Alumni Herald Spring/Summer 2023

Greetings to our ESU

Warriors!

It has been a whirlwind few months here at East Stroudsburg University since we brought you the last edition of the Alumni Herald. The Spring 2023 semester included the usual cadence as we concluded another academic year on campus, punctuated by welcoming more than 1,200 new Warriors into the ranks of ESU alumni across three Commencement ceremonies in May. This was my first Commencement since being named ESU’s 14th President by the PASSHE Board of Governors last November, and I experienced the same feelings of pride in the accomplishments and perseverance of our students as I greeted them when they walked across the stage in Koehler Fieldhouse as I did the previous two years as interim president. I’m sure all of our alumni can relate to those emotions as you recall your graduation day a few years (or decades) ago.

Commencement was held one week after our Inauguration Week, when I was officially installed as president. The week was filled with a comprehensive and exhilarating schedule of events which included every angle of our talented student body. There are several pages of highlights inside, including excerpts from my inaugural address, but I would like to emphasize two things here – our theme of “Creating Opportunities: Community, Engagement and Belonging” which provides a call to action and reminder of our mission here at ESU; and the feature on my family that gives a glimpse into how my mother, wife and daughters have helped mold my approach to student-focused leadership. I’m truly fortunate for their unwavering love and support as we undertake this journey and represent this community.

As I wrote in the fall/winter edition, “I look forward to continuing to serve the students, faculty, staff, alumni, community and all of our university’s supporters as we maintain and build upon ESU’s mission of providing high-quality, affordable post-secondary education to residents of our commonwealth and region.” That continues to resonate with me as we build upon the impact that the university has made over the past 130 years and the work that has been done under the leadership of our previous 13 presidents.

This edition also delivers all of the campus news and notes from the past half-year, starting with the unveiling of the Dale and Frances Hughes Foundation Community Health Education and Simulation Center. The “Sim Lab,” housed in the DeNike Center for Human Services, strengthens the experience of our students in the College of Health Sciences and inter-professional practice opportunities with local community healthcare organizations. We’re grateful for all who contributed to the campaign that will influence the health of our region for decades to come.

The College of Education received grants from the PA Department of Education, The Innovative Teacher Prep2Practice grant and The Innovative Principal Prep2Practice grant, that will similarly impact our community’s educational opportunities. We also received the Pennsylvania Hunger-Free Grant to combat food insecurity. You’ll read about our 10th Annual Economic Outlook Summit, keynoted by Rick Siger, secretary of the PA Department of Community and Economic

Development; “The Perfect Pair,” our 14th Annual Scholarship Dinner which celebrated 688 scholarships totaling more than $1 million in 202122; our new Alumni Association Board members; and a chance meeting between two alumni living in Phoenix during a health consultation.

In Warriors athletics, our student-athletes compiled a cumulative GPA of 3.22 and we had five teams compete in their respective NCAA Tournaments this academic year – including the softball team claiming its first-ever NCAA Division II Atlantic Region title and a trip to Chattanooga, Tenn. Also this spring, lacrosse reached its fifth straight regional championship game and baseball returned to the NCAA Tournament.

There’s a recap of additional top team and individual accomplishments as our Warriors continue to set and then raise the bar. And, last fall’s NCAA DII champion field hockey team was invited to the White House as part of “College Athlete Day” in June!

Be sure to read the Class Notes and submit your own, spend a few moments with the In Memoriam section honoring our Warriors who have passed away, and save the date for this fall’s Homecoming Weekend – October 6-7, 2023.

Remain connected with us in between editions of the Alumni Herald by following our University and Alumni social media accounts (search “ESU” and “ESU Alumni” on your favorite platform). We’re proud of the work we continue to do here, and can’t do it without your support. Together, we are Creating Opportunities – and we are Where Warriors Belong.

Kenneth Long ESU President

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INSIDE

More Related Content:

10 Highlights from President Long’s Inaugural Message

16 Inaugural Dinner Celebration benefits student scholarship

Features 11 ESU OPENS DYNAMIC NEW TEACHING SPACE Presenting the Dale and Frances Hughes Foundation Community Health Education and Simulation Center

18 WARRIORS MEET IN THE MOST UNUSUAL WAYS

A chance meeting in Phoenix, Ariz., connects patient and surgeon

20 YOUR BOARD AT WORK FOR YOU! Meet four new members of the Alumni Association Board of Directors

COVER STORY KENNETH LONG, MBA, INSTALLED AS ESU’S 14th PRESIDENT

SPOTLIGHT Inauguration Week celebrations took center stage in April with Men’s basketball, softball and more! Read this season’s highlights representatives of the Pennsylvania State System installing ESU’s th 14 president during a regal and memorable ceremony at the Abeloff Center for the Performing Arts. Taking the oath of office and pledging his commitment to every Warrior was Kenneth Long, MBA, who served as interim president for more than two years. Now officially in the role, 11 CAMPUS NEWS Long has set in motion his inaugural theme, Creating Opportunities, 15 ESU FOUNDATION which encompasses his belief in access to a quality, affordable education. 18 ALUMNI NEWS This issue of the Alumni Herald magazine covers Inaugural Week and 26 WARRIOR SPIRIT more, including a behind-the-scenes take on the festivities from family 30 CLASS NOTES members who swelled with pride and celebrated with Long and the 34 IN MEMORIAM entire ESU community.

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DEPARTMENTS

STAY CONNECTED with your alma mater @WarriorAlumni ESUAA flickr.com/photos/esualumni

East Stroudsburg University Alumni

UNIVERSITY PRESIDENT

CONTRIBUTORS

ALUMNI HERALD

Kenneth Long Design and Production University of University Advancement Office of Marketing & Communications Ideal Design Solutions

Nancy Boyer ’20 Christina Karl Sara Karnish Greg Knowlden M’04 Ryan Long Elizabeth Luchansky O’Brien ’01 Elizabeth Richardson Shelley A. Speirs ’92 Caryn Wilkie

The Alumni Herald is the official publication for East Stroudsburg University Warriors of all ages. We work to keep ESU alumni connected with their alma mater and each other. The print magazine is published twice each year (Fall/Winter and Spring/ Summer). Alumni may update their mailing information by notifying the alumni office.

PHOTOGRAPHY Nancy Boyer ’20 Jonathan Broady Renee Broady Taj Falconer ’23 Dave Janosz Susie Forrester Morgan Koerber ‘18 M’22 Bob Weidner

26 WARRIOR ATHLETES TAKE THE

Please address all correspondence to: ESU Office of Alumni Engagement Henry A. Ahnert, Jr. Alumni Center 200 Prospect Street East Stroudsburg, PA 18301 570-422-3333 alumni@esufoundation.org

East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania is committed to equal opportunity for its students, employees and applicants. The university is committed to providing equal educational and employment rights to all persons without regard to race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or veteran’s status. Each member of the university community has a right to study and work in an environment free from any form of racial, ethnic, and sexual discrimination including sexual harassment, sexual violence and sexual assault.

(Further information, including contact information, can be found on the university’s website at esu.edu/titleix.)

In accordance with federal and state laws, the university will not tolerate discrimination. This policy is placed in this document in accordance with state and federal laws including Titles VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972, Sections 503 and 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, and the Civil Rights Act of 1991 as well as all applicable federal and state executive orders.

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ALUMNI BOARD

ALUMNI ASSOCIATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS

ALUMNI ASSOCIATION CORNER

2023-2024

GREETINGS FELLOW ESU ALUMNI As I write this letter, the 130th graduating class from ESU has now entered the world. I, along with Board Secretary Katie Ord ’07 M’08, had the privilege of addressing our graduates. As I stated in my commencement address to new members of the Warrior family, stay involved, find your local alumni chapters, become a mentor— the incoming students at ESU will now look up to you. And most importantly, don’t forget to come back and visit because this truly is Where Warriors Belong.

In April we had an amazing week celebrating the Inauguration of our 14th president, Kenneth Long.

Campus was so alive with enthusiasm and pride that no one wanted the week to end. We started the week with a parade up Normal Street with the ESU band and color guard who were joined by the Stroudsburg High School Band and color guard. We made our way into the Student Union to join faculty and staff for breakfast and again enjoyed the jazz band from Stroudsburg High School.

The feeling of belonging was truly everywhere. Daily events involving our students were held all week and concluded with the formal inauguration of President Long.

In June, your Alumni Association said goodbye to two long-serving members who have influenced the lives of so many of us at ESU. Dawn Ketterman-Benner ’70 and Carol Miller ’81 have made significant contributions over the years. They will forever remain a part of our Warrior family.

The Alumni Board also completed elections for new directors. We are fortunate to welcome back Tom Petro ’72, Lori Miller-Weinstein ’77, Danica Hartenfels ’97, Joseph Delchop ’10 and myself. I am pleased to announce and welcome the following new members to our board, Kristine Bush ’12, Danielle Dungee ’17, Brandon Lawrence ’07 and Yewande Oladeinde ’07.

Reach out to them with your questions and ideas about what you can do for your alma mater.

I look forward to reconnecting with many of you at our Legacy Family Breakfast on September 16, 2023. This is one of my most favorite times on campus. As a proud legacy family member, I love meeting so many people at this event. I also know that this is truly the start of a wonderful time on campus. We will celebrate our Alumni Awards reception and kick off our Homecoming festivities October 6-7. This is when my heart is truly filled. I meet up with my sorority sisters, purchase my favorite merchandise from the “Third Floor Shawnee” boys, visit with the 70’s socialites because Tom Petro ’72, Glenn Gottshalk ’72, and Lou Margotta ’72 prove that college days with them were unforgettable.

I look forward to spending time with all of you. For information on upcoming events, please visit esualumni. org. If you are interested in supporting ESU with a gift, please visit esufoundation.org/givenow. If you have any questions about YOUR alumni association, please contact Nancy Boyer ’20 at nboyer@esufoundation. org or Morgan Koerber ’18 M’22 at mkoerber@ esufoundation.org.

I hope you all are making amazing summer memories and can join us at one of our upcoming chapter events.

Please visit our website and register!

Stay well and healthy!

Fondly,

Elizabeth Luchansky O’Brien ’01 President

ESU Alumni Association Board of Directors

Elizabeth Luchansky O’Brien ’01 President Danica Hartenfels ’97 Vice President Caitlin Ord ’07 M’08 Secretary Michael Bidwell ’99 Jamie Borger ’15 Kristine Bush ’12 Joseph Caviston III ’09 Glenn Clark ’74 Joseph Delchop ’10 Danielle Dungee ’17 Aimee Ellison ’91 Keith Fisher ’91 Glenn Gottshalk ’72 Aalih Hussein ’15 Ashley Johnson ’08 Michelle Keating-Sibel ’00 Brandon Lawrence ’07 Jessica Maxwell ’16 Lori Miller Weinstein ’77 Kathleen Murphy Kirkwood ’95 Mary Mott ’06 Adrian Neves ’07 Yewande Oladeinde ’07 Thomas Petro ’72 Deborah Pride ’98 Daniel Romagno ’20 Robin Schneider ’04 Alumni Board Emeriti Bryan L. Hill ’71 Frank E. Johnson ’74 Phyllis M. Kirschner ’63 Sandra “Pinky” O’Neill-Seiler ’57 Faye D. Soderberg ’58 Virginia M. Sten ’71 John E. Woodling ’68 M.Ed. ’76

We are grateful for the service of those board members retiring after the 2022-2023 term.

The Office of Alumni Engagement and the ESU Alumni Association appreciate their years of dedication to ESU and its students.

Dawn Ketterman-Benner ’70 Carol Miller ’80

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HERE’S TO YOU The 1893 SOCIETY When you choose to create a planned gift with the ESU Foundation, you make a significant impact. With your will, trust, charitable gift annuity, beneficiary designation, endowed fund or any planned gift, you make an investment in the future success of ESU and our students.

Charles T. ’84 M’86 and Teresa M. Taylor II

A planned gift is a smart decision worthy of recognition.

The 1893 Society honors you! Your decision to include the ESU Foundation in your will, trust or other planned gift is worth celebrating. As part of the 1893 society, you will receive:

• A welcome letter and society pin • Name recognition online and in print • Invitations to special events A planned gift says something special about you. You look to the future and are invested in long-term outcomes. The 1893 Society thanks you today for the successes we will share tomorrow.

If you have made a planned gift or are considering one, contact us at sspeirs@esufoundation.org or 570-422-3758 so we can welcome you into this special group. Or, visit us online at esufoundationlegacy.org.

ESU Foundation 1893 Society Reception

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NEW PRESIDENT ESU CELEBRATES ITS

INAUGURATION WEEK FESTIVITIES CAPTURE THE SPIRIT OF FAMILY AND A PLAN FOR THE FUTURE APRIL 22-28, 2023

By Sara Karnish

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Immediately after taking the oath of office, ESU President Kenneth Long holds the university mace, joined by Daniel Greenstein, Chancellor of Pennsylvania’s State System of Higher Education.

Photo by Renee Broady

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President Long and his wife Evelyn during the Inauguration Week Kick-Off Parade.

President Kenneth Long and his wife Evelyn following the installation ceremony at the Abeloff Center for the Performing Arts.

Photos by Jonathan Broady, Renee Broady and Susie Forrester.

A Senior Art Show, held at the Fine and Performing Arts Center, was part of the Inauguration Week festivities.

The Inaugural Jazz Concert held April 23, 2023, featured the Water Gap Jazz Orchestra performing Basie Straight Ahead.

President Kenneth Long and his family at the end of the Kick-Off Parade before entering the celebration breakfast.

Guests enjoy the Inaugural Reception following the installation ceremony of ESU President Kenneth Long. The event was held in University Center.

When Kenneth Long, MBA was installed as the fourteenth president of East Stroudsburg University on April 27, 2023, the ESU community did not just welcome a new leader—they officially welcomed the entire Long family, who have been very visible on ESU’s campus through the years.

President Long’s wife, Evelyn, and daughters Alysha, Peyton, and Taylor are familiar faces around campus and at ESU events. Evelyn said balancing the girls’ schedules with campus commitments is a juggling act, but she and her husband wouldn’t have it any other way.

“Thank goodness for Google Calendar,” she laughs. “Our two younger daughters, Peyton and Taylor, aren’t driving yet. We encourage them to be in extracurriculars. Ken has to be available for ESU all the time, yet he still somehow manages to get to most of their events. He has a great staff, so we’ve been able to make it work. We really just take it day by day.”

The Longs have been part of the ESU community since 2013 when Ken was named vice president of administration and finance, and

Former ESU President Marcia G. Welsh, Ph.D., and Evelyn Long following the installation ceremony. Dr. Welsh introduced President Long at the ceremony.

particularly since August 2020 when he was named interim president, but the family is excited about making it official.

“It’s been incredible. From the students to the staff to the administration, everyone has embraced us and welcomed us,” Evelyn said. “With Ken being here almost 10 years, he’s been able to slowly step into the position. It’s been a slow transition, through the pandemic, et cetera.

Everyone has been wonderful, and the adjustment with the girls has been great.” The family splits their time between their home in Bushkill Township, located in the Nazareth School District, and the ESU campus, although Evelyn says, “We are here on campus a lot.”

Family always comes first, but President Long is as committed to ESU’s student success as he is to his daughters’. He is as proud of ESU’s students as he is his own children. That’s because President Long is the same person at home as he is on campus, according to his wife.

“He is the same person I met many years ago,” Evelyn says. “He’s an

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Maury Molin ’76 and Ray Starner ’69 at the Inaugural Alumni Happy Hour held at the Henry A. Ahnert, Jr. Alumni Center during Inauguration Week.

Students, faculty and staff enjoyed an afternoon of ice cream and pretzels, courtesy of Philly Pretzel and Jimmy’s Ice Cream.

incredible father. He encourages the girls to be the best they can be.

He’s also like that with the students. Education is very important to him.

He encourages education with the students just as he does with our girls. His motto is ‘creating opportunities’—he wants to do that for our girls as well as our students. He is truly a genuine, sincere person—the same person at home as what the university sees.”

Now that President Long is officially in the role following more than two years in the interim capacity, it’s time to look to the future. “It’s been fun getting back into things and having him take on the role 100 percent and being there to support him every step of the way,” Evelyn said. “Over the past two years, with Ken as interim president, we weren’t sure what was going to happen. But he’s proven himself and got the campus over the ‘hump’ of COVID. Now he’s in a permanent role and ready to take on the challenge. We’re with him 100 percent and support him as much as we can. To have the girls here, to see the students on campus has been great.”

President Long’s commitment to education and the countless opportunities it can provide was instilled in him at a young age. Growing up in Jersey City, N.J., Long was one of five children. His mother, Venies Long, emphasized the value of getting an education.

“You have to have an education. I think it’s very important,” Venies said. “Without it, there are only so many things you can do, but with an education, there are lots of things.” At 91, she was on hand to witness her son’s inauguration and is sure it will mean great things for ESU’s students. “I’m so proud to be here to see it,” she says. “Ken will be a very good president. He will push the students in a good way. He believes in learning and going as far as you can.”

President Kenneth Long and the Warrior celebrate Stress Less Day during Inauguration Week.

at ESU since first-grade and pre-school, respectively. The ESU faculty, staff, and administration have had the opportunity to watch the Long daughters grow and mature right before their eyes. Being right in the center of campus means the girls are exposed to unique people and experiences.

“It’s been really good. We’ve been able to meet a bunch of people and it’s been cool to see how college life is,” Peyton said. It’s been fun to have their father work in higher education— “We’ve met some really wonderful people along the way,” Taylor shared, adding she feels her father will be a great president because “he’s very relatable. Students feel they can approach him.” The girls all admire Long’s commitment to everything he takes on: “He puts 110 percent into everything, and still coached the girls,” Alysha said. “He gives such a high level of attention to everything he does.” The girls do their part to keep both parents current and informed with trends, particularly social media.

Alysha, who works in marketing and lives in Jersey City, N.J., has a slightly different, though no less appreciative, perspective of President Long’s impact at ESU. “I think he’s come full circle—to see him work so hard and get this recognition,” Alysha said. “It’s nice to see the growth of our family and how his hard work has paid off. His voice is in my head with every opportunity—that encouragement has always been part of my adult life.” Alysha said self-confidence is the single biggest value her father has instilled in her: “I’ve taken that confidence and it’s working so far. That’s been a great help. He’s always encouraged us to believe in ourselves.”

Long took his love of learning and turned it into a career. He holds bachelor’s degrees in math and political science and a master’s in business administration. He has a solid background in the business and operational side of higher education, having held positions as assistant vice president of administration and finance at Kutztown University, and also as interim vice president of administration and finance at Cheyney University in a loaned executive capacity, prior to coming to ESU.

Taylor said her father has instilled the Golden Rule: “Treat others as you would want to be treated”; Peyton’s biggest lesson has been “You can do anything you put your mind to.” Alysha adds her father has set a certain standard she looks for as an adult in the professional world.

“He has integrity, which is an important quality. He’s also very focused on what students need. I’m in the working world and meet company presidents, and when students begin their careers, they’ll want a company president with integrity for sure.”

Inspiring the next generation There are not many young people who can say they grew up in the middle of a college campus, but Peyton and Taylor Long are two exceptions. Peyton, a sophomore in high school, and Taylor, in eighth grade, have had front row seats at countless events and happenings

The Longs are excited about what the future holds for their family and extended campus family at ESU. The goal is simple: continue striving for excellence and holding students to a high standard. Evelyn Long sums it up: “Making sure every student has a fair, accessible, affordable education—that’s his priority.” esualumni.org 9

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TAKING THE STAGE FOLLOWING HIS OATH OF OFFICE, PRESIDENT KENNETH LONG OUTLINES HIS PLANS FOR ESU HIGHLIGHTS OF THE INAUGURAL ADDRESS APRIL 27, 2023

The Long Family listens to President Kenneth Long’s inaugural address during his installation ceremony.

“Today marks the official beginning of a new chapter in our university’s history, not only for me but for campus and region. I am committed to leading this institution with integrity, inclusivity, and innovation, and I am determined to make a positive impact on the lives of our students and the communities we serve.

The theme of my inauguration is Creating Opportunities, which encompasses my belief in access to a quality, affordable education. I strongly believe education is a fundamental human right and should be accessible to everyone, regardless of their background, ethnicity, gender, religion, or socioeconomic status. As a public institution of higher learning, we at ESU have a responsibility to provide our students with the tools, resources, and opportunities they need to succeed in 10 the alumni herald Alumni Herald Spring Summer 2023_Inside v4.indd 10

life. We must strive to create a learning environment that is inclusive and equitable, where every student has the chance to thrive and reach their full potential.

Creating Opportunities also means listening to the sentiments shared with me by our students and alumni. Their voices matter, and we must ensure that we are addressing their needs, concerns, and aspirations.

Our students are the future leaders of our communities, and it is our duty to provide them with a holistic education that prepares them to tackle the challenges of the 21st century. We must equip them with the skills, knowledge, and values necessary to make a positive impact in the world and create a better future for all.

Continued on page 21.

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CAMPUS NEWS

PRESENTING THE DALE AND FRANCES HUGHES FOUNDATION COMMUNITY HEALTH EDUCATION AND SIMULATION CENTER ESU UNVEILS ITS NEWEST SPACE FOR THE COLLEGE OF HEALTH SCIENCES FOLLOWING FUNDRAISING CAMPAIGN

Photos by Renee Broady

The unveiling of the Dale and Frances Hughes Foundation Community Health Education and Simulation Center was celebrated with a ribbon cutting ceremony. Special guests who attended the celebration are pictured from left to right: Rich Santoro, ESU Foundation executive director; Ariana Rivera, constituent advisor for State Representative Maureen Madden; Cornelio Catena, president of LVHN-Pocono; State Senator Rosemary Brown; Kenneth Long, ESU president; Nancy Parks, district manager from State Representative Jack Rader’s Office; and Dr. Denise Seigart, dean of ESU’s College of Health Sciences.

The East Stroudsburg University Foundation hosted a ribbon cutting ceremony celebrating the opening of the Dale and Frances Hughes Foundation Community Health Education and Simulation Center on Tuesday, April 18, 2023. The state-of-the-art center, located in the DeNike Center for Human Services, offers simulation and interprofessional practice opportunities for East Stroudsburg University students in the College of Health Sciences and local community healthcare organizations.

The fundraising campaign raised $859,807 through the generosity of the following organizations: The R. Dale and Frances Hughes Foundation, Lehigh Valley Health Network–Pocono, and the Lester G. Abeloff Foundation. This project was also financed in part by a grant from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Commonwealth Financing Authority.

“We are so grateful for the generous support we received to make this project a reality,” said Rich Santoro, ESU Foundation executive director. “Their investment in our students and the surrounding medical community will leave a lasting impact for years to come.”

The center features four “high-fidelity” manikins that can mimic human body functions. There is also an operating room space, a nursing station, and a high-tech control room where faculty can monitor several simulation scenarios. In addition to students, community agencies and health professionals will also be able to use the simulation center to practice their skills.

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Partial inside view of the new simulation center in the DeNike Center for Human Services.

“Case scenarios that students might not be exposed to on their clinical units can be created here in this space, in a safe environment, that will prepare them better for situations they may see in their practices,” said Dr. Denise Seigart, MS, RN, Dean of ESU’s College of Health Sciences.

“Local healthcare professionals will also have the opportunity to maintain and upgrade practice skills, thus contributing to a more knowledgeable and skilled healthcare workforce in this region. We are so grateful to the organizations that believed in us and our project.” esualumni.org 11 27/07/2023 2:23:10 am

CAMPUS NEWS

NEW DIGISTAR 7 PROJECTOR SYSTEM CHANGES THE WAY STUDENTS STUDY THE STARS ESU has installed a new Digistar 7 Fulldome Planetarium System in McMunn Planetarium. The purchase of the new equipment was made possible by a $205,700 grant from the R. Dale and Frances M. Hughes Foundation, based in Stroudsburg, Pa. The Digistar 7 projection system will be used to improve performance in academic courses in addition to supporting K-12 group visits, community programming, and institutional recruitment.

The Digistar 7 replaces the planetarium’s original non-HD resolutions system that was installed when the planetarium opened in 2008.

“The new projector provides our students with an immersive experience of not only the sky as seen from Earth, but lets them visualize the solar system, galaxy and universe from different locations within,” said David Buckley, Ph.D., professor of physics. “It’s a game changer in terms of the quality of astronomy education we can provide at ESU.” Securing the funding for the new equipment was made in collaboration with the ESU Foundation. The R. Dale and Frances M. Hughes Foundation has been a longtime supporter of the ESU Foundation, whose awarded grants have greatly impacted ESU and its students.

“We are very grateful for the R. Dale and Frances M. Hughes Foundation’s generous support throughout the years,” said Rich Santoro, ESU Foundation executive director. “Their commitment to ESU and the surrounding community is truly an inspiration.”

The McMunn Planetarium is housed in ESU’s Warren E. ’55 and Sandra Hoeffner Science and Technology Center, and is named in honor of ESU supporters Charles A. “Tony” ’69 and Patricia Lythgoe ’68 McMunn.

The Schisler Museum of Wildlife & Natural History, made possible by the generosity of Arthur R. ’62 and Fannie A. (Greene) ’62 Schisler, is located in the same space. Entry to both the museum and planetarium are included in one ticket.

ECONOMIC OUTLOOK SUMMIT 2023 ANNUAL EVENT CELEBRATES REGION SUCCESSES, TARGETS PLAN FOR THE FUTURE ESU collaborated with business representatives of Monroe, Pike, Wayne, and Carbon counties to present the 10th Annual Economic Outlook Summit on May 19, 2023, at Kalahari Resorts and Conventions in Pocono Manor, Pa. The theme for this year’s summit was “Celebrating the Economic Transformation of the Poconos.” It also featured the presentation of the 2023 Pocono Economic Scorecard which includes data on Income/Wages; Employment; Business Climate; Housing; Healthcare; Arts, Entertainment and Recreation; and Education.

This year’s event welcomed nearly 300 guests and featured a keynote address by Rick Siger, secretary, Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development. Siger leads the commonwealth’s efforts to grow the economy and build a better future for Pennsylvanians.

The Economic Outlook Summit also featured Ryotaro Tashiro, senior outreach economist, Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia and Mike Kingsella, CEO of Up for Growth, a national cross-sector network committed to solving the housing shortage and affordability crisis.

Tashiro presented the 2023 Economic Scorecard data and Kingsella addressed Housing Underproduction in the Poconos.

To learn more about the 10th annual Economic Outlook Summit and to view the 2023 Pocono Economic Scorecard, visit esu.edu/econsummit.

Photo by Susie Forrester

Each year, over 9,000 people including students, K-12 school groups, tourists, community, and the general public attend the planetarium’s full-dome video presentations on topics like the solar system, stars, galaxies and black holes.

Come check it out!

The museum and planetarium are open to the general public on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The facilities are open to groups Tuesday-Saturday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Customized tours are available for all ages.

For information about the museum and planetarium, visit esu.edu/museum.

To book a group visit, contact 570-422-2705 or by email at smcurator@esu.edu.

Rick Siger, secretary, Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development, speaks at the Economic Outlook Summit.

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DETRICK INSPIRES GRADUATES DURING COMMENCEMENT 2023 Randy Detrick ’00 lives his life by these words: You can have anything in life that you want, if you’re willing to help enough other people get what they want. His mission is to add value to others. This was the message he shared with ESU graduates during commencement ceremonies held May 5-6, 2023, in Koehler Fieldhouse. A total of 1,201 students received degrees during three commencement exercises.

Overall, 955 bachelor’s degrees, 232 master’s degrees and 14 doctoral degrees were awarded.

Detrick is the president of Blue Ridge Estate Vineyard & Winery and created The Underground Experience, a consistently sold-out presentation pairing wine with the most powerful topics of life. Detrick lives on the farm at Blue Ridge Winery with his wife, Tiffany ‘05 M’09, and their three children.

Randy Detrick ’00 delivers his commencement speech during one of three ceremonies on May 5-6 at Koehler Fieldhouse.

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CAMPUS NEWS

CAMPUS BRIEFS

ALUMNI RETURN TO CAMPUS TO ENGAGE WITH COMMUNICATIONS STUDENTS

The ESU Department of Communications in collaboration with Public Relations Student Society of America hosted the Path to the Peak conference on April 15, 2023, inviting alumni for the event. The alumni in attendance shared their experiences working in public relations with students currently majoring in communications, followed by a networking dinner.

Warrior alumni in attendance included Samantha Nosti ’14, senior account executive, client navigation at Green Room Communications; Robert Regan ’13, director, client success at MadHive; Jamal Cooley ’20, social media coordinator at Philadelphia Eagles; Austin Weitman ’22, account executive at Madison Square Garden; Amanda Forgione ’11, head of marketing and communications at Beeler.Tech; Laurie Monteforte ’05, founder & CEO of Strong Mountain Media, Inc.; Avery Gardner ’13, employee communications at ServiceNow; Alyssa Calilap ’12, global employee experience lead, consumer healthcare at Sanofi; Katie Johnstone ’13, social media officer at CDC Foundation; Laura Null ’18, marketing operations specialist at Lutron Electronics; Brianna Carty ’20, digital media specialist at iNvolved Media; and Dana Coppola ’19, public relations specialist at Embrace Relief.

ANNUAL MLK CELEBRATION, DAY OF SERVICE UNITES COMMUNITY

GRANT FUNDS WILL FOCUS ON FOOD INSECURITY ISSUES FOR STUDENTS

MLK annual awards were presented to Richermy Batista Marinez, a sophomore majoring in political science with a public administration concentration of Hazleton, Pa.; Donna-Marie Cole-Malott, Ph.D., assistant professor of professional and secondary education who received the University Faculty/Staff Award; and Bishop Kenneth Pearman, of Reaching Out for Jesus Christian Center, who received the Community Award.

Bailey Higgins, ESU’s health and wellness case manager, states that one in three college students in Pennsylvania face food insecurity. The money provided from the grant will help provide more nutritious food, increase access to the Warrior Food Pantry, emphasize donating food, and assure that solutions to food insecurity are assessed properly on campus.

The Mary Gertrude Smith Boddie Scholarship recipients were Matthew Davis, a junior biology major from Willingboro, N.J.; Tatyana Hayden, a junior early childhood education and Spanish major from Jacksonville, Fla.; Elijah Toby, a junior computer science major from Folcroft, Pa.; and Tamara Wright, a junior athletic training major from Norristown, Pa. The four students each received a $3,800 scholarship award for the spring 2023 semester.

COLLEGE OF EDUCATION RECEIVES GRANTS TO IMPROVE STUDENT PROGRAMS

Winners of the Julianna V. Bolt art contest were: Sharon Mejia from Stroudsburg High School; first place, Meghan Farrelly from East Stroudsburg North High School; second place, and Kimani Hanson from Stroudsburg High School; third place. Mariam Angarita Rojas from Stroudsburg High School and Madison Jimenez from East Stroudsburg South High School were awarded honorable mention.

The goal of the Innovative Teacher Prep2Practice grant, worth $99,381, includes researching how ESU offers more opportunities for teachers of color, enhance dual enrollment programs for students looking to become teachers, and create exemplar lessons involving Culturally-Relevant and Sustaining Education (CR-SE). The grant will be partnering with school districts across Pocono Mountain, Stroudsburg, Easton, and Bethlehem school districts as well as Northampton Community College.

The ESU ninth annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service was held on February 21, 2023. This year ESU teamed up with Nurse-Family Partnership, donating new and unused baby items and self-care items for new parents.

Through the $99,676 Innovative Principal Prep2Practice grant, ESU will partner with Stroudsburg Area School District to prepare leadership roles using enhanced clinical experiences, improve induction of new leaders, and provide easily accessible support to principals of all levels of expertise.

"I Have a Dream" – 60 Years Later was the theme for ESU’s 26th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration held on January 16, 2023, at the Stroudsmoor Country Inn in Stroudsburg, Pa. Keynote speaker for the event was Christa Caceres, president of the Monroe County Chapter of the NAACP.

ESU was awarded the Pennsylvania Hunger-Free Grant to combat food insecurity among students on campus. The $40,000 grant, provided by support from the Pennsylvania Department of Education and the Hunger-Free Campus Initiative, focuses on food insecurity among college students and how college campuses can help their students access resources to get the help they need.

The ESU College of Education was awarded almost $200,000 in two grants from the Pennsylvania Department of Education. The Innovative Teacher Prep2Practice grant and The Innovative Principal Prep2Practice grant aim to better equip education professionals and research how to improve educational opportunities for teachers and students alike.

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ESU FOUNDATION

ESU FOUNDATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS

2023-2024 Adam S. Stauffer ’00 M’02, Chair MaryEllen Dickey ’80, Vice Chair Student scholarship recipients gather for their annual picture following the Scholarship Dinner celebration.

Anthony Ruiz ‘16, Esq., Secretary Alfredo Garcia ’03, Treasurer Glenn Clark ’74, Alumni Association Liaison George Fields, Jr. ’83 Raymond Hamlin ’86, Esq. Wendy Jankoski ’82 Douglas Leonzi ’94 Robert Moses Chris R. Paradysz ’83

Phillip St. James, the U.S. CSR & Community Relations Lead at Sanofi, shares why Sanofi supports student scholarships at ESU while Keyanna Safforld, a senior majoring in biology from East Stroudsburg, Pa., listens. Safforld was the recipient of the Sanofi STEM Annual Scholarship and the Robert J. Shields ’55 Endowed Scholarship.

Photos by Susie Forrester

‘PERFECT PAIRS’ MEET AT ESU FOUNDATION’S 14TH ANNUAL SCHOLARSHIP DINNER The East Stroudsburg University Foundation hosted The Perfect Pair, its 14th Annual Scholarship Dinner on April 12, 2023, at Terraview at Stroudsmoor Country Inn in Stroudsburg, Pa. The annual event gives donors and their student recipients a special chance to celebrate and connect. Nearly 300 guests attended the event.

Each year hundreds of ESU students benefit from the generosity of the ESU Foundation’s donors. The Foundation has provided 688 scholarship awards totaling $1,046,532 to students in fiscal year 2021-2022.

“This event would not be possible without our donors who care so deeply about the success of our students,” said Rich Santoro, executive director of the ESU Foundation. “We are honored to showcase their generous support and the impact it has on their student recipients.”

The dinner featured a panel of student recipients and their donors who shared their compelling stories of giving and receiving.

The “Perfect Pairs” included Keyanna Safforld, a senior majoring in biology from East Stroudsburg, Pa., and Phillip St. James, the U.S. CSR & Community Relations Lead at Sanofi. Safforld is the recipient of the Sanofi STEM Annual Scholarship and the Robert J. Shields ’55 Endowed Scholarship.

ESU graduate student Carlos Pepin ’22 M’23, was paired with his scholarship donors, Drew ’09 and Kyle Stem, and Trevin Panaia ’97. Pepin is the recipient of the Willard Stem ’76 Men’s Basketball Annual Scholarship, the Panaia-Soloway Men’s Basketball Annual Scholarship, the Dr. Richard and Mrs. Jean DeSchriver Track & Field Annual Scholarship, and the Peter Nevins M’84 Endowed Scholarship for Cross Country.

John J. Pekarovsky III ’07 ESU Council of Trustees Liaison Elizabeth Leigh Smith, Ph.D., Faculty Liaison Stephen Somers Leslie L. Wilson ’74 Eric Wyatt ’85 Rory Yanchek ’84 Foundation Board Emeriti William B. Cramer, Esq. Rosemary Driebe Olofsson Robert A. Shebelsky Robert Willever ’75

Aaron Zaso, a junior majoring in economics and applied math from Nazareth, Pa., was the master of ceremonies.

The program also included a musical theatre performance from ESU student Vanessa Smith.

The event was sponsored by PSECU and The Haverford Trust Company.

To see the full list of 2022-2023 scholarships awarded and their student recipients, please visit www.esufoundation.org/theperfectpair or follow this QR code using your smartphone. esualumni.org 15 Alumni Herald Spring Summer 2023_Inside v4.indd 15

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ESU FOUNDATION

Photos by Susie Forrester Members of the Long family at the Inaugural Dinner held at Ridgecrest at Stroudsmoor Country Inn. From left, Frank Beneski, Daphine Long-Beneski, Evelyn Long, President Kenneth Long, daughters Peyton, Taylor and Alysha. Seated is President Long’s mother, Venies Polite-Long.

INAUGURAL DINNER RAISES FUNDS FOR STUDENT SCHOLARSHIP

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The Inaugural Dinner Celebrating East Stroudsburg University President Kenneth Long was held April 26, 2023, at the Ridgecrest Ballroom at Stroudsmoor Country Inn in Stroudsburg, Pa. Hosted by the ESU Foundation, the dinner fell amidst a full week of inaugural festivities leading up to Long’s installation ceremony the following day. Proceeds from the dinner benefit student scholarships.

Among the nearly 200 guests in attendance were family and friends of the Longs, community members, alumni, faculty, staff and students. L. Patrick Ross ’67, chair of the ESU Council of Trustees, served as the master of ceremonies. Other featured speakers honoring Long were long-time friends and colleagues: Robert Willever ’75, member emeritus of the ESU Foundation Board of Directors, and Robert Bocchino, president emeritus of DeVry University.

“It was an honor to host this event to celebrate the historic inauguration of President Long,” said Rich Santoro, ESU Foundation executive director. “President Long is committed to giving a voice to every ESU student by promising them a bright and successful future.”

President Kenneth Long’s daughters introduce him at the Inaugural Dinner that raised nearly $10,000 for student scholarship.

Creating Opportunities: Community, Engagement, and Belonging was the theme for Long’s inauguration and the dinner dedicated to raise funds for student scholarship speaks to his commitment to giving every Warrior an opportunity to pursue a college education, according to Willever.

“At the core of it all, to President Long, it’s about the students…that they are given every opportunity to grow and excel,” said Willever. “That when they come to ESU as a new Warrior, they feel connected, that they belong.”

MORE COVERAGE See photos from the Inaugural Dinner at flickr.com/photos/east_stroudsburg_university/albums

Danielle Duddy and Thomas Grayuski ’84 at the Inaugural Dinner.

IT’S NOT TOO LATE TO SHOW YOUR SUPPORT!

To make a gift of support in honor of Kenneth Long, Fourteenth President of East Stroudsburg University, visit https://www.esufoundation.org/Presidential-Inauguration, follow the QR code, or call 570-422-3333 for personal assistance. esualumni.org 17 Alumni Herald Spring Summer 2023_Inside v4.indd 17

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ALUMNI NEWS

HEALTH CONSULTATION UNCOVERS WARRIOR TIES ESU ALUMNI CONNECT AS PATIENT AND SURGEON IN ARIZONA

By Sara Karnish

Tim Weisse ’74 with Dr. Zachary McDowell ’08 in Phoenix, Ariz.

Warrior pride knows no limits. It’s certainly not bound by geography, as two proud ESU alumni discovered.

Tim Weisse ’74 connected with Dr. Zachary McDowell ’08 purely by chance. The alums, both living in Phoenix, Ariz., met when Weisse was researching new physicians. He was impressed with McDowell’s credentials—he didn’t learn his new physician was a fellow Warrior until he had scheduled his consultation.

Weisse began treatment for bladder cancer in 2021. In 2022, he was diagnosed with prostate cancer. Shortly afterward, his oncologist announced he was leaving the practice. “When you put your trust in someone and they announce they’re leaving, it’s kind of devastating,” Weisse says. As he vetted new physicians, he spotted McDowell’s resume. “I was just about to call his office to make an appointment

and I noticed I’d missed a page on his resume. When I looked at the missing page, it said he had attended ESU. I selected him based on his accomplishments, not that he’d attended ESU. But that’s how I met him,” he says.

Weisse was so struck by the link to his new physician, he shared the story of their meeting at the 2022 alumni awards dinner during his acceptance speech for the Conrad “Skip” Idukas Service Award. When he first met McDowell, Weisse did not let on that they attended the same university until well into the appointment. “At the very end of the interview when he felt comfortable with me, he asked if I’d ever had a super and a Yuengling at Rudy’s,” McDowell recalls, citing an establishment frequented by ESU students. “I said, ‘Yes, why?’ and he shared he was also a graduate of ESU.”

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McDowell chose ESU because he wanted to play football. “I had no ambition of going to medical school coming out of high school,” he says. “I wanted to major in exercise physiology, and ESU was one of the few schools that offered it.” But McDowell chose a different path.

Matthew Wallace, professor of biology and department chair, suggested McDowell consider medical school because of how well he was doing in Wallace’s freshman A&P class. “One simple suggestion put my life on a completely different trajectory,” McDowell says. He switched majors to biology, graduated Summa Cum Laude from ESU, and attended medical school at Virginia Commonwealth University.

McDowell feels ESU’s smaller class sizes and personal connections with faculty were a tremendous benefit. “Your education, like most things in life— you get out of it what you put into it,” he says.

“But just the things I was able to do—I’m not sure if I would have had the same opportunities at a larger school. Few students get into medical school from ESU, and I am proud to be one of them.” McDowell met his wife while he was in residency. Though he wanted to stay on the East Coast, he got a great job offer in Phoenix and the couple relocated.

He decided to specialize in urology. “A lot of people don’t know urologists are actually surgeons,” McDowell says. “In residency, the question is, ‘Do you want to do medicine or surgery?’ I knew I wanted to do surgery—I just didn’t know what I wanted to do. Urology has a good mix of surgery and clinic time. I was also attracted to the technology—robotics has revolutionized the way we perform surgery.” His fellowship in Minimally Invasive Surgery and Oncology included one of the first uses of the Da Vinci Single Port robot in urology in the U.S.

Tim Weisse ’74 with ESU President Kenneth Long at the 2022 ESU Alumni Association Awards Banquet.

Photo by Jonathan Broady

Weisse has remained an active alumnus since his days at East Stroudsburg. Among his many ties to the university, he is the first board member appointed to serve west of the Mississippi River, served on the Alumni Board of Directors for 15 years (1997-2012) and returned to campus a total of 36 times for board meetings or other university business during his tenure. He also developed the first Internet presence for ESU alumni in 1995 and maintained it from his home in Phoenix until ESU’s Office of Computing Science took over the design and maintenance of the site in 1998.

A Health and Physical Education major at ESU, Weisse taught special education in a public school district, then shifted careers to corporate training. He was offered a position in Phoenix and moved to the Southwest, yet he maintained his ties to ESU. “I think it was one of those things where I didn’t know how special it was until I got a little older,” he says. “I would go back for homecoming occasionally and I would realize how beautiful the campus is. The majority of the friends I still have are the people I met at ESU.”

During medical school, he was heavily involved in global medicine, an area that is still important to him. He ran a nonprofit organization called REACH4Ghana, a group that made yearly trips to the West African nation and set up medical clinics in rural areas of the country. He was also part of a trip to Belize with a urologist colleague who hails from the South American country. “There are no urologists in the country of Belize,” McDowell explains. “My colleague wants to go there and set up a clinic, so he will stay there long-term and be the only urologist in Belize. It was difficult to do more when I was putting in 100 hours a week in residency, but I’m looking forward to getting more involved in these initiatives again.”

Both Weisse and McDowell are grateful for the friendship they’ve developed thanks to their mutual connection to ESU. “Anytime there is a doctor/patient relationship, it helps my connection to him to have common ground. It’s good to have something else to talk about besides medical issues,” McDowell says. He notes he’s never encountered another ESU alumni since graduating, making the common bond with Weisse even more meaningful.

Weisse praises McDowell as both a physician and person. “He’s a fine surgeon, and the fact that he did my surgery robotically is very interesting,” Weisse says. “At each subsequent visit, we would talk more about the university. I’d say we are good friends. He’s a good young man. I needed a surgeon, and the one I found happened to be from East Stroudsburg. That’s the amazing part of the whole story.

He was there at the right time, and we developed a friendship out of that.” esualumni.org 19

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ALUMNI NEWS

ALUMNI ASSOCIATION BOARD

WELCOMES NEW MEMBERS Four new members joined the ESU Alumni Association Board of Directors at their annual retreat meeting on June 10, 2023. The 27-member board works closely with the Office of Alumni Engagement to keep ESU alumni and friends connected to the university by promoting events and providing scholarships to benefit current students. Board members may serve three, 3-year terms.

Elected to serve an additional term in office are Joe Delchop ’10, Vice President Danica Hartenfels ’97, President Elizabeth Luchansky O’Brien ’01, Lori Miller-Weinstein ’77, and Tom Petro ’72.

Retiring from the board with gratitude for their years of dedicated service to ESU and its students are Dawn Ketterman-Benner ’70 and Carol Miller ’81.

MEET YOUR NEW BOARD MEMBERS:

Kristine Bush ’12 studied public relations at ESU and earned her bachelor’s degree in communication. She serves as district director to State Senator Rosemary M. Brown and is responsible for coordinating Senator Brown’s priorities, advocating for constituent needs and providing outreach to state agencies. Bush also serves as chair of the Monroe County Homeless Advisory Board and is vice chair of the Pocono Chamber of Commerce.

Bush resides in Snydersville, Pa.

Brandon Lawrence ’07 received his bachelor’s degree in sport management. After 15 years in the sports and entertainment industry, Lawrence serves as senior director of sales at Tyson Group, a leadership and sales consulting firm. A founding member of the ESU Sport Management Alumni Advisory Board, he has participated in multiple ESU S.C.O.R.E. Symposiums, and often returns to campus to speak with student groups. Lawrence resides in Somerset, N. J.

Danielle Dungee ’17 graduated with a bachelor’s degree in chemistry. She is a medical affairs operations specialist in the Department for Strategic Operations in Neuroscience at Janssen Pharmaceuticals. During Dungee’s career with Janssen, she has managed projects across therapeutic areas, including immunology, oncology, cardiovascular and metabolics, and hepatitis. Following her lifelong passion for softball, she was a member of the ESU softball team. Dungee resides in North Wales, Pa.

Yewande Oladeinde ’07 received a bachelor’s degree in biology.

She is a social and behavioral science administrator for the National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities (NIMHD), with a research focus on the role culture plays in shaping people’s perceptions of health and illness. Prior to joining NIMHD, Dr. Oladeinde worked at the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, conducting projects to equitably improve the experience of Medicare beneficiaries and their families. She received her Ph.D. in Behavioral Health from Pennsylvania State University. Dr. Oladeinde resides in Frederick, Md.

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The ROTC Honor Guard presents and posts the colors during the Installation Ceremony of President Kenneth Long.

INAUGURATION SPEECH HIGHLIGHTS Continued from page 10

Finally, Creating Opportunities aligns with the university mission and the forthcoming new Strategic Plan. We must work together to achieve our institutional goals, enhance our academic programs, foster research and innovation, and strengthen our ties with the local and global community. We must continue to strive for excellence in all areas of our operations and embrace a culture of continuous improvement and innovation.

facility for our clinical healthcare and sport-related professions: Athletic Training, Communications Science and Disorders, Exercise Science, Health Education for Teachers, Physical Education and Nursing. If we learned nothing else from this pandemic, we must recognize the ability to provide and maintain health and well-being in our community is essential. And we can only do this if we have well-trained healthcare and fitness professionals.

As university president, it’s my responsibility to continue the tremendous work of the 13 presidents that preceded me.

In keeping with our fiscal responsibilities to our students, community, and the citizens of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, we must create this new facility without adding any new debt. Therefore, we will require the support of our faculty, staff, alumni, community, benefactors, and legislators to be successful.

•

Completion of the construction of the new University Center that was initiated, not one, but two presidencies ago.

•

Modernization of the university library.

•

Expansion of our collaboration with school districts, community colleges and other educational institutions with similar missions and purpose.

•

Working with our community and business partners to make the Greater Pocono Region an even better place to learn, live, work and play.

•

Provide a safe, equitable and inclusive environment for our entire campus community.

•

Improve our classrooms, labs, athletic facilities, and other educational and co-curricular spaces; continuing the progress made by my predecessor, mentor, and friend Dr. Welsh.

•

Being superior stewards of our financial and physical resources.

To that end, I am excited to formally announce that ESU will pick up where we left off before the pandemic in our plans to create a dedicated

In return, East Stroudsburg University will be the incubator for providing opportunities in health sciences for our students, community, and state.

I would be remiss if I did not acknowledge The Lenape, on whose ancient and sacred land we live, learn, work and play. And to acknowledge that we are guests in the original homeland of the living nations of the Delaware Nation, the Delaware Tribe, the Stockbridge Munsee Community, the Seneca Cayuga Nation, and others. ESU extends our respect to the many Indigenous people who call these lands home.

As we embark on this next chapter together, I am inspired by the opportunities that lie ahead. Let us work together to create a brighter future for our students and our community and let us continue to uphold the values that have made this institution what it is today. Thank you for your trust and support, and I look forward to working with all of you to Create Opportunities for our Community, for Engagement and for Belonging.”

MORE INAUGURAL COVERAGE

Watch the entire investiture ceremony of Kenneth Long 14th President of East Stroudsburg University Visit esu.edu/inauguration View pictures from the entire week of Inaugural events at flickr.com/photos/east_stroudsburg_university/albums esualumni.org 21 Alumni Herald Spring Summer 2023_Inside v4.indd 21

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ALUMNI NEWS

WARRIORS CONNECTING ALUMNI EVENT ROUND UP

ESU Alumni Association Board members Paul Scheuch ’72, Dawn Ketterman-Benner ’70, and Michelle Keating-Sibel ’00 celebrate at Holidays in Bethlehem.

Former alumni wrestlers reminisce during the reception at Koehler Fieldhouse. From left, Dave Czahor ’68, Roberto Jordan and Harry Martyn ’61.

DECEMBER 1, 2022

FEBRUARY 7, 2023

Holidays in Bethlehem The Lehigh Valley Chapter of the Alumni Association hosted the 6th Annual Holidays in Bethlehem gathering attended by over 50 alumni, friends, faculty, and staff. The ESU a cappella singers performed holiday songs at the historic 1850 Goundie House as part of Downtown Bethlehem’s Live Advent Calendar entertainment. For the first time in several years, the Lehigh Valley Campus of ESU was the setting for this festive event.

FEBRUARY 4, 2023

Basketball Alumni Men’s and women’s basketball alumni demonstrated their still impressive skill as they gathered in Koehler Fieldhouse for the annual alumni game. Before cheering on current players as the Warriors hosted Shippensburg, the alumni enjoyed a reception with coaches Jeff Wilson ‘86 M’92 and Stephanie Del Preore M’22. More than 35 ESU alumni participated as players and specators.

Wrestling Alumni Men’s wrestling alumni enjoyed a reception with Coach Anibal Nieves at the Annual Alumni Night held in Koehler Fieldhouse. The Stroudsburg Youth Wrestling Team was introduced and watched the ESU men’s and women’s wrestlers compete against Seton Hill.

Nearly 30 alumni participated in the evening.

FEBRUARY 26, 2023

Harlem Globetrotters ESU alumni families enjoyed an afternoon of amazing basketball skill at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia as the Harlem Globetrotters played an exposition game against the Washington Generals. Hosted by the Philadelphia chapter of the Alumni Association, more than 25 guests gathered for the event.

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Women’s basketball alumnae gather before the game. From left, Tyeca Reviere ’16, Rachel Falkowski ’17, Imani Brown, Noelle Powell ’19, Rachel Grace, and Allison Howard ’17.

Alumni and family members enjoy the Harlem Globetrotters. From left, Zachary Amadio, Vincent Amadio ’78, and Gina DiBenedetto ’94.

APRIL 6, 2023

HRTM alumni learn about wine tasting at the ESU Innovation Center. From left, Carol Owens ‘04, Melissa Owens ‘06, Jeremy Hartenfels, Danica Hartenfels ’97 and Nancy Boyer ’20.

HRTM Wine Tasting Students in the Special Event and Program Planning class organized a wine tasting event for alumni and ESU community members held at the ESU Innovation Center.

Six local wineries offered wine tasting and assistant professor Chuck Meitner provided guided tasting lessons after which attendees used their new knowledge in a blind tasting challenge.

MAY 18, 2023

Bucks/Montgomery Chapter Happy Hour Members of the Bucks/Montgomery Chapter gathered at Brittingham’s Pub in Lafayette Hill, Pa., for an evening of laughter and memories as they honored the passing of chapter founder and former ESU Alumni Association Board of Directors Vice President Christine Rohr-Thompson ’73.

As the group reminisced about their time on campus, ESU football games from the early 1970s played in the background with several of those players in attendance.

Board Member Tom Petro ’72 will take over running the chapter and scheduling new events.

Bucks/Montgomery Chapter Happy Hour guests included, from left, Bob Lester ’72, Tom Petro ’72 and Glenn Gottshalk ’72.

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ALUMNI NEWS

HOMECOMING WEEKEND 2023

MARK YOUR CALENDARS TO RETURN TO CAMPUS FOR THE BIGGEST CELEBRATION OF THE YEAR!

OCTOBER 6 –7, 2023

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 6

Celebrations begin Friday at the Annual Alumni Awards and Reunion Banquet. Hosted by the ESU Alumni Association and the Office of Alumni Engagement, the festivities will be held at the Innovation Center and will honor the 2023 winners of the prestigious ESU Alumni Awards.

The Class of 1973 will also commemorate its 50th Reunion that evening as classmates reconnect and celebrate their golden grad anniversary.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 7

It’s the big day for all Warriors returning to campus for the All Alumni Tailgate on the basketball courts behind Zimbar Liljenstein Hall. The tailgate begins at 1 p.m. and will include DJ Queue offering music across genres and generations. Visit the Fan Zone & Marketplace featuring fun for Warriors of all ages. After the tailgate, head over to Eiler-Martin Stadium where the Warriors take on West Chester University at 6:05 p.m. Registration and tailgate information will be available at esualumni.org/homecoming2023.

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Contact the ESU Office of Alumni Engagement at 570-422-3613 for more information.

WARRIORS GEAR ON AMAZON!

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WARRIOR SPIRIT

The Warriors celebrate their NCAA Atlantic Regional championship at Creekview Park.

All-Region first team pitcher Paige Zigmund.

MAKING WARRIOR HISTORY

SOFTBALL EARNS FIRST NCAA ATLANTIC REGION TITLE The Warriors ascended to new heights in 2023, setting the school record with 44 wins and capturing their first-ever NCAA Division II Atlantic Region championship and appearance at the NCAA DII Softball Championships.

ESU was the No. 1 seed in the Atlantic Region and dispatched Bowie State (6-2), West Chester (8-0) and WV Wesleyan (1-0) to set up the regional final at Creekview Park vs. Charleston. After dropping the best-of-three series opener, 2-0, the Warriors prevailed 3-0 and 2-0 to book their ticket to the national championships in Chattanooga, Tenn.

The Warriors fell 6-2 to eventual national champion North Georgia in their opener, but responded with a 2-1 win over Nova Southeastern before bowing out, 6-2, vs. top seed UT Tyler. In the win over Nova Southeastern, ace pitcher Paige Zigmund retired 15 consecutive batters after allowing a run in the first inning, and Kaitlin Houser and Kate Donaghue delivered

RBI singles in the sixth inning to lift ESU to victory under eighth-year head coach Jaime Wohlbach.

Zigmund, the PSAC East Pitcher of the Year and an NFCA and D2CCA AllRegion first team selection, was unhittable in the NCAA Tournament.

The Bethlehem native posted a 0.93 ERA in 45 innings of work, allowing just six earned runs across seven appearances, and went 5-1. She held opponents to a .189 batting average with 26 strikeouts and just four walks. She closed her historic campaign with school records for wins (26) and strikeouts (186), logged a 1.96 ERA and held foes to a .223 batting average.

Five Warriors were named to the All-PSAC East second team – first baseman Jada Smallwood, third baseman Reilly Vicendese, outfielders Molly Nies and Abigail Weirich, and designated player Kate Donaghue.

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MEN’S BASKETBALL REACHES EIGHTH NCAA TOURNAMENT

PEPIN ’22 M’23 REPRESENTS WARRIORS NATIONALLY ESU posted a 23-9 record and reached the NCAA Division II Tournament for the eighth time in program history and the first time since 2019, led by first team All-PSAC East selections Carlos Pepin and Lakeem McAliley. Pepin, last year’s PSAC East Athlete of the Year, was also named first team NABC All-District, becoming just the sixth Warrior since 1979-80 to earn the honor.

Pepin had a busy offseason after leading the Warriors with 25 points and seven rebounds in their NCAA Tournament game vs. Mercyhurst. The Lodi, N.J. native was selected to compete in the Reese’s DII College All-Star Game in Evansville, Ind., where he notched 24 points and 12 boards in helping NABC West to a 155-149 win. Less than a week later, he was in Houston and on ESPN2 for the King’s Hawaiian College Dunk Contest after winning the State Farm Dark Horse Dunker social media contest among 16 non-Division I student-athletes. Pepin finished fifth among eight competitors, posting a score of 38 with a windmill dunk.

Carlos Pepin ’22 M’23 at the King’s Hawaiian College Dunk Contest.

Just a few days later, Pepin was drafted by Indios SFM of the Dominican Republic’s top professional league, Liga Nacional de Baloncesto, with the seventh pick in the first round.

Pepin’s 587 points rank sixth-most in a single season at ESU and are the most since Jonathan Roberts’ program-record 689 in 1989-90. His 287 rebounds rank eighth and are the most since Roberts had 332 as a senior.

Mia and Sofia Macaluso

WOMEN’S WRESTLING FINISHES EIGHTH AT NATIONALS LED BY DYNAMIC SISTER DUO In its third season as a varsity-sponsored sport, the women’s wrestling team finished eight among 30 teams with representatives in early March at Cedar Rapids, Iowa. The Warriors entered the tournament with three NCWWC All-Americans in program history and doubled its total led by two-time All-America Mia Macaluso, who finished third at 123 pounds.

Her sister, freshman Sofia Macaluso, closed her impressive first season at ESU with a sixthplace finish in the same weight class, as both Warriors met in the elimination bracket where Mia pinned her younger sister in 22 seconds to advance to the third-place match. Emily Klein (6th place, 116), and Zoe Gress (7th place, 123) joined the exclusive list as Warrior All-Americans.

ESU CELEBRATES STUDENTATHLETE SUCCESS DURING WARRIOR ATHLETE RECOGNITION ESU’s athletic department honored its student-athletes for their academic and athletic achievements during the 2022-23 academic year at the annual Warrior Athlete Recognition: Athletic Director’s Award of Distinction: Carlos Pepin (basketball, track & field), Chase Nowak (baseball), Olivia Breen (field hockey), Ryan Weise (basketball) ESU Elite Eight (M): Daryn Blackwell (track & field, football), Chase Nowak (baseball), Carlos Pepin (basketball, track & field), Luke Valdevit (track & field) ESU Elite Eight (F): Olivia Breen (field hockey), Jeanette Jones (track & field), Maggie Sell (lacrosse), Ryan Weise (basketball)

Male Scholar-Athlete of the Year: Daryn Blackwell (track & field, football) Female Scholar-Athlete of the Year: Allie Sweeney (lacrosse) Emerging Warrior Team (M): Donavan Anderson (track & field), Brady Carter (wrestling), Peter Neerhof (soccer), Tahir Mills (football) Emerging Warrior Team (F): Anna Coulter (volleyball), Sofia Macaluso (wrestling), Vera Renshof (swimming), Carmen van Kuringe (field hockey) Warrior Spirit Award: Daryn Blackwell, Courtney da Silva (acrobatics & tumbling) Team GPA Award (M): Men's Cross Country Team GPA Award (F): Field Hockey Play of the Year: Vera Renshof’s 200m freestyle record at the PSAC Championships Team of Excellence: Field Hockey Game of the Year: Men's Basketball vs. Shepherd (PSAC First Round) Dave Carlyon Athletic Training Award: Kara Graziano Winning Warrior Award: President Kenneth Long esualumni.org 27

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WARRIOR SPIRIT

LACROSSE REACHES FIFTH CONSECUTIVE NCAA ATLANTIC REGION CHAMPIONSHIP GAME, MITAROTONDA SETS GOALS RECORD The Warriors continued their dominance in the PSAC and Atlantic Region, reaching the regional championship game for the fifth consecutive season and posting a record of 14-6. Led by three IWLCA All-America selections in midfielder Emily Mitarotonda, defender Maggie Sell and goalkeeper Riley DiFiore, ESU battled a daunting schedule that featured four NCAA Tournament teams that they combined to play eight times, including national champion Pace and national runner-up West Chester.

The third meeting with the Golden Rams ended 10-8 in the regional final.

Mitarotonda, a junior, set ESU’s career goals record in the regular season finale and has 216 goals in just 58 games. The three-time All-America will look to become the first Warrior to earn four honors next spring.

BASEBALL RETURNS TO NCAA TOURNAMENT, NOWAK AND REISINGER 1ST TEAM ALL-REGION The Warriors advanced to the NCAA Tournament in consecutive seasons for the first time in program history and reached the 30-win mark for the sixth time in the last 10 seasons, going 36-14. Pitchers Chase Nowak (8-4, 2.26 ERA, 79.2 IP, 82 strikeouts) and Tom Reisinger (6-2, 2.64 ERA, 71.2 IP, 79 strikeouts) were named ABCA first team All-Region. Nowak was the PSAC East and NCBWA Region Pitcher of the Year, and Reisinger was selected by the Oakland A’s in the 9th round of the MLB Draft. ESU

WEISE LEAVES HER MARK ON WOMEN’S BASKETBALL Graduate student guard Ryan Weise was named first team All-PSAC East after pacing the Warriors in points (459), rebounds (165), assists (138) and steals (58) and setting the school record with 97 threepointers. A two-year starter for the Warriors, she was named the D2CIDA National Player of the Week and was on the DII Women’s Basketball All-Stats Starting Five in November.

Weise was also named the Lehigh Valley Small College

Ryan Weise M’23

Basketball Organization’s Pete Nevins Player of the Year and was named to the Scholar-Athlete Team.

Emily Mitarotonda (24)

Riley DiFiore

Maggie Sell

Chase Nowak

had a PSAC East-best five first team selections, along with OF Mike Kelly, DH Cameron Hubbard and RP Nick McAuliffe.

ESU set single-season school records for stolen bases (184) and fielding percentage (.979) and the pitching staff ranked among DII’s best in ERA (3.24) all year.

JORONEN NAMED PSAC EAST WOMEN’S TENNIS ATHLETE OF THE YEAR Graduate student Elina Joronen joined the Warriors in the second half of the season and finished with PSAC East Athlete of the Year honors.

The Espoo, Finland native posted a perfect 7-0 record in conference play at No. 1 singles and was a back-toback PSAC East Athlete of the Week selection.

Elina Joronen

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ANDERSON CONCLUDES HISTORIC SEASON WITH THREE ALLAMERICA HONORS Donavan Anderson put together one the most prolific individual seasons in ESU men’s track and field program history as the freshman was a three-time All-American across the long jump and triple jump. He broke out during the indoor season, shattering a 26-year-old school record in the long jump, winning the conference title in the triple jump and garnering second team All-America honors in both events. Outdoors. he broke the 27-year-old long jump record, once again won the PSAC title in the triple jump and earned first team All-America with an eighthplace finish at the NCAA DII

RENSHOF POSTS BEST PERFORMANCE AT PSAC SWIMMING CHAMPIONSHIPS IN NEARLY 20 YEARS Freshman Vera Renshof, a native of The Netherlands, made an immediate impact in the pool where she placed third in the 200 yard freestyle at the PSAC Championships with a time of 1:51.90, an NCAA ‘B’ cut. She equaled ESU’s best individual PSAC finish since 2003-04 when Natalie Weingartner was third in the 100 back, and also matched Judy Tooher’s third place in the 200 free in 1980-81. Renshof broke her own school record in the event in both the prelims and finals, and closed the meet placing fourth in the 100 free with a school record of 51.37 and another NCAA ‘B’ cut.

Donavan Anderson

Championships. He was the PSAC Men’s Track & Field Freshman of the Year both seasons.

Vera Renshof

ACROBATICS & TUMBLING TREKS TO HAWAII, SCORES FIRST PERFECT 10 IN SECOND SEASON The ESU acrobatics and tumbling team had an experience of a lifetime to start the 2023 campaign as the Warriors traveled nearly 5,000 miles to Honolulu for a season-opening meet against #9 Hawaii Pacific. Along with the Sharks, the Warriors battled three other nationally-ranked opponents in their second season of competition and earned a pair victories over Caldwell and a win at Stevenson. On Senior Day against #5 Gannon, ESU recorded its first perfect 10 score in the Open Heat of the Pyramid Event and highest point total in program history at 249.390.

ESU Acrobatics & Tumbling

WARRIORS FIELD HOCKEY HONORED AT THE WHITE HOUSE ESU’s field hockey team was honored by President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden for their 2022 national championship on the South Lawn of the White House. The Warriors were among the NCAA men's and women's national championship teams being recognized on June 12, 2023, as part of "College Athlete Day".

During the 2022 season, the Warriors captured their second NCAA Division II championship and third PSAC title while also setting the program record for wins after finishing with a record of 20-2. esualumni.org 29 Alumni Herald Spring Summer 2023_Inside v4.indd 29

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CLASS NOTES ’80

’82

’83

’

JANET LOEPER SCULL ’82 Retired in 2020 after 34 years of teaching at the Schuylkill Valley School District in Leesport, Pa. She was the district’s speech/ language pathologist. In 2021, she was voted the Pennsylvania Retired Teacher Volunteer of the Year for her 500 hours of volunteer work with Keystone Military Families, which provides food and household supplies to veterans and their families. She resides in Reading, Pa. DR. GLEN WAINEN ’82 M’85 Is an orthopedic surgeon and is affiliated with Advocare Skylands Orthopedics, serving patients in N.J. Distinguished as a Fellow of the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons (FAAOS), he is board-certified in orthopedic surgery by the American Board of Orthopedic Surgery (ABOS). As a competitive gymnast, Dr. Wainen was honored as the New Jersey Junior Olympic Ring Champion. He has also been the recipient of the Compassionate Doctor Recognition (2018, 2016, 2014, 2011), and the Patients’ Choice Award (2018, 2015, 2014, 2011). When he’s not assisting patients with fracture repair and general orthopedics, he also enjoys woodworking, strength training, and motorcycling. He resides in Hackettstown, N.J.

1980s

WILLIAM ANDREW LENEWEAVER ’81 Known to most as Andy, he is retiring after over 40 years of employed service to the community, state, and nation. Andy is a retired U.S. Army Colonel, having served on active duty, in the Guard, and in the Reserve. He is a retired federal senior civilian employee of the Guard and a retired Washington state civilian employee.

Add to this, 50 years of volunteer service to the community, overlapping his employed service-various emergency service events, and Community Day in Upper Dublin, Pa. His volunteerism includes firefighting with the Fort Washington Fire Company, youth sports coach, Cub Scout/Boy Scout adult leader, leadership to historical societies, and supporting Tacoma, Wash. firefighters. Andy was inducted into the Upper Dublin High School Alumni Hall of Fame to honor his selfless and significant community, government, and military service. He resides in Tacoma, Wash.

’82

1980s

’81

JIM VILLANI ’80 Was recently inducted into the Lehigh Valley-Pocono Sports Hall of Fame. His football success started at Liberty High School in Bethlehem, Pa., where he accounted for over 2,450 yards. He transferred to ESU in 1977 from West Virginia University. At ESU, he played as quarterback, receiver and punted in the 1978 and 1979 seasons before entering the NFL draft after his junior season. He signed with the Seattle Seahawks the day of the 1980 NFL draft. In 1984, he signed with the Michigan Panthers in the United States Football League.

During the 1987 season, he was signed by both the New York Jets and the Philadelphia Eagles.

Jim always treasured his time playing football for Coach Denny Douds at ESU. Jim and his wife Annette ’79, have been married for 43 years and met at ESU in 1977. They have two children, Carla, and Richie, and five grandchildren. The couple resides in Bethlehem, Pa.

DR. DOUGLAS ARNOLD M’83 Was inducted into the Pleasant Valley School District’s Hall of Fame for his many achievements in the community. Arnold has chaired the Salvation Army advisory board, West End Park and Open Space Commission, Penn State Extension, and serves as a committee chairman for Big Brothers/Big Sisters. He was Pleasant Valley’s Superintendent of Schools prior to retirement. He is currently the executive director of the National Association of Pupil Services Administrators. He was inducted into the East Stroudsburg Area School District Meritorious Hall of Fame in 2008.

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’

’

’83

’91 ’93

ANDREW NIEBEL ’89 Has served in the United States Marine Corps for over 30 years and was selected for Brigadier General in 2021 after a distinguished career serving our nation in both peace and combat operations. Niebel and his wife, Joann ’89, are currently stationed in Camp Lejeune, N.C. RENÉE RUBINO, ESQ. ’91 Joined law firm Bressler, Amery & Ross P.C. as a business development specialist. She has practiced law for over 20 years before serving as her previous firm’s marketing and business development partner. Rubino earned an MBA from Centenary University in 2022 and fully transitioned into law firm business development.

She resides in Warren County, N.J. KELLY COCKSHAW ’93 Has been appointed as the new director of leadership and innovation at the United Way of Chester County, located in Exton, Pa. She brings more than 20 years of experience in marketing and program development to this role.

She resides in Malvern, Pa. with her husband, two sons, and two dogs.

1990s

WILLIAM SCOTT BENOIT ’85 Participated in a cross-country bike ride fundraiser in June 2022.

The Race Across America took over seven days to complete, starting in Oceanside, Calif., and ending in Annapolis, Md. The proceeds from the event supported Guardian Revival, a non-profit which raises awareness and provides mental health resources for veterans and first responders. He resides in Santa Monica, Calif.

’89

JOAN LIPTROT ’88 Is the new director of international and off-campus programs at McDaniel College located in Westminster, Md. She has over 30 years of experience in education and has worked with students and adults across the country and around the world promoting lifelong learning through service, leadership, and cultural exploration. Liptrot studied early childhood and elementary education at ESU, and resides in Bristol, Pa.

1980s

’85

ERIC WYATT ’85 Was named president and CEO of Norms Restaurants, a 21-unit Southern California family-dining brand. Wyatt serves on the ESU Foundation Board of Directors. He resides in Philadelphia, Pa., with wife Bonnie ‘86.

’88

1980s

’85

GINA MARIE SISBARRO ’83 Was inducted into Marquis Who’s Who, a publication which celebrates the legacies of distinguished professionals since 1898. A longtime theater actor and director, she is distinguished for her visionary leadership as the owner and creative director of Sisbarro Acting Studio, an organization she founded in 2014. In this capacity, she is responsible for marketing the company, training staff, directing, teaching, and mentoring young people ranging from elementary to college age, writing materials for stage plans, and running a summer camp. Adjacent to her artistic and educational pursuits, she is co-owner and sales manager for Marco Office Supply & Printing and the founder and owner of Marco Mystery and History Ghost Tours of Marco Island.

Though her career has been filled with many memorable moments, she is especially proud of the impactful work she has embarked upon with youth, teens, and young adults. Dedicated to creating opportunities for children, she enjoys employing her students at her theater; they have served as assistant directors and work for her office supply company. Her love for young people even inspired her to write a children’s book, “Booey and the Bug,” which was published in 2016. She resides in Marco Island, Fla.

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’93

NATALIE IRULA ’22 Has joined TCB Promotions as a marketing assistant. With honors, she graduated ESU with a bachelor’s degree in English, a concentration in Creative Writing, and a minor in Philosophy. She resides in Stroudsburg, Pa.

2020s

’22 2000s

’09

STEVE WHITE ’09 Was promoted to senior software development manager at Little League. In his new role, he will provide expertise and guidance in the development, integration, and support for complex software systems for the entire organization. He joined the Little League team in 2016 as a programmer analyst. He resides in Mifflinburg, Pa.

’15

BRANDON PENTZ ’15 Accepted the position of recreation program supervisor for Muhlenberg Township, Pa. Prior to his current role, he interned with the Berks County Parks Department and worked as an environmental educator for the Lancaster and York County parks departments.

Pentz studied Recreation Services Management at ESU. He resides in Harrisburg, Pa.

2010S

’08

JAIME L. PULA, PHD, RDN ’01 Released her new book, ‘Rise Above: A Playbook On How-To Keep Energy Flowing’ as a tribute to her father, who died of Covid pneumonia in the summer of 2021. Dr. Pula is the founder and chief wellness officer of Art of Health Sciences, LLC and resides in Woolwich Township, N.J. with her husband, two sons, and Sheprador.

GEORGE COURIDES ’08 M’15 Was named the University of South Florida’s head football strength and conditioning coach. He was a member of the rugby team at ESU, helping the team win the 2007 Eastern Pennsylvania Rugby Union (EPRU) title. Courides resides in Tampa, Fla.

’10

JENNA TRACH ’10 Was promoted to human resources director at Via of the Lehigh Valley.

She will supervise the overall administration, coordination, and evaluation of the human resources department and programs, including employee relations, training, recruitment, benefits, affirmative action, and employment policy. Trach has been with Via since 2018. She resides in Whitehall, Pa.

1990s

’01

ANDREA HOWER ’93 Purchased a class ring to celebrate her ESU graduation. Three years later her house was robbed, and her ring was stolen. Recently, the evidence room was being cleaned out at the Stroud Area Regional Police Department and her ring was found in a bag with no paperwork attached to it. She was contacted via Facebook after seeing her maiden name engraving and her ring was returned to her 27 years later!

TERWILLIGER ’07, COMP ’93 HONORED AT HALL OF FAME BANQUET

Former ESU star quarterback and current Warriors head football coach, Jimmy Terwilliger ’07, and PIAA state championship coach Bret Comp ’93, were honored on May 5, 2023, at the 42nd annual National Football and College Hall of Fame Lehigh Valley spring dinner and Hall of Fame induction ceremony. The banquet was held in Bethlehem, Pa. At the National Football and College Hall of Fame Lehigh Valley banquet were, from left, J. Michael Terwilliger ’78, Jimmy Terwilliger ’07, Bret Comp ’93 and ESU football former head coach Dennis Douds.

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FORMER ESU COACH RECEIVES GYMNASTICS HONORS AWARD

Longtime gymnastics coach at ESU, Bruno Klaus, received the 2022 Honor Coach Award presented by the College Gymnastics Association.

Klaus has coached gymnastics for more than 25 years and has been recognized for his hard work and passion for gymnastics throughout the years.

In 1961, he was the NCAA Champion on the horizontal bar and the vault the following year as well as a member of the 1962 World Championship squad.

In his 31 years of coaching, Klaus has produced 92 NCAA All-American gymnasts. His ESU teams won the USAG Collegiate National Championships in 1984, 1987, 1988 and three of his teams have been inducted into the ESU Athletic Hall of Fame.

Bruno Klaus competing as a gymnast.

Bruno Klaus at International Gymnastics Camp.

Klaus continues his gymnastics coaching and dedication at International Gymnastics Camp in Bartonsville, Pa. Klaus has owned the camp for 50 years where he oversees the next generation of aspiring gymnasts and hosts training camps for them. He is also a member of the ESU Council of Trustees.

ALUMNA SEWS DRESSES FOR GIRLS AROUND THE WORLD

Harriet Hall ’56 began sewing dresses for girls living in third-world countries in 2018 under a program called “Dress a Girl Around the World.” Harriet would even include a doll stuffed inside the dresses’ pocket for the child to cherish. She later became affiliated with a group in Orlando, Fla. called “Dressed in Hope,” who sent their dresses to needy girls in the United States. This organization and others depended on world travelers and missionaries to carry the dresses to needed areas, which came to a halt in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Harriet decided to start a program called “Pocket Pals,” and formed a relationship with the Ukrainian Catholic Church in St. Petersburg. Pocket Pals donated over 100 dresses to the church. The dresses were sent to orphanages in Poland, where Ukrainian children were safely living.

Recently, Pocket Pals began a relationship with two nearby towns in Ruskin and Wimauma, Fla. Both communities have large pockets of migrant farm workers. Harriet reached out to the Beth-El Farm Workers Ministry in Wimauma who have multiple programs serving children, and this group recently welcomed Pocket Pal’s first supply of dresses and dolls.

Harriet Hall ’56 displays several of the dresses and dolls she has made for various children’s programs.

Harriet is full of gratitude and thanks everyone who has supported the program by way of material and supply donations. Currently, she is the only one sewing dresses. Harriet invites anyone interested in sewing dresses to please contact the ESU Foundation by calling 570-422-3333 or emailing esufoundation@esufoundation.org. Staff will connect you with Harriet. Your support will help Pocket Pals continue to spread joy throughout the world to children who need it the most.

BIRTHS SEND US YOUR CLASS NOTES Paul Novak ’15 and his wife Jessica welcomed their daughter, Margot Ann Novak, on March 17, 2023. The family resides in Jacksonville, Fla.

FAX 570-422-3213 PHONE 570-422-3613 EMAIL alumni@esufoundation.org NOTE: We publish alumni accomplishments and news of marriages and births, but not engagements or pregnancies. Please note the editorial staff makes every effort to publish the information submitted as it was received.

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MEMORIAM DR. BARBARA JUNE WILKIE JANUARY 20, 2023 Barbara June Wilkie, 88, of Chesapeake, Va., formerly of Newville, Pa., was born in Richmond, Va., to the late Joseph C. and Frances E. Stephan Wilke.

She earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Richmond in 1963, a master’s degree from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro in 1966, and a Doctorate in Education from West Virginia University in 1982.

From 1968 to 1991, Dr. Wilkie served on the faculty of ESU. During her tenure, she was appointed chair of the Basic Physical Education Department in 1972 and developed a curriculum for Lifetime Sports and Fitness courses. She taught a great variety of these activities herself as professor of Physical Education and served as supervisor of many off-campus sports activities at local community venues. She was ESU’s women’s tennis coach from 1968 to 1985. In 1974-75, she received an award as Most Outstanding Educator. She was promoted to a full-time professor in 1982 and retired as Faculty Emeritus in 1991. After her retirement, she volunteered in local elementary schools, tutoring students in reading, math, language, and physical skills.

Dr. Wilkie is survived by her identical twin sister, Betty W. Powell, four nieces and four nephews. She was preceded in death by her sister, Gertrude W. Bolton; two brothers, Joseph “Bud” and Richard “Dick” Wilkie; and nephew Richard “Skip” Powell.

GERTRUDE “TRUDY” PIATT MAY 27, 2023 Gertrude Piatt, 81, of East Stroudsburg, Pa., was born in Wilkes-Barre, Pa., to the late William and Olga Horlacher Downs.

Even though she did not graduate from East Stroudsburg University, Piatt was an active member of the university community. Her husband Jake Piatt ’61 played football as an ESU student, and upon his passing, she made a commitment to the ESU Foundation to ensure that the Turf Project was completed, the Dr. Cummings A. “Jake” Piatt Memorial Endowed Scholarship was strengthened, and that Jake’s legacy would forever live on campus through the naming of the President’s Box at the Eiler-Martin Stadium.

Piatt received the ESU Alumni Association’s Conrad “Skip” Idukas Service Award in 2017, which recognized her exceptional volunteer service to the university and the ESU Alumni Association.

Piatt is survived by her twin sister, Barbara Ginocchio, and brother-in-law, Peter Ginocchio.

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DR. FRANK MICHAEL PULLO ’73 M’76 FEBRUARY 7, 2023 Dr. Frank Michael Pullo, 71, of East Stroudsburg, Pa., received his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from ESU and began his career here in 1978. He served the university in many capacities, including chair of the Department of Sport Management from its inception in 2004, chair of the former Department of Movement Studies and Exercise Science, interim dean of the School of Health Science and Human Performance (now the College of Health Sciences), advisor to the power lifting club, and founded and was the first faculty advisor of the sport management club.

He served as vice president and president of the ESU Alumni Association and as vice chair of the ESU Foundation Board. In 2012, Dr. Pullo was named Distinguished Professor, and retired from ESU in 2014.

Born on October 21, 1951, in Easton, Pa., he was the son of Michael and Grace Pullo. On December 2, 1990, he married Nancy (Auker) who survives at home along with his forever companion, sheepdog Emily. He is also survived by his sister, Maria, and husband Doug, and several cousins.

The Frank Michael Pullo ’73 M’76 Memorial Endowed Scholarship has been established in his honor.

DR. CHARLES F. WIEDER JANUARY 22, 2023 Dr. Charles F. Wieder, 87, of Englewood, Fla., was a graduate of Muhlenberg College (where he set a record in the pole vault) and Lehigh University. Dr. Wieder went on to become the director of the Student Teaching Program at ESU. He enjoyed singing, tennis, golf, gardening, watching football, and spending time with his large family at the beach. He will always be remembered for putting smiles on those faces around him with his quick wit and times shared being “Elvis” or “Santa.”

Dr. Wieder is greatly missed by Renie (Irene Mohr), his wife of 40 years; son Charles Wieder; daughters, Jane Player, and Gail (and Todd ‘05) Urland; Kristin Patt and Brad (and Katie) Patt; 16 grandchildren and 15 great grandchildren. He was predeceased by parents Earle and Marion (Newcomer) Wieder, brother Earle Wieder, and former wife Virginia Slocum.

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ALUMNI

CHRISTINE ROHR-THOMPSON ’73 DECEMBER 26, 2022 Christine Rohr-Thompson, 71, of Plumsteadville, Pa., served the ESU Alumni Association Board of Directors for eight years, completing her term as vice president in June 2022.

During her tenure, she started the Bucks Montgomery Alumni Chapter and served on many committees.

During college, she was president of the Alpha Sigma Alpha sorority at ESU and excelled in field hockey, basketball, and lacrosse. After earning her bachelor’s degree in early childhood education, she taught elementary school children in the Central Bucks School District for many years before finishing her teaching career as a school librarian.

In 2010, Rohr-Thompson had a library annex in Butler Elementary School named in her honor.

Rohr-Thompson is survived by her husband, Tommy Thompson; her son, Ryan Rohr Thompson (Lauren); her granddaughter, Lacey Thompson; her three siblings: Aleen McGinty (Brian), John Rohr and Dianne Rohr Devine (Robert); her four nieces: Heather Thompson (Mark), Alicia Sepulveda (Jason), Stephanie Thomas (Ryan), and Ashley Rohr; as well as her nine grandnieces and grandnephews: Haley, Mark Jr., Jackson, Austin, Hannabelle, Lucas, Isabella, Harper and Bailey.

To celebrate Rohr-Thompson’s dedication to ESU and it’s students, the Christine Rohr-Thompson ’73 Memorial Annual Scholarship has been established in her honor.

THOMAS JOHN LESHKO ’57 JANUARY 29, 2023 Thomas “Tom” John Leshko, 87, of Burke, Va., was a retired Navy captain and aviator.

Leshko was on active duty from 1958 to 1985. He served in three aviation squadrons: VW-13, VP-41, and as commanding officer of VP-40. He also served as an instructor at the Naval Aviation Schools Command. His final active-duty assignment was as deputy auditor general of the Navy on the staff of the secretary of the Navy.

Included among his service decorations are two awards for the Legion of Merit, the Meritorious Service Medal, and the Air Medal, awarded for single acts of heroism or meritorious achievement while participating in aerial flight.

Upon retirement from the Navy, he joined the MartinMarietta Corporation (later Lockheed Martin) at their corporate headquarters in Bethesda, Md. There, he served as director of marketing and business development for the Information Systems Group. He retired from this position at Lockheed Martin in 1990. Upon leaving the corporate world, Capt. Leshko worked as a mortgage loan consultant/banker for North American Mortgage Company, Washington Mutual Mortgage, SunTrust Mortgage, and McLean Mortgage in Fairfax, Va. He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Jean of Burke, Va.; two daughters, Jennifer (Dan) Kosko, Burke, Va.; and Jacqueline (Julie Lerner) Leshko, San Diego, Calif.; three grandsons, Corey (Catherine Flaatten) Kosko, Alexandria, Va.; Connor (Allison) Kosko, Alexandria, Va.; Christian (Laura) Kosko, Washington, D.C.; brother, Robert "Bob" Leshko, Sugarloaf Twp.; and several nieces and nephews.

LOIS ARMENTANO ‘65 KIMBERLY A. BADERTSCHER M’01 DARYL D. BERGER BARBARA A. BINKLEY ‘52 DANIEL VAN BILLIARD MARY BUFFINGTON MICHAEL E. BOBBY M’86 MICHAEL J. BUONO ‘77 LORETTA L. CLIFT ‘75 LOUIS P. DELORENZO ‘66 JOHN M. DI FABIO JAMES C. DOTTS ‘95 DAVID S. EDWARDS ‘62 MARY A. EGNOTOVICH ‘69 JOAN ROOS EGNER ‘52 SUSAN E. ELLIS M’91 ROGER J. EVANS ‘60 SANDRA Y. FICKERT ‘75 ERIN R. FLANNERY ENID M. GIUFFRE ‘68 GARY L. HAMILL ‘99 LAUREN A. HARMER ‘18 DAVID W. HEISLER ‘87 WILLIAM F. HOFFMAN ‘63 JOHN M. HUBIAK JOHN KING ‘77 CLAIRE L. KITCHEN ‘43 PATRICK J. KOTULA ‘72 FRANCES A. KOVACH BRUCE KREIDER SANDRA L. LABARRE THEODORE H. LAURENSON ‘62 HARRY LAWROSKI JAYSON W. LEVIN ‘68 HARRY J. LIMONS ‘69 ELSIE M. LINDENMUTH ‘57 DAVID L. LUTZ ‘57 ROSANNE MARBERGER JANET MARSHMAN-WOOLLEY ‘59 PHILIP A. MARTOCCI ‘85 DAVID J. MCCUTCHEON JOHN N. MERLO ‘78 CLYDE C. MESSINGER ‘60 WILLIAM V. MILFORD ‘73 PATRICIA A. MORSE LAUREN E. MYLAND ‘09 TIMOTHY C. NICLAUS ‘07 PAUL M. NOLAN CURT D. PAKUTKA ‘91 MICHAELYN PUCHALSKI ANNA MARIE RUGGIERO WILLIAM A. SCOTT ‘60 JOHN J. SHATON ‘76 ELAINE E. SHELLY ‘50 PATRICIA K. SMITH ‘55 PAUL F. SNYDER ‘68 O. MARYLYN SZAKACS M’91 BARBARA A. STAATS ‘69 WARREN A. SWARTWOOD ‘62 DAWN E. TANNER ‘75 SANDRA E. TERRILL ‘63 MARICLAIRE T. THRESTEN ‘77 CAROLE TORPY ‘61 THEODORE E. URMANEC GERALD E. WALKER ‘63 JAMES C. WALKER ‘90 BETTY B. WEAVER ‘48 JAMES R. WOLFE M’74 CARL M. YOST ‘65 STAFF: GLENN D. WATT

MEMORIAL GIFTS may be made through the ESU Foundation at esufoundation.org/givenow.

For personal assistance, please call 570-422-3333.

In Memoriam reflects alumni, faculty, staff and friends who passed away up to June 26, 2023.

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