Southern Alumni Magazine, Fall 2008 by Southern Connecticut State University

a publication for alumni and friends of Southern Connecticut State University

ALUMNI MAGAZINE | Fall | 08

LET TER FROM THE

President Dear Southern Alumni,

Our latest enrollment figures reflect the fact that A great deal has changed Southern is becoming a university on our campus in the 25 years of choice for many students. A since Southern Connecticut record 7,173 full-time State College became Southern undergraduate students have Connecticut State University. Not enrolled at Southern this fall, only has the physical nature of eclipsing the previous high of Southern been transformed 7,117 set in 1972. The number of full-time graduate thanks to a massive injection of state bonding dollars, but the academic quality and community involvement of students enrolled this fall also contributed to a new the university have grown and evolved to the point where record total full-time enrollment of 8,111 students. we have become a distinctive institution. These and future students will continue to experience a campus in transformation. Some of the Southern has become a leader with respect to best news we received during the summer was the state workforce and professional development training; online education; and graduate studies. Reflecting our roots, we Bond Commission’s approval of funds to extend our construction program. The first phase is nearing its end still produce more state-licensed educators than any of our peers, and we have demonstrated our commitment with the completion of a renewed, expanded Buley to community engagement by establishing scores of K- Library, which you can read about in this magazine’s cover story. The next phase will include design of a new science 12 formal relationships with focus on public schools in center on Fitch Street near Jennings Hall; design of the first urban school districts. of two new parking garages; and the remodeling of the But our comprehensive nature is revealed by the former student center as a new home for the School of fact that last year we also awarded more degrees in Business. Future projects include a Health and Human health/life sciences and social/public services than our Services Building and a Fine Arts Instructional Center. three sister institutions combined. And a recent study As we continue to move forward, I would like to reported that Southern taught introductory physics thank all of our alumni and friends who have taken an courses to more undergraduate students than any other active interest in Southern and supported us through the university in the state—including Yale and the last quarter century and beyond. I hope that many of you University of Connecticut. will take the opportunity to visit campus and experience Among our peers, Southern has the highest the progress of change in person as we meet the percentage of women obtaining degrees at both challenges and embrace the opportunities that lie ahead. undergraduate and graduate levels. We have the highest percentage of ethnic minority graduates employed after graduation. And we have the highest percentage of graduates employed nine months after earning their Dr. Cheryl J. Norton degree—79 percent. President

Southern

ALUMNI MAGAZINE

Fall | 08 features

Seven to Watch

One leads a global health organization with programs in 50 countries. Another guided the operations of one of the largest grocery and food service retailers in the United States. Presenting the winners of the 2008 Distinguished and Outstanding Alumni Awards — seven graduates who’ve made a difference.

Southern’s Distinguished Alumnus, Paul Kobasa, M.S.L.S. ’77, takes show-and-tell to the ultimate level as vice president, editorial, and editor in chief of World Book, Inc., the publisher of numerous leading resource materials, including the top-selling encyclopedia in print.

Building a Better Buley

The construction of a state-of-the-art addition to Hilton C. Buley Library has been completed. Stay tuned as the next phase — the renovation of the original building — continues.

departments

From A to Z

20 A program that provides finance students with real investment funds and a Wall Street-style trading room proves a winning investment.

From the President

inside cover

Campus News Nostalgia

22 Out and About 24 Alumni News 26 Alumni Notes 30 Southern Events 36

Supporting Southern

Campus

NEWS CSUS 2020 to Fund Campus Improvements

needed construction proj-

The state Bond

The new CSUS 2020

through the previous $260

ects. Twenty million dollars

projects address key areas

will finance the design of a

of current and future aca-

program, which funded the

new, state-of-the-art aca-

demic growth, as well as

new Michael J. Adanti

million campus construction

Commission, with the sup-

demic/science building,

statewide and national

Student Center and the

port of Governor M. Jodi

which will be located on

employment needs. For

expansion and renovation of

Rell, has approved $95 mil-

Fitch Street, and the design

example, recent enrollment

Engleman Hall and Buley

lion in funding to support

and construction of a new

reports at Southern show

Library.

Emergency Management Program Launched Southern initiated a 12-credit, graduate-level certificate program in emergency and disaster management this fall, the first program of its kind in Connecticut. The certificate program, which can be completed in two to four semesters, is designed for those who already serve in an emergency management [FROM LEFT] Dr. David G. Carter, Sr., chancellor of the Connecticut State University System (CSUS); Lawrence D. McHugh, ’62, chairman of the CSUS Board of Trustees; and Gov. M. Jodi Rell.

role — as a professional or as a volunteer — as well as

the first phase of the 10-

450-space parking garage.

the number of freshman

for those who are interested in entering the field.

year, $950 million CSUS

The initial phase will also

and transfer student applica-

2020 capital improvement

include supplemental fund-

tions are among the highest

program. CSUS 2020 will

ing for renovations to the

in business administration

developed by Scot Phelps,

The program was

benefit the Connecticut

old student center to create

and the sciences and health

a certified emergency man-

State University System

a new home for the School

fields. Southern’s new aca-

ager and a former assistant

(CSUS), which in addition

of Business.

demic science building will

commissioner for emer-

to Southern Connecticut State University, includes

provide state-of-the-art labo-

gency management at the

that are part of CSUS

ratory space for biology,

New York City Department

Other improvements

Central, Eastern, and

2020’s initial phase include

chemistry, physics, and com-

of Health and Mental

Western Connecticut state

the renovation of the data

puter science, helping to

Hygiene. Phelps has more

universities.

center in Jennings Hall and

meet Connecticut’s initiative

than two decades of emer-

upgrades to the mechanical

for STEM (science, technolo-

gency response experience,

funding for the first, three-

and electrical systems in

gy, engineering, and math)

including serving as a para-

year phase is approximately

John Lyman Center for the

professionals.

medic and paramedic

Southern’s share of

$42 million, which will for-

Performing Arts and several

ward a number of critically

academic buildings.

2 | Southern ALUMNI MAGAZINE

CSUS 2020 will continue the progress made

instructor. Most recently, he developed and led the

Landmark Gift Supports Music Program The Stutzman

years and additional necessary funding in the years following. The contribution

Family Foundation, repre-

was inspired, in part, by

sented by Walter J.

Walter Stutzman’s firsthand

Stutzman, has made a gift

experience as a student at

to establish and support

Southern. Following a suc-

the Southern Applied Music

cessful career in informa-

Program. The gift, which

tion technology, he retired

was given in memory of

in July 2005 to pursue a

Scot Phelps

Mr. Stutzman’s parents,

second career as a music

master of public adminis-

Geraldine and Jacob

teacher. He currently is

tration program in emer-

Stutzman, will provide free

enrolled at Southern and

gency and disaster man-

lessons on a variety of

plans to graduate with a

agement at Metropolitan

musical instruments to all

degree in music in 2009.

College in New York City.

declared music majors

For more information

who maintain a C- or bet-

this leadership-level gift

about the program, visit

ter average in music cours-

was made to the commu-

www.SouthernCT.edu

es. The foundation has

nity as this issue was set

emergencymanagement/.

agreed to fund the pro-

to go to press. More infor-

gram with initial grants of

mation will follow in the

$80,000 for the first four

next issue.

Announcement of

Southern

| ALUMNI MAGAZINE | VOL 7 • NO 1

Dr. Cheryl J. Norton, President Megan A. Rock, Vice President for Institutional Advancement STAFF Patrick Dilger, Director of Public Affairs Villia Struyk, Editor Marsha Rabe, Associate Editor Michael Kobylanski, Sports Editor Marylou Conley, ’83, Art Director Isabel Chenoweth, Photographer Meghan Marino, ’08, Assistant Photographer Nancy Ronne, Development Editor Charlie Davison, Alumni Notes Editor ALUMNI RELATIONS OFFICE Michelle R. Johnston, Director of Alumni Relations (203) 392-6500 EDITORIAL OFFICE Southern Connecticut State University Office of Public Affairs/ Southern Alumni Magazine 501 Crescent Street New Haven, CT 06515-1355 Telephone (203) 392-6591; fax (203) 392-6597 E-mail address: struykv1@SouthernCT.edu University Web site: www.SouthernCT.edu Printed by Imperial Graphics

Southern Alumni Magazine is published by the university in cooperation with the SCSU Alumni Association three times a year and distributed free of charge to alumni and friends of the university. Opinions expressed in Southern Alumni Magazine do not necessarily reflect those of the university or of the SCSU Alumni Association. Although the editors have made every reasonable effort to be factually accurate, no responsibility is assumed for errors. Postage paid at New Haven, Conn.

Walter J. Stutzman

Southern Connecticut State University, in compliance with federal laws and regulations, does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, or status as a veteran in any of its policies, practices, or procedures. This includes, but is not limited to, admissions, employment, financial aid, and educational services. Fall 2008 | 3

Campus

NEWS Recalling a Nigerian Tragedy

“People don’t

Ph.D. at the University of

understand the war,” says

Texas at Austin. He

Ogbaa, who has written six

returned to Nigeria to help

other books. “It was a war

start Imo State University,

of annihilation. Starvation

but came back to the

was a legitimate weapon

United States about eight

of war to the Nigerian mili-

years later, citing the influ-

tary junta.”

ence of the military regime

Ogbaa calls Ojukwu,

and lack of academic free-

now 74, “the most cele-

dom. He attempts to travel

brated Nigerian alive,” but

to Nigeria every year to visit

acknowledges that some

and conduct research.

Nigerians, particularly the

United States in 1977 to

Professors Honored for Research and Teaching

pursue his master’s degree

Troy Paddock, an

younger generation, blame him for the war. Ogbaa came to the

and went on to earn a

Kalu Ogbaa, who fought in the Nigerian Civil War, is the author of a new book on the conflict.

It has been 38 years

ence, Biafra surrendered

since the end of the

to the largely Muslim

Nigerian Civil War. But for

north, ending the armed

Kalu Ogbaa, professor of

struggle that resulted in an

English, the memories of

estimated 2 to 3 million

the bloody conflict remain

deaths, primarily on the

as vivid as the battle scars

Biafran side.

on his hands. At the age of 21,

He recently published a book, “General

Ogbaa fought in the war

Ojukwu: The Legend of

on the side of the

Biafra,” which provides a

Republic of Biafra, a pre-

critical analysis of the war

dominantly Christian sec-

with a fresh perspective

tor of southeastern Nigeria

on the role of Gen.

that seceded in 1967.

Chukwuemeka

Nearly three years after its

Odumegwu Ojukwu, who

proclamation of independ-

led the Biafran forces.

4 | Southern ALUMNI MAGAZINE

Troy Paddock and Nicole Henderson

associate professor of

history at Southern, has received the CSUS Trustees Research Award, one of the most presti-

ounded as a teachers college in 1893, Southern has

on faculty by the

Connecticut State

largest graduate programs in the Northeast.

gious honors bestowed

evolved into a comprehensive university offering undergraduate degree programs and

graduate degree programs, making it one of the

University System (CSUS).

Each year, the recipient is

ampus volunteerism is widespread. Southern

selected from four univer-

700

student athletes, coaches, and staff performed

sity-level award winners

nearly

from each of the four

during the 2007-08 academic year.

hours of community service

CSUS campuses, Southern, Central, Eastern, and Western. Paddock has conducted research on how

reating an energy and ecologically responsible campus is a key priority. One of

11,600

many ongoing efforts, an on-campus collection drive for Goodwill Industries, collected

pounds of gently used clothing and house-

hold items last spring.

education, public dis-

course, and the develop-

outhern is the only institution in the state with a

ment of a national identity

375

full-time Office of Veterans Affairs, serving

in Germany between 1890

more than

and 1914 combined to

have served or are currently serving in the

engender anti-Russian

armed forces.

Southern students who

propaganda. His revised dissertation on the topic is currently under review at Camden House publishers. Paddock has taught at Southern since 1998. Nicole Henderson, an associate professor of English, was honored as the recipient of Southern’s Teaching Award. Henderson serves as the university’s composition program coordinator and

of several writing special-

of Southern’s English

ists hired by the English

Department for 10 years,

Department to bolster the

teaches first-year composi-

quality of student writing.

tion and general education literature, as well as 19th-

English Professors Honored

and early 20th-century

The J. Philip Smith

to be a Fulbright Senior

American literature. In fall 2005, Stretch was invited Lecturer at the University of

played a key role in the

Outstanding Teaching

development and organiza-

Award, among Southern’s

Cynthia Stretch

Barcelona in Spain. She

tion of Southern’s new

most noteworthy honors

adjunct instructor of

also wrote a successful

First-Year Experience pro-

for faculty, was presented

English. The awards were

Fulbright proposal to bring

gram, which she now

to Cynthia Stretch, associ-

made at Commencement

a colleague from the

directs. She joined

ate professor of English,

exercises in May. Stretch,

University of Barcelona to

Southern in 1999 as one

and Lois Lake Church,

who has been a member

Southern to teach literature Fall 2008 | 5

Campus

NEWS sport shorts and women’s studies. In addition, she was a leader in developing innovative course materials for Southern’s First-Year Experience program, which was launched in 2007-08. Fellow award recipient, Lois Lake Church, M.S. ’08, teaches composition at the university. She also teaches English with the Connecticut College Access and Success (ConnCAS) program and tutors in the Campus Writing Center. An accomplished writer, Church won second place in the 2006 Southern Connecticut State University Short Fiction

Patricia Panichas, ’74, M.S. ’78, 6th Yr. ’85.

Review, the graduate mag-

biggest stage, the Olympic

Contest and first place in

azine of literature and art

Games. Panichas was the

nearly 250 victories and led

the 2008 Connecticut

at Southern, which pub-

only U.S. judge selected to

the Owls to 10 Eastern

State University System

lished its inaugural issue in

participate in the sport at

College Athletic Conference

Essay Contest. She is the

May. (See related story on

the Beijing Games. In

Championships.

editor in chief of Noctua

the back cover of the mag-

recognition of her achieve-

azine.)

ments, Panichas was selected as a 2008 recipi-

Two Owls Hit the Big Leagues

Panichas Judges at Olympics

ent of the National

A professional base-

Association of Girls and

ball career is the next step

Building on a distin-

Women in Sport Pathfinder

for two former Owls, pitch-

Award for Connecticut.

er Jim Fuller, who signed a

guished career as a gym-

A member of the

nastics competitor, coach,

Lois Lake Church, M.S. ’08

6 |

that time, she recorded

professional contract with

administrator, and judge,

exercise science faculty,

the New York Mets, and

Patricia Panichas, ’74, M.S.

Panichas spent 28 years as

shortstop Mike Diaz, who

’78, 6th Yr. ’85, traveled to

the head coach of the

inked a deal with the

China in August to serve as

Southern women’s gym-

Houston Astros.

a judge on the sport’s

nastics program. During

As a Southern student, in 2008, Fuller led

Correction

the nation in strikeouts

Photographer John Columbus, M.S.L.S. ’76, was not credited for several of his photo-

(145), ranked second in

graphs, which were included in the summer ’08 issue of the magazine. The photographs

strikeouts per nine innings

were of Ukrainian-style decorated eggs created by Nancy Dudchik, ’88, for a display at the

(13:45), and was among

White House. Columbus’ work can be viewed at: johnmcolumbus.com.

the top 10 nationally in hits

Southern ALUMNI MAGAZINE

Meet South Student Athern’s lete

allowed per innings and

Maria Zenoni

Diaz began his pro-

earned-run average. An All

fessional career with the

American, Fuller was previ-

Astros’ Class A New York-

ously selected as both the

Penn League affiliate, the

Senior

ABCA/Rawlings Northeast

Tri-City Valley Cats. In his

Region and Northeast-10

first professional start, the

Pitcher of the Year.

former Southern All-

Co-captain of the Women’s Swimming and Diving Team (2007-08, 2008-09)

Diaz closed his Southern career with a .365 batting

Exercise Science Major

average. In the Owls all-time record book, he ranks first in triples (16), second in stolen bases (73), third in hits (221),

Born Champion: Represented her native Dominican

and fifth in at-bats

Republic in July at the 2008 Caribbean Island PHOTO: John Steady

(606). His eight triples in 2008 were a single-season record for the program.

Mike Diaz

the region. Won the 400 individual medley and the 200 breastroke. More Claims to Fame: Part of Southern’s winning 200-medley relay squad at the Northeast-10

American made the game-winning home run, leading the Tri-City Valley

PHOTO: Bob Cox

Championships last year. Named to the Northeast-10 All-Academic Team for the secondconsecutive year. Classroom Star: Named a Gold Scholar on the

Cats to a 7-6, 11-

Northeast-10 Commissioner’s Honor Roll for the

inning win over

second time for finishing in the top 5 percent of

the Lowell

grade point averages among Southern student

Spinners.

athletes.

The

Jim Fuller

Championships, which features 20 countries from

Diving In: Began swimming competitively at age five.

Southern baseball

Her mother enrolled her in swimming lessons as a

team finished the

baby as a safety precaution.

2008 season with a 36-19 win-loss record and reached the NCAA Tournament for

Lucky Stars: Before a race, Zenoni visualizes the competition and listens to reggaeton, which she describes as a “sort of Latin rap.” Favorite Athlete: American Olympic Champion swim-

the third time in the past

mer, Natalie Coughlin. Also, a self-described “huge

four years.

Red Sox fan.”

For more sports news, visit www.SouthernCTOwls.com. Fall 2008 | 7

ne leads a global health organization with programs in 50 countries. Another guided the operations of one of the largest grocery and food service retailers in the United States. Presenting the winners of the 2008 Distinguished and Outstanding Alumni Awards â&#x20AC;&#x201D; seven graduates who have n October 31, Southern honored seven of made a difference. its best and brightest at the

2008 Distinguished and Outstanding Alumni Awards. The Distinguished Alumnus Award, the highest honor given by the Alumni Association to a Southern graduate, was presented to Paul A. Kobasa, M.S.L.S. â&#x20AC;&#x2122;77, vice president, editorial, and editor in chief of World Book, Inc., the publisher of numerous leading resource materials, including the top-selling encyclopedia in print.

8 | Southern ALUMNI MAGAZINE

n addition, six alumni — including a graduate from each of the university’s six schools — received the Outstanding Alumnus/a Awards. The honorees included Richard T. Illingworth, ’71, vice president of employee relations for Pfizer’s Global Manufacturing Division (School of Arts and Sciences); William J. Grize, ’74, the retired president and chief executive officer of Ahold USA Retail, which oversees Stop & Shop and other leading U.S. grocery operations (School of Business); Leslie B. Burger, ’73, director of the Princeton Public Library and former president of the American Library Association (School of Communication, Information, and Library Science); Dr. Karen L. Mapp, M.S. ’81, 6th Yr. ’82, a lecturer on education at the Harvard Graduate School of Education (School of Education); Dr. Barbara B. Shadden, M.S. ’73, director of the Communication Disorders Program and co-director of the Office for Studies on Aging at the University of Arkansas (School of Graduate Studies); and Dr. Leslie D. Mancuso, ’78, president and chief executive officer of Jhpiego, an international health organization affiliated with The Johns Hopkins University (School of Health and Human Services). continues

Fall 2008 | 9

Outstanding alumnus

Outstanding alumna

Richard T. Illingworth, ’71

William J. Grize, ’74

Leslie B. Burger, ’73

school of arts and sciences

school of Business

school of Communication, information, and library science

ichard T. Illingworth may be mathematically inclined, but it’s the workings of the human mind that truly spark his imagination. As a Southern student, Illingworth switched his major from math to psychology because he loved working with people. He has been at Pfizer for almost 20 years, steadily working his way up through the ranks. Since 1998, he has served as the vice president of human resources for Pfizer’s Global Manufacturing Division, with responsibility for more than 35,000 colleagues based in 40 countries. Raised in New Haven, Conn., Illingworth was the first in his family to attend college and, like many current Southern students, worked part time to finance his education. Southern was one of only two schools he considered attending, and his alma mater remains dear to his heart. He met his wife, Janice, ’71, while attending the university. Following graduation, he served in the U.S. Army Reserves from 1971 to 1977. Illingworth has been a member of the Southern Connecticut State University Foundation Board of Directors since 2001. He is also involved with the United Way, the Chamber of Commerce, and the Samaritan Inn.

10 | Southern ALUMNI MAGAZINE

true business success story, William J. Grize launched his career as a part-time employee at Stop & Shop. Armed with talent, determination, and a business degree from Southern, he made the most of his experience. In December 1997 he was named president of Stop & Shop. Three years later he became president and chief executive officer of Ahold USA Retail, which oversees Stop & Shop and other leading U.S. grocery operations. In April 2001, he was appointed to the Ahold Corporate Executive Board, a position he held until his retirement in December 2004. In support of the industry, he has served as a member of the Executive Board of the Food Marketing Institute (FMI), chairman of the FMI Industry Relations Council, and chairman of the Retail Trustees of the Joint Labor Management Committee. His past service also includes work with the Dana Farber Cancer Institute. In 2004, he was honored by the Network of Executive Women at the Food Marketing Institute’s annual convention.

eslie B. Burger has been the director of the Princeton Public Library since 1999. But her influence in the library field extends far beyond the state of New Jersey. From 2006 to 2007, Burger was president of the American Library Association, which represents more the 64,000 members, and is the oldest and largest library organization in the world. As the founder of a consulting firm, Library Development Solutions, she has worked with more than 100 libraries across the United States, among them the Reader’s Digest Foundation, New York University Libraries, and, in Connecticut, the Darien Public Library. Her impact at the Princeton Public Library has been profound; from 1994 to 2004, she oversaw the planning and funding of a new 62,000 square-foot building. Burger is the recipient of numerous honors, including the Princeton YWCA Tribute to Women Award and The New York Times Librarian Award for 2004. She also was honored by the University of Maryland, where she received her master’s degree, as the CLIS Alumna of the Year in 2005.

Outstanding alumna

Dr. Karen L. Mapp, m.s. ’81, 6th Yr. ’82

Dr. Barbara B. Shadden, m.s. ’73

Dr. Leslie D. Mancuso, ’78

school of Education

school of graduate studies

n January 2005, Dr. Karen L. Mapp, an expert on families and communities in education, joined the Harvard Graduate School of Education (HGSE) as a lecturer, an appointment heralded with appropriate fanfare by the venerable institution. “Karen Mapp brings an enormous amount of experience in how to best engage families, communities, and school systems,” said Ellen Condliffe Lagemann, Charles Warren Professor of the History of American Education and dean of the HGSE. Mapp joined Harvard after serving 18 months as the deputy superintendent for family and community engagement for Boston Public Schools (BPS). While working with BPS, Mapp continued to fulfill her duties as president of the Institute for Responsive Education, which conducts research on how school, family, and community partnerships effectively support children’s educational development. A published author, she also is the recipient of a Spencer Foundation Dissertation Fellowship.

professor at the University of Arkansas, Dr. Barbara B. Shadden has used her education to serve countless individuals — from the undergraduate and graduate students she mentors to those she helps through numerous support groups. Having joined the university in 1979, she is currently director of the Communication Disorders Program and co-director of the Office for Studies on Aging, which she co-founded in 1999 with Professor Ro Di Brezzo. Shadden’s impact in the community has been deep and far-reaching. She developed and facilitated an ongoing Stroke Support Group, as well as a support group for the Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) Association for individuals with ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease. Most recently, she initiated a communication group for people with aphasia, the loss of the ability to speak or understand language due to a disease or injury to the brain. The endeavor was so successful it has grown from a single group to three in several years. Shadden speaks extensively on various health issues, and also facilitates a Life Stories group that helps stroke survivors.

school of Health and Human services

ince 2002, Dr. Leslie D. Mancuso has been president and chief executive officer of Jhpiego, an international, nonprofit health organization affiliated with The Johns Hopkins University. Having graduated from Southern with a degree in nursing, Mancuso has credited the university with preparing her for her career. “The faculty taught me to believe in nursing and to understand the responsibility that comes with being a nurse,” said Mancuso. “Southern taught me to be a leader.” At Jhpiego, she oversees programs in 50 countries and a budget of $40 million and a staff of more than 270 professionals. Prior to joining Jhpiego, Mancuso spent 13 years at Project HOPE (Health Opportunities for People Everywhere), an international health education and humanitarian assistance organization. Mancuso rose to the position of Acting Chief Executive Officer of the organization, overseeing a wide variety of outreach efforts during her tenure, including the establishment of the first children’s hospital in China to meet international standards.

Fall 2008 | 11

2008 Distinguished Alumnus

From

Southern’s Distinguished Alumnus, Paul Kobasa, M.S.L.S. ’77, takes show-and-tell to the ultimate level as the vice president, editorial, and editor in chief of World Book, Inc., the publisher of numerous leading resource materials, including the world’s top-selling print encyclopedia. By Marianne Lippard

arly in his career, Paul Kobasa, M.S.L.S. ’77, once drove a fouryear-old to tears while trying to explain ever so gently why the child couldn’t leave the library with a reference book. Kobasa had just started a part-time stint at the Fairfield Woods Branch Library when he found himself in a mini tug-of-war with the disgruntled child who was clutching a book about trucks. The scene left Kobasa with a sense of where his library career would not be going. “The experience led me to believe that I probably was not cut out for children’s librarianship,” says Kobasa. “I felt terrible. I was sure that he would grow up to hate libraries and librarians, would avoid taking advantage of the school library media center, and, as an adult, would vote against local bond issues meant to benefit his public library. And all of it would be my fault.” Today, Kobasa is making up for that possibly traumatic episode by putting encyclopedias in the hands of children around the world. As vice president, editorial, and editor in chief at World Book, Inc., Kobasa plays a pivotal role at the organization, an industry leader in the production of award-winning encyclopedias, reference sources, and digital products for homes and schools.

12 | Southern ALUMNI MAGAZINE

ounded in 1917, the Chicago-based company publishes nearly 90 reference titles, including Animals of the World, Human Body Works, and Biographical Connections. The jewels in its crown, however, are The World Book Encyclopedia, the top-selling encyclopedia in print, and the World Book Web, staples in homes and libraries for their accurate, current, and reliable information for children and adults.

Kobasa was recruited by the company in 1988 and charged with developing topical reference publications. He took on the task with gusto, leading numerous highly successful launches. He also was instrumental in guiding the evolution of the company’s electronic publishing efforts. In 2006, he was promoted to editor in chief. Today, he is responsible for the content development and business man-

agement of the company’s editorial operations for print and electronic publications directed to the worldwide school, library, and home consumer markets. The position brings with it tremendous responsibility in the educational arena, which is one reason that Nancy Disbrow, associate professor for the Department of Information and Library continues

“Friends here groan when my response to even a rhetorical question is, `let’s look that up,’” says Kobasa [CENTER] with Photo Editor Tom Evans and Associate Manager of Editorial Development Cassie Mayer. PHOTOS: Courtesy of World Book, Inc. Fall 2008 | 13

2008 Distinguished Alumnus

Science, nominated Kobasa opportunity for the Distinguished to do that Alumnus Award, one of work. Because Southern’s highest honors. libraries were, Disbrow, who attended and are, classes with Kobasa in the Greenwood’s 1970s, remembers him as a principal student who was “kind of audience, I quiet, but very, very intellifelt I still was gent.” His work ethic was within the undeniable even then. “I ambit of could tell he would do well librarianship.” in his field,” she says. He Paul Kobasa, M.S.L.S. ‘77 Kobasa’s multifacquickly rose eted position at World Book is much differthrough the ranks, serving successively as ent from the job he expected to pursue in an indexer, production manager, acquisi1974 when he graduated with a Bachelor of tions editor, and marketing manager. Arts in English literature from Fairfield Drawing on his library and scholUniversity and enrolled at Southern in the arly publishing experience, he joined the master’s program in library science. “My American Library Association (ALA) in goal was to be a reference librarian in a colChicago in 1983 to head marketing operalege or university library,” Kobasa says. He worked at Fairfield University’s Nyselius Library, now the DiMennaNyselius Library, as an undergraduate and graduate student and immediately after earning his degree. But an opportunity to break into the field of scholarly publishing presented itself in 1977, and Kobasa was intrigued. Greenwood Press, now the Greenwood Publishing Group in Westport, Conn., had an ad in the newspaper for an indexer. Kobasa applied. “I knew the company from my library work because much of Greenwood’s early production was the reprinting of outof-print books appropriate for academic library collections,” he says. “I had enjoyed the abstracting and indexing work to which I had been exposed in library school, and the position in Greenwood was an 14 | Southern ALUMNI MAGAZINE

library markets in the United States and Canada. Elsewhere, in countries where English is the principal language, door-todoor home sales are still profitable. Technology also has changed the business. Kobasa says one of World Book’s greatest challenges is showing people the value of being discriminating, even skeptical, about the information they obtain on the Internet. “Some of the information out there is opinion masquerading as fact,” he says. Kobasa notes that the Internet’s defining rapidity of response tends to elevate efficiency over effectiveness. But misinformation quickly obtained is still misinformation. World Book, which has embraced digital publishing, is committed to providing accurate information in a user-friendly format. Kobasa, who grew up in Seymour, Conn., and now lives in the Edgewater

The 2009 edition of the World Book Encyclopedia consists of 22 volumes and 14,000 pages.

tions in ALA’s publishing division. He left in 1988, after being recruited by World Book. Business has changed significantly since Kobasa started at World Book 20 years ago. The company once employed a large, permanent sales force that handled house calls to parents. By 1999, the sales force for that market was gone. Currently, the sales efforts focus on the school and

neighborhood of Chicago, recalls that between work and attending class, he didn’t have much time for a social life as a student, but he knew that his hard work would eventually pay off. “The library school had the reputation of producing librarians who hit the ground running, so I felt studying there would prepare me well,” says Kobasa, continues on page 35

aunched in 1948, the football team quickly became known for its talent and fighting spirit, winning all but one game in 1949. Only one thing was needed to cap off the emerging on-field dominance of New Haven State Teachers College (NHSTC), as Southern was then known: an actionpacked, pep-inducing halftime show! NHSTC’s students quickly signed on. In the 1949-50 academic year, more than 30 young women auditioned to represent the college as its first cheerleaders. The band also was revitalized, as noted in the 1953 edition of the Laurel, the student yearbook: “The T.C. Band was started within the last two years and has been our pride and joy ever since.” Circa 1952, a newly organized group of majorettes began performing at halftime shows, as well. Initially, members of the band played in their own clothes, some sporting

jackets, ties, and even fedoras. By 1953, casual uniforms consisting of straw hats, blue sweaters, and bow ties were issued, followed soon after by more formal attire. The 1957 yearbook showcased the band, “resplendent in new uniforms,” complete with shoulder epaulettes and feathered hats (above). The football team — known consistently as the Owls since 1953 — certainly gave fans something to cheer about. The team lost only one game per season in 1950, 1951, 1953, 1955, 1958, and 1959. And in 1956, the Owls became the only undefeated and untied team in New England. Today, the SCSU “Fighting Owls” Pep Band is the official athletics band for the university, urging on the crowd at all men’s and women’s home basketball games. Looking forward, Southern also is launching its first-ever drum line, which will perform at home football games. Three cheers!

Looking at he t

’50s

’50 * Korean War begins ’51 * First color television broadcast ’52 * Polio vaccine created ’53 * DNA’s role in heredity confirmed ’54 * Segregation ruled illegal in the U.S. ’55 * Disneyland opens ’56 * Elvis appears on the Ed Sullivan Show ’57 * Soviet satellite Sputnik launches space age ’58 * Peace symbol created ’59 * Fidel Castro becomes dictator of Cuba Source: history1900s.about.com

Sources: “Southern Connecticut State University: A Centennial History,” by Thomas J. Farnham, and the Laurel, student yearbooks

Fall 2008 | 15

a Better Buley

The construction of a stateof-the-art addition to the Hilton C. Buley Library has been completed. Stay tuned as the next phase — the renovation of the original building — continues. By Linda Simoes Cocchiola 16 | Southern ALUMNI MAGAZINE

L I B R A R IA N S

he staff of the Hilton C. Buley Library and Southern’s students were settled comfortably into a bright, modern new building when the new fall semester began. But that’s only half the story. The academic heart of campus, Buley Library is in the process of growing to double its size and hardly missing a beat in the process. A two-phase, $63.7 million project to expand and renovate the 38-year-old library is about 50 percent complete. A new 135,000-square-foot, five-story addition opened in May, and, by the first weeks of summer, housed most of the library’s collections and services. The next phase of the project, the renovation of the original 98,000-square-foot building, is now underway, with completion scheduled by 2010. When the entire project is done, the new Buley

When Robert Simon, ’75,

50 programs in the country and three

such as one Palestinian man earning

M.S.L.S. ’77, was named director of the

in New England accredited by the

his graduate degree from Dubai,

Canton Public Library in April, he

American Library Association.

where he is poised to become the

found a perfect fit. He enjoys a little

The degree program is avail-

librarian for Harvard University’s new

of everything small town libraries

able through online coursework, as

offer a leader: budgets, administrative

well as in the standard classroom set-

tasks, working with policy makers,

ting, and the high-tech option is more

library science field to the wealth of

and most of all, pleasing the public.

popular than ever since becoming

available information and the need for

A lot has stayed the same since Simon left Southern with a grad-

B E C O M IN G

will offer work areas and furnishings for up to 1,600 students, a four-fold increase. The expansion and renovation will greatly increase the library’s holding capacity for books, journals, databases, and other media. For example, the library will have the potential to accommodate 765,000 volumes of books alone, an increase from about 460,000. The renovation and expansion also will greatly enhance the library’s technical resources and opportunities for learning, instruction, and research. Wireless Internet connectivity is available throughout the building, and the expansion brings with it a stateof-the-art bibliographic instruction classroom. Buley also is home to the School of Communication, Information, and Library Science, continues

available in 1999. “It was a way to offer access

medical school there. Harris credits the growth of the

businesses to store and file that data. “In the 18th and 19th centuries, the

uate degree in library science: he says

to people who couldn’t get to the

United States became prosperous and

people are still voraciously reading

library school,” says Edward Harris,

great because of its natural resources.

books. But a lot has changed, too.

dean of Communication, Information,

In the 20th century, it was manufactur-

Computers have not only revolution-

and Library Science. About 100 stu-

ing and finances. In the 21st century

ized the library field, but also the abil-

dents graduate from the program

it’s leadership in the information

ity of people worldwide to tap into

yearly, 70 percent of whom completed

world,” Harris says. “Today, every large

Southern’s gold standard master of

the program online. Some graduates

company has several librarians.”

library science program, one of only

hail from far corners of the world,

continues on page 35

[LEFT] Dr. Christina Baum, library director, in the new addition to Hilton C. Buley Library. Fall 2008 | 17

T S P E C IA L

he new addition has a red brick facade and covers a large, roughly half-moon footprint behind the original rectangle-shaped building. Large windows pour natural light into comfortably furnished reading areas that open upwards to two stories, offering sweeping views of West Rock. The addition of private group study rooms is one of the project’s key features and a hallmark of student life at a modern university. The inviting, glass-enclosed rooms have large white boards, tables, and comfortable chairs.“The students come here to do research, to meet with friends, and to do group study,” Baum says.“We did not have any group study rooms at all in the old building.” While the students are already capitalizing on the enhancements offered in the new building, there is much more in store. “Many things in the new building are in their permanent places already,” says Baum. “But other services will be relocated into the renovated building when it is finished.” When the project is complete, spiral staircases and an atrium will link the addition and the renovated building. The perma-

The new Hilton C. Buley Library will include expanded and improved space to preserve and display some of the library’s most precious holdings. “Many of the items in our collection have been inaccessible in the past or accessible only to people who knew they were there,” says Dr. Paul Holmer, special collections librarian. “This expansion and renovation should be helpful.”

S O M E T H IN G

and the Department of Academic Computing, which provides computer and technology support across campus. While construction continues, students began enjoying some of the amenities of the new addition this spring, utilizing a temporary entrance located near the student center. “This addition is so much more aesthetically pleasing to the employees and students,” says Dr. Christina Baum, library director.

The Department of Special Collections and Archives will occupy part of the ground level of the new library upon its completion in 2010. The library’s holdings currently include thousands of volumes on the history of Connecticut and Connecticut life, the history of the university, children’s books, an authentic colonial American hornbook (which Holmer says looks more like a leather teething toy than most people’s traditional notions of a hornbook), and much, much more.

The library is named for Hilton C. Buley, who served as president of Southern from 1954 to 1971.

nent main entrance will once again face the academic quad, the traditional backdrop for commencement and other ceremonies. Services currently in temporary locations, such as administrative offices, will be relocated across the entire expanse of both buildings. Only then will students, faculty, and staff be able to appreciate the full impact of the expansion, says Baum. “The arrangement of services will make more sense based on how we work and serve the students,” she says. Baum began working at Southern in the fall of 2007, midway through the construction project. She oversees a staff of 35 people who, she is confident, will continue to do what they have done so masterfully since 2004 — operate a full-service university library while also accommodating construction workers, engineers, architects, and movers. The library expansion, which began in 2004, marks the third and final phase of a state-funded facilities improvement project that also saw the expansion and renovation of Engleman Hall,

H. Davies Napoleonica Collection, the A.H. Gosselin Sound Collection, and the Edward G. Levy Collection of Nineteenth Century Textbooks and Ephemera. The history of printing and the growth of reading in the 20th century are also areas of interest to the library. “Most of the collections come to us as gifts,” says Holmer, who looks forward to unpacking the department’s collection when construction and renovation are complete

Cahn Labor Collection, the Connecticut Collection, the Eula

W IT H

Liveten Juvenile Collection (children’s literature), the William

R O O M

Southern’s major collections include the Caroline Sherwin Bailey Collection of Children’s Literature, the Helen

V IE W

continues on page 35

in two years. “It is going to be like Christmas morning,” he says.

— By Linda Simoes Cocchiola Although the library expansion and renovation offer much that is new, they also set out to preserve the best of the old Hilton C. Buley Library, specifically its Tiffany windows. Created by the legendary Louis C. Tiffany, the windows date to 1898-1904. Three of these windows came to Southern following a renovation of New Haven’s First Church of Christ in the 1960s and were installed in the library in 1972. The other window, from North Stonington Congregational Church, was donated in 1998. Contractor: The Pike Co.; Construction Administrator: Fusco Corporation; Architects: Arbonies, King and Vlock, PC and Shepley, Bulfinch, Richardson and Abbott.

Architects still have to determine the best location for the four windows in the new library, said Roxanne Perugino, a consultant with Diversified Project Management, which is assisting with the project. Fall 2008 | 19

A program

eated around a long conference table, a group of men and women are poised to hear a profile of four major railroad companies. The topic of debate? Whether to buy stock. Jared Perlin stands before a large, wall-mounted plasma screen that displays his well-researched facts and figures. Addressing the group with confidence, he explains that one of the biggest advantages of the rails is that they have the greatest fuel efficiency of any mode of transport. But he also notes a drawback: they are privately owned, so there are no government subsidies. After 20 minutes, the potential investors decide it’s worth pursuing more information on the railroads. “Whatever has the greatest growth potential works for me,” one self-assured investor says as she leans back in her chair. The scenario could take place at any brokerage house on Wall Street, but these decision makers are actually talented Southern finance students who are learning about investing the old-fashioned way: buying and trading real stocks with real money. The Ad Astra Investment Fund, meaning “To the Stars” in Latin, opened in September 2007 with a $50,000 allocation from the SCSU Foundation. “This experience will make these students more attractive to a wider range of employers,” says Dr. Robert Eldridge, the professor who brought 20 | Southern ALUMNI MAGAZINE

that provides finance students with real investment funds and a Wall Streetstyle trading room proves a winning investment. By Joan Wells

the program to Southern. “When employers hear that they helped manage a $50,000 investment fund with real money, they’ll sit up and take notice.” Eldridge made it clear when he initiated the program that the money could be lost. The recent volatile stock market has provided a fast-track education. At the beginning of October, the students were featured on news segments on channels 3 and 61. One of the reporters

noted that Ad Astra had outperformed all major retirement accounts, including his own. Each month the students review the current economy based on the leading, lagging, and current environment indicators. The sub-prime mortgage crisis, the high cost of fuel, and market shifts have made for “priceless” lessons, explains Eldridge. But a thriving or so-so economy would bring valuable insights

as well. “This class makes you think outside the box,” says student Steven Cooper, 21, of Montville. “The biggest thing I’d take from this is learning how the international economy works, wondering each day, for instance, ‘Did the dollar weaken?’” Located in the former student center, Southern’s trading room looks the part.

There’s a board to monitor the change in stocks held by the class, among them: DOM, BRL, CTXS, and HWI. Three imposing clocks on the wall show the times in New York, Tokyo, and London, where the major markets are located. Beneath them is a large plasma television that functions as a document reader or wireless computer screen when the group needs quick access to stock

info. Telephones, computers, and a computer keyboard, which connects to the big screen, add to the professional atmosphere. A few posters provide inspiration. One shows a stack of coins and a man in a suit walking with a briefcase. The written message: “Success is worth the risk.” Another poster has images of playing cards and dice. It’s continues on page 35

Dr. Robert Eldridge [PICTURED CENTER WITH WHITE SHIRT AND MAROON TIE] takes a real-word approach to teaching economics. Fall 2008 | 21

Celebrated former educator Katherine M. Barrett, â&#x20AC;&#x2122;41, brings the gift of theater to thousands of area children. by Villia Struyk

22 | Southern ALUMNI MAGAZINE

n a sparkling, sunny day in July,

series would bring the love and knowledge of the arts, music, and

a stream of yellow school buses pulls up to the front entrance of Southern’s John Lyman Center for the Performing Arts. As each bus door swings open, a line of young children enters the theater lobby. Having traveled from cities throughout the state — including Waterbury, Bristol, New Haven, Hamden, East

drama to many youngsters so they can reach a new level of awareness and success.” The gift furthers Barrett’s long-demonstrated commitment to children, education, and the arts, a legacy that was recognized by Milford Mayor James L. Richetelli, Jr., who proclaimed a day in June

Hartford, Cheshire, and Shelton — the youngsters have come to Southern to enjoy a free theatrical program. For some of the children, the day is marked by firsts…a first trip to a theater…a first trip to a university. For all of them, the day is a gift, one made possible thanks to a generous donation from Katherine M. Barrett, ’41, a highly accomplished educator who was twice lauded by the city of Milford for her work on behalf of children and the arts. Kicked off last summer, The Katherine M. Barrett Children’s Series — Access to Arts Enrichment, has brought children to two

as “Katherine M. Barrett Day” at the annual meeting of the Milford Fine Arts Council. Barrett, a longtime member of the council, previously served on its board of directors and as an officer. “Miss Barrett,” as she is affectionately known in the community, served as an educator for 49 years. She began her career in Cheshire as a first grade teacher, then taught in Fairfield for four years before joining Milford Public Schools, where she served for 42 years. In 1950, when she was 29, she became the youngest principal in Connecticut. She was named assistant superintendent of schools K8 in July 1966, a position she held until her retirement on Nov. 2,

SOUTHERN

Supporting

“I am indebted to New Haven State Teachers College, [as Southern was then known], for providing me with the education that allowed me to have a fulfilling career and a wonderful life. The professional preparation and everything the college had to offer put me on the right path to success. I was able to teach youngsters — to watch them learn to read, to explore, to grow. That’s very special.” — Katherine M. Barrett, ’41 on-campus performances, funding the cost of tickets and transportation to the events. More than 2,200 elementary school-age youngsters attended the first production, “Rudyard Kipling’s How the Elephant Got His Trunk & Other Animal Tales,” which was presented on July 15. As the magazine went to press, a second theatrical production, the Shangri-La Chinese Acrobats, was slated for Nov. 10 and expected to delight well over a thousand middle schoolers. “I have always loved the arts — music, art, drama — and as an educator I tried to support the expansion of those programs in the Milford schools,” says Barrett, the former assistant superintendent of Milford Public Schools. “Growing up in the Depression, I didn’t have many opportunities to experience the arts except by reading books or, if I was really lucky, going to a museum or show. But, I came to love and appreciate the beauty of the various forms of the fine arts. I also love children and hoped that this children’s

1991. “She is a tireless worker who cared deeply about her students and all of her teachers, all 600-plus,” recalls Robert O. Blake, the former superintendent of Milford Public Schools. “Any task she undertook was completed on time and with absolute perfection. Education was her life.” An educational trailblazer, Barrett helped institute numerous key initiatives in the city of Milford, including the Head Start program, foreign language education for grades seven and eight, computer programs in grades four through eight, and the Adolescent Development Program, which provided students with instruction in nutrition, substance abuse, sex education, peer pressure, personal health, and more. Her promotion of the arts was equally far reaching. She continues on page 34 Fall 2008 | 23

Out and About A look at events for alumni and friends on campus and beyond.

Giants Coach Visits Campus Giants’ fans came out in full force on May 12 to meet Kevin Gilbride, ’74, the team’s offensive coordinator, pictured below with President Cheryl J. Norton. Gilbride returned to campus to give an insider’s view of the Giants’ landmark 17-14 Super Bowl victory over the previously undefeated New England Patriots. The Vince Lombardi Super Bowl Trophy also was on hand, providing the ultimate photo opportunity. A fellow member of the Giants’ coaching staff, alumnus Chris Palmer, ’72, serves as the team’s quarterbacks coach.

On May 6, alumni from the classes of 1993-2008 gathered for an evening at Dish Bar and Grill, one of Hartford’s newest hot spots. Besides enjoying refreshments, guests at the Young Alumni After-Hours event participated in a raffle with prizes donated by Shawn O’Brien, M.S. ’06, of Excel Fitness and Lisa Pittman, M.B.A. ’06. Pictured above are Pittman and Christopher R. Carollo, Southern’s major gifts associate.

The Geography Department hosted a panel discussion titled “Great Jobs in Geospacial Technology” on March 31. The forum showcased geography professionals and the Southern students who interned with them. Participants included Marwin Gonzalez, ‘08, and Leslie Creane, the town planner of Hamden; Ashley Blacker, ‘08, and Tom Nosal from the Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection; and Matthew Longyear with Brian Dooley, president of New England Geosystems.

24 | Southern ALUMNI MAGAZINE

How healthy is Long Island Sound? On June 22, alumni and friends examined this question in-depth during an informative tour of New Haven Harbor aboard the Island Rover. The tour was led by Dr. Vincent Breslin, codirector of Southern’s Center for Coastal and Marine Studies, pictured center.

The Southern Connecticut State University Annual Golf Outing raised more than $100,000 to support Southern’s student athletes. The sold-out event was held on May 20 at the Lake of Isles at Foxwoods Resort Casino, one of the highest-rated courses in the country. Among the foursomes were: [FROM LEFT] Alumni Association President Michael Roshka, ’73, M.S. ’79, Tom Dest, Harry Gagliardi, and Skip Paolella. Next year’s event will be held in May at the Lake of Isles’ South Course at Foxwoods Casino, which is reserved for members only. For reservations and sponsorship/donation opportunities, contact Gregg Crerar via e-mail at CrerarG1@SouthernCT.edu or call (203) 392-5518.

Fall 2008 | 25

Alumni

NEWS Dear Southern Alumni, I am proud to serve another year as the president of the Alumni Association Board of Directors. With the support of the Board of Directors, the Office of Alumni Relations, and my fellow alumni, I hope to continue to embrace Southern’s rich traditions while moving forward in step with our evolving university and the changing needs of our alumni. With this in mind, the past year was marked by numerous new and innovative programs for our graduates. These included a wine tasting experience in Stamford, an alumni reception at the performance of The Three Irish Tenors at John Lyman Center for the Performing Arts, a BusinessAfter-Hours reception in Hartford for young professionals, and a day-long reunion celebrating the School of Arts and Sciences. When combined with our traditional programs — Homecoming, the Alumni Awards Banquet, the Scholarship Awards Brunch, and co-sponsorship of the Distinguished Lecture Series — these new offerings contributed to a very successful year. Looking forward, my goal is to continue to increase and improve programming for our alumni. The board has been working tirelessly with Michelle Rocheford Johnston, director of Alumni Relations, to bring a comprehensive, meaningful program of events to our alumni of all ages. One of the most exciting events this past year was the Celebration of the School of Arts and Sciences. There were events throughout the day for both children and adults, with plenty of time to catch up with old friends, while making new ones. The next alumni celebration, which will be held on May 16, 2009, will focus on the School of Health and Human Services and the School of Business. Once again, the weekend will include activities throughout the day and relevant seminars for adults and their children through the Alumni College. Stay tuned for more details on our Web site: www.SouthernCT.edu/alumni. If you have not done so already, I hope you will join me by becoming a member of the Alumni Association. I urge you to join or renew your Southern Alumni Association membership by participating in the Annual Giving drive going on now. You may already have received a request. If not, you may make a gift online at Giving.SouthernCT.edu or by returning the inserted gift envelope located in the magazine. Your support makes a critical difference in the continuing success of our university and its students. Thank you for your consideration and efforts. I look forward to seeing you at one or many of the alumni events this year. Please join us in celebrating Southern and our alumni. Cordially, Michael Roshka, Jr., ’73, M.S. ’79 President Alumni Association Board of Directors

26 | Southern ALUMNI MAGAZINE

Alumni Association Board Welcomes New Members Five Southern graduates were newly appointed to the Alumni Association Board of Directors, joining an existing

group of 15. The new members were elected by active members of the association.

Patricia Giulietti, ’76, M.S. ’87, a physical education

Fellow board member and com-

teacher at Hamden Middle School, was reelected to the

mitted educator Judit V. Paolini, ’73,

board. Giulietti has been employed at the middle school

M.S. ’79, 6th yr. ’93, was a reading con-

since 1992, and has long served as an educator in the town

sultant at Stiles Elementary School

of Hamden, where she was raised and continues to reside.

(1997 to 2002) and Washington

Her husband, Arthur, is also a Southern graduate, having

Elementary School (2002 to 2005), in

earned his degree in 1973. They have two daughters.

West Haven. Previously, she instructed English and reading at Carrigan Middle

Anne Hollingworth Leone, ’51,

School, West Haven, where she served

M.S. ’61, went on to earn a Ph.D. from

on the steering committee when the

the University of Connecticut. She

institution applied for accreditation.

Judit V. Paolini, ’73, M.S. ’79, 6th yr. ’93

An active community volunteer, she has participated

taught in the public school system and at the University of Bridgeport, where

in Head Start and the Naugatuck Junior Women’s Club,

she retired as associate professor emer-

which selected her as its Woman of the Year. She also vol-

itus of education. She is married to

unteers with the Special Olympics World Games, serving as the Delegation Host Leader for Team Hungary, and was

classmate Gene Leone and has two daughters and two sons, both of whom

Anne Hollingworth Leone, ’51, M.S. ’61

named the 2004 Woman of the Year by the American Business Women’s Association Nutmeg Chapter.

are Southern graduates. Her grandson also is attending the university. Leone has remained active at Southern, serving on a number of class reunion commit-

Returning board member

tees and helping to raise funds for the Class of 1951 Frank

Christopher Piscitelli, ’93, was elected

Gentile Scholarship, which is now fully funded.

to serve as vice president of the Alumni Association. For more than 14 years, he has been employed at Southern in the

Newly elected board member Marc A. Nivet, ’92, is the chief operat-

areas of residence life and student

ing officer and treasurer for the Josiah

affairs. He is currently director of judicial

Macy, Jr., Foundation, which focuses on

affairs and serves as an adviser to the

improving the education of health pro-

Student Government Association, the

fessionals. Nivet is responsible for over-

Senior Class, and the newly formed

seeing the day-to-day operations of the

SCSU Golf Club.

Christopher Piscitelli, ’93

In the greater community, Piscitelli is a commission-

foundation and manages an endowMarc Nivet, ’92

er for the City of New Haven Humane Commission and

was the associate executive director of the Associated

volunteers for the Connecticut Special Olympics and the

Medical Schools of New York. He recently was inducted as

Wooster Square Association.

ment of $160 million. Previously, Nivet

a Fellow of the New York Academy of Medicine. In 2008, he earned a doctorate from the University of Pennsylvania.

Fall 2008 | 27

Alumni

NEWS Show Us Your

Southern Spirit!

Do sculpted owls have a prominent place in your home decor? Does your family get a kick out of dressing head-to-toe in Southern blue-and-white? If you have a fun or unique way of showing your love for Southern, we want to hear from you. Mail or e-mail a photo that shows your Southern spirit to SCSU, Public Affairs Office/Southern Alumni Magazine, 501 Crescent Street, New Haven, CT 06515; e-mail, StruykV1@SouthernCT.edu. Please include a brief explanation of your photo and let us know how to reach you. Due to space constraints, we may not be able to publish all entries. Submissions may be edited. Thank you!

Game Plan By Joan Wells As a high school sports superstar, Rick Capozzi, ’83, appeared to be headed for a top football college and then,

“I don’t think I’d want to change anything. I feel fortunate to have had such a gratifying career over the last 25

a career as a professional. But Capozzi’s dreams took a

years, and I feel Southern had a lot to do with that success,”

detour in his senior year when his back was broken during

Capozzi says. “Who knows, I might not have found Southern

a high school all-star game at Giants Stadium. The injury

if not for the injury. I became a real student at Southern.”

dashed any hope of attending a Division I football school

Capozzi, who was just an average student in high

and, instead, brought him to Southern Connecticut State

school, discovered another side of himself at Southern. He

University as a football recruit. It was at Southern that

began to thrive academically, largely, he says, because his

Capozzi nurtured a love of learning that made him a star in

professors were so dedicated, dynamic, and willing to

another big league — Wall

spend many extra hours

Street.

indulging his thirst for As the managing

learning.

director in Morgan Stanley’s

Although he

Global Wealth Management

never made a career of

Group, Capozzi is part of

sports, Capozzi has held

the team responsible for

fast to the qualities that

the firm’s national network

helped make him suc-

of 8,000 financial advisers, who are based in nearly 500 offices across the

cessful as an athlete: The Capozzi family vacationing in Positano, Italy, [from left] Rick, Bianca, Barbara, and Emilia.

United States. Drawing on his three-plus decades of busi-

determination, hard work, and persever-

ance. “It’s not how many times you fall, it’s getting back up

ness experience, Capozzi has written two books, “Soar

that counts,” says Capozzi. “You’re always going to get

Higher,” about how to be successful in financial services,

curve balls.”

and the upcoming, “The Reinvented Wealth Advisor.” He is

Capozzi was raised in northern New Jersey, the son

also an adjunct professor at Fairleigh Dickinson University

of Emanuele Capozzi, a mason, and the late Emilia Capozzi,

and speaks throughout the world on leadership and busi-

a homemaker whom Capozzi credits with instilling in him

ness development. “My competitive nature translated into

many valuable life lessons — among them, to shoot for the

Wall Street,” says Capozzi.

moon. He has been married for 18 years to his wife,

28 | Southern ALUMNI MAGAZINE

Barbara, a former commodities trader whom he met through mutual friends from Southern. The Capozzis live in New Jersey with their daughters, Bianca, 9 and Emilia, 7. Capozzi is committed to giving back to the community, and in addition to being active in St. Elizabeth Roman Catholic Church in New Jersey, he is on the U.S. Olympic Committee and the former co-chairman for New Jersey’s committee. He also spends time sharing his business acumen with others, whether that means chatting one-on-one with someone in need or giving talks to students. “I’ve become a student of the business, constantly learning. My goal is to make a positive difference in the business community and help those who are less fortunate,” he says.

Save the Dates for these special events for alumni and friends. Alumni Awards March 13 Michael J. Adanti Student Center (Grand Ballroom) A ceremony honoring Sports Hall of Fame inductees and recipients of the Alumni Appreciation and Alumni Service Awards. (203) 392-6500

The Three Irish Tenors — St. Paddy’s Day Celebration March 14 7 p.m. A special alumni reception in John Lyman Center for the Performing Arts follows the performance. $15 for active alumni and Southern faculty/staff; $10 for children and Southern students; and $20 for general admission. (203) 392-6154

Scholarship Awards Brunch March 29 Michael J. Adanti Student Center (Grand Ballroom) A salute to Southern’s scholarship recipients and donors. (203) 392-6500

A Celebration of Health and Human Services A Celebration of Business

SCSU Alumni Association Board of Directors 2008-2009 Michael Roshka, Jr., ’73, M.S. ’79, President Christopher Piscitelli, ’93, Vice President Denise Bentley-Drobish, ’90, M.S. ’92, Secretary William “Doc” Holley, ’55, Treasurer James Barber, ’64, M.S. ’79 Anthony Bonadies, ’58 Hugh S. Cafferty, ’69, M.S. ’70, 6th Yr. ’76 Kathy Glinka Coyle, ’74, M.S. ‘78, 6th Yr. ‘81 James Elmo, ’71 Patricia R. Giulietti, ’76, M.S. ’87 Jerry Katona, ’74, M.S. ’88 Anne Hollingworth Leone, ’51, M.S. ’61 John Mastrianni, ’66, M.S. ’73 Albert Mieczakowski, ’71 Mark A. Nivet, ’92 Judit Vasmatics Paolini, ’73, M.S. ’79, 6th Yr. ’93 Bessie Scott, ’70, M.S. ’78, 6th Yr. ’81 Teresa Sirico, ’70, M.S. ’73 Bridget Stepeck-Holt, ’95 Marvin G. Wilson, ’01, M.S. ’06

• Ex-Officio Dr. Cheryl J. Norton, President Megan A. Rock, Vice President for Institutional Advancement Michelle R. Johnston, Director of Alumni Relations Patrick Dilger, Director of Public Affairs Robin Sauerteig, Chair, SCSU Foundation, Inc.

Alumnus Named to Connecticut Superior Court Bench The Honorable Judge John J. Nazzaro, ’80, began an eight-year term as a Connecticut Superior Court jurist in the Judicial District of Hartford where he presides over criminal and other matters. Deputy Chief Court Administrator Patrick Carroll, III, ’75, administered the oath of judicial office to Judge Nazzaro in a brief ceremony on Feb. 28, 2008. Judge Nazzaro was unanimously confirmed by members of the General Assembly after being nominated by Governor M. Jodi Rell. He had served on an interim basis since August 2007. Commenting on the appointment, Gov. Rell said, “Judges wield a great deal of power, not only in society but in

May 16

the way everyday business is conducted in their courtrooms.

Throughout Campus A campus celebration of these two schools, featuring exciting educational programs, tours, entertainment, and plenty of opportunities to reconnect. Registration: $10 per person. (203) 392-6500

We therefore set very high standards for — and maintain very

Information on additional events for alumni is available at www.SouthernCT.edu/alumni/upcomingevents/.

high expectations of — the men and women who serve on Connecticut’s bench.” Previously, Judge Nazzaro was the managing partner in the New London Branch office of Rome McGuigan, LLP. His eldest child, Elliot John Nazzaro, began attending Southern this fall to major in anthropology. Fall 2008 | 29

alumni notes

‘10s GERTRUDE STROHHAKER FINN, ’l3, was recognized in the Record-Journal for her generosity. When she began her teaching career in 1911, Finn saved money from each paycheck to create a scholarship for public school students in Wallingford, Conn. After she died in 1991, Finn left $360,000 to a privately administered scholarship fund. So far, about 63 students have been awarded scholarships through her foresight.

‘50s LOIS HAYES ANDERSON, ’54, taught second grade at Truman Street School in New Haven, Conn., and has lived in Newton, Kan., with her husband, Jay, since 1964.

‘60s ARTHUR CECCARELLI, ’61, M.S. ’69, a retired Milford, Conn., educator was a major league baseball player for the Baltimore Orioles, Chicago Cubs, and Kansas City (now Oakland) Athletics while attending Southern. Ceccarelli taught at the Kay Avenue School and Milford High School for 30 years.

WILLIAM P. WRINN, JR., ’62, 6th Yr. ’75, was honored by the Connecticut Association of Public School Superintendents when the Hatton Elementary School preschool center in Southington, Conn., was formally dedicated to William’s memory and his focus on the needs of children in special education.

JAMES BARBER, ’64, M.S. ’74, director of Student Supportive Services at Southern, was honored by the state’s Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday Commission when he received the Leadership Award in January 2008 at the Connecticut state capitol. 30 | Southern ALUMNI MAGAZINE

Reunion News

CHRISTINE L. ENGEL, M.S. ’77,

• The Class of 1958 was recognized at Homecoming 2008, which was held on campus on Nov. 1, 2008. The class celebrated its 50th reunion on Oct. 3 at Woodwinds in Connecticut. For more information or if you would like to organize a reunion for your class, please contact Alumni Relations at (203) 392-6500.

SYLVIA NICHOLS, ’64, has been inducted into the Floral Society of American Florists (SAF) at the annual SAF’s convention in Palm Springs, Calif. Nichols is a freelance designer and educator in Cheshire, Conn., and the campus director and design instructor for the Connecticut Florists Association Design School in Monroe.

MARIE SAMPSON, ’65, has been named a Gold Ring recipient by the Water-Oak Gold Circle of Sports in Watertown, Conn. Sampson was the girls’ basketball coach at Watertown High School for 20 years and the girls’ tennis coach for 15 years. Sampson is active in Special Olympics, serving as assistant gymnastics coach for five years.

TRUDY DUJARDIN, ’67, has been invited to join Traditional Home Magazine’s Green Advisory Panel. Dujardin is a national expert on nontoxic building materials and sustainable design.

MARY LOU ALBERETTI, M.S.N ’69, professor emeriti of Southern, was the featured artist from January through April 2008 at the Marie Louise Trichet Gallery in Litchfield, Conn. Both she and her husband, Robert, professor of art at Western Connecticut State University, have studios in New Fairfield, Conn.

EDWARD ASTON, ’69, M.S. ’74, Cheshire High School swimming coach and former

Southern swimming captain, has received the United States Sports Academy Distinguished Service Award.

GREGORY SPECK, ’69 will retire after 30 years with ABF Freight Systems.

‘70s RUTH IRENE EREN, ’71, M.S. ’75, M.S. ’84, accepted an invitation to speak to the Woodbury-Bethlehem Special Education Parent Teacher Association in the spring of 2008. Eren was instrumental in developing Southern’s graduate level program in autism spectrum disorders and other developmental disorders with public schools across the state.

CAROL A. FLAMENT, ’72, M.S. ’73, has been named director, H.R. Consulting, at Masonicare in Wallingford, Conn. Flament is an adjunct professor at Southern.

CYNTHIA J. ANDERSON, ’73, has been promoted to assistant vice president, retirement plan officer with the Washington Trust Company bank in North Stonington, Conn.

JOHN WALCOTT, ’73, has been named vice president and tax director with the RVI Group of Stamford, Conn. Walcott will focus on development of corporate tax strategy and administration of corporate tax affairs. He earned his M.B.A. from Pace University.

MARGARET BORCHERS, ’74, M.L.S. ’00, has been appoint-

ed the director of the Edith Wheeler Memorial Library in Monroe, Conn. Borchers formerly worked at the Derby Neck Library.

ELIZABETH M. OSGA, ’74, has been named the new superintendent of the Region 18 School Board in Griswold, Conn.

GARY C. SCARPA, ’74, M.S. ’91, and FRANCESCA SCARPA, ’76, are the owners of Center Stage on Center Street in Shelton, Conn. The Scarpas met as students at Southern while working on a summer musical, “She Haunts Me.”

WILLIAM H. MCKERNAN, ’75, M.S. ’80, has retired after 30 years in the Southington School System in Connecticut. He is now employed as a chemical analyst at Phoenix Environmental Laboratories in Manchester, Conn.

MICHAEL J. VOTTO, M.S. ’76, and ANN DONARUMO VOTTO, ’72, have three children—two of whom are teachers, and four grandchildren: a two-year old and 18month old triplets. Michael has been teaching for 36 years in North Branford, Conn., and Ann is employed at Choate Rosemary Hall in Wallingford, Conn.

WILLIAM RILEY DYSON, M.S. ’77, 6th Yr. ’82, is a member of the New Haven Board of Aldermen, a state representative since 1977, and co-chairman of the budget-writing appropriations committee for 16 years. Dyson retired from a 37-year teaching career.

was named by Governor M. Jodi Rell as the commissioner for the Workers’ Compensation Commission. Engel is an attorney with the Nicholas Law Firm in Torrington, Conn. Before her law career, she was a middle school teacher at Regional School District 14 in Woodbury, Conn. She earned her law degree from the University Of Connecticut School of Law.

DEBRA (NAPOLI) DANKER, ’79, owns and operates Seniors Helping Seniors InHome Services in Branford, Conn. During her 30 years in nursing, she has worked in hospitals, education, in surgical centers, and as a nurse athletic trainer.

JAMES V. HARRIS, ’79, a commander in the U.S. Navy reserve, recently returned from deployment in Iraq. He assumed the position of chief of staff for the Navy Reserve Defense Logistics Headquarters.

KAREN WARD, ’79, is a new assistant professor of graphic design and fine arts at Mitchell College in New London, Conn. She brings experience as director of art for custom publication at The Day, and as a freelance graphic designer.

‘80s KEVIN J. CUNNINGHAM, M.S. ’80, heads commercial lending and treasury services for Bank of America throughout New England, New York, and New Jersey. Cunningham lives in Simsbury, Conn., with his wife, Cheryl, and their three children.

LINDA PERFETTO, ’80, was named nurse administrator for the Connecticut Community Colleges Nursing Program.

SUE HOPKINS-TERRELL, ’82, coached Norwich Free Academy to its ninth Eastern Connecticut Conference championship. She has been

the Wildcat’s coach for all of its championship wins, including eight-consecutive victories. She has been with the program for close to 20 years, the last 13 as head coach.

And the Award Goes to…

KATHERINE LIONTASWARREN, ’82, is a professor of art in the School of Liberal Arts at Cameron University in Oklahoma. Liontas-Warren was inducted into the Faculty Hall of Fame in 2008 and has achieved national recognition as an artist.

KAREN REZENDES, 6th Yr. ’84, Connecticut’s Teacher of the Year in 2001, was unanimously chosen by the school board to be Danbury High School’s new principal.

CLAIRE FOURNIER, ’85, has been named the Toffolon School District’s teacher of the year. Fournier is now a candidate to be Connecticut Teacher of the Year. She has been teaching for 30 years.

DON CURIOSO, ’86, is the production manager at The Boston Conservatory in Massachusetts and has been married for nine years. Curioso is the father of two sons.

LISA IOLI, ’86, has been named the new director of St. John’s Preschool in Darien, Conn.

Walking the “red carpet” at the 80th Academy Awards are [FROM LEFT] Larry Fitzgerald, ’87, supervising editor; Leslie Vincent, post production supervisor; and Scott Draper, editor.

KRISTIN M. JACOBI, M.L.S. ’86, is serving as the president of the New England Library Association. Jacobi also received a sabbatical leave from Eastern Connecticut State University to be the Volunteer Librarian at the Charles Darwin Research Station Library in the Galapagos Islands for three months during the Spring 2008 semester. Her daughter, Ali, graduated from Southern in 2008.

DAVID OCAME, ’86, recently accepted a position at Molecular NeuroImaging, LLC, in New Haven, Conn. He was formerly employed by Yale University as a research associate.

DANIEL SCAVONE, M.S. ’86, became the sixth principal of

Showcasing film’s best and brightest is all in a day’s work for Larry Fitzgerald, ’87, a freelance editor who has worked on the Academy Awards for the last

didn’t take home the Emmy, they did enjoy the thrill of walking the “red carpet” and attending the event. At Southern, Fitzgerald graduated from the

two years. In 2008, Fitzgerald served for the first time as

Communication Department, earning departmental hon-

the supervising editor for DMS Films, the production

ors and completing his honors project under the instruc-

company that created most of the nomination sequences

tion of Dr. Joseph “Jos” Ullian. Fitzgerald worked at

for the 80th Academy Awards, which aired on Feb. 24.

Southern as an adjunct faculty member and manager of

The talented editor oversaw the production and

the department’s video facilities. In 1999, after holding

technical aspects for most of the nomination sequences,

numerous industry positions on the East Coast — including

in addition to editing the film clips for numerous cate-

serving as the producer for Astrovision, NBC’s giant

gories, including original screenplay, adapted screenplay,

video screen located in Times Square in New York City —

and cinematography. He also edited elements for the

Fitzgerald moved to Los Angeles. He worked several years

official Oscar Red Carpet pre-show with Regis Philbin.

as senior editor for E! Entertainment Television, before

Previously, Fitzgerald was a member of the edit-

launching a career as a freelance editor. In addition to

ing team for the 79th Academy Awards, which received

The Creative Arts Emmy Awards, his clients have included

an Emmy nomination for its work. Although the team

The Miss USA Pageant and The CW Television Network. Fall 2008 | 31

In Print AND On Screen THE LATEST BOOK AND FILM RELEASES FROM SOUTHERN ALUMNI

Polly A. Brody, ’83, read selections from her third publication, “At the Flower’s Lip,” at the Heritage Village Women’s Club in Southbury, Conn., in February 2008. She is the author of two earlier collections: “Other Nations” (poetry) and “The Burning Bush” (essays with poetry). Carrie Borzillo-Vrenna, ’92, has written “The Ultimate Guide to Becoming a Better Flirt, a Tougher Chick, a Hotter Girlfriend, and to Living Life Like a Rock Star.” D. J. Stutzman, ’04, author of “The Promise Ring,” had a book signing at Borders in February 2008. He was inspired to write the story as he reflected on a classmate’s ring one day during a Southern writing course. Southern Professor Emeritus of Geography Geoffrey Martin is in the process of writing a three-volume work about the history of American geography and thought. The book will focus on the 1860s through the present and is the first work on the subject, according to Martin.

Holy Cross High School in Waterbury, Conn. He was an assistant principal and athletics director at Woodland Regional High School in Beacon Falls, Conn.

E. KERRY CARDINAL, ’87, has been appointed activities director at Ridgefield Crossings in Danbury, Conn. Previously he was the administrator of The Homesteads at Newtown assisted living community. Cardinal is also a graduate of Walt Disney University in Orlando, Fla.

DAN SEMOSKY, ’87, is the new head of Oxford law enforcement, overseeing the work of three other resident state troopers and nine Oxford police officers. Semosky lives in Newton, Conn., with his wife and daughter.

LYNN WALDRON, ’87, is a Latin teacher at Southington High School and was recently recognized as the 2008-2009 teacher of the year.

KAREN ELYSE, ’89, has been promoted to executive director, events and sports marketing, of Golf Digest in New York, N.Y. Elyse also will oversee a number of annual events including the Golf Digest Celebrity Invitational and the Golf Digest Publications Celebrity Chef Class. 32 | Southern ALUMNI MAGAZINE

LYNN ZAFFINO, ’89, is the children’s librarian at the Easton Public Library. Zaffino and her husband, Michael, ’88, have owned and operated a used bookstore in Guilford, Conn.

‘90s COLLEEN ANGELA PALMER, M.S. ’90, 6th Yr. ’93, has been selected as the superintendent of public schools in Monroe, Conn.

JOHN BOGART, ’91, has been promoted to president of Integro in Meriden, Conn. The Oxford resident joined the company as sales and marketing manager in 1995. In 1999, he was promoted to vice president of sales and marketing.

ALBERT MUNICINO, M.A. ’91, has attended the New Jersey Library Association conference and has been invited to attend the New Jersey Academy of Library Leadership conference. He looks forward to attending the Canadian Library Association conference in Vancouver, British Columbia, as well.

LEE PANAGOULIAS, JR., ’91, M.S. ’98, 6th Yr. ’05, has been

promoted to assistant principal at Branford High School in Connecticut.

JOHN W. BARILE, ’93, M.S. ’96, 6th Yr. ’98, formerly of West Shore Middle School, is now the principal at Joseph A. Foran High School in Milford, Conn.

istrate. Oliveira is an attorney with a solo practice in Old Lyme, Conn., that focuses on family law. He is a graduate of the University of Connecticut School of Law and received his master’s degree from Columbia University.

MICHELLE AUBE-BARTON, 6th Yr. ’95, received the Texas National Distinguished Principal Award. Aube-Barton lives in El Paso, Texas.

DONALD COLLINS BARBEE, JR., M.S. ’95, a former police officer and FBI agent, now leads the Brooksville, Fla., county’s state attorney’s office. In this position, the six-year veteran prosecutor will make the final call on whether to file or drop criminal charges. He also will handle extradition cases, public records requests, and internal office matters.

DAVID DEROSA, ’95, is a practicing chiropractic physician and presented,“The Three Solutions to Your Health Problems” at the Meriden Public Library, as reported in the Record-Journal.

RON L. LANDRY, ’93, is a newly KELVIN JEFFERSON, ’95, has ordained deacon of the Diocese of Bridgeport. Landry was a radio personality, producer, and writer for several Connecticut stations before changing careers. He has been a teacher at Franklin School in Stratford, Conn., for 14 years.

KIRAN PAL SINGH, M.S. ’93, was recently promoted to senior manager at Baxter Healthcare. Singh lives in Mullica Hill, N.J.

MICHAEL SUSI, ’93, has accepted the position of principal of Haddam-Killingworth Middle School in Connecticut.

ALEXANDRIA EARL-GIVAN, ’94, a Pan American Games gold medalist, was inducted into the Wilbur Cross High School Hall of Fame in April 2008.

CHRISTOPHER OLIVEIRA, ’94, has been appointed by Connecticut Governor M. Jodi Rell as a family support mag-

been named head basketball coach at South Kent School in Kent, Conn. Jefferson served as the men’s basketball team captain at Southern and led the New England Conference (NECC) in rebounding as a senior.

JUDITH L. HINKLE, M.L.S. ’96, has been installed on the Norwalk High School Teachers Honor Roll by their alumni association. Hinkle resides in Westport, Conn.

CARRIE GOLDKOPF, ’97, has joined the Elite Health Services of Cos Cob, Conn. Goldkopf specializes in the areas of strength and conditioning personal training and various therapeutic massage modalities.

ALICE M. JAIN, ’97, was awarded the Nightingale Award for Excellence in Nursing. Jain is a case manager with the East Lyme office of Connecticut Visiting Nurse Association.

DAWN HIGGINSON, ’98, has been selected by the Board of Selectmen in Oxford, Conn., as the town’s library director. The Friends of the Library in Oxford hosted a reception for her in February 2008.

IAN NEVIASER, M.S. ’98, 6th Yr. ’98, has been selected as the new principal for Valley Regional High School in Guilford, Conn.

DERICK T. NEWTON, ’98 was recognized by the Carroll Star News in Carroll, Ga., for positively influencing the quality of life in their county. Newton, an ordained minister, holds membership in the Carroll County Chamber of Commerce and is chairman of its membership committee. He also is chairman of the local chapter of the NAACP economic development team and writes a financial column for the Carroll Star News.

KAREN (SIGNOR) PAPPAS, ’98, was honored by Platt High School in Meriden, Conn., at the 2008 Athletic Hall of Fame annual dinner. Pappas was a standout swimmer who established school swimming standards that survived 25 years. Pappas had set seven school records upon graduation from Platt in 1984.

TUNG HOANG, ’99, held a silk screening workshop on the New Haven Green during the International Festival of Arts and Ideas in June 2008.

‘00s MICHELLE LAZUREK, ’00, and her husband run the Sunday services of the Praxis Church in Wallingford, Conn. The church is part of the Christian and Missionary Alliance and was started with 12 members. Lazurek is a head teacher at the Wallingford YMCA’s Learning Community Day Care at Choate Rosemary Hall.

DIANA MANOUSOS, ’01, who earned her master of fine arts degree from the University of Arts in Philadelphia, has also been teaching at Norwalk

High School. Manousos had her art on display at the Bella Luna Café in Norwalk, Conn., in March 2008.

IOAN POP, ’01, has been working for the New York Police Department Intelligence Division since June 2005 as an Intelligence Research Specialist.

GINA MALGIERI, ’02, has been named marketing and community relations manager for Ashlar of Newtown, Masonicare’s nursing and rehabilitation facility. She will manage all marketing and community outreach initiatives for long-term care and the short-term inpatient rehabilitation program.

KEITH RAFANIELLO, 6th Yr. ’02, was appointed principal of Wamogo Regional High School in Litchfield, Conn. He was the director of technology for Plymouth Public Schools.

JANET COLANDREA, ’03, led a jewelry-making workshop at The Arts Center in Killingworth, Conn., in May 2008.

RICHARD CONROY, M.L.S. ’03, is the new executive director for the library in Essex, Conn. Conroy worked most recently as director of information technology services for the Stratford Public Library. He resides in Middletown, Conn.

CAROL J. MARTIN, M.S. ’03, has been appointed the Westport Housing Authority’s executive director. The position is part-time and Martin will continue as director of housing development at a Bridgeport-based not-forprofit organization that develops permanent, supportive housing, primarily in Fairfield County, Conn.

JEFFREY F. SOLAN, 6th Yr. ’03, is the Dodd Middle School’s new principal in Cheshire, Conn.

CHRISTOPHER MACHOL, M.S. ’04, is the junior varsity football coach for Lewis S. Mills High School in Burlington, Conn. Machol is the former wellness teacher and coach of

Farmington High School’s junior varsity and freshman football team.

AMANDA VALDEN, ’04, of Portland, Conn., a holistichealth counselor, operates Healthy Plate Healthy Path, which helps people restructure how they eat and achieve their personal goals. A student at the Institute for Integrative Nutrition in New York City, she became a certified holistic counselor in June 2008.

SHAWN FIELDS, M.L.S. ’05, is the new director of the Huntington Branch Library in Shelton, Conn. Fields previously worked at Quinnipiac University’s Arnold Bernard Library.

JEFFREY HILLIARD, ’05, was the winner of the Michael C. Reilly Memorial “Hard Charger”Award at his graduation from the Connecticut Fire Academy.

SHAWN M. O’BRIEN, M.S. ’05, is an owner of ExcelFitness in West Hartford, Conn., and completed his first bodybuilding show in July 2007. He is a certified health/fitness instructor with the American College of Sports Medicine and has been an educational instructor for that organization for a number of their annual national workshops.

SUSAN KIRKEBY, ’07, is working as a summer associate for the law firm of Halloran & Sage, LLP, in Hartford, Conn. Kirkeby is a member of the class of 2010 at the University of Connecticut School of Law.

ANTHONY FANTANO, ’08, is the musical host of The Needle Drop, a WNPR radio program, which is an affiliate of National Public Radio. He can be heard on Saturdays at 10 p.m.

Marriages

CHARLES HENRY FLYNN IV, M.S. ’99, and Erin Marie Kelly on July 28, 2007.

JENNIFER KOSANKE, M.F.T. ’99, and Bradley Kamp on Oct. 20, 2007.

JENNIFER LYNN THOMAS, ’99, and Jason Joseph Bojko on Sept. 22, 2007.

AMY LYNN JANELL, ’02, and John Edward Polmon on Nov. 24, 2007.

ANDRENE BRYAN, ’03, and Bryan Ricketts on March 9, 2007.

JENNIFER ANN HUDSON, ’03, and Michael E. Santarsiero on Sept. 30, 2007.

LORI CHIAPPETTA, ’04, and Kevin Murray on Aug. 18, 2007.

MARCIE SIMA, ’05, and Todd Anderson on Sept. 29, 2007.

LAUREN SUSAN GRABOWSKI, ’06, and Daniel Hull on Oct. 26, 2008.

SARAH ELIZABETH SMITH, M.S. ’06, and Jesse Culbertson on Oct. 20, 2007.

Births/ Adoptions JOSHUA KRUSEWSKI, ’01, and THERESA ULIANO KRUSEWSKI, ’02, announce the birth of their daughter, Kailey Ann, born Oct. 21, 2007.

TINA MONTEIRO-TYNES, ’01, and husband, Jason, announce the arrival of their daughter, Bianca, born May 2006.

IN MEMORIAM NORMA FISHER GLUHAREFF, ’41, San Diego, Calif., Jan. 16, 2008. Clinton, Conn., Feb. 3, 2008.

HEATHER LEA STOCCATORE,

SHIRLEY SHALETT (LEDEWITZ) BLUMIN, ’43,

’92, M.S. ’95, and Vince Rossi on Jan. 26, 2008.

Orange County, Fla., Dec. 16, 2007.

MELISSA WITT, ’92, and Kevin Lamar on Nov. 9, 2007.

Yuma, Ariz., Feb. 24, 2008.

OREST “MICHAEL” MAKSYMIUK, M.S. ’79, Deep

GEORGE RANSOM JOHNSON,

River, Conn., July 10, 2008.

’54, Glastonbury, Conn., June 15, 2008.

LOUISE MEUSEL, ’48, Cheshire, Conn., Feb. 7, 2007.

KATHRYN M. SUTCH, ’79, North Bend, Ohio, March 1,

2008. PATRICIA SLOAN BERNARDONI, ’56, Lakeville, KAREN BOYD, ’84, Derby, Conn., March 7, 2008.

Conn., June 25, 2008.

EDWARD PETRAIUOLO, JR., ’56, JOHN A. DECESARE, 6th Yr. New Haven, Conn., Aug. 3, 2007.

CLIFFORD T. PETERSON, ’62, 6th Yr. ’92 , Branford, Conn., Jan. 19, 2008.

JAMES P. WANAT, ’67, M.S. ’75, 6th Yr. ’80, Highland Beach, Fla., May 11, 2007.

ROBERT J. TOBIN, ’68, Hilton Head, S.C., Jan. 2, 2008.

MARGUERITE (RICCI) MARIANO, ’70, M.A. ’72, Waterbury, Conn., May 28, 2008.

HANNAH (FINKEL) JACOBSGAY, ’71, Waterbury, Conn., Feb. 16, 2008.

EDWARD J. MAROCCO, ’71, M.S. ’81, Shelton, Conn., April 24, 2008.

PATRICIA B. CARRUTHERS, ’73, M.S. ’79, 6th Yr. ’88, Wallingford, Conn., Feb. 19, 2008.

L. WINSTON CONE, ’75, Woodbridge, Conn., Feb. 18, 2008.

JOHN J. IERARDI, ’75,

’86, Waterbury, Conn., April 21, 2008.

ROBERT HAMES, ’89, New Britain, Conn., May 8, 2008.

CHRISTINE CODY, ’90, Tampa Springs, Fla., June 28, 2008.

TIMOTHY SHAWN HUGHES, ’90, Cheshire, Conn., Feb. 10, 2008.

DOREEN (DOOLEY) MCCABE, M.L.S. ’90, West Hartford, Conn., June 11, 2008.

DONNA LYNN (D’AMBROSE) FESTA, M.S. ’91, Trumbull, Conn., Feb. 2, 2008.

NORBERT RAYMOND (KURT) KRUSINSKI, M.S. ’91, Trumbull, Conn., March 2, 2008.

DARREN K. CONWAY, ’96, Prospect, Conn., Feb. 19, 2008.

JASON DANIEL GIGLIOTTI, ’96, Shelton, Conn., June 23, 2008.

ROBIN ROSE BALDINI, M.S. ’97, East Haven, Conn., 2006.

LONNIE M. DUKE, JR., M.P.H. Southington, Conn., March 10,

2008.

STEPHEN D. RINALDI, ’75, Waterbury, Conn., Feb. 2, 2008.

HELEN WEST BURBANK,

THOMAS JOSEPH MILUCCI, ’89 LOUIS PONTILLO, SR., ’42, and Mary McAloon on May 24, 2008.

JUNE BERYL NEWTH, ’50,

M.L.S. ’76, Burlington, Vt., Jan. 29, 2008.

SONIA (ROTKO) PALIULIS, M.S. ’77, Branford, Conn., May 29, 2008.

’99, New Haven, Conn., March 10, 2008.

CRISTINA MARIA CORTESE, ’07, Tolland, Conn., April 13, 2008.

VIRGINIA H. HULBERT FANNER, Asst. Professor Emeritus of Health, Ansonia, Conn., Jan. 31, 2008.

JOHN MCCARTY LAFONTANA, 6th Yr. ’78, Manchester, Conn., July 11, 2008.

MARY ELLIOTT TIANO, ’78, Hebron, Conn., Jan. 22, 2008.

GEORGINA ANN DENETTE (BISHOP), ’79, Deep River, Conn., July 6, 2008.

Class notes are compiled from submissions from alumni, as well as announcements made in newspapers and magazines. Fall 2008 | 33

The Play’s the Thing continued from page 23

extended support to many

’77, 6th Yr. ’84, the retired

age of 16. “From the very

programs and initiatives,

music department coordina-

first day of class, I knew New tion was almost entirely

generosity. Seated with several

among them, a citywide

tor for Milford schools. “She

Haven State Teachers College female.”

family members and friends,

music and arts festival, ele-

did so much 24-7 to help

was the right place for me.

Barrett clearly was in her ele-

mentary school bands, cho-

promote and encourage the

Of course, we were ‘day hops,’ dent of Madison, Conn., is

ment, thrilled as much by the

classes. The student popula-

Barrett, now a resi-

series launched through her

rus programs, the purchase

arts, be it dance, drama,

as all the students lived at

heartened by the growth of

laughter and cheers of the

of musical instruments for

visual arts, or music.”

home and walked or took a

her alma mater, noting with

children in the audience as by

Barrett credits her

city bus to school,” recalls

pride its ongoing physical

parents with encouraging

Barrett. “The college was

transformation. She continues

her to earn a college degree.

composed of only one build- to visit campus, most recently

er of her on both the person-

She enrolled at Southern,

ing located on Howe Street,

joining the children at Lyman

al and professional levels,”

then known as New Haven

and we would walk through

Center for the first perform-

says Martha Mahoney, M.S.

State Teachers College, at the

Founders Gate to get to our

ance of the arts outreach

the city’s schools, and a visiting artist program. “I am a great admir-

the performance itself. “Miss Barrett’s generous gift gives us the opportunity to expose students to arts programming at no cost to them, and has the added benefit of bringing students to the

tell us about it

university campus,” says

Share your good news with Southern friends and classmates by sending it to Southern Alumni News. Mail this completed form to Southern Alumni News, SCSU Alumni Relations Office, New Haven, CT 06515-1355; fax, (203) 392-6508; or e-mail, alumniinfo@SouthernCT.edu. Name ______________________________________Phone (

) __________________________

Lawrence D. Tomascak, interim director of Lyman Center. Fade back to that sunny day in July. The first performance of The Katherine M. Barrett Children’s Series—Access to Arts Enrichment has ended. A

Street Address ______________________________________________________________________

line of young children dressed

City __________________________________________________State ________Zip ____________

in matching lime green

SCSU Degree/Year______________________Major ________________________________________

t-shirts weaves across campus,

E-mail __________________________________________________________________________

headed for the parked school

o Check if this is a new address.

bus that will take them back

Name under which I attended college ______________________________________________________

college! You went here, didn’t

News Item ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________

to summer camp.“All this is a you Miss?” a young girl with brown braids asks the adult chaperone walking alongside her. Two boys jostle by, one

________________________________________________________________________________

launching into a silly song.

Signature ________________________________________________Date ____________________

“Sssshhhhhhh,” the girl says

Spouse’s Name______________________________Spouse's SCSU Degree/Yr. ____________________

firmly, as she surveys the

Children’s Names/Ages ________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________

stream of Southern students walking past her in both directions.“College is important,” says the girl.“I’m going

34 | Southern ALUMNI MAGAZINE

Trading Spaces continued from page 21

stated lesson? “Risk is never eliminated.” The students complete the picture. There are no jeans or t-shirts worn in this classroom; Eldridge requires that students dress as professionals. Before the program was implemented, students bought and traded stocks using software, but without real money. As more and more universities created real Wall Street-style “trading rooms,” Eldridge felt it was important for Southern to keep pace. He firmly believes that the educational benefits are significant. “There’s something about human nature; if you don’t have something at stake and you do something dumb, there’s no penalty,” he says. “What has surprised me more than anything is the degree of student commitment.” At the end of the day, the students call the shots on what to buy or sell, but Eldridge plays such a great devil’s advocate that they’re unlikely to make any awful decisions. The more “iffy” the stock, the more questions he asks. “Dealing with real money makes you take more pride and work harder,” Perlin says. Eldridge, a United States Naval

need be. As of press time, some of the group’s money-makers included a natural gas trust in Alabama, a pharmaceutical company that makes generic drugs, a software licensing company, and another company that makes replacement parts for aircraft, something that will always be needed even as airlines struggle with fuel costs. The club has several specific student positions. One student acts as a spokesperson, for example, gaining experience in public speaking. Another is the operations manager, charged with overseeing money flow. “One of my favorite parts is to analyze the market as a whole,” says student John Dougherty. It’s just that sort of analytical skill that seems to be landing students realworld jobs. Rachel Edwards, ’08, was hired at Sikorsky Aircraft as a budget specialist and forecaster before she even graduated last spring. Edwards says it was apparent by the interviewers’ questions about the investment class that it gave her an edge over the competition. “This is the culmination of a dream that I’ve had for about 20 years,”

Academy graduate who spent 24 years as an officer, many in Washington, D.C., is a seemingly endless font of wisdom and financial knowledge. During the class spent reviewing Perlin’s railroad information, Eldridge posed a tough question: “What about tonnage slowdown because of the lagging economy?” Eldridge’s on-target query led to more research on the subject. Although Ad Astra could theoreti-

Becoming Librarians continued from page 17 Like many who ultimately earn the master of library science degree, Robert Simon first earned an undergraduate degree from Southern in another subject — English — and never imagined he’d become a librarian. But after working as a permanent substitute teacher, Simon took several graduate courses at

cally lose money, there are some important

Southern in library science and decided

built-in checks and balances. The group

to pursue the master’s degree.

has a set price that it will not exceed for any

“It gave me the tools I needed to

stock. In addition, there’s a sell order on

earn a good living,” he says. “Southern

stocks when they fall to a certain level. And

was right for me, and I always think of it

finally, Eldridge, who monitors the stock

as being there for me when I needed it.”

market regularly, has override authority, if

— By Joan Wells

says Eldridge, noting he loves Southern and its students. “This program gives students the opportunity to put into practice all that they have learned in the Building a New Buley continued from page 19

the construction of the Michael J. Adanti classroom.” n Student Center, and the building of a new Energy Center. Looking forward, the transformation of campus will continue with the state Bond Commission’s approval of the CSUS 2020 capital improvement program. (See page 2.) “It’s a very exciting time for Southern, and the best is yet to come,” says Robert Sheeley, associate vice president for capital budgeting and facilities operations. Baum concurs. “The ambience alone is uplifting, and there are some immediate improvements, but it will still be tight space-wise until the entire project is completed,” she says. “But once that occurs, the difference will be striking.” n Distinguished Alumnus continued from page 14

adding that Southern provided a sound grounding in the theory and practice of librarianship. One principle that was thoroughly ingrained in his classes was that of client service. Today, even though Kobasa does not spend his days at the reference desk, he points out that his work keeps him firmly connected to that insatiable thirst for knowledge that made him want to study library science in the first place. “Friends here groan when my response to even a rhetorical question is, ‘let’s look that up,’” he says. n Kobasa’s principal activity outside of publishing has been in the area of community mental health through his involvement with the Cathedral Counseling Center (CCC), an agency of Episcopal Charities and Community Services of Chicago. Kobasa also was a longtime volunteer at Deborah’s Place, a Chicago organization providing housing and other services to women who are homeless.

Fall 2008 | 35

The Boys and Girls Choir of Harlem Alumni Ensemble

Nov. 19 8 p.m. A cast of con men and swindlers expose the secrets of the streets in one wild night of unbelievable schemes and hilarious scams. $10 for active alumni and Southern faculty/staff; $8 for children; $16 for general admission; and free for Southern students. (203) 392-6154

Chieli Minucci and Special EFX and Marion Meadows

Nov. 21 8 p.m.

Dec. 5 8 p.m. The world-famous ensemble “grows up” to showcase a variety of vocal styles, including classical, gospel, spiritual, jazz, and rhythm and blues. An alumni reception will follow in the lobby of John Lyman Center for the Performing Arts. $15 for active alumni and Southern faculty/staff; $10 for children and Southern students; and $20 for general admission. (203) 392-6154

Al Jarreau Holiday Concert

Dec. 6 8 p.m. Join the seven-time Grammy Award winner for a festive holiday performance!

$25 for active alumni and Southern faculty/staff; $15 for Southern students; and $30 for general admission. (203) 392-6154

$5 for Southern students, faculty, and staff, and senior citizens; $10 for general admission. (203) 392-6154

Les Blancs

Paula Poundstone

May 5-9 8 p.m. May 10 2 p.m.

Nov. 22 8 p.m. $32 for active alumni and Southern faculty/staff; $35 for general admission; and $20 for Southern students. (203) 392-6154

$15 for active alumni and Southern faculty/staff; $10 for Southern students; and $22 for general admission. (203) 392-6154

Feb. 27 8 p.m. Preview: tickets half price Feb. 28, March 3-7 8 p.m. March 1, 8 2 p.m. Comic mayhem ensues when a group of Amish and a gathering of transvestites become stranded at a motel during a blizzard. By Catherine Filloux. Directed by Sheila Hickey Garvey.

A special double-bill that will satisfy your jazz cravings!

Recognized for her razor-sharp wit and spontaneity, Poundstone is a regular on the hit NPR quiz show, “Wait, Wait… Don’t Tell Me!”

All Dressed Up and Nowhere to Go

Playwright and activist Lorraine Hansberry’s last work explores the shifting dynamics of resistance and assimilation under African colonialism. Directed by William R. Elwood. $5 for Southern students, faculty, and staff, and senior citizens; $10 for general admission. (203) 392-6154

Student-Directed One-Acts

Dec. 9-13 8 p.m.; Dec. 14 2 p.m. Kendall Drama Lab Enjoy an evening of innovative entertainment from the students of Theater 425—Directing II. $5 for Southern students, faculty, and staff, and senior citizens; $10 for general admission. (203) 392-6154

A Celebration of Health and Human Services and A Celebration of Business

May 16 Return to Southern to enjoy reunion celebrations of these two schools, featuring exciting educational programs, tours, entertainment, and plenty of opportunities to reconnect. Stay tuned for more information. (203) 392-6500

All events held in John Lyman Center for the Performing Arts, unless otherwise noted. Southern students must have valid identification to receive their ticket discounts. Discounted tickets are limited to two per person, subject to verification. For additional information and listings, visit Southern’s Web site at www.lyman.SouthernCT.edu. 36 | Southern ALUMNI MAGAZINE

EVENTS

Southern

Every single day, Southern students count on gifts from you to make an immediate difference in the quality of their education. Your gifts provide essential support for everything from scholarships to lab equipment to fostering faculty excellence.

Some examples of what your gift CAN do for Southern Students: Annual Gifts

What they provide:

$35

Two hours of tutorial assistance for a student with disabilities

$50

Campus “green” enhancements

$250

New print and electronic resources for the library

$500

A computer in a commuter lounge

15 gifts of $500

A year’s education for a deserving student

25 gifts of $1,000

International study abroad experience for five students

Your support helps to ensure our students’ success.

Annual GIVING “If you’ve benefited from the support of someone or something, I believe that you should give back and assist someone else.” Elaine Mikk, ’64 One of many generous supporters to the University’s Highest Priorities.

Make your gift today by returning the envelope provided or visit us online at www.giving.SouthernCT.edu

ttending Southern was a family affair for the Churches, with

three members of the successful, tight-knit clan simultaneously enrolled at the university. Commencement 2008 had special meaning for Lois Church, who earned her graduate degree the day before her daughter, Julie, donned her cap and gown to

The Church family includes [CENTER] Lois Lake Church, M.A. ’08, and her daughters [FROM LEFT], Victoria, and Julie, ’08, both of whom were home schooled as children.

receive her Bachelor of Arts degree. Both English majors are award-winning writers and literary journal editors with a passion for words. Lois is the founder and editor of Noctua Review, the new graduate publication, and Julie was the 2007-2008 editor of Folio, the longstanding undergraduate journal. Among numerous other accolades, Lois, an adjunct instructor in the English Department, received the prestigious J. Philip Smith Outstanding Teaching Award last May. (See page 6.) A third Church family member, Victoria, also attends Southern. A dean’s list theater major in the Honors College, she recently received the Theatre Department’s first William Elwood Award, which honors a scholar/artist. Victoria also demonstrated her environmental savvy recently by being the first person in Connecticut to purchase a “Smart car,” the tiny fuel-efficient import that debuted in the United States in January. Lois came to the university in 2005 to finish her master’s degree, which she had begun at Syracuse University years ago. “I started raving to my family about my classes and how at home I felt here,” she says. When her daughters found that they were less than satisfied with the experiences they were having at their own colleges, they decided to try Southern. The rest, as they say, is family history.

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