® A PUBLICATION OF READING AREA COMMUNITY COLLEGE
Industry 4.0 The Schmidt Training & Technology Center provides customized training programs that adjust to changing technology needs of employers
Start Here. Go Anywhere. Students succeed at RACC and beyond
Faculty Voices
Meet RACC’s dedicated faculty
Expanded Alvernia Scholarships to RACC Graduates
racc.edu
LEAD the PACK after RACC TWO FULL-TUITION SCHOLARSHIPS
through The Reading Collegiate Scholars Program
• 99% of transfer students receive financial aid • Multiple transfer scholarships available • New business and communication program pathways • Easy credit transfer
A LV E R N I A U N I V E R S I T Y 1.888.ALVERNIA (1.888.258.3764) | alvernia.edu | admissions@alvernia.edu
Cover Story
President: Dr. Susan D. Looney Editor: David Hessen Contributors: Diane Conrad, Jodi Corbett, Kathy Cunningham, Sarah Hess, Nancy Jackson, Jennifer Lindsay, Michael Nagel, Kathryn Plesnarski, Bonnie Spayd, Cathleen Stephen Design: Kathryn Plesnarski Photography: John Secoges, 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 President Dr. Susan D. Looney samples the VR (virtual reality) technology in the Schmidt Training & Technology Center. Last year, almost 30 million people in the US used VR, and 68.7 million people used AR (augmented reality) at least once per month.
Reading Area Community College 10 South 2nd Street P.O. Box 1706 Reading, PA 19603 racc.edu
Industry today is changing faster than ever before. It is getting smarter, more automated, more predictive and less reactive. Industry 4.0 technology is touching nearly all aspects of every manufacturing sector imaginable. Keeping current with industry standards and applicable technology has also become more critical. Our Schmidt Training and Technology Center (STTC) at Reading Area Community College provides our students with customized training programs that adjust to these constantly changing needs of employers. Training programs based on employer needs use evolving instruction methods and technologies that are highly individualized. Industry 4.0 is transitioning robotics and automation to SMART cyber-physical processes and systems using the industrial internet of things, artificial intelligence, data analytics, data exchange and cloud-based execution to design, produce and distribute manufactured goods and products. Our STTC training utilizes state-of-theart equipment and creative instructional technologies and solutions that will contribute to operational value and human talent development; leading to long term sustainable businesses and people that will contribute positively to the Greater Reading community. Bonnie Spayd, our executive director of workforce and economic development sums it up perfectly, “In Berks and surrounding counties that the STTC serves, there is an estimated need for 10,000-plus technical workers in the next two to five years. Our local, regional and national workforce involvement galvanizes our ability to provide new and expanded education and skills required to span the continuum of technology in advanced/ SMART manufacturing companies. Building relationships with our manufacturers solidifies our understanding of the products produced, the benefit of the products to society, and the competitive pay and upward mobility opportunities that exist in manufacturing companies.”
Schmidt Training & Technology Center Executive Director Bonnie Spayd demonstrates the capabilities of an industrial Fanuc robot to RACC President Dr. Susan D. Looney.
We also educate business and government leaders about how and where these “21st century skills” and technologies can create real value, and help them successfully focus on the appropriate and timely investments and policies needed to drive that value. I am very proud of the highly-skilled instructors and facility staff, and their ability to respond to the demands of rapidly changing industry. We consider it our duty to do whatever possible to help our traditional and non-traditional students connect learning with real life industry and to provide them with the necessary skills to prepare them for success.
Dr. Susan D. Looney President, Reading Area Community College
Campus Happenings
RACC President Dr. Susan D. Looney delivers state-of-the-college address RACC President Dr. Susan D. Looney delivered RACC’s state-ofthe-college address to a large crowd in the Miller Center for the Arts on RACC campus. The event offered an opportunity for the Berks community and members of the RACC faculty and staff to reflect on the accomplishments of the college during the past year and look ahead to the new academic year. Dr. Looney spoke to the four hallmarks that drive her leadership: access, opportunity, excellence, and hope. Among the college’s
successful initiatives during the past year, she highlighted renewed and expanded partnerships with Alvernia University, Bucknell University, Kutztown University and Shippensburg University; introduction of new career pathways, and introduction of “Industry 4.0” education and training to the community and industry partners. The president also highlighted four key goals outlined in the newly-adopted RACC five-year strategic plan: student learning and success, proactive community partnerships, maintaining a viable and effective workplace, and being known for excellence.
RACC celebrates its third annual STEM day RACC hosted over 130 Berks County middle school students, teachers and administrators for their third annual STEM Day on Friday, November 8th. Students from Tulpehocken, Reading, Wilson, Kutztown, Brandywine, Oley Valley, Conrad Weiser, Antietam and Daniel Boone School Districts conducted handson experiments using techniques and procedures in the areas
of geocaching, chemistry, robotics, physics, medical lab technology, respiratory therapy and even simulated crime scene investigations using forensics technology. The experiments were designed to help get students excited about how fun science can be as a career path and encourage them to make positive future life and career choices.
Campus Happenings
SMART Automation Summit at RACC On Thursday, October 3rd, the Schmidt Training and Technology Center hosted over 125 local and regional manufacturing leaders and vendors for a SMART Automation Summit. Working with the business strategy and consulting firm Nimble Leader, the summit featured keynote speakers Craig McAtee, executive director at the National Coalition of Advanced Technology Centers, Nimble Leader Managing Directors, Steve Van Valin, founder and CEO of Culturology and T. Brett Wilmotte, director of cyber security for Enterprise Ventures Corporation.
Muhlenberg School District joins effort to break barriers through language Muhlenberg High School Principal Michael Mish has experienced some uncomfortable silences. Those silences usually come when it has been painfully clear that the parents staring at him have no clue what he has been attempting to tell them. He offers a smile and then they wait. They wait for someone who can help them move past the barricade that separates those who only speak English from those who only speak Spanish. So when Mish heard the district was partnering with RACC to offer a
Spanish program last summer to school administrators and their support staff, he said he embraced the opportunity. Mish was not alone in his enthusiasm for learning. He was one of about 30 faculty members across the district who took the course. They spent the last several weeks learning and speaking basic words and phrases, researching Spanish-speaking countries, tasting the local cuisine from those countries and listening to the experiences of those who lived in those countries.
Socially Speaking Smile Day
Follow RACC on our social media sites to stay informed about up-to-date happenings and events. The event also highlighted state-ofthe-art technology demonstrations on electronic sensors, cloud and robot integration, networking and cloudbased manufacturing. In additional to guest speakers and demonstrations, breakout workshops were held during the afternoon. Workshops ranged in topic from sales lead generation, optimization and conversion, to corporate branding and robotics automation.
High School Senior Day
Reading Holiday Parade New Student Orientation College Knights
Admissions
EVENTS Learn more about all events happening at RACC, just visit racc.edu/events
FEB
11 FEB
18 APR
07
Financial Aid Information Session High school seniors and parents are invited to attend this informative session on financial aid. Whether your child plans to attend RACC or another college, you are welcome to join us on Tuesday, February 11th.
Scholarships for Exceptional Students Earn generous scholarships when you stand out in the classroom and on campus! RACC is hosting an information session, Scholarships for Exceptional Students, on February 18th. Find out more by visiting racc.edu/sec.
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, April 7th, by signing up online at racc.edu/AdmissionsEvents.
Open Enrollment Day Tuesday, April 21 | 10:00AM - 5:30PM racc.edu/openenrollment
BECOME A
DENTAL
ASSISTANT in as little as 24 weeks! racc.edu/dental
Academic Achievements
RACC celebrates 26th Practical Nursing Program graduation The Practical Nursing Program of RACC celebrated its Commencement on Thursday, December 6th in the Miller Center for the Arts.
RACC, Kutztown University, and Career & Technology Centers launch teacher education pathway Last fall, RACC President Dr. Susan D. Looney and Kutztown University of Pennsylvania President Dr. Kenneth Hawkinson signed an agreement for Kutztown University to teach a Bachelor of Science in Education (BSED) with Prek-4 Teacher Certification program at RACC’s campus starting fall 2020. The agreement frames a teacher certification pathway through leveraging Berks County public institutions, RACC, Kutztown University, Reading Muhlenberg Career and Technology Centers, and Berks Career and Technology Center and addresses workforce projections for qualified early childhood teachers in the region. Students began taking college courses last fall at the Career Technology Centers (CTC) through the Teacher Academy, a collegecredit bearing career pathway in CTC Early Childhood Education taught at both CTC’s. Students will be able to complete their AAS in Early Childhood Teaching
in a year after graduating from high school before transitioning to Kutztown University’s BSED (PreK-4 Certification) program offered at RACC’s campus. At the center of these agreements, which creates a seamless pathway from the CTC’s to Kutztown University, are the students who graduate from RACC’s AAS Early Childhood Teaching program and need an accessible and affordable pathway to better employment opportunities through earning a Bachelor of Science in Education in the community where they live, work, and raise their families. “The BSED at RACC’s campus will help our students achieve their career goals and help our community with well-trained early childhood teachers. These students want to stay in Berks County and teach our very youngest students. To partner with the Career & Technology Centers so high school students can begin their career programs with college credit helps accelerated the pathway to completion,” says Dr. Susan D. Looney.
A total of twenty-two students received certificates in practical nursing, which then makes them eligible to take for the PA State Board of Nursing Licensing Exam.
Awards were presented to students who excelled academically and exhibited outstanding clinical performance throughout the Practical Nursing Program. The Frances Troutman Award for Nursing Excellence was presented to Loise Otieno. The Award for Outstanding Performance and Nursing Professionalism was presented to Sophia Desrosiers, and the Country Meadows Award for Academics and Leadership was presented to Rashana Harris. Congratulations and good luck to the Class of 2019.
Academic Achievements
RACC and Shippensburg University sign agreement to prepare workforce of the future On September 16th, RACC President Dr. Susan D. Looney and Shippensburg University President Dr. Laurie A. Carter signed a comprehensive articulation agreement to support post-secondary educational opportunities for students training for twenty-first century careers. The agreement ensures the seamless transfer of coursework for RACC students seeking to complete their bachelor’s degree at Shippensburg University.
RACC PTK research paper published in national journal
RACC staff members win 2019 National League for Innovation Excellence Awards Fifteen staff and faculty members of RACC are being honored for creating and implementing innovative programs, practices, partnerships, policies, and activities that improve the institution’s ability to serve students and their communities.
Their dedication to student success and their abilities to motivate and support students in the development of valuable learning experiences continues to inspire me every day,” says RACC President Dr. Susan D. Looney.
“I could not be more proud of the RACC staff and faculty members who have worked so hard to achieve this award.
The winning members will be honored at the League for Innovation Conference in March 2020, in Seattle, Washington.
RACC was recently recognized as one of only 16 colleges, out of 1,200 community colleges nationwide, to be published in the 2019 edition of Civic Scholar. The Civic Scholar is the Phi Theta Kappa Journal of Undergraduate Research, and the nation’s only journal recognizing and celebrating the undergraduate research and community engagement of community college students.
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
Machine Tool Lab
Advanced Manufacturing Integrated Systems Technology, Electrical, Controls, Robotics, Computer Technology
CNC Operation/Programming, Blueprint Reading, Design, Turning, Milling, Fixture Design
Mechatronics Engineering Technology AAS Associate of Applied Science Degree
Machine Tool Technology AAS Associate of Applied Science Degree
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
Workforce Development
FREE
Skills Training to earn up to $20/hr racc.edu/EZskills
Vital Leader Roundtable Strategic orientation; actionable short-term impact.
In collaborative peer group setting, explore key concepts; practical, useful, applicable to achieving sustained improvement in business performance over the long run. Build and apply business acumen in a non-threatening team environment. Tap the collective wisdom of roundtable participants and enable tools for proďŹ table growth within your business. 11 half-day sessions delivered over 12-month timeframe Lift O: March 2020 Investment per participant: $6,600
Get ready to be challenged, stretched, and energized! Learn more and register at bit.ly/VLroundtable
Faculty Voices mom and they appreciate that. While many of my students at RACC speak Spanish, not French, it’s the same idea; we all have so much more in common than meets the eye.” For Diane, RACC has been very welcoming. “It is easy to strike up conversations in the elevator or in the hallways. Students and faculty are never too busy to lend a hand, and many of my greatest classroom moments have been here.” As a professional, Diane feels her talents are being utilized well at RACC. “I am challenged, and have many opportunities to contribute. I like the spirit of community here.”
Diane Conrad, PhD, Assistant Professor Diane Conrad has devoted 25 years, and still counting, to teaching. Beginning with teaching high school English at Spring Ford Senior High, moving into higher education and teaching as an adjunct faculty member at Montgomery County Community College, Reading Area Community College, and Albright College. She has also taught tenth and twelfth grade English at Reading High School. Diane has a BA in English, BA in Political Science, MA
in English Education and PhD in Leadership. Diane grew up in Brooklyn, NY, like her father, with his thick Brooklyn accent. Her mom was French Canadian and spoke broken English, so it is ironic that Diane actually teaches in a communication department, let alone teaching Fundamentals of Speech. “I think that is why RACC is a good fit for me. I always tell my ESL students about my
As a mother of two young men, Diane is happy to be working somewhere local, and where her kids are not only welcomed, but where they can see important work being done. “My teen boys and I walked in our first Reading Holiday parade with RACC this past December, so that was a pretty cool and meaningful thing for me; to involve my own children in my work and to help them see that life is so much bigger than ourselves.” Diane loves when her whole class is in a state of flow, all of their brains are working on something together, or they are all sharing a laugh together. “That moment when I can see everyone nodding their heads. That moment. It’s perfect.” In the future Diane hopes to conduct more research on communications, social networking, and retention issues. “I hope to accomplish more, which some people think, “You have a PhD, you’re accomplished,” but I feel I have so much more to do and offer our RACC students. I’m a big believer in “the best is yet to come.”
Faculty Voices
Nancy Jackson, Associate Professor and Coordinator for the Early Childhood Education and Social Science/Human Services Divisions After spending almost 35 years in early child development education, spanning the spectrum from Pre-K/ Kindergarten to college instructor and administrator, one can say Reading native Nany Jackson is an expert in the art of teaching. Her journey in learning, reading, training, and observation, particularly at the college level, has prepared her for her current role as associate professor and coordinator for the Early Childhood Education and Social Science/Human Services Divisions at RACC.
“I love the fact that RACC wants to meet students where they are and help them get to where they want to be.” Having spent most of her career close to her roots in Berks County, it is no surprise Nancy has been with RACC in various roles for almost 25 years. “I like the fact that RACC’s mission is to the community. Growing up, living and raising a family in Berks County means my roots run deep in this county. It is a blessing to have developed so many strong, lifelong relationships through RACC. I love the fact that RACC wants to meet students where they are and help them get to where they want to be. That can be English classes, a high school equivalency diploma, a certificate or an associate degree,” Nancy says.
Years ago, while attending childcare training on the RACC campus, she fell in love with the idea of becoming a trainer. Following the guidance of one of her instructors, Nancy went back to school to attain a master’s degree, and then returned to RACC as a trainer and adjunct professor. “It was the students that attracted me to this work. They all have their own very diverse story. I love the diversity in ages, experiences and cultures.” After decades of countless examples of student success as a result of her passion for education, Nancy finds it impossible to narrow down the most memorable. “Every one of my students
that completes their degree or credential is a success story in and of itself. Like all students, they had struggles and obstacles but in the end, they completed their goal. In my discipline I get to know the students well. They become their own support system, and by the time they graduate, they are a “family.” Being able to follow them in their careers through social media or having them come back to work for us as adjunct professors and staff, or as co-op teachers and directors in area childcare centers ends the circle. Even deeper is the fact they have gone out to touch the lives of countless others, those that I will never know.”
MILLER CENTER FOR THE ARTS 2020
For tickets and information, contact the Miller Center Box Office at 610.607.6270 or visit millercenter.racc.edu. The box office is open MWF 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM for walk-up and phone sales.
APPEARING WINTER/SPRING 2020 MOMIX SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 7:30PM Presenting works of exceptional inventiveness and physical beauty.
SEVEN L.A. TheatreWorks SATURDAY, FBEURARY 29, 7:30PM A riveting documentary play by seven female writers based on personal interviews with seven remarkable women who faced life-threatening obstacles before bringing heroic changes to their home countries. A Celebration of Women in the Arts event
DANU FRIDAY, MARCH 13, 7:30PM Hailing from Counties Cork, Waterford, Dublin and Donegal in Ireland, Danu is one of the leading traditional Irish ensembles of today.
HOTEL CIRQUE ELOIZE SATURDAY, MARCH 21, 7:30PM A driving force of Quebec culture and a leader in the contemporary circus world in a show that is as sophisticated as it is thrilling.
THE CAPITOL STEPS FRIDAY, APRIL 24, 7:30PM Political satire at its best. “The Capitol Steps make it easier to leave public life.” – Former President George H. W. Bush
PHOTOPLAY Film Series Tibet, A Light in the Darkness Sean Cassidy, filmmaker Friday, February 7 - 1:00 PM & 7:30 PM
On Assignment Alaska Rich Reid, filmmaker Friday, March 6 - 1:00 PM & 7:30 PM
Pizza! A Love Story Gorman Bechard, filmmaker Thursday, April 9 - 6:30 PM
The Blood is at the Doorstep Erika Ljung, filmmaker Monday, February 24 - 6:30 PM
Risking Light Dawn Mikkelson, filmmaker Monday, March 23 - 6:30 PM
Dr. Strangelove or How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb Stanley Kubrick, Director Friday, April 17 - 1:00 PM & 7:30 PM
Guarantee the best seats in the house with a Miller Center membership!
MILLER CENTER FOR THE ARTS 2020
Buy your tickets now! Seats for this show are selling fast! To secure your seats, contact the Miller Center box office at 610.607.6205 or visit millercenter.racc.edu
COMING TO THE MILLER CENTER IN APRIL
THE CAPITOL STEPS Friday, April 24, 7:30PM
The Capitol Steps, a Washington DC-based comedy troupe that began as a group of Senate Staffers, will present a show based on songs from their current album “The Lyin’ Kings” at the Miller Center for the Arts What better time to see the Capitol Steps, the group that put the “mock” in “democracy” than now, with election season approaching? Don’t miss songs about the Democratic primary candidates (“76 Unknowns”) and the newest late-night thoughts from President Trump (“Tweet It”). No one knows what the next election will bring, but whether it’s Joe Biden, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez or Beto O’Rourke, the Capitol Steps can tell you what rhymes with it! Whether you’re a Democrat or Republican (or somewhere in-between), if you’ve ever wanted to see Donald Trump sing a rock song, Bernie Sanders sing a show tune, and Vladimir Putin dance shirtless…this is the show for you!
MILLER CENTER IN THE COMMUNITY
Miller Center programming doesn’t stop at the stage! Since it opened its doors in 2007, the Miller Center has taken the artists it brings from around the world to classrooms and charitable organizations throughout Berks County reaching an average of 4,000 youth and underserved and disadvantaged populations annually. Here are highlights from fall 2019: SEPTEMBER – Koresh Dance Company opened the Miller Center 2019-2020 season with an engagement that included a public performance, lecture at the Jewish Community Center and a workshop for area dancers. (see image top right) OCTOBER – 296 3rd and 4th grade students from Lauer’s Park Elementary School were treated to a special school performance by Cirque Mechanics on Monday, October 21. NOVEMBER –Grammy nominated Trout Fishing in America returned to the Miller Center for a public performance and to deliver a song-writing workshop to approximately 60 Conrad Weiser 4th grade students. (see image bottom right)
Student Success
“RACC was my first choice for nursing.” - Chad DeShazo Chad DeShazo received his bachelor’s degree in journalism from the University of Kansas. After working at the Reading Eagle for almost 30 years as a photographer and systems specialist, he says he wanted a change. “I wanted to make a difference and make a deeper connection with people.” That is when Chad enrolled at RACC to become a nurse. For Chad, RACC was his first choice. He was working full-time, had no medical experience and was even squeamish of blood and needles. “I wondered if I was really built for nursing, but after two semesters, I was able to put my fears behind me and
invaluable. They take their students under their wing and develop them into competent novice nurses.” Chad, now a registered nurse at Tower Health Reading Hospital, looks forward to mentoring RACC students when they do their clinicals. “During my clinicals, I was repeatedly told that RACC students are well trained and have a great work ethic. I understand that now more than ever and really enjoy working with RACC students. They are always well prepared, and it is clear their instructors are teaching them well.”
run full steam through the program.” Chad was able to attend night classes and evening clinicals while obtaining his associate degree. “This was no easy task. The support I received from the entire nursing department was
Looking to the future, Chad has been accepted into an RN to MSN degree program. Without the solid education Chad received at RACC none of this would be possible. “RACC’s faculty trained me to become the patient-centered, critical thinking RN that I am today. I can’t say enough about the great experience I had and without hesitation I would recommend RACC to anyone wanting to enter the field.”
From diploma to degree…debt-free Luke Degenhart, a 2018 Daniel Boone High School graduate, already earned his Associate of Science degree from RACC, and is on his way to Alvernia University to complete a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry with a minor in environment. Luke attended RACC on the Presidential Scholarship, a full-tuition scholarship for four semesters. He is now attending Alvernia University with a $17,000 award. Luke began taking dual enrollment courses in his junior year at Daniel Boone High School. These college-level courses are taught by approved high school faculty during the regular school day. He earned 26 college credits before graduating from high school. Because of his Presidential Scholarship and Alvernia University’s generous transfer policy, Luke took another four courses, post-associate degree, at RACC and one at Alvernia University - all courses counting toward his bachelor’s. Already considered a junior in college, Luke has incurred very little debt by taking advantage of dual enrollment and dual admissions with RACC’s strong transfer partners. Much of Luke’s strategy for earning his degrees has been to “get his foot in the door” early, easing the transition to taking college-level courses. He says, “Dual enrollment helped me get a step ahead of my classmates and prepared me to be a chem major.”
Student Success
“RACC’s STEM program launched my career.” - Sharibel Urena Sharibel Urena was born in New York City and moved to Berks County with her parents when she was in elementary school. She loved studying chemistry, biology and French in high school, so when she graduated from Wyomissing Area High School in 2011, she was eager to continue these studies in college. Due to her excellent high school academic performance, Sharibel received a full scholarship to RACC. She enrolled in RACC as a science transfer major. “RACC gave me the opportunity to experience college close to home before deciding which four-year institution was right for me.” With the guidance and support of RACC faculty and staff, particularly Jane Dietrich and Jodi Corbett, Sharibel’s transfer process was smooth. “RACC’s great selection of academic programs and ease in transferring to four-year institutions was very helpful. Having knowledgeable mentors and excellent counselors at RACC allowed me to stay on track with my academic goals.” Sharibel transferred to Albright College and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in biochemistry with a minor in French within four years of graduating high school. In addition to immersing herself in trigonometry and chemistry her first year at RACC, Sharibel took advantage of the various opportunities to get involved on campus and in her community. She
was a chemistry and math tutor and continued to do so at RACC even after transferring to Albright. She was a member of the International Club where she made great connections with people from around the world. There, she participated in the annual International Festival, and spent several hours volunteering to help RACC raise over $15,000 for Caitlyn’s Smiles, a local charity. Sharibel got her first taste of the performing arts when she participated in RACC Idol and won 2nd place. “I developed an even deeper passion for performing at Albright by joining the Women’s Chorale and I continue to sing with a local select chamber choir and volunteer in a community performing arts organization, Barrio Alegria.” Sharibel also took advantage of the cross-registration program to continue her French education at Albright while taking classes at RACC. “I was placed into a 300 level French course at Albright as I attended classes at RACC and excelled at it for the next three years. Plus, I was also able to study abroad for a month in Paris.” Sharibel ultimately earned a 3.9 GPA in French, was inducted into the National French Honor Society, Pi Delta Phi, and became fluent in her third language, in addition to English and Spanish.
Thanks to the excellent education and experiences she received, Sharibel was well prepared and qualified to work professionally in the scientific field. Her first position after graduating was at a pharmaceutical laboratory as a chemist in Lancaster. The technical experience Sharibel gained there made her a perfect fit for a position much closer to home at Carpenter Technology, where she currently works as an environmental chemistry laboratory technician. “The STEM courses I took at RACC were the foundation for the higher-level science courses I took later in my academic career. The literature and speech classes helped me grow from a very shy student, into one that was comfortable speaking in front of a classroom and performing on a stage.”
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,
Michael E. Nagel, Executive Director
Gifts of 2019 (January 1 through December 31) The 504 Company Chad Alban Alliant Insurance Services Inc. Raymond Almario AmazonSmile Foundation Dr. John and Kathryn Anderson Cynthia and Earl Andrews Anonymous ** Connie Archey Heidimarie and Scott Arndt Assured Assistance LLC Dr. Tressa Aulenbach David and Carey Babczak June Benz Baker Robert L. Ballantyne Maria L. Ballas Flynn, Colleen and Robin Barber Stephen Barber Michael Barber Barnes and Noble College Howard and Jean Barr Robert Basile and Marie Mooney Harriet M. Baskin BB&T Dixie L. Becker David and Linda Bell William F. Bender and Christopher Miller Berks Art Alliance Berks County Tuberculosis Society Berks Encore Matthew D. Berthinet Bogia Engineering, Inc. James S. Boscov Boscov’s Department Stores, LLC Jeanne R. Boyer Barbara Bradley Conchita Braun Maria A. Braun, M.D. Breidegam Family Foundation 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 Bulk Chemicals, Inc. Burkey Construction Company Eric Burkey Rick and Dawn Burkey Betty and Ray Buss Cacoosing Family Charitable Foundation Canteen Berks County Carmella Capellupo-Beaver Chrissada Zogas-Caruso Russell and Mary Chadwick Robert and Anita Chaney Heather Christie and Troy Snyder James Christie Suzanne Christie Peggy and Dennis Christman Robert and Debra Ciervo Clermont Wealth Strategies/Fulton Bank Clover Farms Dairy Co. Dr. C. Harold Cohn George and Maryann Combs William and Vicki Combs Concord Public Financial Advisors, Inc. Debra Condrath James and Anna Connors Connors Investor Services, Inc. James C. Conrad Country Meadow Associates Custom Milling & Consulting, Inc. Customers Bank Linda Dapcic-Angst Kent and Barbara Davis Rose Marie Day Kenneth and Janet Dearstyne Deborah Detwiler and Valerie West John and Meredith DeVere
Tammie Dickson Jane Dietrich Bruce and Renee’ Dietrich Discovery Federal Credit Union Dolfin International Corporation Dr. Scott and Elizabeth Duffy Charles and June Dunn E.R. Stuebner, Inc. East Penn Manufacturing Co., Inc. Dr. Robin Eckert Peter and Susan Edelman Dr. Kenneth and Kathleen Emkey Encompass Health of Reading Enersys Entech Engineering, Inc. Brenda Essig Tara and Jason Esterly Bronwen D. Evans Marlene Fares Federation for RACC, Local 3173, AFT-AFL-CIO Katherine and Salvatore Ferrarello Lanie Fessler Merry and Richard Fidler Lynn A. Field First Priority Bank, a divison of Mid Penn Bank Dr. Christpher Costello and Joey Flamm-Costello Philip and Judith Fleck Teri Floyd-Brumm Thomas A. Fox Nancy L. Freyberger Carl and Teresa Friedmann Scott Fruchter Fulton Bank Dr. Joanne and Kenneth Gabel Gage Personnel Barbara D. Gangwere Diane Gassert Lisa Ann and Gregg Gault Genesis HealthCare LLC Andrew George Emma L. Gilbert Rep. Mark Gillen James A. Gilmartin Jennifer Gittings-Dalton and Stanley Dalton Pelagie Golden Matthew S. Goldstan Jack R. Gombach Dr. Stanley and Quality Grabias Donald and Ann Greth Michael and Kathy Grim Barry and Joanna Groebel Gary and Debra Haag Art Haberberger, Jr. Arthur and Joanne Haberberger Sue Haberberger Victor and Dena Hammel Katie B. Hannon Darrel and Maureen Harris Donna and Glenn Hartman Kenneth A. Haupt ManorCare Health Services Mary Ellen and Robert Heckman Audrey J. Henderson Henry Janssen Foundation
Herbein + Company, Inc. The Heritage of Green Hills Dr. Debra K. Hermany Heyco Metals, Inc. Dr. J. Frederick and Dolores Hiehle T. Jerome and Carolyn Holleran The Holleran Donor-Advised Fund of the Berks County Community Foundation William and Stephanie Hornberger 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 Rajavel Jagadesan Alexis Jardine Michael and Kristina Jemison The Jerlyn Foundation Richard R. Jessup Jewish Federation of Reading JPMS Manufacturing LLC Mary H. Kargbo George and Louise Kellenberger Marjorie A. Kerbel Dr. Sandra and Edward Kern Dr. George and Susan Kershner Keystone Cruise and Travel LLC Barbara J. Kline David and Janet Knudsen Koch and Koch Kozloff Stoudt Attorneys Judith Kraines and Dr. Neil Hoffman Dr. Richard and Barbara Kratz Mary Kreider Lamar Advertising John Langan and Dr. Judith Nadell Dr. Solmon and Maeve Lausch Lehigh Valley Health Network Thomas Linette Jack A. Linton Esq. Kay and William Litman Dr. Susan Looney Lutz Funeral Home, Inc. M&T Charitable Foundation Mail Shark The Manor at Market Square Lee and Diane Marabella Jerry Marcus Nick and Risa Marmontello Alfred and Lynne Mast Annette McGanka Brenda and Brian McHale David McLain and Alexis Boccabella McLain Peg McShane Michele Means Dr. John and Cathy Meharg Lou Mehos Patricia Mejabi Susan K. Merryfield Met-Ed/A FirstEnergy Company The Military Assistance Fund of the Berks County Community Foundation Marlin and Ginger Miller
Foundation for RACC Dr. Roger and Loretta Minear Dr. Charles and Patricia Minehart Dr. Eugene and Margaret Mitchell Thomas J. Mitchell and Joanne E. Benfield Mitsubishi Chemical Advanced Materials Eleisha and Gabriel Moreno Morgan Stanley - Wyomissing Gary and Lesa Moyer Michael and Lynn Nagel The Neag Foundation Carole Neag Charlotte Nelson Gerry, Melanie and Ben Nera Netwok for Good Judy Ann Newman Joan A. Noll Michael and Mary Jean Noon Rhonda and Kevin Ochs Dennis and Judith Olson Janet Orwig The Oxholm Family PA Assoc of Developmental Educators Mary M. Palmer Penske Truck Leasing Co. Pepsi Cola Patricia A. Perfect Craig and Sue Perrotty Janet Peters Dory and Carl Peterson PF Foundation, Inc. Guido and Susan Pichini Elaynee and Blaise Polentes Francis G. Post Steven and Loni Pottieger PSECU Helen F. Pyles R.M. Palmer Co. Marnie and Harry Ramsey Ann Schmoyer Rauchbach Redner’s Warehouse Markets Michael H. Reese Carter and Sarah Reese Carol C. Reid Ruth C. Reinsel Sonia N. Rieger Gary and Karen Rightmire Riverview Bank Dr. Gary Rizzo and Susan Liberace 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 Schatz Electric, Inc. Crystal Schilthuis Roger and Etta Schmidt Rolf and Renate* Schmidt Martin and Beverly Schmittberger Thomas and Betty Schmoyer Andrew Schreffler Peter and Mary Schuchman Brett M. Schultz Dr. Joshua S. Schwartz
Ronald Schwartzkopf Jon and VeeVee Scott G. Brad and Carroll Scribner The Brad and Carroll Scribner DonorAdvised Fund of the Berks County Community Foundation Cynthia J. Seaman Security First, Inc. Security Guards, Inc. Mason R. Seewagen Dr. Eric and Eloise Seidel Bonnie Sekulski Select Security Abigail and Luis Serrano David Setley SFS Group USA, Inc. Richard and Eleanor Shaner Sharon L. Shappell Sharpoint Partners, Inc. Peter and Jane Shaub Karen and Jeff Shearer Clark R. Sheffy Linda K Shultz Thomas M Shumaker Brenda Rose Simkin Diane Simpson Dr. Kim A. Sivak Dr. Edmond C. Smith Jeff Smith, Wells Fargo Advisors Sterling and Ann Snyder Kim Stahler and John Zukowski Cathleen Stephen Stevens & Lee/Griffin Walter and Deborah Strohmayer Denise Strohmayr Joseph Swope Jaron C. Talotta Team Rivera Realtors, LLC Dr. David and Cindy Texter Margaret A. Thomas Ronald and Jane Tomko Tompkins VIST Bank Reading Health System Tom Degler, KW Elite Keller Williams Realty James J. Tucker Gary and Mary Turner UGI Heating Cooling & Plumbing UGI Utilities, Inc. Unique Technologies, Inc. UPMC Health Plan Alfred and Mary Vanim Anthony Vega Vistra Energy/Ontelaunee Power Plant Viwinco, Inc. Carl and Kathleen Volz Marilyn A. Wademan Jeffrey L. Wagner Kevin J. Wagner Melodie and Duane Wardecke Dr. JB and Wendy Watson Weidenhammer Steven and Joan Weidman Randy and Dawn Weidner Dr. Anna D. Weitz Dr. David E. Weller
Wells Fargo Foundation Ann Z. Wenrich West Lawn Quoiting Association, Inc. Jeff and Cheryl West White Star Tours, Inc. Nancy R. Wilkins-Diehr Shari Wilkins-Duley Nicole T. Williams Gail and Barrie Williamson James and Judith Williamson Carol and Mark Wisniewski Sylvia E. Wolff C. Thomas and Dianne Work Carol and Glenn Worley Robert and Catherine Wright The Wyomissing Foundation The Estate of Paul Yanosik James H. Yocum Yocum Family Perpetual Trust Yocum Family Perpetual Charitable Trust Joan Youngerman Yuasa Battery, Inc. Dr. Gust Zogas Matching Gifts Prudential Foundation Matching Gifts PSEG Wells Fargo Foundation Educational Matching Gift Program In-Kind Gifts 201 West Tracy Ball BB&T Berks County Tuberculosis Society Berkshire Country Club Pro Shop Berkshire Country Club Myrtle Brooks Canteen Berks County Cloud 9 Cafe Curious on the Avenue DragonFly Hair and Nail Salon Paul Druzba Libbi Duncan Peter Edelman Dr. Marshall and Jane Feaster Fleet Feet West Reading FROCK Fromuth Tennis Golf Committee Greater Berks Nurses for Professional Advancement Dr. James Hughes and Kristen Killoran It’s a Gift! Kristen Jackson Jeffrey Kohanick Patti Liszkay Ledgerock Golf Club Santo Marabella Keith Manos Dana Mansfield Miller Center for the Arts Kevin Mitchell Muddy Creek Soap Company Nestlé Waters North America The Peanut Bar Restaurant
Craig and Sue Perrotty Reading Fightins Reading Royals Riverview Bank Joe Swope UGI Utilities, Inc. Al Walentis Wellspan Ephrata YR Club Gifts given to the Foundation in memory of the following: George W. and Alice C. Allwein Peter D. Archey Muriel and Theodore Boyer Samuel and Sonia Briskin Mary Ann Chelius Smith Dr. David Christie Milda Jean Fedorka David Garcia Lebron Mae W. Langan C. David Moyer Robert A. Mutzel Catherine Phillipson-Jessup Christopher L. Rowe Christine E. Ruth Wadzinske Schwartzkopf Mary Jane Schmoyer Marie Setley Arthur W. Smith Bruce Stanley Martha Sykes Benjamin S. and Ruth G. Wagner Dr. Clifford and Doris Wagner Jeremiah Wanner, Jr. William I. Wenrich, Jr. Dr. Gene and Mary Wilkins Louise (Nancy) Yarnell Doris Zogas Gifts given to the Foundation in honor of the following: The Gieringer Family Olivia Gracjowski Joanne and Art Haberberger The retirement of Dwight Rinehart Jon and VeeVee Scott Brent Wagner, MD 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.
Weekend college is here! Friday and Saturday classes begin in spring 2020
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
Classes start February 17 and March 16 For more information and to register, visit racc.edu/registertoday