Juniata Magazine Fall 2023 by Juniata College

FA L L 20 2 3

JUNIATA

Writing Juniata’s Powerful Story Reflecting on the last 10 years and innovating the next decade

A Presidential Purpose President James Troha’s First Decade at Juniata College

Juniata Traditions The Fall Semester in Photos

Dear Friends,

James A. Troha trohaj@juniata.edu @juniataprztroha

Juniata’s mission of providing “an engaging, personalized experience empowering our students to develop the skills, knowledge, and values that lead to a fulfilling life of service and ethical leadership in a global community” is central to both who we are and what we do as a community. Within the pages of this fall magazine, we celebrate the College’s achievements of the past decade and those who have helped lead to our success. Faculty advisers like Kristin Camenga mindfully partner with students to ensure their academic pursuits are individualized as they prepare for their future. On a campus where 40 percent of students are athletes, Scott McKenzie provides behind-the-scenes support to teams, players, and fans. The College recently held a special first look at the Statton Learning Commons that will bring 21st-century library and technology services under the leadership of Justine Kobeski Black ’08. Learning to lead is an integral part of the Juniata experience and one that Yoselin Kearney ’24 has embraced. This experience follows our alumni as they set out to forge meaningful careers, like Madeline Bennetti ’17, who guides young adults living with diabetes and bridges the gap between mental and physical health. I am proud to be a part of our Juniata College community and our collective commitment to learning and leadership. With warm regards,

James A. Troha, Ph.D. President

TABLE OF CONTENTS A Presidential Purpose . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Juniata Athletics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Bridging the Gap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 There’s No Place Like Home . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Advising Students from Different Angles . . . . . . 22 Giving Back to College and Community . . . . . . 24 From Reluctant Student to Campus Leader . . . . 26 Fall Campus Traditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Faculty/Staff Accomplishments . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Juniata Faculty Members Honored With Distinguished Teaching Awards . . . . . . . . 38 Class Notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 Four Alumni Recognized for Achievements . . . . 44 Marriages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 Births & Adoptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 I Met an Alum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 In Memoriam . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 Obituaries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 Employees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58 Elizabeth Homan Vice President for Strategic Marketing & Communications homane@juniata.edu

David Meadows ’98 Executive Director of Career Development & Alumni Engagement meadowd@juniata.edu

April Feagley Editor Assistant Director of Communication feaglea@juniata.edu

Anna Myers Angie Ciccarelli Graphic Designer Graphic Designer ciccara@juniata.edu anna-myers.com

President James A. Troha and Courtney Laing ’27, his niece, pass the flame during the annual candle lighting ceremony to welcome the Class of 2027 to Juniata College. Cover photo by Joyce Yong

In the past decade, Juniata College has achieved what many other colleges have not, adaptability and strong growth.

FALL 2023

By AMANDA S. DRUMM

Photo by Cole Handerhan

JUNIATA MAGAZINE

uniata College welcomed the third-largest firstyear class in its history in August. Recruiting a historic number of students during any academic year is a significant achievement, but to accomplish that feat during these economically challenging times is even more impressive. With a steady decline of college-age students and inflation on the heels of a global pandemic, Juniata has achieved what many other colleges have not, adaptability and strong growth. The leadership at Juniata has spent a decade positioning students—and, in turn, the college—for this success and a triumphant future. “Juniata has always had an extraordinary reputation of great outcomes in the higher education community. The reputation has always been extremely strong and was always driven by the sense of community that

Photo by Maggie Eckroat ’26

The College welcomed the third-largest first-year class in its history with the incoming Class of 2027.

FALL 2023

is here. I wanted to be part of the place that helped students realize their dreams,” said President James A. Troha, reflecting on his 10 years at the helm of the institution. Upon starting in fall 2013, Troha immediately went to work focusing on Juniata students and ensuring their education continued to prepare them to be curious and global citizens. One of his early priorities was a national search for a provost to lead Juniata as chief academic officer. He selected Lauren Bowen, who set out to reimagine academics, student services, and students’ positions as global citizens. “I understood that we needed to make explicit and then deliver on the promises we make to our students and who we want them to be. My first priority, working in partnership with the faculty, was articulating those attributes of a Juniata graduate or student learning outcomes and then ensuring we had the curriculum and general education requirements to deliver on that promise. No student can graduate without a community-engaged learning experience or without being globally engaged. We positioned students to be both in the world and of the world in ways to challenge students to think about how they know what they know,” Bowen said. In 2016, Matthew Damschroder joined Juniata as vice president for student life and dean of students with the goal to support students throughout their personal and educational journey at Juniata. “There has been considerable progress in academic policies and curriculum. The provost engaged faculty to work on new curriculum from a structure that was in place for 30-plus years. They addressed the needs of contemporary students in new ways and respected the character of the campus. It was about individualized, personalized attention to students to chart their own courses,” he said. Academic programs went through revisions, including consciously developing degrees for current and future needs has been an important responsibility. Those new programs include master’s degrees in business administration, bioinformatics, education,

Photo by Christina D’Amato ’25

Cherished traditions like Lobsterfest connect the campus community across generations through shared experiences.

and data science. Students may also choose from other innovative undergraduate degrees, such as criminal justice, environmental engineering, exercise science, and the accelerated (3+1) dual degree program that allows students to earn a bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in four years. “The development of new academic programs matters so that we prepare students for the world that is and will be. And how we tell our story to emphasize that dynamism while retaining our distinctive commitment to experiential education and interdisciplinarity matters as well,” Bowen said. In addition to that mindfulness of positive outcomes, holistic awareness for students has been a priority. “Security for mental health spaces where students feel safe and supported propelled our continued work at the college. We enhanced mental health support services and counseling. We built out programs and staff to really meet the growing demand for student

mental health support and a mental well-being structure,” Damschroder said. The focus on student success was part of the impetus for the Statton Learning Commons, which is a renovation of the Beeghly Library. The design for this space prioritizes the combination of technology and collaborative learning. Other building and renovation projects have gained traction during the last decade, adding to campus functionality, appeal, and opportunities for students. Nathan Hall, Gibbel Field, Raffensperger Tennis Complex, Good Hall, Brumbaugh Academic Center, Ellis Hall, and Kepple Hall have been completed or renovated, including work in Rosenberger Auditorium. Beyond these renovations and new facilities, creating easier access for all people has been a central and critical piece to these campus projects, making Juniata a more accessible place. JUNIATA MAGAZINE

Photo courtesy of Juniata College Archive

President James A. Troha, center, was congratulated by Robert McDowell ’67, chair of the board of trustees at the time, at his inauguration celebration on Oct. 18, 2013.

“There were very little to no handicapped accessible entrances, no elevator to the dining hall, no access to the second or third floors of Good Hall and Ellis Hall. Jim created a level of access for folks who are usually disenfranchised because of maneuverability. He was probably the most accessible president as far as he had the greatest to do with accessibility and ADA compliance in buildings. Because of him, people do not have to think about those things,” said Vice President for Advancement and New Strategic Initiatives Jim Watt. The consciousness of establishing a place where everyone is welcome is the equity-minded culture highlighted in the College’s “All In: The Strategic Plan for Juniata College” that launched in February 2023. That commitment is made alongside pledges to enhance academic distinction and the campus experience. 6

FALL 2023

The call to enrich the campus experience has yielded additional athletic teams and extracurricular activities over the past 10 years. Men’s and women’s golf, men’s and women’s lacrosse, men’s swimming, mock trial, and the Screaming Eagles pep band have been transformative for students. “They give more students the opportunity to participate. We open doors for prospective students,” said Nikki McLellan Ayers ’06, athletic director. Ayers, who played soccer at Juniata, is the first fulltime and first female athletic director. She chose to lead the athletics department in achieving its goals and to return to the deep sense of community she finds at the College. “Juniata is a home and a home away from home. I wanted to pay it back, for Juniata students to have a similar experience to mine. I am in complete support

of the mission and live it every day in our core values and standards,” she said. She similarly wants to assist Juniata in crossing the finish line as a top competitor athletically, while remaining passionate about pursuits off the field. “I want to support all our sports programs to be top of the Landmark Conference. Non-competitively, our department supports students’ mental health, which is a very real thing. My long-term vision for Juniata is to branch out more for the faculty and staff, and even into the local community, to have robust recreation,” Ayers said. The generosity of alumni, donors, and grants made it possible for Juniata to make changes to the campus experience and increase student opportunities.

Photo by JD Cavrich

After a nationwide search, Nikki McLellan Ayers ’06 was named Juniata’s first full-time and first female director of athletics in June 2022.

Renovations to Good Hall and Ellis Hall created new levels of accessibility with the addition of elevators in both facilities.

Photo by JD Cavrich

JUNIATA MAGAZINE

Photo by Sarah Anne Wharton ’06

BELIEVE: The Campaign for Juniata College raised a total of $128,600,351 over seven years, exceeding the original goal of $100 million.

“Financial security has been a priority. Tom Kepple finished his presidency with a very successful campaign, and Jim decided to do another one for another $100 million. We did not know where that would come from, but we finished over the goal. We had a really great team with key donors to make that happen,” said Robert McDowell ’67, former chair of the board of trustees. The Believe Campaign focused on Juniata’s commitment to affordability and creating a college that will exceed student academic and extracurricular needs. “Our campaign that we finished in 2021 closed at over $128 million. That comprehensive campaign was student-centric and helped us do many things, including new buildings, facilities, scholarships, faculty support, and growing our endowment,” Troha said. The drive to make Juniata succeed and continue its strong academic reputation is the central theme of 8

FALL 2023

those who are entrusted with offering students the experiences to empower them to flourish now and in the years ahead. “Students who come to Juniata have financial success by the time they are 40; the majority jump two tax brackets from their parents. Juniata ranks highly as far as breaking the social stratification barrier,” said Watt. “We want more students to move through the process in a way that they can be successful. With scholarships, we meet students where they are and educate them at an affordable cost. We want to sustain and grow Juniata with the right vision, community focus, and drive.” Juniata has achieved much since its founding in 1876, while remaining rooted in its Brethren values. Leadership has a profound awareness of Juniata’s deep sense of community, a consciousness of the special place it is, and awareness of its enduring educational

impact. The tenets are the guides that will continue to affect positive change for the College. “My representation as a trustee and chair was heavily influenced by the values and the sense of stewardship and responsibility that I felt. My whole notion of leadership is trying to do things to leave Juniata in a better place than when I was there, that was something that always guided me,” McDowell said. “I believe strongly in our mission, responsible and ethical leadership in the global community. That kind of thing was very important to me in terms of what we do here in preparing students to go into the world.”

“We want more students to move through the process in a way that they can be successful. With scholarships, we meet students where they are and educate them at an affordable cost. We want to sustain and grow Juniata with the right vision, community focus, and drive.” — Jim Watt, vice president for advancement and new strategic initiatives

The Class of 2027 assembled on the quad to commemorate the beginning of their academic career at Juniata College. Photo by Cole Handerhan

JUNIATA MAGAZINE

A Presidential Purpose By AMANDA S. DRUMM

FALL 2023

Photo by JD Cavrich

decade is measured in years, and within that period are days, hours, and countless moments that join to form this passage of time. But it is not this measurable span that is important, it is the events and experiences in between that give meaning. President James A. Troha, who recently concluded his first decade at the helm of Juniata College, met this milestone with purpose, passion, and anticipation for the years ahead. Troha began his post in the fall 2013 semester, with Juniata having just finished its full 10-year Middle States Reaccreditation the preceding spring. “That is a significant accomplishment and I thought ‘there won’t be another one for a long time’,” he joked. The interval until the next reaccreditation proved to be fast, with Juniata having successfully finished in June 2023. “Juniata is a great community where great things are done. This reaccreditation was a collective effort, and it is a big deal. It demonstrates you are doing what you say you are doing,” he said. Speaking about that achievement, Troha is quick to deflect attention from his efforts in the process and redirect the commendation to the administration, faculty, and staff. He is genuine in his praise of them, and in the collaborative ways they worked together to elevate Juniata. That honesty has marked the past 10 years of Troha’s tenure, where he has met tribulations and trials, and openly apprised the Juniata community of its conditions, whether positive or negative. “One that was both a high and low was COVID-19. The challenges around it and our ability to maneuver a global pandemic were immense. The high was that we really displayed the best of who Juniata is. We pulled together as a community—the faculty, students, board, and staff. We welcomed students back in the fall of 2020 and were able to keep people safe and deliver the educational experience. It wouldn’t have been possible if we didn’t all work together as one big family, with advice, protocols, and students who cooperated,” Troha said.

President James Troha, his wife, Jennifer, and their dogs, Lyla and Lainey, enjoy walking through campus and attending events.

Early in the pandemic, he recognized students’ home circumstances are unique and strove to ensure there was not a disruption in instruction, and that classes were equitable for all. “I am proud of the effort we made as a community. This wasn’t possible without the support of what we were trying to do. We never once had an interruption of service. The students wanted to be here; the faculty wanted to be here. It really was a high-water moment where everyone worked together,” Troha said. That spirit of cooperation and the student-centric model is Troha’s motivation. It is likewise why Juniata has witnessed an evolution and vast growth this last decade. For example, Juniata exceeded its $100 million comprehensive campaign by raising over $128 million, which is a testament to the value placed on a Juniata degree and how a Juniata education resonates. “That historic campaign helped us do many things— new buildings and renovated facilities, scholarships, faculty support, and growing the endowment. The work we have done on campus in terms of facilities and infrastructure and investment in our people is making a difference,” he said. Juniata has invested in updating residence halls and the library is currently under renovation. “Students care about where they are studying and where they are living. I think facilities matter in today’s competitive landscape, and we have made great progress there,” said Troha. Limiting the financial worry of students has been a priority, too. “The campaign we had provided money to support scholarships and the philanthropy from alumni and donors helps make it possible to afford the Juniata experience. Additionally, we made a major effort to try to eliminate the burden of book costs. We found some students were not buying books or were sharing them. As part of matriculation, now all books are taken care of—free of charge—so students don’t have to worry about that burden,” he said. These initiatives have culminated in an increase in the size of the first-year class who started this fall; one of the largest classes in the College’s history. Troha JUNIATA MAGAZINE

Photo by Maggie Eckroat ’26

credits the investment in new programs, experiential opportunities like mock trial and the pep band, and additional athletic teams for the number of students and Juniata’s forward momentum. As Troha looks into the future, he wants to continue to see the innovation of new undergraduate and graduate programs, more diversity in the college, and a place that achieves high academic pursuits and is athletically competitive. “Academically I want to remain innovative and entrepreneurial, meeting the demands of a changing marketplace, remaining flexible, and continuing to evolve academically. We need to be open, flexible, and able to pivot. We need to pay attention to what students need in this changing, dynamic economy,” Troha said. This encompasses his vision to collaborate more with the Huntingdon community and to be a strong economic partner for the region while continuing the rich tradition of the college. “Juniata has a strongly earned reputation. Students receive a tremendous education and do wonderful things in our world. It was already a strong institution when I came here, and I wanted it to get even stronger. We are on our way to doing that,” he said.

Move-in day for first-year students is an all-hands-on-deck event at Juniata, with volunteers, including President James Troha, making quick work of helping to unload cars.

“Academically I want to remain innovative and entrepreneurial, meeting the demands of a changing marketplace, remaining flexible, and continuing to evolve academically. We need to be open, flexible, and able to pivot. We need to pay attention to what students need in this changing, dynamic economy.” — President James Troha

FALL 2023

Following Head Football Coach Blake Treadwell’s first win at Juniata College on September 16, President James Troha joined in the celebration at Knox Stadium.

Photo by JD Cavrich

JUNIATA MAGAZINE

J U N I ATA AT H L E T I C S

Kiona Sky Rousset-Hernandez ’24 sets an attack in the Eagles’ victory over Berry College.

FALL 2023

Colin Wible ’27 in action in the final day of the Mountain Valley Collegiate Classic.

Conrad Coffey ’27 marks his collegiate debut in the Father Bede Invitational at Saint Francis University.

Medina Yessenaliyeva ’27 competes in her singles win against DeSales University.

JUNIATA MAGAZINE

Juniata football celebrates the program’s first victory under head coach Blake Treadwell.

Amelia Yordy ’26 dribbles upfield against Pitt-Greensburg.

FALL 2023

Juniata field hockey celebrates the game-tying goal by Aimee Buffington ’24 in their 4-1 victory over Goucher College.

The Juniata men’s soccer team huddles prior to kick off against Chatham University.

JUNIATA MAGAZINE

PROFILE

Bridging the Gap By APRIL FEAGLEY

FALL 2023

Photo courtesy of Madeline Bennetti ’17

he connection between physical and mental health has fascinated Madeline Bennetti ’17 from the moment she first came to Juniata with aspirations of a career as a clinical psychologist. Little did she know that the lessons she would learn from faculty members, advisers, and peers would ultimately lead her to a future that integrated her lived experiences, profound interest in psychology, and the transformative power of education. “I had worked as a diabetes camp counselor and saw a lot of connections with self-regulation and health. That started to develop my professional interest—self-regulation in the context of chronic illness,” she said. “I was thinking, ‘What is my unique spin? What’s my purpose’?” The questions at the forefront of her mind were, ‘How do you develop a person’s ability to cope and manage their disease?’ and ‘What interventions can we put in place at the time of a diagnosis to help someone get from the point of diagnosis to having autonomy in the management of their condition?’ At Juniata, Bennetti found mentors whose holistic approach to education prepared her for her career at Joslin Diabetes Center, the world’s largest diabetes research center, diabetes clinic, and provider of diabetes education, which is affiliated with Harvard Medical School. She’s uniquely positioned for this role, from her experience managing her own chronic condition while a student. “Type 1 diabetes is something you can get pretty independent with over time if you don’t develop complications,” said Bennetti, who added that many of those she now serves are the age she was while she studied at Juniata. “It was hard to learn to manage long phone calls about supplies, getting what I needed in rural areas, and transitioning my medical care. It was very overwhelming.” David Hsiung, professor of history and her faculty adviser, presented her with advice she still considers the best she’s ever received, “Make your life easier, not harder.” “That was radical to me,” she said. “He suggested I take some courses that will be fun and boost my GPA.” “At Juniata, they don’t let you slip through the cracks,” she laughed. “They’re faculty. You don’t have to tell them what’s going on. They find out.”

Many of the attributes Bennetti draws upon today in her day-to-day work—leadership, empathy, candor, and organization—connect with her experiences as an undergrad. In addition to Hsiung, she credits Mark McKellop, professor of psychology, and Russell Shelley, Elma Stine Heckler Professor of Music, as mentors. From Shelley, Bennetti learned that educators aim to work themselves out of a job by creating self-directed learners. It’s a concept that impacted her job at Joslin Diabetes Center. “I was hired for a brand-new job, one that I got to create for myself. Thanks to Juniata, I was pretty good at that,” said Bennetti. “Juniata made me independent. It encouraged me to seek out the experiences that I wanted and find my deficits of knowledge and overcome them. There are no cookie-cutter students who come out of Juniata. It made me a very self-directed learner.” “A key piece of what I do is helping families navigate health, helping young people transition care from their parents to navigating the healthcare system independently. I also work with providers and clinicians to help them discuss that transition,” said Bennetti. “Self-advocacy is an important part of having a chronic illness.” She’s also contributed to the literature on best practices for transitioning individuals from pediatric to adult clinics, including an educational case-based learning module for primary care practitioners in rural areas on the treatment of complex cases of diabetes. “This work from Harvard physicians went to the people who treat patients like me for whom the nearest specialty care would’ve been many hours away,” she said. Along the way, Bennetti has leveraged her education and experience to discover her purpose—bridging the gap between what people consider to be mental health and physical health. The leadership lessons she learned from her mentors continue to serve her well. “Delegate. Delegate. Delegate. Lead through your connections and through the voices of many people, not through your own voice,” she said. “Listen much more than you speak.”

JUNIATA MAGAZINE

PROFILE

There’s No Place Like Home By KRISTEN O’KEEFE

s the first director of the Statton Learning Commons, Justine Kobeski Black ’08 has spent the past year deeply engaged in both the building’s exterior progress and the growth that will take place inside its renovated walls. The new director role means serving as a partner, convener, supervisor, and cheerleader for a space that’s transforming the more traditional 20th-century library building into a 21st-century learning commons. Black is excited to work with her team and the college community to build on the academic and experiential learning opportunities that made her own Juniata experience so special—for Black is a proud alumna. As an involved student, she served as president of the equestrian team, vice president of student government, and a student representative on the Board of Trustees. Black held another unique leadership role, one with a level of responsibility that surprised her friends outside of Juniata and offered excellent career preparation. As the student manager of Juniata’s Technology Solutions Center, she managed a student-run help desk, overseeing a team of 20 student workers and a $72,000 budget. “The mentorship, onboarding, and trust I received as a student manager of the Technology Solutions Center led to such growth for me as both a learner and leader,” said Black, who has led Juniata’s digital learning and online education efforts since 2011. “That’s not always a typical part of the undergraduate experience. I’m excited to see that experiential learning is a central part of Juniata’s new strategic plan; it will also serve as a core component of the new Statton Learning Commons.” The student manager job was directly related to Black’s program of emphasis (POE): Educational Assistive Technology Development. This POE, a

FALL 2023

combination of IT and special education courses, was designed by Black in close collaboration with her professor and academic adviser, John Wright ’93. She quickly obtained a job with a K–12 school system following graduation. Three years later, Black heard of an opportunity she couldn’t pass up: Juniata was hiring an assistant director of instructional technology. After she applied for and got the position, Black was invited to a college faculty meeting. She’ll never forget the words of Communication Professor Lynn Cockett, who kicked off the meeting with this greeting: “On behalf of the faculty, we want to say welcome home Justine.” Black smiles warmly at the memory. “Everyone clapped, and I knew that I really was home.” With strong support from the Juniata community, Black, in turn, embraced every opportunity to grow in her job as assistant director of instructional technology. She oversaw an array of training and co-developed a video production team for students, creating the same kind of experiential learning opportunities Juniata offered her as a student. Black considers herself lucky to work with many of her former mentors. Those included Wright, now the chair of the Information Technology and Computer Science Department, and Joel Pheasant ’99, her boss in the student manager role. Promoted to director of digital learning in 2018, Black explored ways to expand online learning opportunities for students. She worked with a task force to understand what role online learning could play in the lives of Juniata students while taking into account the college’s traditional residential experience. Juniata saw an increase in $1.5 million in revenue for undergraduate

online learning during this period; today, the College’s online offerings include undergraduate courses and master’s programs in areas like business, organizational leadership, and data science. Black took graduate-level coursework in education and earned a certificate in a year-long Institute for Emerging Leaders in Online Learning while she worked and started a family. She also served as Juniata’s cheerleading team coach for eight years. “I’ve loved coaching, mentorship, experiential learning, and connecting with our students,” said Black, reflecting on her Juniata journey and new role leading the Commons. “This new opportunity to lead a studentcentered academic hub—one that will create such a vibrancy in learning for them—it’s amazing. I couldn’t ask for better work.” When it comes to Juniata College, there’s no place like home for Justine Black.

Photo by Cole Handerhan

JUNIATA MAGAZINE

PROFILE

Advising Students from Different Angles By GREGORY J. ALEXANDER

FALL 2023

Photo by JD Cavrich

ristin Camenga considers herself a planner, so when her undergraduate adviser took her aside after her first year at St. Olaf College and asked her if she had considered graduate school to teach at the collegiate level, she was slightly unnerved. Sticking to her plan, she graduated and taught high school math; however, her adviser’s words stuck with her, and two years later, she enrolled in graduate school at Cornell University and then taught at Houghton College and later Penn State Altoona. In 2016, she joined the mathematics department at Juniata College. In a full circle moment, Camenga—who was influenced by her own adviser—is now the director of advising at Juniata. When asked why she pursued the advising position, Camenga says, “I love students, and I love advising them. The advising system was already great, but there wasn’t really any organized training. When I do something and I’m passionate about it, I want to share what I know with others, and I want to make it better.” She adds that while she has a knack for administrative duties, she did not want to give up teaching, so the director of advising job allows her to give back to students while remaining in the classroom. Her experience as a Fulbright Fellow in Budapest, Hungary, serves as another way to connect with students and inspire them on the possibilities beyond Juniata. She is one of many faculty focused on increasing the number of students pursuing Fulbright Fellowships and other prestigious programs. “We want to provide every possible support for our students,” says Camenga. “The approach at Juniata is very personalized. Our tagline is ‘Think about who you are,’ so we are always looking to help students find their path forward.” Camenga, who has two daughters with her husband Andrew, a pastor, says that she fell in love with math due to her parents; her mom was a math teacher and her father studied physics and math in college. As passionate as she is about math—”I love the order, structure and the logic to it and find it very creative”—she truly loves her advising role and the uniquely Juniata approach to advising.

“The two-adviser system allows two different individuals to see two different sides of each student,” says Camenga, who notes that at Juniata, students are assigned a program of emphasis adviser once they enroll, and then choose their secondary adviser. Camenga conducts peer training for advisers and notes that faculty members typically become advisers after their first year of teaching. “We have an Adviser Boot Camp that’s aimed at new advisers, but it’s open to first-year faculty members who may be advisers next year. The morning session is open to all advisers, while the afternoon session is geared toward new advisers and covers such areas as what computer programs you will use,” Camenga says. She offers ongoing advising development by taking other advisers to conferences including national conferences held by the National Academic Advising Association (NACADA). “We also create professional development seminars as needs arise to hone skills, such as a recent one on writing recommendation letters,” she says. Juniata College’s advising approach is designed to serve the needs of all students. “We ask ourselves, ‘How can we best relate to our BIPOC (Black, Indigenous and People of Color), international, and LGBTQ students?’ What are some of the issues that resonate with them? It’s all about reaching every student,” Camenga says. Camenga was the 2020 recipient of the Gibbel Award for Teaching Excellence, and she notes that one of the perks of this award is giving the opening convocation to incoming students, but because of COVID-19, hers had to be done via video. With this in mind, she framed her speech on what it was going to take to be a community in that environment. “When you are wearing a mask, it’s harder to get to know someone, so I urged them to invest more time in building relationships, which takes courage,” she recalls. As she looks at what’s next with advising, Camenga says she is focused on creating a more open sharing system to allow faculty and advisers to collaborate and share knowledge. “It’s about making sure that we all have enough background knowledge so that we can be the best adviser for students that we can.” JUNIATA MAGAZINE

PROFILE

Giving Back to College and Community By DERON SNYDER

cott McKenzie only expected recognition for his years of service during a Juniata College event last April. “My 20th anniversary was during the pandemic, and they didn’t have the celebration then,” says McKenzie, Juniata’s associate athletic director for external engagement, who has worked in athletic operations since July 2000. “They started talking about Joanne Krugh and then President Troha put my name and picture on the screen. “My first thought was: ‘What the hell am I doing up there?’” McKenzie was selected as the winner of the Joanne Krugh Award for a body of work that demonstrates exceptional ability, accomplishment, and commitment to the campus community. The award, presented to a staff member or administrator, is named in honor of the late Joanne Krugh, who served in the Office of the Provost for over 30 years. Now entering his 24th year on College Hill, McKenzie says he doesn’t consider himself exceptional or what he’s done special. But he holds the minority opinion. “He had been doing administration while coaching for many, many years,” says women’s volleyball coach Heather Blough Pavlik ’95, a member of the interview panel in 2000 when McKenzie was hired as the men’s and women’s soccer coach. “Scott made this place run. He was a lot of the reason that things got done and he helped move the place forward in many different ways.” Forward and back around. One of his former athletes—the first soccer player inducted into Juniata’s Hall of Fame—returned to Huntingdon for the same reasons McKenzie has stayed. “He very much loves this

FALL 2023

community,” says Nikki McLellan Ayers ’06, entering her second year as athletic director. “He very much loves his co-workers, loves the students, and everything he does is for us. I don’t think there’s ever going to be a time I can pay him back for what he’s given me or Juniata. He’s a very special person.” Millions of outsiders disagreed after NBC, People magazine and other media outlets publicized his acts of service through “Cookies for Caregivers,” a campaign he co-founded and watched go viral. He says about 60 other groups were baking and delivering cookies to first responders at the height of the movement, and he was in a Super Bowl commercial with co-founder Jeremy Uhrich. Besides that amazing experience, (“surreal,” he says), he never imagined staying at Juniata for nearly a quarter-century. He’s from Southern California and his wife is from Central New York, neither of them with ties to Pennsylvania. He thought they’d move on after about five years, but they grew to love Huntingdon and so did their two daughters. “Five became 10, and 10 became 15,” he says. “We found our place.” The place has changed a bit with the addition of new facilities and several sports. Ayers has witnessed the transition from three vantage points—as McKenzie’s player, assistant coach, and supervisor—and sees splashes of his essence everywhere, not just in the athletics department. “He’s had a tremendous impact on the relationships he’s built across campus,” Ayers says. “Whether it’s student life, development, camps, and conferences, enrollment … he’s just Juniata through and through.

Humble, willing to give everything to the college and the local community.” He wears multiple hats in athletics, primarily overseeing event management, facility management, and equipment services, while serving as the administrator for softball, lacrosse, and tennis. Pavlik says NCAA officials gush over McKenzie’s prowess at organizing championship events when Juniata plays host. The Eagles enjoy that level of attention year-round. “There’s nothing he won’t do,” Pavlik says. “He will step in anywhere at any time. If an announcer gets sick, Scott will announce the game. Do some laundry? Scott will get his hands dirty. He’s not afraid to get in the weeds and get things done to make everyone else’s job easier.” He isn’t hearing it. “I have the honor of working with hundreds of outstanding people, both students and colleagues,” he says. “It’s an honor to come to work with them and for them every day. “That’s the message I’d appreciate getting out.”

Photo by JD Cavrich

JUNIATA MAGAZINE

PROFILE

From Reluctant Student to Campus Leader By KRISTEN O’KEEFE

Photo by Maggie Eckroat ’26

FALL 2023

esident assistant. Campus tour guide. Community mentor. Juniata Associate for the Office of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI). Student representative on the EDI Council. Participant in the prestigious Newman Civic Fellowship, a year-long national program that recognizes and supports student public problem solvers. Senior Yoselin Kearney is clearly a Juniata College campus leader—all the more noteworthy because she wasn’t even sure she wanted to attend college four years ago. When it came time to apply to college, she was ambivalent. She hadn’t enjoyed the experience at her large Philadelphia area high school, where teachers often didn’t know her and students competed for accolades. With her family’s encouragement, Kearney applied to college, but she didn’t feel invested. “I got into everywhere I applied, but I didn’t care about those acceptances. Then I got the notice from Juniata College. This was different; this time I felt something,” said Kearney. “It was an emotional connection, one I knew I couldn’t ignore.” Maybe it was the wording of the acceptance, maybe it was the encouragement of a trusted family friend who long ago planted a seed of interest by talking about how wonderful Juniata was. Whatever it was, Kearney went with her instincts and enrolled in the fall of 2020. The college has not disappointed. “You can individualize your Program of Emphasis (POE) so it is personalized to you and your interests, and still be in this community-driven place with so much support. The people I’ve met here have impacted my whole experience.” Kearney originally thought she’d choose a business infotech or accounting POE. Instead, she rekindled her childhood passion for the arts and music, switching her POE to media studies and production. Her experience wasn’t perfect; Kearney found studying during COVID-19 difficult, with online

courses and masks making it harder to connect with people. She recalls struggling in Professor Jared LaGroue’s “Mass Media and Society” class. LaGroue helped her through that time and stayed supportive as both Kearney’s communication professor and eventually her adviser. She has since become a teaching assistant (TA) for audio projection, and LaGroue is helping her create an independent study at a recording studio where she can explore her love of music. “He was very understanding of how COVID-19 impacted my studies and how hard that year was for me,” said Kearney. “It’s that extra level of care that I’ve been shown by my professors that really sticks out for me; it’s that one-on-one experience.” As for community, Juniata’s culture and small size allow for regular exchanges among students, professors, and even administrators. “Juniata has given me experiences I couldn’t imagine, things I never knew were possible. I can talk to President Troha here! It’s so different than high school,” said Kearney, who appreciates the many opportunities she’s had at the college. In her work as the Juniata Associate for the Office of EDI, Kearney conducts outreach, staffs tables at events, hosts education sessions, and supports students as a resident assistant. Along with giving campus tours, it is a major time commitment—but she understands how important it is to make students and prospective students feel welcome at Juniata. Her hard work hasn’t ended. Kearney is looking forward to meeting other Newman Civic Fellows at the national conference in Boston this fall, working with a mentor, and developing a meaningful project for her community and those around her. Kearney envisions a project that uses her creativity and music to help others get through hard times. “This school has given me opportunities that I’ll forever be grateful for, because I’ve learned and grown so much through them,” she said.

JUNIATA MAGAZINE

FA L L C A M P U S

MOUNTAIN DAY After a few weeks of attempts to predict the date of Mountain Day, Juniata’s oldest tradition was celebrated on September 19, 2023. From the surprise early-morning announcement through late afternoon, students enjoyed the day at Raystown Lake with a picnic, tug-of-war, swimming, hiking, and soaking up the sun.

FALL 2023

TRADITIONS

JUNIATA MAGAZINE

STORMING OF THE ARCH The first-year students attempting to breach the Cloister’s iconic archway were no match for the staunch defenders gathered on the quad September 27, 2023. Organized by the men’s and women’s rugby teams, Storming of the Arch has been a campus tradition since the late 1940s.

FALL 2023

LOBSTER FEST Students gathered in Baker Refectory and the quad for a crustacean celebration September 3, 2023. Sponsored by the Office of Student Engagement and Campus Activities and Juniata Dining, Lobsterfest is held at the end of the first week of the fall semester in conjunction with the Student Organization Fair.

JUNIATA MAGAZINE

F A C U LT Y / S T A F F A C C O M P L I S H M E N T S Kushal Adhikari, assistant professor of environmental engineering, served as a panelist for a roundtable discussion, “Nature-Based Solutions for Restoring Our Earth,” hosted by the European Commission during the Stockholm Climate Week in April. In May, he presented, “Minimizing Errors in the Prediction of Water Levels Using Kriging Technique in Residuals of the Groundwater Model,” at the ASCE-EWRI Conference (American Society of Civil Engineers— Environmental & Water Resources Institute), in Henderson, Nev. He presented, “Pond-In-Pond (PIP): An alternative wastewater treatment system for reuse,” at the AEESP Conference (Association of Environmental Engineering and Science Professors) in Boston, Mass., in June. Adhikari presented “Lab-scale design for Pond-In-Pond: An alternative wastewater treatment system for reuse,” with Meghan Ward ’25; and “Water Quality Assessment of Muddy Run, Pennsylvania, USA,” with Bryson Osborne ’24 at the Landmark Conference 2023. Adhikari is currently an early career editorial board member for the Resources, Environment and Sustainability journal for the year 2023–2024. He was invited to run a special issue for Hydrology and is currently co-leading an issue titled, Green Infrastructure and Advances in Urban Hydrology. Jody Althouse, senior associate dean of health and wellness, received notification in February that Juniata was a recipient of a seventh consecutive It’s On Us PA grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Education and the Governor’s Office. In April, Althouse attended the 2023 NASPA (Student Affairs Administrators in Higher Education) Conference, Boston, Ma.; and the annual MASOC/MATSA Joint Conference (Massachusetts Adolescent Sexual Offender Coalition Massachusetts Association for the Treatment of Sexual Abusers). She presented “Keeping the Momentum Going! How to Keep IOU alive and thriving on your campus,” in April at the first It’s On Us Convening at Gettysburg College, Gettysburg, Pa. From April 27–28, Althouse completed “Title IX Certificate Program in Informal Resolution” from NASPA and spoke at the 32

FALL 2023

Policy Hearing on Domestic Violence as an expert witness in May at Capitol Court in Harrisburg, Pa. Nikki McLellan Ayers ’06, director of athletics, completed the NCAA Pathway program which concluded at the 2023 NACDA (National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics) Conference. This year-long program is an intensive, experiential learning opportunity for selected participants who work at an NCAA school or conference in any division. She was chosen to serve on the NCAA Division III Men’s Volleyball National Committee until 2028.

Josiane Banini, assistant professor of French

Josiane Banini, assistant professor of French, presented “The African migrant’s identity transformation in Alain Mabanckou’s works” in May at the annual meeting of the African Literature Association in Knoxville, Tenn. She spoke on the social context and psychological dimension of the social condition of African migrants in both the West and Africa. Banini was the recipient of the SoTL (Scholarship of Teaching & Learning) Summer Grant to support world language learning in higher education and will present her research at a brown bag event during the 2023-2024 academic year. She currently serves as treasurer of the Francophone Caucus of the African Literature Association (FRACALA).

Jonathan Burns, instructor of history and art history and instructor of international studies

Jonathan Burns, instructor of history and art history and instructor of international studies, discovered the location of the 1778 Fort Hartsock along with Ryan Mathur ’96, professor of geology, as part of their co-taught geoarchaeology class in which students participate in field surveys and site investigations. Burns was featured as a subject expert on George Croghan in “George Croghan: Frontier Peacemaker,” episode seven of the third season of “Wild Frontier, 1700s” on the INSP Network.

James Borgardt, William W. Woolford Professor of Physics

James Borgardt, William W. Woolford Professor of Physics, published an article, “Ten Years of Galaxy Serpent,” in the International Nuclear Forensics (ITWG) March 2023 Newsletter. He was named a guest scientist in the radiochemistry division of Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) and received a $300,000 grant to

organize international exercises advancing national nuclear forensics libraries and enhancing nuclear forensics capacity in partner nations. He gave a talk at the third International Conference on Radioanalytical and Nuclear Chemistry in May in Budapest, Hungary, and at the 26th International Nuclear Forensics Working Group (ITWG) conference in June in Tbilisi, Georgia. He has submitted a paper to the Journal of Radioanalytical Chemistry (JRNC) detailing results of recently-completed international nuclear forensics exercise. Italy invited him to present at the 67th International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) on the efficacy of international exercises in advancing nuclear forensics capabilities in September in Vienna, Austria. Kristin Camenga, associate professor of mathematics and director of advising, published “Welcoming Students into the Mathematics Community,” in the April/May 2023 MAA FOCUS (newsmagazine of the Mathematical Association of America). With James Tuten, Dr. Charles A. and Shirley R. Knox Professor of History, she co-presented “A Coalition Approach to Fellowships Advising” at the NACADA Region 2 Conference 2023. With Blair Cutright, academic resource coordinator, she co-presented “Academic Coaching for Faculty” as part of the Idaho State University Program for Institutional Effectiveness (PIE). Camenga also presented “The Geometry of Numerical Ranges over Finite Fields” at the International Linear Algebra Society Conference in Madrid, Spain in June. During her sabbatical, she presented, “Who are the People in Your Numerical Range?” at undergraduate mathematics seminars at Juniata, McDaniel College, Houghton College, Westminster College, Shippensburg College, University of Scranton, and Idaho State University. Glenn DeHaven ’07, head men’s volleyball coach, coached the Juniata Eagles Men’s Volleyball team to the Elite 8 of the 2023 NCAA Division III Men’s Volleyball Tournament after winning the Continental Volleyball Conference (CVC) Championship.

JUNIATA MAGAZINE

Kathy Jones, professor of education (not pictured) and Kathryn Westcott, Charles A. Dana Professor of Psychology, along with students, Sydney Ruckdeschel ’23, Sarai Martinez Luna ’24, John Yates ’23, Grey Goldman ’23, Vianca Escobar ’25, Abby Angus ’23, Takera Jones ’23, and Emily Williams ’23 presented research at the Eastern Psychological Society in March in Boston, Mass.

Henry Escuadro, professor of mathematics, presented “A Student Learning Outcomes Perspective on the College Geometry Course for Secondary Teachers,” at the Allegheny Mountain Section Meeting of the Mathematical Association of America at Penn West: Edinboro. Douglas Glazier, professor of biology, presented “The size-mortality spectrum: towards a ‘mortality theory of ecology’” in July 2023 at the Society for Experimental Biology centenary conference in Edinburgh, Scotland. Tracy Stough Grajewski ’86, assistant professor of accounting, business, and economics, was elected to the board of directors of the AAA-Central Pennsylvania. Ben Grant, director of athletic communications, was selected to participate in the NCAA Division III Institute for Administrative Advancement, a partnership between the NCAA and the Minority Opportunities Athletic Association (MOAA). The initiative seeks to provide professional development and networking opportunities for administrators from underrepresented populations in Division III athletics. 34

FALL 2023

Patricia Hunt, director of health professions program, was elected to a three-year term as an at-large representative to the NEAAHP (Northeast Association of Advisors for the Health Professions) Executive Committee. Kathy Jones, professor of education, presented research at the Eastern Psychological Society in March in Boston, Mass. These included “Low Income Families’ Involvement in College: A Qualitative Study” with Sydney Ruckdeschel ’23, Sarai Martinez Luna ’24, John Yates ’23, and Kathryn Westcott, Charles A. Dana Professor of Psychology; “Factors Related to Career Decidedness: Exploring Socioeconomic and First-Generation Status” with Grey Goldman ’23, Vianca Escobar ’25, and Westcott; “Parenting Style and Substance Use Behaviors” with Abby Angus ’23; and “Family Connections: How College Students Connect with Their Families” with Takera Jones ’23, Angus, and Emily Williams ’23.

Monika Malewska, professor of art, exhibited artwork in the following exhibitions: “Maake Summer Group Show” at Maake Projects Gallery in State College, Pa.; “Portals” at Maryland Federation of the Arts, an online exhibition, in Annapolis, Md.; “Delectable” at d’Art Center Main Gallery, juried national exhibition, in Norfolk, Va.; Art Biologic 2023, a juried exhibition, at Limner Gallery in Hudson, N.Y.; “New Masters” and “Aukcja Prac na Papierze,” exhibitions and auctions, at Piękna Gallery in Warsaw, Poland. Scott McKenzie, associate athletic director for external engagement, was instrumental in bidding for and hosting the NCAA Division III Men’s Regional Volleyball Tournament at Juniata and the ECAC Men’s Basketball Tournament at Juniata. George Merovich, associate professor of environmental science, with Brenden Nauman ’23, presented “Linking in-stream and landscapelevel conditions to macroinvertebrate assemblages

in the Little Juniata River watershed” at the 2023 Technical Meeting of The Pennsylvania Chapter of the American Fisheries Society in February at Lock Haven University. This was awarded Best Student Presentation. At the same event, he joined Autumn Holdsworth ’24, Andrew Garman ’23, and Nauman, to present “Evaluating walleye (Sander vitreus) spawning effort on constructed rock rubble reefs in Raystown Lake.” Jonathan Reveley-Cohen, lead counselor, presented with Mantra Health on “Widening Access to Mental Health Services on Campus: The Role of Telehealth” at NASPA II Conference at Pace University on June 6. Reveley-Cohen founded the Mental Health Campus Community Coalition (MHCCC) to develop and share programs and information supporting mental health awareness and intervention among campus and community professionals. Nearly 20 professionals from over 10 organizations in the tri-county area have joined and attended quarterly meetings.

“Tulip” was among the works that Monika Malewska, professor of art, exhibited in galleries and exhibitions in Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia, New York, and Poland.

JUNIATA MAGAZINE

From the left, Li Shen, associate professor of marketing, Katy Johanesen, associate professor of geology, and Hannah Bellwoar, associate professor of English, attended the Lilly Conference on Evidence-Based Teaching & Learning in California hosted by the International Teaching Learning Cooperative, LLC.

Kim Roth, professor of statistics and mathematics, published “A mathematician knits an afghan and counts the number of possible patterns” in the Journal of Mathematics and the Arts. Roth presented “Mathemalchemy: math + art” at the Allegheny Mountain Section Meeting of the Mathematical Association of America at Penn West: Edinboro. This included “A Student Learning Outcomes Perspective on the College Geometry Course for Secondary Teachers,” by Henry Escuadro, professor of mathematics. With Roth, Heather Mitchell ’23 and Emily Sarro ’23 presented their distinction research projects, “The Diversity Discrepancy: A Statistical Approach to Understanding Diversity at Juniata College” and “What is a P-Value Anyway: Correcting Students’ Misconceptions” respectively. Aakash Gurung ’26 presented “Continued fractions and Fibonacci numbers,” a solution to a problem published in the Pi Mu Epsilon Journal. Roth was also recognized with Juniata’s Beachley Award for Distinguished Academic Service. With Erika Ward ’02, associate professor of the practice in mathematics at Boston College, she co-authored “Math and Democracy” which appeared in the Special Issue on Mathematics and Society of the Journal of Humanistic Mathematics.

FALL 2023

Li Shen, associate professor of marketing, attended the Lilly Conference in California with Hannah Bellwoar, associate professor of English and director of writing and general education, and Katy Johanesen, associate professor of geology. Shen conducted a peer-review for two papers, “Nested Local, National, and Global Identities in the Context of Existential Threat” and “Compositionbased view towards organizational resilience: Analysis using fsQCA,” published in the Academy of International Business. She received a SoTL summer grant for research, “Are we on the same page about diversity, inclusion and justice in instructional design and teaching?—Disparity between instruction challenges of shifting from faculty instructional goals/needs vs. student learning needs.” She was recognized with Juniata’s Henry H. ’57 and Joan Gibbel Award for Teaching Excellence on May 2. Shen attended the annual conference of AIB (Academy of International Business), presented two papers and co-presented “Global Disruptions from US-China Decoupling: Reshoring, Near-shoring and Friend-shoring and the Chinese Responses.” She also co-authored and co-presented “Acculturation Determinant Logic in The Luxury and Fashion Industry Across Cultures,” which won the Best Research Methods Paper Award.

President James A. Troha has been named chair of the NCAA Division III Presidents Council, the highest governing body for NCAA’s largest division. He served as vice chair over the past year and has also been a member of the NCAA Board of Governor’s Finance and Audit Committee and chair of the Strategic Planning and Finance Committee. Neal Utterback, associate professor of theater arts, adapted Steven Kotler’s book, West of Jesus, for a performance that was invited to Teatro Uno Mas in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. The play was student-directed by exchange student Rosie Margree, and featured Juniata student actors, exchange student Leila Black, and Moira McAninch ’25. The play captures the magic of Kotler’s text and serves as a love letter to the sport, lifestyle, and art of surfing.

Jim Watt, vice president for advancement and new strategic initiatives, displays a copy of his article published in the May/ June 2023 issue of CASE’s magazine, Currents.

Jim Watt, vice president for advancement and new strategic initiatives, authored an article “Making the Case, Making the Ask. Soliciting unrestricted giving takes care, commitment, and candor” for CASE (the Council for Advancement and Support of Education) that was published in the May/June 2023 issue of CASE’s magazine, Currents.

David Widman, professor of psychology, co-authored and published “The point of nipple erection 4: Male nipple erection signals similar emotions as female nipple erection but elicits different reactions from men and women” and “She’s got legs: Longer legs in female comic book characters correspond to global preferences” with Rebecca L. Burch in Evolutionary Behavioral Sciences. At the annual meeting of the NorthEast Evolutionary Psychology Society (NEEPS) in New York, He presented a data blitz, “The possible influence in psychological distance to competition in intrasexual competition” and co-presented five posters, including “I (might) have your back: Adult attachment and friendship quality” with Burch, Maryanne L. Fisher, T. Joel Wade, S. Rice, H. Komatsu, N. Tanaka, and Catherine A. Salmon; “How many? The big 5 and the number of children across three cultures” with Wade, Fisher, Rice, Komatsu, H. Kubota, Tanaka, Burch, and Salmon; “The darkest 1%: A profile of the top dark triad scorers in three countries” with Burch, Komatsu, Kubota, Tanaka, Fisher, Rice, Salmon, and Wade; “Sex on Stiltz: Long legs, high heels, and tiptoes in comics” with Burch; and “Psychophysical measures during the priming of intrasexual competition” with Jason Brandon ’24, Alexandra Carrol ’24, Sydney Garner ’25, Geun Min Kim ’25, Weston Phares ’23, and Renee Waite ’24. Widman also copresented four posters and one paper at the Human Behavior and Evolution Society in California in June: “How Many?; The big-5 and the number of children across three cultures,” with Komatsu, Wade, Rice, Fisher, Kubota, Tanaka, Burch, and Salmon; “Perception of female nipple erection by a western European sample,” with Burch and Wade; “Male nipple erections engenders similar emotions as female nipple erection but triggers different altruistic and sexual expectations,” with Burch; “The darkest 5%: A profile of the top dark triad scorers in three countries,” with Burch, Komatsu, Kubota, Tanaka, Fisher, Rice, Salmon, and Wade; and “The possible influence in psychological distance to competition in intrasexual competition in women.”

JUNIATA MAGAZINE

F A C U LT Y A W A R D S

Juniata Faculty Members Honored With Distinguished Teaching Awards F

our Juniata College faculty members were honored with distinguished teaching and service awards at the annual Spring Awards Convocation. Honored for their work were Brad Andrew, professor of economics and international studies; Elizabeth “Liz” Mansberger, assistant professor of biology; Kim Roth, professor of statistics and mathematics; and Li Shen, assistant professor of marketing. Andrew was named the 56th recipient of the Beachley Award for Distinguished Teaching and Roth was honored with the 34th annual Beachley Award for Distinguished Academic Service. Shen received the Henry ’57 and Joan Gibbel Award for Distinguished Teaching (for faculty members with fewer than six years of service). Mansberger was awarded the second annual Eagle Advising Award. These annual awards recognize and appreciate the collective work of faculty and honor how they advance the mission of the liberal arts. Faculty members are integral in providing an engaging, personalized educational experience, empowering students to develop the skills, knowledge, and values that lead to a fulfilling life of service and ethical leadership in the global community. Award nominations are received from students, faculty, administrators, alumni, and trustees. The selection committee includes the college president, the college provost or senior academic officer, the student government president, and typically the three most recent recipients of the award make the final selections. Andrew came to Juniata in 2001 from Babson College in Massachusetts, where he was a lecturer in economics. He earned his master’s degree and Ph.D. in economics at

FALL 2023

the University of Connecticut and his bachelor’s degree from Framingham State University in 1989. At Juniata, Andrew teaches a range of courses in economics and investing and is the faculty overseer for the Eagle Fund, a student-administered investment fund. Known as a “master of pedagogy” and “facilitator of student-directed learning,” Andrew’s peers noted his strategic use of small groups and social-informed practices in class. His students described his enthusiasm for economics and investment as palpable and lauded his ability to make complicated subjects accessible. Andrew was recognized for his dedication to student success and daily demonstration of his commitment to experiential education. His impact continues beyond the classroom or time at Juniata, as attested by alumni who voiced their appreciation for his dedication to his students beyond graduation. Mansberger joined the biology department at Juniata in 2013, previously serving as an assistant professor of biochemistry and molecular biology at the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine and an instructor of biochemistry, microbiology, and molecular biology at Penn State University. She completed a bachelor’s degree in biochemistry at the University of Maine and a Ph.D. in molecular and cell biology at Penn State University. Her faculty colleagues in biology cited the leadership, rooted in a deep knowledge of scheduling and curriculum, Mansberger provides to fellow advisers, as well as her commitment to ensuring her advisees have a successful curricular path to meet their post-graduation goals. As a member of the Health Professions Committee, she often works with her students to plan coursework for multiple semesters at a time

Photo by Maggie Eckroat ’26

President James A. Troha, left, and Provost Lauren Bowen, right, congratulated four Juniata College faculty members, from the left, Elizabeth “Liz” Mansberger, Kim Roth, Brad Andrew, and Li Shen, who were honored with distinguished teaching and service awards.

and partners with students experiencing unexpected challenges and setbacks. Roth came to Juniata in 2006 from Wheeling Jesuit University, where she was an assistant professor of mathematics. She earned a bachelor’s degree in mathematics with a minor in computer science from Oberlin College in 1996. The following year, she studied at the Budapest Semesters in Mathematics, a math program in Budapest, Hungary. Roth completed a Ph.D. in mathematics in 2002 and a master’s in applied statistics in 2016, both from Penn State University. Her colleagues describe her as a stalwart faculty member who is exceptionally generous with her time and talents. Roth is recognized as a fantastic mentor in many capacities, offering constructive advice on teaching, professional development, or life challenges. She serves on numerous campus committees, which

includes her “present, available, and unflappable” leadership of Juniata’s Center for Scholarship of Teaching & Learning (SoTL) during the spring of 2020. Shen joined the Juniata faculty in 2017 from Penn State University DuBois Campus, where she was an assistant teaching professor for marketing. She earned her master’s degree and Ph.D. in international business/ marketing from Southern New Hampshire University. Her students describe her as a fun, creative, and innovative instructor whose skillful reliance on case studies to emphasize problem solving and storytelling is highly effective. Shen is committed to experiential and international education, working to secure internships, organize field trips, and engage with the local community. She teaches beyond the classroom, offering students advice and mentoring student organizations, including the Chinese Club. JUNIATA MAGAZINE

CLASS NOTES 1965 Barry J. Halbritter ’65 and Marlene Robinette Halbritter ’62 are the recipients of the Kiwanis Club of Altoona’s 2023 Distinguished Citizens Award. Established in 1991, the Kiwanis Club of Altoona’s 2023 Distinguished Citizens Award is one of the most prestigious honors to be awarded locally. The award is given in recognition of a person or persons who were born, raised, moved to, or lives in the Altoona area and made major contributions to the betterment of society, and who have significantly advanced the Altoona area through endeavors in the commonwealth, nation or worldwide.

1968

1972 Andy Jones and his wife, Karen, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in May 2023 with family and friends at the Chart House in Weehawkin, N.J.

1979 With great sadness, Li Mitnick announces the passing of her son, Brendan Vaughn McGrath, on Dec. 1, 2022, from complications of brain cancer. He was a son, husband, father, and a veteran of the National Guard and U.S. Army. Brendan was a donor to Gift of Life. He was 38 years old. He was much beloved. His memory will be a blessing.

1982

Merle L. Lansberry was named the Outstanding Citizen of the Year by the Clearfield Area Rotary Club. Sid was recognized for giving over 50 years of his life to making a difference in his community with baseball and being a positive influence to thousands of youth in Clearfield County and beyond.

1971 Alice E. Herncane received the Volunteer of the Year Award from The State Museum of Pennsylvania on April 15, 2023. She has been a volunteer for them since 2012, currently serving as a docent for their “Stop and Learn at The State Museum” program. 40

FALL 2023

Steve C. Brown received The Chester County Chamber of Business & Industry J. Larry Bolig Award for Excellence in Local Government. He serves on the board of directors of the Transportation Management Association of Chester County and as township manager at East Whiteland.

CLASS NOTES 1983

1988 Debra Ollinger Miller retired from the National Confectioners Association where she was senior vice president of scientific and regulatory affairs. She and her husband, Ben, bought the Kane Manor Inn, a bed and breakfast in Kane, Pa. The Inn was originally home to Civil War General Thomas L. Kane and his family. They welcome Juniatians to visit! Kanemanorinn.com Jennifer D. Wade was promoted from Assistant News Director at WNEP-TV to News Director at WNEP in May 2023.

William K. Hallman, professor and chair of the Department of Human Ecology at Rutgers University, was elected as a fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science.

1984

1992 Pamela Mertz Steere was named a 2023 American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (ASBMB) fellow.

1993 Todd F. Cammarata was named 2023 Pennsylvania Journalism Teacher of the Year by the Pennsylvania School Press Association. He teaches at Tyrone Area High School.

1995 Henry F. Coyne, Jr. was chosen as the 2023 inductee to the Wall of Fame at Phoenixville Area High School by The Phoenixville Area School District Wall of Fame Committee. Hank was a dedicated teacher and coach for the Phoenixville Area School District for 36 years from 1984 until his retirement in 2020.

Brad M. Hatch was appointed as the new superintendent of the Altoona Area School District in May 2023. He was formerly the principal and assistant superintendent for the school district. Frank P. Vogel was hired as the new Phoenix Suns head coach. Frank won an NBA championship coaching the Los Angeles Lakers in 2020. JUNIATA MAGAZINE

CLASS NOTES 1997

Carrie K. Schofield-Broadbent was elected bishop coadjutor of the Diocese of Maryland. She was consecrated in September at Washington National Cathedral and will serve with the Rt. Rev. Eugene Taylor Sutton until his retirement in April 2024. Carrie will then become the 15th Bishop of Maryland.

1999

2001

Julia A. Krall was named the new Executive Director of the Chesapeake Bay Foundation (CBF) in Pennsylvania.

Alicia N. (Noerr) Burns published her first book, The College Instructor Handbook, for industry professionals who are interested in teaching college for the first time. The book guides readers through finding opportunities to teach, creating lessons and assignments, and focuses on creating inclusive environments for students.

2000 Tonia Suenkonis Rose was featured in a “Women & Business Profile” for Pittsburgh Magazine, which spotlights exceptional businesswomen within its pages and at quarterly networking events.

FALL 2023

2002 Brandy (Workinger) Meyer was hired as controller for The Investment Real Estate Group of Companies (IREGC).

CLASS NOTES 2004 Jillian M. (Davis) Pinkard received a CASE District II 2023 Individual Achievement Award for her work as the senior director of advancement for the St. Paul’s Schools, Brooklandville, Md. She helped secure $8.1 million in total philanthropic support and led the consolidation of separate advancement departments through the pandemic. Jill began her advancement career while at Juniata as a student phonathon caller.

coach at Lock Haven University in May 2023. Mike also previously had served as an assistant coach with Juniata College men’s volleyball program.

2014 Stephen J. Nolan graduated in late 2022 from St. Elizabeth’s College in Morristown, N.J., with a masters of physician assistant studies.

2016 Emma F. Campbell received a promotion at her job with the National Museum of Health and Medicine. Thomas J. Imbrogno, Jr. graduated in April 2023 from the National University of Health Sciences (NUHS) in Lombard, Ill., with the degree of doctor of naturopathic medicine.

2018 2006 Jeffrey K. Detwiler was appointed as head boys varsity basketball coach by the Williamsburg Community School Board in May 2023. Jeff serves as the Williamsburg Community School District’s athletic director.

2010 Charles B. Allison published No Harmless Power: The Life and Times of the Ukrainian Anarchist Nestor Makhno. Charlie’s biography explores the life of the Ukrainian anarchist Nestor Makhno.

2011 Kenneth M. Goodfellow ’11 and Vinnie C. Caroselli ’20 participated in the 50th annual Blair Regional YMCA Angie Gioiosa Memorial July 4 Race. Kenny was the overall men’s champion with a time of 50:56.97. Kenny’s winning time was just over a minute ahead of runner-up Vinnie, who finished in 52:03.31.

Christopher J. Schreder received his doctor of medicine in dentistry degree from the University of Pittsburgh in 2022, followed by post-doctoral training through a General Practice Residency at the Veterans Affairs Medical Center of Lebanon, Pa. His parents, Drs. Michael J. and Jane Aldrich Schreder, are pleased to announce that he has joined Schreder Dental to begin a third generation of patient-centered dental care.

2019 Gavin D. Grimaldi graduated from Logan University with his doctorate of chiropractic. He is practicing at Smith Chiropractic in Mt. Juliet, Tenn.

2012 Michael L. Kraft, former Tyrone Area High School girls volleyball coach, was named the new head volleyball JUNIATA MAGAZINE

ALUMNI AWARDS

Four Alumni Recognized for Achievements

FALL 2023

Photo by Nate Thompson ’05

istinguished alumni were recognized for their achievements and contributions to their alma mater and communities during Juniata College’s 2023 Alumni Weekend. John A. Rummel ’62, received the Alumni Achievement Award, which honors those who have distinguished themselves over a period of years and have achieved a pinnacle position in their chosen profession. Rummel’s 35-year career at NASA spanned much of the history of human spaceflight and all nine lunar missions as part of the Apollo program between 1968 and 1972. From 1966 to 1983, he worked in physiology, life sciences, mission management, and space life science. He worked closely with astronauts prior to and upon return from missions. Rummel was the mission scientist for Spacelab I and II, a collaboration in the early 1970s between NASA and the European Space Research Organisation (ESRO), now the European Space Agency (ESA). Joseph D. Houck ’08 was awarded the Young Alumni Achievement Award, which honors those who have distinguished themselves in their chosen profession during the first 15 years since graduation from Juniata. Houck pursued his passion for teaching as a lecturer at the University of Maryland (UMD), College Park, Md., in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry and the Office of Extended Studies, where he taught organic and general chemistry. He was selected as an Elevate Fellow in 2015 to redesign the General Chemistry II

Alumni honorees, front row, from the left, Gayle Wampler Pollock ’68, John A. Rummel ’62, Mark A. Moyer ’92, and Joseph D. Houck ’08, were presented with their awards by second row, Patricia Reber ’68, Joel Diamond, Michael Ford ’82, and Peter Baran.

laboratory course. His teaching was also recognized by the UMD College of Computer, Mathematical, and Natural Sciences when he was awarded the Dean’s Outstanding Lecturer Award. Mark A. Moyer ’92 was presented with the William E. Swigart Alumni Humanitarian Award, which honors those who have improved the lives of others through personal sacrifice and have exercised significant leadership through vocation or avocation. Moyer is the executive director of Setebaid Services, Inc., a not-for-profit organization based in Winfield, Pa., with the mission of providing the best diabetes educational programs available. Under his leadership, the organization has grown from serving 80 families to more than 1,700 families. Setebaid Services operates diabetes summer camps, including Camp Setebaid, throughout Pennsylvania. At these sites, Moyer helps to offer a normal camp experience for children with diabetes. Gayle Wampler Pollock ’68 was presented with the Harold B. Brumbaugh Alumni Service Award, which honors those who have distinguished themselves above others as having given of their time to projects or functions of an elected or appointed position for the advancement of Juniata. Pollock spent 15 years at Juniata in the Admissions Office, promoting the value of a Juniata education, ultimately serving as Dean of Admissions. During the 1970s and again in the early 2000s, Pollock served as a member of the Alumni Council. From 2005–2021, she served on the Board of Trustees, the first three years of which were in the role of Alumni Trustee. Pollock was also a member of the Presidential Search Committee that selected Juniata’s 12th president, James A. Troha. In 2021, Pollock transitioned into the role of Trustee Emerita.

Do you know someone who is deserving of a Juniata Alumni Award? Help the Alumni Council’s Awards and Nominations Committee by submitting a nomination for one of the following: Harold B. Brumbaugh ’33 Alumni Service Award * Alumni Achievement Award * Young Alumni Achievement Award * William E. Swigart Jr. ’37 Alumni Humanitarian Award For nominations and more information: www.juniata.edu/awards

JUNIATA MAGAZINE

MARRIAGES

Andrew D. Murdock ’11 and Joel L. Rhodes ’13 were married Aug. 27, 2022. Attending the ceremony were (l–r) Erica (Rhodes) Hayden ’07, JC Hayden ’06, David Meadows ’98, Clay Cooper ’13, Elena (Ritchie) Gillott ’07, Grant Miner ’12, Sheena (Zolla) Mandichak ’11, Blake Colaianne ’11, Clare Coda ’10, Erik Dulick ’11, Kelsey Thrush ’10, Benson Canfield ’12, Andrew Murdock ’11 (groom), Joel Rhodes ’13 (groom), Lauren (Seganos) Cohen ’11, Joan (Parsons) Engle ’72, Seth Weil ’13, Jane (White) Croyle ’95, Maeve Aldridge-Neiswanger ’12, Donna (McKee) Rhodes ’84 g’15, Loren Rhodes, Linden Rhodes, Kim (O’Connor) Rhodes ’09, and Aaron Rhodes ’09.

Edward B. Sinnes ’12 and Rebecca Kraybill were married Oct. 9, 2022. Attending the ceremony were (l–r, back row) Tim Carn ’12, Edward Sinnes ’12 (groom), Rebecca Kraybill (bride), Mike Nguyen ’12, Liam Sharp ’12, (l-r, front row) Chris Yip ’12, Nicky Deak ’12, Andrew Sinnes ’09, and Jordan Yu ’12.

FALL 2023

MARRIAGES

Maeve Neiswanger ’12 and Rachel Aldridge were married June 24, 2023. Attending the ceremony were (l–r) Lynn Cockett, Katie Graves ’12, Natalie Hershberger ’09, Ryan Wetzel ’06, Sarah Worley ’00, Rachel Aldridge-Neiswanger (bride), Maeve Aldridge-Neiswanger ’12 (bride), Katie Shedlock ’13, Liz Bernardo ’12, Andrew Murdock ’11, Lindsay (Darchicourt) Chaussard ’12, and Joel Rhodes ’13.

Madison Troha ’20 g’21 and Hudson K. Speck ’20 were married July 8, 2023. Attending the ceremony were Maddie Buckley, Jennifer Troha, Jim Troha, Madison Speck ’20 g’21 (bride), Hudson Speck ’20 (groom), Matthew Hulsebosch ’20 g’21, Karli (Smith) Low ’20, McKynly (Miller) Maclay ’21, Courtney Laing ’27, Sarah Worley ’00, Chris Sinisi ’16, Angie (Wolf) Thompson ’96, Ruth (Bartleson) McDowell ’68, Lauren Bowen, Bob McDowell ’67, John Thompson ’94, Jesse Leonard ’06, Ryan Wetzel ’06, Isaac Maclay ’21, Toby Mitchell ’94, Jennifer (Pletcher) Mitchell ’95, Hunter Price ’19, Eli Greenblat ’19, Andrew Cerroni ’22, Jack Shelton ’26, Jairus Werner ’22, Evan Jans ’19, Tyler Paul ’21, Jake McCaulley ’20, Austin Montgomery ’20, Hunter Price ’20, and Adam Grajewski ’21 g’22.

JUNIATA MAGAZINE

BIRTHS & ADOPTIONS

Stefani K. (Milstrey) Glazier ’12 and Clarence Glazier welcomed their daughter, Skylar Rae, on Feb. 21, 2022.

Robert J. Strauss ’13 and Jordan Strauss welcomed their son, Grayson Robert, on Jan. 3, 2023.

Need the latest gear to show off your Eagle pride? Stop by The Perch and get ready to soar!

Shop online at juniata.bncollege.com 48

FALL 2023

I MET AN ALUM

Leroy D. Mell Jr. ’67 and his wife, Brenda, met Karen (Landes) Larsen ’67 and her husband, Arnold, in Whitefish, Mont. while visiting Glacier National Park on their cross-country RV trip in the summer of 2022.

While visiting Barcelona, Thomas L. Smith ’78 and wife Joyce invited a fellow hotel guest to join them on the elevator. With a brief introduction, Marren (Cummings) Berthold ’65 and Tom realized they were both Juniata grads. A pleasant conversation followed!

We want to print your story . . . Tell us about any unusual or surprising places or circumstances where you met a Juniatian and we will include it in an upcoming issue of the Juniata Magazine. Please send your story and photos to: Alumni Office • Juniata College • 1700 Moore Street • Huntingdon, PA 16652 Email: alumni@juniata.edu

JUNIATA MAGAZINE

IN MEMORIAM

Remembering Dr. John D. Bowser ’57

Remembering those we have lost.

Professor Emeritus of Mathematics I’m 76. I met John (Dr. Bowser) when I was 17, so he’s been there most of my life. First, he was my professor at Juniata—the kindest, most gentle professor I’ve ever had. I always smile when I remember him returning an exam all marked up with red crayon—which one of his daughters had “helped grade.” I’m not sure if he was my academic adviser, but I remember him pulling me aside one day and sitting in the back of Alumni Hall to talk about my grad school plans. He cared. He wanted to make sure I’d find the right program for me. Eight years later, he was my colleague, and again, my mentor, but now he was John instead of Dr. Bowser. Still kind, he helped me grow as a teacher. Because that’s what John was best as—a teacher. He cared about his students. I don’t remember anything ever being “about John;” it was always about students. During those years, he was, of course, also a friend to both me and my husband, Tom. Tom had been John’s neighbor and loved to tell the story about John’s youngest daughter coming over one day and thumbtacking a note to his forehead while he was napping on the couch. Finally, John and Joyce were friends here at Westminster Woods. Once again, gentler souls you’ll never meet. I feel lucky to have had John in my life. A few days before he passed, he was out in front of The Oaks enjoying a sunny day, smiling, chatting, and making our encounter feel as warm as the sunshine. What a good person he was, start to finish. — Sue Esch ’68, Charles A. Dana Professor of Mathematics, Emerita

See obituary on page 58

FALL 2023

Photo by Cole Handerhan

Remembering R. Christine (Yohe) Kumagai

Remembering Dr. Robert H. Washburn

Former Dean of Women

Professor Emeritus of Geology

When Christine arrived at Juniata College in 1959 as Dean of Women, she brought a measured blend of empathy and discipline—both necessary for helping students adjust to college life. As Dean of Women, Christine was a friend, hostess, confidant, counselor, and chaperone for the female students on Juniata’s campus, where she also resided. In addition to her considerable responsibilities as dean, she joined the faculty at Juniata as an assistant professor of economics and business administration. Her passionate encouragement and advocacy supported women in all fields of study, including business and the sciences. Her capacity to “run a tight ship” was greatly influenced by her experiences serving in the United States Navy as a young woman during World War II. Christine was determined to do her part during the war and received her commission after graduating from Midshipmen’s School. From there, she completed military communications school and worked roundthe-clock shifts handling sensitive wartime communications in Washington, D.C. She was promoted to Second Lieutenant at the end of the war and continued to serve in the Naval Reserve. Christine’s influence was felt inside and outside the classroom as she guided students through lessons in economics and life. The courage of her convictions was her lodestar in life and in love. During her tenure at Juniata, Christine married the love of her life, Ray Kumagai, in 1964, an era in which interracial marriage faced opposition on many sides. As the couple embarked on their lives together, Christine carried with her the same spirit of intellectual curiosity and deep commitment to advocating for women. After leaving Juniata College in 1965, Christine and Ray spent 46 years together, starting a family and traveling the world. See obituary on page 58

In the semester I completed my Ph.D. at the University of Arizona, Dr. Washburn announced his retirement. I was very fortunate to be hired as his successor. The start of my teaching career was initially intimidating, as none of the courses I would be teaching directly related to my Ph.D. topic. In late July 2000, Bob asked me to meet at the department. He proceeded to give me his notes, books, outlines to field trips, and all materials that he used to teach his courses. He even handed me his slides and the transparency overheads that I took so many notes from during his lectures. I still recall him saying, “Don’t worry. You are good. Just stay one week ahead of the students.” In every conversation about my work, he was constructive, supportive, and caring. He truly wanted to make things easier for me—and I owe much of my early success leading students in the field to him. I have been lucky to interact with Bob as a friend for the past 20 years. We both enjoyed watching Juniata sports— especially the volleyball teams as they have a winning tendency that we appreciate. At some point during the games, we would always have a conversation in the stands. Sometimes we’d talk about the state of the geology department or other things happening at the college. At other times, we’d discuss our shared love of Wegmans bread selections. There were moments when Bob’s presence made things easier for me. There were moments when his leadership made me see the value in pushing through trying times. — Ryan Mathur ’96, professor of geology, and Amy Heptner Mathur ’96, associate professor of English See obituary on page 58

JUNIATA MAGAZINE

OBITUARIES Jacqueline (McCauley) Fetzer ’40 June 16, 2023 — Jacqueline lived to be 103. She received a master’s

degree from Indiana University of Pennsylvania. Jacqueline taught home economics at Cecil County, Md., and at Brookville High School until her retirement. She was involved in the Presbyterian Church, Girl Scouts, crafts, genealogy, and travel activities. Jacqueline also enjoyed daily exercise walking around Brookville. In 1942, she married Richard Fetzer ’40; they were happily married for 63 wonderful years. She was preceded in death by husband Richard; she is survived by sons Dan and David, daughters Ronda, Janet, and Catherine, and many grandchildren.

Charlotte L. (Young) Clem-Langbehn ’45 Nov. 12, 2022 — Charlotte was active in the Charlestown United Protestant Church, prior to which she had been an Elder at Towson Presbyterian Church where she especially enjoyed being a member of the choir. She served as a long-time hospital volunteer at Greater Baltimore Medical Center (GBMC), and at Charlestown, especially enjoyed being a member of the Harmonizers singing group, playing piano and doing shows with her late husband Eugene. She was preceded in death by first husband Donald and second husband Eugene; she is survived by son Donald, daughter Cynthia, and four grandchildren.

Boyd C. Jensen ’45 April 13, 2023 — Boyd worked for Westvaco for 42 years and was

a member of Christ Lutheran Church in Roanoke, Va. He was a dedicated father, genealogist, and Pittsburgh Steelers fan. He was a loyal volunteer for Juniata and helped the advancement office tremendously. Boyd was preceded in death by sisters Joan (Jensen) Betts ’48 and Barbara (Jensen) Whitsel ’48, and wife Lois (Nale) Jensen ’51; he is survived by sons Eric Jensen ’77, Kurt, and Karl, daughters Gretchen and Johanna, four grandchildren, and one step-grandchild.

George H. Bridenbaugh ’47 June 11, 2023 — George was a United States Navy veteran serving

during WWII and a lifelong dairy farmer in rural Martinsburg, Pa. He was a member of Martinsburg Memorial Church of the Brethren, where he served as a deacon. George also served on the board of directors for Everett Cash Mutual and the Martinsburg Fairview Cemetery Association. He was preceded in death by wife Lila (Asper) Bridenbaugh ’44, brother Edwin Bridenbaugh ’51, and sister Mary Jane (Bridenbaugh) Hinish ’56; he is survived by daughters Connie and Nina, son G. Alan Bridenbaugh ’71, brother Robert Bridenbaugh ’54, and four grandchildren, including Alina (Bridenbaugh) Henninger ’92.

Eleanor Th. Vadala ’47 July 19, 2023 — Eleanor worked at the Franklin Institute in Philadelphia, Pa., where she developed a lifelong interest in astronomy and ballooning. There, she researched and developed synthetic laminated materials for aircraft applications. Eleanor later worked as a materials engineer at the Naval Air Development Center in the Philadelphia area and took her first balloon flight in 1954. In 1963, she became the third woman in America to hold an FAA-issued Balloon Pilot Certificate and was one of the first females to participate

FALL 2023

in international balloon piloting. She was an early and dedicated member of the Balloon Club of America and the Rittenhouse Astronomy Society. Eleanor was inducted into the U.S. Ballooning Hall of Fame in 2019. She was preceded in death by husband Edwin.

Virginia M. (Fornwalt) Clapper ’48 Feb. 14, 2023 — Virginia taught French and Spanish at Tussey Mountain High School, where she also served as the French Club advisor and arranged excursions to France and Canada. She retired in 1982. Virginia was a member of St. Paul’s United Church of Christ, the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary, and the Woodcock Valley Lioness Club. She enjoyed weekly Sunday meals with family, picnics, her cats, and dining out. Virginia was preceded in death by two grandsons; she is survived by husband George, daughters Linda and Paula, sons William, Thomas, and Michael, and seven grandchildren, including Christy Stubler ’05.

Dalton G. Blough ’50 July 25, 2023 — Dalton graduated from the University of Pittsburgh School of Dentistry in 1952 and the University of Illinois School of Orthodontics in 1956. He received his master’s and postdoctoral degrees from the University of Pittsburgh Department of Speech in 1966. He founded Allegheny Orthodontics and practiced there until 1991. After retirement, he traveled to hurricane recovery sites, took part in church mission projects, and worked with the local Habitat for Humanity group. He enjoyed time with friends and family at his cottage in Deep Creek Lake, Md. Dalton enjoyed snow skiing, fishing, and assisting with handyman projects. He was preceded in death by wife Marjorie; he is survived by daughters Judy and Susan, sons Randy and Mark, and seven grandchildren.

Jeanne M. (Miller) Bolger ’50 March 13, 2023 — After Juniata, Jeanne received an associate degree from the Altoona School of Commerce. She served for 32 years as a Blair County Jury Commissioner and was the first female elected official in Blair County. Jeanne was active in her community and a member of various organizations. She was a longtime member of the Martinsburg Grace Brethren Church, where she sang in the adult choir. Jeanne also sang as a professional soloist. She was preceded in death by husband Jack, father Kenton Miller, Class of 1922, and brother Donald Miller ’47; she is survived by daughters Jackalyn, Jill, and Joy, son John, and seven grandchildren.

George H. Gaugler Jr. ’50 Feb. 28, 2023 — George served at Fort Sam Houston in San Antonio, Texas, in the United States Army from 1951–1953. He graduated from Temple University Dental School in 1958. George was a self-employed dentist in Souderton for 54 years. He was an avid gardener, growing hundreds of rhododendrons and azaleas. George also enjoyed coin collecting, repairing china, collecting antiques, and fishing. He is survived by wife Rhoda (Clemmer) Gaugler ’53, sons George, Dale, and Tim, and eight grandchildren.

Frederick F. Kepner ’50 June 16, 2023 — Fred received his master of education and PA

School Superintendent Certificate from Penn State. He was an

OBITUARIES elementary school teacher and principal at Three Springs Elementary, supervising principal of the elementary schools in the Southern Huntingdon County School District, and supervising elementary principal at Mount Union Area School District. He spent most of his career as assistant superintendent in charge of both administration and curriculum in the Wilkes-Barre Area School District, retiring in 1989 after serving 25 years. Fred was a 32nd Degree member of the Freemasons for over 60 years. He and his wife were married for 68 years. He was preceded in death by his wife Marjorie; he is survived by sons Frederick and Joel, and nine grandchildren.

John C. Stayer ’50 March 12, 2023 — John worked as a business manager at Swigart Associates in Huntingdon, Pa., retiring in 1990. He was a member of the Abbey Reformed Church of Christ, Huntingdon. John was an avid sports fan, especially enjoying basketball and football. He was a Florida “snowbird” with his wife after retiring. He was preceded in death by father Prof. J. Clyde Stayer, Class of 1916, mother Cynthia (Sloan) Stayer, Class of 1925, and wife Barbara (Smith) Stayer ’52; he is survived by wife Lynda, son Clyde, daughter Sue Ann, and two grandchildren.

Richard W. Hollinger ’53 July 26, 2023 — Dick served in the United States Army Signal Corps from 1953–1955. He worked at Bell Atlantic and Verizon Communications, in Silver Spring, Md. Dick was active in the Harrisburg First Church of the Brethren and in various Presbyterian churches. He served on the Juniata College Alumni Council, Board of Trustees, and Church College Relations Council. Dick and his wife enjoyed traveling to the Middle East, Europe, and throughout the United States utilizing the Elderhostel and Road Scholar network. He enjoyed birdwatching and photography. Dick was preceded in death by wife Helen (Stutzman) Hollinger ’54, parents Henry Hollinger, Class of 1924, and Miriam Renninger Hollinger, Class of 1923, and sons Mark and John; he is survived by daughter Anne, and three grandchildren.

D. Jean (Staude) Kiewel ’53 Feb. 20, 2023 — As a Navy officer’s wife, Jean and her family enjoyed a life of adventure as they were stationed across the country for work and traveled for vacation. Jean prioritized her faith and family. She was a home cook, baker, gardener, homemaker, and caretaker. Jean obtained her teaching license and taught elementary school and then kindergarten in New Jersey and Massachusetts for 20 years. Then, she obtained her master’s degree in elementary education from Fitchburg State College in 1976. After retirement, Jean and Bill returned to their favorite posting, the Golden Isles of Georgia, where they lived for almost 20 years. She was preceded in death by husband Bill; she is survived by daughter Jean Anne, sons Edward and James, and three grandchildren.

Edwin B. McGwire ’53 May 28, 2023 — Ted served in the United States Army from 1953

to 1955. Ted’s career with New Jersey Bell Telephone spanned 36 years and he was later employed by Verizon Communications, from which he retired in 1989. Ted was a member of the United

Methodist Church of Pennington, N.J., for 50 years, where he served as chairman of the administrative board, Sunday school teacher, and co-president of the Methometers. He was also an active member of the Jaycees and served as a board member of Boy Scout Troop 41. Ted met his wife Doris while in high school and they were happily married for 68 years. He is survived by wife Doris, son E. Blair, daughters Linda and Alyson, and four grandchildren.

Virginia N. (Yohn) Mock ’53 July 4, 2023 — Ginny received a master’s degree in 1966 from

Western Michigan University. She touched generations of students over a 30-year teaching career, primarily serving as a first grade teacher. Ginny was a long-time member of Middlebury Church of the Brethren. Her infectious smile and beautiful soprano voice were treasured there and at Greencroft Goshen. Ginny promoted international understanding through cultivating relationships with exchange students over many years, including hosting an Icelandic exchange student in 1975. A note placed in the pocket of a donated coat for German civilian relief at the close of World War II resulted in a lifelong friendship, first as pen pals and then visits to Germany and Australia. She is survived by husband Gordon, daughter Anita (Mock) Hanawalt ’81, son Neal, and four grandchildren.

Janet (Wiltshire) Moore ’53 Dec. 6, 2022 — Janet worked as a chemist before raising her family and spending many dedicated hours serving in Navy relief. She and her husband, Robert, lived in Sedona for 20-plus years, doing many hours of community service at the Chamber of Commerce, Chamber Music Sedona, and Red Rock State Park. She was preceded in death by husband Robert Moore ’54; she is survived by sons Chris and Gregg, daughter Diane, and two grandchildren.

Robert J. Muchoney ’53 May 16, 2023 — Bob was a veteran serving in the United States

Army. He was an avid Pittsburgh Steelers fan, member of the Lions Club, and enjoyed gardening. Bob loved spending time with his children and grandchildren. He and his wife Romayne “Cisse” were married for 65 years. Bob is survived by wife Cisse, daughters Jane, Janice, and Beth, and eight grandchildren.

Elizabeth B. (Brandt) Myer ’53 April 20, 2023 — Elizabeth taught for 40 years at public schools

in Spring Grove, SoLanCo (Quarryville) and Lebanon Junior High School. She was an active member at the Richland Church of the Brethren for 61 years, serving as a Sunday school teacher, Rejoice Club coach, a member of the Women’s Fellowship, and a knotter with the Quilting Ladies. Elizabeth had a love for traveling, visiting all 48 contiguous states and Europe. She was preceded in death by husband Robert; she is survived by daughters Rosalie, Mary Lou, and Sherri, son Thomas, and seven grandchildren.

Roderick O. Binkley ’54 Feb. 21, 2023 — Rick served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War and retired in 1999. He enjoyed spending summers on Chautauqua Lake, boating, and fishing. Rick was preceded in death by brother Keith Binkley ’51 and sister Janet (Binkley)

JUNIATA MAGAZINE

OBITUARIES Ingersoll ’58; he is survived by wife Karen, daughters Mary, Tracy, and Jody, stepsons Paul and Joseph, stepdaughter Anne, and one granddaughter.

Charles H. Dunbar ’54

her husband and friends. She was preceded in death by brother William Lehman ’51. She is survived by husband Carmen, son Scott, daughters Keely (Ciarrocca) Kelly ’88 and Kristin, and seven grandchildren.

June 26, 2022 — Charlie was a retired budget analyst with

Melba J. Smith ’56

the Department of Commerce in the International Trade Administration. He served as an accountant for the US Army from 1954-1956 and was stationed in Korea from 1955–1956.

May 3, 2023 — Melba retired from International Business Machine

(IBM). She enjoyed gardening and traveling. Melba was preceded in death by sister Barbara; she is survived by sister Nancy.

Joan (Lenhardt) Law ’54

Pat M. Tarquinio ’56

July 19, 2023 — Joan met her husband, Herbert, at Juniata and

Feb. 27, 2023 — Following his freshman year at Pitt, Pat transferred to Juniata and quarterbacked the football team to three consecutive undefeated seasons, which ultimately led to an appearance in the Tangerine Bowl in 1956. Pat was a teacher, guidance counselor, and head football coach, serving posts at Ellwood City, Beaver Area, and Hopewell High School. As the Beaver Bobcat football coach, he led teams to 241 wins and three WPIAL championships. At retirement, he held the WPIAL record for most wins with 269 victories. He was a member of various halls of fame, including the Juniata Sports Hall of Fame. Pat was preceded in death by wife Marcy and brother Ronald Tarquinio ’61; he is survived by son Thomas, daughters Tracy and Terri, and six grandchildren.

they were married in 1955. While Herbert attended chiropractic college in Indianapolis, Joan taught elementary school. After his graduation, they established their home in Horsham and started a practice in Willow Grove. Joan taught Home Economics at Upper Moreland High School until 1968, but continued her love of sewing and cooking throughout her life. She supported her husband and son-in-law’s joint chiropractic practice. Joan was a Lifetime Girl Scout and an active member at Willow Grove United Methodist Church. Joan enjoyed traveling with her family and the memories that were created. She was preceded in death by husband Herbert Law ’55; she is survived by daughters Lynne and Lori and four grandchildren.

Robert E. Moore ’54 Jan. 6, 2022 — Robert was a 38-year Navy veteran who served

around the world in many stations. He and wife Janet (Wiltshire) Moore ’53 lived in Sedona for 20-plus years, doing many hours of community service at the Chamber of Commerce, Chamber Music Sedona, and Red Rock State Park. He is survived by sons Chris and Gregg, daughter Diane, and two grandchildren.

Richard C. Hutchison ’55 May 1, 2023 — Richard earned his master’s in Christian education

from Princeton Theological Seminary in 1958, his Doctor of Ministry degree from San Francisco Theological Seminary in 1987, and his Doctor of Divinity degree from Hanover College in 1991. Richard spent his career serving various congregations at several churches across the country for 39 years. Richard was a loyal Phillies fan. He also watched Penn State football, enjoyed fly fishing, and traveled the world. Richard was preceded in death by first wife Marian (Veals) Hutchison ’54, second wife Patricia, and sister Lois “Maxine” Hutchison ’48. He is survived by his third wife Joy, sons Richard, Thomas, and John, daughters Beth and Janet, and three grandchildren.

Mary (Lehman) Ciarrocca ’56 July 28, 2023 — Mimi met her true love, Carmen Ciarrocca ’56, while studying at Juniata. She taught elementary school in the Waynesboro and Cumberland Valley School Districts from 1956–1964. Mimi was a gifted pianist and an avid reader. She spent many years working at the Mechanicsburg Library. Mimi played the piano at church and at high school and college musical events. She gave piano lessons to many. Her hobbies were Civil War History, playing games, including Bridge and Pinochle, and traveling with

FALL 2023

Philip D. Volk ’56 June 12, 2023 — Phil graduated from Jefferson Medical School.

In 1962, he joined the United States Army and was stationed at the Army Hospital in Fort Huachuca, Ariz., for two years. Upon completion of his military service, Phil started his private medical practice in Tucson, Ariz., as a family physician, which lasted for 36 years. Phil supported his children’s athletic endeavors and was the team physician for high school football for 8 years. For over 30 years, Phil passionately collected trains and Department 56 villages. Phil belonged to the Arizona Village Collectors Club and was president. He belonged to the Gadsden Pacific Miniature Train Museum. He was married to Edie for 66 years. He is survived by wife Edie, sons Philip and Jeff, daughter Kim, and nine grandchildren.

Ann (Stotsenburg) Crawford ’57 Feb. 28, 2023 — Ann was a member of the first teaching class of Pennsauken High School in 1959 where she taught home economics. She was a former Elder at Pine Street Presbyterian church in Harrisburg, Pa., and a member of Grace Episcopal church in Charleston, S.C. Ann was also a past president of the Dauphin County Medical Alliance. Ann loved making clothes for her children when they were young, music, singing in the choir, and Scottish country dancing with Donald. She was preceded in death by her husband Donald and one grandson; she is survived by daughters Donna, Lori, and Liesl, and five grandchildren.

Barbara A. (Gutshall) McIlroy ’57 Feb. 25, 2023 — Barbara received her master’s degree in education from Penn State and taught at Alfarata Elementary School, Huntingdon, and Central Dauphin, Harrisburg. She was a member of St. James Evangelical Lutheran Church. Barbara was preceded in death by husband Walter.

OBITUARIES Bruce E. Bennett ’58 May 30, 2023 — Bruce received a master’s degree in divinity

from Bethany Theological Seminary in 1965. After serving in the ministry for several years, the family moved to south Florida where he was the architectural services manager for Panelfold Operable Walls for 25 years. Bruce made his solo flight on his 16th birthday and owned a J3 Piper Cub airplane for several years. He also began wild cave exploration and scuba diving in college. Bruce was a member of the Fairfield Glade United Methodist Church, Roe Fulkerson Masonic Lodge in Hollywood, Fla. and the Cumberland County Shrine Club. Bruce is survived by wife Lorraine, daughter Jean, son Eric, and four grandchildren.

Charles P. Phillips Jr. ’58 June 2, 2023 — Chuck was employed for many years by U.S. Steel

and Lehigh Portland Cement. Chuck was a multi-sport athlete, an avid golfer, and a diehard Steelers fan. To his wife Dee, he was more than a husband of 67 years; he was her best friend. Chuck supported his kids, spoiled his grandkids, and thoroughly enjoyed his great grandkids. He is survived by wife Deanna “Dee,” daughters Shelley, Tammy, and Laurey, and four grandchildren.

Barbara A. (Smathers) Yun ’58 Feb. 12, 2023 — Barb worked as a teacher, social worker,

newspaper writer and editor, and physician’s receptionist. She was also an avid volunteer and was the first co-director of Birthright of Indiana, as well as the first co-volunteer coordinator of Hospice of Indiana. Her hobbies included decorating for all holidays and seasons, playing piano and organ, dancing, camping with family, and spotting for deer. Barb is survived by husband Frederick Yun ’60, sons Curt and Keith, daughters Sharon and Vicki, and seven grandchildren.

Herbert E. Deuchar ’59 April 17, 2023 — Herbert was a history teacher at Wall High

School in Wall, N.J., for 39 years where he also coached boys and girls track and girls varsity soccer. He was a member of the Stokes Fire Company and was part of Ocean Grove Fire Department for 54 years. He also served as scoutmaster of Boy Scout Troop 41 in Ocean Grove for over 25 years. Herbert was a member of the Halifax Lions Club, the Ruffed Grouse Society, and the Halifax United Methodist Church. He was an avid dog lover, singer, and outdoorsman. Herbert was preceded in death by sister Dorothy (Deuchar) Meinke ’69; he is survived by wife Gladys, daughters Heather (Deuchar) Paul ’86 and Bonnie, son Edwin, and seven grandchildren.

Lloyd L. Greenawalt ’59 July 17, 2023 — Les worked as a retail sales manager for 42 years for JJ Newberry, McCrory’s, and J.C. Penney, retiring in 2001. Les attended West Willow United Methodist Church where he was an active board member and a head usher. Les loved sports and was a superb athlete, lettering four years in basketball, baseball, and football in high school. In his free time, he competed in bowling leagues and loved attending local sporting events as a Philadelphia sports fan. Les cherished going to Ocean City, Md., for 31 years, relaxing on the beach and eating crab legs. He was the loving

husband of Patricia with whom he celebrated their 62nd wedding anniversary with a festive ice cream social. He is survived by wife Patricia (Bauer) Greenawalt ’60, son David, daughter Karen, and four grandchildren.

Louis D. Palumbo ’59 Oct. 10, 2022 — Lou was the owner operator of Palumbo Foods in Pennsylvania and a member of Mount Airy Wesleyan Church. Lou is survived by daughter Annette, son Jay, and three grandchildren.

Bonnie L. (Meadows) Robeson ’59 Feb. 15, 2023 — Bonnie began her career teaching and later earned her master’s degree from Penn State. In 1981, she became a reading specialist for the Intermediate Unit. She then worked at Foot of Ten Elementary School in Duncansville, Pa., until her retirement. Bonnie enjoyed traveling, playing tennis and bridge, golfing, spending time with family and friends, and attending the Hollidaysburg Church of the Brethren. Bonnie was preceded in death by husband Ross Wees Jr. ’56, husband Joseph, and son Richard; she is survived by daughter Kristen Robeson-Grubb ’90, son Scott, sister Janet (Meadows) Brumbaugh ’63, and five grandchildren.

Bernard Ambrose ’60 June 26, 2023 — Bernie “Berndog” entered the United States

Air Force serving in numerous locations including Eilson Air Force Base (Alaska) and Ben Guerir Air Base (Morocco), as well as Forbes Field (Kansas), where he met the love of his life, Glendell, who he was married to for 68 years. Following his military service, Bernie attended Juniata College and embarked on a lifelong career with the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission as a waterways conservation officer for Elk County headquartered in Ridgway, Pa., for nearly 40 years, eventually returning to Huntingdon County in retirement. He enjoyed everything outdoors and Penn State football. He is survived by wife Glendell, son Bret, and daughter Amy.

Wallace E. Berkey ’60 April 5, 2023— Wally spent 35 years teaching math at the Colonial School District in Plymouth Meeting, Pa., at Whitemarsh Junior High and later Plymouth-Whitemarsh (P-W) High School. Wally also served as assistant athletic director at P-W. He loved sports as a player in his earlier years, coach, rabid fan of the Phillies and P-W Colonials, and as a frequent bettor on nearly any thoroughbred horse or professional football team. Wally’s other hobby was keeping meticulous and expansive statistics of local high school sports, even being featured in the Norristown Times Herald for his efforts. Wally spent his summers at the Jersey Shore. He is survived by wife Natalie “Sue,” son Brian, and daughter Jill.

LeRoy S. Forney ’60 May 26, 2023 — Leroy worked early in adulthood as a chemist

and later as an artist, and was a dedicated community organizer and activist. He loved jazz, classical, and choral music, and sang in many choirs. He is survived by partner Phyllis, son Matthew, daughter Ellen, sister Allegra Forney Sanner ’55, and two grandchildren; he was preceded in death by wife Nancy.

JUNIATA MAGAZINE

OBITUARIES Oct. 14, 2022 — Steven was preceded in death by mother Naomi

(Ranck) French ’37. He is survived by wife Carolyn, sons Steve and Scott, daughter Caren, and six grandchildren.

in death by father Perry Tyson ’41; he is survived by longtime companion and best friend Marie, her daughters Shelly and Michele, four grandchildren, sister Toby (Tyson) Richards ’65, and brother Tim Tyson ’79.

W. James Shoenthal III ’60

Freeman R. Weible ’63

Steven H. French ’60

May 16, 2023 — Jim was a systems analyst for Mack Trucks in

Allentown, Pa., for 25 years before retiring in 2003. He was a member of the Delta Chi Fraternity. He was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting. Jim was preceded in death by father William J. Shoenthal II ’34 and sister Lorraine (Shoenthal) Beeman ’69; he is survived by wife Caryn, son Alex, daughters Katrina, Melissa, and Nina, stepson Mark, stepdaughter Michelle, and seven grandchildren.

James L. Williams ’61 March 29, 2023 — James enlisted in the United States Army

and served as a Morse code interceptor in Okinawa, Japan. After active duty, he began work as an insurance adjustor in Western Pennsylvania and then Baltimore, Md. Jim enjoyed reading, good restaurants, playing cards, making people laugh, and golfing. He was a long-time member of Bon Air Country Club where he won the club championship in 1982 and multiple senior championships. Jim is survived by his daughters Amy and Sheri, their mother Evelyn, and 10 grandchildren.

M. Cecile (Coop) Leedom ’62

July 3, 2023 — Freeman received his master’s degree from Indiana

University of Pennsylvania. He worked until his retirement as a school teacher for Shanksvillle-Stonycreek High School, and worked weekends for the Turnpike North/South Exchange. Freeman was a member of NEA, PSEA, NCTM, and enjoyed golfing. He was preceded in death by son Ryan; he is survived by wife Linda, daughter Rebecca, and son Robert.

Sandra J. Hoffman ’64 July 13, 2022 — Sandra retired as a Computer Systems Analyst for the US Department of the Treasury in Alexandria, Va.

Gretchen (Rummel) Brock ’66 June 29, 2023 — Gretchen attended Juniata College and graduated

from Millersville College. Gretchen taught school in Columbia and worked for the Literacy Council in Lancaster, Pa. Later, she was the director of marketing and sales at Willow Valley Communities and retired from the marketing department at Pleasant View Retirement Community. She was a member of Mountville Church of the Brethren. Gretchen was an accomplished musician on both piano and organ, having studied with Frank McConnell. She was an accompanist on both organ and piano at several churches for many years, including Mountville Church of the Brethren and Lancaster Church of the Brethren. In addition, Gretchen sang in the chorus at the Lancaster Opera Workshop. She is survived by daughters Rebecca and Lucinda, and seven grandchildren.

March 22, 2023 — Ceil earned a master’s degree in library science from Rutgers University in 1984. Ceil worked and later volunteered at the South Brunswick Public Library as a reference librarian for over 30 years, maintaining their local history archives. She was twice awarded the New Jersey Library Association Service Award. She also led or was a member of multiple historical societies and initiatives. Ceil enjoyed music and piano, tap dancing, ballet, and flamenco, the latter of which she continued into her 70s. She is survived by husband Marvin, sons David, James, and Kenneth, daughter Karen, and six grandchildren.

Jan. 24, 2023 — Dean was a successful entrepreneur, serving as President and CEO of Implus Corporation. He was a veteran of the US Army and enjoyed traveling, sailing, and wrestling.

Thomas E. Saporito ’62

William S. Vint ’67

June 8, 2023 — Tom received a multitude of awards as a regional

July 2, 2023 — Bill, lovingly known as “Blueberry Bill,” enjoyed

manager and government marketing specialist at the 3M Company working out of the Philadelphia and Washington, D.C. areas for 35 years. He retired to his family home in Nags Head, N.C., and became a pillar of the community. He worked on the Grounds Committee at Duck Woods Country Club, was president of the Kiwanis Club, was treasurer of the Nags Head Community Watch, and served on the board of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. Tom was a member of Holy Redeemer by the Sea Catholic Parish. He is survived by wife Marguerite “Peggy,” daughters Sharon, Terri, and Jeni, sons Thomas, John, and Matt, and 15 grandchildren.

Michael Tyson ’63 July 17, 2023 — Michael’s career was in education, having taught

mathematics at Pennsylvania College of Technology for more than 40 years. He was an avid fan and supporter of the arts, and he enjoyed many performances at the Community Arts Center. He was preceded

FALL 2023

Dean A. Richards Jr. ’66

spending time with family, working the blueberry patch, making stained glass, woodworking, listening to vinyl records, chatting with old friends, and living in the round house at the top of the mountain that he and Sally built. He sang with the Buffalo Valley Singers and was instrumental in starting the Susquehanna Valley Growers Market. Bill graduated from Georgetown Dental School and worked as a hygienist and dentist in Mifflinburg, Halifax, and Sunbury. He is survived by his sister Carol (Vint) Spearly ’66, dear partner Sally, daughter Jennifer, son Craig, and five grandchildren.

Sue (Stober) Woodman ’68 March 11, 2023 — Sue was a teacher—most recently teaching at L. B. Morris—before finally retiring in 2019. Additionally, she was a long-time member of Christ Lutheran Church of Penn Forest where she also served as the director of education for many years. She loved teaching Sunday school and adored every one of her students. In

OBITUARIES addition to being active with her church, Sue was quite active in her community, being a social member of Penn Forest Volunteer Fire Co. #1. She loved animals, enjoyed playing Mahjong, and traveled the country with her husband, Dave. She is survived by husband Dave, son Daniel, daughter Amanda, and three grandchildren.

Alan C. Black ’69 March 22, 2023 — Alan enlisted in the United States Army and earned a Battlefield commission in Vietnam, and subsequently attended flight school (rotary wing). He attended Florida State University, earning a master’s degree in instructional design. After retiring from the Army after 27 years, Alan worked as a Department of Defense consultant. Before his retirement, he decided on a complete change of vocation and started driving tour buses all over the country for Elite Coach in Ephrata for 17 years. Alan’s avid pastime was traveling in his motor home to all 50 states with his wife and their four-legged companions. He is survived by wife Linda, daughter Michelle, son Andrew, and two grandchildren.

Barbara A. (Boone) Laine ’70 April 16, 2023 — Barb worked in retail sales and the arts, in

administration at Taos Valley School, and as a draftsman in land surveying. Barb also co-wrote well over a dozen travel guidebooks with her husband, Don. She was skilled at playing flute and piano and was a gifted singer. Barb was active in the Taos Community Chorus, choirs at First Presbyterian Church of Taos and St. James Episcopal Church, and Taos Flute Choir. Barb enjoyed traveling. She was active in the non-profit Rocky Mountain Outdoor Writers and Photographers. Barb is survived by husband Donald Laine ’70, goddaughters Marty and Gretchen, daughters of Joel Schantz ’70, and Marion “Marney” (Evons) Schantz ’70.

Elaine K. (Ditzler) Eichfeld ’71 March 16, 2023 — Elaine earned her master’s degree from Millersville University. She retired from the Pequea Valley School District in Kinzers, Pa., where she taught for many years at Salisbury Elementary School. Elaine attended St. Luke’s United Church of Christ, Lititz, Pa., and was a life member of the Order of the Eastern Star, Lebanon Chapter. Elaine was preceded in death by her father Herbert E. Ditzler ’46; she is survived by husband Wayne, sons Wesley, Chad, and Christopher, and six grandchildren.

Charles A. Potter ’71 Feb. 23, 2023 — Charles received his Doctor of Dental Surgery from Temple School of Dentistry and practiced family dentistry in Dupont for 45 years. He was recognized by The American College of Dentists, the International College of Dentists, and the Pierre Fauchard Academy. Charles also served as president and board chairman of the Scranton District Dental Society and chairman of the Scranton District Dental Society Continuing Education Program. Charles is survived by wife Rose, daughter Stephanie, son Ryan, and two grandsons.

Malinda A. (Yoder) Winder ’74 Feb. 19, 2023 — Mindy taught second grade at ThompsontownDelaware Elementary School for 13 years and later worked for the

Mifflin-Juniata Area Agency on Aging. She served on the board of the Juniata County Library and was a member of the Juniata County Business and Professional Women’s Club and the Juniata County Democratic Committee. Mindy enjoyed supporting her children in sports, keeping in touch with her college roommates, traveling, tending flowers, and playing card games. Mindy was preceded in death by father Charles Yoder ’47; she is survived by husband Andrew, son Samuel, daughters Katherine and Rebecca, and one grandson.

Thomas R. Furrer ’75 July 14, 2023 — Tom was the President of Furrer Beverage Company, Inc., having worked in the family business for the past 40 years. He had previously worked for the National Park Service. He was a member of the Spruce Creek Rod & Gun Club, Holy Rosary Catholic Church, the Knights of Columbus Council #551, and the Bavarian Aid Society. Tom enjoyed fly fishing for trout, gardening, model train collecting, making wine and collecting it, and golfing; but most of all, he enjoyed spending time with his family. He was a proud member of the 1970 PCIAA State Championship Bishop Guilfoyle basketball team that was inducted into the Blair County Sports Hall of Fame in 2022. Tom is survived by wife of 40 years Terry, daughter Elizabeth, and one granddaughter.

Roger D. Garber ’76 June 1, 2023 — Roger received a Doctor of Dental Surgery

from Temple Dental School in 1980. His post-doctoral studies included a two-year family dentistry residency at the University of Connecticut’s John Dempsey Hospital, Farmington, Conn. Roger was a highly skilled dental surgeon and practiced family dentistry in Newport, Pa., for 37 years. Roger enjoyed vacations and cruises, spending many years with his lifelong partner and friend, Marj. He loved hunting, fishing, the outdoors, spending time with family and friends, and playing cards. In his youth he was a member of the Conestoga Church of the Brethren, Leola, Pa., and in later years attended Three Springs Church of the Brethren, Blain, Pa. Roger is survived by partner Marj and her daughter Sherri.

Timothy A. Tabor ’76 July 4, 2023 — Tim counseled youth at Forestry Camp #3, James

Creek, Pa., and Loysville Youth Development Center, Loysville, Pa., where he was employed by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania for 33 years. Afterwards, Tim worked at the Department of Corrections, where he counseled and evaluated inmates, before retiring in 2011. Tim became a professional portrait and event photographer, winning the Merit Award from Center Film Lab’s Summer Fun ’82 Photo Contest. Tim gave back to his alma mater advising the varsity basketball team, assisting hunger relief through Juniata College Meal for Crop, and lecturing classes on sociology and psychology. He enjoyed traveling, working out at the gym, long scenic drives, gourmet food, college football, and his vintage vinyl collection. He is survived by wife Donna, stepdaughter Kelly, and one step-grandchild.

Robin E. Morgan ’80 March 14, 2023 — After Juniata, Robin attended Multnomah Bible

JUNIATA MAGAZINE

OBITUARIES College in Portland, Ore., where she was employed. Robin later completed her master’s degree in the English Second Language (ESL) program at Biola University in La Mirada, Calif. She was called to serve her Lord as a missionary where she used her ESL degree, by teaching at numerous community colleges and working with various ministries. Robin was very active in numerous churches in Southern California, including the Calvary Church of Santa Ana, Calif., and the Free Chapel in Irvine, Calif. Robin served in numerous countries in Africa, in many remote villages, and used her ESL degree to teach refugees. She also served in Canada and in Brooklyn, N.Y., with a children’s ministry, and most recently served in India.

Deborah L. (Woodling) Scott ’80 Jan. 9, 2023 — Deborah worked for a number of different companies over the years, including Birchwood in the Poconos and Liz Claiborne, Inc.

Owen O. Freeman III ’82 May 17, 2023 — Buck was employed by Manheim Auto Auction

for 14 years. An avid outdoorsman, Buck enjoyed fly fishing and nature. He is survived by daughter Brooke.

Michele L. (Sciranko) Hummel ’90 Feb. 9, 2023 — Michele lived in South Carolina. She is survived by

husband Peron.

Wendy S. (Cook) Perrott ’90 Feb. 8, 2023 — Wendy received her Master of Business

Administration from Robert Morris University and worked as a payroll specialist. She enjoyed mountain biking, hiking, scuba diving, ATV riding, skiing, and other daring adventures. Wendy is survived by husband James.

Trudy A. (Benz) Biddle ’92 July 7, 2023 — Trudy worked for many years as a computer

programmer with Westinghouse Bettis Atomic Power Laboratory in West Mifflin, and Areva, now Framotome, in Lynchburg, Va. She was active with the American Business Women’s Association (ABWA) and they named her Woman of the Year in 2002. Trudy was the beloved wife of John for 37 years. She is survived by husband John, stepdaughter Lisa, and one step-grandchild.

Shannon P. Callahan ’06 May 8, 2023 — Shannon earned her master’s degree from Seton

Hall University in South Orange, N.J., and moved cross-country to earn her Doctorate in Social Psychology at University of California, Davis, in Davis, Calif. She taught social psychology at numerous colleges, including UC Davis, and most recently at Sonoma State University. Shannon was an ardent gardener, crafter, baker, activist, conservationist, and vegetarian. She loved her family, friends, trivia, karaoke, crossword puzzles, and reading. She is survived by husband Landon and son Lewis.

EMPLOYEES John D. Bowser ’57

Robert H. Washburn Sr.

May 4, 2023 — John taught mathematics at Juniata for 36 years

May 19, 2023 — Robert taught geology at Juniata for 35 years

until his retirement in 1997. He earned his bachelor’s degree in mathematics at Juniata College and his master’s degree in 1959 at West Virginia University. John earned his Ph.D. in education from Penn State in 1976. He had a passion for sports, especially women’s volleyball, and was a loyal supporter of Juniata College athletics. He was preceded in death by his wife Joyce and is survived by his children John, Jill, and Jan.

until his retirement in 2001. He earned his bachelor’s degree in 1959 from the University of Nebraska and enlisted in the United States Army Reserves that same year. Robert completed his master’s degree at the University of Nebraska in 1961 and his Ph.D. at Columbia University in 1966. He was honorably discharged from military service in 1968, attaining the rank of Captain. Robert enjoyed spending time with his family and friends and was an avid hiker and trail biker. He is survived by his wife Cheryl Washburn ’86, and his sons, Robert Jr. and David.

R. Christine (Yohe) Kumagai Feb. 26, 2023 — Christine served as Dean of Women at Juniata from 1959 to 1965. She earned her bachelor’s degree in 1944 from Penn State and enlisted in the United States Navy in 1944. Following her release to inactive duty in 1946, Christine obtained her master’s degree in business administration in industrial relations from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. She loved traveling and volunteering her time to help those suffering from hunger, abuse, or violence. She was preceded in death by her husband Ray and is survived by her daughter Sueko Elizabeth.

FALL 2023

ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIPS

Professor Patricia C. Weaver Endowed Scholarship Honoring the legacy of the late Patricia Weaver, Charles A. Dana Professor of Accounting, Business, and Economics Emerita, this scholarship benefits students planning to study within Juniata’s accounting, business, and economics department. She was known as having high expectations for her students and as an extremely effective educator.

Dr. Robert P. Zimmerer Endowed Scholarship

Mutti-Washburn Endowment for Field Studies Named for two long-time faculty members, Larry Mutti, emeritus professor of geology, and the late Robert Washburn, emeritus professor of geology, the endowment provides funding for students studying geology at Juniata College to engage in experiential learning through participation in field studies.

For more than three decades, the late Dr. Robert Zimmerer, emeritus professor of biology, influenced his peers and students at Juniata College with his love of learning. This endowed scholarship honors that lifelong commitment to education and benefits students planning to study within Juniata’s Division of Natural Sciences.

For further information on how you can enhance or create an endowment like these funds, please contact the Juniata College Office of Development at 814-641-3191 or visit www.juniata.edu/give and select “Other Designation” using the name of the endowment to denote your allocation.

JUNIATA MAGAZINE

JUNIATA COMMUNITY SCHOLARSHIP Will you help identify and recruit future Juniata students? One in three incoming Juniata Students is recruited by alumni and parents. Two important things to note—the scholarship requires no financial investment from you AND it can change the life of a high school student! Use your network to identify prospective students and introduce them to Juniata. If the student you recruit is enrolled at Juniata, they will receive a $1,000 a year scholarship for four years in your name at no cost to you! The Juniata Community Scholarship sends an important message to prospective students, “Our community supports you from the moment we introduce you to our College.” For more information about the Juniata Community Scholarship: www.juniata.edu/recruit or contact Cindy Gibboney ’18 Director of Enrollment/Alumni Engagement 814-641-3116 • gibbonci@juniata.edu

Submit a Juniata Community Scholarship Form

ALUMNI WEEKEND June 6–9, 2024 Save the date for Alumni Weekend 2024 and join your classmates on campus for a weekend of recalling old memories and creating new ones! For more information and updates, please visit www.juniata.edu/alumniweekend.

CHOIR REUNION

June 7–8, 2024

Calling all Juniata Choir alumni! Mark your calendars and join us on campus to sing with choir alumni across the generations. Rehearse under director Dr. Russ Shelley, reconnect with your choir friends, and share a concert with campus and the community. For more information and updates, be sure we have your updated email address. You can update your information by visiting www.juniata.edu/update.

STAY CONNECTED AND GO DIGITAL Provide your email address to get updated information and to tell us what’s new at:

www.juniata.edu/update alumni@juniata.edu • 814-641-3443

Alumni Office 1700 Moore Street Huntingdon, PA 16652-2196

NON PROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE

PAID

JUNIATA COLLEGE

We’re social.

Tour Juniata Today

www.juniata.edu/virtualtour

Member Institutions: 271

Recycle this magazine Give it to a high school student and help spread the word about Juniata.

One of Juniata’s newest traditions, Coffee on the Quad, was introduced by President James A. Troha to celebrate the first day of class each semester.

Photo by Christina D’Amato ’25