2017 Fall and Winter Saint Vincent Magazine by Saint Vincent College

SAINT VINCENT M A G A Z I N E

JAMES F. WILL

PRESIDENT EMERITUS SAINT VINCENT COLLEGE

Fall and Winter 2017

2017 2018

Upcoming

Events

Pittsburgh Festival Orchestra Saint Vincent College Singers Handel’s Messiah 7 p.m. Saturday, December 2 Archabbey Basilica

McCarl Gallery History Dinner Theater: Thomas Jefferson 6-9 p.m. Thursday, December 7

Fred M. Rogers Center Banquet Room A/B www.mccarlgallery.org

Saint Vincent Camerata Lessons and Carols 7:30 p.m. Saturday, December 9 Archabbey Basilica

Jordan Dodson, guitar Saint Vincent College Concert Series 7 p.m. Saturday, January 20, 2018 Archabbey Basilica Crypt Reception to follow For tickets: www.stvincentstore.com

Saint Vincent Camerata Concert In Honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, January 23, 2018 Archabbey Basilica

Seraph Brass Quintet Saint Vincent College Concert Series 7 p.m. Saturday, February 17, 2018 Archabbey Basilica Reception to follow For tickets: www.stvincentstore.com

McCarl Gallery History Dinner Theater: A Visit With Harriet Tubman 6-9 p.m. Friday, March 16, 2018

Fred M. Rogers Center Banquet Room A/B www.mccarlgallery.org

Anthony Trionfo, flute Saint Vincent College Concert Series 7 p.m. Saturday, March 17, 2018 Robert S. Carey Student Center Reception to follow For tickets: www.stvincentstore.com

Edgar Moreau, cello Saint Vincent College Concert Series 7 p.m. Saturday, April 7, 2018 Robert S. Carey Student Center Reception to follow For tickets: www.stvincentstore.com

Andrea Redinger, C’01, third from left, with her Biotech class that observed a heart transplant.

Hands On Approach Garners Award For Science Teacher

ndrea Redinger, C’01, was a recipient of the Spectroscopy Society of Pittsburgh Keivin Burns Award for the 2016-2017 school year recognizing excellence in high school science teaching. Redinger has a bachelor of science in biology from Saint Vincent and a master of science in education from Duquesne University. She has been teaching science at Greensburg Salem High School since 2003. Her classes include Accelerated Biology, Inclusive Biology, Plant and Animal Biology, Biotechnology and various independent studies. She also is the gifted and talented coordinator, where she oversees the enrichment of students. Additionally, she is a science education adjunct professor at both Saint Vincent and the University of Pittsburgh at Greensburg and is a cooperative teacher for student teachers from multiple colleges. A big part of Redinger’s classroom is providing real science experience for all students. One method of providing the most interactive and true-tolife science curriculum possible is through classroom-community workforce partnerships. Current partnerships are with Indiana Eye Care, Excela Health, Carnegie Mellon University and Allegheny General Hospital, providing experiences with cardiologists, surgeons, biomedical engineers, and others who practice science as part of their jobs. An example of experience students have is a unit where they work to design an artificial heart valve prototype and critique their work alongside a biomedical engineer. They begin the unit by hearing from a cardiologist explain the heart, move to comparing mammal anatomy to that of other animals, dissect a fetal pig, learn about surgery with the pig as an example and dissect a cow heart, all before designing their own valves. Then, they learn about heart attack signs and what to do before spending a day in the hospital seeing an open heart surgery and visiting a gross pathology lab and a morgue. The unit is hands-on and not your typical textbook learning of the heart. This follows into Redinger’s teaching philosophy: “Science is meant to be explored and discoveries made.” She describes her classroom by borrowing a phrase from a former director of secondary education, “organized chaos.” For students in every level of high school education, Redinger’s science classroom provides a learning environment to explore big ideas of biology through a “hands-on, minds-on” approach. —Kathryn Klawinski

TO MAKE A GIFT TO THE STUDENTS FIRST FUND CONTACT THE OFFICE OF INSTITUTIONAL ADVANCEMENT, (724) 805-2895

Departments

President’s 4 Message More Features 11 Liberatore Human Anatomy Lab; John Degnan gives Red Mass address

13 Addiction Study Goes Public

News 47 Accounting grads rank high; program wins national award

Faculty 49 Juan Carlos Rivas published; Michael Krom presents; Timothy Kelly writes

Sports

15 Saint Vincent and Science

Dedication for Oland ‘Dodo’ Canterna; Athletic Hall of Fame awards; scholarship honors fallen trooper

Alumni

Alumni Council has new officers; Alumni of Distinction; class news; new scholarship honors veterans

52 Coach Canterna Remembered

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 PROOFREADER Carol Riddle

Fall and Winter 2017 Volume 15, Issues 1 and 2

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Grace Alverson Suzanne English Kathryn Klawinski Kim Metzgar Jerome Oetgen Don Orlando Adam Reger Sports Information Office Matthew Wojtechko

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. 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.

PHOTOGRAPHY Archabbey Archives Alumni Relations Office Alexander Byers Kim Metzgar Don Orlando Sports Information Office

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/.

AD ARTWORK & INSERT George Fetkovich

Cover: President Emeritus James F. Will at the James F. Will Engineering and Biomedical Sciences Hall. Photo by Alexander Byers. See page 5 for story.

MESSAGE FROM THE

P R E S I D E N T

SCIENCE AT SAINT VINCENT INTERDISCIPLINARY

istory—specifically, the history of the sciences at Saint Vincent—takes center stage in this issue of Saint Vincent Magazine. We are treated to a number of articles on the history of science here by Jerome Oetgen, historian and author of The American Abbot. One point that is critical to make, and that these pages also reflect, is how the facilities that we’ve built in recent years reflect the changes in how we now do science: collaboratively across the disciplines. Our new buildings are generous in laboratories for teams of faculty and students to perform research together, and new, interdisciplinary programs such as biochemistry, bioinformatics, biotechnology and integrated science have been added. One of the major initiatives of the past decade was a National Science Foundation-funded Math Science Partnership, which through an infusion of more than $18 million over six years was able to bring various institutions and disciplines together to enhance faculty development—another collaborative, interdisciplinary effort. Also highlighted in these pages is the work of Dr. Eric Kocian, assistant professor of criminology, law and society, whose research into the causes and best treatment pathways to fight opioid addiction has gained the attention of state and national officials fighting the epidemic. We are excited to share the news of the completion of the James F. Will Engineering and Biomedical Sciences Hall, including a new human anatomy laboratory and space for our growing engineering major, with thanks to Jim Will, our president emeritus and current Board member whose vision and support helped Saint Vincent College to grow tremendously, in terms of students, building and finances. He is joined by Board member Ralph Liberatore, whose contributions to the development of the medical sciences of the project have been instrumental. Will Hall is the first building to be completed under the auspices of our comprehensive fundraising campaign, Forward, Always Forward—The Campaign for Saint Vincent. We look forward to the many benefits it will bring to students, faculty, staff, alumni and the surrounding community, and hope that you will enjoy reading about the plans for growth and development to benefit our students through the campaign. You will see reports from our fall events, including the Athletic Hall of Fame and Alumni of Distinction awards. In reading over the biographies of our honorees, I am pleased to see many majors represented, outstanding alumni whose degrees include accounting, biology, business, chemistry, economics, English, history, liberal arts, mathematics, political science and psychology—representing the wide range of majors that Saint Vincent offers. As the golden autumn days turn to winter, we want you to know that you are welcome to visit at any time of year. Whether it is for a lecture or an athletic contest, a musical performance or a play, Saint Vincent will always welcome you warmly.

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

Jim Will’s Career Shaped BY

Entrepreneurial Spirit, Family Values AND A

Life OF Faith

By Don Orlando

“Everyone in the family looked out for each other and for their neighbors and friends. It was a wonderful family network which taught me a lot about the importance of family values and living as part of a community,” he said. When he was five years old, his family moved to Pleasant Hills where his brothers, Thomas and Michael, were born, followed by twins, Mark and Kathy. As a youngster, Jim attended Saint Elizabeth Grade School and enjoyed playing pony league baseball. When he was in the eighth grade, his father decided it was time for young Jim to start working in the store. “So, I regularly took the bus to the store and did chores and delivered orders on Saturdays,” he said. “The store was near my grandparents’ house so I really enjoyed going over there to visit my grandfather and

ames F. Will, C’60, D’94, who served as the 15th president of Saint Vincent College from 2000 to 2006, is an experienced leader whose vision and character brought success throughout his career.

Born in the Mt. Oliver section of Pittsburgh, in the hills overlooking the city, Jim—as he is known to virtually everyone—describes a happy childhood as part of a large extended family network. His father owned a butcher shop and grocery—Fred’s Market—and he and everyone in the family eventually worked there. At times, it was the center of their lives. Jim’s mother and father both had seven siblings with big families so there was always a lot of family activity. Saint Vincent Magazine

Fall and Winter 2017

help him with whatever he was doing.” Later, he went to Saint Canice High School. “It was my father’s choice,” he said, “so that I could work at the store after school.” While his favorite subjects were math and biology, he most enjoyed the challenge of serving as captain of the forensics team which competed against other schools in the Pittsburgh area on Sunday afternoons. “But surprisingly, at that point, I had every intention of becoming a butcher,” he added. It wasn’t until he was preparing for high school graduation that his father told him that the store wasn’t big enough for all the boys so “maybe I should try college. Our parish priest—Father Imacus—was a graduate of Saint Vincent and recommended it to us. Two of my classmates at Saint Canice, Ed Rieke and Jim Ferry were going to Saint Vincent, which helped my decision. “My Uncle Don suggested that I study engineering and Father Roland Heid, O.S.B., of the Physics Department agreed. So I packed my trunk and went to Saint Vincent. I moved into our room on the sixth floor where Father Maynard Brennan, O.S.B., (later president of Saint Vincent) was the prefect. “Saint Vincent was sort of a mysterious place with the monks around in their habits and the monastery nearby. I remember the first time Father Maynard woke us all up to go to Mass. I liked college life and recall it as a rigorous place. I studied a lot and didn’t consider myself a great student since some courses were very difficult. “Father Roland and our professors were all the help anyone needed and they were all right there with us. Father Roland probably taught me more about the discipline of science than anyone else. He was a great laboratory teacher and knew how to prepare well. He was a stickler for detail. His brother, Father Clement, was also a great teacher of mathematics. “Other than the Shack (snack bar), I don’t think we went anywhere,” Jim recalled. “But intramurals were big and we enjoyed playing baseball and touch football. I made some great friends, like Bob Vargo, who became my roommate at Penn State, Ray Straub, Pete O’Connor and so many others. Sometimes someone would take us to Mission Inn for pizza and we had some dates at Seton Hill. During the summer, I had an opportunity to also work at the Bettis Laboratories assisting the engineers.” He described Penn State as a real challenge. “My dad said that he would pay for tuition and books but that the rest was mine so I got a job as a cook’s helper at the University Club. For two years, I worked there, ate there, studied there. The courses and labs were difficult for me so there wasn’t much time to

Above, first row, fourth from left, Jim Will with members of his freshman class. At left, as a sophomore, and at right, as a junior before he left for Penn State University to complete his engineering degree. Below, with wife Mary Ellen, circa 2003.

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Fall and Winter 2017

At top left, Jim Will with outgoing President Father Martin R. Bartel, O.S.B., and at right, at his inauguration with J. Christopher Donahue, chairman of the Saint Vincent College Board of Directors, and Archabbot Douglas R. Nowicki, O.S.B., chancellor.

party.” After graduation from Penn State in 1961, he went to U.S. Steel in McKeesport, first in the company’s two-year training program, learning the processes and doing special projects. He always thought steel was a good business and wanted to go into operations. He stayed there 11 years and moved up to assistant superintendent of a brand new pipe mill in McKeesport. He was getting restless for a new challenge and thought he wanted to do something different. He knew someone at Pressley Ridge School and heard that their Adolescent Program was in trouble. He had just gotten his M.B.A. from Duquesne and asked to take a leave of absence from U.S. Steel to try this new job. He ran the program for problem children and traveled all over the country looking at other programs. He developed a non-traditional program for youths in Ohiopyle with a wilderness camp. Realizing he was not drawn to run the camp he returned to the business world as the plant manager at Miami Industries in Ohio. When a friend of his was named president of Kaiser Steel in Oakland, California, he moved to California as his assistant. He became president of the company but decided to leave when an opportunity came to move back to Pittsburgh in 1982 at Cyclops Industries. Jim became chief executive officer in 1987. In 1992 Cyclops was sold to Armco and Jim became CEO of Armco in 1993. The sale of Armco was completed on September 30, 1999, and the executive management was not needed in the merger so Jim got an exit package and prepared for retirement. “I always thought about semi-retirement but I didn’t Saint Vincent Magazine

know what the ‘semi’ would be. I had thought about college teaching or consulting but decided to spend a year with the family. But when Father Martin Bartel, O.S.B., who was Saint Vincent College president, decided he would prefer pastoral ministry, the Archabbot asked me if I would consider applying for the job. When I emerged as the search committee’s choice, I found it an extremely difficult decision because it was something completely new. I didn’t know how the fit would be, how consuming the job would be. In the end, I decided it was a real opportunity for me to make a difference in this College which we all care about so much. After all the years I spent here, it gets into your blood. I wanted to see Saint Vincent even more successful than it had been in the past. Mary Ellen has been so supportive of me throughout my life and we shared the belief that we’ve been given certain talents and are expected to use them in the right way. Her encouragement was essential to my decision, since this work would take me away from home so much of the time. But she was an asset to me at many of the events I attended. Saint Vincent never had a president’s wife before!” Under Jim Will’s leadership, Saint Vincent College made major progress in every aspect of its operation. “Jim had a profoundly positive impact on the operation of the College,” said Archabbot Douglas R. Nowicki, O.S.B., chancellor, “with improvements in academics, student life, financial management and institutional advancement.” In the area of academics a reorganization of 20 separate academic departments into four distinct schools was completed with the creation of The Alex G. 7

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At left, Cardinal Donald Wuerl at the inauguration of James F. Will as Saint Vincent College president. Top, left, Jim Will, Arnold Palmer, David M. Roderick and Archabbot Douglas R. Nowicki, O.S.B., at the groundbreaking of the Winnie Palmer Nature Reserve. Above, Archabbot Douglas with Jim Will and Fred Rogers in front of Aurelius Hall.

women. Student enrollment grew by more than 40 percent during the period, from 1,000 to more than 1,400, including the two largest freshman classes in the history of the college to that time enrolling in the fall of 2003 and 2004. Jim credits much of his success to hard work, trust, self-confidence and picking the right people who shared his values. “One of my great tenets is being a great servant,” he said. “Know your boss and serve him well. Set stretch goals, find the best people to work with and support them in getting the job done.” Jim met his wife, Mary Ellen, in 1961 when he went to a Sunday dance at the East Pittsburgh VFW. Her family was from Worthington, Pennsylvania. She was a fifthgrade teacher at Penn Hills School District. They dated for several years before they decided to get married in December 1964. Both of their daughters were born in Pittsburgh, Mary Beth in 1970 and Kerry in 1973. “They were young when we moved to Ohio and then to California, where they grew up. I was glad to bring them back east in 1982 to be near our families,” he added. Mary Beth went to Catholic University where she studied languages and political science and then to American University for a master’s degree in government relations. She married William Long and they reside in Old Town Alexandria where she works for the Port Authorities as a lobbyist. Kerry went to Virginia Tech for a year before deciding to transfer to Saint Vincent College in the 3-2 engineering program. She completed her industrial engineering degree at Virginia Tech, her master of business administration degree at the Joseph M. Katz Graduate School of Business at the University of Pittsburgh. She is an executive at Excel in Columbus, Ohio Mary Ellen is very busy as a volunteer, primarily with

McKenna School of Business, Economics, and Government; The School of Humanities and Fine Arts; The School of Communication, Education and Social Sciences; and The School of Natural Sciences, Mathematics and Computing. A new undergraduate degree program was added in bioinformatics and master’s degree programs were initiated in business and in education. More than $40 million in campus improvements were implemented during his presidency including construction of Saint Benedict Hall, a freshman residence hall; The Robert S. Carey Student Center, which encompasses the gymnasium, performing arts center, fitness center, student lounge, athletic department facilities, wellness center, book store, and the Mary, Mother of Wisdom Student Chapel; a new main entrance to the Alfred Hall administration center; the renovation of Aurelius Hall as the home of the McKenna School; and the construction and renovation of outdoor athletic fields and facilities. A $75 million comprehensive capital campaign was completed that included $12 million committed to the construction of The Fred M. Rogers Center for Early Learning and Children’s Media and an adjacent Business/Conference Center. Other accomplishments of the College during his tenure include the establishment of the Loe China Studies Center, The Kennametal Center for Operational Excellence, East Asian Studies Center, Center for Ethics and the expansion of the athletics programs for men and Saint Vincent Magazine

Fall and Winter 2017

Above, left, Jim Will at a special ceremony on September 24, 2003, marking the start of a $3.2 million renovation project at Aurelius Hall to accommodate the Alex G. McKenna School of Business, Economics and Government at Saint Vincent College. Taking a ceremonial sledge hammer to some concrete blocks at the ceremony were, from left, College President James F. Will; Dean of the McKenna School, Dr. Gary M. Quinlivan; the late Mrs. Wilma McKenna, widow of Alex G. McKenna; and Archabbot Douglas R. Nowicki, O.S.B. The school was formed on July 12, 2001, and honors the memory of the late industrialist, civic leader and philanthropist, a founding general partner of Kennametal Inc. At top, right he is pictured with Barbara Loe, who helped establish the Loe China Studies Center at Saint Vincent. Bottom, right, speaking at his inauguration.

the South Hills Interfaith Ministries, which does food distribution to the poor. Jim and Mary Ellen are members of Saint Louise de Marillac Roman Catholic Church in Upper St. Clair where Jim is active on the Finance Committee. Jim says that, as president of Saint Vincent, he was in a different environment and needed all the help and support he could get. “Everyone—especially the Benedictine monks—were so welcoming to us. The energetic sense of sharing, openness and giving of support was universal. We all shared a common hope—that we could make a difference. There was a perceived readiness for change. We have such a wonderful history and heritage as a Catholic, Benedictine, liberal arts college committed to the highest values and a mission to give our young men and women the best education possible. “But changing times demanded different kinds of responses and so we had much work to do in planning strategically for the future. We needed the cooperation of everyone on campus as well as much help from alumni, friends, corporations and foundations to be successful. “I presented the strategic plan and enlisted input from all at Saint Vincent. Plans were for a modest expansion of our student body and some needed campus improvements. After much thought and discussion it was approved by the board. After the plan was approved by the Board, I took it to all of our constituents Saint Vincent Magazine

to enlist their support. I am grateful for everyone’s cooperation, hard work and counsel during my time in office, he said. “It gives me great satisfaction to see the continuing success of Saint Vincent College and to know I was a small part of that.”

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From left, Sarah Malone, a junior engineering science and English major; Ande Greco, a senior engineering science and biology major; Jordan Joseph, sophomore engineering science major; Olivia Lewis, a freshman engineering major; Brian Shaffer, senior engineering science major; Jim Will, and Lindsey Izzo, a junior math/engineering 3/2 major.

SVC CELEBRATES DEDICATION, OPENING OF JAMES F. WILL ENGINEERING AND BIOMEDICAL SCIENCES HALL By Don Orlando

Saint Vincent College celebrated the dedication and formal opening of the James F. Will Engineering and Biomedical Sciences Hall on November 16. After a ceremonial groundbreaking in the spring of 2016, construction got under way on the $5.7 million, two-story, 11,260-square foot structure that is located on the northwest side of the Sis and Herman Dupré Science Pavilion. The facility is an attractive extension of the Pavilion and continues the same distinctive architectural style through the use of brick veneer, cast stone banding, window detailing and a contemporary sloped metal roof. This new structure will provide state-of-the-art classrooms and laboratories to accommodate human anatomy teaching in the biomedical sciences and dedicated space for Saint Vincent College’s growing engineering program.” The building features the Liberatore Human Anatomy Suite, the Liberatore Human Anatomy Laboratory, the Vittone Student/Faculty Research Laboratory, the VuNguyen Senior Projects Laboratory, a sterilization/prep room, three faculty offices and two locker rooms on the first floor. The Stephans Computer Modeling Laboratory, Kennametal Foundation Conference Room and Library, an engineering design laboratory, interdisciplinary classroom, three faculty offices and the Yodel lounge are located on the second floor. The human anatomy laboratory provides cutting-edge, high-tech facilities for anatomical research. The ultramodern laboratory is designed as a flexible space that can Saint Vincent Magazine

accommodate up to six surgical stations in a simulated operating room environment. The facility features advanced audio and video capabilities, including a teaching station equipped with cameras and monitors to enhance instruction. Support facilities for the human anatomy laboratory include a technologically-equipped conference room, a lab preparation space, a refrigerated storage area and spacious locker and changing rooms. In addition to providing education and research opportunities for the college’s undergraduate programs, the human anatomy laboratory also will provide critical resources to fulfill the contemporary training needs of the health professions and medical device suppliers. Undergraduate students enrolled at Saint Vincent will have the opportunity to work as laboratory assistants in this new endeavor. There are three engineering laboratories in the new building: a materials lab, an engineering design lab and an open space lab where students can work on their projects. Students will also have access to equipment for research and plenty of space for more to come. Major private donors to the building include James F. Will, Ralph Liberatore and the Allegheny Foundation. This new structure is part of the Sis and Herman Dupré Science Pavilion and builds upon the environmental sustainability standards of that LEED Gold structure. It will share a geothermal heating and cooling system, LED lighting within an energy efficient building environment. General architect for the project was MacLachlan, Cornelius and Filoni of Pittsburgh. General contractor was Jendoco. Project consultant was H.F. Lenz Co. 10

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LIBERATORE HUMAN ANATOMY LAB PART OF NEW SCIENCES HALL

Saint Vincent students in the health sciences, including nologically-equipped conference room, a lab preparation the integrated science major (see page 25), will have acspace, a refrigerated storage area and locker and changcess to a new, high-tech facility for instruction and reing rooms. “Ralph’s vision for the Liberatore Human Anatomy Lab search with the opening of the Liberatore Human Anatomy will help to further distinguish Saint Vincent as a nationally Lab, which is part of the new James F. Will Engineering recognized institution of higher education with a strong and Biomedical Sciences Hall. Ralph Liberatore, a member of the Saint Vincent College foundation in the sciences,” said Brother Norman Hipps, O.S.B., president, Board of Directors, including the new is founder of Three major, which reRivers Orthopedic and Spine, Inc., sponds to the which provides surchanging health care environment and the geons in the regional diversity of careers area with the tools emerging in the and techniques medical field. needed to integrate Saint Vincent technology to impartners with the prove medical outExcela Health School comes and enhance of Anesthesia on patient care. fully-accredited Technology has master’s and doctorproduced profound changes in the al programs in nurse health care industry anesthesia practice over the past few that recruit nationdecades and Three ally for candidates. Rivers is an indeIn keeping with Ralph and Donna Liberatore the businesspendent distributor education of technology-based ALPH’S VISION FOR THE LIBERATORE HUMAN partnership medical devices and ANATOMY LAB WILL HELP TO FURTHER supporting its serves as the excludevelopment, the sive sales agent in DISTINGUISH SAINT VINCENT AS A NATIONALLY Liberatore Human the Mid-Atlantic area for Stryker, Inc., one RECOGNIZED INSTITUTION OF HIGHER EDUCATION WITH A Anatomy Lab also is available for of the world’s leadSTRONG FOUNDATION IN THE SCIENCES. use by physicians, ing manufacturers of —BROTHER NORMAN HIPPS, O.S.B., PRESIDENT health care agencies medical technology. and medical From its headquardevice companies ters in Latrobe, for surgical training sessions, continuing medical Three Rivers has grown to approximately 160 employees education and research. The facility is staffed with a and three offices strategically located in Pennsylvania, full-time laboratory manager, Krista Jobe, C’07, a Saint Ohio and West Virginia to reach the major medical and Vincent alumna with a wealth of experience. A team of community centers in these states. undergraduate students in the health sciences serve as With that experience, Liberatore has been instrumental in developing the plans for the Liberatore Human Anatomy laboratory assistants. “The completion of the engineering and biomedical Lab in collaboration with regional doctors and health care sciences hall further distinguishes Saint Vincent,” noted organizations. Brother Norman, “and provides opportunities to expand The new lab has a flexible design that can accommothe College’s partnerships with health care organizations, date up to six surgical stations in a simulated operatbusiness and industry.” The James F. Will Engineering and ing environment and features advanced audio and video Biomedical Sciences Hall is a two-story addition to the capabilities, including a teaching station with cameras recently completed $45 million Dupré Science Pavilion. and multiple monitors. Support facilities include a tech-

“R

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Archabbot Douglas R. Nowicki, O.S.B., John J. Degnan and his wife, Mary, and the Most Rev. Edward C. Malesic, Bishop of the Diocese of Greensburg, at the 50th annual Red Mass. Degnan’s wife is 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. At right, Degnan gives the Red Mass address.

John J. Degnan, C’66, Gives Red Mass Address

ohn J. Degnan, chairman of the board of commissioners of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, and member of the Saint Vincent College Board of Directors, gave the 50th annual Red Mass address. The Red Mass, sponsored by the Diocese of Greensburg and Saint Vincent Archabbey, College and Seminary, is celebrated to invoke God’s blessings upon the members of the bench, bar and all protectors and administrators of the law. In his introduction of the speaker, College Counsel Bruce Antkowiak, C’74, called Degnan “a ‘Saint Vincent lawyer,’ citing British author Simon Sinek, who wrote about why certain companies become great and others simply make products. Viewing a business or profession as three concentric circles, Sinek wrote that the outer circle represents the product the company produces; the inner circle, the how, or process they use. “But great companies, and great people, focus more on the most inner circle and ask themselves why they are doing this. If the why is a vision that whatever they do must be rooted in a strong, value-laden base, and if there is a premium put on making their efforts noble in the best sense of that word, the rest of what they do has the chance for greatness,” Antkowiak said. “When I think of Saint Vincent lawyers, I think of people who fully understand the why of practicing law,” such as John J. Degnan. Saint Vincent has “played such a central role in my life, as a student and thereafter,” Degnan said, noting that ”the Benedictines are, after all, a group of men who pledge to live in accordance with the Rule of Saint Benedict, in service to God, men and women, students and community. I am just one of thousands of products of their dedication to teach—in a value-centered manner—how to live a life of productivity, raise a family and hopefully contribute to community.” Degnan cited two books, God’s Incredible Mercy (George A. Maloney), and The Name of God is Mercy, as Saint Vincent Magazine

he related the topic mercy and its role in the administration of justice. “For most of my life, like most people I suspect, I had viewed ‘mercy’ as a value or attribute, separate and apart from justice, but as something which should ‘temper,’ even suffuse, justice,” he said. After reading the second book, based on interviews with Pope Francis, Degnan said that and the centrality of mercy to justice became more clear. “If, indeed, God is mercy and, in his righteousness, embodies justice, then true justice cannot exist in the absence of mercy. And that is something those of us who operate, or function, in our earthly administration of justice, should never lose sight of.” In that context, he said, “God does not just engage in ‘mercy.’ Rather, he is mercy itself and acts always with us, and sometimes even through us in grace and holiness, to heal and regenerate human beings. It is no surprise that most of the ‘acts’ of mercy effected by Jesus were administered to the afflicted, alienated or marginalized, members of society in which he lived. And they were not acts of what Father Maloney characterized as condescending pity but rather of compassionate mercy which, obviously, should be our guidepost today. “God is also righteous, of course, and in the process of administering justice infused with mercy, we should not apologize for our roles in a humanly devised system, which establishes rules and which punishes deviation from those rules, so long as that punishment is measured, just and designed to allow for rehabilitation.” Quoting Saint John’s first Epistle, Degnan said, “If anyone says, ‘my love is fixed on God,’ yet hates his brother, he is a liar. One who has no love for the brother he has seen cannot love the God he has not seen. The commandment we have from him is this: whoever loves God must also love his brother (1 Jn 4:20-22).” 12

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Addiction Study Goes Public Heroin users used cocaine, LSD and prescription drugs at a statistically significant younger age than non-heroin users. Of 55 respondents who drank under the age of 15, all moved onto marijuana within a ye ar; 95 percent to cocaine use; 80 percent to abuse prescription medication; 82 percent to use heroin. Those who used marijuana under the age of 15 (85 of 158) used alcohol (76 percent), cocaine (82 percent), prescription medication (78 percent) and heroin (98 percent).

Dr.

Eric Kocian, assistant professor of criminology, law and society, and Dr. John Lewis of the criminology and criminal justice department at Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP), presented the results of two yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; worth of work on the opioid crisis in western Pennsylvania by Saint Vincent researchers at a recent public forum. A record 174 persons died of overdoses in Westmoreland County in 2016. As of early August of this year the number was 66 confirmed overdose cases and 49 pending. Kocian and his students were featured in the summer 2016 Saint Vincent Magazine for their work on the project, which was done with the cooperation of Westmoreland County officials. Kocian and his group conducted extensive clinical interviews of 158 addiction sufferers in jails, rehabilitation facilities and outpatient clinics to gain insight into the factors critical to sound public policy determinations on the effective means of prevention and treatment of addiction. Kocian and his students previously presented the results of their findings to high-ranking Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) and Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) officials and agents as part of a task force investigation because of the prevalence of heroin use in Westmoreland County. Understanding the age for onset of drug use, the course of addiction behaviors and the progression of usage of various drugs can help with prevention programs with treatment programs, and with drug law enforcement. Lewis helped

Saint Vincent Magazine

Fall and Winter 2017

Kocian analyze the research, exploring the pathways to which was conducted using addiction, interviewers asked hat Dr. Kocian is trying rigorous academic stanabout treatment methods, to accomplish such as methadone maintedards applicable in the social sciences. Kocian earned a nance or a halfway house, in this ongoing effort master of arts degree, and a and effectiveness of each. represents the best of doctorate degree in criminol“The two treatments that what the Criminology were seen as being the most ogy from IUP under Lewis’ effective,” Kocian said, “were direction. Department and all of if they spoke to a member A number of years ago, Saint Vincent College of the clergy or church, and Westmoreland County Detecstands for. It is an effort if they went to Narcotics tive Tony Marcocci spoke to Anonymous. These received Kocian about heroin overfirmly within the legacy of the highest praise and may doses and the two began the Benedictine tradition which have been given such high trying to figure out what they could do to stop these deaths. seeks to bring the full range of insights the liberal evaluations because in these Heroin, according to Marcocci, arts can give us to a deeply human problem that places, perhaps we are getting to the root of the is “the deadliest and most adthe teachings of Catholic social justice requires us problem and addressing the dictive drug he has witnessed serious issues. It is our belief in his lifetime ... The addictive to address.” —Bruce Antkowiak, Professor of Law and Chair that addiction is a by-product properties and the toll it takes of the Criminology Department of something else happenon the individual and society as a whole makes the cocaine ing in the individual.” He also and crack epidemic of the 1980s and 1990s seem minimal in noted that clergy members were perceived as less judgcomparison, with all due respect,” Kocian said. mental by the study participants. The conversation led to the idea of a detailed and clini“The SVC department of criminology is really on the cutting edge of this,” Kocian said. “There is nothing like cal study of people who were addicted. A team of student this being done anywhere else; no literature that looks at interviewers, which included Olivia Matthews, C’16; Jada addicts to this extent. People should know it is more of a Pannell, C’16; Samantha Harris, C’16; Chris Winkler, C’17; disease than a choice. I don’t think we’ve spoken to one Dylan Adams, C’16; Jacob Maxwell Noonan, C’16 and Maperson who said this is the path they wanted to be on.” rie Lotto, C’15, began working with Kocian on the details. “What Dr. Kocian is trying to accomplish in this ongoing “These seven individuals and I spent hours upon hours effort represents the best of what the Criminology in the early mornings before class and in the evenings after class honing our listening and interview skills with Department and all of Saint Vincent College stands for,” techniques I acquired during my time with the FBI and said Bruce Antkowiak, professor of law and chair of the with other research projects,” Kocian said. Criminology Department at Saint Vincent. “It is an effort The goal of the survey was to outline and prioritize the firmly within the legacy of the Benedictine tradition which pathways to addiction and to identify intercept points seeks to bring the full range of insights the liberal arts can within these pathways where timely and appropriate ingive us to a deeply human problem that the teachings of Catholic social justice require us to address.” terventions can be established which provide alternative Kocian and his group will continue the study and refine options and supports. The final sample from the voluntary its goals and outcomes in the future. interviews was 158 persons, two-thirds male and one—Kim Metzgar third female, with an age range of 18 to 63. In addition to

“W

Saint Vincent Magazine

Fall and Winter 2017

Science @ SVC | The Saint Vincent Difference By Jerome Oetgen

he tradition of high-quality programs based on faithful commitment to Catholic and Benedictine values, the liberal arts, and rigorous scientific methodology make The Saint Vincent Difference. This is the reason that hundreds of students have come to Saint Vincent to pursue academic majors in the sciences and mathematics, and have then gone on to successful careers in their chosen fields. • On the U.S. Department of Education’s third annual College Scorecard, Saint Vincent was noted to have a graduation rate of 72 percent, well above the national average of 42 percent. Students Who Return After Their First Year was an impressive 87 percent, again well above the national average of 68 percent. • Saint Vincent College is ranked first in Pennsylvania, and in the top 5 percent of colleges nationwide, among the Best Colleges for the Money by College Factual, which notes Saint Vincent’s great value, 12:1 student-faculty ratio, high freshman retention and on-time graduation rates, and low loan default rate. • Saint Vincent College is ranked sixth of 24 Catholic colleges in Pennsylvania, according to a new ranking released by Niche.com. The 2017 Best Catholic Colleges are leading academic institutions that offer students an education and college experience rooted in Catholic traditions and faith. • For the eightth consecutive year, Saint Vincent College has been ranked in the first tier of National Liberal Arts Colleges in the 2018 edition of U.S. News & World Report’s Best Colleges Guidebook. See usnews.com for more information. The U.S. News and World Report’s ranking is based on 16 key measures of quality, including peer assessment, graduation and retention rates, faculty resources, student selectivity and financial resources. • In its annual ranking of America’s Top Colleges, Forbes business magazine again listed Saint Vincent College, also placing it No. 104 in Grateful Grads, a measure based on the concept that the best colleges produce successful people who make enough money in their careers to be charitable and give back to their alma mater. • Saint Vincent College was ranked on Washington Monthly’s national list of best Liberal

Saint Vincent Magazine

Fall and Winter 2017

Science @ SVC | The Saint Vincent Difference FALL 2017

Arts Colleges based on social mobility, research and service, as well as listed in its “Best Bang for the Buck” in the Northeast, in the publication’s 2017 rankings. • In the publication Is College Worth It? New York Times best-selling author William J. Ben-

Biomedical Sciences Hall, Human Anatomy Lab To Open

nett and David Wilezol, identify Saint Vincent as one of only 43 “Schools Worth Attending,” and is the only Catholic college and the only Pennsylvania college among the private schools listed.Saint Vincent has also earned kudos from Forbes magazine as one of “America’s Best Colleges,” Nerd-

SPRING 2017

Scholar as one of Pennsylvania’s “BiggestBang-for-Your-Buck Colleges” and Barron’s as one of the “Best Buys in College Education”. An integral part of the Benedictine tradition is the search for truth through the liberal arts and sci-

New Majors In Computing, Information Systems

ences in the broad spiritual context of ultimate meaning and moral values. This approach to education makes

THE SAINT VINCENT DIFFERENCE.

James F. Will Biomedical Sciences Hall

Saint Vincent’s commitment to high-quality programming in science is underscored by the its $45 million investment in the 110,000-square-foot Sis and Herman Dupré Science Pavilion, completed in 2015. The Science Pavilion is a state-of-the-art educational facility that provides classrooms, laboratories and offices for the Herbert W. Boyer School of Natural Sciences, Mathematics and Computing.

SUMMER 2016

In his inspiring letter Laudato si’, Pope Francis praises God for the diversity of His creation, calls on all people to care for the Earth, our common home, and identifies an “urgent need for radical change” in the philosophy of education: “Our generation will show that it can rise to the promise found in each young

Ground broken For James F. Will Biomedical Sciences Hall

person, when we know how to give them space. This means that we have to create the material and spiritual conditions for their full development; to give them a solid basis on which to build their lives; to guarantee

DECEMBER 2015

their safety and their education to be everything they can be.” To create such material and spiritual conditions for the full de-

First 12 DNAP Program Majors Graduate

velopment of young people continues to be the primary purpose of the education offered at Saint Vincent. And it is just this kind of compelling

James F. Will Biomedical Sciences Hall

Saint Vincent Magazine

integrated vision of education that Cardinal

Fall and Winter 2017

Science @ SVC | The Saint Vincent Difference Donald Wuerl described in his 2013 com-

FALL 2014

mencement address at Saint Vincent: “Science and technology have brought mankind enormous progress, but science and technology by themselves will not save us…

Monastery Run Improvement: 20 Years

Science without ethics, art without spirituality, technology without human moral values, materiality without transcendence remain branches in search of a vine. All the branches must be con-

FALL 2013

nected to the vine of truth and this includes revealed truth, God’s Word. Part of our rootedness, part of the plant, part of the whole arrangement, if you will, includes the spiritual dimension of human life with the moral values that follow in realization that we do not live by bread alone.”

The Saint Vincent Difference is the embodiment of this integrated vision of a

New Engineering Science Program

Catholic Benedictine education in the liberal arts and sciences. Today Saint Vincent students have a broad range of science majors to choose from. The basic disciplines—biology, chemistry, physics—are foundational, but in addition, students at the college can major in biochemistry, bioinformatics, biotechnology, environmental chemistry, physics education, computing and information science, engineering science, integrated science, pharmacy, physical therapy, physician assistant and pre-health.

FALL 2013

Since 1985 more than 800 students, after graduating with science degrees from Saint Vincent, have gone on to complete graduate degrees in medicine and other health-related professions. Hundreds of others have embarked on professional careers in engineering, computing, teaching and other science-related

Nurse Anesthesia Doctoral Program Begins

fields. The long Benedictine tradition of excellence in the study of science at Saint Vincent continues into the 21st century as the College embarks upon its “Forward, Always

FALL 2013

Forward!” campaign to provide quality undergraduate and graduate education for men and women that will enable them to “integrate their professional aims with the broader purposes of human life.”

Saint Vincent Magazine

Four-Year Engineering Program Offered

Fall and Winter 2017

Science @ SVC | The Saint Vincent Difference

ON THE GLOBAL STAGE

SUMMER 2013 Sis and Herman Dupré Pavilion Dedicated

WINTER 2012 Environmental Center and Greenhouse Completed

SPRING 2012 Physics, Chemistry Wings Renovated

SUMMER 2011 Sis and Herman Dupré Science Pavilion Opening

erbert W. Boyer, C’58, D’81, is among Saint Vincent College’s most notable alumni.

Internationally known for his work in genetics, he was a key developer of recombinant DNA technology, proving that genetically engineered DNA molecules could be cloned in foreign cells. The result of this discovery was a long series of rapid advances in molecular genetics and biochemistry that have led to the development of numerous life-saving drugs. Dr. Boyer is professor emeritus of biochemistry and biophysics at the University of California at San Francisco and co-founder of Genentech, Inc., the industry-leading biotechnology company he started in DR. HERBERT W. BOYER, C’58 1976 with the late venture capitalist Robert Swanson. biology and chemistry major A native of Derry, Pennsylvania—located only 8 miles from Saint Vincent—Dr. Boyer graduated from Saint Vincent in 1958 with a double major in biology and chemistry. He credits the late Father Joel Lieb, O.S.B., former chair of the Saint Vincent biology department, for inspiring his interest in genetics. As a student in Father Joel’s biology class, Boyer was assigned the task of preparing a seminar presentation on DNA. The research he did on this project triggered a lifelong interest in the science of genetics. After graduating from Saint Vincent, Dr. Boyer continued his studies at the University of Pittsburgh, where he earned both a master’s and a doctoral degree in biochemistry. He then spent three years doing post-graduate research at Yale University. From Yale Dr. Boyer joined the faculty of the University of California at San Francisco, where he became Professor of Biochemistry in 1976. It was at UCSF that he discovered genes from bacteria could be combined with genes from eukaryotes (an organism consisting of cells in which the genetic material is DNA in the form of chromosomes contained within a distinct nucleus). This was a breakthrough discovery that allowed him to produce synthetic insulin by using his new genetically modified bacteria. In 2004, Business Week magazine named him one of the “Greatest Innovators of the Past 75 Years” and Parade Magazine listed him one of the “Ten Most Important Innovators Who Transformed the World.” He was featured on the cover of Time magazine in 1981 with a story entitled, “Shaping Life in the Lab: The Boom in Genetic Engineering, Genentech’s Herb Boyer.” Among the prestigious awards Dr. Boyer has received as a result of his ground-breaking research and discoveries are the Albert Lasker Award for Basic Medical Research (1980), the National Medal of Science presented at the White House by President George H.W. Bush in 1990, the LemelsonMIT Prize (1996), the Albany Medical Prize (2004), the Shaw Prize in Life Sciences and Medicine (2004) and the Medal of Technology. In 1989 Dr. Boyer and his wife, Grace, made a generous gift to Saint Vincent College that created student scholarships in memory of Mrs. Boyer’s father, T.L. Hensler, and her brother, Timothy. These scholarships provide students who have demonstrated academic and leadership potential the opportunity. In 2007, Saint Vincent renamed the school Herbert W. Boyer School School of Natural Science, Mathematics and Computing. —Jerome Oetgen

Saint Vincent Magazine

Fall and Winter 2017

Science @ SVC | The Saint Vincent Difference

LAYING A FOUNDATION

FALL 2011

is and Herman Dupré are among Saint Vincent’s strongest supporters and life-long friends. Associated with Saint Vincent for many years, their continued support and commitment have made it possible for the college to construct the largest and most ambitious building project in its 170year history: the Sis & Herman Dupré Science Pavilion. A 1953 graduate, Herman Dupré earned a B.S. degree in chemistry from Saint Vincent before serving as a U.S. Coast Guard officer on a cutter in Alaska. In 1955, he took over his family business at Seven Springs Resort sis DUPRé and herman dupré, C’53, in Champion, Pennsylvania, and two years later CHEMISTRY MAJOR married Mary “Sis” McSwigan. Together the Duprés transformed Seven Springs—located in the beautiful hills of southwestern Pennsylvania—into an internationally-known, year-round ski resort. In addition to skiing, the resort introduced hiking, biking and riding trails, activities reminiscent of the Bavarian countryside of Herman’s immigrant mother and father. An inventor and entrepreneur, Herman Dupré is known as “the father of snowmaking.” He invented the HKD snowmaking system—the first practical snowmaking machine—and he holds 34 U.S. patents for the system that is used at ski resorts throughout the world. He developed one of the largest snowmaking systems in the world at Seven Springs, serving as chief executive officer of Seven Springs for 40 years prior to his retirement in 1992. In 1998 Saint Vincent College honored Herman Dupré with a Doctor of Science degree, honoris causa. The former Mary “Sis” McSwigan was originally from Pittsburgh and enjoyed an outstanding career as a teacher of English and physical education in the Pittsburgh City School System.Ski Magazine has recognized them as one of the “Five First Families of American Skiing.” The couple has nine daughters— Denise, Laura, Rosi, Anni, Janeen, Heidi, Gretl, Michele and Reneé. Sis and Herman Dupré have always recognized the importance of education, especially the role played by high school teachers in guiding youth, and they have supported Saint Vincent College in this common goal. They established the College’s Great Teacher Recognition Program, which recognizes the influential secondary school teachers of Saint Vincent freshmen. They provided essential support for the Sis and Herman Dupré Science Pavilion, which was the largest building project in Saint Vincent College history. “Probably the thing I remember most is the good fellowship that I had with some of the Benedictine priests,” Herman Dupré said. “Father Joel Lieb, Father Wilfred Dumm, Father Aelred Beck became what I call “comps”—compadres in Italian—who would do anything for you. They were very kind to us in the classroom and outside of it. It was just such a great experience during all four years. Even though I always went home on the weekends to help my father at Seven Springs, I made the most of it and the school was super good to me. Sis and I have nothing but good feelings for Saint Vincent.” —Jerome Oetgen

Saint Vincent Magazine

Dr. Frank J. Luparello Lecture Hall Dedicated

SUMMER 2009 Dr. John R. Mazero Science Center Announced

SUMMER 2009 Angelo J. Taiani Planetarium Announced

SPRING 2009

Ground Broken For Sis and Herman Dupré Pavilion

Fall and Winter 2017

Science @ SVC | The Saint Vincent Difference

OUTSTANDING PHYSICIAN, GENEROUS BENEFACTOR Dr. Frank J. Luparello, C’49, was chief of medicine at Mercy Hospital, Pittsburgh, and clinical professor of medicine at the University of Pittsburgh’s school of medicine. His illustrious medical career, which spanned more than 50 years, began as an undergraduate pre-med student at Saint Vincent. The Dr. Frank Luparello Lecture Hall pays tribute to him as an outstanding teacher and physician and a generous benefactor of Saint Vincent. The late Dr. Luparello received the Sister M. Ferdinand Clark Chair in Medicine at Mercy Hospital, Pittsburgh. He received numerous honors and awards, including Alumnus of Distinction Award and the Doctorate Honoris Causa (Doctor of Science) from Saint Vincent College, the Distinguished Alumni Award

FRANK J. LUPARELLO LECTURE HALL

from Jeannette High School and the Lifetime Achievement Award from the University of Pittsburgh.

THE ANGELO TAIANI PLANETARIUM AND ASTRONAUT EXHIBIT Angelo J. Taiani graduated from Saint Vincent in 1948 with a bachelor’s degree in chemistry. A Latrobe native, he graduated from Latrobe High School and was the first one in his family to attend college. Taiani then went on to serve in the U.S. Navy during World War II and retired as a Navy commander with four decades of service in the reserves. He had a 34-year career as a space engineer at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA).He worked in test support at Cape Canaveral and later served at the Kennedy Space Center on the Juno Project. He was a project officer for the first 10 Jupiter launches. He then spent many years working in support of the Space Shuttle program. His generous gift to Saint Vincent made possible the state-of-the-art planetarium named in his honor, as well as the astronaut exhibit, located in the Sis and Herman Dupré Science Pavilion. The planetarium features the latest digital technology that can project the nighttime sky and take viewers on a tour of the solar system.

Saint Vincent Magazine

ANGELO J. TAIANI PLANETARIUM

Fall and Winter 2017

Science @ SVC | The Saint Vincent Difference

COMMITMENT TO SCIENCE

“T

he new science pavilion at Saint Vincent College is more than just a building. It’s a symbol of the school’s commitment to science education. I am particularly impressed by the facility’s innovative design elements—inspired by science and math themes—alongside its multi-use labs where different sciences can cross-pollinate their methods, tools and ideas toward a greater understanding of the physical world. The country needs this right now.” Dr. Neil Tyson at entrance to Sis and Herman Dupré Science Pavilion

—NEIL DEGRASSE TYSON ASTROPHYSICIST, AMERICAN MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY DIRECTOR, HAYDEN PLANETARIUM IN NEW YORK CITY

BENEDICTINE TRADITION IN THE NATURAL SCIENCES

enedictine educators have always recognized that science and mathematics are important means by which humans come to both an intellectual and spiritual understanding of God’s creation, and for that reason the natural sciences have played a prominent role in the curriculum of Saint Vincent College for 170 years. This emphasis on science is an outgrowth of the Benedictine tradition that assigns

a special mission to scientists to explore and examine the physical universe and the life it contains, and to find meaning in them. Over the years, this tradition has been embodied at Saint Vincent by Benedictine teachers whose faith, academic expertise, disciplined work ethic and dedicated teaching have enabled the College to develop strong programs with a nationally-recognized reputation for quality in the natural sciences and mathematics. Generations of Saint Vincent students have benefited from the academic instruction and spiritual guidance provided by such Benedictine professors as Father Edward Wenstrup, Father Joel Lieb, Father Owen Roth, Father Maximilian Duman, Father Bertin Emling, Father Roland Heid and others who continue their work today. The contributions made by these educators provide a rich heritage for the College and serve as a basis and guide for the continued growth and high quality of Saint Vincent’s programs in the natural sciences, mathematics, computing and engineering. Boniface Wimmer’s primary purpose in establishing a school at Saint Vincent was to train priests to provide pastoral care for immigrants in America. But his educational program was not limited to theological and pastoral training. In 1852, six years (Continued on Page 22)

Saint Vincent Magazine

archabbot boniface wimmer, o.s.b.

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Science @ SVC | The Saint Vincent Difference (Continued from Page 21)

after he arrived at Saint Vincent, Wimmer wrote King Ludwig I of Bavaria: “I believe that … not only religion but also science and art ought to proceed from the clergy, and especially from the monasteries.” Wimmer was an educator devoted to the classical tradition of the liberal arts and sciences, and he regarded study of the sciences as integral to the education of a well-rounded person, whether priest or layman. He also considered the scientific study of the natural world an essential means of understanding and appreciating the wonder and beauty of God’s creation.

MEDICAL TRAINING FOR SAINT VINCENT MONKS Wimmer himself had undertaken the scientific study of homeopathic medicine in his youth and practiced homeopathy to cure the ailments of monks and students at Saint Vincent. He trained other monks in its practice, and in the 1850s served as president of the Western Pennsylvania Society of Homeopathic Doctors. Often considered today an ineffective way of treating illness, homeopathy was widely regarded in Wimmer’s time as the cutting edge of medical science. Other 19th-century Saint Vincent monks were trained in more traditional forms of medicine. Brother Bonaventure Gaul, O.S.B. (1829-1896), served in the Hospital Corps of the Union Army of the Potomac during the Civil War and was trained in military hospitals during the war. In 1865 he returned to Saint Vincent where he functioned as infirmarian for 30 years, caring for sick and injured students and faculty alike. Father Edwin Pierron, O.S.B. (1846-1930), professor of Latin and English at Saint Vincent, studied

FATHER Edwin Pierron, o.s.b., PH.D.

medicine and received his M.D. from St. Louis University in 1882, while Father Virgil Niesslein, O.S.B. (1875-1942), professor of physics, chemistry, and mathematics, earned an M.D. degree from Johns Hopkins University in 1896.

TEACHING SCIENCE AT SAINT VINCENT IN THE 19TH CENTURY Saint Vincent’s earliest college catalogs as well as documents in the archives show that the study of science was an integral part of the curriculum from the earliest years. The monks themselves taught virtually all of the courses, but in 1859, a lay professor, Rudolph Müller, was employed to offer courses in general science, physics, chemistry and astronomy. A convert from Prussia, he held a German university doctorate. Succeeding Dr. Müller in 1862, Father Alphonse Heimler, O.S.B. (1832-1909), taught chemistry, physics and astronomy in the college for the next eight years. Born in Bavaria, Heimler attended high school in Regensburg and studied at the University of Würzburg before coming to Saint Vincent. After ordination, Wimmer sent him to Georgetown for graduate studies in physics and astronomy. At Georgetown he earned a master’s degree, the first Saint Vincent monk to receive a graduate degree from an American university. After his graduate studies, Father Alphonse returned to Saint Vincent to teach, and in 1862, Wimmer named him president of the college, a job he held for 10 years while continuing to teach physics, chemistry and astronomy. Under Father Alphonse, chemistry and physics laboratories were introduced at Saint Vincent, and the college received a charter from the legislature of Pennsylvania “to educate youth in the

father Alphonse Heimler, o.s.b., ph.d.

various branches of science, literature and the arts” and “to grant and confer such degrees in the arts and sciences…as are granted in other colleges and universities in the United States.” The textbooks used in the physics courses at Saint Vincent during the 19th century were A Compen-

dium of Natural Philosophy by Yale professor Denison Olmsted (New York: Howe, 1833) and A Natural Philosophy, Embracing the Most Recent Discoveries in the Various Branches of Physics by George P. Quackenbos (New York: Appleton, 1863). In 1871 Father Adalbert Müller, O.S.B. (1832-1906), succeeded Father Alphonse as professor of science at Saint Vincent. He had studied at the Sapienza University in Rome, where he earned a degree in theology while pursuing studies in mathematics, astronomy and physics, and before returning to the U.S., he spent a year in Regensburg, Bavaria, studying physics and astronomy. Father Adalbert taught physics, chemistry and astronomy at Saint Vincent College until 1885. In 1888, he became a founding faculty member at the Benedictine University of Sant’ Anselmo in Rome, where he served as professor of theology and physics in the school and prior in the monastery. (Continued on Page 24) Saint Vincent Magazine

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Science @ SVC | The Saint Vincent Difference

BENEDICTINE TRADITION TODAY

rother Albert Gahr, O.S.B., Ph.D., C’95, S’12, studied biology, with a chemistry minor, at Saint Vincent College, earning a bachelor of science degree.

He was accepted to graduate school at West Virginia University, where he

earned a doctorate in genetics and developmental biology in 2002, focusing on the molecular regulation of muscle development in chickens. He continued post-doctoral research studying rainbow trout genomics in West Virginia at the USDA’s National Center for Cool and Cold Water Aquaculture. After his post-doctoral work he continued with the USDA as a research geneticist. His work in the sciences was temporarily interrupted when he discerned a call to monastic life, and returned to Saint Vincent as a novice monk in 2008. He made simple profession of monastic vows in 2009, then entered the Seminary a year later, earning a master of arts degree in monastic studies in 2012, the year he professed solemn vows to the monastic community. Once he professed vows he resumed his work in biology, serving as a laboratory assistant in the Biology Department. Once solemnly professed, he joined the faculty full-time and has the rank of assistant professor.

BROTHER ALBERT GAHR, O.S.B., PH.D.

Brother Albert has continued to work with both the fish and the chicken as research models for development in general and specifically continuing work with muscle development. The chicken research is limited to analysis of the chickens during embryonic development. He has downsized from the trout to the much smaller zebrafish, and has built the Saint Vincent Aquaculture Center to provide zebrafish for several research projects that look at muscle regrowth under various conditions, fin regeneration and analysis of the effects of mine water drainage on growth and development of the fish. He received the Quentin Schaut Faculty Award, which recognizes contributions, leadership and achievements of a junior faculty member to the curriculum and life of the College. Besides teaching, supervising student research projects during the fall and spring terms and establishing his own research program, he serves as a co-principal investigator for a National Science Foundation S-STEM grant in biology. Dr. John Smetanka, vice president for academic affairs, noted that students recognized Brother Albert’s passion for biology, his respect for his students and his concern for students’ mastering complex scientific information. Father Shawn Matthew Anderson, O.S.B., Ph.D., S’07, was a pharmacist when he felt a call to monastic life and priesthood. After earning a bachelor of science in pharmacy degree from Duquesne University in 1992 and working in pharmacy, he came to Saint Vincent in 2001 as a novice, making simple vows a year later. He professed solemn vows in 2005, and earned a master of divinity degree from Saint Vincent Seminary in 2007, the same year he was ordained to the priesthood. In 2008, he started graduate studies at Virginia Commonwealth University, earning his Ph.D. in pharmacology in 2013. Upon his return to Saint Vincent in 2013 he was named to the college faculty, where he serves as an assistant professor of biology. His work includes a variety of studies, including that of a student who collected data showing that mice that listened to Gregorian Chant music 3 hours a day for a total of 3 weeks showed reduced depression-like behavior than other mice. Adolescent Zebrafish fish previously exposed to nicotine during the larval phase exhibited higher levels of anxiety-like behavior than Zebrafish without previous nicotine exposure.

father SHAWN ANDERSON, O.S.B., Ph.D. Saint Vincent Magazine

Fall and Winter 2017

Science @ SVC | The Saint Vincent Difference (Continued from Page 22)

Faculty and Curriculum Development During his years teaching at Saint Vincent, Father Adalbert Müller increased the number of courses in physics, chemistry and astronomy. One course in physics was now required of students in the college’s commercial department; one course in physics and one in chemistry in the college’s classical department and one year of chemistry and astronomy and two of physics were required of the seminarians in the theological department. Father Mark Kirchner, O.S.B. (1856-1893) began teaching physics in 1875 and took over astronomy from Father Adalbert in 1886. To prepare for his teaching responsibilities, Father Mark had studied at the Stephens Institute in Hoboken, New Jersey, one of several American institutions of higher education devoted exclusively to the study of science and engineering. About the same time, Father Chrysostom Lochschmidt, O.S.B. (1858-1937), after three summers of study at Harvard, joined the college faculty as professor of chemistry and physiology, and Father Edwin Pierron came on as professor of botany. For the first three decades of the college, the only science courses taught at Saint Vincent were physics, astronomy and chemistry. In 1876, however, a threeyear science curriculum was introduced for students who wanted to pursue the medical profession. In the first year students studied chemistry, botany and physics; in the second, physics and qualitative chemistry; and in the third, astronomy, geology, zoology, anatomy and physiology.

and were exclusively lecture courses, but class sessions in physics and chemistry were held two or three times a week and included laboratory sessions. For part of one year, the course in anatomy included the dissection of a cadaver, but when the archabbot and his council heard of this, they ordered that the body be buried and no further dissections take place. (At the time Church law prohibited the “desecration” of human bodies.) In the 1880s and 1890s increasing numbers of Saint Vincent monks were sent out to universities in the United States to pursue graduate studies in physics and chemistry and returned to teach on the faculty of Saint Vincent College. Among them were • Father Theophilus Plent, O.S.B., (1865-c.1930) who taught chemistry, physics and astronomy in the college in the 1890s; • Father Virgil Niesslein, O.S.B. (1875-1942), professor of chemistry and physics, who studied at the Vatican Observatory in Rome and earned an M.D. from Johns Hopkins University; • Father Alcuin Maucher, O.S.B. (1863-1913), who taught chemistry and physics and set up the first telephone at Saint Vincent; and • Father Mark Kistner, O.S.B. (1875-1967), who studied chemistry at Columbia University and taught that subject for over 50 years at Saint Vincent College. Father Mark developed a method for purification of mine water by means of furnace slag in an effort to reclaim the streams in western Pennsylvania destroyed by pollution from coal mines.

Several of these courses were taught only once a week

Saint Vincent Magazine

(Continued on Page 28)

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Science @ SVC | The Saint Vincent Difference

INTEGRATED SCIENCE PROGRAM IS INTERDISCIPLINARY By Adam Reger

Finally, the Science, Technology and Society concentra-

Saint Vincent College’s

tion offers a broad focus on science for students interested

Integrated Science

in a career related to science, such as environmental law or

program, established

science journalism. Fish characterized the concentration as

in 2015, arose as

“liberal arts for scientists” because it includes core science

a response to

classes along with a broad array of classes from across the

the increas-

college.

ingly interdis-

Integrated Science majors of all concentrations take a set of foundational courses covering a broad range of sciences,

ciplinary

followed by a choice of three second-level courses. Stu-

nature

dents then have the flexibility to customize their concentra-

of science-

tion by choosing 24 credits in upper-level coursework.

based ca-

“We are committed to helping every student to be as

reers.

successful as possible,” said Fish. “We’re invested in making

“So many of

sure students get the right classes that they need at that

the cutting-edge science careers

time. We are confident they’re getting a high-quality health science education. Jobs are out there for students like this.”

really require some

dr. caryl fish

understanding not of a single discipline but of multiple

In addition to the required coursework, students must complete a required internship. The Integrated Science program is working with the Career Center to connect students

disciplines,” said Dr. Caryl Fish, the chair of the new depart-

with appropriate organizations and businesses. Students

ment, who played an integral role in designing the pro-

are encouraged to range broadly and to follow their own

gram’s offerings.

career interests in pursuing internship opportunities.

Integrated Science offers four concentrations to students with varying academic interests and career goals. Allied Health, currently the most popular concentration,

For students in the Allied Health concentration, in particular, Saint Vincent has formed a relationship with Chatham University enabling students to transfer easily from

is designed for students pursuing what Fish called “allied

Saint Vincent to Chatham’s physician assistant and physical

health” careers. Examples include roles as physical thera-

therapy programs.

pists, physician assistants, nurses and occupational thera-

Thus far, students have responded enthusiastically to the

pists, among others. This concentration appeals to students

new Integrated Science program. In just over two years,

interested in medical careers who may not intend to go on

the program has grown substantially, with close to 70

to medical school.

students currently enrolled as majors. For the fall of 2017,

“The health field requires students to have some background in chemistry, biology and physics,” Fish said. “The

nearly 35 incoming freshmen intended to choose one of the major’s four concentrations.

Allied Health concentration gives them that, along with

Professor Fish’s research, which involves mine drainage,

upper-level classes that are more health-related, such as

requires her to work with the biology department as well as

anatomy, physiology and biochemistry.”

geology and hydrogeology. She understands well the im-

The Chemical and Biological Analysis concentration em-

portance of interdisciplinary study and feels the new major

phasizes laboratory skills. Fish said the program seeks to

will position students to meet the new demands of science-

build students’ quantitative analytical skills, which will come

related careers.

into use in forensics, environmental and testing laboratories. The Applied Physics concentration is similar to an en-

“The facilities we have are really tremendous,” said Fish. “Thanks to the new building and the brand-new building that’s going up, opportunities for students are going to be

gineering degree, integrating physics, computer science,

fantastic. The human anatomy lab will give students hands-

engineering and mathematics. This concentration is ideal,

on experiences that they weren’t able to have before. I

Fish said, for students who might be interested in working

think that’s something that will help Saint Vincent College

in a technical field such as manufacturing.

stand out.”

Saint Vincent Magazine

Fall and Winter 2017

Science @ SVC | The Saint Vincent Difference

SAINT VINCENT GRADUATE CURED TUBERCULOSIS

awrence F. Flick (1856-1938), pioneered new and effective treatments for tuberculosis, and in 1904 he co-founded the National Association for the Study and Prevention of Tuberculosis, known today as the American Lung Association®. Born on a farm near Carrolltown, Pennsylvania, Flick attended Saint Vincent College from 1869 to 1874. In 1879 he graduated from Philadelphia’s Jefferson Medical College and became a general practitioner in the city. After his own bout with consumption, Dr. Flick turned his full attention to the treatment of patients suffering from tuberculosis, a scourge in 19th-century America. An influential researcher, author and lecturer, he pioneered new and effective treatments for the disease, in 1892 founding the Pennsylvania Society for the Prevention of Tuberculosis, the first society in the world to concentrate all of its efforts into the control and cure of the disease. In 1904 he co-founded the National Association for the Study and Prevention of Tuberculosis (today the American Lung Association). Flick’s co-founders were among the most prominent medical men in America, Dr. Edward Livingston Trudeau, Herman Biggs, William Osler and William H. Welch. They used Flick’s Pennsylvania Society as a model for the national group. A polymath, Dr. Flick was also an historian who published several articles on the history of American Catholicism. He was co-founder of the American Catholic His-

Dr. Lawrence Flick Photo courtesy of the Historical Collections at the Claude Moore Health Sciences Library, University of Virginia. Used with permission.

torical Association and recipient of the University of Notre Dame’s Laetare Medal. Dr. Flick founded the White Haven Sanatorium for the treatment of tuberculosis and served as its director until 1935. In 1944, his daughter, Ella M. Flick, published a biography of her father, Beloved Crusader, and Father Felix Fellner, O.S.B., professor of history at Saint Vincent, reviewed the book in The Catholic Historical Review.

EARLY MEDICAL ALUMNI Even before the 1870s, the study of science at Saint

Sebastian J. Wimmer Jr., graduated in 1880 with a classical diploma. He went to New York to study medicine and earned an M.D. degree at Columbia University. In

Vincent proved to be a successful gateway to medical

the 1890s, he established a successful medical practice in

school for Saint Vincent graduates. In 1876 the college

New York City, specializing in gynecology, and wrote three

established a pre-med program for those students inter-

books: The Physician’s Vade Mecum, Human Anatomy,

ested in post-graduate medical studies.

and Human Osteology. His Physician’s Vade Mecum is still

Dr. Isidore P. Strittmatter (1860-1938)

available in print.

Dr. John C. Hierholzer (1863-1958)

Born in Carrolltown, Dr. Isidore P. Strittmatter graduated from Saint Vincent in 1875. He taught school before entering Jefferson Medical College, Philadelphia, graduating as an M.D. in 1881. He was resident physician at the German Hospital in Philadelphia (today Lankenau Medical Center) and later was chief surgeon of Philadelphia’s Saint Mary’s Catholic Hospital. He established his own hospital on North Sixth Street in Philadelphia.

Dr. Sebastian J. Wimmer, Jr. (1862-1932) A great-nephew of Archbbot Boniface Wimmer, Dr. Saint Vincent Magazine

A native of Pittsburgh, Dr. John C. Hierholzer was a student at Saint Vincent in the 1880s. He went to Jefferson Medical College, earning an M.D. degree in 1888. He returned to Pittsburgh and practiced medicine at Mercy Hospital in association with the noted obstetrician and gynecologist Dr. X.O. Werder. Dr. Hierholzer became Medical Advisor for the National Council of Catholic Women. By the 1890s he was regarded as “one of the most prominent physicians in Pittsburgh.” 26

Fall and Winter 2017

Science @ SVC | The Saint Vincent Difference

GROWING THE SCIENCES THROUGH COLLABORATION By Suzanne Wilcox English President Brother Norman Hipps, O.S.B., Ph.D., who

established by Herbert W. Boyer, a 1958 alumnus

after graduating from Saint Vincent earned a doctorate in

and genetic engi-

mathematics at Northwestern University, has been deeply

neering pioneer.

involved with several projects in the sciences during his many years in administration at Saint Vincent. The first major project, begun nearly 25 years ago, was

A major accomplishment of Brother

the Monastery Run Project, a collaborative venture to re-

Norman’s

duce the impact of abandoned mine drainage through the

tenure has

use of passive wetlands that allow iron to settle out—taking

been the

out 90 percent of the iron.

completion of

“This one was the most fun. It was a question of bringing

the renovation

people together,” Brother Norman said, remembering that

and construction of

board member Linda Boxx initiated the project, a collabora-

the Sis and Herman

tion that included alumnus Dr. David Dzombak from Carn-

Dupré Science Pavilion,

egie Mellon University, the Loyalhanna Watershed, West

followed by the construc-

Penn Conservation District, the Environmental Protection

tion of the just-completed

Agency and state Department of Environmental Protection,

James F. Will Engineering

as well as Father Earl Henry, O.S.B., president of the Wim-

and Biomedical Sciences

mer Corporation, which has the responsibility of overseeing

Hall. Again, it was the collaboration that fired his imagina-

monastic lands, on which the settling ponds were created.

tion most.

“Monastery Run was an opportunity do remedial work for

BROTHER NORMAN HIPPS, O.S.B., PH.D. COLLEGE PRESIDENT

“Project Kaleidoscope identifies the most appealing

the environment and to create scientific opportunities for

properties of math and science facilities,” so three repre-

our students and faculty—and it has been long-term,” with

sentatives from PK were invited to look at our facilities and

research continuing today, Brother Norman said.

recommendations, Brother Norman said. An engineering

Next came the Math Science Partnership, on which

study was done, and team members visited various other

Brother Norman served as a principal investigator. Again a

schools to view their facilities. “We had to decide whether to

collaborative effort, it included 40 school districts with Saint

renovate or demolish and rebuild,” he said. In the end, they

Vincent and other higher education institutions, Carlow,

agreed to tear down the common lecture hall, build new

Chatham and Robert Morris universities and later, the Uni-

laboratories with modern air-handling and other equipment,

versity of Pittsburgh at Greensburg. Funded by a National

and renovate the remaining buildings.

Science Foundation grant of more than $18 million over

Throughout the renovation, the emphasis was on provid-

a period of years, “it created opportunities for our faculty

ing space for collaborative work: “We looked for ways to do

in math, science and education to work with the teacher

science in teams; throughout the building there are labora-

fellows—pre-college teachers who were on sabbatical; to

tories for four or five faculty members and students to work

work with faculty from the other schools, to have summer

together, and we added couches and tables to create space

workshops and to learn new pedagogical methods,” said the

for conversation.”

president, who served as higher education team leader on the project. In addition, the STEP (Science, Technology, Engineering

Brother Norman noted that the latest addition, Will Hall, was championed by executive vice president Father Paul Taylor, O.S.B., working in collaboration with Board mem-

and Math Talent Expansion Program) Scholars program was

bers James Will and Ralph Liberatore. “As well as providing

funded through a National Science Foundation grant. The

needed additional space for the engineering program and

scholarships—$5,000 per year for four years—are awarded

facilities to better serve students in the health sciences,

to high-achieving students majoring in bioinformatics or

this facility allows us to support the community through our

biochemistry, or minoring in biotechnology. The program

partnership with orthopedic surgeons and medical device

has been continued through support from an endowment

companies.”

Saint Vincent Magazine

Fall and Winter 2017

Science @ SVC | The Saint Vincent Difference (Continued from Page 24)

BIOLOGY

cent Prep School.

Ironically, in light of the success early Saint Vincent graduates had in the medical profession, the one major science barely touched by the formal science curriculum at Saint Vincent during the 19th century was biology. In 1876 Father Edwin Pierron, who eventually earned a medical degree, introduced courses

His work in the Prep School occupied much of his time, but he still managed to teach an occasional biology course until he was named dean of the college. As dean, though he no longer taught biology, he assisted scores of Saint Vincent biology and chemistry majors to gain admittance to medical school. Fortunately, a cohort of able and

in physiology, anatomy and botany,

well-prepared Benedictine biolo-

and at the end of the 19th cen-

gists appeared in the 1940s to

tury Father Leopold Probst, O.S.B.,

help Father Edward stabilize

(1867-1935) had charge

and build the biology depart-

of the botany course and

ment into one of the stron-

taught zoology as well.

gest academic components of

But it was not until 1913

the college.

that he introduced

This new group of talented

a lecture course in

monks carried the depart-

biology. There was

ment well into the 1970s and

no laboratory, however,

included three inspiring and well-

associated with the first

beloved professors:

biology courses at Saint

• Father Maximilian Duman, O.S.B.

Vincent.

(1906-1990), who earned a Ph.D. from

The professor considered the

Catholic University, taught for decades

founding father of biology at Saint Vincent was Father Edward Wenstrup, O.S.B. (1894-1977). Father Edward earned a master’s degree in zoology

in the biology department of Saint Vincent

FATHER MAXIMILIAN DUMAN, O.S.B., and for a time served as college president. PH.D., THE ARCTIC PRIEST Father Maximilian was internationally known

from Columbia University and then a Ph.D. in biology from the University of Pittsburgh. He began his teaching career at Saint Vincent in 1919 by taking over the botany and zoology courses taught by Father Leopold Probst. In 1921, after converting a locker room next to the old students’ chapel into Saint Vincent’s first biology lab, Father Edward formally established a department of biology at the college. The following year, the biology department introduced a “pre-medical” course for those students who hoped to enter medical school after graduation. In the years that followed, the biology faculty of Saint Vincent College went through periods of volatility and flux, and were it not for the steady hand of Father Edward, the department chairman, the biology program may well have floundered. Father Edmund Cuneo, O.S.B. (1904-1990), spent several summers working in hospital laboratories, studied for a summer at Columbia University, and then completed a master’s degree in biology at the University of Notre Dame. From 1928 into the 1940s he taught biology in the college, but shortly after his appointment to the biology department, he was named headmaster of the Saint Vin-

Saint Vincent Magazine

as the “Arctic Priest” because of his research into the plant biology of that region; • Father Joel Lieb, O.S.B. (1920-2001), a Saint Louis University Ph.D., served as chairman of the biology department in the 1960s as well as director of the Right-to-Life Program of the Diocese of Greensburg and a member of the advisory board of Pennsylvanians for Human Life and People Concerned for the Unborn; • Father Owen Roth, O.S.B. (1916-1976), received his master’s degree in biology from Yale University, did additional research at the Marine Biological Laboratory at Woods Hole, Massachusetts, and spearheaded the college’s pre-med program for more than two decades.

20th-Century Developments During the early decades of the 20th century, the science program at Saint Vincent began to take on a more stable and professional caste. The teaching faculty expanded, more scientific equipment became available to professors and students, laboratories were established for each of the disciplines, professors were provided with more professional training and three separate science departments emerged. 28

(Continued on Page 30) Fall and Winter 2017

Science @ SVC | The Saint Vincent Difference

TOTALITY CAPTIVATES SAINT VINCENT JUNIOR By Grace Alverson, C19

he said. “When both Brother Lawrence and Dr. Smetanka

On August 21, 2017,

were busy and needed someone to host the private plan-

“The Great American

etarium shows that were scheduled, that is where I came

Eclipse” took course

in.” Nichols also had opportunities to join Dr. Smetanka

across the United

and Brother Lawrence in giving presentations about the

States. Saint

Solar Eclipse at 10 libraries in Westmoreland and Cam-

Vincent College hosted its own

bria Counties in preparation for the campus Solar Eclipse viewing party.

solar eclipse

tion on the 2017 Eclipse and also the scientific facts/data

with 650 visitors

about eclipses,” said Nichols. When it was the big day for

from the Saint Vincent community and members of the general public gathered outside

FLOYD NICHOLS, C19

“During these presentations we presented informa-

viewing party,

“The Great American Eclipse,” Nichols was back in the planetarium presenting information and facts to the guests

the Sis and Herman Dupré

while providing

Science Pavilion. Junior Biol-

time to answer

ogy major Floyd Nichols, C19, worked alongside Dr. John

their ques-

Smetanka and Brother Lawrence Machia, O.S.B., to make the

tions about

event possible. Nichols was working with Father Shawn

the eclipse

Anderson, O.S.B. throughout the summer on a research

and as-

project. A friend helped him connect with Dr. Smetanka,

tronomy.

vice president for academic affairs, academic dean and

Ultimately,

assistant professor of physics, and Brother Lawrence,

Nichols’ goal

who is a lab assistant in the astronomy program, to host

is to obtain a

the planetarium shows because of Nichols’ interest in as-

Ph.D. in as-

tronomy. He is the first and only undergraduate student

trobiology, and

to present the shows on his own.

perhaps teach at the

“This was perfect for me because I love astronomy. I didn’t expect to be as involved as I have now become,”

undergraduate level. Totality!

Sis and Herman DuprÉ Science Pavilion Saint Vincent College

“W

e hope that one day there will be a scientist from the Dupré center at Saint Vincent College who will cure cancer or cure Alzheimer’s or cure something else and it will happen because of the existence of this facility. This is a tree and we hope it bears a lot of good fruit.” —Sis Dupré

Saint Vincent Magazine

Fall and Winter 2017

Science @ SVC | The Saint Vincent Difference (Continued from Page 28)

SOARING HEAVENWARD PHYSICS Physics had been taught at Saint Vincent since the 1850s, and in 1921 the physics department was formally established with Father Fabian Heid, O.S.B., as chair. In 1929 this department added a course in “aeronautics” to the curriculum, making Saint Vincent one of the first colleges in the country to offer students training in aviation. The college bought a

father Bernard Brinker, o.s.b.

biplane, which was painted green and gold and christened The Spirit of St. Vincent, and housed it at the J.D. Hill Airport (now the Arnold Palmer Re-

spirit of st. vincent

gional Airport) near the Saint Vincent campus. Physics faculty members Father Bernard Brinker, O.S.B. (1897-1980), and Father Aquinas Brinker, O.S.B. (1902-1971), taught the student pilots physics; Father Cyprian Yahner, O.S.B. (1902-1962), of the mathematics department taught them math, and Father Mark Kistner, O.S.B., of the chemistry department taught them astronomy. Experienced pilots and mechanics at the airport provided practical flying and aircraft maintenance instruction. Then during World War II, the Army Air Corps selected Saint Vincent as a site for training pilots, and 350 Air Corps cadets underwent basic flight training at the college and airport in Latrobe. Once again the physics department took on the task of teaching

FATHER Aquinas Brinker, o.s.b.

the science of flight to prospective pilots, with Father Roland Heid, O.S.B. (1914-2002), and Father Bernard Brinker instructing each group of cadets in an intensive four-week course in physics.

After the war, the college’s physics department continued to teach civil aviation and also instituted a five-year cooperative liberal arts and engineering program in collaboration with

father Cyprian Yahner, o.s.b.

four American universities: New York University, Penn State, Notre Dame and the University of Pittsburgh. Students in the program spent three years at Saint Vincent and two at the cooperating engineering university, receiving a bachelor of arts degree from Saint Vincent and a bachelor of science degree in the appropriate branch of engineering from the cooperating university. The physics department had a key role to play in the development of this “3/2 engineering” program by offering such courses as physics, introduction to engineering, engineering drawing and mechanics in the three-years Saint Vincent portion of the program. By the early 1960s, the faculty of the physics department consisted of the chairman, Father Roland, who earned his Ph.D. from Johns Hopkins University; Professor Michael Gainer, who did his graduate studies at West Virginia University; and Professor Jaroslav

father Roland Heid, o.s.b., PH.D.

Slezak, who studied at the Charles University, Prague.

FATHER CECIL DIETHRICH, O.S.B., PH.D.

Father Cecil Diethrich, O.S.B. (1933-1986), who held a doctorate from the University of Michigan, joined the physics department in 1968 and in 1971 was named president of Saint Vincent College.

Saint Vincent Magazine

(Continued on Page 40) 30

Fall and Winter 2017

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Forward, Always Forward THE

C AMPAIGN

FOR

SAINT VINCENT

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Forward, Always Forward

aint Vincent is a Catholic, Benedictine college of the liberal arts and sciences. The mission of the College is “to provide quality undergraduate and graduate education for men and women to enable them to integrate their professional aims with the broader purpose of human life.” Because of a committed, highly credentialed faculty, Saint Vincent College has earned a national reputation for the rigor of its programs and the success of its graduates. Saint Vincent College has been repeatedly recognized on Washington Monthly’s national list of best Liberal Arts Colleges based on social mobility, research and service, as well as listed in its “Best Bang for the Buck” in the Northeast, in the publication’s 2017 rankings. Our Catholic, Benedictine tradition emphasizes the search for truth through the liberal arts and sciences in a broad spiritual context of ultimate meaning and moral values. The rapid technological changes of our digital age have had a profound impact on how we prepare our students for the moral and ethical challenges and opportunities they will face in shaping a better world. Pope Francis has written about the “urgent need for radical change” in contemporary education which so often lacks a spiritual context: “Our generation will show that it can rise to the promise found in each young person when we . . . create the material and spiritual conditions for their full development; to give them a solid basis on which to build their lives; to guarantee their safety and their education to be everything they can be” (Laudato Si’ 2015). We have chosen the motto of Archabbot Boniface Wimmer as the driving spirit of our strategic plan and capital campaign: Forward, Always Forward. We are grateful that Saint Vincent is recognized as an outstanding college. With your support and our hard work, we will become an even better college. That we do so is important for our students, for America, and for the world in which we live. May God be gracious and bless us.

+Douglas R. Nowicki, O.S.B. Archabbot and Chancellor

Br. Norman W. Hipps, O.S.B. President

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A Saint Vincent Benedictine Education Benedictine educational institutions throughout the world all have their own particular character and culture. Yet, because the 1,500year Benedictine Catholic tradition has played such a significant role in the development of western civilization, Benedictine colleges and universities have a strong sense of connectedness with each other. The unique quality of Benedictine diversity within a communal unity inspired the Association of Benedictine Colleges and Universities to articulate values rooted in the biblical wisdom synthesized for practical living by Saint Benedict in his classic Rule. All incoming students upon their arrival receive a copy of the Rule of Saint Benedict as a gift of the Archabbot for use in their first theology course. They learn that the time-tested biblical wisdom of the Rule has relevance for them, especially in our time which cries out for a vision of deeper spiritual meaning and peace. Some of the Benedictine hallmarks include: COMMUNITY LIFE: SERVING THE COMMON GOOD Saint Vincent College seeks to cultivate an atmosphere of respect for the dignity of each person and a commitment to the common good through responsible living enriched by the example of those around us.

HOSPITALITY: WELCOMING EACH PERSON AS CHRIST HIMSELF In the Rule, Saint Benedict directs his monks to welcome each person as Christ himself. For Saint Vincent College each student is welcomed as Christ in a spirit of peace and equality. The diversity of backgrounds within the campus community provides a rich environment where differences are respected. STEWARDSHIP: SAFEGUARDING GOD’S CREATION Awareness of the sacredness of life in all aspects is fundamental to our Catholic, Benedictine tradition. Stewardship of the earth and respect for personal goods constitute essential building blocks for peace and harmony. SPIRITUALITY: “THE DIVINE PRESENCE IS EVERYWHERE,” RULE 19.1 Saint Vincent provides an experience for students to grow in faith and explore the benefits of a meaningful prayer life. Benedictine spirituality fosters an exploration of the space between what is visible and what is invisible – that place where God’s presence and our own personal experience intersect. LOVE OF LEARNING: A LIFELONG COMMITMENT An understanding of the importance of lifelong learning is a key value reflected in the Benedictine tradition. Saint Vincent seeks to help students to differentiate the essential from the ephemeral. Discerning those values which will enable society to advance the common good for all humanity is an essential aspect of our educational mission.

Because of our heritage, and our vision, of education in the Benedictine Tradition, Saint Vincent plays a vital role in the rich diversity of American higher education today. Thousands of our graduates serve in leadership positions locally, regionally and throughout the world. Their leadership is not only vocational, but in their churches, their families, and their communities. At Saint Vincent,we not only teach our students how to make a living, but how to make a life.

Forward, Always Forward

The Power of the Past and the Promise of the Future

“My four years at Saint Vincent were crucial to my attraction to the field of genetics. The exposure to the liberal arts has served me well during my career. The broad base of knowledge garnered at Saint Vincent initiated the continual accumulation of experience and, I hope, wisdom that guided me through my personal and professional vicissitudes. More importantly, my awakening to so many diverse areas of personal interest I owe to my years at Saint Vincent College.”

or more than 170 years, Saint Vincent College has educated students in the Catholic, Benedictine tradition of the liberal arts and sciences, a tradition that focuses on personal fulfillment and a meaningful life through professional achievement and service to others. With your help, we are committed to a campaign to move Saint Vincent College Forward, Always Forward. Comprehensive Campaign Goal (Total)........... $100 Million

Endowment................................................................................$40 Million Infrastructure............................................................................$40 Million Current Programs and Student Support...................$20 Million

— Dr. Herbert W. Boyer, C’58 co-founder, genentech

Dr. Cynthia Martincic, associate professor and chair of the Department of Computing and Information Systems, assists CIS students Scott Reichard, Justin Bowman and Brittany McMillan.

..................................................................................... ..................................................................................... T H E C A M PA I G N F O R S A I N T V I N C E N T

ENDOWMENT –

STUDENT AID

STRENGTHENING OUR FOUNDATION Endowment Goal..................................... $40 Million ENDOWMENT GIVING LEVELS : Endowed Chairs/Centers Endowed Professorships Endowed Lectureships Endowed Programs Named Renovation Projects Named Student Scholarship Funds

$3,000,000 $2,000,000 $1,000,000 $100,000 $50,000+ $25,000+

SCHOLARSHIPS

At Saint Vincent we are expanding access and opportunity through scholarship resources. By increasing the students’ scholarship endowment, Saint Vincent College will strengthen its capacity to provide financial support for students who are committed to making a difference in a challenging world. PROFESSORSHIPS

The faculty of Saint Vincent College is composed of outstanding scholars and teachers who excel in their respective fields. Our commitment to moral and ethical values will be preserved by continuing to recruit and retain gifted and dedicated faculty who reflect these values and engage students to incorporate them into all aspects of their lives. By establishing endowed professorships, we will be better able to attract and retain outstanding professors, who will serve as role models and expand Saint Vincent’s reputation for quality education in the Benedictine tradition. P R O G R A M S , I N N O VA T I O N A N D R E N E WA L

Providing resources to enhance academic programs and scholarly activities of faculty and students through endowed funds will provide opportunities for faculty and students to advance in their intellectual growth and contribution to society. Through this campaign, we will establish funding for innovation in academic and scientific pursuits as well as for the preservation and care for the buildings and grounds of our beautiful campus.

100% of all incoming freshmen receive some form of financial aid.

FINANCIAL AID AWARDED $29.7 $27.7 $25.8 million $23.9 million million million

2012-13

2013-14

2014-15

2015-16

Forward, Always Forward

INFRASTRUCTURE –

THE ACADEMIC SPINE OF CAMPUS Infrastructure Goal (Total).........................................................$40 Million Library and Technology Information Hub..............................................$17 Million

Advanced Technology Updates for Alfred Hall and Robert S. Carey Student Center Classrooms.............................. $2 Million Student Life and Humanities Hub/Dining Services........................... $16 Million James F. Will Engineering and Biomedical Sciences Hall............... $5 Million

FOUR PROJECTS FOR I N N O VA T I O N A N D R E N O VA T I O N

he areas of campus that encourage social interaction also give students access to the technological tools and resources needed to develop the skills to succeed in their chosen profession. Navigating the vast expanse of digital and high-tech information requires knowledge that is informed by values, wisdom and judgment. As the world becomes more digital and technological, greater is the need for social connectedness that contributes to the common good.

Library and Technology Information Hub

The expansion of the Latimer Family Library, which plays a major role in academic research, scholarship and teaching, into a technology information hub will be a key project in the capital campaign. The interface between the humanities and technology is critical to the task of creating a society that embraces our

deepest ethical and spiritual values. Through innovative development of its academic curriculum, our faculty is committed to helping students to deepen their understanding of emerging technologies and their impact on our society. This understanding is of critical importance since it touches upon the meaning of human existence itself.

Advanced Technology Updates for Alfred Hall and Robert S. Carey Student Center Classrooms

This campaign will provide new information technology access for classrooms, as well as update HVAC climate control and other mechanical systems to create a better learning environment for our students in Alfred Hall and the Robert S. Carey Student Center. Student Life and Humanities Hub

The Student Life and Humanities Hub will bring together members of the campus community and create an atmosphere for the open exchange of ideas and cultural enrichment.

The Hub will house the Citrone Family Commuter Center, the office of Campus Ministry, hightech classrooms, meeting and study area as well as performance exhibition areas for the fine arts. “Science and technology have brought mankind enormous progress, but science and technology by themselves will not save us . . . Science without ethics, art without spirituality, technology without human moral values, materiality without transcendence remain branches in search of a vine.” — Cardinal Donald Wuerl Commencement address, Saint Vincent College

James F. Will Engineering and Biomedical Sciences Hall

A new biomedical sciences and engineering hall, named in honor of past Saint Vincent College president James F. Will, has been added as a new wing to the Sis and Herman Dupré Science Pavilion. This facility features classroom and laboratory space, faculty offices for the engineering program and a human anatomy laboratory. In addition to providing education and research opportunities, the human anatomy laboratory also will serve as a resource for physicians, health care agencies and medical device companies for surgical training sessions, continuing medical education programs and biomedical research.

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CURRENT PROGRAMS AND STUDENT SUPPORT – MAKING A VITAL IMPACT

Campaign Goal for Current Programs............................$20 Million Students First

Fred Rogers Center Academic and Support Services Student Life Resources, Athletics, Recreation and Wellness

STUDENTS FIRST

Making the Saint Vincent College experience accessible and affordable to students is a high priority. In a national economic climate where wages and the cost of living are growing in disparity, many students experience acute financial need. The Saint Vincent College Annual Fund for Students First is used entirely for current financial help for our students; for many, the Students First Fund makes a Saint Vincent education a reality. THE FRED ROGERS C E N T E R AT S A I N T VINCENT COLLEGE

In the mid-1990s Fred Rogers worked with the administration of Saint Vincent College to establish the Fred Rogers Center for Early Learning and Children’s Media at Saint Vincent College. The Center demonstrates Saint Vincent’s impact on education and serves as a national and international resource to address emerging issues affecting the social, emotional, intellectual and physical development of young children, birth to age 5, and

their families, teachers and other caregivers. The work of the Rogers Center provides opportunities to engage undergraduate students in research through the Fred Rogers Scholars Program.

ACADEMIC AND SUPPORT SERVICES

Saint Vincent is committed to providing quality academic programs, undergraduate and graduate research experiences and support services for our students. Examples of study abroad opportunities include annual student service programs in Brazil, Taiwan and mainland China, where students engage in intercultural exchange. Opportunity SVC is an academic support program that has been serving the needs of financially disadvantaged or otherwise at-risk students for more than 30 years.

98%

of those responding to a survey of the Class of 2016 are employed in their field or in graduate school.

STUDENT LIFE RESOURCES, AT H L E T I C S , R E C R E AT I O N A N D WELLNESS

Saint Vincent provides an array of extracurricular, athletic and service-learning programs that enhance our students’ educational experiences. These programs and activities enable students to integrate and balance their human interests with their academic pursuits and help to contribute to a well-rounded liberal arts education.

Forward, Always Forward

s a Catholic, Benedictine College of the liberal arts and sciences, Saint Vincent plays a vital role in the rich diversity of American higher education today. Thousands of its graduates serve in a variety of leadership positions locally and throughout the world. Saint Vincent seeks to build upon its historic contribution to our nation by renewing its pledge to provide an affordable,

quality education for our current and future students. Your support is essential for Saint Vincent to fulfill its commitment of service as outlined in this case statement. We are grateful to you for joining in our commitment to the future as together we move Forward, Always Forward!

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For more information about the Forward, Always Forward Campaign, or to make a gift, please contact the Saint Vincent College Advancement Office at 724-805-2949.

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Science @ SVC | The Saint Vincent Difference

PHYSICS TODAY AND IN THE FUTURE A common interest in quantum mechanics led to friendship for Dr. Anis Maize, professor and chair of physics, and Father Michael Antonacci, O.S.B., C’07, S’14, who is now pursuing doctoral studies in physics at the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill. He will return to teach at Saint Vincent when his studies are completed. Father Michael earned bachelor of science degrees in mathematics and physics from Saint Vincent, with highest honors, before joining the monastic community at Saint Vincent, pursuing Seminary studies and ordination to the priesthood. Following his year in the novitiate at the Archabbey, Father Michael spent six years working as a teaching assistant in the Physics Department, and he and Dr. Maize published their first research about applications of quantum mechanics to electromagnetic interactions in 2009 in the American Journal of Physics along with a collaborator from the University of Alberta, Professor Frank Marsiglio. It was titled, “The Static Electric Polarizability of a Particle Bound by a Finite Potential Well.” The Physics Department has two research laboratories for students and the experience of Maize, who joined the Saint Vincent Physics Department in 1990. He earned bachelor of science degrees in electrical

DR. ANIS MAIZE AND FATHER MICHAEL ANTONACCI, C’07, S’14

engineering and physics from Cairo University before obtaining a master of science degree at the University of Louisville and a Ph.D. from Purdue University. He was a post-doctoral research associate at Brown University, where from 1984 to 1987 his research focused on photonuclear reactions or the study of the nucleus using light. Father Michael’s studies continue. In June he published a paper, “Depolarization of nuclear spin polarized 129Xe gas by dark rubidium during spin-exchange optical pumping” as first author (M.A. Antonacci, Alex Burant, Wolfgang Wagner, Rosa T. Branca) in the Journal of Magnetic Resonance, Volume 279, 2017, Pages 60-67, https://doi.org/10.1016/j. jmr.2017.04.011. He recently presented a poster, “Establishing an absolute reference for dissolved-phase 129Xe chemical shifts” at the Polarization in Noble Gases Conference, October 8 to 13 in Park City, Utah (http://www.physics.utah.edu/ping/). And he has another first-author paper under review in the Journal of Magnetic Resonance in medicine entitled “Simple and robust referencing system enables identification of dissolved-phase xenon spectral frequencies,” which presents the poster results from his conference presentation in more detail. Father Michael is a member of the newly-formed Society of Catholic Scientists and recently attended its first meeting in Chicago.

“P

eople plant trees although they are certain that the fruit will benefit only the next generation. Should we think only of today and tomorrow? The Lord has provided for our needs so wonderfully and so quickly, should we not confide in Him still more?” —Archabbot Boniface Wimmer

Saint Vincent Magazine

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Science @ SVC | The Saint Vincent Difference (Continued from Page 30)

CHEMISTRY

He taught at Saint Vincent for 43 years before retiring as

The chemistry department began its significant devel-

professor emeritus in 1980.

opment in the 1930s. Father

Dr. William Dzombak (1921-

Mark Kistner was department

2015), who held a Ph.D. from

chairman during the Depres-

Purdue University, joined the

sion, responsible for building

chemistry faculty in 1953, and

both the program and fac-

almost immediately, he set about

ulty. He hired Dr. Daniel Patrick

enhancing the lab’s equipment.

Nolan, a Ph.D. from the Uni-

A true “Renaissance man,” Dr.

versity of Notre Dame, who

Dzombak helped introduce and

joined the faculty in 1934

lead the Saint Vincent Great

and succeeded Father Mark

Books program in the 1960s,

as chairman in the 1950s.

teaching in the program and

Two Benedictines joined

introducing students to such

the chemistry faculty in the 1930s: Father Xavier Mihm,

works as The Ascent of Man by

EDMUND CUNEO, o.s.b.

Jacob Bronowski; How to Read a

DR. WILLIAM DZOMBAK

O.S.B. (1915-1996), with a

Book by Mortimer Adler; and The

Ph.D. at Purdue University, and Father Bertin Emling, O.S.B.

Structure of the Scientific Revolution by Thomas Kuhn.

(1905-2000), with a master’s degree from Johns Hopkins

In 1964 Dr. Herbert Fulmer came to Saint Vincent with

University and a Ph.D. from Notre Dame. Father Bertin

a master of science degree from Indiana University of

also served as a project director of the National Under-

Pennsylvania. He later earned a Ph.D. from Lawrence Uni-

graduate Chemical Research Program and a consultant

versity and served as chairman of the chemistry depart-

to the Keystone Carbon Co. of St. Marys, Pennsylvania.

ment in the late 1960s and 1970s.

RENEWED COMMITMENT TO SCIENCE SCIENCE CENTER In 1969 the college completed a $2.8 million Science Center, a modern complex comprised of four buildings: one for each of the natural sciences taught at Saint Vincent—biology, physics and chemistry—as well as a classroom-amphitheater building. The new science facilities helped advance not only the visibility but also the quality of the science program at Saint Vincent, providing state-of-the-art laboratories, classrooms and ample office space for the three science departments. College and University Business magazine praised Saint Vincent’s Science Center as “a creative approach to college building design.” The Science Center represented a major commitment by the college to build on Saint Vincent’s long tradition of excellence in science education and carried that tradition 40 years into the future.

Sis and Herman Dupré Science Pavilion The college’s renewed commitment to science is today represented by Saint Vincent’s $45 million, 110,000-square-foot Sis and Herman Dupré Science Pa-

Made possible by a generous grant from Sis and Herman Dupré, the Science Pavilion is a state-of-the-art educational facility that houses the Herbert W. Boyer School of Natural Science, Mathematics and Computing; the Angelo Taiani Planetarium and Astronaut Exhibit; the Dr. Frank J. Luparello Lecture Hall; the Evelyn and Batista Madonia Sr., Environmental Center and the James F. Will Engineering and Biomedical Sciences Hall. Today Saint Vincent students have a broad range of science majors to choose from. The basic disciplines— biology, chemistry, physics—are still strong, but in addition, students at the college can major in biochemistry, bioinformatics, biotechnology, environmental chemistry, physics education, computing and information science, engineering science, integrated science, pharmacy, physical therapy, physician’s assistant and pre-health. In the last 30 years more than 800 students, after graduating with science degrees from Saint Vincent, have gone on to complete graduate degrees in medicine and other health-related professions. Hundreds of others have embarked on professional careers in engineering, computing, teaching, and other science-related fields. —Jerome Oetgen

vilion, completed in 2015. Saint Vincent Magazine

Fall and Winter 2017

Science @ SVC | The Saint Vincent Difference

CHEMISTRY NOT A SPECTATOR SPORT By Adam Reger Teaching chemistry to Saint Vincent College students involves a balancing act. On one hand, it is crucial that students gain hands-on experience with laboratory protocol, handling samples and thinking critically. On the other hand, the Chemistry Department strives to keep the College’s liberal arts tradition front and center. “Chemistry is not a spectator sport,” said associate professor Dr. Jason Vohs, chair of the department. “From General Chemistry up to Senior Research, our goal is to prepare students for independent lab work. They need to learn standard operating procedures, learn to troubleshoot and to safely operate all their own instruments.” While this can be time-consuming, and occasionally frustrating for students, employers and alumni frequently report back that their chemistry experience at Saint Vincent gave them a crucial edge in gaining employment.

DR. JASON VOHS AND kristin marsh

The Chemistry Department offers three bachelor of science degrees, in chemistry, biochemistry, and envi-

project-style labs in organic chemistry and the Science

ronmental chemistry. Each degree shares core classes

Writing Heuristic philosophy used in other labs as tools

in general chemistry, organic chemistry, and physical

used to spur students’ thinking.

chemistry. Vohs reported that 12 of 46 total credits for chemis-

“Students must answer the questions they ask by working collaboratively and following where the data leads

try courses are lab-based, with similar proportions for

them,” Vohs said. The goal is to prepare students to con-

biochemistry and environmental chemistry majors. Every

duct independent research, a unique and important part

graduating student possesses the same general skill set,

of the Saint Vincent experience.

one aimed at making them employable across a wide range of jobs. Additionally, the department offers minors in chemistry

“Indeed, chemistry majors who have participated in research exchanges at other institutions have earned high marks from professors and researchers at those schools,”

and biochemistry, as well as an education certification op-

said Vohs, with a number reaching out to encourage more

tion for majors who minor in education.

Saint Vincent students to apply.

Against this rigorous hands-on training, the department

In keeping with its diverse approach to teaching, the

balances a strong focus on teaching. Vohs emphasized

department offers a number of educational experiences

the Department’s diversity of approaches in teaching

that aren’t available anywhere else.

styles, ranging from group work to lectures. “In all cases, our focus is on ensuring a student-cen-

For non-majors, courses like the Chemistry of Art, Chemistry of Crime, Chemistry of Cooking and Chemistry

tered approach to learning,” he said. “Learning is never a

of Global Sustainability emphasize the practical and fun

passive activity. Teaching is the development of strategies

sides of chemistry.

to guide students along the path of knowledge, but they must walk that path.”

And majors are encouraged to take advantage of the nearby Wetlands—“a natural laboratory,” said Vohs.

This approach comes through most clearly in the foundational courses taken by first-year students. “They bring a lot of ‘dots’ from high school,” said Vohs.

“There is a lot of chemistry involved in the wetlands remediation,” said Vohs. “Students put on the hip waders and go down to get samples for analysis.”

“Our endeavor is to help them connect those dots and develop questions about the world around them.” He cited

Saint Vincent Magazine

Proving that chemistry is anything but a spectator sport.

Fall and Winter 2017

Science @ SVC | The Saint Vincent Difference

CIS DEPARTMENT ROOTED IN BENEDICTINE TRADITION By Matthew Wojtechko, C20

how to avoid and combat these devastat-

The Computer and Information

ing threats so they are prepared to further

Science Department (CIS) at

study these practices in graduate school,

Saint Vincent College constantly

or so they are ready to apply them in

evolves with enough agility to

the workforce.

match the rapid development

“Industry and government com-

of modern technology.

pete to hire top talent in this criti-

Brother David Carlson

cal field,” Brother David said.

O.S.B., monk of Saint

The cybersecurity curriculum

Vincent Archabbey for 37

is demanding since so many

years, has been a key part

skills are needed for success in

of this evolution since the CIS

this line of work.

major began in 1985.

“A cybersecurity professional needs

Upon entering the monastic

to understand programming, software,

community in 1980 with a B.S. and

encryption, various security tools, net-

an M.A. in mathematics, as well as an interest in electrical engineering, Brother David learned that the college needed

works, and computers [as well as] how at-

BRother DAVID CARLSON, O.S.B.

tackers try to break them, and how to defend against these attacks,” Brother David explained.

instructors in the emerging field of computer science. He

“They also need to know something about how people and

acquired an M.S. in computer science, and since then, has

organizations work, and the policies and laws that assist

taught over 20 different CIS and related courses, and was

in providing a good cybersecurity defense and response to

the chair of the CIS Department for 20 years.

attacks.”

“Although some core principles and foundational topics

Brother David created 3 of the courses critical to the cy-

such as the mathematics of computing stay much the same,

bersecurity major: Applied Cryptography, Cybersecurity and

much of the computer world changes quickly,” Brother David

Advanced Topics in Cybersecurity. He is currently teaching Ap-

said. “I first learned to program in old Fortran, where you

plied Cryptography, but has passed the other two courses on

had to number every line of code, and each line of code was

to Dr. Anthony Serapiglia, who has updated and revised them.

put on a punch card. Later I learned Pascal and C [program-

According to Brother David, the Order of Saint Benedict

ming languages]. Then objected-oriented programming

also plays a role in CIS courses.

became important, so I taught myself C++.” Brother David taught himself emerging computer lan-

“Sometimes, the Benedictine tradition and the Catholic faith in which it is rooted also give insights into how we

guages, concepts and practices as they developed, creating

should use science and technology in ways that help and do

new courses in object-oriented programming, computer

not hurt real people,” he said.

architecture, operating systems, data structures, artificial in-

Even if they do not alter the required courses in the cur-

telligence, networking and other subjects. Recently, Brother

riculum, Brother David explained that the ideals in the Rule

David has created a course that uses the relatively new

of Saint Benedict affect how those courses are taught, as

programming language Node.js and other technologies.

well as how students are treated.

And as the threat of cybercrime has ramped up in the past

“One key Benedictine value is to treat all guests, students

decade, so has the CIS Department’s cybersecurity pro-

and others, as you would treat Christ himself. We call that

gram.

Benedictine hospitality,” he said. “It is because of this that

“When I first learned programming decades ago, I learned nothing about computer security. It did not seem to be an

we strive to treat students well, to be concerned about them personally and to provide individual help when needed.”

issue, at least for undergraduate students,” Brother David

And it doesn’t stop with the monks: Brother David

said. “Now, cybersecurity is much more important, due both

said that he is especially impressed with how lay faculty

to the sheer volume and intensity of the attacks and the

members incorporate the Benedictine hallmarks into their

importance of the data, systems and people we protect.”

classes, too. “The Benedictine tradition affects much that we

Saint Vincent’s cybersecurity major educates students

Saint Vincent Magazine

do.”

Fall and Winter 2017

Science @ SVC | The Saint Vincent Difference

ENGINEERING SCIENCE HAS NEW HOME By Adam Reger Although still a young program, Saint Vincent College’s

ical Sciences Hall is just one of several

engineering science program in the Herbert W. Boyer School

exciting future

of Natural Sciences, Mathematics and Computing is growing

developments

rapidly, with approximately 55 majors in 2017.

for engi-

Dr. Paul Follansbee, James F. Will Professor of Engineering

neering

Science and the director of the four-year program, predicts

science.

continued growth for the major, which was founded in 2013,

especially once it moves into its new home in the brand-

courses

new James F. Will Engineering and Biomedical Sciences Hall.

are be-

The new two-story building will provide an extension of

ing added

the Dupré Science Pavilion, which the engineering program

each term,

currently calls home, adding 11,260 square feet of class-

covering topics

rooms, laboratory spaces, offices and meeting areas featur-

such as electrical,

ing an array of advanced technologies.

electronic, chemi-

“This new building really offers us a home for this growing department,” said Follansbee. In addition to features such as a the dedicated computer

cal, biological and civil engineering, join-

DR. PAUL FOLLANSBEE

ing existing course options

lab, a conference room with state-of-the-art teleconferenc-

in thermodynamics, design, computation, project manage-

ing capabilities and a materials lab, Follansbee pointed to a

ment and materials engineering, among others. “The curriculum allows students to paint their resumes

few simpler features that he believes will help the thriving program continue to grow. “We’ll have two bulletin boards, and there are meeting places for students,” he said, emphasizing the importance

as they want to paint themselves,” said Follansbee. Early graduates of the program have had success finding jobs as researchers and entering graduate programs, he said. When the first full cohort of engineering science students

of the program’s having a home base. Follansbee expects the Yodel Lounge, a spacious corner meeting area with two

graduates in the spring of 2019, Follansbee and other

large windows, to be popular among students.

faculty members will work toward earning accreditation, a

The Engineering Science program was developed by Dr.

major milestone in the development of the new program.

Stephen Jodis, dean of the Boyer School; Follansbee; Dr.

ABET, which accredits college programs in natural sciences

Daryle H. Fish, associate professor of chemistry; and Dr.

and engineering, requires extensive proposals, featuring

Mohamed Anis Maize, professor of physics. In addition to

deep data analysis, but will only consider programs once a

these experienced faculty members, Dr. Derek Breid was

full cohort has graduated. “Once we get accreditation, I expect we’ll see a big bump

hired as an assistant professor. The program was designed to offer a broad background

in enrollment,” Follansbee predicted. The process of laying the groundwork for that extensive

in engineering, utilizing the college’s liberal-arts curriculum to give students a well-rounded education that emphasizes

proposal is already underway, with faculty members con-

math, science and the development of problem-solving skills.

ducting extensive self-assessment and collecting a range

When the engineering science major was introduced, it

of data. Follansbee expressed gratitude to have the help of

became Saint Vincent’s second engineering-focused pro-

Dean Jodis, who has considerable experience in the accredi-

gram: the mathematics/engineering program is a 3-2 pro-

tation process. As the program expands, Follansbee expects to hire more

gram that grants Saint Vincent College students a bachelor of arts degree in engineering/liberal arts after three years

faculty members to fill student demand. “Because we’re Saint Vincent College, we can teach

of study, followed by their entering a B.S. degree program in an engineering discipline from one of its partner schools,

specialized courses and continue to add courses,” he added,

Catholic University of America, Pennsylvania State Univer-

contrasting the College’s approach to other schools where a

sity, and the University of Pittsburgh.

small class enrollment would lead to the class’s being can-

The opening of the James F. Will Engineering and Biomed-

Saint Vincent Magazine

celled. “It’s one of the beauties of Saint Vincent.”

Fall and Winter 2017

Science @ SVC | The Saint Vincent Difference

URBAN PASSIONATE ABOUT ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION As a long-term volunteer with Wildlife Works and the Pittsburgh Zoo, senior Jenni Urban is passionate about her major of environmental education. She has served as a student assistant at the Winnie Palmer Nature Reserve (WPNR) throughout her time at Saint Vincent. “I am passionate about educating all ages on the importance of conservation of animals and the environment,” she said, and that emotion shows as last year she received the Daisy S. Klinedinst Memorial Award by the Pennsylvania Association of Environmental Educators for her dedication to expanding involvement with environmental education. She also loves working with injured animals, has interned at the Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium and volunteered at the Wildlife Works Animal Rehabilitation Center. “Jenni is constantly finding ways to involve herself in the environmental education field,” said Angela Belli, director of the Winnie Palmer Nature Reserve. “She is a kind, caring and compassionate young woman whose future is bright in environmental education.” At the nature reserve, Jenni assists with environmental education programming by conducting nature hikes and other programs. She currently is conducting her senior research on bluebird habitat preference based on vegetation. “She is instrumental in caring for our educational animals in the proper care of our native wildlife,” said Belli, “and in creating new programs for the Reserve and exhibits in her time at WPNR.” This year, in addition to being named homecoming queen, she was one of three inaugural winners of the James D. Bendel Award for demonstrated commitment to working with vulnerable populations. The new award, said

JENNI URBAN, C18 Kelly King, director of Service Learning and Community Outreach, captures the commitment of Saint Vincent College alumni, James Bendel, C’66, D’85, and Donald Green, C’62, to serving the most vulnerable in their communities.” Urban is also active with the Environmental Awareness Club on campus, and a member of the Tri-Beta Biological Honor Society, Alpha Lambda Delta honor society and the Dean’s List. She has also been a resident assistant for the Department of Residence Life and actively participates in Campus Ministry. “I will most likely head into a graduate school program that will assist me in moving forward in the environmental education field,” she said of her graduation plans.

DR. MAIZE, DR. SMETANKA COLLABORATE FOR PHYSICS Dr. M. Anis Maize, professor of physics and chairperson of the physics department, and Dr. John J. Smetanka, vice president for academic affairs and assistant professor of physics, published an article which has appeared in the European Journal of Physics this year. The article is titled “Electric polarizability in the three-dimensional problem and the solution of an inhomogeneous differential equation. This work presents a novel approach to calculating how a realistic three-dimensional quantum mechanical system responds in the presence of an electric

Saint Vincent Magazine

field,” Smetanka said. “Dr. Maize has championed this particular method of solving difficult problems traditionally not accessible to undergraduate students. Using this method along with symbolic mathematics software, these illustrative situations are now approachable and understandable at the undergraduate level.” He has published a number of papers with collaborators in both the American Journal of Physics and European Journal of Physics. This is the second paper on which Maize and Smetanka have collaborated.

Fall and Winter 2017

Science @ SVC | The Saint Vincent Difference

BROTHER LAWRENCE HAS WELL-ROUNDED VIEW By Kim Metzgar

One could say that Brother Lawrence Machia, O.S.B., has a pretty well-rounded view of the world. His work in the Angelo J. Taiani Planetarium at the Sis and Herman Dupré Science Pavilion has helped shape his worldview. A monk of Saint Vincent Archabbey since 2012, he has a bachelor of arts degree in theology from Eastern University. He is completing studies at Saint Vincent Seminary and will be ordained a priest in May of 2018. He professed solemn vows on July 11, 2016 and was ordained a deacon this past May. Aside from tapping maple trees and making syrup, perhaps a nod to his native state of Vermont, he has been a lab assistant in the astronomy program since 2013. He has accompanied several Campus Ministry service trips to China and Brazil, all the while taking his special camera that takes photos specifically designed for viewing in a dome such as the planetarium. The photo at right of the Great Wall of China is one he shot during the 2015 service trip. Once ordained, he hopes to continue his work in the sciences. He is in the process of completing an undergraduate degree in physics at Saint Vincent, while also finishing a master of divinity degree at the seminary. Then he will begin looking at graduate studies in physics and astronomy, with the eventual goal of teaching at Saint Vincent, as well as continuing to develop the planetarium shows for public outreach, for teaching resources, and for show and curriculum development.

“Dome” shot of the Great Wall of China by Brother Lawrence Machia, O.S.B.

DR. VOHS SELECTED

BRother LAWRENCE MACHIA, O.S.B. Saint Vincent Magazine

Dr. Jason K. Vohs, associate professor and chair of the department of chemistry, was selected to participate in the College Board’s Annual Advanced Placement (AP) reading in chemistry. Each June, AP teachers and college faculty members from around the world gather in the United States to evaluate and score the free-response sections of the AP exams. This was the seventh year in which Vohs participated. AP readers are high school and college educators who represent many of the world’s leading academic institutions. The AP reading is a unique forum in which an academic dialogue between educators is fostered and encouraged. The AP enables academically prepared students to pursue college-level studies—with the opportunity to earn college credit, advanced placement or both—while in high school. Through AP courses in 38 subjects, each culminating in a rigorous exam, students learn skills that prepare them for college and beyond. 45

Fall and Winter 2017

Science @ SVC | The Saint Vincent Difference

BOYER SCHOOL DEAN RECEIVES HONOR Dr. Stephen Jodis, dean of the Herbert W. Boyer School of Natural Sciences, Mathematics and Computing and professor of computing and information science, was honored on August 26 by Armstrong State University (ASU), Savannah, Georgia, where he was a member of the faculty for 21 years before joining the Saint Vincent College faculty in 2011. The event was presented by alumni of Armstrong’s Always Strong program to honor 120 of the University’s faculty and staff members who have instructed, encouraged and inspired them throughout the University’s history and to pay tribute to Armstrong’s greatest treasure—its people. Jodis was advised by Cheryl Ciucevich, director of alumni development, that he was nominated because he was “one of the most inspiring and supportive faculty/staff members of the Armstrong Atlantic State University (AASU) era, 1996-2014.” Jodis, along with the names of other honored

DR. stephen jodis

faculty and staff members will be included on a wall of gratitude that was installed in the school’s Alumni Center.

has served as a volunteer in ABET for more than 10 years

In his career at Armstrong, Jodis rose to the rank of

as a program evaluator, team chair and commissioner. He

full professor, having served as head of the department

is currently serving his second term as an ABET Commis-

of computer science and interim dean of the School of

sioner in the Computing Accreditation Commission. He is

Computing and the College of Science and Technology.

also a member of the Association of Computing Machinery

He was a member of the department of computer science

(ACM). A 1985 graduate of Auburn University where he earned

when it first achieved accreditation by the Computing Accreditation Commission of the Accreditation Board for

a bachelor of computer engineering, he earned a master of

Engineering and Technology (ABET) in 1991, as the second

science degree and a Ph.D. from the department of com-

program in Georgia to achieve that recognition. ABET is

puter science and engineering there. Jodis is also the author of a textbook, Computer Pro-

the international accrediting body for academic programs in engineering, computing and engineering technology. He

gramming Concepts.

PRESIDENT, STEELERS QUARTERBACK TALK MATH College President Brother Norman W. Hipps, O.S.B., who taught college mathematics for more than four decades, invited Pittsburgh Steelers rookie quarterback Joshua Dobbs to join him in the Sis and Herman Dupré Science Pavilion for a conversation about mathematics, Fibonacci Sequence, pi and other topics of mutual interest. Dobbs graduated from the University of Tennessee with a degree in aerospace engineering, and can recite the first 48 digits of the mathematical constant pi. Brother Norman presented Dobbs with copies of The Math Book and The Rule of Saint Benedict, which details how Benedictine monks work and pray in community. Dobbs said he enjoyed his first training camp and the hospitality that he experienced on campus and in the community. Saint Vincent Magazine

Fall and Winter 2017

ACCOUNTING GRADUATES RANK 21ST Recent accounting graduates of the Saint Vincent College Alex G. McKenna School of Business, Economics and Government who took the Certified Public Accounting Examination in 2016 ranked 21st in the United States, according to a report on candidate performance published by the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA). “We proudly congratulate our McKenna School graduates for their impressive scores on the CPA exam,” said Dr. Gary M. Quinlivan, dean of the McKenna School. The 17 Saint Vincent graduates who took the exam ranked number 21 in the United States with a pass rate of 79.4 percent, compared to graduates of 858 colleges and universities. McKenna School grads ranked second in Pennsylvania. Quinlivan credited the faculty and students for their commitment to educational quality. “The CPA pass rate rankings serve as a testimony to the teaching excellence and academic guidance of our accounting professors, Dr. Robert DePasquale, Dr. Charles Fazzi, professor Thomas Holowaty, adjunct professor of auditing Jeffrey Anzovino, adjunct professor Eva Kunkel, adjunct professor of forensic auditing Anthony Mucha and adjunct professor Thurman Wingrove.”

LEADERSHIP PROGRAM WINS NATIONAL AWARD Saint Vincent College’s Benedictine Leadership Studies Program (BLS) was presented with a national award for Best Practices in Student Affairs for mission integration for student activities, leadership and orientation by the Association for Student Affairs at Catholic Colleges and Universities (ASACCU) at the group’s annual conference at Neumann University, Aston. Saint Vincent’s program was chosen for its direct impact on student learning and integration of Catholic identity and mission. Dr. Richard T. Satterlee, vice president for student life at Manhattan College, left, and Dr. Catherine WoodBrooks, vice president for student affairs at Assumption College, right, both members of the Mission Integration Steering Committee, presented the award to, from left, Mary Collins, vice president for student affairs; Robert Baum, dean of students; and Mark Abramovic, instructor in business administration. The BLS program is a student affairs initiative in partnership with academic and administrative colleagues with the focus of helping students learn who they are as individuals, teaching them how they can serve and influence our communities and guiding them in the development of a meaningful understanding of God’s purpose for their lives.

CLASS OF 1957 ENDOWS SCHOLARSHIP

Saint Vincent Magazine

Members of the Class of 1957 have established the Class of ’57 Memorial Scholarship Endowment in memory of classmates who have passed on. This class gift honors the lifelong friendships formed at Saint Vincent College and is intended to inspire others to give back in a spirit of gratitude. In the photo, Vince Brogan C’57 presents Brother Norman Hipps, O.S.B., president of Saint Vincent College, with a check formally establishing the scholarship endowment at the 2017 Alumni of Distinction Awards Ceremony.

Fall and Winter 2017

ALUMNUS WINS STATE AWARD IN MINNESOTA Natalie E. Gentile, M.D., C’10, who earned a bachelor of science degree in biology, was recently named Family Medicine Resident of the Year by the Board of Directors of the Minnesota Academy of Family Practice, was recognized with the Resident Research Award and the Robert F. Avant Award by the Mayo Clinic Family Medicine Residency. A native of Mount Lebanon, she earned her doctor of medicine degree from the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and completed her family practice residency at the Mayo Clinic Graduate School of Medical Education in Rochester, Minnesota. Gentile, who graduated from residency in June, started a position as an assistant professor of family medicine at Mayo Clinic. She chose family practice while in medical school. “I did a clinical rotation at Squirrel Hill Health Center and had the opportunity to see people of all ages, all walks of life and participate in their continuity of care. Family medicine allows me so much freedom in my practice—the sky is the limit with what skills I can learn and apply day-to-day when seeing patients. I get to take care of the entire person within the confines of their

socioeconomic context and their families. Her experience at Saint Vincent, she said, prepared her for medical school, with “the small class sizes and opportunity for individualized attention. I was able to dive into research with Dr. [Michael] Rhodes very quickly.” Her father, Anthony Gentile, M.D., C’65, influenced her undergraduate college choice. “I didn’t know what to expect and figured he was just exaggerating when singing the praises of the college,” she said. “When I visited, I immediately fell in love. The small setting, the close-knit feel, absolutely gorgeous and abundant landscape, old buildings, rich history, all were reasons why I was sold. I honestly hope that my children someday attend Saint Vincent.” While a student, she was active in the Colleges Against Cancer Club and Alpha Lambda Delta Honor Society. She served as an ACE Certified Personal Trainer, as a customer service representative at Fitness Fuel and as a student research assistant. She designed and implemented a young adult cancer support group with the Cancer Caring Center in Pittsburgh and was first author on a research manuscript. She served as a volunteer in the Latrobe Area Hospital emergency department, in the Arnold Palmer Cancer Pavilion chemotherapy department and with the American Cancer Society Relay for Life. She was recognized as the most outstanding member of the senior class with the annual President’s Award. Gentile and her husband, Dr. Amir Toussi, welcomed their first child, Luca Ali, into their family on July 27. —Don Orlando

STUDENTS RECEIVE INAUGURAL BENDEL AWARD Three students were the inaugural winners of the James D. Bendel Award for demonstrated commitment to working with vulnerable populations, a new award, said Kelly King, director of service learning and community outreach. The honor captures the commitment of Saint Vincent College alumni, James Bendel, C’66, D’85, and Donald Green, C’62, to serving the most vulnerable in their communities.” Green pursued a successful career in banking but has also focused his outreach to disenfranchised individuals and to programs that serve disabled animals. The award encourages students to aid vulnerable populations as part of their college experience and continue this work after graduation. This embodies the career and life choices Bendel and Green found to be a perfect match. The honored students include Michael Cooper of LewisSaint Vincent Magazine

burg, a junior biology major; Thomas Eshleman of Greensburg, a senior accounting major; and Jenni Urban of Glassport (see page 44). Cooper is an Americorps volunteer who serves at a non-profit that exists to provide medical supplies, health consultation and counseling to diabetic children. He served more than 500 hours in his first term with Americorps, which was during 2016. He has recently signed on to further his service. His future plans include applying to medical school. Eshleman has worked with orphans in the slums of Kampala, Uganda, helping serve meals, build a home for them and work on a multipurpose facility for their villages. He has also volunteered in Thailand, helping with a ministry aimed at helping men and women who have been sold into sex trafficking, and working with a drug and alcohol rehab center in Laos. 48

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DR. RIVAS PUBLISHED

DR. KELLY AUTHORS ARTICLE

Dr. Juan Carlos Rivas, assistant professor of modern and classical languages, had a scholarly article accepted for publication in a journal and made two presentations at professional conferences. The article, “Aut Caesar Aut Nihil: Hernán Cortés’ Machiavelic Strategies in Mexico’s Conquest” will be published in the spring 2018 edition of Hispanic Journal. “Essentially, the article offers an analysis of some of the strategies Hernán Cortés used in his Conquest of México,” Rivas explained. “The analysis demonstrates that some of what Cortés put into practice very closely resembles some of what Nicholas Machiavelli expressed in theory in some of his writings on the subject, especially in The Prince.” Rivas made a presentation entitled, “Mirrors and Mirages: Dualistic Categories as Ars Poetica in Cervantes’ Narrative” at the Northeast Modern Language Association’s 48th annual convention in Baltimore. He also made a presentation entitled, “Pseudo autobiographical Metafiction: Lázaro González Pérez’s ‘Baciyélmic’ History/Story” at the 70th Annual Kentucky Foreign Languages Conference at the University of Kentucky in Lexington.

Dr. Timothy Kelly, professor and chair of the Department of History, authored an article, “Discerning an Environmental Ethos: Three Episodes in the Growth of Environmental Awareness in Western Pennsylvania,” in the Journal of Moral Theology. “The article explores whether such an environmental ethos, articulated so clearly by Pope Francis in 2015 in Laudato Si’, has an antecedent among Catholics in northern Appalachia in the middle decades of the 20th century through the examination of three critical environmental episodes: the development of the subsistence homestead community of Norvelt, Pennsylvania, in the 1930s and 1940s, the Donora Smog episode of 1948 and the emergence of the modern environmental movement of the 1960s,” Kelly said.

DR. FISHER C0-EDITOR

Dr. Matthew A. Fisher, associate professor of chemistry, has been named co-editor-in-chief of Science Education and Civic Engagement—An International Journal (SECEIJ). The online journal is devoted to exploring constructive connections between science education and civic engagement.

DR. KROM GIVES INVITED PRESENTATIONS Dr. Michael P. Krom, associate professor and chair of the Department of Philosophy, gave seven invited talks at colleges and universities during the past year. The talks included “Drinking in Catholic Social Thought,” Loyola University of Maryland; “What Do I Owe My Neighbor? A Talk for the Year of Mercy,” both at St. Mary’s College of California and Franciscan University of Steubenville, Steubenville, Ohio; “Thinking on Drinking, from Greek to Catholic Culture,” both at Belmont Abbey College, Charlotte, North Carolina and for the 1st Annual Lecture on the Saint Vincent Magazine

Catholic Intellectual Tradition, University of the Incarnate Word, San Antonio, Texas; “Between Scylla and Charybdis: The Church’s Pastoral Politics on Morality and Politics,” University of Dallas Constantin College of Liberal Arts; and “Music and the Soul: A Socratic Approach,” Annual Andy Warhol Lecture, Loyola University of Maryland. In addition to his teaching and administration, Krom is director of the Saint Vincent College Faith and Reason Summer Program. He is also a coordinator for philosophy formation at Saint Vincent Seminary. His scholarly work focuses on the relationship between philosophy and theology and on moral, economic and political theory. He is currently working on a book for advanced undergraduates, seminarians and Catholic intellectuals tentatively titled, Justice and Charity: A Thomistic Introduction to Catholic Social Teaching. 49

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DR. ERNST DECIPHERS LETTERS BY EMPEROR FERDINAND III The German cryptologer Klaus Schmeh has dedicated a chapter in the second edition of his book, Versteckte Botschaften (Hidden Messages), to the decipherment by Dr. Thomas Ernst, assistant professor of modern and classical languages, of Trithemius’ Steganographia. Schmeh described the story of Ernst’s discovery as one of the highlights of his book. Schmeh mentions that Ernst proofread and rewrote that particular chapter of the book which was published in August 2017. It has not yet been translated. “My book chapter is one of the first popular scientific treatises of this discovery,” Schmeh said. “I invested a lot of time in proofreading it. I even re-wrote some of the passages. For another summary of this great story check the website of Jürgen Hermes which was one of my sources.” In 1993, Ernst was the first to successfully decipher the third book of Johannes Trithemius, Steganographia (published in 1500), which had remained a much-discussed riddle for nearly 500 years. Ernst also translated Wolfgang Ernst Heidel’s enciphered comment on Trithemius (published in 1676). Ernst’s findings were published in the Dutch journal, Daphnis, in 1996. An English version appeared in 1998 in the journal Cryptologia.

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In 2001, Ernst debunked a forged manuscript of the Steganographia in his article, Anatomie einer Fälschung (Anatomy of a Forgery). Ernst has been interviewed numerous times about his cryptological activities by The New York Times, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, Pittsburgh Tribune-Review as well as NPR. His work on Trithemius has become an indispensable reference work in the field of cryptology. In September 2017, Ernst was able to successfully crack the Zifra Picolominea (1640), after a group of information scientists had failed to do so. This cipher was employed during the Thirty Years’ War between the Habsburg Emperor Ferdinand III, his brother Archduke Leopold and the leading general of the Habsburg forces, Ottavio Piccolomini. The solution of this cipher will allow an understanding of numerous letters exchanged between three main players during the Thirty Years’ War. Professor Leopold Auer from the University of Vienna has invited Ernst to publish his findings in the Austrian journal Mitteilungen des Österreichischen Staatsarchives. Ernst, a member of the faculty since 2000, earned a bachelor of arts degree from Clarion University, a master of arts degrees in French and German and a Ph.D. from the University of Pittsburgh.

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Taking part in the UPMC Field groundbreaking were, from left, Brother Norman W. Hipps, O.S.B., president of Saint Vincent College; Courtney Asher, senior account coordinator, Lagardére Sports and Entertainment; Dr. Jeanne Doperak, sports medicine physician, UPMC; Archabbot Douglas R. Nowicki, O.S.B., chancellor of Saint Vincent; Art Rooney II, president of the Pittsburgh Steelers; Father Myron M. Kirsch, O.S.B., Saint Vincent athletic director, and Vinny the Bearcat, college mascot.

Turf Field To Be Upgraded With UPMC Support A groundbreaking ceremony at Saint Vincent College marked the start of construction for an upgraded synthetic turf field that will be known as UPMC Field in recognition of UPMC’s leadership in sponsoring the project. “Saint Vincent College is currently engaged in a project to expand and enhance its outdoor athletic facilities used for varsity sports competition, summer residential camps for youth and the Pittsburgh Steelers summer training camp,” said Father Paul R. Taylor, O.S.B., executive vice president of Saint Vincent College. “Saint Vincent will replace its existing turf field and create a premier recreational facility outfitted with a new scoreboard, shot clock, score table, players’ benches and seating for spectators. Completion of this project will elevate the quality of athletic facilities on campus and advance recreational and competitive sports at all levels. “We are grateful to UPMC for its continuing support of Saint Vincent and for their major contribution to this project,” he added. “We are also appreciative that other significant corporate and private donations have been received for this project. Additional sponsorship opportunities remain available for interested donors.” “My dad loved coming up here,” said Art Rooney II, president of the Pittsburgh Steelers. The team has held its annual training camp at Saint Vincent for 52 years. “Over the years, he and we all have seen so many great Saint Vincent Magazine

improvements. Obviously 52 years is a long time, and it seems like every year things get better.” Father Myron M. Kirsch, O.S.B., athletic director of Saint Vincent, noted that for many years, UPMC orthopedic surgeons have provided expert medical care for college athletes on the school’s 23 NCAA teams. Dr. Jeanne Doperak of UPMC serves as the team physician for the College. UPMC Field will replace a turf field that was installed on campus in the spring of 2008. In addition to walkways and lighting to enhance safety and accessibility, the area surrounding UPMC Field will be landscaped to provide an aesthetically pleasing vista. “Saint Vincent has some of the finest facilities in smallcollege athletics including Chuck Noll Field, the 1,100seat stadium with a natural grass field that is home to the Bearcat football team in the fall and the Pittsburgh Steelers in the summer,” said Brother Norman Hipps, O.S.B., college president. “Our turf field has become the most widely-used field on campus and is home to the college’s varsity men’s and women’s soccer and lacrosse teams as well as intramural sports such as Ultimate Frisbee. The field is also used for camps, clinics and tournaments for youth players.” UPMC Field will be completed in May 2018. —Don Orlando 51

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Coach Canterna Remembered Current athletes, family members, former players, coaches and members of the administration at Saint Vincent gathered on Sunday, October 1, to dedicate the Dodo Canterna Memorial, a spot overlooking the Saint Vincent Baseball Field just outside of the Carey Center Lounge. Several baseball alumni members spoke about Coach Canterna, including John M. Elliott, Esq., C’63, D’85; and John M. Lally, C’77, as well as men’s basketball coach D.P. Harris, C’13 and Father Myron Kirsch, O.S.B., C’69, S’73, athletic director. “Dodo Canterna loved his job, and it showed,” said Father Myron. “He meant a lot to the entire Saint Vincent community and had a major influence on my life. Not only was he the athletic director when I arrived, he was also my baseball coach. I learned a lot from him, not just how to be a better ballplayer or how to be a good athletic director. Dodo taught me how to treat people, and that’s a great life lesson for anyone to learn.” “After Dodo’s funeral it was evident many of the alumni, not just athletes, wanted to do something,” said Harris. “There was a wide range of stuff they wanted to do. People wanted to name the baseball field after him or put his name on the basketball court or on the gym.” But, Harris said, after talking to Canterna’s wife, Shirley, she decided on a plaque, pictured above. “His family really felt like that was something we still preach today here at Saint Vincent, to stay humble.” Donations will fund a scholarship in Canterna’s name, a trophy case, and the memorial, which overlooks the baseball field. Canterna grew up in Freeport and was a standout in football, baseball and basketball. He served in the Air Force for two years in Germany and played basketball at the University of Pittsburgh, and later signed a professional baseball contract with the Boston Braves. In 1953 he was hired to coach men’s basketball at Saint Vincent, which he did until 1970, when he became athletic director. He coached baseball from 1955 to 1965 and from 1979 to 1980. He retired from Saint Vincent in 1992 and was also active in the community, serving as mayor of Latrobe and on several other boards.

Saint Vincent Magazine

John Lally, C’77

John M. Elliott, Esq., C’63

Fall and Winter 2017

BEARCAT SPORTS ROUNDUP

Defensive Player of the Week. Oceant-Kelly, a wide receiver, caught four passes for 176 yards and two touchdowns.

The men’s basketball team kicked off its schedule on October 30 by hosting Robert Morris. The RDV Classic is on the team’s tournament schedule in December, and conference play began November 21 at Chatham. The team welcomed the addition of Jesse Reed as a graduate assistant coach. Reed, of Saltsburg, starred at Catholic University and played professional basketball in Luxembourg. The women’s team traveled to Baldwin Wallace to open the season on November 15 and joined the men for a double-header at Chatham to open conference play. The team will play in the Daytona Beach Tournament this winter.

The men’s golf team stands in fourth place after two rounds of the PAC championships. The final championship round will be played in the spring, with the NCAA-III championships in May. Nate Yackovich is in a six-way tie for first, while Brendan Shaughnessy is tied for 10th. The women’s team is currently in first place in the PAC championships. With two rounds of the PAC championships completed, the team has a 28-stroke lead. Freshman Sydney Ball is in third place overall, a stroke ahead of sophomore Maddie Leya. Two other team members, Angela Bialas and Meg Birmingham, are in the top 10.

The inaugural women’s bowling team started play on November 3 at Hilbert College, with its first home match on November 9 at Hillview Lanes versus Pitt-Bradford. Jason Mamros of Leechburg joined the staff as a volunteer assistant. He was a three-year member of the men’s team at Robert Morris University. The team includes three freshmen, four seniors and a graduate student.

The men’s soccer team won its first game of the season, then struggled, winning only twice more, as it was 0-7 in the conference and 3-13-1 overall at press time. Freshman midfielder Ian Garay was named Rookie of the Week, recording both goals in the opening victory, including the game-winning goal in overtime. He led the team with four goals this season. The women’s soccer team was 1-13-1 and 1-6 in the conference at press time. Senior forward Maggie Nelson was named Offensive Player of the Week following the team’s 2-1 win over Thiel, scoring both goals. She led the team in goals with four.

BASKETBALL

BOWLING

CROSS COUNTRY

At press time, the men’s cross country team was gearing up for the Presidents’ Athletic Conference (PAC) championships at the end of October, with the NCAA regionals scheduled for November 11. The team took first place at the Saint Vincent Invitational, with sophomore Will Greene powering his way to the individual title. Three others finished in the top five. The harriers had a sixth place showing at the National Catholic Invitational (NCI), hosted this year at Notre Dame University. Senior Laurence Jaross took 19th and the team finished sixth among 16 non-Division I teams competing. The women’s team also finished first at the Saint Vincent Invitational, with senior Maggie Czapski finishing second individually and three others placing in the top 10. In the NCI, the team placed eighth among 14 non-Division I teams competing, and Czapski coming in 18th. Both the men and the women also took first in the Saint Vincent Early Bird Invitational. The women’s championships and NCAA regionals take place at the same time as the men’s.

FOOTBALL

Saint Vincent was selected to finish sixth out of 11 teams in the PAC. At press time the team was eighth, with a 1-4 conference record and 2-5 overall record with two games to go. Highlights of the season included Rookie of the Week honors for freshman linebacker Hauns White for his performance against Alma College. Senior defensive lineman Sherby Saimplice was Defensive Player of the Week and Eastern Collegiate Athletic Conference (ECAC) South Defensive Player of the Week in the win over Thiel. Seniors Jean Cherilus and DJ Oceant-Kelly garnered honors in the win over Geneva. Cerilus, a safety, was named ECAC South Saint Vincent Magazine

GOLF

SOCCER

SWIMMING

The men’s and women’s swim teams opened the season strong with a pair of victories against Bethany College. Freshman Zach Baum was named Rookie of the Week in the PAC as he opened his collegiate career with victories in the 100 fly and the 200 fly. For the women, sophomore Claire Kenna was named Swimmer of the Week while freshman Marion D’Aurora was recognized as Rookie of the Week. They both had three firsts.

TENNIS

Brian Niemiec, C’17, was named head men’s tennis coach, becoming one of the youngest head coaches in the National Collegiate Athletic Association. He was a three-year member of the Bearcats under the late Enrico Campi. The women’s team finished 4-4 in the PAC and sixth in the conference tournament, with a 6-8 overall record. Senior Anita Onufer won Player of the Week honors in a 5-4 win over Thomas More. Senior Breana Liberoni was named PAC SAAC Scholar-Athlete of the Month for September.

VOLLEYBALL

The women’s volleyball team garnered an 11-16 overall record, 4-2 in the conference. The team will lose only one senior, Olivia London, and will return with seven freshmen. Freshman Cassie Murcko led the team with 242 kills while junior Marisa O’Dell tallied 772 assists and 41 service aces. Freshman Madison Reeping had 22 solo blocks and 28 block assists, while Junior Meghan Taylor had 328 digs. 53

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Five Inducted Into Athletic Hall Of Fame

Saint Vincent College inducted five individual alumni and one team—the 1949-50 Bearcat varsity football squad—into its Athletic Hall of Fame on Saturday, September 9. The legendary undefeated Bearcat football team coached by Al DeLuca which won the national Tangerine Bowl over Emory and Henry in Orlando, Florida, on New Year’s Day 1950, is celebrating the 67th anniversary of a memorable victory. The Bearcats won a hard-fought game 7-6 and completed the season undefeated. The game ball and the three-foot-tall Tangerine Bowl Trophy are still on display in the Robert S. Carey Student Center. The roster of the Tangerine Bowl team included Dino R. Angelici, D.D.S., George E. Behary, Herman V. Esway Jr., +Rodger J. Haughey, Robert A. Keefe, George I. Kocerka, Samuel C. Liburdi, Bernard H. Michels, Lloyd L. Pontzer, Joseph P. Sansonetti, Richard J. Toth, Charles Varsel, +Fredrick J. Brown, +C. William Clarchick, +Paul J. Clement, D.D.S., +Joseph F. Como, +Frank D’Emilio, +Robert S. Hanzel, +Dave R. Hart, +Donald E. Henigin, +Paul A. Kmetz Sr., +John E. Macerelli, +Michael A. Madar, +Frank Martin, +Philip X. Masciantonio, +James A. McDonald, +John E. McMahon, +Francis N. Mihalic, +Carl F. Pelini, +Frank E. Resnik, +Edward J. Shimko (manager), +Vincent A. Sundry, D.O., +William O. Sutherland, +James H. Taylor and +Charles H. Weigle Jr. MICHAEL J. KOZY JR., C’92 Michael J. Kozy Jr. of Pittsburgh earned a bachelor of arts degree with highest honor in mathematics and economics. He continued his education at Boston College, earning a master of arts degree in economics and a master of education in secondary mathematics education. A high school mathematics teacher and varsity basketball coach at Carlynton High School in Carnegie for more than 20 years, he was a four-year basketball letterman and 1000-point scorer at Saint Vincent, where he served as captain in his senior year, was named an All-American Scholar Athlete in his junior and senior years and second team all-district in his senior year. He received the award for academic excellence in economics. He and his wife, Suzy, C’91, have three children, Molly, 19, Katie, 16, and Michael, 13. KEITH E. MCCOMBS, C’89 Keith E. McCombs of Pittsburgh earned a bachelor of arts degree in liberal arts. A member of the varsity cross-country team from 1985 to 1989, and captain for Saint Vincent Magazine

three years, he was the first cross-country runner to qualify for nationals and won the Bearcat Athletic Club Award. He studied wireless telecommunications real estate and permit acquisition at Acquire Telecom Services and earned a Pennsylvania real estate license in 2004. He is employed by T-Mobile USA as a manager of engineering construction technology. He has been honored with the T-Mobile Living the Values Award, Quarterly Manager Award, Aerial Alive Award and the Aerial All-Star Award. He and his wife, Vivian, have three children, Cristina, 25, Michael, 21, and Brian, 15. They are members of St. Louise de Marillac Parish in Pittsburgh. He is a member of the Upper St. Clair Football Boosters and the Pennsylvania Wireless Association. DAVID J. MORGAN, C’02 David J. Morgan of Pittsburgh earned a bachelor of arts degree in business administration. He also earned a juris doctorate from the Duquesne University School of Law. A four-year varsity baseball starter and two-year captain, he was named all-conference three times, an NAIA allAmerican centerfielder and was honored with the Father Jerome Rupprecht Award. He is currently deputy general counsel for 84 Lumber Company in Eighty Four. He and his wife, Lindsay, have three children, Mikayla, 4, Russell, 2, and Mitchell, 1. They are members of Westminster Presbyterian Church in Pittsburgh. He is also a volunteer coach in local youth sports. THOMAS E. SKOLODA, P’60, C’64 Thomas E. Skoloda of Bradenton, Florida, earned a bachelor of arts degree in psychology. He was a fouryear letterman on the varsity wrestling team, president of the Monogram Club and a member of the Spirit Squad. He continued his education at the University of Delaware where he earned a master of arts degree in psychology in 1969 and a Ph.D. in psychology in 1973. A retired research and clinical psychologist for the Veter-

Fall and Winter 2017

Hall Of Fame ans Administration with 30 years of service with specialties in substance abuse and geriatrics, he currently is mental health/substance abuse chair of the Manatee County, Florida, Health Care Advisory Board. He and his wife, N. Alice Newlon, travel extensively and bicycle, kayak and swim. He is a member of the Audubon Society, Western Pennsylvania Conservancy, Sierra Club, Environmental Defense Fund and the South Florida Museum. LISA M. (DEAN) SYDESKI, C’92 Lisa M. Sydeski of North Huntingdon earned a bachelor of science degree in business management and holds certificates in secondary social studies and elementary education. She earned a master’s degree in European history from Duquesne University. At Saint Vincent, she was a three-year letterman on the varsity basketball team, cocaptain her senior year and was named a scholastic allAmerican. She also played varsity softball and was recognized with the award for excellence in business management. A high school social studies teacher in the West Jefferson Hills School District, she is also a CCD instructor, AAU basketball coach, a member of the World Affairs Council of Pittsburgh and a teacher-leader of student trips to Europe, including two trips to the Vatican. She and her husband, Randal, have two children, Tori, 12, and Nathan, 7. They are members of Immaculate Conception Parish, Irwin. The Athletic Hall of Fame Committee includes David J. Baker, C’79; Shaina A. Contic, C’17; Robert J. DePasquale, C’75; Eileen K. Flinn, Esq., C’90; Shawn A. Gouch, C’09; Walter B. Hobart, Jr., C’66; Sue Hozak, G’11; Lisa A. Jobe, C’93; Jeffrie A. Mallory, C’06, G’13; Edward McCormick, C’79; Joseph G. Mucci, C’55; Robert D. Page, C’83; Julieann C. Selep, C’92; Richard A. Stillwagon, P’65, C’69; James W. Walters, C’96; and Jeffrey J. Zidek, C’90.

Saint Vincent Magazine

men's lacrosse From left, Coach Peter Tulk, Michael Grus, Jeremy Kennedy.

Advancing to the Ohio River Lacrosse Conference championship game for the second time in three seasons, the men’s lacrosse team suffered a 12-1 defeat to top seeded Transylvania University, closing out the season with a 9-8 record. Veteran head coach Peter Tulk was voted Ohio River Lacrosse Coach of the Year and Saint Vincent saw seven student-athletes named to the AllORLC teams. Tulk guided the Bearcats to a 9-8 overall record, including a 7-2 record against league opponents. Sophomore attack Jeremy Kennedy and junior defender Michael Grus earned First Team All-ORLC status. Grus was also named Corvias All-Eastern College Athletic Conference (ECAC) Division III South Second Team. Junior attack Anthony Hogeback, junior face-off man John Wohlin, sophomore midfielder Joe Puvel and freshman midfielder Frank Casile were all listed as All-ORLC Second Team. Sophomore defender Luke Falvo was listed as an Honorable Mention selection. Senior captain Brendon Masten was selected as Saint Vincent’s member of the ORLC Sportsmanship Team.

Scholarship Honors Fallen Trooper Friends of fallen State Police Trooper Michael P. Stewart III from Pittsburgh Steelers Summer Training Camp have created a scholarship fund in his memory at Saint Vincent College. It will support students who are graduates of Greater Latrobe Senior High School (GLSHS). Stewart, a 2008 GLSHS graduate and member of Sacred Heart Parish, had worked for nine years on the camp staff for the Pittsburgh Steelers during their annual summer training camps at Saint Vincent. He died on July 14 in an automobile accident while on duty. To contribute, contact the Office of Institutional Advancement, 724-805-2949 or go to www.stvincent. edu/michaelstewart. 55

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March of Bearcats Band Plays At Heinz Field The Saint Vincent College “March of the Bearcats” marching band played during pre-game activities at the Pittsburgh Steelers pre-season game with the Atlanta Falcons at Heinz Field. Members also performd outside of the stadium and were part of a parade of game-day entertainers who performed as fans entered the stadium. The band is directed by Randall Kratofil. At the same time, Thomas Octave, assistant professor of music, sang the national anthem, the second consecutive year he has been invited to do so. Octave conducts the Saint Vincent Singers and teaches courses in voice, music appreciation and opera.

Athletic Conference Honors Late Broadcaster With Award The late Dow Carnahan, WCNS radio broadcaster for the Saint Vincent College Bearcats football and basketball programs, was honored by the Presidents’ Athletic Conference (PAC) at its annual football media day at Saint Vincent College on August 2. The inaugural Dow Carnahan Media Award was presented to the Carnahan family by Joe Onderko, left, PAC commissioner, and Brother Norman W. Hipps, O.S.B., right, president of Saint Vincent College. From left are broadcasting partner Jim Jones; cousin Jack Kells; brother-in-law and sister Dean and Jill Plafcan; and parents Ron and Anna Carnahan. A longtime supporter and friend of the PAC, Carnahan passed away unexpectedly on April 29, 2016. The award will be presented annually to a member of the area news media for commendable service while covering the conference’s student-athletes, coaches and programs. Saint Vincent Magazine

Fall and Winter 2017

ALUMNI & FRIENDS

Handing Over The Gavel

Saint Vincent Alumni Council elected a new president and vice president at its quarterly meeting recently at the Fred M. Rogers Center. Pictured are, from left, James Laffey, C’75, outgoing president; Jason Winters, C’04, president; Alé Simmons, C’10, vice president and Ryan Retter, C’08, president-elect. Winters, of North Huntingdon, is director of parks and recreation in Hempfield Township. Winters and his wife, Dana, C’06, have two daughters, Clare and Anna. Simmons, of Jefferson Hills, is a business development and marketing specialist at K&L Gates in Pittsburgh. She is married to Shane Simmons, C’10. Retter, of New Kensington, is married to Jennifer, and is the manager, continuous improvement, at ATI Flat Rolled Products in Natrona Heights. Council members re-elected include Donald J. Accorsi, C’57; Matthew A. Cheplic, Esq., C’06; Andrew D. Jeffers, D.M.D., C’06; Renold Sossong, C’12; Kelly Sheehy DeGroot, C’97; and Louis M. Zecchini, C’60. Newly-elected members are Christopher Danielson, C’17; Katherine Stevens, C’10; John Reilly, C’68; Megan Sigg, C’13; Shane Simmons, C’10; and Christopher Toy, C’14.

Members of the Tangerine Bowl team were recognized at halftime of the Saint Vincent-Thiel game this year, as part of the Athletic Hall of Fame celebration. Taking part in the recognition were, from left, Jan K. Esway, C’63, brother of Herman V. Esway, C’52, second from left; Charles Varsel, C’54 and President Brother Norman Hipps, O.S.B.

ALUMNI EVENT SCHEDULE

December 1 Pittsburgh Alumni Luncheon, Vallozzi’s Pittsburgh $15 December 2 Kris Kringle Mingle Children Ages 2-12 Winnie

Palmer Nature Reserve. Reservations Required

$15

December 8 Latrobe Alumni Luncheon, Metten Room, SVC

December 9 The Nutcracker, Benedum Center

$37

December 19 Greensburg Alumni Luncheon, Giannilli’s II

$10

For more information and to register: 724-805-2568 alumni@stvincent.edu

Saint Vincent Alumni Council honored former council member and past-president Amy Panebianco, Esq., C’88, with the Father Camillus Long, O.S.B., Award for dedication and outstanding service to Saint Vincent alumni affairs at its recent meeting. She is pictured with Brother Norman Hipps, O.S.B., college president, and outgoing president James Laffey, C’75.

Alumni Of Distinction Honored Nine College alumni were honored with the presentation of Alumni of Distinction or Recent Alumna/Alumni Achievement Awards on September 29 during the annual Alumni Homecoming and Fall Family Weekend on campus. All of the awards are made by the Saint Vincent Alumni Association in recognition of meritorious service and commitment to Saint Vincent.

ALUMNUS OF DISTINCTION DAVID A. BITONTI, D.M.D., C’81, Gaithersburg, Maryland, earned a bachelor of arts degree in chemistry, then studied at the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine, earning a D.M.D. degree. He received an exodontia certificate from the U.S. Navy and an oral and maxillofacial surgery residency certificate from the University of Texas Health Science Center. At Saint Vincent, he was active as a letterman of the varsity tennis team, chairman of the concert committee, residence hall prefect and the orientation committee. He has continued to be active as a member of the

Alumni Association. He has served as a USO volunteer, Red Cross Volunteer and church lector. His awards include the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine Distinguished Alumnus Award and the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons Political Activist Award. He and his wife, Lisa, have two children. He is a member of Our Lady of the Visitation Parish in Washington, D.C.

CMDR. BRYAN E. CHRISTENSEN, C’01, Atlanta, Georgia, earned a bachelor of science degree in biology with highest honor. He earned a master’s degree in environmental pollution control from The Pennsylvania State University and a Ph.D. in environmental health engineering from Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health. He earned certifications in public health preparedness and risk sciences and public health policy from the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. He is an epidemiologist and industrial hygienist for the Centers

Saint Vincent Magazine

for Disease Control and Prevention at the National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases in Atlanta. He has been deployed worldwide to Kenya, Nigeria, Switzerland, United Kingdom, Japan and many domestic locations. He has served as an epidemic intelligence service officer, epidemiologist, industrial hygienist and, most recently, technical advisor for occupational and environmental hygiene. He is currently a member of the Commissioned Officer Association, the Atlanta Commissioned Officer Association and the Environmental Health Officer Professional Advisory Committee. He is project officer for the Ebola personal protective equipment FOA, and the aerosol generation procedures extramural research, SME for CDC’s ebola personal protective equipment and health care worker safety lead for CDC’s ebola response team. ALFRED P. MOORE, C’67, Minneapolis, Minnesota, earned a bachelor of arts degree in history with honor. He continued his education at the University of Pittsburgh where he earned a master of arts degree and a Ph.D. and also studied at the University of Vienna, Austria. He also attended the Advanced Executive Program at the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University. He retired as president of 58

Fiserv Health in Minneapolis, Minnesota, the health care servicies division of Fiserve, Inc. (now the UMR division of United Healthcare). He is a member of the Saint Vincent Alumni Association and is active in the Annual Fund. He is currently a board member and director of the American Players Theatre, St. Paul Chamber Orchestra, VocalEssence, American Composers Forum and the League of American Orchestras. He is a member of Saint Mark’s Espiscopal Cathedral in Minneapolis. He and his wife, Ann, have three children.

J. WILLIAM MURTHA, C’77, of Pittsburgh, earned a bachelor of arts degree in liberal arts. A client partner/relationship manager for Fiserv of Lincoln, Nebraska, he also holds Fall and Winter 2017

an instructional II teaching certificate in secondary education. He pursued additional studies at the Financial Institute of Education and NCR Sales School. He has been active with Saint Vincent as a member of the Class Reunion Committee, Alumni Council (president and numerous committees) and the Phonathon. He is currently a board member for the Myasthenia Gravis Association of Western Pennsylvania, a member of the Brighton Heights Citizens Federation and as judge for MACS Young Entrepreneurs. He is a member of Saint Cyril of Alexandria Parish where he is a Eucharistic minister, chair of the golf outing, past member of the parish council, past finance council member and former parish and school athletic director, athletic association officer and head of fundraising. He and his wife, Alice, have three children.

ROBERT F. PUSATERI, C’72, of Beaver Falls, earned a bachelor of arts degree in accounting. He earned a master of business administration degree from

Case Western Reserve University in 1988. He retired in 2013 from his nearly four-decade career at Consol Energy where he was executive vice president—energy sales and Transportation Services with responsibility for marketing, transportation, research and development and land functions. He was on the board of directors of the American Coal Council and served on the board of directors of Catholic Charities. He was also a member of the Pennsylvania Coal Association and the Michigan Coal Club. He is currently a member of the Saint Vincent College Board of Directors. He and his wife, Lynn, have three children. They are members of SS Peter and Paul Parish, Beaver.

JAMES M. SCOTT, C’70, Arnold, Maryland, earned a bachelor of arts degree in political science, and did graduate study in government public relations at American University where he earned a graduate certificate degree. As a student, he was active in organizing and directing the club football program

Saint Vincent Magazine

and was honored with the John J. Maloney Award for academic achievement, leadership and character and a Student Government Award. He was news director and marine news editor for WNAV Radio in Annapolis, Maryland, and interviewed Ronald Reagan, Walter Cronkite, Ted Turner and other well-known personalities. He later served as public affairs specialist for the U.S. Army Northeast Region Recruiting Command in Ft. Meade, Maryland, and deputy public affairs officer for the Naval Ship Research and Development Center in Annapolis. Director of congressional and public affairs at the Naval Surface Warfare Center in Bethesda, Maryland, he retired in 2007. A member of the Saint Vincent Alumni Council, he was chairman of his 40th and 45th class reunions. He served as president of the Pines Community Improvement Association. He was honored with the U.S. Coast Guard Public Service Award in 1975 and 1976, the Baltimore Federal Executive Board Career Service Award for Community Relations and the Anne Arundel County Executive Citation for Boating Safety. He is a member of Saint Andrew by the Bay Parish, Annapolis, Maryland. He and his wife, Kathi, have two children. JOHN T. WEIR, C’72, Greensburg, received a bachelor of arts degree with highest honor in liberal arts. As a student, he was active in 59

club football and intramural athletics. As an alumnus, he has been a regular participant in the alumni and friends golf outing, summer theatre gala and Bearcat basketball games. He is the founder, board member and consultant to Scholastica Travel Inc., an educational travel company. A member of Our Lady of Grace Parish and its parish council, he also serves as a Eucharistic minister to the homebound, as a member and past president of the Saint Vincent DePaul Society and its food bank and as a volunteer at Saint Anne’s Home. Other service includes Greensburg’s Thanksgiving Turkey Trot committee, board member and chair of the Westmoreland County chapter of the American Red Cross and its bowling for disaster relief program, member of the Leukemia Society’s polo for the cure committee and volunteer for Nazareth Farm home repair project in West Virginia. He was recognized with the Distinguished Toastmaster Award from Toastmaster International. He and his wife, Nancy, have three children. Fall and Winter 2017

Recent Alumni Of Distinction National Champion Bowlers

RECENT ALUMNI OF DISTINCTION ANTHONY R. BARBATO, C’05, G’09, G’12, Greensburg, earned earned a bachelor of arts degree in psychology of education, master of science degrees in curriculum and instruction and school administration and supervision. He received the Award for Academic Excellence in School Administration and Supervision. He returns to campus to speak to student teachers about planning careers and to conduct mock interviews for education majors. A head teacher at James H. Metzgar Elementary School, Greensburg Salem School District, he was acting associate principal at Amos K. Hutchinson Elementary School from February to June 2017. He previously served as a kindergarten and kids’ express teacher, summer school, kinder camp and parents are welcome in schools instructor. He has been Astronomy Club sponsor, member of the board and grant committee for the Greensburg Salem Education Founda-

In last issue’s “Guess Who?” the national champion Saint Vincent bowling team was featured. Numerous alumni helped identify the photo of the athletes, coached by the late Brother Patrick Lacey, O.S.B. The bowling team remains the only team in school history to capture a national championship. Joe Rossowski, C’78, was quick to respond, identifying all of the members: front, from left, Doug Pohland, C’80; himself, Ron Uveges, C’80; back, from left, Gary Giacobbi, C’80; Mike Petrarca, C’80; Jim Racosky and Brother Pat. Tom Lafferty, C’77, dug into his archives, sending a scan of the Saint Vincent Review with a different photo of the team. Brian Silowash, C’80, who graduated from Greater Latrobe Senior High School with Gary Giacobbi and Doug Pohland, guessed those two correctly as well as Ron Uveges. Jim Racosky (according to Rossowski that is the correct spelling) takes the prize for most variations of his surname, having been called Petrosky, Racosky and Rokowski. And of course Don Orlando, C’72, public relations director, identified the team members. And finally, Giacobbi had a clipping from the entire article, which was from the Team from Saint Vincent College school paper and written by Jim Clark, who accompanied the squad to the tournament, and was a very good friend of Brother Pat’s and helped him with quite a few bowling outings.

tion, vice president of the board, member of the financial committee of the CNS Health and Scholarship Committee. He is married to Kelsey and a member of Saint John Baptist de la Salle Parish, Delmont. ALIESHA M. (POCRATSKY) WALZ, C’07, Jeannette, earned a bachelor of arts degree in English with a minor in art history. Director of development and public relations at Saint Anne Home, Greensburg, she has been active with Saint Vincent as a member of Alumni Council, theatre gala executive committee and as a member of the capital campaign liaison committee. A member of the Westmoreland County Republican Committee, she is a former member of the Zonta Club. She is married to Andrew Walz, C’06, G’12. They are members of Ascension/Sacred Heart Parishes, Jeannette. Her hobbies include reading, photography, watching British-period dramas, travel and playing strategy games.

Saint Vincent Magazine

MARY MOTHER OF MERCY MAUSOLEUM CHAPEL The Mary Mother of Mercy Mausoleum Chapel serves as a sanctuary for prayer and remembrance of family members, alumni of Saint Vincent Prep, College and Seminary, Oblates, parishioners and friends from throughout the region. “Coming Home” to Saint Vincent includes remembrance in the daily prayers and Masses of the Benedictine Community.

Saint Vincent Cemetery 724-805-2651 www.saintvincentcemetery.com Dennis Garman, Manager

Fall and Winter 2017

Burkhauser, C’67, Named To President’s Council

Dr. Richard V. Burkhauser, C’67, and a member of the advisory board of the Alex G. McKenna School of Business, Economics and Government, has been named a member of the President’s Council of Economic Advisers. The announcement was made by President Donald J. Trump at the White House on September 15. A former president of the Association for Public Policy Analysis and Management, Burkhauser’s professional career has focused on how public policies affect the economic behavior and well-being of vulnerable populations such as older persons, people with disabilities and low-income households as well as how levels and trends in income and income inequality have changed in the United States and other countries. He has published widely on these topics in journals of demography, economics, gerontology as well as public policy. Burhkauser is an adjunct professor in the department of economics and senior research fellow in the LBJ School of Public Affairs at the University of Texas at Austin, as well as professorial research fellow at University of Melbourne’s Institute of Applied Economic and Social Research and emeritus professor in Cornell University’s department of policy analysis and management. He is a member of the National Bureau of Economic

Dr. Richard V. Burkhauser and Dr. Gary Quinlivan Research, an adjunct scholar at the American Enterprise Institute, a research professor of the German Institute for Economic Research (DIW-Berlin), and a research fellow for the Institute for the Study of Labour (IZA-Bonn). Burkhauser completed the master of arts degree in economics at Rutgers University in 1969 and the Ph.D. from the University of Chicago in 1976. He is the author or co-author of numerous books, book chapters, journal articles, abstracts and book reviews. A native of New Jersey, he currently resides in Texas.

Prep Alumnus Of Distinction William J. Beitler, P’60, of Washington, a graduate of Saint Vincent Preparatory School, received an Alumnus of Distinction Award at the recent reception and dinner during the annual Alumni Homecoming weekend. The awards are made by the Saint Vincent Alumni Association in recognition of meritorious service and commitment to Saint Vincent. After graduating from Saint Vincent Preparatory School, he earned a bachelor’s degree from John Carroll University as a transportation major. He pursued graduate school in transportation at the University of Tennessee. A member of Bethlehem Lutheran Church, Scenery Hill, he is active in the Civil Air Patrol, Mission Aviation Fellowship, Salvation Army, Traffic Club of Pittsburgh and the Warbirds of America. He was formerly involved with the Military Transportation Corps, Bronze Star Meritorious Services in Vietnam and the Civil Air Patrol. He and his wife, Bjŏrg, have three children. Saint Vincent Magazine

Business Card Challenge Saint Vincent College’s communication department initiated the “The Business Card Challenge” this past summer and received 87 business cards from 69 alumni of Saint Vincent College which are currently on display in Prep Hall, the location of the communication faculty offices and classrooms. David Safin, C’00, assistant professor of communication, initiated the challenge as a way to show students concrete evidence of success after college. Safin noted that several alums sent more than one business card, representing progression and growth in their fields. The communication department Facebook page has a following of current and past students and professors as a means of staying in contact. 61

Fall and Winter 2017

MEEKER COMPLETES OCS

HINDMAN RETURNS FOR LECTURE

Drew C. Meeker, C’16, of Aliquippa, has completed training at the United States Marines Officer Candidate School (OCS) in Quantico, Virginia. Meeker graduated from the rigorous training program at OCS with 600 men and women that began with approximately 900 candidates. Her platoon of 63 women was narrowed to just 29 by graduation. OCS is a process in which candidates are evaluated for their mental, moral and physical abilities and measured for their leadership potential. Upon graduation, she is attending the Basic School in Quantico for six months where she will be trained as a Provisional Rifle Platoon Commander, also known as Leader of Marines, a requirement held only by the USMC for newly-commissioned officers. Meeker will then be assigned a Military Occupational Specialty which she will serve her remaining four active years. Meeker commented that “adapt and overcome” has taken on a whole new meaning in her life. Meeker’s long-term goal is to serve her country for four years and then apply to the FBI in counterintelligence. At Saint Vincent, Meeker earned a bachelor of arts degree in criminology, law and society.

The Saint Vincent College Center for Political and Economic Thought of the Alex G. McKenna School of Business, Economics and Government celebrated Constitution Day with a lecture by Dr. Alex Hindman, C’05, on the topic of Constitutional Legitimacy and the American Presidency. Hindman is a visiting assistant professor of political science at the College of the Holy Cross in Worcester, Massachusetts. He earned a bachelor of arts degree in political science from Saint Vincent College in 2005 and continued his graduate education at Claremont Graduate University, where he earned a master of arts degree in 2007 and a Ph.D. in 2015. Specializing in American ideas and institutions, Hindman has taught a variety of classes in constitutional law, Western political thought and American political development. Before joining the faculty at Holy Cross, Hindman taught at Azusa Pacific University, Vanguard University and Morehead State University. He recently published a book entitled Gerald Ford and the Separation of Powers: Preserving the Constitutional Presidency in the Post-Watergate Period, available from Lexington Books.

SAFINS APPEAR ON WQED SHOW

Dave Safin, C’00, assistant professor, Department of Communication, was recently featured on Rick Sebak's new documentary series "Nebby," which premiered on WQED. The first episode was about Route 88, and he used clips from Safin’s short film "A Ride Around Roscoe," and interviewed Safin’s father, George, for the project. The show can be viewed online at: https://wqed.org/NEBBY. Pictured, from left, are George Safin, Connie Safin, Dave Safin and Rick Sebak. Saint Vincent Magazine

Fall and Winter 2017

Class News

University recognizes individuals or organizations whose acts of love, charity and care of all creation exemplify the Peace Prayer of Saint Francis.

1970s Atty. Richard W. Perhacs, C’71, was selected for Labor Law— Management for the fourth consecutive year and for Em-

1960s Rev. John J. O’Malley, S’65, re-

ployment Law—Management for the third consecutive year. Perhacs, shareholder at Knox Law, recently earned a master of fine arts in writing popular fiction from Seton Hill University. He released his first novel, Cuer-

ceived the Spiritus Paenitentiae Award on June 14 from his alma mater, Saint Francis University, Loretto, where he graduated in 1959 with a bachelor of arts degree in economics. Through the Spiritus Paenitentiae Award, the

Deaths John E. Gallo, C 46, on July 8. Stephen Slifka, C’47, on April 11.

Ernest L. Teichert, C’51, May 11.

George E. Hipps, P’52, C56, on June 9.

Ronald Rometo, C’67, has received the 2017 Lifetime Achievement Award from the Westmoreland County Republican Committee. Ron has been active in the county Republican Committee since the late 1980s and for the past 8 years, has been chairman of the local Republican Committee serving Penn Township, Trafford, Manor and Penn Borough.

Joseph W. Keppel, Jr., C’61, on

Guy K. Skelly, D.O., C’71, on

May 15.

July 4.

Edward A. Buczynski, C’61, on

James J. Gondek, C’72, on June

July 26.

William J. English, Ph.D., C’63,

Charles J. Short, C’76, on August

on July 27.

17.

Michael F. McLean, C 64, on

Joseph Lutz, C’85, on May 23.

February 17.

John R. Sesak, C 65, on August 11.

Candace A. Henry, Ph.D., C’88, on June 20.

Tomas R. Sandzimier, C 88, on

Reamer P. Reynolds, P’53, C’57, on May 30.

William Valis, C’65, on May 13.

Eugene J. Leahy, Jr., C’54, on

Rev. William P. Donahue, C’66, S’70, on July 2.

MaryAnn Cherubini, C’99, on

Raymond D. Hluska, P 66, C 70, on June 16.

Howard F. Armour, retired Director of Excela School of Anesthesia on August 1.

May 6.

John Frey, C’57, on April 23. Scott W. Rudy, C’57, May 13. William H. Donahue, D.O., C’57, on June 6. Atty. Patrick H. Washington, P’58, C 62, on June 9. Rev. James R. Macey, Ed.D., P’59, on August 21. Ralph Mlaker, C’59, on October 3, 2016.

Robert Uhrin, C’66, on April 23. James C. Fisher, Jr., C’67, on August 1.

Joseph Adkins, C’64, S’68, on May 3.

Rev. Regis M. Farmer, C’68, S’73, on August 17.

August 7.

August 26.

Dr. Stefanie Yazge, Department of Theology, on June 29. Sophomore Gregory W. Sutek, on June 14.

Carol Pollock, director of The Saint Vincent Gallery for more than 20 years, on August 29.

Rev. Richard P. Karenbauer, S’70, on May 25.

Saint Vincent Magazine

navaca, (available on Amazon. com) and is working on his second. Richard also authored Labor Relations for School Leaders: A Practical Guide to Labor Contacts, Negotiations, Strikes and Grievances, a book that leads school board members and administrators through an array of labor relations situations. The book has been published (and is available to order) by the Pennsylvania School Boards Association (PSBA). Perhacs’ “day job” includes over 40 years of counseling both local government and business employers on labor and employment law issues. He has represented more than a dozen public school systems and served four Erie County Executives as solicitor for labor relations for the county. He is AV Preeminent Peer Review Rated and has been included in the Best Lawyers in America for Labor Law—Management since 2015. He is also board vice president for the Multi-Cultural Community Resources Center and conversationally proficient in Spanish.

Bruce D. Braden, C’72, recently published three more e-books and paperback books on Amazon.com: It’s Time I Moved On; The Warm Scent of Her Skin; After Vince Died.

John T. Weir, C’72, received 63

Fall and Winter 2017

an Alumni of Distinction Award (see page 59) at a September 29 reception and dinner during the annual Alumni Homecoming and Fall Family Weekend at Saint Vincent College in Unity. The award recognizes meritorious service and commitment to the college.

1980s Keith W. Murphy, C’84, is the director of Healthy Village Learning Institute, McKeesport. He returned to help rebuild his hometown, child by child. His program works to instill cultural pride in the African-American community with the help of his collection of African artwork and eye-catching collectibles, including actual slave chains. Programs for young and old range from yoga to music, with assistance available for residents needing help on multiple fronts. Rev. Alfred S. Patterson, O.S.B., C’85, S’90, is the new pastor of St. Nick’s Church in Nicktown.

Michelle M. (Henry) Rawl, C’88, president of Rawl Research, Inc., received the AIIP Connections Writers Award, sponsored by Information Today Inc., during the Association of Independent Information Professionals’ (aiip. org) 31st annual conference held May 18-21, in New Orleans, Louisiana. The award is given to the writer of the best original article published in AIIP Connections each year. Rawl co-wrote the article “Collaborating for Success: Tips for Effective Teamwork,” published in the December 2016 issue, with Karen Klein of Fulcrum Information Resources on their experience partnering on a 10-month project for Legal Services Corporation (LSC), an independent nonprofit established by Congress in 1974 to provide financial

support for civil legal aid to lowincome Americans.

1990s Julie A. (Dietz) Krizner, C’92, has her masters degree in mental health counseling and currently works as the clinical director of Axiom Family Counseling Services. Axiom offers Mental Health and Addiction treatment services in Westmoreland, Greene, Cambria, and Fayette Counties. This addiction treatment program is currently assisting in fighting the opioid epidemic that is taking the lives of so many people in our communities. Axiom offers a program specifically aimed at assisting those addicted to opioids and helping them rebuild their lives. Our most important programs are spearheaded by Saint Vincent graduates. Besides JKrizner, their CEO, business manager, and the clinical supervisor are all Saint Vincent graduates. Axiom prides itself on putting the best in front of those who are struggling.

2000s James S. Berger, C’04, has been promoted to the position of assistant athletic director at Allegheny College. Berger, who has worked as the director of athletic communications at Allegheny since March 2013, began his career as assistant sports Information director at SVC shortly after his graduation.

Desiree R. Melonas, Ph.D., C’06, completed her Ph.D. at Temple University in May of 2016, received a visiting assistant professorship at Swarthmore College for the 2016-17 school year,. She is now an assistant professor at Birmingham-Southern College.

Saint Vincent Magazine

Michael R. Palcsey, C’08, G’12, is now the curriculum coordinator and associate campus minister at Cardinal Wuerl North Catholic High School in Cranberry Township.

Sean D. King, C’09, Washington & Jefferson sports information director, has been named to the executive board of a regional SID group, while also earning his third consecutive honor from the Collegiate Water Polo Association (CWPA).

2010s Lindsay Kleinwaks, C’11, graduated with a Ph.D. in microbiology and immunology from Drexel University.

Crystal Barrett, C’12, recently purchased her first home and received credentials in medical billing and coding to complement her position at the Surgical Center of Greater Annapolis.

John Scialabba, C’12, received his Juris doctorate degree from the University of Pittsburgh School of Law. He is an associate at the law firm of Strassburger McKenna Gutnick and Gefsky in Pittsburgh.

Rev. Matthew Robert Larlick, S’13, is the new pastor of Saint Joseph Catholic Church, Berwick. He also serves as a boatswain mate in the Coast Guard Reserve.

Kasey M. Radicic, C’13, recently received the doctor of osteopathic medicine (D.O.) degree from the Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine at the Erie Insurance Arena. She was the recipient of the Dr. John D. Latorella and Marie L. Mazzio Memorial Award, which is awarded to the member of the graduating class who has demonstrated an outstanding commitment to osteopathic

medicine and patient care. Dr. Radicic will be completing her residency at OVMC in Wheeling, West Virginia, where she will specialize in internal medicine.

David Rupprecht, C’13, graduated from Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine with a doctor of medicine degree (M.D.) on May 7. He was awarded the 2015 Medical Student Professionalism and Service Award from the American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP), at its annual conference in Boston. Chelsea (Marsh) Gross, C’15, is the West Nile Virus program technician with the Westmoreland Conservation District.

James H. Kuniega, C’16, completed the year of candidacy for the Priestly Fraternity of Saint Peter (FSSP) and will be receiving clerical tonsure along with incorporation into the Society while continuing studies at its seminary.

Michael D. Orange, C’16, is attending Georgetown University for a master of science degree in biohazardous threat agents and emerging infectious diseases. Georgetown’s program, which consists of 30 credit hours over two semesters, includes courses on bioterrorism, homeland security, agroterrorism, defense threat reduction initiatives, the microbiology of infectious agents and chemical threat agents. The program had its genesis less than a year after the September 11 attacks. In addition, the program partners with the Homeland Security Institute, a division of the defense contractor Analytical Services, which trains students in the program and offers them paid internships. Education about handling response to biological and chemical attacks is vital in the 21st century.

Fall and Winter 2017

Engagements

Births

Stanley J. Tatarek, II, C’11, to Marie E. Fuga, C’12. The wedding was held on October 6 at Saint Agnes Church.

Connor Andrew Quinn was born February 20 to Jamie BieleckiQuinn, C’02, and husband, Richard. He joins big brother Owen James, 5.

Noah James Zalich to Mandy Welty Zalich, C’02, and Nicholas Zalich on July 9.

William Kawika Haas to Judith Spelz Haas, C’10, G’12, and Carl W. Haas on July 15.

Condolences

Trevor Comas, C’13, and Jayna Cline, C’13, got engaged in

Mr. J. Roger Fisher, C 67, on the

May. They plan a June, 2018 wedding.

death of his brother, James C. Fisher, C'67, on August 1. Rev. Vernon Holtz, O.S.B., C’58, S’62, on the death of his brother, Allan, on September 5. James A. Cherubini, C’75, on the loss of his wife, Maryann Cherubini, C’99, on August 26.

Parker Douglas Mehall to Douglas Mehall, C’10, and Kayla Craig Mehall, C’12, on March 4.

Eliana Sophia Reisz to Christine

Rachelle Bullock Reisz, C‘11,

and Joshua Joseph Reisz, C‘11, on April 16.

John M., C’77, and Kiera Lally on the death of their son, Shaun, on October 7. Michael Walsh, C’96, on the death of his mother, Mary Louise Walsh, on October 2. Heather L. Brady, Ph.D., C'97, on the loss of her father, John T. Brady, on May 27. Mary Alice Armour, R.N, retired director of the SVC wellness center, on the death of her husband, Howard F. Armour, retired Director of Excela School of Anesthesia and retired faculty member in the nurse anesthesia program, on August 1.

Charitable Gift Annuities

GET a fixed income for life when you make a gift of

$10,000 or more to Saint Vincent College. A Charitable Gift Annuity will generate a tax deduction in the year of your gift. Distribution rates are dependent upon your age, and current interest rates determine the annuity rate that Saint Vincent can offer. For more information on life income gifts or other giving opportunities, contact: JAMES BENDEL, DIRECTOR OF PLANNED GIVING, Institutional Advancement, 724-805-2948. http://saintvincent.planmylegacy.org/

Saint Vincent Magazine

Ryan C Lewis, C’15, to Sarah L. Hejnosz, C 18. They will be married on June 9, 2018 at Saint Vincent Basilica.

Sarah Haenel, C 18, to Nicholas Winebrenner. The wedding is planned for October 27, 2018.

Volunteer!

Help our Alumni Recruitment Network spread the word about Saint Vincent in your area. For information call 724-805-2568.

Fall and Winter 2017

Marriages

O.S.B., C’93, S’98, as celebrant. The couple, after honeymooning in the Cayman Islands, is settling into their new residence in Rochester, New York.

Jeff Zidek, C’90 and Jacquelyn Reagan on August 11 at Blessed Sacrament Cathedral, Greensburg. Best man was Ryan Zidek, C’17. The couple is residing in South Greensburg.

Stephen F. Kuniak, C’05, and Abra Elizabeth McClure on June 24 at Saint Vincent Basilica. Alex F. Prizzi, C’05, was best man.

included Jamie (Dunlap) Coates, C’06, sister of the bride, as matron of honor; Judith (Spelz) Haas, C’10, G’12, reader; Sarah (O’Connor) Kepes, C’06, Julie M. Slaughter, C’06, offertory presenters; and mother of the bride, Mary Ann (Stas) Dunlap, C’12, G’15. Other alumni attending the wedding were: Katie (Wojtunik) Boosel

C’04, S’07; Benjamin S. Chambers, C’10; Molly M. (Sheehy) Creenan,C’93; Megan (Clark) Erney, C’08; Lauren M. Gates, C’10; Elizabeth A. Guthrie, C’08; Joshua N. Guthrie, C’07; Patricia L. Henry, C’95; Catherine (Collins) Humphreys, C’07; Bridget A. Kennis, C’07; Joseph J. Rubino C’50, D’93; Katie A. (Newcomer) Samick, C’06; Mitchell J. Samick, C’03; Molly A. Robb Shimko, C’90; Jocelyn Stas, C’16; Nicholas J. Stas, C 70; Stephen J. Stas, Jr., C 71; James E. Szelagowski, C’07; Zachary A. Tackett, C’13; Stacy L. Thompson, C’06; Michael J. Urick, Ph.D., C’04; Katherine M. Varga, C’11; Aliesha M. (Pocratsky) Walz, C’07; Andrew L. Walz, C’06, G’12; and Mandy (Welty) Zalich, C’02.

Lisa M. Oppman, C’06, and Gregory S. Ritsko Jr. were united in marriage on May 13 at Saint Rita Roman Catholic Church in Connellsville. Father Bob Lubic, S’95, was the celebrant and Father Daniel Ulishney was the co-celebrant. The couple honeymooned on the Greek island of Santorini. They reside in Connellsville.

Katherine Elizabeth Macioce, C’10, and Michael Andrew Stevens, C’11, on July 29 at Saint Vincent Basilica with Father Maximilian M. Maxwell, O.S.B., C’07, S’14, presiding.

Anna Lee Steighner, C’13, and David P. Rupprecht, C’13, on June 3 at Saint Vincent Basilica with Father Anthony Grossi,

July 15 at Saint Vincent Archabbey Basilica with Father Brian Boosel, O.S.B., C’96, S’02, officiating and Brother Lawrence Machia, O.S.B., as deacon. The couple resides in Dallas, Texas.

Maria Nadine Lang, C’15, and Silvio M. Garcia on July 8 at Saint Vincent Basilica with Father Killian Loch, O.S.B. as celebrant.

Jessica L. Salandro, C’11, and Shane Smith, C’11, G’13, on April 15 at Bloody Point Resort in South Carolina (photos below and at right). Bearcats in attendance included Bill Malloy, C’87; Rita Malloy Rice; Ray Craig, C’11; Lydia Wudarczyk;

GUARDIAN SOCIETY

Bridget Bearer, C’12,; Sarah Palmer, C’12. In attendance, but missing from the photo, Matthew Britton, C’12, and Devin Rigot Britton, C’12.

Guardian Society members are loyal alumni and friends who have remembered Saint Vincent College in their estate planning through bequests, insurance policies, trusts or annuities. Their stewardship guarantees a quality education to Saint Vincent students of the future. For information call 724-805-2949.

Sherrie Elise Dunlap, C’09, to Sean Michael Gallagher on Saturday, June 10 at Saint Vincent Basilica with Father

Thomas Curry, O.S.B., S’02,

pastor, as celebrant (photos above and top, middle). SVC alumni assisting at the wedding

Saint Vincent Magazine

Melanie L. Fetzer, C’15, and Max Henry, C’14, were married

Fall and Winter 2017

NEW SCHOLARSHIP FUND ASSISTS VETERANS

ich Schulte, P’64, C’68, an Army veteran, approached me one day last year with a challenging comment: “Jim, does the college have a Veterans’ Scholarship to support the unmet financial needs of our returning veterans?” After a quick inquiry, I discovered that even with the strong support of Saint Vincent since its inception, we had no dedicated scholarship for these men and women who have given years of their lives in service to our country.

That exchange then led me to a conversation with Jym Walters, C’96, that took me on a journey to an unexpected result. Jym’s father, a West Point graduate who had a decorated career in the Army, died a few years ago. The cause of death was probably the result of environmental issues suffered during his tour of duty in Vietnam. After speaking with Jym, Lt. Col. Sandy Walters I decided to call his mother, Mrs. Zoe Walters, to hear more about her deceased husband. What I heard was an uplifting story about Lieutenant Colonel “Sandy” Walters and his full commitment to “duty, honor and country.” As a husband, father, soldier and community leader, this Army veteran contributed in endless ways to making those around him better prepared to be good citizens.

From left, Jym, Sandy, Jennifer, Barbara, Tom and Zoe Walters. Emerging from this meaningful conversation came the comment by Mrs. Walters: “What could we do in Sandy’s memory that would aid veterans at Saint Vincent? Without hesitation, Zoe made the first gift of $10,000 beginning the creation of a “Veterans’ Scholarship.” Since that initial gift, John Tosh, C’48, a World War II Army veteran, and his wife, Kathryn, and Joseph F. Walsh, C’59, a Navy Cold War veteran, likewise have both invested $10,000. With that leadership support, and gifts by 42 other individuals, there is now over $41,000 available, thus exceeding the minimum of $25,000 for the creation of a permanent scholarship fund. (If you would choose to support this scholarship, please forward your gift to Saint Vincent College with a designation of the “Veterans’ Scholarship.”) If this story has inspired your vision of how you might be able to support students through the establishment of a named scholarship, contact me to learn how we can make your dream—and our students dreams—a reality! Thanks for your interest in Saint Vincent College. —Jim Bendel, C’60, D’85, Planned Giving Director and Navy veteran. For information on contributing to this scholarship please contact Jim Bendel, james.bendel@ stvincent.edu, 724-805-2948.

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