d e t p i r c Uns spring 2016 | waynesburg.edu
Who will I become? RACHEL NARASIMHAN BIOLOGY MAJOR AND PSYCHOLOGY MINOR _______________________
The Reward of Service
Learn about a criminal justice professor and his passion for service. pg. 3
_____________ Day in the Life Gain insight into the typical day of two Waynesburg students. pg. 4
_____________
“I enjoyed learning about how to make the world a better place…”
Internship Highlight
Rachel Narasimhan’s time in the classroom at Waynesburg uniquely provided her with a blend of skills and knowledge that ultimately allowed her to enjoy a successful internship experience in Panama.
Learn about the experience of a Waynesburg student’s internship. pg. 5
_____________ Letter to Parents Hear from parents of a current student about their experiences. pg. 7
Last summer, she spent four weeks at the Alouatta Sanctuary, a wildlife rehabilitation, research and education center, on the Chiriqui Peninsula in Panama. Narasimhan conducted research and worked with many different types of monkeys during her internship, including two capuchins, two Geoffry’s Tamarins and two baby howlers. She had the opportunity to interact and observe these monkeys on a daily basis, which enabled her to
compile an ethogram, an inventory of behavior exhibited by the animals. “It is one thing to see them in photographs and to learn about their behavior in a textbook, but nothing compares to seeing it in person,” said Narasimhan. The internship utilized the blend of skills Narasimhan acquired through her biology major and psychology minor, but as she applied her classroom-learned knowledge in the middle of the jungle, she also found that Waynesburg University had provided her with another ingredient vital to the success of her internship – confidence.
“The Biology Program at Waynesburg is one of a kind,” said Narasimhan. “Throughout my courses and interacting with the professors, I have developed a level of confidence without which I would not have been able to perform the internship.” Narasimhan will graduate in May. Her plans are to pursue graduate school for further study in animal behavior. “[During the internship] I overcame my fears and doubts because I was passionate about the work I was doing,” said Narasimhan. “I enjoyed learning about how to make the world a better place, one step at a time.”
DIRECTOR’S NOTE
GREETINGS FROM WAYNESBURG UNIVERSITY! We hope that you are enjoying the end of your senior year and that you are excited to take your next step after graduation, pursuing a higher education degree! We also hope that you choose to take that next step at Waynesburg University. If you have already made your decision to attend Waynesburg University, we welcome you to our family and assure you that our Student Services Staff is preparing for your arrival this fall! If you have not yet made your decision to attend Waynesburg University, here are three actions that you need to take: 1. File your FAFSA. This will allow you to receive a comprehensive financial aid award letter to show you what financial aid you will qualify for at Waynesburg University. 2. Review your financial aid award letter and apply for outside scholarships.
Jackie Palko
3. Contact your admissions counselor (contact information listed below) to ask your important questions that still need to be answered prior to making your decision.
Director of Admissions Contact: jpalko@waynesburg.edu
If you plan to attend Waynesburg University, you should not delay. Send in the enrollment form that was included in your acceptance packet or enroll online at www.waynesburgunited.com/enroll. We recommend that you enroll and complete your new student form prior to March 1, or April 15 at the latest, to receive priority housing and class registration. Housing is only guaranteed for students who enroll prior to May 1. I hope this issue of Unscripted can help you get a good look at what it will be like to be a Yellow Jacket! Blessings, Jackie
5
TOP PLACES TO DRINK STARBUCKS ON CAMPUS
1
EBERLY LIBRARY
2
IN CLASS
“ I like to be in the library while I’m studying or doing homework with a cup of coffee in hand.” –Josh Hausler, junior criminal justice major from Califon, New Jersey
“ I often enjoyed my coffee while in McCance Auditorium attending my Tolkien Fantasy and Literature class. Sometimes I even brought some for my friends.” – Andrew Zahn, 2014 computer science alumnus from Titusville, Pennsylvania
ENROLL TODAY
3
JOHNSON COMMONS
“ Sitting in the commons on a nice day with my friends, it’s so nice to drink Starbucks and catch up!”
waynesburgunited.com/enroll
– Cassidy Graham, junior public relations major from Washington, Pennsylvania
4
ALUMNI HALL IN MILLER HALL
“ The stained glass windows in Alumni Hall make for the perfect peaceful, coffee-drinking setting.” – Rachel Sharp, senior elementary and special education major from Washington, Pennsylvania
QUESTIONS? Call 1.800.225.7393
5
IN MY DORM ROOM
“ Drinking my coffee in my room with my friends while watching a movie was always a good time.” – Dominic Zappa, 2014 accounting alumnus from Monroeville, Pennsylvania
The Admissions Counselors
Renee McElligott
Dave Floyd
Central Pennsylvania West Virginia Maryland Contact: rmcellig@waynesburg.edu
Westmoreland County Eastern Pennsylvania Northeast Region Texas Contact: dfloyd@waynesburg.edu
Sr. Assoc. Director of Admissions
2
Assistant Director of Admissions
Spring 2016 | Unscripted Newsletter
Bob Barnhart
Matt McNeil
Kyle Digiandomenico
Greene and Fayette Counties Ohio Contact: rdbarnha@waynesburg.edu
Washington County Southeast, Midwest, Southwest and West Regions Contact: mmcneil@waynesburg.edu
Allegheny, Beaver, Butler Counties Northwestern Pennsylvania Contact: kdigiand@waynesburg.edu
Admissions Counselor
Admissions Counselor
Admissions Recruiter
PASSING ON THE REWARD OF SERVICE TO A FUTURE GENERATION Upon retirement from his supervisory special agent role with the United States Department of Justice, James Tanda was eager to continue his work down a different path. His new calling was education, enabling him to share his unique, first-hand experiences as a special agent and interrogator with a future generation of criminal investigators and law enforcement professionals. Tanda brings over 25 years of criminal justice experience to the classroom through his service for the Justice Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) in the areas of federal level interrogation, domestic terrorism and organized crime. Tanda joined Waynesburg University’s Department of Criminal Justice and Social Sciences in 2013 as an instructor of criminal justice. He is responsible for many undergraduate courses in terrorism, organized crime, interview and interrogation, private security and criminal investigations. “I know I have a lot to offer in the way of training, knowledge and experience,” said Tanda. “What students would otherwise read about in a textbook, they can now benefit through my teaching and expertise.” Tanda’s field experiences enable his word to be extremely relevant and valuable. He is able to share with his students the very real knowledge behind high profile cases such as the Eric Rudolph bombing campaign that included an incident at the 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta, Georgia, the Erie collar bomb case in 2003 and his involvement in the response to the attacks on 9/11 while working in Washington, D.C. Waynesburg’s mission and reputation are what initially made the University stand out to him. In his opinion, the strong emphasis on values such as faith and service are what separates Waynesburg from other schools. Tanda’s involvement with Waynesburg’s Criminal Justice Club has been the perfect outlet to help
fulfill the University’s mission of service. During the past three years, the club has been responsible for resurrecting Greene County’s Special Olympics program.
of the Johnny A. Masengale Memorial Award, which recognizes ATF special agents who have accomplished the highest level of achievement in a bombing or explosives investigation.
“Waynesburg University’s Criminal Justice Club students have embraced the Special Olympics with energy and passion,” said Tanda. “The opportunity to volunteer their services here in Greene County presents a win-win for the students, both in terms of fundraising for the athletes as well as networking with law enforcement in the region.”
Tanda also received the Eugene P. Twardowicz Award in 1998, which is presented by the United States Attorney’s Office to law enforcement agents or officers for outstanding cooperation and achievement while working with the Attorney’s Office on a significant criminal case and federal prosecution.
Law enforcement agencies have a strong connection with and are great supporters of organizations such as Special Olympics. Tanda has been connected with Special Olympics since 1992 and realizes that the relationship his students build now with the organization will be important throughout their career.
Placing the seriousness of his work aside, Tanda was blessed with a love for his career. Many of his cases always reminded him of why he swore in as a federal agent – to defend the U.S. Constitution.
Tanda’s record on and off the job have led to much recognition. In 2011, he was the recipient
“I loved that my work allowed me to face new challenges, tour the country and travel the world,” said Tanda. “Now, I share the same passion for advancing the mission of Waynesburg University as I did for the Justice Department.”
Top 7 WU Traditions
Top 5 signs you’re a Yellow Jacket
1. President’s Breakfast 2. Pumpkin Bowling 3. Waynesburg Idol 4. Thanksgiving dinner served by faculty 5. Light Up Night 6. Tye-Dye Ice Cream Social
1. Y ou have chatted with the President on the way to class. 2. Faith isn’t just a word; it’s a way of life. 3. P rofessors become great friends and teach you far more about life than you thought they might. 4. E very time you see clothing in “Waynesburg Orange” you buy it. 5. A larm clock is set 10 minutes earlier to make time for a Starbucks run.
7. Mini Relay for Life
FAITH, LEARNING AND SERVICE IMMERSION TRIPS Waynesburg University’s students exemplify the University’s mission all year long with their participation in the many Faith, Learning and Service Immersion Trips the University sponsors. There are opportunities for students of every interest and talent, ranging from working close by at Greene County organizations to serving in countries around the world. Waynesburg students answer the Lord’s call to serve with more than 50,000 hours of service annually, recognizing that no need is too small and every talent can better another’s life.
“Be shepherds of God’s f lock that is under your care, watching over them - not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not pursuing dishonest gain, but eager to serve.” 1 Peter 5:2
Spring and summer 2016 trips include: • Habitat for Humanity: Concord, North Carolina
• The Pittsburgh Project: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania • Strong Missions: Carrillos, Costa Rica • The Lamplighters Touring Choir: Easton, Pennsylvania • Camp Boggy Creek: Eustis, Florida “Waynesburg University has provided me with amazing opportunities. As a sophomore, I traveled to the island of Bonaire to work with Trans World Radio. This trip was amazing to see how I can combine my faith and my major.” Jenny Schouppe, senior communication major from Beaver, Pennsylvania
“I started volunteering at St. Ann’s soup kitchen this year, and I have loved the experience. It gave me the opportunity to get to know the people within the community and the fellow students that I might not have gotten to know otherwise. Waynesburg redefines the definition of service. The students of Waynesburg serve to help the community, hoping to make connections with others and benefit the place that has become our second home.” Brad Gillespie, sophomore nursing major from Glenshaw, Pennsylvania
Spring 2016 | Unscripted Newsletter
3
Explore A DAY IN THE LIFE of two very different Waynesburg University students For Cullin Piatt and Paige Carter, a typical college day consists of more than just attending a few classes. Both very busy, these two Waynesburg University students find themselves in many different directions. However, they both share the same certainty that God has led them to the right University.
CULLIN PIATT PAIGE CARTER Hailing from Pittsburgh, Cullin Piatt is a junior early childhood and special education major at Waynesburg University. When looking at colleges, Cullin hoped to find a small institution where he could pursue his passion for teaching and working with students. Now in his third year, Cullin is immersed in various on- and off-campus activities such as Waynesburg’s Office of Admissions and Young Life, where he is able to both mentor others and grow in his faith at the same time.
Paige Carter is a junior pre-law major from Coraopolis, Pennsylvania. She came to Waynesburg because she has a passion for serving others. When she is not in class, you will probably find her chatting with legal professionals at a Stover Scholar function or planning events for students as a resident assistant. No matter how busy her schedule, she always makes time to have fun with her friends.
Cullin I generally start my mornings off around 7 a.m. because my first class begins at 8 a.m. I spend my morning getting ready, planning out the day ahead and eating a light breakfast. I then head to my first education class that involves teaching young children with developmental disabilities. You can find me either in class or working in the Office of Admissions, depending on the day. In Admissions, I work as a Waynesburg University Student Ambassador. My work shifts typically consist of data entry and giving tours to families, as well as other miscellaneous duties that help improve communication between Waynesburg and prospective students. Working there is a big commitment, but extremely rewarding and tons of fun! This is when I eat lunch before my afternoon activities begin. I usually grab something at the Beehive with friends and take time to relax and enjoy some free time.
During this time, I am at West Greene High School for my observation hours as part of my major. Spending time in a classroom is great because I can improve upon my professional development skills as well as see firsthand how teachers interact with students. I am also able to assist the teacher, communicate with the students and take notes. Once school is over, I head to West Greene’s track practice where I transition from student to jumping coach. As a former track athlete, I am happy I am able to take what I have learned and train others in the area.
You can find me leading a group of young community members through the Young Life program. This is my favorite part of the day because I really get to know the members on a personal level while having the opportunity to grow in our faith as a group. We play a lot of different games and skits, as well as spend time conducting a Bible study.
I am usually finishing up homework or preparing for the next day’s classes. Once all of my homework is complete, I spend my last few hours of the day watching Netflix with my friends. It’s definitely a great way to end a long but gratifying day!
Cullin advises freshmen to schedule their time wisely so things don’t pile up and become overwhelming. “Get into the habit of putting your education first and setting aside time to get homework done,” he said. “If you prioritize, you will be able to accomplish a lot more than you might expect.”
4
Spring 2016 | Unscripted Newsletter
Paige 8-9 a.m.
10-11 a.m.
Noon-1 p.m.
2-3 p.m.
4-6 p.m.
7-9 p.m.
10 p.m.- Midnight Any Tips for Freshmen?
I wake up usually a half hour before class everyday. My roommate and I get ready at the same time and talk about the day ahead.
Depending on the day, I am either sitting in class or working in the Offices of Institutional Advancement or Admissions. I work on various projects, insert data or give tours of the campus during these times.
By noon, I am headed to the third floor of the library to meet with a speaker who is typically involved in the legal field. Dr. Stratton, the director of the Stover Program, always has such insightful and inspiring guests. Lunch is usually served during lectures, and I get a chance to ask questions along with my fellow Stover Scholars. My afternoons consist of classes, and usually after class, I head to my meeting with my resident director where we discuss student life.
At this time, I am usually in my room talking about my day with my roommate. By five, I head back to the dining hall to eat and socialize before I get started on my homework. My friends and I try to eat dinner together because we all have busy schedules. We try and convene for lunch at noon. We always talk and have fun traditions such as making milkshakes and playing games while sitting in Benedum Dining Hall. I usually work on my homework for a couple of hours and then head to the fourth floor of Buhl Hall to film a television show about politics and social issues. After I film, I am on duty in my residence hall, so I spend the night conducting rounds, communicating with girls and connecting with residents. Sometimes I make cookies or pass out fliers. This is a great time to socialize and hear about what is going on in everyone’s lives. Once my rounds are completed at midnight, I finish up any last minute homework or projects and head to bed, so I am rested for the next day.
Paige said to immerse yourself on campus as soon as you get here because there is nothing stopping you from getting involved. Any opportunities for upperclassmen are the same as those for underclassmen, so do not feel intimidated.
NEW AGREEMENTS AND INTEGRATED PROGRAMS
FINANCIAL AID
$
Complete your
FREE APPLICATION FOR FEDERAL STUDENT today! AID Include Waynesburg University’s federal code (003391) and receive a comprehensive Financial Aid Award Letter that includes information about your Waynesburg University financial aid package. Visit www.fafsa.ed.gov to get started!
• Alderson Broaddus’ physician assistant studies program • Chatham University’s doctor of physical therapy program • Chatham University’s master of physician assistant studies program • Chatham University’s master of occupational therapy program • Three integrated bachelor’s to master’s programs in business, counseling and education • West Virginia University School of Medicine • West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine
GRADUATE AND PROFESSIONAL SCHOOLS • Arcadia University (Philadelphia) • Calvin Theological Seminary • Carlow University • Carnegie Mellon University • Lipscomb University (Nashville, Tenn.) • Louisiana State University • Michigan State University • Penn State University • Pittsburgh Theological Seminary • UC Santa Barbara • University of Alaska • University of Michigan • University of Pittsburgh • University of Richmond • Virginia Commonwealth University • Virginia Tech • West Virginia University
95 PASSIONS UNITE:
Service and science help illuminate student’s life of purpose
DERRION MAY SENIOR, MARINE BIOLOGY MAJOR At Waynesburg University, the fusion of so many valuable and varied experiences continuously helps students seek a passion-driven life after graduation. For senior marine biology major Derrion May, connections made at the University helped turn his passion for ocean life into an exciting career prospect. Over the summer, May interned at the Mote Marine Laboratory in Sarasota, Florida, working as a Research Experience for Undergraduate intern through the National Science Foundation (NSF). There, he did research for projects centered on marine microbiology and coral reefs. May credits his Waynesburg education and experiences for securing his internship. “Without passionate professors from multiple disciplines and Waynesburg’s goal of implementing faith, learning and service in every aspect of the campus, this opportunity would not have been possible,” said May. While May has been interested in marine biology since the age of 12, the internship further solidified his career goals. He now plans to work more extensively with coral reefs and search for ways to preserve them. May is a recipient of the Bonner Scholarship, a prestigious service-based award that provides financial support to awardees. As part of the Bonner program at Waynesburg, May completes hundreds of hours of community service each year and believes that background will help him make beneficial advances in the marine biology field. “Waynesburg has taught me something each year on how I can strengthen my faith, ways in which my boundaries can be expanded as a leader, and how I can actively make a difference in my vocation.”
%
OF GRADUATES WORKING FULL TIME OR STUDYING IN THEIR CHOSEN FIELD
STUDENTS HAVE ALSO INTERNED AT: • ABC News Radio • Aflac • Allegheny County Fire Marshal • Bosch • Carrick Brain Centers • Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC • CNN • Disney • FBI • Harvard University • Hasbro, Inc. • Heinz • Mary Kay, Inc. • Mylan Pharmaceuticals • Pittsburgh CLO • Pittsburgh Pirates/Penguins • Pittsburgh Post-Gazette • ROOT Sports • UPMC Sports Medicine • U.S. Secret Service
Spring 2016 | Unscripted Newsletter
5
STEWART SCIENCE HALL R E N O V A T I O N E T A D UP Following the overhaul of the exterior of Waynesburg University’s Paul R. Stewart Science Hall, phase four and portions of phase five commenced in early 2015. Major renovations began and have since been completed on the third floor of the building, which is home to the University’s Department of Mathematics, Computer Science and Physics and the ecology lab. Phase five includes facilities for the biology program and those spaces became available to students and faculty in December 2015. A new data center and faculty office space will be completed during the summer of 2016. COMPLETED PROJECTS: Fourth Floor: Multipurpose Computer Labs Principles of Biology Lab Ecology, Environmental Biology, and Botany Lab Physics Lab Computer Repair Lab Metal Shop Third Floor: Large Multi-discipline Classroom Anatomy, Physiology Lab Cellular, Molecular Biology Lab Microbiology Lab and Prep Room Biology Research Lab Biology Chemical Stockroom
LOCAL RESTAURANTS AND SHOPS • Bob Evans • China 88 • Dairy Queen • Domino’s • Don Patron Mexican Grill • Four Horsemen Comics and Gaming • Giant Eagle • Golden Wok • Grandma’s Attic (Boutique) • Greene Plaza • Hardee’s and Red Burrito • Hibbett Sports • Hot Rod’s House of BBQ • KFC • Lam’s Garden Chinese • Little Caesar’s • McDonald’s
• Peebles • Pizza Hut • Scotty’s Pizza • Sheetz • South Side Deli • Subway • Taco Bell • The Fashion Shop (Women’s Boutique) • The Locker Room (Sporting Goods and Apparel) • Wal-Mart • Wendy’s • 5 Kidz Kandy (Candy and Ice Cream Shop) • …and many more! Coming Soon: Applebee’s
THE LOOP is a free shuttle service offered by the Office of Student
ATHLETICS WAYNESBURGSPORTS.COM 6
Spring 2016 | Unscripted Newsletter
Services at Waynesburg University to provide students transportation to the local shops and grocery stores. Every Tuesday and Thursday, a University van departs at 5:40 p.m. from campus to escort students to four locations: Peebles, Giant Eagle, Greene Plaza and Wal-Mart. The shuttle then “loops” back to campus at 6:30 p.m. to begin a second trip and concludes its evening service with a final loop at 7:20 p.m.
RECOVERY& COMMUNITY Since the accident that critically injured Kurt Detwiler last May, the Waynesburg University student athlete and his family continue to navigate his recovery with the help of the University community. Kurt, who would otherwise currently be a senior football player and business major at the University, was a victim of a car crash on May 23, 2015. As a result of his life-threatening injuries, Kurt’s left leg was amputated above the knee. In the weeks following the crash, both Waynesburg University President Douglas G. Lee and head football coach Rick Shepas visited Kurt in the hospital. Kurt attributes much of his continuing recovery and perseverance to the University, particularly Shepas and the football team. “They have mentally helped me so much get past this,” said Kurt. “It’s mentally the hardest. I’ve got pain all the time, but mentally getting through it - it’s all in your head.” Kurt has since returned to Waynesburg’s campus multiple times. Kurt supported his team at home football games throughout the 2015 season and inspired everyone present by crossing the field with a walker at the team’s senior day. The University continues to support Kurt and his family as he faces medical expenses for treatments to his right leg and works toward receiving a prosthetic limb. The University’s Business Club and a committee of supporters raised money for the family by selling “Kurt’s Corner” apparel and holding a spaghetti dinner, among other fundraising efforts. The Detwilers have made a series of adjustments in their day-to-day life as Kurt makes his recovery, and while Kurt feels inexpressible gratitude for the work they’ve done, his mother knows they’d do it all over again if needed.
ABOUT KURT’S CORNER The Kurt’s Corner Committee is aiming to raise enough money for Kurt to receive a prosthetic limb, in addition to helping cover the continuing costs of medical treatments. The Business Club at the University is selling t-shirts and bracelets using the tagline “Kurt’s Corner,” the proceeds from which are donated to the family. A number of fundraising efforts also occurred during the football team’s senior day on Saturday, Oct. 24.
A LETTER TO PARENTS We also spent a lot of time waiting. We waited patiently for soccer and marching band practice to end, we waited outside the SAT center on a chilly Saturday morning, we waited to hear footsteps a little late on a Saturday night and we waited for the letter in the big envelope that joyously announced that one period of waiting was over and that the Waynesburg University family would be welcoming a new addition to its campus come September. We hugged him, called for the extra-large pizza, phoned Grandma, wiped away a tear, offered a prayer of thanksgiving and of course, ordered the sweatshirt! Once the euphoria passed, which it did all too quickly, we began to hear the voices, the ones with all the questions. Did we make the right choice in Waynesburg? Can we afford it? Will our child be as cherished far from home as he has been in the confines of our home, congregation and high school? Take it from us; the answer is a resounding YES! Yes, you did make the right choice spiritually, academically and financially. Our son is well into his junior year at Waynesburg University. He has grown physically (when did he get taller than his father?), and he has been nurtured through challenging times by caring professors, coaches, mentors and a community of other young people who embraced him, cried with him, prayed with him and refused to let him falter.
DEAR FELLOW PARENT, As we jot down these rambling thoughts, we remember a time not long ago when our son graduated high school and began a new chapter of his life at Waynesburg University. You may be approaching that point with your child, and you may have doubts and worries, as all parents do. As parents, we reflected on the joys and tribulations that preceded our son’s college departure. From trying to get the volcano just right for the elementary school science fair, to chaperoning the junior high dance, to faithfully making another batch of cupcakes—usually at the last minute—for the PTA bake sale.
He has challenged his faith and found it worthy. He has learned that he has a lot more to learn both in and out of the classroom. He has grown from a wide-eyed, nervous freshman who found himself seven hours from home into a more selfconfident young man of integrity and hope. His mother and I do continue to wait, to see what God has in store for him next year. Congratulations, parents. Celebrate your children, and celebrate the learning, loving and caring community that is Waynesburg University. Go, Jackets!
Jim and MaryAnn Simmons
Spring 2016 | Unscripted Newsletter
7
#SHOWMEWU
www.waynesburg.edu/showmewu
CHECK OUT why other students chose Waynesburg! www.youtube.com/waynesburgedu
Call 800.225.7393 or visit waynesburg.edu