Online winter courses start December 14
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® A PUBLICATION OF READING AREA COMMUNITY COLLEGE
Start Here. Go Anywhere. Students succeed at RACC and beyond
In Demand Careers for 2021
RACC’s health professions programs are in demand now.
Faculty Voices
Meet RACC’s dedicated faculty racc.edu
Register Today for spring classes at RACC.
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Cover Story
President: Dr. Susan D. Looney Editor: David Hessen Contributors: Dr. Pamela Blakely, Diane Conrad, Kathy Cunningham, Anthony DeMarco, Sarah Hess, Jennifer Lindsay, Ruth Reinsel, Kathryn Plesnarski, Bonnie Spayd Design: Kathryn Plesnarski Photography: Susan Angstadt, Kathryn Plesnarski RACC Alive is published quarterly by Reading Area Community College. All contents of this issue of RACC Alive are copyrighted by Reading Area Community College. All rights reserved. Reading Area Community College does not discriminate in employment or educational opportunities on the basis of gender, race, ethnicity, national origin, sex, disability, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or veteran status. Cover photo: RACC Medical Laboratory Technician student, Greimy Segura.
Reading Area Community College 10 South 2nd Street P.O. Box 1706 Reading, PA 19603 racc.edu
When coronavirus entered the scene in mid-March, almost everything on campus came to a halt, except our phone lines from local employers looking for RACC students. They had jobs to fill and were paying well for entry-level students. RACC has the most in demand health profession programs for 2021, which can lead to a financially rewarding career in an industry projected to grow 15 percent in the next ten years. In just six months, students can earn a certificate with a RACC-assigned internship to start as an entry-level medical assistant, medical receptionist, medical secretary, phlebotomist (with EKG training), dental or veterinary assistant. RACC’s newest program is pharmacy technician training. Pharmacy technicians are earning anywhere from $16 to $25 per hour. During their six months of study, a student will complete an internship, have a career coach to guide the way, and may be hired by any of the growing employers in Berks County. With programs starting every six weeks, a student can get started right away. There is a nursing shortage, and RACC also has degree programs to fill that need. All programs work in partnership with cuttingedge hospitals, dental and medical offices in Berks County. Students can go into the workforce in our community as licensed practical nurses earning $40-47,000 a year though RACC’s one-year program. RACC also offers an A.A.S. degree for medical lab technicians earning an entry-level salary in the $50,000 range. For the two-year, Associate Degree in Nursing program or the two year Associate Degree in Respiratory Care program, salaries are in the $65,000 range. Imagine the financial stability this can provide. RACC continues to work with local employers to create partnerships within Berks County, so that our students benefit from internships and have a solid pathway
at obtaining employment. The relationships we have formed with local health care employers are a win-win for students who go on to employment with our partners. Students will be eligible for work force training funds, scholarships, or financial aid. RACC students are in demand with a 97% job placement rate. In the midst of the COVID-19 upheaval, not just our health profession students, but all of our students continue to inspire me every day, and will continue to make the RACC family of faculty staff, students and alumni very proud.
Dr. Susan D. Looney President, Reading Area Community College
Campus Happenings
RACC gets $3 million grant to support student success RACC has been awarded a $3 million grant from the United States Department of Education that will fund a five year, collegewide initiative aimed at supporting student success. The initiative — “Nuestro Proximo Paso: Re-framing a Community College for Student Success” — will transform the student experience from admissions to graduation. The initiative will strive to improve RACC’s admissions and advising processes, leverage new student management technologies and offer professional development to faculty and staff.
Also, the initiative will help increase the school’s graduation rate, particularly among first-generation students. “As the community’s college, our focus is always on student success,” said Dr. Susan Looney, RACC president. “This grant will help create clear, efficient pathways for our students to start at Reading Area Community College, and either begin a career, or transfer to finish with a bachelor’s degree from one of our partner institutions.”
RACC wins funding to support early childhood education students RACC has been awarded a $252,000 grant from the Early Childhood Professional Development Organization at the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education for this academic year. The funds will cover tuition costs for Early Childhood Education students who are employed in Department of Human Services-licensed childcare centers and meet the eligibility requirements. RACC’s Early Childhood Education pathway allows traditional students, high school career technology students,
Susan Looney appointed Vice Chair of Reading Hospital Board of Trustees
and incumbent workforce students the opportunity to begin to work incrementally along the PA ECE Career Pathway. This pathway, a model for the state, has been designed to support the educational needs of all students who desire to work with young children, starting as early as high school through the Career Technology Center’s Teacher Academy and earn nested credentials, such as the Child Development Associate Certificate. RACC’s AAS then transfers seamlessly to a BSED (Pre-k-Grade 4 teaching certification) at Kutztown University.
The Reading Hospital Board of Trustees is composed of dedicated volunteers who provide community oversight to Reading Hospital as it fulfills its mission to provide high quality, cost-effective healthcare for the communities it serves. “I am pleased that Dr. Looney has been named Vice Chair of the Reading Hospital Board of Trustees,” said Reading Hospital President and CEO William M. Jennings. “It has been a pleasure to work with her over the last year and I know she will continue to help the hospital and community thrive in this important role.” Dr. Looney joined the Board of Trustees in June 2019. She currently serves as president at RACC. “It is an honor and a privilege to have been selected to serve as the vice chair of the Reading Hospital Board of Trustees,” says Dr. Looney. “I am proud to continue the important work of the Reading Hospital Board to advance quality healthcare for Berks County.”
Campus Happenings
RACC high school Dual Enrollment Program proves to be pandemic-resistant RACC’s Dual Enrollment Program proves pandemic-resistant as it continues to strengthen partnerships with Berks County schools to offer dual credit to approved high school dual enrollment and technical and teacher academy courses; and teachers who are instructing face-to-face and virtually. More than 900 high school students participated in a RACC early college program last year. The program is available at 16 of the 18 Berks County school districts, both career and technology centers, and Berks Catholic. Dual enrollment courses taught at the high school during the school day are the most accessible and affordable at $99 a credit of the early college programs. Berks County Technical and Teacher Academies are statewide models for providing access
Socially Speaking
to clear, college and career pathways to RACC’s associate degree in high-paying, high-demand occupations. As example of one partnership, flourishing despite the pandemic is Daniel Boone Area High School’s early college programming. This program has expanded from a few collected courses, to a defined college and career pathway. This partnership includes an associate degree and opportunities for seniors to earn an industry credential in medical assisting and veterinary assistant program. Daniel Boone Area High School currently offers 20 dual enrollment courses, with opportunities to earn college credit in all five of the Career Ready Berks educational pathways.
Follow RACC on our social media sites to stay informed about up-to-date happenings and events.
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EVENTS Learn more about all events happening at RACC, just visit racc.edu/events
DEC
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Virtual & In Person Open Enrollment Register for spring and summer classes by joining us for Open Enrollment Day on Tuesday, December 1. Take a placement test, complete the FAFSA and meet with an enrollment coordinator all in one day.
Online Information Session Learn about RACC’s accelerated, online, and hybrid offerings — in the comfort of your own home or office! Join us Tuesday evening, December 8, by signing up online at racc.edu/info-session.
Virtual & In Person Open Enrollment Register for spring and summer classes by joining us for Open Enrollment Day on Wednesday, January 6. Get your financial aid questions answered, meet with an academic advisor and sign up for classes all in one day.
Virtual & In Person
Open Enrollment Day
Saturday, December 5 | 9AM - 1PM racc.edu/openenrollment
Weekend college is here! Friday and Saturday classes The perfect complement to your busy life… • Choose the format that best fits your lifestyle • Choose classes that start throughout the semester • Choose from over 15 classes
For more information and to register, visit racc.edu/registertoday
Stay local. Stay on track or get ahead. Expanded guest student online classes.
racc.edu/guest
Academic Achievements
RACC signs historic online transfer agreement with SNHU
Three RACC students honored for academic excellence The Pennsylvania Commission for Community Colleges (PACCC) recently announced the 26th Annual AllPennsylvania Academic Team. The honor recognizes an exceptional group of community college students who have achieved academic excellence and demonstrated a commitment to their colleges and communities. The 2020 awardees include three RACC outstanding transfer scholars. Transfer students must have completed at least 36 credits at a community college and must have a cumulative GPA of 3.5 or higher to be considered for these awards. Workforce students must have a minimum of 12 college-level credit hours at a community college and a cumulative GPA of 3.5 or higher. The three RACC scholarship winners are Ms. Valerie Mackey, Ms. Afaf Maslah (CocaCola New Century Workforce Pathway Scholar), and Ms. Emma Wright. “We at RACC applaud these outstanding student scholars on their terrific academic
achievements,” says Dr. Susan Looney. “By enrolling in highquality educational programs, these students are building a foundation for a successful career while furthering their postsecondary study.” Pennsylvania’s community colleges partner with the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education (PASSHE) universities to provide scholarships to eligible All-PA Transfer Team members at PASSHE institutions, providing two years of tuition at any PASSHE school. Students nominated to the national All-USA Community College Academic Team are automatically named to the All-State Community College Academic Teams. The programs share common eligibility criteria, which includes enrollment at a community college, a minimum 3.5 grade point average, completion of a minimum of 36 college-level credits and being on track to receive an associate or bachelor’s degree.
The Pennsylvania Commission for Community Colleges is pleased to announce that Pennsylvania’s 14 community colleges signed a statewide articulation agreement with Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU). The historic agreement -the first of its kind in the Commonwealth -will provide Pennsylvania community college graduates, employees, and the immediate family of employees the opportunity to enroll at or transfer to SNHU to pursue a bachelor’s degree at a 10 percent tuition reduction. A significant number of Pennsylvania’s community college students pursue transfer to four year institutions and attainment of a baccalaureate degree. Each year, more than 30,000 Pennsylvania community college students transfer, and nearly 85 percent of those transfers are to institutions in Pennsylvania. The colleges currently have thousands of articulation agreements with higher education partners to help our students realize their postsecondary goals. However, some of our students prefer the flexibility offered through virtual learning opportunities, and many of our students are challenged by the high cost of higher education -two hurdles that the SNHU partnership seeks to address. With the articulation agreement and tuition reduction being offered by SNHU to community college graduates, the pathway to a baccalaureate degree will be more seamless and affordable than nearly every other public option in Pennsylvania, depending on a student’s program of study and credit load.
Academic Achievements
RACC associate professors win Innovation of the Year Award RACC’s college success strategies course is a general education requirement across all degree programs. Data indicated this course was a barrier for some students, and RACC faculty began to work on a solution to help those students. Through a renewed focus and complete overhaul, faculty increased student success rates by 20 percent over a two-year period for a course success rate of 81 percent. The two RACC staff members winning the award for leading this turnaround are RACC Foundational Studies Associate Professors Denise Strohmayr and Teri Floyd-Brumm. The redesign of the program, titled College Success
RACC wins prestigious Credentialing Success Award from CoARC
Strategies: From Barrier to Gateway, included a redesign of the entire college success strategies program, defining new, streamlined program competencies and objectives and developing the skills essential to good career and/or life decision making. A recent graduate of the program says, “The things I learned in this program have been tremendous in helping me to better remember lectures, understand text and organize my train of thought. I have practiced active listening in personal situations as well. All of this has reduced my stress level and the results have been extremely positive in my life.”
RACC student named a 2020 New Century Workforce Scholar Afaf Maslah, a student at RACC, was named a 2020 New Century Workforce Scholar and received a $1,250 scholarship.
RACC was presented with the Distinguished Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) Credentialing Success Award by Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care (CoARC) at the American Association for Respiratory Care Summer Forum. “Our Respiratory Care Program inspires graduates to reach their career goals. Our faculty and administrators have continually aspired to higher levels of achievement in both graduate and overall program outcomes,“ says RACC President Dr. Susan Looney. “We extend a special thank you to our graduates, clinical affiliates, and faculty and staff for your hard work in achieving this goal. We achieved this award together.”
This scholarship is the first of its kind to support students at associate degreegranting institutions on a national scale as they plan to enter the workforce upon the completion of a degree or certificate. The program is sponsored by The CocaCola Foundation and Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society. “We believe education holds an extraordinary promise to change lives,” said Helen Smith Price, President, The Coca-Cola Foundation. “We hope that providing these college scholarships to deserving students will enable them to realize their full and unique potential.”
Schmidt Training & Technology Center BERKS COUNTY’S WORKFORCE RESOURCE!
Mechanical Lab Drives, Hydraulics, Pneumatics, Pumps, Piping, Rigging, Troubleshooting
Electrical Lab AC/DC, Motors, Electronics, Sensors, Troubleshooting, Power Distribution
Robotics Lab Programming, Process Control, Communication, Simulation, Troubleshooting
PLC Lab Allen Bradley, Siemens, Process Control, Communication, Troubleshooting
AMIST Certifications 1-4 Advanced Manufacturing Integrated Systems Technology, Electrical, Controls, Robotics, Computer Technology
Mechatronics Engineering Technology AAS Associate of Applied Science Degree
Machine Tool Technology AAS Associate of Applied Science Degree
INDUSTRY 4.0 IS HERE
This is the 4th revolution of manufacturing since the industrial revolution began. Industry 4.0 is rapidly employing Artificial Intelligence (computer systems able to perform tasks that normally require human intelligence) to do the “labor” and “technology” needed to design, produce and distribute commodities and services.
Workforce Development
Machine Tool Lab Manual Machining • Turning and Milling • Blueprint Reading • Advanced Planning, Set-up, and Operation CNC Machining • CNC Set-up and Operation • G & M Programming • MasterCam Programming Drafting and Design • SOLIDWORKS • AutoCAD • Fixture Design Equipment Set • FANUC ROBODRILL • DOOSAN Lynx • JET Manual Machine Tools RACC’s training programs are self-paced, allowing students to complete the necessary theory online, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. All hands-on skills are taught at the Schmidt Training and Technology Center using industry relevant training equipment and components under the guidance of industry experienced instructors. All courses have an open start date; what are you waiting for? To schedule a visit, contact Judy Vecchio at 610.372.4721, x5716 or email jvecchio@racc.edu
Faculty Voices Ruth joined the RACC nursing faculty after several semesters as an adjunct instructor in the early 2000s. Now, having taught over 12 years, Ruth has pride in seeing former students and graduates of RACC practicing professional nursing in hospitals and other health care settings. “I have very high regard for the students that successfully complete the rigorous RACC nursing program.” The changes over the decades, as in most professions, at times have been astounding for Ruth. Science and technological advances in healthcare, and the expanding role of nurses’ contributions as essential members of the health care team have transformed the healthcare profession. It is now essential for nurses to possess the
“I have very high regard for the students that successfully complete the rigorous RACC nursing program.” ability to use clinical judgment reflecting the science, but embellished with the art of nursing. Ruth explains, “It is this balance of critical thinking partnered with compassion and true presence with the patient and their significant others, which supports the esteem that the nursing profession has held.”
Ruth Reinsel, Associate Professor Ruth was born and raised on Berks County farm, which instilled in her a deep appreciation for hard work and perseverance. She received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Albright College and her Master of Science from the University of Pennsylvania. Ruth has been in nursing for over 40 years with a focus in women’s, maternity and pediatric care. She serendipitously began in this specialty via her first nursing position in an inpatient gynecological unit since there were not any positions open on a general medicalsurgical unit. As Ruth tells her students, “One of the many benefits of nursing is the vastness of opportunities, specialties and settings for practice.”
Ruth feels this is where RACC really excels, both because of the emphasis on these abilities by the faculty, and by the fact that the students come from such diverse experiences and complex lives which fosters a commitment to meeting these high expectations. Ruth feels blessed that her professional life has intertwined and circled back with various nurses and other health professionals. Included are relationships with other members in the Health Advisory Board for Berks County, Head Start, and Pregnant and Parenting Substance Use Disorder Community Consortium (formerly Berks Parents Collaborative). When Ruth isn’t in the classroom, she enjoys being involved in the local church as a Sunday School teacher and life-long member. But most of all, Ruth enjoys spending time with her nephew’s son, Charlie now 15 months old.
Faculty Voices
Dr. Pamela Blakely, Professor Dr. Pamela Blakely came to RACC in 1993 as an Associate Professor of Anthropology in the Social Sciences Division. “Over the decades I have enjoyed working closely with countless RACC students, and the experience has only deepened the passion for teaching that brought me here.” Dr. Blakely already had a full life as an Africanist scholar and college professor before beginning to teach at RACC. Her first college teaching experience was in 1972 during her junior year of college. She was matriculating at Harvard University, but studying with experts in African and Scandinavian Medieval art at Northwestern University on an unusual “junior year abroad.” “My senior thesis at Harvard was on Medieval Danish parish church sculpture,
Dr. Blakely studied women’s song-dances in Hêmbá funerary events, a previously overlooked women’s performance genre. She needed three languages—KíHêmbá, KiSwahili, and French—to do this work. “When advising my students at RACC, I draw on these experiences. I do my best to impart that if you follow your passion and work hard at it, opportunities will present themselves
“…if you follow your passion and work hard at it, opportunities will present themselves that you cannot even imagine at the start.” but I had an interest in African art as well, ignited by my time at Northwestern. Fundamentally, I was interested in questions of aesthetics from insiders’ perspectives and understanding art in cultural context.” Dr. Blakely deepened these research interests while in graduate school in African Studies at the Folklore Institute at Indiana University in Bloomington, Indiana. In pursuit of this graduate research, she lived with her colleague and husband, Dr. Tom Blakely, for six years in Zaïre (now Democratic Republic of the Congo). They lived there as ethnographers, actively participating in and documenting daily and ritual life in a rural farming community.
that you cannot even imagine at the start.” Dr. Blakely is proud to have been involved in the RACC Honors Program since it started in 1996. The first Honors course ever offered was her course “Intercultural Communication,” which she will be teaching again in Spring 2021. She has been the Coordinator of the Honors Program since 2017. As coordinator, she has introduced the First Year Seminar Program, in which she teaches a course on Medieval Cathedrals. Over these years, Dr. Blakely has had the privilege of working with many
wonderful students, some of whom she now counts as friends. Exceptional students have passed through the Honors Program on their way to substantial accomplishments. “One person from the very first cohort comes to mind: she continued to Albright College and the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs at Syracuse University, and is now a Senior Investigator in the Department of Transportation in Washington, DC.” “Being a professor is a wonderful career because as I create new courses, teach old courses in new ways, and interact with my students, I am continuing to learn and grow—sometimes in surprising and unpredictable ways.”
Miller Center for the Arts 2020-2021 Season WE MISS OUR PATRONS! LOOKING FORWARD TO SEEING YOU FOR NEW AND EXCITING SHOWS IN THE UPCOMING 2021 SEASON!
Be sure to check out our website for future performances:
millercenter.racc.edu
RACC STUDENT EMERGENCY FUND The Student Emergency Assistance Fund at Reading Area Community College provides support to students who encounter obstacles to completion. Eligible students receive funds to help overcome extraordinary financial hardships pertaining to childcare, housing, transportation, utilities, medical expenses and college course required supplies.
RAVEN’S FOOD PANTRY Feeding student success
Students who struggle to eat, also struggle to focus, compete academically, and to graduate. College students face a number of challenges while getting an education. However, there is one obstacle students should never have to face Hunger. The Reading Area Community College Raven’s Food Pantry is an example of how we can help students in addition to what they are doing in the classroom.
To contribute to the Emergency Student Assistance Fund, visit racc.edu/about-racc/donate, or call 610.607.6239.
To contribute to the Raven’s Food Pantry, visit racc.edu/about-racc/donate, or call 610.607.6239.
Student Success
“I owe my success to the RACC faculty.” - Dr. Beth Brady Dr. Beth Brady was born and raised in Berks County. After high school she enrolled in RACC’s nursing program. However, it did not take her long to discover her true passion. “Although I initially went to school to be an Registered Nurse, after a few years of nursing, I realized I desired to learn more about marine biology.” Dr. Brady graduated from RACC with an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree and worked as a nurse while returning to school to obtain her bachelor’s degree at Kutztown University. “RACC provided me with such a solid foundation that I was able to gain discipline in the field of nursing and continue my education.” While obtaining her undergraduate degree in marine biology, Dr. Brady returned to RACC to take advanced science classes that transferred
seamlessly to Kutztown. The small classes at RACC were very beneficial to Dr. Brady. “This was instrumental to me as I was intimidated in my chemistry and physics classes. At RACC, I was able to connect with my instructors and have more individualized instruction.” After graduating from Kutztown, Dr. Brady volunteered with multiple marine mammal and wildlife organizations. “I found my love of manatees through an extended internship at Florida Fish and Wildlife.” Dr. Brady completed her master’s degree at Nova Southeastern University and her doctorate from Florida Atlantic University. Looking back at her time at RACC, Dr. Brady credits the exceptional instruction she received from the faculty that started her on her educational journey. In fact, Dr. Brady has in turn become an adjunct instructor herself at Broward College and Colorado Technical University. “The faculty at RACC was extremely helpful in my success.”
“RACC to Bachelor’s in Finance and Accounting.” - Barbara Lopez Barbara Lopez is originally from Paterson, New Jersey and moved to Berks County for her freshman year of high school. She was very interested in finance, so when she graduated from Reading High School in 2003, she was eager to learn more about personal finance in college. “I love helping others improve their financial health.” The accessibility of RACC is what attracted Barbara most to the college. She needed a program that was suitable with her very busy schedule. “The fact that RACC’s campus was conveniently located and offered several classes online, I was able to juggle being a single mom, working full-time, and taking classes.”
Barbara graduated from RACC with an associate degree in accounting and then transferred to DeSales University. Recently, Barbara completed a dual degree earning a bachelor’s degree in finance and accounting. Plus, she finished the Certified Financial Planner Program and will be taking the exam later this year. Barbara credits RACC for giving her the foundational knowledge needed to continue her education. “Having the experience of taking so many classes online at RACC gave me the confidence to be able to complete my bachelor’s degree 100% online at DeSales.” Barbara currently works as the executive assistant to Berks County Commissioner Michael Rivera. “RACC has helped me in understanding how important it is to build valuable relationships with others in the community and this has been essential in implementing initiatives that will benefit the residents of Berks County.”
Student Success
“RACC was an integral part of my success.” - Pamela Tuck Originally from Greenville, North Carolina, Pamela Tuck, has been writing poems and stories since she was a child. Pamela credits her writing to her upbringing surrounded by southern storytellers. In fact, her family inspires many of her stories. Pamela, mother of 11 children, was drawn to RACC for its conveniently, accessible remote courses. “The creative writing program is offered primarily online, which worked best with my schedule and lifestyle and the staff are very welcoming and supportive.” Pamela graduated RACC with an Associate of Arts in Creative Writing. The creative writing program helped Pamela hone her craft as a writer in the areas of fiction and nonfiction. “I currently write leveled reading books for school students, which requires research and outlining. My experience with RACC further developed those skills for me and allowed me to apply those skills in my current position.” Pamela is an award-winning author for the many children’s books she has written. Some of those awards include, the 2007 Lee and & Low Books New Voices Award for her book As Fast As Words Could Fly and the 2019 Mom’s Choice Award Gold for her book Mother of Many. Reflecting on her time at RACC, Pamela acknowledges the vigorous writing exercises and techniques she learned in the creative writing program that she applies to the various types of writing she produces. “The creative writing program also gave me a foundation of fundamentals that I am able to conceptualize and build upon as I grow as a writer.”
In fact, Pamela credits her professor, Joey Flamm-Costello, for helping her bring out the best in her writing. “Joey believed in me and her genuine interest in my success empowered me to follow my dreams. Joey offered such deep analysis of the literature we read and wrote.” Moving forward, Pamela will continue to work her dream job as a fulltime writer and utilize the skills she learned at RACC to advance her career. “The challenging and engaging courses prepare students with the skills they need to succeed in their profession.”
Foundation for RACC
With thanks and appreciation: Thank you for your generous support of the Foundation for RACC! Whether you are a long-time supporter or first-time donor, please know that your gift made a difference, one student at a time. As the community’s college, our doors are open to all who seek higher education. We are proud of the many accomplishments of our students and grateful to you making their success a reality. Thank you for your encouragement and support, which means so much to our students! Sincerely,
Anthony DeMarco, Executive Director
Gifts from 7/1/2019-6/30/2020 The 504 Company Anonymous ** Alliant Insurance Services Inc. Raymond Almario AmazonSmile Foundation Cynthia and Earl Andrews Connie Archey Assured Assistance LLC Dr. Tressa Aulenbach David and Carey Babczak June Benz Baker Robert L. Ballantyne Maria L. Ballas Barnes and Noble College Howard and Jean Barr Robert Basile and Marie Mooney Harriet M. Baskin BB&T, now Truist Dixie L. Becker David and Linda Bell William F. Bender and O. Christopher Miller Berks Art Alliance Berks County Tuberculosis Society Matthew D. Berthinet Claudia Blandi Bogia Engineering, Inc. Shirley K. Boscov Deborah L. Bosley Jeanne R. Boyer Conchita Braun Maria A. Braun, M.D. Barry and Kelly Benninger Kenneth and Rita Brian Susan J. Briskin Toby J. Briskin and Michael P. Vender
John and Ann Broadbent Broadbent Family Foundation Dr. Leslie P. Brodsky Michael H. Brooke Diane Brown Brett and Robin Buckwalter Cacoosing Family Charitable Foundation Canteen Berks County Carmella Capellupo-Beaver Chrissada Zogas-Caruso Russell and Mary Chadwick Heather Christie and Troy Snyder James Christie Suzanne Christie Robert and Debra Ciervo Dr. C. Harold Cohn Janet Colflesh George and Maryann Combs Concord Public Financial Advisors, Inc. Debra J. Condrath Diann M. Connor Connors Investor Services, Inc. James C. Conrad Jodi A. Corbett Kathy Cunningham Custom Milling & Consulting, Inc. Customers Bank Robert and Linda Cutlip Linda Dapcic-Angst Rose Marie Day Ken and Janet Dearstyne Deborah Detwiler and Valerie West Tammie Dickson Bruce and Renee’ Dietrich Charles and June Dunn Dr. Robin L. Eckert
Peter and Susan Edelman Dr. Kenneth and Kathleen Emkey Enersys David and Ann Marie Engle Entech Engineering, Inc. Brenda Essig Tara and Jason Esterly Bronwen D. Evans Dr. Marshall and Jane Feaster Federation for RACC, Local 3173, AFT-AFL-CIO Stephen and Kathryn Fellman Katherine and Salvatore Ferrarello Santo and Ann Ferrarello Lanie Fessler Merry and Richard Fidler Steven and Roseann Finkel Dr. Christpher Costello and Joey Flamm-Costello Teri Floyd-Brumm Scott and Theresa Fort Thomas A. Fox Donna M. Freeman Deborah L. Frei Nancy L. Freyberger Scott Fruchter Fulton Bank Dr. Joanne and Kenneth Gabel Gage Personnel Barbara D. Gangwere Diane Gassert Genesis HealthCare LLC Emma L. Gilbert Rep. Mark M. Gillen James A. Gilmartin Daniel J. Glass, Jr.
Matthew S. Goldstan Brenda and Gaspar Gonzales Donald and Ann Greth Michael and Kathy Grim Barry and Joanna Groebel Gary and Debra Haag Arthur and Joanne Haberberger Sue Haberberger Katie B. Hannon ManorCare Health Services Mary Ellen G. Heckman Audrey J. Henderson Henry Janssen Foundation The Heritage of Green Hills Dr. Debra K. Hermany Dr. J. Frederick and Dolores Hiehle High Industries, Inc. T. Jerome and Carolyn Holleran Rhonda and Steve Hudak Eugene and Kristie Hudzik Dr. James G. Hughes and Kristen Killoran Henry H. Hyneman III Linda and Thomas Illig Dr. John and Sari Incledon Michael and Sharon Jacklin Dr. Martin and Dr. Karen Jacobson Alexis Jardine Nadine M. Jensen Richard R. Jessup Jewish Federation of Reading Mary H. Kargbo George and Louise Kellenberger Margie and Brett Kerbel and Family Dr. Sandra and Edward Kern Barbara J. Kline Phillip and Mary Lou Kline
Foundation for RACC Kozloff Stoudt Lizabeth Kozloski Judith Kraines and Dr. Neil Hoffman Christ and Ann Kraras Dr. Richard and Barbara Kratz Mary Kreider John Langan and Dr. Judith Nadell Dr. Solomon and Maeve Lausch Rosie and Stan Lauterback Phuoc Le and Tho Thi Tu Victoria Lichty Thomas and Jill Linette Jack A. Linton Esq. William and Kay Litman Dr. Susan D. Looney Christi Loverich M&T Charitable Foundation Lee and Diane Marabella Joe Marchese Jerome I. Marcus, M.D. Teddi and Anthony Matz Jon and LaDawna Mays John and Ann Mazzo Michael and Mary Anne McCarthy Patricia Mejabi Susan K. Merryfield Mid Penn Bank Marlin and Ginger Miller Dr. Roger and Loretta Minear Dr. Charles and Patricia Minehart Dr. Eugene and Margaret Mitchell Thomas J. Mitchell and Joanne E. Benfield Eleisha and Gabriel Moreno Susan B. Morgan Elizabeth Moriarty Gary and Lesa Moyer Michael and Lynn Nagel The Neag Foundation The Nera Family Joan A. Noll Michael and Mary Jean Noon Rhonda and Kevin Ochs Dennis and Judith Olson The Oxholm Family Mary M. Palmer Penske Truck Leasing Co. Pepsi Cola Craig and Sue Perrotty Janet Peters Dory and Carl Peterson Guido and Susan Pichini Elaynee and Blaise Polentes Precision Hearing Aid Center PSECU Helen F. Pyles R.M. Palmer Co.
Ann Schmoyer Rauchbach Redner’s Warehouse Markets Michael H. Reese Ruth C. Reinsel Sonia N. Rieger Gary and Karen Rightmire Riverview Bank Dr. Gary Rizzo and Susan Liberace Richard and Lucy Robb Dr. Seth and Barbara Rosenzweig The Rothenberger Family Philip D. Rowe, Jr. Theresa and Michael Rowles Judy and James Rubright Whitney and Cathy Sanders Korie and Larry Sandridge Crystal Schilthuis Roger and Etta Schmidt Rolf D. Schmidt Martin and Beverly Schmittberger Mary Beth Schmoyer Thomas and Betty Schmoyer Brett M. Schultz Ellen Schwartz Dr. Joshua S. Schwartz Ronald Schwartzkopf Wilson and Judith Schwenk Jon and VeeVee Scott G. Brad and Carroll Scribner Cynthia J. Seaman Security First, Inc. Security Guards, Inc. Mason R. Seewagen Charles and Tina Segner Bonnie Sekulski Abigail and Luis Serrano SFS Group USA, Inc. Sharon L. Shappell Sharpoint Partners, Inc. Peter and Jane Shaub Karen and Jeff Shearer Clark R. Sheffy Brenda Rose Simkin Dr. Kim A. Sivak Dr. Edmond C. Smith Sterling and Ann Snyder Kim Stahler and John Zukowski Cathleen Stephen Stevens & Lee/Griffin Walter and Deborah Strohmayer Denise Strohmayr STV, Inc. Sweet Street Desserts, Inc. Joseph Swope Jaron C. Talotta Team Rivera Realtors, LLC
Margaret A. Thomas Ronald and Jane Tomko Tompkins VIST Bank Tom Degler, KW Elite Keller Williams Reality UGI Utilities, Inc. UPMC Health Plan Alfred and Mary Vanim Anthony Vega Marilyn A. Wademan Jeffrey L. Wagner Kevin J. Wagner Melodie and Duane Wardecke Dr. JB and Wendy Watson Weidenhammer Randy and Dawn Weidner Dr. Anna D. Weitz Dr. David E. Weller Wells Fargo Foundation Ann Z. Wenrich West Lawn Quoiting Association, Inc. White Star Tours, Inc. Mary and Jerome Wiggins Nancy R. Wilkins-Diehr Shari Wilkins-Duley Nicole T. Williams James and Judith Williamson Sylvia E. Wolff C. Thomas and Dianne Work Robert and Catherine Wright Paul Yanosik* James H. Yocum Yocum Family Perpetual Trust Yocum Family Perpetual Charitable Trust Joan Youngerman Dr. Gust Zogas Matching Gifts PSEG In-Kind Gifts Tracy Ball BB&T, now Truist Berks County Tuberculosis Society Peter Edelman Sara Fraser Fromuth Tennis Golf Committee NestlĂŠ Waters North America Daniel Oliver Mary Marshall Palmer Riverview Bank Joe Swope Pamela Taylor UGI Utilities, Inc. Kevin Wilson
Gifts given to the Foundation in memory of the following: Peter D. Archey Muriel and Theodore Boyer Samuel and Sonia Briskin Mary Ann Chelius Smith Dr. David Christie James Connors David Garcia Lebron Mae W. Langan C. David Moyer Robert A. Mutzel Catherine Phillipson-Jessup Dwight Rinehart Christopher L. Rowe Christine E. Ruth Wadzinske Schwartzkopf Mary Jane Schmoyer Arthur W. Smith Bruce Stanley Martha A. Sykes Dr. Ivan Torres Benjamin S. and Ruth G. Wagner Dr. Clifford and Doris Wagner Jeremiah Wanner, Jr. William I. Wenrich, Jr. Dr. Gene and Mary Wilkins Paul O. Yanosik Louise (Nancy) Yarnell Doris Zogas Gifts given to the Foundation in honor of the following: The Gieringer Family Olivia Gracjowski Joanne and Art Haberberger Guido and Susan Pichini Jon and VeeVee Scott G. Brad and Carroll Scribner Marcia Pyles Stoudt Dr. Anna D. Weitz The retirement of Carol Wisniewski James H. Yocum Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and comprehension of this list. We apologize if we have inadvertently omitted or incorrectly listed your name. Please bring any error to our attention at 610.607.6239. The official registration and financial information of the Foundation for Reading Area Community College may be obtained from the Pennsylvania Department of State by calling, toll free within Pennsylvania, 1.900.732.0999. Registration does not imply endorsement. * Recently deceased ** We have received gifts from several individuals who would like to remain anonymous.
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