® A PUBLICATION OF READING AREA COMMUNITY COLLEGE
48 years of College Access and Excellence Faculty Voices
RACC’s rising completion rates send more students into transfer programs and into the workforce
Meet RACC’s dedicated faculty
Web Design Challenge More than just a pretty website
racc.edu
Lead the
Pack after RACC NEW Two Full-Tuition Scholarships through The Reading Collegiate Scholars Program
• Transfer RACC credits easily • Apply for transfer scholarships including RCSP full-tuition award
ALV E RNIA UNIVERS IT Y 1.888.ALVERNIA (1.888.258.3764) alvernia.edu
® President: Dr. Susan D. Looney Editor: David Hessen Contributors: Jodi Crobett, Kathy Cunningham, Alayne Fessler, Jen Gittings-Dalton, Sarah Hess, Jennifer Lindsay, Michael Nagel, Kathryn Plesnarski, Bonnie Spayd, Cathleen Stephen, Denise Strohmayr 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 student, Afaf Maslah, prepares to accept her associate degree from RACC President Dr. Susan Looney during the spring 2019 commencement ceremony.
Reading Area Community College 10 South 2nd Street P.O. Box 1706 Reading, PA 19603 racc.edu
Cover Story For the third consecutive year, RACC’s ongoing commitment to student success has continued to produce positive results for Berks County communities. Our college completion rate has risen again, placing our school in the top tier of the national community college completion percentage. These rising rates are a direct result of our faculty, staff, administrators and student services teams who work tirelessly to ensure that every RACC student is given the opportunity to achieve their dreams. Dr. Susan Looney congratulates a graduate during the spring 2019 commencement.
When a student walks through our doors, we offer them the opportunity to change their lives for the better. I believe that “Student Success” is not just a goal; it is a responsibility that dictates all of our actions. Whether as teachers, administrators, student services, or support personnel, we all understand and embrace the dedication and sense of duty we must possess to work in harmony toward achieving this goal. To us, student success includes not only strong retention and degree completion rates, but also high-quality learning. It means that our students are prepared for success in their personal, civic, and professional
lives, and that they embody the values and behaviors that make RACC distinctive. It is a privilege and a joy to see so many graduates take this step toward success in the years ahead. Our students and graduates 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
Web Design Challenge RACC’s web application development program hosted a presentation and awards event February 10, 2019 at the Miller Center for the Arts for its first Web Design Challenge. The contest challenged five teams of creative up-andcoming web designers to use their computer coding skills to redesign the website for the Berks County Community Foundation’s Jump Start Incubator program. In the end, the Blue Bats, a team of four students from the Berks Career & Technology Center, earned top honors. Four teams from Reading Muhlenberg Career & Technology
Center also competed in the event, “Anybody can make a pretty webwhich drew dozens of parents, site,” Savage continues, “but what friends, family, and faculty members. makes a great web application developer is someone who can “We had to take away the key solve business problems in a pretty points of the old website,” says way, in a friendly way, with a user inSean Bachman, who along with terface that will allow companies to Rebecca Davis, David Rohweder go forward and gain in efficiencies.” and Analee Weichert formed the winning Blue Bats team. “Then we “It’s a whole new level when you had to kick it up a notch.” have to stand up and present to the people who are going to possibly “After working for several months, buy what you did,” said Adrianna teams presented their work to six Rivera, a competitor from Reading judges, a key part of the experiMuhlenberg. “If you’re confident in ence,” says Brian Savage, RACC’s your work, you have to show that website application development confidence on stage as well.” program coordinator.
The 8th Annual Berks County Poet Laureate Competition was held on Wednesday, May 1, 2019 at the Miller Center for the Arts. The competition is held every two years, and is aligned with Berks Bards, an established local poetry group. Congratulations to Jayne Relaford Brown on being named Berks County’s Eighth Poet Laureate, and Devanshi Patel for being named the Fourth Scholastic Poet Laureate.
Campus Happenings
The 2019 RACC Job Fair The career services office at RACC hosted their annual Job Fair on April 10th, 2019. They welcomed 51 employers to the Schmidt Training and Technology Center, and 245 candidates including current RACC students, RACC alumni, and community members. Career staff are always pleased to invite area residents to our RACC Job Fairs to thank Berks County citizens for their ongoing support of RACC over the years. “Job Fairs are a win-win for everyone,” said Jen Gittings-Dalton, career development specialist at RACC. “Employers get to build long-term relationship with the college to hire our best students, and students can connect to the workforce as soon as they are ready. Even if a candidate isn’t hired, they still gain networking experience, can seek internships, and learn more about their field of interest. This fair enriches the community and opens conversations at many levels.” For an invitation to the 2020 Job Fair, please contact the RACC Career Center at 610-607-6246.
Socially Speaking
Follow RACC on our social media sites to stay informed about up-to-date happenings and events. International Festival
hils Fightin’ P Reading
RACCy Olympics
Lobby Day 2019 RACC Graduation
Academic Awards
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, Troubleshooting
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 jvecchio@racc.edu
Workforce Development
FREE
Skills Training to earn up to $20/hr Consider a Career in Manufacturing! To meet the needs of one of the fastest growing business segments in Berks County, RACC and area manufacturers have partnered to offer a FREE Manufacturing Skills Building Program. Students are gaining workplace and technical skills needed to be successful in a production environment, while area businesses are offering opportunities for interviews and possible direct hire positions after completion of the program. Financed by the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development, this project is part of the Manufacturing PA initiative.
Complete this course and receive: • RACC Basic Manufacturing Skills Certificate • OSHA 10-HR Safety Certificate • CareerSafe® Interview Skills Training Certificate • WorkKeys National Career Readiness Certificate
For more information, contact Sarah Stapleton at 610.372.4721 x5312 or sstapleton@racc.edu
racc.edu/EZskills
Academic Achievements
RACC GED Graduation The Reading Area Community College (RACC) Adult Basic Education (ABE) program honored 88 students who have obtained their GED in a graduation ceremony on Wednesday, May 22, 2019 in the Miller Center for the Arts on the RACC campus.
RACC graduates awarded Alvernia University Transfer Scholarships RACC graduates Troy Tranly, AAS in Business Management, and Allison Herb, AA in Psychology, were awarded the first Alvernia University Reading Collegiate Transfer Scholarship, a full-tuition scholarship awarded to two RACC graduates each year.
RACC student enters into Bucknell Scholars Program RACC’s first Bucknell University Scholar recipient is Monica Nelson. Monica, an army veteran, plans to take engineering courses at Bucknell University this summer. She is on track to graduate in engineering from RACC in May 2020 and hopes to transfer to Bucknell University’s Bioengineering Program. Bucknell’s Community College Scholars Program affords high-achieving engineering students the opportunity to take two courses, live on Bucknell’s campus, and receive a stipend for a six-week emersion experience at Bucknell University.
Students walking the stage have spent hundreds of hours working on GED preparation in one of RACC’s classes. The GED examination is equivalent to a high school diploma and certifies a student as having high school graduate-level skills.
“Adult education is a vital program in our community, and we at RACC are proud to offer this option for students looking to improve their marketability in the workforce, or continue their education at the next level,” says Dr. Susan Looney, RACC president. Many students graduating have also completed english as a second language courses and now plan to further their education-including enrolling at RACC to earn a degree.
Academic Achievements
RACC hosts Berks County Undergraduate Research and Creativity Conference On April 27, 2019, Reading Area Community College hosted the 20th Annual Higher Education Council of Berks County (HECBC) Undergraduate and Research and Creativity Conference. Nearly 300 undergraduates who attend one of Berks County’s five colleges or universities, Albright College, Alvernia University, Kutztown University, Pennsylvania State University, and Reading Area Community College, presented their academic and creative work through posters, paper presentations and performances. RACC President Dr. Susan Looney states, “It was an honor to host our colleagues and celebrate students’ work. Such days highlight the rich and varied educational opportunities students have in Berks County.”
RACC Phi Theta Kappa Alpha Sigma Rho Chapter wins big at International Convention
Alpha Sigma Rho, RACC’s Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) Chapter, attended the PTK International Convention (Catalyst) in Orlando, Florida on April 4-6, 2019. The convention hosted the Hallmark Awards, a major program of PTK International, which engages members to participate in activities supporting the Society’s Hallmarks of scholarship, leadership, service and fellowship. Chapters submit reports on their work in several areas, and
the submissions are then judged competitively. Individuals, chapters and regions are recognized for their excellence in support of these hallmarks. Led by RACC Professor Emerita Dr. Donna Hampton Singleton, RACC faculty member Dr. Danelle Bower and RACC faculty member Ms. Denise Strohmayr; the RACC PTK Chapter won three significant Chapter awards, and five individual
awards, including the Paragon Award for New Presidents awarded to RACC President Dr. Susan Looney. “This chapter worked extremely hard to get here, and now the work, determination and dedication has paid off. This group is a family, and we hope that other PTK members will step up, get active, and continue to lead our team even further in the years to come,” says Dr. Bower.
Faculty Voices
“I get great enjoyment out of helping students transition and develop the skills needed to succeed in the college environment.”
Assistant Professor, Denise Strohmayr Denise Strohmayr has been teaching and supporting students in multiple higher education environments for over 17 years. She holds a B.A. in Speech Communication and an M.A. in Organizational Management. Prior to her work in higher education, she was acccepted into Boscov’s Executive Training program where she worked both as an assistant store manager and assistant men’s clothing buyer. Her business background and love of training led her to pursue a career as an educator. She quickly found her passion in the classroom and cemented a permanent career change from retail to higher education when she transitioned
from teaching business classes to developmental education and college success strategies. Denise joined Reading Area Community College in 2017 as an academic advisor and adjunct instructor before becoming an assistant professor in the Foundational Studies Division. She is primarily responsible for teaching college success strategies. In her current position, she also refines curriculum, provides support for adjunct faculty, and serves as a faculty advisor.
of higher education. “I get great enjoyment out of helping students transition and develop the skills needed to succeed in the college environment,” Denise says. What she loves most about RACC aside from helping and building relationships with students is the opportunity to work with so many student centered, dedicated colleagues who go above and
Her goal as an educator is to lead by example, creating an inclusive classroom environment that encourages and supports the value beyond in serving RACC students. Some of her professional interests include being a member of the Pennsylvania Association of Developmental Educators and serving her passion for literacy as board member of the Board of Directors of the Literacy Council of Reading-Berks. As an active Delta Zeta Sorority alumna, Denise provides mentoring and support to new Delta Zeta women at Kutztown University.
Faculty Voices was a new experience for her, but she enjoyed the challenge. Lanie loved the atmosphere at RACC but admittedly, it was totally different from what her personal educational experience had been. Upon reflection, it was probably the most challenging, yet rewarding time in her professional career. She explored her own beliefs and values, leading her to develop her own personal philosophy of education. The inspiration she received from the students was overwhelming and she knew inherently, that RACC was where she wanted to be.
Medical Laboratory Technician Program Director and Professor, Alayne Fessler Alayne Fessler, endearingly referred to as “Lanie” at RACC, is the program director of the Medical Laboratory Technician Program and also a professor. She oversees the Medical Laboratory Technician Program, teaches the program, and also serves as the academic advisor for all students in the program. Lanie graduated from Susquehanna University with a bachelor’s degree in biology. After graduation, she attended the former St. Joseph School of Medical Technology and became a certified medical technologist. Later, she obtained a master’s degree in education from Penn State University. Her career began when she worked in the chemistry department at the former Community General Hospital in Reading. As a medical technologist, she was performing
the medical laboratory tests that helped clinicians with the diagnosis and treatment of disease, and loved being an integral part of the healthcare team. At that time, RACC had an affiliation with Community General Hospital and Lanie had the opportunity to work with the RACC students during their clinical rotations. She loved sharing her passion for the career with the students, and this sparked her interest in pursuing a career in laboratory education. After leaving the workforce for several years to raise her three sons, Lanie took a part-time job in the healthcare community education office at RACC, and also started teaching biology as an adjunct instructor. With a background as a clinical laboratory scientist, teaching
“The program is challenging but the drive and determination of each student never ceases to amaze me.” When she became program director of the Medical Laboratory Technician Program at RACC, it was the perfect professional opportunity to blend her love of clinical laboratory science with her desire for a career in education. To this day, Lanie continues to be inspired by the students she teaches. “The program is challenging but the drive and determination of each student never ceases to amaze me. I have seen students overcome incredible obstacles to remain focused and successfully complete the program and embark on their careers,” Lanie says. Medical laboratory technicians are in high demand and RACC has an outstanding job placement rate for graduates. Lanie’s responsibility as the program director is to ensure that RACC continues to have a quality program which produces competent medical laboratory technicians. The most rewarding part of her job is knowing that there are knowledgeable and skilled laboratory professionals in the field with the RACC name proudly attached to their education.
Admissions
EVENTS Learn more about all events happening at RACC, just visit racc.edu/events
JUL
17 AUG
06 AUG
07
Open Enrollment Day Register for fall classes by joining us for Open Enrollment Day on Wednesday, July 17th. 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, August 6th, by signing up online at racc.edu/AdmissionsEvents.
RESERVE YOURSEAT register today It’s not too late.
Sinking Spring Open Enrollment Day
Fall classes start August 24th
Join us Wedneday, August 7th at RACC’s additional location in Sinking Spring. Professional staff will be on hand to answer questions about transfer and career opportunities and to help you apply for financial aid.
racc.edu/registertoday
Open Enrollment Day Saturday, August 10th | 10AM - 1PM
racc.edu/openenrollment
Entrepreneurs Wanted‌ Lead the next class of visionaries! Whether you want to build your own business or start a career at a company, the business program at RACC is the perfect place to start. Your next step begins with an education that gives you the tools and skills you need to be a leader and a changemaker in the competitive world of business. At RACC, you can choose from in the classroom, online or both. You can transfer to a four-year college or enter the workforce directly. Turn your ambition into action by launching your ideas, career, or company in the real world. Find the program that best ďŹ ts your career goals and experience, visit racc.edu/admissions.
racc.edu
Student Success
“RACC’s dual admissions launched my career.” — Joshua Riojas For Joshua Riojas, RACC was just the beginning of his successful journey. “My professional work experience and education all started at RACC, and the school deserves a tremendous amount of credit in how I have progressed through life professionally.” Joshua graduated from Conrad Weiser with no immediate plans for a career. He knew a four-year college didn’t suit him, so he chose RACC for his education. While at RACC, Joshua received a Foundation Scholarship which encouraged him to earn more than one degree. Joshua graduated from RACC with two Associate Degrees in Web Site Development and Computer Technology. Joshua directly credits RACC for providing him with a pathway not only for transferring to a four-year college but also for gaining employment opportunities. “My education at RACC enabled me to acquire part-time work
at the college. Plus, it was instrumental in obtaining an IT Internship at Morgan Corporation, which continued a trickle effect as I transferred to PSU.” Joshua ultimately graduated from Penn State with Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees in Computer Science. Joshua currently works at Cerner Corporation as a System Engineer and as an adjunct lecturer at Penn State, Harrisburg campus. Joshua feels that RACC was a turning point for him and continues to highly recommend RACC as a starting point for anyone looking to further their education. “RACC provides many dual admission opportunities that facilitate easy transfer of credits; and the classes, instructors and work-study programs help you calculate a trajectory for your career.”
“RACC challenged me to dream big.” — Twila Fisher For Twila Fisher, RACC was just the right environment to develop the kind of tenacity she would acquire throughout her years in college. “My time at RACC prepared me for my career by reinforcing the drive to work harder than I had before, to think outside of the box, and to embrace people from all walks of life.” After graduating from Lancaster Mennonite High School, Twila moved to Mexico City and then to Miami before moving back to Pennsylvania. At that time, Twila put her education and career on hold to begin a family. When her four daughters were all in school, Twila enrolled in school herself at RACC. Twila received two Jack Kent Cooke Foundation Transfer Scholarships which allowed her
to pursue her undergraduate degree at Columbia University and her graduate courses at the University of Pennsylvania’s Fels Institute of Government. During her time at RACC, Twila had many influential teachers that were encouraging forces in her education. She says their guidance and teachings have stuck with her to this day. “Dr. Donna Singleton inspired me to explore my potential in academic excellence, Stephanie Anderson taught me to write with purpose, and Dr. John Morgan challenged me to dream big.” Twila is currently the director of community and economic development at The Hill School. Twila says that sometimes people say to her, “you must be so smart since you went to Columbia and Penn.” She replies, “I’m not smarter than anybody else, I just work hard. Like anything in life, you get out of it what you put into it and RACC taught me that at a critical transition in my life.”
Student Success
“RACC teaches the art of caring.” — Stephanie Ritchey Becoming a nurse was always a dream for Stephanie Ritchey. After overcoming some life challenges, she finally made that dream a reality by graduating from RACC. “Learning the art and science of nursing at RACC taught me compassionate care, efficient time management, and adherence to the principles of safe practice.” Stephanie graduated with honors from Daniel Boone High School, continued her education as a biology major at Villanova University, and became a patient care technician. She relocated to Berks County and decided to continue her education. Staying in her community was important to her when choosing a school, but location wasn’t the only reason she selected RACC. “RACC’s reputation spoke for itself. I heard that the RACC nursing program
“RACC inspired me to help others.” academically and actually helped me — Pam Gockley through the process.” Pam Gockley had a difficult start to her education. After being expelled from high school, Pam sought guidance and support, luckily she found RACC. “My education at RACC was far beyond the books, tests and reports. The spirit I found in the students, faculty and staff was far more inspirational than the diploma.” When Pam first enrolled at RACC she quickly learned that she had a lot of catching up to get her education to the college level, but she admits this is one of the best things that could have ever happened to her. “The faculty and staff at RACC took the time make sure I was prepared to go onto the college courses. That was huge for me because it was the first time someone in education made the effort to understand where I was
After graduating from RACC and Kutztown University with a degree in business management, Pam started her own business and has continued to be an entrepreneur for 22 years. During that time Pam has had 13 for-profit startups and more recently, one non-profit.
was rigorous and challenging but would provide a strong base for my nursing career. Plus, attending RACC afforded me the experience of performing my clinical hours in locations where I could potentially work after graduation.” Stephanie was hired at Penn State Health St. Joseph before graduating RACC with an AAS in Nursing. St. Joseph was one of the hospitals where Stephanie performed her clinicals while a student at RACC. Now as an RN, she enjoys being able to teach the current RACC students in their clinical rotations at St. Joseph. “When I was a student many of my nurses were former RACC students. Now I’ve assumed the role of taking RACC students under my wing. It felt really good to once be on the receiving end of that mentorship, and now be a mentor myself…I love that feeling.”
understanding how an educational institution can help a student become a better version of themselves. “At RACC, there was a sense of family, security and encouragement I never knew before. I totally credit RACC for helping me throughout my education, for showing me what should have been done and giving me the inspiration to go out and help others.”
Pam’s recent start-up is called The Camel Project and is based on Pam’s book, “Not All Camels Are in The Desert.” Pam wrote the book to share her high school experience with students, and how she overcame the problems. “My mission is to help kids understand that first, it’s not their fault; second, they are not alone; and third, it happens to more people than most realize.” For Pam, RACC was the launching point to
THE MILLER CENTER FOR THE ARTS AT RACC
PROGRAMMING FOR THE 21ST CENTURY COMING THIS FALL SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 7:30PM
KORESH DANCE COMPANY
A return engagement featuring the company’s most recent works.
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 20, 3:00PM
CIRQUE MECHANICS
A modern circus that finds its roots in the mechanical and its heart in the stories of American ingenuity.
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 3:00PM
TROUT FISHING IN AMERICA
Music for people who take their fun seriously!
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 24, 3:00PM SALZBURG MARIONETTES, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs The original company straight from Austria!
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 6, 7:30PM
DAVID SEDARIS
American humorist and comedian.
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 22, 3:00PM
HOLIDAY SING-A-LONG
Featuring celebrated pianist Robin Spielberg.
ON THE SCREEN/IN PERSON
National independent film series with the filmmakers TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 6:30PM THE INTERPRETERS Sofian Khan & Andres Caballero Local interpreters have played key roles in the U.S. war effort in Afghanistan and Iraq, facing much danger in their own countries for their work. This is the story of how they are rebuilding their lives. WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 23, 6:30PM THE THICK DARK FOG AND BADGER CREEK Jonathan Skurnik Two documentary films that chronicle one Blackfeet family’s effort to keep its heritage and culture alive despite Federal intervention and changing lifestyles. THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 6:30PM DETROIT 48202: CONVERSATIONS ALONG A POSTAL ROUTE Pamela Sporn A film that examines the rise, demise, and contested resurgence of the City of Detroit through the lens of African-American mail carrier, Wendell Watkins, and the committed community he faithfully served for 30 years.
BECOME A MILLER CENTER MEMBER
Members enjoy substantial savings, choice seats and invitations to exclusive receptions.
FOR TICKETS, MEMBERSHIPS AND INFORMATION call the Miller Center at 610.607.6270 or visit millercenter.racc.edu.
A BOATLOAD OF THANKS
And the winners are… The Miller Center would like to thank all those who participated in the “Take a Chance” raffle fundraiser which featured a Viking River Cruise trip for two valued at $10,000. Over 300 people purchased a total of nearly 600 tickets raising more than $12,000 for Miller Center operations and improvements.
JAN & SCOTT JACK of Fleetwood, PA!
SPECIAL THANKS to… Viking Cruise Lines for its generous donation Judy Sager of Cruise Planners for planting the idea and coordinating the effort Miller Center Events Committee Members Alissa Carlino, Catherine Catanach, Alex Goodman, Sarah Hess, David Hessen, Rhonda Hudak, Robyn Jones for planning, contributing to and executing the “Take a Chance Grand Giveaway” fundraiser Miller Center Staff and Volunteers for their time and effort in tracking and implementing the raffle
Foundation for RACC We gratefully acknowledge and thank our donors, whose generous contributions to the Foundation for RACC provides our community with access to affordable higher education while also encouraging student success. Gifts of 2018 (January 1 through December 31) The 504 Company Lisa and David Adams Eniz V. Adriano Albright College Dr. Sam and Nancy Alley AmazonSmile Foundation Ancient Order of Hibernians Jan and Norman Anderson Anna and Isadore Oritsky Philanthropic Fund Anonymous** Connie Archey Assured Assistance LLC B & B Poultry Co., Inc. Mickey and Andrea Baines The Law Firm of Barley Snyder Barnes and Noble College Ronald and Beverly Bashore Harriet M. Baskin Ted Bassano Karen R. Baxter BB&T BB&T Retirement and Institutional Services BC3 Education Foundation, Inc. Nancy Becker David and Linda Bell William F. Bender Berks Art Alliance Berks County Tuberculosis Society Berks Fire Water Restorations, Inc. Mary Kay and John Bernosky Matthew D. Berthinet Blue Mountain Foundation Bogia Engineering, Inc. Elizabeth A. Bolden James S. Boscov Boscov’s Ala Carte Catering Boscov’s Department Stores, LLC Randy Boyer Auria and Ryan Bradley Breidegam Family Foundation Brentwood Industries, Inc. Susan J. Briskin John and Ann Broadbent Dr. Leslie P. Brodsky Burkey Construction Rick and Dawn Burkey Johnny Burkings Cacoosing Family Charitable Foundation Rep. Thomas R. Caltagirone Canteen Berks County Carmella Capellupo-Beaver Peter and Alissa Carlino Carpenter Technology Corp. Chrissada Zogas-Caruso Robert and Anita Chaney Petritsa Chatzitziva Kenneth and Paula Christian
Suzanne Christie Janet Clark William J. Clifford Rebecca A. Clouser Clover Farms Dairy Co. Wanda I. Colon George and Maryann Combs William and Vicki Combs Community Foundation for the Alleghenies Concord Public Financial Advisors, Inc. Martha H. Connolly Connors Investor Services, Inc. James and Anna Connors Kenneth L. Cook Kevin Coots Jodi A. Corbett Sue Costa-Beddall Country Meadow Associates Leslie and David Curran Customers Bank Peter and Diane Czechowicz Linda Dapcic-Angst Kent and Barbara Davis Kenneth and Janet Dearstyne M. Karen Deichert Deborah Detwiler and Valerie West John and Meredith DeVere Bruce and Renee’ Dietrich Discovery Federal Credit Union Dolfin International Corp. Ruth L. Doyle Robert and Barbara Dufner E.R. Stuebner, Inc. East Penn Manufacturing Co., Inc. Dr. Robin Eckert Peter and Susan Edelman Edge Insights, Inc. P. Michael and Judith Ehlerman Steven and Sarah Ehrlich Richard and Angela Ehst Encompass Health of Reading Enersys Eastern PA Water Pollution Control Operators Association Geraldine and David Fake Miriam and Pierre Fares Federation for RACC, Local 3173, AFT-AFL-CIO Katherine and Salvatore Ferrarello Dr. Jacquelyn Fetrow and Brian Kell Steven and Roseann Finkel First Priority Bank, a divison of Mid Penn Bank FirstEnergy Foundation - MET-ED Mark Fisher and Lesile Leibowitz Mary S. Flagg Dr. Thomas and Helen Flynn Deborah L. Frei Carl and Teresa Friedmann Scott Fruchter Fulton Bank
Gage Personnel Austra Gaige Diane L. Gaul Genesis HealthCare LLC Emma L. Gilbert James A. Gilmartin Elizabeth A. Gittings Jennifer Gittings-Dalton and Stanley Dalton Pelagie Golden Matthew S. Goldstan Jack R. Gombach Sam and Alexandra Goodman Anne and Timothy Goshert Greater Reading Chamber Alliance Barry and Joanna Groebel Jack and Rosemary Gulati The Gulati Family Foundation Suzy Gumm Arthur and Joanne Haberberger Sue Haberberger Victor and Dena Hammel Michael and Regina Haney Katie B. Hannon Darrel and Maureen Harris Dr. Kenneth Hawkinson and Ann Marie Hayes-Hawkinson HB&M Marketing/Communications Mary Ellen G. Heckman Deborah and Timothy Heffner Henry Janssen Foundation Herbein + Company, Inc. The Heritage of Green Hills Dr. Debra K. Hermany Ryan C. Hess Dr. J. Frederick and Dolores Hiehle Terri and Lew Hill Dr. R. Keith and Suzanne Hillkirk Michael and Shirley Hodowanec T. Jerome and Carolyn Holleran William and Stephanie Hornberger Ryan and Melissa Hottenstein Dr. James G. Hughes and Kristen Killoran Glenn and Amy Jarema Jewish Federation of Reading Kim D. Johnson Kosmo Kalliarekos Mary H. Kargbo Kevin and Mary Keefe Dr. Sandra and Edward Kern Keystone Cruise and Travel LLC Keystone Villa at Douglassville Keystone Villa at Ephrata, LP Dr. Margaret C. King Barbara J. Kline Phillip and Mary Lou Kline Nancy J. Knoblauch David and Janet Knudsen Kozloff Stoudt Dr. James A. Kraft Christ and Ann Kraras
Dr. Richard and Barbara Kratz Mary Kreider Michael S. Kurpiewski Lafayette Ambassador Bank Lamar Advertising Terri Lampe-Melcher and Raymond H. Melcher, Jr. Gail Landis and Doug Myers John Langan and Dr. Judith Nadell Hiram Larew Dr. Solomon and Maeve Lausch Phuoc Le and Tho Thi Tu Mr. Thomas Leary Harold and Kitty Lee Lehigh Carbon Community College Leona Gruber Charitable Trust Lois R. Lis Kay M. Litman William C. Long The Loomis Company Dr. Susan Looney M&T Charitable Foundation Dr. Joseph E. Macharola Lee and Diane Marabella Jerome I. Marcus, M.D. Cassandra Martin Al and Lynne Mast Doris L. Maurer John and Ann Mazzo Edward J. McCann, Jr. Thomas and Sandi McCarthy Ed McKeaney Lawrence and Teresa Medaglia Lou and Sue Mehos Carolyn Mervine Daniel and Cindy Miller Marlin and Ginger Miller Thomas J. Mitchell and Joanne E. Benfield Mitsubishi Chemical Advanced Materials Montgomery County Community College Morgan Stanley - Wyomissing Gary and Lesa Moyer Rodney and M.J. Muthard Michael and Lynn Nagel Ray* and Carole Neag Joan A. Noll Michael and Mary Jean Noon Rhonda and Kevin Ochs Dr. Gloria Oikelome D. Robert and Yvonne Oppenheimer The Oxholm Family PA Assoc of Developmental Educators Lee N. Pace Mary M. Palmer Paramount Living Aids, LLC Penske Truck Leasing Co. Patricia A. Perfect Craig and Sue Perrotty Janet Peters Guido and Susan Pichini
Foundation for RACC Christopher and Robin Pruitt PSECU Helen F. Pyles Queen City Family Restaurant R.M. Palmer Co. Ann Schmoyer Rauchbach Redner’s Warehouse Markets William and Carol Reid RKL LLP Gary and Karen Rightmire Brenda Rivera Zylkia R. Rivera Dr. Gary Rizzo and Susan Liberace Susan J. Rohn and G. Nicholas Kuruc Barry and Ginny Rohrbach Roland Stock Benjamin and Lara Rosenberger Philip D. Rowe, Jr. Michael Salute Angela and Aaron Salvatori Whitney and Cathy Sanders Korie and Larry Sandridge Chris and Olivia Saylor Schatz Electric, Inc. Schlouch Incorporated Roger and Etta Schmidt Rolf and Renate Schmidt Thomas and Betty Schmoyer Walter and Sandra Schneider Peter and Mary Schuchman Ronald Schwartzkopf Jon and VeeVee Scott The Honorable Wally Scott G. Brad and Carroll Scribner Cynthia J. Seaman Security First, Inc. Security Guards, Inc. Charles and Tina Segner John M. Sellers VMD SeniorLIFE Reading SFS Group USA, Inc. Dean and Lorrie Sheaffer Kenneth and Shirley Sites Dr. Kim A. Sivak Reid J. Smalley Bruce and Sarah Smith Dr. Edmond C. Smith Sterling and Ann Snyder Christopher and Nora Sobottka Bonnie L. Spayd
Sarah Stapleton Stevens & Lee/Griffin Stoneridge Residents Association Dr. Karen A. Stout STV, Inc. Bonnie Sussman-Versace and Phil Versace Joseph Swope Dr. John Sygielski Donna and Tom Taylor Michael Toledo and Elizabeth LaVienna Tompkins VIST Bank Dr. Ivan Torres Tom Degler, Keller Williams Elite Realty Gary and Mary Turner UGI Utilities, Inc. Unique Technologies, Inc. UPMC Health Plan Aaron Valentine Villa at Maidencreek, LP Carl and Kathleen Volz Marilyn A. Wademan Dr. Clifford Wagner * Melodie and Duane Wardecke Dr. JB and Wendy Watson Weidenhammer Steven and Joan Weidman Randy and Dawn Weidner Dr. Anna D. Weitz Wells Fargo Foundation Ann Z. Wenrich Dr. Abigail and Dr. Nicholas Wernicki White Star Tours, Inc. Nancy R. Wilkins-Diehr Shari Wilkins-Duley Dr. Lester Wills Barbara T. Winter Chester and Rosemarie Winters Sylvia E. Wolff The Wyomissing Foundation Yocum Family Perpetual Trust Yocum Family Perpetual Charitable Trust Dr. Gust Zogas Matching Gifts PSEG Wells Fargo Foundation Educational Matching Gift Program In-Kind Gifts 201 West
THANK YOU
BB&T Bella Jules Berkshire Country Club Pro Shop Berkshire Country Club Broken Chair Brewery Canteen Berks County Chatty Monks Cloud 9 Café Curious on the Avenue DoubleTree by Hilton Reading DragonFly Hair and Nail Salon Peter Edelman First Priority Bank FROCK Fromuth Tennis Golf Committee Dr. James Hughes It’s a Gift! Miller Center for the Arts MIXX Boutique Muddy Creek Soap Company The Peanut Bar Restaurant Reading Fightins Reading Movies II & IMAX Reading Royals Santander Bank Schaylor Brewery Jon and VeeVee Scott Bruce and Sarah Smith Sweet Ride Ice Cream Joe Swope TSI Associates UGI Utilities, Inc. Dr. Lester Wills YR Club
Mary Jane Schmoyer Christine E. Ruth Wadzinske Schwartzkopf Gladys Oritsky Skaist and Eli Skaist Bruce Stanley Martha Sykes Benjamin S. and Ruth G. Wagner William Wenrich Dr. Gene M. and Mary J. Wilkins Doris Zogas
Gifts given to the Foundation in memory of the following: Joseph Boscov Samuel and Sonia Briskin Mary Anne Chelius Smith Paul Eberhardinger Edward Ettinger Sue Gittings Peter Grimes Leona Gruber Mae W. Langan Tuhieu Thanh Le Raymond Neag Christopher L. Rowe
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.
to our sponsors and golfers for making the Foundation for RACC’s 32nd annual golf tournament such a success. Special thanks to our presenting sponsor, BB&T for their support of this event held May 20, 2019 at the Berkshire Country Club.
Gifts given to the Foundation in honor of the following: Shirley Boscov the graduation of Dr. Danelle Bower Gerry Budzik Deborah Detwiler and Valerie West Bruce and Renee’ Dietrich The Ehlerman Family Lenora Ettinger The Fruchter Family Joanne and Arthur Haberberger Dr. Susan D. Looney Carol Neag Elise M. Schmoyer Elizabeth Stanley Marcia Stoudt The retirement of Dr. Anna D. Weitz Dr. Gust Zogas Every effort has been made to ensure the accuarcy and comprehension of this list. We apologize if we have inadvertently omitted or incorrectly listed your name. Please report any error to our attention at 610.607.6239.
* Recently deceased ** We have received gifts from several individuals who would like to remain anonymous.
WE SET RECORDS: • Record number of sponsors • Record number of golfers • Record amount ($40,000) raised in support of the foundation’s scholarship program! THANKS FOR MAKING A DIFFERENCE FOR OUR STUDENTS! SEE YOU AT OUR 33ND TOURNAMENT ON MAY 18, 2020!
New business and criminal justice courses available
Accelerated evening classes This fall, take your RACC courses in Sinking Spring! RACC offers hybrid (combined face-to-face and online) and traditional classes during the late afternoon to early evening hours Monday through Thursday at our additional location.
To see available course offerings, visit racc.edu/sinkingspring or call 610.607.6224.
racc.edu