d e t p i r c Uns spring 2017 | waynesburg.edu
Who will I become? JORDAN MITRIK 2016 PUBLIC RELATIONS GRADUATE _______________________
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
_____________ Internship Highlight 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
“Waynesburg provided me with… opportunities that all served as invaluable resources” While a student at Waynesburg University, Jordan Mitrik, a 2016 public relations graduate, was deeply involved in opportunities that prepared him for his career in an evolving industry. Outside of class, Mitrik participated in the student chapter of the Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA), Red Brick Communications, Lambda Pi Eta Communications Honor Society and multiple international service trips. “Waynesburg provided me with a top-notch communication program, dedicated faculty and staff members, and an infinite amount of professional development and leadership training opportunities that all served as invaluable resources to help me launch my career,” said Mitrik.
His classes, participation and travel appropriately prepared him for the work he now encounters in his first job right out of college. Mitrik works as a digital content creator at Brunner, a top national full-service marketing and advertising agency in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. In the months leading up to Super Bowl 51, Mitrik was part of a Brunner team that planned and executed 84 Lumber’s first-ever, multi-million dollar Super Bowl commercial spot. He worked on many tasks related to the project, providing him an impressive and exciting chance to contribute to one of the biggest advertising stages in the nation. “What is great about my job is that the work is different every day,” said Mitrik.
In addition to Brunner, he has become involved with the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) Pittsburgh chapter as a board member, web content manager and, just recently, co-chair of the chapter’s annual Renaissance Awards ceremony. Mitrik followed his own advice – develop a hunger for knowledge and take advantage of the opportunities that college has to offer – and it’s leading him to great success in his professional endeavors. Reflecting on his own experience, he highly recommends trying something outside of your comfort zone during your college years. “Getting involved in something different from what you’re used to and staying open to new possibilities will help you to discover your passions and find out who you really are,” said Mitrik.
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 our Student Services Staff is preparing for your arrival this fall! If you have not yet made your decision to attend Waynesburg University, please contact your admissions counselor to ask your important questions that still need answered prior to making your enrollment decision.
Jackie Palko
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.
Director of Admissions Contact: jpalko@waynesburg.edu
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
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“ I like to be in the library while I’m studying or doing homework with a cup of coffee in hand.” –Josh Hausler, senior criminal justice major from Califon, New Jersey
“Monument Park is one of my favorite places to relax on campus. Beneath the beautiful trees and tall Civil War monument, time slows down, especially while sitting in the grass with some good coffee.” – Payne Wissler, sophomore biology (pre-dental) major from Chillicothe, Ohio JOHNSON COMMONS
“ Sitting in the commons on a nice day with my friends, it’s so nice to drink Starbucks and catch up!” – Cassidy Graham, senior public relations major from Washington, Pennsylvania ALUMNI HALL IN MILLER HALL
“ The stained glass windows in Alumni Hall make for the perfect peaceful, coffee-drinking setting.” – Rachel Sharp, 2016 elementary and special education alumna from Washington, Pennsylvania BENEDUM DINING HALL
“I love drinking my coffee during breakfast around a table with a great group of friends. Those moments where we can all be together and laughing are so important to me.” –Hannah Bloir, sophomore international business major from Mansfield, Ohio
The Admissions Counselors
Renee McElligott
Sr. Assoc. Director of Admissions Contact: rmcellig@waynesburg.edu
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Dave Floyd
Assistant Director of Admissions Contact: dfloyd@waynesburg.edu
Spring 2017 | Unscripted Newsletter
Bob Barnhart
Admissions Counselor Contact: rdbarnha@waynesburg.edu
Matt McNeil
Admissions Counselor Contact: mmcneil@waynesburg.edu
Kyle Digiandomenico
Admissions Counselor Contact: kdigiand@waynesburg.edu
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.
Spring and summer 2017 trips include: •
Habitat for Humanity: Concord, North Carolina
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Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation: Brooksville, Florida
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.
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Center for Student Missions: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
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Children’s Nutrition Center: Patzun, Guatemala
“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
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Camp Caribe: Juana Diaz, Puerto Rico
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Christ College and Taiwan Presbyterian Churches: Taipei, Taiwan
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Toucan Ridge Ecology and Educational Society and Tobacco Caye Marine Research: Belize
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Tuba City Boarding School: Tuba City, Arizona
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Fellowship of Christian Athletes Camp: Dominican Republic
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The Lamplighters Touring Choir: Detroit, Michigan
“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, 2016 communication alumna from Beaver, Pennsylvania
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Explore A DAY IN THE LIFE of two very different Waynesburg University students For Hillary Berry 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.
HILLARY BERRY PAIGE CARTER Growing up not far from campus in Waynesburg, junior nursing major Hillary Berry made the decision to attend Waynesburg University because she wanted a small school where she would be a name rather than a number. Planning for a future in nursing, Waynesburg’s faculty, state-of-the-art simulation lab and national recognition helped to make her decision simple. So far, Hillary has found ways to serve others by working in career services, participating in the Student Nurses Association of Pennsylvania and volunteering as a student ambassador.
Paige Carter is a junior pre-law major from Coraopolis, Pa. 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.
Hillary I actually begin my mornings around 6 a.m. with a cup of coffee and breakfast. I then like to check my email and organize all of my materials that I will need for my classes throughout the day. I also like to get my planner situated for the day’s events, including any adviser meetings, extra lab time and project due dates. Since I live off campus, I head out around 8:15 a.m. for my first class, which most days is 8:30 a.m. I am typically in class until 10:50 a.m. Since I am a nursing major, many of my courses are about the various aspects of the nursing profession, in addition to what we need to know for our scheduled lab time that is held in the afternoon. I enjoy learning new things, incorporating the new information with the old from past classes and seeing how it all applies to the average patient as a whole person. I usually pick up my lunch from the Beehive, along with my favorite coffee from Starbucks, before heading over to Career Services where I work as a student worker. At work, I enter jobs for numerous companies throughout the country, help check resumes for students entering the workforce and help out in any other ways I can. My lab time starts at 2:30 p.m. at our on-campus simulation lab to practice the procedures learned from the morning’s class. While in lab, we experience hands-on learning with our wonderful professors who are always willing to answer any and all questions.
Lab usually ends around 4 p.m. Afterwards, I head over to dinner. Sometimes I grab a quick meal on the go if I have a test review session or tutoring session. Other times, I meet up with friends to regroup after the day’s events.
This is my study time where I begin by reading over my notes from class. I also spend time looking over the material for the next day’s class. I always try to incorporate short breaks to stay productive without burning out. I work on my online projects, too, so that they are completed early before the due date.
After studying, I begin to look at my email and planner to keep track of what events can be expected for the next day. Around 11 p.m. I begin to watch an episode (or two) of my favorite television series to relax. Then it’s bedtime to catch some sleep before the next day’s events.
Hillary encourages freshmen to get involved and make time for various activities that are hosted by the University’s many clubs and organizations. “They are the perfect way to relax after a stressful week and to make connections with students in your classes,” she said.
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Spring 2017 | 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 Office of Institutional Advancement. 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 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, sometimes I make cookies or pass out fliers in my residence hall. This is a great time to socialize and hear about what is going on in everyone’s lives.
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.
WAYNESBURG UNIVERSITY OFFERS 4 INTEGRATED BACHELOR’S TO MASTER’S PROGRAMS: BUSINESS
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• Arcadia University (Philadelphia) • Calvin Theological Seminary • Carlow University • Carnegie Mellon University • Lipscomb University (Nashville, TN) • Louisiana State University • Michigan State University • Northumbria University (United Kingdom) • 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
98 PASSIONS UNITE:
Service and science help illuminate student’s life of purpose
DERRION MAY 2016 MARINE BIOLOGY ALUMNUS At Waynesburg University, the fusion of so many valuable and varied experiences continuously helps students seek a passion-driven life after graduation. For recent marine biology alumnus Derrion May, connections made at the University helped turn his passion for ocean life into an exciting career prospect. During his time as a student, 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 credited his Waynesburg education and experiences for securing that internship. “Without passionate professors from multiple disciplines and Waynesburg’s goal of implementing faith, learning and service in every aspect of the campus, the 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 was 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 completed hundreds of hours of community service each year and believes that background will help him make beneficial advances in the marine biology field. “Waynesburg 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
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STEWART SCIENCE HALL R E N O V A T I O N E T A D UP The multi-year, six-phase renovation of Waynesburg University’s Paul R. Stewart Science Hall is progressing after the completion of the fourth floor during the summer of 2016. The project began in 2013 with the goal of creating updated, state-of-the-art facilities for students and faculty in science, mathematics and computer science disciplines. After an overhaul of the building’s exterior and a complete demolition and renovation of the fifth floor, major renovations have since been completed on floors three and four. On the third floor, new, updated features include a large, multi-discipline classroom, an anatomy/physiology lab, a cellular/molecular biology lab, a biology research lab and more. The fourth floor, completed in time for the 2016-17 academic year, includes new computer labs, an environmental biology lab, a physics lab and a metal shop. A state-of-the-art data center was also opened on the fourth floor to host the University’s computer servers for quality technology management. The University, along with building contractors, is devising plans for the first and second floors of the building. As the renovation draws closer to completion, Waynesburg students and faculty can take advantage of brand-new facilities that enable classroom and hands-on learning in a 21st century environment.
LOCAL RESTAURANTS AND SHOPS • Bob Evans • China 88 • Dairy Queen • Domino’s • Don Patron Mexican Grill • 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!
THE LOOP is a free shuttle service offered by the Office of Student
ATHLETICS WAYNESBURGSPORTS.COM 6
Spring 2017 | 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 drop off and pick up 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.
Day of
Giving 11.17.16
•••••••• 1 day • 627 Donations • $160k raised •••••••• On Thursday, Nov. 17, 2016, Waynesburg University hosted its inaugural Day of Giving fundraising event. The daylong event provided alumni, friends, students, parents, faculty and staff the opportunity to give back to the University. Donors had the choice to allocate their gift to a specific department or organization, student scholarships or the University’s general fund. “This was a special opportunity for the entire Waynesburg community to be a part of an event that highlighted the critical nature of their philanthropic support through an exciting challenge,” said Donna Nypaver, assistant director of development. The University set a goal to reach 250 individual donations during the 24hour period. In turn, the Waynesburg University Board of Trustees agreed to contribute a matching gift up to $50,000. At the conclusion of the day, the campus community far exceeded its goal by receiving 627 donations and raising nearly $160,000.
“It was great to see everyone come together to give to student educational opportunities and enhancements for individual programs.” – Victoria Beppler, assistant director of alumni relations
Donations from alumni and friends benefit current and future students on a daily basis: •
student scholarships
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student and faculty travel, including mission trips and conferences
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lectureships and other educational opportunities
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programmatic enhancements
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updated technological improvements, including scientific equipment and labs
In addition to gifts from alumni, current students participated in the Day of Giving through a departmental contest, in which each academic department had the opportunity to raise additional funds to benefit their programs. The department with the most individual donations received $4,000. “It was great to see everyone come together to give to student educational opportunities and enhancements for individual programs,” said Victoria Beppler, assistant director of alumni relations. “Having so many students participate and donate, in addition to the support of our alumni and friends, is what made us truly grateful at the end of the day.”
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 senior 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
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