Geneva Magazine Summer 2020 by Geneva College

GENEVA M A G A Z I N E

SUMMER 2020

Always Prepared Geneva Serves through the COVID-19 Pandemic

FROM THE PRESIDENT C A L V I N

L .

T R O U P

We did not see COVID-19 coming. We hope for a

cure and pray for relief, yet we cannot see its end. We are living through a moment of adversity marked by uncertainties. As human beings, we do not know the end from the beginning, but the Lord does. COVID-19 is no surprise to God, and He has been preparing us for these very days. Now God is calling us to endure. We are persevering under a burden that’s causing turbulence and distress across many dimensions. Like our Lord Jesus Christ we are not exempted from pain, suffering, or troubles. But as our Good Shepherd, He provides a path and is walking with us through COVID-19 challenges. What does this mean for Geneva College today? How do we respond to what Geneva Engineers might refer to as a “100-year event?” We start by inquiring of the Lord. Under adversity we’re allowed to ask with the psalmist, “How long, Lord?”—we call upon the Lord in our distress and then give ear to His word. We listen because He is Faithful. We can cast all our anxieties upon Him because He cares for us; together we can trust him to take care of our college. Although COVID-19 has hit us forcefully, we continue to pray for wisdom and guidance to deal with our emerging needs. As we ask in faith, He will listen and respond to us. The ministry of education continues. We pray and work in expectation that the Lord has prepared our way in advance under the COVID-19 conditions we now face. We have developed a flexible “playbook” to maximize instruction in person to the greatest degree possible and limit risk to our students, faculty and staff, and community. Although educational conditions will not be particularly comfortable or convenient on campus this fall, we are grateful that we can learn well in adversity. As you may remember from your own college experience at Geneva, the best learning often emerges through difficulty and disruption. We’re standing to fight the good fight against an invisible enemy. In a long-winded crisis like COVID-19, to fight means to stand with purpose on the Rock of refuge in whom we can weather the storm. Therefore, in all our walking, working and waiting, we seek to

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stand by grace alone, in Christ alone, through faith alone, for the glory of God alone. And we do so relying on the Scripture alone as our final decisive authority for all things concerning truth, faith and life. What makes Geneva College worth fighting for today? Such moments prove the value of a Geneva education, through which God has been transforming the lives of Geneva people over many generations. We remember that God is faithful. We’re grateful that He has given us a rich heritage, and we wait expectantly for Him to deliver us as we continue the ministry of education with this generation of Geneva students pro Christo et patria.

GENEVA M A G A Z I N E

SUMMER 2020

Geneva Magazine is published two times per year for Geneva College alumni, donors, students and parents. It showcases the college and its constituents as they strive to fulfill the college’s mission. Opinions expressed in Geneva Magazine are those of its contributors and do not necessarily represent the opinions of the editorial review board or the official position of the college. EDITOR DAN DIETER DESIGNER BEN LICHIUS EDITORIAL REVIEW BOARD MARVIN DEWEY, EDD CHERYL JOHNSTON ANTHONY TURNER, EDD KELLY SANZARI, MA RICHARD TALBERT, PHD CALVIN L. TROUP ’83, PHD VAN ZANIC ’93 JAMIE SWANK ’01, JD, MAHE ’03 CONTRIBUTING WRITERS DANI (FITZGERALD ’16) BROWN CALEB MCCRACKEN ’16 JUDITH (CAMPBELL ’14) DINSMORE ABBY FORTON ’22 MADISON SMITH ’22 PHOTOGRAPHERS CHRISTY MARTIN ’16 ABIGAIL BANKES ’19 OLIVIA FORTON ’19

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From the President Geneva Faces a Virus and Other Disruptions A Timeline of COVID-19 Repsonse at Geneva College Agility Amid Challenges

HISTORICAL RESOURCES COURTESY OF GENEVA COLLEGE ARCHIVES AND ARCHIVAL LIBRARIAN KAE KIRKWOOD ‘83

Faithful Service in Moments of Change

When Sports Went Silent

Equipped to Serve in Medicine

Athletic News

Equipped to Serve in Community

In Memoriam

Campus News

Class Notes

On the Cover (front to back, left to right): Scott Barnes , MS ‘20, Van Zanic ‘92, Cheryl Johnston, Jamie Swank ‘01, MAHE ’03, JD, Kelsey Murphy, MAHE ‘16, Melinda Stephens ‘93, PhD, Dennis Damazo ‘20, Tim Baird ‘00, Jeff Cole, PhD, Bob Skoff, Dan Kiger, Beth Carlson, MPAS, PA-C

Please send feedback to editor@geneva.edu or Geneva Magazine, Geneva College, 3200 College Ave., Beaver Falls, PA 15010.

Geneva Faces a Virus and Other Disruptions By Dani (Fitzgerald ‘14) Brown

While the current COVID-19 pandemic feels

daunting and unlike anything our nation has previously seen, our not-so distant past reveals several major disruptions to Geneva College, including an even deadlier pandemic: the Spanish Influenza of 1918. Over one hundred years ago, the world was fighting a virus that infected about 500 million people — approximately one-third of the world’s population. The 1918 flu was notorious for its high mortality rate in healthy people, particularly those between the ages of 20 to 40. Geneva College, like many institutions, felt the weight of the infection. That academic year of 1918-1919, Geneva saw its largest enrollment to date, with 542 students. The

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Cabinet student newspaper was not published that year, and the college was surprised in September to be hosting 95 members of the Student Army Training Corps, which set up barracks on the third floor of Old Main in the literary society rooms, causing the societies to cease operations for a time. The college halted classes for two weeks on October 11, 1918, after 50 Geneva students suffered from the virus. Of those students, all recovered except one. Samuel A. Steele, then 25, was the captain of Geneva’s football team. He became sick with the flu and eventually died from pneumonia following that infection. Steele was championed as “not only a genial companion, but a sterling Christian,” according to The Christian Nation’s write up. Steele’s parents were also

ill with the influenza at the time of his death. His funeral was similar to funerals during the current COVID-19 pandemic, with limited attendees due to the highly contagious nature of the flu. The football team was distraught over the death of their teammate who had died at home. Six of the players were pallbearers who carried Steele to his resting place, a quiet cemetery in New Alexandria, PA. The senior class of 1919 recounted Steele as a “good comrade with his jolly smile and helpful ways… by his death not only did the class lose a valued member, but the whole school lost a leader and friend.” Geneva reopened classes at the end of October, and in November, won a football game against Westminster College, which was the first football game on campus following the pandemic. The stadium was packed with students, displaying the college’s comradery and commitment to one another. The armistice ending World War I was signed on November 11. Less than a month later, at the beginning of December, Geneva alumnus J. French Carithers, of the Class of 1912, died from pneumonia following an infection with the influenza. Carithers was attending the Reformed Presbyterian Seminary in Pittsburgh at the time. He previously served as a missionary and teacher in Turkey. On his deathbed, Carithers sang well-known Psalm 23 with his mother, which begins, “The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.” After his death, a fund was created by the Synod of the Reformed Presbyterian Church to perpetuate Carithers’ missionary work. The Synod called Carithers, “a faithful friend, a helpful companion; a real Covenanter, and although dead, the influence of his life still lives.” While the origin of the Spanish Influenza of 1918 is still unconfirmed, the virus spread worldwide between 1918 and 1919, and was first identified in military personnel in spring 1918, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Similar to the current COVID-19 pandemic, no vaccine was available to protect against the infection. Unfortunately, no antibiotics were available then to treat secondary bacterial infections. Treatment and prevention for the influenza looked nearly identical to that of COVID-19 treatment and prevention: isolation,

quarantine, good personal hygiene, use of disinfectants and limiting public gatherings. During the Spanish Flu, Geneva administration, faculty and staff worked together to provide a safe environment for students despite the pandemic at hand. Today, the college is working together again. Geneva canceled in-person classes when COVID-19 hit the country and has continued efforts to make learning accessible to all students, while keeping health at the forefront. A few other crises caused disruption on the campus of Geneva College in the years since the Spanish Flu of 1918. • As America prepared for World War II, on January 12, 1942, the Geneva College faculty voted for an accelerated schedule with no spring vacation and no final exams. Commencement was moved to May 19. A new full semester began on May 26 and ran until September with the goal of quickly providing technically trained men for leadership in the war cause. • In the spring of 1943, McKee Hall was partially quarantined due to a case of spiral meningitis, and two brothers in Patterson Lodge contracted measles, forcing the men to move into private homes. In the fall of that year, football was suspended and did not resume until after the war in 1946. • Unusually cold winter weather and a natural gas shortage in January 1977 prompted the college to heed the Columbia Gas Company’s request to restrict operations. Most of the Student Center, Metheny Fieldhouse, McCartney Library, Johnston Gym, McKnight Hall, Troeter House, George Manor and Language Hall were closed. Classes scheduled for those buildings met in the dining hall. Gym classes were cancelled. Indoor temperatures were kept lower than normal even after a January 20 permission to resume operation. As gas shortages persisted and to avoid penalties as much as $100,000 for overuse, President Clarke declared the campus would be closed for an extended break from February 4 through February 28, and commencement was delayed one week. The basketball seasons for men and women continued through the break with student-athletes living off campus and providing their own meals. Forty-three years later, a new disruption arrived. G SUMMER 2020

A TIMELINE of

COVID-19 RESPONSE AT

GENEVA COLLEGE By Caleb McCracken ‘16

“Come now, you who say, ‘Today or tomorrow we will go into such and such a town and spend a year there and trade and make a proﬁt’ — yet you do not know what tomorrow will bring. What is your life? For you are a mist that appears for a little time and then vanishes. Instead you ought to say, ‘If the Lord wills, we will live and do this or that.’” – JAMES 4:13-15 JANUARY 21, 2020: Geneva students begin second

FEBRUARY 14, 2020: Coronavirus spreads and most

week of the spring semester. First U.S. coronavirus patient diagnosed in Washington state.

infected persons linked to travel to Wuhan, China. Geneva College suspends all college-related travel to China in accordance with the State Department China Travel Advisory.

JANUARY 29, 2020: World Health Organization declares a

global health emergency. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) records first person-to-person spread of the virus. All recorded cases in Washington state.

IN FEBRUARY 2020: Geneva College leadership

encourages students, faculty and staff to exercise

GENEVA GOES

ON THE GRID Even though the campus was forced to close after spring break, a great number of activities and events were still able to happen thanks to the blessings of technology and the willingness of our students, faculty and staff to take the Geneva experience “on the grid!” Here are just a few highlights.

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Work From Home Begins

precautionary health measures such as 20-second handwashing and use of hand sanitizer. Campus Emergency Response Team (CERT) begins to meet regularly about COVID-19.

MARCH 6, 2020: Spring break begins. CERT informs

MARCH 4, 2020: At the last chapel before spring break,

MARCH 11, 2020: President

Professor of Biblical Studies and Philosophy, Dr. Bob Frazier speaks on “The Promise of Rest.”

Calvin L. Troup sends message to all faculty, staff and students.

Geneva’s Director of Health Services and Physician Assistant, Beth Carlson, MPAS, PA-C, spoke to the campus about handwashing and social distancing. In a slip of the tongue, she tells students to avoid “six-yearolds,” then corrects herself, “avoid sick people, and stay six feet apart.”

Beth Carlson, MPAS, PA-C

“I made the ‘now infamous’ social distancing faux pas on March 4, trying to make sure everyone was healthy over spring break,” she says. “At that point, I didn’t see anything like this coming. All the cases were still only in Washington state. “I left for my spring break trip, and on March 6 I landed in the Tampa airport. I still remember: At 8:30 a.m. on March 6, I got an alert from the CDC that the ﬁrst case was conﬁrmed in Pennsylvania, and I said, ‘This is something big. This is going to affect us.’”

students about staying healthy and instructs them not to return to campus if they or someone they lived with was sick.

Calvin L. Troup ‘83, PhD, President

“Due to the spread of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) and the recommendations of medical, governmental, and educational ofﬁcials, Geneva College is extending spring break and transitioning from face-to-face to online instruction.”

Beth Carlson, MPAS, PA-C

“We were on the cutting edge of making that decision for our area, but we were on break so we were able to do that. With 20 years as a healthcare worker, I never thought that I would see a pandemic. We had to make those decisions quickly to put the health of our students, faculty and staff ﬁrst and foremost.”

MARCH 12, 2020: Pennsylvania Governor Tom Wolf

closes all schools and adult day centers, requesting that

Messages to Students from Staff & Faculty

Virtual 5K Virtual Chapel (3X per week!)

SUMMER 2020

non-essential businesses close and county residents limit travel. NCAA cancels all spring athletic championships. Melinda Stephens ’93, PhD, Provost

“The initial decision to move classes online for a two-week period was made quickly as it coincided with the ending of spring break and seemed prudent given the rapidly evolving situation. Before we could even launch that initial period, Governor Wolf announced the physical closure of all colleges and universities, so the decision was no longer ours to make.”

MARCH 20, 2020: President Troup postpones 2020

Commencement, which was scheduled for early May. He indicates that the college is committed to holding a ceremony for the Class of 2020 in person as soon as safely possible. MARCH 21, 2020: The college announces

reimbursement of $1.5 million to students for room and board expenses. Calvin L. Troup ‘83, PhD, President (to students)

“We trust that the Lord will sustain our community, both our student body and those serving at the College, through this trying time in the life of our community, our country, and the world.”

MARCH 25, 2020: Deadline for students to leave MARCH 16, 2020: Pennsylvania directs colleges and

universities to eliminate all non-essential, in-person activities. Classes would be delivered online for the remainder of the semester. All upcoming on-campus activities and events are suspended until further notice.

the residence halls, except for several international students with special accommodations through the Crossroads office. MARCH 26, 2020: Geneva

holds first of dozens of virtual recruiting events, including virtual athletic information

Calvin L. Troup ‘83, PhD, President (to students)

“As we have discussed, we are living through a dynamic, unprecedented situation. We are putting our mission to work, pro Christo et patria, in the face of real difﬁculties. Loving our neighbors—locally and at a distance—makes health and safety concerns primary today. We are keenly aware and deeply grateful for the sacriﬁces you are making this spring semester to stem the tide of the coronavirus (COVID-19).”

Online Counseling & Support 7

GENEVA G ENEVA MAGAZINE MAG GAZINE

JAMIE SWANK ‘01, JD, MAHE ‘03, Dean of Student Development

“The weeks of getting students transitioned home and afterwards were exceptionally long and full of unglamorous work. Our community, faculty and staff put their whole selves into trying to minimize the impact. Even more of a blessing was the kindness, adaptability and grace shown by our students and families.”

CSE events like Cooking LIVE! Senior Launch 2020

sessions. Eventually, over 1,000 students and studentathletes will attend. MARCH 28, 2020: Governor Wolf extends a stay-

at-home order to Beaver County. All non-essential employees must transition to work off campus. Information Technology Services (ITS) scrambles to set up an infrastructure for remote work. Campus is officially closed.

Scott Barnes MS ‘20, Vice President, Information Technology Services

“IT was able to respond rapidly to the COVID-19 pandemic, moving from on-campus instruction to Emergency Remote Teaching and relocating all campus operations to virtual work, including remote support. Keeping the college running on technology required fast decisions and action on software licensing, networking, hardware, and security to best serve students, faculty and staff needs.”

IN APRIL/MAY 2020: The

Center for Student Engagement connects with students remotely through virtual

Marv Dewey, EdD, Vice President of Institutional Advancement

“The COVID-19 Project Fund was created to respond to this unprecedented time, providing assistance in speciﬁc areas associated with relief scholarships for students whose families lost jobs, delivering online instruction, the preservation of core functions of college personnel to the greatest extent practical, the revenue losses from lower tuition revenue and the loss of room and board.”

“Chapel On the Grid,” a virtual chapel series, over Facebook Live. All sessions are available to watch online at Geneva.edu/chapel.

game nights and a submission-based, live-streamed version of Geneva’s popular “My Generation Night.” Alumni Relations hosts online events, such as a Virtual Alumni and Student Social Hour for connecting current students with alumni. The Office of Marketing Services and Public Relations begins publishing regular “Students FYI,” “Parents FYI” and “Alumni FYI” email newsletters to update the community.

APRIL 3, 2020: PAC cancels spring athletic season.

MAY 8, 2020: Dr. Troup hosts a prayer time with

MARCH 30, 2020: Geneva streams first edition of

APRIL 17, 2020: Governor Wolf outlines standards for

reopening counties. Geneva leadership expresses their intent to start school on campus in the fall. IN APRIL 2020: Geneva establishes the COVID-19

Project Fund to respond to needs brought on by the pandemic.

faculty and staff for the graduates over Zoom Video Conference, in lieu of Baccalaureate. MAY 9, 2020: On what would have been

Commencement day, every graduate receives a goodie box from Student Development and Alumni Relations filled with a mortar board, a Geneva alumni t-shirt

Virtual MGN Virtual MGN

SUMMER SUMME ER 2020 20 020

JAMIE SWANK ‘01, JD, MAHE ‘03, Dean of Student Development

“Many students, particularly our seniors, suffered great disappointment at the early end to their on-campus experience in addition to the inconvenience of a ‘new normal.’ Yet, they showed incredible character and selﬂessness throughout the entire experience. I couldn’t be more proud of our community in the way they responded to this crisis.” and a confetti popper. Faculty and staff post a video online articulating hopes and prayers for the brandnew alumni. Graduates are encouraged to send photos of themselves on their big day - the collection can be viewed at Geneva.edu/commencement/classof2020photos. MAY 22, 2020: Beaver County moves from the Red

to the Yellow phase of re-opening, meaning some employees can begin to return to work on campus with the added safety measures of social distancing, masks and daily COVID-19 screenings.

Melinda Stephens’93, PhD, Provost

“I commend the faculty and students for their hard work and perseverance to complete the semester under extremely difﬁcult conditions. We made it through the semester with a lot of prayer and grace.”

JUNE 10, 2020: Dr. Troup announces that a plan to re-

open the campus with a slightly altered fall semester schedule is strongly affirmed by the Policy Group after the first meeting of a new COVID-19 Advisory Council of health and community experts. JUNE 12, 2020: Beaver County moves to the Green

phase of re-opening, signifying that the campus can return to in-person instruction on campus under specific guidelines. JULY 20, 2020: In-person commencement scheduled

for September 4 and 5 is converted to a virtual ceremony as the challenges of COVID-19 persist. JULY 23, 2020: PAC suspends fall athletics and pushes

many fall sports to the spring. G

Annie Dawson ‘20

“I am very thankful that Geneva continued to hold Chapel online. What’s more, I am impressed that rather than cutting back in this time of uncertainty, Geneva recognized our needs and expanded their ministry by adding more and varied messages of encouragement throughout each week.”

Senior Send-off

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Grad Pics!

Video Farewell to Seniors

THE

CAMPUS EMERGENCY RESPONSE TEAM

The team consists of (by row front to back, left to right):

Beth Carlson, MPAS, PA-C, Director of Health Services

Scott Barnes, MS ’20, VP Information and Technology, Chair Van Zanic ’92, Director of Athletics Cheryl Johnston, Director of Marketing Services and Public Relations Jamie Swank ’01, MAHE ’03, JD, Dean of Student Development Kelsey Murphy, MAHE ’16, Director of Residence Life Melinda Stephens ’93, PhD, Provost, Chemistry Professor Dennis Damazo ’20, Director of Security Tim Baird ’00, VP Business and Finance Jeff Cole, PhD, Director of Crossroads, History Professor Bob Skoff, Director of Physical Plant Dan Kiger, Assistant Director of Physical Plant

Not pictured Sue Thompson, Director of Human Resources Amy Solman, Director of Health & Counseling Services Sarah Murison*, International Student Advisor *Ad-hoc member

COVID-19 ADVISORY COUNCIL The Geneva College Board of Trustees established a COVID-19 Advisory Council to interact with the Policy Group and CERT concerning the 2020-2021 school year.

Visit Geneva.edu/coronavirus to learn more and see who’s on the council.

The CARES Act The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act (H.R. 748) makes a new federal tax deduction available – and not just for 2020 – for up to $300 in annual charitable contributions. Available only to tax filers who do not itemize deductions, this deduction is calculated by subtracting the donation amount from gross income. The gift must go to a qualified charity not to a donor-advised fund. Please consult your tax advisor for information specific to your situation. Geneva Gives CARES Act Grants to Students Because of the CARES Act in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Geneva qualified for $673,627 in direct passthrough Emergency Financial Aid Grants to Students from the U.S. Department of Education in April 2020. As of mid-June, the college had distributed nearly 98% of available funds to more than 980 of the over 1,000 students eligible for grants.

SUMMER 2020

THE GENEVA COVID-19 RESPONSE

Students

Agility Amid Challenges By Abby Forton ‘22 Angelia Duncan ‘22

Most of the information we receive about the

coronavirus is from a 30,000-foot view. The number of cases and fatalities are reported daily, along with how COVID-19 is spreading. Often, pundits and journalists hypothesize about what effect these numbers will have on the healthcare system, the economy or the political scene. Realistically, however, COVID-19 is a disease that happens one patient, one life at a time. And the real connections to be made are from the bottom up — how it makes an impact on the lives of the healthy as well as the sick.

quarantine. Since then, life has changed drastically. Day-to-day living went from commuting to college, having a schedule and a structured lifestyle, to practically having no schedule at all.”

“

The change to Geneva College students’ lives came as a shock, and the move from in-person classes to online was a difficult adjustment that everyone had to make. Not only was learning altered considerably within a month, living situations were shuffled — many students going from being semi-independent, on-campus students to living back home with parents, often with strict government-imposed limits on leaving their homes. The speed of the upheaval exacerbated its impact. Johnpaul Petruzzelli, freshman Nursing major from Mars, PA, states, “Before spring break, I said to my friend, ‘See you in two weeks.’ Little did I know that I should have rephrased it as, ‘See you next semester,’ because my spring break would turn into an ongoing

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Before spring break, I said to my friend, ‘See you in two weeks.’ Little did I know that I should have rephrased it as, ‘See you next semester.’ ”

First-year Accounting major from Bryan, TX, Andrew Rockhill says, “On Monday [after spring break], I had to buy a bus ticket to get back to Geneva the next day, and I had to buy a plane ticket to go home to Texas on Thursday. I came home to, what I would quickly find to be, a very inconsistent and messed up schedule for schoolwork.” With little time to do anything but react to the crisis

day by day, students adjusted to a new way of life. For some who were coming off spring break travel, the shift was exceptionally jarring.

Sadly, I ended up losing my job and I didn’t qualify for any sort of unemployment or stimulus check, which was actually really hard on me. However, my parents are still working so I am very grateful.”

Education student Morgan Along with difficulties at home Marquez from Marion Center, and at work, students experienced PA, says, “I was on a mission some technological barriers. trip with my church in Whether there were issues with Guadalajara, Mexico, when the the internet connection, personal news broke about the virus. It incompatibility with the learning was strange coming back into platforms or lack of technological a society that we were familiar know-how, the transition to online with after spending a week in classes was difficult. a totally different culture that we had immersed ourselves in. Charece Lyons, 2020 graduate Johnpaul Petruzzelli ‘23 We had culture shock on the with an Associate in Leadership trip because we weren’t used degree, found technology a hinderance to her to Mexican culture. Likewise, coming back felt like academic performance. She says, “This pandemic culture shock because we were not prepared for the caused problems for me with school because I’m panic that was going on at home, because it was not not internet savvy. It takes longer for me to log happening in Mexico at the time.” on to the computer than other students. Other times, the internet can be slow, or it can shut down Unfortunately, the online transition wasn’t the only unexpectedly, and I’m not sure what to do to restore change students had to experience. Upon arriving it. I want to be able to get into the classroom once home, many experienced frustration in adapting to again where I can gather more information from my hard financial circumstances, difficult family situations, professors who I can see face to face.” inconsistent school and work schedules, stress on relationships and missed life moments. Nursing major Lydia Beare of Mansfield, OH, sums up her frustration saying, “Here is the thing this virus has done. It has single handedly put every single aspect of our outside lives — our school, our friends, our families, our jobs, everything — into one box. It’s taken that box, picked it up, taken it over to the window, thrown it out the window and then proceeded to shut the window in our faces.” Finances are also on the minds of students. New Castle, PA’s Brooke Heaberlin, a freshman Business Law major, says, “Both of my parents were able to keep their jobs.

Although this online transition was challenging for professors and students alike, not all that students experienced was negative. In fact, students found that despite a few obstacles, there was a lot of good that came out of transitioning online and being home with loved ones. Angelia Duncan, a sophomore Education student, described quarantine as a good time to connect with family in a way she hadn’t experienced Charece Lyons ‘20 in a while, “Because of the lockdown, my family and I have had more time to cook and eat together, to laugh and watch movies, to see each other’s interests and things that are going on in our lives. We can see what our family members do with their work and understand their lives better, and it’s

SUMMER 2020

giving us greater and stronger relationships. We should be valuing and spending time with each other. God’s calling us to trust Him. To just slow down and rest, to ‘lie down in green pastures’ as it says in Psalm 23:2. I think we all should be answering that call to rest, not letting go of this time even after life goes back to normal. This should be our new normal. We should focus, not on the negatives of this lockdown, but on the rest and enriching time that we have been blessed to experience together.”

“

on us, mentally. “I miss my grandma and grandpa, my aunts and uncles and cousins, and I miss my friends. But it’s been easy to stay in contact via FaceTime, Skype, text, email — you name it and we’ve done it.”

We need to use this situation to grow closer to God.”

Communication capabilities have also made this pandemic a time to appreciate new technology for the connections it continues to enable. Marquez says, “We can still connect with each other without actually being together. We can talk to each other. We have phone calls, FaceTime chats. We have emails and Zoom chats and all of this technology that allows us to communicate with one another. It is a fantastic way of moving forward in our lives, while also being responsible in stopping the virus from spreading by limiting contact.” Heaberlin says, “We’ve really tried our best to focus on the positives even though this has been very hard

September 4 & 5, 2020

Amanda Tedrow, Nursing student from New Brighton, PA, worries about juggling the competing demands on her time and fears for the safety of others. “I’m struggling to balance time between schoolwork, making time for God and seeing my family. I work at an assisted living facility and I always fear about bringing the virus to any of the residents or bringing it home to my family. I also miss seeing my friends and professors from class.” Petruzzelli concludes, “We need to use this pandemic as an opportunity to learn and grow as a community, while social distancing, of course. But most importantly, we need to use this situation to grow closer to God, so that we can keep the hope to return to the life that we miss so much.” Beneath the statistics, these real students and their families are trusting God day by day. G

October 7 − 10, 2020 GENEVA

CLASS OF

*For more events and information, visit:

Geneva.edu/commencement 13

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COLLEGE

H O MECO MIN G

*For more events and information, visit:

Geneva.edu/homecoming

COVID-19 PROJECT FUND

Trustees Approve $1M COVID-19 Project Covid-19 has turned education upside down. Every level of education is wrestling with continuing their mission while assuring the safety of their students and faculty. The ﬁnancial impact is profound, and Geneva is no exception. THE COVID-19 FUND PROVIDES: Relief grants for 90 students who have experienced extraordinary need due to pandemicrelated job loss (either their own or their parents’). Additional personnel to support students in health services, athletic training, housekeeping and IT services. Instructional technology upgrades for faculty (hardware and software), including hybrid classrooms, laptop upgrades for hybrid and remote instruction, and expanded bandwidth for simultaneous in-person and remote courses. Instructional technology support for students including needs for STEM-level computing capacity in hybrid/remote contexts and educational laptops for students in COVID-19 related economic distress. Modiﬁcations in campus facilities to allow for social distancing and protection, including plexiglass panels, dividers, draperies, stanchions as barriers, etc. You can look forward to a special appeal that will invite you to participate in supporting the College during this unprecedented, 100-year event. More to follow. Look for it in your mailbox.

Visit: Geneva.edu/give Direct questions to Dr. Marvin Dewey, Vice President of Institutional Advancement at 724.841.5063 or advancement@geneva.edu.

Geneva.edu/give

GENEVA COLLEGE 3200 College Avenue Beaver Falls, PA 15010

THE GENEVA COVID-19 RESPONSE

Faculty

Faithful Service in Moments of Change By Madison Smith ‘22

“Praise the Lord, Praise the Lord, all you nations; extol him, extol him! all you peoples. For great is his love toward us, and the faithfulness of the Lord endures forever.” Psalm 117B

salm 117B is an anthem the Geneva College community sings at the end of each chapel service, a treasured time on campus when all have the opportunity to praise God together and thank Him for faithful love that perseveres through uncertainty and trials of many kinds. While the seraphic sound of hundreds of voices praising God a capella in Metheny Fieldhouse was absent for the last few months of the spring semester due to COVID-19, the sounds of faculty conducting courses online with keyboards clattering, lectures on Microsoft Teams and discussions through Zoom Video Conference, together representing works of faithful service, may have sounded just as beautiful to God’s ears. 15

GENEVA MAGAZINE

The shift to online learning caused by the pandemic was a surprise to everyone, along with the expectations to rapidly acclimatize to new formats of teaching and learning. Some faculty members and instructors had online teaching experience, an advantage of Geneva’s fully online Adult Degree Program and Graduate Programs with classroom, online and hybrid delivery. Other instructors had to both adapt their courses to remote instruction and learn brand new technology. These challenges, layered on top of dealing with the risk of pandemic and stay-at-home orders, drew a variety of responses from faculty. Dr. David Shaw ‘83 of the Engineering Department says, “After some brief training classes, I quickly committed to synchronous online course delivery, since that is what our students ‘signed up’ for in the first place. It was exhilarating – basically a continuous adrenaline rush as each day brought new changes and challenges.” Dr. Richard Noble ‘89, BPS Program Coordinator at Geneva College Pittsburgh Campus (Center for Urban and Biblical Ministry) and Communication Instructor,

cites the speed required to switch from in-person classes to online learning, “The most challenging aspect for me was the mad scramble to pull together material and adapt assignments for about a half semester’s worth of work in a very quick amount of time and get it online in a way that made sense to the students.” Also noting the speed to transition was professor of English and Humanities, Dr. Lynda Szabo ‘85, who says, “The biggest challenge was having to make the transition in about two days. Technology wasn’t always working properly in the first weeks of the transition, especially for students trying to use the online meeting platforms. Some students never made it to class via video feed. I was, however, able to conduct some good online discussions for my classes using the eLearning meeting site.”

Dr. David Shaw ‘83

Dr. Richard Noble ‘89

“Working remotely has its challenges,” says Dr. Matt Fuss ’94, MBA ‘04, Associate Professor in Geneva’s Tannehill Department of Business, Accounting, and Sport Management, “especially considering I have a house containing another college professor and two college students. Finding quiet and solitude is difficult.” For Dr. Joel Ward, Assistant Professor of Communication, too much seclusion was an issue. He says, “The transition had benefits but generally the challenges were mental. Working in isolation can be difficult. I imagine this is partly what people feel when they are in jail. The long hours alone, the only way to talk to people is over a phone, and the monotony can really tug at the sense of purpose required for diligent and thoughtful work.”

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T he transition had benefits but generally the challenges were mental. Working in isolation can be difficult.”

Dr. Lynda Szabo ‘85

Dr. Matt Fuss ’94, MBA ‘04

A common sentiment felt by many faculty members was a sadness at the loss of what Dr. Calvin L. Troup refers to as “life-on-life instruction.” The mission of the college is best met when experienced and active Christian faculty take an interest in the intellectual and spiritual maturity of their charges, supported by a community in fellowship. What comes naturally in the physical classroom setting and traditional in-person interaction at Geneva is more challenging when substituted by electronic-only interactions. SUMMER 2020

Assistant Professor of Biology Marjory Tobias ‘94 comments, “I realized how much I appreciate seeing my students in person, being able to watch their interactions with each other, being able to see whether or not they smile when I try to make a joke, and being able to laugh with them. That interaction is absent online when we cannot see each other’s faces and hear each other’s voices at all times.”

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Others note that students became more withdrawn in response to the transition. Dr. Fuss explains, “I was surprised at how students seemed to deprioritize classwork in the online environment. There were numerous instances where students missed assignments and even exams with no excuse other than poor time management or due to jobs. They seemed to forget they were still full-time students and not on an extended break.”

Students were absolutely gracious and patient during the transition. They expressed their thanks for being able to meet online but also that they missed face-toface instruction.”

Some professors identified moments in which students demonstrated resilience through obstacles faced in the electronic classroom. Dr. Shaw says, “Students were creative and played with the technology.” He recounts that there were aspects of the online platform that he hadn’t at first mastered, but his students figured out how to use certain tools and taught their professor. And Dr. Szabo praises students, noting, “Students were absolutely gracious and patient during the transition. They expressed their thanks for being able to meet online but also that they missed face-to-face instruction.”

Faculty members noticed changes in their students, as well. Chemistry Professor and Chair of the Chemistry, Math, and Physics Department, Dr. John Stahl ‘79, reveals, “It took me a while to realize the home environment challenges of some students since they did not readily open up about this. Also, some of them became depressed over the isolation from college friends, and I think they failed to realize it themselves at first.”

GENEVA MAGAZINE

Dr. Ward agrees, “One surprise is how difficult the transition was for our more diligent students. Many of them struggled to perform well in the situation.”

The most common realization from professors was the increased amount of work that online teaching required of them. Faculty were recording lectures, creating new assignments, adjusting field trips and labs to fit the online format and more, all while keeping up with grading assignments and giving students feedback. Professor Tobias notes, “Almost every aspect of teaching online was more time consuming than I could have imagined.” Spending hours a day behind the computer screen in one place can take a toll on anyone. Dr. Ward says, “I sat in the same room all day. Prior to that I was up from my desk all day long as I walked to different classrooms and met with colleagues and students.

After transitioning to remote learning, I set up an office in the nursery of our new baby, Mary Jean, who was born one week before the lockdown. I talked on the phone a lot and sent a lot more emails. All conversations were had at a distance.”

Dr. Joel Ward

Amid the rapid transition, the technological learning curves, the yearning to be with students again, small victories emerged. “In a few cases,” Dr. Stahl says, “I think I had more interaction with students over course materials than in the classroom, particularly with those who reached out to me.” Dr. Shaw remembers, “At the end of our very first synchronous online lecture, one student commented in the chat window ‘This was as good as a regular class.’ I also invited a friend, who is a current 5th grade teacher, to visit one of my online classes to help with her transition. The students greeted her warmly and she says it was quite useful. She also called me a rock star, which is probably an overstatement.” Professor Tobias says, “I succeeded in converting three field trips into online learning activities that taught the same content, using videos and photos to show students some of the things they would have normally seen in person. I now have some online activities that I can use as make-up assignments in the future.”

Marjory Tobias ‘94

Dr. John Stahl ‘79

“The fact that my students adapted as well as they did and showed a level of proficient to excellent understanding of course material by the end of the semester, in spite of the circumstances, was the real victory,” Dr. Noble concludes. While this trying time presented a diversity of problems and obstacles, it also provided the opportunity to demonstrate Christ’s patient love to one another in our unique community, wonderfully exemplified by the faculty. Students were able to lean on their professors for a deeper type of support that is a hallmark of Geneva College. G

SUMMER 2020

THE GENEVA COVID-19 RESPONSE

Alumni

Equipped to Serve in Medicine By Judith (Campbell ‘14) Dinsmore

Dr. Athena Kantartzis Petrides ’07 didn’t talk

The most difficult aspect of the crisis has been much to her family during the first two weeks of the balancing the important demands of caring for her COVID-19 outbreak in March. family. “I felt and still feel an immense sense of responsibility with every decision I make, so it has As Medical Director of Pathology Informatics at been difficult to find pockets of time Brigham and Women’s Hospital throughout the day when I can get in Boston, Petrides and her team out of that headspace and focus on were tasked with supporting the my children. We are still taking each development of new methodologies day as it comes,” she concludes. of testing for the novel coronavirus, working with other laboratories God is in Control to move as many tests through as Even as Petrides worked long hours possible. to contribute to the fight against “It has been very challenging,” COVID-19, she was also keenly Petrides says. Her team was also aware of human limits. “Even though involved in setting up multiple policy makers, hospital systems and collection sites in the Greater Boston scientists around the world have area and supporting lab testing for been doing their best to deal with the Boston Hope, a temporary 1,000pandemic, it is very clear that they are bed hospital. “Thankfully, my work Dr. Athena Kantartzis Petrides ’07 not in control. God is in control.” hours are now less than what they used to be,” she continues. But the responsibilities Jim Bellante ’91 agrees. A nurse working in Pittsburgh are still intense. “We are now working on reimagining both on the medical oncology floor of UPMC Shadyside our laboratory workflows and patient-facing services hospital on the weekends and for Bridges Hospice to ensure that we offer a safe and highly productive during the week, former Golden Tornadoes football environment for our staff and patients.” star Bellante says the pandemic has not changed his

GENEVA MAGAZINE

“

Even though policy makers, hospital systems and scientists around the world have been doing their best to deal with the pandemic, it is very clear that they are not in control. God is in control.”

work beyond added cautionary measures. The exception was one visit in early March. This particular patient was being tested for COVID-19, but the results hadn’t come in yet. “I had to go see the patient,” Bellante says. “That day I had a lot of fear.”

But in the car on the way there, a song came on - “God Is in Control.” “The last line of that song is ‘all is well with my soul.’ It just couldn’t have been more perfect timing,” Bellante says. “I went into that visit totally fearless and just reassured.” And when the test results came back for the patient, they were negative. Knowing What to Believe In the end, the biggest challenge COVID-19 posed for Bellante was one most US residents can relate to: knowing “what to believe and what not to believe,” he says. That’s a challenge individuals face as well as institutions like Geneva College. Confronted with uncertainty last spring, Geneva brought together a COVID-19 Advisory Council, a group of seven medical experts and regional leaders, who are meeting at pivot points as the college plans for the upcoming academic year.

backgrounds, provides information that could be helpful in informing the Policy Group as they make decisions. The college’s Policy Group then takes that information and applies it to specific challenges Geneva may encounter.”

Supplying information is not easy. The greatest difficulty to responding to COVID is that no one knows the natural history of this virus yet, McDonald explains. And yet, from her expertise, she is confident that Geneva is preparing well. “They have done a phenomenal job of preparing for students to return,” she says. The campus’ small size is a “huge benefit” because it will be less challenging to keep students safe by implementing social distancing measures as well as tracking new cases that may potentially arise. Prevention, quickly identifying cases and exposures, and containing further spread is the general template for reducing infections, and Geneva is prepared at every level.” “Parents and students should feel safe resuming classes because I truly believe in my heart that Geneva is doing everything it can to keep students, faculty and the surrounding community safe,” McDonald says. “Will there be cases? It’s likely. Will an outbreak get out of control and cripple the campus? Based on the procedures that Geneva is working on, no, I do not think that scenario is likely.”

“Our role is not to make decisions or even to directly advise,” explains Although McDonald studied Pamela (McCracken ’10) McDonald, infectious diseases, she never wanted a member of the council that also to research a pandemic like this. It is Pamela (McCracken ’10) McDonald includes Athena Petrides. McDonald, surreal, she says, to have your field who after graduating from Geneva in Biology received be needed so desperately for the first time in decades. a master’s degree in public health from Johns Hopkins “I am thankful that God led me down this path so that I Medical Institute with a concentration in infectious can help others and try to protect others,” she reflects. diseases, continues, “The council, all coming from “But I hope I don’t have to apply it too many more different medical and public health professional times in my life!” G

SUMMER 2020

Alumni

THE GENEVA COVID-19 RESPONSE

something she truly felt called to, especially regarding hospitality and showing the love of Christ through their business. The coffee shop — often called “BFCAT” — is where college students, professors and community members buzz in and out, some chatting with colleagues or fellow students over a Golden Tornado latte, while others quietly sip on their drinks and reflect over the latest Humanities 103 reading. “The pandemic changed so much,” she says. “Being an inperson business, for a while there, things were changing every day.” The once bustling coffee shop went strictly to take-out and delivery, utilizing third-party delivery services like DoorDash.

Equipped to Serve in Community By Dani (Fitzgerald ‘14) Brown Bethany (Canzanella ‘03) Warren

Warren has done her best to continue to be hospitable to the community and to her employees.

Serving a community is hard work, doubly so in a

“Not laying anyone off was extremely important to me,” Warren says. “We need our employees to feel safe.”

Geneva alumna Bethany (Canzanella ‘03) Warren has filled the need for a coffee shop across 4th Avenue from Geneva College. Warren and husband Russ ‘03 founded Beaver Falls Coffee and Tea Company in 2006. They run the business while raising their three children, Olivia, 14, Asher, 9, and Violet, 6.

Safety is at the forefront of the work that many doctors, engineers, and technicians are doing throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.

pandemic.

Warren says the coffee shop went from an idea to 21

“Things have gone quite a bit better than I expected, considering the heartache and headache it took to reset the coffee shop,” she says. “I’m really thankful for that; for our community rallying behind businesses like ours.”

GENEVA MAGAZINE

Clara Greene ‘19 is one of those folks. She studied biomedical engineering with a minor in math and biology. She currently works at Intelomed, Inc. as an associate biomedical engineer.

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The pandemic changed so much... for a while there, things were changing every day.”

Greene is currently developing an app to remotely detect respiration rates, which she says could be particularly helpful when diagnosing COVID-19. “One of the symptoms (of COVID-19) has been an increased respiration rate, so to be able to detect that without being in close proximity to the patient is great for reducing exposure,” she explains. Greene has been working diligently to get the app ready to go to the clinical trial phase.

for her community during the pandemic. Cojon, who studied math education and minored in Spanish at Geneva, runs Hogar Manna Guatemala Ministries with her husband, Edgar, and their children, Nathan, 9, Benjamin, 6, and Caleb, 2. Hogar Manna (Facebook: Hogar Manna Children's Home – AMA - www.cten.org/laurascott) is a children’s home in Guatemala City that houses youngsters ages 0-10 who have been removed from their families because of abuse or extreme neglect. The ministry aims for family reunification when possible or adoption. But many of the children do not qualify for adoption, Cojon says, meaning they stay at Hogar Manna until they turn 18. The ministry currently has 21 children ages 2-17, and one 18-year-old contributing to a total of 40 people living in the home.

“We have been working even harder during this time to get our app in the hands of medical professionals so they can use it to collect a patient’s vitals at a distance or even over live video to protect both the patient and medical professionals,” she says. She hopes the work will “transform the medical field in terms of telemedicine and non-contact medical devices.” Greene says her professors at Geneva motivated her to go above and beyond in her studies, which she now applies to her work at Intelomed. Greene feels equipped to face challenges she might not have been able to before encountering the Geneva integration of faith and learning.

Clara Greene ‘19

“My natural tendency is to worry. But my attitude and focus through this COVID-19 season has been to not worry and rather have faith, trusting God to provide for me what I need each moment of the day by keeping my focus on Him and asking Him to show me the way,” she says. “This attitude is something I developed during my time at Geneva because I often found myself worried about doing well in my classes. I was consistently encouraged by Geneva staff and faculty to just keep taking one step at a time and have faith.”

Back on March 14, Guatemala closed its schools and places of employment and restricted travel.

Nearly 3,000 miles south of Geneva’s campus, Laura (Scott ‘04) Cojon finds herself navigating how to care

“We’ve had to do multiple shopping trips to different stores to try to find items,” Cojon says.

“Many of our day staff have not been able to come, and our nannies have brought their children to stay at the home with us,” Cojon says. She has not left the compound in over 100 days; her husband Edgar is the only one who has ventured outside for supplies. Finding enough food for everyone at the home has been a struggle.

SUMMER 2020

spread of the virus, the consequences for many people have been horrible,” Cojon says. “Most people here are informal workers who live day to day, rather than paycheck to paycheck. They have no way to purchase or store up food. After months of these restrictions, they are desperate.” Acute malnutrition in children has tripled in the past several months, Cojon says, and there’s been an increase in deaths due to hunger. The situation in Guatemala and other parts of the world due to the coronavirus is complicated, and Cojon says she appreciates how Geneva prepared her for the complexities that life throws. Laura (Scott ‘04) Cojon with husband, Edgar & son, Caleb

In Guatemala, many restrictions are in place to prevent the spread of the virus, including no public transportation — which many of her employees rely on — a curfew each day, and a mandatory requirement to wear masks, or else a fine ensues. “While these restrictions are needed to stop the quick

“The Bible classes, political science classes and humanities classes helped me realize that the world was not as simple as I thought it was. I learned that every issue has many sides and might not have a correct answer,” she says. “Most of all, Geneva helped me grow in my faith and realize that for all the complicated problems in the world, the most important answer is: Jesus loves me this I know.” G

ALUMNI IN SERVICE Victory “Skye” (Murphy ‘17) Cider

Wendy (Schwedler ’91) Allman

“I’ve been sewing cloth face masks for friends, family, church family and a few local healthcare facilities.”

“As Director of Social Services at the Reformed Presbyterian Home, I’m working with residents and families to help them stay connected to their loved ones who can’t visit right now.”

Karen Noske ‘77

“Sharing God’s precious Word on Facebook and with others to encourage them is an easy, vital way to offer hope and light in this current dark and very scary time.”

Cheryl (Dibert ’78) Weidley

Virginia Gower ‘11

Bobbi “Jodie” (Baumgartner ’00) Stanley

“I’m still going to work, helping veterans experiencing homelessness to navigate systems when so much is shut down and getting access to basic needs can be even more challenging.”

“In my position with the city of Greensboro, I’ve been helping vulnerable immigrant and refugee residents with essential information to get them through the COVID-19 crisis.”

Diane Stevens ‘78

“I’ve been sending letters to people who are stuck inside, especially those who are alone.” 23

GENEVA MAGAZINE

“On social media, I’ve been sharing scripture, photos and prayers for encouragement. The Lord is our Hope.”

CAMPUS NEWS

Dr. William J. Edgar Publishes New Book Crown & Covenant Publications issued a new book by former Geneva College President, Dr. William J. Edgar. In 7 Big Questions Your Life Depends On, Dr. Edgar describes how today’s culture avoids big questions. He uses stories from the Bible and his life to answer seven unavoidable questions asked in the Bible that can help anyone, but especially young people, ﬁnd answers about God and their relationship to Him. The book is available at crownandcovenant.com. The book is inspired by the chapel messages Dr. Edgar presented while President of Geneva.

Photo: Beaver County Times

Geneva College Hosts, Sponsors Uniﬁed Prayer Vigil Ceremony Geneva hosted a prayer vigil for racial unity at Reeves Field on June 25. The event was part of the inaugural Beaver County UNITY Week Celebration, a joint initiative of the Beaver County Law Enforcement Coalition and community inclusion and diversity organizations. UNITY stands for Uniting Neighbors for Inclusive Actions and Transparent Law Enforcement for You and was meant to inspire spirited dialogue to advance systemic and intentional change by illuminating the substantial contributions of all Beaver County residents.

Spring 2020 Events

FEB 12

FEB 14-15

GVALS The Core Ensemble

Broadway Review

FEB 20-22 FEB 27-29 “Where There’s a Will There’s a Way”

FEB 28-29 Junior & Senior Recital

MAR 6-13

MAY 1

JUNE 9

JUNE 22

Costa Rica Online My Virtual Bingo Spring Break Generation with Dr. Watt Night (MGN) Trip

Virtual Summer Orientation

SUMMER 2020

CAMPUS NEWS

Geneva Cabinet Returns to Print Dr. Richard Talbert displays an edition of the Geneva Cabinet. The paper was returned to newsprint after an eight-year hiatus. “Students are learning what it means to work a story and get the satisfaction of seeing those efforts in print. They become part of a rich tradition,” Talbert notes. When Geneva education went online in March, the Geneva Cabinet moved online again - but only temporarily.

Geneva Awarded NetVUE Professional Development Grant

Wilson Publishes First Children’s Book Geneva College Adjunct Instructor of Engineering, Ken Wilson, published his ﬁrst children’s book with Elk Lake Publishing in January. Loved More Than You Know was written shortly before Ken became a new grandfather, and the content emerged from the question: “If I were not here, what would I want to make sure my grandchildren know?” The short story, illustrated by artist Courtney Smith, is available at website bookstores.

The Network for Vocation in Undergraduate Education (NetVUE), a national network of colleges and universities, awarded Geneva a Professional Development Grant for 2020-21. The $9,200 grant will allow faculty and staff to reﬂect on their own vocational journeys and learn how best to counsel students as they explore their callings.

Geneva College Announces New Financial Aid Opportunity for Transfer Students Geneva introduced a new ﬁnancial aid opportunity for incoming transfer students. The Dean’s Scholarship, which provides $15,000 a year, allows quality Christian higher education to be a more affordable option for transfer students with a cumulative college GPA of 3.5 or higher. The existing Tower Scholarship ($12,500 per year) remains available for transfer students with college GPAs between 3.0 and 3.49. 25

GENEVA MAGAZINE

South Campus Project Back On Track After pandemic-related construction delays, workers are on the job and the South Campus Project is back on track. Made possible by generous donors, the beautiﬁcation and safety improvements around the Merriman Athletic Complex and Conrady Softball Field create a welcoming entrance to campus at the border with the city of Beaver Falls.

CAMPUS NEWS

Costa Rica Trip Is Blessing by Marjory Tobias ‘94

A group of 37 travelers, including 20 Geneva students, explored Costa Rica during spring break, learning about ecology, conservation, business and ecotourism in this diverse country. God blessed us in numerous ways as we toured a variety of ecosystems, observed an amazing diversity of wildlife, learned how coffee and chocolate are made, experienced Costa Rican culture, enjoyed the tropical weather and built relationships. Knowing that many other college groups had their spring break trips cancelled, we were more mindful and appreciative of every moment of our time in Costa Rica. It was a wonderful experience!

Faculty News The Board of Trustees approved emeritus status for retired professor of Biology, Dr. David Essig. The Board also approved tenure status for faculty members: •

Matt Fuss ‘94, MBA ’04, PhD, Business

•

Matt Kickasola, PhD, Music

•

Joel Ward, PhD, Communication

Geneva’s 9th Annual Night of The Arts Honors Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Geneva College’s Center for Student Engagement (CSE) hosted the Ninth Annual Night of the Arts in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on Monday, January 20, 2020 in Skye Lounge. The free cultural event celebrated Dr. King’s life and legacy through the arts.

Geneva College Awarded $1M NSF Grant for STEM Education Scholarships The National Science Foundation awarded Geneva a $1 million Robert Noyce Teacher Scholarship grant for a new program to prepare pre-service teaching students in science, technology, engineering or math (STEM). The grant supports a five-year program with partners New Brighton Area School District and the Urban Impact Foundation in Pittsburgh to provide field experiences and professional development. Scholarships covering all unmet financial need for two years will be awarded to juniors accepted into the program if they commit to teaching in a high-needs school district. SUMMER 2020

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We give to Geneva College every year because we believe in the leadership, purpose and vision of Geneva. With today’s colleges and universities so out of balance, it is critical to have a sound, Bible-based institution like Geneva teaching the leaders of tomorrow. Also, it feels good to give. The happiest people in the world are the most giving people. A favorite scripture is, ‘and whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.’ (Col. 3:17 HCSB)” - Michael ’76 & Aphinya Bequette (Bangkok, Thailand)

Geneva Did you know? • Alumni participation in support of the Geneva Fund strengthens Geneva’s biblically grounded ministry of education. • Greater alumni giving participation ranks the college higher nationally in publications such as U.S. News & World Report. Prospective students and families look to these publications when researching higher education institutions, and foundations assess alumni giving when considering support for colleges. • The current percentage of alumni that make a gift to Geneva College annually is 7.1%. • The Geneva Fund goal for the current fiscal year (June 1, 2020 - May 31, 2021) is $1,197,000. • Every gift of every size makes an impact. Your participation each and every year is vital in keeping Geneva strong. Geneva Fund – One Gift – Any Amount – Every year Your participation in this year’s Geneva Fund is especially important due to COVID-19.

Geneva.edu/give 25

When Sports Went Silent By Chris Mathews ’00

The 2019-20 season was shaping up to be one of the

best in recent history for Geneva Athletics. Women’s volleyball, men’s soccer and men’s basketball all made runs to the Presidents’ Athletic Conference (PAC) Championship games. Women’s cross country finished second at the PAC Championships, the best finish in program history, while women’s tennis made it to the PAC Semifinals. During the second semester, men’s track and field won its sixth straight PAC Championship during the indoor season, and the Golden Tornadoes were the heavy favorites to capture the Outdoor PAC Championship in April. Men’s volleyball, in just its second season of varsity competition, was putting together a banner season and looked forward to a conference championship in the Allegheny Mountain Collegiate Conference (AMCC). Spring break started at the end of the first week of March. The men’s and women’s track and field teams were preparing for the outdoor season in Myrtle Beach, SC, while the softball and baseball teams were opening their seasons with a week of games in Florida. Suddenly, though, the athletic seasons came to a halt and all sports went silent due to the COVID-19 pandemic. For those spring seniors looking forward to their final seasons of competition before graduation, the sudden cancellation of their seasons was a jarring disappointment. Years of hard work and preparation never got a chance to come to fruition during their final season.

Seniors Jennifer Simmons and Lydia Swartzbaugh were with the track and field team in South Carolina. As the Golden Tornadoes were warming up for their meet at Coastal Carolina, they found out they would not get the chance to compete. “I got emotional when I found out the news, realizing I wasn’t going to be able to compete in college again,” says Swartzbaugh. “When I eventually moved back home for the rest of the semester, I went through a range of emotions, from sadness to anger. Geneva has been the best four years of my life so far, and the fact it came to an end sooner than I was expecting was difficult.”

“

Geneva has been the best four years of my life so far, and the fact it came to an end sooner than I was expecting was difficult.”

“It was hard to process everything,” says Simmons. “I have never been on a more supportive and loving team, so it was hard separating from friends and teammates and knowing I would never have a chance to race competitively again.” SUMMER 2020

Senior Quinn McCracken was enjoying spring break after the men’s volleyball team’s 18-6 start to the season, including a nine-match winning streak. McCracken was looking forward to returning for the last three weeks of the season as Geneva seemed to be headed for an AMCC Championship. Unfortunately, McCracken and his teammates never had that chance.

Once McCracken, who was later named the AMCC Men’s Volleyball Player of the Year, had processed that the season had come to an end, he sent a message to all his teammates telling them how much he enjoyed playing with them. Unlike some of the spring sports, the men’s volleyball team was able to play about twothirds of it matches before the season was cancelled, but the sting was still there for everyone. “Despite the disappointment our team felt,” says McCracken, “I was proud of the way our coaches and teammates responded to a hard situation. As painful as it was, it was a reminder to all of us that there are more important things in life than volleyball.” Senior tennis player Bekah Locke also felt the sting of the hard news. The women’s tennis team competes primarily in the fall, so Locke and her teammates were able to enjoy the fall season of competition, but the Golden Tornadoes were looking forward to the National Christian College Athletic Association Tournament (NCCAA) in Alabama later in the spring. Locke was in Costa Rica with a group from Geneva during spring break, so she felt particularly removed and isolated from the situation early on. Once Coach Mandee Craft communicated with everyone, the gravity of the situation began to hit. 29

GENEVA MAGAZINE

“We were all in shock at first,” says Locke. “No one expected everything to get cancelled. My teammates and coaches were very supportive, but it was still devastating news. Since I was in Costa Rica, I didn’t get a chance to say goodbye to any of my teammates, my roommates or my friends around campus. Losing tennis, in-person classes, hearing graduation was postponed and having internships suspended was all really difficult.” The Geneva community proved to be a tremendous help to students. As classes went virtual and online, there were some bumps early on, but professors and support staff worked hard to reformat their courses. The Geneva Athletic Department worked hard to support its student-athletes as well. Each coach sent out messages of encouragement to their players and the department ordered Geneva blankets as a gift for each of the spring studentathletes. “One of the most touching things about all of this was the attitude of Geneva professors,” says Locke. “Once classes resumed, my teachers were very supportive during the transition and streamlined the courses to accommodate students. I knew I was going to miss my interactions with them, but I didn’t realize how much they were going to miss their interactions with us.”

“The people at Geneva were truly incredible with figuring all of this out,” echoes Simmons. “I have several professors that worked hard to adapt research and lab courses to an online environment, and their creativity in redesigning entire courses was very encouraging.”

“

This has made me appreciate my time at Geneva even more and all of the friendships I was able to make.”

All four seniors felt the loss of community as their college careers came to an unexpected early end. It wasn’t just the loss of competition that pained them, but the loss of spending their final few weeks with friends, roommates and classmates in anticipation of their final celebration together during graduation week. For each of the four, their faith in God played a critical role in processing everything that was happening. “God has a plan in all of this, even if I can’t always see it,” says Swartzbaugh. “This has made me appreciate my time at Geneva even more and all of the friendships I was able to make. I know those friendships won’t end because of COVID-19. This has helped me to keep things in perspective.”

“My faith has been extremely important in helping to keep a perspective during all of this,” Simmons emphasizes. “Trusting God can be difficult sometimes, especially in a situation like this, but we can be assured that amidst all of this, God is still working for the good of those who love Him and are called according to His purpose, and there is definitely comfort in trusting that this will be used for good.” “People, activities, classes and normal life have been taken from me, but my faith and my God have not changed,” reiterates Locke. “He has not stopped orchestrating our lives. The book of Habakkuk has been especially encouraging to me during this time. I may not understand why all of this is happening, but I am holding on to the promises and faithfulness of God.” “My faith has been central in my response to everything that has happened during this pandemic because it gives perspective when something like this disrupts normal life,” states McCracken. “Sports have been a huge part of my life and identity for as long as I can remember, and to have it come to a grinding halt without knowing at the time that I played my last college game can be very disappointing. However, at times like this I am even more thankful to have my identity in Christ instead of temporary things like sports.” G

G E N E VA C O L L E G E

ATHLETICS FUND NCAA National Champion Nicole Bartoletta ‘19 passes the baton to her teammate. Will you do the same for today’s student-athletes through your ﬁnancial support?

To pass the baton, visit:

Athletics.Geneva.edu/give

ATHLETIC NEWS By Chris Mathews ’00

Celebrating Athletic Excellence Jessie Taylor

TEN HIGHLIGHTS FROM 2019-2020 1. WOMEN’S GOLF: Inaugural season (Head Coach: Andrew Fee ‘16) – six freshmen & two seniors. Men’s Golf starts in fall 2021. 2. WOMEN’S CROSS-COUNTRY: Best season in school history. Broke team-time school record. Finished close second at Presidents’ Athletic Conference (PAC) championship. First Team All-PAC: sophomores Elly McGillivray and Jessie Taylor

Tyler Cann

3. FOOTBALL: Dominating three-game win streak outscoring opponents 120-27. First Team All-PAC / National Christian College Athletic Association (NCCAA) All-American: senior linebacker Tyler Cann 4. MEN’S SOCCER: Advanced to PAC Championship match fourth time in the last five seasons. First Team All-PAC: senior defender Devaughn Johns 5. WOMEN’S VOLLEYBALL: Advanced to PAC Championship match first time since 2014. Won NCCAA Mideast Regional and advanced to NCCAA National Tournament for the second straight season. PAC Women’s Volleyball Player of the Year: junior setter Daphne Hunsinger. First Team All-PAC: senior hitter Kacey Costal 6. MEN’S BASKETBALL: First PAC Championship game appearance since joining the conference ten years ago. First Team All-PAC / NCCAA All-American: Senior forward Ethan Moose, finished career top eight in school history in points (1,668) and rebounds (810)

Quinn McCracken

7. WOMEN’S BASKETBALL: New era under ﬁrst-year Head Coach Michael Grinder. Junior forward Lauren Tipton broke single-game school record with 40 points against Thiel and added 27 rebounds, second most in school history. 8. WOMEN’S TRACK & FIELD: Sophomore hurdler Olivia Younger broke school record indoor 55m hurdles and won championships at the Indoor NCCAA and PAC Championships. 9. MEN’S TRACK AND FIELD: Captured sixth straight PAC Championship. PAC Championship’s Most Outstanding Men’s Performer: Junior sprinter Dom Data 10. MEN’S VOLLEYBALL: Leading Allegheny Mountain Collegiate Conference (AMCC) when season was cut short due to COVID-19. Won nine straight matches and was undefeated in conference play. AMCC Men’s Volleyball Player of the Year: Senior middle blocker Quinn McCracken. First Team All-AMCC: junior hitter/setter Anthony Baronio

GENEVA MAGAZINE

IN MEMORIAM Joy M. (Morgan) Jewell ‘68 Dean of Students Emerita “Wonderful, wonderful woman. My time at Geneva wouldn’t have been the same without her.” – Bethany Ann (O’Neill) Hardwig ‘10 “She was a tremendous inﬂuence on me during my time at Geneva… So many wonderful memories as part of the forensics team.” – Bruce Fox ‘89 Rev. Tim Russell ‘79 Former Chaplain & administrator “Great guy with a huge heart! Remember him well from our days in Memorial Hall.” – Michael Plank ‘77 “He was a very true and faithful servant.” – Dwaine Whitley ‘79 “He was an incredible man with a wonderful voice.” – Michael Stys ‘00

40s _______________________________________ Ralph E. “Pat” Kilpatrick ‘40 on February 26, 2020 Dr. Charles M. Zeigler ‘41 on December 16, 2019 Margaret “Ruth” (Gillespie) Harnack ‘41 on February 1, 2020 Marcia R. (Lambert) Campbell ‘43 on March 12, 2020 Ruth C. (Montgomery) Roberts ‘46 on March 27, 2020 James L. Waite ‘48 on January 5, 2020 Warren F. Renner ‘48 on January 7, 2020 Florence M. (Rosser) Hazen ‘48 on February 9, 2020 Walter A. McElhaney ‘48 on April 5, 2020 Fae J. (Wahl) Hirschy ‘48 on June 11, 2020 50s _______________________________________ Howard M. Swank ‘50 on April 1, 2020 Douglas K. Brooks ‘50 on May 9, 2020 Ernest S. Faulk ‘50 on May 16, 2020 Marguerite M. (McKee) Grifﬁth ‘51 on January 12, 2020 Shirley B. (Bowie) Edwards ‘51 on May 22, 2020 John H. Tweed ‘51 on May 25, 2020 Shirley J. (Stang) Gatchell ‘51 on June 22, 2020 Annette L. (Lombardi) Krueger ‘52 on January 17, 2020

Lori Wynn, MBA ‘16 Former women’s basketball coach “Coach Lori Wynn loved her players and she loved coaching and teaching the game of basketball. Her ﬁght and unwavering faith and trust in her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ will be an impactful reminder to her friends, her colleagues and her players.” – Van Zanic ‘92

Don Sullivan Former football coach, administrator & teacher “Incredible man who cared so deeply for all of us in the student body, Dean Sullivan had a profound impact on my life. Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints.” – Walt Mueller ‘78 “A wonderfully kind and wise man.” – Dr. Byron G. Curtis ‘76

Ruth N. (Dressler) Lundy ‘53 on March 21, 2020 Byron B. Balco ‘53 on April 15, 2020 James E. LaRose ‘53 on April 29, 2020 Wayne D. Markhan ‘53 on May 7, 2020 Albert Tripodi ‘54 on March 19, 2020 Jeannette I. (Bonnell) Israel ‘54 on March 21, 2020 James P. Eichenlaub ‘54 on April 8, 2020 Evelyn C. (Carano) Beozubiak ‘54 on May 29, 2020 Nick J. Koutoulakis ‘55 on January 17, 2020 Arthur C. Jernberg ‘55 on March 29, 2020 John R. McQuaid ‘55 on May 17, 2020 Donna J. (Fell) Angle ‘55 on May 20, 2020 Elizabeth A. (Speer) Neill ‘56 on April 5, 2020 Stanley M. Yukica ‘56 on April 20, 2020 Stanley E. Simantaris ‘56 on May 6, 2020 William R. “Rich” McVehil ‘57 on April 29, 2020 Helen M. (Burry) Pierce ‘58 on January 3, 2020 Samuel J. Rotuna ‘58 on February 7, 2020 Donald C. Jackson ‘59 on January 6, 2020 Women’s Jay C. Gonzalez ‘59 on March Golf 25, 2020 SUMMER 2020

IN MEMORIAM James D. “Dan” Maxwell ‘59 on May 6, 2020 60s _______________________________________ Robert P. Stacey ‘60 on January 6, 2020 Ronald A. Young ‘60 on April 2, 2020 George E. Tutwiler ‘60 on April 16, 2020 Walter F. Saruszkiewicz ‘60 on May 14, 2020 Franklin J. Vukich ‘60 on June 23, 2020 Robert C. Bruce ‘62 on March 31, 2020 Claude M. Gaiser ‘63 on February 27, 2020 Wilbert H. Wise ‘63 on April 23, 2020 Paul Palmieri ‘63 on May 6, 2020 Richard J. Hart ‘64 on April 20, 2020 Helen (Radish) Giannette ‘65 on January 23, 2020 Arthur E. French ‘65 on March 4, 2020 G. William Mohrbacker ‘65 on March 14, 2020 Kay K. (Gilkey) Wharton ‘65 on March 19, 2020 Gary E. Murphy ‘65 on March 23, 2020 Patrick J. Mihalic ‘65 on March 29, 2020 Ronald H. Juth ‘65 on June 14, 2020 Enrico A. “Rick” Antonini ‘66 on May 5, 2020 Richard P. Underwood, Sr. ‘68 on January 12, 2020 Alan S. Foreman ‘68 on March 7, 2020 Richard A. Beighey ‘68 on May 7, 2020 Joy M. (Morgan) Jewell ‘68 on May 8, 2020 Edward D. Kaufman ‘69 on February 6, 2020 Donna M. (DiBendetto) Kulfan ‘69 on April 4, 2020 Kenneth M. Scarlino ‘69 on May 18, 2020 Carol A. (Passero) Hutchinson ‘69 on June 23, 2020 70s _______________________________________ William E. Newland ‘70 on April 20, 2020 Wesley N. Glass ‘71 on February 1, 2020 Walter B. Hehman ‘71 on March 19, 2020 Timothy W. Pawol ‘71 on May 25, 2020 James A. Belcastro ‘72 on April 21, 2020 James J. Aretz ‘73 on December 9, 2019 Kathryn A. (Aldrich) McKim ‘73 on December 12, 2019 Kenneth C. Blanchard ‘73 on January 10, 2020 Merl A. Rice ‘73 on February 6, 2020

GENEVA MAGAZINE

Carmacel M. Felice ‘75 on February 14, 2020 Carvis Fisher III ’75 on June 8, 2019 Rosa M. Billingslea ‘79 on March 24, 2020 Timothy L. Russell ‘79 on March 30, 2020 80s _______________________________________ Dawn S. (Stothoff) Warner ‘87 on June 3, 2020 Valeria-Grace Goosby ‘88 on January 26, 2020 90s _______________________________________ June Ann Garber ‘90 on January 17, 2020 Carolyn J. Cajka ‘91 on December 29, 2019 00s _______________________________________ Michelle M. (Mazzant) Fulk ‘04 on February 4, 2020 Thomas F. Frazier ‘05 on March 19, 2020 10s _______________________________________ Robin D. Brown ‘10 on December 24, 2019 Laura “Lori” R. Wynn MBA ‘16 on April 17, 2020 Friends ___________________________________ Barbara Coleman on September 18, 2019 George Scipione on January 22, 2020 Don Haine on January 30 2020 Daniel Woodring on February 11, 2020 Robert Javens on March 7, 2020 Kathleen Hoffman on March 17, 2020 H. Dwayne Adams on March 28, 2020 David Masters on April 6, 2020 Ronald Clemmer on April 10, 2020 Robert Good on April 14, 2020 Joseph Petrella on April 16, 2020 Frances Smith on April 18, 2020 James Frazier on April 26, 2020 Donald Wilson on April 25, 2020 Susan Cogliati on May 1, 2020 Leonard Podbielski on May 9, 2020 Harold Reed on May 23, 2020 Joan Markey on June 3, 2020 Donald Sullivan on June 5, 2020 Isabelle Majors on June 20, 2020

CLASS NOTES Class Notes are available on Geneva.edu. Visit the site to learn about fellow classmates, and submit an update so they can remain connected with you.

Bruce J. Rhodes ‘79 resides in Brier, WA and currently is the Principal of Cedar Wood Elementary in the Everett Public School District also in Washington.

50s

Steven Cunningham ‘81 was recently named Senior Vice President of Lending, and also serves as a member of the bank’s Senior Management Team, and oversees the entire lending operation for the bank. He has been with Coatesville Savings Bank since 2010 as the Vice President of Business Development Ofﬁce and has over 35 years of banking experience. Steven is also part of a Christian band Kindred Cross who just released their 7th CD “Undaunted.” The band has Facebook page and a website.

Robert ‘55 and Georgia (Wilson) ‘57 McFarland celebrated their 60th anniversary with their three children: Rick (‘82), Allison (‘83), Nancy (‘86). Bob has served on the Board of Corporators and the Board of Trustees. While attending Geneva, Bob was president of Genevans and active in football and track. Georgia was president of her Freshman class and May Queen. They have served together, a pastor and school teacher, for over 55 years.

60s Roy Albert ‘60 recently relocated to Bel Air, MD. Rev. Bruce Backensto ‘69 along with, Dr. Jonathan Watt co-edited Advancing the Vision: A Festschrift honoring John H. “Jack” White.

70s Rev. H. Wayne Eppehimer retired in September 2019 after 39 years of pastoral ministry with the Christian & Missionary Alliance. For 10 years he served as the Senior Pastor of the Circle Drive Alliance Church in Sidney, NY and then served 29 years as the Senior Pastor at the C&MA Church in Jamestown, NY. He also served for 21 years on the Ordination Council in the Northeastern District. In addition, he served on the C&MA disabilities ministries committee, the Northeastern District Executive Committee, and on the national C&MA Board of Directors.

80s

Jim Huffmyer ‘81 retired on 2/1/19, after 39 years of working in Human Resources. H.J. Heinz, United Pet Group and Strategic Human Resources, Inc. were among some of the companies that he worked for that were Fortune 500, for-profit, non-profit, private equity, consulting and he has also owned his own small business. Jim feels privileged to serve on the board of a non-profit that provides services to children and adults with developmental disabilities, as well as to their families. He also feels blessed to have traveled internationally, visiting over 15 countries while working with and learning from a number of amazing mentors throughout the world. Jim says, “It’s now time to give back!” April DeMerski Wise ’87 wrote a book about her mother’s battle with Alzheimer’s.

Mark Cowley ‘87 recently spoke at the Solomon Club at Hampton Christian Academy in Virginia. The Solomon Club is for 3rd to 5th graders who are honor students. We look forward to welcoming these kiddos to Geneva in 8-10 years!

Rebecka (Weliczko) Barta ‘88 celebrated her one year anniversary this past December with the City of Plant City, where she works in their Engineering Department. Her current projects include various roads, drainage and improvement projects throughout the city. She is working on her Floor Plain Management Certiﬁcation and is just completing an $8 million Community Center. She is also supervising a $3 million Fire Station Project. She is a part of the emergency hurricane support team.

90s Wendy (Schwedler) Allman ‘91 is the new Director of Social Services at the Reformed Presbyterian Home on Pittsburgh’s North Side. Rev. Theodore Lai ‘94 accepted a position as Pastor of English Ministries at the Grace Chinese Alliance Church in West Covina, CA. David Troxell ‘98 is currently a Project Manager at Caruso Turley Scott, Inc. Structural Engineers. He is also a Structures Specialist for Arizona Task Force One, FEMA Urban Search and Rescue, and was deployed to Hurricane Harvey and Irma in 2017. David is the co-chair of the National Council of Structural Engineers (NCSEA), Structural Engineering Emergency Response (SEER) Committee, and cochair of the Arizona Structural Engineers Association SEER Committee. Mary Marshman ‘99 Retired David Chelko ‘99 is the Lead Coordinator-Emergency Transport for Allegheny Health Network. David and his wife, Jayme reside in New Kensington, Pennsylvania. SUMMER 2020

CLASS NOTES Todd Eckstein ‘99 was installed as lead pastor at Southern Heights Church in January 2020 following the completion of his M.DIV and ordination into the Reformed Church of America as Minister of Word and Sacrament. Todd, Joy and their four children reside in West Michigan.

Maryann (Landis) Croutharmel ‘04 and husband, D.J. welcomed their second daughter, Iris June on March 25, 2020. Sweet baby Iris joins big sister, Violet Mae who just turned 1 in March. The Croutharmels reside in Pennsylvania.

Kassie (Lorey) Smith ‘09 and husband Seth will celebrate their son, Brighton’s ﬁrst birthday in August. Brighton is proudly wearing his very ﬁrst Geneva t-shirt.

Kristen (Bleecker) Urglavitch ‘05 captured her youngest son, Jonah Jackson Urglavitch, wearing his ﬁrst Geneva shirt. Jonah celebrated his ﬁrst birthday on May 23. In addition to Jonah, Kristen and husband TJ have a son, Tyler, and two daughters Madelyn and Allison. The Urglavitch’s reside in Secane, PA.

10s Anthony “Tony” Domanik ‘10 is the Associate Pastor at Falls Church, Menomonee Falls, WI. Tony and wife, Collette have been married for six years and have three children: Corban, Alethea and Zoe. The Domanik family resides in Sussex, WI.

00s Rachel Wilson ‘00 has been serving on the mission ﬁeld since graduating from Geneva in 2000. She has served in Asuncion, Paraguay from 20002008, teaching at Asuncion Christian Academy, which is also where she did her student teaching. From 2008-2010, she taught public school for Fairfax County Public Schools in Virginia, while preparing to serve with SIM in Ethiopia. From 2011-2018, she served in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, teaching at Bingham Academy and then traveled around Ethiopia, as an educational consultant for missionary home school families. Currently, Rachel is serving with SIM in Catamayo, Ecuador, planting and strengthening the rural church in southern Ecuador, with a focus on discipling women. Nicole (Webb) Darroch ‘02 was named a ﬁnalist for Pennsylvania Teacher of the Year. In 2002, she graduated from Geneva with a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary and Special Education. She received a Master’s in Educational Leadership from American College of Education in 2019.

Laura (Sweeten) Hunter ‘06 along with her husband Stephen are celebrating the birth of their ﬁrst child, Phen who was born in September. Jessica Halt ‘07 and Corey Piccola were united in marriage on February 20, 2020. The Piccolas reside in Mercer, PA. Marissa Quinn, MA ‘07 received her Ed.D., Higher Education Leadership and Management in 2020 from Regent University (VA). She is currently the assistant Vice President for Student Life at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota. Bryce D. Baldwin ‘08 is the Lead Pastor of Rome Alliance Church. He is also the executive director of a not-for-proﬁt which he founded. His wife, Rachael ‘09 leads the MOPS ministry at the church. The Baldwins have 4 children (Camryn, Jay, Weston and Grant).

Jason Wilson ‘11 was commissioned as lay pastor by the Rev. Dennett Buettner at Church of the Savior, Ambridge, PA on December 15, 2019 and was installed at the Village Church, Ambridge on December 17, 2019. He succeeds the Rev. David Ketter ‘10, MAHE ‘13, who served there as pastor since June 2014. Lauren (Zanker) ‘11 and Nathan ‘08 Berger welcomed their third daughter, Melody Jean in September 2019. Sweet baby Melody joins big sisters Natalie Jayne, 5 and Leanna Joy 2. Josh Brown ‘11 graduated from the UCLA School of Law and accepted a position with the United States Department of Justice. Mary Ann (Indino) Miller ‘12 is the lead trainer and owner of Heart Strong Wellness, LLC and is celebrating her ﬁrst year in business. Heart Strong Wellness, LLC offers health and safety services to educators, coaches, workplaces, industry, and individuals by increasing conﬁdence in lifesaving, and wellness skills. Jacob Bruker ‘13 accepted a new position as a staff accountant at Stambaugh Ness in York, PA, on December 30, 2019.

GENEVA MAGAZINE

CLASS NOTES Joshua Dubs ‘14 and the Parkersburg High School Chamber Choir were chosen to perform at the White House during this past holiday season. The chamber choir performed for visitors and government dignitaries, along with other musical groups from around the country for one day in Washington, D.C. Photo credit: “Ofﬁcial White House Photo“

and was 20.5 inches long. The Streits reside in Allison Park, PA. Joseph Zgorszynski ‘16 along with wife, Bethany welcomed their ﬁrst child, a sweet daughter, during the summer of 2019!

Hannah (Eichhorn) Lates ‘15 along with her husband Will ‘15 recently gave birth to their ﬁrst child. Tabby (Little) Baer ‘15 and husband, Justin are the proud parents of future Geneva College alumnus, Roman shown here in his ﬁrst Geneva t-shirt.

Maggie Rose (Smith) Smith ‘17 has been working at CFCS for one year, using her double majors in Spanish and Human Services to work with families, reunifying parents and children and creating permanent changes for better. Isaac Barringer ‘17 and his wife, Alexandra are expecting their ﬁrst child August 2020. Heather Johnson ‘18 Has recently completed her master’s degree in Applied Developmental Psychology at the University of Pittsburgh. Rebekah (Elbel) Harriger MA ‘18 attended Geneva from 2016-2018 for the Master of Arts in Higher Education program. She now works at Harrisburg University of Science and Technology as the Experiential Learning Coordinator managing the Internship and Research programs. Rebekah recently published an article that is to be featured in Intern Bridge Inc. guide Total Internship Management - The Employer’s Guide to Building and Sustaining the Ultimate Internship Program (3rd Edition). Her article “Career Connected Commuter” was among the articles chosen to be included in the section “Readings to Enhance Your Internship Program”. Alex Sanjari MA’18 has accepted the position of Resident Director at Colorado Christian University.

Davis ‘16 and Sarah (Ormsby) ‘16 Streit welcomed their ﬁrst child, Phoebe Eliza on February 22, 2020. She weighed 7 pounds 13 ounces

Gary Halt ‘18 is currently employed by G4S as an upscale security ofﬁcer and resides in Kenmore, NY. Michael Rhoades ‘18 is employed by Mine Safety Appliance as a mechanical engineer - electrical. Michael resides in Larimer, PA.

by Keegan Barber”

Ian ‘14 and Sarah (Abbott) ‘15 MacKenzie welcomed their third child, William Alexander who was born on December 18, 2019. William joins big sisters Catherine and Charlotte. Ian is an Assistant Professor at the University of Wisconsin - Platteville. The MacKenzies reside in Platteville, WI.

Connor Dulashaw ‘18 resides in Ebensburg, Pennsylvania and is employed by ViLogics as a level 1 technician.

Andrea Dobi ‘18 is an Environmental Protection Specialist, at the Erie County Department of Health. Andrea was recently featured in the Erie Times News (www.GoErie.com) for her work with the Department of Health. Britteny Douglas ‘18 recently relocated to New Middletown, OH.

Megan (Keul) King ‘18 and her husband, Jess, were married in June of 2019. Megan is employed by Mechanicsburg Area School District as a second grade teacher. The Kings reside in Shiremanstown, PA. Chelsea Kilburn ’18 resides in Louisville, KY and is a Family Development Assistant/Coordinator at The Cabbage Patch Settlement House. Jeremy Egger ‘19 is an Aircraft Mechanic/Crew Chief with the U.S. Air Force/171st ARW.

Michael Parkinson ‘19 has relocated to Cedar Rapids, IA. Elaine “Lainey” Eshelman ‘19 recently accepted the position of the long term substitute High School Mathematics teacher at Lincoln Park Performing Arts and Charter School. James Lyu ‘19 will be attending Indiana University Bloomington for his doctorate in chemistry in the fall semester of 2020. James currently works as a Lab Technician for Euroﬁns TestAmerica and resides in Beaver Falls. Callie Ford ‘19 is currently pursuing her masters degree in data analytics at Slippery Rock University. Callie is presently employed as a data analyst for BNY Mellon.

SUMMER 2020

CLASS NOTES Paul Fuhry ‘19 resides in Dublin, OH and is presently employed as a Technician Trainee at Battelle Memorial Institute.

Abigail Davis ‘19 is employed as a special education teacher for Howard County Public Schools and currently resides in Westminster, MD.

Dylani Marchesani ‘19 is employed as the lead pre-school teacher at Imprints Day School and resides in Maine.

Hannah (Richardson) Wehr ‘19 is employed by Berkeley County Schools as a 7th grade ELA teacher. Hannah and her husband Adam ‘19 reside in Martinsburg, WV.

Meredith (Wilson) Bonasso ‘19 and husband, Joseph were married on November 9, 2019. Meredith is Mackenzie Christopherson ‘19 is employed by Lifespan, Inc as a care enrolled in the MSW program at Boston manager. The couple resides in University and will graduate in 2023. Pennsylvania and are expecting their first She is currently employed by The Village child in August 2020! for Families and Children as a child first care coordinator. Shannon Bhagwandien ‘19 is currently attending Gannon University in the clinical Cassandra Williams ’19 resides in mental health counseling program and is Hickory, NC and is an Educator at expected to graduate in 2022. Catawba Science Center. Adam Borst ‘19 and Adrianna Reese ‘18 were married on January 4, 2020. The Borsts reside in Cincinnati, OH. Levi Ebersole ‘19 is employed as a quality engineer by Thermo Fisher Scientific and resides in Mifflinburg, PA.

Hayley (Gunter) ‘19 and Nathan Moelker ‘19 recently gave birth to their ﬁrst child. Sweet baby Micah James Adriaan was born on May 14, 2020. The Moelkers reside in Hampton, VA.

Katherine Deitrick ‘19 has recently completed her master’s degree in Education - STEM Concentration with Certiﬁcations in Biology, Chemistry, and General Science (Grades 7-12) at Slippery Rock University. Olivia Forton ‘19 is employed by Lutheran Senior Life, Passavant Retirement Community as a CNA. Olivia graduated with a BS in Biopsychology in 2019 and is now currently earning her RN at CCBC with the goal of becoming a maternity nurse. Danielle Tabin ‘19 is employed by New Brighton School District as a learning support teacher. Danielle currently resides in New Brighton, PA.

20s Teghan Jacobson ‘20 and Jake Knepper ‘19 were united in marriage in Curwensville, PA on May 29, 2020. The Kneppers reside in Beaver Falls.

Travis Eisenhauer ‘19 is employed as a service analyst for PPG Industries and currently resides in Pittsburgh. Sarah Shannon ‘19 was accepted into the Marywood University, physician assistant program, class of 2022 and will be starting classes in May. She has also accepted positions with two mission organizations and her plans, following PA school, include being a career medical missionary. MissionGO (Buffalo, NY) is her U.S.-based sending agency and will help her through the process of becoming an international missionary. She will then be working with Theovision International Ghana, a native Ghana organization, to complete medical education and clinics in the villages of Ghana, West Africa.

Class Notes Information To share your news, visit geneva.edu/alumni/connect and click on “Alumni Update Form.” Highresolution pictures of at least three megapixels in size may be submitted in JPEG format. Inclusion of all items in Class Notes is at the discretion of Geneva College in accordance with the community standards of the institution.

Alumni Baby Onesies Let the alumni ofﬁce (alumni@geneva.edu) know the name and birthdate of your new baby, along with your current address, and we’ll send you a Golden Tornadoes onesie for your newborn (size: 12 months).

Join the Geneva College Alumni Facebook Group! Go to facebook.com/groups/genevacollegealumni

Geneva.edu/alumni/connect 37

GENEVA MAGAZINE

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Geneva College 3200 College Beaver Falls, PA 15010 724-847-6614 cliff.mcnary@geneva.edu geneva.giftlegacy.com

Just a small effort on your part can make a big difference to +IRIZE W mission.

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Have you designated beneficiaries for your Have you designated beneficiaries for your accounts? How is your property held? Even if accounts? How is your property held? Even if you don't have a will, it's important to be able to you don't have a will, it's important to be able to answer these questions. We can help you make answer these questions. We can help you make sure the proper designations are in place so sure the proper designations are in place so that your plans are carried out according to your that your plans are carried out according to your wishes. wishes.

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Geneva Magazine Summer 2020

Articles inside

Geneva Faces a Virus and Other Disruptions

Equipped to Serve in Medicine