LAMP
THE
SUMMER • 2012
The Lamp • SUMMER 2012| 1
FROM THE PRESIDENT
WAYNESBURG UNIVERSITY ADMINISTRATION DEAR FRIENDS OF WAYNESBURG UNIVERSITY,
President Timothy R. Thyreen
One of the privileges that I have as President of
Provost Dr. Robert J. Graham
Waynesburg University is to address each graduating class at commencement. This past May was historic
Executive Vice President Douglas G. Lee
as we honored more than 700 students in the
Senior Vice President for Enrollment and University Relations Robin L. King
challenge to the graduates was based on the scripture
Senior Vice President for Finance and Administration Roy R. Barnhart
undergraduate, graduate and doctoral programs. My that teaches, “To those who have been given much – much is to be expected.” We need men and women with vision, enthusiasm and uncompromising commitment in sharing their talents in ways that help to transform what is broken, to bring God’s love and light into the dark places of this earth. It was my sacred honor during the ceremony to present the Presidential
Vice President for Student Services and Institutional Advancement Mary Cummings
Medallion to two of our nursing graduates for their selfless deed of saving an
THE LAMP - WINTER 2012
represent the very best in our students. Their compassion and sacrifice have
The Lamp is published by the Office of University Relations at Waynesburg University, 51 West College Street, Waynesburg, PA 15370. Waynesburg University is a Christian university offering over 70 programs of study at the undergraduate, graduate and doctoral levels. Editor Pamela Cunningham Associate Editor Ashley Wise Contributing Writers Chelsea Cummins Pamela Cunningham Robert Fox Samantha Scribner Brandon Szuminsky Ashley Wise
accident victim while risking their own lives. Cami Abernethy and Alissa Boyle impacted all of us at the University. They both received a standing ovation as they received their diplomas and medallions. I invite you to read the article in this issue that speaks about their heroism and the response of the Waynesburg students, faculty and staff in their support of these young women. The Rev. Dr. Stuart D. Broberg, senior pastor of The Church of the Covenant in Washington, Pa., delivered the baccalaureate address, “The World Needs Integrity.” Broberg noted that individuals must integrate what they believe in their hearts with what they say and do to truly have integrity. “Believe it, say it, do it,” Broberg said. “When these three things are in alignment, only then may you say, ‘I have integrity.’” Broberg’s challenge is one that we take seriously at Waynesburg University and try to live out each day. A similar message was given by Congressman Timothy F. Murphy in his commencement address. He gave the graduates four tasks: to grow in their faith, to never stop learning and to develop wisdom, to always be respectful and to challenge
Photography Nick Kelsh Randy Laskody Dave Miller Marc Soracco
themselves. He stated, “Never be satisfied with where you are, and always dream
Layout and Design Kristen Sneller
more than 163 years. May we all be encouraged by God’s Spirit as we continue to
Alumni Services fdolfi@waynesburg.edu Phone: 724.852.3300 Fax: 724.627.3225 Correspondence mwhite@waynesburg.edu Phone: 724.852.3293 Fax: 724.627.7602
of where you want to go. This is your challenge: push all of us to higher and better goals.” We acknowledge God’s faithfulness in leading this remarkable institution for serve the mission of Waynesburg University. Thank you for your continued support. Sincerely, Timothy R. Thyreen
IN THIS ISSUE
24
12
32
20
44
Features 18 Leading Youth to Hope Behind Bars Alumnus Salvatore Mauriello recently shared his experiences in
making a difference in the lives of at-risk teens with the world
through a guest appearance on a hit television series.
20 Extreme Courage in Their Calling to Heal Nine nursing students and their professor tell the story of what
really happened when they stopped on I-79 to rescue a stranger
while so many others sped past.
30 Enhancing Undergraduate Research Chad Sethman, asssistant professor of biology, encourages and
inspires students through his own extensive experience in
research.
44 Commencement 2012 The University’s annual commencement exercises honored
approximately 700 undergraduate and graduate students.
Departments 2 President’s Message 4 Campus News 12 Scholarly Clips 18 Alumni Impact 20 Above the Mission 24 Student Profile 32 Faculty Sketch 35 Beyond the Classroom 38 Sports Update 46 Alumni & Class Notes
The Lamp • SUMMER 2012| 3
CAMPUS NEWS
Waynesburg University Nursing Program joins forces with First Lady DR. NANCY MOSSER, PROFESSOR OF NURSING AND CHAIR AND DIRECTOR OF THE DEPARTMENT OF NURSING AT WAYNESBURG UNIVERSITY, was one of only 20
NURSING HEROES 5K TO BENEFIT ABERNETHY, BOYLE FAMILIES
nursing deans nationwide invited
Waynesburg University RN to BSN
commitment from nurses across the
students held a Nursing Heroes Benefit
country eager to serve our veterans
5K Run/Walk May 19 at Waynesburg
and military families as well as
University’s Southpointe Center.
they have served their country. In
to-date information to ensure the highest
a broad, coordinated effort, more than 150
quality care,” Mosser said. “Waynesburg’s
state and national nursing organizations and
Department of Nursing is devoted to
more than 500 nursing schools including
educating students using best practices
Waynesburg University have committed to
related to caring for all patients, but our
further educate our nation’s 3 million nurses
curriculum is strategically planned to address
so they are prepared to meet the unique
unique and challenging situations as well.”
This year’s Nursing Heroes Benefit 5K Run/Walk was organized to support the medical costs of two Waynesburg University senior nursing students critically injured while assisting a motorist on Interstate 79S in February. Cami Abernethy and Alissa Boyle, along with seven classmates and a professor, stopped at the scene of a motor vehicle accident in Perry Township, Pa., during
to attend the April 11 meeting with First Lady Michelle Obama and Dr. Jill Biden. The meeting announced a Twenty nursing deans nationwide were selected to attend a meeting with First Lady Michelle Obama and Dr. Jill Biden.
health needs of service members, veterans and their families. Led by the American Nurses Association, American Academy of Nurse Practitioners,
Waynesburg University President Timothy R. Thyreen was pleased with Waynesburg University’s involvement in the day’s event. “Waynesburg University’s Nursing
American Association of Colleges of Nursing
Program challenges students to be familiar
and the National League for Nursing, in
with all facets of an increasingly complex
coordination with the Departments of
health care system,” Thyreen said. “Our
According to Miranda Chapman, race
Veterans Affairs and Defense, nursing
nursing faculty work hard to make certain
coordinator and RN to BSN Program
organizations and schools have committed
that our graduates are prepared to offer
Coordinator, the nursing program
to educating current and future nurses
superior care in an array of situations.”
seniors are a close-knit group of students
on how to recognize and care for veterans
and as a result, they were passionate
impacted by post-traumatic stress disorder,
about taking the lead in coordinating the
traumatic brain injury, depression and other
fundraising efforts to garner support for
combat-related issues, in ways appropriate to
the Abernethy and Boyle families.
each nurse’s practice setting.
their commute to Morgantown, W. Va., for clinical nursing studies.
For more on this story, see page 2o.
“Waynesburg University has been and continues to be committed to the care of our veterans and their families by educating our students with the most up-
4 | The Lamp • SUMMER 2012
CAMPUS NEWS
Waynesburg University Stover Scholars visited U.S. Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor and Swiss Ambassador Manuel Sager on Washington, D.C. Trip MEETING IN THE U.S. SUPREME
a reception at the historic City Tavern
of the Stover Scholars as they conversed
COURT’S LAWYER’S LOUNGE, JUSTICE
Club where they met several prominent
with Justice Sotomayor, Ambassador Sager,
SOTOMAYOR URGED THE STUDENTS
Washington government officials, journalists
Attorney Johnson and the other individuals
TO PURSUE THEIR PASSIONS WHILE
and intellectuals. Mr. Thomas R. Johnson, a
who are making a difference for civilization.
CONTRIBUTING TO THE BROADER
partner at the Pittsburgh law firm K&L Gates,
I hope that the Stover Scholars will aspire
COMMUNITY. Sotomayor emphasized
spoke on the attributes of strong leadership
to follow in their footsteps and that the
that the opportunity to serve should be
and asked the students to consider their own
officials will cherish memories of meeting
recognized as a privilege and that it is
additions to his list.
Waynesburg University students.”
worthwhile to give of oneself to fulfill his or her vocation. The Stover Scholars, chosen for their
“Mr. Johnson reminded us that when
The Stover Center for Constitutional
we are called to fulfill a duty, it is our civic
Studies and Moral Leadership was founded
obligation to do so,” said Daniel Czajkowski,
in 2007 by Waynesburg University alumnus
interest in the relationship between the U.S.
a criminal justice and political science major
Dr. W. Robert Stover to prepare leaders
Constitution and Christian Ethics, asked
from Frederick, Md. “Being Stover Scholars,
in society to bring insights from the U.S.
Sotomayer questions about the role of her
we have a special responsibility to pursue
Constitution’s Founding Era and Christianity
own experiences, her faith and the personal
and to embrace God’s calling on our lives.”
to bear in the contemporary public square.
challenges of being in the public eye.
Dr. Lawrence M. Stratton, Director of the
“Meeting Justice Sotomayor was more
Stover Center for Constitutional Studies
than memorable to me,” said Chase Ayers,
and Moral Leadership, said, “I was proud
a pre-law major from Charleroi, Pa. “Hearing her words conveyed a special meaning that I could not have received from a book.” Following their meeting with Justice Sotomayor, the Stover Scholars toured the U.S. Capitol and had a private audience with Swiss Ambassador Manuel Sager at the Swiss Embassy. They engaged in a conversation about Switzerland’s system of government, strong economic foundation and the nation’s unique approach to public policy, including direct democracy and neutral diplomacy, as well as Swiss-American relations. The students then took a walking tour of Georgetown and attended
Waynesburg University’s Stover Scholars had the unique opportunity to meet with several distinguished individuals as a result of their involvement with Waynesburg University’s prestigious Stover Scholars Program.
The Lamp • SUMMER 2012| 5
CAMPUS NEWS
Students visit with local legislators, participate in Lobby Day TWO WAYNESBURG UNIVERSITY STUDENTS, LED BY MADELINE SNYDER, ADMISSIONS COUNSELOR AT WAYNESBURG UNIVERSITY, joined more than 100 students from the Commonwealth’s independent colleges and universities for the annual Student Lobby Junior Kyle Cogar and junior Megan Peebles went to Harrisburg, Pa., to share Waynesburg University’s mission with local legislators.
Day April 3. Kyle Cogar, a junior history major from Waynesburg, Pa., and Megan Peebles, a junior interactive design major and art
“This trip allowed Megan and
minor from New Salem, Pa., represented Waynesburg University. Cogar and Peebles
Kyle to speak one-on-one with
joined students from 35 independent
state senators and representatives
legislators to discuss the importance of
about the vital importance of funding for private institutions and the life-changing experiences they have had here as students,” - Madeline Snyder, Admissions Counselor
colleges and universities to visit with local increased funding as it relates to private colleges and universities. “I wanted to demonstrate the importance of funding to private institutions and speak for every student enrolled at Waynesburg University that receives these grants,” Peebles said. The students met with Sens. Richard Kasunic and Timothy Solobay and Reps. Pete Daley, Timothy Mahoney and Brandon Neuman in the Capitol in Harrisburg, Pa. The event was sponsored by the Association of Independent Colleges and Universities of Pennsylvania (AICUP). “What we are doing is important,” Cogar said. “We are campaigning on behalf of private universities to encourage increased financial aid to students so they can attend school.” Snyder, who attended the AICUP Student Lobby Day as a student in 2011, said the students had the opportunity to be the voice of Waynesburg University and to
6 | The Lamp • SUMMER 2012
represent their fellow classmates by sharing the University’s vision with legislators from Southwestern Pennsylvania. “This trip allowed Megan and Kyle to speak one-on-one with state senators and representatives about the vital importance of funding for private institutions and the life-changing experiences they have had here as students,” Snyder said.
CAMPUS NEWS
Stover Center Director Dr. Lawrence Stratton ordained as Presbyterian Church Minister DR. LAWRENCE M. STRATTON,
is already making the Stover Center for
Stratton’s nieces, Aimee Le Hudson,
DIRECTOR OF WAYNESBURG
Constitutional Studies and Moral Leadership
Alexandra Lynn Knepper and Emily Stratton
UNIVERSITY’S STOVER CENTER FOR
a globally recognized institution that’s
Knepper, and nephews, Christopher Thien
CONSTITUTIONAL STUDIES AND
inspiring Waynesburg students to creatively
Hudson and Marc Nguyen Hudson,
MORAL LEADERSHIP, WAS ORDAINED
transform the polis,” said Timothy R.
presented him with the symbols of ministry.
AND INSTALLED AS A PRESBYTERIAN
Thyreen, President of Waynesburg University.
CHURCH (U.S.A.) MINISTER FEBRUARY
During the service, the Waynesburg
Stratton received his Ph.D. in Christian Social Ethics and M.Div. from Princeton
19 IN WAYNESBURG UNIVERSITY’S
University Lamplighters choir, under the
Theological Seminary, his J.D. from
ROBERTS CHAPEL.
direction of Melanie Catana, director of
Georgetown University Law Center, and
choral music at Waynesburg University,
his B.S. in Economics from the University
featured a sermon preached by The Rev.
The ordination and installation service
performed “Sicut Cervus,” by Giovanni P.
of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School. He is a
Dr. M. Craig Barnes, Senior Pastor of the
Palestrina and “My Soul’s Been Anchored in
former clerk to U.S. District Judge Claude
Shadyside Presbyterian Church in Pittsburgh,
the Lord,” by Moses Hogan.
M. Hilton of the U.S. District Court for the
Pa., entitled, “The Great Temptations of
Judy Mayer, moderator of Washington
Eastern District of Virginia, and is a member
Scholarship.” The Rev. Dr. Donald P. Wilson,
Presbytery, the Rev. Thomas B. Ribar,
of the bar in Virginia and the District of
Interim Executive Presbyter, Washington
chaplain of Waynesburg University, the
Columbia.
Presbytery of the Presbyterian Church and
Rev. William A. Sukolsky, pastor of the First
Waynesburg University Trustee, gave the
Presbyterian Church of Waynesburg, Pa., and
“Charge to the Minister and University.”
Mrs. Carolyn Thyreen of Waynesburg, Pa.,
“We are very happy to welcome Dr.
also participated in the service, along with
Stratton to the Waynesburg University
Stratton’s two sisters, Anna Emily Hudson of
community, where his passion for
Dillsburg, Pa., and Barbara Helen Stratton of
Christianity and the U.S. Constitution
Hochessin, Dela.
The Lamp • SUMMER 2012| 7
CAMPUS NEWS
Service Honor Roll for fifth consecutive year WAYNESBURG UNIVERSITY WAS
compassion to serve others and to connect
The University offers approximately 15
RECENTLY NOTIFIED OF ITS SELECTION
their education by addressing real human
service mission trips per academic year. The
TO THE PRESIDENT’S HIGHER
and societal issues now and in the future.”
trips are held during the fall, winter, spring
EDUCATION COMMUNITY SERVICE
The Honor Roll, launched in 2006,
and summer breaks. The University also
HONOR ROLL WITH DISTINCTION by the
recognizes colleges and universities
participates in a number of weekend-long
Corporation for National and Community
nationwide that support innovative and
service projects in the local community and
Service. This is the University’s fifth
effective community service and service-
beyond.
consecutive year receiving the honor.
learning programs. Honorees for the award
The selection represents recognition from
In addition to volunteer hours, the
were chosen based on a series of selection
University offers a service leadership
the highest levels of the federal government
factors including scope and innovativeness
minor constructed around service-learning
for the University’s commitment to service
of service projects, percentage of student
courses. During the semester-long courses,
and civic engagement on campus and
participation in service activities, incentives
students perform a set amount of hours
beyond. The Corporation is a federal agency
for service, and the extent to which academic
of community service with a non-profit
that improves lives, strengthens communities
service-learning courses are offered.
organization. The University is one of only
and fosters civic engagement through service
Waynesburg University students
23 Bonner Scholar Schools in the country.
and volunteering.
contribute more than 47,000 service hours
With support from the Corella and Bertram
“This award recognizes each and every
annually. Through its more than 50 local
F. Bonner Foundation, Waynesburg is
one of our students and their commitment
and regional agencies and a continuously
committed to the program which was
to serving their community in significant
expanding network of international agencies,
created to offer scholarship assistance to
ways,” said Dave Calvario, dean of students
Waynesburg University encourages students
students performing significant amounts of
and director of the Center for Service
to become servant-leaders through a
community service throughout their time at
Leadership. “Their hearts are filled with
number of partnerships.
Waynesburg.
FORTY-SIX STUDENTS SERVED OTHERS DURING CHRISTMAS BREAK One hundred seventy-five students and 21 faculty and staff members served others both domestically and abroad during their Christmas or spring breaks or during the week before graduation. The University offered 13 service mission trips covering a variety of academic and professional interests that give students the opportunity to serve the Greene County community and beyond.
• Greene County Immersion − Greene County, Pa. • Habitat for Humanity – Davidson, N.C. • John M. Perkins Foundation – Jackson, Miss. • Medical Mission Trip – Bahamas • Navajo Nation – Tuba City, Ariz. • Nonprofit Organizations − Nashville, Tenn. • Pittsburgh Project – Pittsburgh, Pa. • Samaritan’s Purse – Caquiaviri, Bolivia • Sunrise Children’s Home – San Nicolas, Argentina
2011-12 Service Trips
• Unity Presbyterian Church & Primary School – Belize City, Belize
• Centro Nutricional y Hogar de Ninos − Guatemala
• Urban Promise – Camden, N.J.
• Environmental Stewardship –- Inverness, Fla. 8 | The Lamp • SUMMER 2012
CAMPUS NEWS
University’s annual service award recipients announced during recent chapel service named the “Parish Project”, it later became
received the 2012 Harry E. Gardner club or
ANNOUNCED THE RECIPIENTS OF THE
WAYNESBURG UNIVERSITY
known as the “Student Service Project.” The
organization award. Kaitlyn Karan, president
HARRY E. GARDNER SERVICE AWARDS
award continues to serve as a reminder of
of the EcoStewards Club, accepted the award.
DURING THE UNIVERSITY’S CHAPEL
Waynesburg University’s commitment to
SERVICE TUESDAY, APRIL 10.
faith, serving and learning.
The 2012 recipients for the Harry E.
Danley, an elementary and special
The organization holds a number of educational programs throughout the year. Annual events include Think Pink Week, Safe
Gardner Service Award are Leeann Danley
education major from West Finley, Pa., was
in the Sun, Shave to Save and the Ovarian
and Colleges Against Cancer. Each year,
selected for her commitment to service and
Egg Hunt, among others. Most notably,
the University selects a student and an
ministry. Danley has served with a number
Colleges Against Cancer has raised more
organization that exemplify the spirit of
of organizations and ministries including the
than $60,000 in four years through their
service.
Waynesburg Senior Center, Tuesday night
Mini-Relay for Life on campus. In the fall,
dinners at St. Ann’s, Bowlby Library, Laughlin
the American Cancer Society named them
students began in 1936 when the
Memorial Chapel and World Vision, among
“Organization of the Year.”
Board of Christian Education and the
others. She has participated in several
Board of National Missions of the
mission service trips, including an extended
a committee comprised of Waynesburg
Presbyterian Church, U.S.A. collaborated
trip to Guatemala last December.
University faculty and staff.
A significant movement involving
with Waynesburg in the creation of the Waynesburg College Parish Project. Initially
Recipients of the award are selected by
Colleges Against Cancer, led by Kelley Hardie, assistant director of student activities, The Lamp • SUMMER 2012| 9
CAMPUS NEWS
Cummings named Vice President of Student Services MARY
Cummings served as a program director at
CUMMINGS
Carnegie Mellon University’s Carnegie Bosch
JOINED
Institute. In that role, Cummings designed,
WAYNESBURG
marketed and coordinated the delivery of
UNIVERSITY AS
executive education leadership programs
VICE PRESIDENT
for international executives and Carnegie
OF STUDENT
Mellon University MBA students. Cummings
SERVICES IN
also served as the Business Relationship
MID-JUNE.
Director for the Carnegie Bosch Institute
Cummings is
where she managed relationships with key
responsible for the management of student
account clients and recruited participants to
support services and the programs necessary
executive education leadership programs.
to ensure student success and a quality campus life. “Mrs. Cummings brings an impressive
Cummings has served as an adjunct professor in Waynesburg University’s Graduate and Professional Studies programs
background in international business and
teaching Marketing and Organizational
excellence in leadership. The faith, energy
Behavior since 2009.
and passion she brings to this position will
Prior to her higher education career,
further advance Waynesburg University’s
Cummings served as an international
mission of faith, learning and serving,” said
business executive in a variety of capacities
Waynesburg University President Timothy R.
for more than 20 years. Her significant
Thyreen.
accomplishments include serving
Cummings will also plan and implement
international start-up organizations and
opportunities for student growth and
leading operational improvements and
development outside of the classroom.
customer service in Mexico City, Mexico;
In addition to developing policies and
Prague, Czech Republic; and Rome, Italy.
procedures for student services and student
“We are pleased to have Mary Cummings
life programs, Cummings will assess
join Waynesburg University and its mission
student satisfaction, student growth and
of Christian higher education. Her strong
development, and provide supervision for
analytical mind and warm demeanor will
managers and directors of various student
serve our Office of Student Services well,”
services units.
said Doug Lee, Executive Vice President at
“I am honored to be joining the team at Waynesburg University and excited
Waynesburg University. Cummings received a Bachelor of Arts
about the opportunity to be a part of the
in communication from the University
development of tomorrow’s leaders in an
of Pittsburgh and an MBA from the
environment that balances faith, learning
Katz Graduate School of Business at the
and service,” Cummings said.
University of Pittsburgh.
Prior to joining Waynesburg University,
10 | The Lamp • SUMMER 2012
BRANDSTETTER NAMED PSAYDN CHAMPION
Sarah Brandstetter, coordinator of Waynesburg University’s Bonner Scholar Program, was recently selected as a Pennsylvania Statewide Afterschool/ Youth Development Network (PSAYDN) Afterschool Champion. In naming Brandstetter a Pennsylvania Afterschool Champion, PSAYDN recognized her for her exemplary commitment, dedication and outstanding work in supporting meaningful, high quality afterschool/out-of-school time for children and youth in the local community. “Sarah epitomizes what it means to be active in her community, and she is training the next generation to be servant-leaders in their own communities after graduation,” said Dave Calvario, the University’s Center for Student Leadership director and dean of students. She holds the youth in our area near and dear to her heart, Calvario said. She challenges and plants seeds in the University students she mentors and teaches them to become champions in their own respect. PSAYDN promotes sustainable, high-quality out-of-school time youth development programs through advocacy and capacity building to enhance the welfare of Pennsylvania’s children, youth and families.
CAMPUS NEWS
Three faculty members received the 2012 Lucas-Hathaway Teaching Excellence Awards Three faculty members received the 2012 Lucas-Hathaway Teaching Excellence
future careers.”
Szuminsky is a lecturer in the Department
Another student wrote, “He cares very
of Communication and the Department of
Awards for the ways in which they live the
much about his students’ understanding
English & Foreign Language at Waynesburg
University’s mission.
of the topics presented and he is always
University. He has taught with the University
available and willing to help his students.”
since 2008.
Anthony Bocchini, professor of business administration, received the 2012 Lucas-
A colleague stated, “He gets to know each
A student nomination stated, “Professor
Hathaway Teaching Excellence Award for a
individual student and recognizes both their
Szuminsky lives by the mission of
faculty member with a history of teaching
strengths and weaknesses in order to better
Waynesburg University and helps to expand
excellence. Bocchini joined Waynesburg
guide them through their college experience
the spiritual growth of those he encounters.
University in 1977.
and prepare them for work once graduation
He has changed my life, and I am sure he will
is complete.”
continue to affect students long after I have
A nomination stated, “Professor Bocchini teaches with a passion and love for his
In addition to a post doctorate in
graduated.”
students. He takes teaching seriously, setting
management from the University of
an example for students to take their studies
Toledo, Sakchutchawan holds a Ph.D.
Szuminsky portrays dignity, confidence
seriously. He sets an example not only by his
from Union Institute and University.
and style both in and out of the classroom,
words, but also his actions.”
He received a Bachelor of Arts degree
instilling determination and inspiration in his
from Ramkhamhaeng State University, a
students and coworkers.”
A student nomination stated that
Another nomination stated, “Professor
Bocchini also teaches his students the
Master of Arts degree from Thammasat
importance of giving back and serving those
State University and a master of business
Master of Business Administration from
around them.
administration from National University.
Waynesburg University. He is currently
Brandon Szuminsky received the 2012
pursuing his Ph.D. in Communications
Bocchini holds a Bachelor of Science
He received his Bachelor of Arts and
and a Bachelor of Arts from Waynesburg
Lucas-Hathaway Teaching Excellence
Media and Instructional Technology at
University, a Master of Science from
Award for a non-full-time faculty member.
Indiana University of Pennsylvania.
Duquesne University, a C.M.A. from the Institute of Management Accounting and a C.P.A. from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Sut Sakchutchawan, associate professor of international business and business administration and director of International Studies at Waynesburg University, received the 2012 Lucas-Hathaway Teaching Excellence Award for a faculty member with a relatively recent history of teaching excellence. Sakchutchawan has been employed by the University since 2007. A student nomination stated, “His wealth of real world knowledge helps him to connect and prepares his students for their
Three faculty members received the Lucas-Hathaway Teaching Excellence Award. Left to right: Brandon Szuminsky, Dr. Sut Sakchutchawan and Anthony Bocchini received the 2012 Lucas-Hathway Teaching Excellence Awards during Waynesburg University’s Commencement Ceremony. The Lamp • SUMMER 2012| 11
SCHOLARLY CLIPS
BONNER SCHOLARS The Waynesburg University freshman Bonner class presented an Arrive Alive session to students at Waynesburg Central High School in April. Funded by Waynesburg University’s Community Impact Grant and produced by UNITE International, the number one health and wellness organization in the nation, the Bonners worked to educate individuals about the dangers of distracted driving, with the hope of preventing further accidents and deaths. Through the Arrive Alive Tour, the University’s Bonner Scholars are striving to promote the importance of adhering to the law prohibiting text messaging while driving in Pennsylvania implemented March 8, 2012.
BUSINESS DR. SUT SAKCHUTCHAWAN, associate professor of international business and director of the International Studies Program at Waynesburg University, was recently notified that his article,“Online vs. Traditional MBA: An Empirical Study of Students’ Characteristics, Course Satisfaction, and Overall Success,” was published in the December edition (volume 7, number 2) of The Journal of Human Resource and Adult Learning.
CENTER FOR RESEARCH & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Barbara Kirby, director of the Center for Research & Economic Development, was recently interviewed for and quoted in the article, “The Benefits of Research Centers Extend Beyond the Edge of Campus,” by Chris Turner. The article appeared in the spring 2012 issue of the CCCU Advance, the magazine of the Council for Christian Colleges & Universities which covers the news and people of Christ-centered higher education. Kirby was quoted about the quality of research performed by Waynesburg University faculty and students, and the economic sustainability that research provides to the area.
CHEMISTRY Waynesburg University students presented their research at the American Chemical Society National conference in San Diego,
12 | The Lamp • SUMMER 2012
Mini-Relay for Life surpasses initial goal Waynesburg University’s annual Mini-Relay for Life event, held April 15 on the campus of the University, raised more than $23,000 for cancer research. A joint effort of the University and the American Cancer Society, the event included typical Relay for Life events including a Luminaria Ceremony and a Survivors’ Lap. MiniRelay for Life consisted of student run organizations and committees coming together to benefit those with cancer. Teams split their members into groups to walk for an hour at a time, making sure a representative of each team was on the course at all times. Activities included music from University radio station 99.5 The HIVE, a magic show and karaoke. The Lamplighter Touring Choir performed, and the day concluded with a traditional Luminaria Ceremony and a spiritual service by the University’s Upper Room ministry. Waynesburg University’s Student Activities Board raised the most funds with a total of $2,594.22. WCYJ-FM, the University’s student-run radio station, came close with its efforts totaling at $2,180.36 and Waynesburg University’s Public Relations Student Society of America Chapter was able to raise $2,048.69. Calif., March 25 to March 29. SARAH FARQUHAR, a senior chemistry major, LIZ HORNER, a senior forensic chemistry major, COREY REARICK, a junior pre-med biology major, and TIFFANY ONIFER, a sophomore pre-med chemistry major, presented their student research as a poster presentation in the undergraduate research poster session. DR. HEIDI FLETCHER, assistant professor of Chemistry at Waynesburg University, accompanied the group of students to San Diego, Calif., and is proud of the Chapter’s national recognition. In addition, the Waynesburg University ACS Chapter received its Outstanding Student Chapter Award from the American Chemical Society. ELIZABETH LECAIN, a junior forensic science major, accepted the award on behalf of the student chapter with DR. EVONNE BALDAUFF, assistant professor
of chemistry and adviser to Waynesburg University ACS. DR. HEIDI FLETCHER, assistant professor of chemistry, served as a judge for the Intel ISEF (International Science and Engineering Fair) May 15 and 16 in Pittsburgh, Pa. Fletcher was a grand awards judge in the biochemistry category. To be a grand awards judge, one needs to hold an M.D. and/or Ph.D. in one of the 17 scientific categories or have a minimum of six years of professional work experience in the respective category. Waynesburg University’s General Chemistry course students, led by DR. HEIDI FLETCHER, made chemistry demonstration science kits and presented them to fifth graders at Waynesburg Elementary in an effort to promote chemistry in a fun way. Funded through a Service-Learning Mini-
SCHOLARLY CLIPS
Grant, the outreach opportunity allowed Waynesburg students to perform seven different experiments with the elementary school students using lava lamps, glitter slime and fingerprint identification, among others, creating a hands-on learning approach for both student groups.
COMMUNICATION LANNY FRATTARE, assistant professor of communication at Waynesburg University, hosted the third annual Sports Announcing Summer Camp Monday, June 18 through Friday, June 22 on the campus of Waynesburg University. The camp afforded more than three dozen high school students the opportunity to train with well-known professionals such as Bill Hilgrove, John Steigerwald and Paul Steigerwald. The camp included workshops throughout the week with past and present professionals in the sports announcing industries. BRANDON REED and STEVE HULLINGS, senior communication majors and Waynesburg University radio staff members, hosted the third annual 24-hour broadcast on WCYJ-FM in April. Current students and communication alumni volunteered their time to do shows throughout the day. The event raised more than $2,100 for cancer research.
CRIMINIAL JUSTICE The Waynesburg University Department of Criminal Justice Administration and the Office of Admissions hosted its spring Mock Crime Scene Workshop in March. The event provided high school students the opportunity to work with Waynesburg University students and faculty, as well as experts in the field, to analyze crime scenes and collect and process evidence. Workshops, including latent print development, forensic biology and general crime scene processing, were offered to those in attendance. Professionals from surrounding counties conducted the sessions, while criminal justice and forensic science majors served as team leaders, role players and workshop assistants.
EDUCATION DEBBIE CLARKE, Chair of the Education Department, served as a member of the Pennsylvania Educator Certification Test (PECT) Content Review and Standards Setting committees from fall 2011 to spring 2012. The Committees were given the responsibility to assist with the development of the new Pennsylvania Special Education teacher certification exams. The Waynesburg University Education Department hosted a Scholastic Book Fair in April, with a portion of the proceeds benefitting the Waynesburg University Reading Clinic for the purchase of books. Waynesburg’s annual clinic provides children in grades K-4 with a fun, personalized literacy experience in a supportive environment, while also offering Waynesburg education majors hands-on learning experiences. In the fall, the clinic will expand to include grades 5-8. Waynesburg University’s Council for Exceptional Children organization gathered community children, particularly those with special needs, for a day of snacks, crafts and games Saturday, April 21 on Waynesburg University’s campus. SHANNON BARTLEY, a
junior early childhood and special education major and president of CEC, planned the event with the theme of inclusion in mind. CEC received a $1,000 Waynesburg University Community Impact Grant for the event. In an effort to unite the campus and community, the event allowed University organizations and athletic teams to host a craft or a game for children in attendance.
ENGLISH SARAH WHEELER, a 2012 English (professional writing) alumna, was accepted into the graduate program in rhetoric at Carnegie Mellon University. Wheeler also received a prestigious position in CMU’s Writing Center. STEVEN TERRILL, a senior creative writing major, was recently published in the independent online fiction magazine eFiction. His story, “Far From Home,” appeared in the April 2012 issue. Created by a small group of writers, eFiction is a forum for independent authors that gather online and have their fictional stories published. Since its inception, readership has become global. JONNELL LIEBL, a 2012 English (creative writing) alumna, was accepted into the graduate program at the University of Alaska Fairbanks. Liebl will pursue her Master of Fine Arts in Poetry.
Waynesburg University holds second annual Undergraduate Research Symposium Waynesburg University’s second annual
knowledge,” said Dr. Chad Sethman, the
Undergraduate Research Symposium was
University’s coordinator of undergraduate
held April 14 in the University’s Center for
research and an assistant professor of
Research and Economic Development.
biology.
All undergraduates actively involved with
All research presented was a
research projects mentored by University
representative of research as defined by the
faculty were eligible to showcase their work
Council on Undergraduate Research (CUR).
by displaying a poster or giving an oral
CUR’s definition states that research is
presentation. Sixteen students presented on “an inquiry or investigation conducted by a range of subjects. “Research is a valuable aspect of
an undergraduate student that makes an original intellectual or creative contribution
scholarship, and communication of research to the discipline.” is fundamental to the advancement of
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SCHOLARLY CLIPS
BOB RANDOLPH, lecturer in the Department of English and Foreign Language, has poems forthcoming or in print in the following journals: Barely South Review, I-70 Review, Lindenwood Review, Marco Polo Quarterly, Poetry Salzburg Review (Austria), Red Rock Review and Spillway. Randolph also has a published article in The Journal of Poetry Therapy. Randolph went to London, England, in May to present a paper at the International Symposium on Poetry and Medicine held May 12. EMILY WEISS, a freshman nursing major, was published by This I Believe, an international
organization engaging people in writing and sharing essays describing the core values that guide their daily lives. Her essay, “Crazy Love,” can be viewed on the This I Believe website at thisibelieve.org. This I Believe is based on a 1950s radio program of the same name, hosted by acclaimed journalist Edward R. Murrow.
ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE The Waynesburg University EcoStewards club hosted its third annual Environmental Week in April. The club hosted daily games and activities in Johnson Commons to educate students, faculty and staff. The week was designed to bring awareness to environmental issues and help the campus community become more eco-friendly. Each
Who’s Your Neighbor Week features alumna Waynesburg University’s biannual “Who’s Your Neighbor Week” took place February 12 through February 17. The week included numerous events implemented to focus on the theme, “Where is the Love: Empowering the Powerless.” Anne Banister, a 2009 graduate from Waynesburg University and a Production Coordinator in Denver, Colo., served as the Who’s Your Neighbor Week speaker. Banister promotes a movement to encourage, educate and employ women in Nepal, South Asia. She presented about “Edge of Seven,” a Denver, Colo., non-profit organization that builds schools in Nepal for young girls. “We thought of [Banister] for this week’s theme because she is a great example of how students and individuals can use their skills and talents to help others overcome adversity,” Sarah Brandstetter, coordinator of the Bonner Scholar Program at Waynesburg University, said. In addition to the videos she has produced for Edge of Seven’s website, Banister created her own documentary titled, “Three Sisters Trekking,” to raise awareness by combining her love for mountain hiking and media. The alumna encourages others to “empower the powerless” by identifying personal abilities to do great things.
14 | The Lamp • SUMMER 2012
day was themed with the intention of raising awareness about different sustainability issues. Environmental Week themed days included Recycling Day, Water Day, Energy Day, Organic Day and Plant Day.
FINE ARTS MELANIE V. CATANA, director of choral music and instructor of vocal music at Waynesburg University, and husband SEBASTIAN CATANA, international baritone, presented an evening of opera arias and duets in the Goodwin Performing Arts Center in January as part of the Performing Arts Series on campus. Renowned musicians PAULA CRIDER and SAMUEL HAZO served as guest clinicians at the sixth annual Waynesburg University Conducting Symposium. The Symposium was held January 27 and January 28 in the Goodwin Performing Arts Center. The weekend included four lecture sessions covering a variety of musical topics. The sessions offered insight into the worlds of score reading, expressive gesturing, rehearsal techniques and other conducting methods. In addition to the lecture sessions, two conducting sessions were provided with the University’s Symphonic Band and recommended high school musicians serving as the Clinic Band. The Waynesburg University Players, directed by EDWARD L. POWERS, associate professor of theatre at the University, presented “Into the Woods” March 28 through March 31. Stephen Sondheim’s classic musical gathers main characters from childhood stories including Little Red Riding Hood, Jack and the Beanstalk, Rapunzel and Cinderella into one plot and focuses on their comedic and tragic encounters in the woods. More than a fairy tale, the award-winning score told a story that
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mixes comedy with heartache and loss that captivated theatre-goers.
FORENSIC SCIENCE Waynesburg University hosted its annual Crime Scene Investigation summer camp June 24 through June 29, on the campus of Waynesburg University. Participants gained valuable insight into the field of forensic science through experiential learning and strategically planned activities. The camp included special agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF) presenting on their specialties, and Pennsylvania State Troopers conducted the burial remains excavation session. Campers also had the opportunity to tour the FBI’s Criminal Justice Information Services Division located in Clarksburg, W.Va. New programming this year featured representatives from the Innocence Project, an organization dedicated to overturning wrongful convictions.
GRADUATE & PROFESSIONAL STUDIES Waynesburg University, led by DR. LAWRENCE KUSHNER, Director of Graduate Programs in Education and founder of the Western Pennsylvania Education Consortium, hosted an informational workshop May
8. “The Teacher Leader Workshop,” held at Waynesburg University’s Southpointe location, offered four informative sessions and a special presentation on the use of the iPad in the classroom.
MATHEMATICS DR. JAMES BUSH, professor of mathematics at Waynesburg University, recently edited a fifteenchapter textbook, titled “Statistical Reasoning in Sports,” by Josh Tabor and Christine Franklin. In addition, Bush conducted a series of five Advanced Placement Statistics workshops in Kentucky between February and April. PAUL SIELSKI, professor of mathematics at Waynesburg University, presented at the 39th Annual Frostburg State University Mathematics Symposium, Friday, April 20. The presentation was Sielski’s eighth at the aforementioned symposium. Sielski’s presentation, titled “Stop – Don’t Use That Calculator,” taught participants how to conduct mathematical operations mentally that were once regarded as impossible.
NURSING DR. DENISE MORRIS, associate professor of nursing, and DR. TERRI SMALL, professor of
University’s b.f. maiz Lecture features Emerson Waynesburg University’s b.f. maiz Lecture, held February 13 in Alumni Hall, featured Claudia Emerson. Emerson, a native of Chatham, Va., was awarded the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry for her collection Late Wife in 2006. During Emerson’s time on campus, she visited a class, conducted a question and answer session and gave a reading. Emerson currently serves as a professor of English and Arrington Distinguished Chair in Poetry at the University of Mary Washington in Fredericksburg, Va., where she lives with her husband. Together, the couple writes songs of various genre including bluegrass, rock, folk, jazz, blues and ragtime. In addition to her many accomplishments, Emerson is a contributing editor of the literary magazine Shenandoah and has received a Witter Bynner Fellowship from the Library of Congress and fellowships from the National Endowment for the Arts and the Virginia Commission for the Arts.
nursing, presented a poster presentation on Effective Management of Student Problems at the 12th Annual Nurse Educator Institute April 18-20 in Branson, Missouri. MELANY D. CHRASH, assistant professor of nursing at Waynesburg University, received the Smile for Life “Champions Award” for her commitment to battling oral health disparities in Greene County and continued participation and support of the outreach project. The award was presented by Donna Simpson, director of The Greene County Oral Health Task Force, at an April awards luncheon. In addition, Chrash presented ”Congregational Health: How do we get God’s people healthy?” to the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Mercy Parish Nurse and Congregational Health Ministry Program in May in Pittsburgh. KIMBERLY STEPHENS, assistant professor of nursing, received an Emerging Learning & Integrated Technologies Education (ELITE) National Dissemination Symposium Poster Presentation Quality Award in December. Stephens was recognized for a best educational practice that enhances undergraduate or graduate nursing faculty knowledge, skills, and abilities, and translates simulation innovation into action.
PUBLIC RELATIONS CHELSEA CUMMINS and SAMANTHA SCRIBNER, both senior public relations majors at Waynesburg University, partnered with the Family Literacy Program at the Local Eva K. Bowlby Public Library to plan the first annual Carnival Day at the library. Serving as a fundraiser, the April 14 event provided programming for both children and adults. Waynesburg University’s Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) Chapter
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SCHOLARLY CLIPS
celebrated the public relations field with a weeklong event from Monday, April 16, through Thursday, April 19. Public Relations week commemorated the study of the public relations field by offering professional presentations, networking opportunities and activities relevant to the communication sector. JAMIE REMPEL, senior public relations major from Pittsburgh, Pa., coordinated the Chapter’s second annual PR week as a class project. JAMIE REMPEL and RENEE BAMFORD, senior public relations majors, combined their event planning knowledge with their passion for finding a cure for cancer and raised more than $1,600. On Saturday, April 7, the dynamic duo put on a Bark for Life event in Pittsburgh, Pa., to benefit Waynesburg University’s Mini-Relay for Life through the Public Relations Student Society of America Chapter team. With more than 75 attendees, the event generated revenue through regional and local vendors, sponsorships and participant support.
SERVICE Waynesburg University’s 2011 Vira I. Heinz scholarship recipients hosted Mondo Giusto & Garden: Ethical Consumerism & Sustainable Living Project March 31 in the Marisa Fieldhouse. LYNAE BYLER, a junior nursing major from Salisbury, Pa.; NATALIE GEORGE, a junior English (creative writing) major from Export, Pa.; MEGAN PEEBLES, a junior interactive design major from New Salem, Pa.; and HEIDI WEAVER, a human services major from Denver, Pa., received $1,000 from Waynesburg University’s Community Impact Grant to complete the project, which was intended to address the need for knowledge and understanding of fair trade and local economic practices.
SOCIAL SCIENCES DR. ESTHER BARKAT, associate professor of social sciences at Waynesburg University, was accepted to present her academic paper, “Distinguishing Linguistic and Cultural Factors from Communication Disorders,” at the 2012 Hawaii University International Conferences on Education in Honolulu, Hawaii, which will be held from
16 | The Lamp • SUMMER 2012
July 31 through August 2.
SOCIOLOGY DR. EZEKIEL OLAGOKE, assistant professor of sociology at Waynesburg University, presented his academic paper, “St. Gregory Palamas and African Religious Resurgence: A Case of Essential Dialog,” at the Academy of Thessaloniki in Greece from March 7 through 12.
STOVER CENTER FOR CONSTITUTIONAL STUDIES AND MORAL LEADERSHIP The REV. DR. LAWRENCE M. STRATTON, Director of the Stover Center for Constitutional Studies and Moral Leadership, preached “Magnifying the Light: Mark
1: 4-11” at the Society of Christian Ethics, Annual Meeting Ecumenical Worship Service, January 8, 2012, in Washington, D.C. The REV. DR. LAWRENCE M. STRATTON and DR. RICHARD WADDEL, professor of political science at Waynesburg University, presented “Of Politics in Greene County and the United States” at the Greene County Historical Society and Museum Saturday, April 28. DR. LAWRENCE M. STRATTON, Director of Waynesburg University’s Stover Center for Constitutional Studies and Moral Leadership and Assistant Professor of Ethics and Constitutional Law, presented the Greene County Flag Day speech, “Participating in Old Glory’s Reality,” on the Greene County Courthouse steps Thursday June 14, 2012.
International arts advocate speaks as part of DeVito Lecture Series As part of the DeVito Lecture Series, Waynesburg University hosted Makoto Fujimura January 31. Acknowledged around the world as a cultural influence by both secular and faith-based media, Fujimura is a speaker, artist and writer who serves as an international advocate for the arts. As a Presidential appointee to the National Council on the Arts, Fujimura has advised and contributed to future policies on the arts, both domestically and internationally. As an artist, his work can be viewed in locations worldwide, including Tokyo, New York City and Hong Kong. His writing expands on his paintings by creating a discussion about culture, art and faith. Prior speaking experience includes the Aspen Institute, Yale and Princeton. With many accomplishments that span the arts world, Fujimura is most proud of his non-profit arts organization, the International Arts Movement, and the growth it has seen since its inception in 1992. The Rosetta Kormuth DeVito Lecture Series was created to explore topics related to business, culture and the arts. The lecture series, funded by the DeVito family, addresses a variety of current topics that are of interest to graduate and undergraduate students and the community.
SCHOLARLY CLIPS
The event was sponsored by the Greene County Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution. Dr. Stratton was introduced by Greene County Court of Common Pleas Judge Farley Toothman. Greene County Board of Commissioners’ Vice Chairman ARCHIE TRADER met with Waynesburg University Stover Scholars February 29 to discuss his path into politics and the importance of becoming involved in the community. Trader, who has been a Greene County Commissioner since 2008, urged the undergraduate students from a range of university disciplines to volunteer whenever possible and to always do their best.
Crosby Lecture Series features Dr. Thomas Mallok The Glenn A. and Jane L. Crosby Lecture Series hosted Dr. Thomas E. Mallouk, associate editor of the Journal of the American Chemical Society, in the Goodwin Performing Arts Center January 17. As the DuPont Professor of Materials, Chemistry and Physics at Pennsylvania State University, Mallouk has received national attention for his work on inorganic self-assembly and on the chemistry of various materials. He is the author of approximately 300 scientific
OTHER
publications and has received multiple
GREGORY GRAYBILL, RN-BSN program adjunct professor at Waynesburg University, recently received a junior faculty Fulbright Research Grant to study the Reformation in Germany from September 2012 to February 2013.
honors and awards including the Eberly College of Science Medal from Penn State University in 2007, the American Chemical Society Award in the Chemistry of Materials in 2008 and membership in the American Academy of Arts and Sciences in 2009. His research includes the study of chemistry of solids and interfaces, nanoscale inorganic materials and environmental chemistry.
Mallouk received his bachelor of science degree from Brown University. He graduated with a doctoral degree from the University of California, Berkeley and was a postdoctoral fellow at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. The Glenn A. and Jane L. Crosby Lectures, funded by 1950 Magna Cum Laude graduates of Waynesburg University, Glenn A. and Jane Lichtenfels Crosby, bring to the University visiting scholars who are distinguished in their disciplines.
Martin Luther King Jr. Day Convocation hosts Rev. Leroy Barber Waynesburg
confronting homelessness, restoring local
school, to provide quality Christian
University’s Martin
neighborhoods, healing racism and living
education for low-income families in the
Luther King Jr. Day
what Dr. Martin Luther King called “the
inner city.
Convocation took
beloved community.”
place January 16 in
As a Pastor of Community Fellowships
Barber is on the boards of Atlanta Youth Academy and the Christian Community
Roberts Chapel. Rev.
Church, Barber has started numerous
Development Association. He is the author
Leroy Barber,
projects to improve societal conditions
of “New Neighbor: An Invitation to Join
president of Mission Year, a national urban
including his founding of Restoration
Beloved Community,” and was also chosen
initiative introducing young adults to
Ministries in 1990 to serve homeless
as a contributor to the groundbreaking
faith-based communal living in city centers
families and children living on the
book, “UnChristian: What a New
for one year of their lives, presented the
streets. In 1997, he joined FCS (Focused
Generation Thinks About Christianity and
convocation.
Community Strategies) Urban Ministries
Why It Matters.”
Barber has dedicated more than 20 years to eradicating poverty,
to serve as the founding director of Atlanta Youth Academies, a private elementary
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ALUMNI IMPACT
Leading Youth to Hope Behind Bars
A
s a student at Waynesburg University, Salvatore Mauriello looked forward to the day he would use his professional calling to make a difference. Just over six
youth,” he said. As a result of his work with PATT, Mauriello recently joined with Academy Award-winning and 16-time Emmy Award-
years after his 2006 graduation from Waynesburg University,
winning television producer and writer Arnold Shapiro,
Mauriello, a criminal justice administration alumnus, feels
in an effort to keep today’s at-risk youth from becoming
certain that day has come.
tomorrow’s prisoners. Mauriello appeared on Shapiro’s
Although unsure what his precise path would be following
Beyond Scared Straight, an A&E hit series which premiered
his graduation from Waynesburg, he knew that he would
as the highest-rated original series launch in the network’s
eventually act as a mentor for youth who so desperately need
history. The show profiles dramatic prison prevention
a role model for a time such as this.
programs and spotlights the ways in which youth are changed
Mauriello serves as a case manager at the Federal
through an intense intervention approach.
Correctional Institution in Hagerstown, Md., where he recommends security levels for inmates, communicates with lawyers about current and pending cases and instructs inmates on how to become better integrated back into society, among other things. “To serve the state of Maryland and protect the public from convicted felons has always given me a purpose in what I do,” he said. Even more meaningful for Mauriello, his work with Prisoners Against Teen Tragedies (PATT), a youth diversion program that teaches juveniles about bad choices and bad
“To experience the feeling of making a difference in a teenager’s life is the most rewarding part of my career.”
-Salvatore Mauriello
consequences, allows him to work collaboratively with 10 unique inmates to attempt to prevent juvenile crime. “Prisoners Against Teen Tragedies has given me the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of many at-risk 18 | The Lamp • SUMMER 2012
Described as a combination of confrontation, information and communication, the show works with youth offender programs to put boys and girls of all ethnicities and ages,
ALUMNI IMPACT
ranging from 11 to 19, into intensive, one-day “incarceration” sessions to teach the realities of life behind bars. The show
importance of preparation. “My time at Waynesburg taught me how to understand
culminates with a follow up visit approximately one month
and evaluate the criminal justice system. The Criminal Justice
later to see if the experience had a lasting impact.
Program thoroughly educated me and gave me the knowledge
“The experience of participating in Beyond Scared Straight
I needed to succeed in my profession. The knowledge and
was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. During the episode,
understanding that I received at Waynesburg makes me a
I was the facility mentor to the participating youth, which
better case manager and mentor to our youth,” he said.
involved speaking with the at-risk youth about the negatives of prison and the dangerous environment. I am extremely proud of the success and deterrence that our program has accomplished,” Mauriello said. Similar to Waynesburg University’s mission and Mauriello’s hope for his career, Beyond Scared Straight is about transforming the lives of young people. “To experience the feeling of making a difference in a teenager’s life is the most rewarding part of my career,” he said. Through his studies at Waynesburg University, Mauriello recognized that “faith plays a tremendous role in one’s everyday life,” he said. In addition to his work with PATT, his current case manager position allows him to guide inmates while integrating faith. “Relying on my own faith helps me to understand an
Mauriello shares the ins and outs of the prison yard with the Beyond Scared Straight youth.
inmate’s thought process, just as most inmates rely on faith to help them change so they can become integrated back into society,” he said. Mauriello credits Waynesburg University’s Criminal Justice Program and the guidance of John McIlwain, instructor of criminal justice at Waynesburg University, for his journey. “Professor Mcllwain taught me that in order to succeed at something, you must set your expectations high and work hard to achieve them,” he said. “When I struggled, Professor Mac was there to assure me that I could do anything if I worked hard. He guided me in the right direction and helped to mold me into the man I am today.” McIlwain said he recognized Mauriello’s promise and is thrilled to see him experiencing success. “His passion was evident in the classroom,” McIlwain said. “It makes me proud to know that he took what he learned at Waynesburg University and is making a difference in the world. It’s obvious that his faith has served him well.”
Joined by 10 unique inmates, Mauriello works tirelessly to divert youth from bad choices and consequences that follow.
Mauriello also credits hands-on experiences such as Waynesburg’s Mock Trials for his understanding of investigation, evidence collection, court proceedings and the The Lamp • SPRING 2011| 19
A
profound, life-changing chain of events has revealed that heroes exist at Waynesburg University. Nine recent nursing graduates and an associate
professor of nursing became heroes in the eyes of many when, after stopping to rescue a man struggling to escape from his overturned SUV as numerous vehicles swerved by him, an unanticipated turn of events forced them to rescue each other. “The students rose to the occasion and recognized that life is a gift from God,” said Nancy Mosser, chair of the Nursing Department at Waynesburg University. “The experience altered their lives and their outlook on life.” It all started when the nurses-in-training followed their calling to serve and to heal.
Following their calling In the morning darkness of February 20, 2012, an SUV came to a stop on its side with its roof facing on-coming traffic, blocking the left lane of I-79S in Perry Township, Pa.
Extreme
courage
in their Calling to Heal
20 | The Lamp • SUMMER 2012
Derek Hartzog, 21, of Washington, Pa., had fallen asleep at the wheel. On his way to Morgantown, W.Va., for clinical nursing studies, Zachary Sargent witnessed the accident. He immediately pulled over, called 911 to report the accident and ran to Hartzog’s vehicle to help. Within seconds, other senior nursing students also traveling to clinical came upon the scene and stopped to offer assistance. Those students included Cami Abernethy, Alissa Boyle, Joshua Brewer, Christina Hecker, Chelsea Knepp, Noah Pust, Clayton Reiber and Rebekah Reyes. “Derek couldn’t get out of his vehicle,” Sargent said. “I had to pull him out through a hole in the windshield.” After Hartzog was pulled to safety, the students assessed his medical condition. “I felt relief in knowing that the victim was healthy physically, and all we had to do was calm him down,” Abernethy said. “Unfortunately, at that time, we did not know we were standing on an overpass.” When associate professor of nursing Dr. Sara Clutter, also on her way to clinical, arrived at the scene, she pulled her vehicle to the right side of the road beyond the accident and the students and she, too, dialed 911.
“The students rose to the occasion and recognized that life is a gift from God. The experience altered their lives and their outlook on life.”
-Nancy Mosser, Chair of the Nursing Department
Oncoming Danger “I was talking with the dispatcher when I heard someone yell, ‘Get out of the way! The truck is going to hit us!’” Dr. Clutter said. The students were helping Hartzog contact his family when they heard the same warning that a truck was approaching in the left lane – the lane in which they were standing between the disabled vehicle and the on-coming
jump off of a bridge, straddled the
and Hartzog’s conditions, Dr. Clutter
barrier instead and was then able to pull
took the lead and began matching the
Brewer back over the barrier to safety.
students’ skill sets with the needs of the
The tractor trailer pushed Hartzog’s
three injured.
vehicle about 10 feet, coming to a stop inches from Pust’s leg. “All I remember is that I was about
to keep their classmates calm and
something told me to stop and just
unmoving, held their hands and did
straddle the side,” Pust said. “I have to
everything they could to make them
thank God for giving me that thought.”
comfortable.” From Reyes’ nursing bag, the students distributed gloves and gauze to those
“I saw lights coming right at us, and
working on the injured while residents
I was able to see that it was a tractor
of a nearby house provided towels,
trailer,” Abernethy said. “The truck was
blankets and flashlights.
not slowing down, and I knew I would
“Caring for my friends in the freezing
be killed if I didn’t move.”
cold mud was unlike anything I have
In the seconds that followed, each
ever experienced,” Pust said. “I knew
student had to make instantaneous grabbed Knepp’s arm and pulled her to safety further down the road past
“They used therapeutic communication
to jump over with the others when
tractor trailer.
decisions to save their own lives. Sargent
“The students remained calm and filled their roles effectively,” she said.
what to do and how to do it. Although I
Aiding the Injured As the shock set in, the uninjured
was still in shock and terrified from the whole ordeal, I was able to think clearly,
Dr. Clutter’s vehicle. Abernethy, Boyle,
students ran down the steep, muddy
and my classmates and I were able to
Brewer and Hartzog jumped over the
embankment to the roadside below on
provide the correct care to the injured.”
barrier at the edge of the left lane.
which their friends and Hartzog had
It was not until that moment, in the darkness of the morning, that they realized the accident had occurred on a bridge. Assuming their jump over the cement barrier would land them safely on the shoulder of the road, Abernethy,
When the police and ambulances
fallen. The three were lying in a bed of
arrived, paramedics took over the care of
silt and briars, their limbs tangled with
the victims.
each other’s. No one was moving. “We thought they were dead,” Sargent said. The students got to work helping
“I didn’t even hear the sirens,” Dr. Clutter said. “I had a mission, and I was completely caught up in that mission.” Abernethy said she was blessed that her classmates were present.
Boyle and Hartzog instead fell off the
Abernethy, Boyle and Hartzog, and after
bridge some 40 to 50 feet to the ground
a few seconds that felt like an eternity,
below.
Sargent returned to the highway to help
for us, mentally and physically, until the
Dr. Clutter down the hill.
paramedics arrived,” she said.
“The fall felt like forever,” Abernethy said. “I had no idea when I was going
“Dr. Clutter is a very calming person,”
to hit the ground since my eyes were to
Sargent said. “She had complete
the night sky.”
confidence in us, and that made us
As Brewer jumped, he realized he was on a bridge and was able to grasp the barrier before falling. Pust, also realizing he was about to
“They knew exactly what to do to care
Faith Overcomes Abernethy suffered fractured vertebrae
more confident that we could handle
and a rod has been surgically inserted
the situation.”
into her back. She is at home recovering
After the students gave their professor a quick assessment of Abernethy, Boyle
from her injuries. “Right now, my health is better than
The Lamp • SUMMER 2012| 21
I could have ever imagined,” Abernethy
by the insertion of a rod into her back.
said. “Faith has played a huge rule in my
Following two surgeries and a stay in
recovery. It was an act of God that we
a rehabilitation facility, she is at home
all lived through the fall, and that made
learning to walk again.
me realize that it wasn’t my time to go. I
“The way we were raised by our
have yet to complete what I was put on
parents and then the way we were
this earth to do, and that day proved it
shaped in Waynesburg University’s
to me.”
nursing program helped us to make the
Boyle suffered a spinal cord injury that
decisions we made that day,” Abernethy
has left her without sensory and motor
said. “If I had to relive that day, I would
function of her lower limbs. In addition,
still stop.”
“If I had to relive that day, I would still stop.” - Cami Abernethy
her fractured vertebrae were stabilized
Nursing Heroes
Heroes gather for a group photo on gradutation day with President Thyreen. From left to right, Dr. Clutter, Clayton Reiber, Cami Abernethy, Joshua Brewer, Alissa Boyle, Zachary Sargent, Chelsea Knepp, President Thyreen and Noah Pust.
22 | The Lamp • SUMMER 2012
>>>
>>>
Cami & Alissa Fund Aids Nursing Heroes
A
NURSING HEROES RECEIVE PRESIDENTIAL MEDALLIONS
Cami Abernethy stood next to Alissa Boyle
s news of the events of February
gather financial support for the Abernethy
as Boyle rose from her wheelchair and
20 spread, friends, strangers and
and Boyle families, and have since sold
took several steps forward, with the help
the entire University community
bracelets and T-shirts to benefit their friends.
of leg braces and a walker, to accept her
rallied around Cami Abernethy, Alissa
They also organized a Walk for Cami and
diploma and Presidential Medallion from
Boyle and their families. The girls’ friends
Alissa, which was held April 22 on the
Waynesburg University President Timothy
and professors have shown incredible
campus of Waynesburg University.
Thyreen at Commencement.
compassion and determination in their mission to support the girls as they recover.
Sara Selvaggio, an alumna of the University,
As a result of their heroic acts on February
organized a Nursing Heroes Benefit Ride,
20 and their faith and grace through
which was held June 9. During the Ride,
recovery and rehabilitation, both women
‘serving so they might faithfully transform
participants traveled from the Steel City
were awarded the Presidential Medallion of
their communities,’” Nancy Mosser, chair
Harley-Davidson to the Greene County
Waynesburg University.
of the Nursing Department at Waynesburg
Fairgrounds.
“The University’s mission speaks to
University, said. “I believe the students and
The University’s Presidential Medallion
Collectively, the fundraising efforts have
may be presented by the President of
Dr. Clutter have very much transformed
garnered more than $45,000 in support of
the University, at the discretion of the
their communities, not only by saving a
the Abernethy and Boyle families.
President, to honor individuals for their
young man’s life, but in their relentless efforts to fundraise for Cami and Alissa. They have raised awareness of Cami and
“My friends are my heroes,” Abernethy said. The University is accepting donations on
Alissa’s situation and have bonded together
behalf of the Cami and Alissa Fund. Checks
to help improve the healthcare and financial
should be made payable to Waynesburg
outcomes for them.”
University with “Cami and Alissa Fund”
The seniors in the nursing program are a
written in the memo section. All donations
close-knit group of students who have taken
should be sent to Waynesburg University’s
the lead in coordinating the fundraising
Business Office, 51 W. College Street,
efforts to garner support for the Abernethy
Waynesburg, Pa. 15370. Online donations
and Boyle families.
can be made at www.waynesburgunited.
In the days following the accident, they
special or meritorious service to the University or humanity, for distinguished life achievement(s), and/or for distinctive intellectual, cultural or social contributions.
com/CamiandAlissaFund.
established the Cami and Alissa Fund to The Lamp • SUMMER 2012| 23
FAITH IN A POLITICAL SETTING T
he opportunity to be a part of a program founded upon the principles that embody who he is has
restored Dan Czajkowski’s hope in the world. Ironically, more than five years ago when the program was established, Waynesburg alumnus Dr. W. Robert Stover (1942), the man for whom the program is named, approached Waynesburg University President Timothy R. Thyreen with concerns about the direction in which the United States was heading. From that conversation, Waynesburg University’s Stover Scholar Program for Constitutional Studies and Moral Leadership was developed with the purpose of finding young women and men exactly like Dan Czajkowski. “Centered on the first principles of our nation and ethical Christian leadership, the Stover Scholar Program seeks to bring Christianity into the public sphere,” Czajkowski said. “The Program is consistent with the University’s mission to integrate faith, serving and learning, and encourages its scholars to be faithful servants to the public good.” Through his involvement in the Program, Czajkowski, a junior criminal justice administration major, has found assurance that there are others, like him, “who desire to make a difference by walking in integrity and committing themselves to lives of public service.” “Our world needs men and women who will stand with moral fortitude against popular culture, and I am fortunate to be in a program that supports my desire to do that,” Czajkowski said. Czajkowski’s testimony is validation that the Stover Scholar Program is achieving precisely what it was intended to achieve. “Waynesburg University’s Stover Scholar Program is committed to developing leaders who embrace the constitutional principles that guided the Founding Fathers in an effort to positively impact the direction of American politics and law,” said University President Timothy R. Thyreen. Appropriately, from an early age, Dan Czajkowski was captivated by the notions of law and justice which
STUDENT PROFILE
“It is not hard to imagine Daniel Czajkowski occupying the Oval Office himself one day.” -Dr. Lawrence M. Stratton, Director of the Stover Center for Constitutional Studies and Moral Leadership inherently led him on a path to find
producing career-ready graduates. What
by enhancing his knowledge and
a career within the criminal justice
sets Waynesburg apart in preparing
understanding of both government and
system.
its graduates for life after college
governance.
“I am passionate about righting
is the emphasis it places on how a
Czajkowski plans to pursue a master’s
wrongs, and I desire to find the career
graduate uses the skill set that he or she
degree in Public Administration
where I would be most capable of
developed while at Waynesburg,” he
following his graduation from
bringing justice to the world around
said.
Waynesburg University. Although he
me,” Czajkowski said. Regardless of what his next step
Czajkowski is certain that the
has theories of what his future will hold,
Criminal Justice Administration
ultimately he said his plans will rely on
might be, there is no doubt in the
Program, specifically its curriculum and
God’s plan for his life.
minds of those who know him best that
opportunities for experiential learning,
Czajkowski will be effectively prepared
has effectively prepared him for the
to God and seek to use them for His
to fill a significant role.
challenges ahead.
glory and honor,” he said. “Although
“Daniel Czajkowski is a well-respected
“My time working seasonally for a
“I will continue to dedicate my talents
I am currently pursuing a path in law
leader at Waynesburg University with
police department speaks especially
enforcement, I am open to God’s
a gentle and friendly disposition which
to the quality of our Criminal Justice
leading in my life and am anxious to see
makes his strong analytical insights
program, as I felt head and shoulders
where He will guide me.”
very persuasive among his peers and
above my peers in the amount of
professors,” said Dr. Lawrence M.
understanding I had of my field
spend his semester in Washington, D.C.,
Stratton, director of the Stover Center
compared to students from other
studying through the Best Semester’s
for Constitutional Studies and Moral
colleges,” he said.
American Studies Program. The Program
Leadership. Stratton reflected upon Czajkowski’s role in a play put on last September
Similarly, Waynesburg’s social science
In the spring of 2013, Czajkowski will
is one of 12 off-campus study abroad
curriculum, according to Czajkowski,
programs offered through the Council
has complemented his education
for Christian Colleges and Universities.
during Waynesburg University’s Constitution Day celebration in which the Stover Scholars reenacted the debates surrounding the 1787 Constitutional Convention and ratification. Stratton said Czajkowski fittingly played the role of future President James Monroe, which led him to his next thought. “It is not hard to imagine Daniel Czajkowski occupying the Oval Office himself one day,” Stratton said. His courses and the opportunities afforded by Waynesburg University have served as deliberate steps toward his future goals, whether that is working in law enforcement or a government career. “Waynesburg is very effective at The Lamp • SUMMER 2012| 25
. Desire to Serve . Desire to Make a Difference . Desir a Difference STUDENT PROFILE Make a Difference . Desire to Serve . Desire to Make a Difference to Make a Difference . Desire to Serve . Desire to Make a Differen Desire to Make a Difference . Desire to Serve . Desire to Make a D Serve . Desire to Make a Difference . Desire to Serve . Desire to M to Serve . Desire to Make a Difference . Desire to Serve . Desire to Desire to Serve . Desire to Make a Difference . Desire to Serve . D rence . Desire to Serve . Desire to Make a Difference . Desire to Se Difference . Desire to Serve . Desire to Make a Difference . Desire a Difference . Desire to Serve . Desire to Make a Difference . Desir San Francisco, Ca. Make a Difference . Desire to Serve . Desire to Make a Difference to Make a Difference . Desire to Serve . Desire to Make a Differen Desire to Make a Difference . Desire to Serve . Desire to Make a D Serve . Desire to Make a Difference . Desire to Serve . Desire to M to Serve . Desire to Make a Difference . Desire to Serve . Desire to Desire to Serve . Desire to Make a Difference . Desire to Serve . D rence . Desire to Serve . Desire to Make a Difference . Desire to Se Difference . Desire to Serve . Desire to Make a Difference . Desire a Difference . Desire to Serve . Desire to Make a Difference . Desir Make a Difference . Desire to Serve . Desire to Make a Difference to Make a Difference . Desire to Serve . Desire to Make a Differen .people . Desire Desire to Make a Difference Desire toWalton Serve aD or three months this summer, ourselves,” said. “CSM encouragesto the Make people Brittany Walton will take who serve with to give up former biases about the . them Serve . Desire to Make a Difference Desire to Serve . Desire to M her passion for service, a people who live in the city, and to love them despite their . Desire . Desire to Serve . Desire to to Servepassion Make cultivated to by her three yearsa Difference brokenness.” at Waynesburg University, to an CSM, a Christian organization . that hosts week-long urban . Desire Desire to Serve to Make a Difference Desire to Serve . D unfamiliar environment. mission trips for high school and college groups across the . Desire The junior biblical ministry studies nation, young people based on leadership.skills, a desire to Se rence . Desire to Serve tohires Make a Difference Desire major will work with the Center serve God and enthusiasm for service. . Desire Difference to Serve . toDesire to Make a Difference . Desire for Student Mission’s (CSM) San “CSM is important to me because the ministry focuses on . Desire . Desire . Desir Francisco site as a City Host the the issues that areto found in the heart major cities,” Walton a Difference tofor Serve Make a ofDifference summer of 2012. As a City Host, said. “Those who serve with CSM really get to know the . Make a Walton, Difference Desire to Serve . Desire to Make a Difference a Waynesburg, Pa., native, will individuals of the city, whether it be a homeless man sitting . Desire . Desire through Oakland, Calif., onto the Serve street, or a child who has known nothing but a a life of to Makeguide a groups Difference to Make Differen and introduce them to opportunities to make a difference in and abuse.” .drugs . Desire to service Make a Difference Desire to her Serve toWalton Make a D the lives Desire of others through sites dealing with poverty, A desire to spend summer serving others led gang violence, drugs.and prostitution. evening, Walton to contact the. director of San to Francisco’s CSM.location to Serve Desire toEvery Make a Difference Desire Serve Desire to M
The Desire to Make a Difference
F
will lead debriefing sessions to help volunteers to realize
arrange an interview via Skype. After surviving the preliminary
God’s calling for their lives and to promote an unbiased love
application and interview process, Walton was asked by CSM
of all people.
staff to visit a CSM location for a face-to-face interview.
“Only when we try to understand the lost and broken, can we truly help them. After all, we are all broken, formerly lost 26 | The Lamp • SUMMER 2012 27
“I could have chosen Philadelphia, Pa., which is the closest site to Waynesburg, but I really wanted to show them that I
re to Serve . Desire to Make a Difference . Desire to Serve . Desire to STUDENT PROFILE . Desire to Serve . Desire to Make a Difference . Desire to Serve . Desire nce . Desire to Serve . Desire to Make a Difference . Desire to Serve . Difference . Desire to Serve . Desire to Make a Difference . Desire to Make a Difference . Desire to Serve . Desire to Make a Difference . Desire o Make a Difference . Desire to Serve . Desire to Make a Difference . Desire to Make a Difference . Desire to Serve . Desire to Make a Diffeerve . Desire to Make a Difference . Desire to Serve . Desire to Make a e to Serve . Desire to Make a Difference . Desire to Serve . Desire to Make Waynesburg, Pa. re to Serve . Desire to Make a Difference . Desire to Serve . Desire to . Desire to Serve . Desire to Make a Difference . Desire to Serve . Desire nce . Desire to Serve . Desire to Make a Difference . Desire to Serve . Difference . Desire to Serve . Desire to Make a Difference . Desire to Make a Difference . Desire to Serve . Desire to Make a Difference . Desire o Make a Difference . Desire to Serve . Desire to Make a Difference . Desire to Make a Difference . Desire to Serve . Desire to Make a Diffeerve . Desire to Make a Difference . Desire to Serve . Desire to Make a e to Serve . Desire to Make a Difference . Desire to Serve . Desire to Make re to Serve . Desire to Make a Difference . Desire to Serve . Desire to . Desire to Serve . Desire to Make a Difference . Desire to Serve . Desire nce . Desire to Serve . Desire to Make a Difference . Desire to Serve . . Desire . Desire Difference to Serve to Waynesburg, Make aPa.Difference . Desire to was very serious about this internship. I saved up some money sold my laptop for a plane ticket to San Francisco during “My heart breaks often in Waynesburg when I see .the . Desire Make and a Difference to Serve . Desire to Make a Difference Desire Thanksgiving break,” Walton said. “I shadowed the city hosts devastating issues that Greene County faces daily, so I know . that to gainaa Difference better understanding .of Desire what they did, andServe I had a a big city such San Francisco will break my heart . o Make to Desire to asMake a Difference interview with the CSM Director.at an Ethiopian substantially,” Walton said. “But I am at peace with that, . Desire Desireface-to-face to Make a Difference Desire to Serve to Make a Differestaurant in the city.” because I want my heart to break for what breaks God’s heart. . Desire to say, visiblea desire to learn about San. Desire It is that brokenness that allows us to do amazing things fora erve . Needless Desire toWalton’s Make Difference to Serve to Make Francisco earned her a position as one of five young city . Desire to Make a DifferenceHim.” . Desire to Serve . Desire to Make e to Serve hosts. She anticipates the challenges of working with an Her faith and service-related activities and leadership roles . toDesire . Desire . Desire ministry not be much than her in as a student at Waynesburg University have shaped Walton’s re tourban Serve todifferent Make a service Difference to Serve to desire to serve with CSM this summer. On campus, Walton . Desire to Serve . Desire to Make a Difference . Desire . Desire Serve leads a prayer ministry called Selah to and serves as the Praise “I wanttomy heart. to break to for Make aandDifference . for . Worship Coordinator Adelpha, ato Christian leadership nce . Desire Serve Desire Desire Serve created to encourage women on campus in their what breaks God’s heart. It is that to sisterhood . Desire . Desire Difference to Serve Make a Difference . Desire to faith. “Without Waynesburg University and its ministries, not . Desire that allows us do . Desire Make abrokenness Difference to to Serve to Make a Difference . I’m Desire sure that I would even be a Christian,” Walton said. “With the amazing things for Him.”
-Brittany Walton
help of a number of staff members and mentors on campus, I accepted the precious gift of salvation and gained the desire to work with children and youth.”
The Lamp • SUMMER 2012| 27
GAPS NEWS
New Location Enhances Program
S
pecifically built to meet the
and the labs feature new computers.
Waynesburg’s needs including more
needs of Waynesburg University’s
The space also has a clean and modern
centralized support staff areas, a more
Graduate and Professional
corporate feel, with natural color
coherent flow for classrooms, and much
Studies programs, the University’s new
scheme and dynamic green or blue
more conveniently-located restroom
Southpointe location and program
accent walls.
facilities. These upgrades, according to
headquarters, located just two miles
About 80 percent of the first floor of
Mariner, have made a big difference.
from its previous location, offers
the red and gray brick building is in use
“You don’t realize how having the
students, staff members and program
by Waynesburg. With a beautiful glass
things you need close to you can
facilitators an array of enhancements.
and tile entrance and a large overhead
improve the quality of your experience,
sign with the University name and logo,
whether you’re a student or an
Embasy Park building in the new
Located on the first floor of the
visitors get a clear sense of Waynesburg
employee,” he said.
development known as Southpointe
when they walk through the front doors.
II, the new 17,000-square-foot Center
The new location also includes many
Mariner said there were many elements that made the new location
features nine classrooms, two computer
upgrades, including a larger and more
attractive, including the ability to stay
labs, 16 staff offices and a large
private dining area for students, much
within Southpointe, a burgeoning
conference room that seats up to 70
more office space for faculty and staff,
tech park just south of Pittsburgh
people. Every classroom is equipped
and larger classrooms and hallways.
on Interstate 79. The new location
with the latest Smart Board technology,
28 | The Lamp • SUMMER 2012
The space was customized to
is in the middle of the “new heart”
GAPS NEWS
of Southpointe, Mariner said, and is
prompt the decision to offer a new
it also features a “broad-based energy
located within seconds of Fortune 500
concentration for the MBA program
component” that isn’t just focused on
companies Consol Energy and Mylan
focused on energy management.
Marcellus shale, he said.
Pharmaceuticals, high tech companies
“We’re looking to attract people
The ongoing growth and construction
like ANSYS, Inc., law firms like Steptoe
from the energy management industry
around the new location mirrors the
& Johnson, and oil and gas companies
who want business skills, but also want
growth going on in Waynesburg’s
like Range Resources and Fairmont
some background in the energy field,”
Graduate and Professional Studies.
Supply.
Mariner said. “We have a lot of students
In addition to new courses and
“When we look at who our neighbors
who work for companies in the field,
concentration in the MBA program,
are, with the Consol building and all this
so it’s really a way for us to brand and
Mariner expects to see more offerings in
oil and gas industry right here, it was an
market ourselves that they’re coming to
the Education Program in the future.
easy decision,” Mariner said.
a place where they can be educated and
In fact, the prevalence of energy companies in Southpointe — there are
learn more about their field as well.” Mariner said the concentration will be
60 — and the proximity of the new
fairly unique to Waynesburg and aims
Waynesburg Center to Consol Energy’s
to attract those in the industry already
325,000-square-foot headquarters —
as well as those looking to get into it. To
it’s literally across the street — helped
make the program more wide-reaching,
The Lamp • SUMMER 2012| 29
STUDENT PROFILE
Students Sarah Markwardt, Esteban Saldi and Amy Morgan join members of the local community with the desire to make a difference.
Close to Heart and Home
I
n 2009, Esteban Saldi boarded a
bring assistance in the name of Jesus
plane and traveled approximately
Christ to those hurting around the
6,500 miles to Waynesburg,
world. Inspired by the organization’s
Pa., with a plan. Saldi, a Waynesburg
mission and after his work on a well
University sophomore at the time, never
digging project during the summer of
imagined that just three years later his
his freshman year, Saldi felt called to
plan would actually become a reality.
rejoin Samaritan’s Purse.
A 2012 human services alumnus, Saldi
Esteban Saldi
recently led a Waynesburg University
approached Calvario to discuss the
mission service trip to his native La Paz,
possibility of a University trip. During
Bolivia. This past March, Saldi, joined
their spring break this past March,
by Dave Calvario, director of the Center
Calvario, Saldi and six other Waynesburg
for Service Leadership at Waynesburg
University students created a University
University, and six additional
“first” while breathing life into Saldi’s
Waynesburg students, strengthened his
3-year-old dream.
personal partnership with Samaritan’s
Partnering with Samaritan’s Purse for
Purse when he returned home to work
the first time, the mission service team
on a project close to his heart.
was given the opportunity to directly
For more than 40 years, Samaritan’s
30 | The Lamp • SUMMER 2012
With the longing in his heart, Saldi
connect faith, learning and serving
Purse, a nondenominational evangelical
while making a difference in a fellow
Christian organization, has worked to
classmate’s native country. Saldi’s
STUDENT PROFILE
“I have witnessed Esteban time and time again filled with compassion, reaching out his hand to help and love others.”
-Dave Calvario
Director of the Center for Service Leadership mentor and peers came away from the
with compassion, reaches out His
faith and service has played in his
trip humbled by the experience.
hand, touches a man with leprosy and
growth. He plans to further expand that
immediately the leprosy leaves the man.
growth through his position as a Work
“I have witnessed Esteban time and
Site Liaison for the Pittsburgh Project.
“Most of us take for granted on a daily basis that, when we turn on a faucet in America, clean drinkable water will
time again filled with compassion,
come out,” Calvario said. “This is not
reaching out his hand to help and love
making a difference has left a profound
the case in many countries.”
others,” Calvario said.
impact on Waynesburg University.
The experience was all that Saldi had
Saldi’s willingness to take action
Saldi’s personal commitment to
“Esteban has truly left his fingerprints
hoped for, and at times, he said, seemed
and his desire to make a difference
at Waynesburg University and around
dreamlike.
would eventually bring about Saldi’s
the globe,” Calvario said.
“At moments it seemed unreal that
involvement in eight mission service
Waynesburg students were having lunch
trips, both domestic and international,
at my house and spending time with my
through his eight semesters at
family,” he said.
Waynesburg University. Placing
Saldi, according to Calvario, added to the richness of the trip, Calvario said. Also a Bonner Scholar, Saldi spent more than 140 hours each semester serving others while personifying the mission of Waynesburg. Through his
substantial meaning on the phrase, “saving the best for last,” Saldi’s undergraduate career culminated with perhaps one of his most memorable service experiences to date. Above all, Saldi recognizes the role
Waynesburg University mission service trip experiences and his work with Habitat for Humanity, St. Ann’s Soup Kitchen and World Vision, his focus in life developed and changed. “Service has become more than just volunteer work, it is a lifestyle,” Saldi said. “I serve not only because of the abilities I have, but because of the needs of the people around me.” Described as a quiet, shy individual as a freshman, Calvario said he knew the University had gained “a diamond in the rough.” “During his time at Waynesburg and being part of the Bonner Scholar Program, I witnessed a tremendous amount of growth in Esteban. He has truly become a servant leader,” Calvario said. To describe Saldi and the depth of his kindheartedness, Calvario summarizes
Habitat for Humanity, Esteban’s main service site, has helped him to recognize the importance of sharing his God-given talents with others.
Luke 5: 12-13, where Jesus, filled The Lamp • SUMMER 2012| 31
FACULTY SKETCH
Enhancing
Undergraduate Research
H
ired for his strong research background in microbiology and immunology, Chad
Sethman, assistant professor of biology at Waynesburg University, has enhanced undergraduate research while challenging students to think deeply about the concepts and their relationship to the “big picture” of science and also to society as a whole. Prior to joining Waynesburg
Dr. Chad Sethman
Although his earliest career intentions were primarily focused on performing bio-medical research, Sethman had the opportunity to teach various laboratory courses and a lecture course as a graduate student. These experiences sparked his interest in teaching and research mentoring. Today Sethman is committed to developing and delivering the best possible educational
University, Sethman performed
experiences for his students, and
Immunological Research as a Post-
according to his students, he does that
Doctoral Research Fellow at the
and more.
Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville, Tenn. Sethman worked to functionally characterize a newlydiscovered human gene, referred to as “SARM,” and investigate its role in inflammation and programmed cell death. 32 | The Lamp • SUMMER 2012
A Strong Commitment
Sethman teaches a variety of courses including Microbiology, Immunology, and the department’s capstone course involving reading and evaluating journal articles as well as developing a research project, collecting and analyzing the data, and presenting the results.
FACULTY SKETCH
Involved in research for many years before becoming a professor, he often uses those experiences to help his students understand what they are learning and why it is important.
Lasting Impressions “Dr. Sethman is known for the rigor of his courses. He makes sure his students have more than just a superficial understanding of concepts, that they’re really able to explain what happens and why,” said Chris Cink, chair of the Department of Biology, Environmental Science and Athletic Training. “Particularly in his senior research course, he pushes his students to ask questions and to evaluate the research methods of others.” Jeff Johns, a senior biology major, would agree. “Dr. Sethman has a special ability to relate to the students. He is able to break down and present difficult subjects in an interesting way that keeps students’ attention,” Johns said. Currently working with Sethman to study the transmission of antibiotic resistance between pathogenic and nonpathogenic microbes in relationship to MRSA, Johns said Sethman has taught him many lessons throughout the process. “I have learned to think critically and to apply my knowledge when fabricating a research plan. Because of Dr. Sethman, I know what will be expected of me when I leave Waynesburg, and he has better prepared me for my future endeavors in medicine and research,” Johns said. As a result of his work with Sethman, Johns has decided to pursue
microbiology and immunology in graduate school following his graduation from Waynesburg University. “He has been very influential in my academic career,” Johns said. Like Johns, Britany Spitznogle, a
Undergraduate Research Because career success is never based on one’s ability to accurately answer questions on exams, Sethman said, “students need to develop proficiency at turning mere knowledge into innovation
2011 Waynesburg University alumna
and productivity, the true bases for
and a student at the Lake Erie College
career success.”
of Osteopathic Medicine School of
“Research experience provides the
Pharmacy, recognized the value of being
invaluable training required to make
mentored by someone such as Sethman.
this transition. It enables students to
Unable to choose just one situation
develop the essential practical skills of
in which Dr. Sethman made a profound
applying their knowledge in order to
impact on her life, Spitznogle said that
solve problems and make advancements
Sethman taught her that she could “do
to our understanding of a particular
whatever she wanted to do in life” as
field,” he said.
long as she “put in the time and effort.” “Without his advice and guidance,
His passion for guiding students through their undergraduate research
I wouldn’t be where I am today. His
stems from what Sethman believes it
classes are what prepared me most for
does for students.
pharmacy school, and it’s not often that
“Research experience provides our
you find a professor that cares as much
students with huge advantages toward
about your education and future as
preparations for successful careers. We
Dr. Sethman does.”
have the opportunity to immerse our
Spitznogle said Sethman’s unique
students deeply in the entire research
teaching style taught her to rely on
process with regards to conceptual
resources beyond the textbook.
planning, diligent experimentation/data The Lamp • SUMMER 2012| 33
FACULTY SKETCH
“Research experience provides our students with huge advantages toward preparations for successful careers.” -Dr. Chad Sethman Assistant Professor of Biology gathering, critical analysis and effective
understanding of the world and their
presented while a faculty member
communication.”
spiritual faith.
at Waynesburg University, Sethman
Sethman said the complexity and
“This is something that I think is
is pleased to accept the fact that his
depth of Waynesburg University’s
invaluable to the development of
earliest career intentions were not his
research offerings has resulted in
ethically and faithfully responsible
last.
comments from employers and graduate
professionals,” he said.
school representatives relating to how
Grateful for the opportunities
impressed they are with Waynesburg’s students’ level of professional scientific aptitude stemming from their research experiences. “The benefits of undergraduate research include increasing the student’s level of involvement in independent learning; enhancing skills in critical thinking, problem solving, reading comprehension and communication; and teaching students how to be life-long learners,” he said.
Key to Success In addition to the research opportunities and the skills learned in the process, Sethman credits Waynesburg University’s small class size and faculty members who are highlyqualified experts in their fields for the level of student success related to research. “These are essential to maintaining the most effective learning atmosphere. Because of the small class size, our students obtain a much more individualized education and have many more opportunities to interact with faculty for course help and career advice.” Sethman also deems it notable to highlight Waynesburg’s Christian mission — a mission which he said enables biology students to have the uniquely moving opportunity to explore the relationship between their scientific 34 | The Lamp • SUMMER 2012
SETHMAN LED/CO-LED FIVE MISSION TRIPS Paralleling his unwavering focus on the importance of academics, Sethman places an enormous weight on the significance of serving others. In the past five years, Sethman has led or co-led five service mission trips including: • Florida Springs Institute phytoremediation project, Faculty Leader, Spring 2012 • Arizona Trail Association Service Trip, Faculty Leader, Spring 2010 • San Antonio Service Trip, Faculty Co-Leader, Spring 2009 • Hurricane Katrina Relief Service Trip, Faculty Co-Leader, Spring 2009 • Mammoth Cave National Park Service Trip, Faculty Co-Leader, Spring 2008
BEYOND THE CLASSROOM
Story of Soldier-Scholar work I produce will follow me through the rest of my life,” Horning said. “My batting average and career tackles won’t mean anything after I graduate.” Horning learned he had been accepted to Waynesburg University shortly after an over-the-phone admissions interview following a particularly bad day in the field. He immediately called his mom and asked her to order and send him a Waynesburg T-shirt. “I just had to have that T-shirt,” Horning said. “I was excited to go to Waynesburg University.” During his deployment, Horning found some solace in his first love – sports. Playing pick-up football, softball and basketball gave him something to look forward to after long days of serving as an 11B Infantryman with the B-Company 1-112th infantry, 56th brigade, and he awaited the day he would be on Waynesburg University’s football field instead of in the field of fire. “The military has shaped me into a mature adult and has led me to develop a greater work ethic and sense of responsibility,” Horning said. “This has carried over to my school work and involvement in sports at Waynesburg University.” A testament to his dedication of serving and protecting, Horning aspires to become a police officer after graduating in 2013.
I
“Adam’s moral and ethical character, coupled with his life t was the middle of the night in February 2009, and Adam Horning was sitting on his cot in a tent in Kuwait with his laptop in front of him. His fellow soldiers were sleeping;
he was applying for admission to Waynesburg University. Undeterred by internet crashes and power outages, Horning, a 20-year-old Army specialist, started his application over several times. In Kuwait on his way to Camp Taji in Iraq, nothing could keep Horning from thinking about playing football as a Yellow Jacket at Waynesburg University. Now a 23-year-old junior criminal justice major at
experiences in the military, makes him a prime candidate for a career in law enforcement,” said Adam Jack, assistant professor of forensic science and chair of criminal justice and social sciences. According to Jack, Adam is an excellent representative of the Criminal Justice Program and the University. “Whether he aspires to be or not, and whether he is in the classroom or on the field, Adam is a role model to his peers,” Jack said. “He is mature beyond his years and is a shining example of honor and integrity.”
Waynesburg University, the Meyersdale, Pa., native successfully balances academics, football, baseball and his commitment to the Army National Guard. “Academics are a priority because I know that the school
The Lamp • SUMMER 2012| 35
ATSA sends care packages overseas Each year, the Athletic Training
Currently, Michele Kabay’s other two
“As much as people like to thank
Student Association makes heartfelt
sons, Joshua and Patrick, are serving in
soldiers, we really wouldn’t be able to
differences in the lives of American
the United States Marine Corps.
do our jobs without people like you
heroes by sending care packages to
Sending a touch of home to those
back home supporting us,” wrote one
military personnel serving the United
who are deployed, the students plan
soldier who had received a box from the
States of America.
to continue the tradition for as long as
students. “So really, you deserve just as
members of the United States military
much gratitude.”
Since 2008, the group has mailed nearly 100 packages, proving successful in their mission to keep the deployed
are deployed overseas. “Although many troops have come
troops encouraged and to remind
home, there are others still deployed
soldiers that the civilians back home are
and dying for their country,” said Doven
grateful for their service.
Schwanke, sophomore athletic training
This year, the students raised nearly $500 in six hours while collecting
major from Russel, Pa. The project began four years ago,
donations in the local community. They
when several individuals in the athletic
also hosted donation drives on campus,
training program had connections to
requesting items that the soldiers want
military personnel serving overseas.
but do not always have access to, such
Lauren Buzonos, then a junior athletic
as batteries, freeze pops, magazines,
training student whose brother was
playing cards, soap, toothbrushes and
a Marine serving in Afghanistan,
toothpaste, among other items.
spearheaded the first year’s project. All
“It’s the least we can do for these people, whether we know them or not,” said Matthew Kabay, junior athletic
packages are mailed to soldiers with a connection to Waynesburg University. While the students do not expect
training major from Waynesburg, Pa.,
responses to the letters they include in
and son of Michele Kabay, director
their packages, once in a while they hear
of the University’s athletic training
back from individuals on the receiving-
program. “Ultimately, they are the ones
end.
fighting for our safety.”
36 | The Lamp • SUMMER 2012
Yellow Ribbon Program Makes Veteran’s Dreams Come True In an effort to give back to those who
are not covered by the Post-9/11 G.I.
benefits. Determination is made by the
defend the freedom of the United States
Bill for qualified military personnel and
Veterans Administration.
of America, Waynesburg University has
veterans like Brownfield.
Individuals are entitled to the
participated in the U.S. Department of
The G.I. Bill provides individuals
maximum benefit rate if they served
Veterans Affairs Yellow Ribbon Program
meeting the requirements a benefit
a period of at least 36 months active
on the graduate and undergraduate
equal to the most expensive public
duty after September 10, 2001; they
levels since the program’s inception in
campus tuition in that state.
were honorably discharged from active
2009. “The Yellow Ribbon Program at
“The Program provides financial resources to enable our eligible
Waynesburg University has helped
veterans to fulfill their educational
make my dream of graduating from
goals,” said Vicki Wilson, registrar at
a university possible,” said Thomas
Waynesburg University.
Brownfield, a sophomore nursing major
As the University’s certifying
in the Air Force Reserves. “There is an
official for veteran’s benefits, Wilson
annual cap on the amount Veterans
works with veterans to maximize the
Affairs can provide. When my benefits
benefits they receive.
reached that amount, the Yellow Ribbon Program stepped in, enabling me to continue my education.” Between 2007 and 2010, Brownfield
lucky to have a person who is so proficient at her job,” Brownfield said of Wilson. “Other veterans I’ve spoken with have had to do a ton of things I
Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring
have not had to deal with, thanks to
Freedom, serving in Afghanistan and
her.”
Pa., native left active duty to continue his career as a reservist at the Pittsburgh 911th airlift wing and to pursue an education.
“The Yellow Ribbon Program at Waynesburg University has helped make my dream of graduating from a university possible.” -Thomas Brownfield
“The veterans at Waynesburg are
deployed twice in support of Operation
Southeast Asia. In 2010, the Uniontown,
duty for a service connected disability
The Yellow Ribbon Program is a provision of the Post-9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Act of 2008. This
and served 30 continuous days after September 10, 2001; or if they are a dependent eligible for Transfer of Entitlement under the Post-9/11 G.I. Bill based on a veteran’s service under the eligibility criteria listed above. Brownfield has advice for other veterans.
program allows institutions of higher
“While Veterans Affairs is your
learning (degree granting institutions)
number one reference, Waynesburg
“Waynesburg University’s Christian
in the United States to voluntarily enter
University is extremely helpful,” he said.
mission was important in my decision
into an agreement with the Department
“Waynesburg is a challenging school
to attend,” said Brownfield, who serves
of Veterans Affairs to fund tuition
where you will definitely get a concrete
as a youth group leader at Abundant
expenses that exceed the highest public
education.”
Life Church in Uniontown, Pa. “I feel
in-state undergraduate tuition rate.
For more information related to
that the University stands for more than
Waynesburg University waives up to
undergraduate studies, contact the
just education, based on its mission.
50 percent of those expenses, and the
Office of Admissions at Waynesburg
And that’s also apparent in its decision
Department of Veterans Affairs matches
University at 800-225-7393. For
to participate in the Yellow Ribbon
the same percentage.
information related to the graduate
Program.”
Waynesburg University is approved
program, contact Graduate and
The Yellow Ribbon Program allows
for Veteran Education benefits. Eligible
Professional Studies at Waynesburg
Waynesburg University and the federal
veterans and members of the National
University at 888-481-6029.
government to split tuition costs that
Guard may be eligible to use the G.I.
The Lamp • SUMMER 2012| 37
WINTER/SPRING SPORTS WRAP-UP 2011-2012 Men’s Basketball
tournament victory since the 2005-06
second year in a row and hosted an Eastern
postseason by upsetting Westminster 63-57
Collegiate Athletic Conference (ECAC)
12 season, a very young Yellow Jacket
in the opening round of the tournament.
playoff game a season after being crowned
team, led by second-year head coach Mark
Waynesburg featured a balanced scoring
ECAC South champions a year earlier.
Christner, gained plenty of court experience
attack that saw five players pick up at least
during a 5-22 season that featured a 1-15
nine points each, including Altmeyer, who
guard Hannah Hunter, who was not only
record in Presidents’ Athletic Conference
poured in a team-high 12 runs on the night.
named first-team All-PAC, but was honored
Throughout the 27 games of the 2011-
(PAC) play. Waynesburg routinely played as
Along with the team’s youth, the
The Yellow Jackets were led by senior point
as the PAC Player of the Week three times
many as five freshmen per game, including
Jackets boasted an experienced backcourt
and was twice named as a member of the
first-year starters Jacob Fleegle and Jason
that included Altmeyer and senior Larry
D3Hoops.com Team of the Week. Following
Propst at forward. Despite that youth, the
Alexander. Both guards averaged a team-high
the conclusion of the season, the Hopewell
Jackets opened up the season with an 84-51
10.0 points per game, while Altmeyer dished
native was lauded as a third-team member
victory over Franciscan and added two more
out a team-high 1.9 assists per contest.
of the D3Hoops.com All-Great Lakes Region
memorable wins to a year’s work. Thanks in large part to 25 points, five rebounds, three assists and two steals
Women’s Basketball Though the postseason ended much
from junior point guard Ben Altmeyer,
sooner than the team or its fans wanted
Waynesburg defeated Washington &
it to, the 2011-12 campaign will still be
squad. Hunter also ended her Waynesburg career as the program’s all-time leader in assists (457) and as a member of the team’s 1,000-point club (1,144). While Hunter was the catalyst to another
Jefferson for the first time since the 2004-05
remembered as one of the finest in the
big year for the Jacket women, she was far
season. The 69-57 victory also ended an 18-
history of the Waynesburg women’s
from the team’s only weapon. Junior guards
game PAC losing streak and was the team’s
basketball program. Led by fourth-year
Jessi Drayer and Brittany Spencer joined their
widest margin of victory in a conference
head coach Sam Jones, the Jackets posted
backcourt mate on the All-PAC team with
game since the 2006-07 season.
their second-straight 20-win season (20-8),
second-team and honorable mention nods,
scored a win in the PAC tournament for a
respectively. Drayer led the team in scoring
The Jackets also scored their first PAC
38 | The Lamp • SUMMER 2012
SPORTS UPDATE
(14.4 ppg), while Spencer was at the top
joined by Crown, junior Cody Catalina
of the Jackets’ rebounding (7.5 rpg). Jones
and sophomore Anthony Bonaventura.
joined three of his top players as postseason
Lombardo was also recognized as a PAC
award winners when he was given the nod as
Wrestler of the Week.
the PAC Coach of the Year.
Wrestling Thanks in large part to the tireless
Softball A very young Yellow Jacket team took to the field for fourth-year head coach
recruiting efforts of head coach Ron Headlee
Lou Giachetti, and though Waynesburg
and his primary assistant John Yates, the
suffered its share of growing pains, there
Waynesburg wrestling team was able to
were definite signs of a bright future for the
rely on its youthful members to fill in for its
Jacket softball team. The 2012 team featured
seasoned veterans overcoming injuries to put
one senior in the regular starting batting
together another respectable season.
order, as compared to three freshmen, five
The Yellow Jackets went 10-8 for the year, despite facing off four Division II opponents,
sophomores and a junior. Two of those sophomores, outfielders
three of which were ranked nationally, and
Jenna Dorazio and Jasmine Blackwell, landed
six nationally ranked Division III opponents.
on the 2012 All-PAC teams for their efforts
Unfortunately, the Jackets came up three
at the plate and in the grass. Dorazio led
points short of a third-straight PAC team
Waynesburg in multiple offensive categories,
title despite claiming four individual
including homeruns (five), stolen bases
championships, including a third in three
(six) and batting average (.392), while also
years by junior 125-pounder Alex Crown.
picking up two PAC Softball Hitter of the
Joining him in the championship ranks
Week awards. Along with a solid year at the
were freshman 149-pounder Chris Milligan,
plate, Blackwell’s .939 fielding percentage
senior 157-pounder Garrett Johnston and
led all Jacket outfielders and was a big reason
sophomore 165-pounder Sam Lombardo,
for her being picked up as a second-team
who picked up one of the most thrilling
All-PAC pick.
victories of the event, when he pinned a nationally ranked opponent in the first period of their match to clinch the title. Waynesburg bounced back from its disappointing loss at the PAC Championships with its top performance ever at the NCAA Division III Midwest Regional tournament, placing third in the 10-team field. Waynesburg collected more than its share
LARRY ALEXANDER
HANNAH HUNTER
Sophomore Carrie Maier, who as the team’s primary starting pitcher, added a PAC Pitcher of the Week award to the team’s haul of accolades. After a solid .500 showing against opposition that included multiple national tournament qualifiers at the Rebel Spring Games in Kissimmee, Fla., Waynesburg won six-straight games during non-PAC play. The hot streak was part of an 18-18
of accolades, most of which came on the
overall record that included a 7-11 mark in
efforts of Johnston, who not only won his
conference action.
GARRETT JOHNSON
second-straight conference championship, but also racked up three PAC Wrestler of the Week awards and was one of four Yellow Jackets to be honored as a National Wrestling Coaches Association (NWCA) Division III Scholar All-American. He was
Baseball Though head coach Mike Humiston and the Yellow Jacket baseball team just missed out on its ultimate goal of heading to the four-team PAC tournament, Waynesburg The Lamp • SUMMER 2012| 39
SPORTS UPDATE
ended the 2012 season with the conciliation
while also leading the PAC at the annual
prize of going to the ECAC South
ECAC Championship meet by placing a
tournament. That postseason trip concluded
conference-best 47th place in the 63-school
a 22-19 spring, which was the team’s highest
field.
win total since a 23-victory total in 2003. The Jackets were led by senior catcher
BYRUM LOUCO
Brendan Scioscia, who led the team in
Louco, who won PAC titles in the 400-meter
multiple offensive categories and was named
hurdles and 4x400 relay, while also earning
first-team All-PAC for a second-straight year
second-team all-conference status in
before being lauded as a third-team selection
the 400-meter dash and 4x100 relay.
to the 2012 ABCA/Rawlings NCAA Division
Louco wound up qualifying for the ECAC
III All-Mideast Region Teams. He was also
Championships in the 400 hurdles, 400
selected as a member of a D3Baseball.com
meters and both relay races. He also made
Team of the Week.
team history by being just the second Jacket
Senior lefty Ben Oviatt anchored a Jacket
Outdoor Track Championships, and he’ll be
the finest seasons on the mound of any
the first to make the trip when he competes
Waynesburg hurler in recent memory. Oviatt
in the 400 hurdles. Louco was also honored
led Waynesburg in wins on the mound with
twice as the PAC Male Track Athlete of the
nine, which was the largest victory total for
Week. success include sophomore PAC 800-meter
high 79 innings, notched a team-high nine
champion Justin Angotti and junior PAC
complete games, which ranked him fourth in
discus champion Kurt Bonnet, who, like
all of Division III for the year, was a second-
Louco, joined the team after spending the
team All-PAC pick and was a two-time PAC
winter with the men’s basketball team.
Pitcher of the Week.
Angotti, sophomore Steven Snow and
Sasala and first baseman Bobby Hartman, played big roles in their debut seasons with the Jackets and were honored as secondteam All-PAC picks. Sasala and Hartman
freshman Lorenzo Mikulin joined Louco on the conference-champion 4x400 quartet.
Women’s Track The Jackets and head coach Jason Falvo
were joined by senior Nick Berdine on the
continued their growing tradition of success
second team after the Moon native blasted a
by placing second at the annual PAC
PAC-high six homeruns.
Championships and sending a record nine
Men’s Track With plenty of young athletes from several
representatives in seven events to the ECAC Championships. One of those individuals, sophomore Megan Sowers, kept another
fruitful recruiting classes infusing the team
Waynesburg tradition alive by reaching the
with their talents, the Waynesburg men’s
biggest stage in Division III track.
track team enjoyed plenty of success in
40 | The Lamp • SUMMER 2012
Other young contributors to the team’s
a team-best 2.62 ERA, worked a squad-
A pair of first-year juniors, shortstop Kyle
JON ANDERSON
male to qualify for the NCAA Division III
pitching rotation and put together one of
a Jacket hurler this century. He also boasted
MARIA SHEPAS
One reason for the team’s success was the immediate impact made by freshman Byrum
The second-year standout qualified for
2012. After completing the indoor portion
nationals in the javelin, making her the
of their schedule, the Yellow Jackets, under
third Jacket woman to do so in the last four
the guidance of veteran head coach Jason
years of competition. She also claimed her
Falvo, set and re-set school records in
first PAC title in the event and qualified for
almost every event the team competed in,
ECAC’s.
SPORTS UPDATE
Speaking of the conference
head coach Scott Venick.
championships, Waynesburg returned to
Wilson posted a 13th-place showing at
campus with its usual impressive haul of
the 55-individual Thiel Spring Invitational.
awards as three other Jacket standouts took
The junior added a ninth-place effort at the
home individual gold medals. Joining Sowers
Saint Vincent College Invitational for his top
atop their respective podiums were senior
placing on the year.
Maria Shepas (800 meters), junior Megan
team mark for doubles wins with six (6-3), while Logan and Littlejohn followed closely behind with five victories (5-4).
Women’s Lacrosse The women’s lacrosse team picked up
Presto recorded her top showing during
two wins in 12 games under second-year
Donovan (3,000-meter steeplechase)
the first date on the women’s golf schedule
head coach Tom Zacoi, putting perhaps the
and senior Krystal Baker (triple jump). For
as the two-sport athlete (softball) carded a
most exciting team of its five-year existence
winning a fourth triple jump title, Baker
fifth-place finish among 35 women at the
on the field in 2012. Waynesburg came just
received her second PAC Women’s Field
Grove City Invitational. She finished in or
four goals shy of doubling its win total for
Athlete of the Year Award. Those four
near the top half of each of her four spring
the season and was led by the trio of senior
champions were joined by eight second and/
events.
Maria Shepas, sophomore Toria Shepherd
or third-place performers, giving Waynesburg a total of 12 All-PAC performers. The Jackets also pulled in a pair of weekly PAC awards, one in the field events and the other on the track. However, the Jacket women’s success wasn’t restricted to just the PAC and postseason. The squad placed in the top three, team-wise, in four regular season events that included team scoring. Included in those showings was a win at a PAC quad meet and a third-place showing at the 20team Washington & Jefferson Invitational.
Men’s and Women’s Golf While numbers kept the Yellow Jacket
and junior Mandy Ormsby, who scored 81 of
Men’s Tennis
the team’s 94 goals on the year
The Yellow Jackets, under the guidance
Shepas cemented her place in program
of head coach Ron Christman, won four of
history by setting school records in virtually
their final five matches of the year before
every major offensive category, including
placing fifth at the annual PAC postseason
goals, assists and total points, both for a
tournament.
single season and in a career. Shepherd
Waynesburg was led by the junior/senior combo of Jon Anderson and Jason Logan,
primary scorer during her first season with
who each placed fourth in both singles and
the team, while Ormsby returned to the
doubles competition. Anderson went 1-2
Jackets after a one-year hiatus.
at the tournament at fourth singles, while
program records for career saves, wins and
spot. Both players’ doubles runs ended in
groundballs, but she also became the only
similar fashion as Anderson teamed up with
player in school history to start in net for
senior Peter Mally to place fourth at second
more than one season.
doubles, while Logan and freshman Philip
the team standings at their respective events,
Littlejohn did the same at third doubles.
the top Waynesburg individuals, junior Colin put together some respectable rounds for
Senior goalkeeper Erin Burry not only set
Logan did the same at the number-five
golfers from getting to compete much in
Wilson and sophomore Madison Presto, still
finished closely behind Shepas as the team’s
Anderson and Logan led the Jackets with individual records of 8-5 and 6-6,
The 2012 Jackets also blew away the existing team records for goals, assists and total points, more than doubling each of the previous marks.
respectively. Anderson and Mally set a top
ACADEMIC HONOR ROLL The Waynesburg University department of athletics continued its tradition of academic excellence on June 25 when the Presidents’ Athletic Conference (PAC) announced the names on its Spring 2012 Academic Honor Roll. The Yellow Jacket winter and spring sports teams paced the 10-school conference with 57 of their own listed among the 357 student-athletes named to the Honor Roll. Waynesburg bested Westminster College, the school with the second-most athletes on the list, by seven names. The Waynesburg track & field teams led the way as the men boasted a school-best 10 honorees and the women sported nine names. The Jacket softball team saw nine of its own pick up the award, while
men’s basketball, baseball and women’s basketball added eight, seven and seven honorees, respectively. Men’s tennis boasted four members of its nine-man roster on the honor roll. Wrestling added two award winners, while Blair Howarth represented men’s golf. Kurt Bonnet, Emily Miller and LaVance Turnage, Jr. went the extra mile as two-sport athletes (basketball and track & field) who earned a spot on the list. Waynesburg also boasted the highest number of honorees on the 2011 PAC Fall Academic Honor Roll with 62 individuals, giving it a conference-best total of 119 names on the two lists.
The Lamp • SUMMER 2012| 41
CHARTER DAY
Charter Day “The story of God’s faithfulness in our lives is never over.” The words of the Rev. Dr. M. Craig Barnes, senior pastor of the Shadyside Presbyterian Church in Pittsburgh and the 2012 Charter Day speaker, have never been truer in the history of Waynesburg University. On Tuesday, March 20, 2012, Waynesburg University faculty, staff and students and members of the local community came together to celebrate 163 years of God’s resolute commitment to a university built on the principles of faith, learning and service to others. While celebrating God’s faith in the University, like a child on a swing, we must lean back into our traditions and kick ahead, moving higher and higher, Barnes said. Appropriately, Reverend Barnes is the Robert Meneilly Professor of Leadership and Pastoral Ministry at the Pittsburgh Theological Seminary, and has faithfully served in that capacity for more than 10 years. Waynesburg University’s Charter Day celebration, according to Barnes, was a reminder of the legacy entrusted to each of us by Jesus Christ. “The Christian tradition roots us into 2,000 years of great faith. This is our inheritance given to us by prophets, apostles, martyrs, saints, scholars and redeemed sinners. They have already faced everything we could possibly face in life, and their faith got them through. This is the inheritance they have left us. Charter Day reminds Waynesburg University that it too has inherited great faith from those who gave it this Christian vision.” During Barnes’ convocation address, “Remembering to Move Ahead,” he noted that God expects the University to have paid attention during its journey to the present and to have trust and faith at all times. “Don’t assume God will part the waters for Waynesburg University’s journey,” Barnes said. “Faith will get you through the water, and God will make the way.” Standing 120 feet tall and echoing Barnes’ message was the very building that housed the 2012 Charter Day celebration. Roberts Chapel stands on the campus of Waynesburg University as a symbol of God’s grace. This year’s Charter Day celebration was the first to be held in the University’s Roberts Chapel. “Charter Day is a time to reflect upon the University community of which I am so proud,” said Waynesburg University President Timothy R. Thyreen. “The profound impact our students have on the world is a direct result of our commitment to faith, learning
42 | The Lamp • SUMMER 2012
CHARTER DAY
and serving, and we are elated to celebrate 163 years of inspiring every undergraduate and graduate student to
WHO’S WHO AMONG STUDENTS IN AMERICAN UNIVERSITIES AND COLLEGES SELECTED
a life of leadership and purpose.” Giving thanks and praise for what Waynesburg University has become was the theme of the day’s events.
ABOUT THE SPEAKER
The Rev. Dr. M. Craig Barnes was ordained a Minister of Word and Sacrament by the Presbyterian Church in 1981 and served nine years as a senior pastor of The National Presbyterian Church in Washington, D.C., before joining the Pittsburgh Seminary in 2002. His published books include “Yearning,” “When God Interrupts,” “Hustling God,” “Sacred Thirst,” “An Extravagant Mercy,” “The Pastor as Minor Poet” and “Searching for Home,” which was awarded the Book of the Year Award by Christianity Today. Barnes is also the author of numerous articles and is in demand as a preacher and lecturer at churches, denominational events and seminaries. The Long Island, N.Y., native earned a bachelor’s degree from The King’s College in New York City and a Master of Divinity degree from Princeton Theological Seminary in Princeton, N.J. He also earned a Ph.D., in the history of Christianity, from the University of Chicago.
The students were selected by the Waynesburg University nominating committee comprised of University officials including deans, faculty members and department chairs. The criteria for the nomination of students given to the selection committee by Who’s Who Among Students in American Universities and Colleges included choosing students who “enhance the positive image of American youth through their contributions to community and school.” Because curricular and extracurricular programs at schools vary greatly, each college or university is assigned a quota of nominees. The quota is carefully calculated to ensure a well-rounded representation of the student body. All nominations must be endorsed by the college or university’s faculty or administration. Fifty-two students named to 2012 Who’s Who Among Students in American Universities and Colleges: Cami N. Abernethy James P. Allenby Lukas T. Baker Ashley E. Beaman Laura M. Beskitt Wesley W. Best Alison D. Busby Caren M. Chamberlain Patrick K. Crawford Terrin M. Crist Leeann E. Danley Andrew J. Dennis Kaitlin R. Edwards Alexander W. Evanoff David J. Floyd Courtney R. George Katlin M. George Natalie J. George
Kathryn M. Ghion Jonah Z. Gollihugh Alexander M. Goodwin Michelle L. Gottschalk Eric R. Gray Sable R. Griedel Andrew P. Harmon Keisha A. Kerr Alyssa R. Lang Jessica M. Malingowski Sarah A. Markwardt Jonathon N. Masters Alina Meden Lauren A. Minor Amy C. Morgan Michelle L. Naymick Paul J. Notarianni Reba D. Parry
Jenna E. Pounds Jacob C. Richie Sarah R. Rizzi Rachel A. Saeler Kameron G. Schaefer Maria C. Shepas Kaitlyn R. Smith Kristen M. Sneller Krysta M. Stanko Christopher R. Stewart Jenna L. Stoltzfus Rachel L. Tobias Timothy Q. VanRiper Jacob T. Waltemeyer Sarah J. Wheeler Catherine S. Wysochanski
The Lamp • SUMMER 2012| 43
Commencement 2012
A
s Waynesburg University held its annual commencement exercises Sunday, May 13, more than 700
all of us to higher and better goals.”
Doctor of Humane Letters degrees during
Captain Michelle Steimer, a 2012
Waynesburg University’s commencement
graduate of the Master of Arts in Clinical
exercises.
undergraduate and graduate students stood
Mental Health Counseling from Claysville,
forever changed and one step closer to their
Pa., represented the graduate program
Broberg and Murphy for the ways in which
dreams.
students.
they parallel Waynesburg University’s
“Through classes, service opportunities
Leeann Danley, an elementary special
and meaningful interactions with my
education major from West Finley
professors and peers, I have experienced
(McGuffey High School), and Kelsey
tremendous academic, personal and
Brownlee, an accounting major and
spiritual growth. I received a great
business management minor from Jackson
education and graduated with the skills
Center (Lakeview High School), were
and confidence necessary to be successful
named the valedictorians. Danley delivered
in my career path,” said Jeff Fox a 2012
the valedictory to the university.
environmental science graduate. Fox, like many of his classmates, proudly
The Rev. Dr. Stuart Broberg delivered the baccalaureate address, The World Needs
was ready for the next step of his journey.
Integrity, to graduates and their parents.
Similarly, the class of 2012 embraced
Broberg noted that individuals must
a challenge set forth by Congressman
integrate what they believe in their hearts
Timothy F. Murphy, commencement
with what they say and do to truly have
speaker. The challenge included the
integrity. “Believe it, say it, do it,” Broberg said.
never stop learning and to develop wisdom,
“When these three things are in alignment,
to always be respectful and to challenge
only then may you say, ‘I have integrity.’”
themselves.
Rev. Dr. Stuart Broberg, senior pastor
“I call upon you to have courage,”
of The Church of the Covenant in
Murphy said. “Never be satisfied with
Washington, Pa., and Congressman
where you are, and always dream of where
Timothy F. Murphy were awarded honorary
you want to go. This is your challenge: push
44 | The Lamp • SUMMER 2012
mission of faith, learning and serving.
Prior to commencement exercises,
accepted his diploma knowing that he
following four tasks - grow their faith, to
The degrees were conferred upon
President Thyreen awarded Congressman Timothy F. Murphy (above) and Rev. Dr. Stuart (below) a honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degrees.
2012 Valedictorians
Kelsey Brownlee & Leeann Danley
The Lamp • SUMMER 2012| 45
CLASS NOTES
Class of 1952
Class of 1967
Join your classmates at your 60th reunion during Homecoming, Oct. 5-6, 2012. If you’d like to help spread the word to your classmates, become a WU ’12 class ambassador. Contact Courtney Dennis, Assistant Director of Alumni Relations at cdennis@waynesburg.edu or 724-852-7689.
Join your classmates at your 45th reunion during Homecoming, Oct. 5-6, 2012. If you’d like to help spread the word to your classmates, become a WU ’12 class ambassador. Contact Courtney Dennis, Assistant Director of Alumni Relations at cdennis@waynesburg.edu or 724-852-7689.
1960s Class of 1957
Barbara Allen (’69) and her market research company, SRA Research Group, were recently
featured in the Palm Beach Post. Barbara, who graduated with a degree in education and history, has worked throughout the United States as CEO of SRA to help companies in need. In addition to her work at SRA, she serves on the Palm Beach Gardens Medical Center governing board, the Seacoast National Bank community board and the Palm Beach County Early Childhood Cabinet. Dr. William A. Octave (’69) was awarded a Fellowship in the distinguished American College of Dentists. He was honored with this award for his outstanding contributions and meritorious continuing achievements in dentistry through his leadership, teaching and contributions to community service. Dr.
Join your classmates at your 55th reunion during Homecoming, Oct. 5-6, 2012. If you’d like to help spread the word to your classmates, become a WU ’12 class ambassador. Contact Courtney Dennis, Assistant Director of Alumni Relations at cdennis@waynesburg.edu or 724-852-7689.
1950s Pat Mores Zimmerman (’58) and her husband, Dr. Ronald L. Zimmerman, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary June 24, 2011. They celebrated with an extended trip in California with all of their children and grandchildren. Bob Williams (’59) and his wife Jinny recently celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary. They were married April 7, 1952, and have four sons and six grandchildren. Bob graduated from Waynesburg with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and is a retired vice president and treasurer of Roberts & Schoeter Co. in Chicago, Ill.
Class of 1962 Join your classmates at your 50th reunion during Homecoming, Oct. 5-6, 2012. If you’d like to help spread the word to your classmates, become a WU ’12 class ambassador. Contact Courtney Dennis, Assistant Director of Alumni Relations at cdennis@waynesburg.edu or 724-852-7689.
46 | The Lamp • SUMMER 2012
waynesburgunited.com Have you seen the newly designed Waynesburg United? • Check out the alumni online community at www. waynesburgunited.com! • Log on to Waynesburg United for upcoming events, alumni news and resources. For more information, visit www.waynesburgunited.com/Kennywood12 or call Mary Fox at 724-852-7677.
CLASS NOTES
Octave is currently an associate professor of restorative dentistry and a group leader at the Virginia Commonwealth University School of Dentistry in Richmond, Va.
Class of 1972 Join your classmates at your 40th reunion during Homecoming, Oct. 5-6, 2012. If you’d like to help spread the word to your classmates, become a WU ’12 class ambassador. Contact Courtney Dennis, Assistant Director of Alumni Relations at cdennis@waynesburg.edu or 724-852-7689.
1970s Joan L. Barrick (’76) was recently included in the Strathmore’s Who’s Who Worldwide Edition for her outstanding contributions and achievements in the field of Government and Research. Joan graduated from Waynesburg with a degree in Biology.
Class of 1982 Join your classmates at your 30th reunion during Homecoming, Oct. 5-6, 2012. If you’d like to help spread the word to your classmates, become a WU ’12 class ambassador. Contact Courtney Dennis, Assistant Director of Alumni Relations at cdennis@waynesburg.edu or 724-852-7689.
1980s. Ronald Park (’80) was recently named future Chief Executive Officer of Somerset Hospital and will assume his new position in 2014. Ron is currently the Chief Financial Officer at Somerset Hospital and transitions into his CEO role with more than two decades of experience. Dr. Beverly Schmidt (’83) PhD, RN, CCM was recently invited to tea at the White House by
First Lady Michelle Obama. Beverly sits on an advisory board that studies the needs of military families. She received a degree in Psychology from Waynesburg.
Class of 1992 Join your classmates at your 20th reunion during Homecoming, Oct. 5-6, 2012. If you’d like to help spread the word to your classmates, become a WU ’12 class ambassador. Contact Courtney Dennis, Assistant Director of Alumni Relations at cdennis@waynesburg.edu or 724-852-7689.
1990s Stephanie Fiely (’99) recently received the National Association for Campus Activities (NACA) Legacy award. This award is given to NACA leaders who have served NACA in multiple volunteer roles and have future volunteer aspirations within NACA. Stephanie is currently the Director of Student Activities at the University of Pittsburgh at Titusville. She has been involved with NACA for more than 16 years.
Class of 2002 Join your classmates at your 10th reunion during Homecoming, Oct. 5-6, 2012. If you’d like to help spread the word to your classmates, become a WU ’12 class ambassador. Contact Courtney Dennis, Assistant Director of Alumni Relations at cdennis@waynesburg.edu or 724-852-7689.
2000s Alexander Gould (’00) is now Regional General Manager for the Harlan Daily Enterprise, the Middlesboro Daily News and the Claiborne Progress. Gould began his career in the newspaper industry as an editor
Save the Date Upcoming Alumni and Friends Events
August August 4 Alumni Kennywood Day August 25 Young Alumni Fireworks Night at PNC Park
September September 13 Jersey Boys at Benedum Center SOLD OUT September 28 Alumnae Luncheon
October October 5-6 Homecoming October 18 Akron/Hudson Ohio Alumni and Friends Dinner
November November 8 Baltimore Alumni and Friends Dinner November 15 Young Alumni Event
January January 31 Pittsburgh Networking Reception
February February 2 Children’s Pittsburgh Symphony Event
The Lamp • SUMMER 2012| 47
CLASS NOTES
after graduating from Waynesburg with a degree in Communication. Sonya Eagleston (’02) and Jason Gallion were united in marriage on July 14, 2012. Sonya graduated from Waynesburg with a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics and Computer Science. She also has a Master of Science in Curriculum and Instruction and a Master of Science in Special Education. Adam Bixler (’03) and Allison (Cox) Bixler (’03) proudly announce the birth of their son, Andrew John Bixler, born October 27, 2011. Andrew weighed 7 lbs., 13 oz. and was 20 inches long. Vincent Son (’03) joined the public accounting firm of Malin Bergquist in Pittsburgh, Pa., as a senior auditor. He brings eight years of public accounting and auditing experience to
this position along with specialty expertise in the manufacturing, construction and nonprofit industries. Vincent also volunteers his time as treasurer of the Community Human Services Corporation in the Oakland area. Tiffany Merovich-Winter (’03) and her husband Todd recently welcomed a new member to their family. Mark Anthony Winter was born March 29, 2012, and was 7 lb., 14 oz. and 21.5 inches long. Rashelle Walthour (’04) was engaged to be married to Trevor Biser October 2, 2011, in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. Rashelle earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Waynesburg and is currently employed as a registered nurse in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Ruby Memorial Hospital in Morgantown, W.Va. The couple plans a November 3, 2012, wedding. Elizabeth Dausch Crook (’05) and her husband, Josh, welcomed their third son
February 11, 2011. Cannan Dean weighed 7 pounds, 8 oz. and was 21 inches long. He joins big brothers Caleb and Eli. Alicia Hamel (’05) is engaged to be married to Doug Haas. Alicia graduated from Waynesburg with a degree in computer forensics. The couple plans a September 2012 wedding. Frank Herman (’05) and Rachel (Feldner) Herman (’05) announce the birth of their son, Rocco Martin Herman, born September 30, 2010. Erik Teaters (’06) and Brittany Smith were married on March 3, 2012, in Beech Bottom, W.Va. Erik graduated with a degree in business administration and is employed by Thermo Fisher Scientific as a safety sales representative. Jeremy Ault (’07) was awarded a Trinity Fellowship at Marquette University in Milwaukee, Wis., during the summer of 2011. The Fellowship is a full-tuition scholarship given to only 10 American graduate study
Make plans now to attend
Homecoming Class Reunions
OCTOBER 5-6, 2012
1952- 60 Years
Reconnect with your classmates at any one of the numerous activities
1957- 55 Years
we have planned! On Friday, join us for dinner at the Benedum Dining
1962- 50 Years
Hall and gather at Wiley Stadium for the Pep Rally and Fireworks.
1967- 45 Years
Enjoy Saturday Brunch before the football game and celebrate your
1972- 40 Years
class reunion at our Alumni and Friends Recognition Dinner. Other
1982- 30 Years 1992- 20 Years 2002- 10 Years 2007- 5 Years Bonner Scholars Lamplighters Nursing Alumni 48 | The Lamp • SUMMER 2012
celebrations will include a Bonner reunion, a Lamplighter reunion and a Nursing reunion. Of course there will be a few new surprises as well! Don’t miss out! Sign up now for monthly updates and reminders of this year’s plans. Visit: www.waynesburgunited.com/HC2012updates. Want to make sure your friends and classmates will be there? Become a WU ’12 volunteer and we will send you a packet to get you started. E-mail Mary Fox at mfox@waynesburg.edu.
CLASS NOTES
Class of 2007 Join your classmates at your 5th reunion during Homecoming, Oct. 5-6, 2012. If you’d like to help spread the word to your classmates, become a WU ’12 class ambassador. Contact Courtney Dennis, Assistant Director of Alumni Relations at cdennis@waynesburg.edu or 724-852-7689. students each year. Through the scholarship, Jeremy is working 20 hours a week with a local Milwaukee nonprofit, the Adult Learning Center of Milwaukee, as he pursues his graduate degree in Global History. His wife, Jamie (Gibbs ’07), is currently working as an accountant assistant for Growing Power, a U.S. leader in Urban Agriculture. Stacey Brodak (MBA ’07) was promoted to Senior Director of Corporate Development at Chesapeake Energy effective Jan. 1, 2012. Stacey was recruited to Chesapeake in 2008 as Director of Corporate Development. Ashley (Bernola ’08, MBA ’11) Canning was promoted to Coordinator of Instructional Technology for Graduate and Professional Studies at Waynesburg University. Prior to her new position, Ashley served as the GAPS Help Desk Analyst. She earned both her Bachelor of Science in Mathematics and Master of Education in Instructional Technology from Waynesburg. Pam Cunningham (MBA ’09) and Perry Cunningham (MBA ’09) welcomed their first child, a baby boy, December 30, 2011. Cooper Ross Cunningham was born at 2:20 a.m. and weighed 7lb., 10 oz. and measured 19.5 inches. Michael Notarianni (’08) and Christine Stuetz (’09) were married October 22, 2011, at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church in Alexandria, Va. Waynesburg alumni Lauren Scabillioni (’09), Stephanie Ganick (’09), Shadia (Arnita) DelVitto (’09), Andre Smith (’09), Cory Boccio (’08) and Paul Notarianni (’12) were a part of the wedding party. After a
honeymoon cruise to the Bahamas, the couple resides in Springfield, Va. Back row: Brad Custer (Forensic Science ’08), Sara Phillips Reilly (Elementary Education ’11), Erin Crawshaw Heilman (Graphic Design ’09), Mallory Mest (Forensic Science ’08), Lauren Scabilloni (Elementary Education
Special Education ’09), Paul Notarianni (Criminal Justice ’12), Nicholas Wozniak (Communications Sports Broadcasting ’12) Front row: Cory Boccio (Criminal Justice Administration ’08), Ryan Reilly (Criminal Justice ’08), Ryan Heilman (Criminal Justice ’08), Andrew Smith (Human Services, Social Science ’09), Michael Notarianni (Criminal Justice ’08), Christine Stuetz Notarianni (Nursing ’09), Stephanie Ganick (Elementary Education Special Education ’09), Daniel Wozniak (Communications Sports Broadcasting ’07), Shadia Arnita DelVitto (Psychology ’09). Kenneth Schott III (MBA ’08) is engaged to Julie Imbrogno. Kenneth will enter law school at Duquesne University in the fall. Wedding plans are being made for July 28. Anne Banister (’09) was recently accepted to Graduate School at the University of Denver. She will study International and Intercultural Communication.
2010s Maggie Graham (’10) was honored at the Third Annual Get Involved! Pittsburgh Service Summit as a 2012 Western PA Rising Star. Maggie was one of 21 local young professionals presented with the award for dedicating her time and talent to community organizations and making a positive difference.
in communication at Waynesburg with an emphasis in sports broadcasting and electronic media. The couple wed June 1. Amber Nixon (MA ’10) and Nathan Kottner were united in marriage October 8, 2011. Amber earned her master’s degree in counseling from Waynesburg and is currently employed at Behavioral Dynamics Inc. The newlyweds make their home in Houston, Pa. Amber Wallack (’10) announces her engagement to Matthew Valeri. She earned a bachelor’s degree in Forensic Science and is currently attending medical school at Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine. Danie Brush (’11) has been accepted to graduate school at Indiana University of Pennsylvania where she will study Student Affairs and Higher Education. Missy Fox (’11) and Zach Sargent (’12) were united in marriage June 11, 2011. The ceremony took place at the First Baptist Church of Waynesburg and was followed by a reception at The Summit Inn. Katie Fox (’11), Jennifer Brockman (’11), Heather Flower (’11) and Jessica Kownacki (’12) served as bridesmaids. Colin Sargent (’10), Dave Floyd (’12), Andrew Buda (’12), Josh Brewer (’12), Jon Ledyard (’12), Kameron Schaefer (’12), Spenser Sargent (’13) served as groomsmen. Missy graduated in May 2011 with a degree in Elementary and Special Education, and Zach graduated in May 2012 with a degree in Nursing. Kerry May (’11) recently joined the National Aviary in Pittsburgh, Pa., as a membership associate. Amanda Rice (’12) and Peter Schaum were united in marraige on July 14, 2012.
Caitie Morgan (’10) married Charles Morris Jr. Caitie earned her bachelor of arts
The Lamp • SUMMER 2012| 49
CLASS NOTES
Support our students with a simple click! Alumni and friends of Waynesburg University have an easy option for supporting our students. Go to www.waynesburg.edu/giving to donate towards the future of our students and the University. With a few simple clicks, you make a difference in their lives!
The Fund for Waynesburg supports educational programs and operational needs of the University as well as financial aid for students. This annual fund is needed each and every year to supplement the overall budget and keep tuition cost as low as possible for current students. It improves and enhances the educational opportunities while continuing our mission of faith, learning and serving. 50 | The Lamp • SUMMER 2012
CLASS NOTES
Memoriam Name Class Year June Jamison Anderson ’41 Doris Alfred Bane ’49 John J. Barran, Jr. ’55 Jack R. Bradmon ’96 Charles J. Brantner ‘FS FS Stirling M. Brinkman, Jr. ’78 John D. Brivchik FS James M. Brown ’57 Michael Bubnash ’50 Albert J. Budinsky ’54 David E. Butler ’62 L. Jane Conklin FS Thomas E. Cressley ’48 Sarah Canan Dunn ’48 Paul M. Easter ’53 Joseph E. Edward ’58 Frank C. Endean ’37 ’37 Robert W. Fox Friend James J. Gabelhart ’50 Scott A. Garet ’07 Harry R. Gathers ’52 Dixie Jean Snell Higginbotham ’52 Charles H. Hrutkay ’51 William T. Jeslinek ’62 John E. Kelley ’9CTD Brenda S. Kinsley ’01, ’04 MSN Bernard J. Kuchta ’51 Christine LaRocco ’71 Helen Hildebrand Long FS Ida Stillwell Lutes ’80
Date of Death 3/8/2012 11/12/2011 11/21/2011 12/25/2008 7/6/2011 1/13/2011 12/8/2011 8/7/2011 1/25/2002 10/2/2011 1/16/2011 5/11/2012 9/22/2011 6/10/2011 6/9/2008 1/27/2012 1/16/2012 5/15/2012 4/2/2012 12/20/2011 11/21/2011 5/1/2012 3/2/2012 1/12/2010 4/6/2011 5/15/2011 7/18/2011 3/19/2011 7/4/2011 3/30/2012
Name Lenora M. Lyons Thomas A. Marano Aileen Burns Maust Wayne L. McCoy Thomas M. McHenry Eileen Schaefer Millikin Ellsworth D. Minor Walter H. Olmer Anton M. Pechaver Dennis J. Pirog H. Virginia Reese Pollock Walter Pollock Janet Grabowski Pugliese Jackie Renner Ralph M. Schneider Samuel M. Scott M. Monica Gratcar Smith Joseph Paul Schneider Deborah M. Stella David P. Stuart Mary M. Suchevits C. Jane Titus Richard W. Truxel Barbara Ullom Varner Guy M. Volponi Fred J. Weaver, Jr. Kenneth J. Young Richelle Yuhas
Class Year ’51 ’60 ’57 Friend FS ’81 ’49 ’50 ’52 ’64 ’38 FS ’84 ’63 ’57 Friend ’77 Student ’02 FS ’64 ’38 FS ’50 ’78 FS ’66 ’06
Date of Death 4/11/2011 7/27/2011 8/22/2011 12/21/2011 1/23/2012 3/27/2012 12/30/2010 7/13/2011 3/3/2012 10/27/2008 3/14/2003 12/19/2010 4/15/2007 9/4/2011 1/24/2012 3/10/2012 2/7/2011 3/24/2012 12/9/2011 3/23/2012 11/1/2011 2/8/2012 10/4/2011 2/4/2012 1/28/2012 5/17/2010 5/9/2011 1/8/2012
FS = Former Students - No graduation year
WAYNESBURG UNIVERSITY CLASS NOTE POLICY Waynesburg University encourages and welcomes communication from alumni regarding career changes, promotions, relocations, volunteer work, marriages, births and other information that is of interest to fellow classmates, alumni and the University community. Photos submitted to The Lamp cannot be returned. All class notes will be considered for publication and will be chosen on the guidelines of appropriateness and space availability.
HOW TO SUBMIT A CLASS NOTE
1. E-mail waynesburgalumni@waynesburg.edu (subject of e-mail must be: CLASS NOTE). Make sure to attach your photos. --- or --2. Call the Office of Alumni Relations with your information at 724-852-3300. 3. Visit www.waynesburgunited.com, and click on the Alumni Updates/Class Notes link.
The Lamp • SUMMER 2012| 51
CLASS NOTES
Alumni Gatherings Not all alumni gatherings pictured. For more photos, visit: www.waynesburgunited.com
Phoenix, Ariz. Alumni and Friends Dinner – February 21, 2012 Standing: Arthur Frye ’52, John Kinter ’73, Doug Lee ’81, Ed Schein, Tom Jenney Seated: Heidi Szuminsky ’05, ’07, Marilyn Hiliau ’88, Patricia Schein ’60, Dr. Larry Stratton
San Antonio, Texas Alumni and Friends Dinner – January 23, 2012 L-R Dick Lavender ’61, Mary (Oburg) Lavender ’61, Vikki Beppler ’11, Courtney Dennis, Catherine Hodgkins ’97 and Nolan Hodgkins
North Carolina Alumni and Friends/Student Dinner – March 8, 2012 Alumni from the Charlotte, NC area had the opportunity to have dinner with students serving Habitat for Humanity during their Spring Break.
Houston, Texas Alumni and Friends Dinner – January 24, 2012 L-R Heidi Szuminsky ’05, ’07, Irene Davis ’74, Dr. Larry Stratton, Tom Miltenberger ’77, Beatrice Davis ’88, Greg Halvatzis ’73, Debora Knorr-Spencer ’77, Mark Harner ’79, Karen Fountain ’81, Pat Williams MBA ’09, Vikki Beppler ’11, Beverly Crawford ’70, Jay Clark, Marcella Jackson ’77
Dallas, Texas Alumni and Friends Dinner – January 25, 2012 L-R Vikki Beppler ’11, Harry Theofiledes ’66, Courtney Dennis, Ron Jones ’60, Dave Brady ’70, Sue O’Hara-Jones ’61, Ernie Robinson ’74, Sandy Brady, Heidi Szuminsky ’05, ‘07
52 | The Lamp • SUMMER 2012
Ft. Pierce, Fla. Alumni and Friends Dinner – March 13, 2012 L-R Dr. William Fischer ’56, Jacquelyn Fischer, Terrance Patterson ’56, Ruth Nelson, Richard Nelson ’63, Ezio Piccioni ’6 and guest, Russell Farmer ’01, Heidi Szuminsky ’05, ‘07
Ft. Myers, Fla. Alumni and Friends Dinner – March 15, 2012 L-R Dr. Frederick Stahlman ’69, Jack Hinds ’75, Margie Hinds, T.C. Bear, Haley Barran ’08, Hazel Vukmir, Andy Vukmir ’67
CAMPUS NEWS
World Vision Mission Service Day – April 14, 2012 A group of alumni joined Waynesburg students in Sewickley, Pa., to volunteer and serve at the World Vision headquarters.
On-Campus Alumnae and Friends Luncheon – April 17, 2012 Pictured are the three alumnae honored for their dedication to serving others. L-R Doris Ann “DA” Neubauer ’58, Stephanie Fiely ’99, Maggie Graham ‘10
Seven Fields, Pa. Alumni and Friends Dinner – April 18, 2012 L-R Edward McGuinness, Jessica Hamilton ’06, Courtney Dennis, Michael Gorman, Lauren Gorman ’10, Mark Pallotti, Rene Pallotti ’10, Janet Hecht, Charles Hecht ’66, John Herzog ’05, Krisann RizzoLambert ’93, Robert Ulm ’64, Vikki Beppler ’11, Michael Lambert, Dr. Larry Stratton
Denver, Colo. Alumni and Friends Dinner – April 26, 2012 L-R Tom Meighan ’67, Vikki Beppler ’11, Anne Banister ’09, Bill Ryan ’78, Michael Jacobs ’98, Dennis Markovchick ’74, Lon Howell FS Not pictured: Barb Schrekinger ‘70
Events Not Pictured • Neighborhood Alumni and Friends Dinner at Mitchell’s Fish Market, Mt. Lebanon, Pa. – February 2, 2012 • Orlando Alumni and Friends Dinner at the Citrus Club – March 12, 2012 • Alumni and Friends Dinner Theatre On-Campus – March 31, 2012 Greensburg, Pa. Alumni and Friends Dinner – April 17, 2012 A large group of alumni gathered at The Supper Club in Greensburg, Pa.
Be sure to check out the updated Waynesburg United alumni community at:
www.waynesburgunited.com
The Lamp • SUMMER 2012| 53
NONPROFIT ORG US POSTAGE PAID PITTSBURGH, PA
51 West College Street Waynesburg, PA 15370
PERMIT NO. 5605
Change Service Requested
Fingerprints on the Bricks of Miller Each brick climbing Miller Hall leaves a print of Dr. Alfred
In the spring of 1875, four years before construction started on
Brashear Miller and the students who worked so tirelessly to
Miller Hall, the brick making began. Dr. Miller and his students
create the beautiful building. Waynesburg University’s tradition
gathered the clay needed for the brick from the excavation
of service dates back to the selfless dedication of creating the
for the foundation, from the back of the campus and from a
803,000 bricks that make up Miller Hall.
pond known as “Lake Jaunita,” at the intersection of Wayne
Miller was president of Waynesburg University (then
and Morris streets. The students hauled hundreds of barrels of
Waynesburg College) from 1859 to 1899. Limited funds to build
water from Ten Mile Creek to moisten the clay. Three kilns,
upon the existing campus created the need to turn to those
constructed near the building site, could produce 4,000 bricks
who loved the campus. In order to construct Miller Hall, Dr.
daily. Facing the prospect of limited funds for the building,
Miller and a number of students made bricks by hand from the
Miller and the students voluntarily worked. They initially asked
materials on the campus.
for compensation, but received no pay.