EASTERN | Spring 2023

SPRING 2023

reach

Love inspires us to reach.

Dear Alumni and Friends, The astonishing and compelling message of the Gospel is that the loving, invisible God tangibly entered our human experience. In becoming human, Jesus revealed God’s desire to know us and be known by us.

This startling act of divine grace is the greatest example of love displayed throughout history.

God extending, God reaching, God humbling; the Creator entering the experience of a creature, including hunger, loss, suffering, and death, to give Creation access to renewal, the Kingdom of God, and eternal life. What grace! No wonder all of Creation groans in anticipation of liberation and redemption (Romans 8:18-23).

Such revolutionary and generous love is the way we at Eastern University desire to engage and interact with our students and the world. Eastern has always elevated faith, reason, and justice, but recently our core values have guided us in developing creative new modalities for radically affordable, delightfully accessible, and genuinely excellent education. Our commitment is to provide transformative education for everyone who desires it.

As you read the stories in this magazine, I pray that you will be inspired by the ways we are reaching our students, and in turn, how those students and alumni are extending their reach to impact their communities. Please know how grateful we are for the benefits you each bring to your personal spheres of influence.

As I travel throughout the year and meet with various EU alumni and supporters, I am continually astounded by our creative, caring, and passionate community. Thank you for your part in advancing the story of Eastern University!

With you on the journey,

Ronald A. Matthews, President

C O N T E N T S

O4 COMMUNITY YACHT Club serves those experiencing homelessness in Philly. Eastern introduces undergraduate LifeFlex™ programs and a student-led Spring musical.

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COMMUNITY 10

F E AT U R E 18

SPOTLIGHT 20

PA L M E R 22

AT H L E T I C S 24

ALUMNI

20 PALMER Palmer Seminary’s Spanish-language Master of Theological Studies is making theological education accessible for Latino/a communities all over the world.

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18 SPOTLIGHT Jonathan Marshall, MEd ’24 uses his education background to author children’s books that celebrate diverse representation of the responsibility and joy in fatherhood.

10 FEATURE: REACH We’re celebrating 30 years of Chaplain Joe Modica’s meaningful investment in our campus community. The Prison Education Program celebrates the debut of an art installation highlighting the “college-in-prison” experience. publisher / KELLY GODDARD EDITOR-IN-CHIEF / ALLY (HOLMES) ROSARIO ’14, MEd ’21 Creative Director & Lead Designer / DANIEL PEIRCE, MTS ’23 Photographer & Cover Photography / ELYSE GARNER ’13 Designer / ALAINA MOSSO WRITER / HOLLY SCOFFONE ADDITIONAL PHOTO & ILLUSTRATION CREDITS / CHRISTIE HEIMBACH (8-9) BYRON PURNELL (3) ALISA WISMER (32) Please send comments or article suggestions to:

22 ATHLETICS Mark and Heidi Birtwistle, MEd ’95 celebrate over 30 years in committed service to Eastern University's Athletic Department.

media@eastern.edu Alumni news should be sent to: alumni@eastern.edu Palmer Seminary alumni news should be sent to: palmeralum@eastern.edu PUBLISHED BY Marketing and Communications at Eastern University ONLINE AT eastern.edu/MAGAZINE

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C O M M U N I T Y

Moments of Dignity Eastern’s YACHT Club Serves individuals Experiencing Homelessness in Our City B y H o l ly S c o f f o n e

here are over 500,000 individuals experiencing homelessness in the United States, many without access to food, clothing, and other important resources.1 While the prevalence of this problem is a sobering reality, students at Eastern have a legacy of taking action to forge friendships and serve this population in Philadelphia through Eastern’s YACHT Club.

The YACHT Club, which stands for “Youth Against Complacency and Homelessness Today,” was founded to help bridge gaps and bring moments of justice to those experiencing homelessness.

Before it was a club, YACHT was a student movement. It started with a newspaper article in 1995 announcing the impending eviction of 40 homeless families from an abandoned Philadelphia cathedral. Burdened by the weight of this news, a group of Eastern students, including Shane Claiborne ’97, headed into North Philly to offer their support, listen to the stories, and stand in solidarity with these underresourced men, women, and children.

The never-ending waitlist for subsidized housing and a concern that the government would take custody of their children weighed heavily on these families, but what could college students do to alleviate the burden? 2 What started as a small group of students jumping in their car and heading to St. Edward's Church eventually became over 100 Eastern students standing in solidarity, advocating for these neighbors, and living out Matthew 25:40: “Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” 2

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By elevating these voices, many families finally received housing from government agencies and charitable housing donations.2 And from this experience, YACHT club was born.

The club currently meets weekly to prepare meals for those experiencing homelessness in Philly. Then, every Thursday and Saturday, the group heads to Suburban Station and Logan Square in Center City to hand out meals, listen to stories, love intentionally, and build relationships – continuing the legacy that started 28 years ago.

“Feeding hearts, minds, and the innate desire for connection is our mission,” shares current YACHT Club president and social work major Emma Best ’25.

“Bringing awareness to this issue is deeply connected to Eastern’s foundation of Faith, Reason, and Justice. Our hope is that through our resources and shared humanity, we can grow our community and create moments of justice and dignity for the people we meet.” ___________________________________________________________ 1

Source: US Department of Housing and Urban Development

2

The Irresistible Revolution, Living as an Ordinary Radical by Shane Claiborne ’97

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C O M M U N I T Y

the next

LifeFlex™ Frontier Eastern's new online undergraduate LifeFlex™ degrees offer astonishing affordability, flexibility, and accessibility. b y k e l ly g o d d a r d

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C O M M U N I T Y

Imagine earning your bachelor’s or associate degree from a nationally-ranked private university, 100% online, at your own pace, for just $2,500-7,500 per year.

It might sound too good to be true, but

maximizing flexibility for students who are

Eastern University recently launched

busy with work, family, and personal life.

an innovative new series of online undergraduate LifeFlex™ degrees that offer high-quality, flexiblypaced education at an astonishingly affordable price.

In total, students will pay as little as

•

The model lessens the need for expensive on-campus learning modalities, allowing Eastern to provide students with incredibly affordable tuition.

Eastern has a long history of providing

$9,900 and no more than $29,900 out of

transformative online undergraduate programs.

pocket for a full 4-year bachelor’s degree.

Jennifer Brown ’22, who earned her Bachelor’s

Students can currently choose from seven

in Early Childhood Education online from

different degree programs, including Business,

Eastern, shared, “The online format allowed

Education, Liberal Arts, and Psychology.

me, as a mother, to do dishes and listen to my

“One of Eastern’s longstanding core values is justice,” shares Kent Sparks, Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs. “We are thrilled

teacher give a lecture. If I did not go through Eastern’s program, I would not have been able to get a degree.”

to be able to provide such incredibly accessible

The new LifeFlex™ format is designed to

programs and help remove common barriers that

make earning a degree even more flexible and

prevent people from pursuing higher education.”

accessible for busy students like Jennifer.

The new undergraduate programs are built

Rebecca Gidjunis ’01, Assistant Provost of

on the success of Eastern’s LifeFlex™ master’s

Academic Operations, leads the team at

degrees, which began with the launch of the MS

Eastern's Center for Teaching, Learning

in Data Science in 2020, closely followed by an

and Technology, which played a key role in

MBA and Master of Social Work in 2021. Over

developing the video-based curriculum model.

4,400 students have enrolled in the LifeFlex™

She expressed her excitement about the new

master’s programs so far.

students that the undergraduate LifeFlex™ model will reach and the opportunities it will

How does the LifeFlex™ model work?

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Eastern faculty design engaging, video-based curriculum suited to a wide variety of student learning styles. Students can access the material online whenever it is convenient for them.

•

Students complete the online assignments at their own pace within each 7-week term,

open to them: “The LifeFlex™ model is not just about providing students with degrees; it's about access to ideas and possibilities, questions and community.

It's about meaning and transformation. I am incredibly, abundantly excited about these new programs.”

Learn more about the exciting new lifeflex™ programs at eastern.edu/flex.

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C O M M U N I T Y

The Fine and Performing Arts Division empowered students to fill creative leadership roles in this Spring’s musical.

B y H o l ly S c o f f o n e

THIS SPRING, Eastern’s Fine and Performing Arts Division reached for

production’s Stage Director, Megan Oland ’23. “I was able to do what I

new levels of student empowerment and proudly presented Working,

love with the funniest, most encouraging, talented, and creative people

a musical. This production was run by students under the tutelage and

that I know.”

training of expert professors and mentors.

Working is a localized, documentary musical based on the book by The musical, which was Eastern’s first, large-scale, musical production

Studs Terkel, about the search for meaning, validation, and purpose in

since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in Spring 2020, was a dynamic

the mundane day-to-day. The cast and crew created a version of the

collaboration between Eastern’s Theatre, Music, and Dance departments.

musical that was contextualized to our greater Philadelphia community.

Monologues were derived from interviews with local community

“When I found out I was going to be the student director of a mainstage

members, including Sergeant Santiago, a Philadelphia police officer and

production here at Eastern, I was humbled beyond belief,” shares the

part-time English professor at Esperanza College.

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N A M E

I am proud of our student leaders who stepped forward and boldly filled these creative leadership positions.“ VALERIE FLOWER, PHD, INTERIM DIRECTOR & PROFESSOR OF THEATRE

“Collaborating with my peers to create something so moving was incredible,” Vocal Music Director and cast member Hailey Ferry ’23 shares. “I was able to watch the production grow from the very first day of rehearsals to our last show – we quickly became a tight-knit group which helped us to produce something so special.”

Seventeen undergraduate students and a five-person pit band composed of students and local musicians made for a highly entertaining evening of theatre expressing the difficult, honest, and hilarious elements of working in America over the last several decades.

Eastern’s production of Working is being reviewed for entrance into the Kennedy Center American College Theater Festival (KCACTF) – a prestigious festival showcasing and honoring high-level collegiate theatre productions.

“Being able to create a professional production, work through hard tunes, and see the final product has been amazing,” shares the show’s Music Director and keys player Christian Hankerson ’23. Christian was awarded a Certificate of Merit for Pit Band Direction from the KCACTF. Regina Miller ’23, the production’s Lighting Designer, was also awarded a Certificate of Merit for Lighting Design from KCACTF. “As the Lighting Designer, I was responsible for the function and storytelling of each light in the space through the use of color, shape, and brightness,” she shares. “This certificate has filled me with a sense of pride for how much I have accomplished and excitement for what I am going to be able to do in the future.”

Reflecting on the experience, Executive Producer and Creative Advisor Valerie Flowers expressed, “I am proud of our student leaders who stepped forward and boldly filled these creative leadership positions under the mentorship of their veteran teaching artists. Their determination and passion has been inspiring and literally contagious. After the COVID years, we are thrilled to have this kind of infectious energy around live theatre.”

Learn more about future Fine and Performing Arts events at eastern.edu/finearts

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F E A T U R E

Celebrating 30 Years of Chaplain Joseph Modica’s Flourishing Ministry to Eastern University B y A l ly ( H o l m e s ) R o s a r i o ’ 1 4 , M E d ’ 2 1 ACROSS FROM THE PRAYER CHAPEL in Walton Hall, you’ll notice a tall, unassuming pair of wooden doors that lead the way to one of Eastern’s best-kept treasures.

If you open these doors and step inside, you’ll find yourself greeted by piles of well-loved books, photos, and tokens of special moments and relationships collected throughout the years.

As you move past the well-worn blue couch, you’ll notice a desk and chair silhouetted by a bright wall of windows. Behind that desk, you’re greeted by the wide and welcoming grin of beloved Chaplain Joe Modica. His arms extend in hospitality (one gripping a coffee mug) and a robust “Welcome!” follows as he calls you by name in his hearty Brooklyn accent.

If you’re like me, an alum of Eastern within the last three decades, my guess is that you’re nodding your head and smiling as you recall this imagery, since this experience isn’t unique to me – this expression of love from Chaplain Modica is as connected to the Eastern experience as is reciting our motto of Faith, Reason, and Justice.

This year, we are honored to celebrate thirty wonderful years of this love, mentorship, faith development, tutelage, service, friendship, impact, and flourishing under the leadership of Chaplain Joseph B. Modica.

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F E A T U R E

Born in Brooklyn, NY and raised a Queens

Seminary, and later both an MPhil and PhD in

“I was hesitant, but Chris persuaded me to

native, Joe was exposed to the brokenness of

New Testament and Early Christianity from

apply – one day I couldn't spell 'chaplain,' and

human life early on. Joe’s family, education,

Drew University. It was during his time at Drew

then the next day I became one!” Joe laughs.

and religious upbringing instilled in him an

that Joe met his longtime colleague and friend,

attitude of service toward others in spite of this

Dr. Chris Hall.

brokenness – a posture which drew him deep

Dr. Hall reflects, “I thought Joe was the perfect fit for Eastern. And indeed, that has turned out

into the field of human services, and ultimately,

“Joe and I shared an office together as doctoral

to be the case. He's one of the best hires the

Christian ministry.

students for about two years,” shares Dr. Chris

University has ever made.”

Hall. “Joe was the classic ‘people person’: Joe’s resume is just as long as it is diverse.

warm, outgoing, funny, the classic extrovert,

Joe is grateful for Dr. Chris Hall, the late Dr. Ted

From time spent serving as a foster care

and genuinely concerned about others. This

Chamberlain, and Dr. Bettie Ann Brigham ’74 for

social worker, pastor, housing specialist at the

classic extrovert, though, had a profound faith,

seeing potential in him that he couldn’t see in

American Red Cross, phlebotomist, and EMT

was Biblically based, theologically astute, eager

himself.

driving the streets of Queens, Joe’s desire to

to explore important questions, and was always

help others continued to grow.

open to others' perspectives and ideas.”

While many know that Dr. Modica oversees EU’s weekly Chapel services and spiritual

Along the way, Joe also collected a handful

In 1991, Dr. Hall accepted a position at Eastern

formation programming in his chaplaincy role,

of degrees: a Bachelor’s in Psychology from

College as Director of Academic and Spiritual

there are many other passion projects that he is

Queens College (“The same alma mater as

Formation. When the college chaplain position

involved in as well.

Jerry Seinfeld and my wife,” he is sure to note),

opened up two years later, he was quick to

a Master of Divinity from Alliance Theological

reach out to his friend Joe.

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F E A T U R E

Joe is one of those rare people who actually listens, cares, and remembers what you've told him years later. He is one of those special people who remembers everything and does so with intentionality.“ JACLYN FAVAROSO ’20

Joe oversees the Chamberlain Interfaith

and inserting myself anywhere students

“Without hesitation, it's been a joy and

Fellowship exchange (an immersive

are, in or out of my office. I want to

honor to serve the Eastern community,”

Jewish-Christian interfaith experience),

demonstrate my care and learn up close

Joe beams. “I hope the seeds of faith,

teaches several courses within the

how to pray for our students and to plan

reason, and justice that are intentionally

Biblical Studies department, PhD in

for their needs.”

scattered while students are here will

Organizational Leadership program, a

germinate well and grow deep and

first-year INST150 course, and somehow

This posture resonates with former

finds time to sit and meet with each and

Student Chaplain Jaclyn Favaroso ’20.

every student desiring his presence.

“Joe is one of those rare people who

Joe is also sure to acknowledge the

actually listens, cares, and remembers

loving support his family has given

“Joe’s office was a safe place to gather,”

what you've told him years later. He is

him throughout his ministry. His wife

explains Dr. Hall. “Students knew he

one of those special people who

Marianne, children Benjamin, Meredith,

would keep their confidence. They knew

remembers everything and does so

Matthew, and Christopher (two of whom

he would listen and not condemn. They

with intentionality.”

have received degrees from Eastern), and

knew he would offer good advice. They

lasting roots.”

three grandchildren Olivia, Joseph, and

knew he cared. And they knew he loved

This care extends to Joe's colleagues as

Emmett have been a constant source of

them enough to honestly address issues

well. When faced with a family tragedy

joy in his life.

head on.”

in 2016, I personally experienced this intentionality from Joe. He was one of

His brother Steven Modica, Esq. and

Former Student Chaplain Rev. Wesley

the first to reach out, and exactly one

sister Dr. Maria Fichera, an Eastern

Allen ’96 shares, “Joe is a deep and

year later, I received a handwritten letter

Professor of Biology for 25 years

caring soul. His ability to enter in, to

from him with the opening line: “I seem

who serves as Chair of the Biology

not take himself so seriously in a culture

to remember that today is a really hard

department, have also encouraged him

marked by perceived ‘piousness,’ and to

day for you…”

to love well and serve authentically in

love others well has shaped much of my pastoral ministry.”

his ministry.

The unparalleled intentionality and care that comprises Joe’s ministry has

Our Eastern community has been so

This intentional practice is what Joe calls

left a profound impact on our Eastern

blessed by Joe and the Christ-like

“the ministry of presence.” “It is critical

community and is integral to our

example he leads with.

for student care,” he explains. “Simply

community’s flourishing.

put, it means intentionally showing up

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HAPPY 30 YEARS, JOE!

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F E A T U R E

"Celebrating Higher Education Behind Bars" Eastern University’s Prison Education Program Debuts Art Installation B y A l ly ( H o l m e s ) R o s a r i o ’ 1 4 , M E d ’ 2 1

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“Ira,

as you look down on me in this minuscule cell in SCI-Chester where I’m serving 27 years for murder and other charges, I hope you are satisfied with the man that I’ve become. I pray that your loved ones find peace. But most importantly, Ira, I want you to know that I apologize.”

D E A R I R A : YO U D I D N OT D I E I N VA I N

ABOVE IS AN EXCERPT from the essay Dear Ira: You Did Not Die In Vain. The essay was written by Jy'Aire, a writer who seeks forums to tell his powerful story of transformation while earning his associate degree at SCI-Chester through Eastern University’s Prison Education Program (PEP).

Transformative education is the heartbeat of PEP and was on

STUDENT REFLECTION

“I was shocked that so many people really cared about our work and that we really do care and matter to the outside

display in its recent art exhibit “Celebrating Higher Education Behind Bars,” which debuted this winter. The exhibit provided Jy’Aire and his peers with an aesthetic forum to share their experience and reminded the public that the aspiration to create is boundless.

This past summer, Eastern University professor Stephen Welsh and Tieshka Smith, a community-based artist and photographer, co-taught a course entitled “Creativity & The Arts Exposed” for Eastern students at SCI-Chester. This course afforded a precious space for students to create visual art and poetry, which culminated in the “Celebrating Higher Education Behind Bars” art installation.

‘world.’ This presentation made me [feel] worthy.”

Chris

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STUDENT REFLECTION

“Our stories are truly being heard, and I’m just beyond grateful [for] all the help and support. Words can never express my gratitude.”

Andre

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"From the first day when my maroon sweatpants had me mistaken for an inmate in a dog sniffing line-up,” reflects Professor Stephen Welsh, “to the last day when many of my students welled up with tears about the autobiographical artwork they were sharing, I enjoyed believing in these gentlemen and what they could accomplish through the arts.”

Designed to foster community dialogue about the “college-inprison” experience, the exhibit provided unique reflections on the realities of incarceration and the ways in which students have explored and processed themes of love, loss, faith, and resilience.

“The exhibit was a recreation of the very classroom at SCIChester in which the class was taught,” shares Smith. “It is a testament to PEP's ability to cultivate a learning community where students feel empowered and supported to express themselves in such a compelling and honest way.”

The exhibit first debuted at the Philadelphia Ethical Society in January and later that month made its way to Eastern’s St. Davids campus, with accompanying events documented for PEP students to later view and assess.

“The installation is a testimony to our students’ growth,” shares Dr. John Fantuzzo, Director of PEP. “Students studied art history and were invited to become fellow artists. This exhibit

STUDENT REFLECTION

followed suit, highlighting our students’ existential agency during their first semester of college. We are proud of what we accomplished together!”

“It [was] so powerful to see and hear the audience’s

Founded in 2015, PEP officially began offering courses at

response to our art and

SCI-Chester in 2019. PEP provides valuable hope through

poetry. I found myself

transformative higher education, hosts workshops, and supplies resources to our neighbors returning from incarceration.

Learn more and support Eastern’s Prison Education Program: eastern.edu/prisoneducation

getting a little emotional.

Seeing the Eastern campus made me feel a sense of community, a sense of hope.”

Jy’Aire

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S P O T L I G H T

in

By Nicole Markert ’20 WORDS HAVE POWER, grace, and the ability to change and represent

community, he enjoyed performing Christian rap. However, his growing

perspectives. Nobody knows this better than Jonathan Marshall ’05,

family responsibilities necessitated his decision to take a step back from

a current MEd in Multicultural Education student, Academic Outreach

performing.

Manager for the College of Education, successful children’s book author, and father.

Every night, Jonathan would read to his kids. Over time, he noticed a few issues with the books he read aloud: there was a lack of representation

Jonathan was not always an author, but he was always creative. His

of fathers of color, characters were often animals (not actual people), and

roots started in urban hip-hop culture. When he joined the Eastern

the stories lacked the presence of family dynamics.

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Jonathan admits his process is quirky, but intentional.

Each of his books is written in poetry form so children can read, retain, and enjoy. To this day, Jonathan’s kids still remember his books by heart; reading helps to savor time and joy together. Each book intentionally showcases a different illustrator to give each story its own unique life.

Images with people of color tend to need more vibrant colors so the characters stand out – something Jonathan cares deeply about.

As a former social worker, Jonathan understood that animal characters were used to universalize the message of the stories, but he believed children and families should see characters who look like them and share their experiences.

This inspired Jonathan to write his own children's books, with themes that were influenced by moments in his daily life. His book I’ll Be Right There was inspired by experiences with his own son— it was about his choice to be a father, and therefore his responsibility to be there for his son.

“As a father, you have to be vulnerable so your children will be vulnerable,” Jonathan shares.

Some of Jonathan’s other children’s books include: Riri and Me, Bears at Work, Me and My Kazoo at the Zoo, Does it Rain Food?,

“Every night, I set aside an hour to write, or anything to do with the creative process. I make that investment everyday,” Jonathan explains.

Two of the courses in Jonathan’s MEd program, Multicultural Literature and Child and Adolescent Literature, also inspired him to write a Middle Level and Young Adult novel. As children grow, Jonathan is thinking about how he can continue to build reading bridges for them. Every story he writes has a human aspect that he wants people to enjoy.

“Children should be children and experience joy. I want them to look at the books I write and think creatively about where they can go.”

and If Dad Can Do it, So Can I.

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P A L M E R

Seminary Contextualized

Extending Palmer Seminary's Theological Education to Latin America b y D a n G a r r i s o n E d wa r d s ’ 1 1 , M d i v ’ 1 8 DR. MAYRA PICOS LEE greets me over Zoom from Mexico City,

The conversation surrounding the need for a Spanish-speaking

where she is joining a cohort of Palmer Seminary students for the

theology program started in the 90’s, when Palmer Seminary was

first residency portion of their program. The Maestría En Estudios

still Eastern Baptist Theological Seminary, under the influence of

Teológicos, or “the Master of Theological Studies in Latino/a

professors Orlando Costas and Samuel Escobar. At the time, Dr.

Ministries (LMin),” prepares individuals for pastoral ministry and

Escobar offered only one course in Spanish to the seven or eight

church leadership in a manner that is contextualized to the needs of

Latino/a students enrolled.

Latino/a communities.

However, Seminary transitions in 2015 highlighted the desire to Dr. Picos Lee emphasizes the importance of theological education

expand Palmer's reach and the conversation about starting a

taking place in community – something that is very important

Spanish-speaking program began to gain real traction. Under the

across the diversity of Latin cultures.

leadership of the dean at the time, Dr. David Bronkema, Dr. Picos

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Lee was given the green light to pilot Palmer’s first

program is part of the Seminary’s DNA; its students

master’s degree in Spanish for the Latino/a community.

represent a full third of our Seminary’s master’s students, if not more,” shares Dr. Bronkema.

Sharing this vision, American Baptist Churches USA’s International Ministries (IM) came alongside the

From its genesis, contextualization has been the guiding

seminary, offering both their connections to churches

principle in formulating the program. While the program

and organizations in Latin America, as well as a 20%

shares many of the same classes as the English-speaking

scholarship for students enrolling in Latin America.

program, the LMin classes are contextualized to the

American Baptist Home Missions Societies (ABHMS)

program itself, and use texts and materials written by

joined the excitement and also offered scholarships for

Latino/a scholars and theologians. Each decision made

Latino/a students in the U.S. interested in enrolling. Dr.

to increase accessibility celebrates the diversity of

Picos Lee attributed the culmination of all these factors

our students and reiterates the truth that they are an

to God’s timing.

important part of the Palmer community – even if they are entirely remote.

The first LMin cohort launched in the fall of 2016 with 18 students enrolled in Mexico City. Meeting in person, and

“You belong. You are not an afterthought. You are a part

in an accessible location for the students, was a priority.

of the institution and community we represent,” shares Dr. Picos Lee with her students.

“Contextualized education means being committed to traveling where people are,” says Dr. Picos Lee. Asking

Each generation must learn to live out the seminary’s

international students to travel to the U.S. for their

motto “The Whole Gospel for the Whole World Through

residencies would be cost-prohibitive for many students

Whole Persons” for themselves, Dr. Picos Lee believes.

and would require students to endure the painstaking

“We can say with integrity that we are doing that.”

process of acquiring student visas to enter the States.

“We cannot speak to a reality that we are not living in.”

To learn more about Palmer Seminary’s MaestrÍa En Estudios TeolÓgicos, visit palmerseminary.edu/LMin or email mtslatinmin@eastern.edu.

Currently in 2023, the program has 87 students across 7 cohorts (5 international, 2 in the US). “Today, this

a few of the lmin cohorts (from left): USa cohort, el salvador cohort, and ecuador cohort 21

A T H L E T I C S

the

BIRTWISTLES Over 30 Years of Committed Service to Eastern Athletics By dan mouw

EASTERN ATHLETICS has seen a lot of change.

In recent years, the department has added athletes and athletic offerings, improved facilities, and dramatically increased the number of full-time employees.

In the midst of the change, Heidi, MEd ’95 and Mark Birtwistle have been a constant in the department as they faithfully serve the University and its student-athletes.

The duo arrived on campus in 1990. Since then, Mark has created a nationally-competitive Women’s Volleyball program, and Heidi has held various positions in the department, been an influential administrator in the Middle Atlantic Conference and the NCAA, and served the University as a Residence Director.

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A T H L E T I C S

This past fall, Eastern Women’s Volleyball won its 23rd conference championship and Mark Birtwistle collected his 800th win. He has coached 41 All-Americans and taken 21 teams to the NCAA Tournament. The numbers are staggering.

His impact, however, goes beyond awards, wins, and losses.

His players achieve at high levels on the court and in the classroom, as he challenges them to “Love the Game, and Love Each Other.” That mantra informs the way his teams compete and has been a constant theme in the success of his alumni.

This past fall, as his current team was working toward a conference Championship, the 2011 team celebrated its

MARK AND HEIDI WITH THEIR CHILDREN, ALI AND JACKSON.

run to the NCAA Final Four as they were inducted into Eastern’s Hall of Honor. Each member of that team reflected

With a Master's in Counseling from Eastern, Heidi became

on the influence her Eastern Volleyball experience had on her

a Residence Hall Director in Hainer Hall in 1997. Even as she

life and career.

stepped up to fill various roles in the Athletic Department,

In his speech presenting the 2011 team, Birtwistle referenced a quotation found in the EUVB team notebook. “It says,” he stated, “‘do the right things, and do them right.’” As a coach, he demands excellence in preparation and effort from his team. He meets those same expectations with detailed and focused practice plans, strategies, and scouting reports.

Beyond the tactical and technical aspects of coaching, he has the ability to inspire. In her speech at the Hall of Honor ceremony, Maria Horning ’12 spoke of his inspirational words in a timeout with his team trailing late in an NCAA Tournament game with the team on the brink of a loss. “‘We are going to win this game,’” she quoted him. “‘This is how we are going to do it.’ There was not a doubt in his eyes or his voice. With that belief, we went on to beat Hiram in five sets.” That team eventually advanced to the Final Four with a win in St. Louis.

The 2022 team needed similar inspiration in this year’s MAC Commonwealth Championship match. The team dropped the opening two sets before rallying to beat Stevenson in five. The win, the 800th of his career, gave the

she continued to make an impact in residence life. She became the Senior Woman Administrator in the Athletic Department in 1998. She served on NCAA Committees for both Women’s Volleyball and Softball, and when Eastern moved into the MAC she served as a sport liaison to the league.

Now a Senior Associate Athletic Director, Heidi has worked for nine Athletic Directors and served as Interim AD for two stints. In her current role, she is creating and coordinating an academic support program for Eastern’s 500+ studentathletes. She also works diligently to ensure compliance with NCAA rules and guidelines.

Beyond her official position, Heidi also serves as a role model and listening ear for Eastern’s young coaches. In May, she was honored by the MAC with the Lou Sorrentino Award, an Honor given annually by the Conference to an administrator in the League who has demonstrated exceptional service to student-athletes, and has had a sustained an influential role in conference and national affairs.

The Birtwistles raised their two children on Eastern’s campus: Ali, who is now a teacher in Colorado, and Jackson, who plays Lacrosse at Syracuse.

Eagles their 21st berth in the NCAA Tournament. They won

Through all the changes of the past 30 years, Heidi and

their opening game. Under his leadership, Eastern is 29-21 in

Mark Birtwistle have been a constant in their desire to serve

the NCAA Tournament.

student-athletes, their colleagues, and the University well.

23

A L U M N I

2023 Lamplight Society Inductee

Paula (Whelan) Hedderick ’92

A Lot of Love and a Little Sass B y A l ly ( H o l m e s ) R o s a r i o ’ 1 4 , M E d ’ 2 1

Anyone who’s spent a moment in the

The Lamplight Society honors a member of our

the work they are doing, and the students are

presence of Paula (Whelan) Hedderick ’92 has

alumni, faculty, staff, or administration who has

the cherry on top. They challenge us, keep us

experienced her charming Jersey sass and

left a legacy of light on the Eastern University

on our toes, and keep us young. They inspire

welcoming disposition. Whether she’s assisting

community.

me as they manage the demands of athletic

a student-athlete, hosting a staff council event,

competition on top of their academic workload

or popping in to say “hello,” Paula’s vibrant

Paula's journey at Eastern has since included

and spiritual development – this is the Eastern I

servant’s heart spills over into everything she

work as the Executive Assistant for Institutional

attended, still spiritual, still holy.”

does and makes her an obvious choice for

Effectiveness and Research, her current role as

Eastern University’s 2023 Lamplight Society

Director of Internal Operations for Athletics,

Paula continues, “I pray I am seen as effective

Award.

and her volunteer position on staff council.

and helpful to my coworkers. I want the best for them and the university and will do all

When asked about receiving this honor, Paula

Athletic Director Eric McNelley shares, “Paula

I can to support that through my actions. I

reflects, “I am still stunned. I came to Eastern

is the best and keeps me afloat! She brings a

can lighten the load for a coworker, comfort

as a freshman in 1988 and never went home,

positive spirit to the office that is infectious and

a student in crisis, and communicate with

though I have never shed my Jersey girl

contagious. She loves everything about Eastern

leadership on behalf of the staff. I am

brassiness. I guess I am pleased someone saw

and lives out our mission daily. This recognition

embracing that little old me can effect change

through it all how sincerely I love this place.

is well-deserved!”

all around me!”

I am honored beyond words to be included among those who have gone before me in

“Athletics is a vibrant and dynamic department,”

receiving this award.”

Paula explains, “Everyone seems to honestly like

E A S T E R N

/

A L U M N I

Inroads of Access & Opportunity B y H o l ly S c o f f o n e

With vast humanitarian experience and

in developing countries to sell their

Gordon reflects, “In each of these settings,

Gospel-centered passion in his heart, Gordon

handcrafted products to U.S. markets and

I have been able to use resources God has

Zook, PhD ’15, boldly embodies Eastern’s motto

amplify their stories.

blessed me with to help others, one of them

of Faith, Reason, and Justice in the many ways

being my PhD from Eastern.”

that he works to create access and opportunity

“I’ve seen firsthand what can happen when

for underserved communities.

people are given the opportunity to develop

When reflecting on how his global service has

their skills,” shares Gordon. “Knowing the

impacted his relationship with God, Gordon

While Gordon chuckled at the thought of being

impact of helping them break the generational

shares, “I’ve learned that God’s love is deep

nominated as the Distinguished Young Alumnus

cycles of poverty that can keep them, and their

and wide, broader than what I know and

of the Year, his recent degree and youthful spirit

families, trapped in desperate situations is

understand. I’ve been challenged to explore

are apparent in his story and make him a

powerful. It’s incredibly rewarding to encounter

my faith more deeply and to be humbler in

worthy recipient.

people whose lives have been changed by

my understanding of truth. The desire to use

these opportunities.”

my life to serve others following the example

For 18 years, Gordon and his wife Carol served

Christ set for us is a foundational part of my

with the Mennonite Central Committee (MCC)

His current role as Grants and Fiscal Services

Christian faith.”

in India, Bangladesh, and Haiti, helping villages

Chief at the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania is

make more effective use of their resources

no different. “Currently, we support programs

“Change is not always as dramatic or as quick

and helping establish small-scale business

that give Pennsylvanians the opportunity to

as we would like, but our responsibility is to

enterprises. From there, Gordon continued

develop new skills or to be retrained for new

faithfully carry out the work God has called

to pursue his passion for people as CEO of

careers,” Gordon explains. “This helps them find

us to even if we do not always see the results

Ten Thousand Villages, a nonprofit fair trade

meaningful employment at family-sustaining

when we want to.”

organization creating opportunities for artisans

wages and equips them to deal with the ongoing changes in the economy.”

2023 Distinguished Young Alumnus of the Year

Gordon Zook, PhD ’15

25

A L U M N I

Music as Ministry Tim Ewing and the Kindred Awards amplify hope through music by autumn croy ’25 MUSIC HAS INCREDIBLE POWER to alter

to adapt to meet the needs of his growing family

people's moods and shift the atmosphere around

and to remain healthy and effective.

them. It can even be used to extend the reach of Gospel truths to a wide audience. This is exactly the vision that has inspired Tim Ewing ’02 and his work at Kindred Ministries.

a CD or go to a concert,” Tim explains. He was

age. Tim began to develop an ear for talent in

passionate about sharing the Gospel message

musicians and their music on the radio – he

through music.

where he was excited to join the university's radio station, WECR (Where Eastern College Rocks).

scene. Inspired by the need for hope, Tim created the Kindred Awards, an annual award show encourages unity and diversity, and praises God

temporarily shut down. Rather than seeing this as

for his work in the music industry.

teaching and training other students

The Kindred Awards has been held for eight years now, and continues to provide a platform for local artists to be seen and heard.

on all aspects of radio production. He

Looking back on his journey, Tim is grateful for

also hosted his own radio show, which

his time at Eastern University, where he learned

quickly became a well-loved program in

the skills and gained the confidence needed to

the EU community.

pursue his calling in ministry. The foundation

After graduating, Tim married his wife Grace, and together they started their family. Tim pursued his calling in youth

for his ministry was formed during his time at Eastern, and he is thankful for the professors and mentors who poured into his life.

ministry and worked at various radio

Tim's dedication to serving God through his

stations in the Philadelphia area.

ministry has impacted countless individuals

After the birth of their fifth child, and losing his on air radio show suddenly

A L U M N I

these Christian artists within the local music

discovered that the radio station had been

station up and running again, and began

/

efforts, Tim began to see a need for elevating

that celebrates and honors independent music,

work and dedication, Tim helped to get the radio

E A S T E R N

As he worked with local artists in his outreach

When he arrived on campus, however, Tim

a setback, he saw it as an opportunity. With hard

To learn more about the Kindred Awards and upcoming Kindred Ministries events, visit kindredministries.us

events in local community spaces. “Many people

music and radio were apparent from a young

in radio eventually led him to Eastern University,

tim ewing ’02

for youth, he began to host concerts and outreach won’t walk into a church, but they will listen to

own pretend shows in his bedroom. This interest

Alumus of the Year

in 2015. Using his experience in radio and his heart

Growing up in a musical family, Tim's affinity for

would listen to the DJs and mimic them in his

2023

This realization led him to start Kindred Ministries

when the station changed its format, Tim quickly realized that his ministry needed

over the years. His work with Kindred Ministries and the Kindred Awards has helped to shine a spotlight on talented artists and amplify their message of hope to those who might not otherwise hear it.

Pastoral Entrepreneurship

2023

Christopher Holland uses creativity and innovation to help churches thrive

Alumnus Waymaker in Service and Ministry

b y D a n G a r r i s o n E d wa r d s ’ 1 1 , M d i v ’ 1 8 IT'S NO SECRET that change is hard,

After graduating from Palmer in 2012

and often brings growing pains that test

alongside the last class from the City Line

those caught up in it. What does it take,

campus, Chris became the pastor of New

then, to shepherd a congregation through

Spirit Presbyterian (PCUSA) and started

starting a nonprofit, and then later helping

the Common Place Philadelphia, which

merge two congregations into something

now serves 500 people annually across its

new and sustainable, all within the span

six programs. These educational programs

of a decade?

include summer camps, programs that

Chris Holland, MDiv ’12, got his start in the world of tech, co-founding a tech consulting firm called Connexus Technology in 2003, where he still serves

teach trades and technology, and social services such as an after school program centered around the arts and academic enrichment.

as COO. When he felt the call to ministry,

Chris also assisted the merger of his church

he wasn’t sure how his past professional

with Grace Fellowship (UCC) to form Salt

experiences would benefit him. However,

& Light Community Church, the church

he quickly discovered that skills such as

sustained through The Common Place. In

managing teams and communicating well

a stroke of innovation, it was decided to

were transferable and very valuable.

hand the management of the church

It was at Palmer Theological Seminary that Chris was given a vision for what the Church should strive after. He witnessed Palmer faculty care for and pour into the students who desired it, and continued to enjoy relationships with those professors when they became colleagues in ministry following graduation. To this day, he says,

facilities over to The Common Place to ease the burden of Salt & Light.

“This allows for the church to do what it does well, while taking away what it does not do well.” Salt & Light Church is now free to pursue its traditional ministry without worrying about how it will keep its lights on.

he knows there are faculty members he

Describing his work at The Common Place

can reach out to for support and guidance.

Philadelphia, Rev. Chris reflects with a

When describing his time at Palmer, Chris

joy-filled grin, “Don’t be afraid to try things.

recalls thinking, “This feels like church.”

There’s no script for this.” Chris’ life truly

Chris loved being “in the mess of it all,” and sought to do something innovative with his pastoral education and

christopher holland, MDiv ’12

bears witness to the fact that God’s ways are above our own and he will use his people in whatever capacity he sees fit.

entrepreneurial spirit.

27

A L U M N I

Alumni Class Notes

E A S T E R N

/

S EL C A U M T I NOI N

N A M E

Eastern and Palmer Alumni Class Notes

1950 S Maynard Hatch ’57, BD ’60 and wife, Ruth Hatch ’57 celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary in July 2022.

1960 S Ray Greenblatt ’62 continues to publish poetry after publishing his first poem in Eastern’s Inklings Literary Magazine in 1959.

His latest published book of poetry is entitled: From an Old Hotel on the Irish Coast (Parnilis Media, 2023).

1970 S Ruth A. Fox ’78, MAR ’84 recently retired in June from International Ministries, ABC/USA

1980 S

2000 S

position. Ruth continues volunteering at the

John Camp ’82 is entering his sixth year as the

Garth McBride ’01 is celebrating his 10th year

First Baptist Church of Pittsburgh where her

University of Georgia Ice Hockey team's Head

as an Associate Minister at the Sharon Baptist

husband, Chuck Fox, MDiv ’83 serves as pastor,

Coach and General Manager. John is also a

Church Philadelphia in February 2023. He

and continues to work on several projects as an

UGA Experiential Learning & Innovation Hub

was also inducted into the US Department

IM Volunteer. Ruth has very much appreciated

mentor and was named 2022 College Hockey

of Defense - Defense Logistics Agency Troop

her experiences at both Eastern University and

South Coach of the year.

Support 2022 Hall of Fame in December 2022.

Tony Tilford, MDiv ’85 has been a senior and

Janet Coston, MTS ’05 is the author of Escape

master's level track and field athlete for the last

To Pray! and A Portrait of Mommy; Expressions

Dale Miller ’78, MDiv ’82, HD DDiv ’12 is

ten years and will be competing at the National

of Love, Faith and Perseverance. She is also the

enjoying retirement from full-time pastoral

Senior Games/Olympics in Pittsburgh in 2023.

founder of Joseph Dreams, Inc., a nonprofit

as the Global Coordinator of Education after 23 years of serving in Thailand and then in this

Palmer Seminary and how they have influenced her life and work.

ministry in May 2022 and is currently still enjoying teaching theology in Palmer Seminary’s West Virginia Program.

Manuela Kauer, MBA ’89, MDiv ’05, DMin ’15 is enjoying a new call as Pastor of the First Presbyterian Church Levittown, Presbyterian Church USA.

organization serving at-risk populations in Chester, Pennsylvania. She is also a former Delco Nurse of Hope for the American Cancer Society and Medical Missionary to Kingston, Jamaica. Janet is currently serving the local church in Prayer Ministry.

29

A L U M N I Gregory Ellis, MDiv ’05 is currently serving in the military.

Rodney Ragwan, MTS ’05, DMin ’09 recently began a new position as Global Consultant for Theological Education, International Ministries ABC. Rodney stepped out in faith to accept this position as a full-time missionary.

Stephanie Wilson, MDiv ’05 was ordained as a deacon in the United Methodist Church in 2011 and served in ministry as a chaplain in Philadelphia at Simpson House Senior Residence from 2008-2021. Stephanie is Ecclesiastically endorsed by the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry as a chaplain. She is currently retired but serves in the Conference as a member of the Board of Ordained Ministry, as a Cross Racial/ Cultural Companion, and on the ministerial staff at

E A S T E R N U N I V E R S I T Y A N D PA L M E R S E M I N A R Y IN MEMORY BY CLASS YEAR:

Sayers Memorial UMC in Philadelphia, PA. 1940s

1980s

Bertha Hamilton ’45 / November 29, 2022

David Stevens, MDiv ’85 / September 4, 2022

Church, Philadelphia. She has been pastoring

1950s

2000s

since she left Eastern – this is her fifth church.

Wilbert Gough, Sr. ’50, HD ’73 / August 12, 2022

Anne Clark Duncan, MDiv ’02, DMin ’10

Doug Willey, Sr. ’55, ’59, THM ’62, DMin ’75

/ December 4, 2022

C. Victoria Brown, MDiv ’06 is currently serving as Senior Pastor of Bethany AME

John Chaffee ’06, MDiv ’13 is celebrating the

/ December 21, 2022

Andrew DeLapp, MDiv ’02 / October 23, 2022

publication of What's Another Word for Parable?

A. Don Augsberger, MRE ’56 / November 27, 2022

Rachel King ’09, MEd ’12 / April 11, 2023

(December 2022) and Echoes in the Desert

Benjamin Champion ’59 / January 13, 2023

(January 2023)

F O R M E R S TA F F / FA C U LT Y / T R U S T E E S 1960s

In 2017, Sylvia Eikenberry, MS ’06 returned

John Lares, BD ’60 / October 24, 2022

from Jos, Nigeria where she taught Nigerian

Frank Poehlmann ’63 / September 2, 2022

students at Hillcrest School.

Nancy MacNider ’66 / August 9, 2022

After receiving the DMin in Marriage and

1970s

Family at EU/Palmer in 2006: Harry Pearson,

William Brackney, MAR ’72 / November 13, 2022

DMin ’06 taught on the university/graduate

Alpheus Bright, Sr., MDiv ’72 / October 2, 2022

levels; became an LMFT and LAC; was a state DOC official in the area of addiction/recovery;

Vera Ekeland / October 27, 2022 Herb Lusk, II, HD, DHL ’06 / September 22, 2022 Lee Westrate / October 22, 2022

Richard Long ’76 / August 19, 2022 Susan Bertolette ’77, MDiv ’80 / August 4, 2022

worked for Focus on the Family as a counselor/ addiction specialist/media spokesperson; became a counselor for the US DOD working with all the branches of the military; and is currently in private practice consulting. Harry

E A S T E R N

/

A L U M N I

Tony Patricco ’13 / February 19, 2023 Eastern University honors the life of Tony Patricco, who served our campus community for almost 14 years as the Director of Plant Operations.

has been married to his wife Karyn since 1982.

taught all grade levels. Along with teaching he

serving New Life Center Foundation in Chiang

Together, they have three adult children and

leads retreats, advises students, and coaches

Mai, Thailand.

three granddaughters.

the Mock Trial and Ethics Bowl teams. After

Bobbijo Pinnelli’s, MEd ’06 time at Eastern as a graduate student and then an employee was transformative and continues to shape the paths she takes. In 2015, Bobbijo left her role leading online learning at Rosemont College to lead academic assessment at Immaculata University for seven years. Recently, she accepted an opportunity to become an associate dean of academic assessment for Walden University.

Eastern, AJ worked as a property caretaker for an Anglican church in Wynnewood, got a graduate degree in theology from Villanova, and eventually went on to Yale Divinity School.

AJ taught bioethics in Yale’s summer program and courses in theology, philosophy, and

current students is to be open to new ideas and directions. You may not know at this time their

Beebe Healthcare, DE.

completion of a chaplaincy residency program

eventually landing at Regis.

at Penn Medicine Lancaster General Health.

Pastor at Calvary Baptist Church in Chester, PA.

continued impact on her life. Her suggestion to

prevention. Susan serves as a Chaplain for

before moving into high school teaching and

the pandemic and is committed to making a

the experiences she had at Eastern, and for its

people in mental health wellness and suicide

Jonathan Landis, MDiv ’18 is celebrating the

Keith D. Dickens, MDiv ’11 has been installed as

in the world. Bobbijo is forever thankful for

Award for Sean's House which supports young

religious studies at Sacred Heart University

Bobbijo also earned her doctorate during positive social impact and being a change agent

Susan Goodenough, MDiv ’18 is honored to have received the Community Advocate

Jeni Pedzinski, MDiv ’14 says God has perfectly prepared her for the mission of her new assignment to serve as the International Ministries’ Director of Mission Mobilization based out of the Philadelphia area after joyfully

2020 S Eric Burrows-Stone MDiv ’21 celebrates the birth of his son Soren (December 2022) and a call to serve as Pastor of Dunningville Reformed Church, Allegan, MI (February 2023).

long-term impact.

Dave Richardson, MDiv ’06, DMin ’10 and his wife, Pam, celebrated their 50th Wedding Anniversary in April of 2022.

Stanley Smith, MDiv ’06 is celebrating his recent appointment as Presiding Elder of the Historic Philadelphia Mother District of the AME Church.

Peter Sensenig, MDiv ’08 is currently appointed by Mennonite Mission to Chad, along with his wife Christy and their three children. Peter is offering courses at a seminary and joining Muslim-Christian relations work in the Chadian church.

2010 S AJ DeBonis ’10 is currently teaching theology at Regis High School; a private, Jesuit, allboys high school on the Upper East Side in

WANT TO MAKE A NOMINATION? To read about more Alumni Award winners and to nominate someone for an alumni award, visit eastern.edu/alumniawards.

NYC. AJ is in his sixth year there, and has

31

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