Fall 2010 by Saint Vincent College

Saint Vincent quarterly

With the help of many Br. Norman W. Hipps, O.S.B. installed as the 17th President

fall 2010

Message from

President Br. Norman w. hipps, o.s.b.

o begin my first President’s Message in the Quarterly, I’ll say thank you. I have received so many emails, cards and notes with words of encouragement and support since I began my presidency. As St. Benedict said, monks are to advance “with the help of many brethren,” and it is reassuring that I can count on my Benedictine confreres, our faculty, staff and alumni who embody the qualifications that we expect our graduates will have. I am very honored to serve as the 17th President of Saint Vincent College. It has been just wonderful to look up the hill and see the new the Sis and Herman Dupré Science Pavilion come to life. We began to use the new center building this fall and will proceed with the renovations of the Biology building in the spring. The successful completion of this landmark undertaking ranks among my highest priorities as president. There is much else to be thankful for, including the strength of the enduring relationships that sustain this community. May Commencement, for example, was a wonderful event when 324 students received degrees and we heard the words of Manfred Honeck, director of the Pittsburgh Symphony, speaking of his faith, family and work. Our Archabbot’s friendship with Maestro Honeck has created exceptional opportunities, which included our Schola Gregoriana performing several chant pieces as part of the Pittsburgh Symphony’s performance of the Requiem Mass of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart last December and the “Meet the New President” evening at Heinz Hall when Maestro Honeck welcomed and greeted over 100 friends of Saint Vincent. In this issue, readers will be reacquainted with former Bearcat basketball star Jeff Mallory, who returned to campus last semester in a new role, as Coordinator of Multicultural Student Life. His accomplishments on the court were impressive, but even more so is the difference that Jeff is making in the lives of our minority and international students. You will enjoy the photo montage on our student athletes. We have just completed the required NCAA four-year provisional membership and are now an active member of Division III in the Presidents’ Athletic Conference, Active members are eligible for post-season play, and I expect that several of our teams will be competing in playoffs. This is also our first season of a full contingent football program with 20 seniors on our team. The Homecoming game victory was a stirring moment in the recent history of the College’s athletic program Again, thank you all for your support for Saint Vincent. The campus is alive and well. Please come visit.

contents Saint Vincent College quarterly fall 2010 Volume 8, Issue 2

Archabbot and Chancellor Rt. Rev. Douglas R. Nowicki, O.S.B.

f e a ture New President Installed Br. Norman W. Hipps, O.S.B., takes office as the Collegeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 17th President.

President Br. Norman W. Hipps, O.S.B. The saint vincent quarterly is produced by The Office of Enrollment and Marketing layout/design Apollo Design Group Inc. George Fetkovich Art Director printing Laurel Valley Graphics contributing writers Jim Berger Don Orlando Theresa Schwab Aliesha Walz

12 A Symphony of Advice

production assistant Carol Riddle Alumni News Coordinator Mary Ann Dunlap photographs courtesy of Multimedia and Marketing Public Relations Office Sports Information Office Office of Alumni Relations Archabbey Public Relations Office Fineline Multimedia Ken Brooks Jack Krall

Saint Vincent Quarterly (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 subscribes to a policy of equal opportunity and does not discriminate against any individual on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, age, veteran status or disability in any of its programs, admission or employment decisions.

Maestro Manfred Honeck addresses graduates.

17 Alumnus Makes the Most of Home-Court Advantage

Jeff Mallory coordinates multicultural student life.

22 The Good Doctor Dr. Angelo DeMezza advises students

who plan to attend medical school.

25 Scaling New Heights

Senior physics major Daniel Rubino conducts research on atomic friction.

27 Fall Sports Review

A photo collage of your favorite Bearcat teams.

30 News Briefs

41 Alumni News

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Br. Norman Invites Students, Alumni, Friends to Join Him in Presidential Role B Y don or l a ndo

rother Norman W. Hipps, O.S.B., called on nearly a thousand students, alumni and friends to assist him in his new role as the 17th president of Saint Vincent College. “Divine Providence has brought all of us to this time and place together,” he said at the Vespers and Inauguration in the Basilica on October 11. “I invite you to join me in my hope, that as individuals we might not be able to do much, but with the help of many brothers and sisters, together we can accomplish things beyond our wildest imagination.” “When Pope Benedict XVI was in Portugal this past May,” Br. Norman said, “he reiterated what the Catholic Church teaches when it is at its best, namely that we do not wish to impose anything, but to propose ceaselessly, that each of us has been made for something greater, that God has a purpose for each of us, and that we look to a kind of hope ‘that outlasts every human disappointment’.”

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Br. Norman officially became President on July 1 following the announcement of his appointment by Archabbot Douglas R. Nowicki, O.S.B., Chancellor, on January 27. While Br. Norman was the center of attention for the day-long celebration, in his own mind there was a larger purpose for the ceremony and related events. “I want people to know about Saint Vincent and what we want Saint Vincent to be.” As he explained afterward, “I think it is important that everyone know that I do not have a long list of new things I want to do. Rather, I first want to finish Archabbot Douglas R. what we have started. Most importantly, Nowicki, O.S.B., I want to complete the Sis and Herman Chancellor, Dupré Science Pavilion. And I want to addresses the crowd.

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get the campus long-range master plan in place.” Br. Norman emphasized his commitment to the College’s established mission. “The main message I want to communicate to our alumni and friends is that the mission of the College is important for our country and our world. To the extent that we can more effectively live that mission and make it a reality, that is what we must do.” The inauguration commenced with a formal academic procession that included students, faculty, administrators, alumni, officials and delegates of colleges and universities and other visiting dignitaries. Archabbot Douglas opened the Vespers and Inaugural ceremony with welcoming remarks. “Today’s

Mr. J. Christopher Donahue, Chair of the Board of Directors of Saint Vincent College Corporation, congratulates Br. Norman W. Hipps, O.S.B., now wearing the Presidential Insignia, as Archabbot Douglas R. Nowicki, O.S.B., looks on.

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inauguration reflects the many dimensions of Brother Norman’s deep faith, energetic spirit and dedicated

The Most Rev. Lawrence Brandt, Bishop of Greensburg, presided over the inauguration ceremony.

service to Saint Vincent College, the local community and to the Church,” he said. “Brother Norman, you are truly a blessing to all of us. As we pray and speak and listen together here, may Brother Norman know our

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sincere appreciation for his goodwill in shouldering the complex and heavy task he undertakes.” During the inaugural portion of the ceremony, Mr. J. Christopher Donahue of Federated Investors, Inc., Chair of the Board of Directors of Saint Vincent College Corporation, read the Inaugural Proclamation. ”Brother Norman, a faithful Benedictine monk for 46 years, is a living embodiment of what Catholic higher education means in our time – a competent integration of faith and reason, expressed in practical service for the betterment of our students, of our church, and of our society. The Board of Directors is grateful that Brother Norman accepted this responsibility, and we celebrate with him today the ceremonial beginning of his service as President of Saint Vincent College. On behalf of the Board of Directors, the faculty, and the entire Saint Vincent Community, I, J. Christopher Donahue, extend our promise of support and look forward to working with you to advance the mission of our beloved college.” Archabbot Douglas conferred the Presidential Insignia on Br. Norman, who announced his acceptance and gave the Presidential Address, which focused on Saint Vincent College’s Catholic, Benedictine, liberal arts mission and heritage. “Catholicism strives to bring the virtue of hope to bear in the midst of life’s uncertainties,” Br. Norman said, “a hope that can be life-changing and life-sustaining, a hope in things seen and unseen.” The Most Rev. Lawrence

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Catholicism brings a hope that can be life-changing and life-sustaining, a hope in things seen and unseen.â&#x20AC;? Watch the Inauguration on the Saint Vincent YouTube channel: http://www.youtube.com/saintvincentcollege

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The inaugural procession inside the Basilica.

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The Presidents of Saint Vincent College Archabbot Boniface Wimmer, O.S.B. 1846-1887 Archabbot Andrew Hintenach, O.S.B. 1887-1892 Archabbot Leander Schnerr, O.S.B. 1892-1920 Archabbot Aurelius Stehle, O.S.B. 1920-1930 Archabbot Alfred Koch, O.S.B. 1930-1950 Archabbot Denis Strittmatter, O.S.B. 1950-1955 Father Quentin Schaut, O.S.B. 1955-1962 Father Maximilian Duman, O.S.B. 1962-1963 Father Maynard Brennan, O.S.B. 1963-1968 Father Fintan Shoniker, O.S.B. 1968-1971 Father Cecil Diethrich, O.S.B. 1971-1982 Father Augustine Flood, O.S.B. 1982-1985 Father John Murtha, O.S.B. 1985-1995 Father Martin Bartel, O.S.B. 1995-2000 Mr. James F. Will 2000-2006 Mr. H. James Towey 2006-2010 Brother Norman Hipps, O.S.B. 2010 â&#x20AC;&#x201C;

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Brandt, Bishop of Greensburg, presided and made remarks before the final blessing. Br. Normanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s niece, Jannine Hipps Nielson, gave a scriptural reading. Prayers of petition included intercessions offered in English by Ms. Stephanie Fitzgerald, president of the Student Government Association;

inaugural ceremony featuring the Saint Vincent Camerata directed by Fr. Stephen Concordia, O.S.B., director of music, and the Academy Chamber Orchestra directed by Dr. Warren Davidson, concertmaster. Instrumental accompaniment for the academic procession was provided by Rick Murrell, trumpet, and Rev.

Student Government Association President Stephanie Fitzgerald, center, led a tree planting ceremony in honor of Br. Normanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s commitment to environmental awareness and advancing Saint Vincent as a green campus. Archabbot Douglas, Richard Stillwagon, president of the Alumni Council, Anna Fiano, vice president, and Br. Norman participated.

in Chinese by Ms. Yuanyun Zhang, a Saint Vincent student from China; in Portuguese by Mr. Joelso Ferreira, Saint Vincent student from Brazil; in Chichewa by Ms. Jocelyn Matenje, Saint Vincent student from Malawi; and in Spanish by Mr. Ivan Lora, Saint Vincent student from the Dominican Republic. A choral prelude preceded the

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Cyprian G. Constantine, O.S.B., principal organist at the Basilica. Following the inauguration, there was an invitational reception for nearly 1,000 persons in the Robert S. Carey Student Center. In conjunction with the inauguration, an exhibit of sculpture and drawings was shown in The Saint Vincent Gallery,

“The Creative Thread from Fibonacci to Fermi,” by Guy J. Bellaver, a 1972 graduate of Saint Vincent College. An exhibit of presidential portraits was also shown in the Gallery. Earlier in the day, a tree-planting ceremony was conducted by Student Government Association President Stephanie Fitzgerald in honor of Br. Norman’s commitment to environmental awareness and advancing Saint Vincent as a green campus. Br. Norman, Archabbot Douglas and Richard Stillwagon, president of the Alumni Council, participated. Prior to assuming the Presidency,

Br. Norman was the executive vice president of Saint Vincent College, dean of the Herbert W. Boyer School of Natural Sciences, Mathematics, and Computing, and associate professor of mathematics. Br. Norman is a 1961 graduate of the former Saint Vincent Preparatory School. He received a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Philosophy from Saint Vincent College in 1966 and did graduate studies in Theology at Saint Vincent Seminary from 1966 to 1969. He earned a Master of Arts Degree in Mathematics in 1972 and a Ph.D. in Mathematics in 1976, both from Northwestern University.

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A Symphony of Advice B Y theres a schw a b

f it seems that a Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra performance is touched by divine inspiration these days, it may be that music director and conductor Manfred Honeck is successfully balancing his life’s work in music, his devotion to family and his deep faith in God—something he suggested that the graduates of the Saint Vincent College class of 2010 do as well. As principal speaker and recipient of an honorary doctorate in music at the 164th annual Saint Vincent College commencement in May, Maestro Honeck described how he works to meet all his professional and personal responsibilities and how deep faith and daily prayer—his conversation with God—are important to him. He also talked about leadership and the need to be an effective leader—whether in the concert hall or on the football field. The Austrian-born Maestro Honeck, who was appointed the ninth music director of the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra in January 2007, began his tenure at the start of the orchestra’s 2008-2009 season. He acknowledged the connection between the Pittsburgh Symphony and the College community. “My presence here is a beautiful testament to the warm relationship that has been established between the Pittsburgh Symphony and Saint Vincent College. The Pittsburgh Steelers and Fred Rogers both have lasting friendships with Saint Vincent. Today, I feel that the Pittsburgh Symphony is joining that distinguished list and for that I am deeply grateful.” And, he added with a chuckle: “I didn’t know whether I should begin with a song and smile from Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood, or wave a Steelers’ Terrible Towel in one hand and my conductor’s baton in the other.”

Maestro Manfred Honeck addresses the graduates and their families during the commencement exercises.

Graduates were urged to think about the nature of being leaders.

The connection between the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra and the College was recalled by the music director, who noted that the previous December, the Saint Vincent Schola Gregoriana had taken part in three performances of the “Requiem Mass for Mozart” with the Pittsburgh Symphony at Heinz Hall. “They were fantastic,” Maestro Honeck said about the Saint Vincent group’s participation. “We included with the piece readings from Revelations, from Mozart’s letters, and from poetry. In Mozart’s world, death seemed to be an overtone of every day of his life, and I tried to capture in this version of his Requiem how death was not something to be feared but a natural part of life. The only way to understand how Mozart responded to his world is through our faith. I know that Mozart prayed to the same God that I pray to today, and he found solace and guidance, just as I do through prayer. It can be risky to reinterpret such a famous piece, but when you follow your heart, and your heart is open to God, then the risk is worth it, knowing that you have been honest to yourself and your faith. Without my own connection to God through prayer, I would not have been able to create such an event.”

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He told the graduates: “I have been lucky to be able to build my career on an art form that I love. I am fortunate that through music, I can bring God and spirituality to my audience.” The music director pointed to another connection to Saint Vincent. “I was born and still live in Austria. My home in Altach is not so far from the Benedictine Abbey of Metten in Bavaria, where Boniface Wimmer, the founder of Saint Vincent Archabbey and College, began his life’s work. His values were shaped there. From the founding of the Abbey of Metten in 766, the monks were deeply involved in education, and Boniface Wimmer brought those values to this institution: Ora et labora.” The music director, who began his career in Vienna, said his values were shaped by his own upbringing. “No matter how far I travel or how full my schedule is, I conduct a concert every year in Altach, Austria, where I live, and direct an annual festival in a Renaissance castle in nearby Wolfegg, Germany. These are the places where I grew up and they helped to form me into the person I am today. My home and family are still in Altach, and I hope that my children will look back on the area with the same fondness I feel.” Maestro Honeck recalled that when he and his wife, Christiane, were preparing to get married, they talked to a priest who advised them to think of marriage as a triangle with God at the upper point and the other two points designated for husband and wife. “The priest explained that in the sacrament of marriage, each point must be connected,” Maestro Honeck said. “This means that I must keep my connection

“I didn’t know whether I should begin with a song and smile from Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood, or wave a Steelers’ Terrible Towel in one hand and my conductor’s baton in the other.” open with God and with my wife. She must do the same. No matter how hectic my professional life can be, with so much travel and preparation, I remember that I must keep strong the connection I have to my wife and the connection I have with God. This is also why we take the time to pray together every day. It solidifies our collective connection through prayer.” In his home in Austria, he has a “house chapel” on the upper floor, where his family prays together. “I believe that this triangle symbol can also be applied to your professional life, keeping God at the upper point, but labeling the bottom two points ‘business’ and ‘family,’” Maestro Honeck said. “These three parts of your life must also be connected to allow you to be true to your goals. My family is in touch with God, but it is just as important for me to keep my work life connected with God and equally so to keep my family life and my work life joined. It is my greatest joy to have my family at my concerts. I strive to include them in the major events of my career and my life.”

He also urged the graduates to think about the nature of being leaders, and how his work resembled that of Saint Vincent College’s graduation speaker two years ago, Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin. “As a conductor, I try to help our team of almost 100 extraordinarilytalented musicians, just as Coach Tomlin does for his team. By working together, we create something far more beautiful and wondrous than any individual could do alone. That is leadership—the best way to become respected is to find the natural leader within yourself. If you stay true to yourself, your leadership will be a natural development.”

Honeck is applauded by Archabbot Douglas R. Nowicki, O.S.B., Mr. J. Christopher Donahue, Chair of the Board of Directors of Saint Vincent College Corporation, and Br. Norman W. Hipps, O.S.B., as the Pittsburgh Symphony hosted the College.

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Maestro Honeck told the graduates that they were fortunate to have been prepared for life’s challenges at Saint Vincent. “Your mentors, your teachers and your fellow students here will always be a part of your life, because they have helped you

In June, the Pittsburgh Symphony hosted a Saint Vincent College night with a performance of Gustav Mahler’s Symphony No. 3. A pre-concert reception honored incoming College President, Br. Norman W. Hipps, O.S.B.

to grow and become who you are today. By choosing Saint Vincent, an institution that offers spiritual as well as professional guidance, you have chosen a path fortified with moral and religious support, along with a strong education in your chosen profession.” An accomplished violinist and violist, Maestro Honeck studied music at the

Academy of Music in Vienna and spent more than 10 years as a member of the Vienna Philharmonic and the Vienna State Opera Orchestra. He started his conducting career as an assistant at the Gustav Mahler Youth Orchestra in Vienna. Subsequently, he was engaged by the Zurich Opera House from 1991 to 1996, where he was awarded the prestigious European Conductor’s Award in 1993. From 1998 to 2004, he was principal guest conductor at the Oslo Philharmonic, and from 2000 to 2006, he was music director of the Swedish Radio Symphony Orchestra. As a guest conductor, he has worked with many major European orchestras and in the U.S. with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Los Angeles Philharmonic, National Symphony Orchestra and Boston Symphony Orchestra. The conferral of an honorary doctor of music degree took place prior to Maestro Honeck’s presentation. “Today, Saint Vincent College honors Manfred Honeck because, as music director of the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, he gives us the gift of great music,” Chancellor and Archabbot Douglas R. Nowicki, O.S.B., read from the citation. “Further, through his life, he teaches us ‘to lift up our heart to God in every situation of human existence, whether joyous or sad’.”

To listen to Manfred Honeck’s address download the Saint Vincent College podcast on itunes.

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Alumnus Makes the Most of Home-Court Advantage B Y a l iesh a w a l z

t seems as though life has come full-circle for Jeff Mallory. The former Bearcat basketball star returned to campus last semester to serve minority and international students as the Collegeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Coordinator of Multicultural Student Life. In this new position, Mallory oversees two student-run groups: the International Student Union and the Minority Student Coalition. He also provides counseling as an advisor for both Academic Affairs and the SVC Opportunity 101 Program (which

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provides special academic support services to disadvantaged students). And on top of these challenging responsibilities, he also serves as the assistant coach for the men’s basketball team. Although the time commitment is significant, Mallory is undaunted—the students inspire his enthusiasm for his work. Taking a moment to flash back to his own college days (which were not all that long ago), Mallory agrees that Saint

“Saint Vincent is a reflection of the global perspective going on in society today.”

Vincent has truly become more diverse. “I think it’s a reflection of what’s going on in society today…so much has more of a global perspective,” he said. With the enrollment of minority students rising to more than 160 (from what previously was only several dozen), Mallory is a welcoming and supportive presence. His office door is always open, which encourages visitors to drop in

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for a chat. Although the exchanges are sometimes brief, Mallory views these opportunities as key to gaining insight into what is happening in the students’ lives. “Jeff’s doing a great job,” said Director of Campus Life Jason Winters, “and he has great compassion for our students. It helps that he has shared some of the same life experiences as the minority and international students he serves.” The transition to college life is difficult for many young adults, but it can be especially challenging for those who are hundreds, if not thousands, of miles away from home. Once an outof-state student from a small town in Virginia, Mallory can empathize. At that time, there was no minority advisor on campus, so he often found himself mentoring his international teammates in ways that are similar to how he now serves students professionally. After graduating with a degree in public policy in 2006, Mallory spent a year at Adelphoi Village working with at-risk youth. He then pursued the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity of living and traveling throughout Europe as a member of a professional basketball team based in Cordoba, Spain. It was an eye-opening adventure that has given him an even broader perspective on what campus life is like for minority and international students. “Instead of spending 24 hours a day in my own ‘microcosm,’ I was able to take a step back and really experience life in another culture,” he noted. As a result, Mallory is especially committed to helping multicultural students feel comfortable in their new home.

Just prior to the start of the fall semester, Saint Vincent welcomed its international students to a special orientation week. The group toured campus, took a mock class, attended a Pirates baseball game, and sampled the cuisine at local restaurants in order to become more acclimated to life in the region. Aside from being actively involved with Campus Life events, community service programs and mentoring, Mallory is excited to introduce Saint Vincent to a new initiative called Global Connections, a program whose goal is to facilitate social interaction among students of diverse backgrounds and experiences. Global Connections encourages all students to have lunch at a table that features interesting objects or facts about another country, or to sit with someone they have never met before. The program works on a number of different levels. Not only does it create another opportunity for students to interact, but the act of breaking bread signifies peace and friendship in many different cultures and traditions. Mallory hopes that activities such as Global Connections will help students gain a greater appreciation for one another and strengthen the bonds within the campus community. After all, even though each student has a unique background, everyone is sharing this experience together. “Saint Vincent really prepared me for what life was like in ‘the real world,’ and I appreciated the time that I spent here,” Mallory said. “I had always hoped to come back, so to return in this capacity has been a blessing.”

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Faculty Highlights Dr. Jason King, associate professor and chair of the Theology Department, reviewed

the work of William Cavanaugh and Dr. Christopher McMahon, assistant professor of theology, presented a paper entitled, “Service-Learning and the Core Curriculum: Two Models for Doing Theology in the Core” at the annual meeting of the College Theology Society at the University of Portland, Oregon, in June. Dr. Dennis D. McDaniel, associate professor and chair of the English Department, wrote a review of the book, A Paradise Built in Hell, by Rebecca Solnit for the June 9 issue of the National Catholic Reporter. Dr. Kimberly Baker, assistant professor of theology, published an article in the spring issue of Horizons magazine. Entitled, “Augustine’s Doctrine of the Totus Christus: Reflecting on the Church as Sacrament of Unity.” Dr. Mark G. Rivardo, associate professor of psychology, and Colleen M. Keelan of Franklin, who graduated in May with a bachelor of arts degree in psychology and sociology, co-authored an article, Body Modifications, Sexual Activity, and Religious Practices, for the April issue of Psychological Reports. Dr. Michael W. Botsko, professor and chair of mathematics, had a problem and solution published in the June 2010 issue of Mathematics Magazine. Dr. Daniel Vanden Berk, assistant professor of physics at Saint Vincent College, was part of an international team of scientists led by Penn State professor Donald Schneider that announced its completion of a massive census in which they identified the quasars in one quarter of the sky. The team’s work is part of the Sloan Digital Sky Survey (SDSS), a nearly decade-long discovery-and-research effort using a 2.5-meter telescope located at Apache Point Observatory in New Mexico. The completed catalog of quasars, published in the June 2010 issue of the Astronomical Journal, includes 105,783 quasars, more than 96 percent of which were discovered by the SDSS.

Dr. Paul S. Follansbee, the James F. Will

Professor of Engineering Science at Saint Vincent College’s Herbert W. Boyer School of Natural Sciences, Mathematics, and Computing, has published four papers in conjunction with his ongoing metallurgical research. The papers are entitled “Analysis of Deformation Kinetics in Seven BCC Pure Metals Using a Two-Obstacle Model,” “A Lower Bound Strength Model for AISI 304 SS,” “Characterizing the Defect Population Introduced by Radiation Damage,” and “Analysis of Radiation-Induced Hardening in Context of a State Variable Constitutive Model.” Fr. Stephen Concordia, O.S.B., assistant professor of fine arts, delivered the presentation “Incorporating Gregorian Chant: how an ancient repertoire might be programmed with concert choral repertoire” at the American Choral Directors Association Pennsylvania Chapter (ACDA-PA) Summer Conference. Dr. Susan Mitchell Sommers, professor of history, chaired

a panel and presented two papers at a conference on Women and Freemasonry since the Enlightenment at Bordeaux University and the Musée d’Aquitaine. The papers were Sister Dunckerley, co-authored with Professor Andrew J. Prescott of the University of Glasgow, Scotland, and director of research at the Humanities Advanced Technology and Information Institute at the University of Glasgow, and Hidden in Plain Sight: The Order of the Eastern Star in the Historiography of American Women’s Associations.

N e w Fa c u lt y A d d e d Five new full-time faculty were added for the 2010-2011 academic year. Dr. Jeffrey L. Godwin, associate professor of management, and Dr. Jason R. Jividen, assistant professor of political science, joined the Alex G. McKenna School of Business, Economics, and Government. The School of Social Science, Communication, and Education welcomed two new faculty including Dr. Elaine M. Bennett, assistant professor of anthropology, and Dr. Janet L. Franicola, assistant professor of education. Dr. Patricia Sharbaugh, assistant professor of theology, is teaching in the School of Humanities and Fine Arts.

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hen Dr. Angelo DeMezza, Câ&#x20AC;&#x2122;69, was 18, his uncle told him that he thought Saint Vincent College would be a good place for him to get a good start, especially since he didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know what he wanted to do with his life. Now nearing retirement after a busy professional career spanning

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nearly five decades as a physician and medical administrator, Dr. DeMezza has returned to Saint Vincent in a host of roles he could never have imagined. A couple of years ago Dr. DeMezza visited Br. Norman Hipps, O.S.B., formerly dean of the Herbert W. Boyer School of Natural Sciences, Mathematics, and Computing and now

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College President. “I told him I was reducing my professional commitments and wanted to do some volunteer service for Saint Vincent with students. When I learned about the project to honor Dr. Frank Luparello with a lecture hall in the new Sis and Herman Dupré Science Pavilion, I jumped at the chance to become more involved in that as well,” he explained. Dr. DeMezza now has a multifaceted presence at Saint Vincent that includes advising students who are preparing to apply to medical school, arranging shadowing experiences and alumni presentations for students who are interested in exploring the medical profession, teaching in the Excela Health School of Anesthesiology at Saint Vincent, and taking a leadership role in fund raising for the Science Pavilion. “The thing that I like best about Saint Vincent that I didn’t appreciate for many years is that this is a small liberal arts college with no pretense to be more than that,” Dr. DeMezza said. “I was not only taught the sciences and prepared for entrance to medical school but I was prepared for life. I learned about philosophy and theology and all these other things that I didn’t think I needed at the time. Looking back, I was better prepared to deal with more aspects of life than others were. The atmosphere here is different from other colleges and universities because of the presence of so many members of the Benedictine Community and a host of influential laypersons who take a personal interest in your success. It is just a very pleasant and productive place to be.” Honored as an Alumnus of Distinction at Alumni Homecoming in October, Dr. DeMezza served thousands

of patients who also became his lifelong friends. Dr. DeMezza grew up in Jeannette, Pennsylvania, in a three-generation, close-knit Italian family. “Growing up was fun!” he recalled. “I have wonderful memories of childhood with my grandparents, parents and my sister. Our lives revolved around Ascension Parish – the Italian church – in Jeannette, which was staffed by the Benedictine priests from Saint Vincent.” He is a 1965 graduate of Jeannette High School where he played varsity basketball and developed friendships he maintained throughout his life. His uncle, Emil DeLorenzo, the first in his family to go to college, became a school teacher and encouraged Angelo to enroll at Saint Vincent, since college was mandated by his parents. “I liked mathematics and the sciences,” Dr. DeMezza said, “but I worked in a drug store while I was in high school and the pharmacist thought I should go to pharmacy school. So, I decided to major in biology.” He has fond memories of his teachers at SVC. “Fathers Joel and Owen were great guys,” he recalled. “Fr. Owen was such a rigid, demanding person. One time someone removed some charts out of the lab that he was going to use on a test. He said that he didn’t care who did it but that everyone would pay for it by making the test so hard not even God could pass it. I had an opportunity to take care of him many years later when he was ill and I was a resident at Mercy Hospital in Pittsburgh. By that time he was a peach, a mellow guy who would sit and enjoy telling stories about his former students. Fr. Joel was a friendly, happy-go-lucky priest who liked to ski.

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He was always kind.” “I did well in my studies at Saint Vincent but my verbal skills were lacking,” Dr. DeMezza admitted. “I prepared for the Medical College Admission Test by working crossword puzzles and practicing with a box of flashcards. I had the good fortune to be accepted to the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine.” He did his internship and residency in internal medicine under the direction of the late Dr. Frank Luparello, SVC’49,

at Mercy Hospital. “He nurtured me along and I am deeply indebted to him. With his help, I became board certified in internal medicine and started a private practice. Later, I served as medical director at Westmoreland Hospital and Chief Medical Officer for Excela Health. I am still doing some consulting as associate medical director of UPMC Health Plan for physician and hospital relations.” “I had a wonderful career in medicine,” Dr. DeMezza concluded. “Sometimes

“At Saint Vincent, I was not only taught the sciences and prepared for entrance to medical school but I was prepared for life.” the hectic nature of the day and dealing with insurance and paperwork was bothersome but all of that was put aside because of the good feeling of being with people one-on-one or with families in happy and challenging times. There were many peaks and valleys over the years but I enjoyed taking care of people and want to communicate that to current students. It’s a good thing to be able to come back to such a warm, friendly place and give something back.”

Dr. Angelo DeMezza with Patricia and Frank Luparello.

24 s a in t v in c en t q u a rterl y Dr. Angelo DeMezza, Mrs. Patricia Luparello, Dr. Frank Luparello, Br. Norman Hipps

Scaling New Heights in physics B Y don or l a ndo

aint Vincent College senior physics major Daniel Rubino finds it challenging to do research on objects that are so small you can only see them under an atomic microscope. Research that he began last summer in a special National Science Foundationfunded program at Virginia’s James Madison University on the friction between the tiniest of objects continued this fall when he returned to campus and recently was showcased at the Pennsylvania Undergraduate Research at the Capitol Conference in Harrisburg. “Everyone knows friction which is

described in physics by how hard two things are pushing together,” Mr. Rubino explained. “Knowing that gives you a measurement of friction.” “There is a law that describes how friction behaves on large scale objects but the laws don’t apply when you are doing research on the nano scale—objects just a few atoms wide—less than the tip of a needle,” he continued. “Our research shows that when you are working with something this small, friction is different and you need to understand that behavior to be successful in the world of nanotechnology—the

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study of the creation of all kinds of tiny machines and other devices that will make life easier in the future.” “My senior research is taking this a step further,” he said. “After we gain an understanding of how friction operates on a nano scale, we can use it to identify anatomically-thin chemical layers on the surfaces of materials,” he explained. Mr. Rubino first learned about the NSF Research Experience for Undergraduates when Scott Paulson, a professor at James Madison University and a 1994 graduate of Saint Vincent College, visited campus to talk about his work with students at the Herbert W. Boyer School of Natural Sciences, Mathematics, and Computing. Only twelve students nationally were selected to participate in the Materials Science Department’s section of the intensive ten-week program. His research project, titled “Friction on the Nano Scale,” was presented as a Power Point multimedia show and as a large display poster at a two-day symposium. He had an opportunity to present his research results for a second time in Harrisburg. “It was a great way for us to show legislators the high quality undergraduate research that is being done by students at colleges and universities across the state of Pennsylvania,” he said. He was one of 48 students who were invited to participate. He was accompanied by Br. Norman W. Hipps, O.S.B., president of Saint Vincent College and former dean of the Boyer School. Mr. Rubino’s future plans include either graduate study in physics or

engineering or employment in research in one of those fields. “I would like to work in research, it’s more interesting. I am moving forward with completing applications to graduate and engineering schools and preparing to take the Graduate Record Examination required for admission,” he said. He is considering Catholic University, University of Dayton and others. “The Physics Department at Saint Vincent is great,” he commented. “You get one-on-one attention because it is small. Dr. Anis Maize and Dr. David Grumbine don’t let you leave a lesson until you understand. That special attention is really what I needed to thrive here.” Mr. Rubino also liked the liberal arts emphasis at Saint Vincent. “I would like to think of myself as some kind of a Renaissance man,” he said. “I really enjoy the core curriculum as much as I enjoy physics. Some of my favorite classes were creative writing and black and white photography. I don’t know how much it helped me with physics research but overall I feel like I am a well-rounded person. I’d like to think that I can speak somewhat knowledgeably about many things.” He shares fellow students’ growing excitement about the opening of the first phase of the Sis and Herman Dupré Science Pavilion this fall. “It’s nice. The new chemistry laboratories look great,” he said. “It could lead to many more opportunities for students to do undergraduate research. We now have laboratory facilities that are state-ofthe-art.”

Read Dan’s Student Blog-www.facebook.com/SVCRubino

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fallsports BY jim berger

Visit the new Saint Vincent College Athletics website at athletics.stvincent.edu

A collage of images from the fall sports season.

Above: Bearcat quarterback Aaron Smetanka drops back to pass in SVC’s 42-17 win over Grove City. In that game, the junior set school records for passing yards (336), total offense (347), and passing touchdowns (4). Below: The Bearcat student section rushes the field following the football team’s 17-3 victory over Thiel College on Homecoming Day. It was both the team’s first home victory and PAC victory since the return of football in 2007.

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Clockwise from upper left:

Sophomore Devin McGrath prepares to set for Emily Rosati (#16) in the Lady Bearcatsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; 3-0 victory over Grove City College; The Lady Bearcat defense prepares for a penalty corner in field hockey action against Wilson College on the Saint Vincent turf; Freshman Lindsey Daniels dribbles through a crowd of defenders in Lady Bearcat soccer action against Grove City College.

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Clockwise from upper left: Junior Ivette

Mejia was the Lady Bearcat cross country teamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s top finisher in all seven meets on the season, and she was named PAC Runner of the Week six times during the season; Junior Alexis Cup earned Presidentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Athletic Conference Most Valuable Player honors after winning the number one singles title at the PAC Championships; Juniors Dawn Timko (left) and Natalie Hozak team up for a block in volleyball action against Geneva. The Lady Bearcats, under head coach Sue Hozak, recorded their 13th 20-plus win season in team history; Junior Ryan Barlow readies to cross the finish line at the Saint Vincent Invitational. Barlow won the individual title, and the Bearcats won the team championship at the event. In circle: Junior goalie Jake Gilbertson sprawls to make a save for the Bearcats against Bethany College. Gilbertson finished among the leaders in the PAC in saves for the season.

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News Briefs

rchabbot Douglas R. Nowicki, O.S.B., the eleventh Archabbot of Saint Vincent Archabbey, was re-elected as the major superior of the Benedictine Community in Latrobe, Pennsylvania on Tuesday, May 11. In his role as the Archabbot of Saint Vincent Archabbey, Archabbot Douglas serves as the spiritual leader of the first Benedictine monastery established in the United States and one of the largest monasteries in the world. He is also the chancellor of Saint Vincent College and Saint Vincent Seminary. The Saint Vincent Benedictines currently serve more than 30 parishes in seven dioceses in the eastern United States, and also operate the Benedictine Military School in Savannah, Georgia, the Penn State Campus Ministry Program at State College, and foreign missions in Brazil and Taiwan. Archabbot Douglas earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in philosophy from Saint Vincent College in 1968, a Master of Divinity from Saint Vincent Seminary in 1971 and a doctorate in clinical psychology from the University of Tennessee in 1977. He was professed as a Benedictine on July 11, 1966, and ordained to the priesthood at the Archabbey Basilica on May 21, 1972. He was first elected by his fellow monks on January 8, 1991 to become the eleventh Archabbot of Saint Vincent.

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TWENTY-FIRST ANNUAL THEATRE GALA SUCCESSFUL More than 250 persons attended the twenty-first annual Saint Vincent Summer Theatre Gala at the Robert S. Carey Student Center Lounge on July 16 in celebration of the 42nd season of professional theatre at Saint Vincent College with an evening of gourmet food, entertainment and the Theatre’s production of Mark Twain’s comedy, Is He Dead? Shown during the reception were, from left, Lisa Poole, Archabbey Events Coordinator; John Kline of presenting co-sponsor First Commonwealth Bank, Gretchen Kline, Saint Vincent College President Br. Norman W. Hipps, O.S.B., Gala Co-Chairpersons Joanna and Richard Stillwagon, Justina Latimer, Luke Latimer of presenting co-sponsor R&L Development, Theatre Director Colleen Reilly and Theatre Producer and Business Manager Patricia Reilly. All proceeds benefit the Saint Vincent Summer Theatre.

CARLY MARSH AWARDED FULBRIGHT GRANT TO STUDY, TRAVEL IN UNITED KINGDOM

PRESIDENT HONORED AT PITTSBURGH SYMPHONY EVENT Br. Norman W. Hipps, O.S.B., second from left, president of Saint Vincent College, was honored at a pre-concert reception at Heinz Hall on June 11. Maestro Manfred Honeck, fourth from left, music director of the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, directed the Symphony, the Mendelssohn Choir of Pittsburgh and the Children’s Festival Choir in a performance of Gustav Mahler’s Symphony No. 3. The event was hosted by the Rt. Rev. Douglas R. Nowicki, O.S.B., left, Saint Vincent Archabbot and Chancellor, and Mr. and Mrs. J. Christopher Donahue, right. Among the more than 100 guests attending was Joanne Rogers, third from left. Dr. Honeck gave the principal address at commencement at Saint Vincent on May 8 and was honored with an honorary doctoral degree.

arly Marsh, a sophomore communication major at Saint Vincent College, was awarded a prestigious Fulbright Commission grant—the first Saint Vincent student ever to do so—to study and travel in the United Kingdom last summer. Ms. Marsh, a 2009 graduate of Greater Latrobe High School, arrived in London in July and spent her summer taking classes in journalism at Newcastle University in the area of Northumberland and traveling the European countryside. “I want to be a journalist,” Ms. Marsh explained. “This grant provided me with an extraordinary opportunity to get hands-on experience with members of the British Press Association. I want to learn how to inform the public by giving them clear information that is relatable to them. I want to make a difference with the work that I do.”

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CAMPUS MINISTRY COMPLETES FIRST SERVICE MISSION TO ALASKA

ight Saint Vincent College students have completed their first service trip to Alaska under the direction of the Office of Campus Ministry.

“When most people think about missionary work, they do not think about Alaska,” noted Fr. Vincent Zidek, O.S.B., director of campus ministry. “Yet, Alaska is missionary land. At the invitation of Bishop Edward Burns, Bishop of Juneau, Campus Ministry sponsored this eight-day service trip to work in the Diocese of Juneau, which is the size of the state of Florida and just 10.2% Catholic.”

Pictured, left to right, are Father Vincent Zidek, O.S.B., director of campus ministry; Michelle Pruchnik, a junior chemistry major from Windber; Michael Hustava, a junior communication major from Pittsburgh; Tiffany Pruchnik, a senior psychology major from Windber; Joshua McNutt, a sophomore business management major from McSherrystown; Joshua Vigna, a junior mathematics major from Johnstown; Carrie DiRisio, a senior business finance major from Olean, NY; Jocelyn Matenje, a junior political science major from Potomac, MD; and Briana Taylor, a mathematics major from Home, PA who graduated in May.

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COACH HARBERT GETS NATIONAL HONOR

aint Vincent College head women’s lacrosse coach and head women’s cross country coach Tom Harbert, center, received a Lifetime Service Award at the National Wrestling Hall of Fame in Stillwater, Oklahoma, for his years of service as a high school and college wrestling coach at Greater Latrobe High School and Saint Vincent College. Making the presentation on April 18 at the Cranberry Marriott in Pittsburgh were Coach Bob Bubb, left, former head coach and professor at Clarion University, distinguished member of the National Wrestling Hall of Fame and secretary rules editor to NCAA wrestling, and Michael Clair, national director, National Office for State Chapters. He was nominated for the award by the State Chapter of Pennsylvania. Mr. Harbert coached at the high school and college levels for 46 years including eight years at Saint Vincent. He compiled a 202-87-5 record with the Wildcats at GLHS. He is already a member of the Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame (2008) and the Southwestern Pennsylvania Wrestling Hall of Fame (2001).

FORMER SGA PRESIDENTS ATTEND ALUMNI REUNION

ix former presidents of the Saint Vincent College Student Government Association were among those who attended the SGA Alumni

far right, executive board president of SGA, were, from left, Jody Roberts, C’99, who manages a

State Representative Tim Krieger in Greensburg; Kim Stevens, C’07, a CPA working for Respironics in Murrysville; Dan Brett, C’09, who works for a

Reunion Dinner at the Fred M. Rogers Center on April 16. Hosted by members of the SGA, the dinner gave current students an opportunity to network with alumni and learn more about the impact that the student government involvement has made on

research program at a non-profit organization in Philadelphia and teaches at the University of Pennsylvania; Alex Hindman, C’05, studying toward a Ph.D. in politics at Claremont Graduate University; Andy Walz, C’06, who works for

manufacturing firm in Jeannette; and Chris Fiano, C’10, currently pursuing graduate studies at Duquesne University to earn a masters degree in music and vocal performance. More than a hundred students and alumni attended.

the College. Welcomed by Stephanie Fitzgerald, C 11,

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fred rogers center awarded kellogg foundation grant

he W.K. Kellogg Foundation of Battle Creek, Michigan, has awarded a grant of $343,606 to the Fred Rogers Center for Early Learning and Children’s Media at Saint Vincent College to improve learning and development for underserved children through creation of the Fred Rogers Center Early Learning Network. “This generous grant will enable the Fred Rogers Center to establish and sustain a broadbased, virtual community of early learning teachers, home-based caregivers, and parents and other family members who are empowered by engaging technology-based resources,” commented Rita Catalano, Executive Director of the Center. “Especially through the project’s focus on underserved and under-resourced groups, it will help to increase the school readiness of vulnerable young children from birth to age 5 by developing the aspirations, and motivating the actions, of the adults in their lives as important agents of learning. The project is focused on promoting early language literacy, including the importance of conversation and dialogue between adults and children beginning at birth.” “Just as Fred Rogers pioneered his distinctive approach to tapping the educational potential of television as the cutting-edge communications technology of his day, the Early Learning Network will build on this legacy by demonstrating the positive potential of new media and today’s technology for adult learners and young children alike.” The grant will fund activities at the Center over a two-year period from July 1, 2010 to June 30, 2012.

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FRED ROGERS CENTER NAMES LEARNING NETWORK PROGRAM MANAGER Dr. Michael Robb has been

named program manager of the new Early Learning Network project at the Fred Rogers Center for Early Learning and Children’s Media at Saint Vincent College, it was announced by Ms. Rita Catalano, executive director. Dr. Robb was recently awarded a Ph.D. in

developmental psychology by the University of California, Riverside for his thesis on New Ways of Reading: The Impact of an Interactive Book on Young Children’s Story Comprehension and ParentChild Dialogic Reading Behaviors. He completed his undergraduate studies at Tufts University. A 2008 recipient of the Fred Rogers Memorial Scholarship administered

by the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences Foundation, Dr. Robb’s research interests include cognitive developmental processes in learning from media and the role of interactivity in early literacy. In this newly-created position, Dr. Robb will manage the planning,

development, launch and ongoing refinement of the Center’s Early Learning Network—a major national initiative to develop a web-based platform for addressing the informational, professional development, and community building needs of underserved and under-resourced teachers, home-based caregivers and families of young children.

Lauren Lamendola Named Curator Of McCarl Coverlet Collection

auren Lamendola has been named curator of the Foster and Muriel McCarl Coverlet Collection at Saint Vincent College. As curator, Ms. Lamendola is responsible for the care, preservation and public exhibition of the extensive antique bed coverlet collection that was given to Saint Vincent in 2005 by the late Foster McCarl and his wife, Muriel, of Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania. Ms. Lamendola will also be serving as liaison with area groups, organizing and coordinating educational programs for elementary and secondary schools. A native of Mars, Ms. Lamendola attended Mars Area Senior High School and earned a bachelor of arts degree with honors in history with a minor in public history from Saint Vincent College in 2008. She earned a masters degree in public history, archival, museum and editing studies and a certificate in women and gender studies from Duquesne University in 2010. She was honored at Duquesne with membership in Phi Alpha Theta, the international honor society in history.

RITA CATALANO, MAXWELL KING NAMED TO NEW POSTS AT FRED ROGERS CENTER Rita Catalano has been named Executive

Director and Maxwell King has been named Senior Fred Rogers Fellow of the Fred Rogers Center for Early Learning and Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Media at Saint Vincent College, according to an announcement by Br. Norman W. Hipps, O.S.B., President. Ms. Catalano joined the Institutional Advancement staff at Saint Vincent College as grants officer in 1988. Later, as Associate Vice President for Institutional Advancement, she was one of the founding leaders of the Fred Rogers Center, established in 2003. Ms. Catalano served under Saint Vincent College President Jim Will in the early and formative stages of the Center, and subsequently served as associate director under Executive Directors William Isler and Maxwell King. She and Maxwell King have been co-directors of the Fred Rogers Center for the past year. She has shaped the work and the philosophy of the Fred Rogers Center since its inception. Mr. King will continue as a Senior Fred Rogers Fellow at the Center, focusing on the research and writing of a biography of Fred Rogers. He will also consult with Ms. Catalano on strategy, alliances and fundraising.

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SAINT VINCENT WELCOMES BENEDICTINE CONFERENCE ATTENDEES

bbot John Klassen, O.S.B.,

second from left, of Saint John’s University in Collegeville, Minnesota, was welcomed to Saint Vincent College for the Fourth Annual Benedictine Pedagogy Conference June 3 to 5 by, from left, Br. Norman W. Hipps, O.S.B., Saint Vincent College president; Archabbot Douglas R. Nowicki, O.S.B., Saint Vincent chancellor; and Dr. Steve Gravelle, Saint Vincent College associate professor of chemistry and chair of the conference organizing committee. Abbot John, the keynote speaker for the conference, spoke about “Taking Care of Mind, Heart and Body: Sustaining and Nurturing a Catholic, Benedictine Environment.” More than 50 persons attended the conference from colleges and universities around the country including Augsburg College (Minneapolis, Minnesota), Benedictine University (Lisle, Illinois), College of Saint Scholastica (Duluth, Minnesota), Saint Anselm College (Manchester, New Hampshire), Saint Leo University (Florida), Saint John’s Prep School (Collegeville, Minnesota), Saint John’s University (Collegeville, Minnesota), Saint Vincent College and Seton Hill College.

SBDC GETS PRESIDENTIAL AWARD FOR EXPORT SERVICE

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James Kunkel, second from left, director of the Saint Vincent College Small Business Development Center, and Vickie Gyenes, second from right, senior market analyst of the Saint Vincent College Center for Global Competitiveness, were in Washington, D.C. May 13 to receive the President’s “E” Award for Export Service from U.S. Commerce Secretary Gary Locke, right, and Under Secretary of Commerce for International Trade Francisco

Sanchez, left, representing the culmination of their sustained commitment to export expansion and for supporting national export growth via hands-on counseling and seminars. Saint Vincent is one of two organizations which were recognized this year. The other is the Sacramento Regional Center for International Trade Development in Sacramento, California.

LOWER BURRELL STUDENT AWARDED SCHOLARSHIP BY SAINT VINCENT ALUMNI COUNCIL Stephanie Fitzgerald, center,

a senior history and political science major of Lower Burrell was awarded the Saint Vincent Alumni Council Scholarship at the Father Gilbert J. Burke, O.S.B. Easter Ball at The Fairmont Hotel in Pittsburgh on April 17. Participating in the presentation were, from left, Stephanie’s parents, Harry and Debbie Fitzgerald; Molly Robb-Shimko, chairperson of the Saint Vincent Alumni Council Endowed Scholarship Committee; and Fr. Gilbert J.

Burke, O.S.B., former Director of Alumni Relations. The Saint Vincent Alumni Council Endowed Scholarship, established in 2001, is a $2500 scholarship that is awarded to a student who demonstrates academic merit and financial need. Ms. Fitzgerald is actively involved at Saint Vincent College as President of the Student

Government Association, Aurelius Scholars, and the PreLaw Society and Secretary for the Mock Trial Team. She also serves as a Prefect, a workstudy assistant in the Public Relations Office, a history tutor, and a judicial intern in the United States District Court in the Northern District of Ohio, under the supervision of United States Magistrate Judge William H. Baughman, Jr., C’71. Ms. Fitzgerald is a member of Saint Margaret Mary R.C. Church in Lower Burrell.

STUDENTS, ALUMNI VISIT WESTINGHOUSE Br. Norman W. Hipps, O.S.B., center, Saint Vincent College president, accompanied a group of students, faculty, staff and alumni on a tour of the Westinghouse Electric Company’s facility in Cranberry, Pennsylvania, April 26, hosted by some of the College’s alumni who work there. From left are Robert C. Baldini, C’93, finance manager, Westinghouse; Richard J. Caruso, C’82, senior quality engineer, Westinghouse; Richard J. Coldren, C’92, senior counsel—intellectual property, Westinghouse; Charles M. Holland, C’00, assistant director of alumni relations at SVC; Dr. Gabriel B. Pellathy, C’95, business development and strategy manager, Westinghouse; Dr. Paul Follansbee, James F. Will Professor of Engineering Science at SVC; Dr. William A. DiCuccio, M.D., C’70, member of the Boyer School Advisory Council; Aaron L. Conway, C’07; Sarah C. Wesolowski, C’12, physics major at SVC; and Frank P. McGrogan, C’12, mathematics/engineering major at SVC. The purpose of the visit was to learn more about Westinghouse’s service to the worldwide commercial nuclear power industry and the opportunities available for internships and career employment.

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ANGELO J. TAIANI PLANETARIUM AND ASTRONAUT EXHIBIT CENTERPIECE OF DUPRÉ SCIENCE PAVILION

(Top) Saint Vincent Archabbot Douglas R. Nowicki, O.S.B., with Angelo J. Taiani. (Bottom) The Angelo J. Taiani Planetarium and Astronaut Exhibit.

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s the first phase of the $39 million Sis and Herman Dupré Science Pavilion opens this fall, the centerpiece of the glass-walled atrium is a state-of-the-art planetarium—the Angelo J. Taiani Planetarium and Astronaut Exhibit— made possible by a gift from the 1948 graduate, who enjoyed a successful career as an aerospace engineer with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration. “I think this new planetarium and exhibit will bring recognition to the nation’s space program and serve Saint Vincent students as well as the western Pennsylvania area and beyond,” Mr. Taiani said. “Space exploration will dominate our nation’s future, since we can’t be satisfied with a lunar landing. The goal is to go to Mars as soon as a new launch vehicle can be developed, perhaps as early as 2020. I hope this new facility will help students get excited about the importance of interplanetary space exploration and the career opportunities available in this field.”

Mr. Taiani, 85, a native of Latrobe and a graduate of Latrobe High School, served three years in the Navy during World War II and retired as a Navy Commander with 41 years of reserve service. He first became interested in aerospace when he was assigned to work with early guided missiles and space ordinance as a project officer for the first ten Jupiter launches. He returned to Saint Vincent and graduated with a bachelor of arts degree in chemistry from SVC in 1948. He also did graduate study at George Washington University. He worked on numerous projects at NASA as a general space engineer, in test support at Cape Canaveral and later the Kennedy Space Center on the Juno project. He also worked in support of the Space Shuttle program. He retired in 1984 after a 34-year career with the space agency. The planetarium will feature the latest digital technology that cannot only project the nighttime sky but can also take viewers on a tour of the solar system. In addition to the classroom use of the planetarium, the Herbert W. Boyer School of Natural Sciences, Mathematics, and Computing will present public shows with full dome (360 degree vision) and surround sound.

Solar Power Added To New Science Pavilion With Support From West Penn Power Sustainable Energy Fund

he West Penn Power Sustainable Energy Fund will help to support the acquisition and installation of a solar photovoltaic system as part of a capital project to expand and renovate the Sis and Herman DuprĂŠ Science Pavilion for the Herbert W. Boyer School of Natural Sciences, Mathematics, and Computing. The utilization of photovoltaic technology is an important part of the construction project and will help the College to demonstrate the feasibility of using renewable energy sources in a building with high energy demands. In addition to its practical application, the photovoltaic system will be used as an educational tool to promote the use of clean energy technologies and to increase public awareness of the viability of sustainable energy sources.

Signing the final agreement to support the acquisition and installation of a solar photovoltaic system at the Saint Vincent College Sis and Herman DuprĂŠ Science Pavilion were, from left, John A. Skiavo, president/CEO of the Economic Growth Connection of Westmoreland, Joel Morrison of the West Penn Power Sustainable Energy Fund, and Br. Norman W. Hipps, O.S.B., president of Saint Vincent College.

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threshold series

Dr. Neil deGrasse Tyson, director of the Hayden Planetarium in New York City, was the 63rd speaker in the Saint Vincent College Threshold Series on Thursday, October 7 in the Robert S. Carey Student Center Performing Arts Center. His talk was entitled, “The Sky Is Not the Limit.”

Visiting firefighters salute as the hearse carrying the body of the late Br. Patrick Lacey, O.S.B., former Saint Vincent Fire Chief, passes under the archway created by ladder trucks from Unity Township and the City of Latrobe.

homecoming Biology majors Elisa Eichler and Shane Sweeney were crowned Saint Vincent College Homecoming Queen and King at halftime of the Saint Vincent Bearcats vs. Thiel Tomcats football matchup during Alumni Homecoming and Fall Family Weekend at the College on September 25.

aint Vincent College honored nine graduates with the presentation of Alumni of Distinction Awards at a reception and dinner on Sept. 24 during Homecoming. Those honored include, seated, left to right, James E. Lordeman, C’47, of Gaithersburg, Maryland; Fr. Wilfred M. Dumm, O.S.B., P’37, C’42, S’45, of Saint Vincent Archabbey; Thomas A. Greubel, M.D., C’49, of Rancho Santa Fe, California; Thomas D. Hagg, C’60, Weirton, West Virginia; standing, from left, Rt. Rev. Douglas R. Nowicki, O.S.B., archabbot and chancellor; Richard Stillwagon, president of the Alumni Association; Angelo DeMezza, M.D., C’69, of Greensburg; Richard Bienvenue, C’70, of Washington, D.C.; Julie Claybaugh Selep, C’92, of Bethel Park; Gabe Pellathy, C’95, of Wexford, Young Alumnus of Distinction; Fred J. “Chip” Funari, C’72, of Greensburg; and Br. Norman W. Hipps, O.S.B., president. The awards are made by the Saint Vincent Alumni Association in recognition of meritorious service and commitment to Saint Vincent. Visit www. facebook.com/SVCBearcatAlum to view a video of the honorees. 40

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Alumni News 1950s

1970s

Msgr. George J. Adams, S 50, was recognized as Man of the Year of Brockway.

John M. Lally, C’77, and a few members of the SVC Class of 1977 met in Key West, Florida for a fishing trip. Included in the trip were Greg “Felix” Fajt, Bob “Ringo” Rinaldi, John “Lal” Lally, John “Muff” McMahon, Jerry “Beck” Becker, Frank “Fez” Zadylak and John “PooBa” Snyder.

Rev. Edward S. Litavec, C’56, S’60, celebrated his 50th anniversary of ordination with a Mass of Thanksgiving and reception at Sacred Heart Church, Shadyside.

1960s

Richard H. Wildnauer, Ph.D., C’62, was named to the Board of Directors by EuroMed.

Ronald W. Virag, C’67, joined the Laurel Highlands Visitors Bureau as its new executive director. Michael J. Tulley, V.M.D., C’68, retired on January 1 as Veterinary Medical Field Officer after 33 years of service for the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture. Stephen T. Little, C’68, will retire from teaching after 42 years at Hanover High School. Rev. Deacon Raymond Zadzilko, C’69, was appointed by Metropolitan Archbishop Basil M. Schott of the Byzantine Catholic Archeparchy of Pittsburgh to serve on the Advisory Council of Saints Cyril and Methodius Seminary, Pittsburgh. The Council is designated to offer advice and render assistance to the Rector concerning the operation and development of the Seminary.

Richard Marsh, C 77, Panta Rhei Media Videographer/Director, worked with Environmental Health Initiatives at MageeWomens Hospital of UPMC to produce a colorful 50-minute DVD,“Baby Steps to Green Parenting: Practical Guidelines for Conception to Early Childhood.” The program premiered at the Teresa Heinz Women’s Health and the Environment Conference at the David Lawrence Convention Center on April 21. Copies are available through the Magee-Women’s Hospital website, www.magee.upmc.com. David Haile, C’78, serves as a band director in the Clark County School District in Las Vegas, Nevada. The bands he directs have consistently received superior and excellent ratings at band festivals and competitions in Nevada and California. David has just completed his doctorate in organizational leadership from Nova Southeastern University. Mark S. Kiselica, Ph.D., C’79, professor of counseling education, was appointed vice provost of the College of New Jersey, effective September 1, 2009. David A. Dzombak, Ph.D., C’79, was named chair of a new National Research Council (NRC) Committee, which will provide advice to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers on scientific, engineering and water resource issues. Also, Dr. Dzombak has been awarded the prestigious distinction of University Professor, the highest academic accolade Carnegie Mellon University faculty members can attain.

1980s Kenneth A. Heiles, D.O., C’80, was named president of the American College of Osteopathic Family Physicians. His current practice in Star City, Arkansas, includes both osteopathic family medicine and emergency medicine. He also serves as Director of Osteopathic Medical Education at AHEC Pine Bluff and he has served as residency program director in past years.

Maria L. Person, C’88, her husband, Bert, and son, Joshua, have relocated back to western Pennsylvania after living in central Pennsylvania for 25 years. They now reside in Indiana County. “It is good to be back home in good ‘ole western Pennsylvania! Hello to all our SVC friends!” Jennifer Vivio Santoro, M.D., C’89, is a neurologist specializing in adult and pediatric patients in Indianapolis.

1990s Timothy S. Burns, C’94, became immediate past chair of the Pennsylvania Bar Association (PBA) Young Lawyers Division (YLD) at the conclusion of the association’s annual meeting May 14 in Hershey.

2000s Michelle L. Pershing, C’01, received full funding to obtain her Ph.D. in behavioral neuroscience at Ohio State University. She will begin the program this fall, after working for the last seven years at a contract research laboratory. The overall research area for her Ph.D. is preclinical neuropsychopharmacology with a focus on cognitive impairments associated with schizophrenia through the use of animal models. Joshua Skopp, C’02, recently accepted a position as the Executive Director for the newly created Pennsylvania Economic Development Institute. Heidi A. Lyons, Ph.D., C’03, accepted an assistant professor position in the Sociology and Anthropology department at Oakland University in Rochester, Michigan. Michael O. Gelsick, C’05, founded Gelsick Home Inspection, LLC. Megan Conti, C’07, is working as the director of religious education at San Juan Bautista Catholic Church in Lancaster and is the assistant coach for San Juan Bautista CYO High School boys basketball. She is working toward her masters in Religious Education at Felician College, Lodi, New Jersey. Joshua T. Newborn, C’07, won the Burton Award for legal achievement. In association with the Library of Congress, the Burton Award

fall 2010

honors partners in law firms and law school students who use plain, clear and concise language and avoid archaic, stilted legalese. Karen L. Vanderhoff, C’08, was named Main Street Program Manager by the Board of Directors of the Downtown DuBois Revitalization Group. Jacob W. Yacobucci, C’09, has accepted a mechanical engineering position with Northrop Grumman in Newport News, Virginia after earning a Bachelor of Science degree in mechanical engineering and certificate in nuclear engineering at the University of Pittsburgh main campus.

Engagements

Kimberly N. Stevens, C’07, to Matthew J. Feigel, C’08. A spring 2012 wedding is planned. Emily E. Ecoff, C’07, to Nicholas Sarneso. An August wedding was planned at the Saint Vincent Basilica. Michael R. Palcsey, C’08, to Stacy Lynn Tokar, C’09. The couple is planning a May 21, 2011 ceremony at Saint Vincent Basilica. Brittnee M. Campolongo, C’09, to Chad Stepanik, C’08. A June 2011 wedding is planned.

Marriages Thomas P. Sutherland, C’02, and Ashley MacKay Morris on October 31, 2009, at Saint Jerome’s Church in Newport News, Virginia. Among those attending were his father, Anthony X. Sutherland, C’66, and Paul MacDonald, C’02. Thomas received his M.A. degree in history from Duquesne University in 2006. He is employed as a Learning Technical Librarian at Northrop Grumman Corporation (shipbuilding) in Newport News.

Jennifer D. Roland, C’93, to Brian Rupnik. A summer wedding was planned. Jill E. Komoroski, C’97, to Andrew Skala. A July 17 wedding was planned at St. Joseph Chapel on the campus of Seton Hill University. Anne Marie Lena, C’02, to Daren Morgante, D.C. A September 4 wedding was planned. Katrina “Katie” Wojtunik, C’04, S’07, to Jason Boosel. A summer wedding was planned at Saint Vincent Basilica.

Kristi Lynn Rain, M.D., C’04, and Brian A. Jaras, C’04, on May 22, at Saint Vincent Basilica with Fr. Thomas Hart, O.S.B., S’88, as celebrant.

Joseph A. Benkovich, C’04, to Rebecca Sisson, C’04. Wedding plans have not yet been announced. Michael J. Gerhart, C’05, to Amanda Houtz, C’10. An October wedding was planned in Latrobe.

Terence M. “Terry” McFadden, P 51, and Iryna Marshankina on July 2, 2009.

Nicole C. Gebadlo, C’05, to Nicholas Wilson, C’04. An October wedding was planned at Saint Vincent Basilica. Joy Tomko, O.D., C’05, to Paul F. Whiteside, M.D., C’03. A June 4, 2011 wedding is being planned. Brienne N. Dvorsky, C’06, to Justin P. Albert. The wedding will be held at Saint Vincent Basilica on September 3, 2011 with the reception at Phipps Conservatory. Scott M. Gross, C’06, to Lauren A. Monterosso. A summer wedding was planned. Bridget L. Marcinik, C’06, to Christopher Moses. They planned a summer wedding in Greensburg. Shannon E. McVay, C’07, to Joshua Marquis. A September 10, 2011 wedding is planned.

s a in t v in c en t q u a rterl y

John H. Hill, Jr., C’99, and Julia Kish on July 25, 2009. Saint Vincent alumni attending were Janard A. Pendleton, C’01 and Charles Pouliot, C’99 as well as Nancy Rottler, Director of Opportunity/Act 101 Program. Melanie Gottschalk, C’99, and Benjamin A. Hennick on May 23, 2009. Following a honeymoon in Jamaica, they are making their home in Pittsburgh. Nikki Marie Stovich, D.P.M., C’02, and Justin L. Miracle, D.P.M. on October 10, 2009. Nicole Franczyk, C’03, and Matthew Webb on July 31, 2009 at Heinz Chapel in Oakland. Brianne N. Bogler, C’03, and Ken Bittner on October 3, 2009 on the beach in Avalon, New Jersey.

Nancy Lieb C’05, and Thomas Burnett on September 6, 2009 in Beavercreek, Ohio. SVC alumni in the wedding party included Jen Colson, C’04, and Casey Conroy, C’05. SVC alumni in attendance included Jen (Smitley) Gelsick, C’05, Mike Gelsick, C’05, Cassie (Myers) Teets C’06, Branden Teets, C’06, Mel Wolenter, C’06, Ryan Lecker, C’05, Kim Orr C’05, Thea (Gault) Snyder, C’05, Nicole Gebadlo, C’05 and Nick Wilson, C’04.

Deaths

Arica “Ricki” Santucci, C’05, and David M. DiTullio, C’05, on July 17, 2009. Janice M. Byrne, C’07, and Sean M. Fox, C’09, on June 12 at Saint Vincent Basilica with Fr. Brian Boosel, O.S.B., C’96, S’02, as celebrant. SVC alumni participating in the wedding ceremony included; Sara Stefanik, C’09, Lindsay Reddington, C’07, Karen Gillis, C’07, Michael Crane, C’06, Nicholas Byrne, C’04, G’06, Kristen Growden, C’07, Liz Guthrie, C’08, and Vanessa Saxton, C’07. Joshua N. Guthrie, C’07, and Elizabeth Boggs, C’08, at Saint James Church, Youngstown in April 2009 with Pastor David Von Schlichten as celebrant.

Rev. Flavian G. Yelinko, O.S.B., P’24, C’29, S’33, February 18. Frank W. Skokan, P’32, C’34, on April 15. Norman M. Huckestein, C 41, on February 20.

Marlee Eileen to Melissa E. (Franck) McKay, C’98, and her husband, Thomas B. McKay, C’98, on March 17. She joins big brother Mitchell Thomas, 21 months.

Harvey E. Patterson, C’48, in June 2009. George Edward Loughran, P’48, in May. Thomas M. Rechichar, C’49, on July 11.

Mark A. Pavlik, C 07, and Danielle L. Zeunges on May 1 at Saint Vincent Basilica with Fr. Thomas Curry, O.S.B., S’02, as celebrant.

James J. Mayer, C’50, March 3. Stephen F. Smetana, Esq., P’42, C’50, on May 23.

Joseph D. Giacobbi, C’08, and Amanda Mroz on June 26 at Saint Vincent Basilica with Fr. Chrysostom Schlimm, O.S.B., P’52, C’57, S’61, officiating. SVC alumni in the bridal party included; Allen Giacobbi, C’04, Britt Batschke, C’08, Brandon Shutty, C’08, Ann Giacobbi, C’98 and Mary Giacobbi, C’02.

Paul T. Ulicny, C 50, on March 24. George T. Varga, M.D., C’50, on June 11. Rev. Msgr. Donald W. Kraus, Ph.D., S.T.D., C’51, S’54, on October 5, 2009.

Kayla N. Rellick, C 09, and Zackary D. Messenger on June 5 at Saint Vincent Basilica.

Thomas R. McKay, C’51, on March 19.

Births Linus Antti to Jeffrey J. Wisneski, C’95, and his wife, Jennifer Lee Wisneski, on December 12, 2009.

Most Rev. John B. McDowell, C’42, S’45, on February 25.

John P. Rieger, C’51, on February 19.

Adam Joseph to Julie (Costa) Bechtold, C’02, and Brian Bechtold on March 6.

Noah Daniel to Susie (Robb) Skoloda, C’96, and her husband, Dan, on June 19, 2009.

Rev. Denis R. Sweeney, C’51, S 55, on June 27. Robert N. McAllister, P’47, C’51, on April 8. James F. Krellner, C’52, on May 5. Michael G. Hillegass, C 52, on July 26, 2009. Rev. John F. Murtha, O.S.B., P’48, C’53, S’57, on April 13. Rev. Conan E. Feigh, O.S.B., P’48, C’53, S’57, on June 4. Peter J. Citrone, Sr., M.D., P’49, C’53, on March 29. Joseph L. Politoske, D.D.S., C’54, on January 24.

Matthew Edward to Jean (Styer) Goley, C’97, and her husband, Michael, on May 25.

Rev. Michael F. Farina, S’54, on February 10. Edward E. Kloc, C’54, on March 19.

Liliana Joy to Ryan M. Silvis, C’05, and his wife, Robbi Joy Silvis, on February 13. Sophia Rose to Kevin Brogan, C’06, and his wife, Melissa, on February 24.

Clare Frances to Jason M. Winters, C’04, and his wife, Dana M. (Puglisi) Winters, C’06, on June 23.

Rev. Charles O. Peterman, C’54, S’58, on December 11. Joseph S. Tripoli, P’54, C’58, on June 20. Richard T. Mulcahy, P’57, on February 16.

fall 2010

David J. Claybaugh, C’84, Julie Claybaugh Selep, C’92, and Jay Paul Murray, C’79, on the loss of their father and father-in-law, respectively, Thomas J. Claybaugh, Sr. on June 27.

The College photo gallery can be viewed at www.flickr.com/saintvincentcollege

Rev. Robert W. Habe, C’58, S 62, on April 16. John G. “Jack” Downes, C 58, on June 15. Albert J. Fox, C’59, on June 27. Michael A. Ryan, C’60, on May 7. Rev. Hubert J. Kealy, C’60, S’64, on March 11. Rev. Alvin T. Downey, O.S.B., P’61, C’66, S 70, on June 13.

Joseph M. Newcomer, Ph.D., P’63, C’67, Amanda M. Newcomer, C’04, and Katie A. Newcomer, C’06, on the death of their mother and grandmother, respectively, Margaret G. Newcomer, on April 21. William F. Ryckman, M.D., C’66, Jon G. Ryckman, M.D., C’97, Jennifer M. Ryckman, C’05, Kimberly A. (Korba) Ryckman, D.O., C’97, on the death of their mother and grandmother, respectively, Rita Ryckman, on February 20.

Rev. Nicholas M. Trongo, S’67, on May 20.

Paul J. Hirt, C’67, on the loss of his mother in September 2009.

Very Rev. Paul E. Turnbull V.F., C’68, on May 14.

Gregory R. Seabol, C’71, on the loss of his mother, Peg Seabol, on June 29.

Canice M. Fajt, C’69, on June 14.

Alfred J. Funari, III, C’72, and Bryan J. Funari, M.D., C’96, on the death of their mother and grandmother, respectively, Patricia B. Funari, on March 15.

James M. Beierle, C’70, on April 3. Chris M. Allen, M.D., C’71, on April 9. Ashley L. Vasunda, C’07, on June 25. Brandon M. Carroll, C 12, on April 17.

Condolences Leo R. West, P’46, C’51, on the death of his wife, Jean, on March 6. Rev. Cornelius P. Chang, O.S.B., C’58, S’62, on the death of his brother, Philip Chang, on March 30. Rev. Msgr. James P. Kelly, C’58, S’62, on the death of his sister, Betty Reccow, on January 25. Raymond J. Blair, Jr., C’63, on the death of his mother, Eleanor Y. Blair, on March 7. James H. Griffin, III, C’63, Lawrence S. Griffin, C’79, and Edward S. Markiewicz, C’65, on the death of their brother and brother-inlaw, respectively, Ernest T. Griffin, on February 21.

s a in t v in c en t q u a rterl y

Frank W. Bost, C’72, on the loss of his wife, Beverly R. (Questad) Bost, on May 23. John L. Morrison, C’75, and Nick Morrison, C’76, on the death of their father, Hugh N. Morrison, Sr., on April 11. Rev. Damian J. Warnock, O.S.B., C’75, S’79, on the death of his brother, John, on February 17. Lawrence V. Ruane, C’78, on the death of his mother, Mary Ellen Ruane, on February 19.

Kevin P. Kramarski, C’86, on the death of his father, Thaddeus W. “Ted” Kramarski, on June 28. Rev. Paul R. Taylor, O.S.B., C’87, S’92, on the death of his father, Robert L. Taylor, on March 7. Anita A. Mash, C’88, and Gregory E. Mash, C’89, on the death of their mother and motherin-law, respectively, Julia Feola, on June 13. Bryan K. Ulishney, C’88, on the death of his mother, Betty R. Ulishney, on April 8. Harry T. Murtha, Jr., C’89, Lou Anne Gansor, C’89, Phyllis A. Knott, C’92, and James W. Waida, C’97, on the death of their uncle, Rev. John F. Murtha, O.S.B., P’48, C’53, S’57, on April 13. Daniel L. Apone, C’89, on the death of his mother, Ruth Apone, on March 3. Thomas A. Perrelli, C’90, on the death of his father on June 29. Rev. Kenneth R. Keene, S’95, on the death of his father, James B. Keene, on April 26. Matthew A. Cheplic, C’06, Stephanie Cheplic, C 13, and Susan (Marsherall) Cheplic, C’08, on the loss of their mother and mother-in-law, respectively, Mary Babiak, on June 27. Patrick A. Mendus, C 13, Joseph E. Stas, C’58, Nicholas J. Stas, C 70, Stephen J. Stas, Jr., C 71, Kenneth D. Stas, C’86, Jamie E. Dunlap, C’06, Sherrie E. Dunlap, C’09, and Daniel R. Vasinko, C 13, on the death of their grandmother, sister, aunt and great-aunt, respectively, Margaret M. (Stas) Dlugos on April 7.

George A. Fetkovich, C’80, on the death of his mother, Flora E. Fetkovich, on June 12. Peter J. Citrone, Jr., C 81, Eugene F. Citrone, P’54, C 58, Robert L. Citrone, P’59, C’63, and Eugene F. Citrone, Jr., C 82, on the death of their father, brother and uncle, respectively, Peter J. Citrone, Sr., M.D., P’49, C’53, on March 29. Rev. Andrew S. Campbell, O.S.B., S’81, on the death of his mother, Yvonne Campbell, on June 4.

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Rev. John F. Murtha,

O.S.B.

he Rev. John F. Murtha, O.S.B., 79, a monk and priest of Saint Vincent Archabbey, Latrobe, who served as the thirteenth president of Saint Vincent College, died on Tuesday, April 13, 2010. Father John was born May 28, 1930, the son of the late Frank and Margaret (Kearns) Murtha. He was one of seven children, including Harry Murtha and Theresa (Murtha) Cox, both of Greensburg. He was predeceased by one sister, Mary Margaret (Murtha) Waida, and three brothers, William, Joseph, and Frank Murtha. He attended Saint Peter’s Elementary School, North Side, Pittsburgh, and Saint Benedict Elementary School, Marguerite. He is a 1948 graduate of Saint Vincent Preparatory School. He earned a bachelor’s degree in philosophy from Saint Vincent College in 1953, a master’s degree in history from Columbia University in 1960, and a doctorate in history from The Catholic University of America in 1965. In 1991 he received an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree from Seton Hill College, Greensburg, and in 2002 he received an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree from Fu Jen Catholic University in Taiwan. He made simple profession of monastic vows on July 2, 1951, and solemn profession of vows on July 11, 1954. He was ordained a priest on May 26, 1957 in the Archabbey Basilica by the late Bishop Hugh Lamb. In 1965, Father John volunteered for the new Wimmer Priory foundation which the Archabbey established in Taiwan. He served in Taiwan until 1977 as a professor of history at Fu Jen Catholic University. He served as Prior of Saint Vincent Archabbey from 1980 until 1985, and then he accepted the challenging position of President of Saint Vincent College from 1985 to 1995. During his presidency, advancements were made in academic programs, alumni and employee relations, enrollment, development, campus construction, community relations, and long-range planning. New academic initiatives he introduced included a multidisciplinary environmental studies program for chemistry and business administration, a teacher certification program for elementary education and early childhood education, a common texts project, and an interdisciplinary writing program. The college’s educational programs repeatedly earned national recognition during his presidency.

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Following the reelection of Archabbot Douglas on May 11, the monastic community gathered for a group portrait, a tradition at the abbey. One hundred and thirty of the 157 members of the monastic community were present for the photo, in addition to Abbot President Timothy Kelly of the American Cassinese Association, who presided at the election.