Clarion University Foundation Annual Report 2024

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BOARD PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

Dear friends of PennWest Clarion,

I suspect most of you had to make changes to your daily routine during the pandemic. During my extended COVID home time, I purchased a jigsaw puzzle from a UK-based company that sells all sizes and varieties of wooden/ frameable puzzles. After completing my first puzzle, I was hooked, and I still am.

The appeal for me was taking a box full of pieces of random shapes and sizes and knowing that with time, thought, a bit of noodling, and patience, I could create something that was truly greater than the sum of its parts.

I’m feeling that PennWest University is at a point where we are presented with so many pieces of a unique puzzle. The raw materials – or pieces of our puzzle – are many. We have three campuses deeply rooted in their communities, an almost 500-year combined history of providing a wealth of educational programs, an active alumni base of over 200,000 (60,000-plus for PennWest Clarion), a dedicated staff and faculty, and strong leadership. We also have a bold vision for our future, as articulated by our new president, Dr. Jon Anderson. The near-term objectives are pinpointing a clear vision and value proposition for

PennWest, capitalizing on AI efficiencies through a neural network, and making our systems stable and strong. More pieces of this puzzle will be put in place as time goes on.

It is heartening to know that you, the friends and donors of CUF, Inc., will each have a part in creating the environment that defines how PennWest will provide valuable student experiences. The benefits of these experiences will extend beyond the online or campus studies.

Your input is valuable. In the past year, CUF, Inc., has provided scholarships totaling over $1.4 million to 635 students. This equates to an average of more than $2,200 per student. Our endowment tops $50 million, among the highest in our peer group.

Thank you for your part in helping to connect the integral pieces of our puzzle. I can’t wait to see the finished masterpiece – a visionary work that defines PennWest’s future. Then we can all say, “We did it. It took time, toil, patience and thoughtful input, but it was well worth the effort.”

I am grateful for your continued support.

Jane

PENNWEST WELCOMES

PRESIDENT DR. JON ANDERSON

Dr. Jon Anderson was officially installed as PennWest’s second president on Dec. 6, 2024, marking the culmination of a productive first semester.

Since assuming the presidency on July 1, President Anderson, his wife Kristy, and their son Bryce, have been a constant on every campus, celebrating key moments of campus life, including the Autumn Leaf Festival in Clarion and Homecoming celebrations at California and Edinboro, over three vibrant weekends in October.

Under Anderson’s leadership, PennWest has achieved remarkable milestones, such as increased student retention. Retention has seen a 9.5% growth in online enrollment, and a 9.4% rise in new graduate enrollment for the fall 2024 semester.

Additionally, the university secured a $3.2 million gift for early childhood education. It launched the PennWest Center for Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Technologies, solidifying PennWest at the forefront of innovation and community engagement.

Looking ahead, Dr. Anderson has outlined three core goals to guide PennWest’s future:

1. Delivering high-quality, mission-aligned academic programs;

2. Fostering community partnerships to address regional needs and drive economic growth; and

3. Fostering lifelong connections with alumni.

These priorities aim to enhance PennWest’s reputation as a leader in education and innovation while strengthening its ties to western Pennsylvania.

“Our commitment to student success shapes our mission, creating an environment where our students feel valued and empowered to achieve their goals,” President Anderson said.

A champion of connection and dialogue, Anderson hosts “The Power of PennWest” podcast, where he engages with students, faculty, staff, and alumni to share stories and insights that shape the university. Tune in to “The Power of PennWest” podcast on Apple or Spotify, and follow Dr. Anderson on Instagram @PennWestPresident to join the conversation.

CLARION UNIVERSITY FOUNDATION, INC. BY THE NUMBERS 2023-2024

$1.7M IN GIFTS

10 NEW ENDOWMENTS, SCHOLARSHIPS AND FUNDS TOTALING $279K

$1.4M AWARDED TO 635 PENNWEST CLARION STUDENTS

NEW MILESTONE REACHED THE ENDOWMENT REACHES AND EXCEEDS $50 MILLION AT THE END OF FY24

PENNWEST CLARION AWARDED

$5.2 MILLION IN SCHOLARSHIPS LAST YEAR 27% OF THOSE WERE PROVIDED BY CLARION UNIVERSITY FOUNDATION, INC.

NEW ENDOWMENTS, SCHOLARSHIPS AND FUNDS IN FY24

Clarion Theta XI Alumni Association Athletic Scholarship

Robert O'Brien ('62) Football Scholarship Endowment

Iron Furnace Chapter of Trout Unlimited Founders Award

PennWest Clarion — Somerset Nursing Scholarships

Kent Kretzler Communications Department Endowment

Phi Sigma Epsilon/Keeping the Legend Alive Scholarship

Betty McKisson Memorial Scholarship

Khalia Robinson Fund

Dan ('72) and Cheryl (Stark '72) Mortland Annual Scholarship

Irene (Vobrak '52) Tkatch Education Scholarship

Planned gift perpetuates legacy of helping others

At the first of the year, Joan Miller vowed that once a month, she would have dessert or dinner for her Brookville neighbors. The 94-year-old said she did pretty well until late in the summer, when she got too busy.

Explaining the myriad activities that fill her calendar, Miller said, “We’ll start with church. I’m Lutheran. I was raised, baptized and confirmed Lutheran. I married Lutheran.”

Her activities there are just the beginning.

“I play a lot of bridge, about 10 times a month. I volunteer every Thursday morning at the food pantry. We have a gathering room, and (the clients) come in there before they go through the line. I serve them coffee and cookies. I belong to WRC Auxiliary, and I go to a study here in town.”

Most of what she does is local, and she cautiously drives herself there and home again, where she enjoys entertaining guests.

“I’ll have someone in for coffee. That’s what I love – someone coming by. I usually have something baked,” Miller said. “I just like people.

As the youngest of seven girls and four boys, she was given advice one day by one of her brothers, who had already graduated college by the time she was born.

“When you’re out, you’ll be meeting a lot of different people,” he told her. “Take the time to listen to everybody, regardless of what they look like or what they’re saying.”

She still lives that way.

“I’m interested. I still am interested in what people do and where they’re at,” she said. “I want everyone to make the best of what they have.”

Like attracts like.

When Miller thinks about the most prominent qualities of her late husband, Ken Miller ’52, his practice of listening to others immediately comes to mind. It was a gift he shared as a husband, a family member, a friend, a neighbor – simply as a human being.

“He was honest. He was interested in people. He listened,” Miller said. “I would hear him with a customer, some just chewing him up and down, and he would listen.”

His way of caring for customers contributed greatly to the success of his business, Miller Equipment, a John Deere dealership in Fairmount City that he founded in 1963, then operated for 40 years.

Her husband’s work ethic is another quality that stood out.

“After he graduated high school, he went into the service. He became an Air Force pilot,” Miller said.

After he was honorably discharged, he wanted to further his education. He had dreamed of going to Penn State, but money for tuition wasn’t there, according to Miller. He was one of five children, raised on a farm. While his family supported him with love and encouragement, they weren’t able to help with higher education.

“In the meantime, he was approached about a business with soil conservation,” Miller said. “He had a ditcher, a grater and a dozer. He and his brother-in-law George bought into it, but he still wanted to go to college.”

He enrolled at Clarion.

“He worked hard through college. He worked all day at his (soil conservation) job, then he fit his class schedule around work,” she said. “He really worked for his education.”

Ken and George did very well on soil conservation, and they were getting to the place where they and their families were fairly comfortable when they were approached by John Deere about starting a dealership. Ken was excited about the opportunity; George, less so. Still, they went to Syracuse to meet with a John Deere executive.

They were told they didn’t have enough operating cash for a dealership. Miller recalled her husband’s response: “I’m going to tell you something. You’re missing the chance of two honest, hard-working individuals who would make a good dealership.”

Disappointed, he and George returned home and continued their soil conservation business, serving the counties of Armstrong, Clarion, Jefferson and Clearfield – until the phone rang one day.

It was the executive, who said John Deere had reconsidered, and they could open a dealership. He and George opened Miller Equipment; George remained with the business for a year, but for Ken, the rest of his work life was spent there.

Together, those qualities of listening and working hard made the business successful, which provided the means for a third beloved quality – being charitable.

“He was charitable, loving – all of the attributes you would want in a husband or a businessman. And of course, education was important to him, Miller said.

Together, Ken and Joan began to work with then-Clarion University administrators President Diane Reinhard and Harry Tripp.

“Ken had great praise for the university,” Miller said. “He said, ‘I wish I could do something to make it a little easier than what I had it. I just want to do for someone who was in my situation. I want to help them.’ And he has.”

The Millers’ inaugural gift to Clarion was to an existing scholarship started by former Pennsylvania Governor Dick Thornburg and his wife, Ginny. Miller said they supported the Laurel Leaf Festival and a couple of fraternities. Their generosity extended to their church and Shriners Home for Children.

Ken passed away in 2003, and Miller continues the legacy of helping others, honoring her husband’s preference for quiet giving.

“He never wanted the notability. He didn’t want to be recognized. That’s why he decided to do it all in life insurance,” Miller said. “He would be gone, and I will be gone, too.”

Miller is working with PennWest planned giving director Larry Jamison, who is making sure the Millers’ wishes will be fulfilled. She has designated 20 percent of the gift for creation of a scholarship for PennWest Clarion students who are members or whose parents are members of Zion Lutheran Church, Shannondale, and who live in Clarion, Jefferson, Forest or Armstrong counties. Eighty percent of the funds will be used to renovate Marwick-Boyd Fine Arts Center’s main auditorium, which will carry the Millers’ names.

PENNWEST CLARION HONORS SIX WITH DISTINGUISHED AWARDS

Distinguished 2024 AWARDS

PennWest Clarion Alumni Association presented its annual Distinguished Awards March 15 in Gemmell Student Center. The premier event was established in 1966 to recognize alumni and friends who, over an extended period of time and/or through a singular achievement, have achieved exemplary success in their own field, extraordinary service to Clarion, their community, state, nation or all of humanity.

DISTINGUISHED ALUMNUS CHRISTOPHER ALBRECHT ’95

In 1995, his first year of teaching, Albrecht empowered a group of 10 seventh graders to network hundreds of computers and create the first school web page in West Virginia history; he documented the process in his first book, “Unconventionally Successful.” For his pioneering work, he was recognized as the Sallie Mae First Class National Teacher of the Year (1996). Subsequent awards related to his innovation and excellence in education include:

• CBS Golden Apple

• State University of New York’s Roy Bubb Award for Exceptional Teacher Mentorship

• New York State Teacher of the Year

• Induction into the National Teachers Hall of Fame

• National Education Association Foundation’s Award for Teaching Excellence

DISTINGUISHED ALUMNA MILISSA BAUER ’84

Bauer has contributed to education, recreation and economic development in Clarion County. In 2007, Bauer and her former swim coach Dr. Rebecca Leas, partnered to create the Dr. Rebecca Rutt Leas Women’s Swimming Scholarship. She co-founded the Children’s Scholarship Fund of Pennsylvania and has raised nearly $7 million for Clarion County students. Bauer received a Papal Honor award from Pope Benedict in 2006 and the title of Lady of Saint Gregory. In 2020, she received the Women of Influence Award from the Pittsburgh Business Times. Accomplishments include:

• Appointed to Clarion University Council of Trustees in 2012; served Pennsylvania Council of Trustees 2016-2022.

• Clarion County YMCA board president during planning and building the new facility. Co-chaired the Capital Campaign Committee, which raised over $12 million.

• With Clarion County Economic Development, worked to designate two townships as Keystone Opportunity Zones; develops and implements strategy for the 2030 Clarion County Connected Plan.

• Created Clarion County Adventures to support community projects. Financial committee member of Clarion Blueprint Community for the 2nd Avenue Blueprint Park in Clarion Borough.

DISTINGUISHED FACULTY

DR. DIPENDRA NARAYAN

BHATTACHARYA

Bhattacharya, or “Dr. Dip,” began his career in 1962 as a physics teacher in Varanasi, India. He completed a MS in mathematics in 1966, did well and was appointed as a lecturer in mathematics at Banaras Hindu University the same year. In 1968, Bhattacharya was awarded a teaching assistantship at the State University of New York Stony Brook, where he completed his MS in applied mathematics. He then completed his BSE in mathematics and physics at Queen’s University Canada and taught mathematics for the Hamilton Board of Education in Ontario, Canada. He also:

• Received a teaching assistantship and resident advisor position at the State University of New York Buffalo and completed his doctorate in mathematics education in 1982.

• Worked as an instructor in the Gifted Math Program at SUNY Buffalo until he was hired by SUNY Fredonia as an assistant professor in 1984.

• Received teaching awards including Excellence in Teaching and Best Instructor for the Upward Bound program at SUNY Buffalo.

• Donated $100,000 to Clarion University Foundation, Inc., for scholarship funds to inspire students to study math or education.

• Professor emeritus who helps students excel in math and chess.

DISTINGUISHED SERVICE

Gent, who holds BSE from Youngstown State and MSE and doctorate degrees from Kent State, began her 34-year tenure at Clarion in 1988. She moved through the ranks from assistant to full professor, for six years chaired the Department of Special Education and Rehabilitation Sciences, served four years as associate provost and three years as provost, retiring in 2022 as provost emeritus. Gent published or presented 140 articles, chapters, and professional papers, and authored over $750,000 in funded grants. Her book, “Great Ideas: Using service-learning and differentiated instruction to help your students succeed,” was published in 2009. She developed Clarion’s first Pennsylvania DOE-approved curriculum for autism. Accolades and accomplishments include:

• Received the Pennsylvania Council of Exceptional Children President’s Award.

• Led successful Middle States Accreditation review.

• Garnered approval of eight new degree programs and 43 new minors, concentrations, and/or certificates.

• Was essential to university’s pivot to online instruction during the pandemic. Co-led Academic Affairs’ Functional Implementation Team for integrating Clarion, Edinboro and California universities into PennWest.

DISTINGUISHED ALUMNA KÁRI KING-HILL ’95

For 30 years, Hill has been an educator and administrator for higher education and public, private and charter schools in Pennsylvania and New York. Hill earned graduate degrees in education and a Pennsylvania Superintendent’s Letter of Eligibility and has completed coursework in the educational leadership doctoral degree program at Arcadia University. With a combined 17 years as an elementary school principal, she has been a classroom teacher, instructional coach, curriculum writer and school leader. Notable service includes:

• Has served in church ministry since the age of 6.

• First female licensed into the evangelical preaching ministry (1998) and the first female ordained minister (2006) at Faith Emanuel Baptist Church in Philadelphia. Hill serves at Jones Memorial Baptist Church in Philadelphia.

• Received the National Congress of Black Women Anointed Vessel Clergy Award in 2019.

• Appointed in 2019 to the Clarion University Presidential Diversity Advisory Committee.

• An Air Force Reserve veteran who is a sought-after preacher, revivalist, conference speaker and lecturer.

DISTINGUISHED YOUNG ALUMNA LAUREN BOVARD ’16

Bovard was actively involved at Clarion in the Society for Human Resource Management, worked for the Alumni Association and was a cheerleader. She graduated with a BSBA, human resource management concentration. In her career, she gained diverse experience in various industries. In 2018, Bovard joined the HR team at Graham Packaging, a leader in the design and manufacture of sustainable plastic packaging. She is pursuing a certification in organizational development and design at Cornell University. She completed a nine-month program for emerging leaders. Bovard:

• Serves on the board at the Samaritan Counseling Center, which provides affordable counseling services, mental health awareness and teen suicide prevention.

• Lends expertise to the DEI Council at Lancaster Society for Human Resource Managers.

• Is a member of Clarion University Alumni Board of Directors.

Lauren Bovard ‘18, recipient of Clarion Alumni Association’s Distinguished Young Alumna award, had an extra reason to celebrate at the March 15, 2024, awards ceremony. Former Clarion men’s basketball player Tyrone McFadden ‘15 surprised her with a huge request and some new jewelry. She said yes!

In appreciation of our donors

AMBASSADOR’S

Joseph Fischer

I am deeply grateful for your generous support through the Barton/ Murdock Scholarship. This scholarship is more than just funding for me; it represents the belief you have in my potential and the commitment to supporting students like me. Your generosity has not only alleviated financial burdens, but it has also sparked a renewed sense of purpose and dedication. I am fully committed to working very hard and making the most of this opportunity, striving to exceed your expectations and honor your investment in my future. Thank you again for your belief in me and for empowering me to reach new heights.

CLUB: $10,000 OR MORE

Mr. Vincent K. Aaron ’70 and Mrs. Alma R. Aaron

Addison H. Gibson Foundation

Kenneth W. Beels Charitable Trust

Mr. Gary V. Cardamone ’88 and Ms. Misha Cardamone

Mr. Michael G. Casciato ’81

Clarion Community Foundation - CCF

Mrs. Emily K. (Hincken) Emigh ’72

Ms. Jane K. France ’71 and Mr. Christian L. Allison

Samuel Justus Charitable Trust

Charles E/Virginia Kaufman Fund of The Pittsburgh Foundation

William Klemstine Foundation

Mr. L. Kent Kretzler ’73

Mr. Scott Kroh ’74 and Mrs. Pamela J. Kroh

Mrs. Jean (Decker) Leety ’60 and Mr. Richard W. Leety

Mr. Dan S. Mortland ’72 and Mrs. Cheryl S. (Stark) Mortland ’72

Nick’s Autobody of Clarion, LLC.

Mrs. Marilyn J. (Follette) O’Brien ’63

Mr. James T. Ringland and Mrs. Karen E. Ivy

Robindale Energy Services, Inc.

Mr. Scott Kroh ’74 and Mrs. Pamela J. Kroh

Mr. Jon R. Slater ’86 and Mrs. Carla P. (Pozzani) Slater ’69

Mendel and Sylvia Solomon Charitable Trust

Mr. John M. Stoner, Jr. ’75 and Mrs. Janice L. (McMinn) Stoner ’75

*Mr. Henry B. Suhr, Jr. and Mrs. Beverly Suhr

Dr. Kristopher Tkatch

GIVING FROM JULY 1, 2023 – JUNE 30, 2024

Mrs. Carol A. (Neuberger) Truscott ’79 and Mr. John Truscott

UHS of Delaware, Inc.

Mr. Steven R. and Ms. Michelle M. Varischetti

*Mrs. Mary E. “Libby” Williams ’56

UNIVERSITY CLUB: $5,000-$9,999

Alpha Gamma Phi Alumni Association

Ms. Lindsay R. Banner-Cigole ’07 and Mr. Patrick Cigole

Mrs. Milissa A. (Steiner) Bauer ’84

Bluewater Management Group Inc

Mr. Tom Bowman ’77 and Mrs. Linda S. (Allison) Bowman ’77

Clarion Theta Xi Alumni Association

Mr. Enrique Conterno and Mrs. Kathleen Conterno

Mr. Raymond W. Day ’69 and Mrs. Joanne W. Day

Ms. Jeanne M. Dennis

Mr. John M. DiTommaso ’78

Enterprise Holdings Foundation

FirstEnergy Foundation

Highmark Health

Mr. Charles P. Leach, Jr. and Mrs. Sonja Leach

Dr. David D. McFadden ’84

Dr. Terry Morrow and Mrs. Phyllis Morrow

Mr. Charles L. Motter

Mr. Wayne Norris ’65 and Mrs. Jacalyn Norris

Mr. Paul D. Palmer ’61 and Mrs. Paula J. Palmer

Mr. Ryan S. Peffer ’03 and Ms. Suzanne Peffer

Mr. Earl R. Petrucci ’64 and Mrs. Georgiana Petrucci

Ms. Julia M. Piccolino ’23

Release Coatings of New York

Mr. Ralph A. Naples, Jr. ’84

Mrs. Susan A. (Stehle) Slike ’79

Estate of Dr. Phyllis W. Smith

Mr. Jeff T. Snodgrass and Dr. Wendy Snodgrass

Mr. Jeffrey J. Szumigale ’82

Mr. Dennis J. Twigg ’17

Dr. John E. Williams

PRESIDENT’S CLUB:

$2,500-$4,999

Mr. Mark S. Andrekovich ’84 and Mrs. Mari K. (Pietila) Andrekovich ’87

Colegrove Educational Trust

Mr. Mark R. Demich ’79 and Mrs. Deborah LPM Demich

Eagle Park Apartments

Mr. Jay P. Kumar ’82

Farmers National Bank

Dr. Susanne K. Fenske and Mr. Ron Fenske

Mr. Kale R. Fithian ’97

Mr. James Geiger and Mrs. Kristen Geiger

Mr. M. Scott Gemberling, J.D. ’74

Dr. Joseph P. Grunenwald and Mrs. Janice M. Grunenwald

Mr. John L. Jarzab, Jr. and Mrs. Cynthia L. Jarzab

Kiwanis Club of Clarion

Mr. Keith J. Kochert ’98

Mr. Daniel A. Kohley ’84 and Mrs. Sheree Kohley

Charles P. Leach Agency, Inc.

Mrs. Lisa A. (Leach) Goth ’85 and Mr. Edward F. Goth ’85

Mr. Barry L. McCauliff ’72

Microtel Inn and Suites by Wyndham

Ms. Amy L. (Coon) Miller ’94 and Mr. Scott Konwinski

Mrs. Mary Lou H. (Herbert) Pae ’79

PNC Foundation

The Rehab Centre, Inc.

Dr. Jason R. Jacobs

Mr. Michael C. Ruslavage ’83

S & T Bank

Mr. Vincent V. Sands ’78 and Mrs. Theresa A. (Renz) Sands ’79

State Street Corporation

Mrs. Marilyn L. Stempeck ’83

Mr. Bruce A. Sukaly ’79 and Mrs. Leslie Sukaly

Swartfager Welding, Inc.

Ms. Lee Ann Wentzel ’85

Wildflower Garden Club

Ms. Hattie Woods

RISING EAGLES CLUB: $1,000-$2,499

Mr. William Ackerman ’73 and Mrs. Leslie R. (Damon) Ackerman

*Dr. Arthur Acton and Mrs. Mary Ann Acton

Mr. Russell F. Adkins ’74 and Mrs. Sharon Adkins

Mr. Alex A. Angelone ’14

APSCUF - Clarion Chapter

Mr. Lynn Armstrong ’68

Mrs. Betty Jo Banner

Mr. David J. Bevevino ’77 and Mrs. Patricia K. Bevevino

BNY Mellon Community Partnership

Mr. Richard Bolea

Ms. Elaine L. Bonoma

Mr. William J. Brand ’63

Mrs. Nada J. (Yanshak) Brillante ’64

Mrs. Tanya and Mr. Paul Brinsky

Mrs. Mary B. (Souser) Buchanan ’93 and Dr. William E. Buchanan

Dr. David B. Burmeister ’92 and Dr. Sonja Burmeister

Mrs. Madelon (Delp) Callen ’65

Mr. Pete P. Caristo ’55

Dr. Richard R. Castafero ’68 and Mrs. Gail L. Castafero

Clarion Football Alumni Committee

Mrs. Pamela H. (Hannaford) Cousino ’80

Dr. Joseph Croskey and Mrs. Kathy (Ellwood) Croskey

Mrs. Barbara J. (Cook) Crowley ’71 and Mr. Robert D. Crowley

Dr. Peter Dalby and Mrs. Barbara Dalby

David D. Davenport ’71

Mrs. Patricia D. (Revelant) Davidson ’99 and Mr. Adam P. Davidson

Mr. Louis B. Dean, Jr. ’74 and Mrs. Bea Dean

Delta Zeta Sorority

Ms. J. D. Dunbar ’77 and Mr. Henry Faller

*Ms. Diane S. Durbin and Mr. Hans C. Olsen

Mrs. Theresa A. (Zacherl) Edder ’91, MS ’05 and Mr. Paul E. Edder ’81

Dr. Dennis P. Emerick ’71 and Mrs. Susan Emerick

Mrs. Beverly A. Engle ’71 and Mr. Roger Engle

Mr. David L. Eury ’81

Dr. Soga Ewedemi

ExxonMobil Foundation

Fab-Tec Industries, Inc.

Mr. Daniel A. Kohley ’84 and Mrs. Sheree Kohley

Mr. David Ferro

Mr. Paul L. Flickner ’85 and Mrs. Ellen Flickner

Elizabeth J. Flynn

Mr. James J. and Ms. Susan L. Flynn

Dr. Benjamin Freed and Mrs. Deb Freed

Dr. Phillip Frese and Mrs. Estelle Frese

Fun With Fundamentals

Mr. Norbert A. Baschnagel and Mrs. Beverly J. (Hey) Baschnagel ’77

Ms. Constance Gamaluddin

Mr. Alan Geiger

Mr. Richard Gent and Dr. Pamela J. Gent

Mr. Jeffrey G. Golias ’83

Ms. Rhonda E. Green ’92

Mr. Jeffry S. and Ms. Emily G. Greenwell

Lt. Col. Willis C. Hardwick

Dr. Sonja V. (Vidunas) Heeter ’77 and Mr. Cliff Heeter

Mr. David L. Hill ’89

Mr. Michael H. Hinderliter ’71 and Mrs. Kay M. Hinderliter

Mr. Henry Ho and Mrs. Katie Ho

Mr. Daniel L. Hoffman ’91 and Mrs. Kathleen J. (Spotts) Hoffman ’92

Mr. John M. Horton, Jr. ’92

Atty. Emmanuel O. Iheukwumere ’90

Mr. Carl and Ms. Michele F. Ippoliti

Mr. Michael N. Janak ’83

Mr. Scott M. Johnson

Jones Memorial Baptist Church

Lt. Col. Louis S. Jumbercotta, USMC (Ret) ’65

and Mrs. Linda R. Jumbercotta

Mrs. Cathy R. (Rhodes) Keefer ’93, ’15G and Mr. Michael R. Keefer

Dr. Deborah J. Kelly ’99

Mr. Charles F. Klingensmith ’61

Mrs. Roberta L. Kmiec ’71 and Mr. Dennis Kmiec

Ms. Deborah L. Kuhn

Mrs. Carol K. Leas ’65

Mr. Raymond D. Lichauer ’70

Brandi Young

Thank you for awarding me the Dr. and Mrs. Arthur William Phillips Nursing Scholarship. The past two years, I have been working hard to pursue my registered nurse degree, receiving an A in all the classes that I have taken. I am the first in my family to attend a university, and I am a working wife and mother of two. I have been a licensed practical nurse for 11 years, working at Laurel Laser and Surgery Center for 10 years, but my dream has always been to go back to school to become a registered nurse. I have studied for many long nights after my job and when my children were in bed. I hope that my daughters see that they can go to school someday and be anything that they want. I plan to continue working in the operating room at Laurel Laser and Surgery Center as a registered nurse with an expanded scope of practice and higher pay.

Mr. Jeffrey S. Linden ’89

Mr. J. Paul Linnan ’68 and Mrs. Christine J. Linnan ’75

Mr. Anthony C. Linnan ’89 and Mrs. Kathy B. (Brown) Linnan ’73

Ms. Martha L. Lojzim ’82

Mr. Walter F. Long III ’20 and Mrs. Laura Long

Mr. Minde Lu ’89

Mr. John Marinich ’75 and Mrs. Patricia S. (Semonich) Marinich ’75

Mr. Rodrick J. Marquette ’97

Mrs. Jean E. (Gwin) Martin ’89 and Mr. James A. Martin ’88

Mr. L. Douglas Martin ’80

Mr. Sean A. McDonald ’97 and Mrs. Antoinette J. (Parker) McDonald ’00

*Dr. Glenn R. McElhattan ’56 and Mrs. Mary F. (Master) McElhattan ’72

Mrs. B. Helen (Christian) Milliron ’57

Mr. James E. Moffatt ’70 and Mrs. Marilyn D. (Pyle) Moffatt ’70

Mr. Jeffrey A. Moffett and Mrs. Heather L. Moffett

Mr. Cameron M. Moran ’12 and Ms. Chelsea Mague

Mr. W. Dale Murdock ’72 and Mrs. Debra A. (Uchal) Murdock ’73

Mr. Elliott Myers

New York Life Insurance Company

Rep. Donna R. Oberlander ’91 and Mr. Derek F. Oberlander

Dr. Patrick T. O’Toole ’79 and Mrs. Tracey O’Toole

Mr. Michael J. O’Toole, Jr. ’76

Mr. John Owens ’15

Dr. Dale-Elizabeth and Dr. Robert S. Pehrsson

Dr. James G. Pesek and Mrs. Karen Westfall Pesek

Mr. David A. Peura ’88 and Mrs. Carole L. (Puglia) Peura ’88

Mrs. Carolyn R. Pfeifer ’93 and Mr. August J. Pfeifer

Mr. Donald and Ms. Pamela Pine

Raymond James and Associates, Inc.

Ms. Linda D. Reinertsen ’76

Ms. Shelly A. Respecki ’92

Mr. Scott A. Rhoades ’92

Mr. Dale P. Richards ’64 and Mrs. Andrea R. (Yanshak) Richards ’66

Mr. Mark and Mrs. Sheryl Riesmeyer

Mr. Lawrence D. Romboski ’86

Ms. Neyju Rondon

Dr. Kevin J. Roth ’81 and Mrs. Carol A. Roth

Ms. Amanda M. Schaffer

Mr. Greg and Mrs. Holly Schena

Mrs. Janet Sessions

*Mr. Robert H. Shaw ’53

Mr. Brian E. Shea ’76 and Mrs. Sheryl T. (Thatcher) Shea ’76

Mr. Abhijit A. Shinde ’11

Sigma Tau Gamma/Sigma Tau

Mrs. JoEllen Steinbrunner ’67 and Mr. Karl Steinbrunner

Mr. Daniel J. Stellute ’68

Mr. Matthew Stuckey

Dr. Jeffrey D. Sutton, D.V.M. ’95 and Mrs. Jennifer Sutton

Maj. Gen. Peter J. Talleri, USMC (Ret) ’79 and Mrs. Deborah L. (Lipko) Talleri ’80

Talonvest Capital, Inc.

Mr. Kenneth M. Tkatch

Mr. David D. Todd ’76

Dr. Andrew M. Turner and Dr. Sharon L. Montgomery

University Korner

Mr. Peter D. and Mrs. Anna Vuckovich

Mr. Seth E. Walker

Mr. Edward D. Wallace ’73 and Mrs. Sharon Wallace

Mr. Lynn E. Watson ’75 and Mrs. Susanne Watson

Mr. Douglas E. Williams ’83

Mr. Matt and Mrs. Michele Wilmoth

Mr. Ronald J. Wilshire ’72 and Mrs. Stephanie A. (Morgan) Wilshire ’75

Mr. Daniel S. Wolovich ’70 and Mrs. Cherie L. (Lowe) Wolovich ’68

Dr. Paul R. Woodburne and Ms. Nancy J. Sansone

Mr. Matthew K. Zents ’87

Mrs. Janet L. Zidansek ’72 and Mr. Anton Zidansek

Mr. Curtis L. Zimmerman ’79 and Mrs. Carrie L. (Englert) Zimmerman

CONTRIBUTORS: $500-$999

Ms. Noel and Mr. Erik Abromavage

Mr. Lawrence H. Allen II ’94

Alling Agency, LLC

Mr. Wayne F. Alling ’98 and Mrs. Sherry Alling

Ambassador Asset Management of Denton, LLC

Mr. Royce E. Freebourn ’80

American Chemical Society

AMYMSA

Mr. David C. Ashe ’77 and Mrs. Donna R. (Deviney) Ashe ’78

Mr. Jason D. Ashe ’03

Mr. A. Craig Aston ’63 and Mrs. Susan L. Aston ’63

Mr. David A. Bailey ’65

Mrs. Bethany J. Bankovich ’04 and Mr. Michael) Mihalik

Mr. Edward J. Bauer ’70 and Mrs. Kathryn S. Bauer

Ms. Lauren B. Bovard ’16

Mr. Roy J. Bowerman, Jr. ’73

Mr. Robert and Mrs. Marsha Bubb

Mr. H. Eugene Burns and Mrs. Susanne A. Burns

Mrs. Angelia M. (Cherico) Burns ’87 and Mr. Scott Burns

Mr. Heath N. Calhoun ’14 and Ms. Sarah A. Calhoun ’16

Mr. Anthony F. Catalano ’66

Ms. Mary Chiarelli-Gormley

Mr. Mark A. Ciccarello ’84 and Mrs. Brenda Ciccarello

Clarion Pin Club

Dr. Daniel D. Clark ’98 and Mrs. Kristin (Tomeo) Clark

Mr. Harold D. Clark ’68 and Mrs. Mary E. (Proper) Clark ’67

Mr. Armon S. Coleman ’18

Dr. Barbara A. Coles ’89

Cordia Mechanical, LLC

Mr. Charley and Ms. Tina Cordia

Mr. Scott J. Courtney ’94

Mr. Robert A. Dandoy ’74

Mr. Gary N. Datt ’72

Mr. Jeffrey P. Douthett ’79 and Ms. Terri Douthett

Thank you for creating the Clarion Class of 1961 Fiftieth Anniversary Endowment Scholarship. This award will help me with tuition at PennWest Clarion in the next year. I am in my senior year as a secondary education: earth and space science major. I chose Clarion because of the overall atmosphere of the university. I fell in love with the campus itself, and I connected well with the faculty and staff. Someday, I plan to be a high school science teacher. I can’t wait to stand in front of students and teach them something that I love in my own classroom.

Mr. James F. Droz ’75 and Mrs. Joann Droz

Mr. Joseph M. Dudzinsky ’71 and Mrs. Elizabeth Dudzinsky

Dr. John Eichlin

Mr. Thomas England

Mr. Steven W. Etzel ’82 and Mrs. Michelle Etzel

F. L. Crooks and Co.

Mr. James M. Crooks ’74 and Mrs. Lydia K. (Pifer) Crooks ’80

Mr. Sean M. Fagan

Mr. Matthew J. Foradora ’10

Dr. Melinda E. (Laese) Ford ’97 and Mr. Josh Ford

Mr. Edward A. Fox ’74 and Mrs. Nancy E. (Whiteman) Fox ’75

Mr. Gerald M. Frantz ’64

Mr. Royce E. Freebourn ’80

Mr. Kurtis J. Fritsch ’76

Mr. Arthur D. Gallo ’64 and Mrs. Trudy Gallo

Mr. Andrew G. Ganoe ’00 and Mrs. Natalie Ganoe

Mr. Robert J. Garritano ’66 and Mrs. Joyce A. Garritano

George’s Barber Shop

Mr. Richard A. Staley and Mrs. Cindy Staley

Gray Family Foundation

Ms. Ashley J. Grimm ’08

Mr. William Grove ’88 and Dr. Colleen A. McAleer ’75

Mr. Thomas P. and Mrs. Victoria J. Gunn

Ms. Pamela G. Hart ’70

Dr. James S. Hnat ’03 and Mrs. Amanda E. (Beam) Hnat ’03

Mr. Shawn M. Hoke ’95 and Mrs. Rayna A. (Liegey) Hoke ’97

Mr. Geremy L. Hoover ’03 and Mrs. Taylor A. Hoover ’07

Mr. Bryan S. Huddleston ’83 and Mrs. Michelle Huddleston

Mr. Charles A. Hunt, Jr. ’73

Mr. Daniel B. Ignasiak ’76

Iron Furnace Chpt. #288 Trout Unlimited

Mr. John T. Irwin ’71 and Mrs. Marcy M. (McCoy) Irwin ’74

Mr. Craig Jacks

Mr. Jim and Ms. Heidi Jurski

Mr. Robert J. Kannegieser ’79

Mr. Robert Kellner

Mr. Paul B. Kemble, Jr. ’68

Mr. Paul W. Kennedy ’67 and Mrs. Patricia L. Kennedy

Mr. Thomas P. Kennedy ’06

Dr. Andrew C. Keth ’88

Mr. Matthew R. Koerper ’17

Mr. Thomas J. Komenda ’71 and Mrs. Judy Komenda

Mr. Alexander D. Kozora ’15

Ms. Dave Lichina

Frederich E. Liechti - Attorney at Law

Mr. Frederich E. Liechti, J.D. ’72 and Ms. Michelle Mason

Mr. David D. and Ms. Denise L. Liptak

Mr. Scott Love

Luton’s Plumbing, Heating and A. C.

Mr. Daniel Luton and Mrs. Lori J. Luton

Mrs. Mary J. (Ihnat) MacKinnon ’66

Mr. Joseph Malis

Mr. Mel G. Mandic ’59 and Mrs. Sally L. (Bryant) Mandic ’59

Mr. Richard L. Martin ’70 and Mrs. Sharron S. Martin ’88

Mr. Joe Mathai ’16

Mr. Charles C. Matsko ’70 and Mrs. Loretta V. (Vastadore) Matsko ’71

Mr. Richard and Ms. Michelle McClelland

Mr. D. Craig McClure ’70 and Mrs. Dayna B. McClure

Mr. Shawn M. McGorry ’80 and Mrs. Jeanne A. (Deger) McGorry ’82

Mr. Scott T. and Ms. Amy McManamon

Mr. Eric J. McWilliams ’69 and Ms. Kathy B. Sickles

Ms. Deborah A. Meyers

Loyal Order of Moose 101

Mr. David L. Moxie ’73 and Mrs. Debra Moxie

Mr. Edward M. Munn ’75 and Ms. Christine S. Light

Mr. William L. Myers, Jr. ’80

National Fuel Gas Company Foundation

Nationwide

Mr. Kenneth C. Nellis ’86 and Ms. Cynthia A. Nellis ’16

OCR US Holdings, LLC dba Tough Mudder

Mrs. Joyce A. (Stewart) Overheim ’60

Ms. Kathy L. Pape

Mr. Gregory Parker

Mr. Robert B. Perry ’53

Mr. Dave Petke and Mrs. Debbra Petke

Mr. Michael P. Phillips ’03 and Mrs. Karissa Phillips

Mr. Larry C. Pickett ’77 and Mrs. Melissa D. (Audain) Pickett ’80

Mr. Scott Pierce

Mrs. Lois V. Pierce

Mr. Gregory W. Pierce ’69 and Mrs. Lynn D. Pierce

Pittsburgh Diamond Dawgs

Ms. Helen G. (Grudowski) Porter ’60

Mr. Rob G. and Ms. Kristi Powell

Mr. James A. Powney ’78

Mr. Eric Regrut and Ms. Pamela J. Regrut

Dr. James J. Reynolds and Mrs. Janie Reynolds

Dr. Richard A. Sabousky ’84

Mr. Henry W. Sacco ’66

Dr. Elaine M. Shuey ’78

Mrs. Donna Shuey and Mr. William Shuey

Mr. Shajee Siddiqui

Dr. Randall Potter and Dr. Jeanne M. Slattery

Mrs. Emily E. (Deible) Smith ’02 and Mr. Max R. Smith

Mr. Darrin and Ms. Stacy Smith

Mr. Ryan I. Smith ’10 and Ms. Michelle C. (Flowers) Smith ’06

Society of Holy Trinity #240

Mr. Gregory S. Spinetti ’88 and Mrs. Lisa Spinetti

St. Marys Insurance Agency, Inc.

Mr. Jeffrey F. Azzato ’85 and Mrs. Michele Azzato

Ms. Lorraine C. Staples, J.D. ’76 and Mr. Frank Hershkowitz

Mr. Jerry R. Starr ’89 and Mrs. Kathleen A. (Hodgson) Starr ’89

Ms. Brenda L. Stelika ’84

Mr. Kenneth and Ms. Sharon Stickrath

Mr. Jonathan W. Strub ’12

Mr. Thomas L. Taormina ’76

Mr. James A. Town ’95 and Mrs. Annette M. Town ’05

VFW - Palmyra Memorial Post #6417

Mr. Anthony J. Vincent ’67 and Mrs. Judy Vincent

Grace Dalton

Thank you for choosing me as the recipient of the Emily Schena Scholarship. I am very grateful to be able to receive this award and continue to honor Emily. I am an early childhood education major, and upon graduation, I plan to teach in the area of my hometown of Bradford. This scholarship will help me to continue my education and make a difference with my degree. I have made many connections within the Clarion community because of Delta Zeta, and I can’t wait to combine my love for Delta Zeta and my career as I move forward. Clarion and Delta Zeta have given me so many things: countless friendships, memories and heartwarming experiences that will last a lifetime.

Mr. Jeffrey P. Walentosky ’90

Mr. Louis J. Weiers ’89

Mr. John W. Whelan ’64

Mr. Tracy and Mrs. Holly Wiant

Dr. Richard A. Wiesen ’59 and Mrs. Sandra L. (Hepler) Wiesen ’59

Dr. Thomas H. Witherup ’66

Ms. Dalia H. Wold

Dr. Kevan M. and Mrs. Nee Yenerall

Mr. Jeremy T. Young ’98, MBA ’08

Mr. Benjamin J. Zappa ’61

Zonta Club of Oil City-Franklin

Ms. Sara J. Zybura ’66

*Donor passed away. The listing of names of our contributors is subject to error, both human and computer. If there is an error, please accept our apology and bring it to our attention.

2023-2024 Contribution

Donors: 1,734/ $1,690,064

1,109 / $683,658

FINANCIAL MATTERS

FINANCIAL MATTERS

Foundation Support to PennWest Clarion

FRIENDS, CONSORTIA AND OTHERS

Donors: 272 / $169,348

BUSINESSES AND FOUNDATIONS

Donors: 89 / $690,355

CURRENT AND RETIRED FACULTY, STAFF AND ADMINISTRATION

Donors: 156 / $113,573 PARENTS

Donors: 108 / $33,130

For 2023-2024, approximately 1.8% of the total living Clarion Alumni (1,109 out of 63,062) had made contributions to the Foundation.

FY 24 Support By Category

$9,000,000

$8,000,000

$7,000,000

$6,000,000

$5,000,000

$4,000,000

$3,000,000

$2,000,000

$1,000,000

FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

As our university’s story of integration continues to be written, our campus legacies as Golden Eagles, Fighting Scots and Vulcans remain intact as a reminder of who we are and where we came from. While we remain rooted in the values and ideals established by previous leaders, we’re not living in the past. Our direction is new and transformative.

We’re grateful for our new president, Dr. Jon Anderson, and the proven experience he brings, and for our existing university leaders and the Foundation’s board of directors for their time, talent and treasure in supporting PennWest’s mission to provide our students with an accessible education through innovation, academic excellence and empowering environments to foster lifelong success.

Our Foundation is proud to facilitate PennWest Clarion’s philanthropic goals through sound financial management, stewardship and service to our campus community. Last year, Clarion University Foundation, Inc., provided over $1.4 million in scholarship support to 635 students. Through the continued, selfless generosity of you – our alumni, friends, and families – we raised $1.7 million for 2023-2024, and the endowment exceeded a milestone of $50 million for the first time in our Foundation’s history. In the current economic climate, all support is so very important to keep our students safe, healthy and learning to safeguard their futures. Thank you.

In closing, I send an enthusiastic “Wings Up!” to our Golden Eagles and friends as we embrace the Power of PennWest which is embodied by you – its people.

With sincere gratitude,

Clarion University Foundation, Inc.

Clarion, Pennsylvania Board of Directors 2024-2025

Effective July 1, 2024

Ms. Jane France

President ’71

Mr. Mark R. Demich

President-Elect ’79

Mr. Scott E. Burns

Vice-President

Mrs. Carol Truscott

Secretary ’79

Mr. Tom Bowman

Treasurer ’77

Mr. Chris Allison

Mr. Paul Palmer ’61

Maj. Gen. Peter J. Talleri

USMC (Ret.) ’79

Ms. Theresa Edder ’91, MS ’05

Mr. Gary V. Cardamone ’88

Mr. Keith Kochert ’98

Ms. Patrice D’Eramo ’86

Mr. Jeremy Young ’98, MBA ’08

Ms. Lindsay Banner Cigole ’07

Ms. Samantha Thauvette ’09 (Ex-Officio) Alumni Board Representative

Dr. Jon Anderson (Ex-Officio) President – Pennsylvania Western University

Mr. James M. Geiger (Ex-Officio) Vice President for Advancement and Clarion Campus Administrator

Mr. Max R. Smith (Ex-Officio) Executive Director

Mr. John Zacherl ’90, MBA ’09 (Ex-Officio) Assistant Treasurer/Controller

Mrs. Desirée N. Beck (Ex-Officio) Assistant Secretary/Admin. Assistant

HOMECOMING 2025

October 24-25

The PennWest Pantry at Clarion assists our students by providing food, academic supplies, household goods, winter accessories, and personal hygiene items, so they can continue to the path toward graduation. Supported by our generous donors, the campus-based food pantry helps to meet students’ basic needs with compassion and discretion. We recognize that even ambitious, hard-working college students sometimes need a helping hand.

Students in need can ask to receive food or non-food supplies (personal hygiene items or school supplies) through their myPennWest account. Students are able to see all available items, customize their selections, and schedule their own pick up. In addition to providing items to students, the PennWest Pantry staff are able to connect students to campus and community resources to address students’ basic needs.

To donate items to the pantry or learn more about our services, please contact PennWestPantry@pennwest.edu

Or make a monetary donation at pennwest.edu/clarion-give and select Student Resource Room Fund from the drop-down menu.

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