ALVERNIA UNIVERSITY Honors Convocation Sunday, April 18
2010
The Board of Trustees, President Thomas F. Flynn, and Faculty and Staff of
Alvernia University welcome you to the
2010 Honors Convocation
Honors Convocation Sunday April 18, 2010 • 2:00 p.m. Welcome
Shirley J. Williams, Ed.D. Provost
Processional Invocation
Remarks
Student Speaker
Joseph J. Cicala, Ph.D. Vice President for University Life and Dean of Students
Thomas F. Flynn, Ph.D. President
Heather Spangler ’10 2009 Senior Scholar
Introduction of Faculty Speaker Shirley J. Williams, Ed.D. Provost Faculty Speaker
Scott Ballantyne, Ed.D. Associate Professor of Business 2009 Lindback Award Recipient
Presentation of Department Awards Arts & Languages Athletic Training, OT, & Social Work Business Criminal Justice Education English, Communication, & CIS Humanities Nursing Psychology & Counseling
Carol Schwanger, M.M., Chair Delores Bertoti, MSPT, Chair Mary Ellen Wells, L.L.M., J.D., Chair Daria LaTorre, J.D., Chair Ellen Engler, MS Ed., Chair Mary Beth Demeo, M.A.T., Chair Victoria Williams, Ph.D., Chair Mary Ellen Symanski, Ph.D., RN, Chair Peggy Bowen-Hartung, CTS, Ph.D. Chair
Science & Mathematics
Stephen R. Campion, Ph.D., Chair
Presentation of Student Scholar Athletes Bill Stiles Athletic Director
Presentation of Peace & Justice Student Award Sr. Rosemary Stets, OSF, MA Vice President, Mission
Presentation of Senior Scholar Rosemarie Chinni, Ph.D. Member, Honors and Awards Committee Barry Harvey, M.S. Chair, Academic Standards Committee
Presentation of St. Bernardine Faculty Award Karen Thacker, Ph.D., RN, CNE Dean, College of Professional Programs Presentation of Sr. Donatilla Faculty Award Polly Mathys, MSEd. Member, Honors and Awards Committee
Presentation of Honor Cords to Graduates Kevin Godfrey, Ph.D. Dean, College of Arts & Sciences Benediction
Sister Rosemary Stets, OSF, MA Vice President, Mission
Welcome to Alvernia University and thank you for joining us as we honor students and faculty for academic achievement. Please silence your mobile phone, pager, and other electronic devices during the program. You are invited to a reception following the ceremony.
Scott Ballantyne, Ed.D., PRSBA
Dr. Scott Ballantyne holds a doctorate in education from Widener University and a master in public administration from Kutztown University, but is most proud of the degree he obtained as an undergraduate accounting student right here at Alvernia, in 1986. As the 2009 recipient of the “Christian R. & Mary F. Lindback Foundation Award for Excellence in Teaching,” Ballantyne exemplifies outstanding classroom performance, instructional support, and campus leadership—as well as the highest traditions of the teaching profession at Alvernia University. Ballantyne’s teaching excellence was also recognized in 2009 by the business department’s accrediting agency (the Association of Collegiate Business Schools and Programs), which awarded him the Teaching Excellence Award for Region Two (including Pennsylvania, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maryland, Virginia, and West Virginia). As a Tenured Associate Professor at Alvernia, Ballantyne has served as the MBA Coordinator, ASBSP Initial Accreditation Coordinator, and Department Chair. He regularly writes articles appearing in peer-reviewed journals, presents at national and international conferences, and directs student research and dissertation projects. He is currently in the process of co-authoring a book on organization planning with fellow business department faculty members Beth Berret and Mary Ellen Wells. Licensed as an insurance agent, Ballantyne also holds registrations as a Pennsylvania Registered School Business Administrator, and is a registered representative in the financial securities industry. On the fun side, Ballantyne is a licensed private pilot, a licensed boat captain, a scuba diver, a fisherman, and a motorcycle enthusiast. Ballantyne continues to be actively involved in the community by utilizing community research projects in the Alvernia MBA capstone class to build comprehensive plans for organizations that improve our community. He carefully chooses organizations that need business advice, but may not be able to afford comprehensive planning services. He is a member of the Pennsylvania Association of School Business Officials, Eastern Educational Research Association, Institute of Management Accountants, and the Association of Collegiate Business Schools and Programs.
Heather Spangler
Heather Spangler grew up in Gloucester City, N.J., and attended Gloucester Catholic High School, where she developed an interest in the sciences— particularly biology, anatomy, and physiology. Wishing to incorporate her compassion for others with her newfound interest in the sciences, she chose to pursue a career in nursing. After graduating with honors from Gloucester Catholic in 2006, she decided to attend Alvernia, and was invited to become a member of the Honors Program on campus. As an honors student, Heather has taken many honors courses, including Honors History and Music, and Social Work. Heather also conducted research for her honors thesis, examining the effects of a structured exercise program in a psychosocial rehabilitation setting that provides services and support for those living with mental illnesses. Heather’s honors thesis reflects the concept developing and using evidence-based practice techniques to improve the lives of patients. She hopes that her findings are able to benefit a marginalized population. Heather has been active on campus and in professional organizations. She is a tutor in Alvernia’s Learning Center helping students with subjects such as anatomy and physiology, biology, and fundamentals of nursing. She is a student ambassador, often being one of the first faces prospective and new students see on campus. She also represents Alvernia as a student ambassador to members of the surrounding community at university-sponsored events. As a member of the Alvernia Student Nurses Association (ASNA) and the Pennsylvania Student Nurses association (PSNA), Heather has participated in both state and national conferences. She has also been active in service projects in Reading, New Orleans, La., and the Dominican Republic. In 2009, Heather worked in a nurse externship in the operating room at Cooper University Hospital in Camden, N.J., where she gained a more in-depth knowledge of anatomical body systems and disease processes through a “hands-on” approach in the several areas, including orthopedic, vascular, OB-GYN, urologic, cardiac, neurological surgeries, and post anesthesia care. This year, she was inducted into Delta Epsilon Sigma, the National Honor Society of Catholic Colleges and Universities, as well as Sigma Theta Tau, the International Honor Society for Nursing. She was also nominated as Alvernia University’s Senior Scholar. After graduation, Heather hopes to pursue a career in preoperative nursing, and is also interested in psychiatric nursing.
University Awards Outstanding Scholar Athlete Two student athletes, one male and one female, are recognized annually for maintaining the highest GPA after four years as an Alvernia athlete.
The Franciscan Peace and Justice Award The Franciscan Peace and Justice Award is given to a graduating senior who demonstrates a spirit of service and leadership in academic and co-curricular activities, promotes diversity and respect for all people, is dedicated to service in the community, especially with the poor and marginalized, and is actively committed to building a global community around social justice and peace.
Senior Scholar The Senior Scholar Award is a $10,000 scholarship toward Alvernia senior year tuition presented to one student. The recipient must maintain a 3.7 GPA, submit a letter describing their goals, a resume, a reference letter from a faculty number, and a reference letter from a peer. Finalists are interviewed by the faculty Honors and Awards Committee and the Academic Standards Committee to determine the recipient.
Saint Bernardine Faculty Award The Saint Bernardine Faculty Award for Excellence in Part-Time Teaching is an award presented to an adjunct instructor.
Sister Mary Donatilla Faculty Award The Sister Mary Donatilla Legacy Award is an award to a full time faculty member who has given long service to the University in teaching, advising, service, and support. The Honors and Awards Committee selects the recipient.
The Alvernia University Honors Program The Honors Program is designed to recognize and encourage academic excellence. The program offers a variety of challenging interdisciplinary courses and provides an academic climate to promote learning. Graduation from the program is contingent upon the completion of designated honors coursework, a minimum grade point average, and the completion and presentation of a senior thesis or project.
Department Awards Athletic Training, Occupational Therapy, and Social Work
Paul J. Marr, MD Athletic Training Scholarship Award: presented to an outstanding athletic training student who has demonstrated academic achievement, while personifying exceptional qualities and characteristics of the profession.
Academic Excellence Award: presented to the senior student with the highest grade point average in the athletic training program.
Business
ACBSP Student Leadership Award: presented to the business student who demonstrates outstanding leadership through his or her activities while at Alvernia.
Pennsylvania Institute of Certified Public Accountants Award: for a student who demonstrates excellence in accounting studies and professional development, who desires to pursue a career in accounting.
Institute of Management Accountants - Reading Chapter Award: for a graduating senior who demonstrates excellence in accounting studies and in professional development.
Wall Street Journal Award: presented to a business major recognized for their academic excellence, ethical integrity, and service to the college and community.
Society for Human Resource Management - Berks County Chapter: Outstanding Student Leader: for a graduating senior member of SHRM who demonstrates outstanding scholastic achievement as well as proven leadership ability to the profession, the university, and the community.
Excellence in Marketing: presented to a student who demonstrates superior academic performance and potential for professional accomplishment in marketing.
Excellence in Accounting: presented to a student who demonstrates superior academic performance and potential for professional accomplishment in accounting
Excellence in Sport Management: presented to a student who demonstrates superior academic performance and potential for professional accomplishment in sport management.
Criminal Justice
Internship Award: for a graduating senior who demonstrates outstanding accomplishment in the criminal justice internship program.
Academic Excellence Award: for a graduating senior with the highest grade point average in criminal justice.
St. Michael the Archangel Award: for a graduating senior recognized under the patron saint of law enforcement for overall dedication as a criminal justice student.
Education Emma Yoh Award for Outstanding Professionalism: given in recognition of an outstanding student majoring in education who demonstrates the dispositions for the teaching profession, and who exhibits the qualities that demonstrate professionalism in teaching on a consistent basis.
Outstanding Undergraduate Education Major: presented to a graduating senior who earns the highest grade point average and demonstrates the greatest accomplishment in the education department.
Outstanding Student Teacher Award: for graduating seniors who demonstrate outstanding performance in the field.
English, Communication, CIS
Margaret Oberholtzer Lawrence Award for Excellence in English and/or Communication: presented to a senior who demonstrates excellence and extensive participation in activities that promote an interest in the discipline.
The Elizabeth Susman Award for Scholarship and Creativity in the field of English and/or Communication: presented to a senior in honor of the late Professor Elizabeth Susman, former chair of the English department at Alvernia.
Henry Miller Award: presented to the graduating Sigma Tau Delta member who best exemplifies the character and intellectual curiosity of an individual who had a love of literature, an appreciation for education, and, a question for every answer.
Francis J. Thomas Theatre Award: presented to an outstanding graduating senior recognized for overall commitment, as well as achievement in the theatre program.
Alvernian Award for Editorial Excellence: presented to a graduating senior who has contributed to producing the Alvernia student newspaper, ensuring high quality editorial content, an attractive layout, and a regular release schedule.
Alvernian Award for News Reporting: for a graduating senior who has made strides as a news reporter for the Alvernia student newspaper, bringing thoughtful and fair-minded news coverage to the campus community.
Alvernian Award for Journalistic Creativity: presented to a graduating senior who pursues new and challenging journalistic opportunities, including stories, features, and relationships for the Alvernia student newspaper.
Zephyrus Award for Artistic and/or Editorial Excellence: presented to the student who consistently exercises artistic or editorial excellence through imagination and judgment, compositional or organizational skills, and resourcefulness.
Excellence in Video and Television Production: presented to the graduating senior who has demonstrated excellence in television and video production both in front of and behind the camera, and outstanding skill in reporting, producing, editing, lighting, sound, and technical directing.
Information Stewardship Award: presented to the graduating CIS major or CIS minor who best shows, through work and practice, a respect for the ethical responsibilities of Information Technology professionals.
The CIS Award for Internship Excellence: presented to the CIS major who brought the most energy and scholarship to an internship, and who was most changed by the experience.
Academic Excellence Award in CIS: presented to the graduating student with the highest grade point average in computer information systems.
Humanities
Outstanding Student in the Humanities: for the graduating senior who maintains a grade point average of 3.7 in his or her major, a cumulative grade point average of 3.3 overall, and demonstrates superior ability and leadership in the study of humanities.
High Achievement in Political Science: for a graduating senior who maintains a grade point average of 3.5 in political science and a cumulative average of 3.3.
High Achievement in Theology: for a senior who maintains a grade point average of 3.5 in theology and a cumulative average of 3.3.
High Achievement in Philosophy: for a graduating senior who maintains a grade point average of 3.5 in philosophy and a cumulative average of 3.3.
High Achievement in History: for a senior who maintains a grade point average of 3.5 in history and a cumulative average of 3.3.
Nursing
Outstanding Clinical Performance Award: given to a graduating senior nursing student who has consistently demonstrated the highest standards of clinical nursing performance.
Excellence in Community Health Nursing Award: given to a graduating senior nursing student in recognition of outstanding performance of nursing care within community settings.
Nursing Leadership Award: presented to a graduating senior who has demonstrated leadership among peers in service to the community and the profession while maintaining high standards of academic and clinical performance.
Spirit of St. Francis Award: awarded to a graduating nursing student/s whose performance through the undergraduate program has best fulfilled the Alvernia University Motto: “To Learn, To Love, To Serve.� Leaders in Learning Award: given to a graduating senior nursing student who demonstrates outstanding academic and clinical performance, exemplifies the qualities of a Franciscan scholar, and whose service to the University, community, and profession has earned her/him respect among peers and the faculty.
Psychology & Counseling
Award for Research Excellence: presented to a graduating senior who demonstrates exceptional skill in applied research and psychological content areas.
Award for Clinical Excellence: presented to a senior who demonstrates exceptional skills in an internship placement.
Psychology Award for Academic Excellence: presented to a senior who demonstrates the highest academic achievement.
Leadership Award: presented to a graduating senior who demonstrates vision, the ability to take charge and inspire others, and who goes beyond normal duties.
Science & Math
Frank Podczasy Award: presented to a graduating senior who demonstrates outstanding scholastic achievement, community service, and dedication to the sciences. American Chemical Society Award: presented by the Lehigh Valley Chapter of the American Chemical Society (ACS), this award recognizes a science student for outstanding achievement in chemistry and community service.
Social Work Program
Outstanding Social Work Academic Award: presented to a graduating senior who demonstrates overall outstanding academic performance.
Outstanding Social Work Field Placement Award: for a graduating senior who has demonstrated outstanding dedication to the profession of social work through his or her field placement experience.
Dr. Phyllis Hay Research Award: presented for a senior research team project that reflects social work’s value and commitment to the contribution of knowledge to the field of social work.
Alvernia Honor Societies Honors Program: The purpose of the Honors Program is to assist students of outstanding intellectual promise and high motivation who are seeking increased challenge at the undergraduate level and/or who are interested in future graduate work or professional study. To graduate from the Honors Program, students must take designated course work, complete a six-credit Honors thesis, and have a cumulate GPA of at least 3.3.
Honors Program recent graduates (Summer and Fall 2009) and May 2010 graduates: Deborah Crum, Cynthia Schmeck, Matthew Galvin, William Ward, Randi Lepera, Sarah Cayless, Ryan Lineaweaver, Jasmine Morales, Gerald Powell, Dezaree Reis, Stephen Walsh, Keiko Wolfe, Tammie Kennedy, Heather Spangler, and Tiffany Xiong
Alpha Phi Sigma Honor Society: Alpha Phi Sigma is the Criminal Justice National Honor Society at Alvernia University. The purpose is to promote critical thinking, rigorous scholarship and lifelong learning, to keep abreast of the advances in scientific research, to elevate the ethical standards of the criminal justice professions and to sustain in the public mind the benefit and necessity of education and professional training. Alpha Phi Sigma has recognized Alvernia University as the Gamma Nu Chapter. The nationally recognized chapter strives for the commitment to life-long learning.
2009-2010 Inductees: Brandi Grubb, Jesse Stock, Ryan Hermany, and Danielle Zacckey
Beta Kappa Chi Honor Society: Beta Kappa Chi—Natural Sciences & Mathematics—has the purpose of encouraging the advancement of scientific education through original investigations; the dissemination of scientific knowledge; and the stimulation of high scholarship in the pure and applied sciences. 2009-2010 Inductees: Scott Bar, Sharon Bedell, Dina Chiappelli, Matthew Cornell, Elizabeth Hamel, Kevin Hanchick, Brian Miller, Gissellie Ortiz, Virginia Parsons, Kristy Peat, Nicole Richards, Jennifer Termini, and Christopher Young
Delta Epsilon Sigma Honor Society: The Delta Epsilon Sigma is a National Scholastic Honor Society for students, faculty, and alumni of colleges and universities with a Catholic tradition. Benefits of this honor society include an annual scholarship and fellowship competition, life-long subscription to the Delta Epsilon Sigma Journal, voting and nomination rites, a national student award for graduating seniors, an annual writing competition, and a distinguished lecturer program.
2009-2010 Inductees: Katherine Ayers, Angela Bachman, Emily Berret, Kelsey Brown, Bridget Burger, Cory Carbone, Kimberly Clay, Julie Coe, Ann Coleman, Kenia DeLarge, Beverly Dengler, Katie DeTurk, Christopher Fake, Louise Fura, Timothy Frazier, Matthew Galvin, Nicole Gehr, Sarah Griffin, Rachel Groves, Sue Guay, Michele Hadden, Susan L. Hafer, Pamela Heinly, Gretchen Hess, Tammie Kennedy, Michael Kushner, Michelle LaFaver, Maria Lusica, Elizabeth Marks, Polly Mathys, Mike McDonough, Gail Metzger, Jamie Ott, Kristy Peat, Marina Piccioni, David Reber, Jamie Reiger, Courtney Renshaw, Cynthia Rothenberger, Diane Roulston, Jennifer Rumig, Julie Schlappich, Claribel Seda, Sarah Shayka, Linda Sheridan, Lauren Shetler, Hannah Short, Heather Spangler, Kristen Spotts, Stacia Stasnek, Michael Stock, Theresa Swoyer, James Terrey, Amanda Tshudy, Tabatha Vega, Stephen Walsh, Shirley Williams, Jessica Wiscount, Stephanie Wisniewski, and Keiko Wolfe
Delta Mu Delta Honor Society: Delta Mu Delta is an honor society for junior, senior and graduate students who demonstrate outstanding academic achievement in business. Membership in the society is limited to students whose achievement places them in the top twenty percent of their class. Membership in Delta Mu Delta symbolizes earnest, intelligent purpose and achievement. Alvernia University’s Business Program sponsors the Lambda Zeta Chapter of Delta Mu Delta through its accreditation in the Association of Collegiate Business Schools and Programs.
2009-2010 Inductees: Bridget Burger, Timothy Chrusch, Luis Colon, Tracy Conte, Linda Cutlip, Justine Fronheiser, Aimee Gilmore, Christy Glass, Joanna Graber, Valerie Hess, Michele Hubert, Zachary Lockwood, Valerie Mangan, Nathan Mannino, Robert McCormack, Casey Moore, Peggy Mull, Kylie Noll, Jeffery Persavage, Scott Phinney, Thomas Pienta, Andrew Raugh, Cathy Rosa-Martir, LeeAnn Smulligan, Kelly Stubbs, Salvatore Trinchillo, Clifford Ulrich, and Susan Wilson
Phi Alpha Honor Society: “Through knowledge-the challenge to serve,” the purposes of Phi Alpha Honor Society are to provide a closer bond among students of social work and promote humanitarian goals and ideals. Phi Alpha fosters high standards of education for social workers and invites into membership those who have attained excellence in scholarship and achievement in social work.
2009-2010 Inductees: Nicole E. Albert, Dorothy Casian, David Clark, Lauren B. Gibbons, Jaclyn Guignet, Tracie A. Koehnlein, Meghan L. McGlone, and Natalie Smith
Phi Alpha Theta Honor Society: This is the history honor society whose mission is to “promote the study of history through the encouragement of research, good teaching, publication and the exchange of learning and ideas among historians.”
2009-2010 Inductees: Gerald Powell and Steven Walsh
Pi Lambda Theta Honor Society: The Pi Lambda Theta is the oldest and most selective educational honor society that recognizes excellence in education. The mission of PLT is to honor outstanding educators and inspire them to be effective leaders who address critical issues in education. Membership in the society is by invitation only and is open to both undergraduate and graduate students who intend to pursue a career in education.
2009-2010 Inductees: Kristina Ames-Bender, Michelle Anastasio, Rene Berkhammer, Karen Boll, Robert Bonchack, Kathleen Bower, Dina Chiappelli, Kimelizabeth Collins, Tabitha Farrone, Tracey Fidler, Abby Forney, Barbara Freiwald, Sarah Gallen, Krista Gilbert, Shawna Lucas, Megan Majetsky, Thomas Miller, Brandon Oakill, Harry Pytak, Jr., Cathleen Resch, Pamela Rojas, Jessica Troutman, Shelley Vojtasek, and Jessica Wiscount
Psi Chi National Honor Society: Psi Chi is a National Honor Society whose purpose is to encourage, stimulate and maintain excellence in scholarship of the individual members in all fields, particularly in psychology, and to advance the science of psychology. The most fundamental intent is to provide psychology majors and minors who have excelled in courses the ability to perform service in their field as well as be nationally recognized as a scholar of psychology. This organization is an excellent means upon which students can create a network for future career and academic goals and aspirations. 2009-2010 Inductees: Allison Blair, Cory Carbone, Amy Dilworth, Danielle Fessenbecker, Luis Fontanez, Ashley Frain, Samantha Nagy, Emily Ranck, Tonya Rutt, Benjamin Schuettler, and Theresa Walsh
St. Thomas More Honor Society: The St. Thomas More Honor Society is the local honor society of the Criminal Justice Department and is open to all criminal justice majors who meet the membership criteria. New members must be a Criminal Justice major, must be an active member of the Criminal Justice Association, must have attained junior status academically at time of application, must have completed 15 credits in Criminal Justice at Alvernia University at the time of application, must have a 3.2 Grade Point Average in Criminal Justice in their major and a 3.2 overall GPA at the time of application, must attend the banquet in all years of eligibility, must attend Honors Convocation, must demonstrate knowledge of the life of Saint Thomas More as a model and patron for Criminal Justice majors, and must make one time dues payment at the time of application.
2009-2010 Inductees: Brandi Grubb, Kara Swope, Daniel Bullock, Sean Buck, Kevin Mickle, Frank Waller, Jesse Stock, and Ryan Hermany
Sigma Tau Delta Honor Society: Sigma Tau Delta is the International English Honor Society. The purposes of this Society are literary and educational. The Society strives to confer distinction for high achievement in English language and literature in undergraduate, graduate, and professional studies. Members must exhibit high standards of academic excellence and serve society by fostering literacy. The Kappa Pi Chapter at Alvernia University was established in 1981.
2009-2010 Inductees: Sean Gibbons, Kristopher Scott Rodgers, Thomas R. Wiltsey II, Maria Lusica, Brett Berghardt, Emily Rabadi, Angela Miller, Carly Glasmyre, Laura Eshbach, Rebecca Wisniewski, Katelyn Eby, and Heather Kissinger
Sigma Theta Tau Honor International Honor Society: The Honor Society of Nursing, Sigma Theta Tau International, is a not for profit organization whose mission is to improve the health of people worldwide through leadership and scholarship in nursing research, practice, education, and advocacy. Upsilon Zeta Chapter of Sigma Theta Tau International has the following purposes: to honor superior achievement, recognize and promote the development of leadership qualities, foster high professional standards, encourage creative work and strengthen commitment to the ideals and purposes of the profession of nursing.
2009-2010 Inductees: Beth Beckering, Bryson L.Brown, Meghan A. Derr, Chardonnay L. DiNenna, Joclyn C. Drum, Timothy R. Frazier, Kyle J. Gabrjolek, Rachel E. Groves, Jason P. Kemfort, Tammie L. Kennedy, Roxanne Lane, Megan O’Brien, Sarah M. Rudi, Heather M. Spangler, Havilyn Spohn, Gerald Stauffer, Michelle B. VanLuvanee, Tiffany M. Xiong , Cheryl (Cheri) L. Garman, M. Vanessa Gonzalez, and Mary Killian
STUDENT POSTER PRESENTATIONS Emily Berret Junior Political Science and History Major “Political Dynasties in the United States, Post-Civil War” Political dynasties have flourished in America since our earliest days. This project examines the large number of related families who have controlled Senatorships, House Seats, and Governorships since 1877 with an emphasis on the far west.
Sarah Heckman Senior Communications and English Major “Service Learning Courses in Communications for Non-Profit Organizations” This presentation focuses on my experience working directly with non-profit organizations; specifically with service learning courses in communications. Basic, inexpensive advertising strategies will be observed.
Jennifer Kingman Freshman Secondary Education: English Major “Baby Blues: No Right to Choose, No Way to Fight Back” In the 1950’s and 1960’s, society viewed unwed pregnant women as atypical and immoral. Because of this assumption, their rights as American citizens were hindered. They were forced to face the harsh conditions of maternity homes, a lack of information, and the unwanted adoptions that will forever affect them.
Ryan Lineaweaver Senior Sport Management and Communication Dual Major “Payroll Efficiency in Major League Baseball: Does It Matter?” I am comparing the amount of money that Major League Baseball teams spend on their players against how much money they should be making according to their production on the playing field. Does payroll efficiency really matter?
Jasmine Morales Senior Chemistry and Forensic Science Major “Synthesis of a Thin-Film Ratiometric Fluorescent Sensor for Nitroxyl Species” The goal of this project is to design and prepare a thin-film ratiometric fluorescent sensor for detecting nitroxyl species, HNO.
Harry Joseph Moran Freshman Accounting Major “Desecration of the Stars and Stripes” This presentation involves a careful examination of several cases heard by the United States Supreme Court between 1907 and 1990. My research reveals the Court’s consistent position to consider the desecration of the American flag, as a symbol of protest, protected under the First Amendment of the United States Constitution.
Heather Spangler Senior Nursing Major “Effects of a Structured Exercise Program in a Psychosocial Rehabilitation Setting” Using a case study research design, this study examined the effects of a structured exercise program in a psychosocial rehabilitation setting on members’ resting heart rate, blood pressure, and perceived quality of life. Common themes among members, staff, and students included enhanced physical health, well-being, self-esteem, and opportunities for interaction with others.
Keiko L. Wolfe Senior Psychology Major “Doodling, Attention, and Information Retention” Three experimental groups (doodlers, note takers, control) will be compared to see which can retain the most information from an auditory tape.
Alvernia University Faculty Scholarship Today, as we honor students and faculty with annual awards, we also recognize faculty members who have authored scholarly works, presented findings and new ideas (both locally and abroad), performed time-honored musical pieces to enthralled audiences, or received awards and grants in the past year. Alvernia University’s commitment to academic excellence is reflected in its faculty’s wide-ranging scholarship —from several year’s worth of research culminating in well-written books to creative analysis presented at national and international conferences. Faculty scholarship activity at Alvernia is complementary to courses of study offered to our students, which allows professors to accord interesting and timely information related to a variety of chosen fields. Please enjoy the faculty scholarship, divided into four sections:
• Publications & Recordings • Presentations & Panels
• Performances • Awards, Grants, & Installations
Publications & Recordings
Dolores Bertoti Associate Professor Occupational Therapy and Athletic Training
Scott Ballantyne, Ed.D., PRSBA Associate Professor of Business
Content consultant for the new dictionary Stedman’s Pocket Medical Dictionary. Philadelphia: Wolthers Klower Health/ Lippincott, Williams and Wilkins, 2010. Serving as a consultant to Lippincott, Williams and Wilkins Publishers and Stedman’s Medical Dictionary for the Health Professions and Nursing, Professor Bertoti reviewed the athletic training and occupational therapy content of the dictionary and assisted in compression of the content into the pocket version.
Co-authored “Tenure Track Faculty Perceptions of Leadership Capacity in Adjunct Faculty: The Need to Maintain Franciscan Identity,” Published in the ASBBS 2010 Preceedings, Vol 17, N1 pp 518-526. The purpose of this study was to determine the perception of full-time faculty regarding the leadership capability of adjunct faculty in institutional governance and Franciscan brand identity. Co-authored with Beth Berret & William Harst. Reviewed Beyond the Boycott: Labor Rights, Human Rights and Transnational Activism, by Seidman, Gay W., 2007, Russell Sage Foundation, New York, NY. Reviewed Let Them In: The Case for Open Borders, by Riley, Jason L. 2008 Gotham Books, New York, NY. Reviewed The World’s Business Cultures and How to Unlock Them, by Tomalin, Barry & Nicks, Mike, 2007 Stylus Publishing Sterling, VA.
Beth A. Berret, Ed.D., SPHR Associate Professor of Business Co-authored “Tenure Track Faculty Perceptions of Leadership Capacity in Adjunct Faculty: The Need to Maintain Franciscan Identity,” published in ASBBS 2010 Conference Proceedings, Vol. 17, No. 1, pg. 518-526.
Published an invited book review of D. B. Instant Notes in Motor Control, Motor Learning and Development. Journal of Athletic Training: NATA News. October, 2009. The National Athletic Training Association invited Professor Bertoti to review a new publication in the field: Instant Notes in Motor Control, Motor Learning and Development, by Utley and Astill and write a review for publication in the NATA News of the Journal, page 41, October, 2009. Reviewed Weaver, L.J. and Ferg, A.L. Therapeutic Measurement and Testing: The Basics of ROM, MMT, Posture and Gait Analysis. Delmar Centgage Learning, 2010.
Peggy C. Bowen-Hartung, Ph.D., CTS Associate Professor of Criminal Justice Consultant for chapter, “Law Enforcement Contact with Native Americans,” in Shusta, et al. Multicultural Law Enforcement: Strategies for Peacekeeping in a Diverse Society (5th ed.,) Prentice Hall. Prentice Hall, 2010. Referenced over 15 times in various areas of the chapter regarding history, contact and strategies for working with the Native American population. Reviewed the chapter for content and accuracy. Reviewed Report Writing Essentials and The New Police Report Manual (2nd ed.) Ohlinger Publishing Services, April 2009. Reviewed the two books listed above for content, accuracy and technical expertise. These are textbooks used to teach report writing to law enforcement personnel. Peer Reviewer for Manuscript: Interviewing and Interrogating: The Art and the Craft. Ohlinger Publishing Services, April 2009. Reviewed the manuscript for content, accuracy, and technical expertise.
Rosemarie Chinni, Ph.D. Associate Professor of Chemistry
Kathleen Muzevich, Ed.D. Assistant Professor of Education
Co-authored R.C. Chinni, D.A. Cremers, L.J. Radziemski, C. Navarro-Northrup, and M. Bostian. “Detection of Uranium Using Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy.” Applied Spectroscopy, Vol. 63, pp 1238-1250, Nov. 2009. The goal of this work is a detailed study of uranium detection by LIBS for application to activities associated with environmental surveillance and detecting weapons of mass destruction. This study was used to assist development of LIBS instruments for standoff detection of bulk and surface contamination of radiological and nuclear materials.
Reviewed proposals for the International Reading Association 55th Annual Convention, Chicago, IL, April 25-28, 2010. Reviewed 17 proposals submitted for possible inclusion in the program for the convention. Proposal topics focused on assessments for teaching, strategies for teaching early literacy and beginning readers, and teaching the relationship between writing and reading.
Co-authored D.A. Cremers and R.C. Chinni. “Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS)—Capabilities and Limitations.” Applied Spectroscopy Reviews, Vol. 44, pp 457-506, Nov. 2009. During the past decade there has been intense activity in the field of LIBS. This includes studies regarding laser ablation, the laser plasma, and the development of methods. This overview of the LIBS method, discusses its many advantages and important limitations as an analytical method and how these relate to potential applications.
Edgar J. Hartung, M.A., JD Associate Professor of Criminal Justice Reviewed manuscript for the International Journal of Teaching and Learning in Higher Education (IJTLHE), January 11, 2010. Professor Hartung completed a review of a manuscript for the International Journal of Teaching and Learning in Higher Education entitled “Unfolding the Focus Group Experiential Learning Process.” He reviewed the manuscript for content, accuracy, and technical expertise.
James R. Klucsarits Assistant Professor of Biology Co-Authored “Why are American Kestrel Populations Declining in North America? Evidence from Nest-Box Programs.” J.Raptor Research 43(4): 274-282. This paper is the result of a collaborative effort combining results from long-term studies of American Kestrel NestBox Programs in North America to examine possible causes of population declines of Kestrels. Potential causes examined are the spread of West Nile Virus, increases in Cooper’s Hawks populations, and loss of suitable habitats.
Reviewed PDE Program of a Pre K-4 Certification Program Application from a PA College, February-March, 2010. An assessment rubric was issued to judge the merit of the application in a variety of areas including mission statement, course content to meet required competencies, course syllabi, assessments, diversity, faculty qualifications, etc. (College name must remain confidential as per PDE). Authored “The good, the bad, and the ugly: Lessons preservice teachers learned at a conference” - published in Reading Today, Volume 27, No. 5, April/May 2010. This article details the experiences of a group of preservice teachers who attended the Keystone State Reading Conference in October, 2009. Upon returning from the conference, students shared their impressions regarding teacher behavior during presentations, as well as how they were treated by sales representatives in the exhibit hall.
Mary B. Schreiner, Ph.D. Associate Professor of Education Co-authored “Chapter 49 & University Qualifications for Faculty: Reconciling the Expectations for Teacher Educators.” PACEC Action, Vol.48, pp. 18-19, Spring 2009. Future teachers are now required to have knowledge of children with disabilities, taught by teacher education faculty with “deep knowledge and expertise” in special education. A review of Department of Education expectations revealed a need for creative approaches to meet demands imminent for teacher education programs in Pennsylvania.
Bongrae Seok Associate Professor of Philosophy Authored “Franciscan Themes in Leadership Philosophy,” the AFCU Journal Vol. 6-1 pg. 42-51, January 2009. The paper explores two different types of leadership philosophies (power based leadership and service based leadership) and discusses how the Franciscan ideals of service and humility are represented in service-based leadership.
Spencer S. Stober, Ed.D. Professor of Biology Director of the Ph.D. Program in Leadership Co-authored (with Dr. Donna Yarri) God, Science, and Designer Genes (Praeger/ABC-CLIO Press), 2009 This book provides a unique approach to the central ethical dilemmas in contemporary science, including the current state of genetic technologies and insightful discussions of moral/theological questions. We explore issues such as stemcell research, cloning, genes and behavior, genetic discrimination, designing our children, and the justice issues raised by them.
Karen S. Thacker, Ph.D., RN, CNE Dean, College of Professional Programs Associate Professor of Nursing Co-authored Thacker, K.S. & Long, J. M. “Family presence in final moments: A precious gift.” Journal of Christian Nursing, 27(1), 140-144, 2010.
The illness of a teenager illustrates advocacy for family presence in the ICU during complex care. Family participation supports physical, emotional, and spiritual needs, allowing for open communication. Although critical care, heart and emergency nursing associations support family presence and holistic care, family presence remains controversial.
Judith R. Warchal, Ph.D. Professor of Psychology and Counseling Co-authored “Values—A study of teacher and student perceptions in four countries.” U.S.-China Review, July 2009. This international study compared the values prevalent among the students and teachers of Universities in Bangladesh, Japan, USA, and Germany. The results of this research suggest that value preferences among university students and teachers across countries are more similar than different, suggesting a homogenizing effect (Boli, 2005) on human values.
M.Eva Weicker, M.D., M.B.A Assistant Professor of Biology
Donna Yarri, Ph.D. Associate Professor of Theology
Authored NCLEX Anatomy and Physiology Review Ed.1, Publication: Linus Pub. Inc. This easy-to-read outline review follows the unique format that lets students review and link to important concepts in A&P for NCLEX exams. The book outlines key facts for in-depth review; the exterior column lists only the most crucial points for quickest review of disease and normal and abnormal laboratory values.
Co-authored (with Spencer S. Stober) God, Science, and Designer Genes (Praeger/ABC-CLIO Press), 2009. This book provides a unique approach to the central ethical dilemmas in contemporary science, including the current state of genetic technologies and insightful discussions of moral/theological questions. We explore issues such as stemcell research, cloning, genes and behavior, genetic discrimination, designing our children, and the justice issues raised by them.
Mary Ellen Wells, JD, LLM Associate Professor of Business Co-authored “Comparing the Intensity of Student Attitude and Perception Changes Toward Foreign Countries from Short-term Travel Abroad Programs: A Preliminary Longitudinal Study.� Accepted for presentation at the Eastern Education Research Association (EERA) Conference, February, 2010. This study measures the intensity of short-term study abroad programs on cultural/racial/ethnic attitudes of students.
Reviewed Babies by Design in Ethics and Medicine: An International Christian Perspective on Bioethics Journal, 2009. The review offered an overview of and critical reflection on a book by one of the most well-known religious ethicists working in the area of ethics and genetics.
Presentations & Panels Theresa M. Adams, RN, MSN Assistant Professor of Nursing Co-presented “School Nurse Book Clubs: Using Literature as a Continuing Education Strategy,” National Association of School Nurse 41st Annual Conference, Boston, June 2009. Current nursing literature supports the use of book clubs as a valid method of continuing professional education. Through reading and discussion, school nurses learned how they can increase their knowledge of nursing history and practice and become better prepared to address current challenging healthcare issues.
Scott Ballantyne, Ed.D., PRSBA Associate Professor of Business Presented “Comparing the Intensity of Student Attitude and Perception Changes Toward Foreign Countries from Shortterm Travel Abroad Programs: A Preliminary Longitudinal Study,” Eastern Education Research Association (EERA) Conference, February 2010.
This study measures the intensity of short-term study abroad programs on cultural, racial, and ethnic attitudes of students. Presented “Tenure Track Faculty Perceptions of Leadership Capacity in Adjunct Faculty: The Need to Maintain Franciscan Identity” Presented at the American Society of Business and Behavioral Sciences (ASBBA) Conference in Las Vegas, February 2010. The purpose of this study was to determine the perception of full-time faculty regarding the leadership capability of adjunct faculty in institutional governance and Franciscan brand identity. Co-authored with Beth Berret and William Harst. Presented and created “Utilizing Community Engagement to Demonstrate Excellence in Business School Programs” at the Eastern Council of Business Schools and Programs 18th Annual Conference, Arlington, VA. This project presented ideas and examples of how to utilize community service projects to enhance the education of students as they tackle community problems through the use of graduate capstone courses.
Beth A. Berret, Ed.D., SPHR Associate Professor of Business Presented “Comparing the Intensity of Student Attitude and Perception Changes Toward Foreign Countries from Shortterm Travel Abroad Programs: A Preliminary Longitudinal Study,” Eastern Education Research Association (EERA) Conference, February 2010. This study measures the intensity of short-term study abroad programs on cultural, racial, and ethnic attitudes of students. Presented “Tenure Track Faculty Perceptions of Leadership Capacity in Adjunct Faculty: The Need to Maintain Franciscan Identity,” American Society of Business and Behavioral Sciences (ASBBA) Conference in Las Vegas, February 2010. The purpose of this study was to determine the perception of full-time faculty regarding the leadership capability of adjunct faculty in institutional governance and Franciscan brand identity.
Tim H. Blessing, Ph.D. Professor of History and Political Science Presented “Trailing Sarah Palin” Midwest Political Science Association, April 2009. Evaluated the impact of personal visits by candidates on voters. The impact of personal appearances by candidates appeared to be minimal when nationwide county returns were examined using cluster analysis.
Peggy C. Bowen-Hartung, Ph.D., CTS Associate Professor of Criminal Justice Presented “The Challenges of Integrating Service Learning into a Research Methods Course,” at the Annual Meeting of the Pennsylvania Association of Criminal Justice Educators, Slippery Rock University, PA, April 4, 2009. An overview of Service Learning as it relates to undergraduate Criminal Justice courses. Examples of the difficulties of integrating Service Learning components into a Criminal Justice Research Methods course were provided and included assessment techniques such as an experiential research paper, reflective journal, ethical case studies and a service-learning portfolio. Chaired panel of the “Human Trafficking, the Right to Die and Appreciation of Non-Verbal Behaviors,” at the Annual Meeting of the Pennsylvania Association of Criminal Justice Educators, April 4, 2009.
Judged graduate and undergraduate student paper competitions for the Pennsylvania Association of Criminal Justice Educators Annual Meeting, Slippery Rock University, April 4, 2009. Chaired the panel of judges and participated as a judge in the student paper competitions. Approximately 50 Graduate and Undergraduates from institutions of higher education submitted papers for competition. The purpose of the competition is to provide students an avenue to showcase their research. Interviewed for The Psychological Components of Stress and Available Resources for Police Officers and their Families, Reading Eagle, May 5, 2009. One of a series of articles by the Reading Eagle on the stress of working the Criminal Justice field. Her comments were based on 30 plus years of experience in the Criminal Justice arena—both as a law enforcement officer and as a psychologist debriefing those involved in traumatic situations.
Travis A. Berger, M.Ed. Instructor of Sport Management Presented “Team & Player Development Clinic” Pine Grove Recreation Park, PA, August 10-14, 2009. Training sessions for Pine Grove Boys H.S. soccer team focusing on team tactics, team cohesion, and player development. Presented “The Psychology of Player Development.” Twin Valley H.S., PA. March 21, 2009 and Boyertown H.S., PA, March 28, 2009. Training session for Berks Ajax (ages 15-18) concentrating on the fundamental cognitive and behavioral interventions required for player development. Presented “Unleashing Every Child’s Potential: The Role of the Servant Leader Youth Sport Coach.” Hamburg M.S., August 5, 2009. The third session of a Youth Sport Seminar presented to the coaches of the Hamburg Youth Soccer Association. The emphasis of the seminar was to explain how player motivation, motivational climate, and coaching style are important for player retention, player development, and sportsmanship. Presented “The Key to Motivation: Unlocking the Secret.” Hamburg M.S. August 4, 2009. The second session of a Youth Sport Seminar presented to the coaches of the Hamburg Youth Soccer Association. The emphasis of the seminar was to explain how player motivation, motivational climate, and coaching style are important for player retention, player development, and sportsmanship.
Presented “The Evolution of Youth Sport in America: Understanding the Historical Importance and Role of the Youth Sport Coach.” Hamburg M.S., PA, August 3, 2009. The first session of a three night Youth Sport Seminar presented to the coaches of the Hamburg Youth Soccer Association. The emphasis of the seminar was to explain how the three related areas of player motivation, motivational climate, and coaching style were important for player retention, player development, and overall sportsmanship. Presented “The Wheel of Excellence: Seven Critical Elements to Guide the Pursuit of Personal Excellence.” Alvernia University, PA, March 2009. A sport psychology lecture presented to students and parents during Accepted Students Day at Alvernia University.
Karen Ann V. Cameron, Ph.D., OTD, OTR/L Associate Professor of Occupational Therapy Occupational Therapy Program Director Presented “Intervention Strategies for Adolescents with Reflex Neurovascular Dystrophy,” American Occupational Therapy Association Annual Conference, Orlando, FL, April 29, 2010. This research paper presentation discussed the findings of this case based research study examining the effects of reflex neurovascular dystrophy on the adolescent female relative to occupational performance. Specifically, it presented best evaluation and intervention strategies for the occupational therapist. Reviewed conference proposal for 2010 American Occupational Therapy Association’s Annual Conference. Completed reviews of 50 research and general practice proposals submitted for consideration for presentation. Evaluated accreditation for the Accreditation Council of Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE). Serve as an ongoing member of the Roster of Accreditation Evaluators and completed multiple accreditation reviews of occupational therapy and occupational therapy assistant programs throughout the country.
Rosemarie Chinni, Ph.D. Associate Professor of Chemistry Co-presented Rosemarie C. Chinni, and David A. Cremers, “Analysis of Material Collected on Swipes Using LaserInduced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS),” NASLIBS (North American Symposium on Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy), New Orleans, LA, July 2009. Swipes are widely used to collect loose particulate matter from a surface to determine the type and extent of surface contamination. LIBS can determine material collected on swipes providing rapid, sensitive, and simultaneous detection of a large number of elements. Experiments included possible swipe material, detection limits, collection efficiency, and accuracy determination.
Bryan Dreibelbis, CMA, CFM Associate Professor of Business Presented “Was Reading the First Detroit?” to the Alvernia Seniors College, April 30, 2009. This presentation focused on the early motor vehicle industry in Reading and Berks County. The spirit of entrepreneurship was alive and well in Berks in the early 20th century. The presentation included information on the inventions, business climate, growth and eventual decline of this oncethriving local industry.
Catherine Emery, MS, OTR/L Assistant Professor of Occupational Therapy Presented “Outcomes Analysis Using FIM in Adult Rehabilitation.” Pennsylvania Occupational Therapy Association Annual Conference, Pittsburgh, October 2009. Poster presentation of research comparing FIM gain scores (FIM discharge minus FIM admission score) to length of stay (LOS) in acute rehabilitation facility. Group means comparison indicated no significant differences in FIM gain scores based on LOS.
Deborah A. Greenawald, RN, Ph.D. Assistant Professor of Nursing
William A. Harst, Ed.D. Associate Professor of Education
Co-presented: ‘School Nurse Book Clubs: Using Literature as a Continuing Education Strategy.” National Association of School Nurses Annual Conference, Boston, MA, June 2009. Current nursing literature supports the use of book clubs as a valid method of continuing professional education. Through reading and discussion, school nurses learned how to increase knowledge and skills in order to become better prepared to manage a variety of current challenging healthcare issues, such as working with students from diverse cultures.
Co-authored “Tenure Track Faculty Perceptions of Leadership Capacity in Adjunct Faculty: The Need to Maintain Franciscan Identity,” American Society of Business and Behavioral Sciences (ASBBA) Conference, Las Vegas, February 2010. The purpose of this study was to determine the perception of full-time faculty regarding the leadership capability of adjunct faculty in institutional governance and Franciscan brand identity. Published in ASBBS 2010 Conference Proceedings Vol. 17, No. 1 p. 518-526.
Edgar J. Hartung, M.A., JD Associate Professor of Criminal Justice Presented “Distance Education: Not Viable for Criminal Justice Students.” Research paper presented at the Pennsylvania Association of Criminal Justice Educators Annual Meeting, Slippery Rock University, PA, April 4, 2009. Presentation listed the challenges of distance education for undergraduate criminal justice students. Professor Hartung emphasized the critical skills and abilities, such as oral communication and hands-on scenarios that in his opinion are critical for criminal justice practitioners, but cannot effectively be taught via distance education. Judged the graduate and undergraduate student paper competition for the Pennsylvania Association of Criminal Justice Educators Annual Meeting, April 4, 2009, Slippery Rock University. Fifty-One graduate and undergraduate students from institutions of higher education in Pennsylvania submitted papers for the competition. The purpose of the competition was to provide students an avenue to showcase their research projects. Keynote Speaker for the Reading Police Academy Graduating Class of 2009-02, December 13, 2009. Professor Hartung was honored to be the keynote speaker for the Reading Police Academy Graduating Class of 200902. The graduation ceremony was held at the Inn at Reading. Guest Commentator for Fox Business News, “FBI to Hire Eight Hundred Special Agents.” New York, February 26, 2009. Interviewed by reporter for the Reading Eagle newspaper, May 5, 2009. Professor Hartung was interviewed by a reporter on the topic of “Stress for Police Officers and their Families.” He spoke with authority based on his more than 32 years experience as a law enforcement practitioner, including 27 years as an FBI Special Agent, and five years as a police officer.
Daria T. LaTorre, J.D. Associate Professor of Criminal Justice Presented “The Criminal Justice Curriculum: Skills or Substance.” Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences, San Diego, CA, Feb. 24, 2010. The undergraduate CJ curriculum should prepare students to become a successful criminal justice professional. What knowledge base and/or skills does a successful student possess upon graduation? Are employers looking for students to
possess the requisite substantive knowledge or a specific skill set? Different models of criminal justice educational models may yield various results. Panelist for Junior Achievement 2009 Young Women’s Symposium, November 20, 2009. Served on panel to discuss Criminal Justice Education and future careers in the profession.
Kathleen Muzevich, Ed.D. Assistant Professor of Education Presented “Mapping Sounds to Print: Engaging the Four-Part Processor,” at the Keystone State Reading Association 42nd Annual Conference, Hershey, PA, October 27, 2009. This interactive session began with a brief explanation of the four-part processing system. A variety of engaging activities that support phonics development and keep students actively engaged and on task were presented. Teachers revisited a familiar topic and left with new ideas to enliven their teaching, including at-risk and ELL populations. Presented “The Making and Shaping of a Professional: Uncovering the Perils of Piercings, Tattoos, and Facebook,” at the AACTE 62nd Annual Meeting Atlanta, GA, 2010. Our dialogue addressed the dispositions required of those entering the teaching profession. Conversations centered on society’s expectations of teacher professionalism: acting, looking, and becoming the part. Participants discussed initiatives at their institutions that brought about significant change that hold promise for the improvement of teacher preparation in this area.
Neil H. Penny, OTR/L, Ed.D. Assistant Professor of Occupational Therapy Presented “Evaluating Student Outcomes in the Area of Ethical Reasoning.” American Occupational Therapy Association 90th Annual Conference and EXPO, Orlando Florida, April 29-May 2, 2010. Presentation of the findings from a mixed methodology research design that investigated the usefulness of DIT-2 as a student outcome measure in the area of ethical reasoning. The data gathered from students and faculty. Co-presented (with Nicole Keller and Julia Ryan) “Barriers to a Level II Occupational Therapy Mental Health Fieldwork.” American Occupational Therapy Association 90th Annual Conference and EXPO, April 29-May 2, 2010, Orlando Florida. Occupational therapy incorporates a holistic view when
treating the client. Level II fieldwork allows the student to combine academic knowledge and clinical reasoning when treating a client. This qualitative study explored the barriers that occupational therapy academic fieldwork coordinators face when placing a level II occupational therapy student in a mental health setting.
John A Rochowicz, Jr., Ed.D. Professor of Mathematics Refereed “Spreadsheets and the Discovery of New Knowledge� by Abramovich, Sergei and Leonov, Gennady A. for the journal Spreadsheets in Education (eJSiE), Vol. 3: Iss. 2, Article 1, 2009. This paper describes how higher level mathematical disciplines are interrelated. Generalization of algebraic polynomials to Fibonacci-like polynomials and cyclic phenomena is demonstrated. Readers begin to understand how new ideas are developed and abstracted. A new class of polynomials was discovered as an extended inquiry into a two-parametric difference equation using a spreadsheet.
Developed and scored the Annual Berks County Mathematics Championship, Alvernia University, November 16, 2009. Five local colleges and universities share hosting of the annual Berks County Mathematics Championship. Rochowicz and Professor John Gieringer wrote, implemented, solved, and scored the contest problems. The top ten winners were placed. Coaches, teachers, and students commented that the test was difficult but fair. Judged physics and physical science projects at the Reading Berks Science and Engineering Fair (RBSEF) March 15, 2009. Through thorough analyses and student interviews, a top 10 list was compiled from about 200 exhibits. One of the winners developed a device that stored electrical energy using a circuit. The final task of the judging committee was to select the top candidate from all the fields of science displayed at the fair.
Mary B. Schreiner, Ph.D. Associate Professor of Education Presented “IEP Road Hazards with Defensive Driving Techniques Beginning Teachers Need to Know.” Pennsylvania Council for Exceptional Children, November 2009. The potential perils of the Individual Education Plan, the legal document and process for students receiving special education, with demonstration of how these perils can be managed effectively, was presented in an interactive workshop to students about to enter the field, joined by teacher educators, parents, and attorney-advocates.
Bongrae Seok Associate Professor of Philosophy Presented “Virtue and Emotion: Moral Psychology of Early Confucian Philosophy”, Neo-Confucian Study, Columbia University, New York, February 6, 2009. The paper analyzes and interprets Confucian moral philosophy from the perspective of affective moral psychology and develops a view that Confucian moral philosophy is based on an emotional but idealistic model of human being. Presented “Character or Situation? A Confucian Response to Situational Social Psychology,” APA (the American Philo-
sophical Association) Conference, Pacific Division, San Francisco, March 2010. A Confucian response to the challenge regarding the consistency and integrity of virtue and character in the human moral behavior, arguing that the seemingly odd combination of the consistency of character traits and the openness of the mind to the morally relevant situational conditions represents a unique position of Confucian moral philosophy. Presented “Emotion and Embodied Cognition,” The American Philosophical Association Conference, Eastern Division, New York, December 27, 2009. The paper compares emotion in Confucian philosophy with embodied cognition, i.e., non-representational and nonsubjective but interactive and unbiased revelation of self and the world, and discusses how embodied cognition combines the cognitive and moral self in Confucian philosophy. Presented “Confucian Virtue, Arête or not?” The Fifth International Conference on Ancient and Medieval Philosophy, Fordham University, New York, October 16, 2009. In their discussions of ideal human person and moral values, Confucian philosophers identify, analyze, and compare ideal character traits and moral dispositions that underlie human actions and decisions. The paper discusses the diversity of Confucian virtues and evaluates the validity of the aretaic interpretation of Confucian moral philosophy.
Presented “Is shame a virtue? Moral psychology of shame and virtue.” Felician Ethics Conference, Felician College, Rutherford, N.J., April 18, 2009. By critically analyzing Aristotle’s discussion of shame, the author develops an interpretation where shame is regarded as anterograde regret. People feel remorseful of the choices they made in the past but can also feel the same for the choices they are currently making with regard to goals they want to achieve. Presented “Cognitive Science and Confucian Reciprocity” Association for Asian Studies, Conference, Chicago, IL, March 26, 2009. The paper discusses and analyzes the notion of shu (do not impose on others what you yourself do not desire) in Confucian moral philosophy. The author focuses on how current studies of altruism and social cognition in cognitive science can be used to interpret Confucian reciprocity. Presented “The Value and Beauty of Open Space: Is Space Empty Nothingness?” International Association for the Study of Environment, Space, and Place; Geo-Aesthetics Conference, Towson University, Baltimore, March 6, 2009. Space is usually regarded as empty nothingness, homogeneous background, or the gap between two objects without positive value of its own. The paper discusses the value and the beauty of open space not as the boundary of the existing objects but as an entity with its encompassing and integrating quality.
Spencer S. Stober, Ed.D. Professor of Biology Director of the Ph.D. Program in Leadership Presented “Ecuador: Mother Nature’s Utopia,” 6th International Conference on Environmental, Cultural, Economic and Social Sustainability, University of Cuenca, Ecuador, January 5, 2009. This paper considered political and cultural factors that played a formative role in a recent move by Ecuador to include key environmental provisions designed to protect ecosystems by recognizing Pachamama (“Mother Earth”) in its 2008 Constitution. The indigenous people of Ecuador have an intimate relationship with nature. Co-presented (with Donna Yarri) “What Makes Us So Doggone Special? Darwin’s Challenge to Human Superiority,” Darwin Symposium, San Diego State University, November 21, 2009 This paper explored the impact of Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution by providing background himself as well as the general outline of his evolutionary theory; and then examined three different approaches within Christianity to
evolutionary theory—creationism, intelligent design, and theistic evolution. Co-presented (with Donna Yarri) “God, Science, and Designer Genes,: A Model for Integrating Teaching and Scholarship,” National Association of Practical and Professional Ethics, March 12, 2010. In this presentation, we present a pedagogical model for how we incorporated the well-known Boyer model for scholarship. We demonstrated how our interdisciplinary work in the area of the human genome demonstrated his components of discovery, integration, application, and teaching. Judged the National Student Ethics Bowl, Association for Practical and Professional Ethics, March 11, 2010. This competition brings together the best ethics bowl teams of colleges across the country to compete with regard to their expertise in analyzing case studies from an ethical perspective. The role of the judge involves being present at three of these competitions assessing their moral reasoning, asking them questions, and assigning scores.
Michele Shuman, MSN, RN, CCRN Assistant Professor of Nursing Co-presented “Clinical Consultations: Developing EvidenceBased Practice Expertise in Future Nurse Educators” Presented at the American Association of Colleges of Nursing 2010 Master’s Education Conference, February 26, 2010. This presentation described an innovative learning strategy for graduate students preparing for a nursing faculty role. Students researched best practices for clinical topics and conducted interviews with multidisciplinary clinical experts. Input from experts was synthesized with published research findings to develop recommendations for practice guidelines.
Mary Ellen Symanski, Ph.D., RN Associate Professor of Nursing Co-presented “Clinical Consultations: Developing EvidenceBased Practice Expertise in Future Nurse Educators” Presented at the American Association of Colleges of Nursing 2010 Master’s Education Conference, February 26, 2010. This presentation described an innovative learning strategy for graduate students preparing for a nursing faculty role. Students researched best practices for clinical topics and conducted interviews with multidisciplinary clinical experts. The input from the experts was synthesized with published research findings to develop recommendations for practice guidelines.
Karen S. Thacker, Ph.D., RN, CNE Dean, College of Professional Programs Associate Professor of Nursing Co-presented Thacker, K.S. & Symanski, M.E. “Navigating the Gray Areas of Student Behavior Issues”, presented at the Baccalaureate Education Conference, AACN, Chicago, IL, November 20, 2009. This session presented a tested road map for developing a collaborative and consistent approach to students who present unprofessional behaviors in the clinical, classroom, laboratory, and out-of-class settings. In a case study format, participants were guided through a three-step approach that included: pre-planning, acute intervention, and post-acute phase. Co-presented Symanski, M.E., & Thacker, K.S. “A System of Support for High Risk Nursing Students: Lessons Learned” poster presentation at the 2009 NLN Education Summit, Philadelphia, PA, September 23-26, 2009. The Pre-Nursing Program gives a second-chance opportunity for students whose academic high school records fell below entrance requirements. In the program’s sixth year, many lessons have been learned and numerous students have overcome the “not good enough” academic stigma to successfully progress through nursing education.
Co-presented “International service-learning: Who benefits?” The Third International Symposium on Service-Learning. Athens, Greece, November 2009. What are the potential ethical issues raised by participation in International service learning? Best practices for the creation of partnerships that deliberately aspire to benefit all members involved in ISL are proposed. The roles and responsibilities of the faculty, students, administrators, and community partners are discussed. Presented “Assisting families in coping with trauma.” The Reading Hospital and Medical Center Health Science Nursing Program, June 2009. The psychological impact of trauma on patients, families, and medical professionals was presented, along with effective interventions for coping with trauma. Emphasis was placed on the appropriate responses of health care providers to patients and families who experienced a traumatic event. Presented “Families in Crisis: When an Illness or Accident Strikes Home.” Alvernia University Human Services Conference, June 12, 2009. This presentation explained the psychological responses that occur when an individual/family experiences a physically or psychologically traumatic event. Appropriate interventions for coping with trauma were presented.
Judith R. Warchal, Ph.D. Professor of Psychology and Counseling
Mary Ellen Wells, JD, LLM Associate Professor of Business
Co-presented “Reducing breast cancer disparities among Latinas: An interdisciplinary, community based model,” at American Psychological Association Conference, August 2009. Addresses barriers and develops culturally appropriate interventions to engage Latinas in preventative breast health activities. Opening dialogue among key community partners translates into substantive changes in healthcare delivery, development of culturally-sensitive and language appropriate intake, screening, and research instruments, bringing health services to a community center, and breast health education.
Presented “Regulating Online Commercial Speech: Oh, What a Tangled Web,” National Proceedings for the 84th Annual Academy of Legal Studies in Business (International) Conference, Denver, Colorado, August 2009. This paper analyzes issues regarding the commercial speech doctrine and free speech protection and their interrelationship with the Federal Trade Commission’s attempt to revise its regulations to incorporate the use of new technologies by marketers, potentially holding them liable for deceptive practices resulting from the buzz they create on the Internet.
Co-presented “Crossing disciplinary boundaries to infuse ethical decision making throughout the service-learning curriculum, How administrators, faculty, and students benefit,” Association of American Colleges and Universities Conference, Minneapolis, October 2009. This presentation involved a case based discussion of the ethical and moral dilemmas that administrators, faculty, and students encounter when engaging in service-learning. It also presented dilemmas from both local and international service-learning perspectives.
Kathleen Z. Wisser, MS, RN, CPHQ Assistant Professor of Nursing Presented “Surviving Facilitation: Achieving Success in the Team Process” at the American Association of Colleges of Nursing Annual MSN Conference, Orlando, FL, February 2009. This poster offered an overview of an innovative simulation scenario for RN-BSN nursing students to practice group problem-solving techniques. While trying to “stay alive” and “survive”, students practiced skills of facilitation. Skills encompassed team building, decision-making, getting the team to consensus, and how to deal with difficult team member.
Presented “The Use of Logic Modeling in Outcomes Measurement” at the National Association of Healthcare Quality Annual Conference, Grapevine, TX, September 2009. Programs must cast a critical eye when designing and implementing evaluative processes. This presentation examined how a mental health program used the logic model as a tool for illustrating critical program elements and identified outcomes and ways to measure outcomes for providing quality services and effective financial management.
Donna Yarri, Ph.D. Associate Professor of Theology Presented “Ethics in the Work of Woody Allen,” National American Academy of Religion meeting, November 9, 2009. This paper addressed some of the ethical concerns that inform a large part of Allen’s work, including the relationship between comedy and tragedy, the problem of evil, the meaning of life, the dread of death, and religion. God provides a strong backdrop for the discussion, even when God may not be explicitly referenced. Co-Presented (with Spencer S. Stober) “What Makes Us So Doggone Special? Darwin’s Challenge to Human Superiority,” Darwin Symposium, San Diego State University, November 2009. This paper explored the impact of Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution by providing background himself as well as the general outline of his evolutionary theory; and then examined three different approaches within Christianity to evolutionary theory—creationism, intelligent design, and theistic evolution. Co-Presented (with Spencer S. Stober) “God, Science, and Designer Genes: A Model for Integrating Teaching and
Scholarship,” National Association of Practical and Professional Ethics, March 12, 2010. In this presentation, a pedagogical model was used to incorporate the well-known Boyer model for scholarship. We demonstrated how our interdisciplinary work in the area of the human genome demonstrated his components of discovery, integration, application, and teaching. Judged National Student Ethics Bowl, Association for Practical and Professional Ethics, March 11, 2010. This competition brings together the best ethics bowl teams of colleges across the country to compete with regard to their expertise in analyzing case studies from an ethical perspective. Judges are present at three of these competitions, assessing their moral reasoning, asking them questions, and assigning scores. Presented “Religion and Popular Culture,” Theology with a Twist Program, Lancaster, January 5, 2010. This talk examined the importance of the increasing respected field of religion and popular culture. It explored different views with regard to religion and culture, and addressed the large part that popular culture (including television, the movies, and video games) plays in the lives of individuals as well as the church.
Awards, Grants & Installations Scott Ballantyne, Ed.D., PRSBA Associate Professor of Business Recipient of the 2009 “Excellence in Teaching Award” for Region 2 of the Association of Collegiate Business Schools and Programs. Recipient of the 2009 Lindback Distinguished Teaching Award form the Christian R. and Mary F. Lindback Foundation award as selected by the Honors and Awards committee of Alvernia University.
Beth A. Berret, Ed.D., SPHR Associate Professor of Business Recipient of the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) Foundation’s 2009 Advisor of the Year Award. This award, presented by the SHRM Foundation, recognizes outstanding service and leadership provided to student chapters by SHRM advisors.
Travis A. Berger, M.Ed. Instructor of Sport Management Fellowship Awarded: Twenty-Third Annual IUP Foundation Doctoral Fellowship, 2009-2010 academic year. The selection as a recipient of the fellowship reflects strong academic credentials and potential for excellence in teaching and research. Fellowship recipients are expected to contribute in an important way to the level of scholarship at IUP.
Karen Ann V. Cameron, Ph.D., OTD, OTR/L Associate Professor of Occupational Therapy Occupational Therapy Program Director Fellowship Awarded: 2009 American Occupational Therapy Association/American Occupational Therapy Foundation Leadership Fellow. The purpose of the year-long fellowship was to enhance the emergence of strong occupational therapy leaders within the academic community as well as building the profession’s capacity to influence and lead. Cameron was one of 16 selected from a national list of candidates.
Frances Ross Assistant Professor of Art Recipient of the Jack Coggins Memorial Prize for artwork titled, “Indian River” (a pastel painting) at the 32nd Annual Open Juried Art Exhibit- Reading Public Museum.
Karen S. Thacker, Ph.D., RN, CNE Dean, College of Professional Programs Associate Professor of Nursing Grant (funded): “Nursing Education Initiative for Scholarship and Retention Programs.” U.S. Department of Education, 2009. Initiative to increase ethnic and economic diversity in the nursing workforce. Funding for this project allows the nursing department to explore new interventions and measure their impact on retention. An aggressive retention program supports student success with a multi-tiered approach that includes financial assistance, professional mentorship and intense discipline-specific academic support.
Alvernia University Board of Trustees
CHAIR Kathleen D. Herbein ’95 Community VolunteerPartnerHeidi
PRESIDENT Thomas F. Flynn, Ph.D. Alvernia University
VICE CHAIR Alfred J. Weber Tweed-Weber Inc. President
S E C R E TA R Y Sr. Danielle Marie Kubelsky, OSF. Bernardine Franciscan Sisters
UNIVERSITY COUNSEL Heidi Masano, Esq. idi Masano Bradley Managing Partner PartnerHe
TRUSTEES EMERITI The Bernardine Franciscan Sisters The Hon. Mary Ann Campbell Salvatore M. Cutrona, Sr. Jess F. Cwiklinski P. Michael Ehlerman Frank A. Franco, M.D. Bernard Fromm John W. Gruber, M.D. Carolyn R. and T. Jerome Holleran Rev. Msgr. Felix A. Losito The Hon. Linda K.M. Ludgate ’77 The Hon. Thomas McMahon Janice Miller Carole Neag Chester M. Winters Robert T. Wright
Frances A. Aitken, CPA Berks County Community Foundation Senior Vice President for Finance & Operations
Sister Madonna Marie Harvath, OSF Bernardine Franciscan Sisters Congregational Minister
Richard A. Purcell, CPA ParenteBeard, LLC Partner
Carl G. Anderson, Jr. Cannondale Partners, LLC General Partner
Carol L. Hinds, Ph.D. Mount St. Mary’s University Professor
Deanna Reuben ’79 Studio for the Musical Arts Owner
Most Rev. John O. Barres, S.T.D, J.C.L., D.D. Bishop of Allentown
Sister Mary Margaret Jackson, OSF Bernardine Franciscan Sisters Assistant Congregational Minister
Don Schalk C.H. Briggs Company President/Chief Operating Officer
Cynthia Boscov Community Volunteer
William F. Schollins DELRI Industries President/Chief Executive Officer
James S. Boscov Boscov’s
Joanne M. Judge, Esq. Stevens & Lee, LLP Attorney/Shareholder
Sister Margaret Carney, OSF, S.T.D. St. Bonaventure University President
Steven S. Keiser ’80 Real Estate Entrepreneur
Judith Schwank Delaware Valley College Dean, Agriculture and Environmental Sciences
Kathleen W. Kleppinger ’83 Morgan Stanley Smith Barney Vice President, Wealth Management
Kevin F. St.Cyr Berk-Tek President
Thomas W. Martell Hub Fabricating Company Owner and CEO (retired)
James C. Sweeney Distributed Systems Services President
Robert J. McCormack ’82, M’09 Murphy McCormack Business Group, LLC President
Carl Staples County of Berks Chief Operations Officer
William H. Combs, III Draka USA Vice President, Business Development Michelle M. Davis Community Volunteer Steve Elmarzouky Islamic Center of Reading President Jonathan D. Encarnacion M’01 UPMC Health Plan Director, Strategic Management Michael Fromm Fromm Electric Supply Corp. President & Chief Executive Officer Kevin Georgetti, Esq. ’85 Broadway National Bank Vice President & General Counsel Rev. Thomas F. Gleeson, S.J. St. Joseph’s University Jesuit Community Minister
Sister Roberta Agnes McKelvie, OSF ’71 Bernardine Franciscan Sisters Councilor Michael A. Mullen SFS Intec, Inc. President, North American Operations Gerald A. Nau Lafayette Ambassador Bank President/Chief Executive Officer The Hon. Michael A. O’Pake Pennsylvania State Senate 11th District
Lawrence M. Thompson, Jr. Sovereign Bancorp Vice Chairman (retired) John D. Wanner, CAE ’82 Wanner Associates, Inc. President Sunil Y. Widge, Ph.D. Carpenter Technology Corporation CTO Emeritus Sister Shaun Kathleen Wilson, OSF ’69 Bernardine Franciscan Sisters Director, Office of Vocations Catherine D. Wright Community Volunteer
400 Saint Bernardine Street Reading, Pennsylvania 19607 888-alvernia www.alvernia.edu