Geneva Magazine Summer 2012 by Geneva College

G SUMMER 2012

GENEVA

MAGAZI NE

My Father ’s Busine s s Barbara McNees ’87 President, Greater Pittsburgh Chamber of Commerce

Thomas E. Grahek ’61 After first hearing a presentation about the benefits of planned giving nearly a decade ago, Tom recently decided to give Geneva a charitable gift annuity. “I figured this would be a good way to help young people of the future,” he says. “First and foremost, I want them to be disciples for Christ.” As a public school teacher, Tom shared his love of languages with thousands of students. Graduating from Geneva College with degrees in English and Latin, he continued his education by studying German while completing graduate work. Tom then went on to teach all three subjects in a career that spanned 42 years. Throughout that time, Tom always made sure his students gained firsthand experience with the material by taking them on trips to Europe: “They got to see what they learned about in the classroom and understand how the threadwork of their studies has made its way to the modern world.” With many study abroad offerings, internship opportunities and community outreach programs, Tom notes that this type of hands-on approach is one of the greatest strengths of a Geneva education today. “I think those things are all good because they make the students more outward,” he explains. “Nobody can see the world as it is. We see it as we are. So the more outward someone becomes, he or she becomes a better, more complete person.” Tom’s desire is to continue helping students develop an outward perspective; that’s why he keeps giving back through a charitable gift annuity. For more information about how you, too, can help today’s students through planned giving, visit geneva.edu/give or contact the Office of Planned Giving at 724.847.6516.

SUMMER 2012

CONTENTS

My Father ’s Busine ss

I N T HI S ISSUE 10

Helping Others Help Themselves

From the Ground Up

Monday Morning Reassurance

IN EVERY ISSU E

She Built This City

From the President

Service Through Soccer

In Brief

Jolly Good Fellows

In Motion

Following the Leader

30 In Service

Business as Usual, God’s Way 31 Class Notes 36 In Conclusion

Geneva Magazine is published two times per year for Geneva College alumni, donors, students and parents. It showcases the college and its constituencies as they strive to fulfill the college’s mission. Opinions expressed in Geneva Magazine are those of its contributors and do not necessarily represent the opinions of the editorial review board or the official position of the college. Your feedback is greatly appreciated. Please send your correspondence to editor@geneva.edu or Geneva Magazine Geneva College 3200 College Ave. Beaver Falls, PA 15010

EDITOR Greg Wise ’95 DESIGNER Kristen Lang EDITORIAL REVIEW BOARD Ann Burkhead ’91 Dr. Ken Carson ’79 Dr. Byron Curtis ’76 Larry Griffith ’85 Cheryl Johnston Jeff Jones Dave Layton ’88 Missy Nyeholt Rebecca (Carson ’85) Phillips Dr. Gordon Richards Tom Stein ’86 Van Zanic ’93

This Issue: “And he said unto them, How is it that you sought me? knew you not that I must be about my Father’s business?” (Luke 2:49 KJV)

G from the president

“Commit to the Lord whatever you

is no separation between

do, and he will establish your plans.”

work and work for the Lord.

Proverbs 16:3 Business is an integral part For some vocations, such as being a

of society, providing necessary products

pastor or a missionary, the integration

and services, developing economic

of work with biblical principles is easy

stability, and strengthening our

to identify. For others, however, this

communities. Because of this wide-

harmony may not be so readily obvious.

reaching influence, Geneva is committed

And in some cases, the aims of a job

to providing students a biblical

and the tenets of faith may even seem

foundation on which to build ethical

contradictory. But at Geneva College, we

business principles. Their Christian

teach students that no matter what field

values should inform their relationships

they study—education, political science,

with coworkers, managers, employees,

biology, engineering, psychology—they

and customers.

are called to glorify the Lord as they go about their daily work.

Many of our business alumni have become leaders in their organizations.

For example, the stated aim of our

And the members of the business faculty

Department of Business, Accounting,

possess a wealth of industry experience,

and Management is to produce graduates

enabling them to offer students relevant

“who are grounded in biblical principles

workplace insights and innovative

and business knowledge, and equipped

curriculum. Graduates and professors

to serve Jesus Christ in the business

alike use their business knowledge

world.” Contrary to the commonly held

and skills to do excellent work while

perception that greed is the prime

witnessing for Jesus Christ through both

motivator in this profession, our students

their words and actions. We are pleased

are taught to reflect Christian values

to share some of their stories with you

in their work ethic, model responsible

in this issue of Geneva Magazine,

stewardship of their resources, and

“My Father’s Business.”

endeavor to advance the kingdom of God in the business field. So what

In His Service,

do these graduates do when they go into the marketplace? As Jesus said,

“Didn’t you know that I had to be

Kenneth A. Smith ’80

about my Father’s business?” There

President

G in brief

CAMPUS NEWS

Senator Vogel (above) addressed the community following presentations by students Williams, Donath and Holden (l-r).

Students and faculty voice concern over Senate bill Pennsylvania State Senator Elder Vogel Jr. (R-47), representing

But “offering licensure exclusively to Bachelor of Social Work

citizens from portions of Allegheny, Beaver and Lawrence

graduates” would raise the problem of “high caseloads.”

counties, came to the Geneva College campus recently to listen to faculty and students express their concerns over PA Senate Bill 922. Professor Stephanie Schindel, along with undergraduate students Aaron Williams, Joshua Donath and Rachael Holden,

Holden agreed, saying that “by reducing the number of eligible professionals, there would be fewer workers available. Hence, there will be a decrease in services and

opposed changes for the social work industry proposed by the bill.

an increase in need.”

“Our students are very dedicated to this field and they want to be

Senator Vogel said that it may be a long time before S.B.

a part of the solution,” explained Schindel. Senate Bill 922, which proposes to create practice protection for licensed social workers, marriage and family therapists, and professional counselors, actually limits licensure to only Bachelor

922 comes out of committee, if ever. “This bill might never make it to a vote in the Senate,” he said. However, he did agree that the cause is worthwhile, and he encouraged those in attendance to contact the senators

of Social Work (BSW) graduates.

from their districts. “Obviously, you brought up some great

Licensure is currently based on meeting competency standards,

going to be crying out for more and more social workers.”

points,” he said to the presenters. “The older population is

not completing a specific course of study. Donath noted, “Geneva College students have consistently demonstrated these competencies as evidenced by internship evaluations by assigned supervisors in the field.” “Many academic programs other than social work could and do allow students the ability to meet current competency standards for various forms of direct practice such as case management,” argued Schindel. These programs include majors in behavioral science, child development, counseling, human services, psychology, social welfare and sociology. “Currently, Senate Bill 922 has been framed as a mechanism for improving the quality of direct practice services,” said Williams.

Professor Schindel organized the event which brought Senator Vogel to campus.

Kudos DR. TODD ALLEN, Professor of Communications, co-edited Working in Groups, 6th Edition (Pearson, 2012). He also presented “King on Stage: Humanizing or Humiliating an Icon?” at the “Transitions” Conference of the 103rd Annual Convention of the Eastern Communication Association (ECA), and “Eyes Forward, Looking Back: Designing a Travel Course on the American Civil Rights Movement” at the 10th Annual Hawaii International Conference on the Arts & Humanities. DR. NORMAN CARSON, Professor Emeritus of English, recently published Precious Son: The Impact of AIDS on an Evangelical Christian Family (Outskirts Press, 2012). See “Class Notes” page 31. DR. DAVID CHE, Professor of Engineering, presented the paper “Lessons Learned from Starting an SAE Baja Program at a Small Liberal Arts College,” which was co-authored with Dave Clark, Dr. David Shaw and Dr. James Gidley, at the 2012 American Society of Engineering Education (ASEE) Annual Conference & Exposition. DR. ROBERT and PROFESSOR LOUISE COPELAND were inducted into the Beaver County Musicians Union’s Hall of Fame. They were acknowledged for their contributions to musical life in Beaver County for 31 years and for their work administering the Henry Mancini Musical Theatre Awards program for its entire 18-year history. DR. THOMAS COPELAND spoke at the Navy League of Central Pennsylvania on his book, Drawing a Line in the Sea: The 2010 Gaza Flotilla Incident and the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict (Lexington Books, 2011). His review of Thomas Graham Jr. and Keith A. Hansen’s book, Preventing Catastrophe: The Use and Misuse of Intelligence in Efforts to Halt the Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction, is to be published in the journal Intelligence and National Security. PROFESSOR MATTHEW FUSS, Assistant Professor of Business, presented “An Ongian Perspective: Ong’s Rhetoric of Technology and Its Implications for the Practice of Integrated Marketing Communication” at the 2011 National Communication Association (NCA) Annual Convention, and “Buber: An Ethic Born Out of Responsibility” at the 2012 Communications Ethics Conference. DR. JAMES MATTA, Assistant Professor of Psychology, Counseling and Human Services, along with graduate students Alexandria Jones, Monica Monismith and Lisa Myers, presented “The Black Dog, Puff the Magic Dragon, and Other Sordid Tales of Adolescents: Effectively Treating Adolescent Comorbidity” at the American Counseling Association (ACA) Annual Conference & Exposition. DR. ERIC MILLER, Associate Professor of History, gave Covenant College’s annual Women in the Church lecture on “The Public Intellectual and American Life.” A book he co-edited, Confessing History: Explorations in Christian Faith and the Historian’s Vocation (Notre Dame, 2010) was the cover story of the Jan/Feb 2012 issue of Books and Culture, which also featured a symposium on the book. JEFF SANTARSIERO, Head Men’s Basketball Coach, received the National Christian College Athletic Association (NCCAA) Meritorious Service Award for serving as a Regional Chair for 10 years. DR. MAUREEN VANTERPOOL, Professor of Leadership Studies, was appointed to the City of Beaver Falls Planning Commission by the City Council. The commission is in the process of updating the Comprehensive Plan for land use within the city, which should serve as a catalyst for future economic development. DR. JONATHAN WATT, Associate Professor of Biblical Studies, authored the chapter “Religion as a Domain of Intercultural Discourse” in the newly released Handbook of Intercultural Discourse and Communication (Wiley-Blackwell, 2012).

The road less traveled: an overlooked approach to economics Geneva economics professor Dr. Ralph Ancil’s Pennsylvania Economic Review-published paper, “Questioning the margin: Using averages and an extended break-even analysis to find optimal solutions,” argues that, for many cases, simple algebra is an elegant alternative to the heavily mathematized methods popular with the economic mainstream. “By making this case,” Ancil states, “I am showing that entrepreneurs who use rules of thumb for their decisions may be using methods that have a sound, theoretical foundation.” To build this case, he explores two examples in detail. The first is a problem proposed by an Austrian economist, Von Wieser, whose solution used the mainstream approach of marginal analysis. Wieser found the least valued good (or “marginal” good) from different industries determines the value of the particular input from which all the goods are composed. Ancil approaches Wieser’s equation with a method that uses a simple averaging technique to arrive at the input value. Ancil’s second, more modern, example finds the maximum difference between a total revenue curve and total cost curve (i.e., maximum profit) using what he calls the “extended” version of break-even analysis, again highlighting the more accessible approach. As Dr. Ancil explains, “Entrepreneurs may not always be interested in chasing down every single little variance in their costs and revenues, but may in fact be more interested in looking for stable averages.” In the end, Ancil again arrives at the same answer that a calculus-based approach finds, but through a different pathway. Ancil’s main concept, his “message in the method,” is simplicity and constancy, as opposed to infinitesimally small changes focused on by the mainstream method. This path may be more classical in nature, which today is a road less traveled, but Ancil’s peer-reviewed paper points out that it is just as satisfactory.

G in brief

Dr. Romaine Jesky-Smith (center) with Library Services Director Quincee Baker and FBCC President Russell D. Mason Jr.

Dr. Paul Smith’s Native American literature collection benefits tribal college

Geneva Professor Emeritus of English Dr. Paul E. Smith went to

“One of FBCC’s core tenets is constructivist teaching and inquiry-based

be with the Lord in 2011, but one of his enduring legacies is his

learning,” Baker states, adding that “the Native American Literature

extensive Native American book collection, a large portion of which

collection assembled by the late Dr. Smith will actively contribute to

now resides at the tribally-controlled Fort Berthold Community College

student learning in all of our new baccalaureate degrees.”

(FBCC) in North Dakota. In accord with the will of Dr. Smith, the books will benefit the Native American tribes that the college represents.

In addition, a selection of 150 books was donated to Geneva College.

Of his collection, over a thousand books are now housed at FBCC.

American literature, evident in the “incredible care” with which Smith

Smith’s widow, education professor Dr. Romaine Jesky-Smith ’74,

chose his titles.

chose FBCC as the collection’s home following an impromptu visit.

English professor Dr. Paul Kilpatrick ’71 praises Dr. Smith’s love of Native

“In my Literature of the Desert course, I focus on cowboy poetry and

“As you can imagine, they were quite surprised when I appeared

Native American women’s poetry, and Dr. Smith had a good many titles

at the school,” Jesky-Smith says. “I knew right away that this was a

that deal directly with that,” says Kilpatrick. These were generously offered

good place for the books. The tribal college is small but has a nice

to him by Jesky-Smith. Smith often guest lectured in Kilpatrick’s North

space and values education. They were just approved for a four-year

American literature courses, even after his retirement.

program in Native American studies. Quincee Baker, the librarian and a member of the tribe, was sponsored at Clarion University where she got her librarian degree so she could return to the tribal college.”

The Paul E. Smith Collection will be used extensively by both students and faculty engaged in Native American literary research at FBCC, spreading Dr. Paul Smith’s love for the subject.

Alumni Council update The Geneva Alumni Council (GAC) welcomes fresh faces this

Wise was one of the original members of the GAC when it was re-established

year, as it bids farewell to two members while greeting three

in 2004. She served many of the first years as the secretary and historian, and

new ones. Janet (Wherry) Wise, a 1964 graduate and the past

served most recently as chairperson of the Awards Committee. During her time

President of the Geneva Women, together with Trudi Dunlap ’99,

on the Council, Wise was able to connect with both alumni and current students:

have completed their terms and will be replaced by Holly (Paine

“This has been a very rewarding experience and has hopefully helped to

’02) Magnuson and Crystal (Harris ’86) Arrington, who are each

strengthen the relationships between alumni and Geneva College.”

serving three year terms. Adam Schaffer, a 2011 grad, will also join the GAC, in order to finish another member’s unexpired term.

This focus on strengthening relationships is the main goal of the GAC,

“Geneva, as a unique Christian college, was a stepping stone

campus several times a year. The Council recently approved a strategic plan for

for me to realize that keeping God first in anything that I do is the

alumni, which, in part, consists of forming four committees: Alumni Engagement,

key to life,” Arrington says. “Geneva has come a long way since

Student Engagement, Alumni Enrichment and Student Enrichment.

I graduated 26 years ago, but the memories of my life on campus, friends and some very special teachers sparked my interest in reconnecting and playing a part in the continual growth of my alma mater.” Magnuson is similarly pleased to offer her services on the Alumni Council, saying, “The entirety of Geneva College—the staff, professors and students—provided such a significant investment that I’m still reaping benefits of that transformative time in my life.”

a volunteer group that works with the alumni office at Geneva. They meet on

Trudi Dunlap held the position of secretary for the GAC, and is being replaced by GAC member Mark Sampson ’93 (ADCP #023). The new president will be Chaplain G. Barry Davis Jr. ’75. Davis is moving up from Vice President, a position that is being filled by Kaitlin Rhodes ’07. “The community of Geneva College doesn’t begin and end during one’s student years,” Magnuson says, “just as the community of Christ will continue to connect and grow throughout time.”

G in motion

BY VAN ZANIC ’93

athletic news

10. Live video streaming A new era of Geneva College athletics started this past year with the introduction of live video streaming on the college’s website for football, men’s and women’s soccer, volleyball, men’s and women’s basketball, and softball. 9. New Member of the 1000-Point Club Dave Phillips became the 35th member of the Men’s Basketball 1000-Point Club. He reached this milestone while the Golden Tornadoes were in California at the Cal Lutheran tournament on December 30. Phillips ended his career with 1,255 career points, which ranks him 22nd on the all-time list. 8. PAC Tennis Finals Julie Kline advanced to the Presidents’ Athletic Conference (PAC) championship in #4 singles. Kline defeated players from Bethany and Saint Vincent to advance into the finals before falling in the championship. She finished her sophomore season with an overall record of 8-5. 7. PAC Cross Country Meet Nick Edinger continues to rewrite the Geneva record books. In the first year of eligibility in the PAC cross country meet, Edinger finished in ninth place with a time of 27:50, which was good enough for a second team All-Conference selection. 6. Academic Excellence Fifty student-athletes received the Geneva College Athletic Director Scholar-Athlete Award, and 82 student-athletes made the PAC Honor Roll. 5. The Geneva Award Jake McCracken was selected to receive the Geneva

Golden Tornadoes 2 0 1 1 - 1 2

Award at the 2012 Beaver County Sports Hall of Fame Banquet. McCracken helped lead the Geneva men’s soccer team to a second place finish at both the PAC conference tournament and the National Christian College Athletic Association (NCCAA) national tournament. He was awarded first team All-PAC honors along with first team NCCAA AllAmerican honors and a second team National Collegiate

Athletic Association (NCAA) Division III All-Region award. McCracken’s 15 goals in 2011 was the third highest single season total, and he finished his career with 34 goals. 4. NCAA National Track and Field Meet Liz Michalak became the first Geneva student-athlete to qualify for the NCAA Division III national track and field meet. Michalak finished 21st in the country in the heptathlon in just her second year competing in the event. Equally as impressive was her second place finish in the heptathlon at the NCCAA nationals earlier in the year. 3

PAC Players of the Year

Julie DiLonardo and Deanna Briody were named PAC players of the year in softball and volleyball. DiLonardo set school records for wins, ERA, innings pitched and strikeouts, and she finished fifth in Division III with 279 strikeouts. Briody broke the Geneva single season record for assists with 1,434. 1. PAC Championships 2. Men’s Soccer Tournament Play Geneva’s men’s soccer team finished as the runner-up in

Geneva’s softball and volleyball teams claimed PAC championships in their first year of NCAA Division III eligibility. Geneva’s softball

the PAC and at the NCCAA national tournament. The Golden

team rolled through the PAC tournament with a perfect 3-0 record and

Tornadoes were the only non-scholarship team competing

advanced to the NCAA Division III regional, finishing the season with

at the NCCAA national tournament and defeated second

a record of 30-19. The volleyball team set a single season record for

seed Palm Beach Atlantic University and third seed

victories, finishing the 2011 campaign with a mark of 27-9, which

Judson College.

included a 17-1 record in conference play.

G in motion

BY VAN ZANIC ’93

athletic news

Hooked on Success For Wendy Smith, one of the most cherished additions to Geneva’s Metheny Fieldhouse was a simple hook in the women’s restroom so that she could hang up her clothes while making one of many required wardrobe changes during her busy days. Wendy is finding a way to master not only her challenging time schedule, but two very different jobs at Geneva. “Dr. Kim Gall, Geneva College’s Athletic Director, was gracious enough to add a hook to the door inside of the restroom outside of my office,” Wendy explains. “You have no idea how helpful that is for a change of clothes on the run.” Such changes have become a necessary part of the job for Wendy, who splits her time between being the Co-Head Coach for the women’s volleyball team and a Planned Giving Officer in the Office of Institutional Advancement. While on the surface, the two jobs may seem as though they are worlds apart, a closer investigation into her daily activities reveals a very clear similarity between coaching a women’s varsity sport and seeking donors to support the college. “What exactly does a Planned Giving Officer do at Geneva College?” Wendy quips. “It’s an awful lot like athletic recruiting. Dealing with people and telling the Geneva story is what I have always done as a coach when recruiting student-athletes to campus. I can tell those same success stories to our alumni to give them a clear picture of Geneva College and its mission.” Wendy began her career at Geneva College as an assistant volleyball coach in 1999. Wendy and former assistant coach Curt Conser have been on the Geneva sidelines together for 12 years, with the past five as co-head coaches. To say the duo has been successful may be a drastic understatement. Geneva’s volleyball team is coming off its first Presidents’ Athletic Conference (PAC) championship that coincided with a school record 27 victories last fall. Those 27 wins came one year after a record 26 victories were posted in 2010. During their five-year tenure as co-head coaches, Wendy and Curt have compiled an overall record of 111-55 and a winning percentage of .669. As if helping to run one of Geneva’s most successful athletic programs wasn’t enough, Wendy felt the need to expand

On the road, this graduate of University of Pittsburgh

her role on campus and took a new challenge in the

School of Law and former practicing attorney relies

advancement office in the spring of 2011.

on her experience in estate and family law to talk with folks about how they can best support the

As a Planned Giving Officer, Wendy travels often to her main

college through their will, life insurance, annuities

territories of Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina and Georgia.

and charitable giving. “While the goals of recruiting

student-athletes and asking for donations may be different, the approach is really quite similar,” says Wendy. “It is all about relaying the amazing message of Geneva College and giving people a glimpse of what makes this place so special.” There are challenges to being a woman on the move, and Wendy takes most of it in stride. While she may have a meeting on campus in the morning with a potential donor, she may have to make a quick change and teach a physical education class in the afternoon. In the next hour, she could be back in her office making phone calls before heading back to the fieldhouse to prepare for an afternoon volleyball practice. It seems like a rigorous schedule, but for Wendy, it is all in a day’s work. “I love Geneva College,” she says. “I love the people that I work with and I love the student-athletes that I get the chance to teach and coach in the volleyball program. I know that God has put me in this place for a reason and has entrusted me with the lives of studentathletes on the volleyball court and with the responsibility of reaching out to alumni across the country. When I meet with a potential donor somewhere in the country, I am the face of Geneva College and, as a result, I want to make the best impression I can because that is what I owe this place and God who has given me this opportunity.” In a recent letter to potential donors, Wendy used a story about one of her graduating volleyball players as an example of how wonderful a Geneva experience can be. She explained how this student-athlete

“It is all about ... giving people a glimpse of what makes this place so special.”

was so successful on the court and in the classroom, and that these are the types of men and women that Geneva College is producing every year. “I feel as though I have somewhat of an advantage because I have access to all of this material,” Wendy explains. “I never have a shortage of stories to share with people on the road and I never am caught speechless with our players. It is a perfect fit.” What may be a perfect fit for Wendy has also evolved into a perfect fit for Geneva College. Wendy exudes excellence in all that she does. She has helped make Geneva’s volleyball program a perennial powerhouse and has brought excellence into her new challenge in the advancement office. If the success that has already been achieved by Wendy is any indication, Geneva College will be blessed by her new calling. That is, as long as the hook holds out in the restroom across from her fieldhouse office.

M y Fat he r ’ s B u s i n e s s

Helping Others Help Themselves by M o nica M i l l e r ’12

As with many Geneva students who participate in short-term mission trips, junior Elizabeth Jabco fell in love with the people, places and culture she encountered while abroad. In the spring of 2011, Elizabeth travelled to Haiti on a Geneva-sponsored trip and returned from her work with a strong desire to help on a more long-term basis. “I realized that as much as I love being there with the people, there was something I could do to help them once I returned home.” While in Haiti, Elizabeth was struck by the profound effect of poverty on the families living there. Common sicknesses like diarrhea and the flu have the power to kill children and adults who do not have the resources to obtain proper care. In some families, parents cannot even afford to send all of their children to school and must choose only one of their children to receive an education. In witnessing these hardships, she was particularly moved by those that women face in providing for their families: “I saw women who worked from before the sun rose until long after it set to cook for their families and wash their clothes.” So Elizabeth, who is an independent major in student ministries, global development and restorative studies, began a project to assist women in Haiti through small microeconomic businesses with the help of her advisor, Professor Doug Bradbury ’87 (MAHE ’99). Elizabeth is combining her efforts with Haitian native Jeanne Touloute. “International development is best implemented on the micro level,” says Elizabeth. “In partnering with Jeanne, I am assisting an indigenous woman who has both the vision and the skill to create a financial opportunity for women in her community.”

The Haitian Economy

• 2010 GDP per capita of US$671 (the poorest in the Western Hemisphere) •Over half live on less than US$1 per day

CIA World Factbook: Haiti

Jeanne and her husband Paul, who is a pastor, are both from Les Cayes, Haiti. Although the couple lived in the United States for several years, they moved back to Haiti 10 years ago to minister in their home country once again. Jeanne’s initiative to help the women in local villages began with traveling to Plaine Martin, a village located high in the mountains. She spoke to the women of a local church about the possibility of opening a savings account from which they would be able to draw money in order to start their own small businesses. The money they raised would help with family expenses such as taking their children to receive medical attention and buying medicine.

• 2010 earthquake— $7.8 billion in damage; GDP contracted 5.4% Data Source:

“I am an economic partner in an enterprise that will sustain many families.”

Elizabeth (opposite page) partners with Jeanne Touloute (above) to initiate microeconomic business opportunities in Haiti.

With no funds of their own to start an account, however, the women harnessed their resources and began raising money. Locally grown guava fruit from the mountain was used to make jam. The money that was earned then generated an initial income to begin saving. And the momentum grew from there. In partnership with Jeanne, who has attended conferences on the benefits of microfinance in developing countries, Elizabeth works toward implementing this idea among women in several local communities of Haiti. Through research of sustainable models for microenterprise, she also helped to develop and perform a community asset inventory in order to discover what strengths the women could use to support their families. This led Elizabeth to focus her efforts on a collection of recipes, The Talent of Haitian Women Captured in a Cookbook.

Elizabeth recorded the recipes from the women directly and included the stories of them and their families, along with photos and cultural information. Elizabeth notes that Haitian women take great pride in their work: “Haitian cooking is deeply personal and profoundly expressive of the Haitian community.” She adds, “This might seem like a little thing, but it has the potential to change lives. I took something the women in Haiti are good at—cooking—and turned it into an opportunity for them.” G

0% The money raised through sales of this cookbook will go directly to the continuing development of the microfinance program. The book contains the authentic recipes of the Haitian women from the villages that will be impacted by the sales.

The Plaine Martin microfinancing group.

If you are interested in purchasing The Talent of Haitian Women Captured in a Cookbook, contact Elizabeth at ejabs@haitih2o.org. The cost is $15 and all funds go toward the microfinancing work that Jeanne Touloute is organizing in Haiti.

Approximately 80% of Haitians live on less than US$2 per day. 11

M y Fat he r ’ s B u s i n e s s

From the Ground Up

911-71

By G r e g W i s e ’ 95

“God’s providence put Geneva College in my blood, since I virtually grew up on campus,”

explains Robert “Bob” Clarke ’67. And one needs only to take a look around the school’s grounds to see that this former healthcare executive’s deep connection with the institution extends to the bricks and mortar of its buildings. The construction of iconic locations such as Johnston Gym, McCartney Library, McKee Hall and Reeves Field can all be attributed to the tireless efforts of Bob’s grandfather and namesake, a Reformed Presbyterian minister who served Geneva in many capacities, including Director of Development, from 1909-1958. In addition, Bob’s father Edwin was Geneva’s 15th president from 1956-1980. One of the hallmarks of his administration was the overall physical expansion of the campus, including Clarke Hall, which was named in memory of the elder Robert.

So naturally, the decision of where to pursue his degree wasn’t a difficult one: “I never really considered going anywhere else for college. God’s direction for me seemed clear.” But God’s direction for Bob’s career wasn’t quite so readily apparent. With a love of science and biology that can be traced to his days as a student at Beaver Falls High School, he initially planned on becoming a physician, choosing to major in biology with a pre-med focus: “The sciences opened the wonder of God’s creation to me.” Bob is grateful for the outstanding academic preparation he received at Geneva, and for the many caring professors who “took particular

HIghlights of The Clarkes’ Campus Expansion • Johnston Gym 1911 • McKee Hall 1921

• Reeves Field 1925 • McCartney Library 1930

• Memorial Hall 1952 • Clarke Hall 1961 • Metheny Fieldhouse 1961

• Pearce Hall 1961

• Student Center 1965

• S & E Expansion 1969 • Alexander Hall 1971

interest in helping me prepare for medical school.” However, he says, “God’s plan for my life took a different path.” During his senior year, Bob was in the middle of taking, and greatly enjoying, elective courses in business law and economics when he happened to notice a flier about graduate programs in hospital administration. He thought, “What a wonderful opportunity to serve and use my biology background while switching to business administration.” That was the first step down the path of a long and successful business career. After graduating, Bob continued his education, earning a master’s degree from the top-ranked hospital administration program at the University of Michigan where, he says, “I found that Geneva had provided me with an excellent academic foundation for my graduate work.” Following his completion of graduate school in 1969, Bob’s career in healthcare administration began at an 800-bed community hospital in Indianapolis. Through God’s providence, he moved up the corporate ladder over the years to the point of being named President and CEO of Memorial Health System in Springfield, IL. This large system includes a teaching hospital affiliated with Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, two rural hospitals, multi-discipline medical practices and other healthcare services. He served in this position for 24 years until retiring in 2007. In addition to preparing Bob academically, Geneva also provided him a strong spiritual foundation that informed his entire career: “Geneva’s Christian

worldview supported my faith. While I was at Memorial Health System, our Values Statement was based on the word SERVICE—Service to humanity, Excellence in performance, Respect for the individual, Value of employees, Integrity in relationships, Community responsibility, Equal access. Although Memorial is a secular organization, Geneva prepares servant-leaders, so an important additional principle is ‘To His glory.’” Those strong foundations established at Geneva have also inspired him to find many ways to serve others and glorify the Lord throughout his life. During the time he was with Memorial Health System, Bob was the Vice Chairman of the Illinois Chamber of Commerce, Board Member of the Council of Teaching Hospitals of the Association of American Medical Colleges, President of the Association of Community Cancer Centers, Chairman of the Illinois Hospital Association and Chairman of the Greater Springfield United Way Campaign. And Bob’s service hasn’t been limited to just his local community, either. His reach was extended internationally through a teaching affiliation between Memorial Health System and Sun Yat-Sen University of Medical Sciences in Guangzhou, China. He arranged educational conferences at Memorial Health System for visiting Chinese hospital administrators and was named Visiting Professor of Health Services Administration at Sun Yat-Sen University. The Vice Minister of the Ministry of Health in China appointed Bob as Consultant for International Medical Exchanges at the university, and the Chinese Medical Society

even awarded him an honorary, lifetime membership. “I have dear friends in China,” he notes. Even in retirement, Bob currently serves on the Board of Blue Cross/Blue Shield of IL, TX, NM and OK and the Board of the Scottsdale Institute, a national healthcare informatics collaborative. He and his wife MaryLynn are also active members of their church, The Gathering, in Sandestin, FL. Bob adds, “The Bible verse that gives direction to my life now is Colossians 3:27: ‘And whatever you do, whether in word or in deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.’” Although his path eventually led him as far as the People’s Republic of China, Bob never forgot that it began in the very basements of Geneva’s buildings. He continues to actively contribute to the college as a member of the Advisory Council to the Department of Business, Accounting and Management (see page 21). As Bob looks to the future of the institution, he says, “Now, as I pray for Geneva College’s continuing success, the words of Ephesians 1:16 come to mind: ‘I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers.’” Geneva College won’t soon forget Bob Clarke and his family, either. G This feature came about through article recommendations submitted by business grads. We want to hear from you, too! Email your news and story ideas to editor@geneva.edu.

M y Fat he r â&#x20AC;&#x2122; s B u s i n e s s

Monday Morning Reassurance By Daniel Massaro â&#x20AC;&#x2122;12

CoTtrill, Arbutina & Associates

TOP

public accounting firm in Western Pennsylvania

Pittsburgh Business Times

I loved that atmosphere that I grew up with in my youth group, and I wanted to surround myself with Christian friends,” says Tiffany.

Along with the rest of corporate America, Tiffany (Smith ’11) Bowser sits down at her desk every Monday to begin a new work week. What makes the routine unique for her and her co-workers at Cottrill, Arbutina & Associates is how they start their day—with a Scripture-based devotional emailed from the company’s founder. For Tiffany, this is just another reassurance that she is at her ideal job. This position is the perfect fit for a God-fearing, small town girl from New Bethlehem, Pennsylvania—a place that she describes as “a small country town where everyone knows your name.” Tiffany is a staff accountant in the auditing department at Cottrill, Arbutina & Associates. The accounting/ business finance double major began her trek to full-time employment with her current company as a summer intern, before being hired as a part-time employee upon completion of her internship. She then worked throughout the next year while still attending Geneva full-time. Following graduation, the company invited her on board full-time. She feels humbled by her immediate hire, and is grateful for Geneva’s guidance in that direction. “Geneva was actually the way that I found out about my internship,” she says. “One of my professors told me about the opportunity and sent a recommendation and my resume to the company. Geneva’s business department also helped me with all of the paperwork and stipulations that go along with CotTrill, documenting my internship as a college credit.” Her professors’ help took very little time to come to fruition. And similarly, as a high school senior looking for the right fit for her higher education, it did not take very much time for her to realize that Geneva was the perfect choice. “When I graduated from Redbank Valley High School, I knew that I wanted to go to a Christian college.

Arbutina & Associates • Founded in 1984 • 3 locations— Beaver, Pittsburgh, Peters Twp. • Over 45 employees

Co-workers with a lot in common (l-r): Tom Helsing ’77 (partner), Joel Martin ’96 (partner), Debbie Circle ’00, Chad Agnew ’94, John Rizzo ’63, Tiffany (Smith ’11) Bowser, Kait Vukich ’11

• Access to a global network of more than 15,000 CPAs and consultants

Everette with the Watkins Award Class of 2010. She visited a number of Christian schools all over the region, and much like her perfect placement at Cottrill, Arbutina & Associates, she knew right away that the college on the hill in Beaver Falls was the place she was meant to be. “I looked into many Christian colleges, but Geneva was the only one that felt like home.”

“I remember coming to a recruiting day and I loved the business department faculty. You just knew that they truly cared about their students.” Tiffany mentions that many of her professors were helpful, but she is especially grateful for Accounting Professor Amy Russin’s positive influence and guidance. Tiffany says that Professor Russin encouraged her students with both spiritual and professional growth. “Professor Russin would tell us a lot of stories of the challenges that she encountered in the business world with her faith. It was the stories like those and the constant discussions of Scripture and ethics that really prepared me for business in the real world.” Tiffany is also appreciative for the Christ-centered focus found in all of her classes: “Faith in the classroom at Geneva meant a lot to me. It was so nice to go into a classroom, sit down and open up your heart to God before your day would begin. I admire how my professors would relate their faith with their professional work experience.” Speaking of work experience, Tiffany is equally positive about the way Geneva College equipped her professionally. Her high praise ranges from

classroom learning, to advice and mentoring from her professors, to the immediate impact that her Geneva education is having on her current profession. “I entered my freshman year as an accounting major, but Professor Russin immediately encouraged me to double major with accounting and business finance because of how the two fields relate. She told me that it would be beneficial in the long run to double major. She was right.” Four years later, that double major did come in handy. But although stacking a double major’s class load wasn’t simple for Tiffany, she says the result was worth the effort. “The business classes were very challenging. I think because of the smaller classes, though, I could learn quicker and advance further than at some other colleges. And everything that I learned, I am using today in my career.” Tiffany just completed her first month of full-time employment at Cottrill, Arbutina & Associates and was also recently married. She and her husband, Jake, who have been together since their freshman year of high school, currently reside on College Hill, less than a mile from Geneva’s campus. She is confident in her work as a staff accountant and determined to do her best. She is also grateful for the opportunities her employer provides her, both as a professional and a Christian. “The firm has a priority list of God first, family second and work third. Working for a Christian organization has truly been a blessing.” Some days run smoother than others at the firm; that’s just the way life works. But Tiffany experiences great joy knowing that no matter how difficult a day may be, there will always be Monday morning—the time she sits at her desk, opens up her email and reads a devotional straight from the heart of her employer. And once again, she’ll be reassured that she’s where God wants her to be. G

“The business classes were very challenging. I think because of the smaller classes, though, I could learn quicker and advance further than at some other colleges. And everything that I learned, I am using today in my career.”

M y Fat he r ’ s B u s i n e s s

Business as Usual, God’s Way by J e nny ( B ow e r ’0 5) P ic h u r A

In a field as competitive as business, hands-on learning paired with relevant theory is vital. Students in Geneva’s business program learn from people who’ve been there; but most importantly, they are learning from professors who are committed to serving Christ in the business world. Just walk into the office of business Department Chair Dr. Gordy Richards and you’ll see how his experience in the industry and his commitment to Christ impact who he is and how he teaches. Richards spent 28 years serving in the United States Air Force before joining the business faculty on a full-time basis in 2011. He had been a part-time instructor for the department for 13 years prior to that. The American flag and Scripture references hold prominent places on his office walls, along with plaques and recognitions of service. Richards’ position was equivalent to that of a corporate chief information officer (CIO), so he dealt with many of the same things that a corporate CIO would. “We spend our days doing the business of the United States much like any corporation does its business,” he says. “The big difference was that I wore a uniform and had to be able to do what I did under life-threatening conditions.” Richards taught as a business and information systems instructor for years before transitioning out of military life, and the skills he developed provided an easy segue into his teaching career at Geneva, where he joined a team of experienced Christian educators. Geneva’s nine full-time business faculty members have a combined total of nearly 200 years of industry experience, and that number rises still higher with the inclusion of part-time faculty members. Their experience covers a wide range of public and private sectors, including international marketing, government service, accounting, personal and corporate taxes, human resources management, and law. “Our faculty have lived through the challenges of making a payroll, budgeting and planning strategies that actually influenced the success or failure of an organization,” Richards says.

Business Programs Accounting Track One: Private or Corporate Accounting Track Two: Public Accounting Business Administration, with concentrations in: Economics Finance Human Resource Management International Business Management & Entrepreneurship Management of Information Systems Marketing Sport Management Business/Aviation (dual major offered in partnership with the Community College of Beaver County) Music Business (offered through the Department of Music) Sport Management Geneva also offers a master’s in business administration (MBA). Both the undergraduate and graduate programs are nationally accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP).

With their years of experience, expertise in theory and passion for teaching, department members have a wealth of knowledge to pour into the lives of students. And when students see the willingness of their teachers to invest in them, they are more likely to reciprocate—in their studies, relationships and future endeavors. “The dedication of the faculty, students and all those with whom we have business relationships makes Geneva’s program one of a kind,” says Accounting Professor Amy Russin. A business alumnus seeking licensure as a certified public accountant recently contacted Russin to say, “I am currently studying for my third CPA exam, and I realized that you had already taught most of the exam topics in your various classes. This also held true for the first two exams, which I passed with excellent grades on the first attempt.” But Geneva’s business faculty brings more to the table than excellent preparation and practical strategies for moving up the corporate ladder.

“We believe strongly in the concept that business is a calling from God,” says Associate Professor Dan Raver, who has been teaching finance at Geneva for 32 years. “Geneva encourages students to develop a sincere desire to work and serve to glorify God—not just talk about it, but really wrestle with what that means and how to live that out.” Students are challenged to look for God’s way of doing business. It’s a practice that won’t always make sense to the world, especially when it means making decisions based on pure trust in God’s promises. “Ultimately, behavior is values-driven,” Raver says, referencing the book Joy at Work by founder of The AES Corporation and former Geneva College trustee Dennis Bakke. “Not only does God tell us to do certain things, but also to look at our motives—why we operate. Organizations that tend to be distinctive and highperforming ultimately have a deep sense of the values they emphasize. We get students to think about and analyze their own values systems, and our hope is that they will be trusting the Lord to direct their paths to make an impact.” Working in the field of business is a sacred call from God, and the business department works hard to convey this powerful message to students. It’s the message that they don’t have to be pastors or missionaries or even work in a Christian organization to be serving God and building his kingdom. “One of the biggest things we can do is break down the artificially perceived wall between Old Main and Northwood,” Richards says. “Students may take their Bible classes in Old Main then walk over to Northwood and take their business classes, often without realizing the vital link that exists between them. You take the Bible classes so you can bring that knowledge and worldview into everything else that you’re doing.”

97%

The Department of Business, Accounting and Management, represented here by some of its members, connects the business curriculum to the Christian worldview.

In order for students to figure out how to apply faith and business theory in real life, internships are a must. Associate Professor Dr. Denise MurphyGerber manages and advises for the department’s internship program. Prior to teaching at Geneva, she spent 20 years as an international audit manager and program and portfolio manager for a number of Fortune 500 companies, then moved on to marketing and sales for State Farm. “Internships provide the necessary business and office experience that students need in order for them to walk into an interview with not only the education that comes with a completed college degree, but also with contextualized experience in their emphasis area,” she says. “Our program

Placement rate of 2010 accounting graduates

also allows students to get college elective credit above and beyond the business experience gained from the internship.”

While each of the programs contained in the business department focuses on a specialized area, students are given a holistic understanding of the entire field. “We try to interconnect our courses in the field so that students see the detail of their area as connected to a larger whole,” Points of says Raver, who teaches primarily in Excellence the areas of strategic management and finance. “They are not just doing a particular function but thinking • 70%— Geneva about how it interconnects with students completing the roles of others.” internships

• 93%— Geneva students working or in grad school within six months after graduation, on average in the past four years geneva.edu/excellence

As students build their business expertise in and out of the classroom, all the while trusting and operating under biblical principles, they are preparing for much more than a job. Geneva’s business graduates are launching into a world that desperately needs the redeeming truth of the gospel. And as these young professionals combat greed and selfinterest with integrity and excellence, they shine the light of Christ Himself. G

Business Clubs • In addition to the Accounting Club, which has been active for a number of years, sophomore Justin Fink recently did the legwork to start a nationally affiliated business club as well— a chapter of the Future Business Leaders of America-Phi Beta Lambda (FBLA-PBL). “It’s a good year for membership, and we’ve had several area business leaders come in as guest speakers and participated in a Leaders Serving Beaver County (LSBC) networking opportunity with our entrepreneurship class. We’re excited and looking forward to increasing opportunities,” says Richards. • Geneva students have the opportunity to participate in the Pittsburgh Fellows program, which enables graduates to launch their careers through a nine-month paid internship while further

“The dedication of the faculty, students and all those with whom we have business relationships makes Geneva’s program one of a kind.” 20

developing their Christian leadership skills. • Delta Mu Delta is the business honors society for the top 20% of business students. Three grad and 23 undergrad students were inducted in 2012. • The department has reinstated a student chapter of the Society of Human Resources Managers (SHRM) designed to connect interested students to the premier HR organizations in the country. The club is advised by Professor Matt Fuss, who recently joined Geneva’s business department after 13 years of HR management in the private corporate sector. He says, “The club will expose students to the essential information and knowledge base necessary for a successful career in the industry, as well as provide insight and direction to those considering a career in HR.”

Advisory Council In many ways, the Advisory Council to the Department of Business, Accounting and Management functions as a shock-absorber, wielding its knowledge base in order to smooth out the bumps on the department’s road to academic excellence. The Advisory Council assembles a representative cross section of the commercial business world, and the group’s twice-annual meetings include discussions with members of the administration, department faculty and student body. The Council provides insight on the current market, advice on infrastructure adjustments and challenges the department to strive for outstanding performance. The Advisory Council has been providing a guiding hand to the business department since the fall of 1994, when the late Dr. J. Randall Nutter formed the group to meet requirements set by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP).

The 2012 Advisory Council: John Mandeville ’65, Chairman Treasurer and Administrator of Calvary Church Robert Clarke ’67 Retired CEO of Memorial Hospital System David Hutton ’78 Zone Financial Officer of Siemens Healthcare David Jordan Consultant and former Geneva business professor Andrew Marcinko Retired Independent Representative for technical manufacturing equipment and former Geneva College Trustee Brian Panichelle ’97 President of BP Insurance, Inc. George Tannehill ’46 Retired Controller of Koppers Company Craig Waller ’98 Intellectual Property Attorney at Ference & Assoc.

A Lasting Impact George Tannehill ’46 joined the Advisory Council as a charter member in 1994, the same year he was awarded the Life G. Today, at the age of 90, he’s still serving in that role. And even after his tenure on the council ends, the legacy left by him and his wife Beverly will continue for years to come through their estate plan. “I strongly believe in providing education for students in perpetuity,” George says, “and that’s exactly what our estate plan will do.” Geneva sincerely thanks George and Beverly, members of the Tower and Heritage Societies, for the difference they make in the lives of our students.

M y Fat he r ’ s B u s i n e s s

She Built This City

By Amanda ( K A Ska l avic h ’0 6) Flinner

Some of life’s most

important lessons

innovation—including green technology, education and training, and research and development—Pittsburgh will provide both a beautiful backdrop and a powerful example for our work.

are learned the earliest and stay with us the longest. Barbara McNees ’87 can trace one such lesson from her current position as President of the Greater Pittsburgh Chamber of Commerce back to her first job as a 16-year-old sales clerk at Mary’s Bride & Formal in downtown Beaver Falls.

That transformation took over 20 years, and Barbara was involved every step of the way. Going forward, she’s looking forward to seeing even more positive changes.

“The customer is always right,” she says. It’s a simple concept, but an important one—the people you serve matter the most.

“Our population is increasing, we’re seeing more growth and we employ more people now in the 10-county Pittsburgh region than we did at the height of the steel industry. Most people don’t realize that. We’ve come a long way back,” Barbara says.

“If you don’t take care of your customers, you’re not going to be successful,” Barbara says. That goes for any business, but don’t just take her word for it. As former Executive Director of the Beaver County Chamber of Commerce, Barbara earned the reputation of being a tireless promoter of businesses. Under Governors Bob Casey and Tom Ridge, she led state economic development projects to clean up contaminated brownfields and redevelop riverfront sites—the first steps that would help transform Pittsburgh from a dying steel town into America’s “Most Livable City.” The city had been in a state of decline since the late 1970s. Hundreds of thousands of workers lost their jobs through the collapse of the steel industry, the heart that had steadily pumped life into the region for nearly a century. The challenge was in building a new Pittsburgh that no longer relied on the strength of one industry. “There was a crisis, and nobody was going to fix it but us,” Barbara recalls.

The Greater Pittsburgh Chamber of Commerce, an affiliate of the Allegheny Conference on Community Development, represents over 600 businesses with more than one million employees across 10 counties.

Barbara has come a long way, herself. She made headlines in 1997 as the first woman president of the Greater Pittsburgh Chamber of Commerce in its 132-year history. This was an honor she had never imagined. “Nobody grows up saying they want to be a Chamber of Commerce executive,” Barbara laughs. Life’s path takes many twists and turns, and hers began at Geneva College in 1965. Although Barbara grew up in a Christian home, it wasn’t simply Geneva’s faith commitment that drew her to the college. She was also impressed by the institution’s “excellent reputation for education.” She gives credit to the brilliant minds that were present at Geneva, such as former economics department head Dr. Stewart Lee, who set the standard of excellence for future professors. “Some of the professors who have been here probably could have taught anywhere, but because of their faith and their commitment stayed and made Geneva a good academic school, and I think that’s still the case,” she says.

>1,000 By 2009, President Obama was welcoming world leaders to the transformed city for the G-20 Summit, held at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center, with these words: As a city that has transformed itself from the city of steel to a center for high-tech

After two years at Geneva, Barbara followed her path to New York City to fulfill her dream of working in the fashion industry. She was a successful executive for Macy’s for several years, but when she moved back to Pittsburgh in 1980, it

“I wouldn’t be in the position I am had I not been able to successfully complete my degree…. I’ve always been thankful for that.”

was apparent she would need to complete her degree. She thought, “Why not finish where I started?” There was one problem—at the time, Geneva didn’t have an Adult Degree Completion Program. But instead of throwing up their hands in the face of the issue, Barbara’s former professors rolled up their shirtsleeves and got to work. They took credits from her basic education at Geneva, from the Tobe-Coburn Institute and from a University of Delaware Organizational Management degree in order to create a curriculum to suit her needs.

the Beaver County Chamber of Commerce. She graduated in 1987, just three weeks before her eldest son graduated from high school. And Geneva’s official Adult Degree Completion Program (ADCP) was launched the following year by Dr. Robert Hough. “Without that support, I wouldn’t be in the position I am had I not been able to successfully complete my degree and move on to other opportunities. I’ve always been thankful for that,” Barbara says.

0,000 Still, for Barbara, it was an adjustment getting back into the classroom. “Calculus and chemistry weren’t great fun after all those years,” she laughs. “But thanks to some good mentoring, I made it through.”

Barbara was able to earn her degree in independent studies while working as Executive Director for

As Barbara learned all those years ago at Mary’s Bride & Formal, people are more important than profits—both the people you serve and the people who serve you.

“I didn’t do this by myself,” she says of her successful career. “It took a lot of people, a lot of strong people to help me along the way, and a lot of faith.” For that, she is forever grateful. G

employees 23

M y Fat he r ’ s B u s i n e s s

Service through Soccer

by J e nny ( B ow e r ’0 5) P ic h u r A

Philadelphia Union

8,500

Named after the Union of the Thirteen Colonies, of which Philadelphia was the first capital

Number of seats at the Union’s state-of-the-art PPL Park 24

Just as sports fans are committed to their home teams, teams are committed to their hometowns. From making appearances at community events to running sports clinics for kids, professional sports organizations create many ways to give back to their communities. But the Philadelphia Union, a Major League Soccer team based in Chester, Pennsylvania, has taken that commitment to the next level. Rob Smith ’83 is the Union’s Vice President of Soccer Development and Community Relations. He came on board as director of operations in 2008 to assist in the start up of the new Major League Soccer franchise.Then in the fall of 2009, he and the Philadelphia Union turned their attention to the team’s hometown. For a full year, the Union sent Rob on “executive loan” to the Chester-Upland School District. In 1994, around the same time that Major League Soccer came into existence, the Chester Upland School District was named the worst-performing district in Pennsylvania. It was also the only PIAA - 4A school in the state without a soccer program. In the fall of 2009 Rob got to work, partnering with the superintendent to develop sustainable programming for the students and reintroduce soccer to the district.

“We started afterschool programs in soccer, character building, lifestyle education, resume building and mentoring for students who want to go to college,” Rob says. “It was a first for me, and I hadn’t really seen this model anywhere else. It’s a testament to the ownership group and our CEO & Operating Partner Nick Sakiewicz. They wanted to have an impact in the community—to develop sustainable programs that would have a lasting impact and long-term effect.” Rob worked with students at every grade level. He formed a partnership with Starfinder, a nonprofit organization that pairs athletic instruction with educational and enrichment programs, and started character-based after-school programs for first through sixth grades at three different elementary

schools. At the middle school level, he mentored 40 boys with behavioral issues through a decision-making class. And at the high school, he taught physical education during the soccer portion of the curriculum. Every student in the high school participated in his class. Rob worked with the teachers, as well. He led professional development classes for every physical education teacher in the school district and helped them rethink and redesign their curriculum.

Rob is grateful for the investment that Geneva made in his life. He is thankful for the people who didn’t let him give up, and for the opportunity to pass that on to the students of Chester-Upland and others he has coached. Now, even though he’s back in his office at the Philadelphia Union, the programs he helped initiate will continue to impact lives and transform the Chester community. G

In addition to in-school programs, Rob and the Union worked with the district to create community initiatives for boys and girls.“We found groups in the city who were playing already but weren’t working together, so we started a collaborative organization called Chester City United,”explains Rob.“Now 350 kids go through that program each year.” Last but not least, Rob and the Philadelphia Union made sure that every child involved in the school and community soccer programs had the opportunity to go to a professional game. Rob has been working with kids since his days as an accounting/business student and member of the soccer team at Geneva.Then-soccer coach Bob Fortosis required all his players to give back to the community, and Rob worked as a volunteer coach and referee at the YMCA in New Brighton. Within six months of graduation, he was coaching a youth soccer team, and he’s been involved with youth soccer ever since. Ask Rob why he chose Geneva, and he’ll tell you he didn’t. He was led here.There was no rhyme or reason to his choice—only that he was recruited to play soccer and had a friend on the team. In fact, Rob wouldn’t understand why God wanted him at Geneva until he decided to leave. He transferred to nearby Slippery Rock University after his sophomore year, but found himself going back to visit Geneva every weekend. Rob liked Slippery Rock, but says that he wouldn’t have graduated if he had stayed there. “The education at Geneva was great. I knew it did not get any better than that,” he says.“The professors are unbelievable. I could have gone to other schools—I could have gotten a degree and spent less money—but I needed a disciplined environment, and I needed to be around people I cared about and who genuinely cared about me.” Rob returned to Geneva after a meeting with then-Dean of Students Karl Cunningham, where he expressed that he had no desire to play soccer again. Coach Fortosis would have none of it. Not just for the sake of the team, but because he cared about the young player’s future.“He asked questions, pumped me up, challenged me and convinced me to come back,” Rob says.“It was probably the best thing that ever could have happened. I had given up something I really loved and that got me where I am today.”

John at “Design Day,” where children in Chester, PA, took part in designing their dream playground.

John Shipley: Philadelphia Union intern As the summer Community Relations Intern for the Philadelphia Union, Geneva College junior John Shipley assists in coordinating community outreach efforts of the Union and the organization’s recently formed Foundation, which seeks to provide area youth with activities and opportunities. Outreach is a flexible term, and so John has found himself helping create community engagement events, writing spreadsheets and flyers, and even selecting the Hometown Hero—a person who has served ‘above and beyond’ in the community to be recognized at a home game. “Current projects that I’ve been working on with Rob and the Foundation include planning a playground built in and for the city of Chester,” John explains.The lively environment of the internship has also boosted John’s skills in new ways. He adds:“I’ve improved my confidence in public speaking, as I have had to make phone calls and give presentations to important people in the front office and in the community.” Saying that Rob has been helpful “would be a huge understatement,” according to John.“He went out of his way to show me around and introduce me to people in the front office, administrators at the stadium, and even to a few players whom he knows fairly well. He has shown me grace, patience and treated me with the greatest respect.” One of John’s next tasks: exploring possible fundraising options for the Philadelphia Union Foundation.

M y Fat he r ’ s B u s i n e s s

Jolly Good Fellows

by Monica Miller ’12

The 2012 Fellows include four Geneva grads. Beginning fourth from left, they are Jenn White ’11, Emily Jensen ’09, Alex Winger ’11 and Adam Shaffer ’11.

Continuing the Christcentered approach that is the hallmark of Geneva College academics, a number of recent graduates have been integrating their faith in the workplace through the support of the Pittsburgh Fellows.The purpose of this post-undergraduate program is to provide practical and spiritual training for young adults who desire to fully integrate their faith and vocation. During a paid nine-month internship, participants have the opportunity to grow spiritually while living together in a community and supporting each other through the challenging transition from college student to professional. The Pittsburgh Fellows program connects participants, known as Fellows, with Christian business leaders in the

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Pittsburgh area.The Fellows work four days a week at companies that are specific to their interests. On Fridays, they attend classes that focus on spiritual discipline and leadership at Trinity Seminary. Many of them continue their employment following the internship, and all receive valuable work experience and make important connections with area business people. Both Adam Shaffer and Alex Winger are 2011 business graduates who launched careers because of the Christian leadership training and hands-on experience provided by the Pittsburgh Fellows, which Adam describes as a “hybrid program that marries real-world business with classes and the community of a small college environment.” Through the program, Adam was connected with the CEO of Trib Total Media, one of Pittsburgh’s largest media companies. He was subsequently offered a position in their marketing department and has been working on various projects ever since.

57 42

students have been a part of the program

Pittsburgh-area employers hiring Fellows and Fellows alumni

Pittsburgh Fellows • Est. 2006

Alex is employed at PGT Trucking, where he completed his internship.“I would never have gotten the job if the Pittsburgh Fellows had not given me face time with the company,” he says.“It has been a wonderful experience.” Emily Jensen, a 2009 business administration graduate with a concentration in economics, has found that participating as a Fellow has provided her with great opportunities as well.

“My experience with the Pittsburgh Fellows program has been phenomenal,” says Emily. “I have been so encouraged by how much Becca Chapman (MSOL ’04), the Director of the Pittsburgh Fellows, cares about each of us in the program as individuals and how many business leaders in Pittsburgh have bought into the vision.” Designed to be an effective gateway to move from student to worker, Adam explains that one of the main benefits of the program is that Fellows don’t have to face this transition alone. “You get to be best friends with other like-minded young professionals in the same city, going through the same changes and trials that you are,” he says.“I’ve seen wonderful friendships blossom. From Bible studies to downtown hangouts to road trips, the extracurricular Fellows activities are worth the journey alone.” Emily adds that past Fellows participants often provide additional support: “The Fellows program really is a great way to not only get immersed in business,

• Fellows take four courses: Apologetics, Engaging Contemporary Culture, Urban Leadership, Business Leadership

• Fellows receive 12 graduate credits • Fellows give two to four hours of service a week to their church • The Fellows program provides rental housing, including rent, furnishings and utilities, at two locations— Sewickley and Highland Park

but in the Christian community as well. I was placed at a company where there are already three other Fellows program alumni employed. It has been great to come in to a place where there are like-minded individuals to offer me daily encouragement.” So, what do these Fellows have to say to other recent graduates and those about to finish their degrees? “I would highly recommend that Geneva College students contact the Pittsburgh Fellows program and see if it’s the right fit for them,” says Adam.“If there is a better program out there that provides a better transition from college life to the professional world for young Christians, I have certainly never heard of it.” “I encourage anyone who is unsure of what they want to do after college to look into the program—it may help you discover where you need to be in life,” says Alex.“The experiences you get from the employment and interactions with other Fellows make it well worth it.” “I would absolutely recommend the Fellows to Geneva students,” says Emily.“It is a great way to break out of the proverbial ‘college bubble’ in a way that allows one to have Christian community while learning how to be a light in the business world.” For more information on the Pittsburgh Fellows program, visit pittsburghfellows.com.

M y Fat he r ’ s B u s i n e s s

Following the Leader By Amanda ( K A Ska l avic h ’0 6) Flinner

Nobody would have blamed Lutitia “Tish” (Myles ’75) Clipper (MSOL ’00) if she felt overwhelmed when she came to Geneva College in the early ’70s. The engineering major was entering a field still dominated by men, and few other women were going with her. She could have felt out of place. She could have felt pressured to try a different major. She could have felt lost even on a small campus. She could have, but she didn’t. One of the first lessons she learned at Geneva was that, through God, all things are possible. “It was never considered impossible for me to earn an engineering degree,” she remembers. “The professors wanted me to succeed, wanted to encourage me to move forward.” And that’s exactly what she did—so much so that Tish has made a career out of helping others discover new possibilities. As an engineer for Peoples Natural Gas, she persuades consumers to consider alternate, environmentally-friendly resources. And, as a professor in Geneva’s Masters of Science in Organizational Leadership (MSOL) program, she encourages students to explore ideas and strategies to become innovative MSOL Program servant-leaders. In 2008, Tish began teaching in Geneva’s MSOL program, which is designed to teach leadership skills through a combination of theory and fieldbased application. In classes like Professional Development, Leadership and Communication, and Research Methods, students learn to navigate issues they will face in the complex and everchanging workplace.

Geneva’s program is unique among organizational leadership programs because of its faith-based foundation and goal to produce responsible servant-leaders. “I think that’s what makes the difference at Geneva. It’s not just an institution for education. It’s an institution that encourages people to grow into who they are and who they can be in Christ,” Tish says.

>90

“It’s a master’s that relates to the heartbeat of what is happening in this society today, being that so many corporate cultures are experiencing dynamic change. It enables students to be able to understand how to best utilize their strengths and market them to the employment opportunities that are available and also, if necessary, redirect

10 28

• Five cohorts start per year with an average group size of 15 students

those strengths and talents to adapt to the changes they are seeing happen right before their eyes,” Tish explains.

• Six locations— Beaver Falls, Butler, Johnstown, Monroeville, Pittsburgh, South Hills • Earn a master’s degree in two years, meeting one night a week

Tish carried that encouragement with her for years as she worked toward her engineering degree as an undergraduate, returned to Geneva to earn her master’s in the MSOL program and earned her Ph.D. from the University of Pittsburgh. Now, she hopes to give it back. “I’m trying to encourage and inspire students in the way that I was encouraged and inspired,” she says. While Tish is teaching students how to use their individual God-given resources, she’s also showing consumers how to use natural resources responsibly through her job at Peoples Natural Gas. Over 359,000 residential, commercial and industrial customers throughout 16 counties in Western Pennsylvania rely on service from Peoples Natural Gas. The company’s concerns go beyond how customers heat their homes and businesses, but also how they fuel their vehicles. That’s where Tish comes in. Tish works in Peoples’ Vehicle Marketing Development program, making natural gas vehicles more accessible to consumers and businesses by being fully immersed in every aspect of the business. Whether it’s networking with others to create more natural gas refilling stations, communicating with companies who manufacture conversion equipment, or test driving the natural gas-powered Honda Civic GX through the Fort Pitt Tunnel, it’s all a part of the job.

00 And that job is a part of something even bigger. “Everything I do in my life is driven to bring glory and honor to the Lord in all of

leaders have graduated since the MSOL program began in 1996

my actions and my attitudes, and I believe that as a Christian, it is imperative that we would be responsible and that we would be concerned about how we deal with the resources that the Lord has given us,” she says. Before we can be responsible in using our God-given resources, we have to first discover what they are and how we can use them. As an engineer, Tish discusses environmental resources, pointing out that natural gas is a cleaner, greener fuel choice than gasoline and diesel, and is abundant in the Western Pennsylvania region. As a professor, Tish focuses on personal resources, helping students to discover and understand their unique skill sets that they can later use as leaders in the workplace—and they can all be leaders. “Anybody can still be a leader within an organization by virtue of how well they understand themselves, their skill sets and their positioning in the organization,” she says. Anything is possible. G

“I’m trying to encourage and inspire students in the way that I was encouraged and inspired.” 29

in service

Dr. Gary Vander Plaats by A dam R ow e ’14

Tax returns. To some, the phrase evokes a hectic rush to complete

areas of their lives. Even taxes can be turned into serving opportunities.

paperwork before a government deadline. To a select few Geneva

The program fits well with “who we are as an institution and the

College students led by business professor Dr. Gary Vander Plaats,

kind of things that we try to teach our students,” states Vander

however, the phrase simply reminds them of a recent service opportunity.

Plaats, who first brought the program to Geneva during the ’90s. Not only is the volunteer service a hands-on application of the

This spring Vander Plaats oversaw the IRS Volunteer Income Tax

accounting skills that students learn in the classroom, but it’s

Assistance (VITA) Program at Geneva, which filed free basic tax

a practical application of the godly worldview that is

forms on behalf of members of the Beaver Falls community. From

promoted at Geneva.

February 1 until April 15, a team of four business majors staffed the program, completing tax forms for the participants.

“God milks the cows through those called to that work,” Vander Plaats says, quoting Martin Luther. Cow-milkers and accountants

The program, which is aimed at the poor, the elderly and anyone

alike are called to their vocations by God. Providing a free tax

hard pressed to fill out their own forms, has several restrictions.

service for those in need employs the biblical tenet of helping

Only those who make below $45,000 a year or are above the

others within the field of accounting.

age of 62 are eligible and certain information must be provided. “The overall teaching of Reformation thinkers is that our work matters The success of the program relied heavily on the students,

to God, and no matter how so-called mundane those tasks may be,

according to Vander Plaats. He was the initiator, but stepped

it matters,” Vander Plaats says. “We try to teach that.”

back once the wheels of the program began to spin. “I was the site coordinator, but I did not do the tax returns,” Vander Plaats

The community responded. Diverse individuals from a breadth

relates. As a general rule, he says, one student did the tax return,

of unique backgrounds turned out for the tax service, and all

and then allowed another to review it. When the IRS needed to

were thankful. “We did enjoy getting to know them a bit,” says

contact the program, Vander Plaats would relay emails. An IRS

student volunteer Jessica Hall. “They were always extremely grateful.”

agent located in Pittsburgh fact-checked all the tax forms. Just like those who benefited from the tax service, Jessica also A major in business isn’t required in order to volunteer, but this

found the experience to be a rewarding one: “We did get the

year, business majors composed the entirety of the group. The

chance to pray with one client and I corresponded with the

students, all of whom took Vander Plaats’ Taxation course last fall,

individual throughout the tax season.”

were well equipped to deal with their clients. All the VITA volunteers will graduate before the 2013 tax season, but hope to see other

VITA’s goal was “to build goodwill between the college and the

students step up and continue the service next year.

community,” says Vander Plaats, “and I think that was accomplished.”

The VITA program, to Vander Plaats’ eyes, is a clear application of Geneva’s mission to mentor students who will glorify God with all

G class notes

Class Notes are available on geneva.edu. Visit the site to learn about fellow classmates. Submit an update so they can stay connected with you.

Photos appear within or before the corresponding class note.

1947

1979

Dr. Norman Carson, Professor Emeritus of English, recently published Precious Son: The Impact of AIDS on an Evangelical Christian Family. The book chronicles the life of the Carsons’ eldest son, Mark (’76), who died in 1994, and reveals the overwhelming sorrow his death caused. Furthermore, it celebrates the Carsons’ recovery through the Lord’s blessing. It is available in two formats: paper and e-book.

Tim Davies began working at Ohio University in April of 2012 as the Senior Budget Analyst. Tim graduated with a Master of Public Administration from OU in June 2011 and was recognized as an Overall Outstanding Student by the Voinovich School of Leadership and Public Affairs.

1971 Chuck Milliken decided to hang up his ranger hat at the end of 2011 for the last time after 42 years of working for the U.S. National Park Service (NPS). After working two summers in Yellowstone National Park while attending Geneva College in the late 1960s, the ‘call of the wild’ drew Chuck away from his planned career major in the accounting and business world. Since that time, he and his wife Marjorie (Dennison ’73) traveled extensively across the United States during nine transfers from one unit of the NPS system to another. Chuck’s last 10 years with the NPS were in Salt Lake City, UT, where he worked with multiple partnership organizations developing site plans and a variety of interpretive media for four of the nation’s long distance national historic trails. Chuck and Marjorie will remain in the Salt Lake Valley, at least for the foreseeable future. Their immediate plans are to relax, travel to the many national park areas they have not yet visited, and return to some of the locations where they lived and worked to catch up with the lives of the many friends and acquaintances they made in the communities bordering the parks where Chuck was assigned. Chuck plans to remain active with several of the volunteer organizations that labor to preserve the remnants of the historic roads taken by those daring adventurers who settled the west over 170 years ago.

1972 Bob Carlsen was elected to the Woodland Park, Colorado City Council on April 3, 2012.

1973

Theodore Lai married Vanessa Szeto on December 31, 2011. The newlyweds are living in Duarte, CA.

1998

Tom Nagy was inducted into the AlleghenyKiski Valley Sports Hall of Fame on May 19, 2012. Tom set many records while playing football for the Golden Tornadoes.

1981 Martha (McNally) Rowe was recently promoted to the senior government grade (GGD) 13 by the National Security Agency (NSA). Martha has worked at the NSA for 25 years. She currently serves as a Senior Staff Officer in its Information Assurance Directorate.

1983 Joyce (McBurney) and Michael DeFont celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary on October 11, 2011. Joyce is an Adjunct Instructor at Mount Saint Mary College, New York, in the physical education department. She is also teaching American Red Cross courses at a local high school and runs the pool at the local YMCA summer camp.

Michelle (McCoy) married Martin Hubenthal on October 16, 2010 at Calvary Orthodox Presbyterian Church in Harrisville, PA, where they are members. The ceremony was attended by Karl A. Hubenthal ’68, Johannes Hubenthal ’00, Connie (Lora ’99) Troyer, Andrew Close ’99 and Deborah (Kuenzel ’98) Close. Michelle and Martin’s daughter, Mara Anne, was born November 9, 2011. Michelle enjoys being a full-time mom. The Hubenthals reside near Emlenton, PA.

1985

1999

Louis Petolicchio is currently serving as the head of the education team for the Constitutional Organization of Liberty in Lebanon, PA.

Todd and Joy (Pipping ’00) Eckstein announce the birth of their son, Liam John, on September 12, 2011. Liam is well loved by his older siblings Seth, Zoie and Hope.

1988 Becky Weliczko is working at Citicorp in Tampa, FL, as a Capital Project Sourcing Manager. She is instrumental in reducing contract costs by contributing to operational goals and personnel relationships for the company.

1994

Karen (Schockey) Spain received a Master of Education from Chowan University in May 2012. Recently inducted into Alpha Chi and Kappa Delta Pi, she was awarded Best Paper Presentation at the Graduate Level during the Chowan University Student Research Conference for the paper, “Out of Balance: STEM Education vs. President Obama’s Educational Agenda.” She presented the same paper in poster format at the North Carolina Association of Colleges and Teacher Educators annual spring forum.

Marjorie (Dennison) Milliken —See Milliken 1971

2000

2005

Joy (Pipping) Eckstein —See Eckstein 1999

Audrey Ann Irons (MAHE ’08) and Zachary Tyler Feldkamp were married July 18 on the beach at the Amelia Island, Florida, Ritz-Carlton. Audrey is employed by the local school district in Baltimore, MD.

Jeremiah Johnson was recently honored as the 2012 Neiderhoffer Fellowship recipient at John Jay College. The award is given to a doctoral candidate in memory of Professor Arthur Niederhoffer, who was a distinguished policing practitioner and scholar. Jeremiah is pictured receiving the award from Arthur’s son, Roy. In April, Jeremiah was reassigned to the position of Detective Sergeant with the Darien Police Department (CT).

Jessica (Kravits) and George Gardner proudly announce the birth of their daughter, Emily Garnet Gardner, on September 2, 2011. Emily joins big brother Guerin Stephen Gardner. The Gardners reside in North Franklin Township, PA.

Joshua and Natalie (Vidnovic) Janov announce the birth of their son, Samuel Kennedy Janov, born on July 13, 2011. The Janov family resides in North Versailles, PA.

2003

Justin and Randi (Spaulding) Lambright announce the birth of their daughter, Abijah Jane, in November 2011.

Michael and Julie Barton (MAHE ’07) announce the birth of their third child, Luke Daniel Barton, on January 2, 2012. He is the grandson of Russell Klicker ’78 and Patricia (McManaway ’78) Klicker. Sarah (Snyder) and Thomas S. Bird III announce the birth of their second child, Elizabeth Ann Bird. Elizabeth joins her older brother, Thomas Sheldon Bird IV. The Bird family is living in Beaver, PA.

32 28

Julie (Snyder) and Matthew Runkle announce the birth of their son, Lyric James. He is much loved by older sister Emi.

2004 Chris Kissel and his wife, Jessica, announce the birth of their son, Benjamin. The Kissel family resides in Pittsburgh, where Chris works for Apple, Inc. Keats (MAHE) and April (MAHE) McGonigal celebrate the birth of their son, Clark Ryan. Clark joins big sister Ella Joy. The McGonigal family is living in Bend, OR.

Rachel (Sproul, MSOL) and John Michalko welcomed Alexis Luanna on March 21, 2012. Rachel resigned her position as webmaster at Geneva to stay at home with Lexi. They reside in Houston, PA.

2011

2006 Alison (Tripp) Agnew was married to Joseph Agnew on June 10, 2011. Alison is working at River Pediatric Therapies as a Speech-Language Pathologist.

Stephen and Tammy (Kish) Stouffer, after five years of marriage, are excited to announce the birth of their daughter, Eva Grace Stouffer, born on January 5, 2012.

Tiana (Sebastian) and Michael Proudfoot gratefully announce the adoption of their daughter, Nadia Joy Kabahumuza Proudfoot. Nadia was born in Uganda on July 5, 2009. After spending a month in her home country with her new parents, she arrived home in the U.S. on February 25, 2012.

Megan (Espenschied) Tritt was married to Brent Tritt on September 27, 2009. She received her MSW from the University of Pittsburgh. She is now working at Magee Women’s Hospital as a Hospital Social Worker MSW, LSW.

Tiffany (Smith) and Jake Bowser were married on May 12, 2012. Tiffany is working as a Staff Accountant at Cottrill, Arbutina and Associates in Beaver, PA. See “Monday Morning Reassurance” on page 14.

2009

Jeff Robinson has had a very exciting year. He graduated from Westminster Theological Seminary with his Master of Divinity in 2011. He became a member of Wycliffe in December 2011, married Holly Higgins in February 2012 and hopes to head out for their first assignment in Musoma, Tanzania in the summer of 2012. Justin and Lauren (Sarvis ’07) Cunningham were married on October 15, 2011 in Akron, OH. Lauren is currently employed with Manitowoc Cranes in Shady Grove, PA, while Justin is employed by Federal Energy Regulatory Commission in Hagerstown, MD. They currently reside in Hagerstown, MD. Amelia (Ward) and Kihei Takiura announce the birth of their son, Kanta, on October 25, 2011.

2007 Lauren (Sarvis) Cunningham— See Cunningham 2009

Zacharias and Kathryn (Edmonds) Watt were united in marriage on August 20, 2011.

To share your news, visit geneva.edu/ class_notes and click on “Update Form.” High-resolution pictures of at least three megapixels in size may be submitted in JPEG format. You 2010 may also mail your news and Christina (Jarzenske) Griffin (DCP photos to: #238) was married to William Griffin on February 13, 2010. Christina is working for GENEVA COLLEGE PennDOT as an Accounting Assistant. Office of Alumni Relations 3200 College Avenue Beaver Falls, PA 15010

G class notes

In Memoriam

30s

50s

60s

Dr. Thomas M. Baldwin Sr. ’33 on May 2, 2012

Frank H. Batchelor ’50 on March 29, 2012

Donald E. Alexander ’60 on February 21, 2012

Delos D. Duff ’33 on November 28, 2011

Gust E. Cantakis ’50 on April 25, 2012

Leroy F. ‘Skip’ Stewart ’60 on February 8, 2012

Laura R. Grabman ’35 on February 9, 2012

Rudolph V. Massa ’50 on March 22, 2012

Ambassador Eugene L. Scassa ’61 on March 22, 2012

Eugene F. Jannuzi ’36 on December 4, 2011

Fred A. Nahas ’50 on March 2, 2012

Norman D. Thomashefsky ’36 on April 22, 2012

Harry E. Snedeker ’51 on March 11, 2012

Grace Winifred (Coleman ’38) Elliott on March 4, 2012

Richard L. Shafer ’52 on May 19, 2012

Kathryn B. (Reynolds ’39) Bream on January 15, 2012

Gilbert D. Flocker ’54 on February 13, 2011

Sophia P. (Polovina ’39) White on December 5, 2011

Neil H. Thomas ’55 on October 26, 2011

40s

Virginia C. (James ’56) McCauley on December 2, 2011

Gladys F. (Fond ’46) Durland on May 20, 2012 Charles “Ed” Murphy ’46 on February 26, 2012 Richard L. Gaugler ’47 on April 25, 2012 Maryanne (Hurley ’48) Stinson on April 13, 2012 Helen L. (Henderson ’49) Davis on April 23, 2012 Robert C. Doerr ’49 on March 7, 2012 Donald E. Powell ’49 on April 23, 2012

Frank C. Miskow ’57 on December 1, 2011 Gerald L. Angle ’58 on May 5, 2012 Philip E. Dalbey ’58 on April 18, 2012 William A. Frankland ’58 on February 18, 2012 William C. Snyder ’59 on May 23, 2012 Norma (Woods ’59) White on May 7, 2012. See “In Conclusion” on page 36.

Patricia A. Covert ’62 on May 20, 2012 James B. Durbin ’62 on May 16, 2012 Margaret V. (Beglin ’63) Howarth on November 28, 2011 Randolph M. Kelley ’65 on April 16, 2012 Vincent F. Ricci ’65 on April 16, 2012 Jeanne A. Shore ’69 on February 16, 2012

70s Bonny S. (Avery ’70) Hemphill on November 27, 2011 Alison D. (Gennari ’72) Stright on November 28, 2011 Donald E. Gallagher ’74 on April 8, 2012

90s Patricia J. (Edmiston ’90) Skorupan on March 17, 2012 Colleen (Breckenridge ’92) Corbin on March 7, 2012

Elizabeth ‘Betsy’ M. (Minehart ’96) Larnino (DCP #059) on December 10, 2011 Janet E. Konchar (MSOL ’99) on April 12, 2010

00s

enevans gAnniversary The Genevans’ 75th concert season opens during Homecoming on October 20.

Retiring after leading the choir in over 725

Carie Ann (Shenesky ’00) Harris on December 11, 2011 Dr. Jerome A. Stevenson ’03 (DCP #16) on January 25, 2012

Friends

concerts and more than 40 tours, beloved director Dr. Bob Copeland has passed the baton to a new conductor, Professor of Voice Dr. David Kenneth Smith. As one era comes to a close, Geneva College salutes Dr. Copeland’s 31 years of faithful

Charles “Chuck” W. Colson on Saturday, April 21, 2012. Chuck was Special Counsel to President Nixon and the first member of his administration to go to prison for Watergate-related charges. Following his conversion to Christianity, Chuck founded the non-profit ministry Prison Fellowship. Geneva awarded Chuck an Honorary Doctor of Public Service in 1987. Dr. W. Joseph McFarland on January 27, 2012. Joe retired as an emeritus president of Geneva College. He served from 1984-1992. See “In Conclusion” on page 36. Dr. J. Randall Nutter on December 23, 2011. A member of Geneva’s business faculty from 1992-2008, Randy was the chairman of the Department of Business, Accounting and Finance. He was also named Director of Graduate Business Studies when Geneva introduced its MBA program in 1999. Randy retired as an emeritus professor at Geneva.

Inclusion of all items in Class Notes is at the discretion of Geneva College, in accordance with the Community Standards of the institution.

service. And we welcome Dr. Smith as he ushers in a brand new era during the choir’s diamond anniversary year, while continuing the organization’s standard of choral excellence. Visit geneva.edu throughout the year for updates on The Genevans’ 75th anniversary celebration.

G in conclusion

In 2012, we bid farewell to two very dear friends of Geneva College: Dr. W. Joseph McFarland, President Emeritus; and Mrs. Norma (Woods ’59) White, alumna and beloved wife of President Emeritus Dr. Jack White ’58. Many in the Geneva community submitted tributes celebrating their service to the institution and the Christ-like example they provided to students, faculty, staff, friends and family throughout their lives. Visit geneva.edu/memorial to read more tributes,

or provide your own, for these and other leaders of Geneva College.

Dr. W. Joseph McFarland (1929-2012) “I was able to work with Dr. McFarland as a member of the Alumni Council during his time as President, and I appreciated very much the use he made of God’s gifts to the benefit of Geneva College.” Elizabeth Scott ’72, former member of Geneva Alumni Council “I served on the Geneva Board of Trustees when we extended the call to him to serve and lead the College. He loved the College and her students, and was instrumental in extending Geneva’s outreach.” Dee Morris ’59, former member of Board of Trustees “I appreciated his quiet strength and professionalism that guided faculty and administration from stormy seas to a calm harbor.” Dr. Norman Carson ’47, Professor Emeritus of English “It was a real privilege to serve as secretary to Joe during his eight years as President of Geneva College. He was an amazing person, always friendly, full of energy and a real joy to all who knew him.” Marian Dunlap, former Secretary to Dr. McFarland “Dr. McFarland knew the students at Geneva. I was so amazed that he’d say hello to you—by name. I was blessed to have known him and be a part of Geneva College—a place he loved. Thank you, Dr. McFarland, for your love for Geneva and for knowing your students. You were a wonderful example to us.” Rachelle (Abbey ’91) White “Dr. McFarland’s vision, hospitality, kindness and leadership impacted the college as an institution, and the lives of all those who came to Geneva during his time as President. Many thanks, Dr. McFarland for your service and your example of a joyful life lived for the Lord.” Donanne (Parkhurst ’92) Seese

calenda r August 27

Fall semester begins

September 13-14

GVALS— We as Freeman: Plessy v. Ferguson author Keith Medley and Keith Plessy

Tenth Avenue North concert, Metheny Fieldhouse

Business Day

October

Mrs. Norma (Woods ’59) White (1936 -2012) “Humble in spirit, selfless in service, abounding in love. Those are but a few ways to describe Norma. Her college, her church and

13-16 20 25-26

“Norma was a most gracious lady and had a lively winsome faith. She was also a delight to be with. Her gentle wit was a complement to her. Her selfless support of Jack in their joint ministry was a model and a blessing to see.” Tim Russell ’79, former College Chaplain

Homecoming GVALS— Nobel-prize winning chemist Roald Hoffmann

Science, Technology, Engineering and Math Day

her community have all been touched by her life.” Sam Siple ’85, former Vice President of Institutional Advancement

Fall Break

November 9-10 15-16

Family Weekend GVALS—Art historian Elizabeth Kessler

21-26

Thanksgiving break

“She attended every Geneva College function and always had a warm smile, kind word and gracious demeanor for everyone. She was the epitome of what Geneva is about and was a perfect partner for Dr. Jack White whom I’ve admired for a long time.” Ted Kay ’71, Geneva Alumni Council “Norma was always most gracious and the consummate hostess while

December 1 December Graduation Reception 14 End of fall semester 15 TobyMac concert, Consol Energy Center

serving as ‘The First Lady’ at Geneva College.” Jim Pennington ’57 “My clearest memory of Norma White was when she and Dr. White

January 14

Spring semester begins

hosted a group of honors students at their home. When I think of servant leadership, Christ comes to mind first, followed by Dr. and Mrs. White.” Stephanie (Vesolich ’00) Wilsey “Norma was a gracious hostess, serving Geneva’s family with a true servant’s heart.” Susan (Gantz ’88) Layton, Professor of Communication and department Chair

Check the calendar at

geneva.edu for details and more event listings, or call 724.847.6520.