Vision: President's Report 2014

BLOOMSBURG UN IVERSITY OF PENNSYLVAN IA

VISION PRESIDENT’S REPORT 2014

Welcome This year’s annual report looks at Bloomsburg University through the eyes and experiences of our students.

At Bloomsburg, we are committed to developing and providing opportunities that positively affect students’ ambitions, abilities, relationships, confidence and career preparation. Our mission is to equip our students with the knowledge, skills and experiences that will, quite simply, help them to become successful … both personally and professionally.

In the words of José Calvo ’13, “It is the opportunities that are offered at BU which allow students to maximize the potential of their effort and propel them even further toward success.” I am pleased to introduce you to students like José, who benefited from valuable experiences made possible here, both in the classroom and in co-curricular activities.

The young men and women featured in this report personify the values and attributes that set Bloomsburg University apart. I invite you to take a few minutes to meet these students through their inspiring stories at bloomu.edu/vision.

Sincerely,

David L. Soltz, Ph.D. President, Bloomsburg University

Inside Opportunity Engine

Researcher in Training

Finding Direction

Life of the Mind

A Calling for Medicine

Changing Course

Mission to Learn

Reaching Higher

Health Physics: In High Demand Pg. 16

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Office of the President Carver Hall Bloomsburg University 400 E. Second St. Bloomsburg, PA 17815-1301 Email: president@bloomu.edu Blog: bupresident.blogspot.com Web: www.bloomu.edu/president

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Bloomsburg University Mission Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania is an inclusive comprehensive public university that prepares students for personal and professional success in an increasingly complex global environment.

Bloomsburg University:

A vibrant economic and opportunity engine Visitors to Bloomsburg University often talk of its beautiful campus tucked along the Susquehanna River. Graduates and students enthusiastically describe the personal connections they’ve made with their professors and the university’s lasting impact on their lives.

But that barely scratches the surface of what Bloomsburg University means to its students, surrounding community and all Pennsylvania. The vibrations from the economic and opportunity engine created by BU go far beyond the spending and positive social impact of its more than 10,000 full- and part-time students and 1,000 faculty and staff.

A study by Economic Modeling Specialists International that looked at 2012-13 numbers found in that year alone, BU added $350.3 million to the local economy.

Some highlights: n Much of BU’s $110.5 million annual faculty and staff payroll is spent regionally on housing, goods and services. n The university spent $60.9 million on its operations, further supporting local businesses. n Almost 80,000 visitors came to BU during 2012-13, with 23 percent coming from outside the region and spending almost $1 million.

But what of higher education’s mission to provide better opportunities for graduates and benefit society as a whole?

BU outperforms here as well.

Bloomsburg bachelor degree holders earn on average $23,000 a year more than someone with a high school diploma. Put another way, that equals a return of $3.40 in higher income for every tuition dollar. BU’s 2012-13 graduating class will earn an additional $539.3 million in today’s dollars over the course of their working life.

On the other side of the ledger, Pennsylvania spent $33.5 million of taxpayer dollars through state appropriation to support BU’s operation in 2012-13­­— providing only 24 percent of the university’s $135.7 million operating budget.

In addition, state grants brought more than $8 million in scholarship, work study, and miscellaneous grant funds into the community through Bloomsburg University.

Overall, commonwealth support was just 12 percent of the $350.3 million the university’s presence added to the local economy over the same time period. Pennsylvania wins over the long-term as well, since 74 percent of BU’s graduates choose to remain in the commonwealth.

It’s clear that Bloomsburg University provides a good return for the investment.

n An estimated 53 percent of BU’s students come from outside the region and spend $80.3 million on living expenses while getting their degree. In 2012-13 alone, out-of-region students contributed $32.3 million to the local economy. n Following graduation, 36 percent remain in the region at least a year, generating $175 million in taxable income.

Just as significant are the many businesses created, expanded and relocated to the area drawn by access to BU’s professors and talented students.

VISION: PRESIDENT’S REPORT 2014

Life Courtney Dunn Hometown: Mifflintown Year: Senior Majors: Psychology & English When asked about Bloomsburg University, I cannot help but feel an overwhelming sense of pride. This feeling is much different from when I first arrived at the university. I was uncertain of why life had brought me to Bloomsburg, what I would study here, and if I would be capable of making meaningful connections.

Fortunately, these worries were quickly dismantled and replaced with the positive emotions that I currently experience.

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I realized that I had found a perfect combination of what I love.

of the Mind I discovered my first passion during the fall semester of my freshman year at Bloomsburg University. After taking a general psychology elective, I realized that I was really interested in these studies. I put my all into this class and did some research on my own before deciding to make this my first major. Not only was this the best educational decision for me, it was also greatly beneficial in making strong connections with faculty.

The psychology faculty of Bloomsburg University will forever remain important advisors in my life.

They do not limit themselves to the educational needs of their students. These dedicated faculty members care about their students on a personal level as well. I know that I can go to them whenever I need advice. When people ask me what the best aspect of Bloomsburg University is, I never hesitate to tell them that it is the faculty. I consider them a family away from home.

During the spring semester of my sophomore year, I increased the size of my family by incorporating a new department of dedicated faculty members into my college experience. This occurred when I found my second career calling after taking a women’s literature elective. I realized that I wanted to read and write much more often, and I declared my second major in English with a creative writing track. With this major, I quickly realized that I could apply my passion for psychology into analyzing works of literature as well as incorporate

my knowledge into my own writing. As I put English at the forefront of my studies, I realized that I had found a perfect combination of what I love.

In this way, Bloomsburg University has provided me with a career choice that I not only excel at but which I also enjoy every day. As a double major in the liberal arts, I am often questioned about my post-college career options. Many people believe that the College of Liberal Arts consists of deadend career options. What they don’t think about, though, is the fact that I have chosen this career path because it is what I love.

The faculty and educational experiences at Bloomsburg University have provided me with the confidence to pursue a career in the liberal arts, independent of what others might believe. Without the supporting faculty and the educational opportunities that I have gained here at Bloomsburg, I believe that I could still be on my way to a successful future. Would I be on my way to a confident, fulfilling future, though? I don’t think so. These are things that I have gained from Bloomsburg University. I have learned what I want and what I love. More importantly, I will continue doing what I want and love. For this reason, I am proud of the faculty members. I am proud of the educational opportunities offered here. And most of all, as a student, I am proud to be a part of Bloomsburg University.

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Mission to Learn Carson Merine Hometown: Gettysburg Year: Senior Major: Criminal Justice Minor: Professional Writing

I was born in Port-au-Prince, Haiti. I moved to the United States with my father and mother around the age of four. Ever since I was a child I can remember my parents constantly telling me to “take advantage of all my opportunities” and to “focus in school” so that I may achieve great success when I get older.

As many people know, Haiti is a country in need of great help. It has been my father’s lifelong goal to go back to Haiti and help make a difference. A few years ago he founded an orphanage in Haiti for abandoned and struggling children.

Currently, with the help of different churches, his dreams have become reality. Watching this inspired me to get involved in giving back to the country which I am from.

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Carson Merine’s father (third from left) with children staying at his orphanage in Haiti.

When I came to Bloomsburg I joined the International Studies Living and Learning Community, where I had mentors and an advisor who not only helped me transition from high school to college, but also helped me further my knowledge of international affairs. My knowledge and interest grew through conversations with two professors, Dr. Babak Mohassel (sociology, social work and criminal justice) and Dr. Steven Agbaw

of help it will be there for me. Whether it’s from my peers, professors, or administrative staff there will always be someone there to help.

As a result of BU, I have already been afforded once in a lifetime opportunities, such as meeting ESPN commentator Stephen A. Smith, and getting accepted into Widener Law Jurist Academy, in addition to networking with numerous successful alumni.

Because of my Bloomsburg education, I know I have been equipped with the intelligence, character and ability to think critically.

(English), who have a strong appreciation for aiding people in developing countries. Both men have shared their experiences and given me advice pertaining to achieving my goals. I aspire to be able to not only give back and help the people of Haiti but also aid in improving the economy.

As I enter my senior year at Bloomsburg, I often catch myself reminiscing on my college experiences thus far. From different Program Board activities and football games to the daily college social life, I have had many unforgettable moments at BU. When I think of Bloomsburg, one of the very first thoughts that comes to mind is that this has truly been my second home. I know that whenever I am in need of advice or any kind

No matter what I am faced with in life, because of my Bloomsburg education, I know I have been equipped with the intelligence, character, and ability to think critically in order to continue my journey toward a successful life. To me, intelligence is what you gain from experience.

Character, on the other hand, is how you take advantage of the acquired intelligence. Perhaps that is what Dr. Martin Luther King meant when he stated, “It is the combination of the two that provide a true education.” That is why it is important for students to be involved and take advantage of the many resources Bloomsburg has to offer. In return they will have the ability to gain intelligence through their experiences and build a great character.

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Researcher in Training Bryce Foster Hometown: Hummelstown Year: Senior Major: Environmental Biology Early in my childhood it became apparent to my family and teachers that I had a love of learning. Whether it was science, history, or English, I always had a drive to do well in school and apply what I learned to the world. I liked learning about so many different topics that it was hard for me to decide what to major in when it came time for college. After much consideration, I decided on pursuing a degree in environmental biology.

Perhaps, the greatest influence on my career at Bloomsburg is my involvement with the honors program. This community of high-achieving students and professors has

frequently been there to help and encourage me. Through this program, I’ve taken honors courses, participated in many volunteer projects, and been able to conduct an honors research project directly with a faculty member. This last opportunity is especially important to me as a biology major since undergraduate research is seen by graduate programs as extremely valuable. The honors program is not the only living and learning community on campus. From PLP (Presidential Leadership Program) to the Frederick Douglass Society, there are many intensive programs which students can join to become that much more involved in their educations at Bloomsburg.

Unlike large universities where students vastly outnumber professors, my experience at BU has shown me that the professors genuinely care about and want to know us. I cannot recall a single class I have taken where the professor did not know my name by the end of the semester. This

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Bryce Foster participated in a research trip to Madagascar in the summer of 2014. Top photo: A landscape near the spiny forest, overlooking rice paddies and deforested mountains. Center photo: Foster and other student participants. Botton photo: A very small frog (about 5mm long) which Foster found on a leaf in the dead of night.

I have been able to grow immensely and discover the person that I’ve always longed to be. individualized attention that professors are able to give at BU is very helpful in the learning process and has also enhanced my ability to talk formally in academic settings.

My ability to communicate effectively with peers has not only been enhanced in the classroom, but also in the settings of various clubs and activities. I came to college without any leadership skills or public speaking prowess.

I now speak in front of large groups with ease and jump at the possibility of taking leadership roles. This transition has come from my involvement as a member of the Honors Executive Board, Biology Club, and Tri-Beta honors fraternity, and my continued status as an intramural sports captain.

I have the utmost confidence in saying that the four years I spent at Bloomsburg were the most instrumental in creating the person I am today. Before I came to college, I had the drive to do well, but I lacked the confidence and determination to reach many of the goals I set for myself.

Given the many resources that I was given at BU, I have been able to grow immensely and discover the person that I have always longed to be. I cannot thank Bloomsburg enough for the crucial years I was able to spend here, and I will forever be a Husky.

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A Calling for Medicine Shaidy Moronta Hometown: Hazleton Year: Sophomore Major: Biology/Pre-med Minor: Chemistry My journey began in a cramped basement in Queens, New York. I would like to say my childhood was pretty normal, running up and down the deadend that was our block and waiting impatiently for the familiar tune of the ice cream truck.

But I was incessant, always questioning the world around me, much to the annoyance of the adults taking care of me. Every other sentence was “why?

How come? How do you know?” My parents decided to assign me homework and readings to quiet the buzzing and fervor in my three-year-old head.

By the time I finally enrolled in kindergarten I already knew addition, subtraction, some multiplication, and how to read. Regardless of this, I still thought I was stupid. Since Spanish was the only language spoken in my household, a copious amount of words in English completely puzzled me.

Not being able to comprehend them as well as the other kids burned me inside — so much that my father had to go out and buy me a dictionary.

I took it everywhere with me, and before long my English was perfect; the accent almost nonexistent. This is my approach to life — if I did not like something then it was in my power

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Here I meet and talk with my professors one-on-one and they know me and my interests. to change it, it only depended on how hard I was willing to work at it.

After reading Ben Carson’s Gifted Hands, I knew that being a surgeon was what I wanted to do for the rest of my life and I knew I had the drive and the skills for it as well. To be a surgeon, you must be patient, determined, and brave, have excellent hand-eye coordination, and have an extensive ability for empathy.

I applied to 20 schools, and Bloomsburg was the one that resonated with me the most. It felt like home.

Here I meet and talk with my professors one-onone and they know me and my interests. I am the person who goes to office hours regularly and stays after class to ask the professor about their projects. Because my professors know me, they’ve helped me land internships at medical schools and medical centers. Recently, I had an incredible experience shadowing at Geisinger Medical Center

thanks to my biology professor Cynthia Surmacz.

At Geisinger, I saw many departments and the experience dispelled some of my previous notions about medicine.

Everything I have done that brings me closer to my field of interest, medicine, is due to my professor’s insight and knowledge of opportunities that would fit me. I would not even know the first step to take to reach medical school if it weren’t for the exceptional guidance of my science professors at Bloomsburg.

I know it sounds like a cliché, but I truly desire nothing more than to help people. If I could be of some assistance to someone I will gladly do it without thinking twice and that is a lot of my drive to becoming a surgeon and serving as an inspiration to others. Bloomsburg has given me the tools and confidence to pursue my dream of being a doctor.

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Reaching Higher Mon-Jay Fahnbulleh Hometown: Philadelphia Year: Junior Major: Communications Studies One, two, pirouette; three, four, arabesque. I twist and turn barely spotting, seeing the room spinning, trying to find my focus point. Bending my body into complex forms while I prepare to fly, the music is coming through the system and penetrating through my mind and body. I take a deep breath, as I soar in the air. My partner counts one, two, three, and off I go flying higher and higher in the air. For those split seconds I feel as though I am invincible.

My first time being in the studio, I was five-years-old.

Everything was so unfamiliar, from the way our teacher taught dance steps in such a way that we were in sync, to the way our bare feet felt against the dance floor. Dance and I have a love and hate relationship from the long hours spent rehearsing, bleeding toes, and the endless clothing being ruined from my sweat glands soaking them. Dance is my sweet escape from the world when I am mad, sad, or happy. Whether it

be in a dance studio or my room, dancing puts me in a place where even if just for a moment I forget all my worries and it is just the music and my body syncing together to create a masterpiece. I am a dancer. This is my craft, my art, my life.

A junior majoring in communications studies with an emphasis in leadership and public advocacy and a minor in dance, I have a passion and drive to make an impact on young teenage girls. My goal is to enhance the lives of others so that our communities could be fruitful. Upon graduation, I hope to further pursue my education by attending graduate school, while starting my nonprofit organization for young girls that have been victims of domestic violence and/or sexual assault.

Being an admissions tour guide and a community assistant has helped me to interact and hear various stories from young people striving to excel, especially when transitioning from high school to college. Just being able to express the same fears that I had when coming to college, letting them know that I was also in the same position three years ago helps them.

Bloomsburg felt like home from the moment I first arrived on campus. The existence of a dance program was essential to my decision to come to Bloomsburg after graduating from a

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Overcoming your fear is one of the greatest feelings you can give yourself.

creative and performing arts high school where I studied dance.

I was not quite ready to close that chapter of my life.

Bloomsburg’s great faculty and staff helped me get to know the campus and network with people. I found there is an organization for everyone to join, so that our time spent as an

The physical history of my body includes various stages of gaining strength and coordination and also injuries I acquire from flying and dancing, but that never discourages me from continuing to do that which I’m passionate about.

You can truly be you at BU. There is no secret to your success.

The help and connection with the right people are right at your fingertips for you to be invincible.

undergraduate would be an excellent experience. The more I got involved the more I came out of my comfort zone and the less I missed home. As a freshman I was involved with B-smart, Vice Versa and DASL and was a community assistant. Being a part of these diverse organizations and serving as a leader for the campus has connected me with many amazing mentors and opportunities in my life.

I’m constantly reminded and encouraged by my dance professor, Julie Petry, to push harder than I did in the class before. I apply this concept to every area of my life. Overcoming your fear is one of the best feelings that you can give to yourself. Like dancing, BU has helped me overcome my fears and made them my strengths.

There is a certain rush I get being launched into the air, dancing, running, leaping, and spinning, throwing myself into the lifts and dances with every particle of me. I’m feeling lighthearted; attribute it to just being nervous. But that causes me to become more fierce and sharp in my moves, making sure I get it perfect each time. I’m literally moving with the air in the room, nothing can stop me.

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Finding Direction José A. Calvo IV Hometown: Bethlehem Year: 2013 Graduate Currently: Doctoral student at George Mason University

Up until the last few years I was absolutely lost academically.

I had no direction when it came to school or what I wanted to do with my life. I was an average student in high school that just got by with minimal effort, and it got even worse in my first year of community college. After thinking for long hours about what I wanted to do with my life I finally decided on psychology, simply because I liked the idea of trying to understand the way people think and I enjoyed helping people with their problems. Little did I know that there was much more to psychology than just those two aspects.

It wasn’t until after I received my associates’ degree and transferred to Bloomsburg that I truly found a direction for my studies.

Something about Bloomsburg sparked a love of learning in me that I had never had before. Suddenly, I was excited to go to class and learn about different things. During my second semester Dr. Jennifer Johnson, the director of the Psych Association, brought in some alumni to talk to the students about the fields they were working in. Dr. Susanne Furman, an alumna of Bloomsburg, agreed to come and talk to the psychology club about her work in the field of human factors psychology. She received her Ph.D. in human factors and applied cognition from George Mason University. She explained a little bit about the work she did there, about her professional career and the kind of work human factors psychologists do. I was instantly intrigued by the idea of improving products and technology to better fit the human mind and body. This kind of problem solving seemed like a puzzle that needed to be completed and the potential of improving the lives of thousands of people, even if in only a small way, was exactly what I wanted.

Although I was captivated by the idea of a human factors program, I decided I should try my hand at that kind of

research before locking myself into something that I wasn’t truly going to love. With the help of Dr. Jennifer Johnson and Dr. Furman, we designed a study that looked at comparing the perceptions people had of cybersecurity on PCs and mobile devices. I was awarded a $6,000 grant to conduct this research over the summer of 2013, and then I continued this research the following semester (Fall 2013) as an independent study. This experience completely solidified the fact that I wanted to pursue a career path in human factors. I loved working with the different technologies and programs we created to test participants and analyzing the perceptions and misconceptions that people had about cybersecurity.

Not only was I able to develop and execute my own research, but I also have been given an opportunity to develop a real world application of that research. I was introduced to the provost of Bloomsburg University, Dr. Ira Blake, by Dr. Heather Feldhaus, director of the Center for Community Research and Consulting where I worked. Dr. Blake took an immediate interest in my work and together we developed an idea for an e-learning module that is currently in development for incoming freshmen to educate them on cybersecurity issues for both PCs and mobile devices. I received an internship at Bloomsburg which allowed me to complete the module in 2014.

I am a student in the human factors and applied cognition Ph.D. program at George Mason University. I wholeheartedly believe that this is due to the opportunities that were presented to me through my hard work and effort here at BU. Without the enthusiasm of the professors here I wouldn’t have been instilled with a new-found love of learning. Without that love of learning, I would never have pursued new possible career opportunities. Without that opportunity, I would have never pursued what I believe is the biggest contributor to my current success, my collaborative research experience with Dr. Johnson.

I do not believe we just fall randomly into good fortune. We cut our own path with our own effort, but it is the opportunities (like collaborative research experiences with professors) that are offered here at BU, which allow Bloomsburg students to maximize the potential of their effort and propel us even further towards success in this world.

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Changing Course Melissa Galan Hometown: Hazleton Year: Senior Major: Communications Studies

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Once Bloomsburg University was reintroduced to me ... my desire and motivation to be in school resurfaced.

While there are most certainly a number of factors that have influenced the person I currently am, BU has allowed me an entryway into places I have never imagined. I have learned in life one needs to be able to see both sides in order to appreciate any one thing. What I refer to in this case are the decisions that I made in the past and the decisions I am making today.

Since I started attending BU, I have been on a journey of endless discovery. BU has not only granted me the opportunity to start over and to find myself, but it has also demonstrated that those who I am surrounded by care about my success and are more than willing to assist me if needed. Asking for help was something I struggled with, but Bloomsburg University has encouraged me to be humble and to appreciate and utilize the resources I have at my disposal.

About two years ago, I had everything I could have dreamed of, but it was short-lived. I had a “full-ride,” to a private school.

Everything was paid for and I was living in a dorm room with my best friend. It was just far enough from, but still close enough to, home that I could see my family at any given time.

It was a luxury I hadn’t had before. It was a newfound freedom.

Like most of the freshmen around me, I wanted to have the ultimate college experience. However, it was sooner rather than later that “the ultimate college experience” got the best of me.

The scholarship, the grades, the relationships with my friends, family, and boyfriend began to suffer. I lost my grip on what I needed to be responsible for.

Once I realized that I had lost the support of many and was alone, I tried to make it on my own, but I went about it the wrong way. I wanted to maintain the luxury of being away from home, even though I knew that neither my parents nor I had the money to make that possible. I began taking out private loans and, in less than one year, I had accumulated a debt of more than $30,000. I had to withdraw from school.

I began to set goals for myself. I knew that I wanted to return to school. I worked at a warehouse and saved up enough to purchase a car and to cover the cost of tuition for a semester at Bloomsburg University. I decided on BU after bumping into a friend at a Walmart near my home. She told me about her experience at Bloomsburg University and how much she loved the school. It was not until then that I remembered BU was one of the schools I initially had an interest in applying to as a

high school senior. I had not applied at that time because I had already been accepted into the school that I thought was right for me.

Once Bloomsburg University was reintroduced to me, I took it as a sign. My desire and motivation to be in school resurfaced.

I did everything I felt I could to attain my goal, including phone calls to the school about the status of my application and scheduling an interview with one of the school’s representatives in the admissions office.

I knew that I didn’t have an outstanding academic record to present, but I had a GPA just high enough to be considered and a staggering ambition to make things right. I wanted to feel whole again and be the person that I knew I was or could potentially be. Bloomsburg University made that happen and welcomed me with open arms.

I acquired a work-study position with the Office of University Advancement. I learned that the position I held was more than I could have asked for. It pushed me to declare my major in communication studies and opened my mind to what has now become my passion — coordinating and managing events.

With a concentration in organizational communication, classes such as Communication Theory, Interpersonal Communication, and Intercultural Communication have served me well, creating a better understanding of how to create and participate in a functional and effective working environment. Having learned about various communication styles in genders, cultures, social vs. intimate relationships, and high-power vs. low-power relationships has broadened my knowledge of how humans interact with one another.

Through the learning experiences I have gained as a Husky, I have been able to elevate myself from a dark time. Some of my more recent accomplishments include achieving a grade point average that placed me on the Dean’s List, playing a major role in the successful execution of this year’s Scholarship Luncheon, and acquiring two scholarships for my upcoming senior year.

Bloomsburg University has promoted my growth, maturity, and independence. It has allowed me to be myself and to strive for a brighter future. I believe that Bloomsburg University has provided what has truly been and continues to be the ultimate college experience in bettering the person I was before into the person I am today.

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FEATURED ACADEMIC PROGRAM

Robert Riley, a health physics major, has opened new doors for future Bloomsburg University students by becoming the first BU recipient of the National Academy of Nuclear Training Scholarship. In summer 2014, Riley interned at Exelon Nuclear, one of the nation’s leading competitive power generators. During his internship, he was given the opportunity to travel across the state, working and gaining new skills at various nuclear power plants.

Health Physics

In High Demand While not the standard route for many students in the College of Science and Technology, BU’s Health Physics program sends its graduates into careers that incorporate many different branches of science. And as the only university in Pennsylvania to offer a baccalaureate degree in this field, employers not only value those graduates, but they also seek them out.

“People are always looking for our students,” said David Simpson, coordinator of the program and BU professor.

An active member of the Health Physics Society, Simpson attends annual meetings in the summer and fall and networks with professionals in the field. He said that it is not uncommon for him to be contacted several times a month to forward the names of students qualified for a position or internship.

“Health Physics” is the profession devoted to protecting people and their environment from potential radiation hazards, while making it possible to enjoy the benefits of the peaceful use of the atom. It is a profession that places graduates in a variety of settings.

At the Hospital: A medical health physicist works with radiation sources to safely diagnose and treat human diseases.

Major hospitals like Geisinger Medical Center recruit health physics students to ensure the safety of medical staff and their patients.

At the Nuclear Power Plant: Health physicists are critical for regulating how nuclear power is used, managing waste and educating others on its proper use. Nuclear plant operators like Exelon and PPL have a number of opportunities for scholarships, internships and employment at their plants.

In the Environment: Environmental health physicists protect the public and the environment from unnecessary exposure to radioactivity. Organizations like the Environmental Protection Agency depend on them to survey for potentially harmful radioactivity using various instruments and techniques.

In the Government: Government health physicists ensure that facilities using radiation sources or radioactive materials comply with federal regulations set by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission as well as state-level regulations. They also develop programs and review equipment to improve radiation protection efforts.

The success of Bloomsburg’s program is hard to deny after looking at the numbers. In university reports over the past six years, 100 percent of health physics graduates responding to surveys either found professional employment or were accepted into graduate school programs to further their education.

“It’s not easy to get into,” says Simpson. “The level of math and science is high, but there are excellent opportunities.”

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Board of Governors, State System of Higher Education Guido M. Pichini, Chairman Ronald G. Henry, Vice Chair Sen. Richard Alloway II Rep. Matthew E. Baker Marie Conley Jane M. Earll Christopher H. Franklin Todd Garrett Chelsea E. Getsy Rep. Michael K. Hanna

Jonathan B. Mack David M. Maser Joseph F. McGinn Robert S. Taylor Aaron A. Walton Governor Tom Wolf Sen. John T. Yudichak Frank T. Brogan, Chancellor, Ex Officio

Council of Trustees, Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania Patrick W. Wilson, Williamsport, Chair Judge Mary Jane Bowes, Pittsburgh, Vice Chair Nancy Vasta, Holland, Secretary Ramona H. Alley, Berwick Robert N. Dampman, Ph.D., Ringtown LaRoy G. Davis, Feasterville

COVER IMAGE: LAITR KEIOWS/WIKIPEDIA DESIGN AND PHOTOGRAPHS: ERIC FOSTER ADDITIONAL PHOTOGRAPHS: JAIME NORTH AND PROVIDED BY THE SUBJECT.

Joseph J. Mowad, M.D., Danville Shannon Phillips, Bloomsburg Charles E. Schlegel Jr., Sunbury Kenneth E. Stolarick, Pine Grove Secretary John E. Wetzel, Mechanicsburg Frank T. Brogan, Chancellor, Ex Officio

Bloomsburg University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, ancestry, disability, or veteran status in its programs and activities as required by Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972, the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, and other applicable statutes and University policies.

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