Millersville University Review Fall/Winter 2020-21

FALL | WINTER 2020-21

UNIVERSITY REVIEW

PANDEMIC PREPAREDNESS:

Life at MU During COVID-19 |

$4.2 Million Wehrheim Scholarships | PAGE 4

A Remarkable Legacy: DR. VILAS PRABHU |

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REVIEW | 2020-21

TABLE of CONTENTS 4 | $4.2 MILLION WEHRHEIM SCHOLARSHIPS 8 | LIFE AT MU DURING COVID-19 10 | COUNSELING CENTER BECOMES HUB 12 | CAMPUS NEWS 14 | PATRICK WEAVER 16 | HOMECOMING 18 | A REMARKABLE LEGACY 24 | ALUMNI NEWS 26 | SPORTS 30 | CLASS NOTES 35 | WHY I GIVE 2 | M I L L E R S V I L L E U N I V E R S I T Y • Fal l | Wi nter 2 02 0-21

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UNIVERSIT Y REVIEW Fall | Winter 2020-21

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VOLUME 138

DEAR MILLERSVILLE UNIVERSITY FRIENDS & FAMILY, Calendar year 2020 was unlike any other due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Fortunately for us, the challenges and adversities that we faced affirmed our belief that Millersville University is more than just a campus or place; we are a community. Even though we were largely apart for much of the year, the ‘Ville’s ingenuity prevailed and allowed for connections despite the distance. I am confident that same ingenuity will continue this semester.

Due to the hard work and innovative thinking of our faculty and staff as well as the responsible choices made by our students, we completed the fall semester without major outbreaks of the COVID-19 disease in our community. I know that we all share a deep sense of relief and gratitude for this achievement. My thanks goes to everyone for the personal sacrifices that were made to support the well-being of our community.

While the pandemic shaped the past year and the current spring semester, it does not define our community or prevent us from achieving numerous successes. The December 2020 graduates join our 70,000-plus living alums, and we are hopeful that later this spring we will be able to celebrate both our May and December 2020 graduates in person. These students deserve to be honored after persisting through such unique and unprecedented circumstances to earn their degrees.

We will continue to prioritize the health and safety of our community in the days ahead, and look to guidance provided by the Incident Management Team, PASSHE and the Governor’s office. Thank you for your support and patience, and I hope that you share my optimism that we will emerge from these times as a stronger and more resilient community.

In this issue of the Millersville Review, we visit with two of our students who are recipients of the Wehrheim Nursing Scholarship, and we hear about the efforts of our Incident Management Team to control COVID’s impact on campus. We also hear from Dr. Kelsey Backels, the head of counseling, on their work during the past year.

We visit with one of our alums, Patrick Weaver, who worked in Washington, D.C., and we say thank you to our tireless provost, Dr. Vilas Prabhu, who will be retiring later this spring. We also meet our new women’s head basketball coach and read about two of our gracious donors, the Hungerfords.

I hope you enjoy this edition.

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No. 1

The Review is published by Millersville University, a member of Pennsylvania’s State System of Higher Education.

PRESIDENT

Daniel A. Wubah, Ph.D.

VICE PRESIDENT FOR ADVANCEMENT

Victor Ramos

AVP FOR UC&M

Gregory Freedland

MILLERSVILLE REVIEW STAFF

Janet Kacskos, Executive Editor Kelsey Madas, Content Editor John Cheek, Creative Director Cheryl Lockley, Designer Ethan Hulsey, Sports News Gabrielle Buzgo, Alumni News Jennifer McMorris, Class Notes Samantha Jasinski ’21M, Class Notes Justin Strawser ’19, Class Notes

CONTRIBUTORS

Zoe Berrier ’21 Alicia Garges ’21 Kylie Stoltzfus ’22

MILLERSVILLE UNIVERSITY COUNCIL OF TRUSTEES

Michael G. Warfel ’84 (chair) Richard L. Frerichs, Ph.D. ’64, ’69M (vice chair) Rep. Jordan A. Harris ’06 (secretary) Adam T. Bachman (student member) Thomas J. Baker ’02 Brandon W. Danz ‘03 Saul W. Fink ’85 Rick Rodgers Kathryn R. Ross Amber M. Sessoms, Ed.D. ’06, ’08M Holly L. Trego ’98 Chancellor Daniel Greenstein, Ph.D. (ex officio) President Daniel A. Wubah, Ph.D. (ex officio)

ALUMNI ASSOCIATION

With warm regards,

John Held ’02 (president)

Joyce King ’83 (president-elect) Bill Martin ’81 (treasurer) Matt Olphin ’95 (secretary) Mike Henry ’83 (past president)

Daniel A. Wubah

MILLERSVILLE UNIVERSITY FOUNDATION BOARD

KARLA BUENDIA IS PICTURED ON THE FRONT COVER. A JUNIOR FROM NEW JERSEY, BUENDIA IS MAJORING IN ANIMAL BEHAVIOR. SHE WAS PHOTOGRAPHED IN DR. LYMAN RICKARD’S CHEM 112 CLASS.

Joseph W. Garner ’90 (president) Darryl L. Landis, M.D. ’85 (vice president) Kemah E. P. Washington, Ed.D. ’03 (secretary) Suzanne J. Walstrum ’94 (treasurer) Millersville University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action institution.

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$4.2 Million

Wehrheim Scholarships

Aim to Empower Nontraditional NURSING Students

By Ethan Hulsey Chavez-Lopez and Donnelly come from vastly MIRTHA CHAVEZ-LOPEZ different backgrounds, different life situations and arrived in the United States with have varied professional goals. Neither of them had her young children 22 years ever met the late Liselotte Wehrheim ’74, but because ago. She was a lab technician in of her generous gift to Millersville University, both can Cuba but struggled to find work pursue dreams while balancing their families and careers. in the U.S. She first worked as a In December 2019, Millersville University was surprised to receive a housekeeper and in factories donation of $4.2 MILLION—the largest single gift in the history to provide an income for MIRTHA CHAVEZ-LOPEZ of the University—from Wehrheim’s her children estate. She passed away in August 2019 while also teaching herself the English “TAKING THAT STRESS AWAY at the age of 103 and was at the time language by watching cartoons with FROM ME AND MY CHILDREN ...

Millersville’s oldest living alumna. The WAS A BLESSING,” her children. Now, as a 53-year-old, gift adds to the previously established says Chavez-Lopez after 14 years in the nursing field, Liselotte R. Wehrheim Scholarship she’s chipping away at a bachelor’s in Nursing degree in nursing from Millersville Endowment bringing it to $4.8 University—one class at a time—while working full-time MILLION. It provides scholarships nightshift as a medical-surgical nurse at Hershey for nontraditional students Medical Center. who have unusual or special

RYAN DONNELLY wakes up early in the morning to care for his 2-year-old daughter while his wife goes to work.

The couple later swap places as caretakers as Ryan heads out the door for the 3 to 11 p.m. shift as a charge nurse at Lancaster Rehabilitation Hospital. The few remaining hours in the day are RYAN DONNELLY spent on classwork. He’s one class away from finishing his bachelor’s degree in nursing, with sights set on a master’s degree, more open doors in his profession and the hopes of increased income.

circumstances affecting the completion of their education.

Wehrheim’s gift is now aiding nontraditional Millersville nursing students, just like she was at one time. She lived a fascinating life before graduating from Millersville with a bachelor’s degree in nursing at the age of 59. She studied nursing in Germany, France and England, and moved to the U.S. in 1954. With her fluency in five languages, she worked as an interpreter for the U.S. State Department. At the age of 54, she became a nurse at the Veterans Administration Hospital in Lebanon, Pennsylvania. She pursued and earned a bachelor’s degree by taking night classes.

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Donation Funds NURSING Page SCHOLARSHIPS HEADER Right

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Donation Funds NURSING SCHOLARSHIPS

She dedicated her life to serving others, and her gift ensures that the

benefit is the ability to continue on to a master’s degree or a doctoral

service continues.

degree, which allows you to progress through that professional

The gift couldn’t have come at a better time. In a world consumed by a global pandemic, healthcare professionals are in high demand.

trajectory and advance beyond the bedside. As a profession, we need to keep building our intellectual capital. This is how we continue to evolve and improve care

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics,

for our patients.”

employment for nurses is expected to grow

“NURSING IS ONE OF THE FEW GROWING AREAS IN THE JOB MARKET.”

seven percent in the next decade—faster than the average of all occupations.

“The additional content knowledge, technical skills and professional skills students gain by pursuing a BSN degree

Dr. Kelly Kuhns, Nursing Department Chair at Millersville.

“Nursing is one of the few growing areas in the job market,” says Dr. Kelly Kuhns,

will help prepare them for the evolving healthcare environment, one that is

Nursing Department Chair at Millersville.

increasingly complex, with nurses having

“Nurses got a lot of press during the pandemic. It is predicted that by 2025 there could be a half-million shortage of nurses. The job market for nursing is significant.

Nurses don’t just work in hospitals; they work in prisons and schools, everywhere.”

greater responsibilities included as part of their professional roles,” says Dr. Mike Jackson, Dean of the College of Science and Technology at Millersville University.

“Ms. Wehrheim’s generosity not only established

Nurses with the additional knowledge and training that comes from a bachelor’s degree are especially in high demand. Kuhns stated that

a scholarship that assists our students to pursue their education, but as graduates, they serve as qualified, trained members of the healthcare profession,” says Jackson.

the national goal is to have

Because Millersville’s program requires

80% of bedside nurses hold

all students to already be a registered

a bachelor’s degree. Presently,

nurse (RN) or eligible for licensure, nearly

about 59% of all nurses have a

all of the nursing students balance school

bachelor’s degree. About 40% of

with full-time careers and families. Life often

all nurses start their careers with

presents financial challenges and unexpected surprises

an associates degree—that’s why

that delay or completely halt students’ progress toward degree

programs like Millersville’s RN to

completion. The Wehrheim endowment, however, assists those

BSN degree completion program

students significantly.

are so important.

“Currently, in the healthcare environment, getting a BSN is becoming the expectation,” said Kuhns. “A lot of local institutions have

“We’ve been able to use the Wehrheim funds in a very targeted manner, when we’ve had students who’ve said, ‘I can’t come back to school because I’m taking care of my dad and I had to cut my hours.’ We can say, ‘we have this special fund, and we can help you with that,’” says Kuhns. “Now with this amazing gift, we can help even more students. In fall 2020

a requirement that

alone, we were able to provide scholarships

nurses have their BSN

to more than 60 students.”

within three to five years of hire. That is related to evidence we have that increasing the number of BSN nurses at bedsides improves patient outcomes.

The additional

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Every admitted student can fill out an online form, and if they are over 25 years old, they will assuredly receive some assistance. The average amount in 2020 was $850 per student, while some with extraordinary circumstances received far more. Kuhns recounts a story of a student who wanted to return to Millersville to finish his final 15 credits but believed he could not because his wife had been diagnosed with cancer. The department decided to fully fund the student’s tuition

Donation Funds NURSING SCHOLARSHIPS

and was able to because of the Wehrheim endowment—just how

“At my very core, I’m a student advocate,” says Kuhns. “The

she hoped her gift to be used.

opportunity to say to a student, ‘I know this is a difficult time, and I

For Donnelly, the Wehrheim funds have allowed him to keep his options for future employment open as well as take reduced

know you are a single mom, but if we can give you $1,000, would that help you finish your degree?’ is the ultimate for me. It gives us the opportunity to help people

hours to care for his daughter and focus

achieve a dream that I think is vitally

on education.

“The scholarship that I got has helped me be able to do that because there is less cost going toward my tuition,” says Donnelly. “It’s

“MS. WEHRHEIM’S GENEROSITY NOT ONLY ESTABLISHED A SCHOLARSHIP THAT ASSISTS OUR STUDENTS TO PURSE THEIR EDUCATION, BUT AS GRADUATES, THEY SERVE AS QUALIFIED, TRAINED MEMBERS OF THE HEALTHCARE PROFESSION.”

allowed me to not have to work as much so I can spend

Dr. Mike Jackson, Dean of the College of Science and Technology.

important to our profession.”

The lives of Chavez-Lopez and Donnelly are just two of dozens who Wehrheim has touched and will continue to impact.

“Ms. Wehrheim joined Millersville University to pursue an education that would allow her to better serve individuals in her care,” says Jackson. “She continues to positively impact

some time with my family and focus more

our community through her immense

on class that I wouldn’t have been able to.”

generosity in establishing this

For Chavez-Lopez, the scholarship has offset taxes and fees, which

endowed scholarship.” u

are not covered by her tuition reimbursement program. Forced to completely start over when she arrived in the U.S., she accumulated more than $40,000 in loans in pursuit of diplomas as a single mother.

Her career pursuits and family obligations prevented her from becoming a full U.S. citizen, and that decreased her opportunity for student loans and scholarships. Before becoming fluent in English, searching for scholarships, writing essays and filling out paperwork required for scholarship application proved challenging. That’s why she’s so grateful that her instructors at Millersville approached her about the Wehrheim funds.

“Taking that stress away from me and my children, to not have to pay back the interest on top of what I would have had to borrow was a blessing,” says Chavez-Lopez. “I was able to take a class without pressure and save that money to fix my house and use the money for the needs I have here every month.

I’m glad that Dr. Kuhns selected me because I appreciate it. I don’t take those little things for granted since I’ve had to come from zero several times.”

Wehrheim believed in the value of education. She was quoted in a 2008 Review article as saying, “you are never too old to learn,” and that’s an identical sentiment that Chavez-Lopez learned from her mother, who spent her life as a teacher in Cuba.

“Learning is the freedom of a human being,” says Chavez-Lopez. “I always had in the back of my head that working hard was how you open doors ... I’m happy that I can continue my education ... I can say nothing but good things about our professors. They understand that we have a life. They told me about the scholarship, and they really help the students.”

MICHELE M. CHRONISTER, DNP, FNP-BC, IBCLC ASSISTANT PROFESSOR AT MILLERSVILLE

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PANDEMIC PREPAREDNESS:

Life AT MU During

COVID-19 B y Ja n e t K a c s k o s

“I appreciate the fact that President [Daniel] Preparedness is defined by the Wubah, when he asked me to lead the team, Department of Homeland Security and allowed us to do it in this fashion,” says the Federal Emergency Management Hagelgans. “Other universities aren’t set up Agency (FEMA) as “a continuous cycle like this. We have the right people in the of planning, organizing, training, right positions. We have people from health equipping, services, safety exercising, & environmental evaluating and health, academics, “Our University took student affairs, taking corrective a very conservative communications, action in an effort approach so that our etc. We have the to ensure effective students, faculty and staff right–size team, coordination and we are allowed were at the forefront,” during incident to weigh in on says Hagelgans. response. major campus At Millersville University, a team of 12 professionals from across the campus community has been working since August to handle the COVID-19 pandemic. The Incident Management Team (IMT) is the latest iteration of teams that have been working on behalf of the University since February 2020.

Co-chairing the IMT with Dr. Victor DeSantis is Dr. Duane Hagelgans. Hagelgans has 40plus years of experience with disasters and emergencies. He is an associate professor at Millersville University, teaching within the Center for Disaster Research and Education.

He retired as a chief officer with the Lancaster City Bureau of Fire and currently is the fire commissioner for Blue Rock Regional Fire District. He also serves as the emergency management coordinator for Manor Township and Millersville Borough.

decisions. If you’re going to have a disaster, you have to run it like a disaster.”

In light of the continued increase of COVID-19 cases nationally, the Fall Planning Team made the recommendation to cabinet, which they approved, to have the fall 2020 instruction provided primarily in an online/ remote modality, and from which the IMT was created. That modality will continue in the spring 2021 semester. Close to 80% of the instruction is offered remotely. In addition, on-campus housing is open using a one-student-per-bedroom model. Dining is open on campus with social distancing modifications and more options for grab and-go meals.

A 48-page Fall Implementation Plan helped guide the University through the fall semester. The IMT then updated the plan to prepare for spring 2021.

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THE PLAN COVERS:

• • Health Safety Measures & Policies • Communications • Finance • Legal & Regulatory • Academics • Faculty & Faculty Governance • Student Services • Health Services • Information Technology • Campus Infrastructure • Government Affairs Outbreak Mitigation Protocols & Emergency Planning

“We’re prepared to deal with whatever disasters happen,” says Hagelgans, “This is an emergency management crisis, and we’re handling it like an emergency. The situation continues to change on a weekly and sometimes daily basis. Every day we look at data and the science around us, and we make our decisions using the best information we can—with a disease that does things not expected.”

“Our University took a very conservative approach so that our students, faculty and staff were at the forefront. July–October was steady and there was some hope, but then it spiked in November and we had to make adjustments.”

The IMT considers data points from a global aspect, of what’s happening in other

Managing A PANDEMIC for Campus addition to the dashboard, the University has a website dedicated to updates on COVID, FAQs and President Wubah sends communications to the campus community on a regular basis.

While some universities across the nation opened in the fall with mainly in-person classes and full residence halls, Millersville took a more conservative approach. “The number-one reason is because of the safety of our students, faculty and staff,” says Hagelgans. “We wanted to do what’s best for our campus community, understanding that many students enjoy a live classroom, as do faculty. We also know from almost a year’s worth of data that putting those people together in close proximity was a recipe for disaster. By limiting contact, we did what was best for our community.

The decision wasn’t made lightly, because there are all sorts of impacts and financial implications. Our decisions were based on best practices for the health and safety of our overall community.”

DR. VICTOR DESANTIS, CO-CHAIR OF IMT

DR. DUANE HAGELGANS, CO-CHAIR OF IMT

nations; from a U.S. standpoint, looking at where and why spikes are occurring; and at data from Pennsylvania and the local region.

They look at health data and the number of people in hospitals, and the science surrounding testing and vaccines.

The number of COVID cases is updated on a daily basis Monday – Friday on the University’s website. The numbers reported on the public dashboard are students who either live on or “We’re prepared to deal near campus, with whatever or have been disasters happen,” on campus and says Hagelgans. faculty/staff who have been on campus. In

“We look at any data statistic that has to do with COVID. Anything we can find about COVID from all reliable sources. We’re not getting our info from the news media; we’re getting it from scientists. We look at data and interpret it with a team of people from all walks of the University.”

As a long time emergency responder, Hagelgans says he’s learned how to manage the fatigue that goes with a pandemic.

“Emergency management is one of those things where you’re going to be busy until it’s over. Most disasters have finite periods, but this is dragging on. You have to make time for yourself, whether like me, it’s building a shed or helping my son celebrate his birthday.”

“One thing I learned is that we need to understand that an event that is unusual is occurring, and the regular way of doing business isn’t always the best way to do it. How often have we heard,’this is how we’ve always done it’? That has caused us problems. We’re creatures of habit. If there’s one piece of advice that we’ve learned, you have to trust the experts.”

LUKE CAGNO ´21 AND VICTORIA PAPPAS ´21

The IMT is working to have a safe spring semester and work toward their goal of having in-person graduations in May. “The decisions we make now will impact that goal. We need to sacrifice now to get to the end of this.”  M I L L E R S V I L L E U N I V E R S I T Y • w w w. m i ller sv i lle. edu

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Counseling Center Becomes HUB for Students in Need

Here’s how the faculty and staff at Millersville’s Counseling Center were an anchor for students during uncertain times.

By Kelsey Madas The Counseling Center at Millersville University has long served as an anchor for students in need. With services ranging from individual and group counseling to crisis intervention, alcohol and other drug counseling and more, there’s certainly no lack of resources for Marauders looking for a little extra help.

“The best part is all of our services are free to enrolled students,” says Dr. Kelsey Backels, a psychologist, department chairperson and director of the Counseling Center. “Even part-time, online and graduate students can use our services—we’re here to help all of our Marauders.”

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Counseling Center Becomes HUB for Students

So, when the world came to a crashing halt in March 2020

online space, including virtual pet therapy and virtual

due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, finding a way to

yoga, which are now available through the center’s

provide these services to students facing new challenges

Instagram account. “We also worked with the University’s

became even more crucial. Many no longer had access

Health Services to hire a consulting psychiatrist to provide

to the services of the University’s Counseling Center in

psychiatric care to students who are in counseling, free

person as most students headed back to their hometowns

of charge,” shared Backels. The team has worked hard

to hunker down during quarantine, and the Counseling

to ensure that they remove as many barriers to access of

Center went virtual after March 13, 2020.

their services as possible and remain ready to help any

“We did not see an uptick in students seeking counseling

student seeking assistance.

as a result of the pandemic, which surprised us,” says

Backels and the team are well-versed in the benefits

Backels. “Our numbers are pretty steady now but are

of counseling but recognize that some students may

still a bit less than this time last year. Interestingly, this is

feel a sense of shame around the subject. She says she

consistent with what most university counseling centers

encourages them to look beyond those feelings and

are reporting.”

But make no mistake: The Counseling Center team was busy. In fact, from March 30, 2020, to October 27, 2020, the Counseling Center provided 298 unique students with 1,455 individual appointments, all online, with a faculty and

COVID g FATI UE

focus on the value that comes from addressing their issues, insecurities and difficulties in a safe environment with the help of a professional.

“MU students come to the Counseling Center for help, and so many of them end up referring their friends

staff of just eight. And while they didn’t face an influx of

and roommates to us because their experience was so

students requesting counseling, they did note that they

positive,” she shared.

were looking for new, different types of support. “Back in

Backels also notes that many times, students end up

March, we noticed a trend of students coming to us for

divulging information about past losses, abuses or other

support and looking for help to stay grounded after their

difficult circumstances for the first time ever to one of

lives were upended by COVID-19. Some students reported

MU’s counselors. “Counseling can provide emotional

difficulties in managing their time and academics in a

support in an environment that is nonjudgmental and

virtual setting,” explained Backels. “This fall, students

caring; it can challenge one to examine thoughts, feelings

seem to have adjusted and adapted better to remote

and behaviors that are blocking us.”

classes, but they still report feeling disconnected and

The Counseling Center’s services will continue to be

worried about when this pandemic well end.” Backels

offered virtually through the spring 2021 semester.

and her team also noted that many students have used

“Remember, we’re here to help,” says Backels. 

the phrase “COVID fatigue” to describe their feelings of exhaustion and lingering uncertainty.

Since the pandemic moved many of Millersville’s operations online, the Counseling Center has found some creative ways to bring some of their services into the

STUDENTS WHO ARE INTERESTED IN MAKING AN APPOINTMENT SHOULD CALL 717-871-7821.

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CAMPUS N E W S

CAMPUS NEWS | Fall/Winter Innovations at the Lombardo College of Business The Lombardo College of Business is broadening the range of opportunities available to Millersville students. Dr. Marc Tomljanovich, the dean of the college since July 2020, has made experiential learning a foundational element of his approach to business education.

in accounting, finance, marketing and management in addition to the general business administration major. It is anticipated that the expansion will go into effect in the fall of 2021. 

CARES Act and Compassion Fund In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund, CARES Act, was created to provide assistance

Unity Plots Millersville became one of the first predominantly white institutions in PASSHE to begin construction on the Divine Nine & Cultural Greek Council Unity Plots. Located on Memorial Walkway near the Student Memorial Center, these plots represent the traditional Black Greek-lettered organizations and other Latinx fraternities and sororities and will serve as a gathering place for members of the organizations.

to eligible Millersville University students whose lives have been impacted. In addition, MU created the EPPIIC Student Compassion Fund to extend help to those in need.

While all $2.8 million of the CARES Act were dispersed to 2,430 MU students, there is still money left in the EPPIIC Student Compassion Fund.

Alyx Matchett was one of the MU students who received funds. “The EPPIIC Student Compassion Fund helped me to pay bills that I was falling behind on during my student–teaching semester and was greatly beneficial,” they said. “Getting the money took a great burden off. Thank you to all who made that possible!”

DR. MARC TOMLJANOVICH, DEAN OF THE LOMBARDO COLLEGE OF BUSINESS

“One of the things that we want to do is make serving the community a part of the fabric of who we are as a college,” he says.

“We are here to help our students but also use Millersville as a force of good for the larger area.”

The EPPIIC Student Compassion Fund is still accepting donations and will continue to serve students as long as funds are available. 

Lydia Shaloka is a senior at Millersville majoring in business administration with a concentration in marketing. “I believe it is important for Millersville to have a college of business so that business students can belong to a community of like-minded people who can inspire and be inspired by,” she said.

The college is expanding its academic programming by offering new majors

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THE UNITY PLOTS ON CAMPUS ARE ALMOST FINISHED.

The project is slated to wrap up early in spring 2021 and be formally dedicated through a virtual livestream event upon completion. Almost 200 alumni and friends of Millersville made gifts to support this project, contributing more than $170,000 to date.

“These plots serve as a powerful symbolic and physical reminder of the strength and resilience shown by the founders and members of the Divine Nine and Cultural Greek Council,” said Dr. Felicia Brown-Haywood, Chief Diversity Officer at MU. 

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2020 s g n i nk

Ra

TOP 30 PUBLIC UNIVERSITY IN THE NORTH U.S. News & World Report 2020

DR. RICHARD CLARK

Millersville University Professor Elected President-Elect of AMS Dr. Richard Clark, chair of earth sciences and professor of meteorology, was elected president-elect of the American Meteorological Society (AMS) in November 2020.

“I believe his election speaks volumes for the respect he has from among his disciplinary colleagues, that recognizes his scholarly accomplishments, his effective advocacy for the discipline, and the outstanding program he has helped develop and lead here at Millersville,” says Dr. Michael Jackson, Dean of the College of Science and Technology at Millersville.

Alums and colleagues across the U.S. were quick to send their congratulations. Dr. Ryan Stauffer, Millersville alumnus and NASA/GSFC research scientist studying air pollution and ozone, tweeted, “Millersville Proud! Congratulations to new AMS President-Elect Dr. Richard Clark!”

In addressing the AMS membership, Clark said, “We come away from our centennial celebration a community with a shared vision of ‘Building Within, Reaching Beyond,’ with renewed purpose and vigor, poised to confront the challenges that demand our attention as scientists, citizens and members of the AMS. It is a privilege to be able to serve my professional community in this capacity.” 

2020

AWARD WINNER

HIGHER EDUCATION EXCELLENCE IN DIVERSITY

9

th CONSECUTIVE YEAR

Washington

2020

GREAT COLLEGES

TO WORK FOR RECOGNITION

CARNEGIE COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

CLASSIFICATION

MONTHLY

#90

AMONG 615 INSTITUTIONS

2020

6TH YEAR

GREEN COLLEGES SUSTAINABILITY EFFORTS Princeton Review Guide

Programs, departments, faculty, staff, students and the University received many awards during 2020.

HERE ARE JUST A FEW OF THE UNIVERSITY ACCOLADES.

• •

U.S. News & World Report ranked the University No. 29 for public universities in the Best Regional Universities in the North listing.

The University was recognized in three categories for the prestigious “Great Colleges to Work For” award, presented by ModernThink. Millersville was the only PASSHE campus to be recognized, one of only five institutions in Pennsylvania and one of only 79 higher–education institutions nationwide to be recognized this year.

•

Washington Monthly put Millersville at No. 90 among 615 institutions on their 2020 National University Rankings list. Ranked higher than 85% of other master’s institutions, Millersville also took the top spot in PASSHE.

•

For the ninth consecutive year, the University received the 2020 Higher Education Excellence in Diversity (HEED) Award from, INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine.

•

The University was selected to receive the 2020 Carnegie Community Engagement Classification. Millersville is one of only 243 institutions in the country that holds the elective classification.

•

For the sixth year, the University was recognized in the Princeton Review Guide to Green Colleges for its sustainability efforts.

M I L L E R S V I L L E U N I V E R S I T Y • w w w. m i ller sv i lle. edu

| 13

How This 27-Year-Old MU Grad and First-Gen College Student Landed a Job in

Washington, D.C.

By Kelsey Madas

PATRICK WEAVER is a 2017 graduate of Millersville University with a degree

in government and political affairs. In the three short years since graduation, he’s worked for the Department of Homeland Security and the National Security Council, the president’s principle forum for considering national security and foreign policy matters with senior national security advisors and cabinet officials.

At just 27 years old, he’s one of the youngest people on the council.

“I spend a lot of time at work, but everything I get to do is an incredible opportunity,” says Weaver. “I’ve really learned a lot from the senior officials, and I respect their experience.” So, how did he end up here, working on Western Hemisphere Affairs at the highest level of the U.S. government? Well, it all started at Millersville University in quiet Lancaster County.

assisted me with applying to graduate school, and the American Government classes gave me a fundamental understanding of how the United States government operates.” The two stay in touch. “I’ve never had a professor like him since,” he says.

While pursuing an undergraduate degree at Millersville, Weaver was originally set to study psychology. He made the switch to government after one fortuitous meeting with Dr. Richard Glenn, department chair of government and political affairs. “He really inspired me,” says Weaver. “As a first-generation college student, I felt unsure about what I wanted to study, but Dr. Glenn saw something in me and encouraged me in this direction.”

After he graduated, Weaver pursued a master’s degree in global security studies from Johns Hopkins University in Washington, D.C., but he never lost contact with another key connection he made while at the ‘Ville: Robert Walker, a fellow Marauder and founder of the Walker Center Fellows, an MU organization that gives students the opportunity to develop and master skills that are essential to being civically engaged and active in the communities where they live, work and study. “Bob told me to give him a call when I got to D.C.,” says Weaver. “And so I did. When I relocated to D.C., I called him up and he really took me under his wing.”

Weaver says his time at MU was formative. “The best part about MU were my classes taught by Dr. Glenn, and it was also my most difficult experience at MU,” he says. “Dr. Glenn, who was also my advisor,

With Walker’s help and guidance, Weaver entered the fast-paced world of life and work in our nation’s capital. For a time, Weaver even worked with Walker at a public policy firm, and when Walker

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Patrick Weaver | FIRST GEN COLLEGE Student

PATRICK WEAVER ´17

CONGRESSMAN ROBERT WALKER AND PATRICK WEAVER ´17

founded a new aerospace consulting company, MoonWalker Associates, Weaver became its chief of staff and director. “I loved working with Bob,” he says. “The one thing he taught me was the importance of being kind to people. He often told me, ‘The business of personal relationships is a very big deal.’”

It is interesting to see tense issues of national security be resolved or agreed upon through diplomacy.”

“What he teaches in these two classes will be the foundation of your career and will prepare you like nothing else will.”

“Working for federal, state and local governments can be a very rewarding experience,” says Weaver of students who might be considering a similar career path.

“You don’t always have to be the smartest

In the future, Weaver says he’s looking forward to working on national security issues in the White House for as long as he’s able and is seriously considering earning a Ph.D. in international relations to further his In 2019, Weaver career aspirations. was hired by Weaver says, “It the Trump has been my Administration greatest honor to “YOU DON’ T ALWAYS HAVE TO BE to work for the work for the U.S. THE SMARTEST PERSON IN THE ROOM, Secretary of the government and BU T YOU ALWAYS HAVE TO BE THE ONE WHO IS Department it has been an of Homeland experience I will WILLING TO WORK THE HARDEST,” Security, where never forget.” says Weaver. he focused on When Weaver isn’t counterterrorism, working in D.C., domestic terrorism you can find him in and foreign affairs.

Lancaster County In his role at the National Security Council, person in the room, but you always have spending time riding his horses on his he works on Western Hemisphere Affairs. to be the one who is willing to work the family’s farm. “The fast-paced life in D.C. “I was very excited about the role,” he says, hardest.” He also notes that Millersville is exciting and fun, but I always enjoy “I wanted to expand my foreign affairs students should take advantage of the coming home.” experience, and this job allows me to do resources they have on campus—or now, Do you want to work in the government so at the highest level. I am passionate virtually. “If you desire to work for the United someday? Check out our program in about understanding how governments States government or want to go to law Government and Political Affairs. Learn communicate to solve problems and school, you need to take Constitutional Law more at millersville.edu/government.  negotiate on national security issues.

1 and 2 with Dr. Glenn,” encourage Weaver.

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HOMECOMING 2020

HOMECOMING 2020

HOMECOMING

2020

SAVE THE DATE HOMECOMING 2021: OCTOBER 15-16

Millersville University’s Homecoming, originally planned with on- and off-campus events for October 23 and 24, 2020, was converted into a series of virtual celebrations throughout the month of October. This shift was a response to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The Office of Alumni Engagement appreciates everyone’s flexibility and willingness to celebrate ‘Ville pride in new ways.

ENJOY SOME OF THE MEMORIES THAT WE MADE TOGETHER, EVEN WHILE WE WERE APART.

“We felt happy that Homecoming still happened, even if it was a little different this year. What happens during Homecoming isn’t as important as just being at the campus and remembering all the great times.” —Alexander Rohrer ’15

“I very much appreciated what was done for Homecoming 2020; although most students were not on campus this year, the MU Alumni have worked diligently to ensure all students were able to participate in campus festivities.”

—Elias P Peluso ’23

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“Virtual Homecoming was good considering the pandemic situation.

I think you made the best you could out of it! We had fun.”

—Jillian Gallagher ’01 and Lindsay McClure ’01

HOMECOMING 2020

After the Skully cutout went missing shortly after the launch of the photo scavenger hunt, MU’s online followers sent in tips about its whereabouts, and he was quickly recovered, safe and sound.

“Virtual Homecoming was different this year but still fun. Given the unusual circumstances, the event was conducted in a very responsible fashion, for which I am grateful. I did enjoy receiving the Homecoming kit and use my hat when taking my daily walks.” —Monika Buchanan ’05

“The Selfie Scavenger Hunt helped me to stay connected to MU during this unusual season. I’m hoping that we can all connect in person for Homecoming 2021.”

—Amy Hoffman ’94, ’20M

“We had fun with the scavenger hunt! It allowed us to get to campus and see the changes from when we attended as students.”

—Gayle Merkt ’94

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FROM MUMBAI TO MILLERSVILLE:

A Remarkable Legacy

BY DENNIS B. DOWNEY, Ph.D. DR. VILAS PRABHU WILL RETIRE IN MARCH 2021

journey to the United States to pursue graduate studies and eventually earn a Ph.D. in pharmaceutical chemistry from the prestigious University of Texas-Austin? Finally, how does one measure the contours of a 40-year career as a research scientist and university administrator?

AFTER SERVING MORE THAN 16 YEARS AS PROVOST AND VICE PRESIDENT FOR ACADEMIC AFFAIRS AT MILLERSVILLE UNIVERSITY. (HE ALSO CARRIES THE DISTINCTION OF BEING THE UNIVERSITY’S CHIEF ACADEMIC OFFICER.) IF IT IS TRUE THAT “LONGEVITY HAS ITS PLACE,” THEN HIS HAS BEEN A SINGULAR ACHIEVEMENT IN SERVICE TO LEGIONS OF STUDENTS, FACULTY AND STAFF, AND THREE SUCCESSIVE PRESIDENTIAL ADMINISTRATIONS. SIMILARLY, HE HAS BEEN A FORCE WITHIN

“He has made us stronger as an institution by keeping our success and the well-being of every member of our community at the center of his life and work.

He will be deeply missed.”

PENNSYLVANIA’S STATE SYSTEM

President Daniel Wubah

OF HIGHER EDUCATION AND THE NATIONAL COUNCIL FOR HIGHER EDUCATION ADMINISTRATION. Current MU President Daniel Wubah remarked of Vilas, “He has made us stronger as an institution by keeping our success and the well-being of every member of our community at the center of his life and work. He will be deeply missed.” What the president described as Prabhu’s “sage counsel” has left an indelible mark on the campus and the community.

How does one capture the essence of a person and his legacy in just a few brief pages? What words do you summon to convey a dramatic life story that includes growing up in the suburbs of Mumbai, India, and then making the arduous solo

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A few brief words cannot do justice to Vilas’ many academic accolades, and the profound influence he has had on students, colleagues and community partners. In the end, it is the quality of the person— a dutiful son, devoted husband, father of three adult children, and true friend— that stands out and distinguishes Vilas Prabhu. By his own admission, he treasures his parents’ influence, his wife’s enduring patience and his children’s successes.

“Impressive” is an insufficient word to use in summing up Vilas Prabhu’s academic accomplishments. As a faculty member and Bernhardt Research Professor at Southwestern Oklahoma State University, he earned distinction for his scientific investigations and publications. He personified the scholar-teacher who published regularly, mentored students and proved to be a trusted peer in university governance. This DR. VILAS PRABHU

A Remarkable LEGACY

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A Remarkable LEGACY

FIRST ROW

Dr. Bernice Rydell, Sneha Prabhu, Drs. Vilas Prabhu and Francine McNairy; Drs. Prabhu and Rita Smith-Wade-El

SECOND ROW

Drs. Ieva Zake, James Delle and Prabhu; Dr. Prabhu with Skully and the Marauder

THIRD ROW

Drs. Prabhu and Kathleen (Kat) Walsh; Dr. Prabhu with President Wubah

FOURTH ROW

Drs. Prabhu, Victor DeSantis and Lynn Marquez at a Day of Caring event

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A Remarkable LEGACY served him well when he was asked to lead in reinventing the pharmaceutical science program, which in turn led to growing administrative responsibilities as a dean, associate provost and presidential counselor.

They include ongoing student research opportunities on the island, new trans-Atlantic collaborations and exchanges, and the creation of Millersville’s own Atlantic World Studies Center.

Ambition and academic rigor tempered by generosity and collegiality, and an unswerving belief in the University’s mission define Vilas Prabhu’s impact on campus culture over a decade and one-half. Among the many academic innovations he guided to fruition are three doctoral degree programs (educational leadership, nursing and social work), nearly a dozen baccalaureate and post-baccalaureate programs, and the groundbreaking multidisciplinary studies major (a cluster Perhaps McNairy put it best: “No one could ask for a more of interdisciplinary concentrations). He has overseen a redefinition enthusiastic, dedicated and loyal academic of Millersville’s international partnerships leader.” She lauded Prabhu’s “extraordinary and the expansion of student overseas energy and passion for the academy,” exchange opportunities. Numerous “No one could ask and his support for student-centered campus research centers and institutes for a more enthusiastic, experiences on campus and globally. He have flourished on Prabhu’s watch. embodies the virtues of what former Vice dedicated and loyal President for Advancement Jerry Eckert More incrementally, Prabhu worked to academic leader.” called a “public university in service to the complete a reorganization of the University Former Pres. Francine McNairy public good.” Noting the provost’s sense colleges and departments, and expand of humor and his “enthusiasm for storygreater funding for faculty and student telling” as essential qualities in building research. He would be the first to admit community partnerships, Eckert praised Prabhu as a “valued that these achievements came through close collaboration colleague” willing to let others receive their due in advancing between administrators and faculty who have the students’ best the University mission. interests in mind. As Dr. Michael Jackson, Dean of the College of Science and Technology, stated, “His [Prabhu’s] legacy will An informal survey of current faculty and staff echoed the point, be that of a caring, personable and loquacious individual who concluding the provost is a good-natured “whirlwind” of energy insisted on collaboratively advancing the mission of the University and intellectual curiosity who puts student needs first. Education and the success of our faculty, staff and students.” A discerning professor Dr. Laurie Hanich spoke for many of her colleagues in participant-observer of trends in higher education, Prabhu also noting his “vivacious spirit and insatiable work ethic,” as well understands the local campus culture, which is a necessary as Prabhu’s “sense of humor, goodwill and collegial friendship.” ingredient for programmatic success.

Others remarked about the provost’s willingness to listen and then make tough decisions. As one campus observer concluded, If readers will permit me, I would like to end this assessment on a “We are not likely to see his kind again.” personal note. No one could have anticipated the disruptions in Prabhu also was active in community engagement, and in expanding the educational and economic opportunities available to all students, but especially those from Native American tribal communities across the region. When Dr. Francine McNairy became Millersville’s 13th president, Vilas Prabhu was the logical choice to succeed her as provost.

My own close friendship with Vilas Prabhu stretches back nearly as long as his tenure at the University. In 2006 he and Jerry Eckert championed my appointment as director of the University Honors College. I learned almost immediately that, like Jerry, Vilas was a person you could trust, and he was as good as his word.

As provost, he was instrumental in transforming the program into PASSHE’s premier academic Honors College. Because of his strategic leadership, in 2011 nearly 30 Honors students from Millersville and our sister institutions had the study-abroad experience of a lifetime during a two-week summer field school in Bermuda.

Prabhu and his wife Sneha joined the group and were as active as the students in learning about the history, archeology and culture. To quote one participant, “I love Dr. Prabhu!” and the students’ gratitude has paid great dividends for the University.

University life brought about by the ongoing global pandemic. I marvel at Vilas’ resilience and his fierce determination to preserve what is best in the “Millersville way.” Not for himself but for others, and especially the students. My own sense is Vilas Prabhu may be the most consequential provost in a half-century.

In good times and in moments of unimagined challenges, he has been a loyal and steady presence willing to work with others to serve the interests of the University community, its friends and institutional partners. As the aforementioned tributes make clear, Vilas A. Prabhu has been a gift to the University and the students whose welfare it takes to heart. The personal affection for the man is matched by the broad awareness of his enduring legacy through three presidential administrations. Truly he has served us as well and reminded us of what is best in the long tradition of excellence that defines Millersville University. Indeed, he will be missed! 

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Page HEADER Left

A

G

IN

BL

IM

E

GETHER TO

E THE POS

SI

SCHOLARSHIPS Destinee Holloman ’20

HOMETOWN: Lebanon, PA | MAJOR: Physics | MINOR: Mathematics MARAUDER ATHLETICS TEAMS: Women’s Indoor Track & Field | Women’s Outdoor Track & Field SCHOLARSHIPS: The Faraday Physics Scholarship | Harry A. ’65 & Carolyn J. Lohss Physics Scholarship Board of Governors Science & Technology Scholarship | Athletic Scholarship (Track & Field) POSITIVE IMPACT OF SCHOLARSHIPS: “Coming from a large family as the fifth child out of six, affording college would be a big obstacle without the support of my scholarships. My family and I are extremely grateful that I have been given the opportunity to pursue my dream career.

We love the University and all that it has offered us.”

ACADEMIC SUCCESS: “My greatest academic achievement has been my induction into Sigma Pi Sigma, the physics honor society. I’ve maintained a high GPA, putting a great amount of effort into creating future success for myself, and my induction is symbolic of that.”

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FUTURE PLANS: “I plan on attending graduate school for medical physics, followed by getting certified as a medical physicist. With this career, I’ll work with various medical professionals to provide treatment to patients.”

CAMPAIGN FOR STUDENTS

Visit Imagine.Millersville.edu to learn more

ANNOUNCING the Millersville University Alumni Network

Alumni Virtual BOOK CLUB

Join fellow ‘Ville alumni in this online community to connect with your fellow Marauders by reading the same book and participating in virtual moderated discussions.

You’ll enjoy books that will allow you to continue the experience of lifelong learning that you started back at the ‘Ville. There is no cost to participate—just supply your own copy of the selected book.

By joining you will embrace lifelong learning, take some time for yourself with a good book and connect with fellow alumni, faculty and staff! We spend about two months on each book, so you’ll have time to follow along at your own pace.

Visit pbc.guru/millersville to join today.

VISIT the Newly Updated Planned Giving Website!

Explore opportunities to make a difference through planned giving at millersville.giftlegacy.com.

CALL FOR Nominations!

Do you know a fellow alumnus who deserves special recognition?

The Millersville University Alumni Association is seeking nominations for: Distinguished Alumni Award | Young Alumni Achievement Award | Outstanding Volunteer Service Award | Honorary Alumnus Award. Find out more at www.villealumni.com under Awards.

Nomination deadline is Feb. 24.

Millersville University’s 70,000 alumni are represented across the globe in several recognized Alumni Networks. Whether your affinity—or connection— to Millersville is tied to your identity, your involvement as a student or where you are geographically, we want you to find your place in the alumni community, just as you did as a student.

The Millersville University Alumni Network formally recognizes groups of alumni who have organized themselves with the goals to:

Provide opportunities for fellow alumni to renew and sustain MU friendships

Attract new students to Millersville University Support current Millersville students, especially as they transition to alumni

Connect alumni back to the ‘Ville Our reach is ever expanding, and we welcome alumni everywhere to help build the Millersville University Alumni Network!

Visit villealumni.com for more information, or email us at mualumni@millersville.edu to get started!

Alumni Network

SUPPORT FUTURE GENERATIONS of Millersville Students

SEEKING CANDIDATES The Millersville University Alumni Association is seeking candidates to serve on the Alumni Association Board of Directors.

The board is comprised of 25 voting members from various class years, academic programs, geographical locations and diverse backgrounds. Members attend quarterly meetings and participate in board activities and programs. Learn more or apply at www.villealumni.com.

The deadline is Jan. 24.

’ Ville Connections !

HAVEN’T BEEN RECEIVING THE ALUMNI E-NEWSLETTER? We probably don’t have your email address on file!

Reach us via any method below to update your contact information.

The e-newsletter is a quick read and will keep you informed about alumni events and what’s happening at Millersville!

Connect with us on Facebook @millersvillealumni MU Alumni Association—Millersville University, PO Box 1002 Millersville, PA 17551-0302 | 800-681-1855 Email: mualumni@millersville.edu

Leave your legacy by including MILLERSVILLE UNIVERSITY in your will or trust, or as a beneficiary designation of an IRA, retirement plan or other account. You can make a lasting impact while maintaining flexibility if your needs change.

For more information or to request our FREE WILLS GUIDE, please contact us at Planned.Giving@millersville.edu or 877-872-3820, or visit millersville.giftlegacy.com.

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ALUMNI NEWS | AWA R D S

ALUMNI NEWS | AWA R D S

Alumni Honors FIVE

Millersville University is proud to have a very diverse and successful alumni body throughout the world.

Each year the Millersville University Alumni Association recognizes and celebrates outstanding alumni achievements through the Alumni Awards program. To read the full biography for each of this year’s winners, and to nominate other deserving alumni, visit villealumni.com. We’d love to hear from you.

DISTINGUISHED ALUMNI Award

OUTSTANDING VOLUNTEER SERVICE Award

THIS IS THE MOST PRESTIGIOUS AWARD BESTOWED UPON A LIVING ALUMNUS OF MILLERSVILLE UNIVERSITY WHO HAS BEEN DISTINGUISHED IN SUCH A WAY AS TO BRING HONOR TO THE INDIVIDUAL FOR HIS/HER PROFESSIONAL ACHIEVEMENTS AND CONTRIBUTIONS TO SOCIETY, TO THE UNIVERSITY AND/OR THE MU ALUMNI ASSOCIATION. (EST 1971)

THIS AWARD RECOGNIZES A LIVING ALUMNI MEMBER WHO IS AN ACTIVE VOLUNTEER AND HAS DEMONSTRATED OUTSTANDING SERVICE BY DEVOTING SIGNIFICANT TIME AND EFFORT TO THE MILLERSVILLE UNIVERSITY ALUMNI ASSOCIATION OR TO MILLERSVILLE UNIVERSITY ON BEHALF OF THE ALUMNI ASSOCIATION. (EST 2010).

PANARELLA ´72

MICHAEL PANARELLA ’72

AARON DREAD ’94

Michael Panarella is a 1972 graduate of

Aaron Dread, the son of two Marauders,

MU with a bachelor’s degree in social studies

was born while his parents were attending

education. As a student, he wrestled and

Millersville. Dread went on to attend his

played football. Panarella was named

parents’ alma mater and graduated in 1994

All-PSAC East for football and received All-American recognition in both sports.

DREAD ´94

with a degree in business management.

As a student, Dread was active on campus. He

He was a member of the MU Alpha Kappa Fraternity.

played on the men’s basketball team and was the captain during his

After graduating, Panarella taught and coached at Pennsylvania

senior year. He participated in mentorship and tutoring programs for

School for the Deaf, then teach psychology and history at the high

students and more.

school level for 32 years.

Later, he relocated to Detroit and began a

Panarella is passionate about giving back, and

25-year career in sales. He returned to the

volunteered with Special Olympics,

East Coast in 2008 and worked with fellow

Child Placement Review Board,

fraternity member Ernell Harley to establish

Community Emergency Response Team, and Camden Boys and Girls Club. He also started a program called Project Graduation, which helps veterans to get their diplomas after having to leave school to fight in a war.

In recognition of his years of dedication, Panarella has received many honors for his community service. He is a member of six athletic halls of fame, including the MU Athletics Hall of Fame.

Recognized as a local hero, Panarella was bestowed the Medford VFW Award, named the Medford Town Council Citizen of the Year, and was named Man of the Year by the Medford Lumberton Rotary Club and Burlington County. 

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Thrillersville, a movement designed to re-engage African American Alumni during Homecoming. In just a few years, these events grew and evolved into a scholarship program, raising close to $11,000 since 2008.

As a member of Omega Psi Phi fraternity, Dread helped the University to solicit alumni of the Black Greek Lettered Organizations, known as the “Divine Nine,” for the funding to construct the Divine Nine and Cultural Greek Council Unity Plots. Dread was one of the alumni leaders who helped to raise more than $170,000. 

ALUMNI NEWS | AWA R D S

YOUNG ALUMNI ACHIEVEMENT Award CREATED IN 2012, THIS AWARD RECOGNIZES MILLERSVILLE UNIVERSITY BACCALAUREATE GRADUATES IDENTIFIED AS BEING OUTSTANDING IN THEIR PROFESSIONS AND WHO SERVE AS AN EXAMPLE OF EXEMPLARY ACHIEVEMENT TO CURRENT MILLERSVILLE UNIVERSITY STUDENTS. ALL BACCALAUREATE GRADUATES OF MILLERSVILLE UNIVERSITY, WITHIN THE PAST FIVE TO 20 YEARS AT TIME OF NOMINATION, WHO HAVE RECORDED NOTABLE ACCOMPLISHMENTS IN THEIR CHOSEN PROFESSIONS, ARE ELIGIBLE FOR THIS AWARD. REPRESENTATIVE JORDAN HARRIS ‘06

HARRIS ´06

JONATHAN SHUE ’13, DMD

DANIELLE FARABAUGH ’02, PSY.D.

State Representative

Dr. Jonathan Shue

Dr. Danielle Farabaugh

Jordan Harris

graduated from MU

graduated with a

graduated from

in 2013 with a

degree in psychology

MU in 2006 with a

bachelor’s degree

with a minor in

bachelor’s degree

in chemistry. Shue

sociology from MU in

in government and

received numerous

political affairs, and

a minor in African-American studies. On campus, he was a member of Student Senate, a student director of the MU Foundation Board and a residential assistant.

Before pursuing a career in public service, he worked as an educator in the Philadelphia

SHUE ´13

University awards

and honors, culminating in his nomination for the Syed R. Ali-Zaidi Award for Academic Excellence.

FARABAUGH ´02

2002. At Millersville, Farabaugh received

an invitation to participate in the Psychology Honors Program.

Farabaugh went on to pursue a doctorate

In his last year at MU, Shue was

in clinical psychology at La Salle University,

granted a four-year Health Professions

developing additional interests in cognitive

Scholarship Program position with the

behavioral therapy, other forms of

United States Air Force and admission to

anxiety and trauma. She then pursued a

the University of Pennsylvania School

postdoctoral fellowship at the University

of Dental Medicine, acquiring his DMD

of Pennsylvania, where she received

along with departmental honors in

specialized training in cognitive therapy,

Public School System.

dental radiology in May 2017. During his

aided in research that would inform future

Harris was selected by his colleagues to

final year in the program, Shue applied for

cognitive therapy training materials, and

serve as the Democratic Caucus Whip for

a one-year advanced education in general

co-authored a published manuscript

the 2019-20 legislative session. He is only

dentistry program through the Air Force

on a training model for evidence-based

the second African American to hold the

and matriculated into the Air Force

treatments in public mental health settings.

position of Whip for the Democratic Caucus

Dental Corps.

and the youngest member of leadership in

After completing her fellowship, Farabaugh

Upon graduating from dental school,

obtained her license and began a career

Shue participated in commissioned officer

with the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Harris has become a national leader on

training with the U.S. Air Force. After

Currently, she is a psychologist and team

the topic of criminal justice reform. He has

completing the training program, Shue

leader of a nationally recognized residential

helped author Pennsylvania’s Clean Slate

traveled to Travis Air Force Base, where he

posttraumatic stress disorder program for

Law, which was signed into law by Gov.

dedicated himself to furthering his dental

combat veterans. Straddling both clinical

Tom Wolf in June 2018 and was hailed as a

education and received additional training

and administrative domains of the field, her

national model for the automatic sealing of

in dental specialties under the direct

work focuses on diagnostic interviewing,

certain criminal records.

supervision of specialists. While at Travis

aiding in the management of veteran

In 2016, Harris was appointed to MU’s

Air Force Base, Shue received numerous

admissions and referrals, overseeing

awards. In 2018, Shue graduated from the

therapeutic programming, heading a

program and was assigned to Vandenberg

multidisciplinary treatment team, and

Air Force Base, where he continues to serve

delivering individual and group

in many capacities and primarily as a

evidenced-based treatments for PTSD. 

either the House or the Senate.

Council of Trustees, where he serves as secretary and is a member of the Council of Trustees Resources Committee and is a strong advocate for public education, his alma mater and for the PASSHE system. 

general dentist. 

Visit the Millersville University Alumni webpage at villealumni.com to learn about our latest events and other news.

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SPORTS | 2020-21

ALUMNUS TALKS

Coaching Team in ESPN Basketball Tournament

CHARLIE PARKER ’09 and his SIDELINE CANCER team grabbed the nation’s attention during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic during The Basketball Tournament (TBT), which aired nationally on ESPN. Parker served as the team’s head coach as it pulled off an improbable run as the No. 22 seed in a 24-team tournament and finished as the runner-up, coming within five points (a 78-73 loss to a team of Marquette alums) of the $1 million prize.

THE TOURNAMENT TOOK PLACE VERY EARLY IN THE PANDEMIC BEFORE ANY OTHER SPORTS LEAGUES GOT BACK INTO ACTION. WHAT WAS IT LIKE BEING ON THE FRONT LINE OF BRINGING SPORTS BACK TO AMERICA?

TBT WAS THE ONLY LIVE SPORT TELEVISED IN EARLY SUMMER, AND YOUR TEAM REALLY CAPTURED THE HEARTS OF THE PUBLIC FOR A FEW DAYS. WHAT WAS IT LIKE BEING UNDER A NATIONAL SPOTLIGHT?

This was something that was brought up numerous times prior to the start of the tournament. We felt like it was an amazing opportunity. But knowing we would be the only sports on TV at the time and the first to bring basketball back, that was something special to all of us.

The experience was like nothing else I have ever been a part of. I must have been averaging about five to seven interviews a day, ranging from local sports media to ESPN coverage. The amount of support we received on social media was out of this world! To see we were top trending on Twitter after our win against Overseas Elite … just crazy!

YOU’VE BEEN A PART OF THE SIDELINE CANCER TEAM FOR A LONG TIME. WHAT IS YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH THE ORGANIZATION, AND HOW DID YOU GET INVOLVED? Yes, I’ve been a part of Sideline Cancer TBT from the very beginning. I originally got involved as a player who was asked to play in the first-ever TBT. Seven years ago, I received a call from the team’s general manager, Billy Clapper. Billy asked if I would be interested in playing in a five-on-five tournament in which the winner would receive $500,000. I said “absolutely.” He proceeded to let me know it was also free to enter into the tournament. At that moment I became even more excited. Then, he follows up by saying “and when we win, we’re going to donate all of the money to the Griffith Family Foundation!” I was a little taken aback, as just a moment before I was extremely excited about the opportunity to win money. But I ultimately stood up and

PARKER ´09

said, “I’ll surely play for the love of the game and the chance to represent something that is bigger than basketball.” And I have been a player or the head coach of the team ever since. My relationship with Cathy Griffith (foundation president), Jordan Griffith (son of Cathy and soon-to-be executive director of the foundation), and Billy Clapper is truly like family in every sense of the word.

DOES IT MEAN MORE WHEN YOU ARE ALSO PLAYING FOR A CAUSE LIKE THE SIDELINE CANCER TEAM? It definitely does, and you can feel it. Our guys all understand what they are playing for, and they relish the opportunity to play for something bigger than themselves. In our team huddles, we constantly repeat the slogans that the Griffith Family Foundation has used to embody their mindset behind the goal to find a cure and beat pancreatic cancer. Our slogans are “Believe Always,” “I Can” and “We Believe.”

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WHAT WAS THE BIGGEST CHALLENGE OF COACHING IN A TOURNAMENT LIKE TBT? The biggest challenge for us was practice time. Half of the teams in TBT meet up for a week or two prior to the tournament to have training camps. They practice and prepare for seven to 14 days so that they are best positioned to have a chance at the championship. Our Sideline Cancer team did not practice until we arrived in Ohio.

We have guys on our team from all around the country. We were scheduled to have three or four practices prior to our first game. However, due to court issues inside the bubble, we only were able to have one full practice. Most of the practice courts had condensation issues and were very slippery inside the hotel bubble. Therefore, we had three practices that all we were able to do was shoot and walk through plays

| 2020-21 Page SPORTS HEADER Right

on slippery courts. We ran up and down and played five-on-five only once prior to our first game.

was also what kept us in the game against Overseas Elite.

THE BROADCASTERS MENTIONED YOUR COACHING ABILITY NUMEROUS TIMES ON NATIONAL TV. HAS THE TOURNAMENT HAD AN IMPACT ON YOUR COACHING CAREER IN ANY WAY?

AT WHAT POINT IN THE TOURNAMENT DID YOU FEEL LIKE YOU HAD A SHOT TO WIN IT ALL? We came into the tournament thinking we had a shot. But once we got past the second round, that’s when it really hits you. The tournament is win or go home, so after you advance a game or two, that’s when you start to think about who’s left in the bracket and you realize that your chances are higher and higher.

WHAT DID YOU THINK ABOUT BEING MIC’D UP DURING GAMES? I’ve been mic’d up for eight games now that were live on ESPN. I had that opportunity for three games in 2019. So when that moment comes, it is kind of natural for me now.

The first game or two of the tournament in 2019 definitely had me a little nervous. But now I embrace the moment! It really is a fun experience.

THE WIN AGAINST OVERSEAS ELITE, WITH A BUZZER-BEATER SHOT, WAS MEMORABLE. WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE MOMENT OF THE TOURNAMENT? My favorite moment is really the whole thing. Coaching these amazing professional players. Being on ESPN. Being the head coach of an organization that truly is like family and is playing for something bigger

than basketball. It’s like a storybook that I don’t think I could have imagined in my dreams. But for sure, the game winner against Overseas Elite was special. I think another moment that’s more personal has to do with our team showing a that team mindset is needed to advance time and time again in a tournament like this. In our first game, we were struggling defensively. We also had multiple players were trying to give opinions on how we should fix our defensive struggles. During a time-out with four or five players all talking at once, our best player and leading scorer, Marcus Keene, shouts, “Guys, listen to coach!” During that moment, everyone stopped, everyone listened, we got on the same page, and we started playing great defense. We gave up 91 points in the first game. Next game we held Team Challenge ALS to 66. Then we held Syracuse Alumni to under 50. Defense

It has made me more recognizable in public sometimes. Also, some of the players I train on a regular basis have really started to look up to me even more than they did before. I have received interest from NBA–level executives. Some of that interest has been at that level or at the G League level. But right now, no major changes coming.

WHAT ARE YOUR COACHING GOALS MOVING FORWARD? Going forward, my main goal is to continue building my business, Crunchtime Hoops LLC. There may also be a Sideline Cancer AAU program based out of Lancaster, Pa., coming soon. I always wanted to coach at the college or pro level. But once I started my business, that became my main priority.

At this time, I’m very grateful to have been put in a position to coach Sideline Cancer TBT. I have coached an underdog team of professional players to many big-time upsets in the past two TBTs. I feel great about that, but there is still one more thing left on the agenda: a Sideline Cancer TBT championship trophy. 

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SPORTS | 2020-21

Q&A with Chas McCormick ’17

Millersville University alum CHAS MCCORMICK ’17 received the call of a lifetime one day before the Major League Baseball playoffs began. On the phone was Dusty Baker, manager of the Houston Astros.

McCormick was being added to the Astros’ roster for the playoffs. He became the first Marauder position player ever promoted to the majors. The 2020 season was a wild ride for McCormick. He made appearances in big league spring training before COVID-19 shut down the sport. With no minor leagues, McCormick spent portions of the summer shuttling to cities as part of the Astros’ taxi squad.

AS A PLAYER AT THE ALTERNATE SITE AND ON THE TAXI SQUAD, WHAT WAS YOUR LIFE LIKE DAY TO DAY?

think it’s another baseball game you have been playing for most of your life. Then you see Nelson Cruz at the plate or Zack Greinke on the mound and realize this is not just a regular baseball game; it is the show. Even though I was sitting on the bench, you must watch every single pitch carefully because every pitch matters and will determine the outcome of the game.

At all times you must know what is going on every second of the game, because at the Major League level, the game is so fast. You rarely see any mistakes during these games, so you must be ready. The cool thing about transitioning from minor leagues to the big leagues is in the big leagues, winning is all that matters.

My life at the alternate site was practice from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. every day in Corpus Christie, Texas, then isolating ourselves at our hotel for the rest of the day. We had our meals delivered to us and received $25 a day with our $400 a week. We would play scrimmages every other day to keep us game ready. I was fortunate enough to travel with the big league team every other week on their road series for $100 per day.

HOW DID YOU FIND OUT ABOUT BEING SELECTED TO THE PLAYOFF ROSTER? I traveled with the team on the very last road trip of the regular season, and as soon as the regular season ended, I got the call to the show that night! Dusty Baker called me and said. “we will be activating and adding you to the roster for the Wild Card and American League Division Series.” I was with some of my teammates at the time, so they all jumped on me and congratulated me. Then I called my parents, girlfriend and a few friends, including coach Jon Shehan. It was the proudest moment of my life, and I almost cried that night.

HOW DID YOU PREPARE FOR THE GAMES KNOWING THAT YOUR MLB DEBUT COULD COME ANY MOMENT? I woke up every morning focused and eager because I knew I had a chance to play in my first big league game this year. I made sure when I got to the field, to look at scouting reports of the pitchers we would be facing that day, go over some defensive

MCCORMICK ´17

shifts and, most importantly, be ready to run, staying loose all day. You cannot make any mistakes at this level, especially in the postseason, so you cannot afford to make any mental errors or not be physically ready. Emotions were high as well; you must find a way to control that.

Every time the game would get to the fifth or sixth inning, the backups would go into the weight room or cage and activate our bodies and minds as quickly as possible. You prepare before the game and prepare after the game.

WHAT WAS IT LIKE EXPERIENCING THE PLAYOFFS FROM INSIDE THE DUGOUT? Being inside the dugout was amazing. You look onto the field and notice how bright it is out there. As the game goes on, you just

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HOW DID YOUR TIME AT MILLERSVILLE PREPARE YOU FOR A CAREER AS A PROFESSIONAL BASEBALL PLAYER? Millersville is such a good baseball program and how Coach Shehan ran our agendas every day for four years could not have gotten me any more ready. With the competitive teammates I had and all the successful seasons we had as a group, it was evident Shehan was getting us ready for life after college. Coach Shehan did a great job with making sure our team had a plan every day to make sure we were ready for anything to come our way. He would always preach about the little things, and he could not have been more right. I thank Jon Shehan, Millersville Athletics and the University for preparing me for my career as a professional baseball player. 

SPORTS | 2020-21

M E E T T H E N E W WO M E N ’S B A S K E T B A L L COAC H :

Sharay HALL

Following a nationwide search, Millersville University Director of Athletics Miles Gallagher named Colgate assistant SHARAY HALL the Marauders’ new women’s basketball coach.

HALL is the 16th head coach for a program that started in 1918. Hall takes the reins of the program from legendary coach Mary Fleig, who retired after leading the Marauders to nine NCAA Tournaments and winning seven PSAC East titles in 30 seasons.

With a foundation in the PSAC and experience coaching at all three NCAA divisions, Hall most recently served in the Patriot League with former Bloomsburg coach Bill Cleary at Colgate, helping the Raiders to a 19-11 record and their most successful season in 16 years. During the season, she was named to the Women’s Basketball Coaches Association (WBCA) Thirty Under 30, which recognizes up-and-coming coaches under the age of 30 who have exemplified their involvement in community service, mentorship and impact on others, professional manner, and attitude and professional association involvement.

“While getting to know Coach Hall, it was clear that her leadership, values and vision for the program aligned with Millersville University and the athletic department,” said Gallagher. “In addition to her experience as a successful coach and player and intimate knowledge of the PSAC, she has all the intangibles that you can’t teach to be a successful head coach.”

“It is truly an honor to return to the PSAC, where I have created lifelong friendships and relationships as a player and coach. I have prepared in my coaching career for this moment—to return close to home. I take pride in leading this program back to a high stature of competing, winning and preparing young women to become

successful leaders in our society. I have a genuine feeling of being home.”

Born and raised in Philadelphia, Hall became an All-PSAC East selection at Lock Haven University for Millersville alum Jennifer Smith. After graduating with a degree in psychology in 2012, Hall stayed on the Lock Haven staff as a student assistant while earning a master’s degree in sports and exercise psychology.

Hall continued to build her coaching career with stops at Clarion, Frostburg State and W. Va. Wesleyan before becoming the head coach of a young team at Pitt-Bradford in 2017-18. In two seasons, Hall’s teams went 27-24, including 21-15 in conference play with a pair of conference semifinal appearances. After the 2018-19 season, she jumped at the opportunity to work at the Division I level.

With Colgate, Hall experienced a berth in the Patriot League playoffs and recruited at a national level, identifying student-athletes who fit the academic and athletic profile of the program and university. Responsible for coaching the guards, Hall helped Rachel Thompson to an All-Patriot League First Team selection and Alexa Brodie to a spot on the All-Rookie Team.

“Millersville hit a home run with this hire,” said Coach Cleary. “Sharay has been preparing for this her entire life.

A former PSAC player and an all-league player, working as a coach in the PSAC, she has been working toward this moment every day. Coach Hall will definitely bring Millersville back to being one of the best in the PSAC.” Building off her experiences as a player in the PSAC and as a coach at three levels, Hall hopes to build Millersville into a team that plays with pace and dictates the game with its defense.

“My vision is to develop and create a team who plays up-tempo with intensity both offensively and defensively,” said Hall. “Our defensive energy will carry over to our offensive mindset, and the small principles and strategies of our defense will lead to big moments and game-changing plays.

Our team will play with discipline, high intensity, passion, mental toughness and all will be proud to be a Marauder.” 

SHARAY HALL

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CLASS NOTES | 2020-21

Class Notes | 2020 1950 s u LA VERNE BROWN HYMAN ’56, Lititz, retired from Cocalico School District on 8/18/2020 after 61 years of teaching. u JOSEPH P. DEFRANCO ’59, Philadelphia, retired after 59 years of education and administrative services for the Pennsylvania community.

1970 s u LINDA LINDQUIST ’70, Fort Myers, FL, established Protect Your PCs and serves as a certified malware removal specialist. u JOHN BRICKER ’71, Harrisburg, raised $34,378 in the annual March of Dimes for Babies event this year, placing him third in the nation for funds collected. Bricker, who walks in memory of his 3-year-old son, Gregory, who died from a congenital heart defect, participated for 46 consecutive years, raising a total of over $785,000. u RICHARD HUCK ’73, Edwardsville, was awarded the William D. Davis Memorial Award for Drawing from the Art of the State for the second year in a row for the piece “Patchwork.” u RICHARD BALMER ’76 ’81, Myerstown, retired after 40+ years as a research-anddevelopment and manufacturing chemist in the resilient PVC flooring industry and wood/hard surface flooring. u JOSEPH MUZIC JR. ’76, Harrisburg, established Moyles Muzic Law, was awarded Super Lawyer of 2020 by Philadelphia Magazine, and has been recertified as a Civil Trial Lawyer by the National Board of Trial Advocacy. u J. CRAIG DEBERNARDO ’77, Richboro, was inducted into the Bristol Township, PA, Athletic Hall of Fame for soccer in 10/2019.

u DR. CAROL DITTOE ’77, ’95M, Lancaster, retired on 6/5/2020 from Octorara School District after teaching digital literacy for 24 years.

u DOREEN CARNESE OBETZ ’82, Manheim, retired from Manheim Central School District after teaching second grade for 35 years.

u TIM HAAG ’78, Pensacola, FL, retired as director of communications and government affairs at Emerald Coast Utilities Authority.

u LOIS KUBINAK ’83, Reading, received a Master of Arts Education/Special Education from Albright College on 5/17/2020.

1980 s u KEN CRESSMAN ’80, Greensboro, NC, an award-winning author, published his eighth book, titled, “King of the Pirates,” which is set on the Mississippi River during the 1880s. u DAVID GARRETT ’80, Millersville, was promoted to chief operating officer of Saxton & Stump in 6/2020. u DIANE STEPHEY GROW ’80, Colmar, spent 3.5 months on a solo voyage with only a tent and a 15-yearold car, traveling GROW ’80 15,000 miles, saw 22 national parks, backpacked 3 of them, and canoe camped for three days. She is currently writing a book to share her story. u DONNA RENAUT ’80, Abbottstown, retired from Lower Dauphin and Conewago Valley School Districts after teaching kindergarten for 38 years. u JILL LAISE ’81, Pottstown, retired on 5/31/2020 from Einstein Medical Center Montgomery, where she worked as a registered nurse for 33 years. u JOHN GIRVIN ’82, ’91M, Pequea, retired on 6/10/2020 after a diverse career at the Solanco School District, where he was recognized as a distinguished teacher in 2018.

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u NEIL LINKMEYER ’83, Lincoln University, retired on 6/30/2020 from Unionville High School after teaching technology and engineering for 35 years. u CHERYL BEHRENSHAUNSEN ’84, Mount Holly Springs, retired after teaching kindergarten and first grade for 36 years. u DEAN BAKER ’85, Lancaster, was appointed chief executive officer for the Phoenix Group of Companies. u DR. DONNA DAMBACH ’85, San Fransisco, CA, joined Morris Animal Foundation’s board of trustees in 8/2020. u STEVEN HOLLENBACH ’85, Sinking Spring, retired from the School District of Philadelphia and returned to theater performance as a trumpet player for Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre. u JODI ALDERFER ’87, Temple, earned a German, French and Spanish World Language teacher certification for K-12 and has since taught each language. u JOHN HERTZLER JR. ’88, Lancaster, published his first mystery novel, “Shadows at Atlantic Point,” inspired by the former Rocky Springs Amusement Park. u JEFF LOVE ’89 AND TRACY LOVE ’94, Gretna, VA, purchased Leesville Lake Campground, LLC in 2017 and are preparing for their first expansion. u SOPHIA CARTER-PARKER ’89, Oreland, PA, published a children’s book, “Ready, Set, Go to Grandma’s,” on 10/13/2020.

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199 0 s

u SUE BARLEY FORRY ’94, Columbia, was appointed regional coordinator for Moms in Prayer International.

u JOHN CUSATIS ’90M AND EARL J. INGERSOLL published their first book, “Conversations with John Banville.” u JEFFREY CLOUSER ’91, Mount Joy, was published in the 2020 summer issue of the UCC Musicians Association Journal and published his fourth article CLOUSER ’91 in the 2020 fall edition of The Worship, Music and Ministry Journal of the United Church of Christ Musicians Association. u MICHAEL FLORA ’92, Orange, CT, accepted a position as CFO at Marrakech, Inc. u ROBERT GOSHEN ’93, Marietta, accepted a position as chief of police for FLORA ’92 Mount Joy Borough, after retiring from 23 years at York City Police and achieving the rank of lieutenant. u BONNIE NORTHEIMER ’93, Ephrata, was assigned court-appointed special advocate volunteer coordinator for Worcester Youth and Family NORTHEIMER ’93 Counseling Services (WYFCS) on 5/18/2020. u KEVIN ROSINI ’93, Perkasie, accepted a position as head varsity softball coach at Central Bucks South High School in August 2017. u KATHERINE SCHELLING-GROFT ’93, Lancaster, retired on 6/9/2020 after teaching art education for 26 years at J.P. McCaskey High School. u STEVE YACOVELLI ’93, Orlando, FL, won his second book award for “Pride Leadership: Strategies for the LGBTQ+ Leader to Be the King or Queen of their Jungle.”

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU

FORRY ’94

u PATRICK MARKET ’94, Columbia, MO, was promoted to director of School of Natural Resources at the University of Missouri. u SANDRA MILLER ’85, ’93M, Boalsburg, and KARA ROSS ’93M, Lancaster; Sandra wrote her memoir, “Teachable Moments—A Woman’s Journey of Self-Discovery” which shares her experiences of being an art teacher in Lancaster County for 16 years.

Kara provided the illustrations and is the owner of her own art studio, Karaline, LLC. u MICHELLE STUMP ’94, Carlisle, accepted a position as a surgical scheduler at Stoken Wagner Ophthalmic Associates. u DENNIS MILLER ’96, Akron, retired on 4/30/2020 after 30 years as a design department manager for Graybill’s Tool and Die, Inc. u JODI ZEIS ’96, Winchester, VA, accepted a position as supervisor of the Instructional Technology Coaches in Frederick County, Virginia.

u ISADORA DETRES ’98, ’03M, Philadelphia, received an AI For Earth Innovation Grant by Microsoft to fund a Machine Learning model in 2020.

20 0 0 s u CHRISTINA GREEN ‘00, ’04M, Warminster, earned her Ed.D. in Counseling psychology in 2014 and became Adjunct Professor at Arkansas State University in 2020. u PAULA BAMFORD ’01, San Diego, CA, was promoted to vice president of veterinary services at Petco Animal Supplies Stores, Inc. in San Diego. u LUKE HOAK ’02, Pottsville, was promoted to general manager of operations on 1/1/2020, elected to the board of directors of Schuylkill Economic HOAK ’02 Development Corporation, and named co-chair of the executive committee for the Northeast Manufacturers Association.

u JESSICA MILLER ’97, Spring Grove, earned her doctorate in education from Arizona State University on 12/16/2019. u SCOTT ZECHMAN ’97, Gainesville, VA, earned a master’s in strategic studies from the Army War College on 7/24/2020. u KELLY MCGINNIS BECK ’98, Romansville, was appointed CEO and board member of PolyCore Therapeutics, LLC in July 2020.

BECK ’98 Additionally, she was reelected to her second two-year term as national president of Alpha Sigma Alpha Sorority.

MAHAFFEY ’02

u ABBIE MAHAFFEY ’02, ’05M, Palmyra, earned her doctorate in education leadership from Widener University on 12/1/2019.

u HEATHER STEHMAN ’02, Gilbertsville, was awarded “Excellence in Marketing and Communications” at the inaugural TriCounty Young Professional Awards Gala. u MUBARAK BASHIR ’05, Rochester, NY, accepted a position as regional director for Greyston and has been recognized as Rochester Business BASHIR ’05 Journal’s Forty Under 40.

We are proud of you! Share your professional achievements, personal accomplishments and life milestones with us so we can share them with fellow Marauders. www.millersville.edu/alumni M I L L E R S V I L L E U N I V E R S I T Y • w w w. m i ller sv i lle. edu

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CLASS NOTES | 2020-21 u RYAN BYLER ’06, Marlton, NJ, was promoted to senior director of property management at ShopCore Properties.

BYLER ’06

AFARI ’07

MILLER ’11

u DONALD AFARI ’07, Rohnert Park, CA, accepted a position as the promotions editor and is responsible for making compelling content for the Quibi platform.

u JENNIFER PRICE ’07, San Diego, CA, wrote, illustrated, and self-published a children’s book, “Mask Up!” about a little boy who learns the importance of wearing a mask during the COVID-19 pandemic. u ANGELA MIMM ’09, Downingtown, was promoted to editorial director at DiD Agency.

MIMM ’09

2010 s u MELISSA REEDY ’10, Reading, accepted a position with Skopenow as director of events marketing. u JASON TABOR ’10, Lancaster, REEDY ’10 accepted a position as digital marketing manager at Must Have Perennials. u WILLIAM GAMBLER ’11, York, accepted a position at Armstrong World Industries as an environmental health and safety manager.

u NATHAN MILLER ’11, Lancaster, in under one hour, became the ninth person to ever finish the 5-lb. ice cream sundae “Mountville Meltdown” challenge at Scoops Ice Cream

and Grille. u CHELSEA MORGENWECK ’11 West Deptford, NJ, was accepted to Wilmington University to pursue a master of education degree in elementary and secondary school counseling. u CLARK DAVIS ’12, Overland Park, KS, accepted a position as design engineer for Dimensional Innovations. u KRISTIN WATERS ’12, New York, NY, recently reached a runner’s milestone in Baltimore, MD, when she completed her 100th marathon. u JEREMY YOUNG ’12, Lancaster, was awarded as an honoree for Central Penn Business Journal’s 2020 Forty Under 40. u DANIELLE DOUGHERTY ’13, Mohnton, accepted a position as grant writer at the Domestic Violence Center of Chester County. u JENNIFER BANH ’14, Abington, accepted a position as community umbrella agency case manager supervisor for Catholic Community Services. u EMILY CONKLE HOUSEL ’14, Shoemakersville, accepted a position as manager of operations services with FOCUS.

u JULIA NIKOLAUS ’15, Columbia, accepted a position as copy strategist with Coalition Technologies. u ALLYSSA EMBERY-ZIMMARO ’16, Bethayres, accepted a position as associate attorney with Howland, Hess, Guinan, Torpey, Cassidy, O’Connell & Birnbaum, LLP. NIKOLAUS ’15

u ROBERT JEFFRIES ’16, Hummelstown, published his first book, “America’s Perigon,” featuring a foreword from New York Times Best-seller Roger Stone. u ALEXANDRA LASHNER ’16, Bensalem, accepted a position as account executive for Frank Advertising. u ALEX STAM ’16, Lancaster, was appointed head girls varsity basketball coach at Octorara Area High School.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR!

e t a r b e Cel One Day Give on February 25, 2021!

u EMILY PARKINS ’14, Bethlehem, accepted a position as assistant commissioner with Championships and Business Operations at the Patriot League. u MORGAN HARTMOYER ’15, Exton, accepted a position as director of sales at Sunrise Senior Living. u KATRINA PONTI ’15, New Cumberland, received a Vern Moore Fellowship for research and a Susan B. Anthony Institute research grant, both in 2019.

Give To What You LOVE 2 • 25• 21

#VILLEONEDAYGIVE

THERE'S MORE

Want to know what they named the baby? Want more details on the big wedding? The new job?

The award? Pictures too? Check out millersville.edu/classnotes.

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| 2020-21 CLASSPage NOTES HEADER Right

2020 s

u NICOLE SUNDO ’16, West Chester, accepted a position as biological researcher with Teva Pharmaceutical.

u BRETT HERSH ’20, York Haven, accepted a position as global travel financial analyst at Foot Locker Incorporated.

u KARLY WIEST ’16, Lancaster, accepted a position as logistics coordinator at Sunrise Logistics Inc. of Four Seasons Produce. u KYLE GARRITY ’17, Leola, accepted a position as deputy sheriff for the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office. u KENNETH ARIAS ’18, Landisville, was promoted to account executive at Memory Blue. u SHAYNE FRONHEISER ’18, Springfield, IL, accepted a position as child welfare specialist with Lutheran Family and Children Services of Illinois. u AMBER LIGGETT ’18, ’20M, Camp Hill, accepted a position as public information officer with the PA Department of Health in the Office of Communications LIGGETT ’18 ’20M and Bureau of Public Health Preparedness. u MICAH BEASTON ’19, Prince Frederick, MD, accepted a position as mental health coordinator with Calvert County Public Schools. u JARRYD GOLDSTEIN ’19, Hatboro, accepted a position as local marketing coordinator for Storage Asset Management. u MEGAN LEYH ’19, New Oxford, accepted a position as brand analyst for Colgate-Palmolive. u SAMMUEL MANNING ’19, Upton, MA, accepted a position as public relations specialist for WG & Co MARCOM. u TIGER SPROUT ’19, Lancaster, accepted a position as sales consultant with Lancaster Nissan.

u LISA KAUFFMAN ’03, Columbia, married Amit Motiana on 5/1/2020.

HERSH ’20

u MADISON MONSCHEIN ’20, Rehobeth Beach, DE, accepted a position as marketing assistant manager at Delaware Retiree.

KAUFFMAN ’03 AND MOTIANA

u BRITTANY LOGANA FARRELL ’11, ’19M, Fawn Grove, married Derek Farrell on 8/22/2020.

u JONATHAN PARKER ’20, Stroudsburg, MONSCHEIN ’20 accepted a position as associate meteorologist at Weather Works, LLC. in May 2020. u EMILY PEREZ ’20, Harrisburg, accepted a position as junior online public relations specialist at WebFX.

FARRELL ’11

u JOSEPH STEINMACHER ’15, Morgantown, married MICHELLE STEINMACHER ’14 on 7/11/2020.

PEREZ ’20

WE DDINGS u JEANNINE JOHE BRENNER ’60 married Larry Kowerski on 7/4/2020. u KEVIN ROSINI ’93, Perkasie, married Megan Myers on 10/14/2017. u REBECCA TASSONE ’00, Red Lion, married Steven Harvey on 2/20/2020 in Lititz, PA.

STEINMACHER

u ZACH HEACOCK ’15, Oxford, married Ally Schurr on 8/8/2020. u DOUGLAS WATERMAN SNELLEN ’15, Allentown, married Paul Snellen on 10/12/2019. u JOVON WATTS ’16, Litiz, married TALISA RAMOS-WATTS ’15M on 10/4/2020

SPROUT ’19

TASSONE ’00 AND HARVEY

WATTS

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CLASS NOTES | 2020-21 u ASHLEY BALIN RHINEER ’17, Quarryville, married Ben Rhineer on 8/4/2018.

D E AT H S u CHARLES ALLEN MARTIN JR. ’57, Wake Forest, NC, passed away on 08/03/2020 at the age of 95.

u BAILEY KOEHN ’18, Hamburg, and ASHTYN EPTING KOEHN ’18, Hamburg, married on 5/30/2020.

u JOHN HARVEY ’58, Philadelphia, passed away on 6/21/2019 at the age of 83.

MARTIN ’57

KOEHN ’18

BIRTHS u R.J. RYCHLESKI ’79 and wife Krystal Rychleski Lewes, DE, welcomed a baby boy, Tressel Caldwell Rychleski, on 10/8/2020.

u GAYLE LORRAINE EVANS HENRY ’62, Springfield ORE passed away on 9/1/2019 at the age of 80. u DOLORES NELSON ’62, Reading, passed away on 7/4/2020 at the age of 80.

u CHRISTY KLEMICK ’02 and husband, Andrew Klemick, Mechanicsburg, welcomed a baby boy, Everett Klemick, on 4/3/2019.

u RICHARD EDWIN WEAVER JR. ’65, Lebanon, passed NELSON ’62 away on 6/7/2020 at the age of 77.

u ELIZABETH TOWNSEND ’08, ’17M, Lancaster, welcomed a baby boy, Everett Townsend, on 3/13/2020.

u ROBERT JOSTEINSKI JR. ’67, Harrisburg, passed away on 9/20/2020 at the age of 75.

u KATELYN ESPENSHADE ’09 and husband Larry Espenshade, State College, welcomed twins, Claire and Theodore Espenshade, on 5/6/2019.

u R. SCOTT SPANGLER ’69, Lancaster, passed away on 9/11/2020 at the age of 73.

u TOBY UTERMOHLEN ’10 and husband Shawn Utermohlen, Pottstown, welcomed a baby girl, Lucille Harper, on 10/21/2019. u EMILY CONKLE HOUSEL ’14, Shoemakersville, welcomed a baby boy, Macaulay Alan Housel. u ASHLEY BALIN RHINEER ’17 and husband Ben Rhineer, Quarryville, welcomed a baby girl, Charlotte, on 9/25/2019.

u MARY WALKER KEARNS ’75M, Lancaster, passed away on 2/3/2020 at the age of 76. u CHRISTIAN CHRISTIANSEN ’76, Philadelphia, passed away on 1/24/2020 at the age of 67. u DWIGHT RINEHART ’76 ’78M, Pennsburg, passed away on 6/17/2020 at the age of 65. u GINNY SPENGEL PREVOST ’77, Harleysville, passed away on 9/15/2018 at the age of 65. u SHERRI WAGNER DOLHEIMER ’85, Lebanon, passed away on 2/1/2020 at the age of 56. u JENNIFER CRONAN KRAUSE ’88, Orange, NJ, passed away on 2/8/2020 at the age of 52. u JAMES FUHRMAN ’88, Royersford, passed away on 7/29/2019 at the age of 52. u BRIAN AXSMITH ’91, Stowe, passed away on 5/5/2020 at the age of 57. u BRIAN MCCORMICK ’08, Wyndmoor, passed away on 9/28/2020 at the age of 36.

u BARBARA STREHLE DAVIS ’72, Bethlehem, passed away on 5/4/2020 at the age of 68. u BRENDA ERWIN ’73 ’78M, Tower City, passed away on 2/24/2020 at the age of 68. u RACHEL D. WYWADIS ’74, ’75M, Mount Joy, passed away on 8/8/2020 at the age of 69. u NANCY SEITZ FILER ’75, Allentown, passed away on 3/6/2020 at the age of 66.

INTERESTED IN GIVING TO MILLERSVILLE UNIVERSITY? There are many ways to get involved and support student scholarships, educational programs, cutting-edge technologies, student-faculty research and sports teams.

Learn more by visiting millersville.edu/give.

34 | M I L L E R S V I L L E U N I V E R S I T Y • Fal l | Wi nter 2 020-21

WHY I

WHY I GIVE | 2020-21

IMPAC T:

Leaving a Legacy that Lasts Assistant Professor Emerita & Alumna Nancy Hungerford ’80 and Husband Chick Share Why They Give to MU

By Kelsey Madas Nancy ‘80 and Charles “Chick” Hungerford, who reside in Lancaster County in a quiet retirement center, are both lifelong educators and athletes. You could even describe the pair as a great team—they certainly know how to work well together, whether it be through co-teaching, playing tennis competitively or for pleasure, or raising a child. “Chick and I have enjoyed teaching, getting to know our students and our co-workers in education over the years,” she says.

On the subject of teaching, Nancy offers up this piece of advice: “If you don’t like teaching by year three, you should leave,” she noted, solemnly.

Both Nancy and Chick made it well past year three of teaching—they each taught in various capacities for several decades—and happily found themselves exactly where they wanted to be: working with students and student-athletes in the classroom and on the field.

is something they passed down to their only child, Jill.

According to her parents, Jill was brilliant and driven. She excelled at tennis, playing competitively and for pleasure for many years, all while racking up several impressive degrees and tackling complicated research in her chosen field: science. Eventually, she earned a doctorate in physiology from the University of Virginia in 1995 and became a scientist, going on to conduct research on developmental biology of the cardiovascular system at Yale University.

“Millersville University has always been good to us.

We wanted to be good to them.”

Sadly, Jill passed away from cancer at the young age of 34 in 1999, leaving behind a loving husband and her parents.

To honor the memory of her life and her love of tennis, the couple established the Dr. Jill E. Hungerford Memorial Scholarship, a scholarship given out annually to one female tennis player in Lancaster County to be used towards post secondary educational expenses.

She described teaching in public schools as “the icing on the cake” of her career—but Millersville University was “the second layer of icing on the cake.”

The couple spent most of their years in education focusing on physical education.

But the Hungerfords generosity didn’t stop there. The pair also opted to include Millersville University in their will. “Millersville University has always been good to us. We wanted to be good to them,” explained Nancy.

On top of earning a master’s degree in education/ counselor education (now called school counseling) at MU in 1980, Nancy also enjoyed many years of coaching various sports throughout her career, at MU and elsewhere. She taught and coached at Millersville University beginning in the ’60s and ending in the early ’90s for a combined total of 25 years.

Nancy also served in many other roles at the University— then called Millersville State College—including service in the Department of Health and Physical Education, as an assistant department chairperson, an assistant professor and, finally, being named as an assistant professor emerita upon her retirement.

And while the two share a love of teaching, tennis has always held a special place in their hearts. The couple enjoyed playing tennis for many years together. Their love of the sport

The couple’s gift will undoubtedly have a long-lasting impact not only for the campus community, but more importantly, for generations of students to come.

Because of the generosity of the Hungerfords, Millersville University will be able to begin work on a tennis facility in the future—something that brought their family together, and something that will bring future Marauders together. Love might mean nothing in tennis, but not for the Hungerfords. “We have a pride in Millersville University,” says Nancy. “It is a fine institution.

And we felt that after 25 years on the faculty, we wanted to do something for the University.”

WHAT WILL YOUR LEGACY BE? For more information or to request our Free Wills Guide, please contact us at Planned.Giving@millersville.edu or 877-872-3820, or visit millersville.giftlegacy.com. 

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AS SEEN ON

ESTEFANIA MARTINÉZ DIMAS I did it.

I’m done!

ETHAN A. VAUGHN Officially a graduate of Millersville University with a Bachelor of Science degree and a minor in speech communication and media.

Social Media

FAITH BERNEY Twins #maskupmarauders

DR. WUBAH As we get ready for the fall semester, our campus has started buzzing with activities.

On my way to the SMC, I took a photo with Macey W., recorded a video at the SMC and chatted with prospective students. Stay safe. Go ’Ville

HECTOR L. TORRES DIAZ Congratulations!

After all the years of hard work, you became a college graduate. Couldn’t be prouder of you!

Family members pose with a recent graduate on campus.

KATELYN VRABEL So happy to announce both my acceptance and decision to attend Millersville University to get my degree in early-childhood education.

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