West Chester University Magazine Summer 2015

West Chester University

S U MMER 2015

MAGAZINE

J. ALAN BUTCHER ’88, MA’92 Reflecting on the World of Pharmaceuticals and Why He’s Still a Research Scientist at Heart

ON THE COVER

CONTENTS 2 | University News 10 | Sports 12 | Cover Story 16 | Class Notes 20 | Chapter News 26 | Distinguished Alumni Award Nomination Form 27 | WCUAA Board of Directors Nomination Form

J. Alan Butcher ’88, MA’92

SUMMER

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President Greg R. Weisenstein

Vice President for Advancement and Sponsored Research Mark Pavlovich

Editor, Executive Director Communications

West Chester University Council of Trustees

The West Chester University Foundation Board of Trustees

Barry C. Dozor ’71 Thomas A. Fillippo ’69 (chair) Christopher Franklin ’87 Jonathan Ireland ’95, M’03 Christopher A. Lewis J. Adam Matlawski ’80 (vice chair) Marian D. Moskowitz Eli Silberman Christine Costello ’04 (secretary) Robert M. Tomlinson ’70

Officers Keith Beale ’77 (president) Thomas E. Mills, IV ’81 (vice president) Christopher J. DiGiuseppe ’89 (treasurer) Sandra F. Mather ’64, M’68 (secretary) Richard Przywara (executive director)

Pam Sheridan

Design and Layout JoAnne Mottola Correction: The Winter/Spring issue of the magazine inadvertently listed Robert Ziegler ’58 as deceased, when in fact it was Robert Ziegler ’47 who is deceased. We sincerely regret this error.

Also in the Winter/Spring issue of the magazine, Linda Casotti’s name was misspelled (as Linda Cassotti) among those being honored during this spring’s Alumni Weekend as a “Distinguished Alumna” for her community leadership. We are very sorry for the error.

Trustees James P. Argires ’56 Frank Branca ’70 J. Alan Butcher ‘88, M’92 Matthew Bricketto, ex officio Millie C. Cassidy Deborah J. Chase, ’76 Kate Cipriano ’00 Thomas A. Fillippo ’69 (Council of Trustees representative) Cheryl Fulginiti ’80 David A. Gansky ’88 Carol Gersbach ’70 John A. Gontarz

Maury Hoberman Charles A. Knott, Jr. Kathleen Leidheiser Donald E. Leisey ’59 Emily Jane Lemole Donald R. McIlvain Mark P. Mixner, ex officio Michael O’Rourke John R. Panichello ’83 Michael Peich Mark G. Pavlovich, ex officio Paula D. Shaffner ’80 James Shinehouse ’80 John Stoddart ’93, M’99 Christine Warren ’90, M’99 Greg R. Weisenstein, ex officio

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28 West Chester University Alumni Association President Dean Gentekos ’07

Vice President Matt Holliday ’09

Treasurer Robert E. Smith ’72

Secretary Denise Bowman Trigo ’98

Past President Jeffrey Stein ’91

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12

Directors

Emeriti

E-mail Addresses

Clay Cauley’96 Thomas J. Ciaccio’91, M’03 Sara Franco’86 Bill Friedmann, M’09 Dean Gentekos’07 Jamie W. Goncharoff’82 Heidi Hawkins’07 Matt Holliday’09 Melanie Holwood’08, M’10 Jonathan Long’03 Robert Malone’08 Maria Milkowski’09 Andrea Pavone’07, M’12 Nick Polcini’00, M’05 Robert E. Smith’72 Amy Miller-Spavlik’90, M’92 Jeffrey Stein’91 Denise Bauman Trigo’98 Michael Willard’03

Carmen Evans Culp ’52, M’64 Janice Weir Etshied ’50 (deceased) Karl Helicher ’72, M’82, M’87 Richard D. Merion ’59, M’69 John F. Murphy ’43 (deceased) Luther B. Sowers ’49

For class notes and other alumnirelated information, e-mail the Alumni Office at alumni@wcupa.edu.

Letters to the editor can be sent to: psheridan@wcupa.edu or Pam Sheridan, Executive Director of Communications and Editor of the West Chester University Magazine, 13/15 University Ave., West Chester, PA 19383.

The West Chester University Magazine is published three times a year for the alumni, families, students and friends of West Chester University of Pennsylvania. We welcome letters concerning magazine content or issues pertaining to the University. Letters must be signed and kept to one typed page.

Please include address and daytime phone number. We reserve the right to edit. Send correspondence to: Editor, The WCU Magazine, West Chester University, West Chester, PA 19383

West Chester University of Pennsylvania is an equal opportunity/affirmative action institution.

WEST CHESTER UNIVERSITY

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UNIV ERSITY NEWS

Distinguished Alumni Speak at WCU’s Graduations This spring, 2,442 undergraduates received their degrees during West Chester University’s commencement ceremonies on Saturday, May 9, and Sunday,

May 10, at 10 a.m. On Monday evening, May 11, 300 students were awarded graduate degrees, along with nationally celebrated human rights activist Ruby Nell Sales, who received an honorary Doctor of Laws degree.

During the undergraduate ceremonies, Roger Ware, Jr. ’82, president, CEO and majority owner of Genesee General, a specialty property and casualty insurance company, spoke to graduating seniors from the Colleges of Business & Public Affairs, and Education, advising them to be leaders.

“It’s an invaluable asset, and it can be developed in almost anyone,” he said. Ware recommended that the graduates pay off or pay down their student loans, and he encouraged them to “take calculated risks.” He also reminded them that because WCU “made you who you are, gave you your memories and your foundation, you need to give back. … Don’t forget your University.” And he asked them to “think globally” and understand how everyone is interconnected. “Think Roger Ware, Jr. ’82 and act as if you’re all dominoes. What you do, your impact – it does matter. Pay attention to what’s going on in other parts of the world. … What will you do to impact your community? Your world?”

Graduates from the Colleges of Arts and Sciences and Visual and Performing Arts listened to advice from 1983 WCU alumna Nicole Melander, executive vice president of Digital Strategy for Houghton Mifflin Harcourt. She summarized her remarks by noting that during her coaching sessions, she would ask the question: “If you had unlimited resources and time, what would you want to do?”

“Even 25 years along their professional journey, most still didn’t know what they wanted to be when they ‘grew up,’’’ recalled Melander. Her advice to the WCU graduates: “Allow yourself time and space to find the answer to that question. Concentrate instead on being genuine.”

Perry Cozzone ’83, M’88 addressed master’s candidates on May 11, the date that marked his 24th wedding anniversary as well as the date of his older brother’s funeral ceremony. He opened his remarks with gratitude: “I want to thank WCU for putting another memory on the Nicole Melander ’83

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positive side.”

The president of the North American Division of Colorcon, Inc., an international, industryleading supplier of pharmaceutical excipients and services, Cozzone shared his three-point framework – foundation, relationships, preparation – and told Perry Cozzone ’83, M’88 the master’s degree recipients that by using them, “You will be well-positioned to make things happen.”

He noted how quickly the world is changing and encouraged grads to “apply what you’ve learned. If you don’t put your studies to use, someone else will. … You need to develop the ability to influence outcomes, connect to the concerns [of people in your business].

“The number one thing I believe is that you have control over your preparation. You have to do better than anyone else, then you generate influence. Take the bold stand that others won’t take. You can never be out-prepared.”

Kimberly Reighley, associate professor of applied music

Words From a Music Master: Enrich, Inspire, Educate WCU’s associate professor of flute Kimberly Reighley says she has “three goals: to enrich, inspire and educate.”

The $10,000 Master’s Fellowship she was awarded this year from the Delaware Division of the Arts will help her do just that.

The DDOA awarded only one master’s award this year, choosing her from the field of 91 Delaware choreographers, composers, musicians, writers and visual artists who applied.

Reighley, who is principal flutist with the Delaware Symphony Orchestra and OperaDelaware, is a previous winner of a DDOA Individual Artist Fellowship. She plays both Baroque and modern works on flute, piccolo, alto flute and baroque flute.

Master’s applicants are evaluated on the artistic quality of up to three samples of their work. They must show a sustained history of artistic activity within Delaware and describe the impact it has had in the state and beyond. In her narrative, Reighley noted that she has “made significant contributions to the solo and chamber repertoire for flute. … Delaware composers Mark Hagerty, Ingrid Arauco, and Jennifer Margaret Barker have written solo works for me, three of which have been recorded: Hagerty’s “Sea Level” for solo alto flute on his CD Forays; Arauco’s “Florescence for flute and harpsichord” on Mélomanie’s CD Florescence; and Barker’s “Dumgoyne for flute and harpsichord” on the Mélomanie CD Excursions,” the last CD just released in late 2014.

Works by those and several other Delaware composers (as well as regional composers) have been commissioned and

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UNIV ERSITY NEWS premiered by Mélomanie, the Wilmington-based ensemble for which Reighley is co-artistic director and co-founder. The quintet connects Baroque music with contemporary works performing on both period and modern instruments. Reighley co-produces its concert series at the Delaware Center for the Contemporary Arts.

The group also worked with University of Delaware composition professor Jennifer Margaret Barker to create a unique educational opportunity.

“Composition students wrote pieces for members of Mélomanie which were then critiqued, performed and recorded in a master class setting. One of the young composers’ compositions was selected to be performed for one of the ensemble’s series concerts.”

Reighley has been teaching WCU students as the University’s flute professor since 2005 and has been part of the Quintsylvania Winds, the WCU School of Music’s faculty woodwind quintet, since its debut performance at Weill Recital Hall in Carnegie Hall in May 2008.

Her strong commitment to music education brings her to regional schools for concerts with the Quintsylvania Winds and the Delaware Symphony Arts in Education program, as well as master classes in schools and at the Music School of Delaware.

Of her role at West Chester, she says, “I enthusiastically prepare future performers and music educators. My University students have won full-time positions with the United States Coast Guard Band, the United States Army Field Band, regional orchestras and theater orchestras. They have been hired in public schools throughout the Northeast and been accepted into prestigious graduate school music programs, including the Boston Conservatory, NYU, The Hartt School of Music, and Temple University.”

Reighley will use the grant funds to commission two compositions she will premiere at her solo recital and to acquire new instruments. Her concert will be held Sunday, Sept.13, at 2 p.m. at the Delaware Center for the Contemporary Arts in Wilmington. “It will feature works that were written especially for me [by] Delaware composers Mark Hagerty, Jennifer Margaret Barker, Ingrid Arauco and Chuck Holdeman. Chuck will be writing a piece for me for piccolo. I will also premiere a piece by Brazilian composer, Sergio Roberto de Oliviera, who is writing a piece for baroque flute and harpsichord. Works by the other composers mentioned are written for flute or alto flute and harpsichord and solo alto flute.”

Sophomore Accepted into Prestigious Summer Medical Program WCU pre-med student Denston Carey, Jr., managed a heavy 19-credit course load this semester, and his summer will be no less intense. He is one of

only 10 students accepted into Thomas Jefferson University’s Summer Training and Enrichment Program for Underrepresented Persons (STEP-UP).

The sophomore from Trevose, Pa., joined WCU’s pre-med program last fall and is majoring in cell and molecular biology. He calls West Chester’s pre-med program “impressive. …

It’s smaller than other schools, and that’s allowed me to get to know my professors on a first-name basis.” That’s a major factor in why West Chester is the right fit for him, Carey says.

Carey is the current recipient of WCU’s pre-med program scholarship and is maintaining a 4.0 GPA. The highly competitive STEP-UP program is oriented toward college juniors and seniors who are underrepresented in medicine, come from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, and intend to apply to medical school. It is an intensive eightweek program that requires pre-med students to dedicate 40 hours per week to the experience, which provides them with skills and support to enhance their qualifications to successfully apply to medical school. The curriculum includes Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) prep courses, comprehensive workshops, educational sessions, 60 hours of clinical shadowing, and medical skills workshops.

Carey, who is also a psychology minor, was accepted to both Jefferson and a similar program at the University of Pittsburgh – a significant accomplishment for a youth entering college as an undeclared major. He chose Jefferson’s program for the 4 WEST CHESTER UNIVERSITY

Denston Carey

amount of free MCAT course prep work, noting, “They tell you what you need to know to successfully apply to medical school.”

Pre-med advisor Stephen Zimniski speaks highly of Carey’s drive and determination. The serious, soft-spoken student had already begun looking for summer programs and shadowing for medical school at the time that the STEP-UP offer became available. He volunteers at Chester County Hospital once a week and works with incoming freshmen through the University’s Brother to Brother program, which helps smooth students’ transition to college.

Since he was in high school, Carey says he’s been interested in the sciences, enjoying the challenges they pose, and knew he wanted a major that involved medicine. He chose cell and molecular biology because he wanted a deeper understanding into biology. He intends to study neuroscience in medical school on his way to becoming a neurologist.

As his journey intensifies, he is looking forward to this summer’s hard work, anticipating not only the MCAT prep and clinical shadowing, but also getting to know the doctors at Jefferson Hospital.

FACULTY AUTHOR FEATURED IN 2015 O. HENRY PRIZE STORIES Writer Christopher Merkner recently received an accolade he didn’t expect. His short story “Cabins” has been selected for inclusion in the 2015 O. Henry Prize Stories anthology, to be published this fall.

“I’ve been teaching this collection for years,” marvels the WCU assistant professor of English, “and now one of my stories is included!”

The news came via an email that Merkner read on his phone while standing in his kitchen. He says he felt shock and disbelief. “I had to verbalize it to my wife – then it became real.”

Since 1919, The O. Henry Prize Stories has anthologized the 20 best short stories published in Canadian or American periodicals or magazines. Among previous winners are Alice Munro, John Updike, Joyce Carol Oates, and William Faulkner -Merkner is somewhat awestruck.

“Now they’re running my story alongside some of the authors who have been so important in my writing life: Lydia Davis [a Man Booker Prize winner]; Russell Banks [member of the International Parliament of Writers and the American Academy of Arts and Letters], Percival Everett [whom The Washington Post calls ‘one of the most adventurously experimental of modern American novelists’].”

“Cabins” was first published in Subtropics, the literary journal of the University of Florida, where Merkner earned his master of fine arts in fiction. It is also part of The Assistant professor of English Christopher Merkner Rise & Fall of the Scandamerican Domestic, Merkner’s collection of stories that was published in January 2014 by Coffee House Press.

“From my first reading, ‘Cabins’ was appealing because the voice was funny, sharp, self-aware, self-deluding and engrossing,” notes Laura Furman, series editor of The O. Henry Prize Stories and professor emerita of English at the University of Texas at Austin.

She adds that Michael Parker, whose works are included in the 2005 and 2014 O. Henry Prize Stories, chose “Cabins” as his favorite of the 20 top stories.

Merkner emphasizes that the O. Henry honor “means an enhanced profile for our creative writing program. Students have a remarkable range of world-class writers teaching WCU’s creative writing classes right now, and I hope this award only underscores and reinforces this.”

In his classes and as co-director of the University’s creative writing program, Merkner creates “a community of writers.” Workshops are “where the real work happens. … My role is to bring students a greater sense of sympathy, empathy, to encourage them to see the perspectives of others. With the workshops, I help students create a space where they can learn to use the story to better understand the world.”

Merkner’s writing draws in part from his Swedish-American family and their dynamics, which he says figure into his next work, a novel he has tentatively titled Cheap Flights to Gothenburg, which he plans to complete by 2016. His research is partly supported by a grant he received from WCU’s College of Arts and Sciences.

Josh Russell, one of his mentors, says Merkner’s “Midwestern fabulism makes him the Grant Wood of short fiction. [He’s gifted in being able] to mash up domestic and gothic in ways uncanny and heartbreaking. …”

“Josh Russell helped me to be a student,” Merkner says of the professor of English and director of creative writing at Georgia State University and author of the novel Yellow Jack.

Being a student was not foremost on Merkner’s mind when he took a hiatus from his studies at St. Olaf College to spend two years at the isolated Holden Village in Washington’s Cascade Mountains. A former mining town now undergoing remediation, the village was the place where he decided he would be a writer and a teacher. He resumed his studies at the University of Florida in Gainesville where he met his wife, Molly Kugel Merkner, as she completed her master’s in poetry. He then earned his doctorate in English and creative writing at the University of Denver, and taught for 11 years at the University of Colorado, Denver.

Today, he and his family split their time and their lives between West Chester and Denver, an arrangement he calls “complicated.

We’ve moved four times in three years.” But the O. Henry Prize Stories collections remain with him, the 2015 edition in a special place of honor.

Visit http://lithub.com/the-o-henry-prize-stories-for-2015/ for the O. Henry stories and to read “Cabins.”

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UNIV ERSITY NEWS

Doctorate in Public Administration to Begin This Fall In response to both student demand for graduate courses in public administration and to employers’ projections of need, West Chester University will implement a new

degree program this fall: the Doctor of Public Administration in Public Administration (DPA). The 43-credit program will be delivered entirely online.

“The DPA is designed for working professionals who seek to contribute to the highest levels of leadership and strategic direction of organizations in the public, nonprofit and private sectors,” notes Jeffery L. Osgood, Jr. chair of West Chester’s Department of Public Policy and Administration.

The new degree will serve regional needs and enable the University to expand community services, professional networks and collaborations with regional governments, nonprofit organizations and private sector entities in order to foster collaborative research, create entrepreneurial endeavors and create new revenue streams.

Like WCU’s doctor of nursing practice, the DPA is as rigorous as the Ph.D., but instead of a focus on the production of research, students are trained to seek answers to problems they encounter in practice.

Osgood, who is also director of both the University’s master of public administration program and the Center for Social & Economic Policy Research, says the new doctorate is a natural and supportive

extension to the MPA, which is becoming the expected entry credential in related fields.

A feasibility study conducted by the WCU Center for Social & Economic Policy Research indicated that the market has shown a need for this program: In the five-year period between 2009 and 2014, there has been an 82 percent increase in course enrollments in WCU’s master in public administration program. Notes Osgood, “This speaks to the student demand for public service education.”

In addition, a 2014 Hanover Research market analysis determined that on average, all Pennsylvania occupations served by a DPA are expected to grow 7.7 percent through 2022. Those fields correlate with such departments within WCU’s College of Business and Public Affairs as Criminal Justice, Geography and Planning, and Graduate Social Work, leading to a number of possible DPA concentration elective areas.

The curriculum focuses on the development of core competencies in strategic management and governance; public sector economic and financial decision-making; policy advocacy and leadership; and performance management. Regional employers can partner with program faculty and students in capstone projects for the execution of applied ventures and are invited to deliver colloquia and engage in problemsolving practica on campus.

For more information, contact Jeffery Osgood: josgood@wcupa.edu.

SAVING TIME AND SOMEONE’S LIFE Testing faster treatment for heat-related illnesses The second leading cause of death in athletes is exertional heat illness. When a long-distance runner, for

example, has an elevated core temperature and exhibits fatigue, disorientation and a diminishing level of consciousness, cooling that person is usually the best treatment. Even more critical, says Katie Morrison, is the time it takes to do so.

“It’s not how hot the individual becomes,” says the associate professor of sports medicine, “but how long that person remains hot.”

When a person stays hot for long periods of time, she adds, it can result in significant stress on a person’s system, particularly the kidneys. According to Morrison, the “gold standard” for treating an individual suffering with heat related issues is to quickly immerse them in cold or ice water. While that is the best way of rapidly cooling someone, it’s not always the most feasible method.

Many athletic trainers, says Morrison, don’t have immediate acKatie Morrison (right) with student researchers cess to large tubs and the ability to keep them cold, and need to contact emergency medical services. While the EMS often administer an IV to correct any electrolyte imbalance, Morrison and her student researchers sought to find a different way to effectively cool a person by way of cold IV infusions.

Utilizing a newly installed state-of-the-art environmental chamber, Morrison was able to mimic the air temperature and humidity that athletes would experience during activity in the heat. In the chamber, they had six subjects cycle for seven minutes and then jogged on a treadmill for seven minutes.

“We are very fortunate to have this high quality equipment with which to work,” says Morrison. “As a result, we were able to create hot and humid conditions similar to those that can occur in vulnerable conditions like during pre-season football practice or long distance runs.”

Morrison and a physician monitored the subjects’ temperatures up to 103 degrees. Once they reached that temperature, they were immediately re6 WEST CHESTER UNIVERSITY

moved from the chamber, placed on a table where the physician administered two liters of saline over a 30-minute period. The subjects underwent this protocol twice. One session, they received a room temperature IV following the exercises, and a second time after the same exercises, they would were given a cold IV infusion.

“To have some sort of crossover comparison, we compared the cooling rates between room temperature, the standard practice for IVs, versus administering a cool IV infusion,” explains Morrison. “We are hoping to achieve the acceptable cooling rate, which is .078 degrees Celsius per minute, which we are confident we did.”

The subjects also underwent thermal sensation testing during and after they exercised. According to Morrison, a number of them thought the cold saline would be painful, but, in fact, they were very tolerant of it, and when they got the treatment, they reportedly felt better.

“We monitored the temperature of the IV by using a surface probe on the saline bag,” explained Morrison. “The temperature at which we cooled the saline was the standard temperature of a refrigerator.”

Professional sports teams and many division I universities who have physicians on site, can administer IVs to athletes suffering from heat related issues and could benefit from this method of administration. It was at a conference where she and her students presented preliminary work on this project, that they learned of another population that is

already applying this option – the military.

“Military personnel are exerting themselves in extreme environments and certainly don’t have cold tubs in their situations,” notes Morrison. “Those that are in the desert know that the only practical option available to them for quickly cooling someone exhibiting heat illness symptoms is with a cold IV. This research hopes to validate that current practice.”

She also sees the potential for a similar application in long distance competitions such as Philadelphia’s Broad Street run or marathons. “It would be inexpensive, practical and easy to administered,” claims Morrison. “Above all, it could save time and someone’s life.”

Prior to joining West Chester’s department of sports medicine in 2006, Morrison was the head athletic trainer at John Dickinson High School in Wilmington, Delaware. The author and co-author of a number of articles that have appeared in Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, the Journal of Athletic Training, Foot and Ankle International, and the Journal of Orthopaedic and Sports Physical Therapy, she holds a master’s degree in health education and a doctorate in biomechanics and movement science from the University of Delaware.

ALICE’S EVER WIDENING CIRCLE Throughout her professional and personal life, Linda Hoffman Casotti’86 has thrived on helping young women to do

so as well in their lives and careers. For the past 16 ½ years, she advised WCU’s Abbé Society, mentoring high achieving college women who were uncertain about their transition from college and their future career goals.

It was during her work with these young women that Linda developed a passion for women’s leadership.

Shortly after being honored with the Women in Leadership and Service Woman of the Year award in 2013, Linda set out to develop a mentoring program to enhance the growth of college women leaders from their final semester as undergraduates through their first few months of graduate school or a professional career. Thus, “Alice’s Circle” was established.

Drawing on very fond memories of her grandfather, who often read Alice in Wonderland to her, and in recognition of her many years advising The Abbé Society, Linda chose the name “Alice’s Circle” for her future project.

“I wanted to select a woman’s name starting with ‘A’ because of my positive connections to The Abbé Society and particularly, to my grandfather,” says Linda.

“He was such a positive influence in my childhood, I wanted to follow suite and make a positive impact on college women’s lives as well.”

Linda’s enthusiasm for helping young women build their confidence and leadership skills has extended to others in the campus community as well.

In its first year, members of “Alice’s Circle” invited a select group of high achieving women attending the University to be mentored by women on the board of Women in Leadership and Service (WILS) and other female leaders at WCU. Established in 2009, by the WCU Foundation, WILS’ mission is “…to inspire, educate, and empower women to make a positive impact on future generations of women at West Chester University.”

One mentor in “Alice’s Circle” is the director of human resources with the WCU Foundation. “I was excited about the opportunity to help young

women learn techniques to succeed right from the start of entering the workforce and to encourage them to have confidence in themselves, and what they have to offer,” says Mimi Colaprete.

She admits to being surprised by how much she’s learned about herself through the process. “I have been so inspired by Linda Casotti the resilience and optimism of young women who have faced challenges in their young lives,” she says.

In the fall, Linda plans to invite other women leaders serving in executive roles at the University to participate in “Alice’s Circle.” Her own involvement with West Chester has spanned nearly three decades, beginning in 1988 when she was appointed assistant director of admissions. Today, she is the principal product owner of Banner Human Capital Management and Campus Receivables Collector, all with Ellucian, the leader in higher education technology for global institutions of higher education.

During her 16 years with Ellucian, formerly SunGard Higher Education, Linda has continued to remain close to her alma mater.

During this year’s Alumni Weekend, she was presented with the “Distinguished Alumni” Award for all her years of service and leadership to the University and community.

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Creating a Sterling

UNIV ERSITY NEWS

MORE THAN 300 GUESTS ATTENDED THE 32ND ANNUAL PRESIDENTIAL SCHOLARSHIP COMMUNITY GALA ON MARCH 21, where Hollinger Field House was surrounded by a décor reminiscent of a castle-like manor in Edwardian England.

“Tonight we honor both academic excellence and the Gala’s 32 years of philanthropic achievement,” noted West Chester University President Greg Weisenstein. “This year’s theme, ‘Creating a Sterling Future’ continues a tradition of building West Chester University’s reputation as one of the nation’s top regional comprehensive universities.”

Event co-chairs Linda Antonowich’69, an educational consultant and Patrick Scott, an attorney and shareholder with the West Chester law firm, MacElree Harvey, Ltd., worked with countless volunteers overseeing arrangements , which included a silent auction of more than 80 items, the casino, “ Golden Gala Club,” hors d’oeuvres, entrees and desserts, and dancing to the University’s Criterions Jazz Ensemble.

Since the black-tie affair was first organized in 1983, the gala has raised more than $1 million and awarded over 100 prestigious Presidential Scholarships.

This year’s scholarship recipients were Haley Buckner, Casey Pietroforte, and Karlie Scherba.

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Future Topping off the new Business and Public Affairs building

A TOPPING OFF As the steel skeleton for the University’s new College of Business and Public Affairs building nears completion, construction paused on April 17 to celebrate its

topping off – the placement of the uppermost girder on the $39 million structure.

Ground was broken in October 2014 for what will become the University’s largest academic facility. The five-story, 88,000 square-foot building will feature larger and more centrally located classrooms, some whose arrangement is based on an educational concept known as a “dinner theatre” classroom, as well as seminar and conference rooms.

The arches that flank its entrance at the corner of Sharpless and South Church streets are already in place, imitating the Collegiate Gothic style of Philips Memorial Building.

Given the College of Business and Public Affairs’ unprecedented growth over the last few years, larger and more up-to-date facilities had become one of the University’s key goals for its second largest college. When the facility opens, the 10 departments within the College will be consolidated under one roof. In addition, it will afford local and regional community partners and businesses the space and opportunity to interact with faculty and staff to find innovative solutions to challenges they face.

The building is one of the pillars in the University’s “Becoming More” capital campaign, whose public phase was launched last spring.

Signings at the topping off S U M M ER 2 015 | 9

SPORTS

WCU CLAIMS DIXON TROPHY

(L to r): Kelli Milliner (Asst. AD), Amy Cohen (field hockey coach), Dr. W. Craig Stevens (faculty athletic representative), Dr. Edward Matejkovic (AD), President Weisenstein, Diane Lokey (softball coach), Kassie Bellaver (volley ball coach), Tina Tharp (head coach m/w tennis), Vice President for Student Affairs Matt Bricketto, and Maddy Shaak (women’s tennis coach)

For the second time in three years, West Chester University has claimed the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference’s top honor as the best overall athletic program by winning the 2014-15 Dixon Trophy. For West Chester, it marks the second time the school has won the award, having also earned the distinction in 2012-13.

This year marks the 20th time the PSAC has recognized a Dixon Trophy recipient, given annually to the institution that accumulates the top score based on results of conference playoffs and/or regular-season records. The trophy is named in honor of F. Eugene Dixon, Jr., former chairman of the Board of Governors of Pennsylvania’s State System of Higher Education, and is presented annually at the PSAC Board of Directors’ meeting.

The award is given to the program which generates the top average point value among each PSAC Championship sport it sponsors. Each sport champion earns 18 points - based on the league’s membership total - and descending point values are awarded for respective placement.

West Chester established an overall average of 13.36 points, narrowly edging out last year’s champion, California (Pa.), which netted a 13.06 average. Slippery Rock came in third place by averaging 12.12 points, while Shippensburg (11.25) and Bloomsburg (10.8) rounded out the top five.

West Chester showcased a balanced effort among its men’s and women’s programs, both of which finished with the second highest 10 WEST CHESTER UNIVERSITY

averages among PSAC schools. The women averaged 13.92 points across 12 sports, bolstered by league titles in field hockey and swimming, a runner-up finish in basketball and third-place point totals in softball, lacrosse, tennis, volleyball and soccer. The men averaged 12.7 points over 10 sports, including PSAC crowns in swimming and golf, third place in football, fourth in soccer and fifth in basketball.

All 24 intercollegiate athletic programs sponsored by West Chester University participated in some postseason event this academic school year. Twenty-one of the school’s 22 sports, which compete in the PSAC, qualified for the conference playoffs. Nine of 11 West Chester squads, which compete in team sports, reached the conference semifinals, including all seven women’s athletic team programs.

Cal finished in second place despite winning a league-high five PSAC Championships and increasing its overall average (12.28 to 13.06) from a year ago. The Vulcans’ women’s programs averaged a league-best 15 points over 10 sports while capturing titles in volleyball, golf, basketball, tennis and softball, and also collected fourth-place totals in soccer and both indoor and outdoor track. Cal’s men averaged 10.63 points with cross country, football, golf, indoor track and baseball all registering above that mark.

By winning the all-sports award for the second time, West Chester became the fifth school to win the Dixon Trophy in multiple years. Shippensburg owns the most titles with seven. Bloomsburg and Lock Haven have won three apiece, while Cal joins West Chester as two-time winners. Kutztown, Millersville and Slippery Rock have also won an all-sports crown.

DIXON TROPHY WINNERS 2014-15 West Chester 2013-14 California (Pa.) 2012-13 West Chester 2011-12 Bloomsburg 2010-11 Shippensburg 2009-10 Shippensburg 2008-09 California (Pa.) 2007-08 Slippery Rock 2006-07 Lock Haven 2005-06 Kutztown

West Chester Place 1st 3rd 1st 6th 8th 5th 6th 2nd 2nd 5th

Thursday, September 3, 6:00 p.m. vs Lenoir-Rhyne University Saturday, September 12 at Mercyhurst University HALL OF FAME/FAMILY DAY Saturday, September 19, 1:00 p.m. vs Seton Hill University Saturday, September 26 at Millersville University Saturday, October 3 at Lock Haven University Saturday, October 10, 1:00 p.m. vs Kutztown University Saturday, October 17 at Shippensburg University HOMECOMING Saturday, October 24, 2:00 p.m. vs Bloomsburg University Saturday, October 31 at Cheyney University of Pennsylvania Saturday, November 7, 1:00 p.m. vs East Stroudsburg University Saturday, November 14, 12:00 p.m. vs Indiana University of Pennsylvania

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COVER STORY

J. ALAN BUTCHER ’88, MA’92 Reflecting on the World of Pharmaceuticals and Why He’s Still a Research Scientist at Heart

A

LAN ‌ BUTCHER says he’s “still a research scientist ‌ at heart,” but in his newest role as Purdue Pharma’s Senior Vice President, Licensing & Business Development, he will endeavor to carry forward the company’s growth strategy by seeking company and product opportunities that could become important assets for Purdue. And he’s found the niche that keeps him connected to his research roots.

12 WEST CHESTER UNIVERSITY

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COVER STORY

J. Alan Butcher, as his Purdue Pharma bio refers to him, has his finger on the pulse of the pharmaceutical industry. From his start in the field as a post-

baccalaureate research intern through several leadership positions in business development, he has built an impressive resume spanning nearly 30 years in the industry. Moving forward, advancing patient wellness, and helping companies grow are his motivations. He took the position at Purdue in April, 2015 in part because of the company’s focus on growth.

IDENTIFYING, PARTNERING, ACQUIRING ASSETS Butcher is responsible for all of Purdue’s efforts to acquire, in-license or otherwise partner commercial, near-commercial, and development-stage products that would benefit from the company’s patient-focused development and commercial capabilities.

Collaborations and partnerships usually capitalize on the strength and expertise of each company in the business relationship. For example, a large pharma company utilizing its development and commercialization capabilities collaborating with a smaller company’s early discovery and novel therapeutic approaches, is an obvious “win-win” relationship.

“These types of relationships,” says Butcher, “ can mitigate some of the associated risks, including increased costs, while bringing a new product to market.

“My role is to identify and qualify those companies, products, and clinical-stage product candidates that could be important products for Purdue and the patients we serve,” Butcher con-

14 WEST CHESTER UNIVERSITY

tinues. With his focus on growth, he will seek and value laterphased clinical assets or commercialized assets.

“Much like other businesses, we have to build optionality and diversity in our pipeline and portfolio. At the appropriate time, if the right asset becomes available, we will transact on earlier clinical stage assets in our business development activities.

“These assets have to enable us to lever internal expertise or contribute to the basis of our growth strategy,” explains Butcher.

In looking at the pharmaceutical industry over the last 15 years, Butcher says it’s a changing environment. Still, he believes most people still think of industry giants like Glaxo and Pfizer as representing the industry as a whole. “The major players used to have significant resource in very early phases of drug discovery, such as expertise in chemistry and screening or designing chemicals to hit specific targets,” he notes. “ This is where they used to focus much of their financial and human resources.

“Large pharma seems to be more positioned and inclined to let the biotech and biopharms generate new product candidates, then partner to further develop and commercialize the assets.”

In fact, Butcher notes that discovery and risk-taking, or innovative approaches to find new therapies are taking place more often in small, specialized or start-up biotech and biopharmaceutical companies. “The larger companies are likely to partner and collaborate or acquire therapies or technologies from those firms as they get closer to, or demonstrate, proof of concept in human clinical trials.”

Alan Butcher was one of WCU’s 2011 commencement speakers for the mid-winter undergraduate ceremonies.

PROVIDING SAFE, INNOVATIVE MEDICINES As for the impact health care reform has had on the pharmaceutical industry, Butcher believes “it’s still an evolving story.” “ We have a mandate to provide innovative medicines that are safe and demonstrate a clinical benefit versus standards of care or medicines already available,” he says. “That’s what payers will pay for, the system rewards and patients require.”

Consumers, regulators and insurance companies do not always readily accept a manufacturer simply reformulating an established medicine or plays on convenience. Butcher cites the example of an “improved” version of a therapy that a person can take twice a day instead of three times twice a day. “Convenience alone isn’t enough anymore,” he says. “The clinical benefit mandate … drives companies to think about the impact on costs and the benefit that they provide to the system.”

Meanwhile, there’s a natural evolution to the commercial lifespan of medicines that drives pharma companies to continue their R&D or in-licensing. Patents for various “branded” medicines expire and generic or over-the-counter versions become available on the market over time. As he explains, “When new medicines or new approaches get approved and commercialized, if the intellectual property holds, they will be able to sell exclusively in the market on a prescription basis for a number of years before they go generic and potentially transition to over-the-counter.”

A RESEARCH SCIENTIST AT HEART Experiencing product approvals and product launches reminds Butcher of the thrill of his early days as a research scientist. While interning in the molecular genetics department at Smith Kline and French during his undergraduate studies at West Chester, Butcher knew he wanted to work in molecular biology. “I became very interested in understanding the genetic basis: how to modulate, or target specific gene or gene products – proteins and receptors.

“I was lucky enough to join a lab that was doing tremendous research in the area of HIV infection, which, at that time, was at the forefront of the healthcare agenda.”

During the time of his internship, the identification of not only the viral proteins, but also the receptors responsible for guiding

HIV binding was fairly well understood. A lot of the research he was conducting at that time at Smith Kline and French (eventually SmithKline Beecham), “…was targeted at trying to find binding domains that could be used for drug targeting,” Butcher explains.

He considers himself fortunate to have entered the industry when some molecular and genetic tools were on the cutting edge in industry. “To still be in school during this time and also have access to those tools, and see how they are being utilized in the industry to develop new treatments is something that I wanted to do.”

In his role at Purdue, Butcher is sensing echoes of how he felt when he first entered the field. “It’s exciting and different all the time,” he says. “What I like most is getting a view of innovation around the world. Because of my global view, I see different approaches to drug discovery. And those approaches are fantastic.”

Working in business development allows him to search for and find the best medicines. “I loved being a research scientist, because I thought I was doing good in trying to discover medicines and bring them to patients in need. We all have people close to us who have suffered from illness. We wish for nothing more than for them to be well, healthy, and feel good.

“If I’m able to find, acquire and help bring those medicines to patients, it gives me the same feeling as if I discovered them myself. It’s just a different way to get to the same outcome.”

In addition to his undergraduate and graduate degrees from West Chester in clinical microbiology and biology, respectively, Butcher holds an M.B.A. from Cornell University.

During his time at WCU, he played lacrosse for four seasons and set several records that still stand today, including recognition as the Golden Rams’ all-time leading scorer. In 2002, he was inducted into WCU’s Athletic Hall of Fame.

A member of the West Chester University Foundation Board, Butcher was one of the commencement speakers at WCU’s midwinter 2011 undergraduate ceremonies. The following year, he was a recipient of the University’s “Distinguished Alumni” Award.

Alan and Benita Butcher, along with their children, Evan and Jasmine, at the 2012 “Distinguished Alumni” award luncheon.

(Not pictured are son and daughter Alex and Kyla.)

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CL ASS NOTES

A MESSAGE FROM THE ALUMNI DIRECTOR

1940s

Gwendolyn Clymer Niemi ’41 after having served in the US Army Air Corps for four years and having had a long teaching career in Arizona, including teaching physical education at the University of Arizona for 4 years, Gwen celebrated her 90th birthday with 148 friends and family in 2010. She then celebrated her 95th by cruising out of New Orleans to Caribbean ports, following a fantastic birthday celebration in the French Quarter, New Orleans..

1950s

As summer winds down, we are preparing for another year of programs and activities to benefit WCU alumni. Mark your calendar for Homecoming Weekend on October 23 to the 26th.

The schedule of events is listed in this issue and more information is developing as we complete our planning process. You can always visit www. wcualumni.org for the latest information.

Alumni Weekend in May was RAMTASTIC and featured a few firsts for the WCU Alumni Association. Friday night featured a concert with alumnus Bryen O’Boyle ’92 formerly of Mr. Greengenes. Three hundred alumni enjoyed delicious food, wine and beer under a tent with music in Ehinger. The Distinguished Alumni Awards Dinner was preceded by a 25th Reunion Reception for the Class of 1990. Alumni were inducted into the Silver Ram Society for this inaugural event and were presented with a silver pin to commemorate the occasion.

The Alumni Office wants to reach out to our alumni community. You get involved with your families and work and suddenly you’ve lost touch with those outside that close circle. We can help you stay connected to those friends and to the vast resources available here, from the faculty that taught you to contacting your fellow classmates.

Visit our website, participate in social media and “stay connected” to your alma mater. There are many ways to give back, from career and academic mentoring to volunteering at on- and offcampus events to simply attending academic and social events. And let’s not forget athletics. Rooting for the Golden Rams in whatever sports appeal to you is always a fun and exciting time and a great way to connect and reconnect with old friends.

As you will find, giving back has another benefit: it feels good.

If you should find yourself in the West Chester area, please do not hesitate to stop by the Alumni and Foundation Center on 202 Carter Drive. The staff here will be more than happy to answer any questions you may have and fill you in on what is happening around the campus.

Debbie Cornell Naughton Director, Alumni Relations dnaughton@wcupa.edu 16 WEST CHESTER UNIVERSITY

George P. Rote ’51 B.S. Education, age 87, attended WCU (then known as WCSTC) from 1948 to 1951. George led the Golden Rams as quarterback in football, to victories in 1948, 1949 and 1950 in the Cigar Bowl and two Burley Bowls. George played starting quarterback for Coach Glenn Killinger. After graduating from WCSTC, George went on to teach and coach at both Enola and Lower Paxton High Schools in the Harrisburg area. He then went on to be a Special Agent in the FBI. George was inducted into the Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame in October, 2013 for his football and basketball success at Temple University for one year, before going on to play at WCSTC from 1948 to 1951. Joanne Devitt Rote ’52, George’s wife, also attended and graduated with a B.S. Education. Joanne went on to teach in Darby, PA. Joanne and George have six children, 10 grandchildren and four great grandchildren.

(See Mark J. Rote ’79, Maria Buoni Rote ’80.)

Michael D. Rote, son of George and Joanne Rote, also attended WCSC from 1976 to 1977.

Mike and his wife Anne, have two children and reside in Thousand Oaks, California.

Mike is CEO of Rote Brothers Construction, a General Contracting company in Southern California.

1960s

Roger Sanders ’64 and WCU alumni and friends met at The Inn at Ocean Village for their 4th mini reunion on South Hutchinson Island in Florida on April 10, 2015. The class year span of those who attended was 1962-1966.

Pictured L-R Front Row: Lois Porter, Nancy Sanders, Louise Moyer, Sandie Rocco, Judy Taylor, Sharon Wirag, Pat Unruh, Colette Schweizer, Emily Shappell; Second Row: Bob

Fiocco, Diane Fiocco, Vic Rocco, Roger Sanders, Bob Wirag, Al Schweizer, Dick Shappell; Back Row: Paul Tillmann, Dick Taylor, John Unruh Ronn Jenkins ’65, a 1961 graduate of William Penn, is a member of the West Chester University and Pennsylvania Swimming Hall of Fame.

Jenkins won a PSAC individual diving title while also capturing a Mid-Atlantic Conference diving championship during his college career at West Chester University. He was named the school’s most outstanding athlete in 1964. Jenkins also captured two Junior Olympic national titles during his diving days in the early 1960s. Ronn was appointed the coordinator of diving officials at the 1996 Olympic Games held in Atlanta, Ga. Ronn’s biggest success has come in coaching, where he is considered one of the best diving coaches in the country. Ronn has been a volunteer diving coach at West Chester University since 1972. This photo originally appeared in the William Penn yearbook, The Tattler.

Edward (Randy) Marks ’69 has been inducted into the Villanova Hall of Fame for Men’s Lacrosse. Marks was head coach from 1982-2006.

1970s

Tom Faustman ’70 published his 3rd book, Dylan’s Nam. Tom was recently interviewed by The Island Packet, the local Hilton Head newspaper, and mentioned WCU.

Kim Holston ’70, M’89 recently published Navel Gazing: How Revealed Bellybuttons of the 1960s Signaled the End of Movie Clichés Involving Negligees, Men’s Hats and Freshwater Swim Scenes. Albany, GA: BearManorMedia, 2015.

Betty Wesner ’71 announced her retirement after 33 years of coaching field hockey at Kutztown University.

Wesner, one of the winningest coaches in NCAA Division II, completed her 33rd season with Kutztown in 2012 as the longest tenured

head coach in Kutztown athletics history. She has compiled a career record of 344-257-15 (.571) and ranked in the top four among active coaches in Division II in winning percentage and victories at the end of last season. Betty closes her career ranked fourth all-time amongst Division II coaches in victories and seventh in winning percentage. She is the longest tenured field hockey coach in Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC) history and is second in victories.

Alexis Kirijan ’72 has been appointed superintendent of Scranton School District, effective July 1, following her work with the Atlanta Public Schools as Chief Strategy and Development Officer . Throughout her 30 years in public education, she has been the recipient of several prestigious awards, both nationally and on the state levels. Her husband Fred Joel Kirijan ’72 is a consultant in the aviation industry, after having been an International pilot for many years.

Kim Denise Morton ’79 began a three-year term on the Pennsylvania Bar Association (PBA) Board of Governors at the conclusion of the association’s annual meeting on May 8 in Philadelphia. One of 12 zone governors who serve on the PBA Board, Morton will represent Bucks, Chester, Delaware and Montgomery county lawyers.

Morton is a member of the PBA House of Delegates, the PBA Family Law Section and the PBA Solo and Small Firm Practice Section.

Morton served as the 2013 president of the Chester County Bar Association and is a past chair of the association’s Family Law Section, Bench Bar Committee and Young Lawyer Division. She also served on the association’s Board of Directors, Nominating Committee and Judicial Evaluation Committee. She has written about and lectured on various family law topics for the Pennsylvania Bar Institute, the educational arm of the PBA, and other bar associations, Inns of Court and private organizations.

Mark J. Rote ’79, son of George and Joanne Rote, graduated with a B.S. in Criminal Justice.

Mark competed for those four years at WCU (WCSC) in the National Collegiate Boxing Association (NCBA). WCSC was the NCBA Champions for two years during that time.

Lindsay Taylor ’79 has been nominated as Allentown’s next director of Parks and Recreation. Previously she was the leader for

the Lower Merion Township, Lower Merion where she managed a 725-acre park system with 29 full-time and 138 part-time employees.

She also previously served as director of parks and recreation in Lower Providence Township, Montgomery County, and is executive director of the Lower Macungie Youth Association.

1980s

Maria Buoni Rote ’80 graduated with a B.S. in Criminal Justice. Mark and Maria have two grown children and four grandchildren, and currently reside in the Denver, Colorado area.

Geri Smith ’80 teacher, singer and songwriter, was awarded one of three Teaching Artist Partnership grants this year by the PA Council for the Arts. Geri works with her teacher partner Nicole Riess at the Chester County Family Academy in West Chester incorporating song writing, Dalcroze Eurhythmics, and the arts into their literacy program. You can hear Geri’s music online at www.reverbnation.com/gerismith Geno Auriemma ’81, head coach of University of Connecticut’s women’s basketball team won his 10th National Championship in 20 years this past spring. Geno and Notre Dame’s head coach Muffet McGraw recently discussed their 30 year relationship with ties to Philadelphia and West Chester in the Tampa Bay Times.

Paul Greeley ’81 a columnist , TV NewsCheck, eventually graduated with two degrees, a B.A. in English and a B.S. in Education.

Greeley’s first job was as a copywriter for an ad agency that specialized in media marketing and writing news image campaigns for TV stations around the country.

WPVI Action News here in Philadelphia was one of his clients. Greeley then went on to work at local TV stations in New Orleans, Ft. Myers, and Orlando until he became the VP of marketing for a top-20 broadcast group. Along the way, Greeley has written extensively about television news and its marketing for major television industry publications. He even wrote a humor column while living in Dallas.

Greeley lives in Bryn Mawr with his wife and writes a daily column for TVNewsCheck.com called Market Share.

Doug Zander ’81 is currently acting interim director of admissions at the University of Delaware and one of three finalists in consideration for this role. Zander has served

as deputy director of admissions at UD since 2013. Previously, he served at Millersville University of Pennsylvania, where he was associate provost for enrollment management from 2009 to 2013, and director of admissions from 2002 to 2009. From 1998 to 2002, Zander was vice president of enrollment and campus life and dean of students at Paul Smith’s College in New York. He holds a bachelor’s degree in communications from West Chester University, a master’s degree in culture and policy studies from SUNY Empire State College, and his Ed.D. from Temple University.

Beverly Burchill Hansen RN BSN ’82 was recently promoted to Nurse Manager of the After Hours Program at The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. She has been a pediatric telephone triage nurse for the past 17 of her 33 years at CHOP and has presented at national conferences related to the field of telehealth.

Gloria Galante ’83 is very pleased to announce that as of this November 2015, the WCU Harp program will celebrate its 25th year. Gloria founded the program in 1990 with one student and has watched it blossom over the years to 25 harps. This year’s harp fest begins at 3 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 28, in the Madeleine Wing Adler Theatre in the Swope Music Building and Performing Arts Center.

Harp Fest will include medieval, baroque, classical and renaissance music, as well as holiday music. The festival features WCU students, faculty and alumni, and professional harpists, including guests from the American Harp Society.

Dr. Steven Jakobi ‘84 MA, biology, recently wrote a book, entitled Giorgio the Possum, and Other Stories from Nature.

The book consists of 28 very short essays about different life forms, from bacteria, fungi and viruses, to plants and animals. Dr. Jakobi is a native of Hungary who emigrated to the U.S. in 1967. Jakobi has taught biology and environmental science courses at colleges in West Virginia, Massachusetts, and New York over a nearly three decades-long career prior to retiring from full-time teaching in 2013.

Jonathan Hall ’85 MA Geology & Astronomy, delivered the commencement address at Penn State Erie, The Behrend S U M M ER 2 015 | 17

CL ASS NOTES College.

Christopher H. Asplen ’86 an attorney with Hill Wallack LLP, moderated a nuclear terrorism mock trial at the International Peace Palace in The Hague this past winter. The attorney-in-charge of the firm’s life sciences practice, Asplen has been working for over a year now with the U.S. Department of State, the United Nations and the Global Initiative to Combat Nuclear Terrorism (“GICNT”) as one of its legal experts.

Catherine Grozier ’87 assistant dean in humanities and social sciences, was recognized on May 15 for outstanding performance by a member of the administrative staff at Northampton Community College. Grozier was praised for caring about individual success and taking time to help students, faculty and administrators solve problems.

This past year she handled a double workload while a colleague was out for a family emergency and provided personal support for that family. In addition to her bachelor’s degree from West Chester University, she earned a master’s degree from Temple University.

1990s

Vicki Worden ’91, has been named executive director of the Green Building Initiative. Worden was part of the original launch team that brought Green Globes to the United States and served as Vice President of Commercial Programs for the organization from 2005 to 2010. Worden became a national spokesperson and champion for green building, resulting in significant recognition of Green Globes by designers, building owners, and all levels of government. Vicki holds an MBA from Loyola University in Baltimore.

Donna Heller ’92, MPA, has been promoted to Lower Merion Director of Parks and Recreation. Prior to joining Lower Merion Township, she served as Parks & Recreation Director for the City of Burlington, New Jersey.

18 WEST CHESTER UNIVERSITY

Tom Blomstrom ’93, MBA was hired in March as the Director of Parks and Recreation for Whitemarsh Township in Lafayette Hill, PA. In addition, Tom was also appointed as the Pennsylvania Professional Representative to the National Recreation and Park Association Mid-Atlantic Regional Consortium consisting of New York, New Jersey, Maryland, the District of Columbia, Delaware, and Pennsylvania by the Pennsylvania Recreation and Parks Society.

Andy Olsen ’94 was named northeast regional sales manager for Tricor Braun, a world leader in packaging components. In this new role, Olsen will work closely with the northeast sales to drive TricorBraun’s business forward in the areas of account management, project development and growth, while continuing to work closely with customers.

Melissa DeStefano M’96 has brought Special Olympics to Pottsgrove High School. In 2013, she co-founded Falcon Friends, a PGHS organization that pairs regular education students with those who have special needs. Special Olympics took place at Souderton Area High School on May 18th. DeStefano has accomplished all this while battling multiple sclerosis.

Chris Dima ’96 is CEO of Walnut Street Labs.

Located in West Chester, Walnut Street’s mission is to promote and create innovation in greater Chester County and Southeastern PA. Ryan T. Lombardi ’97 vice president for student affairs at Ohio University has been named Cornell’s vice president for student and campus life, effective Aug. 1.

Shelby Naunton ’98 has been promoted to vice president at the Lancaster City Alliance.

2000s

Stephen P. Smith ’01, an attorney, has been named director of the Pennsylvania State Game Commission. His exemplary, efficient and passionate leadership for the Bureau’s mission, demonstrated during his service as acting commissioner prompted this appointment.

Angela Spadone Love ’01 has been hired as principal of Seven Sorrows School, Middletown, PA. Jenna Maus-Colucci ’04, an educator with the West Essex Middle School in North Caldwell NJ, was presented with a Governor’s Teacher of the Year Award. One of her colleagues referred to her as “an outstanding educator who constantly motivates her students to reach far beyond what they believe are their capabilities. … and a model for all teaching professionals, young and old, to emulate.”

Sarah F. Young ’04 has earned a B.S. degree in nursing from Drexel University and plans to work in forensic nursing.

Jennifer Gilhooley ’06, sales manager and national account executive for the North America Division, headquartered in New York City, was named the North America 2014 Sales Performer of the Year by her employer, JC Decaux, the premiere outdoor advertising corporation, headquartered in Paris, France.

Dr. Garrett Cuppels ’07 risked his life attempting to save a man who jumped off a bridge into the Schuylkill River in Philadelphia.

Dr. Cuppel’s heroism was featured in “An American Hero” on Dateline NBC. Benjamin Ford ’10 musician 1st Class, a native of Coatesville, PA., joined the Navy Band Commodores jazz ensemble in 2014 as a trombonist. He earned a Bachelor of Music in jazz performance with a music history minor from WCU and a Master of Music in jazz performance from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.

Pete Olsen ’12 returned to campus in April and gave an excellent presentation to Dr. Barth’s “Chemistry of Beer” class. Pete, who is now a brewer for Dogfish Head in Milton, DE, related his journey as a student in Dr. Barth’s class to Boxcar Brewing in West Chester, to Dogfish Head, to the Seibel Institute in Chicago, and back to Dogfish Head.

Colleen Gray ’13, an associate professor of music at Slippery Rock University, wrote The Life and Vocal Works of Lee Hoiby, American Composer and Classical Pianist (1926-2011): Including a Complete Catalog of his Songs, which was published earlier this year by Edwin Mellen Press in Lewiston, N.Y

Albert E. Filano, a stalwart champion for West Chester University A stalwart champion for West Chester University,Albert E. Filano, 89, died May 18.

Dr. Filano served the University for 35 years as professor and chair of the mathematics department, director of sciences and mathematics, vice president of academic affairs, and interim president. In addition to teaching math to thousands of WCU students, he was responsible for securing $1 million in National Science Foundation funds for the school. Also, he was faculty advisor to the Newman Center and served on the board of directors of the Swope Scholarship Foundation. He authored five K-8 workbook-textbook series in mathematics, which are still in use. Later, he was named emeritus vice president for academic affairs and emeritus professor of mathematics.

In retirement, he volunteered for the University in many capacities including as a Charter Trustee of the Fund for West Chester University, and consulted on science matters for the Pennsylvania House of Representatives.

The University honored him with the President’s Medallion for Service in 1993.

On Aug. 19, 2000, the 50th wedding anniversary of Dr. Filano and his wife, Mary Rita, the building where he and his staff had worked was renamed Albert E. Filano Hall in recognition of his leadership, teaching, inspiration and the contributions he made to the evolution of West Chester from a state college into a university.

Dr. Filano was also a World War II Army Air Corps veteran, completing 33 combat missions against the Japanese mainland as a B-29 Aerial Gunner and Radar Bombardier Navigator. He was awarded the Air Medal with three oak leaf clusters and the Distinguished Flying Cross as well as the Asiatic Pacific Campaign Medal with two Bronze Stars. He was discharged in November 1945 with the rank of staff sergeant.

After the war, Dr. Filano earned his bachelor and master of science degrees from the University of Pennsylvania, and his doctorate from Pennsylvania State University.

Donations in honor of Dr. Filano may be made to the Dr. and Mrs. Albert E. Filano Mathematics Scholarship Fund, c/o West Chester University Foundation, P.O. Box 541, West Chester, Pa. 19381. Scholarships made possible by the fund are awarded to an incoming WCU mathematics major with a demonstrated commitment to the community through service.

I n M emoriam 1930 Helen Kline Howland 1936 Claire Saussaman 1937 Dorothy Davis Lindecamp 1940 Marion Baker 1942 Robert Vaughn 1944 Samuel Cosby 1947 Marie Greiman Hildebrecht 1947 Robert Ziegler 1948 Katherine Margerum 1948 Betty Reindollar Deickman 1949 Patricia Elliott 1951 Donald Deibel 1952 Robert Edwards 1956 Carolyn Murphy Lamey 1956 Charles Foltz 1957 Barbara Nale Hendrickson 1961 James Pentimall 1965 Carol Flynn Malloy

(2004 Distinguished Alumni Award) 1966 Laura Hulton Allison 1967 Robert Mansell 1975 James Callahan 1978 Christine Brooks Clay 2014 Michael Wallover IV

F uture A lumni Jenna Cardaciotto Birch’06 and Seth Birch’06 welcomed Madeleine Grace on April 1, 2015 Judd Strauss’04 and Shannon Gaffney Strauss’04 welcomed Patrick John Strauss on April 10, 2015

M arriages Ann Fackenthall Krauss ‘06 to Ron Krauss, Esq.

Rachel Fromm ’07 to Colin Heydorn on December 13, 2014. Their wedding was highlighted in The Inquirer’s “Style” section in March 2015.

Michael Sheridan’07 and Leah Kugelman Sheridan’09 welcomed Riley Paige Sheridan on January 19, 2015

Death Notification Procedure To notify West Chester University of the death of an alumnus, please contact the Alumni Relations Office via email: alumni@wcupa.edu or via US Mail: 202 Carter Drive, West Chester, PA 19382. The notification must include a copy of the decedent’s obituary from a newspaper or the internet, or, a copy of a letter or email from a family member of the deceased. Please note: death notifications will not be accepted via telephone.

S U M M ER 2 015 | 19

AL UMNI CHAPTER NEWS At the Annual Meeting, held on Alumni Weekend, the WCU Alumni Association chartered its newest chapters: Fraternity & Sorority Alumni Chapter, Graduate Student Alumni Chapter, Honors College Alumni Chapter, and the Omega Delta Alumni Chapter.

this worthwhile project. To be added to the e-mail list please contact Nancy Baulis 610543-2117 nbaulis@verizon.net.

FLORIDA GULF COAST RAMS AND SNOWBIRDS CLUB

shared the participation in Alumni Weekend hosting the University tours. Contact us at honorsalumniwcupa@Gmail.com with any questions or suggestions.

LAW ALUMNI CHAPTER

Be on the lookout for upcoming service projects happening this year E-mail abbealumni@gmail.com for more information.

We hope to see you at an event this season!

This past winter, WCU Rams on the road travelled to Palm Beach and Sarasota to meet with almost 100 alumni living in the area for an alumni reception and a tailgate party. We are looking to expand events in the state of Florida.

If you would like to host an event, or have ideas for interesting venues, please contact the Alumni Office at alumni@wcupa.edu

The WCU Law Alumni chapter participates in several “Careers in the Law” events throughout the year. Alumni are encouraged to participate to share your career experience with students who are interested in pursuing the legal field. If you would like to be part of these events, please email alumni@wcupa. edu

BALTIMORE-METRO ALUMNI CHAPTER

FRIARS SOCIETY ALUMNI CHAPTER

LGBTQA ALUMNI CHAPTER

ABBÉ SOCIETY ALUMNAE CHAPTER

The Baltimore Metro Area Chapter was founded in 2012 under the auspices of the West Chester University Alumni Association. If you are interested in becoming a member or helping with event organization, please email alumni@wcupa.edu

BAND ALUMNI CHAPTER

We are excited to start planning for the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade where the Golden Rams will be one of eleven bands chosen from throughout the country to perform. We will keep you tuned as to what the plans will be. Contact alumni@wcupa.edu

COMMUNICATION ALUMNI NETWORK

The WCU Communication Studies Undergraduate Alumni Chapter gathered on May 7th at Landmark Americana in West Chester. The WCU senior reception was held and alumni networked with the newest graduates. We are excited to bring this great group of undergraduate alumni together. It is our goal to support the department and, of course, our fellow alumni. We will create some great opportunities for networking and fun within the group and hope you will join us as we grow! If you are interested in becoming a part of the group, have any questions, or just want to make sure you receive our newsletter please email the executive board at wcucommalum@gmail.com

DELAWARE COUNTY CHAPTER

Our chapter hosted the service project during Alumni Weekend. After a delicious brunch on Sunday, almost 70 alumni and their families stayed to participate. We worked with the Chester County SPCA to make fleece blankets for the cats and dogs who are being held at the SPCA, waiting for adoption. Thanks to all who helped with 20 WEST CHESTER UNIVERSITY

The Friars Society Alumni Association hosted their annual golf outing on Friday, May 15th at Broad Run Golf Club. Fortyfour alumni and friends participated in this event which was held during Alumni Weekend. University President, Greg Weisenstein, was also golfing to share in the festivities.

GRADUATE STUDENT ALUMNI CHAPTER

The Graduate Student Alumni Chapter was established in late 2014 as a way to help graduate alumni connect through social and professional networking events. If you are an alumnus of a WCU graduate program and would like to get involved, please email gsac. wcu@gmail.com. You can also follow our chapter on Twitter: @GSAC_WCU and on Facebook!

GREATER SEATTLE AREA CHAPTER

President Greg Weisenstein and his wife, Sandra, hosted alumni at the World Trade Center on April 11. Dinner on the waterfront followed by great conversation topped off the evening. Seattle area residents interested in joining the Chapter are encouraged to email Brett Cooper at BrettAustinCooper@gmail.com

HONORS COLLEGE ALUMNI CHAPTER

The Honors Alumni hosted the Honors Alumni Brunch bringing students and alumni from a myriad of classes in attendance. They all stayed several hours into the Aid to South Africa event that ran from noon-4:00pm. Bri Plaxe did an excellent job in pulling together the logistics for this.

Our AA Michelle Wills was a gem as usual.

The Honors Alumni President, Steve Savage, solicited ideas for upcoming events and

The Planetarium Show during Alumni Weekend was hosted by the LGBTQA Chapter. It was a cosmic event! Save the date for the LGBTQA 40th Anniversary Celebration! Saturday, October 10th, 2015, at the WCU Alumni and Foundation Center. The committee has been working hard to plan a fantastic event. This is an amazing milestone for all of us! We have launched a campaign to raise $40,000 by the 40th Anniversary for our LGBTQA Administrative Fund. Stay connected on our Facebook page at https://www. facebook.com/groups/wculgbtqaalumni/.

WASHINGTON, D.C. CHAPTER

Our chapter has been very busy in the past several months. In April, we had the Alumni Board president meet us for dinner so we could share our upcoming activities. In May, we hosted a happy hour at Irelands Four Courts in Arlington, VA. Alumni Director, Debbie Naughton, attended and shared plans for other upcoming events and programs.

We also surveyed our D.C. area alumni to ask for ideas and events that would make for a better chapter. Eighty-five responses with great suggestions were returned. Look for our emails later this summer for the Nats vs.

Phillies game in September. Follow us on Twitter (@WCUAA_DC), find us on Facebook (West Chester Alumni Association, Washington, D.C. Chapter), or subscribe to our Yahoo listserv (WCUCAPAREAsubscribe@yahoogroups.com). Be on the lookout for our upcoming events!

YORK COUNTY CHAPTER

The 2015 Spring Scholarship reception was held on Wednesday, April 29, 2015, at Mudhook brew pub in York. Three Scholarship recipients, their family members and York area alumni attended this outside event on the deck on a warm spring evening. Taylor Gingerich and Mike Snell will be taking on the responsibilities of president and vice president of the chapter. If you would like to get involved,

HIGH ENERGY, ARTISTIC STYLE

please contact alumni@wcupa.edu

This Thanksgiving, tune in to watch our ‘Incomparable’ Golden Rams Marching Band in the 2015 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade! Under

the direction of Andrew Yozviak ’91, WCU’s talented musicians will perform on a national stage, seen by nearly 50 million TV viewers and 3.2 million people along the parade route.

The Golden Rams Marching Band was one of only ten groups selected out of hundreds of high school and college bands. WCU is thrilled to offer our 325 band members this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, but we need your help. The cost of taking the band to New York City is $100,000 and we have a short window to meet our goal. As of May 2015, $17,000 was raised by loyal fans and alumni. Please join their efforts to ensure that American homes see our Purple & Gold Ram pride this November.

Contact the WCU Foundation at 610-436-2868 or make your gift to support the ‘Incomparable’ Golden Rams on their way to the Macy’s Day parade by visiting us at www.wcufoundation.org/giving.

You’re invited to a party down the shore!

You’re invited to a party 8TH ANNUAL RAMS INdown THE SAND the shore!

Saturday, Julyin the 18,Sand 2015 6th Annual Rams Saturday, July 20 Bar in Sea Isle City, NJ LaCosta Lounge & Deck Coconut Cove in North Wild6-9wood, P.M.NJ| $20 per person 4-7 p.m.

Register at www.wcualumni.org $20 per person

WEST CHESTER UNIVERSITY

Alumni

ASSOCIATION S U M M ER 2 015 | 21

Homecoming FRIDAY, OCTOBER 23 Homecoming Kickoff Party 5-8 p.m.

Alumni and Foundation Center 202 Carter Drive, West Chester, PA SATURDAY, OCTOBER 24 Alumni & Friends Breakfast 8-10 a.m. (open-house style) Alumni and Foundation Center Homecoming Parade 10 a.m.

Begins at Church St and Rosedale Ave

22 WEST CHESTER UNIVERSITY

R-Lot Pre-Game Party 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

R-Lot of South Campus Football Game vs. Bloomsburg 2 p.m.

Farrell Stadium REUNIONS: Visit wcualumni.org for information on all of the reunions taking place during Homecoming 2015, which include: Black Alumni, Business and Public Affairs Alumni, Communications Alumni, Greek Alumni, Health Sciences Alumni, School of Music Alumni, and the classes of 1965, 1970, 1990, 2005, 2010 and 2015!

WEST CHESTER UNIVERSITY Alumni & Foundation Center Ballrooms • Flexible room configurations for up to 290 people seated.

• Amenities include AV, with two 12’ screens and projectors, podium & microphone, conference phone, and Wi-Fi. Library • Seating for up 75 people.

• Amenities include fireplace, podium, and microphone.

Board Room • Seating for up to 18 people.

• Amenities include conference phone and plasma screen with AV hook up.

Are you looking to host an event?

Whether it be a wedding reception, family reunion, or birthday party, the West Chester University Alumni and Foundation Conference and Meeting Center can accommodate your event needs. The center offers flexible meeting space and an experienced staff that can help you plan for your upcoming event. Our ballrooms can seat 10-290 people comfortably.

Contact us directly to begin planning your next event today!

202 Carter Drive West Chester, PA 19382 Phone: 610-430-4150 Email: events@wcufoundation.org

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WCU HONORS DISTINGUISHED ALUMNI This past Alumni Weekend, four alumni were honored for their outstanding service to the University, their communities and professions by the West Chester University Alumni Association at its Distinguished Alumni Awards ceremony: Linda Hoffman Casotti ’86 Hailing from Melbourne Australia, Linda travelled to West Chester University to study music education graduating with a bachelor’s degree in 1986. After earning a master’s degree in counseling and student personnel administration, she returned to campus as an admissions officer, growing the Ambassadors Program to a major recruiting tool.

For more than 16 years, Linda devoted countless hours as advisor of The Abbé Society, whose members have conducted over 1,000 service hours each semester.

In addition to co-chairing the Alumni Association’s scholarship committee for two decades, she was on the faculty of the Women in Leadership Institute.

A Principal Product Owner at Ellucian, Linda helped develop the Ellucian Mentor Program and Lean-In Circles. In 2010, she was honored with the Ellucian SEED (Serving Education Every Day) Award. In 2013, she received the Woman of the Year Award by the Women in Leadership and Service (WILS) Committee of the WCU Foundation, and shortly thereafter, founded Alice’s Circle, a mentoring program designed to inform, encourage and support WCU female undergraduate student leaders.

Lawrence A. Dowdy ’73, M’80 Following his graduation from West Chester State College with a bachelor’s degree in social studies, Larry became a West Chester residence hall director and then assistant director of the ACT 101 Program.

In 1976, he left West Chester to serve in various roles at Cheyney University during which time he completed his master’s degree at West Chester in counselor education. Larry returned to his alma mater in 1983 as the affirmative action officer, and that same year was promoted to special assistant and then executive assistant to the president. In 1999, he was named executive deputy to the president and governmental relations officer, the position he held until his retirement this past December.

Larry has received numerous honors including the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Humanitarian Award from the Frederick Douglass Society, the Mary Baltimore Award of the Pennsylvania Black Conference on Higher Education, twice, and the President’s Award for Philanthropy from West Chester University.

Rick Loughery ’06, M’10 Since earning a bachelor’s degree in political science and his master’s in public administration at West Chester, Rick has been actively involved in the WCU Alumni Association, serving as Association president in 2014 – 2015. During that year, he helped to obtain additional funding and improve the stability of the Association’s finances, and strengthened the organizational structure of the board.

Rick currently serves as the County’s recorder of deeds. He also launched the Veterans ID and Discount program, which provides special photo identification to Chester County veterans and offers discounts from participating businesses to those veterans with the ID. Prior to his current position, Rick was an analyst for Chester County Commission chair Terence Farrell and also served as the elected auditor for Schuylkill Township.

Brigadier General Richard Merion ’59, M’69 After completing his bachelor’s degree in science education, Richard served for 32 years in the military and reserves, retiring as a brigadier general in 1987.

He is one of only four WCU alumni to have achieved this rank. While in service to his country, he earned a master’s degree in public health from the University of Michigan and returned to West Chester to earn a master’s degree in education.

He also earned master’s degree in strategic studies at the US Army War College 24 WEST CHESTER UNIVERSITY

and certificates from the Command and General Staff College and Industrial College of the Armed Forces.

A member of the WCU Alumni board of directors since 1980, Richard served as its president in 1991 and 1995, for which he was named an emeriti trustee and received the Distinguished Alumni Award. Richard also has chaired the business section of the WCU annual fund campaign and served for several years on the Presidential Scholarship Gala Committee. Besides establishing an endowed scholarship for science majors, Richard has given significantly to the annual scholarship fund, and contributed a leadership gift which resulted in one of the campus science buildings being named in his honor.

In addition to an outstanding military career, he has provided leadership for a number of military service organizations.

Named Honorary Commander by members of WCU’s Army ROTC, Richard has raised thousands of dollars annually for WCU students participating in the ROTC program.

RAMS WEST CHESTER GOLDEN RAMS ARE EVERYWHERE.

Each year, the University, Alumni Association and WCU Foundation visit pockets of alumni throughout the country to inform them what is going on at WCU. This year, our travels took us to Palm Beach, FL; Sarasota, FL; Charlotte, NC; Pinehurst, NC; Seattle, WA; San Diego, CA; Hollywood, CA; Long Beach, CA and San Francisco, CA. In February, the President travelled to Florida to meet with alumni for a reception in Palm Beach at the home of Dr. and Mrs. Gerald Lemole.

Another Florida stop was Sarasota, where alumni enjoyed the annual tailgate party at the Sarasota Polo Club.

Alumni and friends shared the golf trip of a lifetime playing on Pinehurst’s No. 2 and No.8 courses in March

S U M M ER 2 015 | 25

2016 DISTINGUISHED ALUMNI AWARD NOMINEES SOUGHT THE DISTINGUISHED ALUMNI AWARDS have been presented by the West Chester University Alumni Association (WCUAA) annually since 1963. The WCUAA Awards Committee seeks candidates to be selected and recognized for this prestigious honor at the 2015 Distinguished Alumni Awards dinner, which will be held on May 21, 2016 as part of Alumni Weekend.

The WCUAA Awards Committee is looking for potential recipients who have: • Achieved outstanding recognition in their chosen professions, • Rendered unusual service to a particular segment of society either vocationally or avocationally, • Achieved outstanding recognition or rendered unusual service by volunteering in a non-profit organization, or • Positively influenced large numbers of people throughout a career.

If you would like to nominate a deserving alumnus/a, please complete and mail the form below to the Alumni Relations Office at WCU. You may also submit a nomination online via: www.wcualumni.org. Nominations will be accepted until September 25, 2015. Upon receipt of a nomination, a packet will be sent to the nominator for completion. Those who are selected as Distinguished Alumni Award recipients must be able to attend the dinner on May 21, 2016.

2015 DISTINGUISHED ALUMNI AWARD NOMINATION FORM Name of Nominee________________________________________________________________ Class Year____________ Street Address________________________________________________City _______________State _____Zip________ Phone_______________________________________________________ Email__________________________________ Nominated by___________________________________________________________________ Class Year____________ Street Address________________________________________________City _______________State _____Zip________ Phone_______________________________________________________ Email__________________________________ Please mail this form to: WCUAA Awards Committee c/o Alumni Relations Office 202 Carter Drive West Chester, PA 19382 To submit this form electronically, visit: www.wcualumni.org. Nominations will be accepted until September 25, 2015.

26 WEST CHESTER UNIVERSITY

NOMINATIONS ARE NOW BEING ACCEPTED

FOR THE WCUAA BOARD OF DIRECTORS THE NOMINATING COMMITTEE OF THE WEST CHESTER UNIVERSITY ALUMNI ASSOCIATION (WCUAA) is accepting nominations for candidates who wish to serve on the Association’s Board of Directors for the 2016-2019 term.

Please review the following information prior to submitting your nomination: • Nomination forms must be completed and submitted by September 25, 2015. The form below will also be available online

at www.wcualumni.org.

• There are six elected seats on the WCUAA Board of Directors each year.

• Board members are expected to serve a three-year term.

• The terms of the newly elected members will begin on July 1, 2016.

• There will be a minimum of six (6) and a maximum of twelve (12) candidates on the election ballot.

• Board election ballots will be available in the next issue of the WCU Alumni Magazine.

• You may nominate yourself to run for the Board of Directors.

• After all nominations are received, nominees will receive a biographical form to complete and a detailed description of du-

ties associated with being a board member. This must be completed in its entirety to finalize the nomination.

• Nominations will be accepted until September 25, 2015.

2015 WCUAA Board of Directors Nomination Form Nominee__________________________________________________________Class Year_________ Street Address________________________________________________________________________ City_________________________________________State__________________Zip______________ Phone_______________________________________Email__________________________________ Please mail this form to: WCUAA Nominating Committee c/o Alumni Relations Office 202 Carter Drive West Chester, PA 19382 To submit this form electronically, visit: www.wcualumni.org.

Nominations will be accepted until September 25, 2015.

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| 27

Members of the class of 1990 with President Weisenstein

Alumni Weekend 2015 Alumni Weekend 2015 brought some new events to the weekend. On Friday night, alumni welcomed back

their own Bryen O’Boyle ’92 (the former Mr. Greengenes) and his band to Ehinger Hall for a concert. Plenty of delicious food and beverages were on hand in a party tent on the lawn.

Alumni from all decades danced the night away at the inaugural “Rat Party”. Afterward, some alumni returned to their rooms in Brandywine Residence Hall to continue the party with fellow alumni.

The Class of 1990 was inducted into the Silver Ram Society by receiving a pin from University President Greg Weisenstein at a cocktail reception prior to the Awards Dinner. This is the first class to start this tradition.

The Distinguished Alumni Award Dinner was held on Saturday evening and honored four alumni for their personal and professional accomplishments. The Hon. Rick Loughery ’06 M’10 received the award from Kerry Acker ’05; Matt Holiday ’09 presented the award to Linda Hoffman Casotti ’86 and Lawrence A. Dowdy ’73 M’80 was presented the award by Joseph Kienle ’72 M’74. The Alumni Service Award presentation was made by Jamie Goncharoff ’82 to Brigadier General Richard Merion ’59 M’69.

On Sunday, alumni and their families gathered at Lawrence Hall for a decadent brunch buffet and participated in a service project which benefitted the Chester County SPCA. Volunteers helped make fleece blankets for dogs and cats waiting to be adopted.

Special thanks to Denise Bowman Trigo’98 Chair, Alumni Weekend Chair and Amy Miller Spavlik ’90 M’92, chair, Distinguished Alumni Awards Dinner for their countless hours of planning to make the weekend a fabulous event.

(1) Alumni rock to the band at the “Rat Party.” (2) Sunday, alumni and their families making fleece blankets for dogs and cats at the Chester County SPCA. (3) (l to r): Denise Bowman Trigo’98, Alumni Weekend chair and Amy Miller Spivak’90, M’92, chair of the Distinguished Alumni Awards dinner.

28 WEST CHESTER UNIVERSITY

(1)

(2)

(3)

wanted alumni VOLUNTEERS WANTED MOVE-IN JOIN OUR ARRIVAL SURVIVAL TEAM TO HELP WELCOME DAY 2015 FIRST-YEAR STUDENTS AND THEIR FAMILIES ON MOVE-IN DAY.

They bring their stuff, you bring the memories!

Connect our newest students with the warm traditions of WCU. Join the Arrival Survival Team and show your support for your alma mater.

There is an opportunity for everyone, from greeting residents and their families to helping unload cars.

Visit wcuhousing.com for more details. Sign up for a shift at wcualumni.org/move-in.

First-Year Student Move-In Day 2015 Friday, August 21st 2015 S U M M ER 2 015 | 29

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Postmaster: Send address changes to:

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Name _________________________________ Class Year ____________ Address ________________________________________________________ City ____________________________________________________________ State __________________________________ Zip ____________________ Phone __________________________________________________________ E-mail __________________________________________________________ Mail to: West Chester University Foundation, P.O. Box 541, West Chester, PA 19381

SUMMER ALUMNI EVENTS MONDAY, JULY 13, 2015 Rams Athletic Association Golf WCU Athletic Scholarship Fundraiser 11:00 AM Penn Oaks Golf Club 150 Penn Oaks Drive, West Chester, PA

TUESDAY, AUGUST 18, 2015 Golden Ram Golf Team Invitational Annual Fundraising golf outing for WCU Golf Scholarships 8:00 PM Penn Oaks Golf Club 150 Penn Oaks Drive, West Chester, PA

SATURDAY, JULY 18, 2015 8th Annual Rams in the Sand 6:00 PM (America/New_York) LaCosta Lounge & Deck Bar

FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2015 WCU Move-In Day 7:00 AM WCU Main Campus

MONDAY, JULY 27, 2015 Quarterback Classic Golf Outing 10:00 AM Penn Oaks Golf Club 150 Penn Oaks Drive, West Chester, PA

For a full listing of events and to register, go to: www.wcualumni.org.

WWW.WCUALUMNI.ORG

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