Saint Vincent Magazine Fall 2014 by Saint Vincent College

SAINT VINCENT M A G A Z I N E

ENGINEERING PROGRAM OFF TO FAST START

Fall 2014

Upcoming Campus

Events

5th Nationwide Juried Catholic Arts Exhibition Janet McKenzie, Juror Saint Vincent Gallery Through December 7

Saint Vincent Camerata Concert Saturday, November 8, 7:30 p.m. Archabbey Basilica

Late Fall Sky Show

Angelo J. Taiani Planetarium Sis and Herman Dupré Science Pavilion Saturday, November 15, 11 a.m.

Saint Vincent College Concert Series Daurov/Myer Duo Robert S. Carey Performing Arts Center Saturday, November 22, 8 p.m.

Basilica Organ Dedication Concert Sunday, November 23, 3 p.m. Archabbey Basilica

Early Winter Sky Show

Angelo J. Taiani Planetarium Sis and Herman Dupré Science Pavilion Saturday, December 6, 11 a.m.

Threshold Lecture Thomas Tull

Thursday, April 16, 2014, 7:30 p.m. Fred M. Rogers Center. All seats reserved.

FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT: www.stvincent.edu Christmas at the Basilica! Christmas Eve: 5 p.m. Christmas: Midnight 8:30 and 10:30 a.m.

Bert Dunkerly on Front Lines of Historic Preservation

ert Dunkerly, C’95, loves working on the front lines. As a ranger with the National Park Service at Richmond National Battlefield Park, he helps people make connections with history every day. Whether it is creating and conducting interpretive tours, working with visitors to trace their ancestors’ movements during the Civil War, or helping visitors plan what to see, he enjoys being immersed in history. His job can encompass helping Civil War reenactors plan and implement an event, bringing history to life or historic preservation, determining how to best manage and preserve a resource while also making it available to the public. History has always been what he wanted to study, although he did not focus on the area of public history until later in his college career. He recalls taking classes with Charles Manoli, Susan Sommers, Roy Mills and Father Rene Kollar, O.S.B. He found “his niche” in public history when he took classes with the late Chris Catalfamo. After earning a bachelor of arts in history from Saint Vincent, he went to Middle Tennessee State University for a master of arts degree in public history. “Obtaining a job in the field of public history is never easy,” he said, recounting that he began working at Colonial Williamsburg. He obtained a part-time job at the Jamestown National Park site and eventually applied for full-time employment with the National Park Service. He has worked at eight different sites, including Gettysburg National Military Park in Pennsylvania, Stones River National Battlefield in Murfreesboro, Tennessee; Kings Mountain National Military Park in Blacksburg, South Carolina; Moores Creek National Battlefield in Currie, North Carolina and Appomattox Court House National Historic Park in Virginia. “It has been a wonderful career,” he said. He has returned to Saint Vincent where he enjoys giving presentations to students about careers in public history and the National Park Service. He has worked with college students or graduate students who are just getting started with jobs or internships in the field, encouraging them and assisting them in any way he can. “I do love it, working with history every day.”

—Kim Metzgar

students first fund: Make a Gift to HELP a student. contact the Office of Institutional Advancement, 724-805-2895.

Departments

Presidentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 4 Message More Features 8

Saint Vincent: National Spotlight

Career success for Ally Lambert, e-newsletters, freshman 15, brotherly love.

News Briefs

Sports

New directors of financial aid, multi-cultural life; longterm employees honored, Career Center success.

Team Lyden, Golf team wins PAC, individual success for Tim Barto.

Faculty 30

Remembering Brother Nathan

Film success for David Safin, ecumenical efforts, Turkey trip.

Alumni

Upcoming events; Alumni of Distinction, Class of 1964, Faith Brought Citrone Family to Saint Vincent, Alumni News and Notes.

26 Football first for new coach S a in t V inc e n t M a g a z ine ARCHABBOT AND CHANCELLOR Rt. Rev. Douglas R. Nowicki, O.S.B. PRESIDENT Br. Norman W. Hipps, O.S.B. EDITOR Kim Metzgar svmagazine@stvincent.edu DESIGN Kim Metzgar & Jordan Hainsey PRINTING Laurel Valley Graphics ALUMNI NEWS COORDINATOR Mary Ann Dunlap

Fall 2014 Volume 12, Issue 1

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Kathryn Klawinski Kim Metzgar Don Orlando Simon Stuchlik Sports Information Office

Saint Vincent Magazine (United States Postal Service Publication Number USPS 5144-8000) is published by Saint Vincent College, Latrobe, Pennsylvania, for alumni, parents and friends. Third class postage paid at Latrobe, Pennsylvania. Postmaster: Send address changes to the Alumni Office, Saint Vincent College, 300 Fraser Purchase Road, Latrobe, PA 15650-2690.

PHOTOGRAPHERS Sports Information Office Office of Alumni Relations Ken Brooks Peter Finger Jordan Hainsey Jack Krall Kim Metzgar Don Orlando

Saint Vincent College reserves the right to accept or decline submissions of both information and photos for use in the Saint Vincent Magazine, based on content, quality, timeliness and suitability, at the discretion of the editor. Saint Vincent College subscribes to a policy of equal opportunity in the classroom, workplace and programs, and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, age, veteran status, national origin, marital status, genetic history or disability. To learn more, visit: http://www.stvincent.edu/ Legal-Information/.

PROOFREADER Carol Riddle

Cover:

Experimenting with the new MakerBot Replicator 2 desktop 3-D printer in the Instrument Laboratory, under the supervision of engineering Professor Dr. Paul Follansbee are Rachel Henigin of Blairsville and Dillon Main of Rogersville, senior engineering science majors. The printer makes solid, three-dimensional objects out of melted MakerBot filament through a process of fused filament fabrication. See page 12. Photo by Don Orlando.

“When you discover your mission, you will feel its demand. It will fill you with enthusiasm and a burning desire to get to work on it.”

A Message From The President

—W. Clement Stone

A COMMITMENT TO OUR MISSION, OUR STUDENTS Dear Alumni and Friends,

emaining centered on your mission is critical, regardless of your field. I believe that everything we do here at Saint Vincent College works to create a community of learners, whether it is teaching a challenging class, advising on career options and internships, providing a hot meal, assisting with paperwork or lending a listening ear. We have extended that commitment within our advancement area. Beginning with this fiscal year, July 1, we have renamed our annual giving program the Saint Vincent Annual Fund for Students First, or Students First Fund. More importantly, this represents a commitment on the part of Saint Vincent College: Every unrestricted dollar you give to the Students First Fund will be used for student aid. Both that aid, and your support, are more important than you may realize. We have recently been recognized by Money magazine, which introduced a new ranking in July that assesses colleges in terms of academic quality, affordability and alumni career outcomes, which are all given equal weight. I encourage you to read the details in the story on Pages 5-6, but here are the key points: Saint Vincent ranked as high as 13th among the 1,500 public and private schools the magazine’s staff considered: • • •

No. 13 on the list of “The 25 Most Affordable Colleges” No. 17 on the list of “Colleges That Add the Most Value” No. 20 on the list of “The 25 Best Liberal Arts Colleges”

Perhaps nothing better illustrates our success than our graduates’ success. On Pages 12-13 of this issue is a profile of 2014 graduate Allyson Lambert, a perfect example of a student who received substantial scholarship aid, took advantage of every opportunity presented to her to excel in both business and music, and now is enjoying an exciting start to what I’m sure will be a long and fulfilling career. It was heartening to learn that Ally is already giving back, not only contributing an alumni blog to the College but also giving to the PPG Foundation to fund educational programming and serving on PPG’s Women’s Leadership Council. We are also proud of the excellent placements our 2014 alumni have received in graduate and professional schools, such as Ben Summers, a dual English and computer science major who is working toward a Ph.D. in computer science at the College of William and Mary; Joshua Gongaware, an economics and mathematics dual major who is pursuing a Ph.D. in economics at Duke University; Joseph Carroll, an English major who is attending the Dickinson School of Law at the Pennsylvania State University; Ethan Crace, who is working toward a Ph.D. in chemistry at Stanford University; and Tanner Beal, our President’s Award winner and a dual major in politics and criminology, law and society who is studying law and international relations at Syracuse University School of Law. Our cover story features one of our newest four-year degrees, engineering, and the stories on Pages 7-9 will bring you up to date on developments in the program and a new book published by program director Dr. Paul Follansbee, our James F. Will Professor of Engineering Science, as well as introduce you to one of its students, 15-year-old Julia Lundy. Julia is an outstanding student who plans to move on to graduate study in civil and environmental engineering and join Engineers Without Borders, a nonprofit humanitarian group that designs and implements sustainable engineering projects in 47 countries. We have recently completed our Homecoming and Fall Family Weekend, which saw a record number of alumni return to campus, joined by parents and families of our current students. We enjoyed breaking bread together, catching up with old friends and getting to know new ones, as well as cheering the football Bearcats on to victory! I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all of our Alumni of Distinction honorees, with special thanks to Tom Gessner and Fran Marasco for their successful efforts to recruit classmates from the Class of 1964. Let me close by expressing my continuing gratitude to all of you who support the College in many and varied ways, helping us to keep Students First.

God bless, Brother Norman W. Hipps, O.S.B., President

From Money magazine to U.S. News & World Report to Barron’s Best Buys, Saint Vincent College has been gaining national recognition in multiple areas.

Saint Vincent College Earns National Recognition In Multiple Listings If positive reinforcement leads to

the endorsements of U.S. News & World Report’s toptier ranking of National Liberal Arts Colleges, Forbes’ Best Colleges and Barron’s Best Buys, among others. “The 25 Colleges That Add the Most Value are the Value All Stars of the Money’s Best Colleges rankings,” the report notes. “It’s not surprising that elite schools have high graduation rates or that their alumni go on to earn a lot of money. Such schools, after all, generally start with high-achieving students who have the talent and resources to thrive in almost any environment. So, we set out to determine which schools actually add the most value, taking into account the economic and academic profiles of the incoming students. These colleges turn out graduates who exceed the averages for their peer groups by the widest margin.” To develop the new rankings, Money partnered with Mark Schneider, former commissioner of the Department of Education’s National Center for Education Statistics and his company, College Measures, which collects and analyzes data to drive improvements in higher education. One of the most important findings to come out of the rankings, Schneider notes, is that you don’t have to pay a lot to get a high-quality education that really helps in the job market.

repeat behavior, Saint Vincent College can only hope that the accolades it received in the summer of 2014 contribute to future repeats. In July, Saint Vincent received national recognition from an impressive source, Money magazine, which announced a new set of college rankings based on equal measures of academic quality, affordability and alumni career outcomes. Money winnowed the nation’s 1,500 four-year public and private nonprofit colleges down to a more manageable 665 by requiring schools to have a graduation rate 25 percent better than their peer group, and to have a stable, investment-grade financial rating. Among these colleges, Saint Vincent College ranked No. 20 on the list of “The 25 Best Liberal Arts Colleges,” No. 17 among “The 25 Colleges That Add the Most Value” and No. 13 on the list of “The 25 Most Affordable Colleges”—impressive statistics that add to Saint Vincent Magazine

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Nine months in the making, Money’s Best Colleges ranks 665 schools on 17 measures, based on the most recent research about what really matters in higher education. Among its distinctive analyses: The list provides a more realistic way to price colleges, taking into account the complete cost of a college degree rather than a single year. It is also the only ranking to evaluate which schools add the most value given the academic and economic background of the students who attend, and to level the playing field on majors, to show whether graduates of a particular college earn more (or less) than average, whether they earned degrees in engineering or English. The result, says Money senior writer Kim Clark, who created the rankings, “is a list of colleges—some famous, some surprising—that, according to the best data available, provide real value. College is expensive, but the highly-rated colleges on our list are the most likely to do a great job of educating your student and helping to launch him or her into a well-paying job.” Saint Vincent has previously been recognized by Money magazine, having been named one of the top 100 best college buys in the nation. Among small liberal arts

colleges, Saint Vincent was ranked 15th in the nation. For the fifth consecutive year, Saint Vincent is ranked in the first tier of national liberal arts colleges in the 2015 edition of U.S. News & World Report’s Best Colleges Guidebook. The rankings are based on several key measures of quality including graduation and retention rates, assessment of excellence, faculty resources, student selectivity, financial resources, graduation rate performance and alumni giving. “We continue to appreciate the external validation we receive from U.S. News & World Report, recognizing our academic quality, excellent retention and graduation rates, and the fact that we provide an outstanding college experience at a reasonable cost,” said Brother Norman. The rankings of more than 1,400 schools nationwide are available at www.usnews.com. In addition to U.S. News, Saint Vincent’s quality educational programs have earned recognition by Forbes business magazine (America’s Top Colleges), College Factual (#1 best for the money in Pennsylvania) and Washington Monthly (Best Bang for the Buck; NerdScholar and Barron’s.

Two Recognized For Social Media Efforts Two college staff members received national recognition for their work promoting Saint Vincent on social media. The College Facebook page received an Award of Distinction from the Communicator Awards. Saint Vincent’s Facebook audience stands at more than 6,500, reaching 20,000-30,000 people and engaging 2,000-5,000 in an average week. The College also has an active Twitter® account, reaching about 10,000 per week with a Klout score averaging over 60, and shares photos through an Instagram presence with 700 followers. “David Safin and Simon Stuchlik have done a tremendous job in increasing the visibility of Saint Vincent College on social media. This most recent honor is their third within two years, and marks the strategic and consistent approach they have taken, always looking to the latest development in a constantly-changing field,” said Suzanne Wilcox English, vice president for admission, marketing and communications.

Saint Vincent Magazine

As summer began, the College Facebook page, run by Simon Stuchlik (left) and David Safin, received an Award of Distinction from the Communicator Awards. Stuchlik, C’12, continues to work in social media for the College, in addition to writing for Saint Vincent Magazine. Safin, C’00, is now a full-time member of the College faculty.

Fall 2014

Dr. Paul Follansbee Authors New Book Dr. Paul S. Follansbee, the James F. Will Professor of Engineering Science in the Herbert W. Boyer School of Natural Sciences, Mathematics and Computing, is the author of a new engineering textbook, Fundamentals of Strength, published by The Minerals, Metals and Materials Society (TMS) and John Wiley and Sons, Inc. Follansbee, a member of the Saint Vincent faculty since 2008 and the director of the College’s new bachelor of science degree program in engineering science, is a materials scientist and engineer with more than 30 years experience in technical research and development. An international authority in the field of metal deformation and deformation modeling, Follansbee explores the underlying theory, mechanistic basis and implementation of the Mechanical Threshold Stress (MTS) deformation model, which he and coworkers developed beginning in the 1980s. The publication explores technical topics such as mechanical testing, crystal structure, thermodynamics, dislocation motion, dislocation-obstacle interactions, hardening through dislocation accumulation and deformation kinetics. “The models I describe support the emerging theme of Integrated Computational Materials Engineering (ICME) by offering a foundation for the bridge between length scales characterizing the mesoscale (mechanistic) and the macroscopic,” Follansbee explained. “Fundamentals of Strength begins with a chapter that introduces various approaches to measuring the strength of metals,” Follansbee said. “It continues with discussions about structure and bonding, contributions to strength, dislocation-obstacle interactions, the basis for a constitutive law for metal deformation, further MTS model developments and data analysis deriving MTS model parameters.”

Designed for use by students, materials researchers and deformation modelers, Fundamentals of Strength goes beyond theory, offering readers a model that is fully supported with examples and applications. The publication is available as either a 493-page hardback book or in digital format. Follansbee began the project in the spring of 2011 after one of his students, Aaron Weiss, asked him for help in planning his senior research project. “Two of the chapters include work that comprised part of the undergraduate research projects of Weiss and another student, Frank McGrogan,” Follansbee noted. “Other Saint Vincent students involved include Caitlin Sawyer, who reviewed chapters and searched for typographical and other errors; Marley Case, who created several diagrams using AutoCAD®; and Ashlee Zaffina and Loren Ostrosky who helped compile the index.” The James F. Will Professor of Engineering Science is an endowed faculty position funded by an anonymous donor in honor of Saint Vincent College’s 15th president who served as chief executive officer of several major corporations in the steel industry.

JOIN THE GIVING TRADITION AT

SAINT VINCENT COLLEGE

Giving—and giving back—has long been a tradition at Saint Vincent College. Every member of our campus community has, in some way, benefitted from the generous support of alumni and friends. Planned gifts will extend your support beyond your lifetime by making a commitment to the future of Saint Vincent. To structure deferred gifts in your estate plan, contact: Anthony Cancro, 724-805-2948, anthony.cancro@stvincent.edu.

YOUR GIFT WILL CHANGE A LIFE! Saint Vincent Magazine

—Don Orlando 7

Fall 2014

ENGINEERING SCIENCE PROGRAM EXCEEDING EXPECTATIONS Dr. Paul Follansbee, center, and engineering science students from left, sophomore Kevin Hein, freshman Julia Lundy and sophomore Shane Benning meet Colonel Bernard R. Lindstrom and hydraulic engineer Meghan Wygonik of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, prior to a lecture for engineering students. The new bachelor of science degree program is one of the fastest-growing majors at Saint Vincent. Photo by Jordan Hainsey.

By Don Orlando

AINT VINCENT’S NEW BACHELOR OF SCIENCE DEGREE PROGRAM IN ENGINEERING SCIENCE IS OFF TO A GREAT START AS IT BEGINS ITS SECOND YEAR, WITH ENROLLMENT FAR EXCEEDING PROJECTIONS. THE PROGRAM, OFFERED BY THE HERBERT

students will get a very well-rounded education.” The program was developed by Dr. Stephen Jodis, dean of the Herbert W. Boyer School of Natural Sciences, Mathematics and Computing; Follansbee; Dr. Daniele Arcara, associate professor of mathematics; Dr. Daryle H. Fish, associate professor of chemistry; and Dr. Mohamed Anis Maize, professor of physics. It takes advantage of the expertise and engineering credentials already held by Jodis, Fish and Maize as well as Follansbee, who has more than 30 years of experience as a materials engineer. The program offers a general engineering degree. “We aren’t focusing on particular branches of engineering such as mechanical engineering or electrical engineering,” Follansbee noted. “Instead, we have a curriculum that offers a broad background in thermodynamics, design, computation, materials,

W. BOYER SCHOOL OF NATURAL SCIENCES, MATHEMATICS AND COMPUTING, PREPARES STUDENTS FOR CAREERS IN ENGINEERING OR PURSUIT OF ADVANCED ENGINEERING DEGREES IN THE DISCIPLINE OF THEIR CHOICE. “We are thrilled with our healthy enrollment,” said Dr. Paul Follansbee, James F. Will Professor of Engineering Science and director of the program. “We welcomed 17 freshmen and another five transfer students so the program has grown to 31 students in just its second year of operation. This is far beyond our expectations and shows the tremendous interest in studying engineering. And it also shows the interest in engineering at a college like Saint Vincent where

Saint Vincent Magazine

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Saint Vincent, in conjunction with several university electrical, business and project management. Our schools of engineering, continues to offer a five-year approach emphasizes math and science with broad cooperative liberal arts and engineering program. training in the development of problem-solving skills. Students typically spend three years at Saint Vincent And, in conjunction with our liberal arts core curriculum, concentrating on liberal arts subjects, general students will leave with strong communication and mathematics and science prerequisites and introductory writing skills, which are so important, as well as the engineering courses. Upon satisfactory completion of all values orientation that is part of our overall approach as course work at Saint Vincent, students are guaranteed a Catholic, Benedictine college. All of this combines to acceptance at the University of Pittsburgh, Catholic provide an engineering degree that serves students well University of America, and to some programs at the in any professional setting.” Pennsylvania State University. Students then spend two Because of the existing curriculum that Saint years at an engineering college or university to fulfill the Vincent offered in its 3/2 engineering program and remaining engineering requirements. They receive two the engineering credentials held by current members degrees: a bachelor of arts degree from Saint Vincent of the Saint Vincent faculty, only one new faculty and a bachelor of science degree in their selected focus member, Dr. Derek Breid, was needed in order to offer of engineering from the engineering school. a full complement of engineering courses for the new “We are very excited to be able to offer two types program. Breid is teaching Introduction to Engineering, Introduction to Engineering Computation and Statics this of engineering programs to students,” Jodis added. He said studies show that there are opportunities for more fall. He earned a bachelor of science degree in chemical engineers, especially in the southwestern Pennsylvania engineering from the University of Kansas and a master area. The college surveyed many corporations in of science and Ph.D. in polymer science and engineering the region and was from the University of encouraged to pursue the Massachusetts. new program because of Saint Vincent has also E WELCOMED 17 FRESHMEN reports that companies acquired new software AND ANOTHER FIVE TRANSFER were having difficulty licenses for engineering STUDENTS SO THE PROGRAM HAS recruiting engineers. programs to further support the engineering GROWN TO 31 STUDENTS IN JUST ITS SECOND Nationally, the U.S. Bureau programs that are in YEAR OF OPERATION. THIS IS FAR BEYOND OUR of Labor Statistics predicts strong growth potential in common use in business EXPECTATIONS AND SHOWS THE TREMENDOUS the field. and industry. INTEREST IN STUDYING ENGINEERING.” Saint Vincent intends With the new program, the College offers students —DR. PAUL FOLLANSBEE to have a high-quality program that will seek another path toward a accreditation from ABET career in engineering and (formerly the Accreditation strengthens its existing Board for Engineering and Technology) as well as programs. Graduates from the program will be wellone that will prepare graduates for the Fundamentals positioned for either entry-level general engineering of Engineering (FE) exam that is the first step to positions or to enter advanced degree programs in certification as professional engineers. It also plans to graduate school. offer internships at many of the outstanding companies “I think the program is going to be popular because it in the region to provide practical experience and offers students the opportunity to study engineering at a preparation for rewarding future employment. college that has many other attractive characteristics— The 38 students enrolled in its 3/2 engineering small classes, excellent faculty, Catholic and Benedictine values, a beautiful campus,” said Arcara. “Our engineering program combined with the 31 enrolled in the new major bring the total of students in the department to graduates will be successful in finding good jobs.” 69, Jodis noted. Three students who were already enrolled in the 3/2 “Enrollment in our engineering community is very engineering program transferred into the new program. healthy and is expected to continue to grow,” he said. They are now seniors in the engineering science major Saint Vincent has a strong academic core curriculum, a and will be the first graduates of the program in May strong foundation of science courses in the Boyer School of 2015. Like other Boyer School students, they will and we now offer outstanding engineering courses. It complete an undergraduate research project as part of presents an excellent option for prospective students.” the requirements for their degree.

“W

Saint Vincent Magazine

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‘Freshman 15’ Has New Meaning For Future Engineer A 15-year-old freshman is not unusual—in high school. But this year, one of the youngest students to enroll at Saint Vincent College is 15. Julia Lundy plans a public service career as a civil and environmental engineer in the new major in engineering science. “My plan is to do graduate study in civil and environmental engineering and then join Engineers without Borders,” she said. She explained that EWB is a nonprofit humanitarian organization that supports community-driven development programs worldwide through partnerships that design and implement sustainable engineering projects in 47 countries on five continents. Daughter of Jennifer Lundy of Penn Hills, Julia was excused from kindergarten, fourth and eighth grades before completing studies at Oakland Catholic High School. She decided to attend Saint Vincent because of “its convenient location, the friendly people on campus visits and the excellent science facilities.” Her first semester includes courses in Introduction to Mass Media, Advanced Spanish, Introduction to Engineering, Sociology and First Theology. She has already become an active member of the student body by joining the Activities Programming Board, Spanish Club, Environmental Awareness Club, Dance Team and the Colorguard with the March of the Bearcats Band. —Don Orlando

Biochemistry Bearcats Share More Ties Than Just A Major

From left are Michael, Joshua and Vincent Centore. Saint Vincent Magazine

Freshman Joshua Centore became the third member of his family to enroll at Saint Vincent as he joined his brothers, Michael, a senior, and Vincent, a junior. All are biochemistry majors. They are the sons of Anthony and Jody Centore of Cecil Township and the grandsons of Gene Centore, C’58, of Canonsburg, who is retired from a career as a math and science teacher in the Canon-McMillan School District. Joshua, who lives in the Saint Benedict Hall “pod” supervised by Michael, is already active as a member of the Activities Programming Board, Saint Benedict Hall representative to the Student Government Association and member of the Chemistry Club. He received a Dean’s Scholarship. Michael, a pre-med student, is a member of the Chemistry Club and active in Alpha Phi Omega. Michael and Vincent are both members of the Dean’s List and recipients of Fred Rogers Scholarships. The three have a younger sister, Sarah, a freshman at Canon-McMillan High School. 10

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Love Of Saint Vincent Prompts Gift To Help Future Students

ouie Sylvester always wanted to help people: holding doors, shoveling snow, mowing lawns and in many other ways. He always thought first of the other person. As he got older, he struggled with his health and his desire to physically help people and looked for ways to continue what he began as a child. The students of Greater Latrobe High School, Derry Area Senior High School and Greensburg Central Catholic came to his mind. He thought of them going off to college and wanted to help them with financial aid for their tuition. In his will he bequeathed a significant gift to Saint Vincent to establish the Louie R. Sylvester and Patricia Sylvester Memorial Scholarship for these students. Now for many generations to come, students from these schools will be eligible for aid from this scholarship fund. Pictured at left with Archabbot Douglas R. Nowicki, O.S.B., presenting his gift, are Mary Sylvester, Louieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sister, and Richard Kovach. Saint Vincent College is grateful to Louie and his family. You, too, can help students for generations yet to come by including Saint Vincent College in your estate plans. For information contact Anthony Cancro, Development Officer, Saint Vincent College, 724-8052948, or Anthony.cancro@stvincent.edu.

Dedication and Blessing Mary Mother of Mercy Mausoleum Chapel Saint Vincent Cemetery

Saturday, November 8, 2014

Saint Vincent Cemetery 724-805-2651 www.saintvincentcemetery.com Saint Vincent Magazine

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Difficult Journey Turns Into Career Success Editor’s Note: The accolades and “best” rankings that Saint Vincent College has received (see article on page 5) measure educational quality, affordability and career outcomes to help families find the right school at the right price. Some larger or “more elite” schools also have high graduation rates, and their alumni can earn high salaries. But, Money magazine noted, “such schools, after all, generally start with high-achieving students who have the talent and resources to thrive in almost any environment. So, we set out to determine which schools actually add the most value, taking into account the economic and academic profiles of the incoming students. These colleges turn out graduates who exceed the averages for their peer groups by the widest margin.” Thus began a search for an example of a recent graduate who exemplified those qualities. Meet Allyson Lambert.

By Simon Stuchlik

he road to success is not always straight. In many cases, there will be twists and turns, intersections of opportunity and road bumps along the way. Navigating that route takes skill, confidence, strength, support and just a bit of luck. This is the story of Allyson Lambert.

On the surface, the story of Lambert’s success seems pretty straightforward. After transferring to Saint Vincent College during her sophomore year, she excelled academically while also being a vital part of the community as a member of the cross country team and the Women in Business Club. Once she graduated with honors in December 2013, she quickly gained employment at PPG Industries, relocating to Nevada where she is now embarking on a career in finance. But beneath that surface was an often-difficult journey that threatened to derail

Saint Vincent Magazine

more than once. It started during her childhood. “Growing up, we lived in a hundred year old coal patch house with no insulation and leaky, drafty windows and doors. When it was especially cold and windy outside, there were times that ice formed on some of the interior walls. But we did the best we could to get by,” Lambert recalled. Those winters brought the family closer together, and prepared her for further challenges. She chose to attend a public university because she could not afford to attend a private college. She only lasted a semester, not feeling challenged academically. She then chose to study music at Seton Hill University. But she realized that while music grounded her in times of stress, it would not allow her to fulfill her career goals. So during her sophomore year, Lambert transferred to Saint Vincent to pursue studies in music and business. The school’s financial aid package allowed her to do what she had thought to be financially impossible, studying at a private school. But the move left its marks. “After two transfers, I felt like a failure on paper,” she said. “Whenever you leave a place, it’s like losing a piece

Fall 2014

of your identity. Each time I transferred, I had to start hone her networking abilities. It had a direct impact on her from scratch and rediscover myself and my purpose.” career. Initially, those problems didn’t seem likely to end with In December 2013, PPG Industries was looking for her second transfer in two years. qualified candidates to join its Financial Leadership After changing majors six times, she decided on a Development program, seeking to find and develop the major in finance with a music minor. But some classmates brightest young financial minds in the industry. Generally, and faculty members wondered about the unusual the company only recruits from bigger schools, but Saint combination. Business professors could not understand the Vincent alumnus Aaron McKlveen had successfully joined distraction of theatre plays, while fellow performers were the program after his graduation in 2012. confused by her choice of major. As it turns out, McKlveen was a member of Lambert’s Yet, Lambert stuck with her choice, thanks in large part growing professional network. Shortly after her to her academic adviser, Mark graduation, she received emails Abramovic. from McKlveen, Career Center “He was the first to understand director Courtney Baum and Dr. that the energy, focus and Gary Quinlivan, dean of the Alex enthusiasm that I had on stage G. McKenna School of Business, carried over into my work,” Economics and Government. she said. “He acknowledged They remembered her well and, and understood the connection having been contacted by PPG, between creative and analytical invited her to send a resume and thinking. Once I felt that I had cover letter to the company. One that foundation, I was able to five-hour interview later, she was pursue what I wanted to do accepted into the program. without feeling pulled in one The adventure was just direction.” beginning. The Financial “Allyson was not the typical Leadership Development finance student,” Abramovic said. program, where she is a “She has great perseverance. She trainee, seeks to put promising was a pleasure to have in class young professionals into a because she was always prepared manufacturing environment, with assignments and willing to to expose them to all sides of participate. She was enthusiastic, the business and allow them to pleasant to be around and very understand the origins of the high energy.” numbers they would be working Lambert stays in touch with with throughout their careers. Abramovic, calling and emailing That meant a choice: relocating Allyson Lambert, C’13, now enjoys a finance him when she needs career to a manufacturing plant either advice or support. in Huron, Ohio, or Reno, Nevada. career at PPG Industries. She is currently based Backed by her adviser, she She chose Nevada. PPG in Nevada. Photo courtesy of PPG Industries. began to flourish as a student Industries helped her organize and in the community. She the move and after a preliminary began utilizing her creative abilities to find new solutions apartment-hunting trip, she began settling into her new to analytical problems. She joined the cross country team professional life. Now, she is working in cost accounting at and Women in Business club, made friends and learned a manufacturing plant for latex paint. The program, which important lessons about teamwork while developing her will keep her in Nevada for 18 months, will last between self-esteem. three and five years before she transitions into a financial She also began to take full advantage of the various leadership role at the company headquarters in Pittsburgh. opportunities on campus beyond her major. She held In the months since the move, she has had time to jobs in the admission department, the McCarl Coverlet reflect on her experience at Saint Vincent. Above all, Gallery, Saint Vincent Summer Theatre and the Gristmill, Lambert said she appreciates the strong support that she all of which allowed her to earn wages and to bolster her received from the community during and after her initial resume. struggles. A year before graduation, Lambert began to intensify her “For most colleges, you pay to get your degree, and efforts in career development. She contacted the Career that’s it,” she said. “But Saint Vincent is unique. It’s a Center, which put her in contact with recent alumni. Her support system and a tight community. Someone is always intent was to practice her professional interactions and there for you.” Saint Vincent Magazine

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Many recent graduates praise the difference that Saint Vincent College’s liberal arts education has made in their mindsets. But for Lambert, that difference is tangible. Her theater experience helped her perform well in her job interview. Her core curriculum classes allowed her to become a more outgoing person and honed her communication skills. Her music minor benefits her now, as she performs professionally as an actress and singer in her spare time. “With the liberal arts, the opportunities are literally endless,” she said. “Life is a balancing act and the integration of business and arts have allowed me to achieve that balance.” Not surprisingly, she loves giving back to the college that made her career possible, largely because no one was deterred by her economic status or background. That begins with telling her story of failure and perseverance, teaching struggling students that “it’s okay to not follow a perfect path, because you can still get to where you want to go.” She writes a blog for the college at info.stvincent.edu/ alumni-blog, which she fills with entertaining stories about her move and professional life along with career advice and interview tips. She stays in contact with Women in Business, the student club that sparked her passion for encouraging women to pursue professional goals in the work place. And she remains close with her former

mentors, finance professor Abramovic and McCarl Coverlet Gallery director Lauren Churilla, C’08. “She was a fantastic worker,” said Churilla, who initially hired Lambert to take care of the business aspects of the gallery but saw her make a difference in the creative areas as well. “We still stay in touch, both professionally and personally. We’ve become good friends.” Lambert is involved at PPG beyond her professional obligations as well. Through the PPG Foundation, she works on funding educational programming through corporate grants. She is also a member of the Women’s Leadership Council in PPG, attributing her status as one of its youngest members to the fact that “Saint Vincent taught us to get involved and stand up for causes that we believe in.” On the weekends, she volunteers at a local museum while also working on a project with northern Nevada colleges and universities to help bridge the gap between education and industry. For Lambert, the bumpy and twisting road has led to success, thanks to her perseverance, strength, confidence, education and support system. But in the context of life, that road is just beginning. “I look at life like a race,” the former cross country runner said. “Not the kind where you win, but the kind where you keep going.”

E-Newsletters Inform, Interest Alumni, Students, Prospective Students

developing series of electronic newsletters are informing and catching the interest of the oncampus community and the broader college network. Currently, four different e-newsletters exist: The School of Social Sciences, Communication and Education Newsletter; The School of Humanities and Fine Arts Newsletter; The Boyer School Bulletin; and the Alumni Newsletter. The first campus e-newsletter was for the School of Social Sciences, Communication and Education. It debuted in March 2013. The idea was originally presented to Dr.

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Mary Beth Spore, dean of SSCE, by the school’s advisory council as a way to keep the faculty, staff and students informed about what occurs on campus. Spore recruited some dedicated and able students to help her gather and write appealing stories. “The idea of putting together a newsletter myself was intimidating, but having help made it seem more plausible. The first one was slow in the formation and distribution, but the response was amazing,” she said. The SSCE newsletter includes stories on current school happenings, students, faculty members, alumni and, more recently, parent-written stories about having a child at Saint Vincent. The newsletter is written and designed by students, and story ideas are submitted by students and faculty members alike. “We are always looking for the story that’s a little offbeat, the story of amazing things happening here every day,” said Spore. “The key to a successful newsletter is a talented, dedicated and funded staff who make up a unified group and are willing to not only produce the substance, but generate the ideas as well.” The Alumni office began its newsletter in April 2013. While some alumni were able to stay connected through 14

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the happenings on campus, the school website and Saint Vincent Magazine, many desired news more frequently. The newsletter is emailed to all interested alumni and includes a variety of stories aimed at informing alumni of what is occurring on campus through the efforts of the Alumni Office and the Office of Institutional Advancement. The monthly Alumni newsletter has a calendar of events both for alumni and on the campus in general and has articles about current students, faculty members, alumni and events on campus. Information is gathered together by Mary Ann Dunlap from the four schools, the Athletic department, and the Seminary and Archabbey, as well as collected through press releases and from outside sources. Joan Davis, who helps to assemble the newsletter each month, said there are three things to make a newsletter successful, as this one has been: “Regularity, to have it go out at the same time each month; timeliness, to have it up to date with all of the happenings; and, of course, accuracy. The newsletter has been a lot of fun. It has given us a chance to spotlight alumni, to talk about our students from academics to athletics, to promote events that are coming up at Saint Vincent, to show the changes that are happening on campus, and to provide alumni another way of remaining connected to the College.” In May 2013, the School of Humanities and Fine Arts published its first e-newsletter. Father Rene Kollar, O.S.B., dean of the school, and admistrative assistant Marsha Kush decide on what stories will be featured in each newsletter; faculty, student and alumni stories are all incorporated. The newsletter also features a calendar of events for and related to HFA. While some of the stories are written by Kush, many are written by the faculty members or students involved in what the articles describe. It is published four times a year, generally twice a semester. Kush believes that keeping people interested Saint Vincent Magazine

is most important for a newsletter to remain successful. “We are always trying to find articles that attract people, but more than that, I look for the out-of-the-box stories. The stories that few people know—the everyday, influential actions of school members—are important and engaging.” The Boyer Bulletin, for the Herbert W. Boyer School of Natural Sciences, Mathematics and Computing began in fall 2013. While it is the last of the current four to be sent digitally, the Boyer Bulletin itself has existed in print since November 2009 in conjunction with fund raising for the Dupré Science Pavilion. From the beginning, the Boyer Bulletin has included a letter from the dean, a student story and a faculty story, usually focusing on an individual section of the school and rotating among the departments. The newsletter now also bases itself around particular events, such as the 20th anniversary of the Monastery Run Improvement Project last fall. Dean of the Boyer School, Dr. Stephen Jodis wanted to keep the look, feel and ideas behind the original Boyer Bulletin as it switched from a printed publication to an e-newsletter since they already had a well-established audience. “We have managed to keep the same general layout and design through the transition,” he said. “We have started implementing not just stories on a certain department, but captivating stories—ones that make people really enthusiastic about our school.” The e-newsletters have helped to reach a much wider audience than previous mailings had. The Office of Marketing and Communications can track who opens them in order to target groups, such as prospective students who are genuinely interested. Each is archived on the college’s website, under the school’s page or alumni page. Newsletters can be subscribed to by contacting the appropriate dean or the alumni office. Interest, feedback and ideas are always encouraged in order to expand the diversity and readership. —Kathryn Klawinski 15

Fall 2014

emembering Brother Nathan Cochran

By Kim Metzgar

The words came quickly. Special. Spectacular. Enthusiast. Monk. Teacher. Friend. In a very short time more than 10,000 people had viewed his obituary. Hundreds commented on his Facebook® page, on that of the College, or used various other aspects of social media to communicate their thoughts, prayers, sorrow, and love for Brother Nathan M. Cochran, O.S.B., who died unexpectedly July 30 of an abdominal aneurysm. He was 57. Those comments, said Brother Norman W. Hipps, O.S.B., College president, at the vigil service, “attest to what Nathan has meant, because of your friendship with him, whether he was your teacher or mentor, through your visits to the Gallery or concert series, working on behalf of the canonization of Emperor Karl, or even your presence with him at a Tridentine mass.” He was artistic director of the Saint Vincent College Concert Series, curator of the Archabbey art collections, director of the Saint Vincent Gallery, chairman of the Department of Fine Arts, faculty member, confrere. In 2011 he accepted the College’s first Projektenmacher Award, which honors an individual who, in the spirit of Saint Vincent Founder Boniface Wimmer, has made a valuable contribution to the campus community through creativity, imagination and vision. “Brother Nathan thought it was the arts that gave heart to any community,” said Archabbot Douglas R. Nowicki, O.S.B. “He played an important role in the revival of the tradition of Catholic religious art, architecture and music.” “Born in 1957 in Marion, Ohio, he and his brother Blaine grew up in a house his parents built on his grandfather’s farm 17 miles away in Morrow County. “I thought I had a perfect childhood,” Brother Nathan told art critic Mary Thomas in a 2012 Pittsburgh Post-Gazette feature. Music Saint Vincent Magazine

was important in the church and in the community and in the schools and music was the first art that entranced him. The area was settled by German immigrants, an ethnic heritage he shared with Scottish, Austrian and Irish ancestry. School and family trips to Columbus, Ohio museums and performances expanded his cultural appreciation. One of his first visual art memories was of a life-size painting of a resurrected Christ in the Columbus Museum of Art. He said, “I still remember that painting and how struck I was. It hung in a museum, dramatically lit in a dramatic space. It’s exotic for a little kid. We had a nice house, but it wasn’t like that.” He entered Bowling Green State University as a musicvoice major, but left after his sophomore year to enter the seminary at the Pontifical College Josephinum in Columbus, where he earned a bachelor of arts degree in religious studies in 1980. He came to Saint Vincent Archabbey for his novitiate in 1982 and made solemn profession of vows on July 11, 1986. 16

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He earned a master of divinity degree with honor from Saint Vincent Seminary in 1985, and did graduate studies in art history at the University of Pittsburgh from 1985 to 1986. In 1998 he earned a master of science with Pratt Honors in the theory, criticism and history of art architecture and design at the Pratt Institute. “Since his arrival in 1982, Brother Nathan was a patient and tireless lobbyist at the college to revive the great tradition of Sacred Christian art in western civilization,” said Brother Norman. “He reminded the monks and the faculty of the simple but profound message of the founder of Saint Vincent, Boniface Wimmer, who said: ‘I am firmly convinced that a monastic school, which does not strive to advance art as much as science and religion, will be deficient in its work’.” Brother Nathan initiated a Nationwide Juried Catholic Art Exhibition. For the third national Catholic arts exhibit, Brother Nathan successfully enlisted famed British art historian Sister Wendy Beckett to serve as judge. She praised his endeavors, noting that “artists often come to understand their faith by the actual creation of artworks. We need these artworks, these attempts by artists known or unknown, to share with us their understanding of what it means to be a Christian. Would that there were hundreds of Brother Nathans in all countries!” One of the things most admired in Brother Nathan was that whatever project he took on, he gave himself to it wholeheartedly—body and soul, said Brother Norman. Brother Nathan curated and designed over 60 exhibitions at Saint Vincent, including the national juried Catholic arts exhibit, the fifth exhibit which will open on October 26; exhibits featuring artists such as Dai Morgan, William M. Hoffman, Jr., Barbara Kern-Bush, Lynn Johnson, Naijun

Zhang and Hung Liu, Alexis Dillon; regional exhibitions and faculty and student exhibitions from Saint Vincent College. In 2004, he worked at Vatican City as the special secretary for the Beatification of Emperor Karl I of Austria. He coordinated and organized the various beatification celebrations in Rome. The principal ceremony in Saint Peter’s Square was attended by over 75,000 people, and was the last major public event celebrated by Pope John Paul II. He curated an exhibit in the Saint Vincent Gallery, “Karl I: The Peace Emperor, The Last Habsburg Emperor of Austria-Hungary” (2002), served as a contributor and on-camera expert for “Karl: The Last Habsburg Emperor,” a documentary produced by George Lucas to accompany the DVD release of The Adventures of Young Indiana Jones, 2007. Brother Nathan received the Signum Memoriae Civilian Medal of Honor from H.I.R.H. Otto von Habsburg, Archduke and Crown Prince of Austria and King of Hungary. The Royal family sent a representative, her Imperial and Royal Highness Archduchess Maria Ann Galitzin to Brother Nathan’s funeral. His memberships have included the American Association of Museums, Carnegie Museums, College Art Association, Kaiser-Karl-Gebetsliga für den Völkerfreiden (Emperor Karl League of Prayers for Peace Among the Nations), Constantian Society, Smithsonian Associates and the Westmoreland Museum of American Art. He was a son of the late Blaine R. and Ruth E. (Roach) Cochran. A brother, Blaine A. Cochran of Edison, Ohio, survives him. He is also survived by Phyllis Disbrow of Edison, who with her late husband, and her daughter, Sue Arter and her husband, David, of Westerville, Ohio, were dear friends.

Ann Holmes Returns To Work With Concert Series, Gallery Following the untimely passing of Brother Nathan Cochran, O.S.B., Ann Holmes has returned as director of the Saint Vincent College Concert Series and administrative director of The Saint Vincent Gallery. Holmes had served previously as concert manager with Father Joseph Bronder, O.S.B., with responsibility for the Concert Series, the Camerata and other choral programs, student and

faculty recitals and related musical performances on campus. As Concert Series director, she works to identify dynamic classical musicians nationwide for monthly performances on campus. She also assists the visual arts staff to manage, maintain and display the Saint Vincent Gallery’s extensive collection of fine art. “I was honored to be asked to return to Saint Vincent, and I look forward

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to implementing and expanding Brother Nathan’s vision for both music and the visual arts on campus for students, staff and our wider community as well,” 17

she said. A graduate of Hood College in Frederick, Maryland, Holmes, a Ligonier resident, earned a master’s degree from Saint Vincent Seminary in 2006. Fall 2014

Captain Richard Phillips Shares Captivating Story of Hijacking By Don Orlando

Captain Richard Phillips, an American merchant mariner who served as captain of the MV Maersk Alabama during its hijacking by Somali pirates in April 2009, captivated nearly 800 students and guests with a detailed recounting of his experience and remarkable rescue—and the life lessons he learned. The author of A Captain’s Duty: Somali Pirates, Navy SEALs, and Dangerous Days at Sea, Phillips was featured as part of the New Horizons Speakers Series on October 23. His dramatic story was also transformed into an Academy Award- and Golden Globe-nominated film, Captain Phillips, which hit the big screens in the fall of 2013 starring Tom Hanks. For five days in April 2009, the world was glued to their TV screens as Phillips became the center of an extraordinary international drama when he was captured by Somali pirates who hijacked his ship, the first hijacking of a U.S. ship in more than 200 years. “Pirates are like street gangs,” Phillips remarked, “except that the stakes are considerably higher.” He explained that the week-long hostage drama began on Wednesday, April 7, when a small band of pirates climbed a ladder from their skiff onto the Maersk Alabama, a container ship ferrying food aid to East Africa. Firing into the air as they leapt aboard the ship, many of the crew members scrambled into a designated safe

Captain Richard Phillips, center, poses with some of the students who were involved in planning his lecture at Saint Vincent, from left, Rabia Uddin, Carly Meholic, Bo Tokarski and Brody Ruffner. Saint Vincent Magazine

room aboard the vessel. On the bridge, the pirates held four sailors at gunpoint, but the crew of 18 outnumbered the four attackers. They managed to wound the apparent leader of the pirates in the hand with a knife and regain control. The crew demanded the other pirates leave the ship, but the pirates had damaged and lost their own small boat. They demanded an escape boat, fuel and food. To protect his crew, Phillips made a conscious decision to put himself directly in harm’s way, knowing full well that he might pay the ultimate price for his decision. Amid the standoff, he offered himself as a hostage. Once the pirates settled into the ship’s covered lifeboat, the crew attempted to trade the pirate they had captured for Phillips. After they released their captive, the pirates refused to honor the agreement and fled with Phillips. Held hostage as a human shield in a small lifeboat with three pirates, he had little to hope for or cling to—except the knowledge that he had done absolutely everything he could to save the lives of the 20 sailors aboard his ship. The U.S. Navy responded to the scene, and negotiations were ongoing between the pirates and the captain of the USS Bainbridge. On Friday, April 10, Phillips jumped out of the lifeboat and managed to swim a few yards toward the nearby destroyer, but the pirates went in after him and managed to haul him back in. The standoff dragged on until April 12, when Navy SEAL snipers saw one of the pirates aim his AK-47 machine gun at Phillips’s back and concluded he was in “imminent danger.” “We are all stronger than we think we are,” Phillips told the students. “And always remember that nothing is over until you choose to quit.” “In a crisis, good leaders listen to those around them, remain calm and flexible,” Phillips commented. “You need to rely on what you know people do well and to anticipate problems.” “Failure isn’t final and success is not a guarantee,” he added. “Never stop evaluating yourself. A leader needs a sturdy backbone and a thick skin. Do the best you can and rely on your gut. Live every day like it is your last.” Phillips said one of the most difficult aspects of the experience was the distance from his family. “Sometimes emotion gets in the way but in this time of crisis I wasn’t able to think about my family. I just focused on solving the problem at hand.”

Fall 2014

John Degnan, C’66, The Port Authority Of New York and New Jersey, Talks To Students About Benedictine Values

Christie and confirmed as the 19th chairman of the Board of Commissioners of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey this year. The authority’s network of aviation, ground, rail and seaport facilities is among the busiest in the country, and it also owns the 16-acre World Trade Center site, where construction crews are building the iconic One World Trade Center. Degnan attended Our Lady of Lourdes Grammar School in West Orange and Saint Benedict’s Prep in Newark, and graduated from Saint Vincent, magna cum laude, in 1966. He then attended Harvard Law School, where he received his degree in 1969. He has been married for 46 years to Mary Wade Degnan, a cousin of Michael Wade, C’66, and Peter Conforti, C’65. The Degnans have three children and five grandchildren and live in Chester, New Jersey, and Kiawah Island, South Carolina. From 1969 to 1971, he served as law secretary to Associate Justice John J. Francis of the state Supreme Court. He was associated with the Newark law firm of Clapp and Eisenberg from 1971 to 1974. He joined the administration of Governor Brendan Byrne as assistant counsel on November 4, 1974, and served as executive secretary to the governor from March 1976 through March 1977, when he became special counsel to the governor. Byrne announced his appointment as attorney general—at 33, one of the youngest ever to serve in the position—on December 20, 1977. His tenure was highlighted by opening of the New Jersey State Police to women and deregulation of the liquor industry. In 1981, he resigned to make an unsuccessful run for governor in the Democratic primary. After a brief stint in law, Degnan spent the next two decades at The Chubb Corporation, a worldwide property and casualty insurance company based in New Jersey. In 1990, he joined subsidiary Chubb & Son as senior vice president and general counsel. He was elected president of Chubb Corp. John Degnan, C’66, center, spoke on “Public Service/Benedictine in 1996 and became president of Chubb & Son in Values” on October 28. He is pictured with, from left, Brandon Oc1998. In 2002, he became vice chairman and chief ampo, a theology major from Bloomfield, New Jersey, a current Saint administrative officer of Chubb Corp., added the Vincent student from Degnan’s alma mater, Saint Benedict’s Prep; titles of chief ethics and legal compliance officer in Brother Norman Hipps, O.S.B., president; his wife Mary Degnan; 2005, and was promoted to chief operating officer Charles G. Manoli, professor emeritus; Archabbot Douglas R. Nowicki, in 2008. Having steered Chubb through a financial O.S.B., chancellor; and Peter Santiago, an engineering major from crisis, he retired as vice chairman and COO in 2010 Elizabeth, N.J., also from Saint Benedict Prep. and remains an adviser to CEO John Finnegan. hen John Degnan attended Saint Vincent College, it was in the turbulent ’60s and he was a student leader who, like many across the country, challenged the administration and the status quo—encouraged by his history professor, Dr. Charles Manoli. Looking back, he remembers the “acceptance and tolerance among the Benedictine community … I believe that was a representation of core Benedictine values. I can’t overstate the influence of those values” in his life since, he said. Likewise, he thanked Manoli, who taught at Saint Vincent for more than 40 years, and many other professors for challenging him academically, for “insisting that analytical thought underpin and inform our sometimes-emotional arguments,” a gift that has stood him in good stead in his career as an attorney and public servant. Degnan, C’66, spoke on “Public Service/Benedictine Values,” as part of a lecture sponsored by the Charles G. and Anita L. Manoli Scholarship Committee and School of Humanities and Fine Arts on October 28. Degnan was nominated by New Jersey Governor Chris

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Fall 2014

Benedictine In The Bookstore By Kim Metzgar

favorite story of the late Father Flavian Yelinko, O.S.B., who died in 2010 at the age of 103, was that when he arrived on campus in 1920, “the whole place had one telephone, manned by Brother Jake in the monastery. When he was mowing the lawn, there was no one to answer the phone.”

While Father Anthony Grossi, O.S.B., C’93, S’98, director of the Saint Vincent College Bookstore, has not seen the drastic changes that Father Flavian did, he has brought a metamorphosis to the bookstore that makes life easier for present-day students. Saint Vincent Magazine

Shortly after his ordination to the priesthood in 1999, Father Anthony was assigned to work in the bookstore. The Butler native, who earned a degree in history from Saint Vincent, became its director in 2000. “We had a typewriter and telephone and fax machine,” he said, “but it was not computerized—the Internet was still relatively new. Students did not have the choice of buying used books, and there was a handful of apparel selections.” Book orders were written by hand, then sorted and organized by company. It took almost three workdays to write up the purchase orders, and another three days to call in the orders. Then one day, while sitting in the Basilica for vespers, he thought about putting the orders into a spreadsheet and the computerization process was begun. Eventually textbook companies developed a textbook management system, allowing a point of sale system that tracks inventory and sales instantaneously. Students still have a choice of purchasing regular textbooks, but they now have the option of buying used books, or even renting books for a semester. They can have money on account, tied to the student ID card, and they can pre-order books—no more long lines on the first day back. Thus, when students arrive at the start of a semester, those who pre-order—now between 500 and 700 individuals—find a bag with everything they selected waiting for pickup. The program has become so popular that the bookstore makes arrangements with the Saint Vincent Gallery, a floor above it, to use its floor space to store the orders. “It is a very personalized service,” Father Anthony said. For him, however, the day-to-day challenges of the bookstore operation are only part of the job. For Pittsburgh Steelers fans who come to campus, Father Anthony may be the first monk they encounter. For parents of freshmen—who can be a bit stressed on their very first move-in day—he may also be one of the first Benedictines they meet. Which is where his second role— he is in his eleventh year as a campus minister—comes in. “I enjoy meeting the students and parents,” he said, and on move-in day, “I enjoy calming them. It is a ministry here, a ministry of presence. “I get a lot of overflow from campus ministry,” Father Anthony said. “They see me celebrating Mass and then they come in here. They might not want books. They may just want to talk.” It’s easier, he said, and less intimidating, for students to have the opportunity to approach him casually. “It is a nice tie-in with prayer and work. I pray with the students and I work with them. The bookstore is one of the most public places on campus, and to have a monk in the store is a wonderful presence for the Benedictines.” 20

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Homecoming 2014 Carly Meholic, a mathematics education major from Latrobe, was selected as homecoming queen and Robert Tokarski, a biochemistry major from Pittsburgh, was chosen as homecoming king during halftime of the football game with Grove City College. The dayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s events included a parade, with Vinnie the Bearcat, an alumni lacrosse game, and a football victory over Grove City College.

Saint Vincent Magazine

Fall 2014

Rogers Center Senior Fellow To Head Foundation

axwell King, senior fellow and former executive director at the Fred Rogers Center for Early Learning and Children’s Media, has been named the new president and chief executive officer of The Pittsburgh Foundation, the nation’s 14th largest community foundation. He began a five-year term in midSeptember. He and his wife, Margaret Ann, have lived in Vermont since 2012. Following his two years as executive director of the Fred Rogers Center from 2008-2010, King, now a senior fellow, has been focusing on the first-

ever full biography of Fred Rogers, anticipated to be completed by the end of 2015. During his tenure at the Rogers Center, King worked with the center staff and the members

of the center’s national Advisory Council, as well as with the administration and faculty to develop and advance programs to benefit young children, their parents and teachers by bridging the fields of early learning and children’s media. Prior to that King spent nearly a decade as president of The Heinz Endowments, where he provided leadership in advancing environmental issues, economic opportunities for the disadvantaged, the promotion of literacy, civic design, early childhood education and education

Career Center: Graduates Successful Saint Vincent College Career Center reports that 95 percent of the class of 2013’s graduating respondents are a success, a figure consistent with other recent classes. “We are very excited about what last year’s graduates have achieved in just one year,” said Courtney Baum, director of the Career Center, “and we are especially pleased because our statistics represent follow-up tracking of 94 percent of the members of the class. While other colleges and universities report high rates of job or graduate school placement, sometimes that represents only a small percentage of the class. Success means that the student is working, going to school or doing something in a field related to their major or their area of interest after graduation,” Baum said. There were 350 graduates in the class of 2013 and the career center made contact with 327. Graduates who chose professional schools enrolled at some of the top colleges and universities in the country including Johns Hopkins University, Jesuit Volunteer Corps, Carnegie Mellon, West Virginia University, University of Pittsburgh, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, American Music and Dramatic Academy, Jefferson Medical College and others. Students began employment with major corporations including Mylan, GNC, Department of Defense, U.S. Navy, Accenture Federal Services, BNY Mellon, Bayer, UPMC, PeaceCorps, First Commonwealth, Kennametal, 84 Lumber, Heinz and the Walt Disney Company. Of the 327 respondents, 220 (67 percent) are employed, 64 (20 percent) are in graduate school, 11 (3.5 percent) are in medical or professional health schools, 10 (3 percent) are seeking additional degrees or certification and six (1.5 percent) are engaged in community service or have joined the military.

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and academic reform in the Pittsburgh Public Schools. Before joining The Heinz Endowments, King worked as a journalist for nearly 30 years, including his position as editor of The Philadelphia Inquirer from 1990 to 1998. He received his B.A. cum laude from Harvard University and attended the Stanford Executive Program at Stanford University’s Graduate School of Business. “Saint Vincent is pleased with the announcement of Max King as the new president and CEO of The Pittsburgh Foundation,” said Archabbot Douglas R. Nowicki, O.S.B., chancellor. “Max is one of the most dedicated and talented persons I know. He is passionate about early learning and issues that affect the well-being of children. During his years at Saint Vincent College the Fred Rogers Center developed a national reputation as a force for collaboration and change in the field of early learning. Brother Norman Hipps, O.S.B., president, applauded the announcement. He indicated that as executive director at the Fred Rogers Center, King was instrumental in the development of the Fred Forward Conference, a biennial conference that invites media creators, scholars, educators and advocates to share, listen to and inspire one another. Fall 2014

College Undertakes Study Abroad Initiative Saint Vincent College’s Office of Study Abroad has joined the Institute of International Education’s Generation Study Abroad initiative to double the number of students who study abroad by the end of the decade, said Sara M. Hart, director of study abroad and academic adviser. The initiative is also focusing on increasing the diversity of the students who study abroad, ensuring quality and removing barriers to participation. “Saint Vincent College is committed to increasing the number of students who study abroad over the next five years,” Hart said. “We recognize the importance of global awareness and believe that a study abroad experience enhances a

student’s global outlook and overall education. Many of our students have received study abroad scholarships or applied their financial aid to study abroad.” Three Saint Vincent students are studying abroad this fall including Jacob Murtaugh, a senior history major from Holmdel, New Jersey, who is attending the University of Westminster, London. He will conduct research for his senior thesis, take social science courses and complete an internship. The others are Julia Hlavacik, a junior psychology major from York, who is taking courses in political science, history and intensive Spanish language at Universidad de Pablo Olavide in Sevilla, Spain, and Alexander

Schwartz, a junior engineering science major from Squirrel Hill, who is studying at St. Mary’s University College in Belfast, Northern Ireland. Twenty-four Saint Vincent students studied abroad last summer. During the 2011-2012 academic year, 63 Saint Vincent students (17.6 percent of the student body) studied abroad. “Globalization has changed the way the world works and employers are increasingly looking for workers who have international skills and expertise,” said Dr. Allan Goodman, president of IIE. “Studying abroad must be viewed as an essential component of a college degree and critical to preparing future leaders.”

A Quarter Century Of Service

Five Saint Vincent College and Archabbey employees were honored for 25 years of service at a recent luncheon. Hosted by Archabbot Douglas R. Nowicki, O.S.B., left, and Brother Norman W. Hipps, O.S.B., right, president, the honorees included, from left, Donna Kean of Latrobe, executive director, Prevention Projects; Charles Kuhn of Latrobe, fireman at powerhouse; Norman Peace Jr. of Latrobe, fireman at powerhouse; Dr. George Leiner of Greensburg, associate professor of philosophy; and Denise Hegemann of Latrobe, assistant director, Latimer Library. Saint Vincent Magazine

Director Of Financial Aid Appointed Mary E. Gazal of Irwin has been named director of financial aid. She is responsible for administering all of the college’s federal, state and college financial aid resources, including scholarship programs, that assist students in financing their educational expenses. Gazal joins the Saint Vincent administrative staff after serving nearly 10 years as associate director of financial aid at the University of Pittsburgh, in addition to service at Westmoreland County Community College, Point Park University and California University of Pennsylvania. She earned an associate in applied science degree from WCCC and a bachelor of science degree in information management from Seton Hill University. Gazal is a member of the National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators and the Pennsylvania Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators. Fall 2014

Rogers Center Director Contributes Chapter To New Book

New Coordinator Of Multicultural, Residence Life Alydia Thomas has been named coordinator of multicultural and residence life in the office of campus life. Thomas will provide overall leadership for programming both on and off campus. She earned a bachelor of arts degree in corporate communications from The Pennsylvania State University and a master of science in educational studies from Duquesne University. She had previously served as a resident assistant at Penn State and as a graduate assistant of residence life at Duquesne. At Penn State, she served as chair of the THON campaign, as president of the residence hall council and of the student government association. At Duquesne, she served as a member of the graduate student council and as an adviser to the residence hall association. She studied abroad in Hong Kong, Beijing and Guangzhou.

he Fred Rogers Center for Early Learning and Children’s Media contributed a chapter to the new book, Technology and Digital Media in the Early Years: Tools for Teaching and Learning, by Routledge Publishers and the National Association for the Education of Young Children. Fred Rogers Center director of education and research, Dr. Michael Robb, authored a chapter in conjunction with Dr. Alexis R. Lauracella of Northwestern University. “This book is an invaluable resource to early childhood educators with practical, research-based advice on using technology in meaningful ways with young children. Our contribution pulls together what we know about child development and technology and provides simple and effective takeaways for teachers in the classroom,” Robb said. The 270-page book was edited by Dr. Chip Donohue, who is dean of distance learning and continuing education and director of the TEC Center at the Erikson Institute in Chicago, and a senior fellow and member of the advisory council at the Fred Rogers Center. A leading authority in distance learning and online education, particularly for early childhood professionals, Donohue assembled a dynamic

Saint Vincent Magazine

group of experts to lend their talents to exploring positive and powerful technology tools for teaching and learning. Other contributors affiliated with the Fred Rogers Center include senior fellows Dr. Roberta Schomburg, associate dean emerita of the School of Education at Carlow University; Dr. Alice Wilder, educational adviser, Amazon Kids; David Kleeman, senior vice president of insights programs and playvangelist for PlayCollective; and early career fellow Brian Puerling, director of education technology at the Catherine Cook School in Chicago.

The publication offers early childhood teacher educators, professional development providers and early childhood educators in pre-service, in-service and continuing education settings a thought-provoking guide to effective, appropriate and intentional use of technology with young 24

children. It provides strategies, theoretical frameworks, links to research evidence, descriptions of best practice and resources to develop essential digital literacy knowledge, skills and experiences for early childhood educators in the digital age. The book puts educators at the intersection of child development, early learning, developmentally appropriate practice, early childhood teaching practices, children’s media research, teacher education and professional development practices. It is based on current research, promising programs and practices and a set of best practices for teaching with technology in early childhood education that are based on the National Association for the Education of Young Children-Fred Rogers Center Position Statement on Technology and Interactive Media and the Fred Rogers Center Framework for Quality in Children’s Digital Media. Pedagogical principles, classroom practices and teaching strategies are presented in a practical, straightforward way informed by child development theory, developmentally appropriate practice and research on effective, appropriate and intentional use of technology in early childhood settings.

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Chinese Art Installation In Latimer Family Library A unique piece of Chinese artwork has found a home at the Latimer Family Library at Saint Vincent. The artwork, “The Daily Peaceful Life of the Shaanbei Cave Dwellers,” was completed by Du Jun and her brother, Du Mi-Jun in 2010 (pictured at right with a recent work commissioned by a hotel in the Shanxi Province). The artists are from Shaanbei in the province of Shaanxi. Their grandmother, the late Zhou Ping-Ying, was a famous papercutter, and part of their gift was a book, “Zhou Ping-Ying: The Grandmother’s Papercuttings” which will be framed and displayed next to the artwork in the library. The residents of the village where the artists live do papercuttings, but Du Jun’s family is considered to be the best cutters and designers. Du Jun is internationally known for papercutting in China; she has been commissioned by

the Chinese government to produce papercuttings for diplomat officials as gifts. Saint Vincent contracted with a gallery in Pittsburgh to construct and frame the piece. Due to its length, they hand built the frame and had to section the glass and matting due to its extreme length. Museum grade plexiglass was used to protect the artwork from fading. The young couple in the photo are the framers who completed the project. They are pictured with the workers who assisted in the installation, from left, Al Cecconello, Scott Dowler and Don Hantz.

A Charitable Gift Annuity at Saint Vincent

hen you make a gift of $10,000 or more, Saint Vincent can offer you or your loved ones fixed income for life. A Charitable Gift Annuity will also generate a tax deduction in the year of your gift. Distribution rates are dependent upon your ages, and current interest rates determine the annuity rate that Saint Vincent can offer. Some sample rates: Your Age:

Annuity:

4.4%

5.1%

Annuity rates are subject to change. Once your gift is made, the rate remains fixed.

80 6.8% For more information on life income gifts or other giving opportunities, contact: Saint Vincent College Office25 of Institutional Advancement Saint Vincent Magazine ANTHONY CANCRO • 724-805-2948 • ANTHONY.CANCRO@STVINCENT.EDU

Fall 2014

Football Team Wins First For Coach Dolciato By Simon Stuchlik

ou don’t often see a Gatorade bath and fans storming the field in week three of the football season. But after Saint Vincent’s 23-20 win in its home opener against Case Western Reserve University this fall, that celebration didn’t feel out of place. The win was the first in over two years, leaving the team and its many fans on campus optimistic about the future.

It was also the first win as a head coach for Ron Dolciato, who came to Saint Vincent College this winter to rebuild the program after spending 12 years as offensive coordinator at Division III powerhouse John Carroll University. At his welcome press conference in January, he promised success both on and off the field. Saint Vincent Magazine

Ron Dolciato and his team celebrate his first win as head coach and the team’s first win in 26 games. “I want my kids to be active in the community,” he told his audience. “If you can’t do it in the classroom and the community, you’re not going to do it on the football field.” Since taking charge of the program, Dolciato has followed through with his promise. He spent most of spring meeting with current players and recruiting new ones, conveying his coaching philosophy and vision for the program. Every Thursday, the coaching staff meets with the freshmen on the team as well as with players who are struggling academically, helping them to improve and maintain their classroom performance. Each player also records his academic performance in a weekly journal. In other words, Dolciato and his staff take both aspects of the ‘student athlete’ moniker seriously. One cannot thrive without the other; studying is crucial to success both on and off the field, he said. “We’re incorporating a system where our players have to understand football, beyond just running the play we call. They have to understand what the concepts are 26

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behind what we’re doing,” he explained. “When they understand why we do certain things, then they’ll feel comfortable and we’ll be a better team.” Three games into the season, the system Dolciato refers to includes an aggressive 3-4 defense that seeks to “relocate the line of scrimmage backward.” On the other side of the ball, the team now runs a hurry-up spread offense, increasing the number of plays run each game. The increased time at the line of scrimmage also allows the team to check out of a play if needed, which is only possible with an in-depth knowledge of the playbook and system. But the head coach is also quick to point out the value of special teams, the often-neglected third aspect of football. “It’s not an area we take lightly,” Dolciato said. “Most of our special teams players are starters on offense and defense. We want our best kids to be on special teams.” That emphasis has paid early dividends. The first three games have already seen a 99-yard kickoff return for a touchdown by senior defensive back Darius Brown, along with a blocked extra point against CWRU. At the end of October the team was 3-4 overall, including an upset 38-31 victory over Carnegie Mellon, and 3-2 in the PAC. That CWRU game also saw senior kicker Morgan Porter kick a career-best three field goals, a performance that earned him Special Teams Player of the Week honors from the PAC. Porter was the second player to receive that honor in three weeks this season, after Brown was honored for his kickoff return a week earlier against Waynesburg University. “I’m happy for our kids and the coaching staff, who’ve worked so hard to get there,” Dolciato said after the team’s first win in over two years. “We now believe that we can win a game like this.” And if his team continues on this trajectory, the winning won’t just be restricted to the football field.

Sophomore running back Shavonta Craft has 574 total yards from scrimmage (387 yards rushing) with five touchdowns in four games for an average of 143.5 yards/game. Saint Vincent Magazine

bearcat athletes support team lyden With the help of the Saint Vincent women’s soccer team and the Student Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) on campus, the Bearcat athletic community recently pulled together to support one of their own. Sophomore goalkeeper Meghan Lyden found out that her father Jeff was diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia two years ago when Meghan was a senior in high school. Jeff Lyden was just 46 years old when he was diagnosed. The Lyden family decided to participate in the Cleveland Walk to End Alzheimer’s event at the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo this year. Lyden received an outpouring of support from her teammates and others on campus. Senior Elly Colvin, who also serves as the president of SAAC, reached out to the rest of the athletic teams on campus for donations. Donations were also taken at the home football game against Case Western Reserve. A total of $1,326 was raised to contribute to Team Lyden. Those funds were added into the rest of the money raised for Team Lyden. The women’s soccer team members then traveled to Cleveland to help support their teammate and her family. In total, Team Lyden raised $7,221 for the advancement of Alzheimer’s support, care and research. Team Lyden finished with the fourth-highest total raised at the event. The team was also recognized for raising the most money among groups participating for the first time. Teresa Lyden, Meghan’s mother, currently is amongst the top five participants with $2,580. The event in Cleveland totaled 339 teams and 3,971 walkers. Fall 2014

Fore-Ward! Golf Team Goes For Three! The men’s golf team looks for sustained success after back-to-back conference championships and trips to the NCAA Division III National Tournament By Simon Stuchlik

very year, head coach Dr. Thomas Cline takes his men’s golf team on a spring break trip to North Carolina. And every year, the weather is terrible. That’s because Cline uses the trip as an important team-building exercise, an opportunity for the players to bond and play under adverse conditions before the most important stretch of the season.

Above, Golf team member Tim Barto at nationals.

This past spring, it initially seemed like that plan successful at the National Championships, placing 29th failed. “When we got to Pinehurst and played golf the out of 41 attending schools, Barto truly shined. first day, it was 75 degrees and sunny. And we were “He emerged at nationals,” said Cline. “I could tell thinking to ourselves, ‘this is going to be a nice trip,’” early on, the first three or four holes, that he was going said senior team captain Tim Barto. “The next day, it to do great. “He was not thinking about the outcome, was about 35 degrees and raining. By the time the trip going through the process and executing a simple was over, we were ready for anything.” swing. There were very few mistakes.” Barto finished And when it came time to defend the Presidents’ the tournament in 40th place out of 210 competitors, Athletic Conference championship in April, that baptism by fire paid off. “The last day of the championships, it was cold and rainy,” Barto said. “It didn’t faze us, and we were ready for it.” So ready, indeed, that the team finished the tournament with a comfortable 17-stroke advantage over second place Washington & Jefferson. The reward was a second straight opportunity for the team to measure itself against the top NCAA Division III golf players in the country. And while Golf team members holding the PAC Championship banner are, from left, Ben Biss, the team was moderately Tim Barto, head coach Tom Cline, Mikah Markantone, Derek Lingafelt and Jake Reed. Saint Vincent Magazine

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battling inclement weather after having finished the first two rounds 6th overall. Now in his senior year, Barto hopes to take his game to the next level. He enters the season as a team captain, able to impart his experience and knowledge of the game to the younger players. He intends to lead by example, showing his teammates that even when you struggle, you have to keep working hard. “Once a shot leaves the club, you can’t control it,” he said. “If you’ve hit a bad shot, that shot is in the past. Don’t think ahead or dwell on mistakes.” That mentality sums up the acronym ReDCaR—a teaching tool developed by his coach and sports psychologist Cline. It stands for Recognizing a bad emotion such as fear, anger or disgust, Disputing that emotion by focusing on a more positive emotion such as joy over the ability to play golf competitively, Calming down via breathing exercises, and Refocusing energy to the next shot. ReDCaR is written on many of the players’ golf clubs. “It keeps them in the present, keeps them from looking ahead, keeps them from beating up on themselves and allows them to accept small failures,” Cline explained. “We work all year long so that when they hit a road bump on the course, they don’t panic.” That mentality paid off during the PAC Championships, when the players kept their composure and refrained from putting unnecessary pressure on themselves after entering the final two rounds with a 14-stroke lead. As a marketing professor, Cline also recognizes the

importance of academics for his team. He carefully structures the practice schedule around his players’ classroom, exam and homework responsibilities. As a result, five men’s golf players were named to the PAC Academic Honor Roll this summer, while now-graduated Derek Lingafelt earned an academic award at Saint Vincent’s Senior Athlete Awards Banquet. Cline’s emphasis on academics even pervades the recruiting process. “The most important part of team building is recruiting good kids from good families,” he said. “I’ll always err on the side of recruiting good students. We’ll do our best on the course, but they’re going to be good students. We want to win, but school comes first.” Recent successes have proved that this academic emphasis does not hamper the team’s ability to win. The Fall PAC Championships are just around the corner, and the team fully expects to put itself in position to advance to the NCAA Tournament for the third straight year. “We won’t go away easily,” said Cline. “We’d love to bring home a third straight conference championship. We know that it will be tough. But we’re going to be ready.” Considering his attention to teaching tools like ReDCaR, it’s easy to believe him. The team then traveled to Wooster College in Ohio for the first round of the NCAA Tournament, but lost a hardfought game. We have become the team to beat in the PAC. Now, we need to make the next step in winning an NCAA tournament game.”

Terrance Smith, C’05, Joins Basketball Team As Assistant The Saint Vincent men’s basketball program is pleased to announce the addition of Terrance Smith to the staff for the 2014-15 season. Smith is a former AllAmerican for the Bearcats and still ranks as the school’s second leading scorer of all time. From 1997-2001, he tallied 1,819 points, helping to lead the team to two NAIA National Tournament appearances. Following the 200001 season, he was named a Third Team NAIA All-American for his efforts. However, his accomplishments on the court have been exceeded by his post-graduate accomplishments as a member of the United States Army. A Chief Warrant Officer 2, Smith served in both Iraq and Afghanistan as part of a 12-year military career. During the course of his career, he earned many medals and ribbons, including a Meritorious Saint Vincent Magazine

Service Medal along with multiple Army Commendation and Army Achievement Medals and Iraq and Afghanistan Campaign Medals with Combat Stars. After earning his bachelor of arts in management from Saint Vincent, Smith furthered his education with an MBA in project management from Grantham University and is currently working toward his DBA in project management. Smith is a native of Sharon, but moved to Ohio during high school, graduating from Westerville South High School before coming to Saint Vincent as a student in the fall of 1997. “I am really excited to have the opportunity to help coach the team and contribute to the winning tradition of Saint Vincent College basketball,” said Smith. “It is a privilege to come back to my alma mater and be involved in coaching the sport that I love.” 29

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Dean, Faculty Member Spearhead Turkish Efforts

‘Birthday Present’ In Film Festival A film entitled, “The Birthday Present,” by David Safin, assistant professor of communication at Saint Vincent College, is an official selection of the Johnstown Film Festival. The film is a 23-minute comedy about a woman’s odd birthday present to her brother-in-law, whose decision to give it away sets off a chain of events. A film trailer is available for viewing at this link: https://vimeo. com/73589278. Safin, of Manor, earned a bachelor of arts degree in communication from Saint Vincent College, a master of science degree in multimedia technology from California University of Pennsylvania and a master of fine arts in film and digital technology from Chatham University. He recently joined the faculty full-time after sharing duties as multimedia director and teaching for a number of years.

Two representatives of the Turkish Cultural Center in Pittsburgh visited Saint Vincent recently to make final plans for a trip to Turkey by Saint Vincent College officials in October and for a visit by a group of 25 including 15 students as part of an international operational excellence expedition in the spring. A group of Saint Vincent College science and business faculty members and other college officials traveled to Istanbul this past summer for a oneweek academic mission to establish affiliations with two universities that are interested in sending students to the United States for study-abroad experiences. Saint Vincent students may in turn

study abroad at these universities. The initiative is an outgrowth of contacts made by Dr. Richard Saccone, lecturer in politics and Pennsylvania state representative, with the Turkish Cultural Center of Pittsburgh which led to campus visits by Turkish business representatives

and displays of cultural artifacts. Dr. Gary M. Quinlivan, above, left, dean of the Alex G. McKenna School of Business, Economics and Government, welcomed Emrah Ilik, program coordinator and language instructor, center, and Servet Ermez, a volunteer with the center.

Ecumenical Efforts

Father Thomas Hart, O.S.B., second from right, assistant to the president for mission and instructor in theology, was honored by The Islamic Center of Pittsburgh at its annual Humanity Day Interfaith Ramadan Iftar Banquet at the Center on Bigelow Boulevard, Pittsburgh. Participating in the presentation were, from left, Mohamed Ramadan, president of the Islamic Center; Sheikh Atef Mahgoub, religious director of the Islamic Center; and The Ven. Bhante Piya Uttamapanyo, a Theravada Buddhist monk from Pittsburgh’s Wat Padhammaratana (Monastery), a banquet visitor. Keynote speaker was Alia Bilal who represented Chicago’s Inner-City Muslim Action Network. As part of his ongoing ecumenical efforts, Father Thomas assisted Dr. Mary Beth Spore and Father Vernon Holtz, O.S.B., to obtain the services of Sheikh Atef and Bhante Piya this spring to speak in the Saint Vincent lecture series on aging.

Saint Vincent Magazine

Fall 2014

Can you guess?

ALUMNI FRIENDS

While the present-day students working in the Sis and Herman DuprĂŠ Science Pavilion use computers a great deal, the students in this lab obviously did not have that opportunity. Who are they and what are they doing? Send guesses to svmagazine@email.stvincent.edu.

Alumni Office

http://bearcatsonline.stvincent.edu/

Saint Vincent College

http://www.facebook.com/SVCBearcatAlum

300 Fraser Purchase Road Latrobe, PA 15650-2690 724-805-2568 alumni@stvincent.edu Saint Vincent Magazine

http://www.youtube.com/user/saintvincentcollege @SVCBearcat 31

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Upcoming Alumni Events Altoona Area Bearcat Happy Hour

Wednesday, November 19, 5-7 p.m. Champs Sports Grill, Altoona

Johnstown Area Bearcat Happy Hour

Thursday, November 20, 5-7 p.m. Bigdogz Grill, Johnstown

Charlotte Area Bearcat Happy Hour

Tuesday, November 25, 5-7 p.m. City Tavern, Southpark Mall

Ft. Lauderdale Area Alumni Happy Hour Monday, December 8, 5-7 p.m. Aruba Beach Café Lauderdale by the Sea, Florida

Fort Myers Area Alumni Happy Hour

Tuesday, December 9, 5-7 p.m. Bayside Grille, Fort Myers Beach, Florida

Tampa Area Alumni Happy Hour

Wednesday, December 10, 5-7 p.m. Bahama Breeze, Tampa, Florida

Jacksonville Area Alumni Happy Hour

Thursday, December 11, 5-7 p.m. Sneakers Sports Grille, Jacksonville Beach, Florida

GOLD (Recent graduates) Alumni Social Wednesday, December 17, 5 to 7 p.m. Smokey Bones Bar & Fire Grill, Robinston Township

Pittsburgh Area Alumni Christmas German Lunch Thursday, December 18, Noon to 1 p.m. Teutonia Mannerchor

Nashville Area Alumni Happy Hour & Women’s Basketball Event

Sunday, December 28, 5-7 p.m. Scoreboard Smokehouse Bar & Grill, Nashville

Can you guess?

Last issue’s “Guess Who?” received the most guesses to date in our “Old Photos” section. Guessers included: Vince Lackner, C’44; Marty Mullen, P’65; Joe Curran, Webb Castor and J. Fred Triggs, all P50; Richard Stillwagon, C’69; Mike McCarthy; Anne Zacchetti; Dr. Francis Lally, C’72; Bill Noonan, C’60; M. Robert Racko, C’68; Edward O’Connor, P’50, C’55; Len Paletta, P’49; Dan Rafferty, P’56, C’62, and perhaps a few others. There is no argument that the gentleman on the left is Art Rooney. The consensus is also that it is at a banquet honoring the undefeated 1948-1949 Prep Varsity Football Team. There was some discussion about who was receiving the award, but the majority of guessers said Rooney was presenting the Art Rooney Football Trophy to the late John “Jack” Heimbuecher, P’49, C’55. Mullen took the time to search out an old issue of Chimes, the prep yearbook. He reported that Heimbuecher threw the game-winning last-ditch touchdown pass to Len Palleta, P’49, covering 56 yards, to clinch a 27-25 victory over Blairsville. Heimbuecher later played on the famous Tangerine Bowl-winning Saint Vincent College football team. Palleta, according to Mullen, was co-recipient of the award. The undefeated prep football team was honored at the 2013 Prep Reunion. Mullen reported that Heimbuecher was also noted for his baseball prowess. Triggs noted that he and his classmates “have had a lot of fun analyzing that photo, and we now agree on the names of all pictured except the man with the bow tie: “Jack Heimbuecher is receiving the award after winning the Tangerine Bowl by drop-kicking a field goal. Art Rooney is the presenter. Father Camillis, Father Egbert, and Archabbot Koch surround the bow-tie-man. Football coach Al Deluca is at the far end of the table. Finally, and heartwarmingly, Skip (Earl) Bromeier, P’50, C’54, is standing against the far wall.” O’Connor also identified Bromeier. Some guessers thought the award recipient was James Will or Dino Amanti, and the presenter was Dan Hammill, while other guessers thought it was Art Rooney, Jr., receiving the award from his father Art Rooney. All great guesses! But, as Mullen noted, the Chimes has the answer. From the 1949 Chimes Prep Yearbook: “Pud Constantino (Blairsville quarterback) versus Jack Heimbuecher! Wensing and Green were defensive heavies in the second half knifing through to throw Blairsville for repeated losses. This 1948-49 Prep Varsity Football team also was the first of three Prep Varsity Football teams not only defeating Johnny Unitas quarterback of St. Justins but holding them scoreless, that year: 41-0 !!! (legacy of brother, Clair X. Mullen, Jr. P’51 and C’55 (RIP), a sophomore on this 1948-49 Prep Varsity Football Team, the first of his three Prep Varsity Football Letterman years).” The final caption: “On December 6, 1948 the annual Prep Football Banquet was held, with over 300 prepsters present. They were addressed by Art Rooney, Dan Hamill, Johnny Clement, Billy Conn, and Fritzie Zivic. In this photograph, Art Rooney shakes the hand of Jack Heimbuecher. Also pictured are Father Camillus, Dan Hamill, Archabbot Alfred Koch, O.S.B., and Prep Headmaster Egbert Donovan, O.S.B.”

Saint Vincent Magazine

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Saint Vincent Alumni Of Distinction Taking part in the Saint Vincent College Alumni of Distinction award presentation were, from left, Mike Gerdich, alumni director; Timothy J. Collard, M.D., Michael E. Neal, Julia L. Gongaware, John J. Vicich, R. Mark Metz and Julie Selep, Alumni Council president; back, from left, Archabbot Douglas R. Nowicki, O.S.B., chancellor; Rev. Paul R. Taylor, O.S.B., College executive vice president, George E. Martin, Matthew J. Latimer, Thom F. Janidlo, Thomas P. Gessner, M.D., and Brother Norman Hipps, O.S.B., College president. Saint Vincent College honored nine alumni with the presentation of Alumni of Distinction Awards or Recent Alumnus/Alumna Achievement Awards during the annual Alumni Homecoming. Honored were Timothy J. Collard, M.D.; Thomas P. Gessner, M.D.; Thom F. Janidlo; George E. Martin; R. Mark Metz; Matthew J. Latimer; and Jon J. Vichich. Julia L. Gongaware and Michael E. Neal received Recent Alumnus/Alumna Achievement Awards.

Timothy J. Collard, M.D.

Timothy J. Collard, M.D., C’64, of Buffalo, has a bachelor of arts degree in biology. He organizes the western New York reunion for alumni and attends the western New York-area college nights to promote Saint Vincent. He graduated from the Loyola University Stritch School of Medicine in 1968. He is a member of Saint Michael’s Church. He served as a lay adviser to the bishop of the Diocese of Buffalo and assisted with Pre-Cana classes for the diocese. He was a member of the board of trustees for Saint Joseph’s Collegiate Institute and Holy Angels Academy. He was the chief of orthopaedics for the Sisters of Charity Hospital and the director of the Athletic Clinic for Kenmore Mercy Hospital in Buffalo. He was the director of the Buffalo Club. He is a recipient of the Saint Joseph Collegiate Institute Signum Fidei award. He and his wife, Patricia, are the parents of four children, Matthew, C’96; Mark, C’98; Norah (Collard) Ferry, C’02; and Luke, ’06.

Thomas P. Gessner, M.D.

Thomas P. Gessner, M.D., C’64, of Ligonier, earned a bachelor of arts degree in biology. He graduated from the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine in 1968. GessSaint Vincent Magazine

ner is the president of the Latrobe Area Hospital Charitable Foundation board, a member of the Saint Vincent College board of directors and is the chairman of the board’s academic affairs committee. He is on the College’s advisory council for the School of Natural Sciences, Mathematics and Computing. In 1999, he was recognized as a Saint Vincent College Letterman of Distinction. He was a member of the American Board of Pediatrics and the American Board of Family Medicine and served on both of their boards of directors. He has served as an usher at Saint Anne’s Church in Wilpen and is a member of the church council at Holy Trinity Church in Ligonier. He is on the board of directors of the Woodlands Foundation and is a driver for the Ligonier Meals on Wheels. Gessner and his wife, Penny Power Gessner, have three children, Christopher, Mark and Martin.

Thom F. Janidlo

Thom F. Janidlo, C’64, of Anchorage, Alaska, has a bachelor of arts degree in English. While a student he was in the Monogram Club, Democrat Club, the Saint Thomas More Society, Drama Club and the Sociology Forum. He participated in intramurals, managed the varsity football team and was on the wrestling and cross country teams. He earned a juris doctor degree from the University of San Diego in 1977 and was a member of Phi Alpha Delta—Justice. A retired Marine Corps major, he is vice chairman of the Alaska Children’s Justice Act Task Force and is active in a number of organizations, 33

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including the Holy Spirit Center, the Alaska Bar Association, the Duct Tape Charity Ball and Sound Bites—Catering for a Cause. He was a member of the Indian Child Welfare Act Implementation Committee. In 2007 he received the Light of Hope award for outstanding efforts on behalf of Alaska’s children. He was a member of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton Church’s pastoral council, a national board member and the president and co-founder of Alaska’s Chapter of the National Committee for Prevention of Child Abuse. He was a board member of Standing Together Against Rape, the Clitheroe Center and the Association of Stranded Rural Alaskans in Anchorage. He and his wife, Linda Ellen, have four children: Angela Derby, Gina Estrada, Sara Janidlo and Bethany Janidlo.

Matthew J. Latimer

Matthew J. Latimer, C’94, of Murrysville, has a bachelor of science degree in biology. While a student, he played baseball, club volleyball and intramurals. He stayed involved with Saint Vincent by serving on the planning committee for the Bearcat Open and has supported the Sis and Herman Dupré Science Pavilion. He and his brother, Luke Latimer, C’98, provided the funding for the Latimer Asset Allocation Lab in the Alex G. McKenna School, including computers, software, smart board and construction. He has been a supporter of the Westmoreland County Food Bank for more than 25 years, and for the last five years has raised money for both the food bank and Synergy Charities through Ironman racing. A triathlete, he competed in three Ironman races, including the U.S. Ironman Championship in New York City, which he finished in less than 13 and a half hours. He is the owner of Three Rivers Motorsports, LLC.

George E. Martin

George E. Martin, P’59, of New Alexandria, while a Prep student, was active in the National Forensics League, Glee Club, band, baseball and the Art Club. He received the Saint Vincent Prep Alumni Social Service Award in 2006 and serves on the Prep Reunion Committee and the Alumni Council. He is a regular attendee of the local alumni luncheons. In 2012, he received the Kiski Area Sports Hall of Fame Community Contributor Award. A member of Saint Vincent Parish, he is active with the Equine and Feline Rescue Farm. He is a past president of New Kensington Visiting Nurses Association and the Westmoreland Horse Association. He and his wife, Barbara own a horse farm, “Pleasure Acres,” which he makes available for Saint Vincent Prep and College alumni events, including the Prep reunion picnic. They also host several of the Saint Vincent athletic teams. They have three children, Kelley, Kim and George, Jr. Saint Vincent Magazine

R. Mark Metz

R. Mark Metz, C’89, of Pittsburgh, has a bachelor of science degree in business management. He earned a master of business administration degree from Duquesne University in 1998. While a student, he was a dormitory prefect, member and co-chair of the freshman orientation committee and senator in the student government association. He was also a member of the Business Forum, activities committee, campus ministry, college yearbook staff and judicial board of review, and was active in intramurals. He received the Delta Mu Delta Honorary Member Award from the Business Administration Department in 2000. He remains involved with the college as a member of the Alumni Council, including serving as president and holding various leadership positions on numerous committees. Mark has worked at BNY Mellon and National City Bank, and is currently vice president of government affairs at PNC. He is a parishioner of Saints Simon and Jude Church in Scott Township, a parent volunteer at Saint Thomas More School and also with Bethel Park Cub Scout Pack 225. Mark and his wife, Natalie (Legin) Metz, C’88, have a son, Justin, 7.

Jon J. Vichich

Jon J. Vichich, C’69, of Tierra Verde, Florida, has a bachelor of arts degree in sociology. He earned a juris doctor degree in 1973 from Duquesne University, where he was associate editor of Law Review. While a student he was in the Sociology Forum, the German Club and the Art Film Society. He served on the fall and spring weekend committees, as a hall monitor for Aurelius Hall and was active in intramurals. With fellow alumnus John Kopay, C’70, he opened the Indiana office of Westmoreland Legal Services, before moving on to clerk for Federal Judge John Miller in Pittsburgh. While in Pittsburgh he remained active with Saint Vincent as an annual fund volunteer, worked with the pre-law program and attended alumni lunches at Tambellini’s. From 1977 until 2005 he served as an attorney at PPG Industries and as its representative to the Equal Justice and United Way campaigns. Since retiring he has worked with AARP’s TaxAide program and the Tampa Bay Watch. A member of Saint John Vianney Parish in Saint Pete Beach, he and his wife, Naomi (Nelson) Vichich, have two sons, Mark and Eric.

Julia L. Gongaware

Julia L. Gongaware, C’04, of Pittsburgh, has a bachelor of arts degree in communication. While at Saint Vincent she was a member of the women’s soccer team and received the E. Albert DeLuca Award 34

Fall 2014

as an outstanding student athlete. She earned a master’s degree in journalism and mass communication in 2010 from Point Park University. She was an assistant girls’ soccer coach at Jeannette Senior High School. She is currently the senior social marketing manager for the UPMC Health Plan, owns eatPGH and teaches at Point Park University. With eatPGH, she has written three books: Food Lovers’ Guide to Pittsburgh; Pittsburgh Chef’s Table; and Food Lovers’ Guide to Pittsburgh, Second Edition. She regularly contributes to Table magazine and the Tribune-Review, and is featured on KDKA’s Pittsburgh Today Live. She has served as a keynote speaker at several local events and was a featured speaker at SXSW (South By Southwest Music, Film & Interactive Festival) in Austin, Texas.

Michael E. Neal

Michael E. Neal, C’04, of Washington, D.C., has a bachelor of arts degree in history. He was a member of the cross country team and was in student government. He was sophomore and junior class president and executive board

vice president, a member of the College Republicans and the History Club. He remains involved with the college community as an active member of the Washington, D.C., Greater Metro Area Saint Vincent Alumni Chapter. Director of digital communications for General Dynamics C4 Systems, he is also active in a number of community initiatives. He serves as the treasurer of the Border Patrol Foundation and as an advisory board member for the Belfast-Beltway Boxing Project. He volunteers with the COMMIT Foundation and the Sentinels of Freedom Scholarship Foundation. He was a finalist for PR Newswire’s Social Media Icon in 2013, and has received the Border Patrol Foundation’s President’s Award, General Dynamics C4 Systems Eagle Award and a distinguished service award from the Department of Homeland Security. He is a member of Saint Peter’s on Capitol Hill Parish.

Class of 1964—50 Years Front, from left, Brother Norman Hipps, O.S.B., College president; Thomas P. Gessner, M.D.; Walt Nieri; Timothy Collard, M.D.; Thom Janidlo; William Bravin; Robert Baker; Edward J. Permar; Julie Selep, Alumni Council president. Row two, from left, Rev. Paul R. Taylor, O.S.B., College executive vice president; Rev. John Geinzer; Frank Whitson; Tom Skoloda; William Ramos; Daniel Topley; Archabbot Douglas R. Nowicki, O.S.B., chancellor. Row three, from left, Joe Seria; Peter Montague; Tom Goetz; Fred Hamble; Jack Finnegan; Francis Marasco; John Walter. Row four, from left, Mike Gerdich, alumni director; Joseph Kramarski, Jr.; Rich Messale; Victor Fiorina; Stuart Smith; Philip Stukus; John Weakland. Row five, from left, Patrick Conroy; Roger Persichelli; Leonard Burrello; Frederick Marasco; Samuel Flannagan; Ed Schreier. Not pictured but also attending were George Bordell, Ron Orynich, David Paluselli, Dennis Paluselli, Charles “Duff” Regan, Ed “Buzz” Reich, Jr., Dominic Romeo, Alvin Sanfilippo, Richard Schmidt, Paul Schulte, Dennis Slevin and Gene Zorn. Saint Vincent Magazine

Fall 2014

Faith Brought Citrone Family To Saint Vincent By Kim Metzgar

Robert Citrone’s parents wanted their children to go to Saint Vincent so much they moved to Latrobe from Rice’s Landing in Greene County. While making a move is not unusual, they had no job to come to, or even a house, only faith that things would work out. Robert Citrone, P’59, C’63, said the family found an old farmhouse on the old road leading from Saint Vincent to Latrobe, and he and his brothers walked to grade school, prep school and college, “uphill both ways,” he joked. Their father found work in the coal mines and was one of the workmen who helped lay the marble in the Basilica, while their mother was a baker. Their parents’ hopes for success for their children paid off, as oldest son Peter, P’49, C’53, became a general surgeon and chief of surgery at West Penn Hospital. Eugene, P’54, C’58, founded Dynaspan and was president and chief executive officer of Process Plants Corporation in Cranberry Township. (Eugene died on January 12, 2014, while Peter died in 2010). The Benedictines of Saint Vincent so influenced Robert (who has four sons and a daughter) that his sons’ middle names honor those monks. The oldest, named for his father, carries the middle name Kenneth, after Father Kenneth Kelly, O.S.B., who was pastor of Saint Vincent Parish, where his parents were married. Another is named after Father Armand-Jean Baldwin, O.S.B., and another after Father Owen Roth, O.S.B. Father Armand-Jean

Robert Citrone, P’59, C’63, with Steelers’ safety Troy Polamalu at training camp this year.

taught economics, which was the elder Robert’s major, while Father Owen taught biology. Both were frequent dinner guests who enjoyed a game of cards with Citrone. Another son is named after a classmate at the prep and scholasticate, John Haag. “Besides being mentors, they were also close friends,” Citrone said of the monks. “Saint Vincent was a great school. It was my high school and college, and has been an important part of my life.” Citrone’s training in economics led him to jobs in sales and management. He became general manager at Diebold Corp., which makes banking equipment, and moved up to vice president of sales, services and support in six states. At the headquarters in Atlanta he was responsible for 500 employees and 25 offices. He is now retired, has 18 grandchildren and lives in the Harrisburg area. He occasionally makes it back to Saint Vincent, including a recent visit to Steelers training camp. His parents now rest in Saint Vincent Cemetery, as do his brothers, his son and two nephews. While their move was made with little money and great faith, New members of the Alumni Council were welcomed to their first meeting recently. somehow they knew the Pictured, from left are Jim Laffey, C’75, Alumni Council president-elect; Alumni Council education their sons got at President Julie Selep, C’92, along with SVC President, Brother Norman Hipps, O.S.B., P’61, Saint Vincent would have a C’66, S’69; Alumni Director, Jeff Mallory, C’06, G’13, new member; Mike Gerdich, C’98, alumni lasting impact on the Citrone director; Nick Killen, C’14, new member; Msgr. William G. Charnoki, C’61, S’65, new member; family. And it did. and Aliesha Walz, C’07, council secretary.

New Alumni Council Members

Saint Vincent Magazine

Fall 2014

Class News

1940s

1960s

Albert G. Giordano, Ph.D., C 48, has published two

From Mike McCarthy, C’61: “My movie ‘star’ son Brendan was on a program called ‘Legends’ on TNT. As usual, he plays the role of a bad guy. Don’t know where in the world he got that!”

books: The Trilogy of the Life of Blessed Junipero Serra and the 21 Californian Missions, and A History of Serra International: A Vocational Arm of the Catholic Church, 75 Years of Service, 19352010. Giordano writes that $1 of proceeds from each book sold will go to Saint Vincent College. Contact him at genoaal@yahoo.com.

Leonard J. Solo, C’61, is the author of a new poetry book, A Symphony of the Ordinary: Episodes in a Life, published by Baltimore-based America Star Books.

1950s

Thomas A. Monaghan, C’66,

Paul A. Scarlata, D.M.D., C 57, was elected to Grand Knight Monsignor in the Yeagers Council 14035 of Saint Ignatius Church in Buchanan Valley of Adams County.

is enjoying semi-retirement between Michigan and Florida, while pampering two beautiful grandchildren, Michael and Madelyn. Monaghan and wife, Carol, SHU’66, have been happily married for 48 years!

Peter Hutchinson, C’68, sent this photo of a group of Class of ‘68 guys who recently gathered for some golf and dinner in Latrobe. From left, Jim Keenan, Terry Conroy, Jack Wilson, Pete Hutchinson, Bob Racko, Clyde Smith, Larry Wagaman, and Babe Manion. Hutchinson noted that “in the spirit of Benedictine hospitality, we Gerry 2 guys allowed a Gerry 3 guy (Conroy) to join us.” Joanna Stillwagon, H 69,

James S. Gyurke, Ph.D., C’82,

was named one of the 2014 Alumna of Distinction at Seton Hill University.

was recently named the chief marketing officer and sales officer for imPACT Applications Inc., the developers of imPACT (Immediate Post-Concussion Assessment and Cognitive Testing).

1970s

H. Vance Vargo, C’82,

Teacher Of The Year Timothy Waxenfelter, C’69, was named Secondary School Teacher of the Year by the Pennsylvania affiliate of the Council on American Private Education at a May 7 ceremony at the state Capitol. A resident of Crescent, he is married to Barbara. They have three children, Heidi, Holly and Tim, and six grandchildren. A social studies teacher at Quigley Catholic High School in Baden, Beaver County, Waxenfelter has taught there for 45 years. He coaches the school’s speech and debate team and its mock trial team, a seven-time state champion. He has a bachelor’s degree in political science and history from Saint Vincent College and a master’s degree in industrial relations from Saint Francis University. “I’ve always been humbled when I’ve won any teaching award because there are so many incredibly good teachers out there that I wonder why anyone would actually choose me,” he said. “Some of my heroes are teachers. I find that to be such an honorable profession and such a great avocation in life.”

Saint Vincent Magazine

Atty. Richard W. Perhacs, C’71, of Knox McLaughlin Gornall & Sennett, P.C., was recently honored by Best Lawyers® as a Lawyer of the Year for 2015 in the field of labor law–management for the Pittsburgh metropolitan area.

1980s Michael Cook, D.O., M.B.A., M.S., C’84, received the 2014 Professional of the Year Award from the Federal Executive Board in New Jersey.

graduated from the Credit Union Executive Society (CUES) CEO Institute in May 2014, and received the designation of Certified Chief Executive Officer (CCE). The CEO Institute is comprised of three sessions which are held at some of the top business schools in the country. Vargo completed the first session at the University of Pennsylvania Wharton Graduate School of Business in April 2012. This session concentrated on strategic planning and corporate decision-making. He completed the second session at the Cornell University Johnson Graduate School of Business in April 2013. This session concentrated on organizational culture and organizational change. He completed the third and final session in May 2014 at the University of Virginia Darden Graduate School of Business. Fall 2014

This session concentrated on leadership and corporate vision. Vargo is only one of 700 graduates employed in the credit union industry who have graduated from the CUES CEO Institute. He also attended all three sessions on a national scholarship. He is presently the president and chief executive officer of Family First Credit Union in Saginaw, Michigan, a position he has held since March 2005. He and his wife, Susan, SHU ‘85, reside in Saginaw, with their two children, H. Jerome, 16, and Rachel, 13.

overall operations. LeadingAge PA is an association of notfor-profit senior services that advocates for quality senior services and care. He and his wife, Maria, reside in Mars, along with their two sons.

Richard Rossi, C’84, S’91, is a full professor and was chosen Composer of the Month in September 2013 by Colla Voce publishing. Gene M. Battistella, D.O., C’88, of the SeniorCare Network real estate affiliate, has been named the 2014 Leader of the Year by LeadingAge PA. He was recognized for his excellence in management and for playing a strong role in

of McKees Rocks, was recently elected vice speaker of the Pennsylvania Osteopathic Medical Association (POMA) House of Delegates during the POMA’s 106th Annual Clinical Assembly, held this spring at

the Valley Forge Hotels and Convention Complex in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania. POMA is a statewide organization for physicians with the Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree.

Lino J. Agosti, P’39, on November 10, 2013.

Peter D. Gross, P’51, on

Richard J. Atkinson, C’56, on

Gerald C. Gorelli, C’64, on

December 31, 2013.

March 3.

May 13.

Anthony Suda, P’41, on

Robert J. Milie, C’51, on July 4.

William Cibulas, C’56, on June 20.

Ronald E. Greenawalt, C 64,

Robert H. Vogt, C’43, on May 3.

Rev. Raymond C. Boccardi, S’52, on August 17.

Patrick James Freeman, C’56,

Leo S. Chapla, C 46, on

Donald E. Visconti, C’52, on

Joseph A. Corrado, Ph.D., C’57, S’61, on April 8.

James B. Pieffer, C’83, senior vice president of Presbyterian SeniorCare and president

Deaths

August 12.

November 16, 2013.

February 21.

Edward J. Whalen, Esq. C 46,

Francis E. Burkley, C’53, on

on May 29.

Rev. Thomas M. Kirby, S’57,

on July 11.

July 15.

on April 2.

Joseph P. Dunn, M.D., C’48, on June 15.

Rev. John B. Corbett, C’53, S’56, on November 30, 2013.

Stephen A. Yablunosky, C’57,

Thomas B. Judge, P’48, C 52,

James C. Galosi, C’53, on

Donald M. Koter, C’58, on

on March 10.

Donald R. Green, P’49, C’59,

April 3.

Philip H. Jones, C’53, on July

on December 3, 2013.

11, 2013.

Paul R. Mosso, C’49, on July 19.

Werner Ullrich, C’53, on

Charles M. Mills, P’50, C 61, on August 10.

John L. Clark, Jr., C’51, on February 21.

March 6.

Martin Philip Brossman, C’54,

on July 1.

December 7, 2013.

Rev. Mr. Ronald Little, C’59, on August 20.

Martin M. “Mert” Gildea, C’60, on June 11.

James V. Spino, C’63, on

on October 18, 2011.

March 9.

Rev. Robert G. Turner, C’55, S’59, on June 29.

June 11.

Saint Vincent Magazine

Gerard “Jerry” Fuchs, C’64, on

on July 6.

J. Michael Johnson, C’64, on May 19.

Thomas A. McCune, P 67, C’71, on February 14. William M.P. “Bill” Donahue, C’71, on June 3. Thomas F. Vallana, C’73, on August 15.

Michael B. Rich, III, C’79, on June 6.

Brother Nathan M. Cochran, O.S.B, S’85, on July 30. Richard A. Swiokla, C’85, on December 22, 2013.

Carl R. Miller, C’91, on July 12.

Bertha F. Nesser, C’92, on May 22.

Fall 2014

Atty. Richard A. Marhefka, C’89, has joined the firm of Rothman Gordon.

1990s Laura A. (Lafferty) Cantrell, PT, C’90, represented Saint Vincent College at the Inauguration of Rev. Mark L. Poorman, C.S.C. as the 20th president at the University of Portland on September 26.

Tedd Trabert, C’92, was honored by The Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce with the Excellence in HR Award— Executive Leadership Award 2014.

Louis Balsama, D.O. F.A.C.S., C’94, recently made partner in the private practice group Advocare, LLC doing general and bariatric surgery in Sewell, New Jersey. Balsama

also was promoted from General Surgery Residency Program director to acting chair of surgery at Rowan School of Osteopathic Medicine in Stratford, New Jersey.

Heather Hall, C’98, participated in an organ dedication recital at Holy Family Church in New Rochelle, New York, where she is the director of music. Mariko Morita and Hall met at Seton Hill (when they were first-year students and the music departments were combined.)

Lucia C. Pawlowski, C’98, has earned a doctorate in English from the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities. She is teaching academic writing and literary theory at Saint Thomas University in St. Paul, Minnesota.

Alumnus Presented Exhibit

Saint Vincent Gallery presented “Through a Pinhole: Pinhole Camera Photography” by Saint Vincent alumnus Scott Speck, C’85, recently. The exhibition featured 30 of Speck’s pinhole (lensless) camera photographs with subject matter ranging from figurative work to architectural objects. He earned a bachelor’s degree in physics and mathematics, plus a master’s degree in both astrophysics and computer science. Speck’s work has been published in print-based books, electronic books, magazines and blogs.

Autumn (Coleman) Purdy, C’98, attended a six-day women’s memoir retreat at the prestigious Madeline Island School of the Arts in La Pointe, Wisconsin. She is at work on

a collection of essays about infertility, miscarriage and the challenges of raising an adopted child with special needs. She maintains a personal blog, http://asadsongbetter.com/.

Condolences Michael B. Rich, Jr., C’43, and his wife, Joan, of Spring Hill, Florida, on the loss of their son, Michael B. Rich, III, C’79, of Essex, Maryland, who died on June 6 in Normandy, France. Michael was accompanying his father and two brothers to the 70th anniversary of D-Day. Michael retired from the federal government as a compliance auditor in 2012. He was a daily communicant. After a Mass of Christian Burial in the Basilica, Michael was interred at Saint Vincent Cemetery. He is also survived by his daughter, Erica Rich, of Centennial, Colorado.

Honorable James R. Kelley, P 50, C’54, on the death of his wife, Patricia Phillips Kelley, on May 8.

Rev. Mario A. Fulgenzi, O.S.B., P’59, C’64, S’68, on the loss of his father, Henry Fulgenzi, on March 27.

George Biskup, P’61, on the loss of his brother, Michael Biskup, on June 16.

Robert E. Brossman, D.D.S., C’61, on the death of his brother, Martin Philip Brossman, C’54, on October 18, 2011.

Gordon E. Scherer, C’65, and his wife, Joanne, on the tragic loss of their eight-year-old grandson, Eli K. Sachar, on July 12. Joyce Peters Donahue, SHU’71, on the loss of her husband, William MP “Bill” Donahue, C’71, on June 3.

Saint Vincent Magazine

Joseph P. Dunn, Jr., C’78, Edward Jones, C’81, and Patrick Jones, C 16, on the loss of their father, father-in-law, and grandfather, respectively, Joseph P. Dunn, M.D., C’48, on June 15.

H. Vance Vargo, C’82, on the loss of his father, Henry G. Vargo, P’53, on June 3. William A. Barnes, C’94, on the loss of his father-in-law, Edward F. Fatur, on July 26.

Thomas A. Jaffe, C’98, and his wife, Marie (Swallop) Jaffe, C’01, on the loss of their infant children, Annalee K. and Andrew R. Jaffe, on Sunday, July 20, after a short stay on earth in Carolinas Medical Center, Charlotte, North Carolina.

Amy Camp, C’99, on the loss of her brother, James Camp IV, on August 25 in a motorcycle accident.

Brigid (Janik) Slough, C’09, and her husband, Daniel Slough, C 06, and George A. Janik, C’71, and his wife, Loretta (Fajt) Janik, C’89, and Stephen Janik, C 15, on the loss of their infant daughter, granddaughter, and niece, respectively, Emily Susan Slough, on May 28. Alumni cousins of Emily Susan are Ce-

line R. (Haas) Brudnok, C’90,

Saint Vincent College registrar;

Shane Brudnok, C 17; Benedict Fajt, C’61; Charles F. Fajt, C 82; Daniel Fajt, C’75; Gregory Fajt, C’77; H. Gervase Fajt, C’69; Jacqueline M. Fajt, G’05 and Matthew S. Fajt, C’98.

Fall 2014

Daniel E. Bryson, GC’13, is a certified registered nurse anesthetist with J.C. Blair Surgical Services. Danielle M. Roberts, C’13,

Reaching New Heights

Jym Walters, C’96, and Steve Leuschel, C’08, experienced a bit of snow in June—in California. That would be when they reached the highest point in the state and in the lower 48 states—Mount Whitney, at 14,496 feet elevation.

2000s Dr. Julie R. Platt, C’02, earned a master’s degree in English from Ohio University and a master of fine arts degree in poetry from Bowling Green State University. She completed her doctorate in rhetoric and writing studies at Michigan State University in 2013. She is assistant professor of English and director of the Writing Center at the University of Arkansas at Monticello, Arkansas.

Mandy Newcomer, C’04, accepted the position of vice state lead ambassador in Pennsylvania. The position is part of the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) Ambassador Constituent Team (ACT!) Structure. ACS CAN has an ACT! team in nearly every congressional district in the country.

2010s

Rachel Bosco Uschock, C’10, was promoted to account manager by BLF Marketing, Clarksville, Tennessee. She heads media planning, budgeting and placement scheduling for the firm.

Jordan Hainsey, C’11, graphic designer, won a national award from the Catholic Press Association for his work for Saint Vincent Archabbey publications. He received a third place in the national award competition for best magazine color cover for his design of the Archabbey magazine, Heart to Heart, and the cover “Saint Vincent Fire.”

is the newly appointed sales and marketing coordinator at the Republic Enterprise Center, developed by the Fayette County Community Action Agency. The agency is funded through first lady Michelle Obama’s healthy food initiative. Its goal is to bring in locally-sourced produce to area restaurants and smaller grocery stores, as well as school cafeterias and prisons.

Births

C’00, and her husband, Douglass Alan Drelich, on March 30. Also pictured is their cat, Merlin, adopted from outside of the SVC science center during Sarah’s senior year.

Italia Fazio Trigona to

Matthew Trigona, C’00, and his wife, Jennifer (Fazio) Trigonia, C’99, on May 14. Italia joins big brother, Nicolo Fazio Trigona.

Evalena Anne Marie to Anne Marie (Lena) Morgante, C’02,

Lily Abigail Del Brown, on March 22 to Sarah E. Vijlee Brown C’97 and Lucas J. Brown. Lily joins big sister, Lucy, as part of the Brown and SVC families.

and her husband, Daren, on May 26. Evie joins sister, Charlie Jae, 2. Proud grandpa is Robert Lena, C’63.

Becky Bush, C’06, G’11, works at Chatham University, Pittsburgh.

Kara Shirley, O.D, C’07, is an optometrist. She works at Armstrong Eye Care in Kittanning. Her husband, Mark Shumski, is also an optometrist, working at Indiana Eye Care in Indiana.

Chelsy Mae Stuller to Holly Stuller, C’04, C’08, and her

Brittany Hall, C’11, graduated from Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine in June, 2014 with a doctor of pharmacy degree.

Saint Vincent Magazine

Dylan Lawrence Drelich to

Sarah Haberlin Lawrence,

husband Josh Stuller, on February 1. Chelsy joins big sister, Macy. Fall 2014

Engagements

bagpiping. Both have played since the age of 8. They are members of the Seton Hill University pipe band, where he is a pipe major.

Ashlee Snyder, C17, to Derek Rose. No immediate wedding plans have been announced.

Marriages

Eleanor Cecilia Finau to Joseph K. Finau, C’06, and his wife, Tara (Nolan) Finau, C’06, on June 20.

Lara Kelly, C’06, to Shea Simpson, C’06. The two are planning a June wedding in Pittsburgh.

Steven M. Davidovich, C’07, Colton Andrew Joseph Mowry Palmieri to Brittany Mowry, C’10, and Bill Palmieri in February. Colton was baptized on June 1 at Saint Vincent Basilica with Father Chad

Ficorilli, O.S.B., C’73, S’79, officiating and Christina Mowry, C 15, as godmother, and Zakary Hutchinson, C’10, and Jonathan “Mel” Durkota, C’11, as godfathers.

to Courtney Day. A March 28, 2015, wedding is planned.

Brittany Hall, C’11, to Myers Miller. The wedding will be held on September 5, 2015. Kayla Pender, C’11, to Zachary McCleary. A summer 2015 wedding is scheduled. Allyson M. Perry, C’11, to Richard Morris. An August 8, 2015 wedding is planned.

Kevin Zaffino, C’07, to Kylie A. Simonini, C’09. The wedding will be held on October 4.

Allison N. Lachat, C’08, and Nathan R. Genard, C’08. They are planning a spring wedding.

Katie Couknas, C’05 and An-

Courtney Grafton, C’12, to Joseph Stopansky, C’14. Their wedding will be held on July 4, 2015.

Frank R. Chappell, C’08, to Lucy Benedicta was born to Bob Waruszewski , C11, and his wife, Caitlyn, on May 31.

Volunteer!

Volunteer to help our Alumni Recruitment Network spread the word about Saint Vincent. For information call Mary Ann Dunlap at 724-805-2568 or email: alumni@stvincent.edu.

Amanda Benedetti, C’04, and Matthew Goodman on October 5, 2013 at Old Saint Luke’s Church, Carnegie, followed by a reception at the PPG Aquarium.

Anna Maria Skop on July 5, in Lourdes, France. They will marry on January 10, 2015 in her hometown of Saint Palais sur Mer, France.

JoElla R. Gearhard, C’14, to Josh Dobbin. The couple met through their mutual love of

drew Tylinski were married on May 31, 2014. Father Thomas J. Lewandowski, S’99 was the officiant. Alumni attending included (pictured below): front, from left, David Jozwiak, C’03, and Lauren (Stilwell) Traill, C’04. Back, from left, are

Lauren (Zewe) Huwalt, C’04; Christine (Robson) Demorest, C’04; Jason Smith, C’05;

Zachary A. Keltz, C’10, to Kelsey J. Nee, C’12. An October 25 wedding is planned.

Kayla Palyas, C’10, to Bob Hess. The couple will marry in September.

Saint Vincent Magazine

Fall 2014

Julie (Jankowski) Marinchick, C’04; Matt Kopchick, C’05, G’07; Stephen Crevak, C’05; Mike Gerhart, C’05; Amanda (Houtz) Gerhart, C’10; and BJ Siard, C’09. Not pictured but present: Julie Barnett, C’05, and Ryan Maher, C’02. Becky Bush, C’06, G’11, and Rob Borello on May 31 in Saint Rose Roman Catholic Church. The newlyweds are residing in Pittsburgh following a honeymoon in Riviera Maya, Mexico. Bradley J. Evanovich, C’07, and Lauren Ciccaglione on August 23 at Saint Vincent Basilica with Father Robert Lubic, S’95, as celebrant.

Brandon J. Fisher, C’07, and Megan J. Block on November 9, 2013, at Saint Vincent Basilica. Father Paul R. Taylor, O.S.B., C’87, S’92, officiated.

Kara Shirley and Mark Shumski wedding party.

Kara Shirley, C’07, and Mark Shumski on June 14 at the Saltsburg Presbyterian Church (photos above). The reception was held at the Westmoreland Country Club, Murrysville. Laura (McDermott) Mullican, C’07, and Matthew Shirley, C’10, were in the wedding.

Joanna Hanlon and Brian Gossett wedding party.

Jared Bundy, C’08, and Anne

left, first row (picture above):

Anna Shrift, C’09; Joanna Hanlon, C’09; Keri Spaw, C09; Amanda Como, C’09; Heather (Rhea) Frayvolt, C’09; Justin Wiley, C’09. Second row: Amber Dablock, ’09; Laura Teamann, C09; and Melanie Ondek, C’10. Erin Franciscus, C’10, was also in attendance

Blakeslee on June 14 at Saint Vincent Basilica with Father

Wulfstan Clough, O.S.B., S’95,

as celebrant.

Ashley Adams, C’09, and Craig Bossong on July 13, 2013 at Lingrow Farm in Leechburg. The newlyweds are living in Oakland, New Jersey.

Kristina M. Hanna, C’09, and Lawrence J. Shock, Jr. on October 19, 2013, at Saint Vincent Basilica with Cardinal Adam Maida, C’53, D’02, and

but not pictured. The Gossetts couple honeymooned in Riviera Maya, Mexico. The newlyweds are living in Pittsburgh. From

Elizabeth Elkin, C’11, and Kenneth Mickinac on November 16, 2013, at Saint Vincent Basilica.

Rev. Thaddeus Maida, C’55, S59, officiating. Bridget Kennis, C’07, and Dennis Arun on May 17 at Holy Trinity Byzantine Catholic Church in Sykesville. Alumni attending are pictured below.

Joanna Hanlon, C’09, and Brian Gossett on August 31, 2013 at Lindenwald United Methodist Church in Cincinnati, Ohio. The

Jessica McHugh C’10, and Michael Pollock on August 10, 2013 at Saint Vincent Basilica with Father Anthony Grossi, O.S.B., C’93, S’98, as celebrant. Alumni pictured are Kristen Graham, C’10, Kelsey Benzenhoefer, C’10, Amanda Bertram, C’10, and Amy DiPietro, C10.

Saint Vincent Magazine

Fall 2014

Annual Fund Drive Puts Students First Educating students has always been the top priority at students with financial need. All gifts will help ensure that Saint Vincent College. Now the annual giving campaign deserving students have the opportunity for a high-quality reflects that same priority. Saint Vincent education.” “The generosity and support of our alumni and The Students First Fund will help students like Kasey friends enable us to provide a highRadicic, who graduated from Saint quality educational experience at an Vincent in 2013 with a double major in ur first priority, biology and psychology and is serving affordable cost,” said Father Paul R. however, always has as annual fund chair in 2014-2015. She Taylor, O.S.B., executive vice president. “Gifts are directed to many areas of been and continues is pursuing her dreams of becoming a our operations—academics, athletics, doctor and is in her second year at Lake to be educating endowment, scholarships and current Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine. expenses. Our first priority, however, “Long hours dedicated to studying fully our students and always has been and continues to be prepared me for the demanding and rigproviding financial educating our students and providing orous course load in medical school,” she assistance.” financial assistance. In recognition of said. “Access to state-of-the-art classthis priority, the College is changing the rooms and specialized laboratories and name of our annual giving program to equipment have given me an edge in my the Saint Vincent College Annual Fund for Students First— studies. My professors provided guidance and support and or Students First Fund.” were accessible both inside and outside of the classroom. “The change draws upon our history, when Boniface I know that the strong foundation I received at Saint VinWimmer and his fledging community began to educate the cent will continue to guide me.” children of immigrants to help them find success in the Further information about the Students First Fund is New World,” Father Paul said. “Today, the Students First available at annualfund@stvincent.edu or by calling Fund will help Saint Vincent continue to educate capable 724-805-2949.

“O

Alumni Office 724-805-2568 alumni@stvincent.edu

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Saint Vincent College Quality Education in the Benedictine Tradition

300 Fraser Purchase Road Latrobe, PA 15650-2690 www.stvincent.edu

Spring 2015 Threshold Lecture Thomas Tull, CEO, Legendary Entertainment Threshold Lecture Series

The Dark Knight Trilogy • Unbroken • 42 • Man of Steel • Godzilla Saint Vincent College is pleased to announce Thomas Tull, chairman and chief executive officer of Legendary Entertainment, as the spring 2015 Threshold Lecture speaker. Legendary Entertainment is a leading media company with film, television, and digital and publishing divisions. Tull also founded Legendary East, a standalone entertainment company with offices in Beijing and Hong Kong that is dedicated to creating feature film and related content for a worldwide audience. In 2013, Legendary forged a first-ever multi-year co-production agreement between Legendary East and The China Film Group to jointly produce tent pole-scale films for the global filmed entertainment market. Also in 2013, Legendary and Comcast NBCUniversal signed a multi-year agreement in which the two companies will produce and co-finance Legendary and Universal films with Universal distributing Legendary films worldwide. In aggregate, Legendary Pictures-associated productions have realized grosses of more than $9 billion worldwide at the box office. With partner Warner Bros., Legendary has released such hits as Watchmen, the blockbuster 300 and the record-breaking, award-winning Dark Knight film franchise. This highly successful partnership produced the runaway hits Inception, Clash of the Titans, and the critical favorite The Town. Recently Legendary released As Above/So Below, Godzilla, 300: Rise of an Empire, Pacific Rim, Man of Steel, and the Jackie Robinson biopic 42. Upcoming film projects include Crimson Peak, Blackhat and Warcraft, based on Blizzard Entertainment’s award-winning universe. Saint Vincent College established the Threshold Series in 1981 when the Kennametal Foundation of Latrobe provided support to the College for the creation of an ongoing series of lectures and cultural events. Previous Threshold speakers have included Carl Sagan, Isaac Asimov, Claire Bloom, Alex Haley, Lt. General James A. Abrahamson, Stephen F. Cohen, Ralph Nader, Robert Jarvik, Michael Medved, Jane Bryant Quinn, Harold S. Kushner, Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., Archduke Rudolph of Austria, Roger Cossack, Benjamin Zander, Colleen Carroll Campbell and Neil deGrasse Tyson.

Thursday, April 16, 2015 7:30 p.m. Fred M. Rogers Center Saint Vincent College Reservations Required: 724-805-2177