Messiah College's The Bridge magazine - Summer 2019

THE

7M ESSIAH BUSINESS INSTITUTE DEBUTS

18 W HY I GIVE

Students learn from local business leaders

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Making a splash

Class of 2019 Commencement

How Messiah’s community pays it forward

MESSIAH COLLEGE ALUMNI MAGAZINE SUMMER 2019

JOHNNY GREASER ’21

OU TSIDE LOOK

“ I tell my students, ‘When you get these jobs that you have been so brilliantly trained for, just remember that your real job is that if you are free, you need to free somebody else. If you have some power, then your job is to empower somebody else.”

—Toni Morrison

S U M M E R 2 0 1 9 , VO L . 1 1 1 , N O . 1

MESSIAH COLLEGE A LU M N I M AG A Z I N E

THE

TA B L E O F C O N T E N T S

PRESIDENT

Kim S. Phipps V I C E P R E S I D E N T F O R A DVA N C E M E N T

Barry Goodling ’79 EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF M A R K E T I N G & C O M M U N I C AT I O N S

Carla E. Gross EDITOR

Anna Seip C R E AT I V E D I R E C T O R

Nancy Soulliard SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Cindy Agoncillo ’09 GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Deb Hartranft DIRECTOR OF A L U M N I & PA R E N T R E L AT I O N S

Jay McClymont ’92 CONTRIBUTORS

Matthew Fenton ’13 MA ’16, Emily Koontz ’20, Leanne Tan ’21, Jake Miaczynski ’20, Robyn Passante

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Office of Marketing and Communications One College Avenue, Suite 3020 Mechanicsburg, PA 17055 717.691.6027 | www.messiah.edu

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The Bridge (ISSN-0279-3938) is published quarterly by the Messiah College Office of Marketing and Communications for alumni and friends of the College, free of charge. Periodicals postage (USPS #342000) paid at Mechanicsburg PA 17055 and additional mailing offices. Please contact us at thebridge@messiah.edu or 717-691-6027. Items for the alumni news section should be identified by class year and sent to the Messiah College Office of Alumni and Parent Relations, One College Avenue Suite 3023, Mechanicsburg PA 17055. You may email them to alumni@messiah.edu or fax them to 717-796-5371.

F E AT U R E S

As its name suggests, The Bridge connects alumni, parents and donors with Messiah College. It also serves to build the College’s image with these audiences. It does this by publishing accurate news about the College and about alumni and by offering interesting feature articles that are issue- or College-related for readers’ continued education.

Messiah College accepts news submissions from alumni and the broader community but reserves the right to edit or decline to print materials at its discretion.

Messiah College does not discriminate on the basis of gender, race, color, disability and national or ethnic origin in the administration of its educational policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic or other Collegeadministered programs.

The Bridge is printed on recyclable paper: 50/25 PCW EFC

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The Class of 2019: Celebrating undergraduate and graduate alumni

Messiah donors tell their stories of giving back for the greater good.

COMMENCEMENT

Messiah College is a Christian college of the liberal and applied arts and sciences. The College is committed to an embracing evangelical spirit rooted in the Anabaptist, Pietist and Wesleyan traditions of the Christian Church.

Our mission is to educate men and women toward maturity of intellect, character and Christian faith in preparation for lives of service, leadership, and reconciliation in church and society.

© 2019 Messiah College

10 COVE R:

Erin Parry ’19 tries out her synchonized swimming skills in Messiah’s natatorium.

RYAN SMITH PHOTOGRAPHY

2 | SUMMER 2019 • THE BRIDGE • MESSIAH COLLEGE

WHY I GIVE

F R O M T H E E D I TO R MY FAVORITE PART OF THE SUMMER ISSUE IS THE BRIDGE’S COMMENCEMENT COVERAGE. THAT’S WHEN I GET TO INTERVIEW THE SENIOR SPOTLIGHTS—A SAMPLING OF MESSIAH SENIORS WHO ARE ALREADY DOING GREAT THINGS. ONE OF THOSE SPOTLIGHTS IS ERIN PARRY ’19, AN APPLIED HEALTH SCIENCE GRADUATE. SHE ALSO HAPPENS TO BE A SYNCHRONIZED SWIMMER.

For her senior research project, Parry taught a six-week synchronized swimming class to students. (You can read about her project on p. 14.)

When The Bridge team asked if she’d be game to pose for the cover, she readily said yes. We quickly booked Ryan Smith, a top-notch photographer with underwater skills and snorkeling gear.

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8

D E PAR TM E NT S

ONLINE EXTRAS

4 FROM THE PRESIDENT

MESSIAH.EDU/THE_BRIDGE

Parry showed up to the photo shoot with her friend Jenna Hawthorne ’20 (who had participated in the research project), hopped in Messiah’s pool and swam, spun, kicked and dove for two hours. Once we had our cover shot, Parry then demonstrated how she coached her class through the rigorous routine. That’s where Hawthorne came in, the willing student who took direction. As we neared the three-hour mark, I asked if they were tired.

“No,” Parry said with a shrug, “I’m used to all-day swim meets.”

5 OUR CAMPUS

Learn about the Messiah Business Institute (MBI).

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Faces and Places

6

Heard Around Campus

Check out the Human Library Project.

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Campus News

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Brain Waves

Watch the Graduate Commencement video.

9 Athletics

Watch the Undergraduate Commencement video.

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OUR ALUMNI

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Alumni News

Take a look at the synchronized swimming research project by Erin Parry ’19.

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Alumni Profiles

30

Class Notes

Learn more about Radiant Hope.

32

From the Archives

As they left the pool, I thanked the women for spending an afternoon with us. They were all smiles, as if they had an infinite amount of time and energy to share.

I’m not sure why I was surprised.

Giving time, money and talent is just what Messiah’s alumni, parents and friends do. Our feature, “Why I Give,” highlights several donors and their thoughts on the importance of giving.

You can read all about them on p. 18.

I hope you enjoy the summer issue.

Check out the Homecoming event schedule.

A N N A S E I P, E D I T O R

MESSIAH COLLEGE • THE BRIDGE • SUMMER 2019 | 3

FROM THE PRESIDENT

Messiah’s long history of philanthropy continues

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Hero Award, which recognizes a student leader who works diligently behind the scenes in support of SAB goals. Korin was the inaugural recipient of the Unsung Hero Award her senior year, but at that time there was no financial gift associated with the honor. Her generosity, expressed in the creation of this fund, makes her the youngest alumnus to give in this special manner to Messiah College.

“ For all 110 years of Messiah’s history, the College has been blessed abundantly by the generosity of those who believe in our educational mission. ” —K im S. Phipps, President

While these are more recent examples of generosity, Messiah has a long history of philanthropy. The very land and buildings that comprise campus reflect significant gifts from donors who believe wholeheartedly in the College’s mission. Gifts such as endowed scholarships and financial aid contributions have been essential to ensuring that hardworking students are able to attend Messiah and thrive in their chosen courses of study. Two years ago, Kelly, Brooke and I established the endowed Phipps Family Scholarship.

We are so delighted to know we will be able to support deserving Messiah students for years to come.

When I think about people like Celia—so deeply influenced by just one year at Messiah—I am so grateful to be in a role that allows me to know the stories of people’s generosity and sacrificial giving and to see how their gifts directly benefit students and fulfill the mission of Messiah College.

Morehouse graduate Jonathan Epps told The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, “With one gesture, Robert F. Smith really changed everything for me and my future. It was a revolutionary gesture by him.” Every gift, no matter the size, helps shape the future of Messiah College students and graduates. Thank you for giving!

K I M S . PH I PPS, PRESIDENT

PHOTO: RYAN SMITH PHOTOGRAPHY

In May, billionaire Robert F. Smith surprised the graduates of Morehouse College in Georgia with extraordinary generosity. During his Commencement address, he promised to pay off each student’s college debt, a gift estimated to amount to $40 million. The media seized the story, in part, I believe, because Smith’s act of generosity was so unexpected and so significant to the women and men of Morehouse.

Few people have the financial means to donate millions of dollars. Generosity, however, has little to do with the amount of the gift and more with the heart of the giver.

For all 110 years of Messiah’s history, the College has been blessed abundantly by the generosity of those who believe in our educational mission.

A few years ago, the Development Office at Messiah College received a surprise donation. Celia Lascarides, an international student from Greece who attended Messiah Junior College from 1955-56, was reflecting on her life and career and recalled how her single year at Messiah gave her such a hospitable start in the U.S. Celia says she fondly remembers living in Hoffman Hall, where she made incredible friends. Her participation on the debate team and in a group for international students set her on course to pursue her studies and vocation, eventually becoming a professor of early childhood education at Boston University.

My colleague Jon Stuckey, executive director of development, recalls receiving a check from Celia completely out of the blue—more than 60 years after she had left Messiah! In a phone conversation with her, she expressed how pivotal her year at Messiah was to her personal and intellectual growth. In the years since, she established a scholarship for Messiah’s early childhood education program and became a supportive friend of the College and of my leadership.

Celia certainly isn’t the only donor to surprise us. Korin Martin ’17 requested a meeting with Jon months before her graduation, and he was pleasantly surprised when Korin outlined her carefully considered plan to establish a cash gift for the Student Activities Board (SAB) Unsung

OUR

FAC E S A N D P L AC E S

Find coffee, conversation off campus LOCAL COFFEE SHOP WELCOMES MESSIAH’S COMMUNITY

Above, from left: Employees Katie Parson ’14 and Holly Myers ’85 serve up coffee with Cracked Pot’s owner Emily Schmidt.

NATURAL BEING PHOTOGRAPHY

College students run on coffee.

Luckily, for Messiah College students, there’s a coffee shop right around the corner. The Cracked Pot Coffee Shop has served students, faculty and the community since its opening in May 2018.

Emily Schmidt, Cracked Pot’s founder, grew up right behind campus and even was baptized in the Yellow Breeches. While she never enrolled as a student, she says Messiah still feels like home.

The name of her shop is inspired by 2 Corinthians 4:7-10: “… but we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down but not destroyed.”

Schmidt says she hopes her mentees and employees at the shop will witness biblical principles through the way she lives her life.

“Society makes us think we need to have it all together,” she said, “but, as believers, we know that it’s actually the opposite.

When we’re broken, transparent and show our flaws, God’s goodness shines through.”

Holly Myers ’85, administrative assistant to the dean of the School of Science, Engineering and Health at Messiah, has volunteered at the shop the past two summers. “My only hesitation before applying was that I am not a coffee drinker,” she said, with a laugh.

Myers says she was interested in the shop’s mentor program, which provides those who are aging out of the foster care system with a nine-month initiative to get job experience and grow.

The shop has many Messiah regulars, including President

Kim Phipps. Education major Moriah Ramsey ’20 also frequents the shop to study and hang out. “There’s a sense of comfort and community we form through coffee and conversation,” said Ramsey. “Every time I walk in, I feel a strong sense of

community and family.”

In the future, Schmidt says she hopes to hold worship nights at the shop. Until then, Cracked Pot will continue to brew coffee, new friendships and deeper faith for the community.

— Jake Miaczynski ’20

MESSIAH COLLEGE • THE BRIDGE • SUMMER 2019 | 5

OUR

HEARD AROUND CAMPUS

WHAT BOOK DO YOU FIND YOURSELF READING OVER AND OVER AGAIN? “Vicious” by V.E. Schwab

“ Reading ‘Vicious’ was a huge gamechanger for me and inspired me to try to write in a manner like V.E. Schwab.

She inspired me to layer my plots and characters.”

— Charmaine Lim ’20, journalism

“ Eat, Pray, Love: One Woman’s Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia”

by Elizabeth Gilbert “‘ Eat, Pray, Love’ reminds me that the world is wide, and life doesn’t have to be so conventional.

A section of the book is written about Rome, and this takes me back to my time spent living there while studying abroad. The author seeks nonmaterial fulfillment, and I think it is a necessary reminder for all of us to re-evaluate what it is we are pursuing.”

— Amy Kimmel ’20, sustainability 6 | SUMMER 2019 • THE BRIDGE • MESSIAH COLLEGE

“ Uninvited: Living Loved When You Feel Less Than, Left Out and Lonely” by Lysa TerKeurst

“‘ Uninvited’ spoke to me in places that I was struggling with when I read it for the first time. It provides so much truth that is especially pertinent to our culture today and is a book that is relatable even when reading it for the second (or fifth) time.”

— Anna Mayo ’20, applied health science

“ Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas” by Hunter S. Thompson

“ Pride and Prejudice”

by Jane Austen

“ The first-person narrative gives you a look into the mind of a character whose logic and reasoning are downright comical. The situations he finds himself in are unpredictable, and the ways he gets out of them are unimaginable.

The book’s tagline explains the adventure best: ‘A Savage Journey to The Heart of The American Dream.’”

“‘ Pride and Prejudice’ is a comfort book for me. It comes to college, on vacations, anywhere—whether I read it or not. I love the characters and often become enraptured in the world of Elizabeth Bennet. It makes me laugh, it makes me cry, but, in the end, it makes me smile.”

— Isaac Albrite ’20, engineering

— Erin Mackenzie ’20, English

The Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling

“ No matter how many times I read the Harry Potter series, I still find myself able to experience all the magic these books have to offer. I believe it is full of many life lessons that are applicable in any stage of life.”

— Kristen Hasse ’19, applied health science

CAMPUS NEWS

NETWORK WITH MBI Messiah College recently launched the Messiah Business Institute (MBI) to build and support a thriving business community in Central Pennsylvania. MBI brings together business owners and key leaders to: • Participate in educational content provided by local and national experts within their respective fields.

• Provide multiple venues and environments in which collaboration and networking can occur.

• Enjoy opportunities to interact with Messiah faculty and staff, in addition to meeting potential interns or new hires from the student body.

“The Messiah Business Institute will provide our students more opportunities to learn alongside local business leaders as they enlarge their networks and prepare for their careers,” said Andy Babyak, chair of the Department of Business at Messiah.

MEET THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR MBI is led

by Greg Lowe, who will serve as executive director.

During a long business career that included roles at Greg Lowe Nestle and McKonly & Asbury, he says he interacted with Messiah faculty, students and staff throughout his professional journey.

“Several of my partners and a large number of staff at McKonly & Asbury were Messiah graduates,” said Lowe. “All of these factors led me to focus recruiting efforts toward Messiah graduates, resulting in hiring more than 60 through my career. Also, I visited the campus often to hear great speakers, attending networking breakfasts. There just seemed to be so many great connections to Messiah.”

LINKBANK, North Group Consultants, Gunn Mowery, SevenBridge Financial Group and McNees Wallace & Nurick LLC. “Many regional businesses have already joined and the word is beginning to spread,” said Lowe. “MBI is on track to remain exclusively sponsor and member funded. It is exciting to see Messiah, our corporate sponsors and many of the region’s wellknown businesses united in the belief that a thriving business community benefits the entire community.”

— Staff report VISIT MBI’S WEBSITE AT MESSIAH.EDU/MBI.

HOW TO JOIN MBI To become a member, submit a brief application. While a group of generous corporate sponsors has underwritten the largest part of the costs, members pay dues of $1,500 annually.

Members may bring up to three company representatives or guests to each of four MBI educational events during the year and the four Messiah Networking Breakfasts.

To learn more about MBI, contact Lowe at glowe@messiah.edu.

HOW DOES IT WORK? To keep MBI’s membership affordable, a generous group of corporate donors joined in the effort: Martin’s Famous Pastry Shoppe, Brown Schultz Sheridan & Fritz, Capital BLUE, Candoris,

TORI SIDELLA ’22

BUSINESS INSTITUTE LAUNCHES

MBI connects students and local business leaders. Member benefits include networking breakfasts and events.

MBI IS FUNDED BY THE PARTICIPATION OF CORPORATE SPONSORS AND MEMBER BUSINESSES. THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS:

An Independent Licensee of the BlueCross BlueShield Association

FOUNDATION LEVEL SPONSOR MESSIAH COLLEGE • THE BRIDGE • SUMMER 2019 | 7

OUR

CAMPUS NEWS

What’s a human library?

‘CHECK OUT’ A PERSON FOR LIVING STORYTELLING as one of the “books,” telling his journey as an African-American man born “months after Brown v.

Board” who grew up “in the shadow of Monticello” in Virginia.

“It was nothing like Little Rock, but it did create an interesting ambivalence,” said Grooms of his school integration experience, “one in which we were somewhat welcomed in the public spaces, but we never visited friends at home. It was still a strong segregated code outside the school.”

Special Assistant to the President and Provost for Diversity Affairs Todd Allen and Technical Services Coordinator Liz Kielley co-chaired the event.

B R A I N WAV E S

“What begins as an initial conversation among strangers has often blossomed into deep and meaningful friendships as people learn things about others that are unique, but also find many things they hold in common that, without listening to one another, they would have never known,” said Allen.

— Anna Seip

NICHOLAS MCMILLEN ’19

The poster read, “Walk-ins are welcome and may check out books upon arrival.” But these were no ordinary books. They were human.

The Office of Diversity Affairs and Murray Library hosted its second annual Human Library Project April 17.

This learning platform, hosted in 85 countries, allows volunteers to be “open books,” sharing personal stories with attendees. The concept is designed to build a positive framework for conversations that can challenge stereotypes and prejudices through dialogue.

This year, author of historical fiction Anthony Grooms served

Author Anthony Grooms served as guest speaker at the Human Library Project.

GRIT AND GOD STUDENTS RESEARCH CHILDHOOD, FAITH Grit is often used synonymously with perseverance, but some Messiah student researchers say there’s an important delineation.

“It’s more than perseverance,” said psychology major Abigail Riegert ’19. “Grit is focusing on a long-term goal, and that goal affects your choices now.”

With Associate Professor of Psychology Valerie Lemmon and Associate Professor of Biopsychology Jennifer Thomson, the team also included Lilly Kashishian ’19 and Abigail Poh ’20, who surveyed students enrolled in psychology classes.

From the questionnaire given to the students, the team researched if adverse childhood experience affects one’s grit and attachment style (or relationship) to God. “What our research hypothesis states,” said Riegert, “is

8 | SUMMER 2019 • THE BRIDGE • MESSIAH COLLEGE

that if someone has an adverse childhood experience—abuse, assault, divorce, etc.—then it would influence one’s attachment style to God … as well as their level of grit.”

What were their findings?

Adverse childhood experience has no influence over attachment style to God or one’s grit level.

But, attachment style and grit level do relate to each other.

“When someone has a higher grit level, then they will likely have the secure attachment style to God or vice versa,” she said.

“This trends with the other styles and lowering levels of grit found in the students.”

After sifting through the data, was Riegert ever tempted to take the questionnaire herself?

“As researchers, we don’t take the survey because it introduces a bias,” she said, “but reading through the surveys, I wonder what my scores would be.”

— Anna Seip

AT H L E T I C S

Falcons claim pair of individual national titles in Ohio Two of Messiah’s student-athletes were crowned as National Champions in track in Geneva, Ohio, with Benjamin Schott ’19 winning the 3,000-meter steeplechase (8:59.89) and Esther Seeland ’22 claiming the top spot in the 800-meter (2:05.24) May 25.

Their titles are the 11th and 12th individual National Championships in Messiah athletics history. Messiah now has 30 National Championships in school history, including seven individual National Championships from the men’s and women’s track and field program (two men’s titles and five women’s titles).

With one lap left in the 3,000-meter steeplechase final, Schott was neck-and-neck with Berea’s Logan McKenzie. Schott actually trailed the lead set by McKenzie by half a step with 400 meters remaining, but over the course of the final lap Schott exploded past McKenzie with a split time of 1:03.89, the fastest final lap in the field by nearly three seconds. The late burst allowed the senior to claim the National Championship by over four and a half seconds in the final race of his career.

Just a few hours later, Seeland was getting ready to add some more hardware to the Messiah trophy cases. Much like Schott, Seeland was patient

in the 800-meter final. Halfway through the race, Seeland trailed Macalester’s Phoebe Aguiar by more than two seconds but narrowed the deficit on the final lap before turning on the jets down the home stretch to win the championship in a time of 2:05.24. According to the U.S. Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association (USTFCCCA), Seeland’s time is of note, not only because it shatters the program record she set in the prelims (2:09.40), but it also makes her the third-fastest Division III woman to ever run the 800-meter.

Thanks to the championship performances from Schott and Seeland, as well as an AllAmerican honor from Alyssa McMinn ’19 in the discus (6th place - 44.60 meters), the Falcons tied for 18th place in the women’s team standings and in a tie for 28th in the men’s competition.

— Matthew Fenton ’13, MA ’16, director of athletic communications

MESSIAH COLLEGE ATHLETICS

SCHOTT ’19, SEELAND ’22 WIN TOP HONORS IN TRACK

MESSIAH LEADS STATE, CONFERENCE WITH STRONG DIRECTORS’ CUP FINISH SOCCER TEAMS, FIELD HOCKEY, WOMEN’S BASKETBALL GARNER MOST POINTS The Messiah Falcons continue to confirm their stature as the leading NCAA Division III athletics destination in Pennsylvania—and as a leader in the nation. For the 19th-straight year, the Falcons were the highest-ranked Division III institution in Pennsylvania in the Learfield/IMG College Directors’ Cup. The cup ranks departments based on each institution’s finish in up to 18 sports— nine women’s and nine men’s.

The Falcons finished with 495.5 points, placing them 26th among the 340 institutions that qualified for the list. In addition to being the top-ranked institution in the state, Messiah has now finished

in the top 35 for 19-straght years and, once again, was the leader among all 17 institutions in the Middle Atlantic Conference.

Messiah men’s soccer (73 points) and field hockey (70 points) led the way for the Falcons, finishing in the Elite Eight this season. Women’s basketball and women’s soccer contributed 64 points after reaching the Sweet 16 in their respective NCAA Tournaments.

In total, 10 different sports contributed points thanks to their performances in the NCAA Championships.

— Matthew Fenton ’13, MA ’16, director of athletic communications

MESSIAH COLLEGE • THE BRIDGE • SUMMER 2019 | 9

F E AT U R E S T O R Y

GRADUATE Students gathered to receive advanced degrees from the School of Graduate Studies May 11.

TO WATCH THE COMMENCEMENT VIDEO, VISIT MESSIAH.EDU/GRADCOMMENCEMENT2019.

NICK GOULD PHOTOGRAPHY

Alexander Jun Executive director and senior research scholar at Race and Justice in Higher Education graduate commencement speaker

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180

Dottie Weigel Assistant professor for higher education/director, Graduate Program in Higher Education

graduates

Harry and Nancy Preis Outstanding Graduate Teaching Award

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or as long as she can remember, Kali Rodgers, MOT ’19 has had a passion for helping others. Growing up, she witnessed her cousin, who has cerebral palsy, work with an occupational therapist who taught him how to feed himself.

“A profession that helps other people become independent in something so meaningful that we sometimes take for granted every day was something I felt a calling towards,” Rodgers said.

Kali Rodgers occupational therapy

One professor who has been particularly instrumental in her graduate studies is Leanne Rutt, assistant professor of occupational

“ MESSIAH SEEMED TO BE THE PERFECT FIT AND ALSO EMPHASIZED SERVICE WHICH IS VERY NEAR AND DEAR TO MY HEART.” — Kali Rodgers, MOT ’19 This experience eventually led her to pursue a Master of Occupational Therapy (MOT).

After majoring in neuroscience at Lebanon Valley College, she looked for a graduate school with personalized education close to home. She chose Messiah.

“Messiah seemed to be the perfect fit and also emphasized service, which is very near and dear to my heart,” Rodgers said.

As part of the first MOT cohort, she attributes her success to her professors.

“Starting a program is no easy feat,” Rodgers said. “The faculty worked day in and day out to help us achieve our dreams.”

therapy (clinical track).

“Her door was also open and her motivational attitude day in and day out kept me going at times when I faced any challenges,” said Rodgers.

After graduation, she began working at Wellspan Hospital in York, Pennsylvania.

— Leanne Tan ’21

MESSIAH COLLEGE • THE BRIDGE • SUMMER 2019 | 11

2019 COMMENCEMENT

UNDERGRA Under sunny skies and after years of hard work, faith and fun, Messiah students transformed into alumni during their Commencement ceremony. Congrats, Class of 2019!

TO WATCH THE COMMENCEMENT VIDEO, VISIT MESSIAH.EDU/UGCOMMENCEMENT2019.

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609

graduates

Nicole Fulgham founder and president of The Expectations Project undergraduate commencement speaker

ADUATE Olivia Rossi MARTI AIKEN HWANG PHOTOGRAPHY

education with teaching certification in preK-4 and special education Donald and Anna Zook Alumni Merit Award

Teaching awards Michael Harcrow, associate professor of music, and Diane Brockman, senior lecturer in psychology, Dr. Robert and Marilyn Smith Awards for Outstanding Teaching Brooke Goode ’03, women’s field hockey coach, Outstanding Cocurricular Educator Award

In memory of

Ethan Van Bochoven

Ryan Van Bochoven (above) accepted the degree for his late brother, Ethan (left). Rebecca Hegman ’19 (far left) announced the creation of the Ethan Van Bochoven Scholarship as the 2019 senior class gift.

MESSIAH COLLEGE • THE BRIDGE • SUMMER 2019 | 13

2019 COMMENCEMENT

SPOTLIGHT: SENIOR IN

one breath, Josiah Nisly ’19 can discuss his research of catalytic activity in fuel cells. In another, he can tell you about his favorite movies.

Erin Parry applied health science

Through the Falcon Fitness Center Instagram account, she recruited students for a six-week synchronized swimming class.

“There were a couple who didn’t have much experience in swimming,” said Parry, “much less synchronized swimming.”

A competitive synchronized swimmer for six years, she dove into experiential learning as it related to exercise science. Before designing her class, she spent time talking to experienced fitness instructors. She then created a progressive class that included elements of strength and cardiovascular exercise. Stretching her leadership skills, she taught her class these essentials: “ Achieve your land skills before translating them to the water.”

The class worked on building core strength through Pilates workouts before hitting the pool. “ Get really comfy in the water.”

Synchronized swimmers must not touch the bottom of the pool during any

1.

RYAN SMITH PHOTOGRAHY

2.

part of the 3- to 4-minute routine, so core strength is essential. “ When you’re putting together a routine, the social component is huge.”

Parry says when the group had positive interactions, they performed the routine more smoothly.

Mindy Smith, senior lecturer of applied health science and director of student wellness at Messiah, mentored Parry through this on-campus internship.

“Erin merged her background as a synchronized swimmer and her desire to promote enjoyable physical activity for other students in the design of her fitness class,” said Smith.

“Throughout her internship, Erin was involved in valuable applied learning, while also supporting other students in their commitments to physical activity.”

3.

chemistry ACS-certified

TO WATCH HER SWIMMING VIDEO, GO TO MESSIAH.EDU/ERINPARRY

PRO TIP: Parry recommends Knox gelatin as the ultimate hair gel. “ It’s not supposed to come out in the water—unless the water is really warm,” she said. “It takes 5-10 washes to rinse out. You’re in the shower a long time after meets.”

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Josiah Nisly

CINDY AGONCILLO ’09

N

ose clips? Check. Waterproof makeup? Check. For her senior research project, applied health science major Erin Parry ’19 researched the benefits of group exercise.

“I was here over the summer doing research,” said Nisly. “Sometimes, we would sit in the lab for a few hours and discuss politics or ‘Lord of the Rings’ or ‘Game of Thrones.’”

The “we” includes Nisly’s mentor, Messiah’s Professor of Chemistry Richard Schaeffer.

Satisfying the research element required for his chemistry ACS-certified degree and his college honors project, Nisly worked with Schaeffer on an alternative to using platinum as a catalyst in fuel cells.

“Hydrogen fuel cells need some sort of catalyst,” said Nisly, “but platinum is rare and expensive. So, we took graphite and doped it with nitrogen, which is more cost effective.”

They also found time to play the popular board game Settlers of Catan—a test of resource management and strategy.

R RESEARCH STUDENTS TAKE LEARNING TO THE NEXT LEVEL

by Anna Seip

Nora Nworu

S

social work

ometimes, research starts at home. For her senior research project, Nora Nworu ’19 asked herself, “What would my mom have needed when I was a kid?”

With that in mind, she studied the effects of depression in African-American single mothers and wondered what she could do to help.

“Their lives are busy. What resources are there that we can use?” she asked herself.

So, she developed a church program in which women can support each other—not psychotherapy but psychoeducation—facili-

the Black Student Union, a Flowers Scholar mentor and a member of the Multicultural Council, just to name a few of her roles, she learned to check in with herself during stressful times and ask for help. “Find someone who’s going through what you’re going through,” she said.

She’s not sure where she’ll end up as a

“ YOU’RE DOING THE LORD’S WORK, GOING TO POPULATIONS THAT ARE IGNORED BY SOCIETY. THEY HAVE A VOICE, BUT PEOPLE AREN’T LISTENING. DON’T LOOK AT YOURSELF AS A SAVIOR, BUT COME ALONGSIDE THEM.” — Nora Nworu ’19 tated by a familiar church leader.

“A lot of issues [African-American women] bring to the church instead of a medical professional,” explained Nworu.

She also practices what she preaches, caring for herself holistically. As the president of

social worker, but she has no problem describing her calling: “You’re doing the Lord’s work, going to populations that are ignored by society. They have a voice, but people aren’t listening. Don’t look at yourself as a savior, but come alongside them.”

MESSIAH COLLEGE • THE BRIDGE • SUMMER 2019 | 15

MATTHEW TENNISON

“It’s been my mission to beat him,” said Nisly with a laugh.

After Commencement, Nisly headed to the University of Minnesota, where he is pursuing a Ph.D. in chemistry and working as a teaching assistant (TA). Teaching is nothing new to Nisly. His last couple years at Messiah, he tutored students in organic chemistry twice a week as a supplemental instruction (SI) leader.

“It was really valuable and helped me review the material,” he said. “It prepared me very well for grad school, where I’ll be a TA.” What advice does he have for high school students considering Messiah? “Our chemistry department in particular is really strong.

We have some great faculty. The department has a really good community—with the annual badminton tournament and chem club events. You really get to know your profs well if you want to. I have really good relationships with them, so if I have a question about a class, it’s not that daunting to talk to them.

That’s been great.”

2019 COMMENCEMENT

Back in Grantham, the Collaboratory is working on a solution. Nate Hardman ’19, an engineering major, has spent the past four semesters as the student project manager leading a team of six to design a gravity-fed water system.

“We’re trying to capture the water the spring naturally produces,” explained Hardman.

The containment system involves 15 miles of pipe—without inhibiting the naturally producing spring—to provide water to 30 villages of 1,300 people.

“The Collab was one of the big selling points of coming to Messiah,” said Hardman.

“Being able to learn about engineering and the application of being able to use what you’re learning in the classroom to a real-world problem to real-world people. Other places, you do a senior last-semester project,

but in this way with four semesters, you’re more invested.”

Thomas Soerens, Messiah professor of engineering and faculty project manager, says he enjoyed working with Hardman the past couple years on the project. “I was really impressed how he stepped up both in technical work and in leadership of his team,” said Soerens.

Partnering with Friends in Action International, the Collaboratory hopes to install the system by the summer of 2020.

Meanwhile, Hardman started a job as an engineer at C.S. Davidson, Inc., a civil and structural engineering firm in his hometown of York, Pennsylvania.

His Collab project, however, will engineering major pass on to the next group of Messiah with a concentration students thanks to his thorough, in civil engineering dedicated preliminary work.

Nate Hardman

D

uring the ’30s, the federal Home Owners’ Loan Corporation color-coded neighborhoods— from green for “best” to red for “hazardous.” The ramifications of “redlining”—the process of denying financial services based on racial and ethnic demographics—continue to this day.

For his senior research project, David Michael ’19, a business administration major with a computer science minor, studied mid-20th century housing and segregation— which hit close to home.

“I found a redlining map issued for Harrisburg in the national archives in Baltimore,” said Michael. “Redlining was done by the government until the ’40s. They would literally draw red over those maps.”

In addition to redlining, restrictive covenants—housing deeds that forbade the sale of a property to anyone who wasn’t white—were legal.

“There was a fear of two racial groups living next to each other,” explained Michael. “What whites did was flee. They set up covenants so African-Americans business administration couldn’t follow. That’s how and history with a ghettos were created and how computer science minor suburbs were created.”

David Michael

16 | SUMMER 2019 • THE BRIDGE • MESSIAH COLLEGE

In his research, he found more than 100 restrictive covenants in Cumberland County.

“Whole neighborhoods would set up restrictive covenants. They did it on their own.

Nobody forced them to do that,” said Michael.

In a 2018 study by the National Community Reinvestment Coalition, the majority of redlined neighborhoods today are much more likely than other areas to comprise lower-income, minority residents.

“Society does carry out racism, but the government was a large proponent and—in some cases—an establisher of segregation,” explained Michael.

He says he’d like for others to continue this research, especially in the areas of education and healthcare.

“We often forget the day-to-day racism and struggle that was to be a person of color in the U.S.,” said Michael. “Looking back we can get a clearer picture.”

CINDY AGONCILLO ’09

V

anuatu—a volcanic archipelago in the South Pacific—has a water problem.

A natural spring bubbles up, providing fresh water for all, but sits atop a mountain.

Julia Clements politics and international relations

W

e’ve all seen the commercials: Order a $59 DNA kit and learn about your ancestors. Or, send your third cousin—if he happens to be the Golden State Killer—to jail.

Kalina Jenkins

ISAIAH SNYDER ’20

In 2018, Joseph James DeAngelo was arrested for decades-old murders using GEDmatch, a public genealogy website. As technology outpaces the law, however, it begs the question: Is this investigation technique of searching familial DNA constitutional?

Ask Julia Clements ’19, a politics and international relations major. For her College Honors project, she gave a presentation titled “Privacy in the 21st Century: DNA and the Fourth Amendment.”

“What drew me to [this topic] is there’s not a lot of scholarly opinion on it,” she said.

While testing sites such as Ancestry and 23andMe can prohibit law enforcement from accessing its data, customers can download their DNA from these sites and then upload it to public databases such as GEDmatch— where, until recently, it was unregulated.

“Now there’s a caveat on those DNA sites,” she explained. “[Law enforcement] has to exhaust other techniques, and the crime must have some sort of public safety risk.”

With so little written on the topic, she researched Supreme Court cases to learn more about searches and seizures. Only time will tell if familial DNA search becomes a Supreme Court case of its own.

“Pro: [The familial DNA] is public, so police should have access to it,” she said. “Con: The individual is consenting, but the family is not.

This is an issue we should be concerned with.

It could theoretically happen to anybody.”

For now, Clements is taking a gap year.

Then, she plans to attend law school where she will concentrate in criminal and constitutional law.

theatre

W

hen designing the set for “Alice in Wonderland” as her senior project, theatre major Kalina Jenkins ’19 asked herself a critical question: “Is it wonderful enough?”

After three years of working in the scene shop and playing roles in Messiah productions since she was a sophomore, she knew her way on and off a stage. Through several design meetings collaborating with the show’s director, she created computer renderings through Vectorworks drafting software.

“Everything we design has to be put into construction drawings, and I’m communicating my design for someone else to build,” she explained. “The director wanted a game board feel. We also wanted it to feel like a playground. A lot of brainstorming went into making all these versions.”

The end result was a checkerboard stage that suited Jenkins’ love of abstract sets and the director’s artistic vision.

After extensive work in acting and stagecraft at Messiah, she sought out theater experience off campus. During a January

cross-cultural trip, she studied at the Gaiety School of Acting in Ireland and then in her senior year spent a semester in Los Angeles, California, working for a casting director as a show runner.

“There are a lot of things I learned at Messiah that set me up for things outside of Messiah,” she said. “Because I was a senior with a huge list of things I’d done already at Messiah before I went to L.A., I was a leader when I got there.”

What’s next for her? She’s applying to theater apprenticeships in Philadelphia and Washington, D.C. “They’re mostly yearlong. And most are paid in some way,” she said. “The goal is to be in L.A., to be in a city where entertainment is everywhere you look. I feel blessed to already have a network and community built in L.A., which puts me a little ahead of the game.” B

MESSIAH COLLEGE • THE BRIDGE • SUMMER 2019 | 17

F E AT U R E S T O R Y

whyI 18 | SUMMER 2019 • THE BRIDGE • MESSIAH COLLEGE

by Anna Seip

People give for many reasons. For some, it’s simply how they were raised — tithing as a way of life. For others, it’s a desire to serve the common good, a generosity of spirit. The Messiah alumni and donors on the following pages detail their commitment to giving and, more importantly, to giving back.

MESSIAH COLLEGE • THE BRIDGE • SUMMER 2019 | 19

Ray

WHY I GIVE

CHUNG

NATURAL BEING PHOTOGRAPHY

’04

I nternational business major Chief culture officer at LINKBANK

“FOR WHERE YOUR TREASURE IS, THERE YOUR HEART WILL BE ALSO.” – Luke 12:34 (NIV)

THE JOURNEY

“ I came from Malaysia to Messiah College in 2001, not knowing a single soul but was immediately greeted by a group of friendly faces at the Harrisburg International Airport. I graduated with a degree and a lot more, including the backing of a supportive community— professors, staff members, friends and alums—many of whom I'm still in touch with today.”

THE “WHY”

“ The time spent at Messiah College and the many who poured into my life during that season and beyond have shaped and molded me to be where I am today.

My giving back to Messiah College stems from 1) a heart of gratitude and 2) witnessing how the College seeks to continue to remain mission true.”

20 | SUMMER 2019 • THE BRIDGE • MESSIAH COLLEGE

NOT SURE HOW TO GIVE BACK? DO THIS:

“ Engage in one next step. If your first step is simply learning more about the financial stewards of Messiah College, then do that. If your next step is to pray for a student-athlete going on an AROMA missions trip, then sign up for their prayer request. If your next step is to guest speak and share about your vocation, then reach out to the alumni office.

What is your next step?”

DON’T WAIT

“ A mentor cautioned me on the trappings of postponement. It goes like this, ‘I will give back when I … become a director, turn 40, make $60,000 per year.’ Don't do it. Don't wait. Obey now. Serve now.”

THE METHODOLOGY PHOTOGRAPHY BY STEVE AND JANE

“ There are three categories that are important for us to support, which include 1) individual needs, 2) our local church and 3) organizations that are ministering in the name of Christ. Messiah College falls into the latter group,” said Kathy Myhre.

AN OPPORTUNITY

“ The high quality of education and strong Christian stance, which Messiah College holds to, were reasons that inspired our daughter to select this outstanding college.

The opportunity to attend Messiah was made possible financially by campus scholarships that eased the burden of private college tuition. It was such a joy to know that others were willing to step up years before us and make the financial sacrifices and commitment to give future students the support needed to balance the costs of college education.”

PAYING IT FORWARD

“ We are so thankful for Messiah College’s impact on our daughter in deepening her faith and preparing her for a career that we were convicted to see that future students may also have resources available to provide them the same amazing experience. As such, we made it a goal to repay her college scholarships through a giving plan that would invest into the lives of future students. It has been a blessing for us to honor that commitment and know that many students will be benefiting from our financial contributions to Messiah College.”

“ AND DO NOT FORGET TO DO GOOD AND TO SHARE WITH OTHERS, FOR WITH SUCH SACRIFICES GOD IS PLEASED.” — Hebrews 13:16 (NIV)

Lloyd and Kathy

MYHRE Parents of Jennifer Myhre ’08

MESSIAH COLLEGE • THE BRIDGE • SUMMER 2019 | 21

WHY I GIVE

TITHING

From the time we were young, we remember our parents and church family talking to us about the importance of tithing. It didn’t matter how much one gave, but rather that giving was an act of obedience. After graduating from college and obtaining our jobs, we began to better recognize the importance of sacrificing our own pleasures in order to bless someone/something else.

PAYING IT FORWARD

We are held responsible for what we have been given. Therefore, if we have been blessed with talents, wealth, knowledge, time, etc., it is expected that we, in return, help and give to others.

WHAT WE’VE LEARNED:

NATURAL BEING PHOTOGRAPHY

• To start a giving attitude, it’s not about the amount you can give financially. It’s about making regular giving (time and talents) a part of your lifestyle.

• All alumni are a part of the Messiah community and should be invested in its future.

• The importance of pausing to recognize what God has provided for us.

• Giving has built and fostered relationships in our community/church/programs.

• Giving has promoted new programs and initiatives that will impact others in similar ways.

• Giving reveals God’s faithfulness.

Brian A. ’99 and Joela M. (Campbell)

Business administration Assistant vice chancellor for labor relations

Elementary education Teacher

MBUU ’99 22 | SUMMER 2019 • THE BRIDGE • MESSIAH COLLEGE

“ FROM EVERYONE WHO HAS BEEN GIVEN MUCH, MUCH WILL BE DEMANDED; AND FROM THE ONE WHO HAS BEEN ENTRUSTED WITH MUCH, MUCH MORE WILL BE ASKED.” — Luke 12:48 (NIV)

MICHAEL FARMER

Kevin DRIVER ’03 Philosophy major Physician

MY JOURNEY

“ I was fortunate to be chosen for a significant scholarship to attend Messiah. So while there were many lean years in my early medical training, I finished my education without debt. I know that my experience is not the norm, so I want to at least return the amount of my scholarship so that current and future students can have a similar head start in their lives and careers.”

THE “WHY”

“ I believe that most alums are already quite generous. The challenge is usually balancing competing and worthy causes seeking contributions. Clearly, giving to a local church and to support concrete needs in your home community are most important. However, past that, there are few more worthy causes than contributing to the education and, by extension, personal development of young Christian professionals.”

MESSIAH COLLEGE • THE BRIDGE • SUMMER 2019 | 23

WHY I GIVE

“ PEACE I LEAVE WITH YOU; MY PEACE I GIVE YOU. I DO NOT GIVE TO YOU AS THE WORLD GIVES. DO NOT LET YOUR HEARTS BE TROUBLED AND DO NOT BE AFRAID.” — John 14:27 (NIV)

GIVING TO GIVING

“ I work as the assistant director of annual giving at Suffolk University in Boston.

The experiences I had at Messiah greatly impacted the decisions I made to move up here and accept this job. I majored in public relations and minored in education. While I was at Messiah, I worked in the Office of Annual Giving as the digital philanthropy assistant as well as a student manager of the Phonathon program. The majority of the work, studying and extracurricular activities I did while in undergrad influenced my desire to go into nonprofit work.”

NEXT STEPS

MICHAEL J. CLARKE/ SUFFOLK UNIVERSITY

“ I am planning to pursue my MBA here at Suffolk, so I can run my own nonprofit that helps victims of domestic abuse. I have always been passionate about helping people, but I was able to hone my interests and refine my skills, thanks to the professors at Messiah.”

NO SMALL GIFTS

“ I told myself whenever Messiah called, I would have something—even if a very small amount—to give. Why wouldn’t I want to give back so future Falcons can have an experience as fantastic as mine? Everyone has something to give, even if it is a nominal amount. Gifts of all sizes get put to good use.”

Sarah BALDAUF ’19 Public relations major Assistant director of annual giving, Suffolk University

24 | SUMMER 2019 • THE BRIDGE • MESSIAH COLLEGE

MORE THAN MONEY

“ It is important to remember philanthropy isn’t just throwing money at something.

People can invest their time, resources or money into something they care about, and that is the heart of giving back. Showing up to events and staying engaged with the Messiah community as an alum are ways to give back that don’t break the bank.” B

WHAT’S YOUR “WHY”? YOUR GIVING BACK PAYS IT FORWARD. DONATIONS GREATLY IMPACT OUR STUDENTS BY MAKING COLLEGE MORE AFFORDABLE AND PROVIDING THE OPPORTUNITY FOR SPIRITUAL, PERSONAL AND PROFESSIONAL GROWTH. BE THE REASON FOR WHY THEY CALL MESSIAH “HOME.” VISIT MESSIAH.EDU/GIVE TO GIVE.

Music for Piano Times Two III, “War and Peace I” Sept. 15, 2019

invites you to the

Rod Gilfry, baritone Sept. 20, 2019 An Evening with Chris Thile, mandolinist, singer, songwriter, composer and radio personality Oct. 29, 2019 George Will, “The Political Argument Today” Oct. 31, 2019 Messiah College Christmas Concert Dec. 8, 2019 Susquehanna Chorale Concert Dec. 13, 2019

Calvin and Janet HIGH CENTER

Mendelssohn Piano Trio and Central Pennsylvania Youth Ballet, “War and Peace II” Feb. 16, 2020

for WORSHIP and PERFORMING ARTS

Anthony Ray Hinton, keynote lecture for the 2020 Humanities Symposium Feb. 20, 2020 Jazz Vespers, Eric Byrd Trio, Tim Warfield, Terrell Stafford, United Voices of Praise Feb. 29, 2020 Azaguno March 28, 2020

19 20

As It Is In Heaven April 2–5 and 17–19, 2020

Additional details on the 2019-2020 season of the Calvin and Janet High Center for Worship and Performing Arts may be found at

messiah.edu/ highcenterseason

20 20 SE ASO

Gospel Explosion 2020, featuring Damien Sneed, Essence of Joy Alumni Singers and Messiah College Choirs April 19, 2020

N

Susquehanna Chorale Spring Concert May 9, 2020

OUR

ALUMNI NEWS

Amy Anderson, Heather Condrige, Tahva Wylie, Jen Metz, Keterly Franken, Holly Snyder, Joanna Dennstaedt and Kevin Dennstaedt make up the leadership team.

J OA N N A D E N N S TA E DT ’ 0 4

Giving hope to cancer patients THROUGH HER NONPROFIT, RADIANT HOPE, ALUMNA PROVIDES CARE PACKAGES What do you do when you find out you have stage III malignant melanoma? You seek treatment and try to stay positive through the storm. For Joanna Dennstaedt ’04, the sociology graduate and former college athlete, a cancer diagnosis meant serving others.

An assistant women’s lacrosse coach at Messiah from 2006-2010, Dennstaedt received her diagnosis in 2014.

“Cancer changed my life, my perspective and my role as a mom,” she said. “My children were 18 months old, 3 years old, 5 years old and 7 years old [at the time].”

As a member of the field hockey and lacrosse teams at Messiah, Dennstaedt had faced four knee surgeries as a student.

“I believe the injuries and

setbacks I faced as a student athlete prepared me for the real battle I’d face 10 years later: a battle for my life,” she said.

After her diagnosis,

Dennstaedt endured two surgeries — one to remove the melanoma tumor and another for a complete lymph node dissection where the cancer had spread.

Her husband Kevin ’04, an assistant coach to the Messiah men’s lacrosse team, was a strong source of support—and continues to be.

“Joanna went into survivor mode, often saying, ‘How am I going to beat this?’ She researched, received multiple opinions and became an advocate for herself,” he said.

She attended weekly treatment of an immune therapy drug at the University of Pennsylvania for a year. During that time,

WHAT’S INSIDE A HOPE PACKAGE? • Radiant Hope water bottle • lip balm • hand sanitizer • lotion • a “hope” journal

26 | SUMMER 2019 • THE BRIDGE • MESSIAH COLLEGE

• hand-painted pictures from Radiant Hope’s Canvas Painting Ministry • verse cards and hand-written notes

family, friends and her church community cooked meals, took care of her children and provided support.

A bright spot during this period arrived in the form of a box. A woman in Ohio had heard Dennstaedt’s cancer story through a mutual friend and sent a “hope box”—a package of items to lift one’s spirit.

Inspired, Dennstaedt started making hope boxes for other cancer patients in 2015, creating the nonprofit Radiant Hope. She and her team now mail 80-90 boxes monthly. While the packages are the main part of the nonprofit, Radiant Hope is involved in many other activities in the community to support and encourage those whose lives have been impacted by cancer.

“We started as a team of three,” she said, “but have grown to a team of 10 and many volunteers over the years. As the executive director and founder, I’ve had my hand in every aspect of this ministry. It has been a great challenge going from full-time, stay-at-home mom of four to surviving cancer, to running a large and growing organization.”

Volunteers, who donate the items for the boxes, hold “pack parties,” where they meet in various locations to assemble the boxes. In three years, more than 1,500 hope boxes have been sent to cancer survivors and caregivers.

Radiant Hope has become a calling for Dennstaedt, allowing her to inspire others through her story. “My greatest privilege is having the gift of being able to say, ‘I know, too,” to the people we are called to serve,” she said.

“God’s kindness has allowed me the opportunity to sit at a place where I can see Christ using my life for His glory, and for others around me.”

Today, Dennstaedt is classified NED—no evidence of disease.

“Melanoma at an advanced stage is a hard cancer to face,” she said. “Although I believe I am healed, there are still constant appointments and scans to keep close watch over my health.

TO M K A D E N ’ 0 4

SOMEONE TO TELL IT TO HELPING OTHERS THROUGH LISTENING Tom Kaden ’04, a public relations graduate, and his friend Michael Gingerich, felt led by God to combat the epidemic of loneliness with the power of listening. In 2012, they co-founded Someone To Tell It To (STTIT) to turn their vision into a reality.

Headquartered in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, the nonprofit offers listening and training services to those seeking guidance, support and encouragement.

Whether at a coffee shop or over the phone, Kaden says his staff meets people wherever they are most comfortable to share their troubles.

STTIT also offers training services, available online and in person. Its clients include organizations such as Mainline Health, Forgotten Voices, Hershey Medical Center and New York Life Insurance Company.

CLASSROOM CONNECTION For the 2018 fall semester, Nance McCown, professor of communication at Messiah, and her Senior Public Relations Campaign class worked with Radiant Hope, analyzing its communication efforts.

“Partnering with Radiant Hope, hearing Joanna’s story and seeing how God is using this organization to demonstrate His love to cancer patients and their caregivers provided the best motivation for the campaign students,” said McCown.

Today, I am thankful and have found that you can truly have joy in all circumstances. God was doing a work in my life when I could not see it.”

ANYONE WHO IS A SURVIVOR OR CAREGIVER IN THE STATE OF PENNSYLVANIA CAN RECEIVE A PACKAGE THROUGH RADIANT HOPE’S WEBSITE, HISRADIANTHOPE.ORG

TO WATCH A VIDEO ABOUT JOANNA’S STORY, GO TO MESSIAH.EDU/RADIANTHOPE

— Emily Koontz ’20

“We’re finding that our work is needed in high-stress positions where there’s burnout. We’re here to listen and teach the importance of being a good listener,” said Kaden.

STTIT also employs Messiah interns interested in seeing how a nonprofit organization operates.

A business administration major with a concentration in entrepreneurship, Jireh Bagyendera ’20 spent the summer and fall working as a business strategy intern to increase STTIT’s reach.

“Michael and Tom have created an atmosphere that encourages me to question usual operations and suggest improvements,” said Bagyendera. “This level of trust has certainly built my career confidence and drawn me to put my heart into helping develop a thriving organization.”

Tom Kaden ’04 and Jireh Bagyendera ’20 offer listening services at STTIT. STTIT VS. COUNSELING While the staff at STTIT are not licensed counselors, they do offer guidance and support.

STTIT strives to encourage the individual to reach his or her own

“ Someone To Tell It To has a heart for outreach, and we are called as listeners to connect with a larger world.”

— Michael Gingerich, cofounder

conclusions. Unlike traditional counseling, STTIT relies on donations, making sure individuals receive unlimited listening services free of charge.

Gingerich said, “Our values are the values of Jesus. Everyone matters, has a voice and needs to be heard. Someone To Tell It To has a heart for outreach, and we are called as listeners to connect with a larger world.”

— Emily Koontz ’20 and Anna Seip TO LEARN MORE, VISIT SOMEONETOTELLITTO.ORG.

MESSIAH COLLEGE • THE BRIDGE • SUMMER 2019 | 27

OUR

ALUMNI NEWS

Alum walks patients through one-stop medical testing BROADCASTING MAJOR FINDS NICHE HELPING BUSY EXECUTIVES GET HEAD-TO-TOE CARE Life doesn’t always turn out the way you expect it to — and that can be a good thing. When Sarah (Seneca) Weimer ’14 majored in broadcasting, she wanted to become a sideline reporter on ESPN. For the past two years, however, she has been working as the executive health services manager at St. Luke’s University Health Network in Easton, Pennsylvania, overseeing the day-to-day operations for its ExecuHealth program.

“When I was in college, I enjoyed my [broadcasting] internships,” Weimer said. “But everyone I would talk to said, ‘You have to work a lot of nights and weekends and be willing to relocate in this industry.’ I quickly realized that lifestyle wasn’t for me.”

Finishing up her senior year, Weimer decided to look into sales roles since she loved working with and building relationships with people. A week before graduation, she landed her first job as

CORYNNE RUTZ ’ 11

ALUM GIVES CARE PACKAGES TO HOMELESS PAYING IT FORWARD WITH SOCKS, FOOD AND GIFT CARDS When she was younger, Corynne Rutz ’11 and her family could not afford food. Through the help of

a sales representative for a chemical distribution company called Brenntag, where she worked for three years. At a leadership conference, she connected with a manager at St. Luke’s Hospital and eventually began working there.

“Executives are busy traveling and they don’t always have enough time to take care of themselves,” she said. “This headto-toe exam provides companies and individuals the peace of mind that their health concerns are being addressed so they can work at their full capacity.”

Weimer helps to facilitate patients’ experiences from start to finish by greeting them on the day of their assessment, escorting them throughout the day and coordinating follow-up care.

Her accomplishments come

experiences, and she grew so much as a result.”

Though not what she had initially set out to do, Weimer enjoys her job and finds much purpose

PHOTO COURTESY OF SARAH (SENECA) WEIMER ’14

S A R A H (S E N EC A) W E I M E R ’ 1 4

“ It’s funny how life turns out, isn’t it? I love my job in healthcare and feel blessed to have the opportunity to impact people’s lives in this way.” — Sarah Weimer ’14, broadcasting major

Designed specifically for executives and busy individuals, the ExecuHealth program allows patients to complete a comprehensive evidence-based health evaluation and receive medical advice from experts all in one day and place. Weimer’s main responsibility is to explain the program and its benefits to companies’ executive teams.

a local church, they were able to eat. Her mom would say she was taking them to a “fun breakfast with lots of delicious food.” Rutz didn’t realize these events were for the less fortunate.

“My mom always tried to shelter us from how desperate our situation was because she loved us that much,” she said. Despite their circumstances, Rutz said that her faith as a little girl was strong, but it was made stronger by seeing people serve God by serving her family.

28 | SUMMER 2019 • THE BRIDGE • MESSIAH COLLEGE

as no surprise to Professor of Communication Kate Oswald Wilkins, who served as Weimer’s mentor.

“It was fun to see Sarah polish her natural abilities through her time at Messiah,” Wilkins said.

“I credit the effort she made to take advantage of coursework and applied experiences. She was willing to take risks and try new

in it. Majoring in broadcasting helped her develop transferable skills such as writing and public speaking, which she uses daily.

“It’s funny how life turns out, isn’t it?” she said. “I love my job in healthcare and feel blessed to have the opportunity to impact people’s lives in this way.”

— Leanne Tan ’21

“ Everyone deserves the love Paul describes in 1 Corinthians 13.”

— Corynne Rutz ’11

Flash-forward to today. You may see Rutz driving around Carlisle, Pennsylvania, in a car filled with care packages. Rutz

and her husband, Aaron, pack food, socks and Family Dollar gift cards for the homeless in her community. When they see

CLASS NOTES

or others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices in truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always preserves.” (1 Corinthians 13:4-8) Rutz added, “When you give out a package, you give it with a smile on your face. That smile shows the person that asking for help is okay, and that there are people in the world that care enough to treat them as the amazing people God created them to be.”

1970s

LO R I N OWAC Z Y K ’ 1 8

Alum uses music to care for hospice patients Before coming to Messiah, Lori Nowaczyk ’18 taught guitar, directed a choir and raised a family. “It had always been a lifelong dream of mine to have a college education. Once I started seriously studying guitar, I knew I wanted to serve God through it,” she said.

In her junior year at Messiah, the non-traditional student began serving with Compassionate Care Hospice in Camp Hill, Pennsylvania.

Nowaczyk knew plenty about hospice. Her mother-in-law spent her last week of life in a hospice care facility, so it’s Nowaczyk’s goal to care for patients with the same love and respect.

She visits patients once a week, beginning each session with a kind greeting. She picks up her guitar and plays anything from classical music to hymns and other familiar tunes patients would know from their childhood.

“When I play guitar for patients, my spirit is filled with joy, because I know God has given me this ability to share with others,” Nowaczyk said.

David Meyer ’79 retired after teaching special education for 13 years.

PHOTO COURTESY OF LORI NOWACYZK ’18

someone in need sitting alongside the road, they pull over and give the person a box.

In the spring and summer, the contents change. More money is added to the Family Dollar gift card along with food and a pair of socks. In the colder winter months, they add a pair of gloves to the mix.

Depending on need, the care packages cost Rutz between $200-400 dollars annually. “When I’m handing out packages, my own personal memories remind me to never take my blessings for granted,” she said. “Everyone deserves the love Paul describes in 1 Corinthians 13.”

She dwells on these verses, in particular: “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishon-

1980s Jim Murphy ’82 was inducted into New Mexico’s Hall of Fame.

She then reads a devotion and closes by reciting the Lord’s Prayer. “This can be one of the most moving times of the visit, for both me and the patient,” she said.

Obviously, music is her ministry. “During my visits, I have witnessed patients respond with rhythm movement, humming of musical pitches, singing along and responses of joy that is provoked from silence,” she said.

Randall Zwally, her guitar instructor at Messiah, says she reflected characteristics of persistence, unselfish dedication, strong character, integrity, commitment to service, noteworthy scholarship, fine musicianship, collegiality and a determined development of leadership skills as a student.

“Jesus loves you,” she says to the patients as she leaves. But don’t worry, she’ll be back next week, doing her part to help ease suffering through music.

— Jake Miaczynski ’20

Peter Guinther ’87 received a Ph.D. in theology from Regent University in Virginia Beach, Va. He works as the human resources administrator for Brethren in Christ U.S. church and mission.

Cindy (Detwiler) Vedder ’88 and her husband Sam announce the adoptions of Serenity Grace, Angelique Diana and Noah Theodore, Sept. 11, 2018.

1990s Susan Johnson ’90 received a master’s degree in fraud and forensics from Carlow University in Pittsburgh, Pa. She also received a master’s certification in cybercrime in 2018.

Brian Beatty ’91 serves as the senior director of worship, media and hospitality at Vineyard Cincinnati Church in Springdale, Ohio.

Mark Cox ’92 received a master’s degree in educational leadership from Immaculata University in Malvern, Pa. Juliana Lesher ’92 works as the national director of chaplain service in the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Susan Frazier ’93 was awarded the Trauma-Informed Care Award from the Pennsylvania Psychiatric Institute in Harrisburg, Pa. James Becker ’97 and Angela Buckler married Dec. 30, 2018, in York, Pa.

— Jake Miaczynski ’20 MESSIAH COLLEGE • THE BRIDGE • SUMMER 2019 | 29

OUR

CLASS NOTES

Liz (Miller) Prickett ’99 works as the next generation learning specialist for the distance education team at Colorado Mesa University in Grand Junction, Colo.

2000s Polly (Hixson) McCann ’00 works as an editor at the Flying Ketchup Press in North Kansas City, Mo. Corine (Raub) Hortman ’01 works as an international school teacher for Chiang Rai International Christian School in Chiang Rai, Thailand.

Landyn Minter ’01 works as a teacher at Creekview High School in Carrollton, Texas.

Sharon Rawlette ’03 recently published her book, “The Source and Significance of Coincidences: A Hard Look at the Astonishing Evidence.”

Jonathan Stueckle ’04 works as a 53rd Computer Systems Squadron commander in the U.S. Air Force.

Nathan Cushman ’05 was promoted to partner at Nixon Peabody LLP in Washington, D.C. Anna (Geeslin) ’05 and David Gilbert IV ’06 announce the births of Levi David, April 30, 2014, and Elais Maurice, March 7, 2016.

Chris Grove ’05 and his wife Maureen announce the birth of Emmett, March 8, 2019.

Lucas Sheaffer ’05 successfully defended his dissertation “Damming the American Imagination” and received his Ph.D. in English from Temple University in Philadelphia, Pa. Carlos Centeno ’06 was promoted to associate creative director at PPO&S Integrated Marketing Communications in Harrisburg, Pa. Alicia Stone ’06 and Nick Bursi married Oct. 2, 2015, in Albuquerque, N.M. Alicia works as a resource specialist program teacher in the West Covina Unified School District in West Covina, Calif.

Rachel (Ashbaugh) Imhoff ’07 and her husband Nathaniel announce the birth of Judah Nathaniel, May 22, 2019.

’09 and her husband Kris announce the birth of Emma Maria, Nov. 15, 2018.

Lisa Lindle ’09 works as a librarian at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace in Washington, D.C. She graduated with a Master of Library and Information Science from Valdosta State University in Valdosta, Ga.

Rachel (Frysztacki) Clutz ’10 and her husband Michael announce the birth of Ellis Michael, March 17, 2019.

Jori Park ’09 and Chris Slick married June 15, 2014.

They announce the birth of Caleb.

Jennifer (Porter) Howard ’10 and her husband Adam announce the birth of Brayden Christopher, June 6, 2010.

Stephanie (Dowding) Rupert ’09 serves as a reverend at the Susquehanna Conference of the United Methodist Church.

Jessica (Bruce) Ventresco

2010s

Briana Eshleman ’10 and Michael Phillippy ’12 married Nov. 11, 2018.

Julie Kramer ’10 and Kyle Wheeler married July 21, 2018, in Baltimore, Md. Morgan Kupfer ’10 and his wife Elizabeth announce

BE GENEROUS BE SAVVY BEQUEST Julia at 2 years old — ready for school!

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JULIA FAUSTINA PEARL ’20

Major: Education with Dual Teaching Certification in Grades PreK-4 and Special Education Grades N-8

30 | SUMMER 2019 • THE BRIDGE • MESSIAH COLLEGE

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT THE HERITAGE SOCIETY TEAM 717-796-5051 • heritagesociety@messiah.edu

MESSIAH.EDU/CREATEALEGACY

the birth of Huxley, Jan. 27, 2019. Morgan works as an executive sales representative at Smith & Nephew in Annapolis, Md. Sarah Timlin ’10 and Luke Morris married July 14, 2018, in Glenside, Pa. Gillian Chick ’11 works as the professional writing policy coordinator at the Pennsylvania School Board Association.

Krystyne Clark ’11 and Brian Marks married April 13, 2019, in Tampa, Fla.

Guillermo Arboleda ’12 and Kelly Steele married May 3, 2014, in Durham, N.C. Guillermo works as a rector at St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church in Savannah, Ga. Erik Hornberger ’12 and Kaori Date married Jan. 19, 2019, in Tokyo, Japan. Erik works as an iOS engineer at Apple in Cupertino, Calif.

Jessica Dillner ’13 and Joel Zeigler ’15 married March 3, 2019, in Mechanicsburg, Pa.

IN MEMORIAM

GLENN RICHARD BUCHER Glenn Richard Bucher, 79, died at Landis Homes in Lititz, Pennsylvania, June 26, 2019.

He graduated from Elizabethtown College in Pennsylvania, then went on to Union Theological Seminary in New York to earn a Master of Divinity. He then completed a Ph.D. at Boston University.

As a professor and administrator, he worked with students and faculty at the School of Religion at Howard University

in Washington, D.C. and at the College of Wooster in Ohio. He also worked as dean of Columbia Theological Seminary in Georgia and as the president of the Graduate Theological Union in California.

After 2000, he directed the Boyer Center at Messiah College and was assistant to President Long of Elizabethtown College. Bucher finished his career as an adjunct professor at Villanova University.

Glenn is survived by his wife of 56 years, Mary K. Bucher, his two children, Christina and Timothy, and his three grandchildren, Nathaniel, Elizabeth, Jackson; his brother, Larry L. Bucher, and several extended family members.

Please visit his memorial page at www.TheGroffs.com.

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MESSIAH COLLEGE • THE BRIDGE • SUMMER 2019 | 31

OUR

MESSIAH COLLEGE ARCHIVES

FROM THE ARCHIVES

Students have a voice on campus The Messiah College Student Government Association brings a significant voice in helping to decide college policies and decision-making, but it hasn’t always been this way. While the College was founded in 1909, students did not form a government of their own until 1930.

They called themselves Hapantes, Greek for “all together.” With limited power, the group had one function: to oversee the various organizations of the College. Since its leaders had no work spaces, Enos Hess, College president at the time, shared his office.

In “Messiah College: A History,” Morris Sider wrote, “The student meetings were times of lively discussion and much good humor; they were illustrations of a high social cohesiveness and school loyalty that often existed on college campuses such as Messiah.”

In 1945, Hapantes was renamed the Messiah College Student Association—and later renamed the Messiah College Student Government

Association (SGA) in the ’70s.

Today, SGA continues to impact students’ daily living on campus. During his term as SGA president, Todd Abbott ’19 helped launch FalconLink’s master calendar, a new streamlined web service where students and faculty can easily find out about all events and programming happening on campus on any given day.

“We were beyond excited to finally share the fruits of our labor with the campus community,” said Abbott, “and are optimistic to see the integration of the calendar to grow and provide value to students and staff for many years to come!”

— Jake Miaczynski ’20

32 | SUMMER 2019 • THE BRIDGE • MESSIAH COLLEGE

The Student Government Association (above) has come a long way from when it used to be called Hapantes (top).

S AV E T H E D AT E S !

Oct. 18–20, 2019

CALENDAR OF EVENTS H O M E C O M I N G & FA M I LY WEEKEND 2019 FRI.

OCTOBER 18

Class of 1969 Reunion 9:30–11:30 a.m., Jordan Atrium

Check-in and Golden Grad Luncheon 11:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m.

Martin Commons

Women’s Volleyball vs. E-town 7 p.m., Hitchcock Arena

Young Alumni Reunion (2009–2019) 7–11 p.m., Appalachian Brewing Company (Harrisburg) SAT.

OCTOBER 19

Falcon Fun Run/Live Color 5k Check-in 8 a.m., Starry Athletic Fields Complex

Homecoming Check-in and Registration 8:30 a.m.–5 p.m., Eisenhower Campus Center Commons

Fellowship Brunch 8:30–10 a.m., Martin Commons

Men’s Club Soccer Alumni Game 8:30–10:30 a.m., Rec Field #1

Canoeing on the Breeches 9 a.m., Yellow Breeches (ticket required)

Falcon Fun Run 9 a.m., Lower Starry Athletics Fields

Earthkeepers’ Nature Walk 10:30 a.m., departs from Oakes Museum

Celebrating Our Multicultural Heritage Brunch 10:30 a.m.–noon Howe Atrium, Boyer Hall

Alumni Softball Game 11 a.m., Softball Field

Alumni Baseball Game

g n i m o c e m o H Family & ekend e W

11 a.m., Baseball Field

Symphony Orchestra Concert 11 a.m., Parmer Hall

Disability Services Center Open House 11 a.m.–1 p.m.

Murray Library

Campus Tour/ Sustainability Tour 11 a.m., departs from Eisenhower Circle

Prospective Student Pizza Reception 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m., Jordan Atrium

Canoeing on the Breeches Noon, Yellow Breeches (ticket required)

Pictured with President Kim Phipps, alumni from the Classes of 1982 and 1983 reunited at Homecoming 2018. For several of them, 35 years had passed since they’d seen each other.

Alumni Women’s LAX Noon–2 p.m., lacrosse turf

Rafiki Open House

Alumni Men’s Volleyball Match

1–3 p.m., Rafiki House

Noon, Hitchcock Arena

Alumni Women and Men’s Tennis Match

Concert Choir & Alumni Concert 4–5 p.m., Parmer Hall

Eyas White-Out March

Li’l Falcon Zone

2 p.m., Criste Courts

5 p.m., Hostetter Chapel

Live Color 5k

12:30–4 p.m., Eisenhower Lawn

Reunion Row

10 a.m., Lower Starry Athletics Fields

Alumni Swim Meet

2–4 p.m., Hostetter Chapel

Men’s Soccer vs.

Lebanon Valley College

1 p.m., natatorium

Canoeing on the Breeches

Alumni Field Hockey Game

Varsity Field Hockey vs. Widener University

3 p.m., Yellow Breeches (ticket required)

Messiah College Jazz Ensembles Concert

Women’s Soccer vs.

Lebanon Valley College

7 p.m., Parmer Hall

10 a.m., Anderson Field

Circle the Globe 10 a.m., Parmer Cinema

Archives Open House 10 a.m.–3 p.m., Murray Library

Oakes Museum Open House/Craft Time 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m., Oakes Museum

1 p.m., Anderson Field

General Reception for Business, Education and Social Sciences and the School of the Arts

3 p.m., Shoemaker Field

Alumni Men’s LAX

6 p.m., Shoemaker Field

SAB Homecoming Coffeehouse 9 p.m., Brubaker Auditorium

3:45–5 p.m., Lacrosse Turf

1–2:30 p.m., Howe Atrium F OR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT HOMECOMINGANDFAMILYWEEKEND.MESSIAH.EDU

YOU MAKE

the difference

“ I choose to give back to the College because I want to make sure the students who follow after me have the same opportunities to grow as a person like I did there.”

— Anna Evanek ’18

Our Messiah community is filled with passionate alumni, like Anna, who deeply value the faith-based education our students receive, preparing them to lead and serve in our communities.

Our Messiah Fund makes students’ education more affordable by providing scholarship aid to 98% of students and supplementing tuition for 100% of our student body!

Join Anna in making a financial gift that directly impacts each student at Messiah College. It’s our passionate alumni that make the difference.

Give online: messiah.edu/ImpactStudents