Saint Francis University Magazine Vol 2 2017 by Saint Francis University

2 0 17 • Vo l . 2

Saint Francis U UNI NIVE ERSIT RSITY M MAGA A G A Z IINE NE

Judith Woolsey Ryan Azzara and 1st Lt. William C. Ryan Jr.

Called to Serve Scholarships Honor Vietnam Vets

2nd Lt. James Barry McGill

C a r d i n a l’ s H i s t o r i c V i s i t / A l u m n i o n a M i s s i o n / R e d F l a s h R e c o r d - S e t t i n g Y e a r

a letter from the President Dear Alumni and Friends, Peace and good! As you saw on the cover, we are sharing the moving story of the homecoming of Lt. Billy Ryan, class of 1966. I had the privilege of praying at his burial service at Arlington National Cemetery in May, along with his son Mike and his family. I believe you will be touched by the story of Billy, and his now late-wife Judy, which began as a love story at Saint Francis College. In the month of June, Trustee Linda Eremita and I hosted an alumni and friends tour of Cefalu, Italy. Our group spent ten days on the island of Sicily, soaking in the sun and culture of the Mediterranean. For me, the highlight of the trip was celebrating Mass for the group at Our Lady of Gibbilmanna Shrine, not too far from Cefalu. The shrine is the oldest Marian shrine on the island of Sicily, dating back to the fourth century. Invaders, governments, and religions came and went over the centuries, but our Lady’s intercession was constant. At the shrine, I was able to bless two couples who celebrated wedding anniversaries while on the trip. What started out as a thank you for Mr. & Mrs. Lou DiCerbo’s generosity to Saint Francis University ended up an historic event on March 30, 2017. Cardinal Timothy Dolan, Archbishop of New York, joined us for the evening to honor Lou and his wife Pat at a black tie dinner to raise funds for the Rev. Gabriel J. Zeis, T.O.R. Endowment in Franciscan Studies and Roman Catholic Theology. The Cardinal affirmed our Catholic and Franciscan mission and identity and enjoyed meeting many of our students. Earlier that day, the Cardinal celebrated Mass for 1,500 people in the Stokes building. I presented the Cardinal with an honorary doctorate from Saint Francis University, honoring him for tirelessly

proclaiming the Catholic message in the public arena. By honoring the Cardinal during his visit, I was able to point to the role of a Catholic university: a place of debate with civility; a place to wrestle with ideas; a place to discover Truth; a place also to move focus from that which is visible, to that which is invisible or transcendent. The Cardinal himself reminded us, “The role of a Catholic university is to help students put the one true God first in their lives.” He also said, “I get around to a lot of Catholic universities and you can sense things when you come onto campus. This is a place that knows what it’s about. This is a friendly welcoming warm place. There is a sense of focus and dedication at Saint Francis University.” I am grateful to Cardinal Dolan for his kind remarks, and for joining us to honor our mutual benefactors, Lou and Pat DiCerbo. Ewert Cousins wrote, “A Franciscan university […] should create an atmosphere that supports, nourishes, stimulates, and energizes growth in the intellectual life, just as it should do the same for the cultivation of respect for persons and for all of creation.” I am reminded of the words of the prophet Isaiah who said, “Lord, you will decree peace for us, for it is you who have accomplished all we have done.” I give thanks to God, who has blessed us with 170 years of Franciscan presence and Franciscan-hearted people. We strive to develop a mind for excellence, a heart for service, and a spirit of peace and justice in each of our students. May the Lord continue to bless us, and give us His peace. Sincerely, ( Rev.) Malachi Van Tassell, T.O.R., Ph.D. President

Address Changes & Flashback Submission Office of Alumni Relations Saint Francis University PO Box 600 Loretto, PA 15940 E-mail: sfu-alumni-office@francis.edu Phone: 814-472-3015 EDITORIAL TEAM: Robert Crusciel ’8 6

Vice President for Advancement Marie Young / Director of Marketing & Communications

Design & Printing: Joan Koester

PAYNE PrinterY

Design

Printing

Nondiscrimination and No Harassment Policy Saint Francis University, inspired by its Franciscan and Catholic identity, values equality of opportunity, human dignity, racial, cultural and ethnic diversity, both as an educational institution and as an employer. Accordingly the University does not discriminate on the basis of gender, gender identity, age, race, color, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, pregnancy status, veteran status, predisposing genetic characteristic or any protected classification. This policy applies to all programs and activities of the University, including, but not limited to, admission and employment practices, educational policies, scholarship and loan programs and athletic or other University sponsored programs. The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding the University’s nondiscrimination policy: Vice President for Finance and Administration Division, Title IX Coordinator 101 Raymond Hall, Loretto PA 15940 814.472.3260 or jsavino@francis.edu For further information, visit: www.francis.edu/nondiscriminationand-no-harassment Revised June 2017

Contents

Features Together at Last

Soldier killed in Vietnam returns home

emembering R 2nd Lt. James McGill

Scholarship started in his honor

Inspired to Serve

Army Flight Nurse thanks SFU

Historic Visit

Photo gallery from Timothy Cardinal Dolanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s campus visit

Sharing in Service

Alumni help out on Spring Break trips

Billie, Millie, and a Story of Service

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Faculty member and student help hospice patient fulfil dream

Capital Campaign

Update on Sullivan Hall

New Programs at SFU

Recently launched academic majors

Sections On Campus 20 Our vibrant community

Athletics 24 Tales of the Red Flash

Alumni 29 Flashbacks Saint Francis University

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Together at Last Soldier killed in action returns home w r it t en BY

Rachel (Vasilko) Heckman ’13

n May 9, a large crowd of Saint Francis University alumni congregated inside St. John Neumann Church in Reston, Va. They were there to pay their respects to their longtime friend Judith (Woolsey) Ryan Azzara, who had died of colon cancer the previous month. The very next day, the same crowd gathered again at Arlington National Cemetery for the internment of 1st Lt. William C. Ryan Jr., Judy’s husband who had been missing in action for 48 years, and whose remains had only recently been identified. Although the couple’s deaths were decades apart, Billy and Judy were finally reunited – a thought that brought peace to their closest family and friends over the course of a somber two days. “It was a true love story,” said Gloria (Carroll) Facciola ’66, a close friend of Judy. “That’s what makes it so happy and

sad. I’m glad they are together now.” Facciola’s sentiment is common among friends of Billy and Judy, especially those who have known the pair since their college days at Saint Francis. Having built such strong relationships on campus, it is those same friends who now vow to keep their memories alive. “When someone dies, everyone eulogizes them, and makes them into a saint,” said Bill Adamucci ’66, a brother of Delta Sigma Phi, Billy’s fraternity. “But I don’t think anyone did that with Billy and Judy. They lived their lives; they were who they were.” And if you ask the class of 1966, the response always remains the same – they were great people. Often described as humble, loving, friendly, happy, and loyal; the pair made impressions on everyone they met. They built relationships with roommates, classmates, and dormmates that would last a lifetime. Relationships that were first built in Loretto would follow

William C. Ryan, Jr.

Judith Ann Woolsey

Judy and Billy to their wedding day and later to the day their son was born. They would comfort Judy in the days, months, and even years following Billy’s disappearance. They would offer support through the many ups and downs of life. And they would be there at the end, despite the tears, to reflect on the good times gone by and witness the reunion of two souls destined to be together.

A true love story Billy and Judy were first introduced at Saint Francis in 1964. At the time, they were both sophomores, but Billy had loved Judy long before. According to Jack McKendry ’66, Billy’s college roommate and friend, Billy would drag him over to the student union to “hang out,” a term Jack later understood as code for seeing Judy. “He was madly in love with her, but he didn’t even know her,” McKendry said. “He always raved about how beautiful she was, and he would go over to campus to look for her.” Billy’s love for Judy was no secret. Lynn (Barnsley) Quaid ’66, Judy’s college roommate and lifelong best friend, had French class with Billy sophomore year. She said Billy had desperately wanted to be set up with Judy, but was nervous about finally being introduced. So, Quaid set up a double date, and they all went out for coffee. From that point on, Billy and Judy were inseparable. “When he finally met her, he had this big photo of her, and he had it framed in a silver frame on a table between our beds. Every night, he would grab that picture and pull it in and say, ‘Judy’s sleeping with me tonight,’” McKendry remembered with a laugh. “They were equally obsessed and in love with each other. I’ve never known a guy who was so much in love.” Those who knew the couple during those days say that the two were meant for each other. He was shy, she was outgoing, and they were both good-looking. “She livened him up, and he calmed her down,” Quaid would say. “Billy was an incredible person,” Judy’s younger sister Joyce

(Woolsey) Davison ’68 said. “Judy was loved by everyone. All the boys loved Judy; all the boys wanted a date with her; she was beautiful. So it was kind of a coup when Billy got her.” Shortly after their graduation from Saint Francis, Billy and Judy wed on August 20, 1966 with many of their friends by their side. That same month, Billy joined the U.S. Marines Corps and the newlyweds relocated to Pensacola, Fla. where he would attend flight school. A year later, Judy was pregnant, and the couple moved again. This time to California. Judy was living in El Toro while Billy was in training near San Diego. “We were in flight training in San Diego when Judy was pregnant. One night, Billy got a call that Judy was in labor. He jumped in his car and drove 100 miles to Anaheim,” said Joe Maxwell, a fellow Marine, and Billy’s roommate. “About 3 a.m., he came running back into our room and said, ‘Joe, wake up. We had a son. We named him Mike.’ And I said, ‘Billy, did you drive all this way just to tell me that? ‘There was no one else along the coast to tell,’ he said. Then he jumped back in his car and drove the 100 miles back to Anaheim.”

To Vietnam In 1968, three months after the birth of his son, Billy deployed for Vietnam. “Billy loved Judy and he loved being a Marine,” said Billy’s brother Ed. “I visited with Judy and Billy when he was undergoing further flight training at El Toro Air Base in California. He showed me his plane, an F-4 Phantom jet that he loved to fly. That was the last time I saw him. He was assigned to a Marine Air Base south of Danang, Vietnam, and I was assigned to an amphibious ship based in Subic Bay, Philippines. My ship transported Marines and cargo to the port of Danang, and Billy sometimes came to the Officers’ Club in the Philippines for R ’n R, but we never connected. Our ship was the primary control ship in the largest amphibious invasion of the Vietnam War and we saw numerous planes dropping bombs. No doubt Billy’s plane was among those protecting us that day.”

One more mission Stationed in South Vietnam, Billy flew over 300 successful missions in 10 months. On the day before he was scheduled to meet Judy in Hawaii for his first vacation since being deployed, he volunteered for one more mission. Over Laos, his plane was hit with an antiaircraft missile. Twice, the pilot called for Billy to eject, but he couldn’t. He went down with the plane. It was May 11, 1969. The day before his son’s first birthday. That same day, Judy was at Billy’s family home dropping Saint Francis University

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off Mike before her trip. She was there when the Marines came to the door. “Within an hour, Lynn Barnsley Quaid, my roommate from SFC and my best friend, joined me, consoled me, and encouraged me for the rest of life,” Judy wrote in a reflection for her 50th college reunion in 2016. Following the crash, Billy was missing. Although she knew that he had died, a small part of her secretly held out hope that she would one day see him again, that maybe he was still alive.

Coming home Billy remained missing for 47 years. But Judy’s life went on. She began a career in education, teaching in the Fairfax County Public Schools. There she met Carl Azzara, a fellow educator, and the pair later married. She went on to receive a Master of Education degree from George Mason University, and was instrumental in changing an outdated Virginia law. In 1974, Judy was named assistant principal at Laurel Ridge Elementary School in Springfield, Va., becoming one of the youngest school administrators in the county. Two years later, she was offered the position of principal at Louise Archer Elementary School in Vienna, Va., where she worked tirelessly for 24 years. Throughout her career, Judy contributed to Principal magazine and many other educational publications.

She received numerous education awards, and was named a Distinguished Alumna of Saint Francis. Despite the tragedy she experienced as a young widow, Judy was always optimistic and devoted her life to positively impacting others. “She was a star,” McKendry said of Judy. “She was loved so much by everyone.” Finally, one day in January 2017, Judy received the news she had waited years to hear: Billy was coming home. His remains had been found. The next day, Judy received more news, the type no one wants to hear: she had stage-4 cancer. Things became increasing difficult for Judy with her husband, Carl, passing away from a heart attack this past winter. Judy attended his funeral in a wheelchair, made weak from her own battle with cancer. With Billy’s interment scheduled for May 10, her friends and family hoped and prayed that her health would hold out for just a little bit longer. Unfortunately, Judy passed away on April 11. “She knew he was coming home before she died,” said Facciola. “All she wanted for years was closure. She had accepted that he had died, but she always wanted the closure of bringing him home.” Those four months – from January to April 2017 – had been a whirlwind for Judy’s family and friends. However, it seemed the timing of Judy’s passing was significant. As if she was going to bring Billy home. “We all wanted her to make it, but she didn’t have it in her,” Facciola said. “But maybe that’s for the better – the funeral was so sad. But she knew he was coming home, and that’s what is important.” “I miss her so much,” said Quaid through her tears. “It’s amazing how many people came to her funeral, and then even more came to Billy’s. So many people came from our class and other classes who just wanted to honor Billy. Some of them knew him, but most didn’t. They had just heard of him and wanted to honor him.” “It’s so overwhelming to think that is Billy and he’s home,” McKendry said. “Billy is finally home, and he is not alone anymore.”

Staying close The Class of 1966 held its 50th Reunion in July 2016, and Judy attended with her son Mike. Almost instantly, they all fell right back into their old relationships – sharing memories and reminiscing about their days in Loretto. “My parents loved this place,” Mike said of Loretto. “I’ve said a million times that if it weren’t for this place,

Happy Days: Billy and Judy made their college romance official in the eyes of God on August 20, 1966. Photo courtesy of their son, Mike.

I wouldn’t be here.” “At the time, I don’t think we realized that magic that was happening there,” said Dr. James Gallagher ’65, a fraternity brother of Billy’s. “It was a very supportive place, and we were all very close.” For many, especially those close to Billy and Judy, Saint Francis remains a bright spot in their lives. It was there that they not only received the education that would launch them into successful careers, but they also cultivated the relationships that would remain constant through everything. Dr. Robert Ryan ’64, a fellow fraternity brother, believes that it was their similar backgrounds, and their appreciation for education that kept the Class of 1966 all so close throughout the years. Adamucci believes that it is the University’s acceptance of everyone, no matter their differences. And Facciola believes it was their love for Billy and Judy that helped them reconnect. But no matter the reason, one thing remains clear: the 1960s were a special time at Saint Francis. “I’m lucky to have been in the Class of 1966. It was an amazing group of people,” Quaid said. “We really enjoyed our time there.” To this day, many of them stay in touch as much as they

can – meeting for meals, planning reunions, and taking Saturday morning walks together. And although they are now missing a key member of their group, their love for Judy and each other will endure for the rest of their lives.

Scholarship created The couples’ legacy on campus lives on through The William Ryan ’66 and Judith Ryan Azzara ’66 Scholarship. Established in 1997 by classmates and friends, the scholarship is awarded annually to deserving students. “The scholarship is a great way to celebrate both [Billy and Judy],” said Dr. Gallagher “Each year we get letters from the students who receive that scholarship. They write to tell us how much it means to them. Receiving those letters each year really means a lot to us.” Donations for the scholarship may be sent to Saint Francis University, PO Box 600, Loretto, PA 15940 or by calling 814-472-3021 and using your debit/credit card. Please be sure to indicate that your donation is for The William Ryan ’66 and Judith Ryan Azzara ’66 Scholarship. You can also visit forever.francis.edu/makeagift to donate online.

Photo by Danielle Parhizkaran/Northjersey.com

Final Goodbyes: The remains of Marine 1st Lt. William Ryan were buried at Arlington National Cemetery on May 10, 2017, nearly 48 years to the day after he was shot down over Laos. Fr. Malachi Van Tassell participated in the service.

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Remembering James McGill Scholarship forming for first alumnus KIA in Vietnam w r it t en BY

E ric Horell ’13, Director of Alumni Engagement

“Jim was the best of us,” remembers Gary Coggin ’66. “He represented everything good about Saint Francis.” Paul O’Neal ’66 recalls how “Jim was a guy you could count on. He was always there.” Many other classmates echo Coggin’s and O’Neal’s words as they discuss 2nd Lt. James Barry McGill: he was a thoughtful friend, an exceedingly hard worker, and a man of great Catholic faith. They all also use the word “hero” to describe McGill’s sacrifice for our country; in 1967, McGill was killed in action during the Vietnam War. McGill enrolled at then Saint Francis College as a physics major in 1962 and earned his diploma in 1966. An active student, Jim joined the wrestling team, the track team, and Tau Kappa Epsilon while on campus. Fellow TKE brother Tom Lane ’64 fondly recalls McGill as a pledge. “We had everyone outside in the dark, and it was really muddy. I had a whistle, and I blew it to tell the pledges where to run. Once meant forward, twice meant to the left, three to the right, and four was backward. We had so much fun just messing around like that. Jim was covered in mud, but he was laughing and smiling the whole time.” The most significant group he joined, though, was the Marine ROTC program his sophomore year. After graduation, McGill was commissioned as a 2nd lieutenant and sent to Vietnam as part of the war effort. He quickly became a popular leader among his men. His younger brother, Steve McGill, shared a story he heard from his brother’s fellow soldiers after the war: “They were stranded somewhere way out, and they were almost entirely out of supplies. Jim had one last

ship will assist Pennsylvania high school students from Blair, Cambria, and Somerset counties, a region where the McGills have deep roots. “Jim always had to work to put himself through school,” says Steve. “We knew what it was like to come from a blue collar family and want to go to college. We want to help out kids who are in a similar situation.” “This is an incredible project,” says Steve McGill. “It’s incredible how Jim’s classmates are leading this, how they want Jim to be remembered. It’s such a special project.”

ration packet, but instead of eating it himself, he added

To Donate

water to it and made chicken noodle soup for the whole

Donations may be mailed to Saint Francis University, Office of Advancement, P.O. Box 600, Loretto, PA 15940 or by calling 814-472-3021 and using your debit/credit card. Please be sure to indicate that your donation is for the 2nd Lt. James Barry McGill USMC Memorial Scholarship Fund. You can also go to forever.francis.edu/ makeagift to submit your donation online.

platoon. It wasn’t much, but the men still talk about that gesture to this day when they get together.” On May 25, 1967, in the Demilitarized Zone that marked the line between North and South Vietnam, Hotel Company’s 3rd Platoon began taking fire at Hill 117. McGill was ordered to lead a column of soldiers from

his 2nd Platoon to assist 3rd Platoon, and McGill took the point as he led his men into battle. As they raced toward the hill, McGill was shot and killed by enemy fire. The news of McGill’s death struck his family hard, especially his younger brother, Steve. They resided James McGill in Johnstown, Pa., which is also where McGill is buried. “He was always my role model,” says Steve. “I think I wrestled because he did. He took French, so I took French. I fully intended to go to Saint Francis until he was killed, then I wanted to get out. It was just too much at the time.” It’s been fifty years since McGill’s death, but he is not forgotten. To ensure that he is always remembered for both the man he was and the sacrifice he made, a group of Saint Francis University alumni and Steve McGill are creating a scholarship in his honor, the 2nd Lt. James Barry McGill USMC Memorial Scholarship. The scholar-

Inspired to Serve Army flight nurse thanks SFU for having faith in her w r it t en BY

T om Havrilla, Communications Specialist Office of Marketing and Communications

aptain Abby Coccagna didn’t know why there was a person with a gunshot wound lying in the back of her helicopter. But there was. A medical flight nurse serving in Afghanistan, she and her crew (herself, two pilots, one crew chief, and one medic) received a report to transport a patient with a lower body injury to the hospital. After landing outside the battlefield,

they were informed that their patient already departed on another aircraft. They returned to their helicopter only to find a different patient inside; lying awake, with a gunshot wound in his back, a chest tube protruding from his chest, with no paperwork, and no identification. Abby and the medical crew had to act fast. But before we finish that story, let’s find out how Abby arrived in the sandy mountains of Afghanistan, via the pine filled campus of Saint Francis University. See page 8.

Becoming a nurse It was clear early on Abby wanted to become a nurse. “Growing up, I was very accident prone and frequented the ER for my injuries,” Abby remembers. “I don’t recall the doctors, but I always remember the nurses being so kind and caring.” After entering the nursing program at Saint Francis

“I knew I was exactly where I wanted to be.” — Captain Abby Coccagna University, the curriculum and nursing faculty solidified Abby’s career choice. She explained, “I knew I was exactly where I wanted to be. The staff were really invested in the students and that gave me the confidence to continue through the program. I love interacting with patients and their families, really getting to know them as individuals and not just a name on a whiteboard.” Dr. Rita Trofino, DNP, MNEd, RN, who serves as the Nursing Department Chair and Associate Dean in the School of Health Sciences recalls, “Abby worked

Top: Captain Abby (Cooper) Coccagna, BSN Nursing ’12, poses with morale dog, Rogue. Left: Captain Coccagna

gets ready to depart Bagram Airfield in Afghanistan.

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in their ICU. Finally, to San Antonio, Texas for a two week Joint Enroute Care course to become a flight nurse. She is now stationed at Bagram Air Base, Afghanistan. “I provide my critical care skill set on the back of Blackhawk helicopters. Our job is to transfer patients from the battlefield to a higher level of care.” A higher level of care. Literally, in every sense of the word when you’re a flight nurse. After assessing the wounded soldier and confirming he was not currently in any pain, the helicopter took off. Captain Coccagna began doing vitals every 10 minutes and continued to reassess him until they arrived at the hospital.

The nursing department display the flag that was flown

Remembering her Franciscan foundation

hard to get through the program. She always had a positive attitude, and a great bedside manner.” Abby added, “I enjoy the challenge. No patient presents the same way. Having to use lab values, vital signs, working closely with the physicians to figure out what is wrong with the patient and how to treat them. It never fails to fascinate me.”

There is a tradition at Bagram Airfield. American flags are flown to honor people, places, and events then given away as souvenirs. So it was no surprise that Abby decided to fly and dedicate a flag to the nursing department at Saint Francis University. “They are the reason I am able to be in Afghanistan doing Enroute critical care.” Abby recalled, “They had faith in me and this is one way I can show my gratitude.” The flag will be folded and displayed in the Nursing Department facility. Included with the flag is a signed certificate by the flight crew confirming when and where the flag was flown. “We love when graduates stay in touch.” Dr. Trofino remarked. “We truly take pride in all of our students. When we look back and see them start out struggling to take a blood pressure, and then transform in two short years to passing an Advanced Cardiac Life Support Course, it is very gratifying. Our consecutive four-year 100 percent NCLEX pass rate affirms our program quality. Serving our country, Abby brings great pride to the department. To think that we had a part in the development of where she is today is truly humbling.”

in their honor, which along with the campus ROTC, they dedicated in a special ceremony on September 11th. The flag is now displayed outside the department in Sullivan Hall. From left in the front: Ms. Regina Barr, Dr. Rita Trofino, Ms. Brenda Guzic, and Dr. Kim Forst; Back from left: Dr. Judy Pallone, Dr. Camille Wendekier, Ms. Heather Vitko, Ms. Cindy Drenning, and Dr. Lenore Resick.

That ability to adapt, and to figure out what is wrong was now coming into play, Captain Coccagna checked the wounded soldier’s vitals and began to monitor his heart and oxygen levels.

A call to serve Abby wanted to move away from her hometown of Johnstown, Pennsylvania to start her career, but she didn’t want work to be the only reason for leaving. “I researched Active Duty Army Nursing and nurses were in high demand. I spoke to family friends in the military and it just felt like the right fit for me.” Abby remembered. She enrolled in the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) program while at Saint Francis. Completing the ROTC program would allow her to enter the Army as an officer. “Abby is the first nursing student in recent memory to enter into the service after graduation.” Says Dr. Trofino. Graduating SFU was just the beginning of the adventure. Abby was first commissioned to Active Duty Nurse Corps in August 2012. Then, it was off to Fort Sam Houston in Texas for a two month Basic Officer Leadership Course. Next came Fort Benning, Georgia where she worked

Where Abby is today, is awaiting her next mission. And in a war zone, there will be a next mission. The solider with the gunshot wound arrived at the hospital just in time. He was rushed to the operating room, and expected to make a full recovery. “We didn’t question why this soldier was put on our aircraft. Abby recalled, “It’s just another example that no matter how much you prepare, there’s always something that can go completely different and you need to be ready to adjust quickly.” Another American soldier will get to go home. Thanks to the knowledge and expertise of the flight crew, Captain Abby Coccagna, and in no small part, to the knowledge and education she received at Saint Francis University.

Cardinal Dolan makes historic visit to SFU Timothy Cardinal Dolan, Archbishop of New York, visited Saint Francis University on March 30, 2017. See photos and video of the day here: www.francis.edu/Cardinal-Dolan-Visit-2017 While on campus Cardinal Dolan celebrated Mass for about 1,500 community members and attended a dinner in honor of his friends, Lou and Pat DiCerbo of Manhasset, New York. Mr. DiCerbo is a 1959 graduate of Saint Francis, a 1997 Distinguished Alumnus of the University, and a member of the Financial Services Management Hall of Fame. Mr. and Mrs. DiCerbo were honored with the Universityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s annual Assisi Award for their dedication to service within the CatholicFranciscan tradition. In 2013, the DiCerbos committed $1 million to create the The Rev. Gabriel J. Zeis, T.O.R. Endowment in Franciscan Studies and Roman Catholic Theology. Proceeds from the dinner will be used to enhance the endowment. Saint Francis University

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www.francis.edu/Cardinal-Dolan-Visit-2017

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Sharing in Service

Alumni share knowledge on Alternative Spring Break w r it t en BY

L isa Georgiana, Director, Center for Service & Learning

Jamaican man who suffered a stroke, and whose muscles have atrophied because of lack of access to occupational therapy (OT)

services, is being measured for a hand splint. An OT alumna is patiently mentoring a Saint Francis OT student who is making a splint for the first time. Children with no health insurance arrive for treatment at the medical clinic run by the Foundation for the International Medical Relief of Children (FIMRC) outside Alajulita, Costa Rica. Physician assistant science students, under the direction of a PA alumna, take vital signs, applying what they learned in the classroom. A resident at the Missionaries of Charity Nursing Home in Balaclava, Jamaica who has not walked in a few days, is assisted by physical therapy (PT) students on a stroll down the hallway. PT alumni reinforce what the students learned from faculty in Loretto about proper body mechanics for transfer training to ensure the safety of the patient and therapist.

In what has become an annual tradition, SFU faculty, staff, students, and alumni have participated in “Alterative Spring Break” experiences like HUGS (Helping the Underprivileged by Giving our Service). For the Alternative Spring Break ’17 trip, 29 volunteers including five alumni trip leaders, three business majors, three physician assistant (PA) majors, and 11 OT and five PT students, traveled to Maggotty, Jamaica to work in the medical clinic at Holy Spirit Church and a

Top left: Gabri Pierre, OT, ’14, ’15, gives a lift to a Jamaica boy after a busy day at the Holy Spirit medical clinic. Above: Christeen Reigh, DPT, ’16, receives a blessing from a resident at the Missionaries of Charity Nursing Home in Balaclava. nearby nursing home. In addition to the health sciences focus, a microlending team pitched in to interview 24 Jamaicans who desired to start their own business. They selected eight entrepreneurs and awarded loans totaling $385,000 JMD ($2,998 USD). The loans will be repaid and distributed again on the HUGS’18 trip return to Maggotty. The program is in its fifth consecutive year.

Alumni Leading HUGS Teams Alumni leading HUGS Jamaica team included: AJ Gaines, DPT,’14, ’16; Hillary Wertz, DPT, ’14, ’16; Christeen Reigh, DPT, ’16; Gabri Pierre, OT, ’14, ’15; and Meg Carroll, OT, ’14, ’15. Another group of 20 HUGS volunteers, departed for Costa Rica to help at the FIMRC medical clinic in Alajuelita, where about 12,500 Nicaraguan refugees and impoverished Costa Rican citizens reside. Colleen Kelly, PA-C,’14. ’15, and Brother Vincent Yeager, TOR, who was completing his apostolic year of Franciscan formation in the Campus Ministry Department at Saint Francis University last year, led the trip. In May, three alumni (Malia Lonergan PA-C, ’13, ’14; Nikki Brownyard, DPT, ’12, ’14; and Morgan Bobb Heffernan, DPT, ’11, ’13) traveled with Dr. Bill Hanlon, retired faculty member in the PT Department, to work at the medical clinic in Maggoty. Dr. Hanlon established the mutually beneficial relationship with Holy Spirit Church in 2013, Saint Francis University’s community partner in Jamaica. “These trips were possible because of the alumni who took vacation time from work and also paid their own way to go on the trip,” said Lisa Georgiana, Director of the Center for Service & Learning, who has accompanied students on the HUGS Jamaica trip three times. “These alumni shared what they learned at Saint Francis University with our current students, helping them apply what they have been learning in the classroom in practical settings.”

Alumni reflections “I’m truly humbled to be able to return on this trip as an alumna,” reflected AJ Gaines who helped lead the PT team in Jamaica. “I came as a student which helped shape me as a clinician and a person, but being able to help shape the future of my profession was very rewarding.” “When I was a student I went on a HUGS mission trip to the Dominican Republic,” shared Colleen Kelly, PA alumna. “The leadership from the faculty and alumni on that trip, gave me the opportunity to have a life changing experience. I was thrilled to be able to go on another trip with HUGS as an alumni leader, and I hope I was able to help facilitate the same life changing experience for the current students.” “As a graduate teaching assistant at Saint Francis University, I got my first experience with helping PT students understand the complexity of this career,” expressed Christeen Reigh, PT alumna. “Having the opportunity to show students the profound effect that being compassionate and unconditionally giving toward those in Jamaica can make has provided me with more personal and spiritual growth than any clinical experience I’ve had to date. I’ll forever be thankful for that experience.”

“I was provided with the experience to travel with HUGS United as a student OT and have been further blessed to travel an additional two more times as an OT CI.” Meg Carroll shared” “There is nothing like helping people who are less fortunate than us. From the opening reception at the clinic and the smiles of gratitude of those we treat to the evening reflections and time spent with the SFU team, this has been an amazingly rewarding experience I will cherish forever. “I’ve been fortunate enough to travel on this trip as a student and as a mentor,” said Hillary Wertz, PT alumna. “Being able to experience the mission as a student, allowed me to combine textbook learning with human emotion, transforming the way I now view patient care. As a mentor on

“These trips were possible because of the alumni who took vacation time from work and also paid their own way to go on the trip. These alumni shared what they learned at Saint Francis University with our current students, helping them apply what they have been learning in the classroom in practical settings.” —Lisa Georgiana, Director of the Center for Service & Learning the HUGs’17 trip, I felt a sense of pride when I saw how the students were so genuine with their compassion and eagerness to learn.” “Having the opportunity to work with a population who has such limited access to healthcare, shines a light on what we have readily available here in the United States,” said Gabri Pierre, OT alumna. “Having limited resources on the HUGS trip really gave the OT 401 students an opportunity to be creative. While the goal of rehabilitating patients remains the same in both Jamaica and the United States, the means of doing so greatly varies. In Jamaica, health insurance and money does not drive our treatment. We are very limited to resources and equipment. Ironically, the outcomes are equally, if not more rewarding in Jamaica, because the people are so grateful, kind, and appreciative of our work. Saint Francis University

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From left: Hillary Wertz, DPT, ’14, and students Christy Yingling and Lindsay Knetzer lend helping hands to a nursing home resident in Balaclava.Budash).

I love what I do as a profession. It is truly rewarding, and the HUGS trip only exemplifies the work of God through service. I am looking forward to returning on the HUGS Jamaica trip to not only better myself as a clinician, but as a person and servant of God.” Wertz, Pierre and Reigh will return to Jamaica as team leaders over spring break 2018. “Witnessing our alumni share their knowledge about their profession with our students was amazing,” said Father Joe Lehman, TOR, vice president for mission integration, and a staff leader on the HUGS Jamaica trip in 2016 and 2017. “One of our Franciscan Goals of Higher Education is a humble and generous attitude toward learning. These alumni clearly have embraced this goal.” “The HUGS Alternative Spring Break trips demonstrate the University’s commitment to the Carnegie Foundation’s definition of community engagement...the collaboration

Support Future Trips For more information on alumni service partnerships, contact Lisa Georgiana at 814472-3329 or email lgeorgiana@francis.edu. Support the HUGS Alternative Spring Break trip by making a donation to help offset the cost for SFU students. Contact the Office of Advancement at 814-472-3021 or visit forever.francis.edu/makeagift to donate. between institutions of higher education and their larger communities (local, regional/state, national, global) for the mutually beneficial exchange of knowledge and resources in a context of partnership and reciprocity,” Georgiana shared.

Billie, Millie, and a

Story of Service w r it t en BY

D r. Deborah Budash, MMS/MHS Program Director

began volunteering for Heritage Hospice about one year ago. As a member of the Saint Francis University (SFU) community, service is a natural part of who we are, and my heart was seeking a simple way to give back for support given to me when I endured the loss of my mother. I really wanted to just be a supportive presence to someone; to just help ease a burden by listening or holding a hand. I found what I was looking for and a lot that I wasn’t; I found friendship and hope amidst what most people would consider the most difficult circumstances. I’d like to share this wonderful story with you. My first “match” was with a sweet lady named Linda. Linda is 67 years of age and has a terminal heart condition. She has lived with the condition a long time (she has survived 8 heart attacks) and has resided in a nursing home for about three years. She is able to walk using a walker, but it’s easier for her to get around using a wheelchair. She utilizes oxygen

on a daily basis and sometimes needs her hearing aid to participate in a conversation. She loves Chinese food and banana splits, but doesn’t get them as often as she would like! On a fairly regular basis, she has chest pain, and she doesn’t know if she will live through each episode. Yet she still has great hope for her life. She embraces each day and wants her legacy to be her stories. You see, Linda is an author. She writes for children and her stories are simple, timeless, and beautiful. They tell the stories of relationships, friendships, and love through the interaction of animals. When I met Linda, she had five stories in various stages of completion, and her idea was to publish them as a “Collection of Children’s Stories”. As Linda tells it, the inspiration for her stories came one day in the nursing home, as she was going about her business. She observed two stuffed animals, a moose and a bear, placed together in the Recreation Room such that they appeared to be holding hands. There began her first story entitled, Millie and Billie, which features a moose and bear who, despite their obvious differences, fall in love, marry, and have baby Brucie. All of Linda’s stories revolved around love and what love can accomplish. The most recent of her stories, A Dog Called Ug, tells the tale of a funny-looking dog who becomes a service animal and helps people. As our visits ensued, Linda would share more of her written stories and ideas for new ones. She seemed to always have a very clear idea in her mind of each story and how it should be put together. It was remarkable to me how many ideas

A dream come true: Linda beamed at Marcus’s artwork, grateful that he could help make her dream of publishing a children’s book become a reality. But it was Deborah and Marcus who were moved beyond their expectations, with Linda’s spirit and resilience showing them the true impact of service, friendship and hope (from left: Marcus, Linda, and Dr. Budash). Saint Francis University

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were coming to her. One week, Linda decided that she needed an illustrator so she could finish Kunzie and Stinky (a story about a raccoon and skunk) and move toward having her stories published. As a faculty member at SFU, I offered to check with our Fine Arts Department to inquire if any students may be interested in such an opportunity. She loved the idea! A junior political science major, Marcus Mihelcic, was recommended as a young artist who might be interested. Marcus, at the time, had recently completed his first painting/drawing class and learned that he possessed an aptitude for drawing. Marcus jumped at the chance to participate in illustrating a children’s book. At that time, Marcus’ art work was limited to that of a religious or political nature. The idea of illustrating a children’s book would be a new challenge and provide for a different audience for his work. Marcus and Linda met, struck an easy and comfortable rapport, and their planning commenced. Marcus made Linda’s words come alive through his images. Linda said that she and Marcus worked so well together; that she explained what she wanted and he was able to create it exactly through his drawings. Marcus, for his part, had the heart of a servant in this process, wanting to help Linda through the use of his new-found skills. He explained how he immediately was drawn to the themes inherent to the stories, those of our “common humanity” and the “universal idea of caring for creation”. Linda was amazed at how everything “fell into place” and offers nothing but praise for Marcus. She feels so fortunate

that he agreed to the project. She also expresses gratitude for hospice services and the fact that they provided a “swat team” to help her achieve her dream. For Linda, these stories have given her purpose, offering her “something to look forward to rather than sitting on my tush and doing nothing.” She describes the process of developing the stories as a “joy” and that the stories just flowed. It seems to me that she may have been meant to write them. Linda wants to help others through the simple and timeless messages of her stories. She is a social person, who enjoys interacting with people and engaging in the activities at the home where she resides. She was once a nurse, and continues to advocate for young people to get an education, to eat right so as to avoid some of the health issues she has had, and to just be kind to one another. She feels that there are not enough positive stories for young people today and she hopes her stories provide good examples of “how to handle a problem.” She has taken her stories on the road to a local elementary school and is planning a return visit this spring. Fourth grade students heard her recite the story of Billie and Mille and one little boy told her, “You’re famous!” She beamed as she explained how she gave him her autograph. Marcus and I have spoken since the completion of this project and we have both been touched by Linda’s resilience and spirit. Neither of us came to this experience expecting what we have received, and it has far exceeded our expectations. Hope can be found in the most unexpected places, even amidst a moose, a bear, and a small zoo of other animals! Linda shows that you choose to make a situation what it is, and even terminal illness can provide opportunities to do good and to impact others.

Addendum: Linda passed away on June 1, 2017, surrounded by her family, just as she wanted it to be. She will not see this article published in print (at least from this Earth) but she did see it published online, and it filled her with joy and pride. She continued, each day until she died, to look forward to the good that each day could bring day and sought ways to help others. Her smile is missed daily by many who knew her. Heritage Hospice is always looking for volunteers to serve their clients. Volunteering can be to provide a comforting presence, to read or record stories, or to offer respite to a caregiver. Hospice is a simple way to give of yourself to help others enduring a very difficult time. For more information, contact Lauren Suprano, Volunteer Coordinator, at lsuprano@heritagehospicepa.com or 724- 334-6600.

The Capital Campaign for the

School of Health Sciences

Sullivan Hall expansion and renovation project update The Sullivan Hall Expansion and Renovation project continues to gain momentum. The first phase of this project to renovate and expand the future home of the School of Health Sciences will begin in early 2018 with the construction of a 10,000 square foot addition behind Sullivan Hall. The addition will include three laboratories: nursing skills, cadaver and simulation. To learn more about the Sullivan Hall project, visit francis.edu/capital-campaign/ or contact Robert Crusciel â&#x20AC;&#x2122;86, Vice President for Advancement at rcrusciel@francis.edu or (814) 472-3021. Saint Francis University

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New Programs at SFU w r it t en BY

J en Merry, Assistant Director, Office of Marketing and Communications

this growing need the Computer Science Department is now offering a Bachelor of Science in CyberSecurity

Administration that teaches students the fundamental

healthcare, humanities, and science. New majors, minors

departments, financial institutions, law enforcement,

and concentrations for the 2017/2018 academic year are

government agencies, or in private industry.

ach year, the University introduces new academic

concepts of CyberSecurity as well as practical skills in

programs to meet the growing demands from local

detecting, preventing, and investigating cyber attacks.

and national employers in the fields of business,

Students with this degree may go on to work in IT

listed below.

CyberSecurity Administration major

Saint Francis is excited to announce the up and coming

increasing rapidly and the number of job openings in this

general engineering program. This four-year program will allow engineering majors to obtain a Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering. A small liberal arts

area is expected to triple over the next five years. To meet

school with a robust engineering department is a unique

The demand for expertise in the field of CyberSecurity is

General Engineering major

find. What sets SFU apart from Engineering programs

Spanish now allow for a dual-concentration program

at other schools are the opportunities to do hands-on

combining with Special Education. This additional certi-

research along with faculty mentors starting as early as

fication will provide students an advantage in launching

your freshman year.

their career and in teaching in the future.

Energy Technology and Policy minor

iMBA

Students from any major interested in energy topics can complement their degree with a minor in Energy Technology and Policy. Students will learn the fundamentals of the energy industry allowing them to pursue positions working for utilities, electric generating stations, renewable energy companies, energy distribution, research organizations, or as energy policymakers.

Special Education Certification for Secondary Education Majors Secondary Education programs in Biology, Chemistry,

The mantra of our MBA program for nearly three decades has been to make the program accessible and convenient. Along with courses in Loretto, Altoona, and Johnstown, there is now an option for students to complete the degree entirely online through the iMBA program in the Shields School of Business. Students have the option of taking online courses as well as traditional face-to-face classes, and even toggle back and forth between the two course delivery formats.

Did you know that Legacy Scholarships are available to children, step-children, and grandchildren of alumni? See page 31 for details.

English, Mathematics, Social Studies/History, and

Aerial view: Clearly visible from the air are some of the successes of The Capital Campaign: Called to Serve...Fulfilling

the Promise which unites a dramatic combination of facility renovations and landmark new construction all designed to enhance academic opportunities for our students.

Saint Francis University

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on campus our vibrant community

Student body fast facts Every year, the Saint Francis University community welcomes new students from all over the world. Here are some more fun facts about the 2,191 undergraduate and graduate students that make up the 2017-18 SFU student body: Undergraduate Students • There are 1,666 undergraduate students. Of those, 64% are female, 36% are male. • 1,266 are Pennsylvania residents; 400 come from outside of PA, with 358 of them coming from 31 different U.S. states. • 51 international student hail from 29 different countries Graduate Students • There are 525 graduate students. Of those, 68% are

female, 32% are male. • 3 54 are Pennsylvania residents; 173 come from outside of PA, with 171 of them coming from 30 different U.S. states. • We have 2 international graduate students coming from Italy and China. Class of 2021 • Students come from 21 states and 11 different countries, places like Colorado, Ecuador, Slovenia, New Hampshire, China, California, and Washington. • 117 have been involved with the National Honor Society. • 312 were involved athletically during high school with 91 serving as sport captains or co-captains. • 2 61 were involved with band or chorus. • 73 have participated in theater or musicals.

• 3 07 have performed community service through their church or school. The Saint Francis family is honored to welcome such talented, distinguished students to our Loretto campus. We wish everyone a blessed and productive year!

Database for Study of Occupational Regulation The Center for the Study of Occupational Regulation (CSOR) at Saint Francis University has launched a national allencompassing database that will document and track the occupational licensing regulations of thousands of professions across the fifty-states and the District of Columbia. The database is free and openly accessible to the public at https://csorsfu.com/ Thus far, the database has gathered regulatory information that impacts various medical professionals including physicians, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, registered

The Grotto and Shrine Gardens service project The Lourdes Grotto and the Shrine Gardens saw many improvements this Alumni Weekend. With help and support of the Saint Francis maintenance team, volunteers of the “Lourdes Army” painted, pruned, and planted trees and flowers to keep this area looking beautiful. “I’d like to thank all the alumni and volunteers for

nurses, massage therapists, physical therapists, among many others. Supported by a grant from the Charles Koch Foundation, the CSOR is housed in the newly renovated home of the Shields School of Business, the Charles M. Schwab Hall.

SFU moves up in U.S. News rankings Saint Francis University is pleased to announce that it has moved into the top 20 listing of the “Best Regional Universities” in the northern United States. According to U.S. News & World Report’s 2018 Best Colleges rankings survey, Saint Francis has jumped 9 spots since 2017, and is now 18th among the 187 universities in the 10-state north region. The “Best Regional University” survey compares universities that offer a robust selection of both master’s level programs and undergraduate education.

their hard work in keeping this area maintained, so future generations can enjoy this beautiful and special part of campus,” says Denis Corrigan ’78, “Captain” of the cleanup crew. A new drainage system was installed in May to help keep the area dry. In addition to the “Lourdes Army”, the campus chapter of the Knights of Columbus has adopted maintain the Grotto as their service project. If you would like to join the “Lourdes Army,” email thegrotto.loretto@gmail.com.

Saint Francis University

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on campus

our vibrant community

Commencement 2017 On Sunday, May 7, 2017, graduates and undergraduates attended Commencement ceremonies at the Stokes DeGol arena. This year, 778 students (402 undergraduate/376 graduate) earned degrees from Saint Francis. More than 550 graduates attended the ceremonies. Visit www.francis.edu/Commencement-2017 to see photos and videos from both ceremonies.

Graduate Speaker: Julie M. Meshanko, ’00, M.O.T.,

’01, was selected as the speaker for the 2017 Graduate Commencement ceremony. She is a staff therapist at the Arizona Burn Center in Phoenix, the second largest burn center in the United States. Julie became interested in burn therapy while still a student at Saint Francis and wrote her master’s thesis on the topic. She continues her affiliation with Saint Francis by serving as a guest instructor in the occupational therapy program and by arranging fieldwork experiences for SFU students in Phoenix.

Undergraduate Speaker: Kim Daniels is one of only three laypersons and two women serving on the Secretariat for Communication, a Vatican commission established by Pope Francis to better unify and integrate the various media entities within the Holy See. Daniels is a graduate of Princeton University and earned a juris doctorate from the University of Chicago School of Law. Most recently Daniels was spokesperson for Cardinal Timothy Dolan and his successor, Archbishop Joseph Kurtz, in their role as president of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB). She continues to serve that body as a consultant to its Ad Hoc Committee on Religious Liberty.

Saint Francis University

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at h l e t i c s 2016-17 Pictorial Review

record-setting year

It was a record-setting year for Saint Francis University Athletics with University teams securing four Northeast Conference titles. The SFU Athletics Department finished second in the 2016-17 Brenda Weare Commissioner’s Cup standings, matching its highest finish in school history. In addition to its four champions, four other Red Flash programs played in championship games (men’s soccer, men’s volleyball, men’s basketball and men’s tennis). Across all sports, Saint Francis teams went 74-44-2 (.625) in NEC regular-season play. Nine of 11 sports recorded win-percentages above .500.

Photo 1: The Saint Francis football team celebrated

its first NEC Championship in school history after a win over Central Connecticut State University to clinch the 2016 title.

Photo 2: The Saint Francis women’s cross country program won its first NEC title since 2004 in 2016.

Photo 3: The Red Flash women’s soccer program

celebrates its third NEC title in a span of seven years after a 2-0 win over Central Connecticut State University in the final.

Photo 4: It was a Cinderella season for the Saint

Francis softball program as it won a school record 49 wins, culminating in its first NEC Championship in the spring.

Photo 5: In Susan Robinson Fruchtl’s first season as Athletic Director, Saint Francis University programs excelled in the classroom as well as in competition.

academic success 3.385 Department GPA across both semesters

1 Photo 1: Georgios Angelou (2nd from right) and Patrick

Wrencher (3rd from left), both of whom were named to the National Association of Basketball Coaches Honors Court for their success in the classroom, smile with head coach Rob Krimmel at their graduation in May 2017.

Photo 2: Bryce England was recognized as an NEC

Scholar-Athlete during the fall, winter and spring seasons.

Student-athlete academic flash facts 2

• Nine Red Flash student-athletes were named NEC Scholar-Athletes. • Over the course of the academic year, 272 Saint Francis athletes were placed on the Academic Honor Roll and 128 others earned Commissioner’s Honor Roll distinction.

The Saint Francis swimming team was awarded an NEC Team GPA award for its excellence in the classroom, posting a conferencebest 3.462 cumulative GPA. In total, five Red Flash programs won NEC team GPA awards (men’s and women’s cross country, women’s indoor track and field, women’s outdoor track and field)

Saint Francis University

M AG A Z I N E

AT H L E T I C S

tales of the Red Flash

Become that Someone Jerome signs with NFL Lorenzo Jerome flash facts: • Jerome helped Saint Francis to its first ever NEC Title and FCS Playoffs berth in 2016. • Jerome became the first player in SFU and NEC history to be invited to the NFLPA Collegiate Bowl, Senior Bowl and NFL Combine events. • He is the first four-time First Team All-NEC player in conference history. • Jerome was named All-America by six publications after the 2016 season.

Lorenzo Jerome ’17, a defensive back from Sunrise. Fla., signed as an undrafted free agent with the San Francisco 49ers in April. Lorenzo became the first Red Flash player to play in the NFL since Joe Restic (Philadelphia Eagles) in 1952.

de Vries signs with MLS Francis de Vries flash facts: • de Vries become the first SFU athlete drafted since Jess Zinoble (WNBA) in 2000. • He was the fifth player drafted in NEC history.

Francis de Vries ’17, a defender from Christchurch New Zealand, was drafted no. 29 overall in the second round of the MLS Superdraft by the Vancouver Whitecaps.

• de Vries was a three-time All-American at SFU and was an Academic All-American in the 16-17 season.

Photo 1: The Saint Francis men’s

basketball team won 17 games in 2016-17, the most since 1997-98, advancing to the NEC championship game for the first time in 25 years.

Photo 2: The Saint Francis football

program rode a 5-1 record in NEC play to a title, losing in the FCS Playoffs to Villanova.

Photo 3: The Saint Francis softball

team won the first NCAA Tournament game in school history, defeating New Mexico State at the Tucson Regional at the University of Arizona behind a grand slam by sophomore Sierra McKee of DuBois, Pa.

Photo 4: The Saint Francis women’s

basketball team won 17 games, finishing third in the NEC’s regular season.

sfuathletics.com Saint Francis University

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Attention Fine Arts Alumni SFU is celebrating Fifty Years of the Fine Arts and we need your help. It’s time to share your stories and photos of your favorite Fine Arts memories. Email marketing@francis.edu with “Fine Arts” in the subject line. We can’t wait to hear your stories!

ALUMNI flashbacks 1950s

 Dr. Charles Martinetz ’58 (pictured

in the front row second from left) celebrated his 80th birthday by checking skydiving off his bucket list. Joining him in the plunge were his wife, Beverly, and their family and friends who were able and willing to join them.

1960s  Brian McNerney ’67 served as

the Grand Marshall of the LaVerne “Friends of the Fourth” parade in LaVerne, Calif., during the city’s Independence Day celebration. McNerey rode with 90-year-old World War II Marine Veteran Carl Harstine, who rode in full-dress uniform. Over 10,000 people lined the streets for the event.

1980s

2000s  Amy (Metzler) Miller ’01 completed

 Fred Pagliaro ’80, Willie Monahan ’81 and Brian Petry ’82 enjoyed a golf weekend at the Blue Ridge Golf Club where Monahan (pictured) earned his first hole in one on hole No. 9.

1990s

her doctorate degree in Leadership Administration at Point Park University, Pittsburgh, in May 2017. Her dissertation was titled, “Are Resilient Principals More Committed to Their Work?: A Quantitative Study of Resilience and Work Commitment Among Principals in Pennsylvania.” She lives in Martinsburg, Pa., with her husband, Eric, and daughters, Reese and Quinn. She works as an elementary principal at the Chestnut Ridge School District and as an adjunct professor at SFU.

2010s

 Debra (Hart) McLaughlin ’90 has

 Lauren Elizabeth Kesslak ’10,

been appointed as a judge for the 23rd Judicial Circuit in West Virginia in the Eastern Panhandle. Before her appointment Debra served as the Morgan County prosecutor since 2002, and before that she was the assistant prosecutor in the county.  John Lidonnice, a ’92 management graduate, has published his first book. It is titled “ThanksLiving.” The subject of the book is gratitude and how to live the grateful life. In keeping with the Franciscan tradition, he is donating all proceeds of the sale of the book to help those at the Faith Mission Homeless Shelter in Columbus, Ohio. Read more about the publication: www. francis.edu/thanksliving

CSP, has completed all requirements for a Board of Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP) certification. This highly-respected certification is awarded by BCSP to individuals who meet eligibility and experience criteria in the safety, health, and environmental (SH&E) discipline and have passed a rigorous examination. Flashbacks in this issue include information submitted to the Office of Alumni Relations between November 2016 and July 2017. Connect to the Saint Francis University Alumni Association at www.facebook.com/SaintFrancisAlumni

Left: Inspired by Fr. Malachi’s recent visit, four alumni from the Class of 1966 played golf together at Bay Colony Golf Club in Naples, Fla. John Weber (second from left) had his first hole in one, into the wind, on a 137 yard par three using an 8 iron. The shot was witnessed by (L-R) Tom McLoughlin, Frank Pezutti, and Don Redlinger who were joined by fellow alum Jim Gallagher ’65 in a post round celebration. Saint Francis University

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Marriages

 Daniel Conley ’12 and Lauren Kerley ’12 were mar-

ried in Silver Spring, Md. on October 22, 2016. On behalf of the whole bridal party they would like to say, “YEAH FLASH!”

Births and Adoptions

 Megan Pfeil ’14, ’15 and her fiancé, Brian Widener, had a beautiful baby girl named Rosalyn Grace Widener on February 1, 2017. She is their first child. They reside in State College, Pa.

 Nathan Rager ’01 and Jennifer (Dawson) Rager ’01 welcomed Luke Dawson Rager to the world on January 8, 2016. Jennifer is currently enrolled in the Master of Health Science Program at Saint Francis.

 Dr. Lauren Gompers ’06 and Kinsey McInturf, JD were married on September 3, 2016 in White Sulphur Springs, W.Va. She is a pharmacist for Walmart and he is an attorney at Meyers, Roman, Friedberg and Lewis. Erin Bailey ’06 was also an attendant in the wedding. The couple resides in Cleveland, Ohio.  Joshua Stewart ’12 and Elizabeth Mlaker ’13, ’14 were married on June 11, 2016 at St. Clement Church in Johnstown, Pa. Alumni among the wedding party were Ashlee Spack ’13, ’14, Kelly (O’Donovan) Luther ’13, ’14 and Andrew Rickard ’12. Several Saint Francis alumni also attended the wedding.

 Thomas Sankey ’04 and Ashley Sankey welcomed a

son, Tuck K. Sankey, born on April 2, 2017.

Deaths Judith (Woosley) Ryan Azzara ’66

Dennis A. McDonald ’64

Thomas J. Barry ’57

James “Skip” McFarland ’78

Florian C. Bengele ’55

John C. McLaughlin ’63

Daniel V. Buckley ’58

Henry A. Moran Jr. ’66

Joseph F. Burneff ’96

Ronald P. Muffie ’57

Michael J. Cavoto ’56

Denis P. Mullaney ’68

Dennis Chester ’50

Lori A. (Salsgiver) Myers ’96 ’15(M)

Glen A. Clapper ’72 (M)

David Joseph Pokorny ’68

Judith (Austin-Dalo) Embury ’68

Robert Prieve ’64

Louis A. Ferraro ’59

John Quinn ’87

David Funkhouser ’66

Patricia Jean Rebar ’10

John J. Fuoco ’78

Fr. Robert F. Ruth ’56

Anna M. Gailey ’87

Lynn (Conlon) Snatchko ’70

Vivian Haering ’57

Francis Springer ’56

Margaret A. (Carte) Hanbury ’58

Rev. Edward J. Storck ’48

George (Ed) Hipps ’58

Anthony Torchia ’84

Joseph “David” Jennings ’80

Thomas J. Torsell ’52

Edward Karpenski ’73 James C. Kimlin ’42 Fr. William Kovach ’51 Very Rev. Monsignor Paul A. Lenz Thomas A. Livingston ’53

Dr. John McNeal, associate professor of American history, passed away on March 1, 2017. He served from 1968 until 1975.

We Want to Expand our Family tree

Submitting a Flashback We love to hear from our alumni! Please share with us information about career changes, promotions, relocations, volunteer work, engagements, marriages, births, and interesting things. How to submit a Flashback: • Email: sfu-alumni-office@ francis.edu • Fax: 814-472-3044 • Mail: Flashbacks Office of Alumni Relations Saint Francis University PO Box 600 Loretto, PA 15940 We welcome photos and will publish them as space permits. Digital files are best as long as they are high quality. A larger file size (300 dpi or higher) is better than a smaller file size. Photos submitted by mail will not be returned.

As a member of our alumni community, you are part of our family. We want you to help our family grow:

Legacy Scholarships Scholarships of $4,000 ($1,000 per year) are available for children, step-children and grandchildren of Saint Francis alumni who demonstrate financial need. To refer a Legacy prospect, contact the Office of Admissions at 1-866-342-5738.

Open Houses Saturday, November 11 Saturday, April 21

Saint Francis University

M AG A Z I N E

Photos courtesy by JohnRiceFims

Alumni and friends escaped to one of Europeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most attractive seaside destinations this summer. The group spent June 2-10, 2017 sightseeing and reminiscing in Cefalu, Sicily and nearby locations such as Taormina and Gibilmanna. Thank you to Saint Francis University Trustee, Linda Eremita, for helping to organize this trip.

Alumni Volunteer Program If you’re interested in becoming an alumni volunteer, please contact Eric Horell at ehorell@ francis.edu to learn more about how you can recruit the next generation of Red Flash alumni.

As the spring semester closes and we look toward welcoming the new freshman class this fall, the Office of Admissions recognizes all of our alumni volunteers who represented Saint Francis University at college fairs this spring. As always, they represented the Red Flash with pride and enthusiasm. For their time and energy, the University extends heartfelt thanks to: Dr. Barrie Ann Brancato ’67 Jeannette Burrell ’60 Maggie Danan ’75 and daughter Arielle John G. Fitzpatrick ’82 Jerome (Jerry) Laday ’75 Ann Martin Clarke ’79

Bob McGrady ’75 James O’Brien ’72 Beverly Pavlick-Russell ’66 Ken Rowinsky ’72 Al Scala ’72 Frank Soltis ’79

Saint Francis University

M AG A Z I N E

Saint Francis University P.O. Box 600 Loretto, PA 15940-0600 www.francis.edu

Mark your calendar to travel with SFU in 2018! Fr. Malachi Van Tassell, T.O.R., Ph.D. invites you to travel with him to

Barcelona, Spain and Ambialet, France June 23 - July 3, 2018 Details are coming in November. Visit www.francis.edu/alumni for a travel preview.