participation
holistic development
motivated students quality education
valuecentered
globalBelieve
scholarship
dynamic faculty
empowering A World of Possibilities.
alumni
possibilities
success
diversity career Catholic
Gannon University Annual Report of the President 2010
participation
holistic development
motivated students quality education
scholarship
global Believe
valuecentered
dynamic faculty
diversity alumni
possibilities Catholic
success
empowering career
Table of Contents: President’s Message—2 :: A World of Education—4 :: A World of Faith—8 :: A World of Experience—12 :: A World of Service—16 :: A World of Potential—20 :: University Financials—24 :: Year in Review—26 :: Board of Trustees—28
The
2009-2010 Academic Year at Gannon was very
productive and historic in many ways. In Fall 2009, for example, the 4,238 total enrollment was the University’s largest number of students since 1992 and included the largest freshman class since 1993. The academically strong first-year class of 649 students came from 18 states, the U.S.Virgin Islands and nine countries and was the most diverse class in several years. Gannon also
achieved more national honors. U.S.News & World
Report’s “America’s Best Colleges 2010” ranked Gannon for the sixth consecutive year as a top tier Master’s University in the northern section of the U.S. and the University was also one of only nine institutions in the northern region ranked as a Top Up-and-Coming School, a first for the University. Construction began on the first new residence hall on campus since 1987. You can see the
progress
on this new building
Gannon was awarded more than $
President Garibaldi (center) visits with Summer 2010 Student Orientation Advisers: Rianna MacWhirter (front); (front row, L to R) Mark Lesniewski, Ashley Frego, Stephanie Gottron, Landis Erwin, Meghan Burns and Emily Taft; (back row, L to R) Patrick Chounet, Nathalie Thorpe, Jeremy Alfieri, Chad Gauthier and Jeana Smith.
2 million in grant funding in 2009-2010.
live online at www.gannon.edu/newreshall. There was also construction and renovation in the A.J. Palumbo Academic Center last year, such as in the Commuter Corner and offices of the School of Education and the dean of the College of Humanities, Education and Social Sciences on the second floor, and a new Student Success Center was completed on the first floor in the summer.
{ President’s Message }
The new Erie-GAINS (Erie-Gannon Alliances to Improve Neighborhood Sustainability) initiative was launched and is already making a positive impact on the community. Erie-GAINS will help students, faculty and staff coordinate their volunteer service efforts in a 180-block area around campus so that downtown Erie is a more vibrant place to live, work and learn.You can find out more about this exciting new project by visiting www.gannon.edu/eriegains. History-making
successes and historic anniversaries were also
recognized during the year. The Lady Knights women’s basketball team advanced to the NCAA Division II Final Four for the first time in school history, setting NCAA Division II records for the most victories in a season and the most consecutive wins in a single season. The women’s program won both its first-ever PSAC Championship and NCAA Division II Atlantic Region Championship at home at the Hammermill Center. The team was also ranked No. 1 in the country in the final three regular-season USA TODAY/ESPN Top 25 coaches’ polls. At the end of the season, the Lady Knights were ranked second in the country, with only one overtime loss on their record in 38 contests. Also this year, Gannon and the Erie community recognized 150 years of contributions by the Sisters of St. Joseph of Northwestern Pennsylvania, and the Most Rev. Donald W. Trautman, S.T.D., S.S.L., Bishop of Erie and chair of Gannon’s Board of Trustees, was celebrated for his 20
President, Antoine M. Garibaldi, Ph.D.
years of leadership in the Diocese of Erie. The Sisters of St. Joseph, with the support of Archbishop John Mark Gannon, established Villa Maria College, the predecessor of Cathedral College and Gannon College, with which it merged in 1989. We thank the sisters and Bishop Trautman for their
dedicated years of service to the University
and many more to come. Much history was made in the 2009-2010 Academic Year. We will look back on it fondly, and we will
Believe in the possibilities of all that
academic colleges.
is to come in the years ahead.
Gannon offers a variety of majors in one of
3
liberal
knowledge degree study abroad
Since its founding days, strong academics have been the cornerstone of the Gannon University experience. As Archbishop John Mark Gannon wrote in 1941, “I do not think the right to a college education should be based on wealth or social standing. I think the right to a college education should be based on virtue and talent.” From 90 students in its second year of operation to today’s student body of more than 4,200, the University’s commitment to an affordable, high-quality, Catholic education remains the same.
More than 40 student-athletes maintained perfect
A rich history is just one example of Gannon’s unique academic experience. Each year, students encounter integrated learning opportunities that go beyond textbooks and classrooms to experiential and hands-on learning. For instance, dozens of students go above and beyond—literally—by participating in study abroad and academic trips. “I’m the most curious person I know; anything I see and
4.0 grade point averages during the Fall 2009 Semester.
hands-on
don’t know about, I have to investigate,” explained senior about her motivation to spend her junior year studying in Grenoble, France. The history major took eight courses, ranging from languageintensive French to art history and literature.
Karlee Turkaly
“I expected to learn a lot and improve my French—and I certainly did—but what surprised me was how much I learned about myself,” she said. “I’ve become more open and understanding, and more patient. Living abroad forces you out of your comfort zone, so I’m more prepared now if things don’t turn out exactly the way I expect them to.” Turkaly was one of 61 Gannon students who studied abroad in 2009, covering 10 countries on four continents. Students weren’t the only ones branching out—many faculty, like Suzanne Richard, Ph.D. ’71, and Jeffrey Bloodworth, Ph.D., led or participated in several of these trips.
During the summer, seven Gannon students traveled with Richard, professor of history, and two other faculty (Tina Curtis, research assistant, and Richard Moodey, assistant professor of sociology) on an archaeological dig at Khirbat Iskandar, Jordan, marking the trip’s ninth season and the largest group Richard has taken to the site thus far. Five students accompanied Bloodworth, assistant professor of history, to the Middle East with stops in Israel, Egypt and Jordan, where the group met up with Richard’s students. “Our trip had a servicelearning focus, so we taught in the Catholic schools of Madaba, Jordan, worked for the Center for Democracy and helped with a news magazine,” explained Katie Demetriadis, a junior social studies/secondary education major.
arts
{ A World of Education }
ambition The Khirbat Iskandar group spent about nine hours each day completing excavation and restoration work at the site, which Richard—the first American woman in Jordan to be the director of her own site— began in 1981. The site offers a window into civilization during the Early Bronze Age; pottery uncovered during previous trips is on display in the A.J. Palumbo Academic Center. Although she didn’t have Gannon faculty by her side during her year in France, Turkaly said she certainly felt their presence. “I realized that I was comfortable with my classes because it still felt like Gannon.
campus dining locations.
challenged
servicelearning
Hungry? Visit one of the
5
Our class numbers were small, with only about 12 students, and the teachers’ focus was to work with students personally. It felt like a second home,” Turkaly said.
As of Fall 2009, Gannon has been named to the U.S.News & World Report “America’s Best Colleges” list
No matter the location, student achievements are something to brag about. The 2009 freshman class average of 1019 on the SATs exceeded both the national and state averages, and the average incoming freshman grade point average was 3.42. More than 1,000 students earned degrees during commencement exercises held in December and May, and 12 students were recognized with the Archbishop John Mark Gannon Award for graduating with perfect 4.0 grade point averages. Gannon’s dynamic faculty and committed staff—a group that is more than 800 strong— has much to do with this success. At least half of all faculty were recognized for scholarly achievements, such as conference presentations and journal publications. Gannon prides itself on helping students, both near and far, achieve their full potential. That’s why, in 1998, an outreach admissions program was established to offer the same exceptional education students receive in Erie to individuals outside the main campus.
6 consecutive times.
through Internet services and programs. Gannon faculty and staff are easily accessible through e-mail and phone conversations. I even teach one course, Legal Issues in Education, online.” Indeed, technology plays an important role in today’s academic experience. Demetriadis and junior Lauren Gurpreet Singh ’10M, a graduate student in mechanical engineering, prepares to receive his degree during Spring Commencement. Myrick, another participant in Bloodworth’s Jordan excursion, kept in touch with family Currently, Gannon offers In addition, Gannon also and friends by writing blogs to several graduate programs at offers principal certification document their travels. While locations throughout westand superintendent’s letter abroad, both students enrolled ern Pennsylvania. Students of eligibility courses at in online economics courses can work toward a Ph.D. in outreach sites. taught by Charles Bennett, organizational learning and Joseph Dimperio, Ph.D., J.D., assistant professor of finance, leadership in Cranberry Towna longtime educator with who created a hybrid text ship, Pa., or earn their Master more than 45 years of service specifically for online instrucof Business Administration in Pennsylvania public schools, tion. One thing that doesn’t (MBA) by taking courses held has been with the M.Ed. change, Dimperio points out, in Franklin, Pa., Warren, Pa., or outreach program since before is a personal connection. in Erie at the Manufacturer & 2000 as an adjunct proBusiness Association. fessor and educational/ Twenty-five cities have hosted legal consultant. One of courses for Gannon’s Master of the benefits of Gannon’s Education (M.Ed.) program, program, he notes, is the first one to be offered as that the information and outreach. Students enrolled in academic quality remain the outreach M.Ed. program the same regardless of also have the advantage of location. forming a cohort, meaning “There’s not really a they will take the same courses difference between onwith the same group of stucampus and off-campus dents throughout the process. courses. From a teacher’s The program celebrated its perspective, once you 100th cohort in Meadville, Pa., are in the classroom, with eight students who began the location becomes the program in the summer unimportant,” he said. “A of 2009. gigantic plus is that the world of technology puts students right on campus
{ A World of Education }
Turkaly agreed, noting that she had assistance throughout her year abroad. Her trip was part of a partnership between Gannon and Cultural Experiences Abroad, an organization that has study abroad opportunities at higher education institutions in 15 countries.
The partnership also helped Turkaly receive a financial scholarship to help defray travel expenses. “You’re not alone; there are tools and opportunities to make it happen,” she said. “It doesn’t matter what your major is—there are programs for everyone. I have friends in the health sciences who learned about medical aid in developing countries. As long as you believe in yourself and have confidence and courage, you can do it.” The University’s academic offerings have been expanded in other ways, including two new academic programs in entrepreneurship and international studies, the only such programs in the northwestern Pennsylvania region. Gannon’s English as a Second Language (ESL) program was also enhanced and offered the University’s 277 international students a full complement of courses to help them transition into life in the United States. A first-year seminar was added to the Liberal Studies Core that includes service-learning and an oral Students and faculty studying in Khirbat Iskandar, Jordan, proudly display a Gannon banner at their dig site: (first row) Dr. Jeff Bloodworth, Rebecca Lenox and Rebecca Perry; (second row) Jillian Hurta, Cassandra Parsons, Kelly Kubiak and Dr. Suzanne Richard; (third row) Tina Curtis, Chaztina Keyes and Alex Bogdanoff.
communication component as part of the new first-year experience. An interdisciplinary capstone course was also initiated for business and engineering students, while the School High school students in Gannon’s Regional Summer of Education School of Excellence receive hands-on education created 11 new aboard Gannon’s science research vessel, the Environaut, with biology professor Stan Zagorski. online graduate courses to during 2008-09 (the most provide teachers with profesrecent year for which data is sional development for Act 48 available), some 160 Gannon credit. In April, the University students secured internship and the Lake Erie College of and other similar placements Osteopathic Medicine at more than 100 sites locally, formally renewed affiliation regionally and nationally. On agreements, originally estabaverage, three in four students lished in 2002, that allow pre-pharmacy and pre-medical secured paid placements, and the number of students who Gannon students to continue completed internships and their studies at LECOM. co-ops for academic credit “I have been so impressed by increased five percent over the enthusiasm and determithe previous year. nation of Gannon’s faculty Moreover, the most recent job and staff, especially those in placement report shows that the School of Education,” nearly 90 percent of graduates Dimperio added. “Everyone have obtained employment involved with the outreach in their career field or are programs is a testament to continuing their education, Gannon’s Mission.” proving that no matter where While students appreciate this life takes them, their Gannon dedication during their time University degrees are sure to at Gannon, they understand make their futures bright. it even more after graduation. According to Gannon’s Center for Experiential Education, The University receives
,800 pieces of incoming mail each day.
“In the outreach program, we go where the students are and work with them in or near their community. We spend a lot of time together as a group, and I really get to know the students.You can see the bonds among students, and many have formed long-term personal and professional relationships,” said Dimperio, who teaches courses in learning theory, school curriculum, classroom discipline and school law.
7
social justice chapel choir
peace liturgies
faith-sharing groups
Sister Min-Shik Kim, associate professor of nursing, has taught thousands of students during her 12 years at Gannon, educating them in her specialties of mental health nursing and pastoral counseling. And between nursing fundamentals and clinical experiences, Kim shares something equally important: her faith. “Teaching is sharing your life with the students. I don’t strongly emphasize my faith or try to influence students, and I don’t want to exclude anyone from the classroom—I just allow them to have space to come to know me. I want to provide an inclusive environment so everybody feels comfortable to learn,” Kim said. Developing the whole person —mind, body and soul—has long been a part of Gannon University’s Mission. Gannon is also one of less than a dozen Diocesan colleges and universities in the nation.
The 2009 freshman class included 129 students from the Diocese of Erie, receiving more than $1.3 million in Gannon scholarships and grants and including 55 students from the seven Catholic schools within the Diocese. Overall, 536 undergraduate students hailed from the Diocese of Erie. Both Mass attendance and participation in the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA, the process by which adults are introduced to the Roman Catholic faith) rose this year as well.
In the spring, approximately 135 people attended the Living Stations of the Cross, and six men—five from the Diocese of Erie from St. Mark Seminary, one from the Byzantine Diocese of Pittsburgh and a Gannon graduate—were ordained as priests, a record number. Gannon also expanded its participation in National Catholic Colleges Week with twice as many activities and events designed to celebrate the merits of Catholic education.
“I enjoyed how informal the process was. There was a large amount of discussion in the classes, rather than simple reading and regurgitation. For me, celebrating the faith is acting on the faith. Anybody can talk; I try to spread the mission of the Catholic Church through my actions,” said Ben Gangewere, a junior pre-medicine major who participated in RCIA.
8 students make up the Student Government Association’s Executive Board.
campus ministry
spirituality
“The National Catholic Colleges Week observation at Gannon was a time of orienting our compass directions to become more true to our identity and mission as a Catholic university. The debut of strong student-centered
{ A World of Faith }
Additionally, the Gannon community recognized two milestone anniversaries.
The Most Rev. Donald W. Trautman, S.T.D., S.S.L., reached his 25th anniversary as a bishop on April 16 and celebrated 20 years as Bishop of Erie on July 16. The Sisters of St. Joseph of Northwestern Pennsylvania, founders of Gannon’s predecessor,Villa Maria College, celebrated their 150th anniversary in May. For faculty like Kim, incorporating faith into the classroom comes naturally. “Nursing is ultimately a caring profession; caring is an essential component of the Villa Maria School of Nursing mission statement,” she said. “Healthcare workers care for other peoples’ lives and are responsible for providing holistic care, and that includes a spiritual component. It doesn’t matter if you are Catholic or Protestant or Muslim or unsure what you believe— we are all spiritual beings.” When explaining this concept to new students each year,
countries were represented in the Fall 2009 freshman class.
and student-initiated events was the focus, the highlight and the joy of the entire week,” said the Rev. George Strohmeyer, University chaplain. Also named vice president for Mission and Ministry in 2010, Strohmeyer has served in a variety of ministry roles at Gannon for more than 30 years.
9
More than 100 area college students worshipped together in Gannon’s Mary, Seat of Wisdom Chapel during the 2010 Intercollegiate Gathering: (left to right) Deacon Stephen Washek, director of Campus Ministry, Matthew Durney ’07, Jackie Oesmann ’10, Stephanie Gottron and Patrick Chounet.
Kim could provide handouts or give a lecture; instead, she prefers they see faith in action through routine exercises.
The University strings more than
“Before the start of class, I give students a quiet two minutes for self-awareness. In the very beginning, their reaction was, ‘Dr. Kim, I’m not Catholic, I’m not Christian, I don’t pray.’ I told them this is not prayer time. This is for everyone to have quiet time to be aware of where we are,” Kim said. “At the very beginning of the semester, if a student came in late, they would often be noisy with the door or their books. But once we started the quiet time, they had much more respect for each other and their attitude changed. If a student was late, they would wait outside or step in quietly and not disturb the classroom.”
Kim, who is one of eight faculty religious at Gannon, is not alone in setting an example of faith on campus. Lay faculty member Dorothy Kalanzi, Ph.D., assistant professor of sociology, credits much of her success to having a strong belief system. “Prayer and faith play a huge part in my life, and I’m so thankful to be at a university like Gannon where I can celebrate that,” Kalanzi said. “I believe it was God’s direction for me to come here.” Likewise, the University is also committed to supporting students, faculty and staff of all faith backgrounds. Gathering in Praise, Gannon’s monthly ecumenical worship service, saw an average attendance of 53 individuals. Beginning in the fall semester, the Chaplain’s Office inaugurated a time of prayer and mission
10,000 Christmas lights around Old Main each holiday season.
orientation for incoming graduate students. Six student faith-sharing groups are active across campus— including the most recent addition, LETtERS, a group aimed at members of Greek social organizations. “Each month, we offer a time for students to step back from their busy lives to find a sense of peace and comfort through
meditation and prayer. It’s a way for students to center themselves and refocus their motivations on God’s plan for them,” explained Chad Gauthier, one of three LETtERS leaders. The junior management information systems/theatre major is a member of Delta Sigma Phi fraternity and is also involved in the professional drama society Alpha Psi Omega, sings with the Chapel Choir and is active in KnightLIFE (a student organization encouraging responsible decisions).
Approximately 170 faculty, staff and students celebrated Mass on the Grass on Friendship Green, an annual part of the University’s Springtopia celebration.
{ A World of Faith }
During the 2009-2010 year, Campus Ministry worked collaboratively with several campus offices, including the International Student Office and the Center for Social Concerns, to increase awareness of diverse faith traditions. A Muslim student organization was formed, attracting 50 members, and a Christian-Muslim dialogue was presented to spark discussion between and among different denominations. “The students are able to follow the traditions of their culture; for example, last year we celebrated Ramadan,” explained Cheryl Jong, Muslim Students Association adviser and administrative secretary for Gannon’s graduate studies, liberal studies and Honors programs. “I’m getting a primary lesson myself because I’m not Muslim, so I’m learning as we go along. It has really helped to bring people together and foster understanding.”
In January, a new Dining Around the World series that allows participants to sample diverse Erie cuisine was launched. It averaged 18 attendees over four dinners during its inaugural year. “Campus Ministry, the International Student Office and the The ARK (Alternative Radical Kingdom) Protestant-based faith-sharing group gets Office of Student ready for some friendly competition during Faith Field Day, one of several events held during National Catholic Colleges Week. Living all worked collaboratively to tion for Christian Outreach, As Durney points out, put shape to and which partners with colleges students are faced with a plan this program,” explained to develop men and women multitude of choices each Brent Heckman, associate who live out their Christian day: what career to pursue, campus minister. “We wanted faith in every area of life. Col- which club to join, even to foster positive interactions lege students have been living something as simple as where and learning between domesin the house since 1973. One to eat lunch. With a variety of tic and international students block away, Gannon’s Catholic student-focused programming and educate students on a House also provides an intenand opportunities for spirivariety of cultures using the tional faith community for tual development, Gannon dinner table as the classroom. 10 students. University makes how to celThere has been a great spirit ebrate faith the easiest option. to the groups of students, “What I like most about the faculty and staff we have House is there is never a dull “As a college student, your dined with.” moment. People are always faith is tested many times, from new relationships to From where they eat to where challenging others to grow and to learn,” said Matthew personal struggles,” Gauthier they reside, students have an Durney ’07, coordinator of said. “Gannon offers support, opportunity to incorporate the Catholic House and a guidance, direction and, most their faith every day at one graduate student in community of all, acceptance as you grow of two faith-based residences. counseling. “I believe in colin your faith. It’s a special The Kirk House Christian lege students and their capacity atmosphere that you can’t residence on Myrtle Street to build community with one find anywhere else.” houses nine Gannon students. another. I feel very lucky to be This living-learning coma resident minister and have a munity is affiliated with Erie’s part in their development.” First Presbyterian Church of the Covenant and the CoaliThere were
affinity group reunions held during 2009 Alumni Homecoming & Reunion Weekend.
“When I first started attending LETtERS gatherings, what surprised me the most was how present the Holy Spirit was through the deep conversations and discussion and the friendships that are formed within the group. It provides an opportunity for students to be very real and honest about their lives and our purpose in this world, and our hopes for what’s next,” he said.
11
individuality
nontraditional
studentcentered
adult learning Faculty and staff at Gannon University go out of their way to leave an impression on students. From studying live bats with biology professor Steven Ropski, Ph.D. ’78, to helping plan an event in the Waldron Campus Center with director Alan Swigonski ’77, ’05M, the Gannon experience is guaranteed to be memorable. In fact, some students find they can’t stay away. When
Paul Stormer ’89,
a Pittsburgh native who found himself unemployed after company downsizing, decided to return to school, only one option came to mind.
Gannon’s campus encompasses
12 city blocks.
“I like the sense of community at Gannon. Everyone has a genuine interest in your wellbeing, both academically and personally,” he said. “I think it’s amazing how many professors are still here from when I attended in the 1980s. Gannon must be a special place for them to dedicate their entire career to one institution.”
For many of the University’s 254 undergraduate nontraditional students, returning to school is often a family affair. Stormer especially feels the connection; his wife, Cindy (Wolf) Stormer ’89, is a fellow graduate, and their oldest son, Eric, is currently a freshman political science major at Gannon (son Adam is an eighth grader at J.S. Wilson Middle School). “Sometimes it is difficult to study at home because there are so many distractions, but I make it work. Last winter, I studied while watching my sons’ hockey practices,” he said. “Thanks to the support of my family, I have been able to strike a comfortable balance between my personal life and school.” Between new construction and expanded academic programs, coming back to campus could make even the most confident adult learner a bit apprehensive.
P.R.O.M.I.S.E. pledge
leadership
“The way the material is presented in class was a big adjustment. Most instructors now use PowerPoint slides and online class management software. I knew I would put as much effort as possible into the work, but not being in a classroom for 20 years was intimidating. However, I have maintained a 3.90 grade point average. We are capable of a lot more than we think, and there is so much help and support here,” Stormer said. He credits the help of fellow adult students in making the transition easier, attending events like Community Mass and serving on the Commuter Advisory Board. Likewise, students from all walks of life are sure to find a campus resource that fits their needs. In the Fall 2009 semester, a new location for Gannon’s 1,098 undergraduate commuter
{ A World of Experience }
residence friendships life Schuster Theatre
intramural sports students opened its doors to provide a larger and more comfortable space to study and socialize.
:1, helps students receive personal attention in each of their classes.
“The Commuter Corner is a wonderful asset. We’ve seen a large increase in use of the lounge and an increase in attendance for commuter events. It makes these students feel more connected to the University and feel they have
The University’s faculty-to-student ratio, at
13
Junior nursing major Jennifer Haywood performs a routine exam on one of 14 “manikins” in the University’s Patient Simulation Center.
a voice,” said Heidi Brieger Noyes ’95M, director of Commuter Life. Making a quality Catholic education affordable is one of Gannon University’s primary tenets. More than 95 percent of students receive some form of financial assistance through scholarships, academic awards, assistantships, grants and more.
90.5 WERG-FM, Gannon’s campus radio station, plays about
Students from all walks of life can be eligible for aid. Jennifer Haywood, a junior nursing major, credits a scholarship from the Charlotte W. Newcombe Foundation with affording her a four-year degree. As a returning adult student, Haywood had multiple factors—such as her family and a potential career change—to consider when choosing to further her education. “I don’t think I can adequately express what my scholarship from the Newcombe Foundation means to me. It has tremendously eased the financial burden my husband and I experienced with my transition from fulltime professional to full-time student,” Haywood said. “The
14 songs each hour.
the number of adult women attending Gannon full time. “I attended a four-year institution straight from high school, but life got in the way, and I didn’t graduate. Not graduating, when I knew I was capable, bothered me ever since,” Haywood said.
scholarship provided money just when we needed it most. It has been invaluable in managing the ‘life’ aspect of school, and I can’t express my thanks enough.” By resuming her studies, Haywood became part of a growing trend at Gannon. Women now make up 59 percent of the Gannon student body, and 27 percent of those female students are over the age of 25. Over the past three years, there has been a 30 percent increase in
Ultimately, Haywood knew she wanted to fulfill that commitment to her education and help build the financial security of her family. The mother of a 3-year-old son, she hopes to one day help other new moms as a lactation consultant. “My parents are both alumni, and I saw how well their Gannon educations have served them throughout their lives. The Villa Maria School of Nursing is one of the best programs in the state, and I felt confident that being a Gannon nurse would take me much farther in my career,” Haywood said. “I am a Uni-
versity ambassador, a member of Alpha Tau Delta nursing fraternity and serve as a commuter adviser in the Returning to Education Adult Program. This time around, I feel like I am doing college the right way.” In September 2009, Gannon announced its support of the 21st Century G.I. Bill, legislation that provides up to four academic years of education benefits to members of the military who have served on active duty since Sept. 11, 2001. In addition, veterans are able to use the Yellow Ribbon G.I. Education Enhancement Program, in which the federal government will match any voluntary additional contributions to veterans from institutions whose tuition exceeds the maximum educational assistance provided under the Post-9/11 G.I. Bill. Gannon’s commitment can eventually translate into an investment of more than $200 million in student-veterans’ education. During the 2009-2010 Academic Year, 40 students received a variety of veterans’ benefits. “I know today’s student veterans appreciate this support, Students from Saudi Arabia enjoy Gannon’s 21st annual International Night, which celebrates the diversity of cultures across campus with food and entertainment.
The women’s basketball team celebrates winning the NCAA Division II Atlantic Regional before a sold-out Hammermill Center crowd.
because I enlisted in the U.S. Army Reserves after my sophomore year at Gannon as one way to help finance my education,” Stormer said. He was active for six years, attaining the rank of Sergeant E-5 and serving as a combat medic with the 382nd MASH unit in Erie. His son, Eric, is also attending Gannon on a four-year ROTC scholarship. Stormer and Haywood are just two examples of many among Gannon’s diverse student body, with more than 300 minority students as of Fall 2009, a 24 percent increase over the previous year. In 2009-2010, the University expanded global awareness programs and activities, creating a Saudi Student Association, hosting faculty presentations on internationalization and updating the
International Student Office Web site with select foreign language translations. As of Spring 2010, 2,466 students—roughly 58 percent of the population—belonged to a club or organization on campus. Many of Gannon’s 18 varsity athletic teams experienced banner years as well. Academically, 228 of Gannon’s 351 student-athletes held a 3.0 grade-point average or better last year. Overall, student-athletes combined to produce a 3.19 cumulative grade point average during the spring semester. The wrestling team rose as high as No. 5 in the national rankings, marking the highest national ranking in school history. Corey Bowers ’10 became Gannon’s first PSAC wrestling champion, and Head Coach Don Henry
was named NCAA Division II East Region Coach of the Year. The women’s soccer team advanced to the NCAA Division II tournament for the first time in school history, falling to Indiana University (Pa.) in a shoot-out during the first round. Head Coach Colin Petersen ’01 became the program’s all-time winningest coach in 2009 as well. The women’s volleyball team finished 22-10 (the program’s highest victory total since 1995) and was selected to play in its first NCAA Division II tournament in 14 years. Head Coach Matt Darling was also named PSAC Coach of the Year. The women’s basketball team, led by Head Coach Cleve Wright, garnered a heavy following during the 2009-2010 campaign. Wright was named PSAC Western
Division Coach of the Year, NCAA Division II Atlantic Region Coach of the Year and Russell Athletic/Women’s Basketball Coaches Association (WBCA) NCAA Division II Coach of the Year. The team finished 37-1 overall and won the program’s first-ever NCAA Division II Atlantic Region title before a sold-out Hammermill Center crowd—a first for women’s basketball. The squad advanced for the first time to the NCAA Division II Elite Eight before ending the season with an overtime loss in the national semifinals. The team was ranked No. 1 in the USA Today/ESPN Top 25 for three straight weeks, becoming only the second program in school history to be ranked at the top nationally. The Lady Knights broke the NCAA Division II records for most victories (37) in a season and most consecutive wins (37) in a single season. “This year was a blessing from God, and we are thankful. The spotlight was shone on this team because of wins, but I am happy to know that wins are not what this program is ultimately about. Basketball is a tool for teaching life skills, and I could not be prouder of these young women,” Wright said. An average of
courses are offered each semester in the University’s Honors Program, which enrolled 198 students in 2009-2010.
{ A World of Experience }
15
distinguished alumni
awareness
Each issue of the weekly student newspaper, The Gannon Knight, features
16 pages.
{ A World of Service }
GIVE Day commitment
advocacy
volunteerism day of caring
mission helping trips hand
Gannon University students, faculty and staff recorded 79,421 service hours during the 2009-2010 Academic Year, an increase of 2.5 percent over the previous year.
Participation increased for United Way Day of Caring (14 percent), GIVE (Gannon’s Invitation to Volunteer Everywhere) Day (11 percent) and Fridays at Sister Gus’ Kids Café (10 percent) as a result of a service-learning requirement that was added to the firstyear seminar. “If the people of a community are not willing to get involved, then there will be no community. I feel as an employee of Gannon University and as a resident of Erie, I have a responsibility to serve as a resource for the community,” said
Jennie Angelina Morgan Velez.
Morgan Velez is active with Young Erie Professionals and has reached out to the Hispanic American Council of Erie (also known as the Multicultural Community Resource Center) and the Inner-City Neighborhood Art House. Often called on for her motivational speaking, the skill
to inspire comes in handy in her role as an enrollment adviser in Gannon’s undergraduate admissions office. Several student groups showed improvements in service efforts. Student-athlete service hours increased by 76 percent. Students in Greek social organizations went above and beyond, contributing 118 percent more service hours than the year prior at events like Greek Service Day. “More than 225 Greeks volunteered at 22 different sites in Erie, including the Tom Ridge Environmental Center, Erie City Mission, Booker T. Washington Center and Second Harvest Food Bank, for a total of more than 450 hours of service. No job was too big or too small—one group even cleaned and resurfaced 2,000 square feet of vinyl tile flooring! We are excited about the community contacts we made and look forward to volunteering at these sites
again in the future,” said Molly Eimer ’10, past vice president of community relations for Gannon’s Panhellenic Council. Fifty-seven students, faculty and staff spent spring and summer breaks focusing on community service, volunteerism, education and awareness of social justice issues. In the spring, Gannon’s Center for Social Concerns continued its 16-year tradition of offering Alternative Break Service Trips. Groups traveled to: New York City to volunteer at a soup kitchen; New Orleans to help rebuild homes damaged by Hurricane Katrina; Immokalee, Fla., to aid migrant farm workers; and San Lucas Tolimán, Guatemala, to improve the lives of impoverished Mayans. In addition, two Gannon alumni were able to aid students on these trips. Evelyn (Prenatt) Madonia ’59VMC and her husband, Batista, are
In 2009-2010, the Erie Technology Incubator at Gannon University served
clients, 11 of which were tenants.
On campus, in the neighborhood, across the country— the Gannon University community knows no boundaries when it comes to giving back, and others are noticing: for the fourth consecutive year, Gannon was named to the 2009 President’s Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll, the highest federal recognition a college or university can receive for its commitment to volunteering, service-learning and civic engagement.
17
owners of East Coast Brokers and Packers (a tomato grower and distributor), based near Immokalee. Students were able to visit the Madonias, tour their company and find out more about the family’s aid to migrant workers. For students traveling to New Orleans, a generous donation by George Schillinger ’75 helped finance the trip. Additionally, 12 students started their summer break with a service trip to Washington, D.C., and five traveled to Vanceburg, Ky. Awareness of AIDS and poverty was the focus of the Washington trip, while the Kentucky group helped with flood relief work. “As a University, we are excited and proud that so many of our students have answered the call to service and volunteerism,” said Gretchen Fairley, director of service-learning. “They, along with our faculty and staff, continue to make a very positive impact through their dedication and commitment to serving others. Their hard work has benefitted nonprofit agencies and organizations and has made a tremendous difference in the lives of so many.” The University’s volunteer hours include more than 70,000 contributed by students, as well as more than
9,300 by faculty and staff members. Criminal justice faculty partnered with the Erie Police Department and the School District of the City of Erie to map school truancy data to support programs aimed at improving attendance. A $10,000 Learn and Serve subgrant allowed for participation in the GLISTEN (Great Lakes Innovative Stewardship Through Education Network) Project, which partnered Gannon with Mercyhurst College for service-learning efforts aimed at stewardship of the Great Lakes. “Gannon’s outreach to the local community is one of the major factors that make this University so unique. I like to call it a ‘communiversity.’ When students work to improve the campus, they are also working toward improving the community as a whole,” Morgan Velez said. With an urban location in the heart of downtown, Gannon understands its key role in improving the area it inhabits. A major community-based service initiative, Erie-Gannon Alliances to Improve Neighborhood Sustainability (ErieGAINS), was launched this summer to focus more student and faculty outreach to the neighborhood immediately surrounding the University campus.
Margo Puhala (L) and Anthony Rotello (R) represent GUSPAS (Gannon University Society of Physician Assistant Students) in the 2009 homecoming parade.
Erie-GAINS’ primary goal is to increase the sustainability and viability of downtown Erie and surrounding neighborhoods. This goal will be achieved through long-term, mutually beneficial partnerships between the University and its campus neighbors, to include residents, nonprofits, businesses, churches and schools. Specifically, the program will focus on the area roughly bounded by 11th Street to the south, Parade Street to the east and the Bayfront Parkway to the north and west. Shay Meinzer has been named Gannon’s new director of community development and is leading the initiative. Meinzer and other faculty, staff and administrators will work in collaboration with the
18 U.S. states were represented by members of the Fall 2009 freshman class.
City of Erie and numerous agencies and organizations. “I am extremely excited to be a part of such a comprehensive and important initiative as Erie-GAINS,” Meinzer said. “As a key partner in downtown Erie, Gannon University has a responsibility to nearby residents, businesses, agencies
{ A World of Service }
attendance in University history. Thirty-six alumni events were held throughout the country, with a total attendance of almost 2,000. GIVE Day expanded to include 12 alumni projects in nine cities.
Members of the Gannon community have been known to get involved—and not just those on campus. The National Alumni Association established an alumni liaison for admissions to more fully engage Gannon’s 32,500 alumni in the admissions recruitment process, while the Executive Board established an Alumni Legacy Endowed Scholarship to benefit the next generation of Gannon students.
“The world we live in is going to be conditioned by the people who run it, and we have to make sure we provide the necessary resources so the next generation—whether it’s business or community or church leaders—are well-groomed to tackle the challenges of the future,” said Tim Conlon ’73, an industrial management graduate.
In 2009, 485 individuals registered for Alumni Homecoming and Reunion Weekend, the highest
Conlon is president and chief operating officer of Viasystems Group Inc., a leading worldwide provider of complex multilayer printed circuit boards. As a seasoned business
Recent nursing graduate Calla Savoia ’10 (right) discusses healthy practices with attendees at the 2010 Nursing Community Health Fair, held at Gannon’s Nursing Center at the John E. Horan Garden Apartments.
traveler now residing in Hong Kong, he encourages others to think globally. “The world is becoming so small that you must have a thorough understanding of the world and make a real effort to be a part of it. The more involved you are, the more rewarding your life will be,” Conlon said. The Gannon community is generous with their financial support as well. More than $3.7 million was received from 4,449 donors, a 34 percent increase in giving over the previous year. Seven new endowed scholarships were established, bringing the total at Gannon to 173. The Annual Fund for Academic Excellence collected more than $1.3 million, the highest total in University history and a 3 percent increase over the prior year.
“I have stayed connected to my alma mater for many reasons. The University’s faithbased traditions keep you grounded, and I found that Gannon was a good place for me to transition from being my parents’ son to my own man,” Conlon explained. “But I give back mostly because I feel a responsibility to thank all of the people, places and institutions that helped form me and make me the person I am today.” Time or talent, giving back for the greater good is second nature to those at Gannon University. As Morgan Velez put it, “The people here make all the difference. If a student has to leave behind their family and friends to go to college, they can find a family here at Gannon.”
Students pick up trash along Lake Erie during GIVE (Gannon’s Invitation to Volunteer Everywhere) Day, which saw record participation with nearly 1,000 volunteers at more than 50 sites locally and across the country.
seminarians joined St. Mark Seminary in Fall 2009, the largest group in at least 10 years.
and organizations. Gannon has a long and distinguished tradition of serving the local community, and Erie-GAINS will only strengthen and extend the University’s commitment to its neighbors.”
19
confidence
progress
In 2009, Independent Sector valued Gannon’s 77,487 volunteer hours at $
20.85 an hour.
He only had a few seeds, but that’s all it took for Custodial Supervisor Galen Adams ’04C, ’07, to bring the community together. In early spring, Adams converted unused green space on the edge of campus into a summer garden research project, using seeds donated from a friend and knowledge gleaned from trial and error. By fall, the project had produced five bushels of vegetables and sparked plans for expansion and collaboration. Similarly, the college that began with a handful of students has now blossomed into a nationally ranked university with record enrollment. Gannon saw a total enrollment of 4,238 students in 2009-2010, the highest in 17 years. The 989 new full-time students included 649 freshmen (with 140 student-athletes). The number of African-American and Hispanic students in the freshman class increased by 65 percent, and new students
represented nine countries and 18 states plus the U. S. Virgin Islands. To help meet the growing need of residential students, Gannon unveiled plans for its first housing construction project in more than two decades. Located on West Fourth Street, the new hall will hold about 290 beds, with upperclassmen occupying the first two floors and freshmen the third, fourth and fifth floors. All units will be suites that include kitchenettes and two full bathrooms. The building will also house a convenience store, multiple study and social lounges, community kitchens, fitness areas and state-ofthe-art technology to help facilitate students’ coursework. At Gannon, support for students doesn’t end when they leave the classroom. The University employs 18 resident assistants to help students with anything from where to find their adviser to how to get a parking pass.
goals
technology master plan “I wanted to be part of something that was growing and developing not only for myself, but growing intentionally for its students,” said second-year Resident Director of his decision to join Gannon’s student living staff. “Being able to see students grow and develop, and giving students the tools to succeed outside of the classroom—to learn to work and communicate with each other—those are the most rewarding parts of my job.”
Bob Flukas
Flukas is one of five live-in resident directors at Gannon and also serves as assistant director of housing operations. These individuals serve as valuable
dynamic
{ A World of Potential }
growth updates breakthrough
“For the majority of our residents, this is the first time they have lived independently, and we try to help them manage that transition,” Flukas said. “One time, a student set off the fire alarm
while attempting to boil eggs. When we entered the room, the eggs exploded and hit the ceiling. There was egg yolk and shell everywhere! Thanks to our safety procedures and quick response, no one was hurt, and the student received a valuable life lesson in what not to do in the kitchen.” Construction of a new residence hall is just the beginning; Gannon also purchased and renovated several other properties on or near campus to provide more students with increased residential options.
years.
resources on policies and procedures (both on and off campus), are trained to assist in crisis or conflict resolution, help build a sense of community, address maintenance and safety issues—and more.
Msgr. Wilfrid J. Nash, Gannon’s second president, served in this capacity for
21
Five parcels of real estate were renovated over the summer to house 54 students. Two of the buildings will be used for Greek social organizations, and the remainder will serve as upperclassmen apartment units.
Members of Gannon’s Greek social organizations volunteered at
new residence hall. It’s a great opportunity for Gannon, and more importantly for our students,” Flukas said. “A lot of our students have famA property on West Sixth Street ily members who was reacquired by the Univerattended Gannon sity in late spring. Obtained and can share stories from current owners the Sisters An architectural rendering of Gannon’s new residence hall provides a preview of the about residence of the Divine Spirit, it was halls from years past. University’s first new construction project in nearly two decades. constructed in 1920 and served I love seeing this as a Gannon dormitory until trustees—outlines potential Under one roof for the deep pride in the 1955. Known then as improvements and modifications first time are the Academic University across generations, Freshman Hall, the building and it’s exciting to think about to the physical surface of campus Advising Center, Career retains this name and is capable Development and Employa new group of students mak- over a 10-year time span. of housing 64 students. The ment Services, Programs ing their own memories.” To mark the completion of building underwent extensive for Students with Learning Zurn Science Center’s $18.5 renovations, including laundry Residential living updates are Disabilities, Disability Supmillion renovation, more than facility and heating-cooling just one facet of the Gannon port Services, the Common100 individuals attended a system improvements, updates University Master Plan, curwealth Academic Achieverededication and blessing in to the dining area and technol- rently in its second year. The ment Program and Tutorial November. Renovations were ogy wiring. plan—which was constructed Services, the Writing Center, made to the A.J. Palumbo after a year’s worth of planthe Mathematics Center, “We are all very excited about Academic Center, including ning and includes input from the Center for Experiential these changes, especially the offices and classrooms for the faculty, staff, students and Education and the Speech School of Education, a new Communication Center. office suite for the College Each of these components is of Humanities, Education designed to ensure students’ and Social Sciences dean’s success in the classroom and office, an updated Commuter the eventual completion of Corner lounge and one of the their degree requirements. newest additions to campus—a 13,000-square-foot Student SucAs upgrades and enhancecess Center.The Center provides ments are made to University students with access to academic facilities, another campus support services, resources and group ensures that Gannon’s programming in one central impact on the environment location. The Center’s opening remains positive. Thanks to represents the culmination of efforts from the Gannon Ali Schneider ’68VMC, director of Health Services (L), Stephen Large, Psy.D., director of Counseling Services (R), and James Waldon, two years of planning and more Goes Green Committee director of Campus Police and Safety (center), inaugurate their new than six months of renovation and others, green initiatives office space in the basement level of Harborview House Apartments of a portion of the first floor increased tenfold during the with a ribbon cutting. of Palumbo. 2009-2010 Academic Year.
22 local sites during Greek Service Day in February.
{ A World of Potential }
An energy audit identified several projects equaling approximately $92,000 in annual energy savings and reducing Gannon’s carbon footprint by 35,256 tons each year. In Spring 2010, Gannon participated in the benchmark division of the national recycling competition RecycleMania. Wehrle Hall received the University’s newly created Green Award for achieving the highest percentage of recycling change (152 percent) over the competition’s 10-week period.
was part of the design process through surveys and focus groups. Based upon student feedback, three large study lounges were created in Nash Library, extended hours of operation were initiated and multiple services were incorporated into a single point-of-service model.
SGA installed an outdoor sound system in A.J.’s Way, which broadcasts music from campus radio station 90.5 WERG-FM during the day and can function as a microphone speaker for special events, and added new equipment to the Carneval Athletic Pavilion’s weight room.
“Gannon students are very fortunate in that their voices are heard, loud and clear. The University administration, including the president, take great strides to make us feel valued and take our ideas seriously,” said Monica Scarsella, a sophomore representative for the Student Government Association (SGA).
“As someone with a passion for fitness, it was a pleasure seeing the renovation of the weight room come alive as a project entirely initiated by my own freshman representative class,” Scarsella said. “Watching a brainstorm session expand and develop into reality has been quite rewarding. These improvements are integral
because they create a more comfortable, student-centered environment on campus.” Even students who have left campus understand the need to give back to their alma mater. The Class of 2009 commissioned a hanging mobile, designed by Erie artist David Seitzinger, that was installed in December outside the Waldron Campus Center’s Yehl Ballroom. “We want to leave something for future students to enjoy while also showing our immense gratitude to Gannon for its efforts,” Scarsella said. “College is a stepping stone for the rest of our lives—let’s believe in those possibilities!”
Students also make up a significant portion of green efforts on campus. Students serve as members on the Gannon Goes Green Committee, and several projects—including designing and purchasing reusable water bottles for all 2010 freshmen—were completely student-produced. From the new residence hall to the enhanced Student Success Center, student opinion
Students (L to R) Corey McMurray, Wesley Smith and Angela Lombardi (back) utilize Gannon’s Math Center, located in the new Student Success Center, with the help of Leslie Evanoff, internship and co-op coordinator (center).
Gannon’s Wellness Committee sponsored
events over the past year.
The Office of Service-Learning published a catalog of 29 campus greening projects that could be adopted by servicelearning classes, with 12 of these projects undertaken in courses like Ethics and Social Responsibility. Gannon’s radiologic science program, which was 100 percent paperless and filmless by the end of Summer 2009, was the topic of a Toshiba case study that profiled use of the program’s tablet PCs.
23
University
Financials 2009-2010
Gannon University completed the 2009-2010 Fiscal Year with a vibrant fiscal performance. Net assets increased by $8.8 million, of which $6.1 million came from operating activities. The additional $2.7 million came from nonoperating activities and was mainly due to a strong endowment performance. Net tuition and fees increased by approximately $2 million, or 4 percent, even though the University made a strategic decision to increase the level of University-funded financial aid. This was done to ensure that students affected by the down economy could continue to pursue their education. Auxiliary enterprise revenue increased by an additional $430,000. Total enrollment continued to grow, reaching 4,238 students. Unrestricted and restricted contributions grew by approximately $600,000, while federal, state and private grants decreased by approximately $3.3 million. A large portion of this decrease was due to grants supporting the renovation of the Erie Technology Incubator, which were received in FY09, when the majority of the renovation was completed. Reductions made to the state budget also had a negative impact on totals. Major reductions were made to the Institutional Assistance Grant and ACT 101, Sciencein-Motion and Small Business Development Center grants. Other revenue increased substantially from last year, with the majority of this climb due to positive endowment returns. The overall endowment return for FY10 was 13.4 percent, which compares to a balanced index return of 11.7 percent. As of June 30, 2010, the endowment totaled $32.6 million.
reduced by $400,000, due to a number of cost-cutting initiatives. These included: consolidating summer classes into fewer buildings to save on utility and custodial costs, implementing new work-order software to improve efficiency, renegotiating and combining a number of contracts and reducing the amount of paper publications by enhancing electronic publications. Depreciation grew by $500,000, and interest and auxiliary enterprise expenses remained relatively consistent with the prior year. Quality of life remains a priority at Gannon. An integral part of that priority consists of enhancing programs, services and facilities, keeping students’ needs and best interests in mind. Numerous campus improvements were made this past year, such as the renovation of the lower level of Harborview House Apartments for the relocation and consolidation of Student Health Services and Counseling Services as well as the Office of Campus Police and Safety. This location is central to many University housing units. A new Student Success Center was also created on the first floor of the A.J. Palumbo Academic Center and provides a central location for student services, while other offices in the building were updated as well. These included the Commuter Corner, School of Education and the College of Humanities, Education and Social Sciences’ dean’s office. A former convent, located at 409 W. Sixth St., was purchased and renovated to provide additional student housing. The facility includes 64 single rooms as well as a dining hall, laundry facilities and a beautiful chapel.
The University received an average of
Overall, expenses increased by a modest 1.5 percent, or $1 million, due to very focused efforts to reduce costs across the University. Compensation accounted for approximately $800,000 of the increase in expenses. This increase allowed for merit increases for faculty and staff and strategically identified new positions necessary to support and continue the increase in enrollment. Operating expenses were
Gannon continues to advance technological capabilities. Nearly all learning spaces across campus are equipped with digital daises and projectors. Distance education students can now use Instant Enrollment to enroll, register and pay tuition online. Students can also enroll Linda L. Wagner ’81, ’84M, vice president for Finance and Administration
24 freshmen applications per day during the Fall 2009 Semester.
{ University Financials}
in clubs and organizations, purchase tickets for University events and apply for work-study positions online. Construction of a new residence hall has begun and will be completed by the end of next summer. This facility will provide housing for approximately 290 students, including both freshmen and upperclassmen. The five-story, L-shaped building will comprise several modern suites with kitchenettes. The freshmen suites will accommodate five students, and the upperclassmen suites will include four single bedrooms.
Tuition and Fees, net of scholarships Federal, State and Private Grants Contributions Auxiliary Enterprises Other Total
Expenses
2008-09
$52.0
7.3
4.0
2.3 9.0 (3.3) $65.3
2.9 9.4 5.7 $74.0
2008-09
Expenses by Function 2008-09
Instruction and Research $31.0 Public Service 2.0 Student Services 11.3 Institutional Support 13.4 Auxiliary Enterprises 6.4 Total $64.1 Use of Funds
Student Scholarships Capital Spending Debt Retirement Endowment Activities Total (All figures in millions of dollars.)
2009-2010
$50.0
Compensation $44.3 Operating Expenses 13.6 Interest 1.2 Depreciation 3.3 Auxiliary Enterprises 1.7 Total $64.1
2008-09
$ 23.0 25.5 1.9 0.2 $50.6
Providing a high-quality education and quality of life for students is the center of everything at Gannon. The University will continue to exercise prudent fiscal management and allocate financial resources to ensure that students receive the best possible experience, both in and out of the classroom.
2009-2010 Revenue
70% 13% 5% 8% 4%
Tuition and Fees, net of scholarships Auxiliary Enterprises Federal, State and Private Grants Other Contributions
2009-2010
$45.1 13.2 1.1 3.8 1.9 $65.1
2009-2010 Expenses
69% 20% 6% 3% 2%
Compensation Operating Expenses Depreciation Auxiliary Enterprises Interest
2009-2010
$32.1 1.6 11.6 13.3 6.5 $ 65.1
2009-2010
$26.0 9.1 2.4 0.6 $38.1
2009-2010 Expenses by Function
49% 20% 18% 10% 3%
Instruction and Research Institutional Support Student Services Auxiliary Enterprises Public Service
members of the University’s Board of Trustees are also Gannon alumni.
Revenue
The new residence hall will also have study and social lounges, common kitchens, laundry facilities, fitness equipment and a convenience store.
25
Year in Review 2009-2010
Accomplishments
Athletics Hall of Fame Inductees
FALL 2009 • Gannon University’s Erie Technology Incubator was honored by the Erie County Historical Society with a Historic Preservation Award. Formally dedicated in October 2008, the incubator is housed within the former Boys & Girls Club of Erie building. The facility, which dates to the 1890s, underwent a complete renovation after Gannon acquired the property. The award, in the Construction Project category, recognizes the restoration or substantial rehabilitation of a significant historic or architectural resource. • Gannon’s School of Education received approval to offer two new certification programs designed to help the University meet Pennsylvania’s Chapter 49 requirements for prospective teachers. With the approval, granted by the Pennsylvania Department of Education, Gannon now offers both early childhood grades PK-4 and middle level grades 4-8 certificates. • The Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board awarded an $11,150 grant to Gannon to help the University combat underage and high-risk drinking by targeting student perceptions related to the use and abuse of alcohol and other substances. Gannon University has been a recipient of this grant each year for more than a decade.
Mid-Knight Pancake Breakfast
primary project was an anthology of poetry and art by local residents, Dwelling in Possibility: Voices of Erie County. Nearly $2,300 from sales of the book was donated to the Hooked on Books! program. • Gannon hosted several events designed to increase awareness and promote peace among different cultures, including an Asian Festival and International Education Week celebration. Between 2008 and 2009, the minority population on campus increased by 24 percent. • The Dahlkemper School of Business Administration began the region’s first entrepreneurship program, while the College of Humanities, Education and Social Sciences added a new international studies program. • Gannon’s faculty included 200 full-time members, of whom 45 percent are tenured and 71.5 percent have earned their terminal degree, up from 70.6 percent in 2008. • Gannon swimmer and Ontario native Kaitlyn Bosy carried the Olympic Torch in Vancouver on Dec. 16. A sport and exercise science major, she is also a member of the Gannon water polo team.
• Gannon University Field received a face-lift with the installation of new artificial turf, marking the first time the multipurpose facility had been renovated since it opened in 2000. • Gannon’s own Berwyn Moore, associate professor of English, was named the first-ever poet laureate for Erie County. Moore’s
It is
Gannon University Field
26 feet from the ground to the top of the Gannon Arch that crosses West Seventh Street.
Kaitlyn Bosy
{ Year in R e v i e w }
Relay for Life
• Five individuals and one team were inducted into the Gannon University Athletics Hall of Fame, increasing membership to 37 inductees. The 2010 inductees included: former men’s soccer star and current men’s soccer head coach Rob van Rheenen ’86, former men’s soccer standout Gerry Vandemerwe ’88, ’01M, former men’s soccer coaching great Rob Russo, former women’s basketball standout Mary Kay Lynch Poppe ’85, former men’s basketball record-breaker Harold “Butch” Warner ’85 and the 1986-87 men’s basketball team. • Some 80 Gannon students took part in the University’s annual 30-Hour Fast, raising more than $1,700 for Catholic Relief Services. The fast also incorporated community service, with students volunteering at the Association for Needy and Neglected Animals and the Therapeutic Riding Equestrian Center. • More than 1,500 students took advantage of two Mid-Knight Pancake Breakfasts, a free late-night meal hosted by the President’s Office to help students relax before final exams at the end of each semester. Approximately 2,000 pancakes, 160 pounds of sausage links and 200 pounds of scrambled eggs were served during breakfasts held in December and May.
• The annual Gannon University Relay for Life raised more than $16,400 for the American Cancer Society. A crowd of nearly 400 faculty, staff and students spent 12 hours walking around the University’s intramural field to help raise funds and awareness, marking the 14th year Gannon has participated in this worthy cause. • The Gannon University Nursing Center, housed at the John E. Horan Garden Apartments, celebrated its 10th anniversary and was honored by the Housing Authority of the City of Erie with an Outstanding Service Award for helping to improve the lives of public housing residents. The Center has provided free health services to more than 5,000 patients over the last three years. • Gannon added another award to its trophy case when the University won the spring round of Erie Walks! The local wellness competition encourages physical fitness by challenging employees at downtown businesses to engage in aerobic exercise, like walking, for at least 30 minutes a day. More than 50 Gannon employees walked a total of 2,485 days (an average of about six days a week) during the eight-week competition. • A new Center of Excellence in BioEnergy at Gannon University completed its first year in residence and received a second year of grant funding from Ben Franklin Technology Partners. The Center allows faculty and students to conduct research on topics related to bioenergy, such as the production of biogas from agricultural wastes and improving the quality of biodiesel produced from used cooking oils.
Asian Festival
percent of faculty members are in tenure-track positions.
SPRING 2010
Erie Walks!
27
GANNON UNIVERSITY
2009-2010
Board of Trustees
Most Rev. Donald W. Trautman, S.T.D., S.S.L.
William I. Alford II ’65
Chairperson Bishop of Erie
Executive Director Head Start Akron, Ohio
Thomas C. Guelcher ’62, ’76M
Rev. Msgr. Robert L. Brugger
Vice Chairperson Treasurer Sisters of Mercy
Mark Minnaugh ’81
Secretary CFO and Executive Vice President Giant Eagle Inc. Allison Park, Pa. Antoine M. Garibaldi, Ph.D.
President Gannon University
Pastor St. George Parish Tony DiPasqua ’10
President Gannon University Student Government Association Tina M. Donikowski ’85
General Manager GE Transportation Systems
Barry T. Drew, Esq. ’76
Deputy Secretary for Administration Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Mechanicsburg, Pa. James J. Duratz
Consultant Barco-Duratz Foundation Meadville, Pa.
Brian J. Jackman ’63
James J. Rutkowski Jr. ’83
Rev. Msgr. Andrew H. Karg
Robert F. Ruyak, Esq. ’71
James W. Keim Jr.
Helen M. Schilling, M.D., D.D.S. ’77
President The Jackman Group Barrington Hills, Ill. Pastor St. Michael Church Greenville, Pa.
Senior Vice President RBC Dain Rauscher Sister Mary Rita Kuhn, S.S.J. ’60VMC, ’68M
Vicar for Religious Diocese of Erie
Urban J. LaRiccia ’59
President Datascript International Rancho Santa Fe, Calif. Thomas J. Loftus ’74M
Retired Business Executive Cary, N.C. Joseph T. Messina, Esq. ’63
General Manager/Treasurer Industrial Sales and Manufacturing Inc. Chairman/CEO Howrey LLP Washington, D.C.
Physician Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Houston, Texas
James A. Scozzie, Ph.D. ’65
Retired Business Executive Cleveland, Ohio Timothy G. Shuttleworth
President and CEO Eriez Magnetics
Rev. Msgr. Robert J. Smith, J.C.L.
Vicar General Diocese of Erie
Partner Elderkin, Martin, Kelly and Messina
Christopher B. Snyder ’81
President Sisters of Saint Joseph of Northwestern Pennsylvania
Robert H. Morosky ’63
Rev. Msgr. Lawrence Speice ’55
Dana M. (Kennedy) Fallon, Esq. ’91
Susan M. Nedza, M.D. ’80
Sister Mary Ellen Dwyer, S.S.J. ’64VMC
Alumni Director George Mason University School of Law Arlington,Va. James E. Gehrlein ’72
CFO Sisters of St. Joseph Annmarie George
President Gannon University Faculty Senate
Private Investor Columbus, Ohio
Co-founder and CEO Spectrum Direct
Pastor St. Anthony Parish Cambridge Springs, Pa.
Vice President of Clinical Quality and Patient Safety American Medical Association Hinsdale, Ill.
William C. Springer ’63
John E. Paganie ’69
Pastor St. Andrew Church
President, Pennsylvania Operations Penelec, First Energy Company Thomas F. Power Jr. ’63
Retired Business Executive Green Oaks, Ill.
Partner Dawar Associates Tucson, Ariz.
Rev. Msgr. Richard J. Sullivan
James F. Toohey, Esq. ’56
Partner Quinn, Buseck, Leemhuis, Toohey & Kroto Inc.
Ex-officio Members
28 percent of current students chose an academic major in the health sciences.
Gannon University 109 University Square Erie, PA 16541
The Annual Report of the President is published each fall by the Office of Public Relations and Communications. Antoine M. Garibaldi, Ph.D. President Karla Mullenax Wludyga Director of Public Relations and Communications Audrey E. Starr Publications Officer and Editor Ed Bernik, Tim Rohrbach Photography Tungsten Creative Group Design McCarty Printing Printing Gannon University • 109 University Square Erie, Pennsylvania 16541 • (814) 871-7000 www.gannon.edu