East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania
Alumni Herald Winter 2013
Volume 24, No. 1
SHELTER AFTER SANDY
Campus cares for thousands after devastating storm Page 4 Students learn emergency lessons, alumni feel the effects
in this issue
16|Sport Management connects 20|Homecoming 2012
ESU Alumni Herald
Opening Remarks Dear Friends,
I am so very proud to let you know that Warrior pride is alive and well here in the Pocono Mountains and across the country!
Welcome to our second official online version of the Alumni Herald! We’ve received positive feedback about the transition to digital publishing with the Spring 2012 edition, and we hope to continue to move toward a completely online alumni magazine soon to help us control costs and reduce the university’s carbon footprint.
In addition to the heartwarming feature story in this issue, you’ll also read about other good things happening at ESU including:
This issue is chock-full of great news from your alma mater, and I hope you will continue to be inspired by the achievements of our students, faculty and staff. As I celebrate my first winter season here in the Poconos, I continue to find an overwhelming sense of warmth and compassion in the people I meet. As the Alumni Herald cover story will tell you, the students, faculty and staff of East Stroudsburg University embraced our neighbors and friends during Hurricane Sandy, whether the help was needed near our campus or through outreach into other communities At ESU, more than 100 members of our campus community stepped up to volunteer in ESU’s “megashelter” and in the community to help people regain a sense of comfort and security. Under the direction of the Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare and with the assistance of the Red Cross, we welcomed more than 200 of our neighbors in need to Koehler Fieldhouse for a hot shower, warmth during the day, a meal, a place to sleep and someone to listen. That genuine kindness and respect for the human spirit was also evident during the holiday season as our students, faculty and staff reached out to help others in need with donations and volunteer support for local school programs, soup kitchens and community celebrations.
Alumni Herald The Alumni Herald is the official publication for East Stroudsburg University’s alumni and is published three times a year. Please address all correspondence to: Office of Alumni Engagement East Stroudsburg University Foundation 200 Prospect St. East Stroudsburg, PA 18301 570-422-3530 800-775-8975 Fax: 570-422-3301 Email: alumni@esufoundation.org Website: www.esualumni.org/herald
n New academic programs (English as a Second Language specialist certification program and a master of arts in professional and new media writing) n Updates on sport management graduates including “Bucky” Heath ’06; n Valuable information about ESU’s legacy program and alumni benefits. May the growth and outreach of ESU inspire you to find ways to give back to your community and your alma mater as we enter a new year and new beginnings. I’ll be joining members of the ESU Foundation staff for alumni events around the country in 2013, and hope to meet more of our loyal graduates to best understand their relationships with this great institution. For those of you who will journey back to ESU next year for Homecoming, please mark your calendars for the first weekend in November. Until then, my family and I would like to wish you good health and prosperity in 2013. Sincerely,
Marcia G. Welsh, Ph.D. President
Marcia G. Welsh, Ph.D. University President Frank Falso President and CEO ESU Foundation Editor Caryn Wilkie Design and Production Office of University Relations Photography Jeff Phillips Kelsey Lamberton Daniel Freel Phil Stein VIP Studios Bob Weidner
Follow Dr. Welsh on twitter.com
@ PresidentWelsh
Contributors
Notice of Nondiscrimination
BGA Studios Elizabeth Bohen Brooke F. Donovan Brenda E. Friday, Ph.D. Greg Knowlden M’04 Margie Peterson Tanya Trinkle Sheree B. Watson Caryn Wilkie
East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or veteran’s status in its programs and activities in accordance with applicable federal and state laws and regulations. The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding this policy: Director of Diversity/Ombudsperson 200 Prospect Street 115 Reibman Building East Stroudsburg, PA 18301 570-422-3656
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Winter 2013
Table of Contents
4 Cover
ESU Foundation Henry A. Ahnert, Jr. Alumni Center (800) 775-8975 www.esufoundation.org Frank Falso
President and Chief Executive Officer
Betty Russo
1
Story
SHELTER FROM THE STORM: Koehler Fieldhouse becomes an emergency “megashelter” after Hurricane Sandy, welcoming thousands and offering valuable lessons to ESU community.
Vice President for Development and Chief Operating Officer
LEGACIES: ESU awards Legacy Family pins to generations of alumni, keeping the East Stroudsburg tradition alive.
Brooke F. Donovan
Interim Director of Alumni Engagement
Janis Russo
Administrative Support Specialist
Greg Wilson
Senior Director of Individual Giving
10
Michele Benfer
Major/Planned Gifts Officer
Ryan Baumuller
Major/Planned Gifts Officer
Cassandra Cleveland
Major/Planned Gifts Officer
Angela Beers
Director of Corporate and Foundation Relations
Belinda Diaz
“Mrs. A” and her deep roots on campus......................................11 New master’s and ESL programs debut...................................... 12 Sport management graduates well connected ............................16 New inductions to Athletic Hall of Fame......................................24
Prospect Research Analyst
Caryn Wilkie
Communications Manager
Robin Opperlee
Assistant Director of the Annual Fund
Sara Cosgrove
Assistant Director of the Annual Fund/Phonathon
Melissa Burke
Finance and Accounting Manager
Michelle Ljubicich ’05
Website and Special Projects Manager
Wendy Dickinson
Gift Processor and Donor Records Specialist
Laurie Schaller ’10
Executive Assistant and Scholarship Funds Administrator Support Specialist/Development Programs
Patricia Smiley
Administrative Assistant
Board of Directors Collette L. Ryder ’96 President Anne M. Morton ’96 Secretary
FIFTY YEARS: Phi Sigma Kappa expects hundreds of brothers back on campus for the 50th Anniversary celebration in April.
Features
Director of Information Systems
Matt Smith
Nancy Boyer
29
Departments
ESU Foundation | MailBag.................. 2-3 ESU News......................................... 12-15 Alumni in the News...............10-11, 16-19 Alumni Events....................................... 29
Class Notes......................................30-32 Marriages | Births................................ 32 In Memoriam........................................ 32 Giving Opportunities...... inside back cover
ON THE COVER: Storm damage on New Jersey’s barrier islands, as seen by Kim Keller ’92, who was there to help as an emergency medical technician after Hurricane Sandy devastated the area. Bottom left: Dori Bloye, Red Cross shelter manager, talks to students about emergency preparedness at Koehler Fieldhouse. Right: Sophomore Renee Ricciuti hands out boxed Salvation Army meals at the ESU “megashelter.” (Bob Weidner photos)
Richard A. Bellis ’82 Jack P. Childs III ’67 David J. Comiciotto ’91 Edward J. Curvey ’63 Joseph B. Fite III ’76 Kelly J. Fox ’94 Lynn F. Hauth ’08 Dr. William J. Horvath ’70 M’79 Frank E. Johnson ’74 Dr. Mark W. Kandel ’82 Deborah A. Kulick ’80 Gail A. Kulick ’88 M’89 Johanna Mazlo ’91 Mark J. Mecca ’96 Christie M. Mendez ’98
Shirley A. Merring ’57 Edward Myers ’94 M’96 Anthony F. Pasqua ’00 Bernard A. Peruso ’91 Dr. Ronald W. Prann ’84 Ritchey J. Ricci ’65 M’72 Thomas L. Sabetta, Jr. ’09 Paul A. Scheuch, Jr. ’71 M’77 Paul E. Shemansky ’96 M’01 M’04 Candice S. Sierzega ’10 Ronald D. Steckel ’71 Richard D. Vroman ’67 Christopher S. Yeager ’74 M’81 Lawrence A. Zaccaro ’77
Emeriti Eugenia S. Eden ’72 M’76 Bryan L. Hill ’71 Phyllis M. Kirschner ’63 Dr. Frank M. Pullo ’73 M’76 Dr. Faye Soderberg ’58 Virginia Sten ’71 John E. Woodling ’68 M’76
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ESU Alumni Herald
ESU Foundation
President and CEO:
Coming together and giving back There are days I read the news in disbelief of the heartache and trauma so many of our fellow Americans endure. The Sandy Hook Elementary School shootings in December tug at our hearts, as we wonder how such a tragedy could occur. And in October just six weeks before, Hurricane Sandy unleashed her wrath upon the East Coast, taking lives and devastating the homes and livelihoods of many thousands in her path. While these two events are unrelated, they do connect us in a bigger sense. In the dawn that follows a horrible act or disaster, men and women across this nation come together as compassionate and caring human beings in support of one another. East Stroudsburg University, local nonprofits and many service organizations were a shining example of human decency when Hurricane Sandy left many regional and local residents homeless, without food, water or electric power. Our community and many beyond called for help and the state of Pennsylvania answered, opening two “megashelters� that welcomed hundreds who needed respite from the cold. ESU was happy to host such a shelter for the first time, and I can say I was so proud to see the university and community come together to fill such an important role in a time of crisis. Also noteworthy were the volunteer efforts by students and members of campus groups who gave their time and service. Whether helping set up or break down the shelter, reading to young children displaced from their homes, or traveling to the shore
to aid in cleanup efforts, ESU student, faculty, staff and alumni volunteers indeed showed they are caring human beings. In this issue of the Alumni Herald, we are proud to share many aspects of this extraordinary story for ESU. We also share remarkable feedback from alumni who responded to ravaged communities, or are dealing with clean-up efforts of their own on the Jersey shore. As we all hunker down for what Mother Nature will bring us in the thick of winter, we continue our good thoughts and well wishes for all affected through recent events. We know that kindness trumps everything and giving back to others in need is truly the light of every new day. In the world of development here at the ESU Foundation, giving back shows up in a variety of ways, including through your generous gifts of support for which we are so very grateful. But no matter your way of giving back, the impact made is always great and the personal reward is memorable and profound. My very best to you and your family.
Frank Falso President and CEO ESU Foundation
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Winter 2013
ESU Foundation
n Minsi Hall Did maintenance ever permanently fix the heating system in Minsi? I lived on the first floor in a room facing the quad, directly above the heating system that would get out of control, sound like a steam engine and overheat, day and night. The temperature of the floor and room would rise to the high 80s. It was not until I called an administrator at home at 2 a.m. (twice) did anyone seriously attempt to fix it. I had moved out the next year and it still had not been fixed. John Alfano ’68
Editor’s Note: After speaking with Residence Life, they confirmed that the steam engine sounds in Minsi have long since been fixed; however, old college buildings are still notorious forPM being homecomingstd ad_Layout 1 11/27/12 2:15 Page 2 difficult when it comes to regulating the thermostat!
MailBag
What ESU alumni are saying about the school, the events and the issues
Let us know what you think!
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graduate of ESSC at the time, I enjoy opportunities to follow what is new at ESU. I read that you attended Colorado State, where I am now the dean of the college of applied human sciences. Good luck with your leadership position! Jeff McCubbin ’76
alumni@esufoundation.org Office of Alumni Engagement, Henry A. Ahnert, Jr. Alumni Center 200 Prospect St. East Stroudsburg, PA 18301 Attn: MailBag Please include your name and contact information. Letters may be edited for clarity or space.
n President Welsh I enjoyed reading the Alumni Herald this morning to learn of your [Dr. Welsh’s] appointment. As a 1976
n Hurricane Sandy My heart goes out to all affected by Hurricane Sandy. News of the damage brought back memories of when a flood occurred in 1956 and the beginning of the school year was delayed. One could not drive from East Stroudsburg to Stroudsburg for a bit of time. There were even deaths at a camp north of the college. Again, my condolences to all affected by Hurricane Sandy! Barbara Baatz Davies ’57
You’re an ESU grad. You’ve got perks! The Office of Alumni Engagement is pleased to offer discount programs and services available exclusively to ESU alumni. As a member with PSECU you’ll receive competitive rates, low/no fees, convenience and great service. PSECU provides not only financial products and online tools, but also top-notch service. Services include checking and savings accounts, certificates, IRA’s, loans (vehicle, personal, equity), mortgages and more. Visit www.psecu.com/esuf. Liberty Mutual Insurance offers alumni discounts in auto, homeowners, and renters insurance programs through Group Savings Plus. • Discount of up to 20 percent off competitive rates on auto, homeowners, and renters insurance. • Convenient payment plans, including checking account deductions with no down payments. For a free, no-obligation quote, Pennsylvania and New Jersey residents may call 800-706-0047, ext. 51475 or visit www.libertymutual.com/eaststrouds. What’s in your Warrior wallet? The ESU Foundation offers a Visa credit card issued by Capital One Bank. There are three spirited ESU card designs to choose from. If qualified, not only do you get a great rate, but you also support ESU at the same time! Visit www.cardlabconnect.com/ESU Foundation. You qualify for a special discount given by LTC Global, a premiere provider on long-term health care insurance. Benefits are also extended to spouses as well as extended family, parents, in-laws, grandparents, aunts/uncles, and brothers/sisters. Call 215-297-5511.
For a full listing of benefits, discount programs and services, visit www.esualumni.org/benefits.
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ESU Alumni Herald
Cover Story
‘
We’re going to be evacuating people and we might need somewhere for them to go. Can you help us out?’
’
Ruth Miller Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency
When Hurricane Sandy slammed into th
ESU had less than 12 hours’ notice that Koehler Fieldhouse w
F
By Margie Peterson
rom early Tuesday, October 30, when the ESU community received official word that its fieldhouse would be transformed into a refuge until the last residents left November 8, a story unfolded of students, faculty and staff coming together with state and local agencies to help people in distress. It is a measure of how the university’s first megashelter succeeded that at least one couple was loathe to return home — even after their power was restored. “We had a couple of elderly people who didn’t want to leave,” said Dori Bloye, shelter manager for the Red Cross. “Their power was back on but they didn’t want to leave. They loved the attention and being taken care of. They loved people chatting with them.” People were fleeing the effects of what was widely dubbed “the storm
of a lifetime.” New York and New Jersey bore the brunt of the storm and lost whole neighborhoods to ocean surge and winds of up to 90 mph when Sandy made landfall. In Pennsylvania, more than 1.5 million homes lost power — some for a week or more — as residents dealt with downed power lines and trees blocking roads. As the storm gathered strength, Pennsylvania got a call from its neighbors to the east, according to Ruth A. Miller, speaking for the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency (PEMA) and the state fire commissioner. “We received a request from the state of New York and the state of New Jersey, saying, ‘We’re going to be evacuating people and we might need somewhere for them to go. Can you help us out?’,” Miller recalled.
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Winter 2013
Cover Story
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The impact of Superstorm Sandy was immense and East Stroudsburg University alumni and their families weren’t immune to Mother Nature’s wrath at the end of October. The storm affected 24 states, including the entire eastern seaboard, and caused particularly severe damage in New Jersey and New York.
he East Coast
ABOVE: Emergency medical technician Kim Keller ’92 with partner Adam Bockius in front of storm damage on the New Jersey shore.
ESU alumni took a few moments to share their Superstorm Sandy experiences:
BELOW: Seniors Blair Ramsey, left, and Phillip Anthony of Kappa Alpha Psi set up Red Cross cots at Koehler Fieldhouse.
Southeastern Region EMS strike team to New Jersey, mostly the barrier islands (Seaside Heights, Lavalette, Ortley Beach and Brick Township). We were sent there to assist in covering 911 calls for squads, search and rescue and other tasks. I have to say that the television coverage prior to this did not even begin to prepare me for what I saw and did. The stories I have to bring back home of the people who stayed as first responders and those who stayed to ride out the storm are amazing. My heart goes out to those who lost loved ones, personal belongings and their houses. It was like a war zone and nothing I have ever seen in my lifetime. I am proud to say that we went in as 22 strangers to work with one purpose and we left there 22 strong friends who carry a bond that will always be with us. The positive attitude of those affected was amazing, as was the support they were willing to give us while there. The countless pats on the back and the “thank yous” from strangers in diners, even at Wawa, were amazing. I am proud to say that our group from Pennsylvania has organized Operation Shore Rescue and is volunteering our time along with others from back home to staff their 911 trucks while they attempt to get their lives back in order.
was to house refugees from the storm PEMA, the Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare and other state agencies discussed options for large shelters with the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education (PASSHE), which oversees the 14 state-owned universities. The state decided on ESU and West Chester University because of their facilities and accessibility to people from New Jersey and New York, Miller said. Over that weekend, ESU President Marcia G. Welsh, Ph.D., had been in discussions with PASSHE about the possibility that Koehler Fieldhouse might be selected. The university got official word the morning of October 30, and before noon that day, members of the Pennsylvania All-Hazard
Incident Management Team from several state agencies and the Red Cross were on campus preparing Koehler for an influx of evacuees. Classes that normally meet at the fieldhouse had to be moved and teams that practice there hastily found new venues. The cavernous gymnasium was transformed into part dormitory, part living room and dining room, complete with tables, chairs and a television. While the West Chester shelter closed after only a couple of days because of lack of use, the ESU shelter quickly became a haven for those in need. Over the next 10 days, Koehler would be home to 544 people who would sleep Continued on Page 6
I was deployed as a part of the Pennsylvania
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Kim Keller ’92 Pottstown
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ESU Alumni Herald
Cover Story
Musings on a darkened Manhattan Jill Rachel Jacobs ’85 described her New York City experience during the storm in The Philadelphia Inquirer on November 11. Read “Musings on a darkened Manhattan” online at tinyurl.com/musings-esu
When I woke up on Tuesday morning, my
husband and I assessed the damage around our home. We had some branches down; we had no power, and a half a tree on the garage, but thankfully no major damage. I left for work at my normal time, only to find the majority of the roads in my area of Wooddale impassable due to downed trees. When I finally made it into my office at a financial service agency where I am a licensed sales and service representative, it was to find we had power and phone service, but no cable. We couldn’t access the majority of our members’ records, but we could answer phones, and they were ringing off the hook! We had a lot of members without power with trees on their houses, on their cars, in their yard, everywhere. We took every call, advised them to stay safe, and gave them phone numbers for the claims department as well as some tree trimmers and carpenters to help get the ball rolling. It was a long week in the office. Most of us were still without power and having transportation issues, but we were here for our members, and we were so happy to let them know they were not alone during that difficult and frightening time after Superstorm Sandy. I got my power back after almost a week and my parents were out for over a week. Between my house, my parent’s house, and my sister’s house, we were able to keep generators running to keep food cold, houses warm, and take showers. It was the longest I had ever been without power and I hope I am never out that long again! Sandy Haley ’06 East Stroudsburg
there and another 1,470 people who came just for meals, to get warm and take a hot shower, said ESU Assistant Police Chief Jim Flannery. At the shelter’s peak, 142 people slept there. Those at the center of the effort were amazed at how fast the shelter came together and how many people came to help. Warren Anderson, assistant vice president for student affairs, put out a call for volunteers, and by the afternoon that first day he had heard from more than 100 students, staff and local residents offering help. “To say the response was overwhelming is an understatement,” Anderson said. Flannery had the task of performing criminal background checks — a Red Cross requirement — on 140 students, faculty and staff volunteers. Many brought specific skills, such as EMT training or fluency in Spanish. “The amount of help that we were given was amazing,” Flannery said. “I was manning the incident command office at the university and I received a phone call from the National Guard saying, ‘We have 200 guys, what do you want us to do?’” Members of the Kappa Alpha Psi fraternity were in a meeting when they heard about the shelter and decided to pitch in. “It was a spur-of-the-moment thing,” said Darius Jackson ’14, president of Kappa Alpha Psi. “Right after the meeting we agreed to go help out to set up the beds and things like that.” The fraternity brothers assembed 80 to 100 cots, earning the gratitude of Red Cross volunteers hurrying to set up the shelter. “They were so wonderful,” said Bloye. “They came in with all this enthusiasm.” “This was a good time for fellowship and to give back to the community,” Jackson said. “We actually enjoyed it.” Gov. Tom Corbett announced the opening of the shelters that same day, welcoming people from New Jersey and New York. The first temporary residents began arriving that evening. The next day, Lt. Gov. Jim Cawley and local lawmakers visited to see that those using the shelter were being taken care of and to talk with them about their property damage. Although a handful of out-of-state residents used the shelter, the vast majority were Pennsylvanians who had lost power and had no heat or food. Donna and Glenn Learn, senior citizens from Stroud Township, arrived by ambulance. Glenn Learn, who requires portable oxygen, couldn’t stay in their cold home. “There were wires all over the place, which is dangerous,” Donna Learn said. “The road was blocked. You couldn’t drive a car down it.”
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Winter 2013
Cover Story
7
Having grown up in South Jersey, my family has
Bob Weidner
ABOVE: Marc Sacco ’95 shows the height of the flooding in his garage in Sea Isle City, N.J. AT LEFT: Pennsylvania Lt. Gov. Jim Cawley, between David Reese, left, and Mark Hacherl of the state incident management team, inspect the shelter at Koehler Fieldhouse.
A couple of days after the storm, the Learns sat in Koehler gymnasium eating lunch next to Ashley De La Rosa of Bushkill and her 3-year-old daughter, Yessenia. As the families shared a pie, the adults talked about the circumstances that brought them to the shelter. “It was really cold in my house and I’m asthmatic and my daughter is asthmatic,” De La Rosa said. The cold aggravated her condition and she ended up being treated at a hospital emergency room before coming to Koehler. “I never thought I’d be in this predicament.” To the Learns and De La Rosa, the shelter was a godsend. “We couldn’t be treated any better,” Donna Learn said. “They go out of their way for you to do whatever they can do.” She was dressed in an oversized gray sweat suit, courtesy of the Pennsylvania State Correctional system, which sent boxes of sweat suits for people who weren’t able to bring much with them. “A lot of people came with the clothes on their back,” she said. For many, the shelter was a last resort. “They’re cold and they’re hungry and they don’t know where to turn,” Bloye said. Among those who found a temporary home at ESU were 17 from an assisted living community who were displaced when the roof of their residence was damaged in the storm. For a couple of nights, Koehler also housed a contingent of electric company linemen from Canada who came to help their U.S. counterparts restore power. The crew would arrive about 10 p.m. and leave at 6 a.m. “These were guys that were working 16 hours on, eight hours off,” Flannery said. Through it all, ESU students showed up to help distribute meals, read to children to give weary parents a break, walk dogs at the adjacent pet shelter and other tasks. Army ROTC students Continued on Page 9
two houses in Sea Isle City, one in Linwood, and one in Brigantine. One house in Sea Isle is up on stilts about four feet. The storm surge reached about 4 feet, 6 inches, so the entire house was flooded, ruining everything inside. We’ve spent the past weeks removing drywall, throwing out all of the furniture, carpets, appliances, etc., and treating for mold. FEMA and flood insurance won’t cover the damages. The house in Brigantine is on the bay and has a long pier, a floating dock, and a bulkhead. All three were completely destroyed and most of the debris was deposited in the backyard along with two docks that belonged to someone else. Both towns are a complete mess but folks are cleaning up bit by bit. Mark Sacco ’95 Plymouth Meeting
ESU senior braves the storm to help heart patient in need After working a 12-hour shift, Tara King ’13, a part-time Suburban Rescue employee in Easton and another EMT volunteered to drive a man awaiting a heart transplant the 75 miles to the University of Pennsylvania Medical Center in Philadelphia. King drove through pounding winds, pouring rain and flying debris, trying to avoid downed trees, street signs and wires. The rescue unit arrived at 8 p.m. and waited until the heart recipient was checked in before heading back to the Lehigh Valley, but the trip back was even worse. The winds had grown stronger, and branches, chunks of Styrofoam and debris blew across the road. At one point on the turnpike, King slammed on the brakes to avoid striking a 50-foot tree blocking the road. There was no cell phone reception, so her partner had to run into the storm to an emergency phone to call for help. The two made it back to Easton safely around midnight.
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Cover Story
Mark Hacherl, right, commander of the Pennsylvania All-Hazard Incident Management Team (PA-IMT), explains the finer points of disaster response to ESU public health and social work students gathered at the Hurricane Sandy megashelter at Koehler Fieldhouse.
Bob Weidner
At left are Dori Bloye, shelter manager for the Red Cross and David Reese of the PA-IMT.
Shelter offers students a glimpse into disaster response efforts With the state’s 11-person incident management team on campus to set up a shelter at Koehler Fieldhouse, the teaching possibilities were too good to pass up. The team, which included first responders from the state departments of Health, Agriculture and Corrections, as well as State Police, gave ESU students studying public health and social work a crash course in the intense planning and logistics that go into dealing with a disaster. Mark Hacherl, the Pennsylvania All-Hazard Incident Management Team commander, explained how important it is to bring in supplies from outside a crisis area, because odds are you won’t find common necessities available nearby. “When you first go somewhere, local resources are overwhelmed,” Hacherl said. When emergency workers set up a shelter in the aftermath of a disaster, they must anticipate what else can go wrong and how they’ll fix it.
“These people are coming here because they don’t have power,” said Greg Bernard, operations section chief for the incident team. “What happens if we lose power?” ESU President Marcia G. Welsh, Ph.D., was pleased that team would take time to work with students who could be among the next generation of first responders. “We are very fortunate to have these professionals on our campus and for them to be so willing and open to sharing their years of experience and knowledge with our students, faculty and staff,” Welsh said. ESU sophomore Aalih Hussein was impressed with the amount of planning and coordination that goes into responding to a disaster. “It was magnificent to know the massive organization you have to have at every level,” said Hussein, who is majoring in social work and sociology. “They bring a level of humanity and compassion, but also a level of professionalism.”
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Winter 2013
Cover Story
were instrumental in the breakdown of the shelter when it was time to close it down. For the state Department of Public Welfare, which ran the shelter with the Red Cross, the experience was a success. “They were very helpful and willing and ready to work with us in every way possible,” DPW spokeswoman Carey Miller said of the ESU staff and students. And the ESU community got to see PEMA and the state’s Incident Management Team in action. “Because the system worked so well, you couldn’t tell that they met for the first time here,” said Syed Zaidi, ESU director of facilities. The experience was good training for the university’s own Incident Management Team, he said. “If, God forbid, something does happen in our immediate vicinity, we know what to expect, what resources are needed.” Bloye started to choke up when she spoke of the kindness shown by students. Some used their own money to buy coloring books for the children at the shelter, others brought bags of collected clothes. The women’s lacrosse team came to play with the children and brought toys. Bloye was especially impressed with sophomore Renee Ricciuti, who came almost every day to help distribute meals, talk with the residents and help at the front desk. Ricciuti, student manager for the women’s basketball team, said she was raised on the philosophy that “when you can help, you should.” “Whenever someone would come up and say ‘Thank you so much,’ it was awesome to know I made a difference in their lives,” she said. But student help for storm victims extended beyond the campus shelter. Eight members of the Sigma Pi fraternity spent two weekends cleaning up wreckage at Manasquan Beach in New Jersey. Past president Frank Bricker ’13 organized the brothers, who stayed with his family in Brick, N.J. His mother, Nancy Bricker, said the brothers, along with her son Nick and his friends, shoveled sand piles, cleaned a park and did demolition. “The compassion these boys shared with Sandy victims by their actions and words made me speechless,” she said. Bricker and fraternity brothers Jeff Martino ’15, Kevin Stumpf ’14, Greg Moore ’15, Shane O’Conner ’16 Kyle Berwick ’16, Dave Reciniello ’16 and Mike Eccleston ’16 plan to go back to Manasquan to volunteer more of their time. Like the students who helped at the shelter at ESU, these young men gave the victims of the storm a sense of community and hope. “We are lucky these boys are our future,” Nancy Bricker said. Members of Sigma Pi helped with the cleanup efforts at Manasquan Beach in New Jersey.
Four legs, wings and gills
Sandy’s refugees include displaced pets If the ESU women’s basketball team hadn’t relocated for the first week of November, they would have been sharing their locker room with a macaw named Diago, two frogs, a fish, and a whole lot of dogs and cats. These pets took refuge at ESU too, thanks to the Monroe County Animal Rescue Team. Emergency animal shelters are now common, thanks to lessons learned after Hurricane Katrina hit in 2005. Team coordinator John Schmidt of the Monroe County Bruce Barton, also Animal Rescue Team, with Diago the chief of Northeast macaw. Search and Rescue, was in New Orleans after the city flooded, and saw emergency personnel trying to evacuate hurricane victims had nowhere to take their pets. “You literally had people refuse to leave their houses if they couldn’t take their pets,” he said, and FEMA officials recognized there was a need to take in pets during disasters. So when Koehler was designated a megashelter, the Monroe CART set up a temporary home for animals in the fieldhouse. “We had dogs in the girl’s basketball locker room, the cats in the hallway and the frogs and the fish in the trainers’ room, with the birds between the trainers,” Barton said. The group took care of about 40 animals, with 22 being about the most they had at any one time. Shelter residents were responsible for caring for their pets but CART members and ESU student volunteers helped out. The team received help from the International Fund for Animal Welfare, as well as the Pike-Wayne and Carbon-Schuylkill county teams. In 10 days, the pet shelter racked up about $1,000 in expenses for food, cat litter and a couple of veterinary visits. For ESU Assistant Police Chief Jim Flannery, one of the enduring images of the 10-day experience was the sight of a young pet shelter volunteer petting an old blind dog that was draped across her lap — a recognition that storm victims come in all species. International Fund for Animal Welfare
Continued from Page 7
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ESU Alumni Herald
Alumni Engagement
Gail Kulick ’88 M’89 receives her ESU Legacy Family pin from Cassie Cleveland, major/planned gifts officer at the ESU Foundation. Twenty-six families were honored during the annual Legacy Pinning Ceremony held September 23.
Legacies ESU honors its families Twenty-six ESU Legacy families were honored September 23 during ESU’s annual Family Weekend. Brunch was served in the Keystone Room at the Center for Hospitality Management, and Legacy family members were given ESU Legacy Family pins in a special ceremony. “This warm and wonderful celebration connects families who have for two generations or more, continued a family tradition by attending ESU,” said Brooke F. Donovan, interim director of alumni engagement. “Whether you are a parent, child, sibling, aunt, uncle, cousin or grandparent, your pride as a Warrior shines through from one generation to the next.” Participation in the annual event has grown from last year’s participation of 17 families, Donovan said, and the Office of Alumni Engagement is continually updating records to reflect generational family ties to ESU. “With more than 40,000 alumni, we discover Legacy families on a consistent basis,” said Donovan. “Currently, 500 Legacy families are documented and we look to grow that number in the years to come.”
Ruth Alberts with daughter Patricia Alberts Hibschman ’62 by the many family photos that decorate her living room. (See “Mrs. A.’s” story, opposite page.)
Help us grow Are you and a member of your family part of an ESU Legacy? Submit your information online www.esualumni.org/legacyform or contact the Office of Alumni Engagement at 800-775-8975.
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Alumni Association
Leaving roots: The Alberts Legacy
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By Brooke F. Donovan “Mrs. A.” was the friendly face behind the Shawnee Hall snack counter, a chaperone at school dances in the old gym, and a mother figure to young men and women who needed someone to fill the parental void for them while at school. Alumni from the late 1950s and early 1960s fondly remember Ruth Alberts as “Mrs. A.,” the woman who was part of their East Stroudsburg family. And for daughters Patricia Alberts Hibschman ’62 and Diane Alberts ’67 and grandsons David Gilliland ’90 and Jonathan Gilliland ’94, Ruth Alberts started an ESU legacy. Alberts has a long history with ESU, befriending several professors and deans long before her family attended. Although she never enrolled, she was always curious about the arts, history and music, and soaked up the knowledge her children shared with her. “I earned my degree through my girls and the kids’ stories,” she said. For 39 years, Alberts lived on Normal Street, next to Shawnee where she worked and across from the yellow brick police station. Campus expansion forced her family to relocate to Ransberry Avenue, but she still wasn’t far away. Diane and Patricia both lived at home while attending school, and neither thought twice about not attending the college where their mother worked, and they flourished with her encouragement and support. “I marvel at the relationship that I had with my mother then and now,” said Patricia. “My mother was welcomed at my campus events because she was so much fun and a loved figure both on campus and among my friends.” Ruth vividly recalls stories Shawnee residents shared with her at the snack shop. One involved a prank on the dean of men, Eugene Martin, to challenge his “no showers after 10 p.m.” rule. “One night the boys tormented him by placing a metal policeman sign in the showers and left the water running,” she laughed. “He yelled at the person to get out of the shower and was so mad when he pulled back the curtain!” Alberts converted her garage to a recreation room where her daughters’ friends could hang out, dance or sit by the wood stove to watch television. She was a regular chaperone at college dances, and William “Bing” McNulty ’62 taught her how to do the Twist by pretending she was drying off with a towel. Ruth was heartbroken when she had to leave the Normal Street house, but her mark on the campus remains. Still standing tall are two maple trees she planted at her home many years ago, now huge and offering shade for families taking photos outside Koehler Fieldhouse after commencement. Today Ruth still stays in touch with the university through Patricia’s involvement with alumni activities, and continues to attend university events. Still a local resident, Mrs. A. remains close at hand, keeping a watchful eye over the expanding university that is so dear to her family’s hearts.
Ruth Alberts, known to many alumni simply as “Mrs. A,” still lives near campus and can visit the maple trees she planted long ago when she lived in a house on Normal Street near Koehler Fieldhouse.
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ESU News
MASTER of ARTS Profession
NEW PROGRAMS
By Margie Peterson
The Internet and Web-based technologies have set off an explosion of continuous worldwide dialogue, and those who can communicate most effectively in the new media will be those best able to sell their products or ideas or policies. With that in mind, ESU will offer a master of arts degree program in Professional and New Media Writing starting in August. It is the first such master’s degree offered by a university in the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education (PASSHE). The course work will be 80 percent online. “The program is designed for working professionals,” said Dr. Marilyn J. Wells M’87 M’91, vice provost and dean of the Graduate College. “It gives them the greatest flexibility to
meet their educational career goals on their time and at their pace.” According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for professional writers nationally is expected to grow 8 percent by 2018 and employment for technical writers is predicted to increase 18 percent. Senior level positions — many of which require graduate degrees — typically offer salaries starting at $50,000 a year or more. The new program will give a distinct advantage to writers who want to learn new skills for fastgrowing posts, such as digital content producer or e-commerce content writer. But it will also benefit those in fields such as biology, biotechnology, chemistry, business and computer science, who seek to hone skills needed for high-demand, high-salary positions.
CERTIFICATION English as a
By Margie Peterson
When Judith Torres, Ed.D., started to teach her “Developing Cultural Awareness and Sensitivity” class in rapid-fire Spanish, her graduate students quickly grew anxious — they couldn’t understand what she was saying. That’s exactly how she wanted them to feel. Torres, an assistant professor of ESU’s Department of Early Childhood and Elementary Education, was trying to get across how a student known as an English Language Learner (ELL) feels in a classroom where all the instruction is in a language they do not understand. The lesson was part of ESU’s new English as a Second Language (ESL) Specialist Program, which Torres coordinates. “I’m asking them questions and it was really noticeable how their anxiety level escalated from one to 10 in less than a minute. Their nervousness was such that they shut down,” Torres said. The newly designed program, which has earned initial approval from the Pennsylvania Department of Education, prepares teachers to serve the rapidly growing population of
English Language Learners. The graduate students can complete the certification program in a year by taking two courses per semester, including one summer session, or they can stretch out the course work to fit their schedules. All the graduate students must be licensed teachers as a prerequisite to earning their ESL certification, but they do not need to be fluent in other languages. For Katie Rooks, who is pursuing her ESL certification while substitute teaching, Torres’ class taught in Spanish “really put in perspective what these children are feeling. They may be very intelligent, they just don’t know the language.” The demand for ESL teachers has increased greatly with changing demographics nationwide. In Pennsylvania alone, enrollment of English Language Learners rose 114 percent from 2000 to 2010, the U.S. Department of Education has reported. “It’s a relatively new area, not all schools are geared up to offer this,” said Pamela Kramer Ertel, Ed.D., dean of the College of Education.
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Winter 2013
ESU News
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onal and New Media Writing New York City, with its high concentration of publishing, advertising and public relations firms, will give the master’s graduates a natural job market. “We are leveraging our proximity to New York to help create exciting opportunities for students who are looking to learn from top professionals, many of whom live in the area,” said Bill Broun, MFA, associate professor of English. According to a Bureau of Labor Statistics report, “online publications and services are growing in number and sophistication, spurring the demand for authors, writers, and editors, especially those with Web or multimedia experience. Businesses and organizations are adding text
messaging services to expanded newsletters and websites as a way of attracting new customers.” The master’s candidates will earn 30 credits and be expected to write a thesis or capstone project, which they might connect to their current jobs. While much of the course work will be online, there will be seminars in which master’s students will meet with professors, writers and editors in different fields. “Not all online education is the same and we will be doing online education that is absolutely humanized,” Broun said. “We’re striving to develop dynamic policies that are expansive to student needs. They won’t just be looking at a cold screen.”
In the last decade, enrollment in master’s level programs in communications and related studies has increased 45 percent nationally, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. A survey conducted by ESU’s Office of Academic & Institutional Effectiveness found that nearly 60 percent of alumni contacted said they would consider enrolling in the proposed master’s program, with 87 percent saying that online classes with work-friendly hours would make the program “very appealing.” ◆ For more information, contact Graduate Admissions Coordinator Kevin Quintero at 866-837-6130 or email kquintero@esu.edu. Or visit www.esu.edu/graduate.
Second Language Specialist Judith Torres, Ed.D., talks to teachers who are taking one of her English as a Second Language Specialist classes.
“It certainly will make graduates of our program more marketable.” The new ESL program is a revision of a previous program following new state requirements, which now include 60 hours of field experience in a public school under the guidance of a certified ESL teacher. Through six classes – 16 credits of course work – students learn how
to tailor teaching methods to address different levels of English proficiency, diverse cultural backgrounds, and linguistic differences. Parental involvement, advocacy, and laws associated with ELL student services will also be addressed. Jeff Phillips Most courses are delivered in the classroom, but as the program evolves, additional online courses will be offered. “I put all my heart and soul into creating these courses that will give candidates opportunities to have authentic experiences in the field,” said Torres, who has been training teachers for 33 years.
For graduate students Kristyn Gross ’11, a learning support substitute at Delaware Valley School District, and Stephanie Leap, a Stroudsburg High School social studies teacher, the new courses have reinforced their passion for working with young English Language Learners. “The demographics have changed, making it relevant for everybody in the classroom,” Leap said. “People move here from different backgrounds, including refugee camps. What can you do to make them feel safe and then help motivate them to learn?” Torres gets high marks for providing practical tools and inspiration. “She takes the time to explain things for us until we get it,” said Gross. “She is really an amazing ESL teacher. She really has a passion for it.” ◆ For more information, contact Torres at 570-422-3372 or at jtorres@esu.edu.
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ESU News
Hawthorn Hall gets a new life through recycling By Margie Peterson The concrete floors that thousands of students walked at the old Hawthorn Hall are becoming part of a new construction site somewhere else. That’s because the floors are among the estimated 92 percent of the razed residential hall that is being recycled, according to Thomas Bartek, auxiliary project manager in facilities management for ESU. Recycling demolition waste is part of a huge push by the 14 universities in the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education and it’s also required for the special environmental certification known as Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED). Such “green” certification means the construction methods and the building itself meet criteria for energy and water conservation and use of sustainable materials. Hawthorn Hall, Hemlock Hall and the university police station were torn down last year to make way for new residential suites. “All metals, brick, concrete block and concrete foundations were items that were recycled
content,” said Bartek. Even the steel beams? “They used a big machine that looked like a scissors and snapped them in segments that allowed them to be transported in recycling containers to the recycling center.” ESU recycled 5,289 tons of concrete, bricks and concrete block and and 655 tons of steel, aluminum and copper from Hawthorn and the police station. Only 487 tons of materials, such as rubber roofing material, couldn’t be recycled, Bartek said. Before the buildings were torn down, university staff found good homes for all the used furniture, said Bob Moses, director of residence life. ESU gave 200 mattresses to Harvest International for Haiti relief, and closer to home, chairs and tables to the Stroudsburg Little League, which is rebuilding after a fire. Other beneficiaries included four Boy Scout camps, Family Promise of Monroe County, ESU’s Stony Acres recreation center and the Keystone Rescue Mission Alliance. “The ending result is very positive,” Bartek said. “Everybody wants to produce less of a footprint.”
Bob Weidner
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Winter 2013
ESU News
WINTER COMMENCEMENT HONORS Undergraduate Keynote Speaker ESU President Marcia G. Welsh, Ph.D.
VIP Studios
Graduate Keynote Speaker Elzar Camper, Jr., Ph.D. Professor Emeritus, Media Communications and Technology
Seated, from left, are Louis Terracio, Ph.D., ESU President Marcia G. Welsh, Ph.D.; Andrea Steber; Christian Steber ’91, chairman of the ESU Foundation board, and Frank Falso, president and CEO of the ESU Foundation. Standing, from left, are Joan Ross; Patrick Ross ’67, chairman of the ESU Council of Trustees, and Betty Russo, vice president of development and COO of the ESU Foundation.
President’s Gala honors ESU Foundation donors The East Stroudsburg University Foundation welcomed nearly 100 guests to the annual President’s Gala this fall in the Sterling B. Strauser Gallery at the ESU Innovation Center. The celebration of “Moving Forward Together” brought together major ESU Foundation supporters, including members of the prestigious President’s Circle, to thank them for their philanthropy. The gala was the first for new ESU President Marcia G. Welsh, Ph.D., who encouraged the donors to remain loyal to ESU as she carries out her vision for the university to become the most respected institution in the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education. Patrick Ross ’67, chairman of the ESU Council of Trustees, Christian Steber ’91, chairman of the ESU Foundation board, Frank Falso, Foundation president and CEO, and Betty Russo, Foundation vice president and COO, offered remarks of gratitude to the donors. “Your generosity is found in the 208 annual scholarships totaling nearly $260,000 awarded to talented students during fiscal year 2011-2012,” Falso said. “It’s in the 255 endowed scholarships totaling more than $218,000 that benefited young men and women pursuing their academic dreams during that same year.” “It’s in the technology and the academic and athletic program enhancements that create a better experience for ESU’s students and faculty. Your support is evident within the very structures where students spend most of their time away from their homes and loved ones.”
WELSH
Grand Marshal Robert F. Schramm, Ph.D. Distinguished Professor, Chemistry
DOCTOR of EDUCATION DEGREES
CAMPER
Administration and Leadership Studies A collaborative program with Indiana University of Pennsylvania n Nancy Jo Greenawalt ESU Academic Coordinator for Intercollegiate Athletics
Dissertation: “Modern Sexism and Preference for a Coach among Select National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I Female Athletes: A Quantitative and Qualitative Analysis”
SCHRAMM
n Kerri Ann Ruck ’99 M ’06
Dissertation: “A Descriptive Study of Pedagogical Characteristics of Online versus Face-to-Face Teaching Methods in a Secondary Blended Learning Environment”
GREENAWALT
STUDENT HONORS University Service Award
Regan Zimmerman ’12 – Hotel, Restaurant, Tourism Management
Student Commencement Speaker Julianna Nori Uathavikul ’12 Criminal Justice/Sociology Major
RUCK
BY THE NUMBERS Undergraduate degrees................. 458 Graduate degrees........................... 150 Total ESU graduates.....................608 Doctoral degrees (IUP) ...................... 2 UATHAVIKUL
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ESU Alumni Herald
Alumni News
SPORT MANAGEMENT on the MOVE Hard work, practical experience, networking give ESU grads running start By Caryn Wilkie A chance meeting in the dining hall was a life-changer for Brandon Lawrence ’07. The secondary education major was certain teaching health and physical education was his calling, until a casual conversation with two teammates on the ESU baseball squad directed him to a man eating lunch at the same time that day. Sitting across the room was Robert P. Fleischman, J.D., Ed.D., a member of the Department of Sport Management faculty. “I apologized for interrupting his lunch and he was more than happy to sit and talk about sport management and give me Brandon Lawrence ’07, manager of corporate advice on what next steps to take. That one hospitality sales at The Madison Square Garden interaction sold me and I’m so glad I made Company in New York City. the switch,” said Lawrence. The resulting change of major nearly seven years ago has taken Lawrence on a professor of sport management and internship and remarkable ride. He’s served concessions, graduate coordinator for the department. “It’s part worn a minor league mascot costume and helped tarp of our networking philosophy that carries over after the baseball field during inclement weather. He’s spent they graduate. I receive holiday cards and emails from long, not-so-glamorous hours in ticket sales, sending graduates just to say hello or to tell me of their next emails and making telephone calls by the thousands. career move.” Lawrence is now manager of corporate hospitality Chaired by Dr. Frank M. Pullo ’73 M’76, the sales for The Madison Square Garden Company in New Sport Management Department enrolls about 250 York City, and is among a long list of sport management undergraduate and 25 graduate students per year. After graduates who have put their degrees to use. A look into winter and spring commencement combined, roughly the ESU Foundation’s database reveals many notable 60 undergraduate and 20 graduate students receive their employers, including Major League Baseball Advanced diplomas and leave ESU, eager to make their mark in the Media, the Philadelphia Eagles, Kent State University, world. Princeton University, the United States Tennis Pullo has witnessed tremendous growth in the Association, Trail Runner magazine, the Geneva Red department having been a member of the ESU faculty Wings, and the U.S. Military Academy, to name a few. for 38 years, 16 of those serving as chair of the sport A networking philosophy management program. This past fall, 46 freshmen made Now in his 19th year as a member of the ESU faculty, up a class of about 75 undergraduate students. Fleischman doesn’t need to look at a database to know “I’m the first person they meet as freshmen. It’s where ESU sport management majors have gone. He really fun to get them as 18-year-olds then, four years can rattle off their names and employers like a proud later after their internship, see how much they’ve parent. For him and the other seven members of the grown,” said Pullo. department, continuing a relationship with students After graduation, there’s no guarantee a job in the well after they graduate is simply an extension of their industry will come right away, said Paula Parker, Ed.D., teaching philosophy. associate professor of sport management and the Sport “We encourage students to come talk to us even Management Club adviser. But students are prepared when they don’t need something,” said Fleischman, for the real world through classroom models, hands-on
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Winter 2013
Alumni News
Right: Jaedeock Lee, Ph.D., assistant professor of sport management, instructs students in an ESU Sport Management class.
experience and internships. The department sent 77 students into solid internships across the country this year, said Pullo, with most of those placements in the New York and Philadelphia areas. “It’s the work that they did, the practical experience received at ESU, and the ability to step out of their comfort zone to try new things, that can help lead to a student’s success,” said Parker, who this fall entered her eighth year on faculty. “Those who are successful also have to have a love of sports as a business, and not just as a fan.” It’s a realistic approach that helps guide graduates as they enter a tight job market in a popular and competitive industry. Many graduates agree the months following commencement are a struggle as they try to find an entry-level position. “It was frustrating the initial months after graduation trying to find a job. I’d hear the same things all of the time about not having enough experience,” said Kate Verheyen ’10. The sport management major, 24, lives in Reading and commutes to Valley Forge to work as marketing coordinator for the United States Tennis Association Middle States Section. Verheyen’s first job in the industry was as communications manager for the Philadelphia Independence, a women’s professional soccer team. She wouldn’t be where she is today, she says, if it weren’t for the preparedness of her ESU internship, and the experience with the Independence. Lauren Hosko M’10 earned a bachelor of science degree in psychology with a minor in coaching at the University of Scranton, then obtained her master’s in sport management from ESU. “There were many stressful moments along the way where I almost gave up and looked for Kate Verheyen ’10, careers in a different direction,” U.S. Tennis Association Hosko said. “Thankfully, I was
able to hang in there. I didn’t give up, gave it my all, and finally landed the job!” Hosko, 26, is now the associate director of studentathlete academic services at Saint Francis University in Loretto. Previously she worked for student services for athletes at the University of Delaware. “I love working in athletic departments. The passion, enthusiasm, and energy is contagious. There are obviously tough times throughout each semester or season, but working with hard-working, fun people has made it a wonderful working environment,” said Hosko. Joshua Wentz ’08 recalls the grueling interview process as he tried to get his foot in the door with any sportsrelated company. He finally landed a job with the New Jersey Devils, making cold calls to businesses to generate ticket sales for the National Hockey League team. Lauren Hosko M’10, associate director “At first, I wasn’t too of student-athletic academic services sure I wanted to stay in at Saint Francis University. sales but I found out from the beginning that I wasn’t too bad at it,” said Wentz, 27. Just six months into his first job, Wentz accepted a position as sales associate for the Philadelphia Flyers. He has since been promoted to account executive
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ESU Alumni Herald
Alumni News
Four ESU sport management graduates work for the Lehigh Valley IronPigs, the Triple A baseball affiliate of the Philadelphia Phillies in Allentown.
Are you an ESU sport management graduate?
From left, Brock Hartranft ’08, manager of concessions; Jason Kiesel ’08, manager of stadium operations; Ryan Hines M’10, account executive in group sales and Alicia Marinelli M’07, manager of sponsorship services.
Make sure the Alumni Association knows where you’ve landed in your career. Send an email to
alumni@esufoundation.org
responsible for selling ticket packages for hockey games and other events at the Wells Fargo Center. Anyone working in the sport management industry would agree — long days and hard work are just part of the gig. Add in the seasonal aspect of a sport, perhaps a play-off season and the hours can rack up. “The hours certainly increase when the Flyers make the play-offs,” Wentz said. But then he considers himself pretty lucky to be able to attend home games and experience live games as part of his job. The importance of internships Before working for The Madison Square Garden Company, Lawrence’s internship with the ScrantonWilkes-Barre Yankees, a Triple-A affiliate of the New York team, primed him for what was to come. After a year and a half there, he went to work for the Pittsburgh Pirates, where he worked for three seasons. In October 2011, he started his current position with MSG in New York City. “Working for three different companies meant starting from scratch and finding new clients. It’s difficult, but I look to it as a challenge … I love challenges,” Lawrence said. Long hours aside, there are high points that come with the job, including meeting high-profile athletes and experiencing the mania that comes with long-awaited play-off runs. “Being a part of the sports world is just amazing. The world is small, but the sports world is even smaller – everyone knows everyone,” Lawrence said. For Hosko, seeing Saint Francis students succeed is part of her career satisfaction, and while she doesn’t experience the glamour of professional sports, she finds immense gratification in helping young athletes achieve their potential. Keeping the communication lines open in this way
with undergraduates leads to an involved alumni base, said Parker, and ESU’s alumni are a valuable resource. “We have many alumni who give back their time… actually making our jobs as faculty members easier. Alumni come back to speak to students and send internship announcements for their organizations,” said Parker. Internships are crucial to gaining field experience, she said, and alumni can help out fellow ESU students. For example, two ESU students are about to wrap up their internships for the Lehigh Valley IronPigs, the Triple-A baseball affiliate of the Philadelphia Phillies. Four ESU sport management graduates are employed there: Brock Hartranft ’08 is manager of concessions, Ryan Hines M’10 serves as an account executive in group sales, Jason Kiesel ’08 is manager of stadium operations and Alicia Marinelli M’07 is manager of sponsorship services. It’s this type of networking with ESU alumni that helps provide current students with the experience they need, said Fleischman. “And when reaching out to ESU for interns, our alumni know they are always going to be sent a high-quality student in return.” Faculty members are thrilled to receive word from alumni of their career accomplishments. “There’s definitely a sense of pride,” Pullo said. “You are always hopeful they will land a job and be successful.” Fleischman left the practice of law nearly two decades ago to teach and says he wouldn’t trade all the money in the world for the happiness he feels when students achieve their goals. For Parker, the chance to help make a difference for a student means the world. “When I see what our students have done… yes, they’ve done all the work, but perhaps those of us here at ESU have made some sort of impact along the way.”
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Winter 2013
Alumni News
Christopher “Bucky” Heath ’06, senior director of information technology business at Major League Baseball’s MLB.com.
Sport Management grad makes the big leagues after ESU By Brooke F. Donovan For as long as he can remember, his dream job was to work for Major League Baseball (MLB). So Christopher “Bucky” Heath ’06 could barely contain his enthusiasm when he was given the chance as a student at ESU to interview with Joe Choti, senior vice president and chief technology officer for MLB Advanced Media and Tickets.com It truly was the opportunity of a lifetime — Choti asked for Heath’s resume at the conclusion of the interview and hired him immediately after graduation. Heath has been the senior director of information technology business at MLB Advanced Media, (commonly called MLB.com) for two years, and has been reporting to Joe Choti since 2006. The sport management major admits there was a bit of a learning curve after graduation, but having technical experience made his transition into the IT department
a little more manageable. His experiences working and interning in various departments with teams like the Philadelphia Flyers and the Trenton Titans were paramount in securing the foundations of his career in the sporting industry. The demands of Heath’s position require long hours and, at times, extensive travel, including an hourand-a-half commute each way to and from work, which Heath spends reading up on technology trends and business deals as much as he can. “Technology is always evolving, so I need to evolve with it,” says Heath. Admittedly he doesn’t get to see his wife and daughter as much as he’d like, but he says he is blessed with an incredibly supportive family. As demanding as Heath’s schedule is, he still finds the time to give back to ESU. Last spring Heath was invited by Paula M. Parker, Ed.D., and Robert P. Fleischman, J.D., Ed.D., to speak to the students in sport management classes.
“It was absolutely incredible to see the number of students that showed interest in learning more about the sporting industry,” said Heath. “The students, including the freshmen, who are members of the Sport Management Club are well beyond the knowledge and experience I had early on in college!” Heath connected easily with the students in the classes and some of the students have taken the opportunity to come to New York to view his office. The best part of Heath’s job? “There are never two days alike,” he said. “Whether it is negotiating a large deal with one of our premier partners, strategically planning for the next big technology roll out or traveling to the different ballparks to shoot a show, each day brings something interesting and unique. Working along some of the greatest minds in the world keeps me striving for more.”
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ESU Alumni Herald
Homecoming 2012
Homecoming 2012 welcomed alumni and their families back to campus October 5-7 for reunions, banquets, awards ceremonies, athletic events and more. Clockwise, from top left:
Warriors of all ages return to campus
Homecoming
2012
n Members of the Class of 1962 pose for a group picture after presenting $129,299 to the East Stroudsburg University Foundation during its 50th Reunion Celebration. The presentation during Homecoming Weekend wrapped up a five-year fundraising campaign begun in July 2007 by members of the class. n Fireworks light up the sky outside Eiler-Martin Stadium following Warriors Spirit Night on Friday. n Rebecca Swartley Barrow ’72 and Tom Barrow ’62 share a laugh during the Annual Alumni Awards and Reunion Banquet held in the Keystone Room on Friday. n Marcia G. Welsh, Ph.D., president of ESU, left, attended Remembrance Day on Friday in the Keystone Room, joining hundreds of others remembering students, faculty and staff who had passed away in the last year. Teresa and Kevin Vatalaro of Bayport, N.Y., center, and David Howze ’08 M’10, right, attended in memory of Jenna Vatalaro, who died tragically in 2008. The Vatalaro family established The Jenna Vatalaro Tragedy Fund which provides crucial financial support for Remembrance Day and awards an annual scholarship to an education major each year. David was an RA in Jenna’s dorm her freshmen year and was instrumental in working with the ESU Foundation to establish the fund. n Liz Poole ’14, and Jessica Ras ’13, the 2012 ESU Homecoming queen, take in the fireworks show at Eiler-Martin Stadium. n Winning the Alumni Association’s Best Tailgate Award was Theta Chi fraternity. More than 24 affinity groups set up tailgate parties at the Alumni Center. Helping make the event possible was the ESU Foundation and event sponsors PSECU, ShawneeCraft Brewing Company, Vocelli Pizza, Cherry Valley Bistro, Kitchen Chemistry, and the Shawnee Inn and Golf Resort. n The Warrior Marching Band, led by drum major Joseph Jefferson ’14, participate in the annual Homecoming Parade that made its way through campus on Saturday.
Photos by: Kelsey Lamberton Daniel Freel Bob Weidner
Mark your calendars now for Homecoming 2013, which has been scheduled for November 1-3. Check www.esualumni.org/homecoming for details as they are released.
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Winter 2013
Homecoming 2012
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ESU Alumni Herald
Homecoming 2012
DISTINGUISHED ALUMNI AWARD
Established in 1971, this award honors alumni whose exceptional achievements, experiences or contributions in a field or profession have distinguished them on the national or international level. The recipients of this award possess the highest standards of integrity and character to positively reflect and enhance the prestige of the university.
A W A R D S
The Alumni Association recognized alumni for outstanding professional and service achievements during the annual Alumni Awards and Reunion Banquet held during Homecoming festivities in October.
n Stephen Luckey ’62 joined the U.S. Marine Corps after graduation and had a decorated military career flying combat missions in Southeast Asia. He served with U.S. Special Forces units, the Korean Marines, Army of Vietnam, and other units, including the elite U.S. Air Force Air Commandos. Luckey saw extensive combat duty as a special operations commander and received the Bronze Star medal with Combat “V,” four Air Medals and other decorations. He is a graduate of the Military Assistance Command Vietnam Psychological Warfare School. Luckey also had a 33-year commercial aviation career from which he retired as a captain for Northwest Airlines. The September 11, 2001 attacks prompted him to start Jetana, LLC, an international security consulting company where he is executive president. He also serves as vice president of research and development for New Evolution Military Ordnance, which makes advanced weapons for the military, law enforcement and the civilian firearms markets. n Earl Hulihan Jr. ’71 M’81 spent most of his career in medicine and the global food and drug regulatory environment, primarily in regulatory affairs and compliance and in drug development and clinical research. During the early 1970s, Hulihan collaborated with Dr. Hans Kraus to develop a clinical program for preventing and treating back ache, stress and tension. He also helped develop the Special Olympics into an internationally recognized program for people with intellectual disabilities.
In 2012, Hulihan launched his own consulting firm, ew hulihan and associates, and a leading global consultant for the pharmaceutical, biotech and device-regulated industry. Previously, Hulihan was senior vice president of regulatory affairs and consulting services at Medidata Solutions Worldwide and vice president for quality systems at EduQuest, both internationally recognized pharmaceutical consulting firms.
DR. GEORGE THOMPSON JR. AWARD
This award recognizes exceptional accomplishments or life achievements in areas of community and human relations, along with a demonstrated commitment to the promotion of the mission of ESU. Winners possess multicultural and diverse values. n Salima Kane ’90 M’92 works for the United Nations with a focus on Africa, and is assigned to the U.N. Regional Bureau Africa Desk in New York. She is a member of the U.N. Staff Association, Global Peace Initiative of Women and the International Women Media Foundation. Her book, “Africa: War, Peace & International Relations,” is scheduled to be published. Kane has worked as a team leader in operations and procurement for the U.N. in the Democratic Republic of Congo, as operations manager for the Nigeria office, and team leader of the office for Zimbabwe and South Africa. She has served as a contracts officer in the Africa region with the World Bank Group International Monetary Fund and has also worked at the U.N. in New York as a contracts officer for the Office of Legal and Procurement Support. Her career path began with MRL Pharmaceuticals before serving as a communications officer for Plan International, an international organization that focuses on child development. She also spent time as a consultant for the International Finance Corporation, focusing on the private sector in developing countries.
Call for Nominees 2013 ALUMNI AWARDS See Page 28
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Winter 2013
Homecoming 2012
JIM BARNIAK AWARD
This award recognizes an ESU graduate for exceptional achievements in athletics beyond graduation. n Thomas Barrow ’62 was an educator and coach for 36 years, with most of his career spent at Quakertown High School. He taught health, physical education and driver’s education in addition to coaching baseball, soccer and wrestling. Under Barrow’s leadership, the soccer teams won two league titles and qualified for district play four times. Upon retiring in 1995, Barrow relocated to Colorado where he accepted a position as an assistant baseball coach, helping to lead teams to four league championships, three district titles and one AA state title. His baseball career spans 60 years, starting at the age of 13 when he played as a youth, followed by high school, the American Legion, as a Warrior in college, and now in adult leagues and age-restricted tournaments. As a pitcher, his career record is impressive with more than 300 wins and four no-hitters. He has pitched at the Philadelphia Phillies Phantasy Baseball Camps in Clearwater, Fla., and was named to the 1990 All-Star team. He is a 1982 inductee of the Jerry Woman (Schuylkill County) Chapter of the Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame.
GREAT TEACHER AWARD
This award is presented to a teacher who has demonstrated superior teaching ability and extraordinary commitment to students. The recipient may be active or retired and must have a minimum of 10 years teaching at ESU. n Sussie Eshun, Ph.D. is professor of psychology at ESU and a licensed psychologist. She received a bachelor of science degree in psychology and sociology from University of Ghana and both her master’s and doctoral degrees in clinical psychology from the State University of New York at Stony Brook. As part of her doctoral training, she completed a psychology internship at Montefiore Medical Center in New York and psychology externships at The Comprehensive Pain Management Clinic (Tech Park, Stony Brook), and Developmental Disabilities Institute in Huntington, N.Y. As a teacher, Eshun believes that teaching involves transferring knowledge by sharing cutting-
edge information, encouraging student excellence through providing constructive feedback, and most important of all, providing social support and mentoring in a professional, nurturing environment. She has contributed to research symposia and other presentations under the umbrella of the Council for Undergraduate Psychology Programs. She has also taught at the doctoral level and supervised dissertations as part of the doctoral program in Leadership and Administration with the Department of Professional and Secondary Education. Eshun is involved with research on sociocultural influences on depression, suicide, and stress, as well as issues pertaining to stigmatization of mental illness. She has also published book chapters on topics related to mental health.
GEORGE OCKERSHAUSEN STUDENT SERVICE AWARD
This award recognizes a student (current or former) who has provided exceptional service in a volunteer capacity to the Office of Alumni Engagement or the Alumni Association. n Richard Hennessy ’12 is a recent business management major with a minor in theater who recognized the importance of becoming an active member of the campus community. Hennessy served on the Student Senate all four years at ESU. In that time, he served as coordinator of the community service initiative, coordinator of extracurricular affairs and vice president, and was elected president in his senior year. As president, Hennessy set the groundwork for opening the lines of communication between students and the other constituencies on campus and across the state system schools. His most prominent achievements include serving on the university’s presidential search committee as well as organizing and managing the Board of Student Government President’s Leadership Conference, which took place on campus. Hennessy regularly attended Alumni Association board meetings during his senior year as an active participant who openly reported about the state of the student body. He sits on the executive board of Heart of the Arts Project, Inc., a non-profit organization helping community members embrace the arts. He is also working as a freelance production assistant for Experiential Marketing events in the New York area.
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Warrior Spirit
2012 Athletic Hall of Fame ESU inducts six individuals, two teams n Melanie Wentz Welsh ’89 | Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC) and Eastern Collegiate Athletic Conference (ECAC) champion sprinter who set five individual school records and a relay record, and was the co-women’s senior athlete of the year in 1989. She was the PSAC and ECAC champion in the 100-meter dash as a senior in 1989 while setting records in the indoor 60-yard, 200-yard and 300-yard and outdoor 100-meter and 200-meter dashes, along with the 4x100-meter relay. n Jennifer Russo Ritter ’98 | Three-time All-PSAC selection, two-time All-Region selection and a member of the 1994 PSAC women’s soccer championship team in her four years at ESU. She ranks first in school history in career assists (43), third in points (113) and fifth in goals (35), and was the top scorer as a sophomore with 16 goals and 14 assists on the Warriors’ championship team which went 18-2. n Thomas Washburn ’65 M’69 | A two-sport star for the Warriors, culminating with the ESU men’s senior athlete of the year award in 1965 after earning four letters each in football and baseball. He was a first team all-conference defensive end and the team’s top receiver as a tight end on the 1964 PSAC championship football team. He helped ESU to a PSAC baseball championship in 1963 and was the team’s MVP in 1965.
Six individuals and two teams were inducted as the 35th class to enter ESU’s Athletic Hall of Fame. With their induction, 271 individuals and 12 teams have been selected for this prestigious honor since 1978. n Barry Roach | The first East Stroudsburg football player to be named to the Associated Press Little All-America first team when he was selected as a defensive back in 1965. Roach, who passed away almost 20 years ago, was a two-way standout on both of the Warriors’ Pennsylvania Conference championship teams, earning first team all-conference recognition as a running back and defensive back in 1964 and 1965. He was also named to the AllEast and prestigious All-State team as a senior. n Chris Ip ’78 | All-America swimmer for the Warriors as a junior and senior, earning honors in the school record-setting 800-free relay both years. He was also a place winner in the Pennsylvania Conference championships in eight events before embarking on a career as a championship coach over the last 30 years. He is now an assistant coach at Louisiana State University after coaching 16 All-Americans in 10 seasons at Clemson.
n Todd Painton ’93 | A first team All-PSAC East selection and ESU’s co-men’s senior athlete of the year in 1992, capping a career that included two 20-win seasons, 75 overall wins and a program record 117 games played. He was a starter as a sophomore on the Warriors’ 1990 PSAC championship and National Collegiate Athletic Association Tournament team, and led ESU to the PSAC East regular season title as a senior in 1992. He scored 1,144 career points and had 703 rebounds, fifth-most in school history. n 1964-65 football teams | The school’s only squads to win and successfully defend the PSAC football championship. Coached by Jack Gregory ’52, a 1983 inductee to the ESU Athletic Hall of Fame, the Warriors went 8-1 in 1964 and 10-0 in 1965 with victories over Indiana (Pa.) in the state game both seasons. The 1965 team is one of three undefeated, untied teams in school history, joining the 1942 (6-0) and 1975 (10-0) outfits. n 2001 field hockey team | The only ESU team to play in an NCAA national championship game — they advanced to the final of the Division II Championships. Led by head coach Sandy Miller M’88, they beat Lock Haven, 1-0, in the semifinals before falling to host Bentley, 4-2, to finish as the national runner-up. ESU went 16-7, one win shy of the school victory record.
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Winter 2013
Warrior Spirit
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HALL OF FAMERS AT LEFT: Individual 2012 Athletic Hall of Fame inductees, from left, Jenn Russo Ritter ’98 (soccer), Thomas Washburn ’65 M’69 (football/baseball), Todd Painton ’93 (basketball) and Melanie Wentz Welsh ’89 (track). Also inducted were Chris Ip ’78 (men’s swimming) and the late Barry Roach (football). MIDDLE: With Doreen Tobin, D.Ed., vice president of student affairs, front row, far left, and President Marcia G. Welsh, Ph.D., fourth from left, are members of the 1964-65 football teams, who won back-to-back PSAC championships. BELOW: Members of the 2001 field hockey team, who advanced to the NCAA national championship game. With the team in front row are, at left, Doreen Tobin, D.Ed., ESU vice president of student affairs; fifth from left, head coach Sandy Miller M’88, and far right, Carey J. Snyder, Ph.D., associate director of athletics. Second row, left, is Nancy Jo Greenawalt, Ed.D. ’12, academic coordinator for athletics.
WARRIOR WRAPUP
Men’s cross country in NCAAs
The men’s cross country program had a very successful season, finishing second in the PSAC Championships, tying for second in the NCAA Atlantic Regional and running in the Division II Championships for the first time since 1989. Senior Frank Fezza placed 21st in the nation as the Warriors’ first All-American since 1989. He was the PSAC and Atlantic Region runner-up and won the Brown Division of the Paul Short Invitational at Lehigh, besting a field of 283.
Women’s soccer reaches PSAC semis
The Warriors played in the PSAC semifinals for the third time in the last six years, going 8-3-3 in PSAC competition and 10-5-5 overall this fall. They advanced with a shootout win at Gannon in the semifinals, playing to a 0-0 tie and moving through on penalty kicks. The season included a 2-1 win over West Chester, ESU’s first since 2002, and a 1-0 win over rival Kutztown. The Warriors have won 61 games in six years under head coach Rob Berkowitz.
Bob Weidner photos
Douds celebrates 50 years
The 2012 season marked the 50th year in football for Denny Douds, who has spent 47 of those years at ESU, including 39 as the Warriors’ head coach. He holds the PSAC record with 237 career wins and set an NCAA Division II record for games coached last year, ranking 14th in college football history by coaching 407 games at the helm of the Warriors.
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ESU Alumni Herald
Warrior Spirit
Warriors football sets PSAC records
ESU set two PSAC records in October in a 45-37 win at LIU Post. The Warriors gained a conference record 828 yards, and redshirt freshman quarterback Matt Soltes set an individual PSAC record with 666 yards of total offense,the most by a freshman in college football history. Soltes, son of former ESU quarterback Andy Soltes, was named PSAC East Freshman of the Year after leading Division II freshmen and ranking 12th overall with 315.8 yards of total offense per game. Soltes became just the fourth player in PSAC history (and third Warrior) to throw for 2,500 yards and run for 500 yards in a season. Redshirt junior defensive tackle Bryan Thomson was named the PSAC East Defensive Player of the Year for his part in the Warriors’ turnaround campaign.
Student-athletes take telephone calls as callers bid for items during the ninth annual Athletic Scholarship Auction held Nov. 13-15.
Annual Athletics Auction benefits student scholarships
Junior kicker Taylor Groff was one of 10 finalists for the Fred Mitchell Outstanding Place-Kicker Award. Groff led Division II kickers with 9.3 points per game, and was one of two DII kickers to make three 50-yard field goals this season.
Donated gifts and services were auctioned off again last fall to raise grant-in-aid money for future student-athletes at ESU. The ESU Foundation was a lead sponsor for the Athletic Scholarship Auction, now in its ninth year. ESU coaches, administrators, local media personalities, politicians and community members were the hosts for four hours each night televised on Blue Ridge Channel 13. Auction items included photos, vacation packages, ski packages, golf packages, massage packages, autographed memorabilia and gift certificates from many local businesses. Student athletes handled the phone lines, and cameras and production for the live telecast were staffed by Media Communications and Technology students.
Behrens excels in volleyball
◆ Contact the athletic department at 570-422-3642 to support the 2013 event.
Groff recognized
Senior Kaitlin Behrens was the first ESU player to earn All-PSAC first team recognition since 2006. She ranked second in the PSAC in kills per set and had more than 20 kills in five matches.
All-America/All-Region
The Warriors had two AllAmericans this fall — senior Frank Fezza in men’s cross country and senior midfielder Mallory Pope in field hockey — and 10 All-Region selections.
Academic honors
Two soccer players, senior Sarah Garman of the women’s team and junior Khriswayne Wallace of the men’s team, were named to the Capital One Academic All-District
teams this fall. Garman is a biology major with a 3.91 grade-point average, and Wallace is a business management major with a 3.96 GPA and is on the Academic All-District team for the second straight year.
Defending PSAC champs tip off 2012-13 season The men’s basketball team entered this winter’s season as the defending PSAC champions for the first time in 22 years under 11th-year head coach Jeff Wilson ’86 M’92. Senior forwards Duane Johnson and Terrance King and sophomore guard Whis Grant, all starters on last year’s team, are back to lead ESU. Johnson and King have already hit
milestones, scoring their 1,000th career point one game apart. Johnson was first team All-PSAC East and King was PSAC Tournament MVP last year.
ESU wrestlers nationally ranked
Two ESU wrestlers — redshirt juniors Braden Turner and Brendan McKeown — are nationally ranked in Division II. Turner, a returning All-American, entered the season ranked 4th at 157 pounds. McKeown, also a national qualifier last year, was ranked 6th at 174 pounds. Both were the runnersup in their weight classes in Super Region 1 last season to earn NCAA bids.
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Winter 2013
Alumni Events
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Alumni Events ESU students, alumni: batter up! A group of nearly 40 current and former players and coaches gathered for the annual softball game at Zimbar Field in September. To connect with the softball group for the annual game, contact head softball coach Jill Fuduric at jfuduric@esu.edu.
Alumni greet students on move-in day Beverly Sinn Reilly ’85 and Candice Sierzega ’10 welcomed new students and families to campus during move-in day. Also providing assistance were Ron Steckel ’71 and Bill Horvath ’70 M’79.
Making ESU friends in London From left, Phil Wood M’10, Brooke F. Donovan, interim director of alumni engagement, and Axel Nikulasson ’86 M’88, gathered for lunch in London in October. Wood is working as the club development coordinator for the University of Nottingham and recently served as 2012 Olympics relations assistant for Team Great Britain. He helped organize part of the opening ceremony and is mentoring 130 potential Olympic athletes. Nikulasson is the counsellor and deputy head of mission for the Embassy of Iceland in England. He previously served in this capacity in China and in Iceland.
Teachers reconnect in North Carolina Douglas Lare, Ed.D., an ESU faculty member in the professional and secondary education department, visited several former students who are teaching near Raleigh, N.C. From left are Lare, Zachary Marshall '11, Molly Layton (Lare’s daughter), Brendan O'Malley '10, Nicholas Costanzo ’12 and Jessica Stettler Costanzo ’12.
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Alumni Events
O ffice of A lumni E ngagement
2013 ALUMNI AWARDS Call for Nominees The Alumni Association is accepting nominations for the 2013 Alumni Awards to be presented during Homecoming 2013.
Awards
See criteria, Page 22-23 n Distinguished Alumni Award. n Jim Barniak Award. n George Ockershausen Student
Service Award. Candidate may be a current student or recent graduate. n Dr. George Thompson, Jr. Award. Candidate need not be an ESU graduate. n Great Teacher Award. Must have at least 10 years’ teaching experience at ESU. Need not be an ESU graduate. n Young Alumni Achievement Award. Honors recent graduate (within 10 years) who has demonstrated exceptional ability and made significant strides in their chosen profession, or whose extraordinary accomplishments have brought honor to ESU and pride to its alumni.
Upcoming Events Alumni events are added throughout the year. For more information or to register for any of these events, go online to: www.esualumni.org/events or call 800-775-8975.
February 16 ‘Jersey Boys’ on Broadway Take in a Broadway show with alumni and friends. Tony Award-winning musical ‘Jersey Boys’ is the story of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons, who went from unknown New Jersey kids to international pop superstars. Features songs you’ll remember like ‘Sherry,’ ‘Big Girls Don’t Cry,’‘Can’t Take My Eyes Off You,’ and others. This is an upbeat show, perfect for everyone. Bus departs ESU at 9 a.m. — Show at 2 p.m. Bus departs NYC for trip home at 5:15 p.m. $130 per ticket, includes bus and show
FEBRUARY IN FLORIDA Annual Golf Outing and Luncheon Englewood, Fla.
A great day of golf, lunch, and ESU memories. Hosted by Dick ’57 and Joan Stanley Merring ’67 at Myakka Pines Golf Club.
February 23
at www.esualumni.org/awards detailing in 500 words or less the nominee’s qualifications based on the specific criteria. Supporting documents such as newspaper articles, clippings and photographs may be submitted online or mailed to the Office of Alumni Engagement.
Pinky O’Neil ’57 and Sue Cook ’75 host alumni and friends for a full day of activities at The Villages at Lake Sumter. Events include breakfast, American Craft Endeavors show (free), and entertainment at night.
alumni@esufoundation.org NOTE: The record of nominees for the awards will be maintained and considered for five years, after which the nominee may be re-nominated for the pool of candidates.
Social hour 11 a.m. Brunch at noon. $35 per person
April 5-6 Phi Sigma Kappa Fraternity 50th Anniversary Celebration The fraternity is expecting hundreds of brothers and friends for a weekend of events. See next page for details.
Family Weekend | Annual Legacy Family Brunch & Pinning Ceremony
November 1-3 Homecoming 2013
TRAVEL PROGRAMS For more information on travel programs for ESU alumni and friends, including itineraries and pricing, visit: www.alumnivacations.com/schools/ east-stroudsburg
To nominate
Office of Alumni Engagement, Attn: Awards Committee Henry A. Ahnert, Jr. Alumni Center 200 Prospect St. East Stroudsburg, PA 18301
Hosted annually by Tom ’57 and Jean Leshko ’58, this year’s event will treat guests to spring cherry blossoms and the renovated Army Navy Country Club. ESU President Marcia G. Welsh, Ph.D., will greet and address the group.
Golfing fee: Determined by registration Lunch: $15 per person.
Alumni Gathering and Craft Show The Villages, Fla.
n Submit a nomination online
Cherry Blossom Brunch Washington, D.C.
SAVE THE DATES October 18-20
E S U
February 22
March 24
January 21-February 10 June 23-July 6 August 16-23 September 18-29 November 3-14 January 15-25, 2014 May 12-20, 2014
Bali to Bangkok and Beyond Germany San Francisco and Wine Country 10-day cruise Barcelona to Lisbon South Africa South Pacific Isles Paris to Normandy
A unique and timeless keepsake for alumni and friends of ESU
Commemorative Inauguration Pin Custom made and handcrafted by Liztech Jewelry In honor of the inauguration of
Marcia G. Welsh, Ph.D. 13th President of East Stroudsburg University
April 6, 2013
ation und o F U e ES
th om ce fr n a v d r in a orde Proceeds to benefit o t 13 2-36 ESU student scholarships 2 4 570 Call
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Winter 2013
Alumni Events
Phi Sigma Kappa to celebrate 50 fraternal years at ESU By Brooke F. Donovan Phi Sigma Kappa will celebrate its 50th anniversary April 5-6, and the weekend schedule is full, starting with a ritual event at the fraternity house on Friday. An alumni meeting will be held on Saturday, followed by a luncheon at The Penn Stroud Hotel. A ceremonial banquet will be held that night at Fernwood Resort featuring speakers from ESU and the Grand Chapter of Phi Sigma Kappa. The fraternity, which has celebrated the founding of the Beta Pentaton chapter every year since its charter on March 30, 1963, is expecting a huge turnout for the event. More than 800 brothers have been inducted into the chapter over the past 50 years, with many of them calling the fraternity house at 91 Analomink St. their home while attending ESU. “This event is a big deal,” said Walt Rogers ’77. “We’re expecting almost 300 people back to campus for this event, including most of the 33 founding members and current brothers.” Rogers echoed the fraternity’s saying that they are “damn proud” of
their accomplishments. During the banquet, Phi Sigma Kappa will award their Phil Falcone Award, presented annually to a graduating senior who best exemplifies the cardinal principles of the fraternity. The 2012 award was presented to Luke Cantanzaro ’12. Over the years, Phi Sigma Kappa alumni have remained active through social gatherings, attending Homecoming, house maintenance projects and through the annual Brian Teeple ’84 memorial golf outing, which raises money for their scholarship. Jeff Kraus ’85, who is helping organize the celebration weekend, anticipates a full schedule of events and bringing an extraordinary group of alumni back together. “Our fraternity has had some notable alumni in our history,” said Kraus. “I’m looking forward to just having everyone back ‘home’ and socializing with some of the current brothers.”
AT TOP: A lively group of Phi Sigma Kappa brothers gathered for the Greek games on the quad in 1977. ABOVE: The fraternity house at 91 Analomink Street has been a fixture since 1963, thanks to alumni like Harry Hahnebach ’05 who help with house improvements and renovations.
◆ For more information, visit www.betapentaton.com. Contact Kraus at 610-212-7407 or email deweykraus@aol.com.
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Class Notes
1940s Mary Myers Kulbok ’43 served in the U.S. Naval Reserve as a Wave in World War II. She has five grandchildren and six greatgrandchildren. Sarah Metz Jones ’44 retired as a full-time teacher in 1987 from Pleasant Valley School District and has been a substitute teacher since 1990. She has been teaching for almost 70 years. Virginia Illuzzi-Belson ’45 donated more than 500 books collected in her 50 years of teaching to the library of Our Lady of Peace School in Clarks Green.
1960s Lois Schubert Rankins ’67 is enjoying retirement by spending time with friends, golfing and bowling. Her daughter Alison was married in October. Tom Schoeninger ’67 was named the 2012 Lehigh Valley Express-Times girls tennis coach of the year. Schoeninger, the head coach for both the girls and boys tennis teams at Moravian Academy in Bethlehem, earned this honor in 2008, and from 2010-12. Rich Grucela ’68 M’74 retired as a member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives after serving 12 years. He served as an adjunct instructor at ESU from 2005 to 2010. Terry Butler ’69 is the 2012 National Crossbowmen champion of the year. This is his third consecutive
Class Notes
year receiving the honor from the National Crossbowmen of the USA.
Susan Hicks Harrington ’69 is retired as a tutor for Literacy Volunteers and as a board member for Schuylerville Area Food and Emergency Relief (SAFER) in New York. She remains active in her church as treasurer and trustee, and is the grandmother of two.
1970s Richard Miller ’70 taught behindthe-wheel driving training at Parkland High School in Allentown for 41 years until the program was eliminated. He coached the LehighCarbon Community College women to two state bowling championships and the men to one championship in 2011 and 2012. Joe Cortese ’73, director of the Cortese Consulting Company in San Diego, Calif., published his first book, “Phoenixivity,” in November. The term refers to his approach to positive thinking. Gary Thomas ’73 was named the 2012 Lehigh Valley Express-Times boys soccer coach of the year. Thomas has been the head coach at Hackettstown (N.J.) High School for 28 seasons. James Emert ’74 submitted 20 pictures to the photography contest at the 91st Annual West End Fair in Gilbert and all 20 photos won prizes. Son Alexander Emert ’06 brought home another 14 prizes. James is a professor in the computer science department at ESU.
EDITORIAL NOTE Class Notes list the year alumni received their undergraduate degree first, followed by their graduate degree if they attended East Stroudsburg University for both. ‘M’ denotes a master’s degree. To submit Class Notes: Email alumni@esufoundation.org Submit online esualumni.org/classnotes Call 800-775-8975 Fax 570-422-3301 It is our policy not to publish engagements or pregnancies; however, we do publish marriages and births. If you are submitting a photograph electronically with your information, please make sure that it is at least 240 dpi. Please note that the editorial staff makes every effort to publish the information given to us by alumni as it is received. Margaret “Peggy” Thomas Bancroft ’77, founder of the Greene-Dreher Historical Society of Greentown, was honored in October when the society rededicated its building as Peggy Bancroft Hall. Bancroft has penned more than 20 books on local history. Christine Dean Clements ’77 retired from 35 years of teaching health and physical education at Upper Dublin High School in Fort Washington. She and her husband, Michael, a retired Pennsylvania State Police trooper, are enjoying their retirement by traveling throughout the world.
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Winter 2013
Class Notes
Mel Riddick ’78 was named athletic director at Dieruff High School in Allentown. Andrea Hajducko ’79 was sworn in as a member of the Independence Hall Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution. In addition to serving as regent, registrar and recording secretary, she is now the librarian of the Bethlehem chapter. She earned a certificate in autism studies from Drexel University’s online program in September.
1980s Laura Canfield ’81 was inducted into the 2012 United States Tennis Association Middle States Tennis Hall of Fame in October. She was recognized for many contributions, including co-founding the Bucks County Tennis Association, Inc. William “Andy” Leneweaver ’81 was promoted to colonel with the U.S. Army Reserve in Tacoma, Wash. Cathleen Sorenson Alvesteffer ’84 retired in 2002 to become a farmer’s wife and mother. She farms 40 acres, 10 of which are devoted to strawberries, for a business run with her husband and children. The family lives in Hart, Mich., near Lake Michigan. Michael Perko ’86 M’89, Ph.D. authored “Sheldon’s Adventure,” an animated children’s book. The book is the first of a three-part series about a young turtle trying to
get comfortable in his own shell while tackling issues of self-esteem and bullying. Perko is a professor of public health education at the University of North CarolinaGreensboro. Ginger Horst Fennell ’88 graduated from the American Bankers Association Stonier Graduate School of Banking in Philadelphia. She is vice president and controller of Naugatuck Savings Bank in Naugatuck, Conn.
1990s Christopher Wright ’91, a financial adviser with Ameriprise Financial, was elected to the ESU Foundation Board. Linda Rice ’92 and her husband are the owners of Mountain View Vineyard in Stroudsburg. The winery opened its second retail location in September at the Castle Inn in Delaware Water Gap. Susan Sitarik Wardell ’98 was named principal of Ryerson Elementary School in Wayne, N.J. Cynthia Martino ’99 M’04 is a senior molecular biologist for Bionique Testing Laboratories, Inc., in Saranac Lake, N.Y. Previously she worked at Trudeau Institute and Sanofi Pasteur. She and her husband, Dan, have been married for 18 years and live in the Adirondack Mountains.
2000s
College and is entering his seventh year as vice president/director of public relations and marketing with the North East PA Miners minor league baseball team. Joseph Ronco ’01 is an account executive at Saucon Mutual Insurance Company in Bethlehem. Brian Dwyer ’03 won his first national sports Emmy Award as an associate producer for ESPN 3D in May. Brian and wife, Erin Dwyer ’02, have a daughter, Grace. Jody LaVerdure ’04 earned her master’s degree in health communication from Boston University. Angelique “Angel” Papay ’04 was admitted to practice law in Pennsylvania in October. Shane Briening ’05 was promoted to commercial lender/credit analyst at the First State Bank of the Florida Keys in Marathon, Fla. He has been with the bank since 2006. Tara Brinker ’06 was selected as one of the Northeastern Pennsylvania Business Journal’s Top 20 Under 40. She has worked for the Shawnee Inn and Golf Resort for more than five years. Drew Nesbitt ’07 and his wife, Amanda Bradbury Nesbitt ’08, were featured in The Sunday News in Lancaster. Drew, a therapist with Hartz Physical Therapy, cares for their son and niece while Amanda serves as a backup pilot for the Pennsylvania Army National Guard.
Dan LaMagna ’00 M’07 was promoted to associate dean of students at Lackawanna
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Class Notes | Marriages | Births | In Memoriam Thomas Rath ’07 joined the Husch Blackwell LLP’s government contracts group in September. Rath received his law degree from American University Washington College of Law in 2012. The law firm has offices across the United States and in London. Lianna DeLuise ’08 is the vice president of operations for the Sherman Theater in Stroudsburg. Kelly Dries ’08 is a career counselor at the University of Utah in Salt Lake City, Utah. Theodore “Theo” Harkness ’09 was promoted to instructor of policies and procedures with the American Red Cross, where he has worked for more than three years. He is studying at Philadelphia University to obtain a master’s degree in disaster medicine and management.
2010s Jaimey Strauch ’12 published the short story “Changes” in August under the pen name of Jae Bee.
Births
Kevin Cerino ’95 and his wife, Lisa, announce the birth of a daughter, Scarlett Hanna, on August 6.
IN MEMORIAM Roscoe J. Stiles '34 Carl A. Oliver '37 Catherine Clune King '41 Miriam Creitz Dietrich '42 Celia Enelow Cerino '43 Elnora E. Hauser '43 Carmela J. Grasso Natale '48 Donald J. Boltz '50 Rosemarie Eichhorn Cauthers '52 Margaret Craig Anger '54
Lori Xander Appelget ’99 and her husband, Kevin, announce the birth of their daughter, Isabelle May, on March 6. Isabelle joins big sisters Gillian and Hayden in West Windsor, N.J.
Megan Hauck ’05 married Jason Taris on October 1 at Sandals Resort in Jamaica. She is a blended case manager at Service Access and Management in Pottsville. The couple lives in Mahanoy City. Brandy George ’06 married Nick Digan on June 16. Jennifer Beichler Sauter ’06 served as a bridesmaid.
Becki Fidler Achey ’05 and her husband, Kevin, announce the birth of their son Jaxon Jeffrey on June 6. Meghan Baczkowski Pixley ’07 and Brian Pixley ’05 announce the birth of their daughter, Caroline Rita, on September 30.
Marriages
Carolanne Brennan ’03 married J.R. Burkhardt on July 14 in Royal Oak, Md. In attendance were Laura Mager Lindsay, Jennifer Shaw-Metz ’02, Phillip Neiswender ’01, Jill Diesinger Rathmell ’03, Marianne Kane Chamberlain ’08 and Stephanie Abruzzese Schnable ’04.
April Grasso ’06 married Steven Gaa in Dalton on September 21. Serving as bridesmaids were Kirsten Grodzki ’07, Amy Eigenbrode ’06 and Kelly Harr Guerrero ’06. Katie Zelem ’07 married Ryan Duquette on July 14. In attendance were Karen Mellone ’07, Kara Landau Yannotti ’07, Jamie Lasker ’07, Shannon Gally Dillman ’07, Elizabeth Tenore ’07, Justine Grilz Hurley ’08, Michael Hurley ’08, Nicole Lisanti ’07 and Rachel Gordon Killeen ’08. Erin Carraher ’10 married Michael Piazza ’08 M’09 at the Blue Bell Country Club in Blue Bell on July 1, 2011.
Kristin Kowalczyk ’03 married Leif Johnson on October 27. Among those in attendance were Shannon McCracken ’03, Lou Fanelli ’03 and Gabby Fanelli ’03.
Robert G. Sprau '58 Walter Jubinsky '58 Gerald P. Stauffenberg '61 Virginia Schiffer '62 Franklin E. Gibson '62 M'67 Florence A. Koehler Brown '63 Kathryn Perusso Sabatino '70 Will Ann Bossler Frederick '71 Lois Nagle Sims '72 Jane T. Fuller M '72 James M. Loftus '75 Thomas A. Palumbo ’75
Barbara A. Grady '78 Brian K. Straub '78 Robert B. Pozaic '84 Michael W. Fenning '87 Sherry A. Snyder ’89 Frank J. Wilder '90 Karyn Kieczkajlo Newell '95 Robert C. Walker '97 Ryan J. Longo '04 Scott R. Halbfoerster '09 Christopher J. Simms '10
Join WarriorsNation, your alumni online community, at esualumni.org
A love stor that never fades W
hen Eugenia “Jean” Eden ’72 M’76 was a young woman, summers in the Poconos were a way of life. She’d make the trip from New York City to enjoy the lifestyle of the resort region. Little did she know a chance meeting at a local swimming hole would become a cherished love story. It was there she met her late husband, William E. Eden ’51, and built their home and life close to East Stroudsburg State College where Bill was a professor of biology. A marriage of 49 wonderful years included Jean earning her degrees from ESU and, more importantly, creating a treasure trove of everlasting friendships. Bill’s death in 1992 was a devastating blow, but through the creation of a charitable gift annuity in his memory, Jean remains connected with the university – and her first and only love.
Please consider making the ESU Foundation part of your estate plans. Contact the ESU Foundation at plannedgiving@esufoundation.org or (570) 422-3333. Read Jean’s full story at www.esufoundation.org/donorstories.
East Stroudsburg University Foundation Henry A. Ahnert, Jr. Alumni Center 200 Prospect Street East Stroudsburg, PA 18301-2999
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ONCE A WARRIOR‌ always a WARRIOR! S AV E T H E DAT E
East Stroudsburg University Homecoming 2013 November 1-3, 2013 Mark your calendars because we’re putting together a fantastic weekend of events to reconnect. Remembrance Day The Class of 1963 50th Reunion Awards Banquet Alumni Tailgate Homecoming Parade And so much more!
Please stay close to www.esualumni.org/homecoming as information and events are added and this celebration takes shape!