Since becoming president of western Pennsylvania’s second-largest public university, I, along with my wife, Kristy, and our son Bryce have been warmly embraced by an amazing community of educators, students, alumni and community members.
We are humbled and touched by what we can only describe as a uniquely western Pennsylvania welcome.
I already know that the power of PennWest is in its people and in this special place we now call home.
As a business strategy professor by training and an academic at heart, I stepped into this role enthusiastic about the work that has been done to establish PennWest. Because the previous administration budgeted appropriately, PennWest will continue to see infrastructure improvements and a commitment to student outcomes across all three campuses.
Our students are caring for others through charitable projects. Our educators are putting their talents to work on campus and in the community. Our alumni are making a difference through career success and civic engagement.
The impact of service and achievement among the people who make up PennWest is brought to life in this edition of The Boro.
Built on the solid foundations of three historically significant institutions, PennWest is poised for a future that is intentional, sustainable and student-focused. I look forward to continuing this important work together.
In our short time here, we have marveled at the splendor of northwestern Pennsylvania and the beauty of the Edinboro campus. As my transition committee begins its work, I hope you’ll join me as I begin a conversation. Follow me @PennWestPresident on Instagram and stay tuned for details on a new podcast.
We are already feeling a buzz on campus in anticipation of every new student. They are the beating hearts and unmistakable power of PennWest.
With gratitude,
Dr. Jon Anderson
Correspondence
Office of Communications
PennWest Edinboro 219 Meadville St. Edinboro, PA 16444
814-732-2193
communications@pennwest.edu
President
Dr. Jon Anderson
Vice President of University Advancement
James M. Geiger
Executive Director of Communications
Wendy Mackall
Executive Director of Creative Services and Brand Identity
Bill Berger ’91
Managing Editor
Kristin Brockett ’11, M ’15
Writers
Craig Butler
Tina Horner
Christopher LaFuria M ’20
Amy Wozniak
Editor
Gloria Ruane
Photography
Zach Frailey
Rob Frank
Jeff Helsel
Design
Philip Haragos
Deborah Henry
Bryan Postlewait
Greg Sofranko
Past issues of The Boro can be found at PennWest.edu/boro-magazine
a PALETTE OF TALENTS
Graduate student brings learning to life through classroom metamorphosis
“That’s milkweed!” one child exclaimed as PennWest graduate student Eric Berdis led preschoolers from Boro Little Learners Academy along the sidewalks of Edinboro’s lush campus.
Berdis beamed, thrilled by his young pupil’s keen observation.
The Lawrence Park, Pennsylvania, native has served as one of BLLA’s lead teachers since enrolling in the Master of Education in Early Childhood Education program in 2021. Under the direction of faculty member Dr. Mary Jo Melvin ’75, ’90, Berdis and his fellow studentteachers guide children ages 3-5 in daily learning experiences through
inquiry activities and play experiences.
One of their lessons covered milkweed and its essential role in the conservation efforts of migratory monarch butterflies.
“I taught them what milkweed is, so it’s really special to see them apply that knowledge in an outside setting,” said Berdis, who completed the requirements for his M.Ed. in summer 2023. “Whether it’s nailing the “k” sound or nailing the hard “th” sound (in language lessons), witnessing these milestones brings us unbridled joy.”
After earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts in painting from Slippery Rock University in 2013, Berdis
supported literacy intervention efforts in Philadelphia public schools through AmeriCorps VISTA. He later completed an MFA in textiles from Virginia Commonwealth University before accepting an AmeriCorps VISTA position at his alma mater, Iroquois High School.
“I was a little nervous, but my experiences with AmeriCorps VISTA were just so powerful,” Berdis said. “Everyone told me I should become a teacher. But I didn’t have my certification, and I didn’t feel like I was equipped to just go out and be a teacher. I wanted more pedagogy.”
A desire to deepen his foundational understanding of early learning brought him to the Edinboro campus, where his twin brother, Alex, earned a BFA in graphic design in 2012. The opportunity to gain handson experience through a graduate assistantship with BLLA sealed the deal.
“That was why I ultimately chose Edinboro over other programs,” he said. “I had a little experience with preschool but not as much as I would be gaining.”
Berdis thrived in the BLLA classroom, incorporating illustrations, music, color, nature and movement into his daily lessons. To further engage learners, he decorated the hallways with hand-drawn posters that feature student introductions, sing-along songs and basic language development and math concepts.
“Eric has done a phenomenal job,” said Melvin, who has taught at the Edinboro campus since 1990. “He’s so creative, and he really engages the children. They’re talking. They’re moving. They’re dancing. That’s what they need.”
In the final weeks of Berdis’ time with BLLA, Melvin challenged him to revamp the cement block walls inside the preschool’s nap room. He got to work, painting a scene that showcases many of the concepts the class had discussed.
Pink milkweed, buzzing bumblebees and flittering monarch butterflies are surrounded by a sandy beach, swimming fish, purple mountains, prickly cacti, lightning bugs and a floating BLLA sailboat.
“I wanted the mural to reflect our learning,” Berdis said. “We talked a lot about opposites: Day and night, rain and sun, and wet and dry landscapes. We also learned about pollinators.”
Berdis’ imagination spilled down the hall and into the gross motor skills room, where he replaced outdated posters with bright-colored towns in each of the four seasons. Geometric shapes, patterns and vibrant hues reflect the energetic nature of the space.
Below the whiteboard, he painted tree-lined roads, traffic signs, crosswalks and varying forms of transportation – topics they frequently discussed while taking walks around campus.
“The connections being made between what these children see in their world and what they are seeing on the walls of their classroom environments are multiple,” Melvin said. “These murals have enhanced their visual literacy and aided in their communication of thoughts and ideas. Mr. Eric has helped our children to become critical observers as opposed to children who merely see color and objects.”
Now on a brand-new teaching adventure, Berdis is proud to leave behind a knowledge-building resource for future generations of blossoming little learners.
“Just hearing the kids and seeing them be excited to count the bugs makes it all worth it,” he said. “Preschool is such a special place. It’s not an easy place, but it’s the start of a rich foundation.”
“The murals have impacted the imaginations of our children beyond anything I could have imagined.”
-Dr. Mary Jo Melvin
FEATURE
by Kristin Brockett
Dr. Mary Jo Melvin '75, '90, faculty member in PennWest Edinboro's Department of Education, stands in the Little Learners room.
THE PSYCHOLOGY OF MONEY
Business major finds her niche helping minorities grow their savings
Sarah Keating grew up in a household that didn’t discuss money.
And she’s not alone. In fact, research conducted in 2018 by investment management company T. Rowe Price revealed that two-thirds of surveyed parents felt reluctant to talk to their children about finances.
In the weeks leading up to her June 2020 high school graduation, the world was reeling from the economic fallout caused by COVID-19. Keating, who started her own DJ company when she was just 15 years old, felt the financial impact of canceled birthday parties, weddings and other public events.
She passed the time watching YouTube videos on investment management and financial independence.
“During COVID, when the world shut down, I think it gave me a lot of time to think about what I want to do beyond college,” said Keating, who was born in China and raised in Erie, Pennsylvania. “I’m a very big-picture person, and that’s what got me thinking about my personal finances and how I should manage my money.”
She soon began having conversations with others about their own financial goals.
Recognizing that a lack of financial literacy puts many people, particularly
minority groups, at a disadvantage, Keating elected to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a focus in personal financial planning at the PennWest Edinboro campus.
“At the end of the day, that knowledge about how to use your money and put things to work for you is very powerful. But it comes from having a lot of knowledge,” she said. “You have to know what a 401(k) is and what a Roth IRA is. It’s something that we don’t talk about or teach people. I wanted to be more proactive in that space and be able to help people with money.”
Keating, who graduated from Edinboro in December 2023, credits faculty mentors Drs. Michael Engdahl
and Shaun Pfeiffer for guiding her through the program and teaching her where the world of personal financial planning is headed.
“It is very psychologybased. It’s not just picking stocks and giving them to clients,” Keating said. “There are many factors. It’s about discovering what their needs are, how they view money and how their family has dealt with money. All of that plays into helping them achieve their goals.”
by Kristin Brockett
disabilities,” she said. “He advocates for those students and lets people know that there is space for them in the
As a student, Keating was active in PennWest’s Honors Program, president of the Student Government Association, president/secretary of the Personal Financial Planning Club and treasurer of the Highland Ambassadors.
She attended several seminars, led trips to career fairs in Pittsburgh and Washington, D.C., and helped organize financial literacy workshops for her fellow students.
At the suggestion of Engdahl, Keating applied to and participated in the North Star Sophomore Experiential Learning Program held by The Vanguard Group, Inc. – one of the world’s largest and most respected investment management companies. The program focuses on increasing diversity representation within the financial services industry.
“Dr. Engdahl understands that the industry is moving towards more diversity. He recognizes that we need younger wealth advisers, women, people of color, people in the LGBTQ community, and people with
industry. Even though it may not look like it now, there will be a space for you. We will make space for you.”
From September 2022 until March 2023, Keating worked as an apprentice at Rebich Investments. Under the mentorship of owner Todd Rebich, she analyzed business operations and employee relationships and learned about creating value for clients through financial securities, accounts and products.
In summer 2023, Keating completed a College to Corporate Advice Internship with Vanguard near Philadelphia in Malvern, Pennsylvania. She spent three months developing her expertise in the personal financial planning process. As an intern, she educated financial advisers and peers through presentations and guided discussions regarding the psychology of financial planning, shadowed adviser/client calls and coordinated site-specific and cross-site networking events to provide connection-building opportunities.
“I was extremely fortunate to work with diverse interns, experienced financial advisers and compassionate leaders,” Keating said. “These individuals taught me the power of building relationships, the importance of understanding others, and the impact of kindness in financial services.”
She is passionate about helping others achieve their financial goals and improving financial literacy, especially among minority groups. Post-graduation, she hopes to make a difference through advocacy, leadership, education and transformational financial services.
Keating was nominated for the 2023 Athena Young Professional Award and selected to represent her classmates as the December commencement speaker.
“We often joke that we wish Sarah could run all our staff meetings. She is organized, efficient, welcoming, inspiring and impactful,” said Amanda Brown Sissem, associate vice president of Alumni Engagement and Edinboro campus administrator. “We also say, ‘Someday, we’ll all work for Sarah Keating.’ Honestly, we would be lucky to. She is an amazing, inspiring young leader.”
MOVING IN SILENCE WITH SUCCESS
Dr. Chuck Herring, director of diversity, equity and inclusion South Fayette Township School District
Bonding with college students, serving the community and fostering inclusive environments are all tenets of the Greek life experience. These social support scaffolds help young members connect with their peers and successfully transition to adulthood.
But for Fred Hodges ’11, M ’14, Fredric Underwood ’13, Michael Barnes ’93 and Chuck Herring ’90, belonging to the Rho Phi chapter of the national Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. and joining Greek life at Edinboro meant being part of history.
“Being a part of one of the oldest historically Black fraternities, if not the oldest, is truly amazing,” said Underwood, who earned his degree in business from Edinboro. “The fraternity instilled in me the value of moving in silence with success and allowing that success to build organically within the community. It’s a sense of pride in contributing to a legacy of excellence and positive impact.”
Originally founded as a literary and social studies club at Cornell University in 1906, Alpha Phi Alpha is one of the oldest intercollegiate fraternities for African-American students. The organization boasts an international membership base of nearly 300,000 in more than 730 active chapters in North and South America, Africa, Europe and Asia.
Noted alumni of Alpha Phi Alpha include civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., political activist Cornell West, musicians Duke Ellington and Lionel Richie, professional athletes Walt Frazier and Charles Haley, Olympic medalist Jesse Owens, Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall and W.E.B. Du Bois, who founded the NAACP.
When Herring arrived in Edinboro to pursue a degree in broadcast journalism and speech communication, he discovered an opportunity to connect with other Black students and serve those in need. During his four years in college, Herring joined his
Alpha Phi Alpha peers in collecting canned goods for the less fortunate and books for prison inmates.
“It was kind of like a brotherhood – like a family,” said Herring, who now serves as the director of diversity, equity and inclusion at South Fayette Township School District in McDonald, Pennsylvania. “We just did a lot of things together. We would celebrate. We would commiserate. Alpha Phi Alpha wasn’t just important. It was imperative.”
Dedicated to the mission of serving the community and promoting the responsibilities of African-American students, Alpha Phi Alpha members participate in national charities such as Brother’s Keeper, Big Brothers/Big Sisters, Boy Scouts of America and the Peace Corps in addition to serving the individual’s home campus.
While Hodges and Underwood attended Edinboro, members hosted national programs such as “Voteless People, Hopeless People” – a walk
to help register underrepresented citizens to vote - March of Dimes, opendiscussion forums and study halls.
To the four Edinboro grads, being a member of Alpha Phi Alpha came with the prerogative to recruit more students of color to campus.
At the time Herring started college, there were fewer than 150 students of color on campus. According to his estimate, that number nearly doubled thanks to the efforts of organizations like Alpha Phi Alpha.
“Being African-American at a predominantly white institution can be a lonely place,” said Hodges, who works as a program manager at the University of Colorado Boulder. “So having a sense of community and connecting with like-minded individuals and people who look and dream like me meant everything.”
Barnes, who graduated from Edinboro with a degree in political science before pursing a career in
education administration, explained that students of color find themselves as the minority on campuses – except for those who attend Historically Black Colleges and Universities.
That’s one of the reasons why he considered Alpha Phi Alpha.
“Fraternal life fills this void by bonding these students together in the form of a brotherhood to support one another socially, emotionally, and academically,” said Barnes, who now serves as superintendent of Lakewood City Schools in Ohio.
In addition to serving students and the community, members of Alpha Phi Alpha also provided entertainment for campus through energetic step shows, captivating poetry shows, and annual Homecoming events and reunions.
“Belonging to Alpha Phi Alpha at Edinboro has meant the world to me. The supportive and diverse network within the fraternity provided valuable connections across various subjects,”
said Underwood, who works in the tech industry as a business consultant in Pittsburgh. “These relationships enhanced my overall experience, fostering unity and shared goals.”
In 2011, Hodges and his brothers were tasked with hosting more than 500 Alpha Phi Alpha members throughout Pennsylvania at the district conference. Through this event, the Edinboro team was able to expose the local campus to the inner workings of the state level.
It was in that moment that Hodges realized the impact of forging relationships with a close-knit, likeminded and supportive organization.
“The brothers became my family,” Hodges said. “The years we sacrificed, laughed, cried, cheered – and, most importantly, served – have turned us from friends to family. I know I have made the right decision.”
FEATURE by Christopher LaFuria
PennWest Edinboro Commencements
Karlee Courtney, Early Childhood Education
Austin Mattey, Early Childhood Education
Cheyenne Vorndran, Health Sciences
Sarah Mae Keating Business Administration
Josiah Stuart Interdisciplinary Studies
Zoey Reynolds Strategic Communication
Austin Boesch BSN
Edinboro Commencements
Michael Montae Flowers Business Administration
Lauren Mullen Nursing Major, Biology Minor
Ebony Galbreath Master of Social Work
We're Better Together.
At Pennsylvania Western University, we believe that collaboration fuels growth and that together, we can create something greater than ourselves. PennWest isn't a onesize-fits-all institution. It's where potential is nurtured, where paths are crafted according to our students’ passions, and where the knowledge they gain becomes a platform for lifelong success.
With expanded resources, diversified programs and a strong support network, PennWest has opened doors to infinite possibilities. Here are just a few examples of how students are benefiting from our combined strengths:
PENNWEST LEADERSHIP ACADEMY EMPOWERS LEADERS OF TOMORROW
Emerging student leaders at the California, Clarion and Edinboro campuses are engaging in personal and professional development training workshops as part of the PennWest Leadership Academy.
Led by faculty, staff and community experts, a blend of in-person and virtual sessions focus on communication strategy, conflict resolution, time management, increasing efficiency, career development, wellness, emotional intelligence, team building and leadership styles. Students also have access to cross-campus networking opportunities through the two-year program.
More than 160 students have participated in the program since its founding as the President’s Leadership Academy at Clarion in 2019. Each campus now has two 15-student cohorts.
STUDENTS RETURN FROM ITALY FULL OF PASTA AND LESSONS IN SUSTAINABILITY
Veni, vidi, vici! PennWest students traveled to Italy in August and returned home to complete coursework relevant to their summertime adventure.
Students could earn up to six credits by taking two three-credit classes, including Special Topics in Business, taught by Dr. Chad Smith, and Special Topics in Atmospheric Science, taught by Dr. Anthony Vega. Both professors are based at PennWest Clarion.
Upon their return, groups of students created mock businesses with an environmental sustainability component. Teams presented their projects “Shark Tank”-style, and outside experts served as judges. Since 2015, Clarion students have traveled to destinations such as Belgium, Italy, New Zealand, Portugal and Iceland. The 2023 trip was open to students at all three PennWest campuses.
PENNWEST ADVANCES TO FINAL PHASES OF FINANCIAL PLANNING CHALLENGE
A team of three PennWest finance and personal financial planning students advanced to the final phases of the nationwide Financial Planning Challenge, hosted by the Financial Planning Association, Ameriprise and the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards.
After preparing exceptional comprehensive financial plans for two hypothetical clients in round one, Sarah Keating (Edinboro), Olivia Lewandowski (Edinboro) and Jacob Campbell (California) competed in the finals alongside teams from Texas Tech University, the University of Arizona, the University of Akron, the University of North Florida, the University of Denver, Ohio State University and the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.
CENTER FOR FACULTY EXCELLENCE PROMOTES
COLLABORATIVE LEARNING, PEDAGOGICAL INNOVATION
PennWest’s Center for Faculty Excellence, a faculty resource that supports high-impact learning practices, scholarship and academic innovation, is fostering collaboration through cross-campus workshops, professional development funding, guest speakers and a book club.
Recent events include a presentation by Dr. Jane Thierfeld Brown, assistant clinical professor at Yale and director of College Autism Spectrum. The presentation focused on two topics: Supporting neurodivergent students through effective academic advising and a discussion on class assessments and promoting academic success for neurodivergent learners.
FOR THE FUTURE
Baron-Forness Library
Edinboro’s seven-story Baron-Forness Library reopened in January, marking the completion of major renovations and reprising its role as the center of campus activity, research and collaboration.
In addition to upgraded elevators, HVAC, electrical, plumbing and fire suppression systems, the library now features expanded seating, 28 group study rooms – nearly all of which are equipped with screen-sharing
technologies to better facilitate collaborative learning – seminar space, a 3,000-square-foot art gallery and a brand-new entrance.
The $15 million project, which was funded and administered by the Pennsylvania Department of General Services, involved the first wide-scale improvements to the 102,000 squarefoot library since it opened in 1976.
California Science Building
A 67,000-square-foot building will be constructed to house the chemistry, biology and physics programs at the California campus. In addition to state-of-the-art laboratory spaces, there will be a computer classroom lab as well as collaborative work, study and meeting spaces throughout the building. Construction is tentatively scheduled to begin in fall 2024 and end in late fall 2026.
admissions welcome center for prospective students and their families. The building was renamed in April 2023 to honor Clarion’s former Dean of Admissions.
PENNWEST GRADS BAKE, BREW AND GRILL THEIR WAY INTO SUCCESSFUL CULINARY VENTURES
Pretzels. Coffee. Burgers.
Not only does that sound like an appetizing menu to satiate the hungry stomach, but the trio is also a sign of successful experiential ventures from graduates of Pennsylvania Western University campuses.
Each of these menu items comes with its own story of PennWest grads who found their calling in the culinary arts through grit and determination – and some delicious taste testing.
Following her graduation from Edinboro and a career in higher education, Katie Spangenberg ’16 found her calling serving homemade munchies and piping hot coffee at Bean & Bear Café.
While a student at California, Jonathan Sakaguchi ’23 saddled up the barbecue and won a statewide burger competition among three grill masters.
Edinboro graduate Amanda Sanko ’13 and Clarion faculty member Marc Sanko, who earned his master’s degree from Edinboro in 2013, found support – and a captive audience –from family and friends to open a pretzel shop in their town.
by Christopher LaFuria
Spilling the beans with a new coffee shop
Katie Spangenberg hasn’t always been in the coffee business. But she has been around a segment of the population most reliant on the caffeinated beverage: college students.
Katie and her husband, Jason, are both graduates of Edinboro with degrees in business administration and management and business administration/accounting, respectively. They live in the Edinboro area and witness the hustling college students scurrying to class and study halls.
That’s why it made sense for Spangenberg to open Bean & Bear Café within walking distance of Edinboro’s campus.
“It was a big jump for us, but we didn’t hesitate,” she said. “We were just looking to fill a gap that existed in Edinboro, and we’re doing just that.”
Named after the couple’s pets Muenster “Bear” and dog-in-law Fletcher “Bean,” Bean & Bear, located at 222 W. Plum St. in Edinboro, features a small-plate, niche menu with homemade baked items and an array of coffee from Happy Mug, an Erie-area coffee wholesaler.
After opening during Homecoming Week 2023, Spangenberg noticed that the coffee shop has become an extension of campus, with students studying and taking virtual courses from its tabletops.
Spangenberg said that she created a cozy, dark academia vibe in the shop with an interior that reflects a bookish and intellectual study.
“We’ve had a very positive reaction from the students and the customers who have become regulars,” she said. “It’s a little off the beaten path but close to campus and very walkable.”
A self-proclaimed “Type A” personality and business owner, Spangenberg not only runs business operations and staffing, she also throws on the apron to cook and serve her customers. She has also become a job creator in Edinboro with a staff
Katie Spangenberg ’16 and Jason Spangenberg ’14 established Bean & Bear Café in Edinboro in 2023.
Best burger in the business
Making the perfect burger is more than just slicing onions, crisping the perfect strips of bacon, collecting a small pool of barbecue sauce for the dippers and molding the perfectly seasoned patty.
Cooking, for Jonathan Sakaguchi, is an opportunity to pay tribute to his late father, Jeff, who was instrumental in molding the California grad’s love of food. During his stint in the Navy, Jeff Sakaguchi traveled to Germany, Spain and Australia to explore the local cuisine. He would bring stories and recipes back to Jonathan. And a love for cooking was established.
“When I got to a certain age, my dad said to me, ‘You're old enough to start learning how to cook. Here's how
you do it.’ And it kind of just went from there,” said Sakaguchi, who studied English at California and also pursued a minor in music.
This family arrangement and a newfound obsession with cooking led him to discover the Giant Eagle Ultimate Tailgreatness competition in October 2023.
When he arrived at the competition, Sakaguchi found his flattop grill, cast-iron skillet and ingredients to make his signature smash burgers. When his plate was finished and he observed the entries from the two other
“When the announcer called my name, my jaw hit the stage,” he said. “And when I won the contest, knowing my dad’s birthday was coming up, my first thought was I wish my dad could be here for this.”
Now Sakaguchi, who was honored as 2023 California Homecoming Court royalty, can add grill master to his resume as he took home the $2,500 Giant Eagle prize for the best-burger competition and tickets to a Pittsburgh Steelers game.
“This has been an absolute wild ride for me – like the ups and downs
While a student at California, Jonathan Sakaguchi won the 2023 Giant Eagle Ultimate Tailgreatness competition.
A local business that’s well-kneaded
What do you do when the tasty snack you enjoy can’t be found anywhere you look?
Marc and Amanda Sanko, two pretzel-loving academics living in Morgantown, West Virginia, found the salty delights weren’t prevalent in their new town.
The answer to this dilemma was simple: Make them yourselves. Little did the Sankos know this concept would turn into a new business venture.
“Marc loves cooking, so he decided that he was going to figure out how to make them himself for me,” Amanda said. “After he made them a few times at home, we started taking them to friend gatherings, and they quickly became a hit there as well.”
Fast-forward to moving to Clarion and having their son, Grady, and twin daughters, Mara and Cora, Marc and Amanda implemented their pretzel creations for birthday party menus.
“We finally decided that enough family and friends had told us that the pretzels were good enough that people would buy them,” Amanda said. “So, I started doing my research and proceeded to take the steps to start a business. “
After the idea sprouted for the Sankos, the husband-wife team approached Clarion’s Small Business Development Center, which provides entrepreneurs with the education, information, and tools necessary to build successful businesses.
With the paperwork finalized and the business plan in place, it was time to find a location to produce the pretzels for the new Penns Woods Pretzel Company. Since both Marc and Amanda work full time, their ideal location needed to be cost-effective and convenient.
That’s when they found Clarion Modern Markets, located at 606 Main St. in Clarion, a collection of rentable space and kitchens for local entrepreneurs to produce and sell their goods.
“We were very excited about the potential to get into that space,” Amanda said. “It was the perfect space at the perfect time.”
With all the missing pieces falling into place and continued confidence boosts from family and friends, the Sankos confirmed that their decision to start the business was the right one.
“The idea came from a love of a tasty treat,” Amanda said.
“But our family and friends’ words of encouragement and the help of local organizations and the community really brought the idea to life.”
So far, the response from the community has been wildly positive. During the company’s soft opening, a line of customers wrapped around the building and down the block, waiting for a mouthwatering delight.
“We are very thankful for our little community,” Amanda said. “It feels good to have such a supportive community behind our business.”
As the business continues to grow and ideas for new recipes and products pop up, the couple has their eyes set on bigger goals for the business.
“Our little dream is to one day walk into a local ballpark, stadium or zoo and Penns Woods Pretzel be the pretzel you see in their warmers and people walking around with,” Amanda said. “Maybe one day that will be us.”
Amanda (Morley) Sanko ’13 and Marc Sanko M ’13 serve up gourmet pretzels at Penns Woods Pretzel Company in Clarion.
New murals highlight enduriNg campus legacies
One-of-a-kind murals were installed in prominent locations at California, Clarion and Edinboro. Featuring iconic images that celebrate the history, capture the spirit and embrace the culture of each campus, the photoready works of art were carefully crafted in a casual, illustrative style to welcome visitors and inspire the next generation of learners.
EDINBORO CAMPUS MURAL
Designed by Philip Haragos and Bryan Postlewait
KEEPERS FLAME THE OF
Dr. Shraddha Prabhu earns Keepers of the Flame Award for her commitment to DEI in the classroom and beyond.
by Kristin Brockett
Dr. Shraddha Prabhu, who grew up in Maharashtra, India, was the first in her family to earn a master’s degree and a doctorate.
Now an assistant professor of social work at PennWest Edinboro, Prabhu has never lost sight of those who helped make her educational journey possible.
“Access to education isn’t a given human right; it is an earned human right. It’s something that people around the world have had to fight hard for,” she said, crediting 19th century reformers like Jyotiba Phule, Savitribai Phule and Fatima Shiekh for their fierce advocacy and reform efforts to address gender-based and caste-based discrimination in her home country.
“I am only here because, among other things, my grandmother, who was married at 16 and never received a formal education, sat outside the principal’s office and insisted that her daughters get admitted to the convent school where English was the primary language of instruction,” she said. “Those actions paved the way for me to access primary and higher education.”
Informed by her surroundings, Prabhu took an interest in issues of equity, discrimination, power and oppression from a young age. She found her calling in the social work field, and education was a natural progression.
“Social work and teaching have been both formally and informally pretty interrelated,” she said. “Part of what we do as social workers is advocacy and community mobilization, which involves consciousness-raising and public education to create systematic change.”
Prabhu is intentional about cultivating an inclusive learning environment and ensuring that students in her class have an opportunity to learn from scholars, creators and public intellections with diverse perspectives and lived experiences.
She is proactive about setting expectations and providing students a framework for class engagement and participation. At the beginning of each semester, Prabhu distributes specific guidelines for civil engagement in dialogue and requires students to exercise self-awareness and active listening.
“We know from scientific evidence about trauma and its impact that when you experience microaggressions and are feeling unsafe, you have diminished capacity for knowledge integration,” she said. “When we don’t create safe spaces, when we are not mindful of our language or don’t have content that is representative and inclusive, when we don’t address or
interrupt microaggressions or bigotry in our classrooms, we are creating unsafe spaces. It’s action and inaction.”
Prabhu and her colleagues in the Social Work Department are utilizing an anti-racism, diversity, equity and inclusion framework for curriculum mapping and review and revision of departmental policies and procedures. Faculty also share trauma-informed strategies to improve accessibility and ensure there are options for students to curate their learning experiences based on their individual needs and strengths.
“I think it is really important for me to pass on what was done for me by my teachers and mentors, which was making me feel that I had a place within academia, that I had things to contribute, and that it was OK to take up space,” she said. “Teaching gives me the opportunity to both create that space for my students and model how it can be done for their future clients.”
Because of her efforts, Prabhu is PennWest Edinboro’s recipient of the second annual Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Keepers of the Flame Award from Pennsylvania’s State System of Higher Education.
Ms. Brenda Adams, who works in dining services at California, and Dr. Brandon Packard, assistant chair of the Department of Computer Information Science at Clarion, joined Prabhu as winners from PennWest. The award recipients were announced during PASSHE’s annual DEI Summit.
Prabhu was nominated for the Keepers of the Flame Award by students in recognition of her positive influence and commitment to DEI in the classroom and throughout the campus community. Students noted that Prabhu brings traumainformed and culturally competent skills to her interactions, which enables individuals to feel safe, included and seen.
“Every day she wakes up and shines her rays of sunshine into every room she enters,” said one of the nominators. “Every relationship is meaningful. She goes above and beyond to help everyone around her and lift up those who need it most.”
Her research, advocacy and scholarship focus on violence against children, child rights, trauma and resilience among at-risk youths, and prevention of violence against women.
“Dr. Prabhu goes above and beyond to advocate for and support PennWest Edinboro students in their academic and professional endeavors,” another nominator said. “As an educator and mentor, her knowledge and empathetic approach provide a ‘beacon of hope for minority students.’”
BAGPIPES. HAGGIS. CABER TOSS. TARTAN.
Students, faculty, staff and community members will enjoy these Scottish traditions and so much more during Edinboro’s 30th annual Highland Games & Scottish Festival.
SEPT. 5-7, 2024
For a full schedule of events, scan the code or visit
pennwest.edu/edinboro-highland-games
LEADING the FIELD
ALL-AMERICAN CAPS COLLEGIATE LEGACY IN FINAL OUTDOOR TRACK SEASON
BY CRAIG BUTLER
Kylie Anicic is one of the most decorated athletes in Edinboro history.
Though she didn’t start her college journey as a Fighting Scot, it didn’t take long for her to make an impact. After her transfer to Edinboro, her first season of competition was the 2021-22 indoor track season. Kylie was the driving force behind the Scots’ first PSAC Championship. She claimed individual conference titles in the mile, 3,000 meter and 5,000 meter and ran a leg of the championship distance medley relay team. For her efforts, she was named the PSAC Championship Meet Most Valuable Athlete.
Kylie earned her first All-American honors at the 2022 NCAA Indoor Championships, qualifying in the 5K and then finishing 11th in the nation after improving her qualifying spot by four. She took that momentum into the outdoor season. She claimed three more PSAC Championships in the 1,500 meter, 5K and 10K. Her 10K time was good enough to qualify for the NCAA Outdoor National Championships.
In the fall of 2022, Kylie returned to the cross country course. She won the PSAC Championship, going one-two with teammate Kimberly Goerss, and also was named PSAC Women’s Cross Country Athlete of the Year. Kylie turned around and won the Atlantic Regional Championship as the Scots qualified for the National Championships. She finished 31st at the NCAAs, earning Second Team All-American honors. Kylie made the most of her final indoor track season. She again took PSAC Championship Meet MVP honors, winning gold in the mile, 3K and 5K as well as running in the championship distance medley relay team. She was an NCAA qualifier in the 3K and 5K. At the NCAA Championships, Kylie was a first team All-American in the 5K and second team AllAmerican in the 3K, setting the Edinboro school record. In the outdoor season, she won the PSAC Championship in the 1,500 meter, 5K, and 10K and qualified for the NCAA Championships in each event.
FIGHTING SCOTS ROUNDUP
Kylie finished her collegiate cross country career on a high note. She won both the PSAC and NCAA Atlantic Regional Championships and was named the PSAC Women’s Cross Country Athlete of the Year. She qualified for the NCAA Championships, posting the best finish by a Fighting Scot since 2006. She earned first team All-American honors by finishing 12th.
In March, Kylie finished second in the 10K at the Raleigh Relays, breaking both the Edinboro and PSAC records and achieving the 15th-fastest time in DII history.
She then broke Stephanie Parson’s 5K school record at the Bryan Clay Invitational in Azusa, California, earning the fourthfastest time in PSAC history and the eighth-fastest time in the nation during the spring 2024 season. Kylie ran another PSAC season best in the 1,500.
Continuing her distance dominance, Kylie won her third straight PSAC Outdoor 10K title, crossing the line more than two minutes ahead of the second-place finisher. With a first-place finish in the 1,500, she stayed perfect, 18-for-18, at the conference championship level.
Kylie’s success has not been limited to competition. The nursing major has done an outstanding job in the classroom as well.
Named three times to the PSAC Top 10, the conference’s honor given to men and women who excel in both academics and athletics, she is the 15th Fighting Scot to win the award multiple times. Last spring, Kylie was named the College Sports Communicators Academic All-American.
HALL FAME of Fighting Scots 2023
Jeff Barker ’00
Cross Country and Track & Field
Jeff Barker was a three-time All-American, earning the honor twice in cross country and once in track & field. In 2000, he won the PSAC and East Regional Cross Country Championship while also earning PSAC Athlete of the Year honors. Barker earned his first Cross Country AllAmerican honor in 1997.
Renee Brown ’12
Women’s Basketball
Renee Brown was a three-time All-PSAC West selection, earning first-team honors twice and second-team honors once. She was the 2008-09 PSAC West Freshman of the Year and the 2012 Nancy Acker Award winner for the top female senior athlete. She is one of only seven Edinboro players to reach 1,000 career points and 700 rebounds. She currently ranks as the seventh all-time scorer at 1,430 points and sixth in rebounds with 735.
Pictured are the honorees at the 2023 Hall of Fame Ceremony: (front row, from left) Mike Ruzzi, Georgeann Kostrubanic, Kristin Neuburger and Mario Houston; (second row, from left) Renee Brown, Sandie Everhart, Jeff Barker and John Messura.
Rune Christensen was a four-time All-American, earning the honor twice in 1991-92 and once each in 1989-90 and 1990-91. He was a seven-time All-PSAC honoree. He departed the program holding five school records and still holds the 1,650-yard freestyle.
Sandie and Nathan Everhart Distinguished Service Award
Sandie and Nathan Everhart were honored for serving Edinboro student-athletes through the Boro Christian Athletes program. In the words of one nominator, "Sandie and Nathan go above and beyond to make time to watch the student-athletes in action; to pour into their athletes in large groups, small groups or individual settings; and to meet students right where they are in order to help them grow." They have not only opened their hearts and invested time, but they have also opened their home to student-athletes.
Mario Houston ’94 Football
Mario Houston, a standout defensive back, was the PSAC West Rookie of the Year in 1990. He was a two-time All-PSAC West selection in 1990 and 1993. Houston had a nose for the football, holding the single-season and career record for pass breakups with 16 and 53 respectively.
Georgeann Kostrubanic ’94
Women’s Swimming
Georgeann Kostrubanic was a seven-time All-American, earning her first honor in 1990-91. She was a three-time All-American in 1991-92 before posting a pair of All-American times in 1992-93. She was a five-time All-PSAC performer. Kostrubanic departed holding five school records.
John Messura ’92 Football
John Messura was a four-year standout and a two-time All-PSAC selection, including earning first-team honors in 1991. He ranks ninth in Edinboro history in career sacks with 17 and is tied for 10th in sacks in a single season with nine. He was a 1991 Football Gazette Honorable Mention AllAmerican and is a member of the Edinboro Football All-Time Team.
Kristin Neuburger ’96 Softball
Kristin Neuburger set the school record for batting average at .444 in 1994 – a mark that currently ranks fifth in school history. She was first-team All-PSAC West in 1994 and second-team in 1996. She ranks third in Edinboro single-season history with six triples. Her career .365 average is the sixth-best mark in Edinboro history. She ranks inside the top 15 in runs scored, hits, doubles and triples.
Mike Ruzzi ’83
Lifetime Achievement in Sports
Mike Ruzzi has been a member of the Erie news media for nearly 40 years. Along the way, he has been a sports anchor, sports director, sports reporter and news anchor. He has covered countless high school, local college and professional games, including 10 Super Bowls. His awards include the Pennsylvania Broadcasters Best Sports Show. He was inducted into the Erie Metro Chapter of the Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame in 2014. He has also served as the annual emcee of the Edinboro Athletics Hall of Fame.
STEELWORKER to Corporate Exec
SCHOLARSHIPS AT CALIFORNIA AND EDINBORO CAMPUSES
REFLECT ALUMNUS’ HARD-EARNED DEGREES AND PERSONAL VALUES
Growing up in Walkertown, Pennsylvania, a small mining community situated about 30 miles south of Pittsburgh in West Pike Run Township, Dick Sabo
learned the importance of three things: Hard work, honesty and giving back.
Dick Sabo, who earned a bachelor’s degree in 1955 from California State College and a master’s degree in 1965 from Edinboro State College, and his wife, Gail, support student scholarships at both campuses.
Sabo opted to attend California Area High School after being told he was too small to play football at another local school. The disparaging words were a gift in disguise. At CAHS, he excelled as a member of the football, basketball and baseball teams and met his now-wife, Gail.
“Two years later, I scored three touchdowns against Centerville,” Sabo said. “I went up to that coach and asked, ‘Am I still too small?’ Our football team went undefeated for two and a half years.”
Sabo’s father, Alex, worked two jobs, and his mother, Elizabeth, was a homemaker. Money was, in Sabo’s words, “nonexistent.”
“My father worked in the coal mines until midnight, so he had a very difficult time seeing me play sports,” he said. “But he always looked forward to the shift that was coming on to replace him. They would give him a play-by-play as to what I did that night in football or baseball or whatever it was.”
Despite the family’s financial challenges, Sabo’s parents insisted that he go to college. Luckily, his athletic achievements resulted in several scholarship offers.
He enrolled at California State College, where he played football, baseball and basketball until a knee injury caused him to focus solely on America’s pastime.
“Every penny that my parents put into college was a sacrifice,” Sabo said. “It wasn’t that I was costing them that much by going to college, because I had a scholarship. But I wasn’t contributing to the livelihood of the family, either.”
At the age of 18, he got a summer job in a steel mill in Clairton,
Pennsylvania. Working nights allowed him to play baseball during the day and still help to support his family. He played 28 games in 32 days and earned $680 to give to his mother.
Upon earning his bachelor’s degree in education at Cal in 1955, Sabo accepted a teaching position in West Springfield, Pennsylvania, not far from the shores of Lake Erie. West Springfield later merged with Albion to form Northwestern High School.
“I was teaching and coaching –football, basketball and track. So, I had a busy schedule, and I had a couple of part-time jobs,” said Sabo, who went on to complete a graduate degree in guidance and counseling at Edinboro State College in 1965. “When I started at West Springfield, I would paint classrooms on the weekends. We were broke.”
Sabo and his family were walking home from church one day when a Buick pulled to the side of the road.
D. Neal Manross was recruiting employees for the Cleveland-based Lincoln Electric Company. After a couple of visits from Manross and a review of Lincoln’s generous incentive program, Sabo accepted a manufacturing position at the Fortune 1000 company.
“They didn’t have layoffs,” he said. “Coming from a coal mining community, being laid off seemed to be part of the pressures on all the miners. They worked hard to save a little bit of money. Then the mine would shut down due to flooding or there would be a strike and all their savings would be gone. I really liked the thought of steady income, and within five years I was dining with my wife at the home of the Lincoln family.”
Over the next 33 and a half years, Sabo worked his way from factory worker to head of corporate communications and investor relations and retired in 1999 as assistant to the president and CEO.
“There’s not many companies that are so close-knit. But they are tremendous people, and I’m still friends with them today,” he said. “It was just a tremendous experience that I wouldn’t trade for anything.”
The Sabos established the Alex S. and Elizabeth Sabo Memorial Scholarship at California for students who are graduates of California Area High School and the Dick and Gail Sabo Scholarship for education majors at Edinboro, with first preference to graduates of Northwestern High School. In addition to offering financial assistance, they hope the scholarships will instill in students the importance of education and philanthropy.
The Sabos reside near Cleveland and have four children and seven grandchildren – all of whom have completed at least one college degree – and three great-grandchildren. Their daughter, Gailyn, was the first female sales representative for Lincoln Electric, and their son, Kerry, worked at Lincoln for 29 years.
“We have 17 college degrees – nine master’s, three Ph.D.s, a Juris Doctorate and an M.D.,” Sabo said proudly. “When I graduated from Cal, I realized that being the first college graduate in my entire family was a real privilege. I referred to Cal as the Harvard of the Mon Valley. When I went to Edinboro, it was like the cherry on top of an ice cream sundae.”
FEATURE by Kristin Brockett
alumni news
1950s
Eugene G. Khorey ’51 will appear in a documentary on the history of Brashear High School, one of Pittsburgh’s first desegregated high schools, exploring the essential role he played in the school’s creation and success. The documentary is being created by Patrick Stanny, co-founder of the production company malhari.media.
1960s
Victoria L. (Rivetti) Lingner ’69, the “storytelling lady,” has been telling stories for more than two decades at nursing homes, schools and Buhl Park in Hermitage, Pennsylvania. She retired from Sharon City School District after a distinguished 30-year teaching career.
1970s
David Bodrog ’75 retired from Pittsburgh Central Catholic High School after 48 years teaching biology, physics, chemistry and earth science.
John F. Corrigan ’75 discussed his historical mystery novel, “The Witch’s Fleet,” during Erie’s Tall Ships Festival. The story is set during the formation of Oliver Hazard Perry’s historic squadron in the War of 1812.
Mark E. Roche ’75, a 2023 Distinguished Alumni Award recipient, is mayor of Cochranton, Pa., and owner of Roche Graphic Arts, a studio that creates hand-painted and vinyl signage, logo designs and apparel. Beyond the duties of his elected office, Roche is director and cofounder of Cochranton Area Redevelopment Effort (CARE). He founded the Cochranton Heritage Society in 1981 and maintains the Cochranton Railroad Museum.
Dr. Vytas A. Bankaitis ’78, a 2023 Distinguished Alumni Award honoree, is a university distinguished professor and the E.L. Wehner-Welch Foundation chair in chemistry at Texas A&M College of Medicine, where his laboratory has made formative contributions in the areas of lipid metabolism and signaling, neural stem cell biology, brain development and biochemical basis
of diseases of intellectual disabilities, chemical biology and drug discovery, among others.
Nancy (Alev) Rusbosin ’78 displayed her paintings in the exhibit “Hope” at Greensburg Art Center. A portion of the sales were donated to the community improvement efforts of Nigerian activist Olutosin Oladosu Adebowale.
1980s
Dr. Jane (Emerson) Blystone M ’80 was recognized for her contributions to scholastic journalism with the Carl Towley Award, the highest award given by the Journalism Education Association.
Robert Rudisin ’82 is chief human resources officer for the American Staffing Association.
Michelle (Taylor) Whalen ’85 played in the Concert Band of Northwest Pennsylvania’s John Fleming Celebration Concert honoring the contributions of founding conductor John Fleming. Whalen is one of the band’s seven founding members.
Rosemarie C. (Gruendl) White ’87 was named assistant chief of police for the Round Rock Independent School District Police Department in Round Rock, Texas.
Dr. Emily F. Morris ’88, M ’90, is senior vice president and chief brand officer at Chautauqua Institution, a 750-acre community dedicated to promoting creativity and exploring current religious, social and political issues. Morris leads the division of Marketing, Communications and Enterprise.
1990s
Laura L. (Vegso) Manges ’90 has been appointed director of human resources for the Milford School District in Milford, Delaware.
Dr. John E. Ramin M ’90 has been appointed associate superintendent of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Syracuse schools.
alumni news
Joe M. DeSantis ’84, ’91, wrote and published “Three Points Shy,” a book on Sanford Seminole High School’s quest for the 1980 Florida High School State Basketball Championship.
Robert J. Logan ’91, illustrator and children’s author, has been recognized for his work by the California School Library Foundation.
Robert E. Bittner, Esq. ’92, a highly regarded real estate attorney, joined BakerHostetler as a partner in the firm’s business practice group.
Stephen T. Clare ’92 has been appointed vice president of finance for the Sinclair Broadcast Group.
Gregory J. Czarnecki ’92, director of applied climate science for the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, presented a webinar on the impact of climate change in Pennsylvania sponsored by Friends of White’s Woods.
Dr. Glynis A. (Claffey) Fitzgerald ’92 was appointed Alvernia University’s eighth president, becoming the first female layperson to serve in the role.
Paul R. Benim ’94 was inducted into the Metropolitan Erie Sports Hall of Fame.
Caroline L. (Roth) Epstein ’94 was named the 2023 Palm Beach County School District Library Media Specialist of the Year. Epstein has worked in the district for nearly three decades. With more than 180 schools, the School District of Palm Beach County is the 10th largest in the U.S.
alumni news
Erin K. Sturga ’94 and other Denverarea citizens formed Canada Geese Protection Colorado to advocate against culling of geese in Denver parks and support non-lethal methods of goose management.
Lt. William Watkins ’94, a 24-year veteran of the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department, has been promoted to captain of the Facilities Management Division.
Kimber Forrester ’95, M ’05; Marieka L. Jones ’11; Clarissa Stewart-Baker ’07, M ’11; Justus A. Cotterill ’13; Robert D. Eggleston III ’09; and Leslie A. Reed-Hurst ’01, are founding staff or faculty at Erie County Community College.
Gregory G. Yoko M ’95 has been named as a business development executive for Corporate Central Credit Union.
Dawn M. Leary ’96 has been named assistant principal for Viewmont Elementary School in Hickory, North Carolina.
Mark A. Adamchik ’97 was selected by the Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers as assistant director for the National Capital Region Training Operations Directorate. Adamchik has more than 23 years of experience in federal law enforcement senior leadership.
Jeannette M. (Sabol) Boyd ’98 was named to Union City’s Wall of Achievement for her work as a teacher and coach.
Dr. Amy M. (Rogers) Sidwell ’98 is senior education director for Junior Achievement of Western Pennsylvania.
NaShonda L. Bender-Cooke ’99, a 2023 Distinguished Alumni Award recipient, is an eighth-generation educator, teacher advocate and consultant committed to recruiting and retaining highly qualified K-12 teachers, building a pipeline for educators of color, and providing equal learning opportunities to all students.
Dr. Rebecca A. (Trojan) DeLucia ’99 has been appointed network director of education for Davis and Lake Norman Regional Medical Centers.
Tara M. (Daniels) Mautone ’99 was named executive director of client services at Anton Health.
2000s
Edward F. Gerg ’00 celebrated 20 years as owner of Gerg Insurance & Financial Services, LLC, which has locations in Saint Marys, Ridgway and Warren, Pennsylvania.
Col. Rebekah S. (Henn) Lust ’00 is division director of the Functional Management Division for Integrated Personnel and Pay System – Army.
Andrea Mager-Schulte ’00, M ’11, a visual arts teacher at Kent Island High School, was named Queen Anne’s County Public Schools Teacher of the Year, Maryland Secondary Art Educator of the Year, and a finalist for the 2023-24 Maryland Teacher of the Year.
David O. Snyder ’00, a teacher in the Commodore Perry School District, received Thiel College’s 2023 Business Mentor of the Year Award.
alumni news
Darrin T. Kinander ’01 was named executive director of PA Thrive Partnership. His goal is to improve the quality and availability of HIV care and treatment for low-income people.
Matthew D. Platz ’01 is executive director of Corry Higher Education Council.
Angela M. Ambrose ’02, a 2023 Distinguished Alumni Award honoree, is vice president of Government Relations and Communications for GM Defense LLC. She is responsible for executing external affairs, working with the executive and legislative branches of government, and managing the
development and implementation of strategic communications, media relations and marketing on a global scale.
David J. Koma M ’02 was appointed superintendent of Girard School District.
Jennifer L. Gaston ’03, M ’08, has been selected as Jefferson County Vocational Technical School’s assistant principal.
Joshua C. Jaeger ’03 has been appointed data administrator of the Erie Community Foundation.
Robert J. Jensen ’03, multimedia artist and musician, was the 2022 featured artist for the Arts and Drafts Festival at The Brewerie at Union Station in Erie.
Yvonne J. Maher M ’04 has been named executive director of the Pittsburgh Penguins Foundation. She oversees the organization’s operations to maximize its community impact.
Kenya L. (Wayne) Johnson ’05 is director and owner of The Learning Ladder Early Child Care Center in Erie.
Anthony M. Romano ’06 has been selected as a contestant for Behind the Shutter’s Creator Series, a photography competition and web series.
Jermaine M. Truax ’06, vice president for athletics and recreation at Bucknell University, has been appointed to the NCAA Division I Football Championship Subdivision Oversight Committee.
Brynn E. (Space) Renninger ’07, M ’12, led Creative “Space,” a seven-week art program for children held at Dancer’s Studio in Clarion, Pennsylvania.
Matthew L. Selker ’07 has taken the role of executive director for the National Alliance on Mental Illness of Lake County, Ohio.
Troy A. Bugosh ’08 is a visual communication and marketing specialist at Pennsylvania Highlands Community College. His team won five Medallion Awards from the National Council for Marketing and Public Relations.
Kristopher A. Kaufman M ’08, M ’15, will serve as Northern Tioga School District’s next superintendent.
Rita E. Sterner-Hine ’08 was named superintendent of Waynesboro Area School District.
Jonathan E. Williams ’08, M ’10, was named to the Forbes/SHOOK Top Next-Gen Wealth Advisors Best-In-State list based on interviews with clients and quantitative data on experience and performance. Williams is a financial advisor for Edward Jones in Clarion, Pennsylvania.
alumni news
Montanya T. (Thomas) Crosby ’09, assistant clinical instructor at UPMC Mercy School of Nursing, received Pittsburgh Magazine’s Excellence in Nursing Award in recognition of her professional excellence and commitment to health care.
Jeffrey Esposito ’09 became general manager of Owensboro Convention Center and Owensboro Sportscenter after decades of experience in event facility leadership.
2010s
Korey M. Collins II M ’11 served as a keynote speaker for the City of Chattanooga’s Science of Reading conference.
Brandy A. (Ormond) Kinney M ’11 was presented the Western New York Network of English Teachers 2023 Experienced Teacher Award. Kinney has taught ninth- and 10th-grade English in the Salamanca City School District for 16 years.
Clifford W. Moore M ’11, assistant head wrestling coach at West Virginia University and former assistant head wrestling coach at Edinboro, has been inducted into the Iowa Wrestling Hall of Fame.
Meredith K. (Moxley) Henderson M ’12 was unanimously appointed principal of Easterly Parkway Elementary School in State College, Pennsylvania.
Kim A. Moore M ’12 was named principal at Windber Area High School in Pennsylvania. Prior to her appointment, Moore was an administrator in the Greater Johnstown School District.
Ryan S. Oakley ’12 is an officer in the Erie Police Department.
Kevin J. Rohde M ’12 displayed artwork in VisArt’s 355 POD Space Gallery. “Projections” explores individual responses to the changing conditions of life and society.
Kellen O’Neill ’13, M ’20, completed his second season as wide receivers coach for the Michigan Technological University Huskies.
Dr. Jared J. Schneider ’13, who teaches German in the Butler Area School District and is a member of the Edinboro Alumni Association Board of Directors, completed his Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction at Liberty University.
Desiree N. Krise M ’14 presented at “Empathizing with Teens in Trauma: An Exploration of the Terezin Ghetto/ Camp,” a webinar exploring the artwork created by teenagers in concentration camps during World War II.
alumni news
Jessica A. (Blackwood) Parker ’14, ’22, has been selected as the new assistant principal for Rowan Elementary School in Cranberry Township, Pennsylvania.
Roylin Petties III M ’14 became principal of Lincoln Park Performing Arts Charter School in Midland, Pennsylvania.
Monica L. Jeffcoat M ’15 has been appointed CEO of Helping Hands, Inc., a South Carolina foster care nonprofit.
Capt. Joel J. Natalie ’15 is an assistant professor of Military Science at Western Illinois University.
Michael J. Fenner ’16 has been promoted to sports department lead and weekday sports anchor for JET 24/FOX 66 News.
Stephanie G. Herrmann M ’16 has been appointed Penn Manor School District’s new assistant director of student support services.
Jamie L. Soboleski ’16 is athletic director at General McLane High School in Edinboro, where she began her high school volleyball coaching career.
Kayla M. (Sweet) Zizzi ’17 joined Tucker Arensberg Attorneys as a litigation attorney. She earned her Juris Doctor from Widener University Commonwealth Law School.
Walker J. Gray ’18 is an associate attorney at Praemia Law, PLLC.
Matthew A. Holmes M ’18 is superintendent of Northeast Bradford School District.
LeighAnn N. Stauffer M ’19 is head women’s lacrosse coach at St. Bonaventure University.
2020s
Alyson J. Bevacqua ’20 is a resource conservation technician for the Elk County Conservation District.
Isaiah A. Smiley ’21 was named assistant men’s basketball coach at Bloomsburg University. Prior to his appointment with the Huskies, he served as assistant coach at Penn State Shenango.
Kelvin R. Munoz-Carrero ’22 joined the Erie Bureau of Police.
Ashley S. Paskov M ’22 judged the 2023 Mollie Fearing Memorial Art Show.
Tracey L. (Hegedus) Coon ’92, a first-grade teacher at Grandview Elementary School; Katy C. Thompson ’99, art teacher in the General McLane School District; Tracy L. Chrzanowski ’00, M ’08, a fourth-grade teacher at Grandview Elementary School; and Jessica A. Wall ’17, M ’22, a teacher at Charter School of Excellence, were awarded JET 24 and PennWest Edinboro’s Golden Apple Award in recognition of excellence in teaching.
in memorium
With deepest sympathy to the family and friends of the following alumni who have passed away.
1930s
Frances C. (Creacraft) Werling ’38 | Meadville, PA
1940s
Arthur N. Jarvis ’49 | Portland, OR
Maryalice (Armagost) Leech ’49 | Charlotte, NC
Frieda B. (Sherretts) Seley ’49 | Meadville, PA
1950s
Margaret J. (Wyneken) Budny ’50 | Erie, PA
James R. “Bob” Murray ’50 | Cedar Park, TX
Virginia A. (Batchelor) Neely ’50 | Conneaut Lake, PA
Faith E. (Gray) Crosby ’51 | Erie, PA
Angeline (Vitale) DeMartines ’51 | Granada Hills, CA
Joanne S. (Snell) Hall ’51 | Bartlesville, OK
Dr. Nick F. Muto ’51 | Austin, TX
Constance L. (Torgler) Rosequist ’51 | Indian Harbour Beach, FL
Roger R. Stowe ’51 | Erie, PA
Lewis C. Penna ’52 | Erie, PA
Flora A. Dean ’53 | Winter Park, FL
Beverly A. (Griewahn) Deininger ’53 | Erie, PA
Donald F. Kenny ’53 | Avon, CT
June C. (Norbeck) McClure ’53 | Bridge Lake, BC
Peter J. Plumpis ’53 | Tonawanda, NY
William J. Sopchak ’53 | Painesville, OH
Kathryn Duran ’55 | Erie, PA
Naomi J. “Joy” (Lawrence) Westbrook ’55 | Edinboro, PA
Joan (Novelli) Bianco ’57 | Hockessin, DE
Albert L. Heckert ’57 | Hampton Bays, NY
Jacquelyn A. (Morron) Mayer ’58 | Parma, OH
Beverly J. (Prindle) Miller ’58 | Girard, PA
James H. Connor ’59 | Edinboro, PA
Roberta M. (Camp) Dahlkemper ’59 | Erie, PA
Theodore R. Lesuer ’59 | Jamestown, PA
1960s
Diane (Ulm) Beckwith ’60 | Huntsville, AL
Raymond A. Catalano ’60 | Canonsburg, PA
Lambert A. Fitzgerald ’60 | Amherst, OH
Robert S. Ford ’60 | North East, PA
Myrna L. (Kirchner) McCullough ’60 | Minnetonka, MN
Harold F. Duffy ’61 | Indiana, PA
Francis E. “Gene” Onest ’61 | Lancaster, PA
John “Jack” V. Randall ’61 | Meadville, PA
Sally R. (Lupton) Steele ’61 | Maytown, PA
Louis J. Kwiatkowski ’62 | Erie, PA
Winifred L. (Hogan) Zanotti ’62 | Westlake, OH
Phyllis M. (Fobes) Goldhart ’63 | Albion, PA
Vickie J. (Lewis) Mattson ’63 | Erie, PA
Virginia L. (Jackson) Sterling ’63 | Fort Myers, FL
Marcia L. (Davis) Troller ’63 | Portal, AZ
Ruth C. (Harmon) Waltonbaugh ’63 | Brooksville, FL
