia program Afterschool Buddy Inc. (www.afterschoolbuddy.com). Dennis also is a disc jockey for WKFB-AM (770) and 97.5 FM. He and his wife, Becky, have three daughters and six grandchildren. Richard Saccani ’66 was inducted into the Upper St. Clair (Pa.) High School Halls of Fame on Sept. 13, 2013. In 1968, Richard started the Upper St. Clair boys’ tennis program and guided the Panthers for 24 years before retiring in 1991. He also taught math and engineering at Upper St. Clair from 1966-2001. He coached the Cal U women’s tennis team from 19901993 and complied a 58-4 record, with Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference championships in 1991 and 1993. The team was 50-0 in his final three seasons. Ian Imber ’87 is an engineer for Kipcon Inc., with headquarters in North Brunswick, N.J. He lives in Tinton Falls, N.J., with his wife, Bobbie. Ian studied engineering technology at Cal U, where he also played rugby and was a member of the Phi Kappa Sigma Fraternity.
70s Donn Griffith ’71 serves as the director for a teacher-training program in the College of Engineering and Computing at the University of South Carolina.
Dr. David L. Amati ’70, ’72, president of the Foundation for California University of Pennsylvania and president of Global Business Associates LLC, has been named to the board of directors of the Greater Pittsburgh Automobile Dealers Foundation as a member. George Lear ’73 is a native of Monessen, Pa., who now lives in St. Petersburg, Fla. He works for Cox Target Media and writes a blog at www.paycheckbeer.com. Nancy Donatelli ’75 has been inducted into the Academy of Emergency Nursing, which honors nurses nationwide who make substantial contributions to the field, advance the profession and provide leadership. She has been in the nursing field for 45 years and was president of the Emergency Nurses Association in 1988. Timothy Little ’76 has been appointed interim borough manager in Munhall, Pa. Previously, he was the municipal manager for Monroeville, Pa. Fred Adams ’76, of Mt. Pleasant, Pa., is a retired teacher who taught at Cal U, among other schools. He has two books awaiting publication — Edith Wharton’s American Gothic, which examines the work of the Pulitzer Prize-winning American novelist, short story writer and designer, and Dead Man’s Melody, about a rock guitarist who is implicated as a suspect in the murder of a former band mate. The first was due out in 2013, and the second is being reviewed by publishing houses. Debra Atkins ’78 is retired. She studied special education at Cal U and lives in Midwest City, Okla. Robert E. Kranak ’78 works as a sales associate for Walmart and lives in Burgettstown, Pa.
80s Sherri May ’83 has been promoted to coordinator of the Workforce Development and Continuing Education Department at the Roanoke Island Campus of College of Albemarle in Manteo, N.C. Betty Bongiorno Kuvinka ’83 is development director for Routt Catholic High School. She studied communications at Cal U and lives in Jacksonville, Ill., with her husband, Mike. Andrea Manus Leach ’83 has retired from her second-grade teaching position at Monessen (Pa.) Elementary Center. She worked there for 25 years. Kathleen Whalen ’84 is a customer service agent for Amtrak. She lives in Bryn Mawr, Pa. At Cal U, she studied communications.
William Brian Grishkin ’84 is a veterinarian at the Duck Hollow Animal Hospital in Labelle, Pa. John Coyne ’84 has been promoted to the position of environmental manager at the Covanta Energy Co. in Morristown, N.J. He is also a certified hazardous materials manager through the Institute of Hazardous Materials Management. John lives in Stockholm, N.J., with his wife, Mary Paige Buchan Coyne ’84. She is an instructor and volunteer with the National Alliance on Mental Illness in New Jersey. Wendy Blakey Simmons ’85 is a team trainer for Target Corp. She lives in Woodbridge, Va., with her husband, Gregory. She studied management and computer science at Cal U and was in the Young and Gifted Gospel Choir. Iffat Khan ’86 retired as a teacher from Southshore School. She lives in Karachi, Pakistan, with her husband, Adnan Ali. Rebecca Lynn ’87 lives in Irwin, Pa. Linda Kalafatis ’88 has been named head coach of the College of Charleston softball team. She is a member of the Cal U Athletic Hall of Fame. She coached the softball team at Cal U from 1989-1993, leading the team to Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference-West championships in each of her five years. Jenifer Jaworski Kaputa ’88 is a reading specialist for the Mt. Pleasant (Pa.) Area School District. She lives in Mt. Pleasant.
90s Michael Pugliano ’91 lives in Pittsburgh, Pa. He majored in political science at Cal U. Judi Hammond ’92 is principal of the Clinton Township Middle School in New Jersey. Bill Boyle ’92 has opened a bar and restaurant called The Boyler Room at 328 South St. in Philadelphia, Pa. Kimberly M. King ’93 has joined United Healthcare’s team to build business in western Pennsylvania. She is a senior account executive for key accounts. Kimberly graduated from Cal U magna cum laude with a bachelor’s degree in business marketing. She lives in Upper St. Clair, Pa. Ivan Mulligan ’93 has been named chair of the Department of Physical Therapy at Saint Francis University in Loretto, Pa. Ivan graduated from Cal U with a bachelor’s degree in education with an emphasis in athletic training. Susan L. Sonson ’93 earned her Doctorate of Nursing Practice from the University of Miami in December 2012. Susan graduated from The Washington Hospital School of Anesthesia for Nurses in 1993 with her diploma in anesthesia and from Cal U with a bachelor’s degree in biology. FALL 2013 CAL U REVIEW 29 n
CAL U M I L E S T O N E S
In print Professor Margo Wilson, chair of the English Department at Cal U, has published her first novel, The Main Ingredient, the story of three women who open a restaurant in Wisconsin. When it burns down, the women must track down the culprit who set the blaze. A newspaper editor for 20 years, including stints as food editors for two newspapers, Margo and her late husband, Michael Kraft, also ran a restaurant in Wisconsin. Details are available from Ramsfield Press, www.ramsfieldpress.com. Dr. John R. Cencich, a faculty member in the Department of Justice, Law and Society, has written The Devil’s Garden: A War Crimes Investigator’s Story. John, a former United Nations war crimes investigator, describes his role in the investigation and indictment of former Serbian President Slobodan Milosevic. More information is available from Potomac Books, www.potomacbooks.com. Hellbender, written by Jason Jack Miller ’96, a native of Uniontown, Pa., has been nominated for the Appalachian Writers Association Book of the Year Award, which recognizes superior and significant writing in Appalachian literature. Hellbender is the first novel in Jason’s Murder Ballads and Whiskey series. The third, The Revelations of Preston Black, was released in 2013 by Raw Dog Screaming Press, and a fourth book is scheduled for publication in fall 2014. Kathleen Hellen ’74 had her poetry, Umberto’s Night, published by the Washington Writers’ Publishing House. The work was 2012 winner of the Jean Feldman Poetry Prize. Kathleen is an associate professor at Coppin State University in Baltimore, Md. All four of these titles are available at amazon.com.
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Lt. Col. Robin Woody ’95 is commander of the 2nd Battalion, 43rd Air Defense Artillery Regiment, 11th Air Defense Brigade, at Fort Bliss, Texas. She has been in the Army for 18 years and has a bachelor’s degree in education from Cal U. She and her husband, Chief Warrant Officer 4 Charles Woody, have four children. Jodie Joyce Sigei ’96 works for the Georgia Department of Natural Resources as a park interpretive ranger for Little Ocmulgee State Park. She and her husband, John, live in Bonaire, Ga. Dianne Pyda ’98 recently displayed her collection of ceramic art at West Overton (Pa.) Village and Museums. Dianne majored in art education at Cal U and has taught art at Mt. Pleasant (Pa.) Area Junior-Senior High School for 20 years. She is chair of the Mt. Pleasant Area School District Fine Arts Department and sponsor of the Mt. Pleasant chapter of the National Art Honor Society and the Senior High Art Club. She received the 2008 Arts Educator of the Year award from the Westmoreland Cultural Trust. Rick Kundman ’99 recently won a 10K bike race at the Westmoreland County (Pa.) Senior Games. He studied secondary education at Cal U and taught at Community College of Allegheny County and Jefferson Morgan School District in Greene County, Pa.
00s Dr. Gregory Taranto ’00, a principal at Canonsburg (Pa.) Middle School and an adjunct professor in Cal U’s administrator program for principals, has won the 2013 Frank S. Manchester Excellence in Journalism Award from the Pennsylvania Association of Elementary and Secondary School Principals. The award is presented to someone who has been published in Pennsylvania Administrator magazine. Gregory has published more than 20 articles, and he has served as a member of the PAEESP editorial review board since 2012. John Ackermann ’80, ’01 is a middle school principal in the Chartiers Valley School District. He studied technology education and elementary education at Cal U and lives in Oakdale, Pa., with his wife, Betsy. Dr. Dara Rinchuse ’03 is an orthodontist in Rostraver Township, Pa. She also teaches graduate-level orthodontics courses at Seton Hill University Center for Orthodontics. She majored in psychology at Cal U. Tia Crilly McClelland ’03 lives in Uniontown, Pa., with her husband, Shawn ’01. She majored in criminal justice at Cal U. Dan Godla ’03 is developing a start-up company, ThoroughCare, in Spartanburg, S.C. After working in the medical software industry, Dan identified a need for assessment
tools to help health-care professionals engage with and care for their patients. With the tools he developed, paperwork is simplified and patient information is stored in one place. Karen Menser ’04, a certified registered nurse practitioner, has joined the Conemaugh Physician Group in Richland Township, Pa. She earned her degree in gerontology at Cal U. Monique McIntosh ’04 has been named one of “50 Women of Excellence” recognized by the New Pittsburgh Courier. Monique is senior director of programs for the YWCA of Greater Pittsburgh. She has had success implementing science, technology, engineering and math programs in Pittsburgh and has helped to encourage policy and funding recommendations for STEM education. Gregory Cottrell ’04 is the assistant principal at North Hunterdon High School in New Jersey. He studied technology education at Cal U. Rebekah Sungala ’04 is a field representative for U.S. Rep. Bill Shuster. She lives in Brownsville, Pa. Bob Mackowski ’04 is a photographer and owner of Aperture Photography. He lives in New Bern, N.C., with his wife, Amanda. Bob majored in communication studies at Cal U and was involved with CUTV, WVCS (now WCAL), peer mentoring and the Communication Studies Club. Kris White ’05 recently presented “Felled by Friendly Fire: The Wounding of James Longstreet” at the Cal U Civil War Roundtable. Todd Gibson ’06 is the head track and field coach, assistant football coach, strength and conditioning coordinator, and a full-time professor at Grove City (Pa.) College. Tanner Huffman ’06 is the associate director for research, special projects and assessment at the International Technology and Engineering Educators Association’s STEM Center for Teaching and Learning. Tanner will work to capitalize on public and private funding opportunities for science, engineering, technology and math education. Brett Kern ’07, an adjunct professor of the arts at Davis & Elkins College in West Virginia, recently instructed digital media classes at the Governor’s School for the Arts, which was held at the college last summer. The program is designed to help West Virginia’s young artists develop their talents. Chris Protho ’07 was named the International Festival and Events Association 2013 Volunteer of the Year for his work with Music for All, an organization that runs marching and concert band festivals and a summer music camp. He lives in Butler County, Pa., with his wife, Amy, and two children, Jenna and Joshua. Chris has taught music and served as band director at Mars (Pa.) Area Middle School for 15 years. He previously taught in the New Kensington-Arnold (Pa.) School District.
Jeffrey Lewis ’07 lives in Franklin, Pa. He earned his master’s degree in legal studies at Cal U.
10s
Sandra Richmond ’07 is an instructor of nursing programs at the Pennsylvania College of Technology. She earned her master’s degree in exercise science and sport studies from Cal U.
Mike Billy ’10 has joined The Times newspaper, based in Ottawa, Ill., as a staff writer. He studied journalism at Cal U and was an intern at the Illinois News Network, the New York Post and the Times-News in Burlington, N.C. He is from Monessen, Pa.
John Saras ’07 is vice principal of Baldwin (Pa.) High School. He earned his principal certification at Cal U. Kenneth Malley ’07 was recently ordained a transitional deacon, the last step toward priestly ordination, through the Byzantine Catholic Seminary of Saints Cyril and Methodius in Pittsburgh, Pa. Kenneth earned the rank of second lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force and hopes the Archdiocese for the Military Services will endorse him as a chaplain. He studied psychology at Cal U. David Rupert ’08 is the principal at Weems Elementary School, part of Manassas (Va.) City Public Schools. Vincent D’Angelo ’08 is the assistant principal at Rowan Elementary School in Cranberry Township, Pa., and Connoquenessing Valley Elementary School in Zelienople, Pa. Both schools are in the Seneca Valley School District. Shashishekar Krishnarajanagar ’08 is a nurse case manager for Cigna. He lives in Pittsburgh, Pa., with his wife, Poornima Vakkalakalu. He studied nursing at Cal U. Anne Yelanich Jablonski ’08 lives in Belle Vernon, Pa., with her husband, Michael. She majored in legal studies at Cal U. Sarah Rodi Labowsky ’08 lives in Carnegie, Pa. Joey Greany ’08, strength and conditioning coach for the Lexington Legends of the South Atlantic League, was named South Atlantic strength and conditioning Coach of the Year by the Professional Baseball Strength and Conditioning Coaches Society. He earned his master’s degree in exercise science from Cal U. Bonnie Peperak Sypolt ’08 recently was named an assistant principal at Commonwealth Connections Academy, a Pennsylvania cyber-school, after teaching in the Harrisburg (Pa.) School District. She earned her master’s degree in education and her principal certification from Cal U. Brian Ulmer ’08 is the director of secondary education for the Milton Area School District. He and his wife, Stephanie, live in Watsontown, Pa. Tim Fusina ’07, ’08 has been hired as the men’s head basketball coach at Centenary College in Hackettstown, N.J. He studied sport management at Cal U.
Katie Angel ’10 lives in Fayetteville, Pa.
Anthony Canzonieri ’10 is a housing case manager for the Veterans Leadership Program. He studied science and technology at Cal U and now lives in Pittsburgh, Pa. Shaun Schetka ’11 is head coach of the Penn State-Beaver women’s soccer team. He studied sport management at Cal U. Shaun also is a soccer official with the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association, and a registered athletic administrator with the national Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association. He also has a U.S. Soccer Federation coaching license. Gerard Gingras ’10 has joined Alfred State College in New York as the college’s athletic director. He earned his master’s degree in exercise science and health promotion from Cal U. Steve Middleton ’10 has been accepted into the Doctor of Physical Therapy program at the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences. He also was awarded the Outstanding Leadership Scholarship. Steve earned his master’s degree in exercise science and health promotion, with an emphasis in rehabilitation science, at Cal U. He is a certified athletic trainer and serves as the director of rehabilitation and sports medicine at Assess, Treat and Condition in Carbondale, Ill. Kevin O’Callahan ’11 has joined Exertec Health and Fitness Center, in Napa, Calif., as a personal trainer. He earned his master’s degree in exercise science from Cal U.
teacher at Propel McKeesport. She earned her bachelor’s degree in elementary education and her master’s degree in education as a reading specialist at Cal U, where she was on the SAI Board of Directors, the student member of the Council of Trustees and a member of Student Government. She also was a peer mentor coordinator and a member of Kappa Delta Pi, Sigma Alpha Pi and Delta Epsilon Iota. Samantha Jo Bochna ’12 is a character performer at Walt Disney World and Resort. She studied sport management at Cal U and now is living in Orlando, Fla. Kylie Carrington ’12 was an instructor this summer for Ashland (Ore.) YMCA Counselors in Training program. Colleen Hannagan ’12 is the new assistant principal at McKnight Elementary School in the North Allegheny School District, in Wexford, Pa. She earned her master’s degree in school administration from Cal U. Previously, she was a counselor and assistant elementary principal in the Sto-Rox School District. Scott Spindler ’12 and Rosanna Paterra, a student at Cal U, have formed the Scott and Rosanna acoustic band. They recently released their first original album, 3 Cheers. The couple formed a musical partnership last year while playing together in the jazz ensemble at Cal U. Scott’s degree is in commercial music technology. Erin O’Leary ’12 is a guidance counselor at Wetsel Middle School in the Madison County (Va.) Public Schools. She earned her master’s degree in counselor education at Cal U. Hanna Marshall ’12, of Blairsville, Pa., is a buyer for Westinghouse Electric Co. She earned her bachelor’s degree in business administration at Cal U. Melissa Gates ’12 is the aquatics program coordinator at the Midtown Athletic Club in Bannockburn, Ill. She graduated from Cal U as a three-time NCAA Division II champion swimmer.
Joshua Avart ’11 is an account executive for the Pittsburgh Pirates. He studied sport management at Cal U and now lives in Pittsburgh, Pa. Marguerite Smith Haldin ’09, ’11, of Munhall, Pa., is a fifth- and sixth-grade science
Theta Xi-Beta Sigma Scholarship Interim University President Geraldine M. Jones joins Theta Xi fraternity president Matt Kaminski (left) in congratulating Josh Hippensteel, inaugural recipient of the Theta Xi Fraternity-Beta Sigma Alumni Association Scholarship. Alumni members of the Theta Xi fraternity raised more than $10,000 to endow the scholarship, which will be awarded annually to an active member of the fraternity’s Beta Sigma Chapter at Cal U. Like Hippensteel, scholarship recipients must have at least a 2.5 grade-point average and be in good financial standing with the fraternity.
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CAL U M I L E S T O N E S ENGAGEMENTS Charles Dicks Jr. ’10 and Danielle Stockey ’11 are engaged. Charles is a title abstractor for Oil and Gas Title Abstracting, based in Washington, Pa. Danielle graduated from Duquesne University with a degree in speech language pathology. She earned her degree at Cal U in communication disorders with a minor in psychology. They are planning a wedding in May 2014. Hanna Yauger ’12 and Anthony Lent ’08 are engaged. Hanna was expected to graduate with a Master of Social Work in December. She works as a therapist at Chestnut Ridge Counseling Services Inc. A supervisor at Guardian Industries, Anthony earned his Master of Science in Business Administration at Cal U. They are planning a January 2014 wedding. Jonathan Lowden ’11 and RaeLynn Forsyth are engaged. RaeLynn is a medical student at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. Jonathan earned his bachelor’s degree in mathematics at Cal U and a master’s degree from Duquesne University. He is a business analyst at Highmark and an adjunct professor of mathematics at Duquesne University. They plan to marry in June 2016. Alayna Slovik ’13 and Benjamin Koslow are engaged. Alayna was a member of Sigma Sigma Sigma sorority at Cal U. She is a key holder at Plato’s Closet and Clothes Mentor. Benjamin is a financial analysis at Orbital Engineering. They are planning a May 2015 wedding. Heather Johnson ’13 and Bryan Maione are engaged. Heather studied physical therapy at Cal U. They are planning a wedding in July 2014. Heather Martin ’09 and Nathan Campsey are engaged. Heather majored in early childhood and elementary education at Cal U. They are planning a September 2014 wedding. James Ray “J.R.” Dice ’13 and Haley Bryner are engaged. J.R. graduated from Cal U with an associate degree in applied science. They are planning a May 2014 wedding at Jumonville Church, in Hopwood, Pa. Angela Devenney ’12 and Kevin Courtwright are engaged. Angela graduated with a degree in liberal studies; she is a travel counselor with AAA East Central. Kevin is employed through West Virginia Laborers’ Union Local 1149 of Wheeling, W.Va. They are planning a wedding in June 2014.
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Ryan Skiles ’09, ’11 and Kristin Kipke, a graduate of the University of Pittsburgh School of Law and Ohio University, were engaged in May 2013 in Myrtle Beach, S.C. They both live in downtown Pittsburgh, Pa. They plan to marry in October 2014 in Sewickley, Pa. Jonathan Janoski ’08, ’11 and Taylor Swierczewski ’11 are planning a fall 2014 wedding. Jonathan served on the University’s Council of Trustees and was involved with Acacia Fraternity. He is now the chapter adviser and alumni board president. Taylor graduated with her bachelor’s degree in liberal arts. Alan Witt ’10 and Tia Schaefer expect to exchange wedding vows in June 2014 in Markleysburg, Pa. Alan graduated with a bachelor’s degree in science and technology education. Tia was scheduled to graduate from Cal U in December, with a bachelor’s degree in business administration. Alan is a teacher at Seneca Valley Intermediate High School in Harmony, Pa. Tia is a sales intern at Mylan Pharmaceuticals in Morgantown, W.Va. Christina Ann Lanzi ’09 and Mark Albert John plan to marry in July 2014 at St. John’s Roman Catholic Church, in Uniontown, Pa. Christina earned a master’s degree in elementary education with a minor in dance at Cal U. She owns and directs the Lanzi Academy of Dance in Uniontown. Mark earned his master’s degree in elementary education from Cal U and is a third-grade teacher in the California (Pa.) Area School District. He also is the men’s head basketball coach at Penn State Fayette, the Eberly Campus.
WEDDINGS Casey Zuzak ’08 and Megan Perry were married in August 2013. Casey is a geospatial risk analyst in Denver, Colo. Megan works for Greenway Medical Technologies. Julie Shipman ’12, of Prosperity, Pa., and Eric Cunningham ’03, of Taylorstown, Pa., were married Oct. 12, 2013. Julie is the director/teacher at Bethel Church Preschool and cheerleading coach at McGuffey Middle School. Eric is a mathematics teacher, department head and assistant rifle coach at McGuffey High School. Clayton Cummings ’09 and Marta Hodge ’09, both of Chambersburg, Pa., were married June 8, 2013. Marta earned her secondary education degree in mathematics at Cal U and is a teacher at Chambersburg High School. Clayton earned his degree in sport management and works at Enterprise Rent-A-Car in Greencastle, Pa.
Shawna Cokley ’03 and Michael Strickler were married Sept. 21, 2013. Shawna studied meteorology at Cal U and earned her master’s degree in meteorology at the University of Maryland. Jillian Despot ’06 and Matthew Caster, both of Carnegie, Pa., were married in September 2013. Both are physical therapists. Kristen Holloman ’12 and Lucas Monahan were married May 25, 2013, at St. John the Evangelist Church in Uniontown, Pa. Kristen earned degrees in early childhood and special education from Cal U and works in a first-grade classroom at The Daniel Goldfarb Elementary School in Las Vegas, Nev. Lucas works as a mechanic at McCarran Airport in Las Vegas. They live in Henderson, Nev. Donald Rinchuse ’06 and Adele Scarsella were married Oct. 19, 2013, in the chapel at Seton Hill University in Greensburg, Pa. Donald works for MedExpress in Belle Vernon, Pa. He earned a degree in psychology at Cal U and a master’s degree as a physician assistant from Seton Hill University. Adele works for Weirton (W.Va.) Medical Center. Jennifer Pavlik ’11 and Kevin York were married July 13, 2013, at Mt. Olivet Presbyterian Church in Aliquippa, Pa. Jennifer earned a master’s degree in early childhood education from Cal U and is a special education teacher with Intermediate Unit 1. Kevin works at Bill’s Furniture in Washington, Pa., and is pursuing a degree in pastoral ministry. Matthew Rehrig ’06 and Ayumi Wakamatsu held a stateside wedding ceremony on Aug. 10, 2013, in Schuylkill County, Pa. They were married May 5, 2013, in Japan. Matthew is employed by ECC Japan as an English teacher. Ayumi works in the English education department of Yamaha Corp. Holly Williams ’08 and Stephen Currie were married Aug. 3, 2013, at Masontown (Pa.) United Methodist Church. Holly earned her bachelor’s degree in chemistry at Cal U. She is a chemistry instructor at Frostburg (Md.) State University. Stephen is a West Virginia University police officer. They live in Morgantown, W.Va. Jessica Coughenour ’07 and Cory Buterbaugh were married June 15, 2013. Jessica is an adjunct instructor of communication studies at Frostburg State (Md.) University. Cory is a history teacher.
PLAN A GIFT THAT FITS YOUR PLAN
R
ely on your professional advisers for tax and legal advice — but contact the Planned Giving office at Cal U to learn how your gift can have the greatest positive impact on students and programs at California University. Knowing and understanding your plan helps the University to honor your intentions. Consider naming the Foundation for California University in your will, trust or life insurance, or as a retirement plan beneficiary. Special provisions for use of your gift can even include a lifelong, secure and stable income for you and your family. To read more about planned gifts, visit the Cal U website at www.calu.edu/giving, and choose “Legacy & Planned Giving.” Or contact Gordon Core, director of planned giving, by phone at 724-938-5985 or via e-mail to core@calu.edu.
Ronald Allen Cobert II ’04 and Kira Elizabeth Henry exchanged vows on July 21, 2013. Ronald is a graduate of Cal U with a bachelor’s degree in political science. He is currently working for R. Murphy Services. The couple lives in Van Meter, Pa.
Levi Kaczka ’11 and Courtney Papola ’11 were married July 6, 2013, in Reading, Pa. Levi is finishing his master’s degree in fisheries and wildlife at Mississippi State University. Courtney works for Enterprise Rent-A-Car.
E. Hope Beatty ’71 and Paul C. Shook were married in Key West, Fla., on Aug. 16, 2013. The new Mrs. Shook is now retired. Paul is a master technician at Washington Ford. They live in Washington, Pa. Lisa Furman ’03 and Carl Loomis were married July 5, 2013. Lisa was a member of Students Taking a New Direction (STAND) at Cal U. She is a preschool teacher at The Children’s School at Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, Pa. Chris Cieply ’08, ’10 and Lauren Karabasz ’08 were married in Rivera Maya, Mexico, on July 20, 2013. Chris and Lauren met at Cal U, and they both work as special education teachers.
BIRTHS Wayne ’90, ’92 and Margaret ’96 Miller are grandparents of Avery Elizabeth Wilson, born June 22, 2013. Wayne is a former director of Cal U’s athletic department, and Margaret is a former director of payroll at Cal U. They live in Largo, Fla. Wayne works at the Bay Pines VA Healthcare System, and Margaret works at St. Petersburg College Seminole Campus. Avery’s parents are Vance and Anne Wilson, of Maitland, Fla.
Autumn ParasolickKosanko ’06, ’09 and her husband, Justin, welcomed their second child, Emma Jean Kosanko, on April 8, 2013. The newborn weighed 6 pounds, 1 ounce. Jonathan Malone ’98 and his wife, Joanna, announce the birth of their fifth child, Michael Patrick, born Aug. 30, 2012. They live in Mooresville, N.C., where Jonathan is a financial adviser and owns a wealth management practice. Osa Charlotte Wamsley was born April 23, 2013, weighing 7 pounds, 14 ounces. Osa’s mother is Nichole Dulin Wamsley ’98.
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CAL U M I L E S T O N E S
IN MEMORIAM Joan Ruby Aiassa ’60 Alex Balla ’59 Harold W. Bates ’69 Lois Arline Baynes* Marguerite Oster Bethem ’74 Thomas H. Cooke III ’70 Ervin Cross ’75 Constance Chuma Dillow ’65 Jeff Eicher ’89, ’91 William Elwood* Nola Michele Gismondi Fike ’72 Clinton W. Griffith ’49 Marvelle Risku Hahn ’56 Miles Lee Hilsenrath ’65 Edward C. “Duff” Hrutkay ’58 Marilyn Senic Joschak ’78 Cheri Lucille Larrydale ’89 John W. Liebegott ’54 Patricia A. Lupton Mello ’77 William Eric Menni ’78 Charles A. “Cheezy” Miller Jr. ’72
John William Misko ’54 Armand P. Mori ’50 Randy J. Novakovich ’02 Bethem Marguerite Oster* Richard Edward Pfalzgraf ’73 Ray L. Pietrzak ’51 Willie Howard Pigg, political science professor at Cal U* Albert Pokol ’50, ’66, associate professor and reference librarian at Cal U Shirley Ann Negich Rivardo* Edward M. Schroyer* Gilbert T. Seese ’42 Timothy F. Sethman ’09 James H. Shoup ’70 Gladys Ebbert Sutherland ’56 Diane Tragesser ’75 Miriam J. Donovan Wilson ’52, emerita professor of music at Cal U * Indicates no class year provided or on file
Joseph Dochinez ’51, an emeritus faculty member at Cal U and the longest serving mayor of California Borough (1982-2002), died Oct. 8, 2013, at Residence of Hilltop in Monongahela, Pa. He was 85. Joseph, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran, was a former director of student activities at Cal U and the assistant dean of men. He was a longtime member of the Alumni Association, where he served on the board of directors. A former Vulcan football player, he was inducted into the Cal U Athletic Hall of Fame in 2005. He also was awarded the John R. Gregg Award for Loyalty and Service, presented to members of the University family who have given dedicated and loyal service to both the Alumni Association and to Cal U.
Send your Milestones news or address changes by e-mail to alumni@calu.edu, by fax to 724-938-5932, or by mail to Alumni Relations, P.O. Box 89, California, PA 15419. Questions? Call 724-938-4418.
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shOw Off yOur Vulcan pride shop the best selection of cal u apparel and gifts at the cal u student BOOKstOre
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California University of Pennsylvania Building Character. Building Careers. 250 University Avenue California, PA 15419-1394 www.calu.edu A proud member of the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education.
On your mark ‌ get set ‌ dough!
Vulcan mascot Blaze revs up for a race with Jalapeno Hannah and Cheese Chester, two of the Pittsburgh Pirates Pierogies. The dashing dumplings typically appear on game days at PNC Park, but they took time out to help Cal U celebrate Student Appreciation Week with a race around the Convocation Center courtyard. The Student Government Association organized the race, and a series other activities, to thank students for choosing to attend Cal U.
NONPROFIT ORG U.S. POSTAGE PAID CALIFORNIA UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA