Gannon Magazine - May 2023

TIME WELL SPENTreflections on

As he completes his final days in office following 12 years as Gannon’s President, Keith Taylor, Ph.D., reflects on memories from his tenure and shares his hopes for Gannon University’s future.

Page 17

See what’s happening on our Erie and Ruskin campuses.

Tackling Lake Erie’s environmental challenges with Project NePTWNE.

Duka followed her dreams to study abroad despite immense challenges.

presidentfrom the

When I sat down to write this message for my last edition of Gannon Magazine as President, I took a moment to reflect and was curious: What did I say in my first message as President? These words caught my attention:

“Together we will build upon the dedication of Gannon’s past leaders, celebrate our heritage and traditions, and maintain continuity and sense of community while the university embraces its ongoing transformation. It is an exciting time of opportunity for each of us to contribute our own experience, ideas and energy to ensure our continued success.”

Naturally, I had to then also glance at the special Magazine edition that shared insight into my first 100 days in office and plans for the years ahead.

“The most enjoyable part of life is continuing to learn and to get to know and share ideas, hopes and dreams with those around us. The next 100 days needs to be a continued, yet more focused, discussion about what is most important to us now and to securing a better tomorrow. We will work together to flesh out and prioritize our many possible directions and ventures.”

To think of all that’s evolved from that first message and the first 100 days to now staggers me.

There’s a lot I could share and say about the milestones that were achieved over the dozen years, and I am proud of all that has been accomplished. The most important place to shine the spotlight of recognition is on the amazing work of the many members of the Gannon community. Our students, faculty, staff and alumni are the ones whose successes I celebrate, and they are the ones who will continue to transform the lives of those around them in the years ahead.

Although it’s my last President’s Message for the Gannon Magazine, the contents of it are no different in sharing accolades of our Gannon family – new faces taking on new roles, forward-thinking initiatives to preserve our planet, compelling stories of our students’ journeys. All are reminders of the great work that has been accomplished and are beacons of what we will continue to achieve together.

I am so grateful for my time here at Gannon, and am humbled to have worked with so many wonderful people and the experiences I’ve had. I am forever thankful to my family for their unwavering support and to the Gannon community for your service and dedication to making Gannon University an amazing adventure.

Keith Taylor, Ph.D., President

Reflecting on the start of his presidency, Keith Taylor, Ph.D., was officially honored as Gannon's seventh president at his Inauguration Ceremony in 2011. He was joined by members of the community, friends and family who celebrated him, including (pictured above L-R) daughters Abigail, Kaitlyn and Samantha, son Timothy (front) and wife Mary Jean (middle).

“I am so grateful for my time here at Gannon, and am humbled to have worked with so many wonderful people and the experiences I’ve had.”

editors

Doug Oathout

Chief of Staff and Director of Marketing and Communications

Mallory (Hedlund) Bottoni ’14 Assistant Director for Marketing, Communications and Content

Paige Penfield Content Marketing Strategist design

Laura Giannelli

Andrew Lapiska ’09M

contributing writers

Jeff Kirik

Nicole (Dohoda) Lossie ’11

photography student, staff and alumni contributors

exclusive video content

Matthew King

online edition

Michael Gorski ’11M

Nikki Luoma

printing and distribution

Royle Printing, Sun Prairie, Wis.

Protect What Matters Most

Duka’s Resilient Journey

22 Continuing a Legacy of Excellence

Gannon’s Athletics Hall of Fame inductees represent the university’s long-term success in athletics.

24 Positive Influencer

Straight from @gannonu, hear what students and alumni had to say about their favorite people on campus.

26 History in the Making

A Q&A about tradition and making history with incoming president Walter Iwanenko, Ph.D.

27 Class Notes

Keep up with the latest news from Gannon alumni.

To manage your Gannon Magazine subscription preferences, visit: gannon.edu/magazine.

To submit a class note, please contact: Office of Constituent Engagement gannonalumni@gannon.edu 814-871-7261

Gannon Magazine is published bi-annually by University Marketing and Communications. We value your input; please direct any comments, questions or feature ideas to magazine@gannon.edu.

On

Gannon President Keith Taylor, Ph.D., reflects on his final days in office following his 12 years of service as Gannon’s seventh president. His office, located in the historic Old Main building, is adorned with memorabilia from throughout his tenure, including snippets of ribbon cut at dedication ceremonies of new buildings, and handmade gifts hung on his walls from the families he’s met on travel and service trips to Zambia, Mongolia and more. Turn to page 17 to read more.

Gannon

GANNON ANNOUNCES NEW PROVOST AND VICE PRESIDENT FOR STUDENT EXPERIENCE 1

University announced the appointment of Sarah Ewing, Ph.D., as the institution’s next Provost and Vice President for Student Experience following an intensive national search. Ewing will be responsible for all academic matters and academic support services. She will work with both academic and student experience division leadership to integrate curriculum and co-curriculum initiatives and strategic planning. She will work closely with the President and Leadership Team on achieving the university’s mission, vision and strategic goals and promoting Gannon’s Catholic identity. Ewing will succeed Walter Iwanenko, Ph.D., in the role as he transitions to serving as Gannon’s eighth president effective July 1, 2023.

in the NEWS

By: Paige Penfield, Content Marketing Strategist

GANNON IS PREPARING FOR THE 2024 TOTAL ECLIPSE 2

On April 8, 2024, Erie, Pa. will be in the path of totality for a total solar eclipse, an event that won’t come around again until 2099. For nearly four minutes, the afternoon sky will go dark as the moon passes between the sun and the Earth. With less than a year to go, Gannon is already preparing. David Horne, Ph.D., assistant professor of physics, is working to obtain special glasses that will allow observers to safely view the eclipse. Additionally, NASA’s Nationwide Eclipse Ballooning Project (NEBP) selected Gannon University’s High Altitude Ballooning Team, led by Wookwon Lee, Ph.D., professor of electrical and cyber engineering, and Nick Conklin, Ph.D., professor of physics, to participate as one of more than 80 teams in the country to conduct balloon flights to near space during the eclipse.

For more information on the eclipse, viewing safety and Gannon's engagement, visit: gannon.edu/Eclipse2024

JARECKI HOUSE FIRST OF THREE TO BEGIN

RENOVATIONS 3 The Frederick Jarecki House at 221 W. Sixth St. is the first of three West Sixth Street houses to begin restorations this year. It will be used as the university’s alumni house, with offices and community spaces for welcoming Gannon alums back home to campus and Erie. The Olds-Normal House, currently located at 216 W. Seventh St., will be relocated after Gannon’s Wehrle Hall is taken down in summer 2024 and will become a bed-and-breakfast-style residence for university use. The Carter-Shannon House at 203 W. Sixth St. will be used for student apartments. This transformation of Erie’s West Sixth Street houses is a product of a partnership between Gannon University, Thomas B. Hagen and the Historic Erie Preservation Trust.

GANNON’S ABST PROGRAM TRAVELED TO FIVE DESTINATIONS

THIS SPRING 4 Through Gannon’s Alternative Break Service Trips, 38 student participants, 11 accompaniers and 11 student leaders traveled to five destinations in Arizona (Tucson and Navajo Nation), Mexico (Merida and Queretaro) and Guatemala. The groups served with a purpose surrounding Gannon’s four pillars: Service, Community, Simplicity and Reflection. Rooted in Catholic Social Teaching, all ABSTs seek to create intentionally inclusive, diverse communities through their group formation and trip experiences. ABSTs are co-curricular, student-led, and accompanied by trained employees from all divisions of the university.

Read a firsthand account from student Carine Munezero on her trip to the Arizona border in the Gannon Magazine Online at magazine.gannon.edu/May23.

I-HACK CONTINUES BUILDING WITH PHASE THREE

5

Momentum continues to build in I-HACK as development on the Center for Manufacturing and Technology is underway. This sixth floor space will hold Gannon’s high-tech and versatile MakerSpace to advance traditional manufacturing into a new age of technology with expertise in 3D printing, metal fabrication, woodworking, electronics assembly, and analytics and management. Construction is expected to be completed for the Fall 2023 semester.

Stay

By: Mallory (Hedlund) Bottoni ’14 Assistant Director for Marketing,

water preservation upon us with major environmental issues difference to protect our planet, they can turn to Gannon

Project NePTWNE , which is short for Nano & Polymer Technology for Water and Neural-networks in Erie, is Gannon’s $24 million initiative toward environmental sustainability. This six-phase, ambitious and comprehensive plan addresses water quality, climate change, economic development and the overall quality of life in Erie. It has specific focus on measuring, mitigating and manufacturing solutions to prevent pollutants like microplastics from entering Lake Erie.

Gannon is using its long-standing educational expertise in aquatics, and environmental research and engineering to tackle some of the most pressing environmental challenges facing Lake Erie and its surrounding ecosystems.

LAKE ERIE IS FACING CONCERNING ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS.

Lake Erie is the shallowest and warmest of the Great Lakes, making it the most vulnerable to pollution. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, excessive nutrient runoff from agriculture and urban areas, coupled with sewage overflows, are leading to harmful algal blooms in the lake and producing toxins that can harm aquatic life and pose a risk to human health.

Microplastics have also been found in high concentrations in Lake Erie. Microplastics, which are small plastic particles less than 5 millimeters in length, are often found in freshwater and marine environments and pose a threat to aquatic life and the health of humans who consume contaminated seafood.

EPA reports that 90 percent of waterways that supply drinking water to Americans are at risk of pollution from microplastics. These are a high concern due to their difficulty to remove from the water. Conventional treatment methods, such as filtration and sedimentation, are often ineffective at removing these small particles. In addition to harming marine life and human health, microplastics can lead to broader environmental impacts and contribute to the greenhouse effect as they absorb and retain heat.

NATURAL RESOURCES LIKE WATER IMPACT OUR ECONOMY.

Not only is Gannon’s Project NePTWNE recognizing and taking action to safeguard the health of Lake Erie as a vital water resource, but it’s also positioned to strengthen the public’s awareness, appreciation and accessibility to resources to increase stewardship among the community and sustain a high quality of life for the Erie region.

The Blue Economy concept was developed by the United Nations in 2012, evolving from the previous Green Economy, to be inclusive of sustainable practices that ensure the long-term health of the world’s oceans and seas.

This concept has been adapted globally, and right at Gannon’s doorstep in Erie, Pennsylvania, too. The Blue Economy in our region emphasizes Lake Erie as a necessary natural resource to drive ecological and economic growth through an array of industries such as tourism, fishing, commercial and maritime transport, and more.

Having a notable population of people living nearby and within the Great Lakes region, Erie is a natural destination for many to enjoy the amenities that our Lake offers. Water preservation efforts like those of Project NePTWNE are the future of sustaining the livelihood of our region and providing the public with a restored relationship and appreciation for Erie’s environment.

6 WAYS

GREAT LAKES RESEARCH & 2 EDUCATION CENTER

Gannon has agreements in place to lease part of the historic Union Fish Co. building located on the Lake Erie docks to repurpose the space and create the Great Lakes Research & Education Center.

The port location of the lab will enhance research and education on the relationship between water quality and public health, freshwater native fish species and invasive species, the threat from frequent harmful algal blooms and the greater impact that climate change is having on our Great Lakes. It will also serve as an education center for local schools, residents as well as visitors to Erie to highlight the relationship between water quality and public health.

REMOVING 1 MICROPLASTICS

Project NePTWNE aims to remove one of the biggest pollutants affecting Lake Erie – microplastics. The university has plans for measuring volume of this pollutant to develop new solutions that will remove the pollutant and ultimately prevent them from ever entering the water.

The work toward this is already underway by faculty and students through research and projects such as floating buoy filtration systems run on solar power to remove microplastics from the lake, as well as drones built and deployed to collect air samples above the water to test air quality.

These are just two examples, and it’s only the beginning of what’s to come. Gannon is currently constructing the Center for Manufacturing and Technology within its Institute for Health and Cyber Knowledge, where a hightech and versatile MakerSpace will be open in September 2023. Using cutting-edge techniques to advance traditional manufacturing using 3D printing, metal fabrication, woodworking, integrated circuit fabrication and more, Gannon will design solutions to address environmental challenges to safeguard the health of the Lake Erie ecosystem and the people who rely on it.

The facility will house features such as fish and turtle tanks, educational spaces for classroom learning, various labs and working spaces for microplastics as well as water testing equipment for researchers to study water quality and its impact on the ecosystem.

Project NePTWNE is preserving the health of Lake Erie and leading the way toward a more sustainable future.

NEW VESSEL 3 FOR RESEARCH

To allow for greater sampling, research and K-16 education on the open waters of Lake Erie, the university is seeking a new research vessel in place of its current vessel, the Environaut.

The Environaut is more than 70 years old and has been a staple of students’ experiential learning in programs like chemistry, freshwater and marine biology, and environmental science and engineering. Students, faculty as well as members of the community have used the vessel to deepen their understanding of Lake Erie’s marine and aquatic life.

Gannon aims to broaden its impact to help researchers better understand the ecosystem and develop more effective strategies to protect it through the addition of a new vessel with passenger capacity of up to 25, as well as features such as a modern sonar or fish finder, a diving platform for launch and retrieval by underwater autonomous vehicles, a ponar dredge for sediment sampling, and various jib cranes and winches for retrieval of research samples.

GREENHOUSES 4 FOR COMMUNITY USE

Plans for new greenhouses adjacent to campus in downtown Erie are underway and are expected to be completed in Fall 2023. This effort is in partnership with the Regional Science Consortium. Gannon became the anchor institution for RSC in Fall 2022 to provide collaboration and continuity of education- and researchbased knowledge and understanding of the Lake Erie and Ohio River Basin ecosystem to expand sustainability resources and initiatives.

In addition to workforce training and development, student internships and enhancing community programming and education, the greenhouses are another example of how this this partnership is contributing to Erie’s sustainability.

Essential native grasses, plants and vegetables for Presque Isle State Park will be grown inside the greenhouses, and they will also provide a year-round space for residents to grow their own fruits and vegetables. This aims to support local food security and empower the community to be part of the solution, providing jobs to residents to earn a living tending to the plants and grasses.

ADVANCED LABS 5 FOR RESEARCH

Advanced labs will be created at the Great Lakes Research & Education Center and I-HACK to help identify pollutants, eliminate ecological threats, and develop artificial intelligence to predict weather and tide patterns. This puts Gannon’s Project NePTWNE at the forefront of environmental research and innovation. These spaces will include an Air and Water Quality Lab for pre- and post-sampling of harmful algal blooms, processing shipwreck artifacts using electrolysis, nutrient testing and macroinvertebrates.

PUBLIC HEALTH 6 AND POLICY PROGRAM

Project NePTWNE reflects Gannon University’s faith and obligation to protect the environment and Mother Earth, as Pope Francis has called on all of us to do. Gannon’s project hopes to ensure that freshwater remains an important resource in the region, and community is an essential part of this. This initiative will provide education about the relationship between water quality and public health, ensuring that everyone understands the importance of preserving freshwater.

To achieve this, the university is making plans to create a public health and policy program to bring together researchers, policymakers and community members to address water quality and other environmental issues. It will incorporate community outreach alongside academic programming to promote greater awareness and understanding of environmental issues and foster meaningful collaborations across sectors.

Gannon is setting the standard for environmental sustainability and inspiring others to take action to protect our planet by implementing these six initiatives. With its groundbreaking research, state-of-the-art facilities and commitment to community engagement, Gannon University’s Project NePTWNE is a model for how universities – and each of us – can make a difference and contribute to a more sustainable future.

To learn more about Project NePTWNE or get involved, visit gannon.edu/water.

When attorney Brandi (Kelly) Suter ’09 is asked what kind of work she does, she often refers to herself as “the social worker of law.”

After graduating in just three years from Gannon with a bachelor’s degree in social work, Suter went on to earn her master’s from the University of Pittsburgh, and a law degree from Duquesne University, before founding her own practice.

Suter focused her studies on family and children’s services. She pursued what she felt was a calling to advocate for children with disabilities – or any kind of special education needs – in order to provide caring service to families and focus on their holistic wellness.

“Whether it is a severe mental health disorder, a developmental delay, Down Syndrome, Autism, or a learning disability, [I work to] get the appropriate support in school settings [for these students],” said Suter.

She educates children and their families on their rights to receive the support they need to be successful in the classroom and at home. Today, she does this work through her own firm, Extraordinary Law, LLC. How did she prepare for the important work she’s doing now?

“Because of my diverse experience, as a social worker, I was able to hit the ground running as an attorney focusing on this type of case. I learned the law, and applied my experience working with families, understanding mental health disorders, and any necessary behavioral interventions. … My Gannon education as a social worker and my experience with children as a therapist and behavioralist, created a knowledge base that I think brings a different perspective to the families that I work with,” she said.

Suter credits her Gannon education and the faculty within the program as the foundation to her success.

“I loved everything about Gannon, and I think that Gannon’s social work program is top-notch. …The classroom experiences and training you receive are so beneficial. The knowledge and accomplishments of the staff

in the program, such as Dr. Lichtenwalter and Dr. Baker are unmatched. I think about these Gannon educators – the broad topics of conversation – all the time, and those experiences really shaped me as a professional and an adult.”

Suter began her exploration into child advocacy at Gannon through an internship placement with the Child Advocacy Center. Her educational and professional trajectory was set from this experience as she learned much of the legal system and mental health support for students.

As for what ultimately drew her to Gannon? She had one answer above all others: Dr. Parris Baker.

“He was such a crucial part of my experience. Gannon provided me opportunities beyond just the curriculum: building of relationships within the community and my peers, a diverse experience within Gannon’s clubs, even the spiritual exploration aspects of the university – it was a great choice for me. But ultimately, my Gannon experience was perfected by the people within the social work program,” she shared. Advice for someone looking toward their next steps?

“To find your career, follow the path that makes work not feel like work. When you find something that you care about enough to dedicate your whole self into, it makes everything you do that much more enjoyable and so much more rewarding.”

By: Nicole

OF LAW SOCIAL WORKER

(Dohoda) Lossie ’11, Social Media and Digital Engagement Manager

RER UTING LIFE:

By: Paige Penfield, Content Marketing Strategist

It’s common to think of education as a straight road with no stops: after high school graduation comes college and then a career. For some, however, speed bumps, pit stops and reroutes are all a part of the journey; many students are entering college later in life to pursue their dreams on their own schedule.

Many adult learners pursue higher education with the hopes of expanding their career options, changing careers or to stay competitive in their current career by earning new qualifications. Some return to higher education after other priorities such as family or military service put their education plans on hold. Others simply want to keep learning.

For adult learners, the weight of external responsibilities can make college especially difficult to navigate. Child care, finances and scheduling their life around a rigorous academic calendar are common challenges they face - and Gannon provides the resources needed to overcome them.

For cybersecurity student Victoria Bartlett ’23, the greatest challenge as an adult learner was assimilating into an entirely new technical and social culture.

“It was weird to have classmates who already had three years of coding experience as first-year [students]. Smartphones were just becoming popular when I graduated from high school. Terms like STEM just weren’t a thing then,” she said. “I was also used to working with people of all different ages and being in a leadership position, so it was strange to come back to square one.”

After high school, Bartlett planned on majoring in accounting. Not being able to see herself in that career long term, she unenrolled before her first semester and

ctoriaBartlett ’23

began working at a local supermarket. It was here that she discovered her passion for coding after she was asked to write a piece of code to calculate a special profit metric. Eager to find a career where she could utilize this talent, she enrolled in Gannon’s cybersecurity program in 2019 at the age of 25.

Gannon has many resources in place to help adult learners thrive. The Returning to Education Adult Program lounge, located in the A.J. Palumbo Academic Center, served as a comfort to Bartlett. Equipped with convenient everyday amenities, the lounge offers a place to study, socialize and connect with other non-traditional students.

“The REAP lounge is a wonderful place for me to get some studying done in a quiet setting on campus, especially as a commuter,” Bartlett said.

For radiologic science student

David Bostaph ’23, Gannon’s ability to make him feel welcome and allow him to comfortably acclimate into an academic setting made his experience as an adult student all the better, even when he didn’t feel confident.

“It’s very daunting as an adult, to come to a campus full of individuals the same age as your own children,” he said. “You feel like you do not belong, and it’s easy to see yourself as a ‘failed adult’ who has to hit reset and try again.” Before coming to Gannon, Bostaph worked 20 years in retail while he and his wife supported their five kids. He stayed with various companies for years, but never really

enjoyed what he was doing. His family eventually came into a position where he could return to school, so he enrolled in Gannon’s two-year radiologic science program. Bostaph credits Gannon faculty and staff for being supportive of his journey. From admissions creating a schedule of adult education classes needed for his program, to the office of commuter life, he easily found a place that he felt comfortable in. He also thanks his wife, without whose support he would not be able to continue his education.

Speaking to others who are considering going back to school as an adult, Bostaph said there’s no such thing as too late.

“I turn 49 this year. My professional career is just starting and I’m already looking at ways to take this new path into areas I never thought were possible. You will never know what the possibilities are if you never try. The only one telling you ‘No’ is you.”

Read more from our students and staff who’ve inspired their journey at magazine. gannon.edu/May23

“I’m already looking at ways to take this new path into areas I never thought were possible. You will never know what the possibilities are if you never try.”

- David Bostaph

HOW ADULT LEARNERS ARE TAKING THE WHEEL ON EDUCATION

DavidBostaph ’23

By: Paige Penfield, Content Marketing Strategist

Backstreet Boys, Spice Girls, West Life – Pagmadulam “Duka” Namsraijav grew up listening to music from other countries. With an undergraduate degree in linguistics and dreams to study abroad, she was introduced to Gannon University at an International Education Expo in 2019 in her home country of Mongolia. Here, she met David Stewart, assistant director of global admissions and outreach, and was immediately drawn to the English as a Second Language program. After acquiring a visa, she made the challenging decision to spend time away from her husband and now 14-year-old daughter to pursue her dream and arrive at Gannon in January 2020.

“ESL helped me make a lot of friends and learn about many cultures of the world through my classmates,” she said. “It was an excellent foundation course for my academic studies.”

Unfortunately, Duka’s ESL experience was cut short after two months when classes shifted online due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

One hundred and forty-one days stuck in South Korea. Five nights and six days to get there. This is only a fraction of Duka’s journey to Gannon, home and back again.

Eager to be home with her family, Duka gained financial and logistical support from Gannon’s student emergency funds and Campus Ministry team, then packed her bags to return to Mongolia, whose borders had closed. Preparing to enter through the Moscow border, she was disheartened to discover that she was unable to enter Mongolia and was faced with two options: return to the U.S. or travel to South Korea to stay with her cousins.

Choosing the latter to be closer to home, Duka arrived in Seoul on March 24, 2020 after five nights and six days since departing the Pittsburgh International Airport. Despite countless attempts to access government charter flights and other means of returning home, Duka spent 141 days in South Korea, separated from the life she had come to know.

“During my long stay in South Korea, I missed my family terribly and felt very depressed,” she said. “I was worried about what would happen if I contracted COVID or if my country wouldn’t open its borders. Everything was unclear and scary.”

Thankfully, members of Duka’s Gannon Family were sure to check in on her. “From the day I left Gannon until my arrival in Seoul, Father Michael Kesicki [chaplain of Gannon University] contacted me hourly to ensure my safety and well-being, which gave me the strength to get through those difficult days,” she said. While staying in South Korea, she also received birthday wishes from Marilee Wilkosz, current director of Global Support and Student Engagement, and former director, Sarah Speir, which “really lifted my spirits.”

She added that Mariana Syrotiak, director of English language and global training,

and other faculty members also sent her emails regarding her studies and visa status, actions that made Duka feel supported and cared for while away.

Her time in South Korea was not wasted, however; Duka and fellow students protested outside the Mongolian embassy to be returned home. They even made a documentary film, “Unreachable Home,” about Mongolian people stuck overseas and their struggle with repatriation. The film was submitted to a European documentary contest, which is still ongoing.

Nearly five months later in August of 2020, the border to Mongolia opened and Duka was reunited with her family. She returned to Erie the following year, this time with her husband and daughter, as she resumed ESL and pursued a master’s in strategic communication. She said one of the greatest parts of returning to Gannon was the welcome she received. “The people I had known for just over two months in 2020 welcomed us back like old and close friends,” she said. “They helped me and my family find an apartment and even assisted us with setting up our electricity. It was truly lovely and respectable.”

Now age 39, Duka achieved a lifelong dream of studying abroad and walking the stage at May Commencement. She will complete a summer internship in communications and plans to move to Indiana, where her family is currently living, to pursue a career in public relations.

“I consider myself to be a very lucky person,” Duka said. “I believe Gannon is very warm. It’s like a family that loves, cares and respects each other … I am certain that I will always be connected with this wonderful extended family for years to come.”

JOURNEY TO STUDY AT GANNON

“I believe Gannon is very warm. It’s like a family that loves, cares and respects each other … I am certain that I will always be connected with this wonderful extended family for years to come.”

Picture a kaleidoscope. What comes to mind? Bright hues of blue, purple, green and more in hundreds of shapes in varying sizes, wonderfully and cohesively coming together in different patterns to create one beautiful piece of art.

Students at Gannon’s Ruskin Campus have engaged in several interprofessional experiences that are much like a kaleidoscope.

The occupational therapy doctorate, physician assistant, physical therapy, and speech and language pathology programs came together throughout this academic year for three types of interprofessional experiences alongside faculty and various community partners.

of Health care

Physical Therapy student Teanna Parisio engages with a student at Post Sunshine Ranch Preschool during “Assessment Day.”

“I was not anticipating how much I would learn about the importance of communication.

... Not only that, but also professionalism in understanding and respecting each other in order to work well as a team.”

-

care Education

By: Mallory (Hedlund) Bottoni ’14 Assistant Director

Teanna Parisio

Custom Mobility Inc. toured PT, OTD and SLP students through its facility as a community partner engaged in Gannon’s interprofessional experiences.

“These experiences are providing students like me real-life answers not found in our textbooks to prepare us as future health care professionals. They are leaving a lasting impact on our educational experiences”

- Teanna Parisio

These interprofessional experiences exposed students to different health care practices on a wide range of patient ages and diagnoses, and enhanced students’ professional and communication skills. They provided a holistic learning experience that is preparing students for their boards, giving them confidence in their abilities, and deepening their understanding of patient-centered care and their roles among colleagues to come together like a kaleidoscope to achieve a common goal of helping patients.

Students learned more about power wheelchairs for various patient diagnoses from staff members at Custom Mobility Inc.

For Keith Taylor, Ph.D., the days of his tenure as president of Gannon University are ticking down. He knows it. He feels it. His 12-year stint ends June 30, after which he will begin a major change in his life –from more than three decades in higher education to something else.

We made it and we are here together. I say ‘we’ as you and I are about to make another transition in our lives together. This will be my last time to stand before a Gannon Commencement class to speak. … I have participated in 42 commencements at Gannon … I will be stepping away from the presidency next month and into a new adventure, much like you. Like you, I am looking down a new path filled with unknowns that make me nervous, excited, and maybe a little scared all at once. … I wish for you that as you look ahead and imagine your future you are filled with excitement and anticipation, eager to take on what’s next. Readyas I am - to invent, to stretch, and to be ambitious and confident that you can and will do something special and worthwhile and leave a mark. ... Through the years, I have had the privilege of traveling with hundreds of students and colleagues to remote locations to serve others and have watched the amazing transformation of so many lives. We are here to do good and to make a difference in our world and in the lives of others.

“

“Thank you all for giving me this precious gift of membership in the Gannon Family these past 18 years.”

-Keith Taylor, Ph.D., excerpt from May 2023 Commencement address

Preparing for change and a new chapter

“This is a massive family transition,” he said recently during a chat in his oak-laden office in Old Main. “For almost 18 years, [Gannon] has been the family business – as it was for 17 years at Daemen [College] before this. Mary and I have lived together and worked together all these years and our kids have been on campus with us much of the time. Our children have seen us ‘love’ our work and they knew that if they wanted to see us, they had to go to the basketball game or go to the Recreation and Wellness Center. We’ve just always been here.” Soon, however, that won’t be the case. The reality is sinking in as he experiences the last of things as president – divisional meetings with employees, Celebrate Gannon, basketball games.

Before, the future seemed to be endless. There would always be another speaker, another wrestling match, another person to hire.

But now it is different. The spring commencements in Erie and Ruskin were his last as president.

“Strange how it is not a surprise, but it still sneaks up on you,” he said.

He is becoming more reflective as June 30 draws near, but not too much. After all, Taylor has never been one to spend much time looking in the rear view.

And, he has work to do.

“I’m not going to coast out of here. I want to have things as set as possible for Walter,” he said, referring to Walter Iwanenko, Ph.D., Gannon’s current provost and vice president for student experience, who will become president on July 1. “He deserves that. The university deserves that.”

That means fine-tuning the university’s next budget, greeting families and would-be students and pressing forward on key projects –from construction of I-HACK’s sixth floor, to securing funding for Project NePTWNE, the university’s water sustainability initiative.

Leading Gannon’s Transformative Journey

Taylor has been about transformation since he was named provost at Gannon 18 years ago. He worked for six years in that role before being appointed president in 2011. Then, as now, he regards his work as more lifestyle than job.

At his inauguration in November 2011, he talked about the four pillars of his presidency: academic excellence, community partnership, globalization and student success. He planned to build success through tradition, service, strengthening systems and community. He would continue to hone his message as the years went on, narrowing his personal mission – and that of the university – to “Transforming lives, Inspiring transformation.”

“It doesn’t matter if you’re counting 12 years or 18, we’ve made massive changes in the physical environment – in new buildings or in renewing old buildings,” he said.

There are many notable images capturing Taylor’s presidency, and some reflect institutional progress, comradery among , colleagues and friends, and active engagement in students’ experiences. Pictures of groundbreakings, ribbon cuttings and celebrations fill his tenure, like the groundbreaking for the St. Joseph House of Faith in Action with wife, Mary Jean, (left) or the dedication of a new academic floor at the Ruskin Campus (top middle) or bringing home the PSAC Dixon Trophy (top right). He’s most often viewed alongside students at Gannon traditions like the first-year photo (bottom left) and welcome week (bottom right).

“More important, we’ve created vibrant environments that have become more than just buildings.”

The physical changes to campus are the easiest to see, but Taylor contends the real change is in the university’s mindset. “The environment now is where ideas like I-HACK and Project NePTWNE, and the Minor in Innovation and Creativity can come forward,” he explained. “We’ve become much more flexible, much more entrepreneurial. We are better, faster thinkers.”

Finding Perspective, Embracing Personal Growth

Beyond that, he believes the commitment to well-being and building trust has helped create a high level of respect across the university. “All of this means we’ve changed – together – the way the university behaves.” He’s different, too.

“Physically, I’m a lot slower,” he joked. Self-deprecating humor is a part of the Taylor playbook. Though slower, he is more active than a typical

59-year-old. He jogs, he rides his bicycle and he lately has taken to crushing opponents on the pickleball court. More of the change is on the inside.

“Absolutely, I’m a different person. I’d like to think I’m more tolerant of others’ opinions, much more accommodating of schedules, much more compassionate,” he said. Life does that. Experience does that.

“Deaths, hurricanes, fires, budget shortfalls, transitioning people – all these things – if you are a human being and pay attention – change you because they all put life into perspective.”

As the days count down, he said he is growing more grateful.

“Hanging out with all kinds of people makes you smarter, wiser, more respectful. ...When I was in my twenties, I knew more than anyone and did not have the time to sit and listen to someone – and I was moving so fast I missed 80 percent of what was going by. I am trying to listen more now, especially now.

Forging a New Future for the Family

“My family and my Gannon family are all one big blended, integrated life. This has been my life. Decoupling from this will be a massive personal and family transition.”

He and Mary Jean have been working together for decades. He recalled early days at Daemen College when he and his wife had offices next to each other and had baby gates up so their young daughters could walk from one parent to the other. And then they both came to Gannon, and the years and accomplishments stacked up. Those young daughters are grown now and living on their own, and the time has arrived for a new chapter. He’s not sure what will come next, which is a switch for someone known for creating plans for everything.

“I’m not embedding myself in anything anytime soon,” he said. “That’s as much of a plan as I have.”

From connections made while signing global semester exchange agreements (top left), to close collaboration with the Most Rev. Lawrence T. Persico, J.C.L., Bishop of the Erie Diocese (top middle); to working alongside students and employees on during GIVE Day (bottom right) and Welcome Week (top right), and with community partners like Erie Mayor Joe Schember (bottom left) to contribute to Erie’s development, to opening Gannon‘s second campus in Ruskin, Fla. (bottom right) – the Taylor family has grown exponentially by extension to many Gannon members and friends. His children were part of his daily engagements, son Timothy joining at many events (bottom middle) and daughter Samantha preparing for Commencement together (top right).

Taylor Portrait Continues Presidential Tradition

On the walls of Old Main are portraits of past presidents who symbolically represent the story of Gannon University’s history. A portrait of President Keith Taylor, Ph.D., will soon join the ranks of his predecessors in this respected position to continue this Gannon tradition. Brad Lethaby, a local artist and Erie native, was commissioned for Taylor’s oil paint portrait and unveiled the final work of art to Taylor and wife, Mary Jean, in May.

Milestones of President Taylor’s Transformative Vision

President Taylor brought the focuses of his four inaugural pillars – student success, academic excellence, commitment to our community and global engagement – to life through his servant leadership and has transcended Gannon University’s impact on thousands of lives across the globe in the process.

Reflecting on his 12 years as president, there is no shortage of examples of how the actions from his promises have transformed the Gannon experience and its footprint.

Growing Gannon’s Footprint

More than $135 million in major capital improvements were completed during the past decade, among the most substantial was the opening of Gannon’s second campus in Ruskin, Fla.

Gannon’s number of campus facilities grew to more than 60 and includes the addition of the Alstadt Environmental Center as well as modernization of the Recreation and Wellness Center, Nash Library and Student Learning Commons, Beyer Hall and the Mary, Seat of Wisdom Chapel. Additionally, new facilities were purchased and constructed such as the Center for Business Ingenuity, Institute for Health and Cyber Knowledge, South Hall, the Ruskin Academic Building and more.

Connecting Communities Locally and Globally

Creating partnerships that drive positive impact to support our neighbors near and far has been at the epicenter of Taylor’s presidency.

The Barker Globalization Institute expanded worldview through study abroad, T.R.A.V.E.L., G.I.F.T. and Alternative Break Service Trips for students and employees; developed semester exchange agreements with 11 international partner universities; and diversified campus with a notable 20 percent global student population.

Gannon became a leader in downtown Erie’s resurgence, assisting with the reinvention of the Our West Bayfront neighborhood; reclaiming and renovating unused buildings; and supporting the Erie Downtown Development Corp., United Way, the Erie Downtown Partnership and others.

Fostering an Environment for Success

Through Taylor’s leadership, the Gannon community was empowered to achieve success in transforming lives.

The university experienced a recordbreaking enrollment of more than 4,700 students, and maintained positive financial health, achieving its first bond rating upgrade and growing the endowment to a $83.5 million value in 2020-2021.

Programs to enhance access for

underrepresented populations were created as well as new athletic teams such as acrobatics and tumbling, competitive cheer and women’s wrestling. Employment also reached a record currently as the university is several years into initiatives on holistic well-being and improving the workplace experience for employees.

ATHLETICS HALL OF FAME CLASS OF 2023:

Continuing a Legacy of

The 2023 Class of Gannon University's Athletics

EXCELLENCE

By: By: Jeff Kirik, Assistant Director of Athletics Media Relations

Rocco ’12, ’13M; and aquatics coach/ administrator Donald R. Sherman Jr. The honorees gathered with family and friends for the induction ceremony on Jan. 28 at Yehl Alumni Ballroom in the Waldron Campus Center. Each student-athlete attributed their post-competition success to the Gannon education that they received.

Security, a 200-employee company that he founded in 1996.

As a member of the 1970-73 Gannon baseball teams, Marz was a slugging first baseman who holds Gannon records after half a century. He owns three of the top 10 batting averages in program history, along with two of the top three slugging percentages.

This year’s eight inductees each competed in different athletic programs and represent the long-term success of the university. Starting with basketball standout Calvin Graham in the 1960s, each decade through the 2010s was represented.

In addition to Graham, the class included men’s soccer standout Frank W. Brown ’88 and women’s soccer star Samantha “Mani” Brueckner ’16, ’17M; baseball slugger Loren C. Marz ’75; wrestler Niall Frank McGrath ’10, ’13M; golfer Diana Carolina Munoz Sanchez ’17; diver Diana

2023 Hall of FameINDUCTEES

Graham starred as a small forward from 1965-67 and later went on to play in the American Basketball Association. He credited another Gannon Hall of Famer, Mel Witherspoon, with helping him land in Erie. Both played at a junior college in Nebraska before Witherspoon enrolled at Gannon. He recommended Gannon to Graham, and the rest is history.

Graham serves as President and Owner of Graham & Graham

Marz graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics in 1975

and had a long career as a National Weather Service meteorologist.

Brown was a key member of outstanding Gannon soccer teams from the 1980s. He joined former teammates Gerry van DeMerwe and

Frank W. Brown ’ 88 Soccer, 1983-86

Samantha “Mani” Brueckner ’ 16, ’ 17M Soccer, 2012-15

Calvin Graham Basketball, 1965-67

Hall of Fame might be best remembered for epitomizing what Gannon’s athletic program values most: prolonged excellence in competition and in the classroom.

EXCELLENCE

Rob van Rheenen, and head coach Rob Russo in the Gannon Hall of Fame. They previously were honored with the 1985 Gannon team that was inducted in 2020.

Brown graduated in 1988 with a Bachelor of Science in Accounting and spent 30 years as a U.S. Treasury Department special agent.

Brueckner was inducted for her recordsetting soccer career from 2012-15. She holds numerous Gannon records, including career assists and points. She helped Gannon to a 50-243 record while making five All-America teams and three Academic All-America teams.

Brueckner received a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering in 2016 and an MBA in 2017. She works as a materials technical advisor for Wabtec.

McGrath starred as a wrestler from 2007-10. He was a two-time All-

American who placed fifth in the NCAA Championships as a junior and seventh as a senior.

In 2010, he graduated from Gannon with a Bachelor of Science in Business

a diver with Gannon from 2008-12. She still owns three Gannon diving records.

She received her Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences in 2012 and her Master’s in Physician Assistant Science in 2013. She is a Physician Assistant in Cardiothoracic Surgery at Mount Sinai Medical Center in Miami Beach, Fla. Sherman was associate athletic director for 15 years and served as the men’s and women's swimming and diving programs for almost a decade. Hired in 1996, Sherman was best known for starting the men’s and women’s water polo programs in 2001 and coaching the teams to success.

Management, and in 2013, he earned his MBA. McGrath is a mechanical sourcing leader for Wabtec.

Sanchez made Gannon history as the first women’s golf inductee. She became Gannon’s first PSAC Women’s Golfer of the Year and won the PSAC Championship as a senior in 2016-17. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Engineering in 2017 and is an engineer with Leaaf Environmental in New Orleans.

Rocco was a five-time All-American as

1 Former Gannon water polo coach Donald R. Sherman Jr. poses with some of his many former players who attended the Gannon Athletic Hall of Fame induction ceremony on Jan. 28.

2 Gannon diving great Diana Rocco delivers a speech at the ceremony.

3 Gannon basketball great and 2023 inductee Calvin Graham poses with his family.

Loren Marz, ’ 75 Baseball, 1970-73

Niall Frank McGrath ’10, ’13M Wrestling, 2007-10

Diana Carolina Munoz Sanchez ’17 Golf, 2013-17

Diana Rocco ’12, ’13M Diving, 2008-12

Donald R. Sherman Jr. Aquatics Coach/ Administrator, 1996-2018

POSITIVE INFLUENCER

Ask any Knight what positively influenced them in their decision to come to or stay at Gannon and you’re likely to hear a common thread weaving through their multitude of answers: the people. The Gannon Family is special. Our members create a transformative and vibrant force that radiates and draws new and aspiring learners each year.

We asked, “Who in our community has inspired or positively impacted you?” and we’re excited to share some of your stories here.

“Mary Carol Gensheimer, director, School of Communication and the Arts, has had a significant impact on my Gannon experience. Whether it is personal or career development, I have felt support by M.C. every day. I truly would not be where I am without her. M.C. has helped me make the best decisions for my academic career and future endeavors. I cannot thank her enough for being a part of my Gannon experience and all that she has done for our community here at GU.”

- Madison Maurice, Student

“Gannon has brought me to meet amazing girls on the softball team. Without Gannon I would have never met my now lifelong friends that I can count on no matter what. Gannon allowed me to continue following my dreams of getting a degree while playing a sport I love.”

- Jessie Sheffield, Student

“

[Ruskin occupational therapy associate professor] Dr. Bonnie Decker has been supportive in all her classes and has made me realize even if I'm having a hard time, I'm supposed to be here. I'm glad I've gotten to spend three years with her!”

- Emili Blanton Alexander, Student

“I met Emily Schneggenburger my first weekend of freshman year in Finegan Hall and she has been my rock all through college. She’s still my best friend and biggest support as we head toward graduation together this May! I’m so thankful Gannon gave me her!”

- Izzi Green, Student

“

“ The Gannon community, as a whole, has an incredible way of supporting each other. Relying on someone for help while you navigate difficult times can be scary, but GU has a way of adding fuel to your tank. Knowing that you have a family behind you cheering you on is a blessing. I wouldn't be where I am without it. Proud 2021 alum!”

“A moment that has meant a lot to me at Gannon was in my Introduction to Sociology class with Ed Betza. We finished our course content at the end of the semester and ... he taught us life lessons about investing, relationships and our future careers. I often think about those lessons and I am grateful that I had a teacher like Ed who valued us as people. ... he recognized me as part of the Gannon community and made me feel like I was part of something bigger than myself.”

- Emma Willow, Student

BE AN ACTIVE ALUM

Let's stay in touch on social media. Tell your story and share who influenced your Gannon experience and tag @gannonu

Nafeese Morgan is the best, he lights up everyone’s day and I couldn’t be more grateful to be his friend and watch the beautiful Erie sunsets together.”

- Kirsten Senge, Student

“I love that Gannon allows support animals. I could not make it here without my sweet Penelope Rose. I get to make memories every day with my emotional support dog on campus!”

- Chloe Dittman, Student

- Olivia Wirfil ’21

History in the Making Presidential Inauguration:

Mark your calendars for Friday, Sept. 22 in Erie, Pa. to join us in celebrating the inauguration of Gannon University’s eighth president, Walter Iwanenko, Ph.D. This celebration will kick off Gannon’s 2023 Homecoming and Family Weekend with a series of events and traditions both old and new with opportunities for the Gannon family to be part of Gannon’s history in the making.

As we excitedly anticipate this celebration, we sat down with president-elect Iwanenko to hear what’s in store for this milestone occasion.

An inauguration is a symbolic tradition for universities. What does “tradition” mean to you?

When I think of the word “tradition,” I automatically think of family. Our university is approaching its centennial celebration, which is incredible – 100 years of tradition built around our Catholic Identity, being a meaningful partner to our community and transforming the lives of students. The inauguration is kicking off Homecoming Weekend and it is creating the chance for new traditions.

I want our alumni to come back to campus to make new memories with their families while revisiting the place they fell in love with and being reminded of the great times they had as a student. I’m excited to have alumni and students alike join together to watch local band The Groove perform on Friendship Green and for our current students to enjoy the return of the Homecoming dance. I hope these become Homecoming traditions every year.

There are several signature events. What are you most looking forward to?

I think it’s especially meaningful to who we are as an institution by starting inauguration day with Mass and recognizing our faith. It’s a deep-rooted tradition for us to have Mass before significant events such as the start of the semester and

Commencement, so it will be a great way to begin the day with this special tradition as well.

I am humbled thinking ahead to taking the Profession of Faith and Oath of Fidelity during Mass. It is an honor to have the opportunity to take these, and I will work diligently to uphold Gannon's Catholic values, identity and traditions.

I am, of course, looking forward to the Inauguration Ceremony. I recognize that this is such a momentous milestone for Gannon’s history – and it is a very important responsibility and challenge that I cannot wait to begin. I am a son of immigrants and a first-generation student, so it will be a meaningful day for my parents, my wife and family, too.

What does it mean to you to have been selected as one of less than 10 presidents in the university's history? This is humbling. I think of the number of students who’ve graduated from Gannon, and then think if each one has impacted one or two others in some way, and those people impact others and so on – this institution has had a transformative impact on millions of people within our nearly 100-year history. How remarkable is that when you get to be the eighth president of a university with this kind of global impact?

PRESIDENT OF GANNON UNIVERSITY

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2023

Mass - 10:30 a.m.

- 2 p.m.

EIGHTH

Ceremony

The Groove on the Green: A Block Party Celebration - 7 p.m.

classnotes

66

REV. MSGR. HENRY R. KRIEGEL

retired on Nov. 1, 2022, after serving the Diocese of Erie for 52 years. Kriegel served as the pastor of St. Patrick Parish since 2009, prior to that he served several parishes in the 13-county diocese. He spent 12 years at St. Jude the Apostle in Millcreek Township. He then spent less than a year at McKean’s St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church before moving to California where he served in parishes attended by movie stars. Kriegel also took part in a 2016 public memorial service for Muhammad Ali.

WILLIAM J. STEGER and his wife, Ruthanne Beighley, celebrated their one year anniversary on Feb. 12, 2023. They found love while serving on the board of directors of the Catholic Foundation of Northwest PA.

67

JOSEPH M. KOPER released his first book titled “The Isaiah Fountain Case.”

68

DIANE M. DUDZINSKI, PH.D. ’68VMC was selected for a cover feature in the Ninth Edition of Marquis Millennium Magazine, which features the narrative biographies of the world’s most esteemed and accomplished professionals. Dudzinski is a retired professor of biology from Washington State Community College.

SAVE THE DATES

ROBERT A. PACSI ’77M is an assistant coach at Nordonia High School in Northfield, Ohio where he led the boys basketball team to a winning season.

72

DAVID R. JAKUBASZEK and his wife, Jean, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on Oct. 28, 2022.

ROBERT MAZZA and his late brother, Frank Mazza ’72, opened a winery in 1972 while they attended Gannon. Today, Robert Mazza Inc., or Mazza, is a wine, spirits and craft beer producer with operations in northwestern Pennsylvania and western New York. Starting with a single vineyard, Mazza now operates three primary locations in the Lake Erie AVA: Mazza Vineyards and South Shore Wine Company both in North East, Pa.; and Mazza Chautauqua Cellars in Westfield, NY, which is also home to Five & 20 Spirits & Brewing– New York State’s first combination winery, distillery and brewery. Mazza was recently lauded as one of Wine Industry Network’s most inspiring people for 2023.

73

DEACON DENNIS M. KUDLAK celebrated his 20th anniversary to the permanent diaconate for the Diocese of Erie. He has served as a chaplain at Elmwood Gardens for 18 years. He continues to serve as a deacon assistant when needed at other local nursing homes in the area.

75

JOSEPHINE “JOSIE” K. (SUBOTNIK) LUBIEJEWSKI ’97M retired on Jan. 31, 2023 as the vice president of Division Title Operations at First American Title Guaranty Company. Company, where she achieved 41 years of service.

77

MARK W. DEITRICK, PH.D., NCC, LPC was promoted to Professor Emeritus at the Community College of Beaver County in recognition of his distinguished service to students and colleagues along with his significant contributions in program development and research. His promotion was preceded by his retirement as professor of education, psychology and social work. He provided 30 years of service at the college in roles including counseling, teaching, administration and supervision. He maintains his practice as a psychotherapist in Beaver, Pa.

80

SONYA (GILLESPIE) HARRIS ’80VMC is this year’s recipient of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Spirit Award in Atlantic County, NJ. Harris also got engaged in December 2022 to Leon Baptist after he proposed in front of more than 160 people at her retirement party at Greate Bay Country Club in Somers Point. Harris also retired from the Atlantic County Board of Commissioners as a longtime clerk.

VALERIE A. KOKOR, MBA recently traveled to Antarctica for a trip of a lifetime, bringing along Victor E. Knight. They began their trip in Ushuaia, Argentina. Kokor is a 2008 Distinguished Alumnus.

JOHN C. STEHR announced his plans to run for mayor of Zionsville, Ind. on the Republican ticket in October 2022. He retired from WTHR Channel 13 in 2019.

STAY CONNECTED WITH YOUR GANNON FAMILY

View our events at www.gannon.edu/alumni

82

MARY ANNE ALBAUGH, MD, DLFAPA was a guest speaker at the 2022 Community Health Net Annual Meeting in October at the Sheraton Erie Bayfront Hotel. Health care and business professionals gathered to discuss the impact of mental health on the community under the theme of “Healthy Minds, Healthy Communities.” Albaugh is a psychiatrist with Deerfield Behavioral Health in Warren, an affiliate of Journey Health System.

PROFESSOR MICHAEL J. STAFFORD provided a lecture in October at the MartzKohl Observatory explaining the various motions the earth undergoes as it travels through space, including its interactions with the sun, moon and other planets. He also explained the principals of physics needed to understand the motion of the solar system through the galaxy in a nonmathematical way. Stafford is an adjunct physics professor at Gannon and has taught physics for 37 years.

83

DAVID A. DORE, PH.D. was hired as the new Chancellor for Northern Virginia Community College, beginning his tenure on April 1, 2023. His goal is to visit all 23 of the state’s community colleges.

85

ALMITRA M. (CLEMENTE)

CLERKIN ’17M accepted the role of executive director of the Sisters of St. Joseph Foundation, following several years of service as director of stewardship at Gannon.

86

REV. SHAWN J. CLERKIN, AOJN retired from Gannon a year ago to become a full-time vicar of St. John’s Episcopal Church in Franklin, Pa.

89

JEFFREY J. SZUMIGALE ’89M was elected President of the Board of the Boys & Girls Club of Erie.

92

PARRIS J. BAKER, PH.D. spoke about Dr. Martin Luther King and America’s Self-Evident Truth at the Jefferson Education Society in Erie on Feb. 20.

TROY E. BINGHAM MBA announced the Erie Sports Center will partner with Special Olympics Pennsylvania to establish its regional headquarters there. They will also partner with the Cleveland Cavaliers to create a community-wide Junior Cavs program to engage kids in basketball and educate coaches and parents. They are joining forces with Bookwell Travel, an online travel agency committed to ending veteran homelessness, and Veterans Miracle Center to build a residential home community for area veterans. The Center will be the site of residential units with greenhouses and solar fields for veterans. The on-site greenhouses will span two acres and provide jobs growing produce for local grocery stores.

MICHAEL J. CYMBOR, OD was voted best eye doctor through online surveys of Best of State College 2022. Cymbor is an optometrist with the Nittany Eye Associates in State College, Pa.

SEAN D. DUGAN was promoted by Erie Insurance to executive vice president of human resources and corporate services, effective in January 2023. In addition to HR leadership, Dugan’s career at ERIE spans roles in personal lines underwriting, reinsurance underwriting, technical training, development and instructional design. Dugan was named vice president of corporate training and development,in 2010; vice president of recruiting in 2012; and vice president of talent acquisition and community outreach in 2014. In 2018, Dugan was named ERIE’s corporate HR officer.

LAURA A. (STROZEWSKI) GLOSS was named assistant vice president of procurement at SRC, effective in January. The organization is a not-for-profit research and development company which combines information, science, technology and ingenuity to solve “impossible” problems in the areas of defense, environment and intelligence.

JOMO W. MUTEGI, PH.D. (BRADFORD F. LEWIS) was recently elected president of the National Association of Research in Science Teaching. NARST is a worldwide organization for improving science teaching and learning through research. It was founded in 1928 and is the world’s most prominent international association of science education researchers.

U-Knighted Colleagues Show Gannon Pride

Lillian (McEvoy) Pontis ’80, Jay Sedlak ’91 and Matthew Walker ’06 are proud Gannon alumni all working at PNC Park in Pittsburgh, Pa. Showing school spirit for their alma mater, they began a tradition kicking off each game day with a fist bump and audible “GU baby” together.

93

GARY N. LEE ’93M was formally named chief administrative officer of the newly-formed Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Commission in Erie County by a unanimous vote of the commission in December 2022. He will be responsible for the everyday operations of the body as well as oversight of all grants and contracts. The commission, which was established under the Dahlkemper administration via American Rescue Plan Act funding, aims to invest and lobby for underserved minority populations. Composed of a nine-member board of commissioners, the group identifies viable programs for grant funding, particularly in areas like housing, education, entrepreneurship and workforce development.

94

ERIC G. LAPRICE, MS ’97C, ’99M graduated from the Forest Service’s Senior Leader Program in December. It is a highly competitive elite program to get accepted into. He did his final presentations and graduated in Washington, D.C., where Associate Deputy Chief Angela Coleman presided over the ceremony.

KAREN R. RZEPECKI ’92 won a contract this year to sell her products in Walmart stores. She is the founder of Erie-based ReCap Mason Jars.

PAUL A. LUKACH, MSW, LSW, TF-CBT was appointed by Governor Tom Wolfe to serve on Pennsylvania’s Victim Services Advisory Committee. Lukach was sworn into office on Nov. 30, 2022. The VSAC advises the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD) regarding policies, priorities and performance standards for victims’ services and compensation. The VSAC’s mission and vision are to promote a standard of excellence in crime victim services that ensures survivor-focused services are available and accessible for all crime victims and communities.

KAREN A. (FAILS) SURKALA was named chief operating officer of Saint Vincent Hospital in Erie. Surkala is president of Westfield Memorial Hospital and will jointly lead Westfield with Chris Clark, D.O., president of Saint Vincent Hospital. In her new position, Surkala will oversee day-to-day operations at the hospital and its affiliated facilities and programs in the community.

95

JOHN C. WHITE graduated from Duke University with a Master of Divinity degree after returning from serving the church in South Africa over the summer. He is currently serving in ministry under a United Methodist Church.

96

BRANDY CORTES-ARMSTRONG ’98M was appointed to the newly formed Latino-Hispanic-American Advisory Council by Mayor Joe Schember. Cortes-Armstrong is a counselor with New Directions Healthcare and is a member of the Erie Latino Leadership Association.

JOHN M. STYBORSKI ’98M and his wife, TRACY (NALE) STYBORSKI ’96, ’98M have been mastering physical therapy for twenty years. Owners of Masters of Physical Therapy in Corry, Pa. They significantly grew their customer base within its first few years that they both became full-time owners. They agreed that it was the overwhelming support from the community that allowed them to continue doing what they loved.

97SHELLEY BORTZ was a guest speaker for the Uniontown College Club meeting in October 2022. She was a fixture on television newscasts in several states before returning to Pittsburgh, joining KDKA in 2021. She previously worked as a reporter for WPXI.

MOHAMMAD SAUD AL-OSAIMI was named a top CEO of the Middle East by Forbes. He became CEO of Boursa Kuwait in 2019. The company reported revenues of $101 million, assets worth $360 million and net profits of $65 million in 2021. They had 167 listed companies and a market cap of $135.2 billion in 2021.

Jessica M. (Mazur) Bourke ’17, ’18M and her husband, Warrick J. Bourke ’17, welcomed a son, Lincoln Lennox, on Dec. 12.

Emily S. (Oswald) Milbert ’10 and her husband, Matthew, welcomed a son, Reid Eric, on Jan. 17.

Meghan J. (Hurley) Penfield, PA-C ’10, ’11M and her husband, Colin, welcomed a son, Beckett Hurley, on Dec. 13.

Hannah L. (Bailey) Roach ’15 and her husband, Robert, welcomed a daughter, Ryan Lynn, on Jan. 29.

Allison E. (Greenlee) Siegel ’17 and her husband, Jeremy, welcomed a daughter in 2023.

Anthony J. Sinagoga ’16 and his wife, Caitlin, welcomed a son, Damon, on Feb. 18.

STACY M. JUCHNO is the new board vice chair of the United Way of Southwestern Pennsylvania. She serves as executive vice president and general auditor for the PNC Financial Services Group. She is also a member of the Board of Trustees for Gannon University.

98

KEVIN T. JOHNSON ’98M applied for a historical marker for Ford Station, which was the first Underground Railroad station in Erie. The historical marker was approved by the Pennsylvania Historical & Museum Commission.

LT. THOMAS L. LENOX continues to make a big impact on the lives of hundreds of local children through the Erie Police Athletic League, an organization he revived in 2016. Starting with just a handful of kids, the program now serves more than 800 children.

JOSEPH B. STEEVES was elected to the Pennsylvania State Education Association (PSEA) Board of Directors as the southwest region vice president.

marriages

PATRICK J. FABIAN announced he will seek re-election for Armstrong County commissioner. He has served as commissioner since 2016, serving four of those years as chairman of the Armstrong County Board of Commissioners.

SARAH L. ANDREWS was named the director of knowledge management at the law firm Stradley Ronon Stevens and Young. Andrews is responsible for creating and evangelizing the firm’s knowledge management program. She will support and help innovate the performance of legal teams by transforming how they capture, curate and share collective knowledge. She has spent more than 15 years in Big Law, enhancing the efficiency and accuracy with which teams tackle legal and operational projects.

NICOLE L. (OLESKI) LAVERY, OTD ’04M and her husband, Jason, were honored as the best Local Entrepreneurs of 2022 by the ErieReader. Nicole and Jason are the co-owners of Lavery Brewing Company in Erie.

NICOLE M. (SAMONE) DULL ’04M, ’07C, ’20C was appointed as superintendent-elect in July 2021 for the Conemaugh Township Area School District, with her four-year term beginning on Jan. 1, 2023. Dull served as the district’s elementary school principal for the last 15 years. She is the first female superintendent of the District.

Amanda Berchtold ’16 married Morgan Albright on May 22, 2022.

Hannah B. Cambria ’18 married Jonathan S. Garich ’18, ’20M on July 2, 2022. The ceremony was officiated by Fr. Jason Feigh ’07.

Michael Griesacker ’95 married AnnaJeannine Kemper on Nov. 12, 2021, after delaying the wedding three times due to the pandemic. 1

Alizabeth R. Leng ’17 married Thomas P. Barton III ’17 on Jan. 2, 2021.

Casey R. Martin ’14M married Matt Baier on Oct. 7, 2022 in Raleigh, NC.

Dawn (Dunlap) Orchard, DNP, APRN, CPNPPC, PMHS ’98 married Heather Orchard in May 2022 in Boise, ID.

Casey J. Rogers ’12, ’09 married Courtney N. McGraw ’12 on July 10, 2021. 2

99BRADLEY J. COLLINS, MD, SFHM, FACP presented the most recent Orlando Lecture on “Medical Ethics: A Brief History and Practical Applications for The Real World” on Feb.15 in Ruskin, Fla.

JEFFREY D. KIDDIE is the recipient of the 2023 PGA Golf Professional of the Year Award. This is the highest annual honor given to a PGA of America Professional, awarded for leadership, strong moral character and a substantial record of service to the Association and the game of golf. Kiddie is the Head Golf Professional at Aronimink Golf Club in Newtown Square, Pa.

JUSTIN J. LEHMILLER, PH.D. is a research fellow at The Kinsey Institute. He is an award winning educator, having been honored three times with the Certification of Teaching Excellence from Harvard University, where he taught for several years. Lehmiller is a prolific researcher and scholar having published more than 40 pieces of academic writing to date.

MARIO A. COMMERET-MEDINA was appointed to the newly formed Latino-Hispanic-American Advisory Council by Mayor Joe Schember. Commeret-Medina is an attorney with the law firm of Melaragno, Placidi, & Parini in Erie.

KEVIN M. OLA shared stories of his military experience with Washington Junior/Senior High School students in Washington, Pa. on Nov. 11, 2022, Veterans Day. Ola is a U.S. Army veteran and inspector for the Transportation Security Administration and Department of Homeland Security.

JASON A. TURKA ’04M is one of 12 finalists for the 2023 Pennsylvania Teacher of the Year award. Turka represented the Bethel Park School District. He has been a math instructor at Independence Middle School since 2000.

ALBERT G. DONADI, JR. was inducted into the Marian Catholic High School Hall of Fame. Donadi was a star athlete in three sports – football, baseball and track – gaining eight letters as a varsity starter in which he won individual championships and played important roles in several Colt team championships. Donadi helped the Colts baseball team win the 1999 Schuylkill League Division championship and the 2001 Schuylkill League Division and District 11 championships, won the 2001 District 11 gold medal in the 100-meter dash, and currently ranks eighth on Marian’s all-time leading rushers with 2,252 yards.

Alumni

R. Keith Allison ’68

William J. Angelo ’80M

Ernest G. Babon ’58

Nancy M. Bauer ’85VMC

David J. Bello ’74

David J. Blum ’58

Renee M. Boccio ’72M

Philip G. Braun ’51

Martin W. Brown ’65

Patricia (Murray) Brown ’57VMC, ’84M

William J. Burke ’72

Donald J. Carone ’68, ’85M

Richard M. Cerami, DDS ’57

Peter B. Chiccarino ’63

John Coleman ’12

Ronald T. Concilla ’63

Cassius T. Cook ’66

Jane D. (Watson) Crumbly ’80VMC

Richard E. Dahle ’65

Gerald J. Damond ’66

Amy M. Daugherty ’80

William M. Densmore ’58

Gianni D. Devincentis-Hayes, Ph.D. ’71VMC

Michael F. Donnelly ’70

Joseph L. Durante ’75

Thomas V. English ’70

Patrick N. Farver ’67

Mary A. (Hornung) Fitzgerald ’63VMC

Judy (Healey) Freaney ’63VMC

James G. Hrin ’83

Parents and Friends

Keith J. Alloway

Joseph W. Amann, Jr. ’25

Robert G. Angelucci

Harry D. Bayletts

Edward Carniewski

Charles R. Colvin

Alfred D. Covatto

John J. Doyle

Sean M. Felkins

Jerry (Gerald) T. Grode

Jennifer Hall

Capt. Edward J. Gehringer, MD ’61

Joseph F. Giles ’72M

David M. Glenn ’65

Dr. Jean M. (Atkins) Gool ’72

Richard J. Grable ’61

Douglas H. Green ’79M

David W. Grzelak ’76M

Francis W. Haas ’61

John K. Harabedian ’52

Mark D. Harrigan ’72

Thomas P. Hartsell, CPA ’68

Col. Edward J. Heynoski ’54

Charles I. Himmelreich, Esq. ’81

Timothy R. Holbach ’73

Verniece (Riley) Howard ’81VMC

Lisa (Rossi) Howland ’75VMC

C. Robert Jenkins ’54

Rollin L. Jewell ’56

Barbara J. Juchno ’83

Ann M. (Forssell) Kanally ’48VMC

Richard J. Kerr, PE ’55

James A. Kieklak ’62

Larry M. Kozik ’83

Lt. Col. Joseph H. Kress, USAF ’49

Marilynn P. (Coombes) Krull ’57VMC

Jeanne Kubeja ’66VMC

Gerald H. Laird ’60

Dennis M. Lalley ’65

Phillip A. Larusse, Jr. ’69

Koreena N. Hemstreet

Theodore Hogan

Charles A. Joy, MD

Margery Kibler

Kenneth A. Kohl, USA (Ret.)

Sister Mary Lou Kownacki, OSB

Rev. Daniel J. Kresinski

Sally A. Lund

Gary W. Lyons, MD

John Mantyla

JOSEPH D. CAVALIER spoke to students at Gannon in February. He discussed climbing the ladder at Wabtec to become a major leader within the corporation. Cavalier is the the Executive Plant Manager at Wabtec in Erie.

MARY THERESA (HORVAT) VERMILLION

was inducted to the Marian Catholic High

Jacqueline J. (Houseal) Lasher ’76VMC

Karin A. Levy ’93M

Arthur J. Lewis ’79

Richard D. Mahon ’95

Karen L. (Duskus)

Malinowski ’72VMC

Carol M. (Mayhew)

Mamrak ’78

Rebecca (Herbstritt)

Martel ’81

Ines Massella, Esq. ’75VMC

Sister Mary Mark

McCarthy ’71M

Maureen T. (O’Laughlin)

McCarthy ’70VMC

Victor I. McDonnell ’80

Robert A. Migdal ’61

Michael V. Miller ’72

Aisha R. Moore ’03, ’10M

Sister James Francis Mulligan, SSJ ’47VMC

Timothy P. Nash ’74

Sister Geraldine

Olon, SSJ ’62VMC

John P. O’Neill ’73

Glen A. Pavkov ’72

Gregory T. Peelman ’80

John L. Price ’66

Edward M. Przepierski ’69

James P. Puette ’67

Robert P. Quigley ’67

Marguerite (Rectenwald)

Rabe ’49VMC

Robert E. Rak ’70

Brian A. McKean

Gary K. Munkelt

Mark E. Neel, Sr.

Kevin Niako ’25

Shirley G. Ohns

Jaida Payne ’25

Curtis Palicia

Gregory Pongratz

Bernard J. Quinn

Regina M. Ripley

Barbara R. Roberts

School Hall of Fame on Oct. 23, 2022. She was a four-year starter for the Fillies volleyball team, helping them to win championships in both the Schuylkill League and District 11. She was also a four-time District 11 champion in track and field. As a junior, she won the district gold medal in the shot put, discus and javelin, and was named a first-team selection in the shot put and discus by the

Charles A. Rojik ’70

Gregory J. Rosson ’02

Russell S. Rougeux ’87

Rose I. Russo ’56VMC

Catherine E. (Matuszak)

Scarsella ’68VMC

Robert M. Schindler ’88

William B. Schlak ’61

James G. Schleicher ’59

Lauren A. Schweiger ’09

Mary E. Smogorzewski ’86VMC

Peter J. Stepnowski ’71

George J. Strenio ’79, ’83M

Maryellen K. Sullivan ’74M

Raymond M. Sullivan ’81M

Mark M. Templeton, Jr. ’73M

Argola (Blanchard) Thompson ’81VMC

Jo El E. Thompson

Kroon ’97M, ’12Ph.D.

Howard A. Tinsman ’70M

Alan J. Vanderweele, DDS ’64

Richard G. Vargo ’50

Dorothy (Morris) Waite ’48VMC

Raymond J. Wasielewski ’60

Kathleen M. (Walczak) Welch ’82

P. Edward White ’57

Nancy J. (Sipple) Zimmerman ’69

Ronald W. Zmyslinski, MD ’66

Anthony J. Zonna ’61

James A. Ruby, Ph.D.

Santa Scacchitti

James K. Shaffer

James B. Spiegel

Carol A. Stamm

Mary Lou Stanton

Bryan A. Torain

William B. Trice, DMD

Cletus Troyer

Mark A. Wieczorek

Frank W. Zurn

Pottsville Republican. In her senior year, she won the district shot put gold medal, set the school record in javelin and has a season’s best discus toss. She extended her volleyball expertise as an assistant coach at Eastern High School in Voorhees, NJ in 2006, became head coach at Jim Thorpe in 2008, and then led the Our Lady of the Angels Academy program in 2011.

Celebrating Jubilee Milestones

Gannon congratulates our alumni on their jubilee anniversaries.

75th Jubilee

Sister James Francis

Mulligan, SSJ ’47VMC (Deceased Feb. 26, 2023)

Sister Mary Grace

Hanes, OSB ’54VMC

Sister Mary Mark

McCarthy, RSM ’71M (Deceased Dec. 2, 2022)

70th Jubilee

Sister Mary Louis

Eichenlaub, OSB ’55VMC

Sister Mary Arnold

Tann, SSJ ’62VMC, ’73M

Sister Ann Patrice

Murnock, SSJ ’64VMC

Sister Ricarda Vincent, SSJ ’64VMC

60th Jubilee

Rev. Msgr. Bruce R. Allison ’72M

50th Jubilee

Rev. Msgr. Charles A. Kaza ’66

40th Jubilee

Rev. Chris M. Hamlett ’78

Rev. James P. McCormick ’78, ’89M

25th Jubilee

Rev. Michael G. Demartinis ’92

Deacon Martin “Marty” P.

Eisert ’62, ’85M, ’89M

09

GREGORY S. COLEMAN ’09M was named the 2022 Erie TimesNews Sportsman of the Year. He is the President of the Erie Seawolves, and his recognition as Sportsman of the Year follows a tremendous baseball season leading to the league championship game in 2022. Coleman was also named Minor League Executive of the Year as the Erie SeaWolves won three MiLB awards.

EMILY L. (SCHEINBERG-POWELL) LEVINE, ED.D. ’09M, ’10C received the Junior Achievement of Western Pennsylvania’s Teacher of the Year Award on Dec. 8, 2022. A third-grade teacher at Gateway’s Dr. Cleveland Steward Jr. Elementary School, Levine was selected from more than 400 nominations throughout western Pennsylvania and northern West Virginia in Junior Achievement’s first contest for the area’s top teacher.

EDISA BERBERKIC ’12M was promoted to associate director of development and contracts for a national nonprofit advocacy organization in Washington, D.C. She assists in the management of all revenue received by the organization including gifts, sponsorships and grants. She also oversees the contract process, making sure agreements are executed accurately, and aids in administering all public and private grant awards. Previously, she worked primarily in the government sector for more than 10 years both at the county level and as a federal contractor, managing public and private grants. She has future plans to further her education by earning her doctorate degree.

ATTORNEY BRANDI A. (KELLY) SUTER is the founder of Extraordinary Law, LLC, her own practice she established after earning her Gannon degree, pursued her master’s from the University of Pittsburgh, and earned her law degree from Duquesne University.

ALISON M. BARTLEY is a certified sign language interpreter who provides access to the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community for PNC Broadway in Pittsburgh series performances, including Disney’s Frozen.

BRANDON K. WILEY ’13M received the Community Spirit Award from the Erie Regional Chamber and Growth Partnership, which was given for his involvement and efforts in the community. He is the founder of OpenedEyes, a nonprofit dedicated to education in the areas of self-development, diversity and inclusion.

ANJALI SAHAY, PH.D. ’11M spoke about “Brain Drain in the 21st Century: Current Trends in Developing and Developed Countries” on Feb. 13, 2023 at the Jefferson Educational Society in Erie. Sahay is an educator, leader, author, researcher and a performing artist working as associate professor and program director of political science in Gannon’s School of Public Service and Global Affairs. She has successfully run Model UN Programs at various universities for more than two decades. 12COLLEEN M. HARRIGER, MD joined the Washington Health System Orthopedics and Sports Medicine group. Harriger completed her fellowship at Allegheny General Hospital and her residency at UPMC Hamot in Erie, where she earned the American Orthopedic Association Resident Leadership Representative award.

ALICIA M. WURM ’13M joined the medical staff at Penn Highlands Healthcare in DuBois, Pa. She works with patients who have cataracts, glaucoma, eye muscle problems, blocked tear ducts, and corneal or eye injuries.

ATTORNEY DANIEL B. DE VITO announced his candidacy for the Republican nomination for Elk County District Attorney. He is currently practicing law in Elk County, Pa. and previously served as law clerk to the President Judge of the 59th Judicial District of Pennsylvania.

ANDREW J. HELLMANN ’14M is the owner of Snap Fitness in Harborcreek, Pa., which recently relocated to 2424 E. 38th St. Hellmann is delighted with the visibility that his company will now have at the new location.

SELENA N. KING is one of six new members appointed to the Pennsylvania Legislative Black Caucus Foundation’s board. She previously served as chair of the Erie Democratic Black Caucus, and was appointed by a nonpartisan group of state House representatives and senators of color, including people of African, Latino or Asian American descent.

14

CASEY R. MARTIN ’14M was promoted to service merchandising area manager with Wegmans Food Markets in Morrisville, N.C.

15

DANIEL “DANNY” J. SMITH

’15M was named the 2022 South Atlantic League Strength & Conditioning Coach of the Year by the Professional Baseball Strength & Conditioning Coaches Society. He is the strength coach for the Hudson Valley Renegades, completing his second season in the position in 2022 and his sixth overall with the Yankees organization. He was also named the South Atlantic League Strength & Conditioning Coach of the Year by the PBSCCS in 2021 with the Renegades.

AARON J. STEARNS, PH.D. earned his Ph.D. in mechanical engineering and a graduate minor in acoustics from Pennsylvania State University in December 2022. He will be employed by the Pennsylvania State University Applied Research Laboratory as an assistant research professor in structural acoustics.

16

RACHAEL J. KOLESAR & NATHAN

F. UZARSKI became engaged on Oct. 27, 2022, and recently had their engagement pictures taken on the Gannon University campus.

17

ANDREW R. PEIRSON is an offensive lineman with the B.C. Lions in Ontario, Canada, and recently signed a two-year contract extension. The former Gannon athlete was eligible for free agency in February. He will play his fifth season with the Lions in 2023. Vancouver signed Peirson as a non-drafted free agent before training camp in 2018.

18

SANTIAGO MENDEZ was promoted to head coach for Olivet College baseball program in September 2022. Mendez served as the assistant coach for the previous three

Making Connections: An Engaging Panel Discussion

Gannon’s College of Humanities, Education and Social Sciences presented its Spring 2023 CHESS Speaker Series that emphasized renewing social bonds to pre-pandemic levels to make connections. On Feb. 15, the event “A Conversation and Exhibit of the Black/African American Alumni Experience at Gannon University” created an engaging discussion among moderator Parris Baker, Ph.D. ’92 and the alumni panelists Homer Smith, Jr. ’76; Cheryl (Rush) Dix ’82, ’07C; Brandon Wiley ’10, ’13M; Selena King ’13; and A’Darius S. Porter ’15, ’18M.

seasons, during which he worked with the pitching staff and team defense and served as the third base coach. Prior to joining the Olivet staff in January 2020, Mendez was a volunteer assistant baseball coach at Gannon for two years.

19

GRETA KUZILLA, PH.D. ’19C was hired by the Pine-Richland School District as the new director of student services and special education.

LISA GODDARD MCGUIRK ’19M was named the 2022 Erie Times-News Sportswoman of the Year. She is the athletic director at Gannon. The accomplishments by the Golden Knights stacked up over the past eight years and reached a pinnacle this past year when they were awarded the Dixon Trophy for the first time in program history.

20

KATE A. DUCARME, MPAS, PA-C ’21M joined the Washington Health System Family MedicineCalifornia. She completed more than half of her clinical rotations at WHS facilities.

21JACQUELINE (JACQUIE)

ESHLEMAN ’21M was hired as the Iona University’s inaugural women’s acrobatics & tumbling head coach.

DEVIN SMITH ’21M is in his first season with the Lakeland Magic of the NBA G League where he serves as a basketball operations associate.

22

TREVAUGHN E. MCNEILL was signed by the Green Bay Blizzard, a professional indoor football league. McNeill is from Philadelphia and played collegiate football at Gannon, where he majored in Sports Management and Marketing.

Find additional Class Notes and photos at magazine. gannon.edu/May2023

GANNON IS COMMITTED TO OUR STUDENTS, AND SO ARE YOU.

We want to thank our generous donors whose contributions to the Believe. Inspire. Transform. campaign help the university drive forward its purpose of transforming students’ lives through high-quality, affordable educational experiences.

Through these efforts, you help to propel our mission to believe in, inspire and transform our students to live impactful lives around the globe.

“This scholarship has allowed me to continue to play the sport I love competitively. I always operate on the belief that with persistence I can achieve almost anything, and my time at Gannon has shown me how much I can accomplish.

I am so grateful for the impact that this scholarship has had. I thank you for your support and generosity. I am very inspired to work hard to create a successful career and future for myself here at Gannon.” - Zoey McGain ’23

(L-R) Michelle Wimmer and Zoey McGain Norbert and Helen Stankiewicz Endowed Scholarship in Electrical Engineering

HOW CAN YOU INVEST IN OUR STUDENTS?

Athletics

Enhance student-athletes’ experiences in the classroom and in competition.

Dean’s Excellence Funds

Provide vital resources and technology in the classrooms.

Gannon Fund

Support the growing needs and emerging priorities of all students.

Leadership and Professional Development

Create opportunities for students to gain professional field experience.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Help to provide a high-quality education accessible and affordable to everyone.

Travel, Study Abroad and Service

Provide values-centered learning opportunities for students to become global citizens.

TO FIND OUT MORE, PLEASE CONTACT: Nancy Bird, Vice President for University Advancement 814-871-5435

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