The Valley Magazine: Fall 2017 by Lebanon Valley College

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AG E NTS OF CHANG E FALL 2017

THE VALLEY Volume 33 | Number 1 Molly O’Brien-Foelsch, Chief Communications Officer EDITORIAL STAFF Dr. Tom Hanrahan, Editor, Writer Michael Freeman Rebecca Hearsey, Class Notes Sue Sarisky Jones ’92 Tom Klemick Christine Brandt Little Molly O’Brien-Foelsch, Feature Writer Jaime Rowe Ali Wenger Anita Williams, Class Notes DESIGNER Emily Acri PHOTOGRAPHY Emily Acri Blue Cardinal Photography Tim Flynn ’05 Nick Gould Photography, NickGould.net, News, Cover Charles Grove ’13 Dr. Ivette Guzman-Zavala Robert Kelly Tim McGowan Studio Shilesky Montalvo ’19 Jaime Rowe Ali Wenger Renata Williams WWW.LVC.EDU SEND COMMENTS OR ADDRESS CHANGES TO: Office of Alumni & Parent Engagement Maud P. Laughlin Hall Lebanon Valley College 101 North College Avenue Annville, PA 17003-1400 Susan Sarisky Jones ’92, Director Rebecca Hearsey, Assistant Phone: 717-867-6320 Email: alumni@lvc.edu The Valley is published by Lebanon Valley College® twice each year and distributed without charge to alumni and friends. The deadline for submission of information to The Valley is approximately four months prior to being received by its readership. Class Notes received after the deadline will be included in the next issue of the magazine.

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CONTENTS

2 3 12 18 20 24 31 12

AGENTS OF CHANGE LVC’s culture of service empowers individuals and communities.

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

VALLEY VIEWS

AGENTS OF CHANGE

WE SERVE

CLASS NEWS & NOTES

CIRCLE OF LIFE

IN MEMORIAM

CAMPUS VIEW

ON THE COVER Shingirai Guchu ’21 (r.) from Matsika, Zimbabwe, is the first recipient of the full-tuition Almond Tree Scholarship, which was established by JonnaLynn Knauer Mandelbaum, Ph.D., ’69 (l.) to help students with great academic promise from sub-Saharan Africa.

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PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

Dear Alumni, Parents, and Friends, This, our 151st Academic Year, began with two historic events: the solar eclipse and the arrival of Lebanon Valley College’s largest incoming class in history. We are thrilled to welcome 513 new students, including 466 freshmen and 47 transfer students. The Class of 2021 has students from 16 states and the District of Columbia, and includes the largest cohort of international students in almost two decades. We now host undergraduate students from a dozen countries: Canada, China, France, Japan, the Netherlands, Northern Ireland, Saudi Arabia, Slovenia, South Korea, Thailand, Vietnam, and Zimbabwe. More than a third of the class are student-athletes. Ninety percent of the class members live on campus and will benefit from the out-of-classroom learning and personal development that are so important to the LVC experience. The College was very hard at work this summer preparing for the new class and a new era at Lebanon Valley. We offered more than 40 online and hybrid courses. Construction on the dramatic and state-of-the-art Jeanne and Edward H. Arnold Health Professions Pavilion is moving quickly forward. New faculty members include the first-ever chairs of the Communication Sciences & Disorders/Speech-Language Pathology and Exercise Science departments. North White Oak Street has been landscaped to be safer, more accessible, and more attractive. Fundraising for the College continues a three-year upward trend with gifts and pledges totaling $8.8 million and, for the first time in 10 years, an increase in the alumni-giving rate. The incredible progress continues. Staff and faculty will work with an online program management firm to launch new online and hybrid programs for adult and nontraditional students. This initiative promises to create thousands of new LVC alumni during the next few years, greatly expanding the College’s educational and social impact, as well as enhancing our financial sustainability. The board has asked me to refresh the College’s strategic plan, Envision 2020, and to prioritize the initiatives that will have the greatest strategic impact on the College. Chief among these priorities will be the development of a strategic enrollment management plan to serve as a multiyear, multidimensional guide for identifying, recruiting, and retaining students who will benefit most from an LVC degree. This comprehensive effort will ensure LVC remains strong, sustainable, and a preferred choice among students and families within the rapidly changing and highly competitive higher education landscape. Lebanon Valley’s alumni and friends have an important role in keeping this momentum going. I invite you to share with others what makes an LVC education so valuable and to talk about the exciting developments happening on campus. Encourage your classmates and friends to do the same. There are 30 sons or daughters of alumni in the Class of 2021. On Move-in Day, alumni parents shared the same pride and the same thought: “I wish I could come back…. LVC is even better today than when I was here.” Please pass the word. Best regards,

Dr. Lewis E. Thayne, President

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VALLEY VIEWS

THE VALLEY SURVEY We Listened

expressed was a concern that we would stop doing a print version. Rest assured, we have no plans to do so.

Thank you to the nearly 1,000 alumni and friends who took the time this past spring to provide thoughtful insights to help improve your alumni magazine. The Valley is clearly a point of pride, and we truly appreciate those who suggested how to make it even better. The most frequent comment

Emily Acri, a talented staff member, redesigned the magazine as you will see throughout this issue. Now, there are easier to read fonts, consistent news items, larger photographs, and a return of mini-profiles to the Class Notes section, among other improvements based on your feedback—enjoy!

Publish and Prosper THE BIG TIME The May issue of the international Journal of Physics A: Mathematical and Theoretical (Vol. 50, No. 24) featured an article co-authored by Daniel Upchurch ’16 (physics), Mark Peters ’17 (actuarial science and mathematics), Nathaniel Gibbons ’18 (physics and mathematics), Ezekiel Wertz ’18 (physics major, mathematics and computer & data science double minor), Dr. David Lyons (professor of mathematical sciences), and Dr. Scott Walck (chair and professor of physics). The paper, Local Pauli Stabilizers of Symmetric Hypergraph States, which focused on quantum information science, was largely the result of the students’ summer research projects with the LVC Mathematical Physics Research Group. “LVC has set me up with strong problem solving and analytical skills,” said Gibbons, who also received a Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship with the National

Ezekiel Wertz ’18

Institute of Standards and Technology this year. “I feel that applying these skills here regularly truly sets me, and all students here, up for success in whatever we want to do.”

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VALLEY VIEWS

Laughlin Hall ALUMNI COUNCIL IS BAAACK When Dan Helwig, vice president of advancement, decided it was time to revive the College’s Alumni Council, he had to look no further than down the hall to find a past member to relaunch this important College ally. Sue Sarisky Jones ’92, director of alumni & parent engagement, jumped aboard with Helwig’s idea to increase alumni interactions and guidance for current and future students. Jones had served on council committees in the late 1990s. The rebooted Alumni Council brings together seven alumni—and 25 alumni within two years—from various fields who have numerous areas of expertise. This distinguished group—Dr. Drue Bahajak ’10, Dr. Sandy Fauser ’93, Jill Helsel Gingrich ’01, Rachel Hadrick, Esq., ’06, Durrell Martin ’08, Kristin Nguyen ’10, and Anne Parmer ’03—will

(l. to r.): Durrell Martin ‘08, Rachel Hadrick, Esq., ‘06, Kristin Nguyen ‘10, Anne Parmer ‘03, Jill Helsel Gingrich ‘01, and Dr. Sandy Fauser ‘93

use their talents to assist with career, recruitment, and advancement initiatives, and promote alumni successes and build the alumni network. “Being part of the new Alumni Council is a great opportunity for us to make a

difference in the lives of fellow alumni, current students, and future students,” said Martin. “I am excited to partner with Sue and her colleagues on this important Valley initiative.”

ALUMNI CELEBRATED In April, four graduates were awarded Alumni Citations for their significant service to their profession, community, and/or College: Michael Dryden, Esq., ’90, P’18, Maria Elena Falato Dryden, Esq., ’90, P’18, Eric L. Himelright M’98, and Joanne Lazzaro ’83.

(l. to r.): Eric Himelright M’98, Joanne Lazzaro ‘83, Betty Hungerford ‘54, H’09 (award committee chair), Maria Elena Falato Dryden, Esq., ‘90, P’18, Michael Dryden, Esq., ‘90, P’18

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Michael Dryden is chair of the Worker’s Compensation Department and a partner at the Willig, Williams and Davidson law firm in Philadelphia. Maria Elena Falato Dryden is selfemployed as Maria Elena Falato Dryden, Esquire. Himelright is vice president of product management for the consumer division of TE Connectivity, which is based in Switzerland, and Lazzaro is a senior research curriculum specialist for CedarsSinai Medical Center in Los Angeles, Calif. Visit Lebanon Valley College’s YouTube channel to see individual profiles.

ALLWEIN SCHOLARSHIP FLOURISHES This year marks the fourth year of the John Bowman Allwein Scholarship, established through the generosity of the late Dr. John “Jack” Bowman Allwein ’56. The College’s highest academic honor, the Allwein Scholarship provides full tuition and a $2,500 stipend for four years for research, travel, or student expenses associated with study abroad, internships, and/or collaborative research. (front, l. to r.): Madison Martin ‘18, Allison Liu ‘20, Ciara Marshall ‘18, Andrew Meglathery ‘18; (2nd row.): Nicole Flohr ‘20, Margaret McDonald ‘21, Malia Waltman ‘19, Nate Gibbons ‘18; (3rd row): Jerin George ‘19, Garrett Santis ‘20, Sarah Durham ‘20; (back): Heather Riutzel ‘19, Andrew Martz ‘18, Mai Phan ‘20, Austin Cassatt ‘21, Justin Cammarota ‘18

Musical Notes

MUSICALLY SOUND Two seniors, Faith Brown ’18 (music education, voice) and Jennifer Summy ’18 (music, music business, voice), and a junior, Morgan Hackett ’19 (music education, violin) were selected by a panel of judges from the Music Department in May as this year’s Concerto Aria Competition winners. Winning this

prestigious competition earns students the right to perform with the LVC Symphony Orchestra during this academic year. “I met with Dr. Eric Fung [associate professor of music], my accompanist, one time before the competition,” said Brown. “I was nervous about that since it meant I’d only practiced with him once. But it was probably the best I’ve

ever performed that song. It was fun!” Hackett, who has played the violin for 15 years, was inspired by her father, Sean Hackett ’93, a choral music teacher and musician. She felt the competition was a great opportunity. “It was exciting,” said Hackett. “I was nervous, but I knew I was prepared, so I was able to get up there and just share my music with the audience.”

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VALLEY VIEWS

Actively Intercultural

A NEW MODEL FOR SUCCESS Renata Williams, director of intercultural affairs and inclusive programming, has transformed the former three-day Multicultural Bridge Program into the Summer Enrichment Program, a seven-day opportunity for incoming first-year and transfer ALANA (African/African American, Latina, Asian, and Native American) and multiracial students. The program combines peer mentoring, residential living, academic success, and leadership development. “Moving the program from August to July helped Summer Enrichment Program students get acclimated to campus prior to the hustle and bustle of regular orientation,” said

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Williams. “They participated in events and activities supporting their transition to college life and learned about resources that will help them succeed at LVC.” “The Summer Enrichment Program was an absolutely amazing experience,” said Katyana Reynoso ’21, a freshman from Felton, Del., who studies early childhood and special education. “It was a wonderful opportunity to bond with multicultural and international students before the school year began. I recommend all students engage in school activities to interact with new people.”

Philanthropy Transforms

HELPING DREAMS COME TRUE Shingirai Guchu ’21 from Matsika, Zimbabwe, had nearperfect advanced level coursework in high school, which paid off with his becoming the first-ever recipient of The Almond Tree Scholarship. This full-tuition scholarship, established by Dr. JonnaLynn Knauer Mandelbaum ’69 (see p. 16), covers tuition, room, board, and taxes, with an annual $6,500 stipend for travel and other related expenses. Shingirai, who was involved with the Environmental Management Agency, Scripture Union Club, and other youth groups while in high school, will study accounting and

computer & data science at LVC. Shingirai was surprised to learn he had been awarded this scholarship. “That was the most shocking and surprising moment of my entire life so far,” he said in a release from the U.S. Embassy in Zimbabwe. “I needed a week to sleep on it, to believe, and accept. “Growing up, I had feelings of being trapped in a stagnant environment, yet ironically, adversity may have been the greatest motivation I needed,” added Shingirai, who grew up in the Makoni District of Zimbabwe, where few are able to pursue education. “And college in America is beyond anyone’s wildest dreams.”

ENDURING COMMITMENT Donors provide critical financial resources to sustain the mission of LVC and prepare our graduates for lives of learning, citizenship, and success. In recognition of their lasting commitment to the College, Lebanon Valley College honored a distinguished group of alumni and friends as new Lifetime Vickroy Associates in April. Lifetime Vickroy Associates have a cumulative lifetime giving total of more than $100,000. Visit Lebanon Valley College’s YouTube channel to learn more about these extraordinary friends: Susan A. Engle, Ph.D., ’78, Linda J. Evans ’83, Dr. Robert E. Harbaugh ’74 and Dr. Kimberly S. Harbaugh, Garry C. Hess, Ph.D., and Eric L. Himelright M’98 and Amy Himelright.

Harbaugh Family

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VALLEY VIEWS

Academic Affairs

MOVING ON & UP Nearly 500 graduates were celebrated during the College’s 148th Commencement in May, and four distinguished friends of the College received honorary doctorates in recognition of their outstanding careers and community service. Dr. Treva Clark, assistant chair and associate professor of business and economics, served as Commencement speaker according to tradition after receiving the Thomas Rhys Vickroy Distinguished Teaching Award during the 2016 ceremony. The Vickroy Award is the College’s top teaching honor for a full-time faculty member. In her speech, Accidentally on Purpose, Dr. Clark told the new graduates that “The power of an education grounded in the liberal arts is that students are empowered to consider ideas from various viewpoints. They learn to view problems not as having one right answer but possibly many solutions achieved from various perspectives.” Dr. Robert Carey, associate professor of biology, received the Thomas Rhys Vickroy Distinguished Teaching Award

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and will be next year’s Commencement speaker. Elizabeth Julian ’09, director of the Center for Writing and Tutoring Resources, received the Nevelyn J. Knisley Award for her excellence in teaching in the English Department. The Knisley Award recognizes the top part-time/adjunct teacher. Patrick Maxwell ’17 received the H. Anthony Neidig Award, which recognizes the top student. Joyce M. Davis, president and chief executive officer of the World Affairs Council of Harrisburg, received a

Doctor of Humane Letters (L.H.D.); Douglas O. Ebersole, Esq., ’78, independent biotechnology professional and former general counsel for NeXT Computer Inc., and Edgar Morgan ’63, retired government official and former executive director of the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, both received the Doctor of Laws (LL.D.); and Rocco A. Ortenzio, co-founder and vice chairman of Select Medical, a national provider of specialized health care, received a Doctor of Science (Sc.D.).

(l. to r.): Douglas O. Ebersole, Esq., ‘78, Rocco A. Ortenzio, Edgar Morgan ‘63, and Joyce M. Davis

The Spor ting Life ATHLETIC LEGENDS HONORED Five alumni and a former head coach were inducted into the LVC Athletic Hall of Fame during Homecoming Weekend, Oct. 13–15. Amy Batz Brandt ’07 (softball), Dan Kelly ’07 (baseball, football), Stephanie Marguglio ’07 (field hockey), Dan Pfeil ’00 (men’s basketball), and Cat Roth ’06 (volleyball) were honored along with the College’s all-time winningest football coach, Jim Monos. The evening included recognition of the 1997 and 2007 field hockey teams for reaching the Final Four of the NCAA Division III Championship Tournament.

BOST NAMED NCAA WOMAN OF THE YEAR NOMINEE Academic and athletic superstar Sammy Bost ’17, D’19 was selected as the Middle Atlantic Conference Commonwealth nominee for the 2017 NCAA Woman of the Year Award. She was one of just 53 nominees nation-

wide. Bost, a doctor of physical therapy major, competed in softball and women’s soccer. She is the only student-athlete in school history to earn three first-team academic all-America honors and is competing on the women’s tennis team this fall. She joins J.D. Byers ’05 (men’s basketball and golf), Dr. Cynthia Adams ’14, D’16 (women’s

cross country and track & field), and Kelsey Patrick ’16, D’18 (women’s cross country and track & field) as the only LVC student-athletes to earn academic allAmerica honors on three occasions.

NEW HEALTH PROFESSIONS PROGRAMS LAUNCHED Dr. Michelle Scesa and Dr. Michael Welsch joined the faculty this fall as chair and assistant professor of speechlanguage pathology and chair and professor of exercise science, respectively. Dr. Scesa has extensive collegiate and clinical teaching experience throughout the mid-Atlantic and Northeast. She has three degrees in speech-language pathology—a bachelor’s degree from Kutztown University, master’s degree from East Stroudsburg University, and doctorate from Nova Southeastern University— and a certificate of clinical competence from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. Dr. Scesa will oversee the new Communication Sciences &

Disorders/Speech-Language Pathology Program that leads to a bachelor’s and master’s degree for program graduates. Dr. Welsch was recently director of the Institute of Sport and Physical Activity Research at the University of Bedfordshire in the United Kingdom. Prior to that, he was a professor at Louisiana State University. He received his undergraduate and master’s degrees from the University of North Texas and his doctorate from the University of Florida. In addition to his teaching and research experience, Dr. Welsch gained significant clinical experience as a cardiac rehabilitation/wellness program director in New Orleans. He will oversee the new undergraduate Exercise Science Program.

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VALLEY VIEWS

Campus Transformation

ARNOLD HEALTH PROFESSIONS UPDATE From a massive space that resembled a mini Grand Canyon in May, the new Jeanne and Edward H. Arnold Health Professions Pavilion is quickly rising on the hill overlooking North Campus. The future home for students in our doctor of physical therapy, master of athletic training, master of speech-language pathology/bachelor of communication sciences & disorders, and bachelor of exercise science programs will open in summer 2018. This extraordinary learning environment is made possible through an unprecedented $10 million challenge gift from Jeanne Donlevy Arnold H’08 and Edward H. Arnold H’87. To date, nearly $7 million, including a combined $1 million gift from The S. Dale High Family Foundation and Gregory A. High ’92, has been raised toward the challenge. The facility will provide flexible classroom space, acoustically treated observation rooms, human performance and anatomy labs, flexible faculty office space to increase collaboration with students, and new technologies that enhance teaching. Graduates of our health professions programs will enjoy increased career opportunities as the sector is projected to add five million new U.S. jobs by 2022. Dr. Katie Oriel, faculty trustee and co-chair of the Physical Therapy Department, noted at the May groundbreaking ceremony that the new building will be the beginning of a great story for LVC health professions students. “They will take with them the knowledge and skills they learned here, and improve the lives of many as they move forward both in our local community and beyond,” said Dr. Oriel. “The impact of the Arnold Health Professions Pavilion will reach far beyond our faculty, staff, and students. We will see the effect as our work is published in respected journals, when our patients receive quality care, when our athletes return to their sport, and when the health of our community is improved through our collaborative efforts.”

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April

As of publication, the project was on schedule and expected to be fully enclosed so that work can continue through the winter. Technologically, aesthetically, and programmatically, the Pavilion will be a state-of-the-art, LEEDcertified facility.

ROUTE 934 STREETSCAPE

June

LVC’s presence on the major thoroughfare through Annville—North White Oak Street/Route 934—was significantly enhanced this summer. Sidewalks and lighting were replaced, and beautiful landscape improvements along Route 934 between Lebanon St. and Sheridan Ave. were completed, creating a welcoming gateway to campus. This work was the final stage of a partnership with Annville Township, PennDOT, and Stony Bridge Landscaping that led to vast improvements to the roadway that include increased accessibility and improved safety for students and visitors.

CARNEGIE BUILDING The College’s oldest building, Carnegie, which now serves as home to our Admission and Financial Aid offices, is in the midst of a major revitalization that will provide greater accessibility for the first time in its more than 100-year history. Other improvements, to be completed this fall, include an accessible restroom, meeting and office space improvements, and renovations to the main floor and part of the lower level, including a ramp enabling better access to the main level. September

PEDESTRIAN BRIDGE One of the highest priorities of the One Campus master plan, enhancing the 1974 pedestrian bridge that connects North and South campus, will commence in 2018. Made possible by a $2.4-million grant, the bridge will be a breakthrough moment for the College once complete. Engineering assessments and bridge designs are in process and the project will be completed next fall.

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AGENTS OF

CHANGE

LVC ’s c u lt u r e of ser v ice empower s i nd iv idu a l s a nd com mu n it ies . Ten years ago, Doreen Breder Sigman ’76 made her first trip to Gonaives, Haiti, a region six hours from Port-au-Prince. Even though Sigman’s church had prepared her and her fellow missionaries for the conditions they would encounter, she was startled by the reality of the situation.

“These children didn’t have electricity, they didn’t have water, they didn’t have toys—they’d never seen a pencil or crayon,” said Sigman. “Twelve thousand people, and not one of them had ever been to school.”

Haitian administrators, a move she believes will create better conditions in the long term, and from the inside out.

Sigman’s work reflects a deeply held commitment to service woven into the College’s history: The alumna is but In response to this profound lack of one of many LVC community members resources, the retired fifth-grade who create change by empowering teacher quickly others, giving them drew on her years the tools they need of experience as an to help themselves. Twelve thousand educator to propose A domestic viopeople, and not one a way to help amelence survivor and liorate the suffering. of them had ever recovering addict,

“We started with 50 Marsha Curry been to school. children in a room Banks ’04 was made of corrugated released from state metal with a dirt floor,” said Sigman. prison in 1997 and reunited with her “The Jubilee School, as it came to be family (her six children had been in called, grew each year, and we added foster care). She needed to find a way a library.” This summer, the inaugural to provide for them, so she developed class of the Jubilee School graduated, a five-year plan to improve not only and Sigman was there to cheer the her own circumstances, but also the students on, having made more than lives of others who had found them20 trips to Gonaives. Now, she has selves on the wrong side of the law. transferred leadership to the school’s What emerged was Amiracle4Sure.

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Incorporated in 2010, the organization helps individuals transitioning back into the community from incarceration and other challenges.

Marsha Curry Banks ’04

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“I went to Harrisburg Area Community College, served as student government president, and graduated at the top of my class,” said Banks, who enrolled at LVC when she was in her thirties. She majored in sociology, which prepared her for continuing on to a master’s degree in public service leadership. She credits LVC with giving her the tools and environment that enabled her to achieve her goals. “All of my professors in sociology were very influential in helping me learn about the culture of serving. They were knowledgeable and supportive. And, I was honored to charter the Circle K organization on campus as part of Kiwanis,

a national leader in service. Through those opportunities, along with the spiritual environment and being exposed to various cultures, I learned how to best serve others. We can’t always just take what we can, but we also have to give what we can.” Such opportunities continue at LVC today. Students arrive on campus with a passion to serve, and faculty and staff work hard to equip students with the knowledge and the skills to solve problems. According to Todd Snovel ’06, assistant dean of student engagement and inclusion, the College gets students involved in service as early as the

orientation experience. “We get them out into the community doing service trips—visiting retirement homes, cleaning parks and playgrounds, and packing gift bags for soldiers abroad,” said Snovel. “To see students be exposed to circumstances that are new or unknown or even make them uncomfortable, and to watch them work through that discomfort and come to a more mature, sophisticated way of looking at these things—that makes all the difference.”

“He held my hand and thanked us for coming…”

Montalvo, an English major with a law and society minor, said she specifically chose LVC so that she could continue helping others—she had served as her high school class president, as well as in the Interact Club and the United Way. In just two years on campus, she has already completed 100 service hours.

The elderly man wouldn’t say hello. Shilesky Montalvo ’19 tried, over a couple of days, to engage him in conversation as she and her fellow Lebanon Valley College students cleaned up the garden of the Villas del Peregrino retirement facility and bonded with its residents. The group had traveled to Caguas, Puerto Rico, after the spring 2017 semester to do service work in the economically struggling U.S. territory. All had been going well—until this. A bingo game, of sorts, finally broke the ice. “Unlike regular bingo, there wasn’t a number or letter. Instead, there were questions like ‘What is your favorite childhood memory? Who’s your favorite singer? What month were you born?’ As we played, we got to know each other,” said Montalvo, a student trustee at LVC. “I learned that he’s 96 years old and a veteran. When it was time for us to leave, he held my hand and thanked us for coming and spending time with him. I feel like by smiling, and not giving up on him, we made a difference.”

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Dr. Ivette Guzman-Zavala, LVC associate professor of Spanish, advised the student service group. In addition to working at Villas del Peregrino, she said, the students helped build a basketball court at an elementary school and visited a domestic abuse shelter. “I love teaching in the classroom, but I wanted to expand those walls and get out into the world,” said Guzman-Zavala, who grew up in Puerto Rico. “It’s important for students to meet people who are just like them but don’t have the same opportunities. Once they see that, something clicks. You don’t have to say much. For the students, experiences like this are really transformative.”

For the students, experiences like this are really transformative. One alumnus who has devoted her life to helping others is now ensuring future LVC students will be able to do the same. After graduating from LVC in 1969, JonnaLynn Knauer Mandelbaum, Ph.D., worked as a United Methodist Church missionary in Zimbabwe and Mozambique. There, she managed a pediatric ward and taught nursing. After a long career as a nurse, professor, and high-level healthcare professional, Mandelbaum, now an author in New Mexico, said she believes problems in other countries are best solved by the people in those countries—and those solutions will only occur as the residents themselves gain the resources to do that.

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Recently, she created The Almond Tree Scholarship to “make a difference that would have a domino effect on future generations.” The scholarship provides full-tuition, room, and board to students of high promise but limited financial means from subSaharan Africa.

(left): JonnaLynn Knauer Mandelbaum, Ph.D. (below): Shingirai Guchu ’21

Shingirai Guchu ’21, from the Makoni District of Zimbabwe, is the scholarship’s first awardee. He began his first semester at LVC this fall. He said his family survived by selling crops for cash to fund their children’s education. “At home, very few of us complete high school, and a college education is an idealistic concept— let alone college in America, which is beyond anyone’s wildest dreams. This was a challenge to me as I always wished my life to tell a different story, and true to my wish I am a firstgeneration student and was the first to travel abroad.” “They’re very gifted!” said Mandelbaum of the students she hopes to support. “But they don’t have two pennies to rub together, so there’s no way that they can gain access to the resources they need. This scholarship allows us to reach out to these people who have such exquisite ideas and incredible potential for the future.” Guchu said he has no way of knowing for sure what his experience will be like, but he is certain it will be a definitive time that will shape his thinking, beliefs, and intellect. “This is where things come full circle with The Almond Tree Scholarship,” said Mandelbaum. “I’m able to facilitate change in a different way than I ever have before. My hope is that people will find something in this scholarship that resonates with them and that they’ll help me sustain it into the indefinite future.”

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WE SERVE Special Interest Greek Life Departments/Offices

HOURS

Athletics

LVC STUDENTS VOLUNTEER EACH ACADEMIC YEAR

2,037

1,079

Wig & Buckle

1,495

2,936

1,106

Colleges Against Cancer

Our students alone volunteered 22,115 hours of their time during the 2016–2017 academic year, equaling approximately $533,856 worth of service for the Lebanon County community and beyond. LVC was named to the U.S. President’s Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll for the fourth consecutive year. The students served the local community in partnership with more than 80 community service organizations and initiatives, a few of which are highlighted here.

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708

Track & Field

Lebanon Valley College students, faculty, employees, and alumni volunteer thousands of service hours each year for numerous charitable organizations. They serve on boards, assist with fundraising, and volunteer in countless other ways.

Football

866

Disability Services Peer Mentors

783

Gamma Sigma Sigma

CURE (PT Free Clinic)

823

Alpha Phi Omega

667

Music Department

Desiree Ruiz ’17 has found that while service helps others, it’s also important for those who participate in it. “Community service became a big part of my college experience when I co-founded and became the first president of Cause for Paws in 2015,” she says, referring to the campus organization that links students with groups that help animals in need. “One of my professors encouraged me to create an animal-oriented club, which helped me make friends who share the same interest in animals and gave me the opportunity to be a leader through service.” Green Dot’s bystander prevention program is a powerful tool used to create a campus intol-

erant of power-based personal violence (sexual assault, dating/domestic violence, stalking, etc.). Green Dot participants are trained to recognize risky or potentially violent situations and practice skills and strategies for intervening to prevent or address what’s happening. Darryl McClish ’17—McClish was heavily involved in the College’s co-ed service fraternity, Alpha Phi Omega (APO), which won the 2016 President’s Award for Community Service. “Being part of APO helped me take part in a lot of service, including planning blood drives and helping with Jubilee Ministries,” he says. “We also went to the Capital Area Therapeutic Riding Association at least once a month to clean stalls and help out in other ways.” McClish also found it easy to get involved in service on his own. “I would go to the Annville Free Library with a friend every week to help the librarians move books to the storage area and volunteer with book sales,” he says. “I would talk to people around my mom’s age, and they would tell me about their kids, who were about my age. It was nice connecting with people older than me.”

S T U D E N T-AT H L E T E SERVICE HOURS 2016–2017

3 , 7 6 8 T O TA L 866

783

OFF-CAMPUS 2,949.5

362

ON-CAMPUS 818.5

292

237

203

224

The College is committed to supporting all military students and those using military education benefits. We’ve also collaborated with nearby Fort Indiantown Gap for decades on projects ranging from assisting Vietnam refugees to having students learn about criminology. These relationships have led to annual recognition as a Military Friendly School by Victory Media, a veteran-owned business and publisher of G.I. Jobs magazine and the Guide to Military Friendly Schools. The 2017 Military Friendly Schools list honors the top colleges, universities, and trade schools that do the most to embrace America’s military service members, veterans, and spouses as students and ensure their success on campus.

Katie Franke ’19 is another enthusiastic member of APO. “I’ve always enjoyed serving the community,” she says. “It’s something I’ve done my whole life and was happy to be able to continue in college.” Franke, who is also president of the LVC chapter of Gamma Sigma Sigma, a national service sorority, believes her volunteerism has played a central role in her education. “It’s helped me make connections with what I’m learning,” she says. “Service has opened my eyes to those who need help but who may not always get it.” Every January, the Office of Intercultural Affairs & Inclusive Programming sponsors the Social Justice Institute, a leadership institute that allows students to explore how oppression

impacts true equality. The highlight of the institute is the trip to an urban center where students participate in service opportunities at agencies dedicated to social justice work.

participate—who aim to positively impact the lives of the elderly in the surrounding community by planning fun events and activities that stimulate them physically and cognitively.

LVC’s chapter of Colleges Against Cancer hosts Relay for Life in the Edward H. Arnold Sports Center each spring. More than 600 students representing 75 teams walk throughout the night and participate in a variety of activities, such as the luminary and fight back ceremonies, with all proceeds benefitting the American Cancer Society.

LVC student-athletes completed 3,768 hours of community service during the 2016–2017 academic year, 2,949.5 of which were off campus. Their efforts were diverse and ranged from assisting with beautification projects at a local YMCA camp and helping organize medical supplies for the American Foundation for Children with AIDS to holding clinics and practices for Special Olympic Athletes to raising funds for breast cancer detection, treatment, and prevention at the annual Pink Game.

Seniors Helping Seniors is a group of LVC students—freshmen to seniors

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CLASS NEWS & NOTES

NOTE: All locations are in Pennsylvania and all years are 2017 unless otherwise noted.

BIRTHS

’90s Hayden Bramble

Katherine E. deProphetis ’04 and her husband, Nick Bramble, welcomed a son, Hayden John, April 24. He joins sister Adeline. Shannon Gamble Newell ’04 and Jordan Newell, M.D., ’05 welcomed a son, Layton Christian, Feb. 24.

Kenneth, Lauren, and Oliver Houser

Kenneth Houser ’08 and Dr. Lauren Romano Houser ’08, D’10 welcomed a son, Oliver Romano, June 30, 2016. Kenny is an adjunct professor in the LVC Chemistry Department and Lauren is a physical therapist with Physical Therapy Associates of Manheim.

Owen and Brayden Wells

Mark Wells ’99 and his wife, Amanda, welcomed a son, Owen Richard, Feb. 15. He joins brother Brayden.

’00s Stephanie Bender ’01 welcomed a son, Jaxson Charles Alford, April 3.

Emma Grow

Jessica Serafin Grow ’06 and Jared D. Grow ’08 welcomed a daughter, Emma Helen, Jan. 17. Katie and Bernadette McDermott

Cainan Sevast

Jayanne Hogate Sevast ’01 and her husband, Jason, welcomed a son, Cainan James, May 25.

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Charlotte Fiorot

Erica Young Fiorot ’07 and her husband, Peter, welcomed a daughter, Charlotte Ophelia, Dec. 14, 2016.

Kathryn “Katie” Hewitt McDermott ’08 and her husband, Sean, welcomed a daughter, Bernadette “Bernie” Amelia, Jan. 23. She joins siblings Royce and Molly. Katie enjoys being a stay-athome mom and her Mary Kay business. She earned her first free car and was promoted to director last year.

’00s

’10s Sarah Jacobs ’13 married Shane Golden Nov. 26, 2016, in Harleysville. Corinn M. Shute ’13 and Leo J. Kyte ’13 married April 8 in Frederick, Md. Corinn is a pharmaceutical sales representative and Leo is a sales representative for an alcohol distributor.

Ben, Lila, and Whitney Wagner

Ben Wagner ’08 and his wife, Whitney, welcomed a daughter, Lila Rose, Oct. 19, 2016. Ben is an assistant director at the College of Global Studies at Arcadia University.

’10s Stephen Spotts ’10 and Bria Rose Spotts ’11 welcomed a daughter, Brynnlee Shay, Sept. 14, 2016.

(l. to r.): Shaun Kreider ’08, Monica Mancini Kreider ’08, Chad Umble, Mallory Hane Umble ’08, Jacqueline Hane ’08, Rachael Plourde ’08, and Walter “Matt” Stewart ’08

Mallory E. Hane ’08 married Chad Umble Oct. 2, 2016, in Lititz. Shaun Kreider ’08, Monica Mancini Kreider ’08, Jacqueline Hane ’08, Rachael Plourde ’08, and Walter “Matt” Stewart ’08 attended. Philip S. Rhodes ’08 married Lauren Frankhouser May 20 in Lancaster. Zachary Kaufman ’07 was best man.

Kathleen Paone-Mankins ’15 and Michael Dougherty ’15 married April 22 in Morton. Dr. Kayla Klumpp ’15, D’17, Emily George ’15, Dr. Karly Turner ’16, D’18, William Lewis ’15, Cody Klaus ’12, Jinesh Gandhi ’15, Laura Blankenhorn ’14, Dr. Travis J. Light ’15, D’17, and Shane Miller ’13 were in the wedding party. Nicholas Spinelli, Dr. Carolyn Hanes (LVC professor of sociology and criminal justice), Sharon Arnold (LVC chair of sociology and criminal justice), Corinn Shute Kyte ’13, Leo Kyte ’13, Holly Staub Kehler ’12, Jaime Kehler, John McHale ’17, Elizabeth Allebach ’17, Rebecca Light ’16, Douglas Stansley ’15, and Jeffrey Bush ’11 also attended.

Megan, Trent, and Tyler Cisarik

Megan Rizzardi Cisarik ’11 and Tyler Cisarik ’10 welcomed a son, Trent, Nov. 22, 2016.

WEDDINGS

’90s Michael Susi ’96 married Christina Rodriguez in December 2016. Michael is a corporate health and wellness manager at LinkedIn.

(front, l. to r.): Nicholas Spinelli, Dr. Carolyn Hanes, Dr. Kayla Klumpp ’15, D’17, Emily George ’15, Kathleen Paone-Mankins Dougherty ’15, Michael Dougherty ’15, Dr. Karly Turner ’16, D’18, William Lewis ’15 (middle, l. to r.): Corinn Shute Kyte ’13, Sharon Arnold, Cody Klaus ’12, Jinesh Gandhi ’15, Laura Blankenhorn ’14, John McHale ’17, Elizabeth Allebach ’17, Rebecca Light ’16 (back, l. to r.): Leo Kyte ’13, Dr. Travis J. Light ’15, D’17, Shane Miller ’13, Douglas Stansley ’15, Holly Staub Kehler ’12, Jaime Kehler, Jeffrey Bush ’11

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CLASS NEWS & NOTES

How ca n you possibly pla n t he per fec t wedd i ng i n one we ek? Sarah Kaltreider Munn ’11 knows. Last December, Sarah and her then fiancée, Corey Munn, both of Cobb Island, Md., along with more than 250 contestants, entered a “My Wedding in a Week” contest through radio station Mix 107.3. They became finalists and on Jan. 20 were selected the winners. They had only one week to plan the wedding. The radio station and wedding planners used online voting to plan the wedding, including the dress, bouquet, cake, and first dance song. Sarah and Corey married Jan. 27 live on FOX 5 News, before heading to their wedding reception at Pinstripes in Washington, D.C. Sarah and Corey are teachers at Westlake High School in Waldorf, Md.

CLASS NOTES

’30s Adam Rabenold ’15 and Kirstin Luckenbill ’16

Adam Rabenold ’15 and Kirstin Luckenbill ’16 were married April 22 in Bernville. The couple met as members of the Pride of The Valley Marching Band. Brian Luckenbill ’88 is the father of the bride. Emily Kissinger ’18, Benjamin Titman ’14, Selina Seymore ’16, Julia Davis ’19, Dean Howey ’16, and Dr. Shelly Moorman-Stahlman (LVC professor of music) participated in the ceremony.

HIGH-IMPACT EXPERIENCES

SCHOLARSHIPS ACADEMIC PROGRAMS

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Minna Wolfskeil Barnes ’34 celebrated her 104th birthday Aug. 1. A former LVC May Queen, Minna married William Barnes ’34, who passed away in 1987. She has six grandchildren and a host of great-grandchildren.

’40s Dorothy Landis Gray ’44 recently celebrated her 95th birthday. She lives in Florida in the winter, where she serves on the board of the Sarasota Opera and Opera Guild. During the summer, she plays piano at the Allen Theatre in Annville.

’50s Dr. James Gregg ’50 shared that after teaching high school for seven years he began teaching political science and journalism at California State University, Chico. During 35 years at Chico, he was dean of the graduate school and director of research; he also chaired the Department of Political Science. James was the first student to receive a doctorate in political science from the University of California, Santa Barbara, and noted that Maud Laughlin was a major influence on his life while at LVC. The Rev. Donald L. Harbaugh ’54 and his wife, Ruthie, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary March 17. Rev. Harbaugh retired in 1999 as a preacher, and Ruthie and also from the Rev. Donald Department of Harbaugh ’54 Public Welfare as executive director after more than 24 years of service. They took a trip to Francis Scott Key, Ocean City, Md., in honor of their anniversary. Betty Hungerford ’54, H’09, director of development for the Homeland Cen-

DID YOU KNOW… that you could leave a legacy at your alma mater by naming Lebanon Valley College as a full or partial beneficiary of a life insurance policy or retirement account?

LEARN MORE ABOUT LEGACY GIVING Joe Martellaro, director of gift planning | 717-867-6323 | martella@lvc.edu 1-866-LVC-1866 (1-866-582-1866) | www.lvcgiving.org

ter in Harrisburg, received the Rotary Club of Harrisburg’s 2017 Community Service Award in May. Betty is the past president of the LVC Alumni Association and current chair of the Awards Committee. She is immediate past president of the Rotary Club and current board development chair of Theatre Harrisburg. Joan Eckenroad Kirk ’56 recently served as music director of a show put on by the residents of her retirement community, Ann’s Choice, in Warminster.

’60s

betterment of the Commonwealth. Gov. Corbett teaches at Duquesne University and St. Vincent College, and First Lady Corbett remains active with many philanthropic and educational associations, including as a member of LVC’s Board of Trustees. Pixie Hunsicker Bachtell ’69

Community Bank in March after more than 20 years in the banking industry. Jan H. Wubbena, D.M.A., ’69 and P. Michael Reidy ’70 met for the first time in 46 years at the Crown Public House, Belfast, Northern Ireland, in May.

Robert J. Brill ’63 received the 2017 Distinguished Service Award from The American Feed Industry Association for his life-long contributions to the industry. It is the highest honor bestowed by the association. Bob’s use of the linear programming concept for least-cost feed formulation revolutionized the feed industry. Frederic J. Marsik, Ph.D., ’65 is an advisor to CARB-X (The Combat Antibiotic Resistant Bacteria Accelerator) initiative. CARB-X is an innovative public-private partnership that takes a novel consortium approach to developing new therapeutics, vaccines, diagnostics, and devices to address the public-health issue of antibioticresistant bacteria. Dr. Gary N. Brauner ’67 recently retired after 40 years at Hershire Animal Hospital in Hummelstown, which he opened in 1977. Known for providing compassionate pet care, Dr. Brauner is a member of the American and Pennsylvania veterinary medical associations. Pixie Hunsicker Bachtell ’69 retired as mortgage lender from Penn

P. Michael Reidy ’70 (l.) and Dr. Jan H. Wubbena ’69

’70s Larry Bowman ’70 received the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives Life Member Award in Nashville in July. Larry, retired Lebanon Valley Chamber of Commerce president, received this pinnacle award for his stellar career in chamber leadership. Honorable Tom Corbett ’71, Pennsylvania Governor (2011–2015), and First Lady Susan Manbeck Corbett ’72 received honorary doctor of humane letters degrees from Point Park University in April in appreciation for their decades of working for the

Charles “Chip” Etter ’72 was inducted into the Capital Area Chapter of the Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame in March. At LVC, Chip scored more than 800 points on the basketball court and in 1971 co-captained the Middle Atlantic Conference championship team. Wendy Ulmer ’72 published her sixth children’s book, The Call. The setting for the fantasy book resembles Mt. Gretna, where Wendy grew up, and several The Call, by Pennsylvania town Wendy Ulmer ’72 names with unique spellings are hidden throughout. The Call involves music, magic, a boy, and his dragon. Dr. Robert Bohlander ’74, a psychology professor at Wilkes University, was featured in the school’s student newspaper, the Wilkes Beacon, in March. In the article, he noted that he knew that he wanted to be a college professor because he “loved his professors” at LVC. Bishop Peggy Johnson ’75, an honorary member of the LVC Board of Trustees, recently preached on the story of the raising of Lazarus at Lattimer United Methodist Church (UMC) in Lattimer Mines. Bishop Johnson, of the Eastern Pennsylvania Annual Conference of the UMC, serves as the episcopal leader of the

FALL 2017

CLASS NEWS & NOTES

THE CIRCLE OF LIFE ment affairs, quickly rising to the rank of first secretary and being awarded a UN Fellowship in Disarmament.

From his first breath, F. Obai Kabia ’73 from Sierra Leone was fated to become a Dutchman. “If ever a baby born in a foreign land of foreign parents was destined to become a member of the Lebanon Valley College family, that baby was Francis Obai Kabia,” said George “Rinso” Marquette ’48, late dean emeritus, when the College awarded Obai an Alumni Citation in 1993. “You see, the person who heard his first cry was Dr. Mabel I. Silver, Class of 1925, H’57, Lebanon Valley College’s renowned medical missionary to Sierra Leone, West Africa, for whom Silver Hall is named. She delivered him.” A complex web of family and community connections to LVC made it inevitable that Obai would one day come to LVC in Annville. In addition to being born into the hands of an LVC alumna, Obai is descended from a graduate of the Albert Academy, the boys’ school in Sierra Leone named in honor of one of the College’s earliest missionaries, Ira E. Albert, Class of 1898, and where many LVC alumni later served as missionary educators. Obai’s family continued this historical weave with three daughters—Fatoumata N’jie Jalloh ’99, Amie Kabia ’00, and Nadeen Kabia Shapson ’02—who also graduated from The Valley, among other family members. After graduating from LVC, Obai earned a master’s degree in public administration from the Pennsylvania State University and a certificate in conflict management from The John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University. He was then chosen to be a representative to the Permanent Mission (government) of the Republic of Sierra Leone to the United Nations (UN) as third secretary. While representing his government, he was responsible for political and disarma-

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Subsequently, Obai resigned from the Mission of Sierra Leone and joined the UN Secretariat, where he took on increasingly responsible roles that enabled him to serve in Namibia, Zambia, Angola, Australia, Switzerland, Austria, Afghanistan, Pakistan, and the UN headquarters in New York City. Somehow, he still found time to serve as a member of the College’s Board of Trustees. “It was my relationship with students and the way I was taught at LVC that gave me the wherewithal to work at the UN,” says Obai. Today, he’s also fulfilling the role that Dr. JonnaLynn Knauer Mandelbaum ’69 hopes that recipients of The Almond Tree Scholarship (see p. 16) will undertake after they graduate from LVC—that is, giving back to their native country. In this regard, Obai’s grandfather, the late Paramount Chief Julius Momoh Gulama of Kaiyamba Chiefdom, donated the land on which the Harford Secondary School for Girls in Moyamba, Sierra Leone, was built. Moreover, several of his family members graduated from that school, including his late mother, Paramount Chief Madam Ella Koblo Gulama, who was the first female member of the parliament of Sierra Leone, as well as the country’s first female government cabinet minister. The Kabia family is currently focused on trying to improve healthcare opportunities for the people of Sierra Leone. “Currently, Sierra Leone can boast of very few decent and modern hospital facilities,” explains Obai. “If someone gets sick and can afford it, they are flown out of the country for medical treatment or stay and deal with the poor healthcare facilities in the country. Aside from diseases such as malaria and cholera, many people died from the Ebola virus that became widespread and the very recent mudslide that killed hundreds of people.” Obai and his brother, Dr. Soccoh Kabia, the first and only nephrologist in the country, hope to donate their family land to house a modern hospital facility for the people of Sierra Leone. “We don’t have the money for such

a venture, but if we can partner with some individual or a group of humanitarian companies, we can provide the land to help our people.” Obai sees this vision as an extension of the College’s long relationship with his country. “I received an education at Lebanon Valley College, and Lebanon Valley sent missionaries to our country to help improve the lives of our people with particular regard to education and health care. If America and Lebanon Valley can send missionaries to my country, why can’t I, with the education that I have, do a similar thing for my people?”

SIERRA LEONE CONNECTIONS From its earliest days, Lebanon Valley has cherished a special relationship with the people of Sierra Leone, borne of deep missionary ties forged there by the United Brethren Church. A long line of LVC graduates traveled to Sierra Leone to establish schools, hospitals, and churches—and they in turn have inspired some notable Sierra Leoneans to come to Annville to attend the College themselves. The earliest known LVC graduates to serve as missionaries in Sierra Leone were Mary Richards and Ira E. Albert, both of the Class of 1897. After Albert died in 1902, the boys’ mission school in Sierra Leone was renamed the Albert Academy in his honor. Other LVC alumni who felt called to serve in Sierra Leone include Jennie L. Light and James Morris Lesher, who both attended LVC in the 1880s. Raymond P. Daugherty, Class of 1897, worked at the Albert Academy in the early 1900s. Lena May Hoerner, Class of 1910, taught school in Sierra Leone for five years. William N. Martin, Class of 1918, went to Sierra Leone in the 1920s and later served as princi-

pal of the Albert Academy. His wife, Grace Snyder, Class of 1919, served in the country from 1920 to 1926. Moreover, Mabel Silver, Class of 1925, who went on to earn a medical degree from the University of Maryland—possibly that school’s first female graduate—served the people of Sierra Leone from 1932 to 1962. The earliest Sierra Leonean to attend Lebanon Valley may be Alfred Tennyson Sumner, Class of 1902. After graduation, Sumner, the grandfather of Obai’s wife, Dulcie, returned to Sierra Leone to serve his country as an educator and pastor. Today, the College awards The Alfred Tennyson Sumner Scholarship in his honor. Sumner’s son, the Hon. Doyle Sumner, attended LVC from 1936 to 1938, returning to Sierra Leone and ultimately serving as the country’s minister of natural resources. In addition, three of Tennyson Sumner’s great-granddaughters, Obai’s aforementioned daughters—Fatoumata, Amie, and Nadeen— also graduated from The Valley. Other LVC alumni who came to Annville from Sierra Leone include Lucy LeFevre Sumner ’67, the wife of Steven Sumner, who is the grandson of Tennyson Sumner and son of Doyle Sumner. Today, Lucy is president and international director for The Magic Penny, a non-profit she founded to provide financial support for educational, economic, and agricultural projects in the rural villages of Sierra Leone. Solomon Caulker ’41 returned to Sierra Leone after graduation to serve as vice principal of Fourah Bay College, the country’s oldest and first Western-style university, and Mamie Kamara Caulker ’67 returned to Sierra Leone to teach music at the Harford Secondary School for Girls, which was built on land donated by Obai Kabia’s family.

Philadelphia Area of the UMC, which includes the Eastern Pennsylvania Annual Conference and the Peninsula-Delaware Annual Conference. Bobbe Sheriff Pennington ’75 recently retired from the South Burlington School District in Vermont. She and her husband, Scott, are the proud grandparents of four and love being outdoors and spending time with family. George B. Williams Jr. ’75 retired from the National GeospatialIntelligence Agency (NGA) in April after nearly 38 years with the NGA and its predecessor agencies. George was drafted into the U.S. Army after his freshman year at LVC (1972) and served for almost 22 years. His military service spanned every U.S. conflict, except Grenada, from Vietnam to the Global War on Terrorism. Sylvia D. Hepler ’76 exhibited 13 of her visionary watercolors, Divine Downloads from Other Dimensions, March 27 in Harrisburg. Frank Tavani ’76, who retired after 17 years as head football coach at Lafayette College last fall, is executive director of strategic planning for athletics and advancement at his high school alma mater, Lebanon Catholic. The Rev. Bruce R. Druckenmiller ’77 is pastor at Trinity United Church of Christ, Waynesboro. Dr. Robert S. Frey ’77 and wife, Terry, celebrated the 10th anniversary of their professional consultancy, Successful Proposal Strategies LLC in March. During the past decade, the company has helped businesses and other organizations win more than $6 billion in funded contracts with the U.S. federal government, as well as private-sector corporations. Jean E. Immler ’78 was named Teacher of the Year at Charter Tech

FALL 2017

CLASS NEWS & NOTES High School for the Performing Arts in Somers Point, N.J., where she has been the advanced vocal music and theater teacher for the past 11 years. Her position allows her to share her passions for theater, songwriting, and vocal music with a vibrant and diverse group of young artists. Russell P. Labe Jr. ’78 returned to campus Feb. 21 to speak at the Mathematical Sciences Colloquium Series. In his presentation, Stress Test Modeling at Bank of America Merrill Lynch After the 2008 Financial Crisis, he spoke about the models used to forecast revenue for selected products in the Merrill Lynch brokerage business. Russell turned his passion

Becky Huber Davidowski, Liz Todt DiBenedetto, Claire Fiedler, Cheryl Acosta Kiesel, Nancy McCullough Longnecker, and Jan Smith, all members of the Class of 1972, get together each spring and fall. This year, in honor of the 45th anniversary of their graduation, they reunited in New York City.

(l. to r.): Cheryl Acosta Kiesel ’72, Claire Fiedler ’72, Liz Todt DiBenedetto ’72, Becky Huber Davidowski ’72, Jan Smith ’72, Nancy McCullough Longnecker ’72

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for real-world problem solving into a 36-year career in operations research. He worked as an analyst and technical manager for RCA and Merrill Lynch, and was elected a Fellow of The Institute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences in 2014. Joan Squires ’79 was recently named Broadway Presenter of the Year by the Broadway League in New York City. Squires, Omaha Performing Arts president, received the Samuel J. L’Hommedieu Award for Outstanding Achievement in Presenter Management in May. She was recognized for her contributions to the Broadway industry and the arts in Omaha, Neb.

’80s Cheryl L. Cook ’81 was presented with the Meritorious Service Award by National Farmers Union for her outstanding leadership and service to family agriculture and to the Farmers Union over the course of her lifetime. She is currently chief innovation officer at the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture. Pam Fischer ’81 is the founder and owner of Pam Fischer Consulting, which specializes in transportation safety, outreach, and education. She consults for governments, non-profits, and others on transportation issues, particularly behavioral. Jonathan R. Birbeck ’82 was appointed magisterial district judge in Carlisle by Governor Tom Wolf in June 2016. He previously served more than 27 years with the Cumberland County District Attorney’s Office. Stephen E. Norman ’86 was named chief operating officer of Stauffers of Kissel Hill in January. He joined Stauffers in 1991, and worked as the

director of merchandising for the home and garden division. Stephen will continue in that role and serve as COO. Dr. Christian Hamann ’88, after three years as chair to the faculty at Albright College, returned to his research agenda and was awarded the Annadora Vesper Shirk Award for Faculty Scholarship in 2016. John P. Plummer ’88 is executive director of the Delaware Valley Golden Retriever Rescue. He was hired in 2013 as facility operations and staff support manager. John began volunteering for the organization in 1994, and later served seven years on their board of directors, including four as chair.

’90s Michael G. Dryden, Esq., ’90, a partner with Willig, Williams & Davidson in Philadelphia, presented as part of the Pennsylvania Bar Institute’s Continuing Legal Michael G. Dryden, Esq., ’90 Education program, Tough Problems in Workers’ Compensation 2017, in April. He provided updates in case law regarding firefighter cancer claims. David L. Wilson ’90 was named vice president and chief operating officer of Bank of Bird-in-Hand in Lancaster. He had previously been assistant vice president and information technology manager. Dr. Amy E. Earhart ’91, associate professor of English, was honored with the University-Level Distinguished Achievement Award for teaching by Texas A&M University and The Association of Former Students.

Malissa M. Weikel ’93 is the sole proprietor of Mad Mod World Vintage in Fleetwood, which specializes in sourcing and restoring mid-century modern furnishings and home goods. Mike Rhoades ’95 was named head men’s basketball coach at NCAA Division I Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) in March. He took over a VCU program that has reached seven consecutive NCAA Tournaments after leading his previous team, the Rice University Owls, to their first 20win campaign in more than a decade. Craig A. Wolfe ’95 was named vice president of operations & manufacturing with JLS Automation, York.

Prince’s private estate and production complex in Chanhassen, Minn. Philip S. Campbell ’98 was named director for Lackawanna College’s Sunbury branch. He brings 18 years of education experience to the position. Susan LeBaron-Tonini ’98 was named 2017 Woman of the Year for the Lebanon Valley Charter Chapter of the American Business Women’s Association (ABWA). A former ABWA president, she has been an active member of the organization for 15 years and currently works at WellSpan Good Samaritan Hospital as chaplain associate.

Ryan Redner ’99

Cameron Ferdinand ’96 and grandson Logan

Cameron Ferdinand ’96 is happily retired and enjoying traveling with his best friend, Gary Kardisco. This year alone, they traveled Route 66, to NYC, and up the New England coast. When he isn’t traveling, taking photographs, or doing part-time consulting, Cam LOVES being a grandpa to Logan. Jerry Putt ’96 was named principal at Frederick County Middle School in Virginia. Bethany Mummert Hopman ’97 was named archivist for Paisley Park,

Alumni A lu m n i Resources Resou rces Through Th roug h LVC’s LVC’s Center for for Ca Career Center re er Development Development

Ryan S. Redner ’99 was named president and chief executive officer of Redner’s Markets Inc., an employeeowned company that operates 44 grocery stores and 21 quick shops.

Benjamin J. Silverman ’99 co-authored OpenStack for Architects, the definitive book on OpenStack Architecture, the extremely popular free open-source cloud-operating system. Benjamin is the principal cloud architect for OnX Enterprise Solutions and is responsible for providing strategic and tactical cloud leadership to OnX’s customers.

’00s Dr. Meredith A. McGinley ’02 is an assistant professor of psychology at the University of Wisconsin-Parkside. Jennifer Hutchins Pettko ’02 was named Calvert County, Maryland’s first agricultural marketing specialist. She works closely with the county’s Economic Development Department to increase awareness of agriculture in the community.

Did you know that LVC’s Center for Career Development also helps alumni implement their career plans? It offers several services for alumni, including résumé and letter review, individualized career counseling, access to job and internship listings (Handshake), graduate school guidance, effective job search and networking strategies, and interview preparation and mock interviews. The center also offers opportunities for alumni to return to campus to share their expertise with current students (Pizza with Professionals, Mock Interview Mania Weeks), to host students at their work site, or serve as a Career Connections Mentor to provide support and advice to current students as they explore possible career options. Please visit the Resources for Alumni page at www.lvc.edu/ career-development for additional ways to connect with students or further your career plans.

FALL 2017

CLASS NEWS & NOTES Sean Reilly ’02 is the office manager for Hell’s Kitchen Hospitality Group, which owns and operates House of Brews casual bars in the Times Square, Hell’s Kitchen, and Astoria neighborhoods of New York. Lisa Kemble Stoudt ’02 was promoted to manager of the Bend, Ore., office of Wells Fargo Bank. She is responsible for customer service, professional development, and community involvement efforts.

the Pennsylvania Institute of Certified Public Accountants for the 2017–18 fiscal year. She is the chief financial officer at PPC Lubricants, Jonestown. Jana DelMarcelle ’06 received her doctorate of education in curriculum and instruction from Indiana University of Pennsylvania.

Karyn A. Camilo ’09, a chemistry technician at Exelon Nuclear, returned to campus June 7 to discuss her career path with summer research students.

Christopher A. Kreider ’03 was named assistant basketball coach at NCAA Division I Rice University. He brings 12 years of coaching experience to the position, including assistant coach positions at Virginia Military Institute and George Mason University. Anne Parmer ’03 is the community building and engagement lead at Andculture, a user experience design firm in Harrisburg that supports local entrepreneurs and innovators. Adam Tavel ’03, professor of English at Wor-Wic Community College in Salisbury, Md., won the 2017 Richard Wilbur Book Award for his third book of poems, Catafalque (University of Evansville Press, 2017). J. Christopher Greever ’04 started a new position as research & development technician at Chemours, Wilmington, Del. J.D. Byers ’05 was named an assistant men’s basketball coach at NCAA Division I Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) in April. He rejoined head coach Mike Rhoades ’95, who together helped rebuild the program at Rice University before moving to VCU. Dr. Nathaniel R. Geyer ’05 was awarded a doctorate in public health science from Walden University. Rachel Sargent ’05 was elected president of the South Central Chapter of

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Courtney Reapsome ’08 competed in the USA Rugby Emirates Airline Club National Championships in May as a member of the Harrisburg Rugby Harlots, losing to eventual champions, the Milwaukee Scylla. Courtney also is Harrisburg Rugby’s secretary and a member of the board of directors.

Amanda Keith ’09 was named Mental Health Caregiver of the Year by Central Penn Parent. She is a licensed social worker with Pennsylvania Counseling Services. Steve Whiskeyman ’09 and Jill Kidulic Whiskeyman ’07

Jill Kidulic Whiskeyman ’07 and her husband, Steve Whiskeyman ’09, co-founders of their own ad agency, Simpatico Studios in Philadelphia, cotaught a course in LVC’s Department of Design, Media, and Technology in spring 2017. The couple taught Ad Agency while Professor Mat Samuel was on sabbatical and hope to teach again at their alma mater. Patricia Foster Donley ’08 was appointed vice president of patient care services and chief nursing officer at WellSpan Good Samaritan Hospital, Lebanon. Melissa Carvajal Leibig ’08 is director of community outreach with Court Appointed Special Advocates of Lancaster County. Becky Roof Lengle ’08 competed in the USA Rugby Emirates Airline Club National Championships in May as a member of the Harrisburg Rugby Harlots, losing to eventual champions, the Milwaukee Scylla.

Andy Mowatt’s ’09 band, Steely Jam, released its debut full-length album, “Vol. 1: Rock Hard Funk,” in March. Andy, who plays guitar, wrote or co-wrote all but two of the songs.

’10s Emily Kantner ’10 is associate editor at Petersen’s Bowhunting magazine in Harrisburg. Joseph Kopchick ’10 was elevated to manager with Brown Schultz Sheridan & Fritz, an accounting and auditing, tax advisory, and business consulting service in Camp Hill. Brandon Parks ’10 is an associate scientist at Covestro in Pittsburgh. Covestro is a world-leading supplier of high-tech polymer materials. Anthony “Tony” Gorick ’11 has joined Fig Industries as digital content manager, where he will develop strategy across all of Fig’s platforms. Janna M. Herbert ’11 was named marketing coordinator at Carlisle Construction Materials.

James Kroll Lloyd ’11 is communications manager with Coral Reef Alliance, which leads holistic conservation programs that improve coral reef health and resilience. Amanda Weiant Musser ’11 was inducted into the Lebanon County Commission for Women’s 2017 Hall of Fame in March, along with her mother, Phyllis Weiant. This was the first time a mother and daughter were jointly inducted. They were nominated for promoting healthy lifestyles. Dr. Lauren T. Baran ’12, D’14 was featured on The Midday Show on KPLC Channel 7 in Lake Charles, La. In the segment, she shared information about Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization Tools currently used to treat patients at Lake Charles Memorial Hospital, where Lauren is a physical therapist. Walter Choplick ’12 is the band director at Gettysburg Area middle and high schools. Ryan Humphries ’12 returned to LVC in April to speak to education students about gifted education. He is an elementary gifted education teacher with Solanco School District. Katarina Jablonski ’12 was named supervisor at McKonly & Asbury LLP. Heath N. Lettich ’12 teaches 7th and 8th grade at Infinity Charter School, Harrisburg. Kathryn Lewis ’12 completed her Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter (CPCU) designation, which is granted after completing nine tests on insurance and business ethics. She is a product manager at Travelers Insurance Company in Hartford, Conn. Joseph F. Meehan ’12 was named to the National Association of Basketball Coaches’ 2016–17 Under Armour 30Under-30 Honor Roll, recognizing top

young coaches across the nation. Joe is an assistant men’s basketball coach at Bucknell University. Susanna J. Chehata, Esq., ’13 received her juris doctorate from Pennsylvania State University– Dickinson Law in May. Susanna J. Adrienne R. Chehata, Esq., ’13

Gemberling ’13 was appointed Susquehanna technical coordinator for the Implementing Precision Conservation in the Susquehanna River Watershed Project. The enterprise is a partnership between Susquehanna University, Bloomsburg University, Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, and the Chesapeake Bay Foundation.

Law School in May. Noelle Brossman ’14 received her master’s degree in business administration from the Pennsylvania State University in 2016. She is an adjunct instructor in accounting at LVC, and was recently promoted to assistant business manager in the AnnvilleCleona School District. Kelsey Moore ’14 was named a retirement assistant with Conrad Siegel Actuaries. She has earned her Retirement Plan Fundamentals (RFP) certificate and is currently working toward her Qualified 401(k) Administrator (QKA) designation. Daniel Schramm, Esq., ’14 received his juris doctorate from Widener University Commonwealth Law School in May.

Scott Parker ’13 is the media production coordinator for the National Office of Phi Sigma Pi National Honor Fraternity in East Hempfield Township. Dr. Caitlin Vasey ’13, D’16 is a physical therapist with Bucks County Orthopedic Specialists. She is pursuing certification in mechanical diagnosis and therapy (MDT) from The McKenzie Institute in Syracuse, N.Y. Steven Wildberger, Esq., ’13 received his juris doctorate from University of Pittsburgh School of Law in May. Liesl Wolf M’13 was named chief credit officer and vice president of Bank of Bird-in-Hand in Lancaster.

Gregory Seiders, Esq., ’14 (l.) and Daniel Schramm, Esq., ’14

Gregory Seiders, Esq., ’14 received his juris doctorate from Widener University Commonwealth Law School in May. Collin Straka ’14 is senior recruiting coordinator with Recursion Pharmaceuticals, Salt Lake City, Utah.

Sonia B. Barlet ’14 was named associate of the Casualty Actuarial Society. She is an actuarial analyst at Chubb Group of Insurance Companies, Philadelphia. Deborah Bogert, Esq., ’14 received her juris doctorate from William & Mary

Roberto “Tito” Valdez, Esq., ’14

Roberto “Tito” Valdes, Esq., ’14 received his juris doctorate from Pennsylvania State UniversityDickinson Law in May.

FALL 2017

CLASS NEWS & NOTES Cristabelle Braden ’15 brought her “Hope Survives” Tour to LVC’s campus in March, as part of the Colloquium on Memory. She is founder of a national ministry, Hope After Head Injury, using original music to tell the story of her journey through brain injury. Amelia L. Capuano ’15 is a chemist with Chemical Solutions, Harrisburg. Melanie Frederick ’15 was awarded Teacher of the Year at John L. Hurt Elementary, Hurt, Va. She teaches preK-fifth-grade music and has started a chorus program for fourth- and fifthgrade students. Her mentor teacher was Rev. Carol Martin Moorefield ’77, who won the same award in 2011 at Chatham Elementary School. Kevin Molina Macias ’15 is a quality control microbiologist for the biologics CMC division with Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd., West Chester. Connor McDonald ’15 partnered with colleagues at Northeast Radiation Oncology Center (NROC) to determine oncology clinical trial accrual rates in northeast Pennsylvania, and further explore the barriers preventing local patients from joining trials. Their column, “Clinical Trials Help Save Lives” in The Times Tribune, outlined their study, the findings of which they presented to physicians and nurses at NROC and Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine. Katie Yost ’15 is pursuing a master’s degree in human rights & international politics at the University of Glasgow in Scotland. Kevin Doty ’16 teaches chemistry at the Westhill Institute in Mexico City, Mexico. Olivia A. Edwards ’16 was named government affairs and research associate with Triad Strategies LLC, a bipartisan lobbying, public affairs, strategic

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communications, grassroots advocacy, and issue management consulting firm in Harrisburg. William Galiano ’16 was named an actuarial analyst with Conrad Siegel Actuaries. He is currently pursuing his Associate in the Society of Actuaries (ASA) designation. Hannah Pell ’16, who recently completed her Fulbright year in Austria, co-authored “Application of Systematic Musicology in Music Theory and Analysis” as part of the 9th European Music Analysis Conference in Strasbourg, France, in June. Jeannine Riley ’16 is assistant producer for the Jeff & Jenn Show at STAR 94.1, Atlanta, Ga. She also handles the show’s social media and web assets. Samuel Siegel ’16 was the recipient of the 2016 Elijah Watt Sells Award from the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants. The award recognizes outstanding perSamuel Siegel ’16 formance on the CPA examination, and Samuel was one of only 58 recipients from among the 102,323 candidates to receive the distinction. He is employed at his family’s accounting firm, Stanilla, Siegel, and Maser LLC, North Cornwall Township. Daniel J. Upchurch ’16 co-authored an article, Local Pauli Stabilizers of Symmetric Hypergraph States, in the May issue of Journal of Physics A: Mathematical and Theoretical (Vol. 50, No. 24). His co-authors included Dr. David W. Lyons (LVC professor of mathematical sciences), Nathaniel P. Gibbons ’18, Mark A. Peters ’17, Dr. Scott N. Walck (LVC chair and professor of

physics), and Ezekiel W. Wertz ’18 (see p. 3). Cristalchia “Cristal” Acevedo ’17 is pursuing her master’s degree in school counseling at Millersville University. Cooper Gerus ’17 is the lead trail technician with the Maryland State Park Service. Brianna Heffner ’17 is a quality control analyst at Colorcon, West Point. John McHale Jr. ’17 is an associate scientist at Eurofins Lancaster Laboratories Environmental. Meghan L. Owens ’17 is director of bands for North East High School, her alma mater, in North East, Md. Mark A. Peters ’17 co-authored an article, Local Pauli Stabilizers of Symmetric Hypergraph States, in the May issue of Journal of Physics A: Mathematical and Theoretical (Vol. 50, No. 24). His co-authors included Dr. David W. Lyons (LVC professor of mathematical sciences), Nathaniel P. Gibbons ’18, Daniel J. Upchurch ’16, Dr. Scott N. Walck (LVC chair and professor of physics), and Ezekiel W. Wertz ’18 (see p. 3). Sharon Sees ’17 is pursuing a master’s degree in higher education at the University of Pennsylvania, where she received a graduate assistantship in the school’s Penn Abroad Program. Her goal is to become a study abroad director after graduation. Mariah Smolka ’17 recently accepted a position as associate scientist at Eurofins Lancaster Labs. Caity Stevens ’17 is senior associate technical producer at Sacunas in Harrisburg. Bradley Wood ’17 was named e-commerce risk consultant with the WebstaurantStore.

IN MEMORIAM

Christmas at

The Valley

DEC. 3, 2017 | 3 P.M. & 7 P.M. FREDERIC K. MILLER CHAPEL

FRIENDS OF THE COLLEGE Jeanne Donlevy Arnold H’08, a member of LVC’s Board of Trustees, was awarded the YWCA Greater Harrisburg 28th Annual Tribute to Women of Excellence award. The award recognizes extraordinary women for their contributions to our region, professionally and philanthropically. Katherine J. Bishop, vice chair of the LVC Board of Trustees and chair, chief executive officer, and president of Lebanon Seaboard Corporation, was selected as a 2017 Woman of Influence by Central Penn Business Journal. She was selected in recognition of her leadership, significant career accomplishments, and community involvement.

’40s

enant Church and is survived by his wife, Myrna Shenk Heminway ’51.

Marilyn Trautman Meinsler ’43 died June 16 in Lititz. She was married to a naval officer, living in many different locations, and teaching school wherever they were stationed. Meinsler was an avid reader, and enjoyed spending summers at their house in Meredith, N.H.

William E. Davies ’54 died Jan. 23 in Boyertown. He was a World War II veteran who served in the U.S. Army with the occupation forces in Tokyo, Japan. Davies was a longtime science teacher, and later assistant principal, in the Boyertown School District, retiring in 1989.

Dr. Jacob L. Rhodes ’43, LVC professor emeritus of physics, died May 13 (see p. 32).

Lt. Col. Clair D. Wagner ’54 died April 24. He taught business and religious classes at Northern Lebanon High School. Wagner’s military career began in 1940 when he signed up to join the First City Troop of Philadelphia Horse Cavalry. He later served as a wing intelligence officer & pilot in Alaska and Army Reserve Commander at Muir Army Airfield.

Martha Klein ’46 died May 2 in Myerstown. She taught at the IU–13, Lancaster and Lebanon, retiring in 1989. Klein was a member of the Prescott Fire Company Auxiliary and Friedens Lutheran Church, Myerstown. E. Robert Kern ’47 died Feb. 26 in Lebanon. He was a decorated World War II veteran and recipient of the Distinguished Flying Cross. Kern was an avid fisherman, a very good golfer, and active in planning his high school reunions. Phyllis Lambros Shifler ’48 died Jan. 2 in Boonsboro, Md.

IN MEMORIAM

Mary Ellen Budesheim Kinch ’49 died Feb. 18 in Hershey. She was a private piano teacher in Hershey and member and accompanist of the Hershey Community Chorus. Kinch also was a member Trinity Lutheran Church choral and bell choirs.

’30s

’50s

Ernest Carl Weirick ’39 died March 14 in Port St. Lucie, Fla. He worked as an industrial engineer for Eastman Kodak in Rochester, N.Y., until retirement. Weirick was an Eagle Scout. He and his wife, June, were married for 75 years. Weirick is survived by a daughter, Bonnie Weirick Carl ’65.

Lewis C. Heminway Jr. ’51 died Feb. 5 in Cape May Court House, N.J. He served in the U.S. Army Air Corps in World War II. Heminway was a milk truck driver affectionately known as “Lew the Milk Man.” He was a member of the Maranatha New Cov-

Joel J. Wiest, Esq., ’55 died Jan. 28 in Lebanon. He served in the First U.S. Army Chorus and later sang as a backup singer for Debbie Reynolds. After years in the music industry, Wiest became an attorney. DeWitt P. Zuse Jr. ’55 died June 8 in Guilford, Conn. He was chair of music for the Cumberland Valley schools and helped create a statewide summer arts program for high school students. He was the first director of the Educational Center for the Arts in New Haven (Conn.), and ended his career self-employed using communication technology to assist non-verbal children and adults. Zuse is survived by a sister, Janet Zuse Hostetter ’59. He was predeceased by his father, The Rev. Dr. Dewitt P. Zuse Sr. ’26. Col. Jack Herr Thomas ’56 died Feb. 3 in Annville. He was the retired director of public affairs for Metropolitan Edison Company, Reading. Thomas had 28 years of commissioned service with the regular Army, Pennsylvania Army National Guard, and the U.S. Army

FALL 2017

IN MEMORIAM

Dr. Jacob L. Rhodes ’43, P’87 and Ruth Rhodes P’87

Dr. Jacob L . Rhodes, Professor Emer it us Dr. Jacob L. Rhodes ’43, P’87, chair and professor emeritus of physics, died May 13 in Lebanon. He graduated from Lebanon Valley College in 1943 with degrees in mathematics and physics, and a secondary teaching certificate. Dr. Rhodes then became a research assistant at the Johns Hopkins University Radiation Laboratory, working with a team to develop a radio proximity fuse for anti-aircraft and for artillery missiles. In 1946, Dr. Rhodes enrolled at the University of Pennsylvania. After completing his coursework, he was hired as chair of the Department of Physics at Roanoke College from 1952–1956, then finished his dissertation to earn his doctorate from Penn in 1958. He also pursued graduate study at Johns Hopkins University, Yale University, University of Rochester, and Oakridge Institute of Nuclear Studies during his career. Dr. Rhodes returned to LVC as chair of physics in 1957, succeeding Samuel O. Grimm, Class of 1912 and founder of the College’s Physics Department. Dr. Rhodes served as chair for nearly three decades (1957–1985), and re-

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mains one of only five chairs in the department’s more than 100-year history. He continued to teach as an adjunct professor of physics and mathematics from 1985–1992. Dr. Rhodes’ service and commitment to his students was widely recognized. He was selected as an Outstanding Educator of America in 1970 and 1975. In 2007, a former faculty colleague, Dr. Agnes O’Donnell, late professor emerita of English, and a former student, Dr. Elizabeth M. Bains ’64, established The Rhodes and O’Donnell Endowed Physics Research Fund in honor of Dr. Rhodes and in memory of Professor J. Robert O’Donnell, late professor emeritus of physics. “Jake was a great teacher,” said Dr. Don Dahlberg, professor emeritus of chemistry, who was a faculty colleague for more than a decade. “Students were always number one in his priorities.” In 2013, Dr. Rhodes wrote the 100th-anniversary history of LVC’s physics program, which is available in the College’s Archives. He also helped organize the centennial anniversary/reunion for the program, held April 12, 2014. Dr. Rhodes was married to the late Ruth E. Basehore Rhodes for more than 50 years. He is survived by three daughters, Andrea Salem, Marcia Garcia, and Carol Norman; a son, William Rhodes ’87; and two grandchildren, Victoria Norman and Jacob Rhodes.

Reserves. He was co-founder and director of the Hershey Lodge Academy of Platform Tennis, and a member of the Hershey Racquet Club and Hershey Country Club. He is survived by his wife, Joanne Hostetter Thomas ’55, sisters Doris Thomas Shull ’50 and Frances Thomas Lucy ’54, a brother, Lee Thomas ’65, and a son, Capt. Jack Thomas ’85. He was predeceased by his mother, Della Herr Thomas ’23. Luke K. Grubb ’57 died June 20 in Lancaster. He taught music in the Columbia Borough schools and later at Millersville University as associate professor of music education. Grubb served as organist/choirmaster at several area churches. He is survived by a sister, Kathryn Grubb Schmidt ’61. Frank Robert McCulloch ’57 died May 20 in Bolivia, N.C. He began his career at RCA, later transferring to NBC in New York City, where he became vice president of human resources for NBC Sports, Olympics Division. McCulloch considered that his best job in the world, taking him to such Olympic locations as Barcelona, Atlanta, Salt Lake City, and Sydney. Paul F. DiPangrazio ’58 died May 15 in Red Lion. He taught history and coached football at Palmyra High School and Henry Houck Junior High, Lebanon. In 1967, he became principal of Red Lion Junior High School, retiring in 1996. D. Neil Aharrah ’59 died May 29 in Caldwell, N.J. He taught biology for 40 years at Passaic Valley High School in Little Falls, N.J., where he also coached football and wrestling. In his retirement, he enjoyed summers on his boat on Lake Hopatcong. He is survived by his wife, Mary Beaver Aharrah ’59. Susan Trostle Ward ’59 died May 12 in New Britain. She was a musician and

owner/operator of Heartstrings Entertainment in Doylestown. Ward worked with many well-known people, ranging from Beverly Sills to Dean Martin.

’60s Leesa L. Sipe ’60 died Feb. 6 in Lutherville-Timonium, Md. She taught music in Baltimore County public schools and was a substitute teacher at Towson High School. Sipe was active at St. John’s United Methodist Church and served as president of the United Methodist Women for 25 years. She is survived by her husband of 56 years, Neal A. Sipe ’60, and daughter, Rev. Martha S. Sipe ’86. The Rev. James D. Corbett ’63 died April 7 in Lebanon. He was ordained in 1966 in the Eastern Pennsylvania Conference of the United Methodist Church. Rev. Corbett served in many parishes and as district superintendent of the Lebanon-Reading District. He was also a past president and board member of the Pennsylvania Chautauqua, Mt. Gretna. Corbett is survived by daughter, Susan Corbett Simonton ’86, and son, Matthew Corbett ’94. Arthur F. Bowman ’64 died May 14 in Lancaster. He worked as a research scientist for DuPont Chemical in Delaware, and later for Atlas Powder Company and ICI Explosives, Tamaqua. He was responsible for advancements in detonator technology, which resulted in several patents. Dr. Edgar W. Conrad ’64 died April 15 in Australia. From 1977 to 2006, he was a professor and head of studies in religion in the School of History, Philosophy, Religion, and Classics at the University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia. Dr. Conrad authored several books and in 2010

was awarded an Alumni Citation from LVC. He is survived by his wife, Dr. Linda Slonaker Conrad ’64. Dr. Jerome Michael Kildee ’64 died April 26 in Little River, S.C. He had a distinguished career that included operating a private dental practice, serving as a university instructor, and practicing at various locations of the Veterans Administration, including as chief of dental service in El Paso, Texas. Janet L. Hill ’68 died June 14 in Lansdowne. She taught in Andover, Mass., before moving to Westmore, Vt. Hill was an enthusiastic sailor on Lake Willoughby. She enjoyed gardening, beekeeping, and caring for animals. Judith L. Tanger ’68 died April 27 in Deptford, N.J., where she was owner and chief executive officer of Tanger’s Feed and Supplies. She was past president of the Deptford Democrat Club.

’70s Vesta Boger Fischer ’70 died March 8 in Hershey. She was a teacher in the Derry Township School District until her retirement. Fisher was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Hershey and served as yeoman of the Tri-County Boat Club for more than 25 years. Rosemary L. Linkovic ’70 died May 23 in Hershey. She worked for various visiting nurse and hospice organizations before teaching nursing at Dauphin County Technical School. Linkovic raised several champion Newfoundland dogs, training them as water rescue and draft dogs. Richard Rutherford ’72 died June 25 in Newmanstown. He worked in management at the former Mi-Jan Fabrics in Denver for more than 20 years.

FALL 2017

IN MEMORIAM

Dr. Ross W. Fasick ’55, H’03 and Betty Fasick

Dr. Ross W. Fasick, Chair Emer it us Dr. Ross W. Fasick ’55, H’03 died July 16 in Delaware. He served on LVC’s Board of Trustees from 1992–2010, including two terms as chair of the board. LVC’s Fasick Bridge is named in honor of Dr. Fasick and his wife, Betty, who died 14 days after her childhood sweetheart and husband of 64 years. Dr. Fasick was a member of the Knights of The Valley and Student Government, and competed in baseball and basketball before graduating with a bachelor’s degree in chemistry from The Valley. Following in the footsteps of his mentor, Dr. H. Anthony Neidig ’43, H’04, late LVC chair and professor emeritus of chemistry, Dr. Fasick enrolled at the University of Delaware where he earned his master’s and doctorate in organic chemistry. He then began a 34-year career with E.I. DuPont de Nemours & Co that saw him rise through the ranks, including a time where he was responsible for all DuPont operations in Latin America. He retired in 1994 as senior executive vice president—polymers and automotive products worldwide, with responsibility for more than $6 billion in business. “He was an impressive board chair who was respected by everyone,” said Tom Reinhart ’58, H’97, who played baseball with

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Dr. Fasick at LVC and was a long-time fellow trustee and friend. “He was a thoughtful and collaborative, yet decisive, leader who oversaw the College during a great period of enrollment growth and campus construction.” Lebanon Valley College recognized Dr. Fasick’s philanthropic and career achievements, which included 15 U.S. patents and numerous publications in his discipline, by awarding him an Alumni Citation in 1988, a Distinguished Alumni Award in 1995, and an honorary doctor of humane letters in 2003. In 1999, he and Betty were named Lifetime Vickroy Associates, an honor that recognizes those whose cumulative lifetime giving to LVC exceeds $100,000. In addition to the Fasick Bridge, spaces in the Vernon and Doris Bishop Library and Neidig-Garber Science Center are named in honor of the Fasicks’ generosity and service to LVC. Dr. Fasick chaired the Science Initiative and was a cabinet member for the Great Expectations Campaign (2000–2010), which led to a major revitalization of the College’s science center. “Ross and Betty were great supporters of The Valley,” added Reinhart. “Two of their proudest moments were when the Fasick Bridge was dedicated and when the revitalized Neidig-Garber Science Center was completed. It was a great honor for Ross to work with Dr. Neidig to raise support for the center and know that many generations of LVC students will benefit from his commitment to the College.”

Byron L. Shoemaker ’73 died Feb. 21 in Allentown. He was a certified public accountant, originally with Dreslin & Company PC, then with Cappelletti, Shoemaker & Co. PC, and finally as a sole practitioner. In his semi-retirement, he was affiliated with The Bottom Line and James M. Wood CPA. Karen Page Hoke ’74 died June 15 in Allentown. She worked at Tarkett S.A. for 30 years and enjoyed reading and knitting.

’10s Gabriel “Gabe” Pfeiffer ’18 died July 30 at home in Solebury. He was a poet, scholar, music lover, and avid Dungeons and Dragons player. Gabe was one semester away from completing his degree in creative writing, and was a member of the Delta Alpha Pi International Honor Society and contributor to La Vie Collegienne.

Robert A. Boyer ’75 died April 15 in Hudson, Fla. He was a salesman and service manager for H.C. Boyer Chevrolet before beginning a long career with PP&L. Boyer was a member of the Hershey Rotary Club and Grace United Methodist Church. As an undergraduate, he served as a student representative on LVC’s Board of Trustees. He is survived by his mother, Phyllis Snyder Boyer ’46.

Mary M. Kless died April 18 in Annville. She had worked in the LVC dining hall for many years and is survived by a son, Rev. John Kless ’76.

Stephen Gomm ’78 died April 21 in Redondo Beach, Calif.

’80s Sara Burd Godwin ’81 died Dec. 19, 2016, in Hagerstown, Md. She retired in 2003 as the manager of adult evaluation and review services, Washington County Health Department. She had previously been a nurse at Waynesboro Hospital, and at City Hospital in Martinsburg, W.Va. Lauren Weigel Freeman ’83 died Feb. 22 in Mount Wolf. Dedicating her life to music, teaching, children, church, and family, Freeman served as voice instructor, choir director, teacher’s aide, and teacher during her 30-year career. She is survived by a son, Phillip N. Freeman ’11.

Athalene “Lennie” DiMatteo, mother of long-time LVC trustee Wendie DiMatteo Holsinger, died May 2 in Palmyra. She was active in the cultural and philanthropic life of her Palmyra community, including as deacon of the Palmyra Church of the Brethren. DiMatteo served as president of the Palmyra Women’s Club and the Rotary Anns, and was a founding member of the Palmyra Library. A music lover who took voice lessons at LVC, DiMatteo was a long-time member of her church choir and hand bell choir, and was active at the Lebanon Valley Brethren Home, serving on its Auxiliary and Decorating Committee.

His love of writing began at the Crefeld School in Chestnut Hill where a favorite teacher so aptly noted, referencing Gabe’s love for fantasy, “Gabe had all the magical tools he needed to navigate through life: a sword of quiet acceptance, a shield of sarcasm and wit, and a cloak of persistence unparalleled in any universe.”

FRIENDS OF THE COLLEGE Harold Denton H’79 died Feb. 13 in Knoxville, Tenn. He served more than 30 years in the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, including as President Jimmy Carter’s onsite representative following the Three Mile Island accident. Denton received an honorary doctor of science degree from LVC in 1979.

Bishop Felton May H’89 died Feb. 27 in Ellicott City, Md. During five decades of ministry, Bishop May led United Methodist churches, conferences, and agencies, and received an honorary doctor of divinity degree from LVC in 1989. He also was an honorary member of the College’s Board of Trustees from 1989–1996. Roger M. Knisley died Feb. 3 in Lebanon. He was the husband of the late Nevelyn J. Knisley, for whom LVC’s adjunct teaching award is named. Jonathan Leader died Feb. 8 in Halifax. He attended LVC and played basketball. Leader is survived by brother, Jay Leader ’08, aunt, Brenda Wakefield Leader ’88, and uncle, Walter Leader ’87. Christine Reeves died Feb. 13 in Mt. Joy. She was the advancement database coordinator at LVC from 1998 until her retirement in 2013.

FALL 2017

CAMPUS VIEW

LVC student-athletes help carry items during the Class of 2021 Move-in and Orientation on August 24, 2017.

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GIVE TO LVC FR O M YO U R

IRA

Did you know you could make a gift to Lebanon

“When we talked to our financial advisor

Valley College directly

about the best way to make our annual

from your IRA without

gift to LVC, she suggested we consider

paying tax on the distribution?

making a Qualified Charitable Distribution

It’s called a Qualified

(QCD) from our IRA account. The gift

Charitable Distribution,

went directly from the plan administrator

and it’s an easy way to

support The Valley and make an important

to LVC, and counted toward our minimum

difference for our students.

required distribution for the year. We

WHAT GIFTS MAKE UP A QUALIFIED CHARITABLE DISTRIBUTION? •

The donor must be age 70½ years or older when the gift is made.

•

The gift must come from a traditional IRA or Roth IRA account. 401(k), 403(b), SEP IRA accounts, and other retirement accounts do not qualify.

•

The gift must come directly from your IRA administrator to LVC. Please contact your administrator, instruct them to complete a transfer to Lebanon Valley College directly from your account, and mail it to the address below. Please be sure they include your name so we can give proper credit to the gift. Office of Advancement Lebanon Valley College 101 North College Avenue Annville, PA 17003-1400

•

Total Qualified Charitable Distribution gifts in any one year cannot exceed $100,000.

•

The Qualified Charitable Distribution gift can count toward your Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) if you have not already taken your RMD for the year in which you make your gift.

•

The gift from your IRA will be excluded from your income for the year. Therefore, the gift will not be available as an income tax deduction.

were able to designate the gift to our favorite areas: academic development, our scholarship fund, the advancement of the athletic programs, and recognition of our beloved Class of 1954. It’s a very easy and tax-wise way to give.”

Dr. Gail Gwendolyn Edgar Ritrievi ’54 and Frank Ritrievi ’54

LEARN MORE ABOUT QUALIFIED CHARITABLE DISTRIBUTION Office of Advancement 1-866-LVC-1866 (1-866-582-1866) www.lvc.edu/give FALL 2017

NON-PROFIT U.S. POSTAGE

101 North College Avenue Annville, PA 17003-1400 www.lvc.edu Change Service Requested

DAY OF PHILANTHROPY NOV. 9, 2017 | #IAMLVC

Celebrate with us during our Sixth Annual Day of Philanthropy to show your support for Lebanon Valley College and beat last yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s goal!

VISIT WWW.LVC.EDU/IAMLVC ON NOV. 9, 2017, TO SHOW YOUR SUPPORT!

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PERMIT #9 LEBANON, PA