September 10, 2013 by Highlander News

Cross Restored to Place on Arch..P2

Women’s Soccer Team Looks to Repeat Success...P5

September 10, 2013 highlandernews.net

Got Your Ten-Digit Number, NEPA? President’s Welcome By Daniella Devivo, Reporter

NEPA natives must get used to dialing a three-digit area code. Ten-digit-dialing became effective Sept. 1 in areas including Scranton, Wilkes-Barre and Williamsport, according to Verizon Corporate News Center. The ten-digit dialing is preparing callers for a bigger change in October. Verizon calls this period an “overlay,” the time between the first and second calling changes. Cell phone numbers with a 570 area code will remain that area code, but new numbers, first time phone purchasers and users who change plans will receive a 272 area code. The 272 code will not change local calling for customers,

according to Verizon. “An overlay minimizes disruption for our customers because their telephone numbers, including their current area code, will not change. But it’s important for customers to get into the habit of always dialing the 10-digit number when they make calls within the 570 area code,” Carl E. Erhart, Verizon area vice president said in a statement on the Verizon website. The change is coming to campus, too. The state Public Utility Commission requires telephone users to dial the area code plus the seven-digit phone number prior to Sept. 21. The university

plans to change the phone system configuration the night of Sept. 15 to stay in compliance. An external call on Sept. 16 will require the area code. On campus calls to extensions will not be affected. The PUC is requiring this change so that a new 272 area code can be introduced Oct. 21, according to a targeted announcement from Mark Reboli, Networking and Telecommunications Manager at MU. If callers forget to dial 10 digits, they will hear a message instructing them to dial both the area code and seven-digit telephone number, according to Verizon. Senior communications major

Callen Clark said he doesn’t think the area-code requirement is anything to be concerned about. “It’s a change. Things change. Things happen. They always happen you just have to roll with the punches.” Clark said cell phone users regularly save numbers on their phones and often include area codes already. Pennsylvania approved the new 272 area code in 2010. Emergency contact numbers, such as 911, will not change. Assistant Professor of Communications Dan Kimbrough uses a 414 area code, and so he regularly saves area codes of numbers in his phone because his number is

out-of-state. “People will get upset about it for a month or so then they will be used to it and forget it ever happened,” he said. Peter Falvey, senior communications major, said most people have smart phones so an area code change does not require users to change each number by hand. It’s a one-button change, he said. “I don’t think it’s a big deal as people are making it out to be. I think people like their cell phone numbers and they are kind of defined by it, but in reality I’m not defined by my cell phone number.” devivod@misericordia.edu

President Thomas J. Botzman

NEWLY APPOINTED

By Ellen Hoffman, Editor-in-Chief President Thomas Botzman got right to work during his first week in his new position. He changed the positions of two long time employees, Sr. Jean Messaros and Kit Foley. Messaros was named the Vice President of Mission Integration and Foley took the position of Vice President of Student Affairs. Botzman made the announcement Sept. 3 with the position changes effective immediately. According to the announcement, Messaros has been a member of the Religious Sisters of Mercy for 47 years and has worked on MU’s campus since 1990. Before taking the new position she served as Dean of Students and Vice President of Student Affairs. She created the Women with Children Program after working at the college for 10 years. Messaros completed her tenure as a Board of Trustees member at Mt. Aloysius College in Cresson, Pa. and has just been appointed to the Board of Trustees at Gwynedd Mercy College in Gwynedd, Pa. Foley became a part of the MU community in 1985 and served as an Act 101 Counselor, Director of Freshman Year Activities and Executive Director of the Learning Resources Center. She has also served as the Assistant Dean of Students and the Director of Residence Life. Pick up the next issue of The Highlander for more details of the new positions and a welcome to new staff and faculty. hoffmae3@misericordia.edu

MARY BOVE/THE HIGHLANDER

Junior Alexandria Smith cruises down the new zip line behind Mangelsdorf Field on Sept. 5. More challenge course information and photos can be found on page 5.

Welcome back to our entire campus community – students, faculty, staff, and friends! All of us offer a very special welcome to our 440 first-year students and our 120 transfer students. It’s the beginning of my first year as president at Misericordia, so you are a very special class for me. I wish to encourage our new students to try at least one course or activity that is totally new as a way of learning more about the Misericordia experience. Our outstanding faculty members have been busy developing new courses, and creating labs and learning activities that take us from theory to practice. The beginning of the academic year is a special time for renewing friendships, making a few or too many new friends, joining a club or service organization, and participating on a sports team or cheering for the Cougars. We begin the new academic year by choosing from a wide range of courses in the liberal arts and sciences to professional fields. Consider the possibilities for your time outside class – lectures, concerts, art exhibitions, music, and student performances. Fall sports are underway, so get out and play or cheer on our fall sports teams. Take time to reflect upon our charisms of mercy, service, justice and hospitality that were instilled in us by our founders and sponsors, the Religious Sisters of Mercy. MU students provided 158,000 hours of service to the local, regional, and international community last year. This is your chance to be change lives and give back to the people and communities that need it most. Again, welcome as we begin a new adventure together!

SGA Newbies Move Forward With Experience By Casey Saylor, Reporter

The Student Government Association (SGA) successfully made a name for itself last year as the group raised money for charity, received multiple recognitions and attracted record turnouts at its various activities across campus. SGA’s means for accomplishing these things, however, were a bit unusual. As President Catie Becker, a first year member of SGA last year, greeted the smiling faces of the other newbie members last August, she couldn’t help but realize there was not a single returning member on the 20122013 SGA staff or board. “We were totally unorganized,” said Becker. “Darcy [Brodmerkel] led us in the right direction.” The lack of the group’s hands-on experience caused the organization’s first couple of events to be rough, and the final outcomes were not up to the group’s expectations. The Annual Presidential

Cup Volleyball Tournament completely turned things around. “In the past,” said Vice President Dayna Richter, “Volleyball Tournaments were attended, but not well. People signed up, but teams would drop at the last minute. But ours had great attendance and all the teams [that signed up] participated. This success reassured the group that, ‘We can do this.’“ This newfound confidence enabled members to get organized and make the most of the leaders among them. Becker said the entire board became flexible and cohesive. “We elected a board that worked well together, and just because we had certain titles doesn’t mean that’s what we stuck with. Nobody was confined by job descriptions.” By the end of the 2012-2013 school-year, members had successfully worked together to host many activities, but their

CASEY SAYLOR/THE HIGHLANDER

Board members of SGA Dayna Richter, Katerina Kindig, Darcy Brodmerkel, advisor, Catie Becker and DeAnna Darling pose with last year’s Dean’s Award for the Most Outstanding Club. most prized project was the 2013 Springfest weekend. The traditional event held the weekend before finals had been considered

a small, sparsely attended event. “We wanted ours to be remembered,” said Becker. Planning for the April 2013

Viewfinder: Club Fair

Exclusively on highlandernews.net

Look for photos of the popular fair held in Insalco Hall on Sept. 4. Check out the clubs deemed most popular.

Check weekly for Athlete of the Week features on the Sports Center tab.

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event began in December 2012, four months before the festival, and the extra preparation resulted in record attendance at every Springfest weekend event. Attendance wasn’t the only record broken at the 2012 Springfest festival. Encouraged by SGA, three local hair stylists volunteered at the festival, raising over $300 in student donations to charity. Separately, students worked to break the world record for the World’s Longest Marker Chain, which is still awaiting approval by the Guinness Book of World Records. SGA’s improbable journey during the 2012-2013 school-year resulted in the Dean’s Award for the Most Outstanding Club, an honor that had never before been bestowed upon student government. several members also won Individual Leadership, and local newspapers recognized SGA for

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organizing the World Record. “Last year we all became a family,” Becker said, adding that she feels members’ close relationships were “vital” to the success. Becker said SGA has more in store for the 2013-2014 schoolyear. Her plan is not only to repeat the successful events of last year, but to build upon them. “We’re taken seriously now,” said Richter. “Before, somebody would mention SGA and people would say, ‘What’s that?’ Now everybody knows who we are.” Brainstorming has only just begun, but some insider ideas for future 2013-2014 SGA events include multiple special events in October for Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a repeat of the hairstyling for charity fundraiser and an even better Springfest than last year. “We have no idea how they’re going to handle this year’s situa-

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September 10, 2013

News

Celtic Cross Restored After Decades Missing By Ellen Hoffman, Editor-in-Chief

A new school year brings a new symbolic figure to campus – a symbol that had been missing for decades. A new Celtic cross once again rests in its place on top of the historic archway at the entrance to upper campus. Officials say the cross disappeared between 1960 and 1980. Some believe it was removed due to weather damage or it may have fallen during a storm. The Highlander first reported the missing icon in an article last November, “No Sign of the Cross on Arch.” In March, an article was published noting a donation that was made to fund the restoration of the missing cross, “Donation Leads to Arch, Cross Repair.” Jim Roberts, Director of Marketing and Communications, said the restoration had been discussed by officials since 2007, but the project was on stand-by due to lack of funds. Donations were made by an anonymous donor and SpeechLanguage Pathology grad student Michelle Bruno and her family. The Bruno family said they left the decision as to where their

donation would go up to their daughter, according to an article in Misericordia Today. She chose the cross restoration because she wanted the school’s charisms and community values to be reflected in this symbol. “Now we are made whole again,” she said. The new cross was constructed by a team from Masonry Preservation Services, Baut Studios of Swoyersville and university officials. The $14,500 project included the design, manufacturing and installation of the cross. Peter Calkins, the university’s project manager in the facilities planning, design and construction department, coordinated the construction work with the team on the details of the cross, and he had details of the cross reviewed by the university’s image committee prior to its completion. The masonry team restored the cross for the university, something they have done numerous times in the past. “They do a lot of custom work. They have done a lot of church work and monumental type buildings. This isn’t a building, but it’s

a very custom structure. It’s their forte. They specialize in this sort of thing,” Calkins said. Workers placed the symbolic figure on the arch’s left turret May 9, in time for 2013 commencement ceremony. There will be a ceremony to dedicate the piece during the 2013-2014 academic year on a date to be announced. The cross, an icon of the University, became part of the school’s logo when College Misericordia became Misericordia University. “Once we put it [the cross] on the logo and made the conscious choice to do that, as cited in the original November story from The Highlander, we kind of turned that responsibility over to others, facilities, maintenance, administration to determine, is the funding available? What’s the right approach to restore that cross from whenever it was lost?” Roberts said. But some students didn’t know it was replaced, let alone that it was ever missing at all. Junior Alexa Cholewa was unaware of any problem with the University’s symbol and logo, but

she is pleased to see the cross back in its original location. “Well, since its been missing for so long, it’s not necessarily important to me. However, I do feel that it’s a symbol of our University, and it’s about time that its been replaced,” she said. Cholewa agrees that the archway with the cross is a symbol of the University. Her mother attended the institution when it was known as College Misericordia and even her mom feels strongly about the new logo and wondered why it was missing for so long. “The arch is an icon for more than the people who are here now. My mom went to school here years ago and she knows how important it is.” hoffmae3@misericordia.edu

Right, the new Celtic cross sits in its place on top of the archway leading to upper campus. The cross is an iconic part of MU and is now back to its original location after it had been missing for decades.

Viewfinder: First Year Convocation NEPA INKS UP

MU MARKETING DEPARTMENT

By Alexandria Smith, Web Master

Top, first year students listen to Dr. Botzman’s opening remarks on their first day of orientation. Left, Associate Professor of Social Work Margaret Rapp welcomes the first year students as they progress into the Wells Fargo Ampitheatre. Right, junior Jamie Opela and sophomore Annie Stewart sing the National Anthem and the university’s alma matter. Bottom, Luzerne County Judge Tina Polachek Gartley receives an honorary doctorate degree from Botzman and Chairman John Metz. MARY BOVE/THE HIGHLANDER

Tattoo fans were inked at the first Northeastern Pennsylvania tattoo arts festival Aug 30,31 and Sept. 1. Located within the Genetti Hotel Convention Center and supported by 570 Tattooing Co. and Marc’s Tattooing of Wilkes-Barre, the NEPA Tattoo Arts Festival showcased over 30 shops and representatives of the art form such as The Bohemian Tattoo Club of Kokomo Indiana, House of Ink of Exeter Pa, and Flower of Life Studios in Boalsburg Pa., and offered much even to the most casual tattoo enthusiasts. Live painting demonstrations and music from local acts such as Jove, Frank Froese Jr. and ZFL occurred side-by-side, but the tattoo arts remained at the forefront of every attendee’s mind, including client Chelsea Carbaugh of Clarion, Pa. Carbaugh, a frequent client of Andy Mast of Resolute Custom Tattooing, was enthusiastic about her first visit to a tattoo event of this kind. “Where I’m at, there are only two or three shops in town. It’s nice to come out and see all that different artwork,” she said. The new and veteran artists of the event shared similar excitement. Budding tattoo artist Amber Meister of Three Rivers, Mi., now of Pa., attended the event out of both a desire for a new piece and to gain more insight into the world of her new career. She noticed several differences between this festival and the famed 18th Annual Motor City Tattoo Expo in Michigan. “This one is much smaller. It’s the first year and whoever Marc [Fairchild] is obviously has a great set up of artists. There a lot of

really well-known artists as well as his shops and couple of other nearby – a couple hours nearby – shops participating. So hopefully in a few years it can be a larger convention. I know my shop is interested in maybe coming here next year,” said Meister. Similarly, cover feature Tattoo Revue and a key player in a vibrant new school of style, Jason Ackerman, of Stroke of Genius Tattoo in Boca Raton, Fl. admits that while he has attended over a hundred tattoo events this has been his first within the area. The smaller attendance numbers made for much closer interactions with both artists and clients throughout the weekend and a much more relaxing experience, according to Scotty Whitaker of Emerald City in Greensboro, Nc. “Since it’s small, it’s more intimate for the artist because we all know each other versus doing Baltimore or Philly when you have 500 booths which, there’s nothing wrong with that, but it’s just like if we were in Baltimore, I might not see him all weekend ‘cause he’s 100 yards away. Whereas, this place is 60 artists, and we’re all friends, so it’s more intimate,” said Whitaker. Both artists projected the festival to be very busy because of its size and hoped that it would grow accordingly in the next year. The event’s popularity could be a problem, especially if there aren’t enough artists to take care of all the people. More event details, including a full list of sponsors, events, artists, and vendors can be found at the official website, nepatattoofest.com smitha10@misericordia.edu

ALEXANDRIA SMITH/THE HIGHLANDER

David Billings of Harford County, Md. adds another tattoo to his collection from artist Casey Anderson of Harford, Md. at the NEPA Tattoo Arts Festival.

INTEGRITY STAFF

CONTRIBUTORS

Ellen Hoffman - Editor-in-Chief Callen Clark Courtney Garloff - Print Editor Alison Counterman Arthur Dowell - Web Editor Dana Delucca Mary Bove - Multimedia Editor Daniella Devivo Alexandria Smith - Web Master Tori Dziedziak - Content Manager Alexa Cholewa - Business Manager Gabriella Lengyel - Social Media Manager Melissa Sgroi - Advisor Misericordia University 301 Lake Street Dallas, PA 18612

The Highlander works to produce up-to-date, clear, accurate reporting. If any information is inaccurate or not covered thoroughly, corrections and information will appear in this area. Opinions and views expressed in The Highlander in no way reflect those of Misericordia University or the Sisters of Mercy. The Highlander Staff welcomes students, faculty and reader response. The Highlander reserves the right to edit submissions for grammatical errors and length. All submissions must be signed. Letters to the Editor and/or materials for publication may be submitted by any reader. Items can be sent via e-mail.

Rob Evans Jimmy Fisher Casey Saylor Nick Vitale

570-674-6400 570-674-6737

The Highlander is a free, biweekly publication produced in conjunction with MU Communications Department. Any full-time student is encouraged to join the staff. We are a member of the American Scholastic Press Association, Associated Collegiate Press and the Pennsylvania Newspaper Association.

hoffmae3@misericordia.edu dowella@misericordia.edu garloffc@misericordia.edu msgroi@misericorida.edu highland@misericordia.edu

Arts & Entertainment

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Peers Help Ease Transition Period By Courtney Garloff, Print Editor

Before most of the student population moved in for the fall semester, Peer Advocates were helping the new members of the community adjust to the school. Peer Advocates also had its own change to adjust to. Usually, members only help the first years with their transition to a new location. Now, they are also transitioning the transfer students. “It’s their first year here. Their needs might be a little bit different in that they might understand what college is about, but they don’t know what MU is about,” said Dr. Cindy March, faculty advisor for Peer Advocates. Peer Advocates and March evaluated all programs and service projects newbies were a part of during the previous year. While the Advocates were pleased with efforts to help first year students adjust to college life, they wanted to do with transfer students. “A couple people in the group,

the Peer Advocates themselves, said, ‘What about the transfers? What are students doing for them to help them adjust?’” said March. These questions led March to contact Gary Samuels, who for the past two years has been in charge of planning transfer orientation. “One of the common complaints I hear from transfer students is that they don’t connect with students right away,” said Samuels, Coordinator of Student Affairs and Community Standards. Samuels and March came up with a solution to this problem by bringing in the Peer Advocates to guide transfer students around campus and also to answer any questions they might have. “We thought it would be great to have Peer Advocates available to meet families as they arrive and give tours, so they can already have a student that has been here for at least a year to connect with as soon as they get to campus,”

said Samuels. Advocates took the new students to the Anderson Center to get their parking passes and to the IT office to get their identification cards before their first day of classes. “Our role was to tell the new students about our organization and how we are here to help them and advocate for them,” said sophomore Speech-Language Pathology major Kelsey Rafferty. The event was also a positive experience for the Peer Advocates. “I really enjoyed it. It was a great experience making the transfer students feel welcome at Misericordia,” said Rafferty. Peer Advocates set several goals for their efforts, one of which was rated at the top of their list: being a friendly and welcoming group. “It made me feel good to know that we as group were helping to ease the transition for students by making them more comfortable,”

said Rafferty. After Samuels and his team completed presentations for the new transfer students, the advocates finished the event by telling the group a little about themselves. “In the beginning of the year we act as a welcoming committee. Then we are available for all students as an advocacy group as well as a support system throughout the rest of the year,” said Rafferty Peer Advocates ended the orientation by showing the newcomers around campus and helping them find their class locations before the first day of the semester. “I enjoyed showing the transfer students around. It was good to know that I was helping people feel more comfortable in a new place, and it was also great to meet new people,” said Rafferty. garloffc@misericordia.edu

Viewfinder: Club Fair Don’t Be A Dud During Interviews

The annual club fair was held in Insolaco Hall on Sept. 4. Different clubs and organizations set up tables to promote their groups to first year students and to other potential new members.

By Dana Deluca, Reporter

Students who scored internships will need to trade their sweatpants for dress pants sooner rather than later. Bernadette Rushmer, Director of Insalaco Center of Career Development, provides students and alumni with career development education, including appropriate attire for interviews and internship positions. “Dress professionally and be prepared,” Rushmer said. She recommends that all students, regardless of major, buy a suit – dress pants, button down shirt and a blazer. Rushmer said when a student does get an internship or job, he or she should learn about the job’s culture and appropriate type of dress. “I’ll wear a suit to work and there are other times where you know nice slacks or a top would be adequate. But I think you know what is very important put your best foot forward when you’re interviewing for the job and then find out about the culture of the employer to find out what would be appropriate to wear on a dayto-day basis,” Rushmer said Senior communications major Daniella DeVivo is one of many students getting ready for internship and job interviews. DeVivo said that she is just like any other college student when it comes to dressing - sweatpants and a hoodie - but she knows she will need to step up her wardrobe and opt for dress pants and a blazer. “For my job, I need to dress professionally so dress pants or a skirt with a blazer,” DeVivo said DeVivo said that she wants to go into either video production and graphic design and mentioned that her attire can vary from a suit to business casual, depending on the location. She said while she has some professional attire, she does not have nearly enough and has to do more shopping. Rushmer said students should start by purchasing staple pieces such as black pants and a nice top. She also recommended shopping the sales sections, especially after the holiday season. “For men and women there’s often sales right after the holidays. We tend to see things go on sale, so that would be a good time to stock up on some of the basics, you know, the black pants, a white button down shirt, things that you would be able to mix and match in

a verity of settings. “You know you can make it little bit more casual or you can dress it up if need be,” Rushmer said Rushmer also recommended to buy all suit pieces at one time and avoid mixing and matching brands. “Sometimes what you will find if you go into a store you might find the jacket on sale but they don’t have the pants or the skirt in your size. Well, black is not black is not black, same with navy, tan, whatever colors you are looking at. It’s very difficult to match exactly to put together a suit,” Rusmer said. Rushmer advises hemming or tailoring and said it is better to spend a little extra on getting the outfit right rather than having the duds be a dud. Rushmer also said students who are low on money should borrow some professional attire from a friend or roommate. deluccad@misericordia.edu

tions,” Becker said. “We made it work [before]; I’m not concerned.” Both Becker and Richter will graduate this May. “We worked really hard and consciously constructed a board that will return next year.” The two senior officers say they become slightly teary eyed when thinking about leaving the team with whom they’ve accomplished so much. “[SGA] is like our baby, and it’s growing up now,” said Becker. “We get teary eyed every time we think about it,” Richter said.

Don’t: - Wear wrinkled or stained clothing - Smell like smoke, alcohol, or body odor - Wear clothing with holes - Wear Sleeveless shirts, halter tops, or seethrough shirts, low-cut shirts, fishnet stockings, or shirts showing your stomach

SAFE Peer Educators will be assisting staff members in their presentations of the PACT Program. PACT is an initiative to assist first year students in their transition from high school to college. The PACT Program discussed healthy relationships, relationship violence and ways to stay safe and prevent sexual assault. SAFE Peer Educators: September 17th Bystander Intervention McHale Guest Speaker, Pat Rushton of the Victims Resource Center will discuss Bystander Intervention. For more information about the CAPS Center please contact Dr. Cindy March or Courtney Burgess-Michak. The CAPS Center is located in the basement of Alumnae Hall.

“I’m looking forward to this year’s fall production called “Spoon River Anthology,” said occupational therapy major Jackie Paluszek.

“The possibility of the football team actually winning. And seeing the Newsies,” said occupational therapy major Sam Rehrig.

“Just going into my major,” said nursing major Gabe Bigatel.

“To become more sociable,” said physical therapy major Clare Fotzgerald.

Now that I’m not a freshman anymore I know how everything works and I have a more flexible lifestyle,” said nursing major Trent Ortiz.

“I’m excited for my class schedule because I have a lot of different variety, which will broaden my perspective,” said English major Nick Stanovick

Harvest Fest

For more information visit career.uconn.edu

The Student Government Association is a student-run, studentelected board which represents the students. It works in collaboration with Student Activities to plan and run various activities on campus, and it is the governing body and record holder of the campus’s clubs and activities. The SGA office is located in the Banks Student Life Center. Contact the organization by stopping at the office, or by emailing sgovern@misericordia.edu. saylorc@misericordia.edu

SAFE Peer Educators: September 2nd- September 12th

The semester is just beginning for new and returning students. We asked students in Banks Student Life Center what they are most looking forward to during the fall semester. If you have a question you would like us to ask, email the newspaper editorial staff at Highland@misericordia.edu.

Do: - Think conservative - No flashy colors or prints - Wear closed-toe shoes and low heels - Make sure all of your clothing fits properly - Make sure all skirts are knee length

Continued from page 1

CAPS CORNER

STUDENT ON THE STREET

Internship or Interview Style DOs and Don’ts

SGA, continued

September 10, 2013 3

MARY BOVE/THE HIGHLANDER

Top, Jacob Garner, the electronic reserves specialist in the Bevevino Library, talks with sophomore Morgan Myers and encourages her to get involved on campus with the library club. Middle, junior Alex Graham talks with first year Mariah Thomas about the Starry Nights tutoring program in Noxen. First year students were required by their FYE instructors to attend the fair to learn about ways to get involved on campus. Bottom, first year Kassy Kozel and friends sign up for the OT international club at the club fair in Insolaco Hall. Junior Mary Howes works the table at the popular fair.

11th annual festival in Downtown Dallas Sunday, September 15 noon to 5 PM Enjoy apples, cider, baked goods, ice cream, potato pancakes, sausage and peppers and other local fare. Participate in an open mic competition and other games and activities!

Sports

highlandernews.net

September 10, 2013

Underclassmen Step Up to the Plate FIRST By James Fisher, Reporter

With multiple MAC and Freedom Conference titles throughout the past few seasons, the baseball team has never lacked talent or the will to win, but this season it is missing something it hasn’t missed in years: a veteran roster. After losing 14 seniors to May graduation, the baseball team is left with a roster consisting of nearly all sophomores and freshmen with the exception of five seniors: Ryan Cacchioli, Shane McGraw, Julian Faria, Joe Tagliarini and Bryce Frankenfield. There are no juniors on the roster, barring the arrival of transfer students when the winter semester rolls around. Head coach Pete Egbert said he once had a team with five seniors or less, but he never had a small group of seniors with no juniors to back them up. “Typically what happens, not only in our program, but I think in all the athletic programs across the board, even in Division III, is you end up getting more freshmen and sophomores and then as they go through their four years, other things come up and being a student athlete becomes more challenging, so they decide not to continue playing for four years,” said Egbert. “Typically, if you

bring in a class of 10 freshmen, not all 10 freshmen are going to make it to their senior year.” The average age of a player this

MISERICORDIA ATHLETICS

to the college level, I treat them all the same. Freshmen, sophomore, junior, senior it really doesn’t matter to me.”

MISERICORDIA ATHLETICS

so they know what my expectations are, and I’ve talked to them already about having to lead our freshmen, and I have every

MISERICORDIA ATHLETICS

Senior Ryan Cacchioli

Sophomore Kyle Lindsay

Senior Joe Tagliarini

season is between 18 and 19 years old, and some fans might be writing them off because of their youth, but Coach Egbert says he is hopeful about the young talent. “It’s exciting to have the youth,” says Egbert. “From a coaching standpoint, we like to work with our guys for the four years. We’re really, really excited about the freshmen class we brought in. We think they’re pretty talented. The sophomore class that we have is very talented; they proved that on the field last year. When they get

There are some experienced players to whom Egbert is turning to for leadership and guidance for the incoming players. Egbert commends his senior group for being terrific leaders. “Our senior leadership is strong, and our sophomore leadership is better than I’ve ever had from a young group,” he said. “We have some really, really good sophomore leaders, so again, to me it doesn’t necessarily matter to me that they’re not junior or seniors. They’ve been around it before

confidence in the world that they can do it.” Kyle Lindsay is one of the sophomores who has taken a leadership role. “It’s definitely different. I didn’t expect it,” said Lindsay. “Coming in as a freshman, you don’t necessarily expect to take a leadership role, but as you play more games and as the season rolls along you kind of see how things are going, and you realize your roles are changing as the season rolls on.” Lindsay knows that the sopho-

ourselves to help our five freshmen. But I do take the leadership role very serious because I’ve been here for four years.” With the addition of those new faces, inexperience may be a concern, but McGrady is very pleased with their progression, and praises the chemistry among the team. “They’re coming along great. I think what they bring to the table physically is matched by the intangibles. And what I mean by that is their attitude, sense of humor and they even bring comic relief to practice. Three of them refer to themselves and “MnM” (Megan Curry, Nicole Taggerty, Megan Collins). There’s no animosity between the upperclassmen and the underclassmen, which is great.” Coming off one of one of the best seasons the school has had in recent years, which included a playoff appearance, McGrady and company are eager to match last

year’s success. They will have to do so by replacing standouts Kathryn LaBrie and Cailin McCullion, who moved on to graduation. “One of our goals for this year is to make playoffs. I always tell my team to control the “C’s”. If you control the ball, if you control the tempo, you’ll control the game. And that’s what we’re looking to do. Our passing has progressed in the last week, we’ve really pushed the tempo in practice a lot and you can see were making big strides. If we can control the offensive tempo in the game, we’ll be in the mix, no doubt in my mind.” Korgeski, who was a key component in last year’s playoff squad, would love nothing more to meet traditional powerhouse Eastern in the playoffs. Eastern knocked the Cougar’s out in the first round, eliminating them in three sets. “I know that for me, beating

Eastern would be highlight of my season because the past three years we’ve lost to them in three sets. I know it’s also the case for the upperclassmen, because they’ve already been exposed to Eastern. It would definitely be the highlight of my season and it’s been something we’ve been talking about and working at. Hopefully we get there this year, but I think in the next couple years, Coach McGrady will have this team at an Eastern level.” One of McGrady’s idols is former Notre Dame football coach Lou Holtz, who always preached that in order to be successful, you have to have a plan. McGrady is confident his plan will pay off. “You have to have goals first. If you don’t have goals, what are you spinning the wheels for? And then you got to have a plan, and you have to implement that plan. And so far I’ve got my goals set. And the goal is to make the NCAA Tournament within the first three years.” evansr4@misericordia.edu

more group can do terrific things, but he did not take away from the seniors on the team and leadership examples they are preaching. “We do have some really solid senior leadership,” said Lindsay. “Even last year Ryan Cacchioli and Joe Tagliarini, they were everyday starters, too, and they were always there for me when I needed someone to talk to, and they led by example as well.” Senior Joe Tagliarini noticed that over the past few seasons he hasn’t needed to be much of a leader because there was a skilled group of guys ahead of him. But with such a younger group coming to the field, he knows he and Cacchioli will have to step up. “Me and [Cacchioli] have been there now,” said Tagliarini. “We’ve spent the past three years together so it’s really gonna fall on us, too. Also Julian Faria, he was a transfer student last year, and he really helped us out big time. He’s also a senior and has a lot of knowledge for the game, and he’s ging to fill a big role in leadership as well.” Egbert and his players agree that the fall season will be a test. fisherj3@misericordia.edu

Volleyball Team Welcomes New Coach, Season By Rob Evans, Reporter

As the women’s volleyball team enters the 2013 season, players will welcome first year head coach Shayne McGrady and their new teammates. McGrady, a former 2013 Wyoming Valley Conference Coach of the Year at Coughlin High School in Wilkes-Barre, takes over for long-time head coach Jen Yuhas, who stepped down earlier this year after six seasons with the program. McGrady was named head coach in July. Although McGrady has only been with the program for a short time, off-season recruiting has kept him busy. “Recruiting has been a big part of the summer. I’ve had four or five in-house visits. I’ve attended three tournaments and in total I’ve reached out to about 20 players. My weekends are pretty much for volleyball recruiting, and my weekdays are in the gym with the team,” McGrady said. “The first priority I made was to reach out to any girls that were interested in Misericordia.” He looks forward to the new challenges while he acknowledges that coaching at the collegiate level differs from the high school ranks. “I’ve been a high school coach for my whole career. The major difference I’ve noticed is that there is a different skill set at this level” McGrady said. “Volleyball is unique because it’s not like football, where everyone catches a football the same way. Volleyball is different in that there are different systems.” Those systems, as McGrady explained, are an important part of his coaching philosophy. He said his system involves using comparisons and spreading things out for the team to take in. “It has been unique so far to try to integrate my system with girls that are coming from different walks, and try to get them focused on one system.” Senior hitter Nicole Korgeski can attest to the difference in coaching styles. Korgeski, who is entering her last season with the team, notes that the transition in coaching philosophies was tough to grasp at first. “At first it was a little bit different. We obviously weren’t used to his style. But now that the preseason is done, we’re really getting into the flow of things. Practices are moving much quicker and going great, and he’s adapting to us as well,” she said. “Coach McGrady has a much more strict and focused plan. He is going to turn the program around and I am 100 percent sure of that. He is very focused on our basic skills and building off of that.” Korgeski also enters the 2013 season as the only senior on the roster. With a youthful cast around her, Korgeski has stepped into more of a leadership role. However, she is not the only member of the team to shoulder the load when it comes to leadership. “This year, I feel I’m in a leadership role because I am the only senior. But I do know that the upperclassmen in general, there’s five of us, we’re all taking it upon

Clockwise, first year Megan Curry controls the ball during the match against Immaculata University. The Cougars won the match with a score of 3-1 (25-17, 25-27, 25-13, 25-20). Junior Shelby Brochetti hits the ball over the net. Wednesday nights game was the first home game of the season. Brochetti dives on the ground in an attempt to save the ball while Curry and senior Nicole Korgeski look on. The game was held at the Anderson Sports and Health Center. Jumping in the air, sophomore Meghan Stack hits the ball while junior Kellyn Swanson watches. Stack had 15 kills against Immaculata.

MARY BOVE/THE HIGHLANDER

DOWN By Nick Vitale, Reporter

With six home football games, the Cougars are looking to lock down the team’s first win. Players hope fans will continue the team spirit that marked last year’s inaugural season. “It’s very exciting,” said Teegan French, junior and left guard for the offense. “Last year so many people came out to the home games. It was packed.” French wants fans to know this team is different from the 20122013 squad. “We have a different offense than last year. It is a lot quicker, and we do not huddle as much. We are trying to be a quicker team and beat the other team off the ball.” It’s also a more experienced team because half of the players have one year of training and collegiate play under their belts. “It’s not all rookies,” said Head Coach Mark Ross. “Anybody who was not a true freshmen last year was still a rookie to the college game.” There are 92 players on the roster and half of them are freshman, Ross said. The returning players have 10 college games behind them, which means they should have some benefit of experience. French was one of the very few players chosen for the university’s original team. “Coach Ross wanted a group that was a foundation team,” he said. “There were 23 of us. Now there are only five left. Some graduated; others fell off.” Ross expects a tough fight from his team this season. “I want to see us compete for 60 minutes, play hard, and limit the mistakes. We need to play as hard and as fast as we can,” Ross said of the 2013 roster. Ross said it is too early to determine who the stand out players are going to be this season because he hasn’t yet been able to determine strengths and weaknesses of the entire team. “It’s going to be determined when we get in to games,” he said. French, a returning player, already has a better feeling about this season than last season. “We are looking a lot better this year than we did last year,” said French. “We have a talented young group.” While the team is dominantly composed of underclassmen they are eager to put in time and effort, according to Ross. “This is a great group of kids [who] work their tails off. They have done a good job representing the University,” said Ross. There are a lot of ways to measure success, and if you just measure it by scores I think you are missing the boat.” vitalen@misericordia.edu

2013-2014 Football Schedule 9/14 Delaware Valley Home 1:00 PM 9/21 Lycoming Away 1:30 PM 9/28 Wilkes Home 1:00 PM 10/5 Kings Home 1:00 PM 10/19 Widener Away 1:00 PM 10/26 Lebanon Valley Home 1:00 PM 11/2 Steveson Away 1:00 PM 11/9 Albright Home 1:00 PM FDU-Florham Away 1:00 PM All home games are played at Mangelsdorf Field located behind the Metz Fieldhouse. For more information about game days visit athletics.misericordia.edu.

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Sports

Cougars Aim to Defend Title CLIMBING FOR A CHALLENGE By Alison Counterman, Reporter

By Arthur Dowell, Web Editor

Stauffer. “The results will speak Nicolette Ruffler said the staffers’ Anyone who steps into head for themselves at the end of labor is reason for gratitude. coach Mark Stauffer’s office can games, just as long as we focus on “The support they give us is see that he takes great pride in the details in the moment.” incredible,” said Ruffler. “Walking his women’s soccer team and all After their tough loss last season into the office seeing all the sucthe accomplishments he and his many of the girls wanted to get cess and team photos makes me squads have made throughout the back into training and help build proud to play for a great team and years. on their talents and health. They makes me strive to get better and With plaques for All-American feel the biggest obstacle - and key make it up on his wall.” players, team photos and memoRuffler plays back and serves as a to their success - is the team itself. ries of team trips it is easy to see “We are in control of our fate senior leader for the Cougars. that Stauffer has not taken his job and we work for granted. together conThis year is stantly and reno different. mind ourselves The women that we have the have high potential for the expectations same success,” after coming said Stauffer off an incredRuffler believes ible season in her teamduring which mates and they made it said this year’s to the NCAA squad has an Final Four. advantage over The Cougars the team that look to take made it to San the challenges Antonio. head on as “We now have eight of last that experiseason’s startence and want ers return this to return there year. and take it even “The further and leadership win a National on the team Championship is amazing,” this year,” said said Stauffer. Ruffler. “Everywhere I Stauffer is look there is a looking forward leader helping to a big student out some of section during the younger home games so players and they, too can getting them CALLEN CLARK/THE HIGHLANDER go along for the adjusted to Top, senior Alyssa Mocion takes a shot on net during a late practice ride. He said the what we do on the field.” while senior Nicolette Rufler tries to block the shot on Mangelsdorf women feel more The success Field. Bottom, sophomore goalkeeper Maureen Ciccosanti lungs to comfortable playblock a shot during an evening women’s soccer team practice. ing when they the women have the support had last seaof their school behind them. The team became focused after son did not happen easily. Stauffer The women were picked to win the loss in the Final Four in San and his coaching staff are reguthe Freedom Conference this Antonio, and it was fueled by a larly watching film and recruiting positive outlook during games and season in the 2013 Freedom Prehigh school players to continue to season Coach’s Poll. the chemistry among players. grow and remain competitive. dowella@misericordia.edu “Instead of playing the game The players have noticed the 90 minutes at a time, we look at work. Senior Healthcare Manageit in five-minute sections,” said ment and Physical Therapy major

MU Exposure: Red Zone

A rock climbing wall behind Mangelsdorf Field is the newest addition to campus. Student Outdoor Recreation and Activities (SOAR) introduced the attraction one month ago. Patrick McKamy, Assistant Coordinator of Student Activities, said the wall is a replacement for a similar attraction displaced by campus construction. “Campus had a low-challenge course,” said McKamy. “With campus expansion, the new baseball field took over the challenge course.” Since loss of the original course in 2010, Vice President of Mission Integration Sister Jean Messaros, Director of Student Activities Darcy Brodmerkel and Interim Vice President of Student Affairs Kathleen Foley had been pushing for a new challenge course. “We went through a series of grants, proposals and finally got the funding needed, thanks to Kit, Sister Jean and Darcy, as well as Eric Nelson and Mark Vanetten,” said McKamy. Students now can enjoy both low-challenge and high-challenge courses and also a zip-line. These courses are “for the benefit of the students,” according to McKamy, but faculty and staff can also participate. Open climbs are held on alternating Mondays and Thursdays, and students can obtain a full list of times in the Student Activities Office or online. Open climbs for both students and family will be held on Parent’s Weekend, Sept. 14, and homecoming weekend, Oct. 5. “When the course is open, participants can walk back [behind Mangelsdorf Field] to get checked in and set up to use the climbing section,” said McKamy.

A donation is requested for use of the courses, and all money raised will be directed to different charity each week. Students, faculty and staff do not need any experience to try out the wall and get rockin’. “It’s all entry-level,” said McKamy, “It’s all about challenge, by choice. Everyone tries it at their own ability and everyone is happy with any point they get to.” There are many benefits to having a rock climbing wall on campus for both individuals and groups, according to McKamy. McKamy said the sport provides benefits. “Groups and individuals will discover several different goals – trust, team-building, leadership, as well as internal goals such as confidence-building and communication skills.” “We’re hoping to encourage groups on and off campus to utilize the course to gain both substantial internal and group-wise benefits from use,” said McKamy. He added that the campus may offer more activities that build students’ soft skills. “A lot of us feel positive about the course as well as looking forward to the future of teambuilding and working toward individual goals and objectives,” said McKamy. Trained facilitators will be onsite to assist participants, and students are needed to fill those positions, but McKamy said the activity can be dangerous if climbers are not prepared. Students may use the courses only when qualified supervision is available and present. Improper use of the courses will result in disciplinary action. McKamy believes that the rock climbing wall is “going very well, and it is going to be a great addi-

tion to campus,” and some students like sophomore healthcare management major Lauren Malick enjoyed her first time. “I thought it was fun,” she said “I’m actually thinking of doing the open climb.” Malick said when she participated in the climb during orientation training it really helped build leadership skills for everyone. “The rock wall did a lot of team building for everybody,” said Malick. “Members of your team would help instruct you through if they saw you were stuck or giving up, just to get you to the top.” She said she felt accomplished when she completed the course. “People were nervous at first but with encouragement from fellow orientation leaders, they climbed further then they thought they would be able to,” said Malick. I didn’t think I would make it all of the way to the top but I saw other people get there but I saw other people get there so I pushed myself,” said Malick “It was a rewarding feeling when I got to the top.” With facilitators on site, she said participants felt safe. “I wouldn’t want to do it without supervision,” she said. “You feel on your own, but it was comforting knowing that if I got tired, discouraged or wanted to give up, there was someone trained at the bottom holding the other end of my rope.” Students who have already participated say that this is a great opportunity to get involved in. “I’m really glad I had the opportunity to try it and want to take advantage of the open climbs,” said Malick. “The best part was forming bonds with the people you were climbing with because of their continuous encouragement.” countera@misericordia.edu

Clockwise, sophomore Kaleigh Killian focuses on the top of the wall as she nears the end of her climb. The first open climb on the new rock wall was held Sept. 5. Junior Alexandria Smith enjoys her first ride on the new zip line. During open climb zip lining is also available for a donation. After finishing his climb, sophomore Mike Skasko cheers on Killian as she continues climbing towards the top of the wall, eager to finish on her first attempt. Thinking about his next move, Skasko reaches for a new hand hold. Open climbs are held every other Monday and Thursday for a donation.

MARY BOVE/THE HIGHLANDER

SAFE Peer Educators sponsored by The CAPS Center created a red zone on campus to display the dangers first year students face their first six weeks on campus. This time period is when student are most vulnerable to sexual misconduct or rape. The CAPS Center wanted to make the campus aware of alarming statistics that show how many students are affected. They reported that in a survey of students at 171 institutions of higher education, alcohol was involved of 74% of all sexual assaults. For more information about this topic visit the CAPS Center in Alumae Hall.

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