THE MAGAZINE OF HARCUM COLLEGE
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SUMMER 2020
THE PORTFOLIOS of second-year Interior Design students were showcased online in lieu of the annual campus event. Their designs included (clockwise) Open Flex Seating plan by Annie Joseph, Tahoe Lake House by Jennifer Gable, and Malibu Beach House by Tara Reinmiller.
THE MAGAZINE OF HARCUM COLLEGE • SUMMER 2020
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
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COMMUNITY NEWS
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CAMPUS EVENTS
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ADVANCEMENT NEWS
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GRANTS & AWARDS
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FACULTY & STAFF NEWS
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ALUMNI NEWS
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ATHLETICS ROUNDUP
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VIRTUAL COMMENCEMENT Excerpts from our virtual commencement speakers included messages to inspire grads. CONNECTING IN THE DIGITAL REALM Though coronavirus disrupted campus operations, faculty and students persevered for the highest quality academic experience—digitally.
STORIES OF HOPE Despite the isolation imposed by the pandemic, Harcum students, faculty, and staff found ways to share hope with others.
BEAR PRIDE: JILLIAN LYDON ’15 Five years out from completing her Harcum education, one alumna helps ensure dental students finish theirs.
This Issue PATCHES STAFF Executive Editor John Hayden Editor Gale Martin Contributors Mark Hostutler Drew Kelly Fran Salvacion Melissa Samango Amy Shumoski Bernadette Walsh Art Direction & Design Lilian Crooks Photography Jackie Pursell A’17 Amy Shumoski K.S.N. Images BOARD OF TRUSTEES Alexander Klein, Chairman Dennis S. Marlo, Vice-Chair Karl A. Thallner, Jr., Vice-Chair Louise A. Strauss, Secretary David M. Jacobson, CPA, Treasurer Jon Jay DeTemple, Ph.D., President
Connecting in the
Digital Realm
Denis C. Boyle Joan P. Capuzzi, VMD Samuel P. Cimino, DDS Kevin Dow, MBA Ellen Farber ’12 Kent Griswold, Ph.D., MBA Tracy Johnson ’04 Marvin B. Levitties R. Ivan Lugo, DMD, MBA J. Michael McNamara Theodore A. Rosen
PATCHES MAGAZINE is published biannually by the Office of Communications & Marketing at Harcum College in Bryn Mawr, PA. Please send address changes and class notes to the Office of Alumni Relations located at 750 Montgomery Avenue in Bryn Mawr, PA 19010; by email: alumni@harcum.edu; or by calling 610-526-6060. MISSION STATEMENT Harcum College provides its students with an opportunity for outstanding academic, career, and life preparation. We teach, mentor, and prepare students for success, excellence, civility, empowerment, integrity, community service, and respect for diversity to assure that every student is valued and supported.
Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. The comments and opinions expressed in this magazine do not necessarily reflect those of Harcum College. The editorial board reserves the right to edit and select content for Patches that adheres to Harcum College’s commitment to maintaining the high standard of integrity that has always been characteristic of the college. © 2020 HARCUM COLLEGE
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SUMMER 2020
From the President ARISTOTLE, one of the greatest philosophers who ever lived, once said, “Education is a refuge in adversity.” At the start of spring semester, no one could have predicted the level of adversity we would face as a college community because of the pandemic. The trials imposed by COVID-19 forced us all—students, faculty, and staff—to embrace a new normal. As documented in the feature story, as challenging as it was to convert all our classes to remote delivery platforms inside two weeks, Harcum wasted no time carrying out transformative education. In a piece about CARES Act grants for students, recipient Kendra Kennedy mentions how she and other fashion students found sanctuary in connecting online and sending each other motivational texts. During Harcum’s Virtual Commencement, guest speaker Rev. Dr. Lorina Marshall-Blake encouraged the Class of 2020 to summon the courage to stay together despite the pandemic tearing us apart. Student Government Association President Rachael McDaniel stated confidently that we all will emerge from this unprecedented time stronger, finding a common bond in our shared adversity. The Power of Possibilities was a not only a stellar event showcasing this year’s scholarship students, but also became bywords offering refuge to all students and inspiration to those empowered to help them succeed. I am heartened by the outpouring of care from students and alumni during this crisis. The “Stories of Hope” and the numerous examples of “Alumni in Service” will fill you with pride, as they did me. It was uncanny that one of our instructors mastered online learning in pursuit of her graduate degree just in time to help dental students. You can read more about Jillian Lydon ’15 and her educational aspirations in “Bear Pride.” This issue is a testament to creativity, to compassion, and to our core values, including respect for diversity, to which we will always remain true. All best wishes,
JON JAY DETEMPLE, PH.D., MBA
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Community News CARES Grants Help Hundreds of Students
When second-year Fashion programs major Kendra Kennedy ’20 received a check for $817 in May, she was filled with gratitude. “Thank you, God. Thank you, Harcum College,” she said. “I was able to get groceries and other necessities. COVID-19 really exposed for me how imperative it is to have a safety net, and Harcum provided that for me.” The money came from the Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund, part of the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security “CARES” Act. Harcum received over $1.7 million, with half the funds earmarked for students as emergency grants for expenses due to disrupted campus operations, and the other half for Harcum’s institutional needs. The Financial Aid office reported that 1,086 students qualified for grants. To date, more than 1,022 students received CARES funding. Animal Center Management student Josephine Klumpp said, “Receiving the check was a welcome relief.” Her mother primarily supports the household of five. Another family member has a compromised immune system. “Because of
this, I am unwilling to potentially expose him to COVID-19 by seeking a job at this time. The money has greatly helped keep us afloat in this situation.” A hands-on learner with projects to complete, Kennedy faced obstacles with online learning away from campus. She had relied on tools Harcum offered—the sewing machine, mannequins, and materials. “It was challenging to get ahold of those resources. Graduation was a few months away. I knew that I had to finish strong.” Kennedy and other fashion students stayed connected. “We often would send reminders and motivational texts to keep each other going.” Klumpp hopes to finish her degree when Harcum’s Bryn Mawr campus reopens this fall. Kennedy plans to continue her formal education and obtain a bachelor’s in Fashion/ Fashion Merchandising.
“I loved learning from my professors, up close and personal.” KENDRA KENNEDY ’20
KENDRA KENNEDY ’20, left, came to campus to celebrate her newly minted associate’s degree.
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SUMMER 2020
Harcum Donates PPE IN RESPONSE TO AN URGENT APPEAL from the Einstein Healthcare Network, Harcum donated thousands of pieces of Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) this past March. Within four days of Einstein’s request, Harcum Senior Vice President and Chief Academic Officer Dr. Julia Ingersoll reached out to all Allied Health program directors, corralling thousands of supplies, and handed them off to Carol Prushan, Chief Development Officer at Einstein, who met Ingersoll at the Bryn Mawr Campus Academic Center. “As a college with a long and proud history of preparing students to work in healthcare,” Ingersoll explained, “Harcum understood the importance of supporting local healthcare workers by providing the protection they need to effectively serve their patients while also preserving their own health.” Earlier in March, Harcum also donated a few thousand pieces of PPE to Montgomery County. PARTNERSHIP SITES PROGRAM EXPANDS Three new sites offering human services degrees will open for Fall 2020 while expanding Harcum’s outreach and geography. The Delta Family Services offices in Glenside and Levittown, Pennsylvania provide a wide-range of community-based services, including foster care, adoption, and support services for adults with developmental disabilities. “This new partnership with Delta allows us to broaden the audiences we serve,” said Evelyn Santana, Executive Director of the Partnership Sites program. By partnering with Mt. Carmel Baptist Church, Harcum now has a footprint in West Philadelphia. Santana appreciates that Harcum can start serving that particular area
Julia Ingersoll (left) meets Carol Prushan.
in the city. Mt. Carmel has a long history of community outreach and engagement, including serving the homeless with Chosen 300 every first Monday of the month and Church members reading to school children to impact literacy. The Partnership Sites program allows students to obtain a college degree in their neighborhoods and each student receives a community-based grant. HARCUM LAUNCHES OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY ASSSISTING PROGRAM IN ARIZONA An 16-month online Occupational Therapy Assisting (OTA) program has been launched in Sun City, Arizona that blends online and applied learning and is now recruiting for January 2021. The program will include online courses, skills labs near Phoenix offering hands-on learning and practice, and a fieldwork component for real-world experience with patients. Senior Vice President Julia Ingersoll explained that the Arizona launch is the culmination of a two-year group effort. The Harcum Orbis partnership began in July, 2018. OTA Program Director James Foster said, “Harcum OTA has a high quality curriculum, faculty, and an amazing reputation within the Pennsylvania region. We look forward to bringing those same successful features to Arizona.” Harcum chose the Arizona location because that region is currently experiencing some of the fastest OTA job growth in the country, due in part to the increased aging population. Graduates of this new associate-degree program are eligible to take the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT®) examination for licensure.
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Campus Events LECTURE SERIES EMPHASIZES THE VALUE OF SELF-CARE The presenter in the third lecture series event, Positive Psychologist Elizabeth Elizardi (right) provided an informative session on “Self-Care: How to Live Well” on February 20 to about 70 guests assembling in the Trout Library, roughly half of whom hailed from the wider community. Elizardi offered practical tips for staying psychologically healthy, which included engaging with your strengths to open up a pathway to positive emotions, which will be energizing. Elizardi is the Lower School Director at the Agnes Irwin School.
HARCUM CHANGES PROGRAM NAME TO VETERINARY NURSING As part of the program’s name change, the Veterinary Nursing Program hosted an Information Session in support of the Pennsylvania Veterinary Nursing Initiative on Saturday, November 16. More than 70 professionals attended. Presenters included Ken Yagi, Jaclyn Mason, and Kathy Koar ’99. NAVTA launched the Veterinary Nurse Initiative in 2017 to unite the veterinary technician profession in educational standards and scope of practice under the title of Registered Veterinary Nurse. Harcum was one of the first colleges and universities to officially change the name of its program to Veterinary Nursing in 2019.
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SUMMER 2020
SEALANT DAY Dental Hygiene students treated pediatric patients aged 6–12 on February 17, Presidents’ Day, offering oral care instruction and cavity preventing sealants at no cost. This program serves the community while allowing our students to obtain valuable hours working in pediatric dental service. DENTAL EXPO SOLD OUT The 14th annual Dental Expo on Saturday, March 7 packed in 250 attendees, all of whom work in the dental professions, including Dental Hygiene and Dental Assisting. The event is organized by Terri Groody, Director of Professional Studies, and offers valuable continuing education units which help dental professionals retain their certifications.
Online Commencement Recognizes Class of 2020
STUDENT AWARD winners Ikeshilia Edwards (left) and William Schneider (above). The President’s Award was given to Cecilia Walsh. The Student Leadership Award was presented to Rachael McDaniel (above), President of SGA.
MORE THAN 400 graduates received associate’s degrees during Harcum College’s first-ever Virtual Commencement, premiering on Friday, May 29, at 11 a.m. The President of the Independence Blue Cross Foundation, Rev. Dr. Lorina Marshall-Blake, who has devoted her life to the health care industry, received an honorary degree—Doctorate in Healthcare Innovation—and provided a moving commencement address. Eight students shared the College’s top honors. Academic Awards were given to four graduates who earned a perfect 4.0 grade point average: Emma Hopkins graduated in December with a degree in Animal Center Management; Theresa Meis also graduated with a degree in Animal Center Management; Scott Stotland studied Human Services at the Diversified Community Partnership Sites program; and Denise Young, who also studied Human Services from the Deliverance Partnership Sites Program.
The Harcum Award was given to two students for demonstrating outstanding achievement in academics while in leadership positions: Ikeshilia Edwards, a Criminal Justice major, who maintained a 3.8 GPA, interned with Common Pleas Judge Timika Lane over the summer; and William Schneider, a Dental Hygiene major, who maintained a 3.67 GPA and served as Class President for the Student American Dental Hygienists’ Association at Harcum. The Student Leadership Award was presented to Rachael McDaniel, President of SGA, who participated in many service projects and campus activities. The President’s Award was given to Cecelia Walsh, a Radiologic Technology major. She tackled her role as Harcum’s mascot “Hatcher” with cheerful enthusiasm, unbounded energy, and great humor. The entire Commencement ceremony is available on Harcum’s YouTube channel.
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Virtual Commencement
“Never Stop Learning” ONE OF THE THINGS I hope you have learned at Harcum is that you can achieve great things. Never let anyone tell you otherwise. I believe education is a lifelong process. We are constantly learning, transitioning through life, always getting better at dealing with the challenges, and in my heart, I know that we will deal with this challenge. Despite all the disruption caused by the coronavirus, it has not prevented us from recognizing you, graduates, and your achievements today. Knowledge and the changes that go with it are accelerating every day. Never stop learning and never stop encouraging others to learn.
From President Jon Jay DeTemple’s Address to Graduates
We need knowledge of ourselves and of each magnificent individual that we come in contact with, different cultures with a multitude of ideas. It’s through this understanding we will find peace. As you venture into the world of work and service, may the God of us all bless and protect you. Let us all salute the graduates of the class of 2020!
Never stop learning and never stop encouraging others to learn.
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SUMMER 2020
LEFT TO RIGHT: 2020 Graduates Human Services major Jasmin Gordon, Dental Hygiene major Brielle Renrick, and PTA major Hyneef Banks submitted photos for their individual recognition slides.
May 29, 2020
This pandemic is challenging our sense of community. But we have to stay together.
“Leadership, Community, and Courage” From Rev. Dr. Lorina Marshall-Blake’s Commencement Address, Independence Blue Cross Foundation President
HELLO, GRADUATES of Harcum College! I wish I could hear your voices saying hello to me. I wish I could see your faces. But guess what: I can feel your hearts. I know they’re bursting with pride. I know they’re full of love for the people who helped you get here. I know there’s probably also some sadness and fear in there about the situation we all find ourselves in. As you graduate from Harcum College, it’s what you do next that will define the meaning of this great accomplishment. The ultimate meaning of this strange, sad time will be defined by what we all do next. Leadership, Community, and Courage. These are the three values we need today, as we meet this great challenge. With the education you’ve received, you have the opportunity to lead and the obligation to serve. In order to lead, you must serve. Think like a leader. Think of ways you can serve. This pandemic is challenging our sense of community. But we have to stay together.
We know that no single person can solve the big problems we face. Who can solve those problems? All of us, together. My final value is something that we desperately need right now. And we have to practice it every day: Courage. Whether you’re going on to another degree, continuing in your career, or starting a new one, I wish you all the best. I have confidence in you. Please have confidence in yourself. But most of all, stay encouraged!
“Making it Through Together”
From Rachael McDaniel’s Commencement Address, Student Government Association President WHO WOULD HAVE THOUGHT we would be celebrating our accomplishments this way? No one expected COVID-19 to shift our plans this way. I definitely did not. It was difficult being separated from friends, faculty, and staff, but like most change, it was unpredictable.We also recognize that this change affected our professors, who had to make adjustments to a new way of teaching. Our “new” normal became online classes, submitting assignments through Canvas, and seeing each other virtually through a screen. But we have risen to the occasion. We embraced this new normal and the challenges that came with it. We now realize that through the strength of this community, together, we can overcome our challenges. In the face of a global pandemic, we have all shown great focus and determination to complete our degrees. No matter what the world throws at us, we share in this accomplishment. And we will be stronger for having made it through this time—together.
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Advancement News First Circle of Excellence Honoree Dr. Samuel P. Cimino was the first Distinguished Honoree to receive the Circle of Excellence Award at the President’s Dinner. In 2019, the Harcum Circle of Excellence was established to honor the College’s most generous donors, specifically those contributing lifetime gifts of $50,000 or more. Each year, one member of this group will be selected as a distinguished honoree in recognition of their commitment of time, talent and treasure to the College. The 2019 honoree was instrumental in establishing Harcum’s Dental Hygiene program. In addition to his financial generosity, he generously gives of his time and talents, actively serving as a member of the Dental Programs Advisory Board since 1989 and as a Harcum College Trustee since 2002. Susan Zeller-Kent ’72 was chosen as the Outstanding Alumna of 2019. In 2003 she helped to formally establish Harcum’s Alumni Association, which she remained involved in since its inception. Jillian Lydon ’15 was selected as the 2019 Outstanding Recent Graduate. She’s been a Harcum Dental faculty member since 2016, and won the President’s Award at Commencement in 2015. The President’s dinner moved to Klein Hall in 2019 to accommodate more guests. The event was hosted by Dr. and Mrs. Jon Jay DeTemple.
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SUMMER 2020
NEW STUDENT EMERGENCY FUND CREATED Harcum created a Student Emergency Fund to help students continue their education through the disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Faculty, staff, trustees, and friends responded to the launching of the Fund with over $11,440 in contributions. Over the past few months, the entire community has adapted to new ways of teaching and learning while staying safely at home. This transition presented unanticipated challenges for students, including educationally related needs and expenses. The Student Emergency Fund offers small grants, ranging from $100-$200, to meet urgent needs such as textbooks, necessary program clearances, and other approved academic expenses. To date, $3,900 has been awarded. A Selection Committee appointed by the president reviews each student application. For more information on the Student Emergency Fund or to make a contribution, please visit the Harcum website or email advancement@harcum.edu.
Grants & Awards
The Power of Possibilities
As the morning sun brightened the Klein Dining Hall on February 28, about 90 scholarship recipients from a wide variety of disciplines, program directors, and donors gathered for the first Power of Possibilities Recognition Brunch. President Jon Jay DeTemple kicked off the brunch, asked students to rise, and remarked, “I stand with our students to welcome everyone and to say, thank you for your generosity.” He explained that students wanted to honor those who provided scholarship gifts and gifts that enhance our campus, student life, and academic programs. “These are the gifts that have created the Power of Possibilities for each of these students.”
In recognition of the International Year of the Nurse, speakers included Yahquia Jones ’20, recipient of the Nurses for Tomorrow Scholarship funded by the Independence Blue Cross Foundation. Jones thanked Foundation President Lorina Marshall-Blake, exclaiming that coming to Harcum “was the best decision of my life” because nursing is a calling that “gives you purpose.” Program Director Kathy Koar introduced Harcum alum and Mount Laurel Animal Hospital’s Sarah Stowman ’15, and Banfield Pet Hospital Practice Manager Rose Dolin. Both hospitals are part of Harcum’s Veterinary Nursing Partners Program, developed by Koar. Partner practices offer student scholarships. Veterinary Nurse Stowman said that growing up, she was a “horse girl,” whose days centered around going to the stable. “With the Harcum Grant, I was able to attend my dream school. As a direct result, I now have my dream job.” Dolin described distinctive traits of Harcum students. “The education they have received through Harcum’s vigorous Veterinary Nursing Program has set the bar so
ABOVE: Trustee Kevin Dow talks with Sarah Stowman ’15 as she prepares to deliver her inspiring remarks. BELOW: Yahquia Jones ’20 with Rev. Lorina Marshall-Blake.
high, they are strong performers from the second they enter our hospitals.” Senior Vice President and CFO John Hayden noted the event’s goal of a HUG—Holding an Uplifting Gathering— and KISS—Keeping it Simple and Sincere. “Scholarships provide access to education, they advance healthcare, help to develop business leaders, promote the arts, meet needs such as the nursing shortage, or help the underserved. Thank you for donating and for caring.”
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Connecting in
the Digital Realm
Phillip Klein Award Winner Julian Crooks gave online sewing lessons to Fashion students.
by Mark Hostutler
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hus, when the COVID-19 pandemic forced the closure of schools across the commonwealth, Harcum’s leaders acted swiftly and efficiently
to ensure that, during the college’s transition to online instruction, student learning would not skip a beat. “All faculty worked hard to keep students engaged, motivated, and on track to complete their courses,” Dr. Julia Ingersoll, Executive Vice President at Harcum
Personal attention
College, said, noting that the college loaned laptops to students who did not have access to a computer. Fashion Design students received online sewing
is the hallmark of
instructions and online critiques of their clothing lines.
instruction at Harcum
their field work needed for graduation and certification
College and one of the many reasons a Harcum education is so valuable.
Occupational Therapy Assistant students are completing through telehealth clinical rotations. Early Childhood Education students designed online classrooms. Photography students experimented with new software and shot pet portraits from home. Students in the Dental Hygiene and Fashion Merchandising programs have completed collaborative video projects. Also, guest speakers have addressed classes via Zoom, and award ceremonies were held virtually to recognize outstanding graduating students in selected programs. “I am especially proud of the telehealth program developed and delivered by the Occupational Therapy Assistant program that paired college students and adults with autism,” said Dr. Ingersoll. “As a result of COVID-19, adults with autism had lost access to social therapy programs.
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“Harcum College students delivered diverse and engaging programs online. The programs were designed to develop and maintain occupational skills. The adults who received online programming, and the caregivers who participated in and learned from the programming, are grateful for this creative collaboration.” The college held its first-ever Virtual Commencement to showcase each graduating student. “There is a deep commitment from the Student Life team and Harcum community to recognize, honor, and celebrate our graduates and to effectively support our graduates’ future endeavors by facilitating virtual opportunities to interact with potential employers and four-year colleges/universities,” said Ed Kovacs, Harcum’s Dean of Student Life. “Throughout the pandemic, we have remained committed to and connected with our students, reminding them of all the campus resources and supports available.” As for prospective students, Rachel Bowen, Harcum’s Vice President of Enrollment Management, and her team have been finding creative ways to work with applicants. Virtual information sessions through Zoom enable future students and their families to meet with admissions counselors, program advisors, and even alumni from their program of interest, all at one time. “Our goal is to provide that one-on-one attention in a way that conveys what Harcum is about,” said Bowen. “I couldn’t be prouder of our enrollment team. They are truly going above and beyond to make sure they connect with their students and keep them on track. We have also been providing our own institutional scholarship called the Harcum Cares Scholarship to help those who may need additional financial assistance during this difficult time.” Mark Hostutler is the editor of VISTA Today, an online news journal that shares the positive stories shaping Chester County, Pennsylvania. He is a veteran of the newspaper industry, having been a sportswriter at the Delaware County Daily Times, and has freelanced for numerous publications throughout the country.
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CONNECTING IN THE DIGITAL REALM
“Throughout the pandemic, we have remained committed to and connected with our students.” Ed Kovacs
#HarcumHelps
Inspiring Stories of Hope During Isolation by Amy Shumoski
Jaelyn Ruiz models one of her masks.
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he global pandemic left so many people isolated, without jobs, and feeling seemingly helpless. It also brought out the best in many of us, allowed us to form new connections, and embark on hobbies and interests that would make an impact on those around us. Harcum’s core value of commitment to community service and its mission to provide outstanding life preparation, were never more evident than during this changing and unsettling situation. Members of the Harcum family stepped up and met challenges to support those around them during these unprecedented times. Leo Doyle, an adjunct instructor in the Criminal Justice program, not only transitioned classroom lectures to an online format for his students, but he also served the Ridley Township community as a police officer. He brought first hand knowledge of working the front lines to his Policing & Police Practices class. He remarked, “I’m so motivated by my students’ interest in criminal justice during these uncharted times.”
Fashion Design students Jaelyn Ruiz and Deja Mayberry used their sewing skills to make hundreds of masks for those in need. Both students recognized the mask shortage and knew their skills could be put to use in a positive way to solve a problem. Ruiz joined a sewing group at her church and used donated supplies to craft masks she gave to nursing homes and hospitals in the Allentown, Bethlehem, and Easton area. Mayberry contributed hers to healthcare workers at Einstein Hospital. “The whole experience was really fun because I was doing something I enjoy. I couldn’t just sit and watch when I knew I was able to help, even if it was just locally,” commented Mayberry. The Occupational Therapy Assistant program was afforded the opportunity to make a new partnership because of the pandemic. They created a telehealth day program with consumers from Lehigh Valley Adult Services. This program provided occupation based services, delivered via a telehealth format, to adults who were not able to attend their in person day program due to the coronavirus. It also allowed our OTA students to gain the time they needed to complete their fieldwork responsibilities and graduate on time. More importantly, it allowed our
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students to build meaningful relationships with consumers. One such relationship was summed up eloquently by one of the consumers, “Nicole”, who sang Rascal Flatts “Bless the Broken Road” to our OTA students Haley O’Donnell and Oksana Malanachak, to thank them for their work. After singing the song, Nicole pointed out, “You see, the virus was the broken road that led me to the OT students.” Not a dry eye in the Google Hangout room. “Our students, faculty, and program quickly adapted to the need of providing occupation based activities in an alternative format. This will serve the program well as we meet challenges to identify traditional fieldwork experiences for our students due to the continued impact of the pandemic. Much credit goes to faculty members Christa Eck, Nikki Lynn, Lynne Rockwell, Kristy Meyer, and Nancy Beck for supporting our students in these programs,” reflected program director Jim Foster. Vicki Tobin ’03, a PTA, worked the front lines at Einstein Medical Center. She performed all therapy treatment sessions for COVID patients bedside with full PPE. “At times the rooms could be very hot, so sweating was a norm. Unfortunately, we experienced the death of multiple patients. Despite being scared of the potential consequences of being exposed to COVID and how that may affect our families, we continued to give the best quality of care to our patients. At times it was physically and emotionally challenging, but the most important thing was that we supported each other. We had to stagger our lunches to maintain social distance within our department, but we were still able to be in each other’s company, providing laughter and air hugs. To all of us that was the most important thing—support from our colleagues, knowing that we are not alone in this, knowing that we had an outlet to share our feelings, concerns, and fears.”
SHANICE BROWN helped deliver food to Chester residents.
Two Physical Therapist Assistant program graduates, Jennifer Novik ’13 and Irina Chudnovskaya ’19, worked together at Penn Presbyterian Medical Center. They first met when Novik was Irina’s clinical instructor. Now co-workers, Novik remains in a mentorship role. Chudnovskaya had started in PPMC’s skilled nursing unit, but was eager to get her feet wet on the acute-care side of the hospital so she stepped up big-time to volunteer for the COVID team of therapists. This, at a time when many people and therapists were unsure of just how contagious or deadly the virus could be. Novik recently reached out to the program’s director, Jacki Kopack, and the director of clinical education, Shaun Madary, to say that “being a PTA is perhaps the best part of the pandemic” for her. After two other careers, she is grateful to have a fulfilling job where her co-workers help lift her up when she gets down. Chudnovskaya knew she wanted to help and be on the frontline of the COVID pandemic. “I wanted to get first-hand experience on how the virus affected patients and learn about the medical Vicki Tobin ’03 side of COVID. I knew I was in a low-risk category because of my age
“To all of us that was the most important thing—support from our colleagues, knowing that we are not alone in this.” 16
STORIES OF HOPE
“Studying to be a nurse at Harcum really helped me carry out my work duties more confidently during the pandemic.” Mohamed Kamara and health status and I could step-up and help the therapy team by volunteering.” Shanice Brown, a Human Services major at the Prospect Park Partnership Site, helped to feed residents of Chester weekly through a food giveaway program. Shanice and friends set up in Memorial Park in Chester and offered grab-and-go lunches and also provided delivery for people without transportation. She instituted a curbside drop-off box for food donations, as well as organized a pizza party giveaway for two families in need. “Shanice is very active in her community and a fantastic student—making the Dean’s list for the Spring 2020 semester,” remarked Andrea B. Mathias, site coordinator. Another Human Services major at the Prospect Park Partnership Site, Natosha Williams, was an essential worker for Mainline Healthcare and organized a drive for donations for two needy families in her community. She collected food, water, toilet paper, etc. Both families were surprised and grateful. She managed to do this while working long hours, taking care of her children, including a graduating high school senior, and keeping up with all her assignments and coursework.
Mohamed Kamara, a nursing major commented, “Studying to be a nurse at Harcum really helped me carry out my work duties more confidently during the pandemic. Like most people, I too was confused and alarmed at the rate the virus spread and the death toll continued to rise. However, I was able to focus on preventing the spread of the virus through proper sanitation routine, utilization of PPE, and observation of staff and clients in my assigned area for any sign and symptom of the virus. I believe my nursing studies helped me greatly in my contribution to the fight against COVID-19 in terms of leadership and being compassionate.” Alice Pakhtigian, Fran Salvacion, Robyn Gleason, and Kathy Anthony, all members of the President’s Staff Advisory Council, mailed greeting cards to residents at nursing homes in Lower Merion Township. Cards of thanks to employees were also included. The members regularly plan fundraising and volunteer opportunities for the Harcum community, so this was one one many gestures to let the wider community know that Harcum is thinking of them.
The author of this feature Amy Shumoski crocheted hearts for Main Line Health COVID-19 patients. Some of Deja Mayberry’s masks (right).
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Faculty & Staff News TAMARA ANDERSON, adjunct faculty (Partnership Sites), presented at the Critical Theories Conference on the topic, “Building Abolitionist Educators,” connecting strategies to the need for an anti-racist lens in academic research, hiring practices, and approach for departments of education everywhere.
Faculty member LAUREN A. FORRY’S novel They Did Bad Things was published on June 2. A psychological thriller, it was published by Arcade CrimeWise, distributed by Simon & Schuster, and is available in hardcover and eBook. DREW KELLY, the Associate Vice President for Athletics has been re-elected Men’s Assistant Region Director of Region XIX. Kelly’s new two-year term begins on July 1. GALE MARTIN (Communications & Marketing) received first Honorable Mention in the New York City Midnight Short Story Challenge for her piece called “Spin Out.” KRISTY MATULEVICH, Laboratory Science, served as a judge and team leader for the Delaware Valley Virtual Science Fair. Winners received medals, cash awards, and are eligible to compete for scholarships for STEM education.
KATHY ANTHONY provided musical selections for “We’re Done Dying: A Vigil to Honor Black and Brown Lives Lost and Taken,” sponsored by the NAACP in collaboration with the Media Fellowship House, as well as the Interfaith Council of Delaware County and Fellowship of Urban Suburban Engagement. JULIAN CROOKS, (Fashion Programs Assistant Director) won the Philip Klein Memorial Award for Outstanding Teaching. Her nominators said that she was abundantly talented, collaborative, innovative, and generous with her time and talent to her students and colleagues.
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JOANN MIRIGLIANO retired from Admissions after almost 24 years of service. Co-workers gave her a festive send-off, carrying signs and balloons, surprising her at her home. JILLIAN LYDON ’15, Dental Programs, graduated Summa Cum Laude from University of Bridgeport with a Masters in Dental Hygiene. JACKIE PURSELL A’17, Visual Assets Coordinator, displayed prints and showcased her film photography on January 29, at Melrose Ballroom in Queens, New York. The event was hosted by RAW Artists. FRAN SCHUDA (Nursing Program Director) won the Lindback Award for Excellence in Teaching. For the last three years, Nursing Program graduates had a 100% pass rate on the NCLEX licensing exam.
Alumni News What You’re Saying BARBARA KOTLEY ’58 posted an update. May 31
Barbara Kotler ’58, published a novel “What Killed Dr. K?” What Killed Doctor K.? reflects an insider’s candid observations of the medical world from the 60’s through the 90’s. This novel, based on real events, shows unflinchingly these years of major changes in the practice of medicine and the consequences for both patients and the medical professionals who serve them. Barbara Kotler is part of The Writers Colony of The Delray Center Of The Arts in Florida. She established “Writers On The Go” involving writers in community programs. AMIEE BLASKO A’11 posted an update. March 3 Got this beauty a couple days ago! #bestofweddings2020 #theknot #amieeblaskophoto
MISS DREW'S DOGGY DAYCARE added 4 new photos to the album SUMMER 2019 Today is Miss Kristin’s first day at Harcum, and I could not be more excited and proud of her! Harcum’s getting a good one, and I’ll accept the fact that I have to share her because she’s getting all the awesome Animal Center Management knowledge and wisdom. We’ll see you later, Miss Kristin! #HarcumProud #HarcumFamily #WeLoveMissKristin
TRACY JOHNSON ’04
HARCUM ECE ALUMNI CLUB
June 5 at 4:30 PM · Bryn Mawr, PA
May 28 at 2:36 PM Bryn Mawr, PA
Congratulations to our Harcum College 2020 Graduates! We had a great time celebrating with you on the Zoom meeting Thursday night. Welcome again to the Harcum College Alumni Family we look forward to seeing you as you get more involved in the Alumni Association!
Well, this wasn’t how we wanted to say goodbye to Professor Pamela Davenport Singleton...we were planning to have a party to celebrate her retirement today! But this will have to do. Thank you, Pam, for all of your hard work and dedication to the Early Childhood Department! You sure brought us lots n lots of laughs! You will surely be missed!!!
@D.L.WIDGER ’77 on Instagram #TB College graduation with my proud Mother @harcumcollege
#earlychildhoodeducation
Use the #HARCUM and #HARCUMCOLLEGE hashtags to connect with us on social media!
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Alumni News
Deborah Widger’s (left) handmade cards for shut-ins. Amy Copeland (right) sews face masks for local hospitals.
Alumni in Service AROUND THE WORLD, Harcum graduates stepped up to help during the pandemic. These are just a few of their stories. As a graduate from the Fashion Design program, Amy Copeland ’86 put her talents to use making face masks for several area hospitals, donating over 500, including child sizes for Children’s Hospital of Pennsylvania. In light of the shutdown and job loss, she also launched her own business, Raina Luella, a sustainable line of clothing, accessories, and home decor made entirely from recycled clothing, including designer face masks and a bridal collection. Sandra Maher ’81 worked as a Medical Technologist for Idexx Laboratories. During the pandemic she was classified as essential and continued to travel to work “outside” the home, which she admits was scary. “My lab continued to receive specimens from veterinary clinics and worked diligently to keep our animal friends
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by Amy Shumoski
healthy, as well as trying to keep ourselves healthy through PPE and social distancing within our labs.” Idexx’s human clinical diagnostic company Opti also supplemented human Covid19 testing kits to the state of Maine, increasing their testing capabilities. Like millions of Americans, Josh Manger ’20 found himself furloughed during the pandemic. But instead of feeling disheartened, he connected with Federation Friends, a newly formed organization that matched homebound elderly with volunteers who could assist them with various activities. Having spent time working with vulnerable populations as an OTA graduate, this match-up was a perfect fit for him. His first volunteer assignment was with a 93-year-old who had missed a family get-together on Zoom and wanted to be there for the next one. “We set up a Zoom account and Doordash (a food delivery service) on his laptop. It took over an hour, and we had some good conversation in
between. I think I was helpful,” Manger said. “I was glad to be a part of this initiative that brought comfort to others.” Tonisha McDonald ’14 was employed as a teacher’s assistant, but with her schools closed, she had to find another way to engage with her students. Using her artistic skills, McDonald created a line of personalized backpacks and life-size photos for virtual or distanced birthday and graduation events. Karen Reb Rudel ’88 owns Sight Seeker’s Delight, a top rated walking tour company in Paris. With international travel restricted and tourist attractions closed, she had to find a way to keep her business alive. She transitioned her tours to an online virtual experience and brought France right to your front door. She and her ten-year-old son Azi even virtually visited a middle school French class of a local Bryn Mawr school and engaged in conversation with the students and answered questions.
In Memoriam SUZANNE FLEISCHER ROBERTS
Class of 1941 VERONICA MARGARET WISTAR
Class of 1976 Tonisha McDonald is creating personalized backpacks for students who are social distancing.
MARTHA (HEARD) VAN ETTEN
Class of 1977 MARY RENZ ANDERSON
Class of 1972 ALEXANDRA “SANDY” PASTORE PROCOPIO
Michelle Schofield ’14 and her sons have volunteered with Delaware County’s Meals On Wheels program, delivering meals to Upper Darby township homebound seniors and disabled neighbors since January. “We enjoy what we do and are proud to be of service to our community.” Pamela Behr-Smart ’78 was on lock down in Maryland, but that didn’t stop her from gathering fabric donations for some friends who made hundreds of masks, caps, and isolation gowns for local hospitals and food banks. As a college-level instructor, she’s also transitioning her courses to be taught online this Fall if the need arises. Throughout the crisis, she continued to teach CPR courses through the American Heart Association for many of the first line healthcare providers who needed to continue to be recertified. When nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and hospitals across the country closed to visitors Deborah Widger ’77 decided that while quarantined in Queens, the epicenter of the pandemic in New York City, she would do something to help. She reached out to card makers on Etsy and asked for donations of “thinking of you” cards. She collected and endorsed over 2,000 cards and mailed them to more than a dozen facilities in New York and Pennsylvania. She also sent meals about every ten days to fire departments and police precincts in New York City. After collecting skin care products and other necessities, she sent them to a Brooklyn women’s shelter.
Class of 1984 CYNTHIA BLIZZARD
Class of 2015
REMEMBERING A PHILADELPHIA ICON Suzanne F. Roberts, Class of 1941, died Monday, April 20, at her Center City home at age 98. For decades, she influenced Philadelphia’s civic, broadcast, and performing arts worlds. Her death followed several months of declining health. After Harcum, she moved to New York and studied the Stanislavski Method of acting. She last took to the stage in 2001, at the Suzanne Roberts Theatre in A.R. Gurney’s Love Letters. Former Pennsylvania Gov. Ed Rendell, a close friend, called her a remarkable woman who was always upbeat. She was widely respected because she used her influence and privilege to create projects for the public good.
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Athletics Roundup
BREAKING NEWS: NJCAA names 27 Harcum student-athletes to 19–20 All-Academic roster. MEN’S PLAYERS EARN REGION 19 HONORS Under Head Coach Alex Graver, Men’s Soccer finished the 2019–20 season with a 7–7–2 overall record, ultimately reaching the Region 19 semi-final but losing in the regional semi-final 3–2 in double overtime with five seconds left. Ryan Kingsford was named Division I Region 19 Player of the Year, the second time in program history. Ryan Kingsford, Dan Roth, and Michael Forde were named to the Division I All-Region 19 First Team. Archie Sewell and Omar Oyala were named to the Second Team. WOMEN’S SEASON YIELDS ALL REGION STANDOUTS The Harcum Women’s Soccer team, coached by Samantha Farlow, finished the 2019–20 season with a record of 6–7–1. The Bears had three student-athletes named to the 2019 Women’s Soccer All-Region Teams: Courtney Stevens, First Team All Region; Cassidy Hoops; First Team All Region; and Natasha Dudley, Second Team All Region.
ABOVE: Ryan Kingsford, Division I, Region 19 Player of the Year
VOLLEYBALL FINISHES WITH WINNING RECORD The Volleyball Team finished the season 2019–20 with a record of 14–11. The season ended with a loss to County College of Morris in the semi-final of the Region XIX tournament. Sophomore Tyra Miller and freshman standouts Marit Blokzijl and Darielys Ayala made a significant impact. FRESHMEN LEAD CROSS COUNTRY TEAM Freshman runners Malik Harvey and Bancroft Josephs led the way in the 2019 season, running 8K races on courses such as the Belmont Plateau in Philadelphia; in Salisbury, Maryland; Delaware State University;, and the Region 19 meet in Newark, Delaware, finishing strong on all courses.
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Varsity Athletes of the Year
The Varsity Athlete Award winners for the 2019–20 academic year were given to Courtney Stevens (Women’s Soccer) and Dom London (Men’s Basketball) in recognition of their sportsmanship, leadership, service, and combined athletic and academic performance. Courtney Stevens, Phoenixville, PA (Great Valley High School), was named to the NJCAA All-Region First Team. She maintained a 3.9 GPA in the Occupational Therapy Assistant program. Dom London, Christiana, PA (Octorara High School), ended his career as the third leading scorer with over 1,000 points. He was also named an NJCAA AllAmerican and a two-time NJCAA Academic All-American. He maintained a 3.7 GPA and will continue his career at Florida Gulf Coast University. MALE & FEMALE STANDOUTS IN INDOOR TRACK Sophomore Tyrese Canada led the Bears with strong finishes in all meets this season, running the 100 and 200 Meters. The team’s best finishes were at Ursinus College and the Armory in New York, NY. The women were led by freshmen TaNiya Rose-Craft and Victoria Familia, both with strong finishes in the 100 and 200 Meters. MEN’S BASKETBALL NOTCHES 15TH CONSECUTIVE 20-WIN SEASON The 2019–20 men’s basketball season was again stellar for the Bears, as the team finished with a 26–5 overall
record, including an 18-game winning streak. The Bears averaged 101 points per game, good for second nationally among NJCAA programs. The team was led by All-American Dom London, who became the sixth player in school history to surpass 1000 career points. Valdir Manual was also a key contributor, averaging 21 points per game and 11 rebounds per contest. WOMEN’S HOOPS EARNS WINNING RECORD; BUILDING FOR NEXT SEASON The 2019–20 season saw the Bears finish top three in the conference once again with a 13–10 record. The Bears were led by Mickey Williams and Autumn Cathcart who averaged 17.5 points per game and 16.1 points per game, who earned spots on the First Team All-Region team, and the Second Team All-Region team respectively. Williams finished as the conference’s second leading scorer at 39.4% from the three-point line. Newcomers Wynter Webb averaged 12.3 points per game, and Courtney Turner averaged nearly a double-double with 12 points per game and 9.6 rebounds per game. Ashjahnelle Wilson scored big in her last four games, highlighted by a 24-point performance against Mercer County. Sophomore Je’la Thomas had 10 games with four or more assists. Freshman Sade Orija scored 11 points at home against Morris County.
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Bear Pride LEFT: Jillian Lydon ’15 and her husband Lou Harris attend the 2019 President’s Dinner. RIGHT: Bears designed by Jillian for Harcum’s Bears & Squares project.
Working alongside and with the very instructors who trained her, Lydon feels very fortunate.
That was one of the most important things Jillian Lydon ’15 learned during the global pandemic, as she transitioned to educating dental hygiene students remotely. As the Junior Clinic Coordinator and an instructor, she was tasked with developing new ways for students to learn and thrive. Lydon had a special connection to students. Like them, she too was learning online, on track to finish a Master of Science in Dental Hygiene at University of Bridgeport— which she did, graduating summa cum laude. It seemed almost fortuitous that just one semester earlier she was a teaching assistant for a course titled Instructional Strategies for Health Professionals. This course gave her a wealth of knowledge in how to use digital platforms like Canvas and Zoom. She surveyed her students asking them how they wanted course content delivered, and she used this valuable information to tailor online learning to meet their needs. COVID-19 forced educators and students to get creative. Finding new ways to accomplish things was critical to everyone achieving success. “I don’t think I’m alone in saying that Harcum students overcame and excelled in their education during an extremely difficult time. The new form of course delivery actually enhanced learning,” Lydon reflected. Students commented they didn’t miss course content; they just received
BY AMY SHUMOSKI
“Let’s go!”
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it in a different way. Faculty observed that Lydon made the transition look easy, but that it required a lot of work and preparation, and they were grateful to have her help. Set goals and objectives for yourself and then check in periodically to make sure you’re still on track. This is what Lydon does for herself each year and what she encourages her students to do as well. Right now she’s exactly where she always wanted to be. Working alongside and with the very instructors who trained her, Lydon feels very fortunate. She says she is constantly still learning from them. “It is a pleasure to teach with Jillian. She is a creative and talented student centered educator. The Dental Hygiene program is fortunate to have her as a faculty member,” remarked Jean Byrnes-Ziegler, Program Director. “Jillian came to Harcum with formal training as an artist,” said Communications Director Gale Martin, who chaired the Implementation Committee of the Centennial. “She made her talents known and shared them readily, designing two bears for the Bears & Squares project. One was called, ‘Right-Brain, Left-Brain Bear,’ and very much like Jillian at the time—half visual artist/half dental hygiene student. That bear sits in the Cohen Dental Center today.” Lydon’s next goal is to immerse herself in learning Spanish and American Sign Language so that she can better serve the patients in the Cohen Dental Center. A doctorate may also be on her horizon, because the best educators are life-long learners.
Looking forward to 2021! THE GOLF & TENNIS CLASSIC and Online Auction is Harcum’s largest annual scholarship fundraising event. Over the event’s 20-year history, we have provided significant scholarship support to 65 exemplary students. We were unable to gather in person this spring but are continuing our fundraising to give students the resources they need to succeed.
THANK YOU to our longtime lead sponsors who, over the last 20 years have made a significant impact:
Firstrust Bank · The Tustin Group · Dennis S. Marlo and The Marlo Family · Mill Creek Capital · Sodexo Campus Services · BuildCon1 · CBIZ/MHM · J. Michael McNamara · Impact Health To support the Kevin D. Marlo Scholarship fund, please visit:
WWW.HARCUM.EDU/GOLFANDTENNISCLASSIC
750 Montgomery Avenue Bryn Mawr, PA 19010 www.harcum.edu
NONPROFIT ORG US POSTAGE
PAID
PHILADELPHIA, PA PERMIT NO 138
PRIORITY MAIL US POSTAGE
PAID
PHILADELPHIA, PA PERMIT NO 138
PRESORTED BOUND PRINTED MATTER US POSTAGE PAID PHILADELPHIA, PA PERMIT NO 138
Saturday, October 10
Homecoming 2020 TENTATIVE DATE
For information, email ADVANCEMENT@HARCUM.EDU
