Eastern Magazine Fall 2008 by EasternCTStateUniversity

Volume 7 Issue 1

Fall 2008

Connecticutâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Public Liberal Arts University

EASTERN Volume 7, Issue 1 | Fall 2008

In This Issue 1 From the President’s Desk 2 Science Building Opens its Doors 4 Alumni Give Kenton a Warm Sendoff 6 Heading Out Into the World 8 Alumni Celebrations 12 Collaborating for the Public Good 14 Eastern’s Music Man 16 Tribal Chairman Receives Honorary Degree 18 Learning is Fun at Any Age 19 AmeriCorps Volunteers

Fe a t u re s 20 Alumni News 24 On Campus 28 Philanthropy 30 Athletics 34 Class Notes 36 Final Thoughts I n s i d e b a c k c ove r Show Your Eastern Spirit

Please send story ideas to: Edward Osborn, Director of University Relations osborne@easternct.edu EASTERN Magazine is published by the Division of Institutional Advancement for the benefit of alumni, students, faculty, staff, and friends of Eastern Connecticut State University.

From the President’s Desk Perhaps the biggest news on campus this fall is the opening of our magnificent Science Building. With 174,000 square feet of space, this facility is our largest campus structure, and a testament to Connecticut’s commitment to Eastern and the economic vitality of our state. Eastern’s new science facility, complete with a sizable investment in instructional equipment, gives the University the capacity to make a significant contribution to our state’s science-related goals. In the future, you can expect to read more about the achievements of the faculty and students in our mathematics, computer science, environmental earth science, biology, and physical science departments. In the meantime, you can get a sense of our excitement by reading the story on pages 2-3. Science is not the only exciting news at Eastern. This issue of EASTERN Magazine offers a number of examples of how Eastern alumni are immersing themselves in their professional and civic careers. Examples include an alumnus who has just been appointed head of the San Diego Orchestra; five young alumni who have been leading volunteer service programs from Willimantic to Boulder, CO; and a recent 78-year-old graduate from New London who is still learning, still growing. These alumni stories are echoed by the success of current students, who gain self-confidence, enhance their skills, and are encouraged to achieve in Eastern’s outstanding liberal arts learning environment. One case in point is a group of students who created an award-winning television public service announcement this past spring on the issue of underage drinking. Add to these stories a number of shorter articles on philanthropic news, alumni events, campus activities, and athletic accomplishments, and I think you will find this issue of EASTERN Magazine to be enjoyable and compelling. Alumni, students, and faculty continue to demonstrate that Eastern’s special brand of liberal arts education empowers members of our campus to be active in their community and successful in their careers. I am confident that, as Eastern continues to advance our vision as a University of First Choice, you will be reading more stories of their success in the future.

Elsa M. Núñez President EASTERN

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BY AMY BRENNER-FRICKE

biochemical research. All labs will be equipped with modern high-tech instrumentation such as mass spectrometers, high-performance liquid chromatography, microplate readers, centrifuges, scanning UV spectrometers, modern electrophoresis and imaging equipment, and more.

astern Connecticut State University unveiled its new Science Building in September at the start of the fall 2008 semester. With 174,000 square feet spread over five stories of academic space (and a sixth floor dedicated to mechanical and electrical support of the building’s systems), the Science Building has immediately cemented its place on campus as an intellectual hub that fosters

faculty research, create a synergy between departments, and promote interdisciplinary studies. It is also expected that the building will become a conference site for local and regional meetings, especially those involving undergraduate research. Spread across the Science Building’s five floors are general-purpose

“It is an exciting time for the sciences at Eastern! The new building serves as a catalyst for coursework and undergraduate research by providing modern new classroom and laboratory space, as well as state-of-the-art equipment,” said Drew Hyatt, professor of Environmental Earth Science. “There will be many ways in which the building will enhance

It’s gigantic, it’s grand, it’s glorious — and it’s “green.” multidisciplinary approaches to advanced science and research. All science instruction, which used to be spread across seven locations, is now consolidated into the new facility. Departments housed in the new building include Biology, Computer Sciences, Environmental Earth Science, Mathematics, and Physical Science. Such consolidation will serve to improve the capacity for science instruction and student-

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classrooms, a large resource room, a 132-seat lecture hall with a floorto-ceiling projection screen and a surround-sound audio system, a computer science suite of rooms, a greenhouse, and an observation deck for astronomy research. Laboratory space is also dedicated to an Imaging Center that will house a confocal microscope, a nuclear magnetic resonance facility, a plant-tissue culture lab, and specially built labs for microscopy and advanced

learning to benefit students pursuing careers and graduate studies in the sciences.” Construction costs totaled nearly $56 million. “Eastern is very grateful to the Governor, the General Assembly, and the Connecticut State University System for their investment in our new science facility,” said Eastern President Elsa Núñez. “Data shows that the United States is ranked only 26th in the world in preparing stu-

dents in the sciences. This new facility gives us confidence that Eastern can make a significant contribution as our nation responds to the need for more scientists.” Eastern students are already impressed with the new building. “With all of the extra space and resources, we’ll be able to do more things,” said Connor Morrison ’11, an Environmental Earth Science major from Coventry. “With more supplies and more equipment, we should be able to do better research. It’s definitely made me more animated about my science studies.” Added Kimberly Tingle ’09, a Biology major from Danielson, “This will help out with independent studies — there just wasn’t enough space to set up the projects before now. I was so excited about the building, I could hardly wait for classes to start!” In addition to its status as a center for science and research, the new building was designed to meet U.S. Green Building Council standards to achieve Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Silver Certification. Systems and materials used in construction were selected to minimize energy use and the

impact on natural resources. Included in the facility are day-lighting controls in all classrooms and offices; a glass-encased atrium; a grey-water system that recycles water within the building; chilled beams for cooling office space; variable-speed drives on lab hoods; recycled steel beams; indoor air-quality monitoring equipment; and recycled/renewable content in the carpeting, flooring, and casework. Tiered native plantings outside the building help reduce rainwater run off (which is collected for landscape irrigation and waste conveyance) and a bioswale limits the amount of storm water run off. Overall, the building provides a welcoming and attractive atmosphere for students and faculty while reaffirming Eastern’s commitment to environmental sustainability.

Connecticut to the forefront of math and science teaching and research.” “We are in a much better position to expose students to new technologies, support undergraduate research, and prepare tomorrow’s science teachers,” she added. A dedication ceremony for the new building will be held on Oct. 22. Joining President Núñez on the dais will be Connecticut State University Chancellor David G. Carter and Lawrence McHugh, chairman of the CSUS Board of Trustees. The ceremony will also include appearances by state officials, distinguished visitors, and other invited guests.

Carmen Cid, dean of the School of Arts and Sciences, said the building “enhances the math and science liberal arts undergraduate experience at Eastern” and called it “the best-designed example of how to encourage the interdisciplinary connections that will propel

From left:Wei Xiao Zheng ’12 of China and Kimberly Tingle ’09, a Biology major from Danielson, label chemical solutions in a laboratory in the new Science Building.

Math and Computer Alumni Give Kenton a Warm Sendoff BY AMY BRENNER-FRICKE

t was a night of fun, friendship, memories, and math jokes on April 26 as Eastern Connecticut State University bid a fond farewell to Mathematics/Computer Science Professor Stephen Kenton after a career that spanned 37 years.

PROFESSOR STEPHEN KENTON Below: A procession of students parade through the Student Center carrying oversized photos depicting Professor Kenton throughout the years.

The retirement party was held in conjunction with the Eighth Quadrennial Mathematics and Computer Science Reunion and Dinner Dance. Nearly 400 people attended the event, which was held in the Student Center Atrium. More than 175 math and computer science alumni were on hand, along with students, faculty, administration, staff, and guests. Laughter was the dominant theme of the evening, as light-hearted stories about Kenton’s time in the Peace Corps, in the class-

room, and in the community were shared. Kenneth DeLisa, vice president for institutional advancement, kicked off the event with a welcome to the attendees, followed by an introduction of the guest of honor. Remarks were provided by Eastern President Elsa Núñez, who complimented Kenton on his dedication to staying in touch with alumni over the years. “Tonight’s turnout is a testament that Steve not only excelled as a professor in the classroom but also excelled as a communicator, a mentor, and a friend to all his students.” Núñez also congratulated donors who have made pledges to the Stephen A. Kenton Endowed Scholarship, reporting that nearly $33,000 has been received from more than 70 donors, including leadership gifts of $2,000 from Mark Dressler ’79 and Sandra Jaros

Dressler ’78, and Michael Weitz ’88 and Catheryn Knight ’88. “Your support may be the difference between students coming to Eastern and graduating as math majors, or not coming at all,” Núñez said. Additional remarks were made by former Eastern president and current Connecticut State University System Chancellor David G. Carter, who presented Kenton with a citation marking the occasion; by Health and Physical Education Professor Robert Horrocks, who joked that he would miss Kenton because “Steve taught me the times tables up to 11”; and by Math and Computer Science Professor Mizan Kahn, who said Kenton was “one of the finest teachers I’ve seen in mathematics.” Special awards were also presented throughout the evening, including a

trophy given to Mike Radzvilowicz ’89 of Alberta, Canada, for the farthest distance traveled to the reunion; and a “Pi plate” (a dish emblazoned with the symbol that represents the ratio of a circle’s circumference to its diameter) awarded as a door prize. At the conclusion, a procession of students paraded through the room carrying oversized photos depicting Kenton throughout the years. Kenton thanked the crowd for having taken the time to attend the reunions and for having made the effort to stay connected to Eastern and to one another. “It’s the personal connections that made teaching so enjoyable, and it is these reconnections that are so welcome at our reunions,” he said, adding with a laugh, “Don’t worry, you’ll see me here again. Dr. Núñez gave me a job as hall monitor in Webb Hall.”

Former students were effusive in their praise of Kenton’s teaching methods and his sense of humor. “His door was always open any time you needed him — he couldn’t give you enough of his time,” said John Wall ’76, who laughed with Rene Charland ’76 while reminiscing about the time Kenton arranged a race between the math majors and the basketball team. “The deal was that if the math majors won, the basketball players had to walk around all week wearing pocket protectors.” Although he has retired, Kenton has no plans to slow down. He and his wife, Faith, will visit Thailand this fall. It’s part of their goal to “travel and live in interesting places,” he said. The Stephen A. Kenton Endowed Scholarship has been established to support Mathematics and Computer Science majors with unmet financial needs. For more information or to make a donation, contact Joseph McGann, director of institutional advancement, at (860) 465-4514 or mcgannj@easternct.edu.

Above left: Steve Kenton shares his going-away card at the April 26 reception in his honor. Above right: Kenton visits with CSUS Chancellor David G. Carter and Associate Dean Carol Williams of Eastern’s School of Continuing Education. Left: Marsha Davis, chair of the Mathematics and Computer Science Department, offers a photographic look down memory lane.

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Heading Out Into the World Eastern’s 118 th Commencement Exercises BY DWIGHT BACHMAN

Windsor, an active member of the MALES (Men Achieving Leadership Excellence and Success) student club, said the group’s advisors were “critical to the development of my leadership skills and success at Eastern.”

THOMAS SWEENEY ’83

hortly before Jeffrey Cullen, a communication major from New Jersey, received his diploma at Eastern Connecticut State University’s 118th Commencement, he reflected on his four years at Eastern. While he learned much about the broadcast business and plans to pursue a career in videography and filmmaking, Cullen said he also learned a lot “about life through the relationships I developed with the people here.” Like Cullen, many others among the 1,020 undergraduates and 157 graduate students who walked across the stage on May 18 found their stride at Eastern. Justin Henderson of

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Fatema F. Mithaiwala, an Accounting major from India who has landed a job with IBM, said “Eastern is a very good university and the Accounting faculty is the best anywhere. You get lots of personal attention.” Two professors who were retiring with a combined 73 years of teaching at Eastern — Michael Gable in Biology and Stephen Kenton in Mathematics — were reflective at their last commencement: “Today brings back lots of good memories of past graduations and past students,” said Gable. “It was especially great to see a former student in the audience as his own daughter graduated.” Added Kenton, “Commencement was very moving for me. I have long felt, and this was especially

heightened during the Commencement ceremony, how privileged I’ve been to be such an intrinsic part of the University.” Thomas Sweeney ’83 of Boulder, CO, delivered the Commencement address, telling graduates, “In college, you are told what to learn. In life, you have to choose what to learn.” Sweeney said if his mother and girlfriend hadn’t helped him fill out the application to attend Eastern, he wouldn’t have gone to college. He recounted how he earned a degree in mathematics at Eastern, married his girlfriend, Carolyn, and further

Above left: Thomas Sweeney ’83 delivers the Commencement address. Below left: Seniors take the “Make a Wish” walk on their way to Commencement.The walk completes a tradition begun at Convocation, when, as first-year students, they made the trek from the Foster Clock Tower to toss a coin into the fountain.The coins are then collected and stored for each freshman class to complete their circle as seniors. Below middle: Fola Sumpter ’08 of Norwalk receives congratulatory hugs from Nicholas Zennon (left) and Abby Ricklin ’07. At right: Nicole Fenton ’08 and Shannon Mack ’08 cheer on fellow graduates during the ceremony.

developed his talents and expertise in the telecommunications and information technology industries. Today, Sweeney is CEO and chairman of Incentra Solutions, which supplies turnkey storage and data management services to more than 2,000 mid-sized companies in North America and Europe. In 2006, Incentra was the fourth fastest-growing ITS company in the United States, and was named “Company of the Year” in 2007 by VAR Business 500. Sweeney said Eastern had helped give him a self-confidence to start up companies, manage people, and sit for national television interviews. “Eastern taught me how to teach myself, and for that, I will forever be in debt.” He is repaying that debt in his own way, having established an impressive internship program for Eastern students at his Boulder offices. Seven interns

have now participated in the summer program at Incentra. “It’s the best way I can think of to thank Eastern for what it has done for me,” he said. Before degrees were awarded, President Elsa Núñez gave her charge to the graduating class. “As you go out into the workforce and forge your own way, build your professional careers and your reputation on the values that you have been taught,” she said. “You are now the next generation of citizen leaders in our state and in our country. Together, you will be the force of change that can keep our country strong. It is your time.”

Eastern Awards Honorary Degree to Hollywood Casting Director

President Elsa Núñez and Susan McCray

In recognition of her professional and philanthropic contributions, Eastern Connecticut State University presented an honorary doctorate of humane letters to Susan McCray of Malibu, CA, at Eastern’s 118th Commencement. “What a wonderful day!” McCray said in accepting her degree. “I am so honored to be here. Eastern is a university of dreams — dreams that have come true, and those that will come true.” McCray’s career as a Hollywood casting director included work on such television shows as “Happy Days,” “Little House on the Prairie,” and “Highway to Heaven,” among others. In 1999, she established the Susan McCray Endowment Fund for Theatre Arts at Eastern. In 2004, she donated her father’s sheet music collection — The Harry Sukman Master’s of Music Collection — to Eastern’s J. Eugene Smith Library. Sukman, an Academy Award-winning composer, created the theme songs for the television hits “Bonanza,” “The High Chaparral,” and others. McCray and her husband, Kent, have been strong supporters of Eastern’s Department of Performing Arts and frequently serve as guest lecturers. EASTERN

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The 2007-08 academic year included a number of events, reunions, and activities designed to keep Eastern alumni connected to each other and to the University. Highlights included the President’s Leadership Dinner Gala to honor several distinguished alumni and University friends; a fun-filled weekend of celebration at the annual reunion and barbeque; and a visit from the Jubilee Class of 1958. Each event provided a time to reminisce with old friends as well as an occasion to celebrate the Eastern experience — past, present, and future.

CELEBRATING

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Alumni events a time for fun, reflection BY DWIGHT BACHMAN, AMY BRENNER-FRICKE AND MICHAEL STENKO

Honoring Excellence

astern Connecticut State University presented awards to three distinguished alumni, a retired professor, and a friend of the University at the President’s Leadership Dinner Gala held March 26 at the Bushnell Center for Performing Arts in Hartford. RoseAnne D. Bilodeau ’70 and Colonel From left, President Elsa Núñez; Madeline Bernstein; Charles Campbell ’83; RoseAnne Bilodeau ’70; Charles A. Campbell ’83 were honored with Kenneth DeLisa, vice president for institutional advancement; and Margaret C.Toner ’42. Distinguished Alumni Awards; Margaret C. Not pictured is Professor Emerita Jacqueline Abbott. Toner ’42 received Eastern’s Distinguished Service Award; and Hermann Beckert “Friends of the Toner holds a master’s degree and a doctorate from University” Awards were presented to Professor Emerita Columbia University. She taught for several years in Jacqueline Abbott and Madeline Bernstein, a longtime Stamford, later serving as a principal and then as an friend of Eastern. assistant superintendent for eight years in the Stamford public school system. Last November, she established the In 1993, Bilodeau founded New Britain’s Pathways/ Dr. Margaret C. Toner Endowed Scholarship at Eastern. Sendaros Center to impact teen pregnancy rates among impoverished youth in that city. The program focuses Abbott taught in the School of Educational and on academic support, career preparation, family life and Professional Studies at Eastern for 31 years, retiring in sex education, recreation and sports, health care, and 1997. She is an emerita professor and a President’s Legacy self-esteem development. Society donor, and has earmarked a portion of her estate for the Abbott Endowed Scholarship Fund to benefit Campbell, a decorated soldier from Middletown, served nontraditional students aspiring to be teachers. in the Vietnam War and the conflicts in Afghanistan and Iraq. He assisted General David Petraeus in helping While she is not an Eastern alumna, Bernstein has been construct Iraqi Prime Minister Nori Maliki’s National a steadfast supporter of the University’s Theatre program. Operations Center. In 2003, he was selected as one of After the death of her son, John J. Delmonte Jr. ’73, in seven liaison officers to help with the Department of 1991, Bernstein wanted to provide an enduring memorial Homeland Security Emergency Operations Center. in his memory. In 1993, she donated Delmonte’s music

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Members of the Class of 1958 include, from left: Carol Joan (Alperson) Herskowitz, Frederick Tracy, Margaret (Bessette) Williams, Andrew Maneggia, Marion Stanavage, Carol Ann (Mesick) Ouillette, Joyce (Moskowitz) Feen, Geraldine (Joyce) Murphy, Alice (McAuliffe) McMahon, Rocco Cancellaro, Frances (Banas) Leta, John Adamo, Martha (Fish) Greenwood, and Nikoleta (Heinrichsons) Kuplins.

collection of more than 300 opera, musical comedy, and libretto recordings to Eastern. In 1997, Bernstein founded the John J. Delmonte Jr. Endowed Scholarship. “More than 25,000 Eastern alumni across the globe are living testimony to the value of Eastern’s liberal arts education,” said Kenneth DeLisa, vice president for institutional advancement. “We are so very proud of the many important contributions they are making to their communities, their families, and their place of work.”

lived, and in Noble Hall, where they had attended many of their classes. The highlight of the day was the Jubilee Luncheon. Class Vice President Andrew Maneggia welcomed his fellow alumni, and shared a number of his favorite memories of WSTC. He noted how well the faculty had prepared the class to become teachers, and how valuable their experience on campus was in launching their careers. President Núñez also welcomed the Jubilarians, and talked about the sense

During her remarks, President Elsa Núñez thanked those present for their philanthropic support, noting that most of the financial donations given to the University go directly toward student scholarships.

Has it really been 50 years? Fourteen alumni from the Class of 1958 gathered on Eastern’s campus on May 2 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of their commencement from what was then Willimantic State Teachers College. Representing about one-third of the living members of the graduating class, classmates came from as far away as California to celebrate the milestone. Jubilarians were treated to tours of the campus, with stops at the Child and Family Development Resource Center and the J. Eugene Smith Library. The class relived some special moments at Burr Hall, where many of them had

Andrew Maneggia ’58 welcomes his classmates back to Eastern.

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the community; they serve as tutors to local schoolchildren, mentor fellow students on campus, and otherwise demonstrate their social responsibility.”

From left: Dorothy Hughes ’38, President Elsa Núñez, and Jo Stein ’38. Hughes was surprised with a cake in celebration of her 91st birthday.

of community that continues to exist on campus between students and faculty, as it did in 1958. She also noted the importance of Eastern’s role as Connecticut’s public liberal arts university, pointing out that then President J. Eugene Smith stressed how important it was for graduates to become “liberally educated persons” in remarks published in the 1955 Sustinet. At the conclusion of the event, each of the Jubilarians was presented with a Golden Diploma commemorating the special day.

The president also acknowledged Eastern’s growing academic reputation and cited several examples of success: “We graduate more math majors than any other college in the state except UConn. More students from Eastern enter Yale’s graduate program in molecular biology than from any other university in the world. And for six years in a row, our accounting students have been number one in the state passing the CPA exam on the first try.”

Núñez also explained to the returning alumni that Eastern is working diligently to move up in the national college rankings developed by such organizations as U.S. News and World Report. One of the factors used in the rankings is alumni giving. “It is not how much money we raise from alumni that they are looking at,” explained Núñez, “but the number of alumni who give. So no matter what amount you can donate, by participating at any level in our fundraising efforts, you are helping to build Eastern’s reputation.”

A Time to Celebrate and Reminisce A few weeks later, more than 100 alumni and guests from the five-year classes of 1938 through 1983 returned to campus on May 17 to share memories, see all of the changes that have occurred on campus, and meet with faculty and administrators. The crowd sang a hearty “Happy Birthday” to Dorothy Hughes ’38, who was celebrating her 91st birthday. Also present to represent the Class of 1938 was Jo Stein of Newport, RI. Núñez told the alumni that though Eastern has grown since its earliest days — the first class in 1889 had 13 students while nearly 1,200 students graduated in 2008 — “our values haven’t changed. Our students are as committed as you were to making a difference on campus and in

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Patrick Brigett and Luz Vazquez ’83 at the Alumni Reunion.

Left: President Elsa Núñez presents the 2008 Hermann Beckert “Friends of the University”Award to Professor Emerita Jacqueline Abbott at the Jubilee Reunion Luncheon. Above: Chatting at the reunion are, clockwise from left: Claire (Donahue) Hicks ’48, Clifford Hicks, Lisa Clapp Horsefield, Mildred (Harris) Christadore ’48, Jack Christadore, Lorraine (Bowen) Clapp ’48, and Phyllis Lathrop ’48. Below: Hicks and Doris Powell Glass ’48 reminisce at the big-tent barbeque.

Following the presentation, reunion guests were treated to tours of the campus and the new Child and Family Development Resource Center. Another highlight of the weekend was the Third Annual “Eastern Celebrates” big-tent barbeque, held May 17 at Eastern’s Athletic Sports Complex in Mansfield. More than 700 people — including 100 graduating seniors and their families and a number of visiting alumni — gathered under a big tent to enjoy music from DJ Flip (Jay Crisante ’06), a tasty barbeque meal, and each other’s company. “This was a wonderful opportunity for this year’s graduates to get to know some of the people who came before them at Eastern,” said Vice President DeLisa. “We had alumni in attendance going back 70 years to the Class of 1938, which was the first class to attend Eastern all four years and graduate from Willimantic State Teachers College. To have our graduating seniors and alumni get together to share their Eastern experiences was heartwarming. It was one big, very happy Eastern family!” Seniors, their families, and alumni lingered into the evening to reminisce, dance, and talk, joined together by their love of Eastern.

Family and friends enjoy themselves at Eastern’s big-tent barbeque.

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Two groups of Communication majors placed first and third in a public-service announcement contest sponsored this past spring by the Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of Connecticut (WSWC).The award ceremony was held May 7 at Eastern as part of the University’s annual Video and Animation Festival.The topic for the contest was “Renewing the Spirit of Connecticut:Tackling Underage Drinking.”

he contest was announced in January 2008 and was open to any Connecticut college student. It required students to create, film, and edit a 30-second television public service announcement designed to curb underage drinking. The purpose of the PSAs was to motivate parents to talk to their children about the dangers of alcohol. In addition to the WSWC, another sponsoring organizations was The Governor’s Prevention Partnership. The contest was judged by a distinguished panel of experts including state legislative leaders and representatives of the Connecticut State Police, Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), and the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection.

Collaborating for BY ANNE PAPPALARDO

Jessica Barbieri ’10, placed third and received a $1,000 prize. The Red Team’s winning public service announcement has aired more than 200 times on local Connecticut television stations, and team members traveled with WSWC representatives to a national conference in Las Vegas in late September to make a presentation on their project. The awards were presented by Jill Spineti, president of The Governor’s Prevention Partnership, Lieutenant J. Paul Vance of the Connecticut State Police, and members of the WSWC. “The media’s effect on America’s youth is extraordinary. This public service announcement was made to target the parents,” said Cullen. “We wanted to prove to the parents that

talking to their child about the dangers of alcohol will make a difference in their child’s life. The success of our winning PSA spot has shown me that if you give it your all, anything is possible.” “I am very proud to be a part of the fight against underage drinking. This contest has been the highlight of my educational career and has given my education a higher meaning,” said Kolar. The competition included entries from students from Quinnipiac University, the University of Connecticut, Central Connecticut State University, Southern Connecticut State University, and Eastern. A total of 90 students in 33 teams participated. Faculty

Eastern’s Red Team, composed of television production students Jeffrey Cullen ’08, Steven Reyes ’11, and Tiana Garcia ’08, and advertising students Edyta Orzel ’08 and Laura Kolar ’09, won first place for its video and received a $2,500 prize. The Old School Productions team, composed of television production students Matthew Fletcher ’11 and From left: Laura Kolar ’09, Jeff Cullen ’08, Edyta Orzel ’08, and Tiana Garcia ’08

Missing from photograph is team member Steven Reyes ’11

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the Public Good

Cheyenne Thibeault (left) and Kelsey Allen-McQuade (center) of Baltic were two of the five schoolchildren who helped Jeffrey Cullen ’08 (standing), Laura Kolar ’09 (right) and their teammates create the award-winning “Talk to Me” public service announcement. Below: Alexzia Lopez and Breanna Shrewsbury were two of the schoolchildren who were also featured in the video.

advisors from Eastern included Communication Professors Jaime Gómez and John Musulin for television production and Olugbenga Ayeni for advertising. “This event has been a wonderful academic and professional experience for our students and a valuable collaborative effort,” said Gómez. “They were exposed to a real-life experience — working for a real client. The event was highly competitive in that it was open to all universities in the state. We feel very proud of our students’ success and celebrate their awards as a testament to the dedication to academic excellence that is shared by the students, faculty, and staff of the Communication Department.” Eastern students Atanu Ahmed, Patrick Bushnell, Josh Judson, Jaime Fitzgerald, Matt Weston, Daniel McCue, Jake Williams, Michael Merritt, Bradley O'Connor, Keith Trossell, Kerin Jaros-Dressler and Tyler Griffin also submitted videos to the competition. “The goal of the WSWC was to develop a PSA Campaign that encourages parents to talk to their children about choosing not to drink,” said Peter Berdon, executive director of the WSWC. “We are very impressed by the students’ submissions, and hope parents take action by talking to their children about the dangers of alcohol.” Matthew Fletcher ’11 and Jessica Barbieri ’10

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BY ANNE PAPPALARDO

hen pressed, Tyler Richards Hewes ’02 admits that he didn’t have concrete plans for a career after graduating from Eastern Connecticut State University. He knew he had a desire to work in theatre, but he wasn’t quite sure how that would happen. Little did he know that he would be named the executive director of a well-respected chamber orchestra in a major city within a few years. Hewes, a Theatre major who was senior class president at Eastern, was named executive director of the San Diego Chamber Orchestra (SDCO) in 2007, an accomplishment that is cause for celebration among his former professors. As his graduation approached in May 2002, Hewes sent an e-mail to every theatre listed on the American Theatre web site, along with his résumé and a note indicating that he was looking for a job. After receiving a few positive responses, he accepted a position as assistant director with the North Coast Repertory Theatre in San Diego. Once he arrived, he was surprised to find that the artistic director had resigned. Hewes’ new job no longer existed. He subsequently found positions with various San Diegoarea theatres, working as an actor, director, assistant stage manager, and lighting technician, before being hired by Mainly Mozart as a production manager and coordinator of its popular Orchestra Festival. Mainly Mozart is an organization that is internationally recognized for providing Southern Californians with opportunities to experience classical music performed by world-class musicians from the nation’s most celebrated orchestras. During his time with Mainly Mozart, Hewes increased student attendance by 100 percent and assisted in doubling the income raised by the organization’s annual fundraising auction. As SDCO’s executive director, Hewes oversees the orchestra’s administrative operations and strategic advancement efforts. He works closely with the board of directors and Jung-Ho Pak, artistic director and conductor of the orchestra. Gary Phillips, president of the orchestra’s board of Tyler Richards Hewes and Jung-Ho Pak, SDCO’s artistic director Photographs supplied by MALU Photography

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Tyler Richards Hewes (seated) with his San Diego Chamber Orchestra staff.

directors, says, “We are thrilled to have Tyler on board as we move into a new era with our 25th anniversary this year. We are confident that he is just the person we need to build upon our recent successes of sold-out concerts and the very positive ‘buzz’ surrounding our orchestra.” Hewes credits his experiences at Eastern with helping to propel him up the ladder of success. “The leadership roles I took in Student Government, Budget and Management, and the Drama Society at Eastern really prepared me to make my mark as an artist and an arts administrator. My education and experience at Eastern made me the leader that I am today.” “Eastern is the best-kept secret in Connecticut’s education system,” added Hewes. “I had a wonderful experience with my professors. They imparted in me a desire to do them and the university proud.” He credits professors William Newell, David Frye, and Ellen Brodie for his current success. He is especially appreciative of Brodie for schooling him in the realities of the performing arts. According to

Hewes, Brodie makes it clear to her students that they need to network and make connections. She also emphasizes that “show business really is a business.” “True gentleman that Tyler is, he gives credit to his family, friends, and teachers for his success,” said Brodie. “The fact is, Tyler took risks, moved across the country, learned new skills, met new people in the field, and worked hard for the success he is now enjoying. I am happy to have been a part of his creative and personal development and I'm truly proud of him.” Hewes, a native of Bethel, married Abigail Keen of San Diego in 2007. They reside in North Park, CA. “It was wonderful to have a bunch of my friends from Eastern come out for our wedding. It was like having a little reunion of the Theatre Department in San Diego,” said Hewes. “It is amazing how close I am to all my friends from Eastern. I think it is indicative of the closeness of the Theatre Department that so many of us are still involved in each other’s lives so long after graduation.” EASTERN

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Mashantucket Pequot Chairman Receives Honorary Degree BY DWIGHT BACHMAN AND EDWARD OSBORN

Connecticut by providing gainful employment to more than 15,000 local residents, resulting in a revenue-sharing program that transfers $2.7 billion annually to the State of Connecticut treasury.

n recognition of his service to the people of Connecticut, Michael J. Thomas, chairman of the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Council, received an Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters during Eastern Connecticut State University’s Convocation exercises on Aug. 29. During the conferment ceremony, Eastern President Elsa Núñez explained, “Higher education has a tradition of conferring honorary degrees on people who have distinguished themselves through their leadership and contributions to society. By selecting and honoring individuals who reflect our University’s values, we are able to provide role models to our students and the community-at-large.” Thomas was elected chairman of the tribal council in November 2002 and was re-elected in 2006. During his tenure, the tribe’s Foxwoods Resort Casino, which opened in 1992, has helped counter the loss of defense industry jobs in southeastern

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“As president of the largest chamber of commerce in Connecticut, I spend a great deal of time working with community leaders to strengthen the business climate in our state,” said Lawrence McHugh, chairman of the Connecticut State University System (CSUS), who officially conferred the honorary degree on Thomas. “What the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation has done to bring new jobs and additional revenue to our state is outstanding. Dr. Thomas, I congratulate you on this well-deserved honor.” During his time as tribal chair, Thomas encouraged the Mashantucket Pequots to give Eastern a gift of $500,000 that is supporting the University’s early childhood education program. One of the purposes of the gift is to endow a chair for early childhood education at Eastern; the chair was also

announced at the Aug. 29 Convocation exercises. In accepting the honorary degree, Thomas said, “I want to thank the people who molded me for a life of community service. The values that have guided me came from my mother, Ruth Thomas, who was the secretary/treasurer of the tribal

President Núñez delivers her charge to entering freshmen at the Convocation exercises.

From left: Pedro Johnson, recently retired director of public affairs for the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation; President Elsa Núñez; Linda Johnson; Jeffrey Trawick-Smith; Chancellor David Carter; Michael Thomas; and Chairman Thomas’ fiancée, Angela Ramos

council when Foxwoods was created. My grandmother, Dr. Phyllis Monroe-Waite, was a part of the tribal council in the 1970s that led our tribal community to federal recognition. I also want to thank my elder and mentor, Mr. Pedro Johnson.” At a luncheon in Thomas’ honor, Professor Jeffrey Trawick-Smith talked about being named the Phyllis

Waite Endowed Chair in Early Childhood Education. Among her accomplishments, Waite served on the tribal council, was the tribe’s Health and Human Services Director, created programs under the Indian Child Welfare Act, and opened the CANE Day Care Center in Rhode Island before moving to the Mashantucket Pequot Reservation. She passed away in 2005.

“It’s fitting that this chair is named after Phyllis Waite,” said TrawickSmith, outlining some of her accomplishments. “I am so honored to be appointed to the endowed chair. This is a day I will never forget.” Thomas closed his Convocation remarks by telling the audience of freshmen students: “As students, you are changing the modern world day by day. You are changing this country for the better. You are participating in the political process in numbers this country has never seen before. You inspire older people like me.”

Convocation Welcomes Record Freshman Class Eastern formally opened its academic year on Aug. 29 with Convocation exercises in the Francis E. Geissler Gymnasium. A majority of the record class of 1,629 freshmen were on hand to begin their college careers with a taste of ceremony and tradition. Eastern President Elsa Núñez told the entering students of the unique aspects of Eastern’s public liberal arts education that they would experience during their four years at the University. “The liberal arts gives us the freedom to think for ourselves, to engage in intellectual discovery. You will also learn more about other cultures, and the importance of serving those less fortunate than us.” She also gave the Class of 2012 this charge: “Close your eyes with me for a moment. I am envisioning a day in May 2012 when we are together again for Commencement exercises. I want you to commit to being there with me that day, decked out in your mortar board and gown.”

Marsha Davis, professor of mathematics and Eastern’s 2008 Distinguished Professor, delivered the keynote address. Using Michael Phelps, winner of eight Olympic gold medals, as an example of someone whose talent was reinforced by hard work, the support of family, and the efforts Distinguished Professor and of teammates, she said, keynote speaker Marsha Davis “Talent is overrated. The key to achieving your goals requires a great deal of hard work. College is not about checking off the boxes indicating you have completed your requirements. It’s about reaching your potential, pushing yourself beyond your comfort zone.” EASTERN

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Learning is Fun at Any Age BY ANNE PAPPALARDO

nyone who has met James Mosley ’08 walks away feeling as though they should have asked him for two things: His secret for remaining active during retirement and his autograph. Mosley, 78, received a Bachelor of General Studies with concentrations in Social Science and Biology at Eastern’s Commencement on May 18. The Waterford resident took most of his courses at the University’s Groton site and was awarded 51 credits through the Credit for Lifelong Learning (CLL) program. Eastern’s CLL program helps adults earn credits for college-level learning gained through work, volunteerism, and other experiences. According to Assistant Dean and CLL Coordinator Nancy Tarkmeel, Mosley is possibly the oldest student to complete Eastern’s CLL program.

“Whoever coined the phrase, ‘live life to its fullest’ must have done so after meeting Mr. Mosley.”

A Pennsylvania native, Mosley enlisted in the U.S. Navy after high school. He trained as a medical corpsman and was stationed at various U.S. naval bases, including the Naval Submarine Base in Groton. In 1956, he became the first African-American to attend the submarine medical technician school in Groton, from which he graduated first in the class. He was also the first African-American medical corpsman to attend and graduate from the Navy’s nuclear power school in Groton. Upon his retirement from the Navy in 1968, he began working at Electric Boat (EB) in Groton, and retired in 1991. Mosley said his favorite thing about Eastern is the professors. “Henriette Pranger, an instructor for the CLL seminar, was the ultimate motivator.” Pranger deflects the praise back at Mosley. “Whoever coined the phrase, ‘live life to its fullest’ must have done so after meeting Mr. Mosley. I learned more from him than he learned from me.” Mosley was profiled in the 2005 book “Black Submariners in the United States Navy, 1940 to 1975,” by Glenn Knoblock. During his years of service, he also had the fortune to meet Rosa Parks, John F. Kennedy, and Thurgood Marshall. Mosley has no thoughts of slowing down. He plans to take a year off to write his autobiography, and then hopes to begin graduate studies in either molecular biology or African-American history. James Mosley is proud to show off the “Black Submariners” book he was profiled in by Glenn Knoblock.

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Henriette Pranger

Many Eastern students take their passion for community service out into the world after they graduate. Others, however, bring it right back home to Willimantic. John Donohue ’07, Martin Sagendorf ’08, Kristin Schroeder ’09, and Khatisha Byrd ’05 have all served locally as members of AmeriCorps, an organization of volunteers who work on community projects within the United States.

Eastern Alumni Serve as AMERICORPS VOLUNTEERS BY ESTÉ YARMOSH ’09 AND RACHAEL BURKEY ’08

meriCorps volunteers serve different roles in public safety, health, education, and environmental capacities. John Donohue, who ends his oneyear term in September 2008, and Martin Sagendorf, who will serve until January 2009, work in the Community Service office in Eastern’s Alvin B. Wood Support Services Center. They are stationed in the Windham region and coordinate community-service opportunities for Eastern students. They have assisted with elementary schools, clean-up projects, and the annual Chocolate Festival, all in the Willimantic area. Business Administration Professor Eric Martin, who worked closely with Donohue and Sagendorf, said, “I admire John and Martin for their honesty and dedication. They are here to make a difference and chose to do it in their own backyard.”

John Donohue ’07 and Martin Sagendorf ’08

Sagendorf said that Eastern helped him become more committed to community service with activities including writing letters to troops and helping with the community center. Donohue said his years at Eastern humbled him as he came into contact with people from different areas and socioeconomic backgrounds within the state. Added Donohue, “I am very impressed by the diverse faculty and staff on Eastern’s campus. You can learn from teachers who have lived in all parts of the world.” During their AmeriCorps stints in 2006-07, Khatisha Byrd and Kristen Schroeder, who will complete her second bachelor’s degree from Eastern in 2009, were also actively involved in coordinating volunteer opportunities for Eastern students. They contacted local community groups who needed volunteers and helped recruit Eastern students to be part of the activity. Eastern graduate Kate Turcotte ’06 also served a term as an AmeriCorps volunteer, working as the Development Coordinator for the “I Have a Dream” Foundation of Boulder County, CO, in 2006–07, assisting with development programs and fundraising. Schroeder said she enjoyed her time with AmeriCorps because it allowed her “to give back in a larger way than just volunteering on my own. I was able to get others involved too. The amount of good that one volunteer can do became very clear to me. Higher education is a great place to cultivate service-related values.” For more information, visit www.americorps.org EASTERN

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ALUMNI NEWS Services at Eastern, has begun planning an internship program with Silverstein and Daniel Mieczynski ’02.

SIBT employees and executives gather for a photo with Eastern officials prior to the luncheon.

Eastern and SIBT Form a Friendly Partnership In April, 21 Eastern alumni who work for Savings Institute Bank & Trust Company (SIBT) were invited to a special luncheon on campus with University officials. They were accompanied by SIBT CEO Rheo Brouillard and Executive Vice President Brian Hull. Since then, Eastern and the Willimantic-based bank have begun forging mutually beneficial partnerships through the University’s Career Services Office, the School of Continuing Education, and the Office of Institutional Advancement.

Brouillard said he welcomed the opportunity to strengthen SIBT’s relationship with Eastern, and said the new educational and mentoring opportunities being explored had the promise of helping junior members of his staff further their banking careers. The gathering was conceived by Hull, who is also a member of the ECSU Foundation’s Board of Directors. Ably carrying out the event planning was Jackie (Hall) Silverstein ’99/’04, SIBT’s vice president and operations officer, who earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees at Eastern. Eastern President Elsa Núñez gave a short talk on Eastern’s new strategic plan, which is driven by a vision for Eastern to become a “University of “First Choice” over the next five years. She also addressed ways alumni can support Eastern both individually and through their employers.

Eastern President Elsa Núñez chats with SIBT CEO Rheo Brouillard at the April 21 luncheon.

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Attending the event from SIBT were Brouillard, Hull, Silverstein, Sonia Dudas ’82, Shawn Godaire ’06, Sarah (Seibert) Kannas ’03, Steve Laflamme ’91, Mark Light ’05, Luis Maysonet ’06, Amanda McClenathan ’07, Evan McMunn ’05, Mike Moran ’80, Jamal Paire ’05, Catherine (Petrowski) Pomerleau ’04 and Chris Turner ’04. (Not pictured are Mieczynski and Susan (Morin) Larrow ’88.) In attendance from Eastern were President Núñez; Rhona Free, vice president for academic affairs; Kenneth DeLisa, vice president for institutional advancement, Business Administration Professor Jeffrey Schaller; Michael Stenko, director of alumni affairs; Joseph McGann, director of institutional advancement; and Peter Dane, associate director of institutional advancement.

Energy generated by the positive response to this gathering has been transferred into planning and brainstorming ways Eastern and SIBT can help each other. Nancy DeCrescenzo, acting director of Career

Adam Wurtzel ’07, right, with Drew Lachey, host of “Dancing With the Stars.”

“Dance War” is Won with that Eastern Edge Adam Wurtzel ’07 served as head audience coordinator during auditions held in Central Park in New York City for “Dance War: Bruno vs. Carrie Ann.” The show, which premiered in January, was a spin-off of the popular program, “Dancing with the Stars.” In “Dance War,” Bruno Tonioli and Carrie Ann Ianba, judges from “Dancing with the Stars,” created dance teams who competed against one another.

ALUMNI NEWS

astern’s Centenarian

Claudia (Sweetland) Ahern ’81 works with a preschool student in the Purple Room at the Child and Family Development Resource Center.

Eastern Alumna Comes Full Circle For Claudia (Sweetland) Ahern ’81, playing left field on a national championship softball team and teaching a classroom of 3- and 4-year-olds have much in common. Both tasks require organization, time management, and a whole lot of dedication.

a preschool teacher in the Child and Family Development Resource Center and spends her days in the “purple room” with 15 youngsters. It is a place where her organizational and team skills come into play on a daily basis.

Ahern was a member of the first Eastern softball team to capture a national title — a life-affirming experience. “Playing on a team sport definitely helped with discipline and collaboration,” she said. “I had to develop organizational skills to be able to do well in school. It absolutely prepares you with life skills.”

“It’s great to watch the kids create and learn through play. My favorite part of working with them is their enthusiasm and how they enjoy life,” she said. “What other job is there where you get to get hugs every day?”

Since graduating with a degree in early childhood and elementary education, Ahern has taken those skills and applied them to her career. She spent 10 years working with developmentally disabled adults in a grouphome setting before opening her own home-based licensed day care facility. She then worked as a reading tutor in the Manchester School System, where she taught children in Kindergarten and Grade 1. Last year, Ahern’s journey brought her back to the place where it all began: the Eastern campus. She was hired as

Margaret (Jarvis) Durham ’28 of Sarasota, FL, celebrated her 100th birthday on Aug. 1. After graduating from Willimantic State Normal School, Durham taught kindergarten at Natchaug School in Windham for a year before beginning a 41-year career as a preschool teacher for the Darien and Norwalk school systems. She remains active in church activities and enjoyed playing golf for many years.“I had such a wonderful time there,” says Durham, in recalling her two years at the normal school. “I made many dear friends and the faculty taught us so much.We were well prepared to teach. I can’t say enough about my experience there — I have very fond memories.”

Margaret (Jarvis) Durham ’28

Although Ahern put away the softball glove and bat a few years ago, she continues to excel at sports. She recently took up golf, enjoys kayaking, and plays in a local women’s volleyball league. She also manages to keep current Eastern students — who are probably unaware of her past athletic triumphs — on their toes. “We have a little basketball hoop outside the center, and I was playing ‘horse’ with a student the other day. I was giving him a hard time because I was winning,” she said. “He thinks I’m just an old lady. But I’m still an athlete, and I still have that competitive spirit.”

Mrs. Durham is pictured with her great-grandson, Charles Jeffrey Pearson.

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alumni NEWS

Alumni Take Eastern Spirit Out to the Ballgame at Dodd Stadium The late-afternoon rain didn’t dampen the spirits of more than 80 alumni and friends, who gathered at Dodd Stadium in Norwich on Aug. 8 to cheer as the Connecticut Defenders took on the Portland Sea Dogs. Their enthusiasm was rewarded, as the rain cleared in time to enjoy a picnic spread in the pavilion. Alumni Association President Dan Canavan ’97 threw out the first pitch, and nine children of Eastern alumni donned genuine Eastern baseball jerseys to join the Defenders players for the on-field introductions. While the Defenders lost the game by a score of 7-5, the evening concluded with a spectacular fireworks display.

Clockwise from top left: Ed Giard MS ’00 of Manchester and his wife, Fran. Giard served as Alumni Association President from 2003-06. Alumni Association President Dan Canavan ’97 throws out the first pitch. Nancy Labonne ’01 of Lisbon and her daughter, Jackie, who will graduate from Eastern in 2011. Erik Christensen ’07 of Griswold and his daughter, Lauren.

New Officers Named to ECSU Alumni Association Board of Directors The ECSU Alumni Association Board of Directors has a new slate of officers for 2008-09. At the June 2008 meeting of the Alumni Association Board of Directors, Daniel R. Canavan ’97 was elected president of the board. Canavan is an associate with the Hartford law firm of Updike, Kelly & Spellacy, P.C., where his practice focuses on the litigation needs of members of the energy industry, as well as product manufacturers and distributors. He joined the Alumni Association

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Board of Directors in 2007. Canavan currently resides in Glastonbury. Joining Canavan as officers of the Alumni Association Board of Directors for 2008-09 are Vice President Mark Bradley ’90 of Rocky Hill, director of Claim Business and Account Management for The Hartford Insurance Company; Secretary Ellen L. (Ofsiany) Lang ’81, a health and fitness coach from Mansfield Center; and Treasurer Deborah A. (Delamater) McCrackan ’78 of Willington, manager of the Mansfield branch of New Alliance Bank.

Daniel R. Canavan ’97

alumni NEWS

astern Events with a Southern Flair

Perrotti Hosts Annual Picnic

Alumni from Florida gathered to make new friends and share old memories at receptions in Tampa, Orlando, and Fort Lauderdale in February. President Núñez updated alumni on all the latest University news at the Tampa and Orlando receptions.The Fort Lauderdale reception was hosted by Professor Emerita Jacqueline Abbott, recipient of the 2008 Hermann Beckert Friends of the University Award.

More than 30 alumni and friends going back to the Class of 1951 gathered at the home of Frank Perrotti ’51 on June 26 for Perrotti’s traditional afternoon picnic and bocce ball tournament. At left, Bev Webb ’51 (center) bowls toward the jack under the watchful eyes of Hazel Johnson ’51 and Michael Hewes. In Tampa, from left: David Ritter, Joseph McGann, Kenneth DeLisa, Professor Emeritus Thomas Anderson, Mindy Gates ’06, Madeline Hall, Joan Ritter ’96, Gregory Hall ’87, President Elsa Núñez, Anita Berlingo ’74, Cathy TunickCabeche ’76, Caroline (Ginn) Tacker ’80, Karen Wright ’97, and Bill Cabeche

Alumni Ambassadors California Los Angeles Area David T. Branin ’98 Benjamin J. Pratt ’98 John Toolan ’90 Tony P. Riccio III ’99 San Francisco Area JoJo Farrell ’97 Lisa A. Hatt ’93 Joseph A. Parks ’90 Frank M. Rudnick ’75 Shannon E. Riley ’96 San Diego Area Marie K. Baer ’86 Patrick T. Cross ’99 Kevin T. Lemieux ’98 Mary E. Liu ’78 Andrew J. McRory ’95

Christopher W. Melingonis ’99 Cynthia I. Monter ’85 Nicole K. Monter ’99 Sigrid H. Nicholas ’84

Massachusetts

Rhode Island Providence Area Bonnie Bryden ’03

Sri Lanka

Dilini Gunasekera ’91 Greater Boston Area Sweden Tony Cristi ’96 Veronica Beechwood Curry ’97 Poyan Shojaiyan ’04 David Mullin ’98 United Laila Siddiqui ’04

N e w Yo r k / Ne w Je r s e y

Arab Emirates Natasha Husain ’01

Metropolitan New York City Area Michael Moore ’90 John Stueck ’83

Willing to volunteer at college career fairs as an admissions ambassador? Contact Christopher Dorsey, assistant director of admissions; (860) 465-4398 or dorseyc@easternct.edu.

In Orlando, from left: Jennifer Lorenzo ’94, Kenneth DeLisa, Barbara Beaudoin ’89, Robert Brewster ’68, President Elsa Núñez, Michael Stenko, Amber Quereshi, and Mustafa Quereshi ‘99

Alumni receptions will be scheduled for major cities around the country in 200809.Watch your mailbox for more information, or visit www.easternct.edu/alumni. If you would like to organize an alumni reception in your area, please contact Michael Stenko, director of alumni affairs, at (860) 465-4509. EASTERN

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ON Campus research also involves “Border Theory,” which Eastern President Elsa Núñez called “a provocative examination of our fixed ideas of border boundaries and national identities.” McNeil also serves as a member of several University and department committees at Eastern. From left: CSUS Chairman Lawrence McHugh, Professor Lisa Rowe Fraustino, Eastern President Elsa Núñez, Professor Kenneth McNeil, and Trustee John Doyle

Fraustino, McNeil Honored with CSUS Trustee Awards Lisa Rowe Fraustino, associate professor of English, was named the recipient of the Connecticut State University System’s (CSUS) 2008 Teaching Award. Kenneth McNeil, associate professor of English, received a university-level Trustee Award honoring his research. The awards were presented by the CSUS Board of Trustees at its April meeting in Danbury. Fraustino was honored for her creation of a writing minor and courses for the new liberal arts core curriculum at the University; her attentive and effective advising and mentoring of students; her support for learning beyond the classroom; her work with high schools; and her pedagogical contributions as a Fulbright Scholar. She was selected from a field of four candidates for the award, all of whom received universitylevel Trustee Awards in recognition of the caliber of their teaching. The Trustee Research Award is granted to faculty who are conducting “research work of exceptional promise.” McNeil was noted for his work in English literature and the British writers of the Romantic Period, including writers of the Scottish Highlands. His

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“These awards provide a means of recognizing the exemplary work of the highest promise being done by our up-and-coming faculty. They are all demonstrating an impact on their academic field, our students, and our state,” said John A. Doyle, chair of the Board of Trustees’ Academic Affairs Committee.

Harvard Law Professor Lectures on Race and Education Noted author and prominent legal theorist Charles J. Ogletree Jr. delivered the AfricanAmerican History Month Distinguished Lecture on Feb. 25. The lecture, held in the Betty R. Tipton Room of the Student Center, was titled “Racial Fatigue and Racial Amnesia: Is Brown v. Board of Education Still Relevant?” Ogletree, the Harvard Law School Jesse Climenko Professor of Law and executive director of the Charles Hamilton Houston Institute for Race and Justice at Harvard University, spoke before a packed audience and declared that the topic of race “is a bittersweet one.”

Frank-Thomas Grogan ’10, musical director at WECS-FM (left), tests out the station’s new digital equipment.

Radio Station Dedicates New Broadcast Studio A dedication ceremony was held on May 1 to honor the opening of the new studio for WECS-FM, Eastern’s student-run radio station. The new studio is on the west wall of the Media Building and features a large window and outside deck. In addition to new space for station radio announcers and disc jockeys, WECS has new digital

production and broadcast equipment, which will allow for improved production and performance capabilities. Positioned in the middle of one of the University’s main corridors, the broadcast studio’s outdoor speakers, patio, and broadcast window were constructed to raise public awareness of the station. TIMOTHY TALLEY

ON Campus Cross Connecticut Blood Services Region in Farmington in fall 2007. Cappa, a Political Science major, attended the Institute on Philanthropy and Volunteer Service this past summer in Washington, DC, where she completed two courses at Georgetown University and interned at a nonprofit organization in the city.

A contingent of Eastern students, faculty, and administrators attended the American Humanics Management Institute, held Jan. 3-6, 2008, in Kansas City, MO. From left, Julia Herchenroder ’08, Eastern President Elsa Núñez, Nicole Henry ’10, Juliann Cappa ’08, and Business Administration Professor Eric Martin. President Núñez is on the board of American Humanics.

Eastern Students Receive American Humanics Scholarship Awards Two Eastern students were honored this year with awards from the American Humanics alliance. Juliann Cappa ’08 and Katarina Russo ’08

each received a $4,500 Next Generation Nonprofit Leaders Program (NextGen) award. The scholarships enabled them to complete a 300-hour internship at a nonprofit organization.

Out of 2,000 student applicants from more than 65 universities nationwide who applied through American Humanics, only 200 are selected for the NextGen Leaders award. Eastern is the only New England university with an AHSA program. TIMOTHY TALLEY

Russo, a Business Administration major, completed her hours in volunteer management for the American Red

Douglas and Germain Receive Barnard Awards Kevin Douglas ’08 and Jenna Germain ’08 were honored at the 20th Annual Henry Barnard Distinguished Student Awards ceremony, held April 22 at the Aqua Turf Club in Southington. The award is presented by the Connecticut State University System to 12 graduating seniors who have maintained at least a

“Since coming to Eastern, I have discovered my passion for service. This award reinforces my enthusiasm for working in the nonprofit sector after graduation,” said Cappa.

3.7 GPA and have a record of substantial voluntary service to their universities and communities. Each student is selected by his or her university. In introducing Eastern’s two winners, President Elsa Núñez said, “We hear people in the media all the time describing today’s college students as apathetic and disinterested. That’s not what I see. I am inspired by our students. They are preparing for professional careers and also to be good Americans committed to social justice and a better world. Our future is in good hands.”

From left: Jenna Germain ’08, President Elsa Núñez, and Kevin Douglas ’08

Eastern Sends Relief to TornadoStricken University Andrew Powaleny ’09, a Political Science major from Lyme, spearheaded a fund-raising effort in February to help those impacted by devastating tornados at Union University in Jackson, TN. Powaleny’s relief efforts included soliciting every residence hall on Eastern’s campus. He also met with about 20 local business representatives as part of a program with the Office of Career Services and two local churches donated $1,600. The collection effort netted a total of $4,800.

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ON Campus

astern Hosts Town Hall Meeting on Education

On March 31, more than 200 people — area and regional residents, public school officials, teachers, town officials, and business owners — gathered in the Betty R.Tipton Room of the Student Center and participated in a town hall meeting to discuss the role that education must play in Connecticut’s economic future. Titled “Education Now. Prosperity Tomorrow. Growing Connecticut’s Future,” the meeting was one in a series held on all four Connecticut State University System campuses. It was sponsored by a statewide coalition of more than 20 state agencies and organizations and the Connecticut State University System.

Town Hall panelists Christopher Clouet, Diane Randall, Ann Baldwin (moderator), Sally Boske, and Chandler Howard

Panelists included Diane Randall, director of the Partnership for Strong Communities; Chandler Howard, president and CEO of Liberty Bank; Sally Boske, vice president of the Connecticut Association of Boards of Education; and New London Superintendent of Schools Christopher Clouet. Veteran broadcaster Ann Baldwin moderated the panel discussion. The audience explored numerous educational issues, including the high school dropout rate; the disparity between highincome and low-income college graduation rates; the lack of basic skills of many college graduates; internships; bilingual education; community involvement; and financial resources for public education. The town meetings were videotaped by Connecticut Public Broadcasting.The final televised product,“Today’s Children in Tomorrow’s World:Town Meeting,” aired on April 24.

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The volleyball action was intense as residence halls competed for the first Dean’s Cup.

Mead Hall Wins First Dean’s Cup Mead Hall walked off with first-place honors in Eastern’s first-ever Dean’s Cup competition. On May 3, more than 200 students from the six freshman residence halls participated in the “Hall Olympics,” including a volleyball tournament, relay race, water balloon toss, egg toss, and a tug-of-war. An enthusiastic “spirit cheer” took place at the end of the day, with all halls showing support for one another. Each freshman residence hall spent nine months in the race for the Dean’s Cup, participating in such events as a block party in September, the Spring Career Fair, and various Arts and Lecture events throughout the academic year. Other points that counted

toward winning first-place honors included the highest cumulative GPA among the halls; the greatest amount of blood donated at blood drives; the quickest time in which all community service was completed; and the most money raised for the dean’s charity. Proceeds were donated to the “No Freeze” shelter located in Willimantic. “It was truly a great event and one that ties into our strategic plan for developing a campus culture in the tradition of a liberal arts experience,” said Ken Bedini, acting dean of students. In 2008-09, it is planned that all 12 residence halls, housing both freshmen and upperclassmen, will participate in the Dean’s Cup. ESTÉ YARMOSH ’09

“Body and Sold” Raises Awareness Fourteen Performing Arts students presented “Body and Sold” on March 7-9 in the Student Center Theater. The show, directed by Jenna Podeswa ’09, with Kaitlyn Kociela ’08 serving as costume director, was sponsored by Soroptimist International of Willimantic to make audiences aware of the exploitation and trafficking of children in contemporary society. The performance was made possible by Lorraine McDevitt, a friend of Eastern and member of Soroptimist International, who introduced the idea to President Núñez. Kamilah Lindo (as Elaine) looks on as Meghan Harris (as Linda) shares her story of child exploitation.

ON Campus

Three Honored with Latin American Awards Visual Arts Professor Imna Arroyo, local community leader Yolanda Negron ’99, and Julisa De Los Santos ’08, received the University’s Latin American Distinguished Service Awards on April 16 in the Paul E. Johnson Sr. Community Conference Room of the J. Eugene Smith Library.

stronger town-gown relations between Eastern and Willimantic.

Arroyo received the award in the faculty/staff category. She established the Windham Area Arts Collaborative and has chaired its board of directors.

Negron is an active member of the Willimantic/Windham community. She has worked with or served on various boards at the Windham Textile and History Museum, Connecticut Legal Services, Windham Region United Way, Windham County Memorial Hospital, and the American Red Cross. She also serves as a bilingual Justice of the Peace in the Windham region.

She also played an integral role in the founding of Collectivo Mestizal, a local Latin-American and Caribbean organization dedicated to encouraging the development of Latino arts, education, and culture in the Windham region. Arroyo also helped create a series of summer concerts that developed

De Los Santos, a Social Work major from Danbury, received the distinguished student award. She was a head peer advisor for STEP/CAP, a program to help students who would otherwise not be accepted into college based on traditional standards. This past year, De Los Santos helped found the Guardian

MLK Distinguished Service Awards Presented

Distinguished Service Awards Reception, held Feb. 27 in the Paul E. Johnson Sr. Community Conference Room in the J. Eugene Smith Library.

Michael McKenzie ’08, Psychology Professor Margaret Letterman, and New Haven community worker Elise Cofield were honored at Eastern’s annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

McKenzie was honored for his volunteer efforts in the community, which included serving as president of

Yolanda Negron ’99,Visual Arts Professor Imna Arroyo, President Elsa Núñez, and Julisa De Los Santos ’08

Program at Eastern, which matches 25 upperclassmen with freshmen in order to foster academic achievement among minority students. The evening’s keynote speaker was Bobby Gonzalez, a nationally renowned multicultural storyteller, poet, and motivational speaker. ESTÉ YARMOSH ’09

MALES (Men Achieving Leadership, Excellence, and Success), as a member of the Campus Activity Board, and as a student orientation counselor. Letterman was recognized for her passion for helping students and her volunteer work with numerous student programs and activities, including Thursday night dinners at the Knight House and a First Year Program cluster, both of which she has organized. Cofield was honored for her long-time efforts with the AIDS Interfaith Network. During her remarks, President Elsa M. Núñez reminded the audience that King’s message “was not limited to African-Americans or other people of color. He believed in a world where all of us embrace our differences while seeking a shared, common ground. We are pleased that Eastern is a beacon for those who want to use the power of education to achieve their aspirations.” RACHAEL BURKEY ’08

President Elsa Núñez, Elise Cofield, Psychology Professor Margaret Letterman, and Michael McKenzie ’08

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philanthropy

Participating as members of the Incentra Solutions team were, from left:Tony DiPaolo, Incentra’s chief financial officer; Richard Freeland, former president of Northeastern University and husband of Eastern President Elsa Núñez; Incentra’s Chairman and CEO Tom Sweeney ’83; and Shawn O’Grady, Incentra’s president and chief operating officer.

Representing the Windham Pepsi-Cola Bottling Co. team were, from left: Joe Sutherland, Jim Donahue, Cliff McGlory, and Jim Carceo.

Golf Tournament Benefits Athletics The annual ECSU Foundation, Inc. Golf Tournament benefiting the Athletics Department was held on June 23 at Lake of Isles in North Stonington. The tournament generated more than $100,000 for the first time ever, with nearly 200 alumni, faculty, staff, and friends participating. “These dollars are critical and will be used to meet some of the capital improvement needs in the department,” said Joyce Wong, director of athletics. “We are most grateful to the many friends of Eastern athletics.”

The North and South courses at Lake of Isles opened in 2005 and were named to Golfweek’s list of “Top 50 New Courses.” Incentra Solutions of Boulder, CO, served as the Title sponsor, with Barnes & Noble, Billing Sports, Chartwells, NewAlliance Bank, and Windham Pepsi-Cola Bottling Co. serving as Breakfast sponsors. The winning foursome (with a score of 14 under par) was the Triumph Auto Glass team of Rob Roveto, Darren Demmtino, Jeff Morrow, and Ron Reagan.

From left: President Elsa Núñez; Alyssa Griffin, Jean Lacey, and Jill Lacey Griffin, representing three generations of the Lacey family; and Jennifer Miner ’10, recipient of the Earle M. Lacey Scholarship.The scholarship is awarded to an education major who works to improve the lives of those in economically challenged communities.

From left: President Elsa Núñez; Marie Love Johnson, wife of the late Arthur L. Johnson; and Gloria Lebron, recipient of the Dr. Arthur L. Johnson Unity Fund scholarship.

ECSU Foundation’s Competitive Scholarship and University Awards Ceremony On April 24, the annual ECSU Foundation Competitive Scholarship and University Awards Ceremony was held in the Betty R. Tipton Room. With more than $210,000 being awarded to 189 deserving scholars, the Foundation was able to provide scholarship support to 70 percent of the Eastern students who applied and met the criteria.

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Students are selected by a committee composed of members of the ECSU Foundation Board of Directors, the ECSU Alumni Association, and faculty and staff. Selections are made on the basis of academic record, financial need, excellence in their chosen field of study, and civic contributions to the University, their high schools, and the local community.

philanthropy

Professor, Students Travel on Jains Scholarships Three members of the Eastern community participated this summer in a program sponsored and funded by the International Summer School for Jain Studies (ISSJS) in India. Visual Arts Professor Gail Gelburd, Nicole Dutram ’07, and Steve Smith ’09 received scholarships to pursue Jain studies in India in June and July.

To date, ISSJS has awarded five scholarships to Eastern students and faculty. Each scholarship funded a two-month study at the ISSJS. In addition to the three scholarships offered this summer, Philosophy Professor Hope Fitz participated in 2006 and Sociology Professor Andrew Nilsson attended the program in 2007. The five Eastern scholarships represent a contribution of more than $50,000 by ISSJS organizers.

Eastern Honors Professor Michael Gable Eastern will honor the distinguished career of Biology Professor Michael Gable with a retirement celebration this fall and the establishment of a special fund to provide financial assistance to student teaching assistants in Biology.

The Michael F. Gable Biology Student Assistantships Fund will provide grants to Biology student teaching assistants to assist them financially, in recognition of their service to the Biology Department.

While Gable ended his 36-year teaching and research career after the spring 2008 semester, he will remain as an adjunct professor at Eastern, developing and teaching online courses in Biology.

When the fund reaches $10,000, it will be converted to an endowment and operate in a manner comparable to an endowed scholarship. Payments and pledges to the fund were approaching $15,000 by early August, with additional fund-raising efforts planned.

A special event to honor Gable will be held on Oct. 18. It will include late-afternoon tours of the new Science Building and an early evening dinner at the Student Center. All alumni with Biology and Biochemistry degrees are invited.

Anyone interested in supporting the Gable fund should contact Peter Dane, associate director of institutional advancement, at (860) 465-4513 or danep@easternct.edu.

uring spring 2008, Eastern was awarded a total of $276,563 in grants. Included among them were seven institutional awards and one faculty research award.

Institutional Awards Child and Family Development Resource Center. $120,375 from the Connecticut Department of Education, Readiness Program. Margaret Hebert and Rick Hornung, Learning Center. $46,125 from the Connecticut Department of Education for the ConnCAS Program FY 2007-08. Margaret Hebert and Rick Hornung, Learning Center. Awarded a five-year renewal from the Connecticut Department of Education for the ConnCAS Program. $51,708 FY 2008-09. Robert Horrocks, Canadian Studies. $4,845 from the Canadian government for Canadian Studies Enhancement Grant. Adam Lambert, Biology. $13,860 from the U.S. Department of Agriculture,Wildlife Habitat Incentive Program, for restoration work at the Church Farm in Ashford. Aliza Makuch, Health Services. $32,000 from the National Collegiate Athletics Association for “Peer Advocates for Safe Students (PASS) Healthy Choices Program.” Kim Silcox, Student Affairs. $3,500 from the NewAlliance Foundation. Fred Loxsom and Carol Williams. $3,000 from Connecticut Campus Compact for “Renewable Energy and International Service Project in Jamaica.” Faculty Awards Nannette Tummers, Health and Physical Education, $2,250 from the Tri-County Community Foundation for “the Sisterhood Project.”

Biology Professor Michael Gable poses with students at a department retirement luncheon held in his honor in April. From left, James Hampton, Dennis Boehm, Amanda Blais, James Pupillo, Gable, Marc Cellini (in front), Andy Tran, Nicole Myers, and Lisabette Miller.

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athletics

Athletes Recognized for Academic Excellence Thirty-five student-athletes received an E-Club ScholarAthlete Award at the annual Athletics Awards Banquet held May 11 in the Betty R. Tipton Room. Nineteen Outstanding Scholar-Athlete and 16 Scholar-Athlete awards were presented at the banquet, which was also the stage for a number of other academic and athletic awards. Outstanding Scholar-Athletes included Christina Amato, Jackie Bivona, Michael Brady, Katie D’Elia, Bridget Durette, Kara Forman, Tristan Hobbes, Mykal Kuslis, Amy Lampe, Mandi Levin, Casey Mahoney, Carly Paine, Meagan Puzacke, Melissa Roy, Meghan Ryczek, Jaime Seligmann, Kathy Shaw, Stephanie Smith, and Kim Spreda. Scholar-Athletes included Tyler Banville, Richard Bruneau, James Condren, Jon Dalton, Priscilla Dougherty, Kate Livingston, Ashley Marchitto, Ashley McFetridge, Sean McLaughlin, Anthony Mendes, Ben Raccio, Natalie Ruggiero, Megan Sheehan, Jon Snedeker, Shontel Tedeschi, and Kevin Zalucki. Major award honorees also were recognized on May 11. Mykal Kuslis ’08, a sprinter on the track team, received the Francis E. Geissler Senior Male SportsPerson-of-the-Year Award; the Bonnie J. Edmondson Senior Female SportsPerson-of-the-Year Award went to basketball player

From left: David Giessler, son of Francis Geissler; Mykal Kuslis ’08, recipient of the Francis E. Geissler Senior Male SportsPerson-of-the-Year Award; Stephanie Smith ’08, recipient of the Bonnie J. Edmondson Senior Female SportsPerson-of-the-Year Award; and Bonnie Edmondson ’87.The awards are given each year to one male student and one female student who display sportsmanship, teamwork, dedication, leadership, and integrity.

Stephanie Smith ’08; Jay Barney ’08 was honored as Male Athlete-of-the-Year; Ashley McFetridge ’09 was named Female Athlete-of-the-Year; the Male Rookie-of-the-Year Award went to Courtney Simmons ’10; Karina Johnson ’10 was named Female Rookie-of-the-Year; and the Morrell Service Award went to Amy Lampe ’08. In addition, the annual Faculty Athletics Representative team trophy was presented to the women’s basketball team for having the highest aggregate grade point average.

Hamilton Represents Warriors in NEILA Game

Sarah Barber ’08

Barber Nets Kay Fromer Award Sarah Barber ’08 put the finishing touches to a standout swimming career by becoming the second Eastern swimmer to win the prestigious Kay Fromer Award, which is presented to the senior with the most career points in the New England Intercollegiate Swimming and Diving Association (NEISDA) Division II-III Championship Meet. This year, Barber won the 1,000-yard freestyle for the fourth-straight season and was second in the 500- and 1,650-yard freestyle.

Midfielder Pete Hamilton ’09 participated in the 33rd Annual New England Intercollegiate Lacrosse Association (NEILA) East-West Senior All-Star Game on May 30, competing for the West squad at Harvard Stadium. Hamilton became Eastern’s 22nd selection to the game, which featured a select group of 49 seniors from New England Division I, II, and III institutions. Hamilton had 36 goals and 49 points this past season, helping the Warriors win all six of their regular-season conference matches. Hamilton is the only four-time, first-team All-Little East Conference selection in program history. (The conference began sponsoring men’s lacrosse in 2001.)

Pete Hamilton ’09 participated in the 33rd Annual New England Intercollegiate Lacrosse Association East-West Senior All-Star Game at Harvard Stadium.

athletics

Eastern’s 2008 Scholar All-America The academic and athletic accomplishments of long-stick midfielder Jon Snedeker ’08 landed him on the United States Intercollegiate Lacrosse Association (USILA) Scholar AllAmerica Team this past spring.

Snedeker was among 61 seniors in Divisions I, II, and III to earn a spot on the 2008 team. The USILA Scholar All-America program was initiated in 1989 “to recognize student-athletes from USILA member institutions who have distinguished themselves academically, athletically, and as citizens of their communities.” This past spring, Snedeker was named to the All-Little East Conference team for the fourth straight year, and also earned an Eastern/E-Club ScholarAthlete Award for the second time in his two seasons of eligibility. He was also selected to represent the United States in the international Down Under Cup competition in Australia. With an overall grade-point average of 3.33, Snedeker graduated this past May with a degree in business and a minor in marketing.

Jon Snedeker ’08 became the second studentathlete in the history of the men’s lacrosse team to be named a USILA Academic All-America.

Snedeker becomes Eastern’s second selection to the USILA academic squad and the first since John Rubano was named in 2000. A total of 14 student-athletes from New England institutions were named to the 2008 scholar team, with Snedeker the only selectee from either a statesupported institution or from the Little East Conference.

Eastern Track Team Comes Home

all of Fame to Induct New Members

A number of former athletic greats will be inducted into the Eastern Athletic Hall of Fame at the 15th Annual Hall of Fame Banquet on Nov. 2.The ceremony and luncheon will begin at 12:30 p.m. in the Betty R.Tipton Room in the Student Center. The two-hour program includes a sixminute video narrated by WILI-AM (1400) radio personality Wayne Norman that documents the accomplishments of each inductee, as well as acceptance speeches and special award presentations. Bonnie J. Edmondson, a 1987 Eastern alumna and former NCAA Division III track and field All-America in the discus, will serve as emcee.

The Class of 2008 includes Scott Budner, a left-handed All-America pitcher from 1975 to 1977; Stan Harris, a fouryear starting shortstop in baseball between 1983 and 1986; Rick McCarthy, the first head coach in men’s lacrosse history, whose seven-year record was 91-19; Katie Nichols, a three-time all-region volleyball player between 1988 and 1991; Cindy Walker, a three-year starter in goal in women’s soccer who led the Warriors to three postseason tournaments between 1989 and 1992; and Cindy Walz, a two-time All-New England softball first baseman who helped the Warriors to four straight regional championships between 1982 and 1985 and two national championships.Walz also served as the program’s assistant coach in 1986 and head coach in 1996 and 1997. Since its inception in 1986, the Hall of Fame has inducted 79 individuals representing 12 intercollegiate programs. Additionally, 19 individuals have been honored with a Pioneer Award, and 12 individuals have received the Michael A. Atkind Exceptional Service Award. Tickets are $45. For more information, contact David Yeo at (860) 465-5166 or Scott Smith at (860) 465-4326.

Celebrating the first home track meet in program history on April 12 with team members and friends are (far left) Vin Pillari ’77, a member of the Eastern Hall of Fame and the program’s first All-America; and (second from left, back row) John Keleher, Eastern’s first track-and-field head coach.

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ATHLETICS

wo Named to Academic All-District Team

Baseball player Tristan Hobbes ’10 and softball player Kim Church ’11 were recognized for their academic and athletic successes by earning spots on the ESPN The Magazine/College Division District I 2008 Academic All-District Team by the College Sports Information Directors of America (CoSIDA). Hobbes repeated as a first-team selection to the District I CoSIDA baseball team, and Church was a second-team choice to the softball team in her first year of eligibility. Student-athletes from Division II and Division III instituTristan Hobbes ’10 tions located in New England and New York are eligible for consideration to the College Division team. Hobbes, a Communication major, and Church, a Physical Education major, were the Kim Church ’11 only selections from among the eight Little East Conference institutions. To be eligible for academic all-district consideration, the student-athlete must have reached sophomore athletic and academic standing, must have completed one academic year at the institution, must have participated in at least 50 percent of the team’s games as a starter or important reserve, and must have a cumulative GPA of at least 3.20.

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Amy Lampe ’08 (fifth from left) and Christina Amato ’09 (middle) received the Holly E. Zimmerman Memorial Award. Standing to the right of Amato is Committee Chairman David G.Yeo. Next to Lampe is Eastern Athletic Director Joyce Wong. Fourth from left (behind Lampe) is Jackie Collins, niece of Holly Zimmerman.

Zimmerman Award Recipients Selected In February 2008, Amy Lampe ’08 and Christina Amato ’09 were named the 24th and 25th recipients of the Holly E. Zimmerman Memorial Award. Lampe was a fouryear field hockey letterwinner and two-year captain and Amato is a three-year basketball letterwinner. Both are Sport and Leisure Management majors. The Zimmerman Award was instituted in 1993 in memory of Holly

Zimmerman, an Andover native and Physical Education major who attended Eastern from 1989 through 1993 and was a member of the basketball program. Candidates for the award must be a junior or senior female athlete or athletic trainer majoring in Physical Education or Sport and Leisure Management with a minimum 2.70 overall grade-point average.

Pepin Coaches for National Pro Fastpitch Team Eastern head softball coach Diana Pepin was named hitting coach for the Lowell, MA-based New England Riptide of National Pro Fastpitch, joining the team in mid-July. Pepin was recommended for the position by former Eastern softball assistant coach Normand Pariseau, a first-year assistant coach at Quinnipiac University. The position is part-time and does not affect Pepin’s status as Eastern’s head coach during the academic year. Pepin led the Warriors to a 28-14 record and a berth in the NCAA Division III tour- Diana Pepin (right) eyes the action on the field nament this past spring. “I felt very comduring a New England Riptide game. fortable (with the Riptide) because of the season that we had (at Eastern),” she said.

athletics Field on April 26. After an address by President Elsa Núñez to players, coaches, and fans, the ceremonial first pitch was thrown out by Haley Spector, granddaughter of the late Howard Spector. Members of the 1990 NCAA Division III national softball championship team were honored during pregame ceremonies as part of the program’s celebration of the field’s final season.

Warriors Place Second in LEC Commissioner’s Cup

Haley Spector, granddaughter of the late Howard Spector, prepares to throw the ceremonial first pitch on April 26 to help celebrate the final season at Howard Spector Field.

Final Season for Howard Spector Field Eastern played its final regular-season home softball game at Howard Spector

As it has every season, Eastern Connecticut State University seriously challenged for the Little East Conference Commissioner’s Cup before finishing second in the 2007-08 standings. The Commissioner’s Cup is awarded to the institution deemed the most successful over the course of the season in the conference, which is composed of eight state-supported institutions in New England. Each institution is

awarded points based on its place in final conference standings in each sport, and receives bonus points for winning a conference tournament. Eastern was the winningest athletic program in the conference during the spring season, and its second-semester rush landed it in the No. 2 spot in the final tabulations. Eastern averaged 6.1565 points in the 17 championships in which it competed, just behind champion Keene State College (6.8522). The University of Southern Maine (5.8596) was the only other program to average better than 5.0 points. In the eight seasons in which the Commissioner’s Cup has been contested, Eastern has finished among the top three institutions all but once. This past year, six Eastern programs earned NCAA Division III tournament bids, and six combined to win a total of eight Little East Conference regular-season and/or postseason championships. Eastern won three titles in the fall, one in the winter, and four in the spring.

The women’s lacrosse team disposed of the University of Southern Maine, 17-10, to complete an undefeated Little East Conference season.

Eastern Women’s Lacrosse Undefeated Champions! The women’s lacrosse team capped its second-straight undefeated conference season by claiming the conference playoffs for the second year in a row. Eastern featured the conference’s Offensive and Defensive Players-of-the-Year in

Megan Gloster ’08 and Taylor MacDonald ’11, respectively. MacDonald’s MVP performance in the playoffs helped boost the team to its third LEC playoff title in four years and extend its conference winning streak to 16. EASTERN

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Class notes

’38

’63

Minnie Engeman is 92 years old and living on a farm in Silverton, OR. She moved to Oregon more than 60 years ago after teaching for a number of years in Ashford.

Janet (Lachack) DeCarolis retired after 36 years of teaching in June 2006. Thirty-two of those years were spent in the Windham school system.

’42 ’43

’64

Luva Mead Hoar has moved to Brimfield, MA.

Patricia Cody is the co-founder of DES Action. Her second book, “DES Voices: From Anger to Action,” was recently published. Grace Mitchell Mills is living in Chevy Chase, MD. Following graduation, she married a naval officer and earned her master’s degree from the University of Wisconsin-LaCrosse. She taught school in Virginia and South Carolina. Grace, who still goes by the nickname Gem, has two children and two grandchildren.

’58

John Adamo is retired but working as a student-teaching supervisor. Rocco Cancellaro taught for 35 years, 31 of them as a seventh- and eighth-grade science teacher in Willimantic. He has been married for 50 years and has three children and six grandchildren. Joyce (Moskowitz) Feen has three children: Jeff is a computer engineer, Mark is a full colonel in the Air Force, and daughter Kerry works in insurance. Joyce also has six grandchildren. Martha (Fish) Greenwood retired in 1996 from her job as a reading specialist in Holliston and Westborough, MA. Her last position was with the Reading Recovery Program in Westborough for four years. Andrew Maneggia celebrates 50 years working in education this year. Geraldine (Joyce) Murphy married Fred Murphy ’59. The couple spent 37 years together before Fred passed away in 1994. They have three children. Carol Ann (Mesick) Ouillette celebrated her 50th wedding anniversary on July 12, 2008. Mary (Lescoe) Russo became certified as a K-12 reading consultant after graduation. She was hired by UConn in 1978 and developed an English as Second Language program for E.O. Smith High School, where she taught until retirement in 1992. Mary and her husband,Tony, bred and raced Thoroughbred horses for 40 years. Since his death in 2004, Mary has continued to run the farm. Margaret (Bessette) Williams retired after 34 years of teaching in Vernon. She has visited over 20 Elderhostels in the United States and spends part of the year living on Cape Cod. She volunteers two days a week at a cancer thrift shop in Barnstable Village, MA.

Peg (Lathrop) Richardson was married to Dr. Robert E. Richardson Jr. on Oct. 20, 2007. She retired on June 1, 2007 from Central Jersey Legal Services after working there for nearly 18 years as a paralegal specializing in entitlement law for clients with mental illness and AIDS. Peg currently resides in Pembroke, ME.

’71 ’73

Faith Middleton received the Mark Twain Distinguished Journalist of the Year Award from the Connecticut Press. Gary Kinel retired after 33 years of coaching from his position as head coach of the Griswold High School boys’ basketball team following the 2007-08 season. Peter Myers and Lydia (Bombaci) Myers have retired from their counseling jobs for the State of Connecticut and Mansfield Middle School, respectively.They are currently doing private mediation through their LLC, Mediated Solutions.The couple also stays busy with civic activities in their hometown of Lebanon and traveling to Vermont to visit their children. Nancy Trawick-Speaks retired in July 2008 after more than 30 years of teaching and social work.

’74 ’77

Beth Larkins-Strathy has been named as the new assistant principal for the Middle School of Plainville.

David A. Franzi was promoted to the rank of Distinguished Teaching Professor of Earth and Environmental Science at Plattsburgh State University, where he has taught since 1985. He has authored and co-authored 28 professional papers, 14 consulting reports, and 60 published abstracts. Franzi also received the Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Teaching in 1997 and a Research and Scholarship Award from the SUNY Research Foundation in 2006.

’79 ’80

Ann (Taylor) Franzi is a chemist at Wyeth Pharmaceuticals in Rouses Point, NY.

Elton Tylenda donated a copy of “Long Shadows” to the J. Eugene Smith Library. He wrote chapter nine of the book, which recently won an Eric Hoffer Award for excellence in independent publishing.

’81

Richard Walsh and Carol (Cipriano) Walsh met at Eastern in November 1979 and were married in 1983.They have two sons, Rob and Tyler. Rob, 22, is a CNA and member of the Middlebury Fire Department.Tyler, 20, is a Marine Reservist being deployed for the first time in September 2008. Timothy Larson has been named the executive director of Tweed New Haven Regional Airport.

’83

Col. Michael Sainsbury served over 20 years in the U. S. Army JAG Corps. He returned from duty in Iraq in 2005 and recently served as Professor of Law at the United States Military Academy at West Point.

’85

Gregory Thomas and his wife, Cheryl, celebrated 25 years of marriage on May 6, 2008.Their oldest son Christopher, 25, is in the U.S. Navy as a search-and-rescue swimmer. Timothy, 23, is still in college and hopes to have a career in film.

’88

Bryant Carpenter had his first book published. “Life is Still Good Rob Szymaszek: One Man’s Coaching Philosphy Applied to the Toughest Challenge of His Life” chronicles six years in the life of Meriden High School football coach Rob Szymaszek, better known as “Coach Smaz.”

’89

Stephen Pedneault has been named an adjunct professor for the University of Connecticut School of Business. He taught an online course during the summer 2008 semester.

’90

John Baron will teach a class at Manchester Community College about the history of Eastern Connecticut with his hometown of Hebron as the focal point.

’91 ’92

James Dineen has been named the new principal at Parker Memorial School in Tolland.

Jason Schulte and Brenda Mozdzierz were married in August 1998 and are currently living in Charlemont, MA. Jason is employed at ISO New England as a TSO Administrator, approving contracts for people who are purchasing power. Brenda works as an investigator for the Greenfield, MA, Department of Social Services.

’95

Michele (Ridolfi) O’Neill and her husband, Casey, welcomed their first child, Andrew Joseph, on Nov. 5, 2007. In April, Michelle

ATTENTION ALUMNI Have you moved or married? Have you taken a new job or had an addition to your family? Interested in volunteering at alumni events or activities? Please send your information to: Michael Stenko, Director Office of Alumni Affairs Eastern Connecticut State University 83 Windham Street,Willimantic, CT 06226 e-mail: alumni@easternct.edu Visit our web site at www.easternct.edu/alumni for news about alumni receptions and networking events. Looking to recruit a new graduate or student intern? Contact the Office of Career Services at (860) 465-4559.

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class notes began working for the Connecticut Education Association as a UniServ Representative out of the Torrington office. Mark A. Andrews of Manchester has been named to the Advisory Council for the Connecticut Society of Certified Public Accountants. He is a tax manager for ESPN in Bristol.

’96

Paige (Sullivan) Loper welcomed her second child on November 27, 2007. Denton True Young weighed 7 pounds, 14 ounces. He joins sister Ashlyn Reese, 4. In February 2007, Paige passed the North Carolina Bar Exam and is now licensed to practice law in Florida and North Carolina. Yamuna Nair was married on May 13, 2005 to Michael Winge.The couple has a oneyear-old son, Maximilian Venu. Following graduation Yamuna lived and worked in Texas, Switzerland, and Munich. She now resides in Scotland.

’98

Lisandra (Velez) Gonzalez completed her master’s degree in Public Health in 2005. She currently works at the Baystate Medical Center in Springfield, MA, as a Human Subject Protection Regulatory Coordinator ensuring the protection of human subjects. Eric Hood has been named the new public works director for the Town of Glastonbury. He was formally the physical operations manager.

’01 ’02

Brendan Carney has been named the head coach of the boys’ lacrosse team at Weston High School. John Stinchon has been appointed by Quinnipiac University as assistant director of the Carl Hansen Student Center and student leadership development.

’03

Jason Leydon is the new owner of The Underground 2, a fitness center in Milford. Dan Whelton played the part of one of the “boys” in the play “The History of Boys.”

’04

Danielle Strout and Yovan Reyes moved to Florida after graduation and were married on Nov. 6, 2006. Danielle is now a Board Certified Associate Behavior Analyst and has been working with autistic children.Yovan completed a Master of Education in Higher Education degee at the University of Miami and works at the University of Tampa in the Academic Advising Office.

’05

Tara Pisano is a caseworker in the Investigations Unit of Child Protective Services with the Department of Social Services in Suffolk County, NY. Amanda Ladegard was ordained a minister on June 8, 2008 at the Westchester Congregational Church in Colchester. Elaine Alexander released her new book, “Death at Deacon Pond.” Angela Marie Ocasio is an adjunct faculty member teaching United States History II at Quinebaug Valley Community College.

’07

Tara Shea is living in South Boston and working as an Online Account Service Specialist at CXO Media, a division of IDG.The company specializes in “C-Suite,” working with CIOs and CEOs.

’08

Travis Barton has started his first AmeriCorps program, working in Texas on a Habitat for Humanity project repairing houses damaged by Hurricane Rita. Jessica Giordano presented her impendent study, “Associations Among Female Sexual Behavior, Body Images and Feminist Ideology,” at the annual conference of the Eastern Psychological Association in Boston.

Marriages Yamuna Nair ’96 and Michael Winge on May 13, 2005.

Jeffrey Horan ’99 and Meghan Lamphere ’01 on Sept. 8, 2007. Jeanna St. George ’00 and Josh Miner on Nov. 18, 2007. Kelly Zinser ’01 and Timothy Crowell on Oct. 27, 2007. Leslie Chiappetta ’02 and Michael Trombetta on Nov. 2, 2007. Andrew Gardner ’03 and Stephanie Daigle on Aug. 4, 2007. Kerri Pion ’04 and Brian Baker on June 30, 2007. Christina Martinez ’04 and Kevin Brown on June 23, 2007. Danielle Strout ’04 and Yovan Reyes ’04 on Nov. 6, 2006. Marie Pelkey ’05 and Jesse LeBlanc in October 2007.

Births David Kraszewski ’91 and Sarah (Ryczek) Kraszewski ’01 announce the birth of their second son, Matthew David, on July 12, 2007. He joins Michael Joseph, 3. Michele (Ridolfi) O’Neill ’95 and her husband, Casey, announce the birth of Andrew Joseph on Nov. 5, 2007. Paige (Sullivan) Loper ’96 announces the birth of her second child, Denton True Young, on Nov. 27, 2007. Elizabeth Hawes-Weeks ’05 and her husband, Scott, announce the birth of their son,William Fionn, on July 6, 2007.

Michelle Jensen ’98 and Tom Brandt on May 7, 2008.

In Memoriam Lester Foster, Friend of Eastern (1918-2008)

Paul Morway ’65 (1937-2008)

Lexina Ehman-Bailey ’79 M’90 (1958-2008)

Beatrice Coward ’30 (1910-2008)

Jay Loersch ’70 (1948-2008)

Anthony Savino ’84 (1936-2008)

Margaret (Sullivan) Wilson ’45 (1924-2008)

Mary (Ireland) Carlson ’71 (1924-2008)

Richard Forstell ’92 (1937-2008)

Richard White Sr. ’63 (1935-2008)

Nancy LaPointe ’73 (1935-2008)

John Carragher ’95 (1937-2008)

Anthony Romano ’64 (1939-2008)

Martin Jay Silverman ’76 (1952-2008)

Joshua Metell ’01 (1979-2008)

Margaret S. Wilson, 1924-2008 Margaret Sullivan “Peg” Wilson ’45, Eastern alumna, retired administrator, and long-time friend of the University, passed away on July 12, 2008, following a brief illness. Peg received her B.S. in 1945 from what was then Willimantic State Teachers College, later returning to Eastern to teach. She retired from Eastern as executive dean in 1989. In 2006, the University honored Peg by naming the Margaret S. Wilson Child and Family Development Complex in her honor. As much as Peg did for Eastern, she shared her commitment to young children with the rest of Connecticut and beyond. She started the Head Start program in Norwich, was active in local Norwich politics, and founded the Norwich Historical Society. She was president of the Connecticut Mental Health Association and served on the White House Conference on Children in addition to the National Commission to Reduce Infant Mortality. This past May, Eastern hosted a luncheon for Natchaug Hospital, at which time the hospital honored Peg with a Lifetime Achievement Award. In honor of his mother, Dr. David Wilson recently endowed the Margaret S. Wilson Memorial Scholarship Fund. EASTERN

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Final thoughts

First” grant from the U.S. Department of Education for Eastern’s Center for Early Childhood Education, and a $200,000 grant from the Nellie Mae Education Foundation to continue our Project Compass initiative. This initiative seeks to provide advising and other education support services to increase retention and graduation rates of underserved student populations. Eastern is also seeing growth in support from alumni, who clearly see value in investing in Connecticut’s designated public liberal arts university, and for this we are very appreciative.

This issue of EASTERN Magazine is full of stories of students, faculty, staff, and alumni achieving excellence as learners, professionals, and volunteers in service to their communities. Whether providing leadership in the San Diego arts community, organizing local volunteers, or inspiring others by graduating from college in one’s twilight years, the members of the Eastern family highlighted in this issue help demonstrate once again that an Eastern education prepares students to actively participate in the world in which they live. We know that the quality of education found at Eastern comes at a price, a price only partially subsidized by the tax dollars of Connecticut residents. Even when the tuition revenue paid by students and their families is included, we cannot fully fund the costs of running a residential, liberal arts campus. That is why the Office of Institutional Advancement and the ECSU Foundation, Inc., continue their efforts to attract and secure private donations in support of the University’s mission. In addition to private donations, the University is actively seeking grant funding opportunities. Among our recent successes are a $1.4 million “Early Reading

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To continue this momentum, the Division of Institutional Advancement has developed an aggressive schedule of alumni receptions throughout the United States in 2008–09. We hope to become reacquainted with our alumni while offering them opportunities to reconnect with their former professors, with their classmates, and with their alma mater. We talk a great deal about “family” at Eastern. Our students get to know their professors and other students on a first-name basis and forge friendships that truly last a lifetime. Several generations from the same families have attended Eastern because they are comfortable on our campus and proud of the education they receive. And alumni recall their years on campus with great fondness and a realization that their time at Eastern was truly “special.” The Eastern family extends across our great nation and beyond our borders, and we remain true to its spirit. With your active support and participation, we hope to make 2008–09 a landmark year in the life of our University. Thank you, as always, for being part of the family!

Kenneth J. DeLisa Vice President for Institutional Advancement

From left: Political Science Professor William Salka looks comfortable in a Lofteez V-Neck T-shirt. Biology Professor Michael Gable is casually attired in a Hooded Color-Block Sweatshirt. President Elsa Núñez wears a Hilfiger Ladies short-sleeve Oxford Shirt. Math Professor Stephen Kenton looks sharp in a Hilfiger Collin Crew Shirt.

Show Your Eastern Spirit! From left: Rhona Free, vice president for academic affairs, sports a Hilfiger Hooded Sweatshirt. Kenneth Briggs, assistant to the director of financial aid, looks comfortable in a Men’s Collegiate Tee. Accounting Professor Moh’d Rujoub sports a Weatherproof Classic Microfiber Jacket. Economics Professor Kenneth Parzych is casually attired in a Hilfiger Men’s Polo.

Name: _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Address: ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________ City: ______________________________________________________________ State: _______________ Zip Code:_________________ Phone: ( Item # 2216007-468 2216007-043 2216007-638 3519030-043 3316160-469 3316160-662 3518976-481 3518976-100 3518976-004 3518976-078 3518976-609 3415901-481 3415901-004 3415901-078 60552 00310 21485

) __________________________________________ Email: ___________________________________________________ Description Hilfiger Hooded Sweatshirt Hilfiger Hooded Sweatshirt Hilfiger Hooded Sweatshirt Men’s Collegiate Tee Hilfiger Ladies’ Short Sleeve Oxford Hilfiger Ladies’ Short Sleeve Oxford Hilfiger Men’s Polo Hilfiger Men’s Polo Hilfiger Men’s Polo Hilfiger Men’s Polo Hilfiger Men’s Polo Hilfiger Men’s Colin Crew Hilfiger Men’s Colin Crew Hilfiger Men’s Colin Crew Classic Microfiber Jacket Lofteez V-Neck T-shirt Hooded Color-Block Sweatshirt

Color/Sizes Quantity Classic Navy/Grey Heather (S,M, L, 1X, 2X) _______ Grey Heather/Classic Navy (S, M, L, 1X, 2X)_______ Regal Red/Grey Heather (S, M, L, 1X, 2X) _______ Grey Heather (S, M, L, 1X, 2X) _______ Covington Blue (S, M, L, 1X, 2X) _______ New Ballerina Pink (S, M, L, 1X, 2X) _______ Classic Navy (S, M, L, 1X, 2X) _______ Classic White (S, M, L, 1X, 2X) _______ Grey Heather (S, M, L, 1X, 2X) _______ Tommy Black (S, M, L, 1X, 2X) _______ Bordeaux (S, M, L, 1X, 2X) _______ Classic Navy (S, M, L, 1X, 2X) _______ Grey Heather (S, M, L, 1X, 2X) _______ Tommy Black (S, M, L, 1X, 2X) _______ Stone (S, M, L, XL, 2X) _______ Athletic Heather (M, L, XL, 2X) _______ Navy/Oxford (S, M, L, XL, 2X) _______

Method of Payment K Check or money order enclosed (Please make check payable to: The ECSU Foundation, Inc.)

Size Price ____ $32.00 ____ $32.00 ____ $32.00 ____ $14.00 ____ $38.00 ____ $38.00 ____ $31.00 ____ $31.00 ____ $31.00 ____ $31.00 ____ $31.00 ____ $44.00 ____ $44.00 ____ $44.00 ____ $68.50 ____ $15.00 ____ $43.50 Grand Total

Total $________ $________ $________ $________ $________ $________ $________ $________ $________ $________ $________ $________ $________ $________ $________ $________ $________ $________

Total Payment

$________

K Credit Card Type: ______________________ Credit Card Number: _____________________________ Expiration date: _____________ Signature: __________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Please mail your order form to: EASTERN CONNECTICUT STATE UNIVERSITY Office of Institutional Advancement, 83 Windham St., Willimantic, CT 06226

Eastern Honors Mike Gableâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Career astern Connecticut State University is honoring the distinguished career of Biology Professor Michael F. Gable with a retirement celebration and the establishment of a special fund to support students who have held Biology assistantships.

Professor Gable ended his 36-year teaching and research career after the spring 2008 semester. However, he will remain an adjunct professor at Eastern, and will be developing and teaching online courses in Biology. On Saturday, Oct. 18, the University will host a special event in honor of Mike Gable. It will include late-afternoon tours of the new Science Building followed by an earlyevening dinner in the Student Center. All Biology and Biochemistry alumni are invited. The Michael F. Gable Biology Student Assistantships Fund will provide modest grants to Biology students who have held assistantships to help them financially. Payments and pledges to the fund were approaching $15,000 at the beginning of August. Those who have not received invitations to the event by mid-September, alumni who did not major in Biology or Biochemistry but who would like to attend the event, and anyone who is interested in supporting the Gable fund should contact Peter Dane, associate director of institutional advancement, at (860) 465-4513 or danep@easternct.edu.

EASTERN CONNECTICUT STATE UNIVERSITY 83 WINDHAM STREET WILLIMANTIC, CT 06226

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