Geneva Magazine - Summer 2013 by Geneva College

G SUMMER 2013

GENEVA

MAG A Z I N E

At the

Heart of

I n s t ru c t i o n

“Apply your heart to instruction and your ears to words of knowledge.” Proverbs 23:12

Elizabeth “Liz” Noell Two of Liz’s four children chose to pursue a challenging education at Geneva College—Laura, a 2013 music performance graduate; and Stephen, a junior majoring in biology. And because both Laura and Stephen benefitted from the academic scholarships they received, Liz had been looking for the best means of saying, “Thank you for helping our kids.”

She had also been weighing options for a faithful manner of establishing a memorial for her parents, who had left a life insurance policy in her name. “My children and husband are well taken care of,” explains Liz, “so I wanted to find a suitable way to use that resource to honor the Lord.”

To satisfy both of these considerations, Liz established the Olin S. and Glenna A. Fearing Endowed Scholarship for biology students by naming Geneva as the policy’s beneficiary.

Through founding this scholarship, Liz says she honors her parents by “focusing on the things in which they were interested.” Her father, Olin, was a biologist who was instrumental in building the pre-med program at Trinity University. Her mother, Glenna, had a career in education as a guidance counselor receptionist and teacher. “This scholarship is really their idea, rather than mine.”

If you would like to explore ways that you, too, can pass along your blessings to the current and future students of Geneva through planned giving, please visit geneva.edu/give or contact the Office of Planned Giving at 724.847.6514.

G SUMMER 2013

CONTENTS

At the Heart

o f I n s t ru c t i o n

I N EV E RY ISSUE

IN TH IS ISSU E

From the President

Assets for Education

Take Our Word for It

In Brief

Well Read

Reaching the Unreachable

In Motion

Called by God

Team-Building Exercises

In Service

Absolutely Worth It

Let the Little Children Come

Class Notes

In Conclusion

Geneva Magazine is published two times per year for Geneva College alumni, donors, students and parents. It showcases the college and its constituencies as they strive to fulfill the college’s mission. Opinions expressed in Geneva Magazine are those of its contributors and do not necessarily represent the opinions of the editorial review board or the official position of the college.

Your feedback is greatly EDITOR Greg Wise ’95 appreciated. Please send DESIGNER Kristen Lang your correspondence to EDITORIAL REVIEW BOARD editor@geneva.edu or Dr. ADEl AikEN ’75 Geneva Magazine, Geneva College, Dr. Ken Carson ’79 3200 College Ave., Larry Griffith ’85 Beaver Falls, PA 15010. Cheryl Johnston DR. Jeff Jones Dave Layton ’88 Missy Nyeholt Rebecca (Carson ’85) Phillips DAN WILLIAMS ’07 Van Zanic ’93

G from the president

Discovering the meaningful way that

of Instruction,” are directly

all domains of knowledge relate to

involved in the field of education.

God’s Word is the hallmark of a Geneva

Dr. William Elliott ’95 tests theories

College education. This is the goal of our

about ways to help disadvantaged youth

curriculum—the intentional integration

achieve college degrees (“Assets for

of rigorous academics with Christian

Education,” page 8); Emily Stains ’07

faith. Whether enrolled in traditional

is a high school English teacher

undergraduate classrooms, online adult

(“Absolutely Worth It,” page 14); and Dr.

degree programs, or graduate studies,

Antoinette Eaton ’52 instructs pediatric

our students not only learn subject

residents (“Let the Little Children Come,”

matter, but are also taught how ideas

page 22). But those in ministry, non-

correlate with the inerrant truth

profit work, and even engineering

of Scripture.

are just as qualified to teach.

Geneva’s mission doesn’t end with

As you read these stories, I hope you

developing this understanding, however.

reflect on the ways you influence others

We also seek to “equip students for

through your actions. You may not be a

faithful and fruitful service to God and

gifted educator or work in a classroom.

neighbor.” That is, they are expected to

But remember, you can still “apply your

put their Christian faith into action and

heart to instruction …”

become teachers themselves, sharing

(Proverbs 23:12 NIV).

with others that true understanding comes only from recognizing the

In His grace,

relationship between knowledge and the Lord. A number of alumni and current

Kenneth A. Smith ’80

students featured in this issue of

President

Geneva Magazine, “At the Heart

Stay in touch with President Smith by friending him at facebook.com/genevaprez.

in brief

CAMPUS NEWS

Geneva community breaks world record. Reading Day—Monday, May 6, 2013—marked Geneva’s world record-breaking knockout tournament, as 656 students, faculty, staff and friends lined up to shoot some hoops. After almost three hours of play, junior business major Scott Stewart emerged as the “Dean Smith Ascent to Glory Knockout Tournament” champion. Living up to its title as the “Birthplace of College Basketball,” Geneva College was able to beat the previous record by 70 participants less than a month after it was established by Grove City College. In addition, a total of $740 was raised toward a mission trip to Haiti in partnership with Haiti H20. Named in honor of retiring Bible professor Dr. Dean Smith, the “Dean Smith Ascent to Glory Knockout Tournament” was organized by Dr. Terry Thomas, recipient of the 2011 Excellence

in Teaching award and Professor of Biblical Studies, along with Graduate Assistant in Student Ministries Jimmy Fabrizio and Bible Department Administrative Assistant Debbie Michalik. In knockout, players form a line at the free-throw line on a basketball court. If the first player does not make a basket from the line, the next in line tries to hit the shot before the first player can retrieve the ball and make a layup. If the second player makes the free-throw shot before the first player can score, the first player is out. The game continues until only one player is left.

Rutledge Etheridge fills new Chaplain position. Rutledge “Rut” E. Etheridge III has been named Chaplain, a position that focuses on the spiritual needs of the college community. In this role, Etheridge will assist students, faculty and staff in understanding events as they relate to spiritual and emotional well-being, oversee Geneva’s chapel program, and collaborate with the college’s church relations program and Center for Faith and Practice (CFP).

Conference and the North American Presbyterian and Reformed Churches Reformation Day, and has also been frequently interviewed on Bible Burgh, a radio talk show on 101.5 WORD FM.

As Chaplain, Etheridge will also teach part time in the Department of Bible, Christian Ministries and Philosophy, a duty for which he is well qualified. He has been an Adjunct Professor of Systematic Theology at the Reformed Presbyterian Theological Seminary (RPTS) in Pittsburgh since 2007 and is a former Bible teacher at Heritage Christian School in Indianapolis.

“Having a chaplain is an important part of maintaining a spiritually healthy campus,” noted Geneva President Dr. Kenneth A. Smith. “Rut will be an asset in continuing the strong integration of academics and faith for which Geneva is renowned, as well as an encouragement to the college community in all areas of spiritual development.”

“Broadly speaking, my hope is to be used by God to effectively minister the living Christ to the college family, so that together we’ll be increasingly in awe of His glory and goodness,” said Etheridge. “I really want people to know Christ, to see in Him the perfection of all wisdom, truth and beauty. Toward that end, I hope to build strong, sincere relationships with students and employees by way of personal conversation, chapel ministry and classroom teaching.” In addition, Etheridge possesses pastoral experience, having served at Pittsburgh’s Providence Reformed Presbyterian Church from 2006 until this year. He speaks regularly to many groups and at colleges and conferences, and has been a chapel speaker and guest lecturer at Geneva. Etheridge has spoken at the annual Westminster Confession of Faith Into the 21st Century

Etheridge earned a Master of Divinity at RPTS and a Bachelor of Arts in Comprehensive Bible, with an emphasis on pastoral studies and a minor in the philosophy of religion, at Cedarville College (now Cedarville University) in Cedarville, Ohio. “One of the strongest draws to this position is the opportunity to interact with young adults in crucial times of life formation as they struggle through the big issues of life—the joys, the sorrows, the haunting questions and doubts,” added Etheridge. “I deeply desire for us all to fix our eyes upon the Lord Jesus, to be well equipped to lovingly serve one another and the rest of the world in His name.”

Kudos

DR. ADEL AIKEN ’75, Chair of the Department of Education and Director of the M.Ed. in Reading program, presented “Virtues in Children’s Literature” to the Beaver County Reading Council. DR. TODD ALLEN ’91, Associate Professor of Communication, PROFESSOR MATTHEW FUSS ’94, Assistant Professor of Business, and DR. DENISE MURPHY-GERBER, Associate Professor of Business, co-presented “Teaching the Course in Business and Professional Communication” at the 2013 Eastern Communication Association Convention. DR. RALPH ANCIL, Associate Professor of Economics, published numerous economic articles in the online journal The Imaginative Conservative (www.theimaginativeconservative.org), as well as the chapter “The Ideology of Growth and Self-Interest” in The Culture of Immodesty in American Life and Politics: The Modest Republic (Palgrave Macmillan, 2013). DR. DAVID CHE, Associate Professor of Engineering, presented “Common Grace and Engineering” at the 2013 Christian Engineering Conference. DR. LUTITIA CLIPPER ’75 (MSOL ’00), Adjunct Professor of Leadership Studies, was named a 2013 Woman of Excellence by New Pittsburgh Courier. PROFESSOR KATHRYN DONALDSON, Adjunct Professor of Voice and Director of Music for the Chapel Program, and her husband Sean were guest soloists at the Royal Albert Hall in London, England. They performed in Prom Praise, a concert sponsored by London’s All Soul’s Church. DR. DAVID ESSIG, Associate Professor of Biology and Cardiovascular Technology Program Coordinator, along with junior biology major Caleb Leibee, presented “Bioinformatic Characterization of a Novel Lantibiotic Biosynthetic Gene Cluster in Pedobacter heparinus” at the 34th Annual Western Pennsylvania Biology Undergraduate Research Symposium. DR. CAROL LUCE, Director of the M.A. in Counseling program, co-presented “Improving Behavioral Health Treatment for Older Adults through Professional Collaboration” at the 2013 Pennsylvania Psychological Association Conference. DR. MITCHEL NICKOLS, Adjunct Professor of Leadership Studies, was named an Urban Hero by Pittsburgh’s Center for Urban Biblical Ministry (CUBM). PROFESSOR STEPHANIE SCHINDEL ’90, Assistant Professor of Psychology, received the Magic Makers Award from Big Brothers Big Sisters of Beaver County for a cooperative program that she developed.

Board approves updated mission statement. The work of the Committee to Update Geneva’s Mission Statement has come to an end. Two years ago, the Board of Trustees appointed the committee to formulate a studentfocused statement that differentiates Geneva College; guides the institution’s decisions and initiatives; and is memorable, measurable, and motivating. The revised statement, which was approved by the Board in May, is:

Geneva College is a Christ-centered academic community that provides a comprehensive education to equip students for faithful and fruitful service to God and neighbor. The committee wrote in its final report to the board, “… we believe it is clear, understandable, and focused on students. Further, its emphases on Christ, comprehensive education (encompassing our liberal arts tradition coupled with specific disciplinary preparation), and service to God and neighbor are consistent with the Charter, Bylaws, and Foundational Concepts of Christian Education. During the process of forming the updated statement, the committee sought input from all of Geneva’s constituencies, including students, faculty, alumni, donors, staff, parents, trustees and corporators. Several versions of the statement were developed and refined through a number of broad surveys and open meetings. Dr. Ken Smith ’80, President of Geneva and a member of the committee, stressed that although the wording of the mission statement has been revised, the college’s mission has not: “We do what we do because of what we are, not because of what we say we are. The updated mission statement does not redirect the college, but captures— in clear and biblical language—what Geneva does.” The other committee members were: Andrew Bernard ’83, Trustee; Nick Bloom ’10; Dr. Jim Dittmar ’76, Chair of the Department of Leadership Studies; Bill Edgar, Trustee; Kylie (Gardner ’12) Gibbons; Dr. Jeff Jones, Vice President of Advancement; Missy Nyeholt, Director for the Center for Faith and Practice; Dr. John Stahl ’79, Chair of the Department of Chemistry, Math and Physics; and Rosanna Weissert, parent of a current student.

The John Paul Schaefer Memorial Observatory is complete.

in brief

After years of planning and preparation, the John Paul Schaefer Memorial Observatory is finally a reality. This long-awaited addition will enhance learning in astronomy courses; serve as a valuable resource for math, physics and engineering student projects; and be made available to a wide audience for observation sessions, lectures on astronomical topics of general interest and special events. “The facility will be used for astronomical research—primarily for the detection of exoplanets, which are planets orbiting other stars, and for observations of comets and asteroids whose orbits bring them into the vicinity of the Earth, collectively known as nearearth objects or NEOs,” explained Professor of Mathematics and Astronomy Dr. John Stein. Dr. Stein has been involved with the project since 1995 along with retired Professor of Physics John Schaefer, whose father is the building’s namesake. Later joined by Physical Plant Director Jeff Lydic and former physics professor Keith Willson ’90, the group obtained a Meade RXC-400 telescope and eventually raised enough funds for the construction of the buildings and additional research instrumentation. “With gifts from the estate of Professor Schaefer’s father, gifts from alumni like Walter Zuberbuhler ’42, some faculty contributions and a series of major gifts from the Extrasolar Planetary Foundation, we reached our goal last fall,” said Dr. Stein.

along with a control shed to house computers and electrical and Internet hubs, as well as provide storage for portable telescopes.

Located near the 33rd Street Baseball Field, the facility consists of an observatory building with a traditional 10-foot diameter dome,

For more information about the John Paul Schaefer Memorial Observatory, contact Dr. Stein at jstein@geneva.edu.

Geneva names Joye Huston as Board of Trustees Chair. Geneva College is pleased to announce Joye Huston as the new Chair of the Board of Trustees. She is the first female in the college’s history to be named to this position, and has been a member of the board since 2009. According to Huston, the board’s goals are to provide stable and positive direction to Geneva, as well as support recruitment efforts. “People are your greatest resource,” she said, and she plans to help the college’s administration maximize strengths and facilitate the best work possible.

Huston has been a member of the American Nurses Association since 1965 and currently serves on various boards in her community. As a past Chair of the F.W. Huston Medical Center Board of Directors, she aided in the revival of the hospital: “I didn’t know if we could keep it open, but I had to try.” In recognition of this effort, she was awarded the 2003 Jefferson County Economic Development Leadership Award. Huston is a retired Registered Nurse and former CEO of F.W. Huston Medical Center in Winchester, KS. After earning a Master of Science in Nursing from Winchester State University, she worked for 43 years as a nurse and hospital administrator at Lawrence Memorial Hospital, Stormont Vail Healthcare, Colmery-O’Neil Veterans Administration and F.W. Huston Medical Center. She and husband David have three children and many grandchildren. Huston is a more-than-50-year member of the Winchester Reformed Presbyterian church, where she has been a women’s Bible study group leader since 1994. Huston is currently working on a book that will be a tribute to her mother.

in motion

athletic news BY VAN ZANIC ’93

p en

2012-13

Rocco Colavecchia scores four touchdowns as

Geneva’s football team upsets Thomas More 50-48 in triple overtime in what turned out to be the highest scoring game in Geneva football history.

In his 25th year at Geneva College, Head Men’s Basketball Coach Jeff Santarsiero receives induction into the National Christian College Athletic Association (NCCAA) Hall of Fame.

Junior Christine Bullock finishes the 2012 season with an overall singles record of 9-3 and caps her season with a trip to the Presidents’ Athletic Conference (PAC) #5 singles

flight championship.

The men’s soccer team returns to the PAC title game for the second consecutive season as Bryan Butler, Teddy Krzywiecki, Jeb Nash and Jon Mathoslah were all named first team All-PAC.

Freshmen Laura Beck and Samantha Johnson named first team All-PAC. Beck is named an NCCAA All-American as Geneva’s softball team returns to the PAC title game for the second consecutive season and qualifies for the NCCAA

national tournament for the second time in three years.

Nick Edinger smashes the Geneva College cross country 8K record by over a minute

with his time of 24:23 at Oberlin College. Edinger finished his career with All-PAC first team honors as well as National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division III All-Region recognition.

Mike Jeffreys was named a PAC First-Team selection while also garnering NCCAA East region pitcher and player of the year honors. Jeffreys was also named an NCAA Division III All-Region recipient for

Jeffreys has signed a professional contract with the Kansas City Royals.

a year in which he led the Geneva baseball team with a .414 batting average while also breaking the single season record for strikeouts with 106 this past spring. Geneva’s cross country duo on the women’s side each broke the 6K record

3 A trio of Geneva College track and field student-athletes took home PAC titles at the conference championship meet. Nick Edinger cruised to his first PAC title in the 5000 meter event while Tyler French won the shot put and Alayna10 Merkle took home the top prize in the women’s 1500 meter race.

on the same day. On a day when the women’s cross country team dominated the field with five of the top 15 finishes at Oberlin College, Sarah-Noel Meek and Alayna Merkle each broke the school record with Meek finishing first. Teammates Emily Hoobler, Shannon Rech and Anna Kluitenberg contributed to the fastest average time of 23:16 in women’s cross country history.

A total of 90 student-athletes were recognized during the 2012-13 school year as members of the PAC Academic Honor Roll with at least a 3.6 GPA. In addition, 50 juniors and seniors were honored as members of the Geneva Athletic Director Academic Award with at least a 3.2 cumulative GPA, which was the highest total since 2008.

At the Heart

o f I n s t ru c t i o n

Assets for Education By G r e g W i s e ’ 95

To those from financially disadvantaged families, a college education can sometimes seem beyond reach.This is a sentiment with which Dr.William “Willie” Elliott III ’95 can relate—and is also a concern that he works to diminish through researching the relationship between children’s savings and college success. Raised in Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania,Willie grew up during the decline of the steel industry. His family, along with many others, faced tough economic circumstances.Willie’s father struggled through layoffs, his mother worked multiple jobs, and the Elliotts even experienced periods of homelessness. However, God used these challenges to focus Willie’s desire to help others.“Growing up poor, I always wanted to do something that would help poor children; that would help poor people change their lot in life,” he says. Shortly after his sophomore year in high school, which was when he became a Christian, his aspiration to help others led Willie to drop out of school and establish a mission in Beaver Falls serving alcoholics. But despite leaving school, his newfound faith would also have long-term implications on his educational journey.“It was during this time that I learned to study and value reading,” he says. “At this point it was pretty much only the Bible that I studied— but I literally studied for hours.” Willie soon realized that the mission he started wasn’t his life’s calling, however: “After working there for a while I knew I needed to continue my education, but also knew that I did not want my education to be separate from my faith.” So he earned his GED and enrolled at Geneva because, he says, the school provided “the

“ 8

opportunity for a strong Christian education and really fit where I was in my life.” He has many fond memories these days,“sitting in the library in one of the back rows reading philosophy, sociology and psychology books; small gatherings that Dr. Mattsson-Bozé had at his house with several students discussing different sociological and political issues; and vibrant discussions in the classrooms that allowed for God as part of the topic of discussion.” According to Willie,“Geneva taught me how to study as an academic, gave me a strong base to work from academically and provided me with the environment where my spiritual growth could continue.” He attributes much of this to philosophy professor Dr. Byron Bitar, in whose memory the annual Bitar Memorial Lecture Series was established:“He really stretched my thinking. I still rely on things I learned in his classes for guiding my thoughts and the way I try to live my life.” After graduating,Willie entered law school for a time, but economic difficulty found him once again and he withdrew to join the military. Not to be deterred, however,Willie eventually went on to earn his master’s degree in 2005 and Ph.D. in 2008, both from the George Warren Brown School of Social Work at Washington University in St. Louis. Today,Willie is recognized as a leading researcher in the field of children’s assets and educational outcomes and serves as a Senior Research Fellow in the Asset Building Program of the New America Foundation, which is “a nonprofit, nonpartisan public policy institute that invests in new thinkers and new ideas to address the next generation of challenges facing the United States.”

Geneva taught me how to study as an academic, gave me a strong base to work from academically and provided me with the environment where my spiritual growth could continue.

“

He is an Associate Professor at the University of Kansas’ School of Social Welfare; a member of the Research Working Group of Child and Youth Finance International; and Director of the Assets and Education Initiative, founded by Willie to “study innovations related to assets and economic well-being with a focus on the relationship between children’s savings and the educational outcomes of lowincome and minority children as a way to achieve the American Dream.” He serves on the Editorial Board for the Journal of Children and Poverty, and his writing and work have been featured in several major media outlets. Willie is also a faculty associate for both the Center for Race and Social Problems at the University of Pittsburgh and the Center for Social Development (CSD) at Washington University. Research designed and conducted for CSD by Willie, along with Sondra Beverly, found that among youth who expected to graduate from a four-year college, those with a savings account in their name were approximately seven times more likely to attend college than those with no account.

EDUCATION AND

AVINGS

If students have a tangible place to store funds, they are more likely to attend four-year colleges than youths with no savings.

“Children’s savings accounts are part of a life-long strategy for improving educational outcomes, as well as the long-term financial health of families,” explains Willie.“We have a collective interest in the educational attainment of American children. Innovative ways to help children and their families accumulate savings to pay for college, while building on the positive effects of fostering individual ownership and students’ stake in higher education, deserve our attention.” Additionally,Willie has conducted research on The Pittsburgh Promise, a scholarship program for Pittsburgh Public School students with which Geneva has established a partnership through a matching grant program.Through the Pittsburgh Promise, qualifying students receive up to $10,000 for undergraduate higher education. “Think about how Promise programs can be combined with savings programs, which provide additional effects like connecting children to the mainstream banking institutions, providing them with the opportunity to not only learn about financial education but to practice what they are learning, provide a mechanism for lifelong saving, and build expectations for college even among those who might not feel as though the standards of the Pittsburgh Promise are within reach for them,” he says. Willie knows how much of a difference attending Geneva College made in his life—and wants other underprivileged youth to have that same opportunity for life-changing higher education. Beyond the results of his research,Willie’s example of educational success can also help students facing financial hardship, letting them know that they can overcome their difficult situations, earn college degrees and establish financial security for their families.After all, if he could go from being a homeless high school dropout to a premier college professor who provides for wife Michelle and children Jordan, Michelle and Michael, they can, too. But that’s not the only example Willie hopes to set for others:“God is ever present in my life, teaching me to continue to strive to be a testimony at a secular college, to have people see that whatever they are doing, they should do it unto the glory of God.” G

Studies have shown savings are linked to expectations of high school graduation, academic achievement, and pursuit of postsecondary education.

Even modest-sized savings and asset holdings have the potential to alter the way people think about the future, which can lead to productive changes in behavior. Source: Reid Cramer, William Elliott, “To Limit Debt, Promote Savings” Inside Higher Ed, February 10, 2012

At the Heart

o f I n s t ru c t i o n

Well Read by M o nica M i l l e r ’12 Transitioning to life after college can be tough for some, but Laura (Seyler ’04, M.Ed. in Reading ’08) Bisping felt well prepared for the next stage of her life. She interviewed for a teaching position during the last semester of her undergraduate study at Geneva College, and was hired as a full-time classroom teacher soon after earning her degree in elementary education. Laura says she is thankful for an interviewing course that she took from Dr. D. Gayle Copeland ’78, and also credits the strong reading core that Geneva’s education program provided her. After her interview, Laura was told that she was the candidate with the best foundation in teaching reading. “I knew after my first year of teaching that I wanted to get my master’s degree, and that I especially loved teaching reading,” she says. Laura soon began master’s coursework at a state university near her home and, because of her interest in reading, she chose to pursue certification as a reading specialist. During the first semester of her graduate work, however, she realized that the classroom at the public university was much

different from her undergraduate experience at Geneva. “After teaching in a public school all day and then attending classes at a public university in the evening, I felt a longing to go back to the days of being challenged and encouraged to connect my profession with my Christian worldview as I had done all throughout my time at Geneva.” So she spoke with a friend who was enrolled in Geneva’s graduate program and soon contacted one of her favorite professors, Reading Program Director Dr. Adel Aiken ’75, to learn more. “Dr. Aiken changed my life. She instilled a love and knowledge for reading in me. She is a teacher that impacts lives and is not just a teacher of academics. She poured into our lives.” Although Geneva’s campus is far from Laura’s home in Armstrong County, the college’s hybrid classes and a grant convinced Laura to transfer. “I spent a lot of time praying about making the move and I felt that it was really what God wanted me to do,” she says. “I can honestly say it was one of the best decisions I have ever made.”

Reading skills correspond directly to one’s ability to… Source: National Endowment for the Arts – “To Read or Not to Read”; corroborated by “Adult Literacy in America” a report from the National Center for Educational Statistics

be an informed citizen

communicate effectively

earn a higher salary

achieve personal fulfillment

“

I felt a longing to go back to the days of being challenged and encouraged to connect my profession with my Christian worldview.

“

Geneva’s hybrid format of online and in-person classes provided Laura with the perfect balance throughout her coursework. Although the drive was farther than the state school near her home, she only had to drive to Beaver Falls every other week during the academic year, and only a few weeks in the summer. “The hybrid classes are a perfect balance of interaction and convenience for busy professionals,” she says. Because Geneva’s education program has a strong component in reading, Laura has been able to structure her courses to encompass all types of literature and make reading fun. “Dr. Aiken taught us to instill reading aloud to kids,” she says. “We learned that motivation is such a big part of reading. I have seen it make such a big difference. My students now want to hear good stories, and read good stories.” Laura also values the Christ-centered education that Geneva provided her. “The greatest blessing has been my experience with Christian, caring professors and other likeminded colleagues in the program. The education professors are not just teachers at Geneva; they are mentors and friends.” That personal care displayed by the faculty continued into her graduate program experience. “The professors were very willing to work with me individually so that the program was doable despite my being an hour and a half away from campus,” she says. “I feel really blessed with how Geneva has worked with me.”

Although Laura now teaches at a public school where she cannot openly talk about her faith, she teaches her students positive characteristics both inside and outside of the classroom— treat others the way you want to be treated and put others ahead of yourself. Laura’s favorite verses are Colossians 3:23-24, “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.” And working for the children with all her heart is what she does. Even when not in school, Laura’s heart is always with her students. Some of her pupils also attend Laura’s church, where they are able to see her lead and pray for them in a different type of classroom. Her involvement in the community displays what she stands for and the students and parents know what she believes. Laura places a high value in the education and instruction that she was given throughout her time at Geneva, saying that it made her the teacher and woman that she is today. “I consider myself so blessed to have spent seven years of my life studying education at Geneva College from caring, knowledgeable professors who have helped me to see the link between education and my relationship to Christ, as well as helped me to grow as an individual.” G

At the Heart

o f I n s t ru c t i o n

Called by God By A dam R ow e ’14 Those who were freshmen at Geneva College in the fall of

“Fred has been not only very influential, but a great visionary leader for our church,” he explains. “He’s showed me a great example, in terms of being a pastor.”

2006 might recognize AJ Platt’s name. They all saw it, printed on the front of You Are Called by God, one of the required class readings. AJ, the Executive Pastor at Youngstown, Ohio’s Trinity Fellowship Church, has authored seven theological books to compliment his spiritual ministries, leading not only his

Rev. Mayhew was the one who started the church in 1984, when it originally met in a high school auditorium. A 1,000-seat sanctuary was built in 1999, and has been expanded over the years. As the church grew in numbers, AJ grew in his education.

congregation, but his readership. AJ has been at his church longer than many pastors: he first started attending during high school when a friend invited him, met his wife in youth group and has been on the pastoral staff since 2000.

“The single biggest thing that Geneva’s Adult Degree Completion Program did for me was to open up the possibility for higher learning and higher education,” AJ says. After earning his bachelor’s degree from Geneva in 2005, he went on to seminary, achieved a Master of Divinity degree and is now working on a doctorate at Knox Seminary in Fort Lauderdale.

“It was funny, because I remember walking into church for the first time, after having been reading my Bible, and seeing how happy people seemed to be there, and just how full of life it was. I thought, ‘This seems like the way people ought to do church.’ For me, that sealed the deal, and I started attending here when I was a teenager,” he recalls, adding, “Been here ever since.”

“I don’t think I realized at all at the time that that would even be of interest to me,” he says of his career path, one that unfolded for him “directly through the degree completion program. I wouldn’t even have thought I could do it, to be honest with you. The level of work definitely prepared me for the future.”

As Executive Pastor, AJ preaches and oversees numerous programs, including a branch of Rick Warren’s Christ-based program, Celebrate Recovery, which AJ initiated in 2009. He doesn’t appear to be leaving anytime in the foreseeable future.

While getting his degree in Christian Ministry Leadership in order to lead others, AJ was himself led by two instructors in particular. He praises Dr. Scott Shidemantle, citing his knowledge and understanding of the scriptures.

He hasn’t helped so many without receiving some help himself: AJ lists Trinity Fellowship’s Senior Pastor, Reverend Fred A. Mayhew, as a major mentor.

“His writing in the program and his teaching really inspired me to try harder and to learn how to apply the Bible to all aspects of culture and society,” AJ states.

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The level of work definitely prepared me for the future.

“

always wanted “I’ve to bring some of

Another of AJ’s valued instructors, Dr. Dean Smith, served as a pastor for 19 years, and was then the Chair of Geneva’s Bible department for 23 years until retiring this spring.

“He’s really been wonderful in my life, as far as understanding ministry. He’s got a real gentle spirit, and a great kingdom-mindedness about himself,” AJ says. He benefits from his relationship with Dr. Smith both as a pastor and as a friend, receiving help “not only in the area of education, but in the area of my personal ministry.” Writing books was one unexpected avenue AJ found to channel his enthusiasm for instruction. After being inspired by a topic familiar to all Geneva students and alma mater— the discussion of calling—AJ wrote You Are Called by God. “It was just a little book—60 or 70 pages—but I wanted to try to articulate what I learned from Geneva, and what that means. It really resonated with me personally,” AJ says. AJ wrote the book for his church, as he writes all his books, and it was while he was still completing his undergraduate work at Geneva that Dean Smith became interested in You Are Called by God. “I had a voice message on my phone,” AJ remembers. “He called me ‘Doctor Platt’ and said, ‘We’d like 500 copies of your book to hand out to freshmen here.’ And I remember being so nervous when I got to class that night, thinking he would find out I was a student and not even want it.” Since Dr. Smith was filling in for a teacher that evening, AJ greeted him afterward to explain that he was just a student. Dr. Smith laughed, but was still interested and used the book for freshman for several years. “The instance of them using that book,” muses AJ, “is probably what inspired me to want to write other books.”

Three of the works in his seven-book theological bibliography are more akin to “glorified pamphlets,” he readily explains. The longer ones can be 300 pages in length, comprising titles like Christ-Centered Youth Ministry, Doctrines of Grace—a defense of the doctrines of the five points of Calvinism—and an introduction to post millennialism, You, Armageddon and the Kingdom of God.

the concepts that I was learning about in school in an easy-tounderstand

way to people.

“

Never at rest, AJ has another idea for a book. He’d love to make a case for the optimism of the Gospel’s advancement in the world. “It’s really important that Christians have a view of the world that makes people want to see other Christians as their brothers and sisters,” he says. Whether AJ’s words come from the pulpit or the pages of his books, the driving force behind his work is simple: instructing others about the grace of God. “I’ve always wanted to bring some of the concepts that I was learning about in school in an easy-to-understand way to people. It’s hard to have a Bible study every time someone wants to understand the five points of Calvinism,” he says with a chuckle. G

At the Heart

o f I n s t ru c t i o n

Absolutely Worth It By A man da T y s o n ’16

overwhelmed, reminding me my emotions and experiences were normal.” This overwhelming feeling is what challenged Emily the most in her first years.“The hardest lesson I had to learn on the path to becoming a teacher was patience,” she says.According to Emily, patience is something that the Lord has been teaching her for quite some time.“I had to learn to be patient with myself and my students, as they deal with teenage emotions and learning new material.”

“I knew the Lord wanted me to be a teacher, and He wanted my life to be used to serve Him in this way,” says 2007 Geneva College graduate Emily Stains. But even gifted and dedicated teachers like Emily, who was recently named one of the top 20 teachers in Henrico County, Virginia, and “Teacher of the Year” for Richmond’s Varina High School, struggle with daily challenges in the classroom. So how does she cope when students are not cooperating or lesson plans are not running smoothly? Emily has adopted two mottos:“Let every day be a new day” and “Is this the best thing for my students?” She says,“If I don’t choose to forgive them and forget it, I can’t teach effectively.” Also, although she says individual care can be so easily forgotten “in the midst of the discipline and the state tests and the many duties of a teacher,” Emily places utmost importance on each student’s learning progress and character development. “The most rewarding moment of teaching is watching students make connections beyond their perceived limitations. For every student, this moment is different—and I love watching them crush their barriers and watch as their world gets a little bit bigger and brighter.” In addition, she says her family “is the best group of cheerleaders,” providing the constant support that Emily needs to continue in her profession. Her mother, who was also a teacher, can sympathize with Emily during her harder days.“She comforted me when I felt

Emily also feels that Geneva’s English department prepared her well for her teaching career.The English courses provided a strong foundation for her first job as an AP English literature teacher. “Thanks to Geneva’s faculty, I was prepared for the intense rigor required in teaching a course of this caliber,” she exclaims. But she almost didn’t come to Geneva.“The craziest part of this is that I had my heart set on attending another institution. But when I stepped foot on Geneva’s campus, something happened to my heart. I looked at my parents and said,‘We can go home now. I am coming here.’” While at Geneva, Emily was the president of the English Honor Society Sigma Tau Delta, the president of the English club, a junior admissions counselor, a Humanities teaching assistant, and a writing tutor for the Pendragon Writing Center. “I loved the friendships made at Geneva and still cherish them to this day.We made some amazing memories. From the moment I had my first visit to the day I graduated with my dearest friends, I relished in the opportunities afforded to me there.” As a teacher, Emily attributes much of her success to others who have modeled the role for her. “Both Dr. Lynda Szabo ’85 and Dr. D. Gayle Copeland ’78 played huge roles in developing who I am as a teacher. Anytime one of their classes was offered, I took it,” she says. Growing up, her parents “instilled a work ethic to strive to further God’s kingdom.”And her professors showed her how to teach with a Christ-like heart.The passion, care and dedication that they demonstrated were the inspiration that carried Emily into her years of teaching:“I still look to Dr. Szabo for advice and support, and I am still excited to tell her about my successes. Dr. Szabo trusted me and allowed me to become a leader in my major. If I can become half of the teacher she was to me, I have done my job well.”

God-Given Ability In return, the faculty agree that Emily is one the most promising teachers to come through the ranks.“Emily is one of the best students I’ve ever had in English education,” says Dr. Szabo.“She is a natural teacher.” Regarding being named one of the top 20 teachers of the year, Emily says,“It’s hard to even express how grateful I am—how thankful I am. I hoped I could change my students’ lives and never realized how much they would impact mine. I was beyond shocked to know that I had been nominated by my peers, let alone to have won.”

Teacher of the Year

Even with her recent successes, however, Emily still wonders what God has planned next. She says, “I am learning to be faithful in what He has planned for my life,” relying on her favorite verse:“‘For I know that plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord,‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future’” (Jeremiah 29:11).“When I’m feeling uncertain about any aspect of my life, this verse just settles my spirit and my worry,” says Emily. Still, she admits that there are times when teachers need to be reminded why they wanted to become a teacher in the first place. When this happens, she turns to what she calls her “smile” folder,

“

Supportive Family

Professional Preparation

which contains notes, memories and emails that offer extra encouragement for the challenging days.“It sits inside my desk, and on the days that I think,‘Is this worth it? Is what I’m doing making any difference?’ I sift through my smile folder.And I always come back to the same conclusion:‘Absolutely.’” G

Is what I’m doing making any difference? … Absolutely.

“

At the Heart

o f I n s t ru c t i o n

Take Our Word for It Education majors speak out about their Geneva experience

“Geneva is unique because—from the very beginning—we get a glimpse into what the field of education is really like with observation classes and opportunities to serve in the educational world. The professors teach in a way that inspires us to instruct with a higher calling and influence the hearts of students.”

—Russell Hall Middle School Education

“ “ “

I appreciate how kind-hearted and willing to help the faculty and staff of the education department are. They are amazing and I am so thankful to have such caring people encouraging me forward. —Heather Busse English

Geneva’s education department is a family. —Marissa Seighman PK-4/PK-8 Special Ed

“

“ “

I love the enthusiasm and passion for teaching that the professors express in their classes and pass on to their students. —Kendra Dressler PK-4/PK-8 Special Ed

“ I receive the tools and attitude necessary to function as a role model for my future students.” —Nathan Dunn Middle School Education

“

Not only are my fellow education majors and I receiving extraordinary tools and experience for our future field, we are also gaining amazing insight from educators to use our gifts for our calling as a light for Christ. I am very thankful to be able to have this experience so that I can not only make a difference as a teacher, but as a believer. —Allison McCormick English

“

“Geneva’s education department partners with each student to encourage boldness in the classroom, confidence in academics and strength in faith.” —Kathryn Regalado History

I appreciate the intensive education program offered, namely for the amount of time we spend interning in the field, even prior to student teaching. The experience and knowledge that we gain in the field by actually working with students is immeasurable. —Gillian Kline PK-4/PK-8 Special Ed

“Not only are the education professors incredible at teaching you techniques to prepare you for the classroom, but they exemplify the integration of faith and teaching.”

—Lindsee Clark PK-4/PK-8 Special Ed

At the Heart

o f I n s t ru c t i o n

Reaching the Unreachable By A man da ( K a s ka l avic h ’0 6) F l inn e r

One dark night, Geneva Master of Science in Organizational Leadership graduate Debra Germany Morrison (MSOL ’11) claimed a passage of scripture that has sustained her for the past 12 years: “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand” (Isaiah 41:10). Raymond Germany, her only child, was murdered in a Pittsburgh Hill District apartment when his criminal life as a drug dealer caught up with him in 2001. It was the most horrifying installment in a series of nightmares Debra had been enduring for years. Violence doesn’t contain itself to the streets, but seeps into the homes of each young man or woman who chooses a life of crime. For Debra, that meant when a deal went wrong for Ray, she found a target on her own back. Strangers would call the house and threaten to send a hit squad after her son and then wipe out the whole family. They would sit in parked cars across the street and even pound on the front door. After Ray’s murder, grief didn’t take the place of fear, it only intensified it. Her cries to God left her with a realization that she had to help others in order to help herself. In 2002, Debra co-founded Divine Intervention Ministries (DIM), initially to help grieving families and draw attention to unsolved murders through a billboard campaign, then to focus

“

...

on interrupting the cycle of violence that occurs when convicts inevitably return to their criminal lifestyle. Through DIM’s own IMPACT program and a partnership with the alternative housing and service provider Renewal Inc., she ministers to at-risk youth and incarcerated individuals to provide them with supportive services and job opportunities that will foster a positive transformation, “focusing on restoring and realizing their maximum potential spiritually, physically and economically.” She tries to make them understand that their actions are like a domino effect that ripples through their families. “I tell these young men today, you need to really understand what you do when you pull a trigger,” she says. And she knows all too well. She doesn’t have to remember the location of each of the seven bullet holes, the color of the body bag, or the fact that her son was laid out naked on a metal slab; the image is burned in her mind and she shares it with anyone she can. Any one of the thousands of young men she speaks to each year could be like her son and, if she can help it, she’ll make sure none of them end up where he did. Sometimes, she passes around a few of his personal belongings: a towel that once carried his scent, an old shoe or the last Mother’s Day card he gave her. She wears a t-shirt with his smiling face on the front and his casket on the back.

if you have God in your life you can do the impossible, reach the unreachable and bear the unbearable.

“

God loves you and so do I,

and if there’s anything I can do to help you

“

I will.

“My gift is to speak life into dead places. I give hope to the hopeless and I believe in my heart that if you have God in your life you can do the impossible, reach the unreachable and bear the unbearable, and that is what has happened to me,” she explains. Debra doesn’t have any doubts about her mission and neither does the Pittsburgh community. She has received numerous accolades and honors for her work, including the 2013 Sally Hillman Award, the H. John Heinz Award for Community Service and the 2012 Volunteer of the Year Award by Governor Tom Corbett and Secretary of the Department of Corrections John Wetzel, to name a few. Aside from being named one of Pittsburgh’s “People Changing Lives,” she has been nationally recognized as an “Ordinary Hero” by Today’s Christian magazine. She also found the time to become an ordained minister earlier this year. It’s a lot to manage, but Debra credits Geneva’s Master of Science in Organizational Leadership program for helping her realize the breadth of her capacity. “It stretched me beyond places I didn’t know that I could stretch, but it developed a sense of excellence in me that I wouldn’t settle, that I would always do everything within my capability with a spirit of excellence and I knew that with anything, any paper I wrote, any project, I did it with everything I had,” she says. While she’s certainly grateful for the praise, Debra insists she’s just a tool for God’s work. She doesn’t even make a penny from it. Besides, she measures her success a bit differently. She sees it on the faces of countless young men who often approach her with a smile. They’d heard her speak once and decided to change their lives for the better. Instead of working the streets, they’re working behind deli counters or trying to go back to school, all because somebody thought they deserved a chance for a new life. Debra even hopes to speak to the man who allegedly murdered her son. He’s serving time in prison for a separate crime but has never confessed to killing Ray. “That’s the type of work that God has me doing, really helping the least of these. The people that nobody wants to be bothered with are the people that have given up on themselves, and I just

want to let them know that ‘God loves you and so do I, and if there’s anything I can do to help you I will,’” Debra explains. But there are still all those others who weren’t ready to listen, and she fears they might not get another chance. With DIM’s funding completely slashed, her mission is functioning on crumbs and is nowhere near the one-stop shop for transformational resources she hopes to achieve. But if Debra has proved anything, it’s that she has learned to step out in the face of fear and rely on God’s promises. In fact, she belts out an enthusiastic “Woo-hoo!” as she explains that God is only closing single doors so He can open double doors. Just as He opened a door into Geneva’s Master of Science in Organizational Leadership program, which transformed Debra’s life and ripples outward from her to transform so many others. “My prayer is that someone would start investing in human lives as opposed to just profiting for their own selves. I’m committed. What time I’ve got left in this life, I’m going to spend it restoring the lives of others. I refuse to spend what time I’ve got left on this earth doing something that doesn’t matter to God. I’m going to do whatever I can with whatever’s in me to help others.” G Information about Divine Intervention Ministries can be found at www.divineinterventionministries.org.

Divine Intervention Ministries’ Services q q q q

Mentoring Program IMPACT (Interceding Making Positive Actions Come Together) Program Speaking Engagements Spiritual Support/Prayer Partners 19

At the Heart

o f I n s t ru c t i o n

Team-Building Exercises By G r e g W i s e ’ 95 One of the most important tasks in effectively leading a team of people is fostering sense of unity. Howard Nudi ’87 experienced the benefits of being part of a close-knit team as part of a small group of electrical engineering majors at Geneva College. And nurturing this atmosphere is a skill that he developed through 24 demanding years of military service, and one he has relied on through seven years in the commercial nuclear power industry. After graduating from Freedom High School in 1978, Howard joined the United States Air Force and spent five years as an aircraft electrician. During that time, he benefitted from serving under officers who displayed excellent leadership qualities. “Leaders should treat all people as equal, and with dignity and respect,” says Howard. “The officers I saw treated enlisted men this way, which influenced me in making the decision to get a degree and become an officer.”

Dignity

Direction

Respect

Support

Unity Knowledge

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Equality

Leadership

Guidance

“

Leaders should treat all people as equal, and with dignity and respect. So Howard enrolled at Penn State’s Beaver campus, and later transferred to Geneva College as a junior to complete his degree in engineering with an electrical concentration. “I applied to Pittsburgh University and Geneva,” he explains. “My professors recommended Geneva for the great studentto-teacher ratio and the excellent reputation of its program.”

Geneva is also where Howard’s father, Harry, graduated from in 1950. Here, Howard particularly enjoyed studying with the other electrical engineering majors—the Double “E”s as he

calls them. He appreciated the close relationship that the members of the Double “E”s were able to form with each other, as well as with their professors. In addition, he is thankful for the high quality of instruction at Geneva. “I received a fantastic education,” he says. “I was taught by Ph.D.’s as opposed to graduate students, which is the norm at many engineering schools. Geneva does a great job in finding talented professors with a great deal of technical knowledge while providing students with a solid Christian foundation.” Among all of the influential professors at Geneva from whose teaching he benefitted, Howard specifically recalls Dr. Jack Pinkerton, for whom Geneva’s Pinkerton Center for Technology Development is named. “He was a phenomenal

“

Geneva does a great job in finding talented professors with a great deal of technical knowledge while providing students with a solid Christian foundation.

man who took an interest in his students and would do whatever it took to help them succeed. I appreciated that relationship and was constantly going to him for help.” When Howard joined the United States Navy following graduation, he was well prepared for the rigorous qualification process for nuclear power school. He was certified as an Engineer Officer on the S8G reactor, which is used by the Navy to provide electricity generation and propulsion on warships, and served in various officer positions on Ohio-class nuclear-powered submarines. Howard retired from the Navy in 2005 at the rank of Commander (O-5). “I saw Bermuda through a periscope many times,” Howard says jokingly, recalling his 18 years of submarine service, much of the time underwater. He also fondly remembers the tight bonds formed between the members of his crew: “With 125 men in close quarters, it’s extremely important for them to work together and to establish a good command relationship between senior officers and enlisted men.” Howard uses this military experience to foster this same familial atmosphere in his current role as a manager in charge of overseeing plant engineering programs and program managers at Duke Energy Corporation’s McGuire Nuclear Station in North Carolina. “My job is to build a cohesive team, while providing guidance and deliverables for programs and direction to program managers.

“

I make sure that people understand the importance of what they do as a team, and understand their roles in big picture, even if it’s a small one,” he explains. “It’s just like the cook on a submarine. The cook may not have the authority of the captain or an executive officer, but he’s just as vital because, after working 18-hour days underwater, nothing is more important to the crew’s morale than a good meal.” In both his military and civilian careers, Howard has experienced God’s blessings. While in the Navy, he was honored with a Defense Meritorious Service Medal, a Meritorious Service Medal, two Navy Commendation Medals and two Navy Achievement Medals. And since coming to Duke Energy Corporation, he published “Battery Capacity Recovery for VRLA Cells—A User’s Perspective” in Nuclear Power International magazine. He says that he has seen God’s hand in his family life, as well. Upon moving to North Carolina seven years ago, Howard and his wife Ellen were able to find both a good high school and youth group for their son, Matthew, who is now a junior at NC State University majoring in nuclear engineering. The couple’s oldest daughter, Melanie, is a mechanical engineer and their youngest, Crystal, is a speech pathologist. The Nudis are also the proud grandparents of Emily, Owen, Savannah and Samuel. And as with the Double “E”s at Geneva, his crew in the military and his team at work, Howard is thankful that he found a church home with a caring and supportive community: “God led us to a close-knit church, and our growth in our relationship with the Lord drew us in.” G

At the Heart

o f I n s t ru c t i o n

Let the Little Children Come By G r e g W i s e ’ 95 Dr. Antoinette (Parisi ’52) Eaton fondly remembers working at the front desk in McKee Hall one evening when the house mother walked by, looked at her papers, and said, “I don’t know how this doctor thing is going to work out. I can read your handwriting.” Although the way a person writes can sometimes reveal a lot, this obviously wasn’t the case for Antoinette. Currently a Professor Emerita of Pediatrics at The Ohio State University College of Medicine, as well as the Corporate Director for Governmental Affairs and a member of the Section of Ambulatory Pediatrics at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, her six decades—and counting— of service as a physician is proof that she made a good decision in pursuing the “doctor thing.” An uncle who had graduated from Geneva College and gone on to a career as a plastic surgeon provided Antoinette valuable direction in making this choice. After developing an interest in health care through her high school biology class, Antoinette says, “the guidance and experience of this sage uncle brought me to Geneva,” where she majored in biology/pre-med. This career path was a courageous selection—in those days, only about six percent of doctors were female. But Antoinette’s

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My classmates were very energizing and supportive, which is extremely valuable when facing any challenge.

“

uncle wasn’t the only family member providing encouragement: “I come from Italian immigrant parents, for whom getting an education was very important. And my maternal aunt was a dentist in Italy.” She also credits many of her fellow students at Geneva. “My classmates were very energizing and supportive, which is extremely valuable when facing any challenge,” she remembers. And pre-med curriculum is certainly challenging. Antoinette spent entire afternoons in the lab four days a week, in addition to studying for classes and working in McKee Hall. But she still found time to go to Reeves Field and cheer on the Golden Tornadoes. “I’m a football fan,” she says. “I still have my Geneva beanie and sweatshirt.” She also liked to take evening trips to the doughnut shop for coffee and enjoyed the company of her suitemates, whom she describes as “wonderful friends,” as well as the members of the Pre-Medical Society, of which she was Vice President. Of her nine classmates who applied to medical school after graduation, eight were accepted according to Antoinette— an extraordinary statistic. She attributes much of this success to biology professor Dr. Theodore McMillion, who “shepherded us through our courses.” She also remembers that he went well beyond his normal teaching responsibilities. “Dr. McMillion would regularly visit medical schools to speak to those in admissions about accepting Geneva students,” she recalls. “I owe him a debt of gratitude.” Antoinette next attended Philadelphia’s Women’s Medical College, the first medical institution to train only women in medicine

that there is something

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I can do for a child or family.

and offer them the M.D. She then returned to her hometown of Youngstown, OH, for her internship. Although she originally focused on adult endocrinology in medical school, Antoinette received exposure to numerous medical fields. She eventually decided to become a pediatrician and trained at The Ohio State University (OSU) and Nationwide Children’s Hospital.

honor is given to the legislator in the Ohio General Assembly who focuses on a bill for the benefit of children’s health. Antoinette has also been a long-time academic leader. OSU has a strong commitment as a teaching hospital, requiring resident physicians to have a teaching role. She became a full professor and served for a time as the university’s Interim Dean for Public Health.

“Pediatrics is generally a happy specialty, focusing on preventative health care and often accompanied by joyful family interactions,” she notes. “I was also involved in clinical work with special-needs and disabled children, and I delight in knowing that there is something I can do for a child or family.” Antoinette’s interests in child health issues developed into a passion for advocacy while serving as Chief of the Division of Maternal and Child Health in the Ohio Department of Health from 1974 to 1980. She then continued her work of improving the health and welfare of children and their families on a national level through the American Academy of Pediatrics. In addition, Antoinette advanced the stature of all women physicians by becoming the organization’s first woman president in 1990, the year that she received Geneva’s Distinguished Service Award. “I was glad to be able to open that door,” she humbly adds. In recognition of her commitment to child advocacy, the Ohio chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics created the Antoinette Parisi Eaton Child Advocacy Award in 2005. This

Despite this lifetime of public service, Antoinette asserts that it is “definitely possible to combine career and family.” She and her husband Samuel have been married for 53 years, and the couple has three sons, one daughter and nine grandchildren. Sixty-one years after graduating from Geneva, Antoinette somehow still finds the energy to connect with her growing family while remaining active in her academic and public health roles. Where that energy comes from is no mystery to her, however. She says that she simply remembers the words Jesus spoke in her favorite verse, Matthew 19:26: “… with God all things are possible.”

1971 MRI Mag

Just a sampling of medical advances made during Antoinette’s career so far:

Today, Antoinette continues to work with pediatric residents at OSU in a part-time role. “I teach first-year residents how to be advocates for children in legislative and regulatory measures,” she explains. These residents are learning from one of the best. Antoinette worked on a bill to expand Ohio’s newborn screening program, has testified before Congress and completed an eightyear tenure as Chairperson of the Department of Health and Human Services’ Secretary’s Advisory Committee on Infant Mortality in Washington, D.C.

c neti

1963

n Reso

Art t

m ce Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR)

1967 First human heart 1985 transplant

Rob ot

Laser Eye Surgery (LASIK)

Bionic Eye

ica l

1960

Measles Vaccine

1973

Human Genome draft completed

2007

ging

er ak

1964

Polio Vaccine

I ma

ea r ia l H

1952

ance

i fic

1958

2000

Sur g

“

I delight in knowing

in service by Lyn s e y Au e l l ’14 & Ric h a r d Lo u t h e r ’15 kingdom of God,” says Downs. “We wanted to equip leaders to have cross-cultural literacy because leaders bring transformation to organizations.”

“We can’t be where we are called

unless we know who we are.”

Kathy Kinzer-Downs & Lamont Downs A vision with potential became a successful reality when the inaugural “Living in Color: Equipping Leaders to Serve in a Diverse World” was held at Geneva College in February of 2013. One hundred and fifty students, faculty, pastors and members of the community gathered to learn what effective leadership means in today’s diverse workplaces, classrooms and society. The conference was initiated and developed by Kathy KinzerDowns, Geneva’s Director of Multicultural Student Services, along with her husband Lamont Downs, Multicultural Student Services Coordinator. “Kathy and I were talking, and we thought that we should bring a diversity conference to Geneva so that we could talk about what diversity truly is,” explains Downs. “It took off from there.” Workshops for the weekend were organized into three tracks: pastoral, community development and education. Additionally, a panel of former and current college students shared their experiences of living and attending classes on primarily white campuses. “We wanted to equip leaders from all cultures to break down barriers, to be bridge builders and to really connect in the

10 24

In addition to being a founder and organizer, Kinzer-Downs was also one of the conference’s keynote speakers, along with Landon and Khadija Adams, domestic missionaries through the Coalition for Christian Outreach (CCO), and Rev. Avery Danage, a campus minister with the CCO. In her presentation, “My Identity: Embracing Who I Am, Living Out Who I’m Called to Be,” Kinzer-Downs spoke about the importance of understanding one’s identity: “We can’t be where we are called unless we know who we are. I spoke about who God has created me to be as an African-American woman, and some of the barriers that come with that reality.” Larry Griffith, Executive Vice President of Geneva College, identifies Kinzer-Downs’ keynote speech as one of the best talks on diversity that he has heard. “I was most impressed by the Christ-centeredness of Kathy’s message,” he notes. “In fact, I found it to span well beyond issues surrounding diversity. She spoke to finding your identity in Christ and, ultimately, how to live the Christian life.” Kinzer-Downs is pleased that others were challenged through the conference. “I was encouraged by being a part of different sessions and seeing people ask tough questions,” she adds. “I also felt a sense of movement and momentum for Geneva.” Planning has already begun for the next Living in Color conference, which will be November 15–16, 2013. “We certainly anticipate building off of the success of last year to reach more people, to be a part of the transformation and be able to help develop those who attend,” says Kinzer-Downs. Find out more at www.geneva.edu/livingincolor. .

iving in Color eq u i p p i n g L e a d er s to Serve

in a diverse world N O V E M B E R 1 5- 1 6 ,

2013

www.geneva.edu/livingincolor

By Julia Schademan â&#x20AC;&#x2122;13

class notes

Class Notes are available on geneva.edu. Visit the site to learn about fellow classmates. Submit an update so they can stay connected with you.

1949

Lois (Hadfield) Knaggs has retired after teaching seventh through ninth grade mathematics in Sidney, OH, for 18 years. Lois resides in Plain City, OH.

1958

JoJean (Daout) Holland is an Instructional Associate at Cedar Valley College and an Adjunct Biology Professor at Mountain View College. JoJean has published two books, AVAM-Avenging America (under the pen name Veronica DeTerre) and Twilight in the Vineyard, both available through Amazon. She resides in Mesquite, TX.

1968

Joe Petruny was inducted into the Beaver County Sports Hall of Fame. A basketball player, Joe was asked by Geneva tennis coach Cliff Aultman to participate on a doubles team even though he had never played the sport. This began Joe’s tennis career, which included six victories in the acclaimed Beaver County Tennis Tournament and 25 years of teaching the sport. Joe, who served as the Golden Tornadoes’ basketball team captain in his senior year, was also named one of the best 50 players in Geneva’s first 100 years of basketball. Joe was an educator in the Hopewell School District for 34 years.

1972 1966 Jeannie (Musser) Porter was inducted into the Pennsylvania Music Educators Association (PMEA) Hall of

Brian and Martha (Ward ’76) Long reside in Ellicott City, MD. The couple has five children.

1975

Stephen Rhodes is Assistant Pastor for River Community Church in Prairieville, LA, where he now resides.

Fame. Jean taught classroom, vocal and instrumental music. She worked in the Midland School District from 1966-70 and in the

1976

Martha (Ward) Long -See Long 1972

Blackhawk School District from 1970 until her retirement in 1998, where she directed high school productions of Oliver, South Pacific, Bye Bye Birdie and The Sound of Music. Jeannie previously received PMEA’s District 5 Citation of Excellence in 1992. She presented “Music A La Carte,” a workshop for elementary music teachers, at the PMEA Conference and served as a judge for the Geneva College Henry Mancini Musical Theatre Awards.

1979

Tammie (Ward) Buckwalter -See Buckwalter 1980 Sabrina A. (Sette) Terrill -See Terrill 1980

1980

Randy and Tammie (Ward ’79) Buckwalter moved to Raleigh, NC, in 2012 after spending their entire lives in Pennsylvania. Following more than 25 years at Harleysville Insurance, Randy accepted the position of Public Relations Manager with PPD, a pharmaceutical contract research organization. Tammie is enjoying her retirement by taking care of their new home and spending time with their one-year-old grandson.

Douglas L. and Sabrina A. (Sette ’79) Terrill’s son Zack competed in the 2012 Jeopardy! College Championship, finishing in third place.

1982

Cynthia (Lazar) Neiswinger -See Neiswinger 1983

1983

Michael and Cynthia (Lazar ’82) Neiswinger now reside in Puyallup, WA. Michael accepted a job with Amazon and Cynthia began her new position as Administrative Assistant at Tacoma General Hospital. Marty and Susan Plog are celebrating their 25th anniversary and their daughter, Susan, is to be married in 2013. The Plogs live in Hoschton, GA.

1984

Lynda Zelesnak -See Lees 1993

1989

Phil Cavett -See opposite page

1991

Mark Ratti Jr. was presented with the prestigious RE/MAX Lifetime Achievement Award in 2012. This award is given to a small percentage of agents who have been with RE/MAX for at least seven years and have worked with 1,000 or more families. Mark has been with RE/MAX since 1988 and is in the RE/MAX Hall of Fame, the RE/MAX 100 Percent Club, and was in the RE/MAX Top Ten for Commissions Earned in Western

PA for 2012. He and wife Christina (Huebner ’93) Ratti reside in Bethel Park, PA, with daughters Emma, Hannah and Julia.

1992

John Lenox is the Vice President of WightOx Enterprises, a marketing and PR firm specializing in the outdoor industry. John is also involved with the development and launch of Rush Outdoors Television throughout New York State. He and his wife Marilyn reside in Little Genesee, NY.

1993

proud parents of son Levi Josiah Daniels, born January 9, 2013. Levi joins big brother Caleb. The family resides in Corry, PA. Randy Savage (DCP #037) completed an advanced degree through Indiana Wesleyan University. Randy is currently employed at Malone University teaching in the Malone Management Program. He and his family reside in Canton, OH.

1995

Rev. John Shaw has been called as the General Secretary of the Committee on Home Missions and Church Extension for the Orthodox Presbyterian Church (OPC). John has served as founding pastor of Mission Orthodox Presbyterian Church in St. Paul, Minnesota since 2006. John and Anne (Copeland) have four children: William, Micah, Johanna and Samuel. They are planning to relocate to Philadelphia, PA, during the summer of 2013.

1996 Lauralee (Zelesnak) and Scott Lees were married December 28, 2012. Lynda Zelesnak ’84 served as the maid of honor. Lauralee has degrees from Slippery Rock University, Westminster College and the Fowler Wainwright International Institute of Professional Coaching in addition to her degree from Geneva. She teaches biology at Mohawk High School. Lauralee and Scott are co-authors of The Suitable Helpmate Prayer. The Lees reside in Ellwood City, PA.

Megan (Merryman) Eicher -See Eicher 1997

Phil Cavett was named the 2013 Beaver County Teacher of the Year. After graduating with a degree in math education, Phil applied for a teaching position in the Riverside School District—and has been there for the last 24 years. “It was such an honor to be named Beaver County Teacher of the year and to accept the award on behalf of the four other incredible finalists as well,” says Phil. “I am thankful to the Jumet Charitable Foundation for instituting this program to recognize the great work that so many teachers are doing across our

Michael Whitmer is now a Brigade Chemical NCO for 1st Information Operations Command in Fort Belvoir, VA, where he and wife Christina reside.

county. I am truly blessed to find my calling

1997

truly the students at Riverside are the best

Joanne (Farina) Peterson earned her Ph.D. in Education, specializing in K-12 Studies, from Capella University. She previously received a Master of Education from Lesley University. Joanne is a teacher in the Scotland County Schools and an instructor at Richmond Community College in North Carolina. She and her husband James live in Laurinburg, NC.

Rev. Doug Barnes has accepted a call to serve as Pastor of Covenant Reformed Church in Pella, Iowa, a congregation of the United Reformed Church of North America (URCNA). Doug previously served for eight years at Hills United Reformed Church in Minnesota. Doug praises God that the members of the Barnes family are adapting well to the changes God has brought into their lives through this move. Doug and his wife Grace (Pontier) have six children: Michal, Samuel, Luke, Jacob, Joanna and Jesse.

Christina (Huebner) Ratti -See Ratti 1991

Chad and Megan (Merryman ’96) Eicher reside in Lexington, OH.

1994

Robert Tarullo began serving as Pastor at Westminster Presbyterian Church (OPC) in Indian Head Park, Illinois on August 1, 2012.

Michael and Melanie Daniels are the

1989

at Riverside. I work with a wonderful faculty and such a supportive administration, and

students with whom one could hope to work.”

This closed an eight-and-a-half year season of ministry in Newtown, CT, just a short distance from Sandy Hook Elementary. Robert and his wife Sarah (Bingham ’98) have three children: Nathaniel James, Cairistiona Grace and Katerina Anne. The family lives in Westchester, IL.

1998

Sarah (Bingham) Tarullo -See Tarullo 1997

1999

in 2012. Rebecca is a Medicare Program Consultant for Capital BlueCross. The Feister’s reside in York Haven, PA. Tamera (Vucelich) married Jason Pfeiffer on September 13, 2009. The Pfeiffers reside in Virginia Beach, VA.

August 4, 2012. Jameson is a Supervisor at JusticeWorks Youthcare in Reading, PA. He also coaches Boys Varsity Soccer at Wyomissing High School, leading the team to their best record since 2007. The Beates family lives in West Lawn, PA. Kristen Karasek received a Master of Business Administration and a Master of Arts in Higher Education Administration from the University of Akron. She resides in Seneca, SC. Dan Williams-See opposite page

Nancy (Kuhn) and Seth Beardsley welcomed daughter Grace Elizabeth on October 17, 2012. She joins older brother Levi. The Beardsley’s live in Elizabethtown, PA. Joshua Van Ee successfully defended his dissertation in ancient Near Eastern history at the University of California at San Diego (UCSD), earning his Ph.D. Josh is an Assistant Professor of Hebrew and Old Testament at Westminster Seminary California.

2002

2008

Levi Stahl is a Nuclear Unit Supervisor at the Beaver Valley Power Station in Shippingport, PA. He is responsible for the safe operation of the reactor and secondary plants, day-to-day tests, and removing equipment from service for maintenance.

2005

David and Lauren (Shaw) Abt are the proud parents of Davey, born March 20, 2011. David graduated from Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine and began an internal medicine residency in June. The Abts reside in Philadelphia, PA. Gabbie (Murtaugh) and Robert Broughton welcomed Katelyn Rose into their family on March 12, 2012. The Broughtons live in Philadelphia, PA.

Peter and Rachel (McMahan ‘05) McDonald announce the birth of daughter Zoey Hope in June 2012. Zoey joins big sister Abby and big brother Ryan. The McDonalds reside in Lawrence, KS. Virginia “Ginny” I. Knor (MSOL) received a 2013 Outstanding Achievement in Media Award in the category of Agency/ Allied from the Media Association of Pittsburgh. Ginny is the Divisional Director of Marketing and Public Relations, The Salvation Army Western Pennsylvania Division.

2003

Ben Cieply has received his Ph.D. in Cancer Cell Biology from the West Virginia University School of Medicine. He is a Post-Doctoral Researcher at the University of Pennsylvania. Ben and his wife Shawna reside in Horsham, PA. Rebecca (Gardner) and Nijel Feister are the proud parents of Madeline Noelle, born

Stefanie (Bishop) married Jared Buckner on May 26, 2012. Stefanie is a kindergarten teacher in the Alamance-Burlington school system. The Buckners live in Burlington, NC. Rachel (McMahan) McDonald -See McDonald 2002

2006

Alicia (McGhee) and Christopher Hinzman are the proud parents of Max McGhee Hinzman, born on April 12, 2012. Alicia is the District Operations Regional Coordinator for the Pennsylvania House of Representatives Republican Caucus. The Hinzmans reside in Beaver, PA.

2007

Jameson and Tara Beates are the proud parents of Jackson Ender Bates, born on

Josh “J.D.” and Abby (Bowser) Kail are the proud parents of twins Emmanuel and Annika, born in late 2012. They join big brother Solomon. Josh is a Law Clerk for Beaver County, PA. The Kails reside in Beaver, PA. Sarah (Romeo) and Justin Lynam were married on July 7, 2012. Sarah received her master’s degree in curriculum and instruction from Concordia University in 2011. The Lynams live in Guilderland, NY. Judith Tobias received her Master of Divinity from Pittsburgh Theological Seminary.

2009

Matthew and Laura (Fischer) Cooper welcomed Moriah Grace into their family on December 5, 2012. Moriah joins big brother Caleb. Matthew is the Youth and Worship Pastor at Westridge Church in Coraopolis, PA. The Coopers reside in Baden, PA. Dustin Diesing is now a Cardiovascular Technologist in the Veteran’s Administration

Pittsburgh Healthcare system. He is engaged to Shannon Monac, and the wedding is scheduled for October 4, 2014. Michael and Faith Potoeski were married May 19, 2012.

2010

Gibbons were married on September 1, 2012. Ben is an Admissions Counselor at Geneva College. The Gibbons live in Beaver Falls, PA.

Kylie (Gardner) Gibbons -See Gibbons 2011 Jonathan Kocher resides in Bethlehem, PA.

Kathleen Haffly (DCP #038) resides in Pittsburgh, PA.

Karey (Claar) Hooks -See Hooks 2011

Andrew and Katie (Wright) Harper were united in marriage in June 2012. The Harpers live in Zoar, OH.

Susan Singer (DCP #007) is now an Emergency Management Specialist for the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency in Harrisburg, PA.

Daniel and Karey (Claar ’10) Hooks were married September 29, 2012. The Hooks live in Denver, CO.

Matthew and Jessica (Rienow ’12) White were united in marriage on July 16, 2011. They reside in Zelienople, PA, where Matthew is an Operations Manager for TransIT Solutions.

Samuel and Courtney (Robel) Weaver were united in marriage on August 4, 2012 and welcomed their first child, Penny Grace Weaver, into the world three weeks early on May 21, 2013. Sam is a science teacher for Hillcrest Christian Academy in Bethel Park. They reside in Venetia, PA.

2011

Kate Blumberg resides in Pittsburgh, PA.

Justin (DCP #252) and Tessa (Frazier) Miller were married on May 12, 2012. Tessa is a Caseworker for Bedford County Children and Youth, and has started her own scrapbooking business. The Millers live in Osterburg, PA.

2012 Benjamin and Kylie (Gardner ’12)

Jessica (Rienow) White -See White 2010

Cheryl (Omlor) Colaianne was married Photos appear within or before the August 2012. The Colaiannes reside in Irwin, PA. corresponding class note.

2007

Dan Williams has been named Geneva’s Director of Alumni Relations, moving from internal positions as both Resident Area Coordinator and Coordinator of Campus Fitness. “Geneva is a special institution that makes a tremendous impact on those who have been here,” he says.

“ But that impact isn’t a one-way street, and it doesn’t end when people graduate. I’m looking to enhance the ways that alumni interact with Geneva and encourage them to develop a lifelong connection.”

Left to right: Gretchen (Williams) Wright ’10, Sara Williams ’15, Dan Williams ’07, Micah Wright ‘09, Jared Williams ’09, Becca (Michalik) Williams ’07 with future alumni Jackson and Alena Williams

class notes

In Memoriam

30s Edith Pohley ’32 on January 26, 2013 Amelia C. (Carothers ’33) Haine on December 30, 2012 H. Ross Strohecker ’36 on April 5, 2013 Zelda W. (Wilner ’38) Feinberg on April 1, 2013 Naomi K. (Kuhl ’38) Griffiths on January 9, 2013 Jean D. (Springer ’38) Kratzert on December 19, 2012 H Donald C. McCune Sr. ’38 on April 10, 2012

Ruth C. (Caven ’46) Johnston on January 13, 2013 Mary Jo (Bennett ’46) Yohn on March 11, 2013 Donald B. “Dutch” Allen ’48 on May 23, 2013 Richard G. “Dick” Luce ’48 on April 19, 2013 John S. “Jack” McIsaac Jr. ’48 on March 2, 2013 Barbara R. (Ryan ’48) Ride on February 6, 2013

Carlisle R. McPherson ’51 on March 26, 2013 Philip R. Lindeman ’52 on March 22, 2013 Keith D. Beachem ’54 on April 19, 2013 Elmer C. Calvin Jr. ’54 on January 3, 2013 Donald R. Haswell ’54 on February 26, 2013 George R. Reese Jr. ’54 on February 10, 2013

Eugene T. Rumisek ’48 on December 17, 2012

William W. Young ’54 on January 9, 2013

W. Scott Bliss ’39 on January 17, 2013

Mary D. (Daniel ’48) Smith on January 6, 2013

Marie E. (Conner ’55) Teets on February 10, 2013

James W. McJunkin Jr. ’39 on November 30, 2012

Dr. Jack J. Roush ’49 on March 1, 2013

40s

50s

Betty M. (Whitfield ’40) Turzan on January 22, 2013

Julius P. “Julio” Cellini ’50 on January 13, 2013

Martha A. Osborne ’41 on May 18, 2013

Geraldine E. (McDanel ’50) Crouthamel on February 3, 2013

C. Rahl George ’42 on March 8, 2013 Harry F. Zeigler ’43 on January 11, 2013 Dr. Dale E. Hamilton ’44 on February 25, 2013 Helene F. (Leonard ’44) Plataz on February 26, 2013 Ethel E. Ewing ’45 on May 5, 2013 Ethel May Graff ’45 on April 15, 2013

F. Yvonne “Bonnie” (Deener ’45) McCormick on December 30, 2012

William McComb ’50 on January 14, 2013 Donald J. Pierce ’50 on March 12, 2013 Harold G. Stang ’50 on February 8, 2013 William J. Chontos ’51 on January 7, 2013 Marjorie J. (Rollman ’51) Forsyth on February 28, 2013

Richard A. Riley ’57 on May 21, 2013 John D. Swogger ’57 on December 25, 2012 Joseph A. Violi ’57 on May 22, 2013 James P. Davis ’58 on March 18, 2013 Robert Rex Downie Jr. ’58 on April 10, 2013 Evalin R. Knowles ’58 on May 15, 2013 Sarah M. “Sally” (Moores ’58) Milne Wilmoth on November 12, 2012 David R. Patterson ’59 on January 30, 2013 John H. Ripper ’59 on February 17, 2013

H John L. Smith Jr. ’59 on April 17, 2013

Allan J. “Baines” Lizzi ’74 on February 19, 2013

Thomas P. Woolaway on May 22, 2013

60s

David Kenneth Cartwright ’75 on March 17, 2013

Class Notes Information

Roger G. Sigler ’60 on February 15, 2013

Cheryl L. (Westfall ’78) Froment on March 8, 2013

Claude “Freddy” F. Frank ’61 on February 4, 2013 Karen H. (Tudhope ’62) Smith on February 10, 2013 John G. Salakas ’63 on August 18, 2012 Ronald G. Sisson ’63 on December 27, 2012 Joseph T. Bodalec Jr. ’64 on January 7, 2013

80s Andrew Sariochek Jr. ’80 on April 21, 2013 Frank Thomas “Tom” Rudman Jr. ’85 on March 3, 2013 David S. Kluis ’87 on May 16, 2013

Stanley Pugh ’95 (DCP #046) on April 17, 2013

Virginia J. “Jinny” (Jusczak ’64) Spann on May 8, 2013

Justin J. Elle ’96 on April 23, 2013

Ernest A. “Ernie” Dally Jr. ’68 on April 6, 2013

Thomas A. Rupert ’98 (DCP #084) on April 1, 2013

Dr. Karen L. Hornung ’70 on March 25, 2013 Kenneth L. Knight Sr. ’70 on February 21, 2013

Denotes members of the

Heritage Society,

which recognizes the valuable

00s

Janice G. Lape ’03 (DCP #162) on February 14, 2013

contributions of alumni and friends who include Geneva in their estate and/or financial

70s Michael J. Carnahan ’70 on April 27, 2013

Inclusion of all items in Class Notes is at the discretion of Geneva College, in accordance with the community standards of the institution.

90s

Dr. William E. Irion ’64 on January 11, 2013

Robert W. Anderson Sr. ’65 on May 3, 2013

To share your news, visit www.geneva.edu/ class_notes and click on “Update Form.” High-resolution pictures of at least three megapixels in size may be submitted in JPEG format. You may also mail your news and photos to: GENEVA COLLEGE Office of Alumni Relations 3200 College Avenue Beaver Falls, PA 15010

Friends Dr. Frances E. (White) Ewbank on March 16, 2013 Richard R. Hammond on April 6, 2013

Mary (Nuccetelli ’73) Graff on May 3, 2013

Kathryn L. “Kitty” (Shotsinger) McGraw on January 2, 2013

Thomas M. Slick ’73 on February 13, 2013

Elsie C. (Check) Passavant on May 3, 2013

plans by gifts made through annuities, charitable trusts, gifts of life estates, undivided partial interests in real estate or life insurance, and gifts made through their will.

in conclusion At the end of the spring 2013 semester, Geneva said goodbye to a number of long-time members of the campus community who retired. We thank them for their years of service to the college, and pray that they will experience the Lord’s blessings in all of their future endeavors.

Linda Bognoski Adult Degree Completion Program Office Coordinator Retired after 17 years of service

Betty Iben Director of Donor Services Retired after 23 years of service

“Linda has been the primary voice of the Adult Degree Completion Program to those who phone our office; staff and students alike will miss her cheerful greeting.” —Dr. Ralph Phillips Assistant Dean for Adult and Continuing Education

“As we all have experienced, Betty has been an integral member of the Geneva community and the Institutional Advancement team. It has been a blessing to serve with and learn from Betty.” – Dr. Jeff Jones VP of Advancement

Dr. Pete Croisant Assistant Professor Communication Retired after 30 years of service

Chair of the Dept. of Bible, Christian Ministries & Philosophy

Dr. Dean Smith Retired after 23 years of service

“Pete will always be remembered by his whistle, which reflected the joy in his heart. Students often remarked about how Pete’s love for the Lord was evident in his life and work.” – Professor Susan Layton Chair of the Dept. of Communication

“Every one of us now working in the department had been brought in during his leadership, which balanced personal involvement and care with encouragement and breathing room to grow.” – Dr. Jonathan Watt

Dr. Suhail Hanna Professor of English Retired after 31 years of service

Bonnie Willson Data Entry Specialist Retired after 27 years of service

“His Christian witness coupled with his wit made him a favorite professor of many students. He will be greatly missed by his students and, most especially, by his colleagues.” – Dr. Lynda Szabo Chair of the Dept. of English

“In many ways, a Geneva student begins their academic career with Bonnie! It has been an honor serving with Bonnie and we will certainly miss her positive attitude and joyful spirit.” —Roger Blevins Assistant Director of Admissions

Chair of the Dept. of Bible, Christian Ministries & Philosophy

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