As the vibrant colors of spring begin to paint our campus, I am delighted to introduce you to the Spring 2025 edition of the Millersville University Review. This issue is a tribute to the diverse achievements, unwavering dedication, and inspiring stories that define our remarkable community.
We begin by celebrating the naming of the Center for International Programs and Services in honor of Mr. Michael G. Warfel, class of 1984. For 26 years, Michael has been a steadfast champion of Millersville University, serving with distinction on our Council of Trustees, including the last 15 as its chair. His visionary leadership and generous philanthropic support, exceeding $2 million, have profoundly impacted our institution. This well-deserved recognition honors his extraordinary commitment to our students and our global mission.
This issue also reflects the rich tapestry of events that marked Women’s History Month, highlighting the contributions and achievements of women across our campus. We proudly showcase the intellectual dynamism of our community through coverage of the second annual symposium on Generative Artificial Intelligence in the Lancaster region, as well as the “Made in Millersville” conference, which once again provided a platform for our talented students and faculty to share their groundbreaking research, creative performances, and insightful presentations.
We shine a spotlight on Dr. Dan Albert, our esteemed Educator of the Year, whose dedication to teaching and mentorship has inspired countless students. We also celebrate the opening of “The Nest,” our new commuter lounge in the Student Memorial Center, a welcoming space designed to foster community and connection.
Finally, and perhaps most poignantly, we share the inspiring story of Dr. Jaima Brown-Kishbaugh, who achieved her lifelong dream of earning a Doctorate of Nursing Practice on December 14, 2024, while courageously battling terminal breast cancer. Her unwavering spirit and determination serve as a powerful reminder of the resilience and strength that define our Marauder family.
This Spring issue of the Review captures the essence of Millersville University – a place of intellectual curiosity, compassionate community, and unwavering pursuit of excellence. I invite you to delve into these pages and celebrate the remarkable achievements of our students, faculty, staff and alumni.
With warmest regards,
The Review is published by Millersville University, a member of Pennsylvania’s State System of Higher Education.
PRESIDENT
Dr. Daniel A. Wubah
VICE PRESIDENT FOR UNIVERSITY RELATIONS & STRATEGIC INITIATIVES
In an extraordinary display of determination and resilience, Dr. Jaima Brown-Kishbaugh graduated with her Doctor of Nursing Practice on Dec. 14, 2024, fulfilling a lifelong dream even as she battles terminal breast cancer. Jaima, a triple Millersville University alumna, has her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (2011), Master of Science in Nursing (2014) and now, her DNP – an achievement that was both a professional and personal triumph.
Jaima’s journey to her doctorate began in May 2022, when, after being declared cancer-free, she embarked on her DNP studies. However, her path took a devastating turn earlier this year when she learned her cancer had
returned as stage 4, triple-negative breast cancer – one of the most aggressive forms of the disease. Despite the diagnosis, Jaima remained steadfast. “My goal was to die a doctor; it’s one of the things that was driving me,” she shares.
Dr. Kelly Kuhns, chair of the Wehrheim School of Nursing at Millersville University, praised Jaima’s unwavering spirit and the profound impact she has had on the nursing program. “Earning her DNP was on Jaima’s bucket list, and she worked diligently toward it. When it became clear this fall that her disease was terminal, the faculty rallied around her to help her achieve her goal of ‘dying a doctor.’ Her success is a testament to her grit and the love and support of her ‘nurse squad.’”
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“Without Dr. Kuhns and the nursing professors rallying behind me, this would not have been possible,” says Jaima. “The nurse squad was definitely in my corner and made it happen.”
Balancing her treatments, studies and family life, Jaima persevered. “Some days I was so sick from chemo, I couldn’t get off the couch,” she recalls. “I did telephone calls for work lying on the couch – I’d get up, take notes and have to lie back down. I just did what I needed to do to get through that.” Her relentless determination reflects what she calls “the Brown way – the family way,” a mindset instilled by her father, where excellence and tenacity are nonnegotiable.
Jaima’s three children, including two younger kids ages 9 and 11, were in the audience on graduation day to witness her triumph. “Oh my gosh, I couldn’t stop smiling,” she says. “I’ve been in school for 20 years. Start to finish, 10 years to get my master’s, and then I came back for my doctorate. I’m a go-getter. If I see something I want, it doesn’t matter the obstacles, I go for it.”
Despite her illness preventing her from practicing as a nurse practitioner, Jaima has not stopped giving back to the profession she loves. She continues to teach one class per semester as an adjunct faculty member, driven by her passion for nursing education. “One of my duties as a nurse is giving back to the profession, and I do that by teaching. It makes my heart happy.”
Her outlook on life remains inspiring. “Being terminal makes your priorities a little different,” she says. “I have stuff to do before I leave.” Jaima plans to continue chemotherapy treatments and is pursuing care at MD Anderson Cancer Center in Texas, one of the leading institutions for cancer treatment. “Your mind has so much to do with everything; the willpower to keep going matters. I’m aiming to blow past the 1–2 years they gave me.”
The holidays were spent surrounded by family and friends; a silver lining Jaima holds close. “One of the benefits of dying is that everyone comes to see you a lot. Being with them makes my heart happy.”
As Jaima reflects on her journey, she hopes her story inspires others to pursue their dreams, no matter the obstacles. “You can do it. Whatever life puts in front of you, go after it. I’m a firm believer that anything is possible if you put your mind to it.”
Jaima’s story is one of courage, persistence and hope – a testament to the indomitable spirit of a nurse, a mother, and now a doctor.
WARFEL CENTER FOR INTERNATIONAL PROGRAMS AND SERVICES
By Janet Kacskos
Millersville University marked a historic milestone with the official dedication and naming of the Michael G. Warfel ’84 Center for International Programs and Services on March 5. The event, held on campus, honored Millersville University Council of Trustees Chairman Michael G. Warfel for his support and advocacy for global education. The ceremony brought together a distinguished audience, including members of the Millersville University Council of Trustees, the president’s cabinet, academic deans, alumni, faculty, staff and friends.
The Office of International Programs and Services plays a vital role at Millersville University in fostering crosscultural connections, supporting international students, and expanding global opportunities for Millersville University students. There is an increasing number of students engaged in global education and new
partnerships to extend the University’s international reach.
“The valuable investment in global education is profoundly important now more than ever, as we build an international network that connects students throughout the world,” said Dr. Dan Kulmala, assistant vice president for International Programs and Global Engagement. “Our University opens its doors to the world with a welcoming spirit, transforming lives through international mobility.”
Millersville University President Daniel A. Wubah delivered remarks recognizing Warfel’s leadership and unwavering commitment to advancing the University’s global engagement efforts.
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Chairman Michael G. Warfel ’84 and President Daniel A. Wubah at the dedication of the Michael G. Warfel ’84 Center for International Programs and Services.
“The Michael G. Warfel ’84 Center for International Programs and Services will serve as a beacon of opportunity,” Wubah remarked. “Mike, your generosity and vision will forever shape the future of international education at Millersville University.”
A 1984 graduate of Millersville University, Warfel has a degree in political science and has played a pivotal role in expanding international education opportunities. He has been instrumental in initiatives such as the International Flag Project, which showcases flags from the home countries of Millersville’s international students, and the establishment of the Michael G. Warfel ’84 Fund for International Student Experiences, supporting student scholarships and global programs.
Since Spring 2021, Warfel has been the senior vice president of government affairs at Highmark Inc., one of the largest health insurance companies in the nation. Warfel has served on the Council of Trustees for Millersville University since 1999 and is currently chairman of the COT. He also serves on the Pennsylvania State Board of Higher Education.
Brogan Williams ’26, scholarship recipient of the Michael G. Warfel ’84 Fund for International Student Experiences, with Michael G. Warfel ’84.
President Dr. Daniel A. Wubah and Michael G. Warfel ’84 with Warfel Center staff.
FACULTY, STAFF and ALUM NEWS
’Ville’s Dr. Monn Receives Nurse Practitioner Award
For her work as a role model for nurse practitioners and her integrity, professionalism, kindness and compassion, associate professor Dr. Jenny Monn of the Wehrheim School of Nursing has received the honorable Sheila Gealey Award. The award recognizes her achievements for actively protecting and enhancing the role of a nurse practitioner. She received the award at the Pennsylvania Coalition of Nurse Practitioners 2024 Annual Educational Conference on Nov. 15.
“I am thrilled to see Dr. Monn’s continued advocacy for nurse practitioners recognized by the Pennsylvania Coalition of Nurse Practitioners,” says Dr. Kelly Kuhns, chair of the Wehrheim School of Nursing. “For more than 10 years, Dr. Monn has been active at the local and state level, working to achieve full practice authority for nurse practitioners in Pennsylvania. Our students have been privileged to have a faculty member with her dedication and passion for her profession.”
The award was established in 2012 to honor Sheila Gealey, the first president and long-time leader of the PCNP.
“To think that I could be considered in the same light as Sheila is overwhelming,” says Monn. “As I said to her, ‘I’m not certain I could ever fill your shoes.’”
Monn has been a member of the PCNP Executive Board since 2015 and has held various roles working alongside Sheila Gealey. She chairs the PCNP Research Committee, serves on the Communications and Conference Committees and has cochaired the annual Student Symposium. Monn also attends the annual conference to present her research as a professor and serve as a role model for other nurse practitioners.
Monn continues to show her dedication by conducting research on sexual risk-taking behaviors among college students and playing an active role in the development of Breast-a-Ville.
Interested in becoming a nurse practitioner or getting your Doctor of Nursing? CLICK HERE.
Educator of the Year: Dr. Albert
By Devin Marino
Dr. Daniel Albert, associate professor and chair of the chemistry department at Millersville University, was selected as the 2023-2024 Educator of the Year. This prestigious award, presented by the University, recognizes faculty members who exemplify excellence in teaching, advising and mentorship.
Albert was honored during the University’s commencement ceremony last May and again at a faculty celebration during the fall semester. His dedication to student success and creative teaching approaches have made a significant impact on countless students.
There are three categories a professor must be proficient in to be considered for the Educator of the Year award: behavioral/actions, disposition and influence.
Albert believes that the qualities of a good teacher extend beyond subject matter expertise. “Being reflective and patient are some of the key elements to being a good teacher,” he says. “Sometimes I feel like I designed a really great class where students are engaged with the material, but then I poll the class with a related question, and less than 50% of students get the question right. Patience is key because you want students to understand concepts right away, but that’s not really the way meaningful learning works. Reflection is critical because now you need to talk with your students and ask questions to better understand why they don’t
understand the concept and then take that information to try to do better the next time.”
To motivate and inspire his students, Albert focuses on building strong relationships. “Getting to know students as people and allowing them to understand who I am as a person is important in motivating and inspiring students,” he shares. “By getting to know students, you get to understand their goals, and if they don’t know what their goals are, you can help guide them to different possible outcomes. Ultimately, the motivation and inspiration must come from students, but as a teacher, you can help them see possibilities that they might not have considered and connect them to opportunities that allow them to grow.”
When asked about the significance of receiving the Educator of the Year award, Albert expressed his gratitude. “It is a great honor to win this award,” he says. “There are so many talented and inspiring educators on the faculty at Millersville. Most of what I have accomplished as an educator has been achieved through collaborations and in working groups with other faculty. I appreciate the opportunity to talk about teaching and mentorship with them so we can work together to improve the student experience. I’m thankful to be considered among the wonderful people that are my colleagues.”
Nominations for the 2024-2025 Educator of the Year award were accepted until March 21 and are now under review.
Dining Updates: New Director, Chick-fil-A and Student Involvement
By Kelsey Madas
Dining at Millersville University is undergoing several new updates in 2025 to improve the student experience, diversify its offerings and solicit feedback from the community. The University hired a new dining director, who began working in November 2024. Daryl Matthews comes to MU with nearly three decades of experience in university dining and catering, most recently from Lake Superior State University.
Q&A WITH DARYL MATTHEWS, DIRECTOR OF DINING AT MILLERSVILLE UNIVERSITY
MU: When did your love of cooking first begin?
My first job as a teenager was working in an upscale restaurant, and it sparked my passion for cooking and hospitality. I think it was the combination of learning a new craft and the human connection in service that created a very meaningful connection for me at a young age. I began to appreciate cooking not only as a skill but also as a form of art.
MU: What sparked your interest in the industry?
Like I mentioned, I’ve been in the hospitality industry since my teenage years, starting in restaurants and quickly falling in love with the fast-paced, servicedriven environment. To deepen my knowledge and commitment to this field, I earned a bachelor’s degree in hotel, restaurant and hospitality management from East Stroudsburg University.
Millersville University has always stood out to me for two key reasons. First, I grew up about an hour from campus and still have family nearby, so the opportunity to return to the area – after being away for 28 years – feels both familiar and exciting.
Second, the University’s dining and catering department is a self-operated program – and the only dining and catering service that is self-operated in the PASSHE
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system – a passion of mine in this field. I’ve always believed that this type of program fosters the ability to make the most meaningful and positive impact on dining service experiences for the teams involved and the community they serve. I’m eager to bring my hospitality experience, leadership skills and passion for self-operated dining services to campus and contribute to the department’s continued success.
MU: Is there a chef that inspires you?
Thomas Keller is a chef that has inspired me throughout my career.
MU: What experiences have prepared you for this role?
Twenty-seven years of diverse experience in university dining and catering as a director. I have managed large, midsize and small institutions’ dining and catering departments, which gave me many diverse experiences – and the adaptability to work with both self-operated and contracted food services.
During my career, I’ve worn several hats at one job, from catering manager to overseeing retail operations, concessions, vending and residential dining. My experiences taught me to embrace learning moments and to adapt to the uniqueness of each institution. I also learned that you must have operational expertise and the ability to connect with students, staff and faculty. All of these things helped me gain a comprehensive, wellrounded perspective on all facets of operations.
MU: What are your plans for the future of Millersville University Dining?
My plans for the future are to ensure the needs and expectations of the students, faculty and staff are being met by increasing dining options, enhancing food quality and improving customer service. Some of the ways we plan to do this is by keeping up with food service trends, continuously introducing new concepts, increasing engagement with the campus community, and enhancing our sustainability efforts and initiatives.
MU: What is your favorite part about working at Millersville so far?
The people. Everyone is incredibly supportive and has made me feel very welcome.
MU: Can you give us an update on the food truck?
Currently the food truck is in storage. Our goal is to have the students come up with a name and food concept for the food truck to reflect the interests and preferences of the student body.
MU: Tell us about the Student Dining Service Committee. What is it?
The committee was created to foster communication between students and dining service management. It serves as a bridge for students to voice their needs, concerns, suggestions for improvements and feedback regarding the dining services through monthly meetings.
Students share their ideas on things like new menu items, changes to the dining environment or improvements in service.
Dining services management listens carefully to these contributions and works collaboratively with the committee to address the concerns. Management then translates these insights into actionable steps that aim to refine and improve dining services, ensuring they meet the expectations and needs of the student body. This collaborative effort helps shape the future of dining services at Millersville University, creating a more responsive and student-centered dining experience. If students wish to be on the committee, all they have to do is email me at daryl.matthews@millersville.edu.
MU: What about Chick-fil-A?
MU's Chick-fil-A is now open Monday through Saturday from 11:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. You can learn more at millersville.edu/dining
MU: And, what’s your go-to takeout order?
A chicken burrito from Chipotle and orange chicken when I get Chinese.
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MU: Are you hiring student workers?
Yes, we’re always hiring student workers to join our team. This is an excellent opportunity for students to earn some extra money while enjoying several key perks that make the job both convenient and rewarding, and you can APPLY HERE
Here are some of the benefits:
• Free meals: Student workers receive free meals during their shifts, allowing them to enjoy a variety of food options without spending extra money.
• Flexible scheduling: We offer flexible scheduling that works around students’ class times, making it easier to balance work and school responsibilities.
• Convenient location: Dining service jobs are located right on campus.
• Build work experience: Working in dining services provides valuable work experience in customer service, food preparation and teamwork, which can enhance a student’s resume for future job opportunities.
Meet MU’s New Deputy Police Chief
By Kelsey Madas
There’s a new sheriff in town – or rather, a new deputy police chief at Millersville University’s police department. Bill Hickey, who began his role in early January, took over the position as former deputy police chief Howard Bauman retired after 33 years of service.
A Millersville borough local, Hickey says he is excited to serve and give back to the community he calls home. “I’ve always felt connected to Millersville University,” he says. In Hickey’s previous roles, he served as an officer, detective, sergeant and as a police lieutenant at the Lancaster Bureau of Police, where he served for over 25 years. He holds an associate degree in criminal justice and police science from Delaware County Community College and a bachelor’s degree in the same area of study from West Chester University. His interest in the field began when he was a PASSHE student majoring in communications at Lock Haven University. Hickey took an elective course on juvenile delinquency that he said really sparked his interest in the subject. He changed schools and majors shortly thereafter.
With Hickey’s decades of experience in the police force across various departments and working in the local community, he says he’s ready to take on the job. “I was fortunate to have a career where I was able to change roles every few years to experience new things and do some nontraditional police work,” says Hickey.
“Every facet of my career had something that stood out to me. When I was a younger patrol officer, I really enjoyed being a field training officer, where I taught up-and-coming officers the job and mentored them. Many of the officers I trained and supervised are now in leadership positions in the bureau, including the current chief of police.” Over those years, his work occasionally overlapped with MUPD and its officers and often involved educating the community on matters of safety, promoting the department and serving as the public information officer.
“I was thrilled Bill was interested in the deputy chief position because of his strong background as an officer, detective, supervisor and leader in nearby Lancaster city,” says Pete Anders, chief of police at Millersville. “I sought the right police leader at my school, where many of my friends’ children live and study, someone who treats others like they treat their own family. At the recent Martin Luther King breakfast, I received regular affirmation from church and civic leaders of Bill’s compassion, professionalism and engagement with community members. Deputy Chief Hickey will be a servant leader with our department and our University community.”
To learn more about the services and resources the MUPD offers, visit millersville.edu/police.
Meet DSW Graduate Dr. Miranda Blackburn
By Marissa Farmer ’24
Dr. Miranda Blackburn, a clinical social worker and associate professor, has dedicated her career and research to supporting veterans, engaging in crisis response, preventing suicide and advancing social work education. Blackburn graduated from Millersville University’s Doctor of Social Work program in May 2024. Since her graduation, Blackburn has used her experience and expertise to navigate the field of social work with a passion for impactful change.
provided platforms in the professional space to address issues that are meaningful to me. I am also an active member of the West Virginia Governor’s Challenge to Prevent Suicide Among Service Members, Veterans and Their Families. Recently, I was invited to join the West Virginia Chapter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention as a board member. I am developing training and coursework to inform helping professionals about working with military and veteran populations.
MU: Why did you choose Millersville for the DSW program?
Blackburn: Millersville offered coursework relevant to my career goals and is one of the DSW programs that requires a dissertation. This was important to me because I wanted a program that would prepare me to engage in meaningful research that is informed by clinical and practice experience.
MU: Tell us about your background.
Blackburn: My social work experience has mainly been corrections, military social work, crisis response, suicidology and academia. While working in corrections as a clinical social worker and later as an administrator, I found myself interacting with lots of justice-involved and incarcerated veterans. This inspired me to learn more about factors that influence what I was seeing and become more culturally aware. This directly informed the decision to be commissioned into the Army National Guard as a social worker.
MU: How are you using your degree?
Blackburn: Currently, I am fortunate enough to be in an associate professor position at Concord University’s accredited social work program. Additionally, the knowledge gained through the dissertation process has
MU: What inspired you to pursue a DSW degree?
Blackburn: Honestly, I wanted to remain in higher education, and the DSW gave me a pathway to increased job stability through access to tenure-track positions. Additionally, I wanted to get back into research because research-informed practice is an essential part of social work.
MU: Can you tell us about a specific project or research you worked on during your program that had a significant impact on you and your understanding of social work?
Blackburn: As someone who does not have a BSW (my undergraduate degree is in psychology), a lot of professional history was provided through the coursework, which helped me better understand social work origins and frameworks. I enjoyed the opportunity to formally research a topic that was important to me.
For the dissertation, I focused on the topic of military suicide. This was done through an examination of postmortem investigations that were completed with National Guard service members for whom suicide was the cause of death. The adjutant general of the Ohio National Guard invited me to discuss the findings of
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the research. This support provided the opportunity to engage in further discussions around prevention, intervention and postvention within the organization. There is an amazing community that has been brought together through shared experiences around suicide. And while this carries a profound sadness, it also shows what people can accomplish when there is hope that things can get better.
This experience was a great reminder of the value of collaborative work and the impact that social work can have at all levels of practice. The dissertation structure at Millersville allowed me to explore areas of practice in ways that I would not have otherwise considered.
MU: What were some of the most challenging aspects of the DSW program, and how did you overcome them?
Blackburn: Life. Life happens no matter what your personal or professional career goals are. I had a lot of setbacks during the process due to health, military obligations, work and family. The cohort model was helpful because all of us supported each other through the process. I gained a lot of valued friendships. Some good mentorship arose from these challenges.
MU: Were there any mentors or professors who significantly influenced your journey through the DSW program?
Blackburn: I would like to thank my committee members. I am planning to collaborate on future research with members of my committee as they continue to support my professional journey after the doctorate.
MU: How do you envision applying your DSW degree to influence change within communities, organizations or the broader social systems?
Blackburn: There are a lot of opportunities to influence change through research and curriculum development. I have found that there is a dearth of formal training on suicide prevention and military culture in undergraduate and graduate social work programs.
Through collaborative efforts that come with working at a small Appalachian university, especially one that provides education to many first-generation students going into social work, current and relevant issues of
the geographic region are brought to the forefront. This allows for engagement with all levels of systems in a more personalized and real way that bolsters not only the community but also student learning.
These students are the future of social work, and having the opportunity to be a part of their journey influences change for the future. The skills and knowledge gained during my time in the DSW program have shaped my approach as an educator.
MU: Looking back at your time in the DSW program, what are you most proud of accomplishing?
Blackburn: Although I have a lot of self-criticism on what could be better with my research, I know that the dissertation is only an introductory work that I will build upon as I continue to engage in research. It was important to me to tackle an issue and topic that would provide a challenge and be meaningful in my future work. I am proud that my topic created a forum for difficult conversations around suicide prevention and military populations. I hope that this discourse continues in a way that increases awareness and decreases stigma about suicide within military populations.
MU: What advice would you give students considering the DSW program today?
Blackburn: Understand your “why” for doing the program. It is a lot of time, money and work to invest in this journey. Have a clear intention with your journey, and it will make it easier to navigate the obstacles that will inevitably arise. The value is in the journey, and it will be worth it.
MU: What are your career goals moving forward, and how do you plan to use your DSW degree to shape your future in social work?
Blackburn: I plan to continue working in education (for which the DSW is essential) and incorporate clinical work more actively into my professional arena. I also hope to start working on some new research and community projects. An area of significant professional interest to me is the development of suicide mortality review boards, which are becoming more recognized and supported in suicide prevention work. I am also taking steps to engage with crisis response and crisis intervention teams in my community.
A Yuletide Journey: Millersville’s Icelandic Music Video
By Devin Marino
The Yule Cat, a larger-than-life fictional creature from Icelandic folklore, has been brought to life in a chilling new music video. The project, a collaborative effort between the Music Business Technology program at Millersville University and a team of talented musicians and filmmakers from In the Wee hours, offers a unique blend of rock music and captivating visuals.
“Nearly two dozen students were involved in making the film in some capacity, from production coordinator to student composers,” says Dr. Barry Atticks, associate professor of Music Business Technology at Millersville University.
The filming was memorable, from exploring ancient cemeteries to witnessing breathtaking sunrises over black sand beaches. The team also forged strong bonds with the local crew and young actors who brought the story to life.
Atticks first encountered the Yule Cat legend during a trip to Iceland. Intrigued by the tale of a giant, monstrous cat that devours children who haven’t received new clothes for Christmas, he delved deeper into Icelandic folklore. Atticks states that he “was drawn to the dark and mysterious aspects of the legend” and adds, “It’s a perfect fit for a horror-themed Christmas short film.”
The team conducted extensive research to accurately portray the Yule Cat and its historical context. They explored the legend’s origins, which date back to medieval times, and its connection to Iceland’s textile industry. “We wanted to stay true to the folklore while adding our own creative interpretation,” Atticks says.
Producing a music video in Iceland presented a unique set of challenges. The team had to navigate logistical
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hurdles, such as securing filming permits and hiring local crew members. The biggest challenge, however, was bringing the Yule Cat to life. “We experimented with various techniques, including practical effects and CGI,” Atticks reveals. “The final result is a terrifying creature that captures the essence of the legend.”
Atticks hopes the music video will entertain viewers and spark interest in Icelandic folklore. “We want to share Iceland’s rich cultural heritage with a wider audience,” he says. “By bringing the Yule Cat to life, we’re paying homage to this fascinating legend and inviting people to explore the darker side of Icelandic folklore.”
You can watch the video on YouTube: HERE.
THE STUDENTS INVOLVED INCLUDE:
On location for the movie:
Kaitlyn Meyers
Em Haas
Aden Getz
Zoey Noble
Jessica Rowzer
Isabella Dayton
Ethan Bathurst
Sydney Rauchut
Song production:
Dylan Gehringer
Ryan Leash
Marek Starry
Lucy Kosoff
Elizabeth Allen
Jillian Dolan
Merle Herring
Caleb Marcott
Erin McCarty
Yusuf Miller
Ryan Bliss
More information on the project is available HERE.
You can read about the director HERE.
Karl Moyer: A Life of Music, Movement and Mentorship
By Janet Kacskos
At 88 years young, Dr. Karl Moyer, professor emeritus of music, exemplifies what it means to lead a vibrant, purposeful life in retirement. A long-standing member of the Millersville University community, Moyer retired from the music faculty in 1996, after 32 years of teaching, but continues to leave his mark on campus and beyond through his passion for music, fitness and encouraging the next generation.
Moyer can often be found on campus, visiting the music department, or the library to donate items to Special Collections, or running laps on the track two to three times a week. “I thank the good Lord that I can still run,” he shares. At 85, he celebrated his birthday with a full organ recital and is already considering a similar event for his 90th birthday.
One organ series over the years was “music for meditation” through United Campus Ministry in the A-frame building next to the former First United Methodist Church on campus. Moyer, along with guest organists, played pipe organ music over the lunch hour to inspire meditation.
A man of diverse interests, Moyer speaks passionately about the value of both music and sports in education. “I am entirely in favor of high school and college students getting involved in music or sports or both,” he says. These activities, he believes, can build character and prepare students for success in all aspects of life.
Moyer fondly recalls his connection with Jake Altimore, a former captain of the men’s soccer team and Honors
College student. The two shared an unexpected bond, including a memorable two-mile run together. Altimore, who was hired as a mathematics teacher at Dover High School before graduating, is, in Moyer’s eyes, a shining example of the well-rounded individuals Millersville University strives to cultivate.
Beyond his contributions to music and mentorship, Moyer is a testament to the benefits of physical fitness. A dedicated runner, he has completed three marathons and maintains a disciplined regimen. His commitment to fitness has not only enhanced his endurance but also earned his doctor’s praise for his excellent heart health. “Maybe a regular and disciplined ‘program’ of swimming laps is more to your liking,” he says with a smile. “You don’t need to be nuts to be a runner, but if you are, it helps a great deal.”
Moyer’s enduring presence on campus and his dedication to students’ holistic development – mind, body and spirit – reflect his belief in the University’s mission to prepare students to contribute positively to society.
Photo of Karl Moyer is courtesy of LNP. Taken by Tyler Huber for the June 16, 2022, newspaper. He was photographed at St. Anthony of Padua Roman Catholic Church in Lancaster City.
Wind Ensemble Earns International Recognition
The Tell School of Music’s wind ensemble came in third place for a 2024 American Prize in Music, a first for Millersville University. Dr. Joe Cernuto, assistant professor of music and director of bands at Millersville, directs the ensemble that placed in the Ernst Bacon Memorial Award for the Performance of American Music with their group performances of Sally Lamb McCune’s “Caveat” and Rubén Darío Gómez’s “Tríptico para Flauta y Banda.” The ensemble was joined by professor Morgann Davis, coordinator of flute studies, as the featured soloist. The competition is open to all countries and is reviewed by an international panel of judges.
Named after American composer Ernst Bacon, this national honor is bestowed upon ensembles and soloists from across the globe with the performances of American music and includes a cash prize and certificate. Bacon, Cernuto explains, was a pivotal American composer. “Ernst Bacon was a teacher and administrator of music schools in the United States – most notably at Syracuse University. He composed numerous art songs on the text of master American poets like Carl Sandburg, Emily Dickinson and Walt Whitman,” he says, noting that much of his compositional work was created between 1920 and 1940. “While you might not know his works by ear, his influence was passed down to hundreds of students throughout the 20th century.”
Cernuto says choosing the submissions took careful consideration. “Performing new music is an important part of my philosophical approach to the wind ensemble, so choosing two selections was difficult,” he
explains. “Ultimately, I wanted to choose a repertoire that was made by relatively lesser-known composers – from outside of the traditional white/European/male norms of wind ensemble composers – and were amazing pieces of music.”
The recognition is a huge honor for Cernuto and his students. “It means a great deal to me to even place in this award. The artifacts that the internationally renowned judging panel reviewed were recordings of two different semesters of my students. Ultimately, if they didn’t perform as well as they did, there would be no award – even if my research and curation of the music was outstanding. That combination of my efforts and student effort makes this honor doubly meaningful to me.”
The wind ensemble performed at the Winter Center in March and they have another performance scheduled for Sunday, April 27, at 2:30 p.m. Tickets are available at the door or at artsmu.com/upcoming-events/tell-schoolof-music
CAMPUS NEWS
Exceptional One Day Give Raises More Than $1 Million
By Corinna Linn
An amazing fundraising milestone was reached for this year’s 12th Annual One Day Give as the one-day online giving event raised more than $1 million to benefit Millersville University students.
The event on February 20 raised a total of $1,103,368 from 2,413 gifts in just 24 hours from generous alumni, faculty, staff, students and friends from throughout the Millersville University community. Through this generosity, the valuable donations will support student scholarships, athletics, student learning experiences and a variety of programs and initiatives.
Festivities during the day took place at Celebration Stations across campus, and alumni, faculty and staff received a commemorative pair of socks as a giving incentive. This year’s sock design highlighted the University’s traditions and transformations strategic plan theme and featured the Biemesderfer Executive Center. Students who made a gift received a One Day
Give commemorative T-shirt to recognize their participation.
Athletics fundraising and the popular athletics giving leaderboards were a highlight of the day. Congratulations to this year’s Millersville Athletics teams with the greatest number of gifts, baseball and women’s lacrosse.
“The tremendous outpouring of generosity to raise more than $1 million for One Day Give is truly remarkable and will make a lasting impact in the lives of our students,” says Dr. Daniel A. Wubah, president of Millersville University. “With deepest appreciation, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to everyone in the Millersville University community who was involved in making this year’s One Day Give an extraordinary day of historic fundraising success.”
For more information about One Day Give 2025, visit the website
Millersville University President Dr. Daniel A. Wubah displays this year’s One Day Give socks at a Celebration Station with Sam Morris ’25, Cygnus Society member, and Skully, Millersville’s mascot.
Three Alumni to Speak at Commencement
By Kelsey Madas
Over 1,000 students will become Millersville University alumni when they cross the stage on May 10. They will be welcomed into the community by three alumni who will serve as graduation speakers: Dr. Melvin Allen ’69, will address the crowd at the 9 a.m. ceremony for the College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences as well as the Lombardo College of Business; Dr. Kemah Washington ’03, will speak at the 1 p.m. ceremony for the College of Education and Human Services; and Deborah Willwerth ’88, will speak to students at the 5 p.m. ceremony for the College of Science and Technology. All three ceremonies will be held in the Pucillo Gymnasium.
Allen is a former associate professor of philosophy at MU, faculty emeritus, founder of Millersville’s Black Student Union, executive director emeritus of the Civic and Community Engagement and Research Project, and an attorney. He’s also the cofounder and retired president of the Project Forward Leap Foundation, an organization that focuses on closing the gaps of academic achievement and developmental opportunities between disadvantaged children and their advantaged peers. He holds a juris doctorate from the Dickinson School of Law (now Penn State Dickinson Law), a master’s degree in philosophy from the University of Delaware and a bachelor’s degree in philosophy from Millersville.
Washington is the founder and president of BRANDilly Creative Group, a full-service creative agency offering marketing, graphic design and website design services. Washington and his family helped to establish a new high school at the Baptist School Complex
and Orphanage in Trotor, Ghana. He is active in the University community and serves as the president of the Millersville University Foundation. While a student at Millersville, Washington was in the University Honors College, served as a peer mentor and was a member of the Lambda Tau Chapter of the Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. Washington earned a bachelor’s degree in public relations from Millersville in 2003 and went on to earn a master’s degree in higher education and a doctorate degree in education from North Carolina State University.
Willwerth, the current president of UPMC Lititz, has over 40 years of medical experience and began her career as a nurse at the former St. Joseph’s Hospital in Lancaster. In her career, she worked as the chief nursing officer at Community Hospital of Lancaster, was the COO for two hospitals and was the administrator of the Heart of Lancaster, now UPMC Lititz.
A graduate of Penn Manor High School and a Lancaster native, Willwerth earned a bachelor’s degree in nursing at Millersville and holds a master’s degree in nursing from Widener University.
Each graduate will receive four guest tickets, which are available for pickup at the Ticket Office. Guests must have a ticket to attend the in-person ceremony. Doors will open one hour before each ceremony, and those unable to attend the ceremony can view them via the livestream on May 10 at millersville.edu/commencement.
Dr. Melvin Allen ’69 Dr. Kemah Washington ’03
Deborah Willwerth ’88
Trevor Winter: Noyce Grant Recipient
By Janet Kacskos
Trevor Winter, a transfer student from Harrisburg Area Community College, has made history at Millersville University as the first recipient of the most recent prestigious Noyce grant. Winter, who is pursuing a degree in physics education, will graduate in 2027 and is thrilled about the opportunities the grant provides.
“This grant is incredible. It means so much to me and my family,” Winter shares. “It will not only help me achieve my dream of becoming a teacher but also allow me to pay off my car, which is a huge relief.”
The Noyce grant is part of Millersville University’s newly awarded Track 1: Scholarships and Stipends Grant from the National Science Foundation, totaling $1,199,953. This five-year initiative is designed to recruit and train 15 STEM majors to address the national shortage of highly effective secondary mathematics and science teachers.
Selected Noyce scholars receive financial support covering 97% of tuition, fees, and room and board –equivalent to $48,000 over two years. In return, they commit to teaching in high-need school districts such as those in Lancaster and York, both of which serve diverse and economically disadvantaged student populations.
A native of Hallam, Pennsylvania, Winter would love to stay in the York area to teach and bring his love of physics to life for students. “Physics is how everything works,” says Winter. “It’s fascinating to me to observe something and then say, let’s go find out how it works.”
“Millersville University is committed to addressing the critical shortage of STEM teachers in high-need schools,” says Dr. Cynthia Taylor, professor of mathematics and Principal Investigator of the project. “Through the Robert Noyce Teacher Scholarship Program and our local partnerships, we aim to equip scholars with the skills to become effective, culturally competent educators.”
Dr. Nanette Dietrich, professor of Educational Foundations and Co-Principal Investigator, highlighted the grant’s broader benefits: “This is an incredible opportunity for students aspiring to teach grades 7–12. Along with the Noyce support, the state offers a $10,000 stipend for student teaching. It’s a fantastic time to enter the teaching profession!”
Students interested in applying for the Noyce Scholarship should contact Dr. Cynthia Taylor at cynthia.taylor@millersville.edu.
MU Secures $40,000 Grant to Enhance ‘It’s On Us’ Campaign
By Devin Marino
The Center for Health Education and Promotion at Millersville University has been awarded a $40,000 grant to expand its “It Takes the ’Ville” campaign aimed at preventing sexual assault on campus. This initiative will focus on educating students about affirmative consent, bystander intervention and available support services.
THE GRANT WILL ENABLE CHEP TO:
Expand “It Takes the ’Ville” campaign: This year, the campaign will be fully launched with a broader reach, including a K-12 book talk series on consent education, an “It’s On Us” Week of Action during Sexual Assault Awareness Month and a Doodles Book Talk club exploring disability intimacy.
Enhance existing programs: Initiatives like Purple Carnival, Consent and Cupcakes, and the It’s On Us Pledge Drive will be expanded, with a stronger emphasis on evaluation and data collection.
Increase student involvement: Student peer educators will play a crucial role in planning, implementing and evaluating all grant-funded initiatives.
Strengthen community partnerships: The Center will continue its partnerships with the YWCA Lancaster and Domestic Violence Services of Lancaster County, providing increased access to on-campus support services and off-campus resources.
Improve campus climate: The grant will contribute to a more informed and supportive campus environment by educating students about healthy relationships, consent and bystander intervention through various training programs, including a new Green Dot training specifically for male students and athletes.
“We are thrilled to receive this grant,” says Margaret Thorwart, director of CHEP. “It will allow us to significantly expand our efforts to prevent sexual assault and create a safer, more inclusive campus for all students.”
The Center will utilize the ACHA-NCHA survey and an “It’s On Us” survey to measure the impact of the grant on student well-being and campus climate. By collecting and analyzing data, CHEP will continuously refine its programs and ensure their effectiveness in promoting a culture of respect and consent at Millersville University.
Friday, April 4 | 9 a.m.-4 p.m. SYMPOSIUM 2.0
Millersville University Explores AI
By Reagan Gorham
The burgeoning world of generative artificial intelligence was discussed at Millersville University’s “Lancaster AI Symposium 2.0.” The ‘Ville’s Lombardo College of Business hosted the symposium on April 4 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. This day-long event brought together business professionals and educators from around the region to collectively talk about the impacts of this transformative technology on higher education and many other industries.
What started out as a simple interest in AI for the Dean of the Lombardo College of Business, Dr. Marc Tomljanovich, turned into a realization that the possibilities of AI will cause major disruptions to all industries. “Those attending can expect to gain valuable insights into the future of AI, networking opportunities, and engaging interactive learning experiences,” says Tomljanovich.
Tomljanovich was eager to expand the symposium’s offerings to Millersville students this year. “We held the symposium on campus to encourage students to attend. It is more important now than ever that students
understand AI technologies to excel in their future endeavors and for business owners and employees to understand how AI can be used as an asset,” says Tomljanovich.
The symposium offered real-world examples of why understanding the potential uses of artificial intelligence is imperative. Computer scientist Ashutosh Saxena, the keynote speaker, is the co-founder and CEO of Caspar. AI. By using generative artificial intelligence to predict health and wellness markers, Caspar.AI lets patients and providers enact preventative treatment. Saxena’s cutting-edge technology continues to pave the way for the healthcare industry.
In addition to the keynote, there were panel discussions, demos, a networking luncheon, and hands-on activities. “We are helping to prepare you for your career. If we said you can’t use Chat GPT [on assignments] at your first job with all of that at your fingertips, you won’t be able to augment your natural skills and experiences,” said Tomljanovich.
11 Years of Students Creativity
By Elise Hartwell ’25
The research and creativity of ‘Ville students was on display April 8 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. during this year’s Made in Millersville conference. Students presented their research to the community through posters and demonstrations in the Student Memorial Center.
There were approximately 400 presenters, co-presenters, and co-authors and 55 faculty mentors who shared their findings at the eleventh annual event through nearly 300 presentations. The presenters spanned 31 majors from 26 academic departments.
The conference is organized by the Office of Grants, Sponsored Programs and Research. The Made in Millersville Journal is a companion piece to the event that is published online by a team of student editors under the supervision of Millersville faculty members, Tatiana Pashkova-Balkenhol, associate professor and undergraduate research and instruction librarian, and Dr. Kerrie Farkas, professor of English. “The Made in Millersville Conference and Journal showcase the depth and diversity of our students’ scholarship, insight, knowledge, creativity, and professionalism. Made in Millersville provides a moment for the community to appreciate the scope of influence and impact of
this regional public university - students, alumni, and faculty - on individual lives and the region,” says Jeffry Porter, associate vice president for the Office of Grants, Sponsored Programs and Research.
For student presenters, the conference and journal are extensions of their learning and a chance to have their work viewed and published. Porter says, “Made in Millersville is by design an opportunity for student presenters to practice their ability to effectively communicate the purpose, rationale, and importance of their work, especially with people outside the presenter’s specialization.” Porter says scholarship, innovation, creativity are moot if their creators cannot effectively communicate the purpose and utility of their work to society.” He says, “The Conference and Journal are both celebratory and one more experiential learning opportunity for Millersville students.”
For more information about Made in Millersville, visit millersville.edu/madeinmu
The Nest: New Commuter Lounge
By Marissa Farmer ’24
Commuter students face different challenges than residential students, including long commutes, limited on-campus time and potential feelings of isolation. The Division of Student Affairs at Millersville University is addressing these issues by opening a new lounge dedicated to commuters. The Nest is a multipurpose space where commuters can relax, study and spend time between classes.
The Nest is located in the Student Memorial Center, Room 104, the former computer lab and opened for students this spring.
After witnessing the challenges of commuting, Aly Sehl, assistant director of student affairs of commuter services
and student conduct, and John Hearn, director of operations at the Student Memorial Center, took it upon themselves to tackle this project and provide a space that meets the needs of commuter students.
Sehl explains that the purpose of a lounge primarily for commuter students is to address the unique needs and challenges of commuting and to help students feel more connected to campus life. “The Nest aims to make their college experience more comfortable, convenient and inclusive,” she says.
Hearn, a former commuter, understands the demands of traveling between home, campus and often work. “While
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commuter students are resilient, even resilience needs a place to rest. That is what we hope to provide with the Nest. A place for commuters to find a home away from home, rest, relax, study or simply nap in a semipublic area created just for them,” he says.
“The Nest is an essential part of the University’s broader vision by supporting commuter students by fostering a sense of community and improving student well-being,” explains Sehl. “Many commuter students experience a disconnect from campus life due to limited on-campus presence and fewer opportunities for spontaneous social interaction. Students who feel as though they belong at their institution are more likely to retain and persist. Commuter students tend to be transactional and do not stay on campus between classes because they do not have a place to go where they feel they belong. The Nest changes that.”
To properly provide commuter students with the amenities they need, Sehl and Hearn surveyed commuters to see what features would enhance their experience on campus. Hearn then put together a team of student representatives and engaged staff to review the survey feedback and seek out best practices and
available resources from the professional organization for student unions, the Association of College Unions International. As a result, the Nest was transformed to fit the needs of commuters. The outcomes are reflected in the Nest’s design, which includes three distinct areas:
A practical space with a refrigerator, microwave, Keurig coffee maker, computers and storage.
A personal space with quiet study areas, napping spots and privacy.
A public space designed to encourage collaboration and community building.
“My favorite parts are the little details within the lounge that make it feel like home,” shares Sehl, “including the lighting, relaxing waterfall, comfortable seating, conversation cards and other games to spark community building.”
“The lounge is a grassroots project created by and for students,” concludes Hearn.
SNAP Station Supports Student Food Security
By Devin Marino
To support student food security, Millersville University is taking a significant step by opening a new Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program station. The station opened during spring semester across from the Student Affairs suite in the upper seating area of the Galley in the Student Memorial Center. The station aims to increase awareness of and access to SNAP benefits for students.
“So many of our students are in need, and many of our students qualify for SNAP benefits but don’t know it,” explains Dr. Mary Beth Williams, Vice President for Student Affairs at Millersville University. “This project, funded through the PA Hunger-Free Campus Grant, is intended to feed students in the short term while providing them information about resources that can help them meet their basic needs for the long term.”
The SNAP station will serve as a central hub for students seeking support with food insecurity.
KEY SERVICES INCLUDE:
• Information on SNAP benefits: Students can learn about eligibility criteria, application processes and how to apply for SNAP benefits.
• Basic-needs resources: The station provides information on various campus and community resources, including the Millersville basic-needs intern, who can assist students in navigating the available support systems.
• Free food distribution information: Students will find details about local food banks, pantries and other community organizations offering free food assistance.
• PA 211 resources: Information on a wide range of community services, including housing assistance, healthcare and mental-health support, will be readily available.
• Free food and water: The station will offer immediate access to essential food and water for students in need.
Any Millersville University student facing food insecurity is eligible to use the SNAP station. The University is actively collaborating with local community organizations, particularly the HUB, which houses the Campus Cupboard and provides multiple free meals to students each week.
“We are interested in making the SNAP station what the students need it to be to support their needs. We welcome input as we launch this project and maintain the station,” emphasizes Williams.
Establishing the SNAP station is part of the University’s commitment to alleviating student food insecurity and ensuring that all students have the necessary support for their academic and personal development.
IN MEMORY OF Spring Digital 2025
MARGARET R. “PEG”
WHITCRAFT ’49, Lititz, died 12/21/24. Whitcraft dedicated her professional career to inspiring and supporting students as a librarian at Upper Moreland High School in Willow Grove. She coached girls basketball, softball and cheerleading.
1950s
DR. WALTER KREIDER ’52, Manheim, died 1/6/25. Kreider was drafted into the United States Army, where he served as a military correspondent during the Korean War. Kreider worked as a scout for the New York Yankees and was a professor of education at Millersville University for 31 years. Blending his love of baseball and education, Kreider established the Walt Kreider Family Baseball Scholarship at Millersville.
SHIRLEY J. (ECKERT)
SPANGLER ’53, Richmond, VA, died 12/3/24 at the age of 93. She taught art to children for several years and became a well-loved teacher at All Saints Episcopal Preschool in Richmond.
JOAN M. (SCHOTTA)
SWINDELL ’54, West Hartford, CT, died 10/24/24 at the age of 92. An English graduate and member of the Page Literary Society, she began her teaching career in Havre de Grace, MD, before settling in Connecticut, where she raised her family. Passionate about education, reading and travel, Swindell was active in the League of Women Voters and the Noah Webster House.
STUART F. MOYER ’55, ’71M, Emigsville, died 11/14/24 at the age of 97. Moyer served proudly in the United States Navy as a flight engineer on patrol bombers in the Pacific, including Hawaii, China and the Philippines, from 1945–1949 (active) and 1950–1952 (reserve). He taught mathematics for 35 years at William Penn Senior High School in the York City School District, retiring in June 1990, and also taught mathematics as an adjunct lecturer at the Penn State York campus for five years and at York College of Pennsylvania for 17 years.
WARREN D. WAMBAUGH ’57, York, died 1/9/25 at the age of 89. Wambaugh taught fifth grade for more than 30 years at McKinley Elementary School and often directed summer playground programs. He enjoyed camping, fishing, hunting, golfing and following sports.
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GLADYS WENTLING
BLANK ’58, Forest, VA, died 11/14/24 at the age of 88. Following her graduation, she married Richard Blank and then taught at Pine Grove Elementary School in Pine Grove, PA, for 3 years until the birth of their firstborn. She continued as a substitute teacher.
DORSEY “GENE” E. ENCK ’58, ’61M, Elizabethtown, died 11/30/24. While a student at Millersville, he was a varsity football player, wrestler and a member of the track team. He was also a member of the Phi Sigma Pi fraternity and VP of the varsity club.
WILLIAM “BEBE”/“BILL”
PHILIP BANKERT ’59, Hanover, died 11/23/24 at the age of 87 after a courageous battle with Parkinson’s disease for over a decade. He began teaching woodworking and industrial arts at South Western Junior/Senior High School when it first opened in 1959. For 40 years, Bankert inspired countless students with his passion for teaching and mentoring.
GLENN EDWIN GEHMAN ’59, ’66M, Lititz, died 1/6/25 at the age of 87. Gehman taught English in Avon Grove Area School District, where he also coached baseball. He returned to the Lancaster area to teach at Lincoln Junior High School.
LOUIS L. HAUSER JR. ’59, Hatboro, died 2/28/24 at the age of 90. A dedicated educator, he taught at Upper Moreland High School for 35 years, shaping the lives of countless students. Hauser was a proud veteran of the U.S. Army.
1960s
ANDREW U. AMWAY ’60, Lancaster, died 12/10/24 at the age of 86. He was the loving husband of the late Sylvia (Weaver) Amway. Amway spent 41 years as a teacher and coach at Hempfield High School, where he taught American history and chaired the history department.
NORMAN T. CRAVER ’60, East Petersburg, died 1/29/25 at the age of 86. While at Millersville, Craver played football and wrestled. For 36 years, he taught elementary school in the Eastern Lancaster County School District.
BENJAMIN REUBEN KNEISLEY ’60, ’65M, Hixson, TN, died 4/2/24 at the age of 90. A U.S. Navy veteran, he served aboard the USS Point Cruz, whose story was featured in “A Thousand Men and a Baby.”
GAIL M. (BOWMAN) LOMBARDO ’60, died 5/31/24. A graduate in elementary education, she was an active member of PSEA and Citamard during her time at Millersville. Lombardo was known for her warmth, kindness and ability to brighten the lives of those around her.
GRETCHEN E. DEICHERT ’61, Centerville, MA, died in November 2024 at the age of 85. After completing her degree, Deichert taught at Landisville Elementary and James Buchanan Elementary in Lancaster, PA.
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ELAINE (COOPERSMITH)
NATHANSON ’61, Estero, FL, died 5/10/24 at the age of 83. A dedicated educator, she taught elementary school in the Philadelphia region before serving as a preschool director in Fort Washington and Lower Gwynedd, PA. Nathanson was passionate about painting, playing bridge, reading, swimming, traveling and spending time with family.
ELAINE B. SHAFFER ’61, died 4/12/24 at the age of 83. A mathematics education major and member of the women’s basketball team, she went on to teach in the science and math departments at Abington High School for 38 years. Shaffer was a passionate musician, performing with the Singing City Choir and the Philadelphia Orchestra, even touring internationally to Jerusalem in 1974.
HAROLD “BUD”
A. WALTER ’61, Winfield, died 6/15/24 at the age of 85. An industrial technology graduate, he began his career as an industrial arts teacher in the York School District before retiring after 30 years as a postal carrier. A lifelong farmer, he worked his land every evening after his mail route.
EDWARD W. HOOVER ’62, Huntsville, AL, died 2/15/25 at the age of 86. Hoover earned his bachelor’s degree from Millersville State College and master’s from West Virginia University. He served in the foreign technology division at WrightPatterson Air Force Base before teaching math and physics.
JANE ANN (O’HARA)
RODANO ’62, Fallston, MD, died 1/19/25 at the age of 84. Rodano met her husband, Salvatore, at Millersville. She was also a longtime Harford County preschool/ kindergarten teacher.
ELIZABETH “BETTY” R. (ANDREWS)
SIMPKINS ’62, Atco, NJ, died 4/14/24 at the age of 83. A devoted wife, mother and sister, she was cherished by her family and community. She was an active member of Grace Bible Church and lived a life of faith and kindness.
DORIS STONER ’62, ’74M, Venice, FL, died 11/7/24 at the age of 87. A dedicated educator, Stoner earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in elementary education from Millersville University. She spent her career as a first-grade reading teacher, where she was instrumental in preparing young students and aspiring teachers for success.
JANET l. (WISLER) ETTER ’63, Spring City, died 1/13/25 at the age of 83. Etter served as a beloved fourthgrade teacher at Royersford Elementary School from 1976 to 1999, where her dedication to her students and their education made a lasting impact on the community. Etter was an active member of her church and the local library club, and was involved in various community initiatives.
MARTHA “MARTY” (MYERS) GERFIN ’63, Camp Hill, died 1/7/25 at the age of 83. After teaching high school science, she began a career in the Pennsylvania Bureau of Vocational Rehabilitation, where she became a manager in the central office in Harrisburg. In retirement, Gerfin enjoyed traveling, playing cards, bird-watching and simply sitting on her porch to talk with neighbors.
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PATRICIA CLARK GRÄB ’63, Winston-Salem, NC, died 10/31/24 at the age of 81. A proud graduate of Millersville University, Gräb was active in both the band and choir during her time as a student. She dedicated her career to elementary education, working as a teacher and later as a primary reading teacher before retiring to focus on her growing family.
SYLVIA LOIS (HINKLE) MOBLEY ’63, New Holland, died 1/20/25 at the age of 83. Mobley worked in Financial Aid for most of her professional career. Her faith was very important to her, and she was a member of Grace Family Church in New Holland, where she had worked in the nursery and taught Sunday School for many years.
JAMES N. JOHNSON JR. ’64, Lynchburg, VA, died 1/23/25 at the age of 82. After marrying his wife, Carolyn, he worked as a draftsman for a Lock and Dam in Alabama. They then moved to Tennessee, where Johnson attended seminary at Tennessee Temple.
HARRY M. KEARES ’64, Lancaster, died on 1/5/25 at the age of 83. Keares’ first job was at RCA, where he worked as an engineer as part of the team tasked with improving performance of the color picture tube, and he quickly excelled at process and data analysis. In 1968, after accepting an engineering position at Honeywell Corporation, Keares moved his wife Irene and young son Peter to the Boston suburbs, where daughter Maria and son Nicholas were born.
DALE W. MEYER ’64, Wheatfield Township, died 6/11/24 at the age of 83. A social studies education graduate, he taught in the Ebenezer and Cedar Crest school systems before beginning a long career with the Department of Public Welfare, retiring in 2002 as superintendent of administration at Harrisburg State Hospital. An avid outdoorsman, Meyer enjoyed hunting trips across the West with his wife, Joyce, and was a lifelong member of the NRA and several sportsmen’s clubs.
LEO P. NOGA ’64, Harrisburg, died 11/13/24 at the age of 93. Noga married Anne Marie Barry in 1959, and together they have four children: Leo J., Patti, Nancy and Mark.
BARBARA LYNNE (ISENBERG)
BARLETT ’65, Tyrone, died 1/6/25 at the age of 81. Barlett taught elementary education in the Myerstown, Philipsburg, Tyrone and West Branch area school districts, and even taught in Juneau, Alaska, for a year. She was a member of Bald Eagle United Methodist Church and often attended Calvary Tyrone with her daughter.
CHARLES S. KOPP JR. ’65, Akron, died 9/17/24. An elementary education graduate, he dedicated his life to his family and community. He is survived by his children, Cynthia (Mark Setlock) and Chris (Ashley); sister, Candace Hendrickson (Don); and grandchildren, Hope, Dana, Madelyn and Dylan.
EVELYN “LYN” J. (TRAINOR)
RINEER ’65, Rockaway Borough, NJ, died 11/15/24 at the age of 81. While studying at Millersville, she had a part-time job as a TV station tour guide. It was there that she met the love of her life, Sam.
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GERALD A. ROBINSON ’65M, York, died 11/28/24 at the age of 99. Robinson enlisted in the Army after high school graduation. Following three years of military service, including assignment in the Pacific Theater, Robinson purchased and operated a filling station in Philipsburg.
WILLIAM H. FORREY ’66, Lancaster, died on 1/2/25 at the age of 80. Forrey grew up in Millersville and, aside from his time in the military, spent his entire life in Lancaster County. Forrey had a 53-year-long career in construction and development.
RONALD J. SIMANOVICH ’66, New Cumberland, died 11/26/24 at the age of 82. Simanovich was an adjunct at York College and served 30 years with the PA Department of Education, retiring as Chief of the Division of Teacher Education in 2001. Simanovich was a Penn State Master Gardener, juried pastel artist and avid golfer.
ESTHER BOWMAN (CRAMM)
ALEXANDER ’67, Lititz, died 10/23/24 at the age of 102. An elementary education graduate, she spent her career in the Manheim Township School District, first as a classroom teacher and later as a librarian at the Milton J. Brecht School for 17 years. Earlier in her life, she worked as one of Trans World Airlines’ first flight attendants.
REV. ROBERT G. GOEHRIG JR. ’67, Shrewsbury, MA, died 4/4/24 at the age of 88. A former Marine and journeyman printer, he later answered the call to ministry, serving as a pastor in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.
RICHARD “HIBBY” L. HIBSHMAN ’67 died 11/10/24 at the age of 84. Hibshman attended Millersville University and graduated in 1967, earning a bachelor’s degree and then a master’s degree in guidance in 1970. While attending MU, he earned six varsity letters: three in football, two in wrestling and one in golf.
STEVEN M. KULICKI ’67, Macungie, died 11/30/24 at the age of 81. Kulicki met his wife, Mary, at Millersville University. They celebrated 55 years of marriage in January.
DAVID W. LAUGHERY ’67, Hummelstown, died 2/21/25 at the age of 80. He was a dedicated educator who retired from Derry Township School District after 40 years as a teacher. He also taught courses at Central Penn College and Temple University.
DAVID L. SANCHEZ ’67, Mechanicsburg, died 10/31/24 at the age of 79 after a courageous battle with cancer. A dedicated educator who earned his bachelor's in education from Millersville, he also went on to earn his master's in counseling from Temple University. Sanchez spent over 30 years at John Harris High School as a math teacher and guidance counselor, where he was known for his unwavering commitment to his students and their futures.
DONNA LEE DUFFEY ’68, Lancaster, died 12/11/24 at the age of 77. She was a computer programmer and teacher and enjoyed stitchery, décor design, flower gardening and walks with friends. She was a member of Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd, Lancaster.
BILLY JOE HOLLAND ’68, Baird, TX, died 8/3/24 at the age of 76. An industrial technology graduate, he attended Millersville after serving in the military, making the most of the GI Bill. He met his wife, Sylvia, at Millersville, and they married the week after his graduation.
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DOROTHY (BUKOVESKY)
SEARLES ’69M, Monroe, CT, died 7/25/24 at the age of 75. A graduate of Millersville’s counselor education program, she dedicated her life to supporting others, both professionally and personally. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother who cherished time with her family and friends.
DR. WILLIAM “BILL” G. SMITH ’69, Leola, died 12/13/24 at the age of 81. He earned a bachelor’s degree from Millersville University, a master’s in philosophy from the University of Delaware and a Ph.D. from the University of New Mexico. He taught philosophy at New Mexico Highlands University from 1974 to 1983 and was the department chair.
1970s
MARK W. NESS ’70, Gainesville, FL, died 11/11/24 at the age of 76. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Millersville University, a master’s degree from Franklin & Marshall College and a doctorate from Penn State University. Ness was a science teacher for many years at Ephrata Area Middle School and later taught at the college level.
NANCY C. (BERGMAN)
SEDMONT ’70, Brenford, DE, died 10/24/24 at the age of 95. An elementary education graduate, she dedicated her career to teaching, primarily in special education at Clayton Elementary School. A lifelong learner, she was passionate about education and shared her love of learning with her students and family.
CELMAR L. EATON ’71 died July 14, 2024. A proud Millersville graduate, she is remembered for her kindness, warmth and dedication to those she loved. She is survived by her family and friends, who cherish her memory.
RALPH ALLEN GRAY ’71, Ardmore, died 12/18/24 at the age of 78. Gray was a founder of the Black Student Association at Millersville University. He is survived by his wife, Marjorie; brothers, William and Paul; and many nieces and nephews.
ANN (DICKINSON) HOXIE ’71, Lancaster, died 4/18/24 at the age of 87. A dedicated educator, she served as a teacher and guidance counselor at Ephrata Senior High School and was an active advocate for teachers’ rights, serving as president of the Ephrata Area Education Association. She later managed Hoxie Insurance Agency Inc., continuing the legacy of her late husband.
CAROL E. (BREDTHAUER) KURL ’71, '93M, Lititz, died 10/23/24 at the age of 75. A dedicated educator, she earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in elementary education from Millersville University. She spent over 38 years as a caring and devoted first-grade teacher in the Manheim Township School District.
RODERICK E. LAUKHUFF ’71, Lancaster, died 2/5/25 at the age of 75. Laukhuff earned his bachelor’s in economics and later earned his Master of Business Administration from Shippensburg University. During his career, he worked as a human resource manager for Raymark and eventually retired from High Steel Structures as the human resource director.
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DIANA MARIE (DICK) WILSON ’71, Delta, died 8/2/24 at the age of 74. A proud member of the Zeta Gamma Phi sorority, she earned her degree from Millersville and was dedicated to her family and community. She is survived by her children, Laura Jeannette Wilson and John Thomas Wilson; grandchildren, Aidan Vincent and Abigail Wilson; and sister, Donna Jean Browning.
JOAN BERNADETTE
BLUM ’72, Yardley, died 1/31/25 at the age of 73. After graduating from Millersville, Blum went on to become an itinerant special education teacher for Bensalem Township, moving on to permanent positions at Valley and Faust Elementary schools in Bensalem. She received her master’s degree from Trenton State University.
DORIS ANN (DENGLER)
BODDIE ’72, Mohegan Lake, NY, died 2/7/25 at the age of 74. Boddie lived a life dedicated to family and community. She began working for Aunt Bessie’s Open Door and Peekskill Head Start, educating the youth of the Peekskill community, ultimately retiring as executive director of the Westchester Community Opportunity Program.
SUSAN CAROL (HERR)
RENTSCHLER ’72, ’76M, Lititz, died 6/4/24 at the age of 73. A dedicated educator, she earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in elementary education from Millersville and was a member of Phi Lambda Sigma. She taught at Stiegel Elementary before moving to South Korea, where she taught children from multiple nationalities and provided English instruction to Korean professionals.
DAVID ALLAN SHAFFER ’72, Northampton, died 7/19/24 at the age of 74. A mathematics graduate, he built a career as a project manager in IT at Carpenter Technologies while dedicating 38 years as a volunteer firefighter, ambulance responder and safety officer with the Rothsville Volunteer Fire Company. A man of deep faith, he was a graduate of Evangelical Seminary and an accomplished writer, publishing two detective novels.
JAMES R. TODD ’72, Parker, CO, died 2/3/25 at the age of 77. While at Millersville, James played baseball and was drafted by the Chicago Cubs in 1969. He played six years in the major leagues, playing for the Cubs, A’s and Mariners.
JANET CATHERINE
“CATHY” (KREBS) LESPERANCE ’73, ’78M died 12/26/24. A dedicated educator, she earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Millersville University and spent 34 years teaching in the Southeastern School District, first as a third-grade teacher and later as a reading specialist. An avid reader and former president of the Woman’s Club of Ephrata, Lesperance was known for her kindness and devotion to family, especially in caring for her mother.
PHYLLIS (COLARUSSO) MANGANELLO ’73, Mechanicsburg, died 10/25/24 at the age of 90. A graduate of Millersville’s nursing program, she dedicated her life to caring for others and was a devoted mother, grandmother and greatgrandmother. She is survived by her children, Mark Manganello (Michele), John “Jay” Manganello (Jenny), Patty Thompson (John) and David Manganello (Kimberly); brother, Joseph Colarusso; six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
DENNIS R. WOOD ’74, Jonestown, died 1/10/25 at the age of 81. Wood enlisted in the Army National Guard in 1964 and served for six years. Upon graduation from Millersville, Wood taught fifthand sixth-grade students in a split class at East Hanover Elementary School for 27 years.
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GARY L. YERGER ’75, Hershey, died 11/18/24 at the age of 71. Gary was employed for 45 years with the federal government, retiring in 2020 from the Social Security and Disability department. He was a very active member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Tower City, where he served on the church council and was a member of the choir.
MARIAN L. (BOOKWALTER) BOOK ’76, Thompsontown, died 11/17/24 at the age of 83. She was a nurse at Lewistown Hospital and also a school nurse for the Juniata County School District.
DONALD H. PENTZ ’76, Lancaster, died 6/27/24 at the age of 69. A social studies education graduate, he taught in the Elizabethtown School District before becoming a tour guide at the Amish Farm and House, where he shared his passion for history and culture with visitors from around the world. He was a member of Highland Presbyterian Church and a leader of Scout Explorer Post 1863, which focused on the Civil War period.
PATRICIA A. SWEENEY ’76, ’83M, Dallastown, died 3/4/24 at the age of 69. A dedicated educator, she taught for 34 years at York Township Elementary in the Dallastown Area School District, leaving a lasting impact on her students and colleagues. She earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Millersville University.
BETH ELLEN (ZERBE) SMALL ’77, ’81M, Lebanon, died 11/14/24 at the age of 68. She had been employed as a teacher’s aide in the Cornwall-Lebanon School District. Small was a voracious reader who also loved to do arts and crafts as well as play computer games and watch TV Westerns.
GREG ALAN KIRSCHMAN ’77, Spring Township, died 8/21/24 at the age of 72. An industrial technology graduate and member of Chi Gamma Iota, he went on to earn a master’s degree in education from Temple University. He dedicated 36 years to teaching technology education at Conrad Weiser High School before retiring in 2014.
DIANE (PASTERNAK)
VORON ’77, Bethlehem, died 2/26/24 at the age of 68. She was an educator at Saucon Valley High School for 12 years, as well as at other institutions, and was known for her dedication to teaching and organization. Voron had a passion for reading, photography, raising orchids and making gift baskets.
LINDA DIANE (LUTZ) AHERN ’78M, Elizabethtown, died 1/5/25 at the age of 71 after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. Ahern had a 44-year-long career at Elizabethtown Area School District, serving as a secondary school counselor and, in the last few years of her career, athletic director. She coached field hockey, basketball, and track and field.
ELISABETH (PARTRIDGE)
FUHRMAN ’78, Columbia, died 3/5/24 at the age of 67. Fuhrman went on to serve the Warwick School District and community for 33 years as a high school teacher, specializing in art history and batik, the art of decorating cloth using wax and dye.
DENNIS W. BLACK ’79, Bolivar, TN, died 5/4/24 at the age of 69. An English graduate, he later pursued his calling in ministry, earning his Bachelor of Divinity from Pensacola Bible Institute in 1994. He served as the pastor of Bible Baptist Church of Bolivar for 30 years.
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RICHARD
“MIKE” KEENE ’79, Lancaster, died 5/20/24 at the age of 73. A biology graduate, he dedicated 30 years to the printing industry before serving as a beloved crossing guard in Manheim Township. A skilled woodworker, he handcrafted and painted items for family members and friends.
DEBORAH A. (HUDSON)
SHEPPS ’79, Lincoln University, died 6/3/24 at the age of 67. A geography graduate, she was a standout athlete at Millersville, playing basketball, soccer, and competing in track and field. A skilled three-point shooter, she carried her love for sports into a lifelong career as a respected official in basketball, field hockey and lacrosse for over 30 years.
MELISSA (RUSSEL) WAGEMANN
’79, Cape Coral, FL, died 7/18/24 at the age of 71. A psychology graduate, she dedicated her life to helping others and was known for her kindness and compassion. She will be remembered fondly by her family and friends.
1980s
JOHN H. SHETLER ’82, Willow Street, died 6/26/24 at the age of 64. An industrial technology graduate, he worked as an ironworker before spending 24 years as an antenna and tower technician. A passionate outdoorsman, he enjoyed hunting and fishing and was president emeritus of the Descendants and Friends of the 314th Infantry AEF.
COLLEEN “KELLI” ANN (SULLIVAN) RENN
’85, Horsham, died 8/27/24 at the age of 61. A proud member of Delta Phi Eta, she earned her degree from Millersville and was a devoted mother, sister and grandmother. She is survived by her mother, Rosemary Sullivan; children, Conor Renn (Stacie) and Riley Renn; grandchildren, Benedict and Ambrose Renn; and sisters, Ellen Shick (Lee) and Amy Menne (Scott).
DR. DINA (GERACIMOS) WERT ’85, Wyomissing, died 3/22/24 at the age of 60. A passionate educator and leader, she dedicated her career to school counseling and administration, serving as a principal in the Wilson and Downingtown School Districts. In 2013, she was named Pennsylvania’s National Distinguished Elementary Principal.
PAULA GRACE (MOSER) LONGABAUGH ’86, Conestoga, died 12/23/24. Longabaugh earned her master’s in pastoral psychology and counseling from Ashland Theological Seminary. For 33 years, she worked for Philhaven.
BARRY “GUS” R. MECKLEY ’86, Millersville, died 6/25/24 at the age of 74. An English graduate, he had a diverse career in surveying, engineering, plumbing, cabinetmaking and bookselling. A true Renaissance man, he was passionate about music, film, literature, soccer, gardening and trivia.
MARGARET “MOLLY” ANN (WIEGAND) MILLER ’87, Conestoga, died 1/20/25 at the age of 58 following a courageous 3-year battle with glioblastoma. She served as executive director of the National Honor Fraternity, Phi Sigma Pi and traveled to colleges throughout the country, opening new chapters and developing programs and tools that supported and improved their overall collegiate experience. For many years, Miller cared for her family and home, and she homeschooled her children.
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JOHN L. RINEER ’87, Lancaster, died 1/20/25 at the age of 69. After graduating from Millersville, Rineer went on to earn his master’s in library science at Clarion College. His extensive knowledge of the Civil War and WWII earned him a spot on a documentary film about the Civil War, where he served as an expert on the subject.
MARK S. SMOKER ’87, Millersville, died 2/2/25 at the age of 65. Smoker retired after more than 30 years as a district manager in the circulation department of LNP. After retiring, Smoker volunteered at the Crispus Attucks Food Pantry and served dinners at First Reformed Church to those in need.
LINDA JOAN (DOOLITTLE)
HUXTA ’88, Ashburn, VA, died 12/5/24 at the age of 77. Upon graduation from Millersville University, she taught English at Martin Meylin Middle School in Lancaster, PA, until the family relocated to Leesburg, VA, in 1990. She worked in the Loudoun County administration offices until her retirement in 2012.
KRISTINE A. (LINGG) LESTOURGEON ’88, Landenberg, died 1/6/25 at the age of 58 after a battle with pancreatic cancer. Along with a successful career in tax accounting, LeStourgeon was best known as a beloved mother and family builder. Her greatest joy was raising and nurturing her four active children.
MARK BIER LINKINS ’89, Lansdowne, died 12/28/24 at the age of 60. His first job, teaching English at Torah Academy in Ardmore, was just the beginning of a long career in education. He served in the Wallingford-Swarthmore School District for 18 years, teaching English and humanities, then moved into administration as a kindergarten principal, and as the director of curriculum and instruction.
1990s
ROBERT J. ANDREY ’91, Cherry Hill, NJ, died 2/11/25 at the age of 56. Andrey graduated with a degree in business and finance; he also dominated on the football field. This passion for sports led him to earn his master’s in sports administration from Temple University.
KELLY ANNE (KANE) CUNNINGHAM ’92, Havertown, died 7/16/17 at the age of 47. Cunningham received her degree in education from Millersville and taught at Stratford Friends School in Newtown Square for the past nine years. She was the loving mother of Jaidyn, beloved daughter of Carol and the late John Kane, Sr., devoted sister of John F. (Shannon) Kane, Jr., and aunt to Julia, Madison and Riley.
NOREEN C. COLEMAN ’93, Warminster, died 2/11/25 at the age of 54. After graduating with a degree in special education, Coleman was dedicated to ensuring that the infants and children under her care in early intervention received the support they needed to thrive.
DONNA M. (HIRST) MARTIN ’93M, Hamburg, died 12/7/24 at the age of 76. Martin was a graphic artist at Kutztown Publishing and had also been a teacher at Pace Institute, Reading, and Reading Area Community College. Martin served as director of publications at Alvernia University in the early 1990s.
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WYLIE JOE
“JOJO” HINSON III
’94, Mount Laurel, NJ, died 12/14/24 at the age of 52.
Shortly after graduating from Millersville, Hinson pursued a master’s from the New Jersey Institute of Technology. Hinson was a safety occupational specialist for the United States Department of Labor, Occupational Safety and Health Administration.
VIRGINIA (POWELL)
STEWART ’94M, Silver Spring, MD, died 4/2/24 at the age of 93. A dedicated educator and scholar, she served as a graduate assistant in the English department at Millersville University. She was passionate about literature and learning, leaving a lasting impact on students and colleagues.
LINDA J. (OGLE)
CHRISTMAN
’97M, York, died 5/25/24 at the age of 77. A dedicated educator, she earned her master’s degree in special education from Millersville University and taught in the York City School District. She enjoyed reading, boating and spending time at her vacation home in Kentmore Park, MD, on the Chesapeake Bay.
CATHERINE (HUEY) SANZI ’97, North Olmsted, OH, died 2/11/25 at the age of 73.
CHRIS DIGIACOMO ’99, Lancaster, died 6/9/24 at the age of 59. A history graduate, he pursued a career in education,
working at Manos House and as a substitute teacher in the Manheim Township and Milton S. Hershey school systems.
2000s
MICHAEL ROBERT HEWITT ’00, ’04M, York, died 12/3/24 at the age of 45. He worked as a professor at Stevenson University, as well as for Joseph A. Bank, Assurant and then Dorman Auto Products. He also enjoyed working at Spirit Halloween every year.
JERRY V. LAPP ’03, Lancaster, PA, passed away unexpectedly on 11/5/24 at the age of 58. A dedicated father, adventurer and humanitarian, Lapp graduated from Millersville University with a degree in sociology and had a lifelong passion for cycling, travel and community service. He cofounded multiple nonprofit initiatives supporting refugee resettlement, financial literacy, and education, and helped provide bicycles to those in need.
ROBERT M. RUSHEMEZA ’18, Lancaster, died 1/22/25 at the age of 29. Rushemeza spent most of his professional career as an engineering technician and software programmer, working for various industrial companies. Robert cherished time with loved ones, staying active through sports and embracing life with a bright smile.
2020s
KENNETH EARL DEUBLER ’20, Willow Street, died 12/16/24 at the age of 67. An Air Force veteran and licensed pilot, Deubler spent much of his life dedicated to others, working as a general contractor. His commitment to education and his community was unwavering, having formerly served as a Boy Scout leader, sports coach and a dedicated volunteer for his children’s marching band.
JOSHUA STANTON GOLICHER ’20, Lancaster, died 7/18/24 at the age of 29. A graduate of the Lombardo College of Business with a degree in management, he pursued a career in the medicinal dispensary industry. He had a deep love for nature, fishing, video games and investing, and dreamed of living by the beach.
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Faculty/ Staff
DOROTHY POZNIKO BEAM, professor emerita of music at Millersville University, died 11/7/24 at the age of 90. A gifted pianist and dedicated educator, Beam earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in music from the Eastman School of Music at the University of Rochester. She trained as a concert pianist under Orazio Frugoni and taught music at Linden Hall Junior College before joining Millersville State College in 1971.
DR. DAVID C. HILL, professor emeritus of psychology, died 10/17/24 at the age of 75. Hill attended the University of New Hampshire, where he met his wife. His passion for helping others began when he was daycare teacher in Portland, ME.
EDNA M. JUDITH, Lancaster, former staff member, died 2/16/25 at the age of 88. Judith dedicated many years to working as a housekeeper at Millersville University, where she took immense pride in her work and formed strong bonds with both staff and students. Her commitment and friendly nature left a lasting impression on those around her.
DR. JOYCE (SCOUT)
SMEDLEY, professor emeritus of psychology, died 12/19/24 at the age of 94. Smedley began her 35-year-long career at Millersville in 1973. As a counselor educator, Smedley prepared graduate students to become school counselors.
HARRY L. STIGELMAN, Millersville, former staff member, died 1/17/25 at the age of 86. Stigelman was a talented baseball player; he played in the minor league system of the Detroit Tigers from 1959–1961 and then again in 1964. His love for the game led him to be the head and assistant baseball coach for Millersville University for over 15 years. He never had a losing season.
DR. GERALD S. WEISS, professor emeritus of chemistry, Lancaster, died 1/4/25 at the age of 90. Weiss was an Army veteran and was a faculty member at Millersville for 30 years. During his career at Millersville, Weiss served as chair of the chemistry department, chair of the faculty senate and president of the faculty union.
To inform us of a passing, contact the Millersville University Office of Alumni of Engagement by email at alumni@millersville.edu, by phone (717) 871-7551 or by completing the Class Notes form here: millersville.edu/alumni/class-notes
ATHLETICS NEWS
Stover: PSAC East Athlete of the Year
During a career of writing his name in the Millersville men’s basketball record books, Drew Stover added a line when he was named the PSAC Eastern Division Athlete of the Year. Stover joined Lance Gelnett (1992), Jon Dunmeyer (1993), Jamal Palmer (1998) and Charlie Parker (2007 and 2008) as Millersville players to win the division’s top honor. Stover averaged 17.3 points and 7.2 rebounds per game while ranking second in the PSAC in field goal percentage and blocked shots. Stover
concluded his four-year career by breaking John Fox’s ’87 record for career field goal percentage, ranking third in PSAC history.
“Drew has been awesome this year and has worked really hard to become a player of the year,” says Millersville head coach Casey Stitzel. “Not only is he a great player, but he is a better kid from an awesome family. I couldn’t be more proud of him.”
Drew Stover
Center: Jordan Plempel
Plempel Swims Into History Books
Jordan Plempel knew she had a chance to make Millersville history. She also knew it would be the last time she swam a 400-yard individual medley – her signature event that had already placed her on the PSAC Championships podium three times. The 400 IM is the ultimate test of a swimmer: 16 laps, four for each stroke, requiring a mastery of the butterfly, backstroke, breaststroke and freestyle. It requires speed and stamina. Plempel couldn’t shake the prerace jitters, especially after posting the top time in the morning prelims and breaking her school record in the process. Four years of diligent training and a unique spring semester of balancing swimming and student teaching led Plempel to this moment.
Before Feb. 18, Plempel swam hundreds of races and trained for countless hours as a Millersville swimmer. For coach Evan Anthony, no advice about technique or race strategy was left to offer. As Plempel prepared for her race, Anthony delivered a simple message: “Have fun.”
Those two words freed Plempel from every worry and every what-if. Unburdened by the nerves, Plempel swam the fastest butterfly split of her career. She gained ground in the breaststroke and cruised through the water in the
freestyle, posting a time of 4:32.01, a new school record and a PSAC Championships second-place finish.
“This was the biggest race of my life and my last ever 400 IM, and coach told me to enjoy it,” says Plempel. “Everything we had trained for over the season was for this race. The hard part was done; I had put in all the work. Now all I needed to do was swim and try my best. He was right.”
“Jordan’s 400 IM was an extremely fun race to watch,” says Anthony. “It is an event where so much can happen with lead changes with every athlete’s strength. I was confident in the way we trained that she would be able to finish out the race strong. Her goal was to be top three, and it was so exciting to see all the hard work pay off.”
The swim was monumental for a Millersville program on a steady rise. Conference championship meet records date back to 2000, and no Millersville swimmer in those 25 years produced a better finish in an individual event. Plempel reached the PSAC Championships podium for top-eight finishes 10 times in her Millersville career, but this was the first time receiving a medal.
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“The pride I felt standing on the podium was unmatched,” says Plempel. “Standing next to the fastest girls from much bigger teams was intimidating. But nothing was better than receiving my medal from Coach Evan. He and Coach Andrew (Hale) knew I could do it and pushed me to be the best swimmer I could be.”
“After long hours in the classroom, she always did her best to maximize what she got out of each practice,” says Anthony.
When the all-day PSAC Championships finally arrived, Plempel missed four days of student teaching, but her Manor Middle School students knew why she was absent, excitedly waiting to find out about her swimming exploits.
“My mentor shared with my classes how I was doing and that I had won a medal,” says Plempel. “When I came to
school the day after PSACs, my students ran to me to ask how it went. I pulled the second-place medal I won out of my pocket for them to see. They were shocked at how shiny it was. They seemed so inspired by it, which was a great feeling.”
Plempel pursued teaching to inspire students. She’ll spend the second half of the spring semester teaching special education at Penn Manor High School, and she’ll no doubt impact the students there as well. With her work ethic, dedication to swimming and performance at the PSAC Championships, she’s already inspired a roster of teammates to set records and continue pushing Millersville swimming toward the top of the PSAC.
“Jordan has made a huge impact on our program,” says Anthony. “When she, along with the rest of the seniors, got here, the program was being rebuilt. They now get to leave here at its highest point. Jordan scored in every individual swim over her career at PSACs and has also been part of 12 relays. Jordan was successful in the water and in the classroom, consistently achieving high grades. Jordan has helped make this program successful and a place people want to swim.”
Shaw Reaches 1,000-Point Club
On January 22, 2025, Makiah Shaw became the 22nd player to reach 1,000 career points in a Marauder uniform by knocking down a free throw in front of the fans she had enthralled with her silky touch and deft footwork for four seasons. It was a fitting way for Millersville women’s basketball’s all-time leader in career percentage from the line (79.7%) to reach the 1,000-point club.
Shaw averaged 12.4 points per game and ranked fourth in the conference in field goal percentage (49.6%) and free throw percentage (83%) for the season. The sweet-shooting forward finished the 2024-25 campaign strong, averaging 14.1 points per game over the last 14 games en route to earning All-PSAC East First Team honors. Shaw’s career-high 29-point outing against East Stroudsburg on Feb. 8 helped the senior take home her second Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference
(PSAC) Athlete of the Week award. She etched her name throughout the record books during her Marauder career, finishing 15th in team history in total points with 1,157, 15th in blocked shots with 85 and 12th in field goal percentage at 44.4%.
“She’s well-deserving of it,” says Millersville women’s basketball head coach Kira Mowen. “Offensively, we all know that she’s great at the midrange and can drive off the bounce. Defensively, she’s able to lock up post players in our conference and go after rebounds. I’m proud of her and what she’s done over the course of her four years. She’s extremely hardworking, has a great mindset, and I’m proud that she was applauded by the rest of the conference.”
Makiah Shaw
Indoor Track and Field Wraps Up on High Note
The indoor track and field season finished on a high note at the PSAC Indoor Championships. Millersville finished in fourth place and scored the third-most in program history. The last time Millersville finished as high as fourth place at the conference meet, the Marauders went on to win the conference championship for the outdoor season.
“Fourth is a good place for us to be, especially being indoors,” says head coach Andy Young. “[Our team] knows the last time we were fourth indoors, we won outdoors. So it’s in the back of their heads right now that we’re a much better outdoor track and field team. It’s going to be a battle, but there’s a possibility of us winning that we’re aware of.”
The team produced four first-time All-PSAC athletes: Aasly De Leon, Sarah Hessler, Megan Malecki and Katelyn Murphy. De Leon, a freshman, was the conference runner-up in the 60-meter dash with a time of 7.64, the second-fastest in program history. Hessler rose to the occasion at the PSAC Championships, topping out with a throw of 44' 10¾" in the shot put. Murphy, a sophomore, finished in second place in the 60-meter hurdles with a time of 8.95, the third best in team history. Malecki earned her first indoor All-PSAC award after earning the title at last year’s outdoor meet, finishing in second place with a vault of 11' 11¾". The indoor also included a record-breaking performance from pole vaulter Darian Hauf. She set a new PSAC record but suffered a season-ending injury just before the conference championship.
Above: Katelyn Murphy, fourth from the right, was the second-place finisher in the 60 meter hurdles.
Wrestling Finishes Banner Year
Behind NCAA Division II qualifiers Nick Cottone and Bryce Beatty, Millersville wrestling placed fourth at the NCAA Super Region I Championships for its best finish in 13 years competing at the Division II level. Cottone finished as the runner-up at 141 pounds, winning his first three matches before running into the nation’s 10thranked wrestler in the finals.
“Nick did what he’s been doing all year,” says head coach Jerry Boland.” He just finds ways to win. Wins in this tournament aren’t easy. His semifinal win showed how much heart he has.”
Beatty, a senior, rallied from a round-one loss with three consecutive wins. His third-place match victory was an
8–4 decision against the opponent that defeated him in the first match of the day.
“Bryce avenged his only loss of the tournament, and he also avenged a loss from earlier in the season,” says Boland. “It was a long road back to third (place), but he showed a ton of grit, and now he’s a national qualifier.”
Cottone and Beatty both competed at the NCAA Division II Championships for the first time. Millersville has produced 13 national qualifiers in the last four seasons. Millersville’s 12-7 dual record represented the most wins by a Marauder club since 1992 and its best winning percentage since 2002.
Nick Cottone
Williamsport Basketball Players Reunite as Marauders
After having their high school playing days together cut short, Saraj Ali and Aiden Gair reunited on the Millersville men’s basketball team this season to preserve the winning ways of the Marauder program.
Ali and Gair both hail from Williamsport, Pa., where the duo grew up together and shared the court for Loyalsock Township High School. Their relationship goes back to when they were in grade school and has now reconnected them at Millersville, with some pit stops for both along the way. In the pair’s first season as teammates again, each has found individual success while helping lead the Marauders to the PSAC semifinals, with Ali garnering All-PSAC East First Team honors, and Gair finishing the season with the second-most 3-point field goals made in the conference.
Prior to joining the Marauders, Ali squared off against them as a Mansfield Mountaineer. In his sophomore season with the PSAC East rival, Ali was named All-PSAC East Second Team. While Ali was coming off a standout season, Gair was rehabbing injuries to get back onto the court. During his time at Montana State and two JUCO schools, Gair battled multiple lower-body injuries, including an Achilles tendon tear, that forced him off the court.
Once Gair was cleared and Ali’s 2024 season finished, the two talked about their futures and expressed interest in transferring. For Ali, his Mansfield teams compiled a combined record of 14–40 during his two seasons there. With the Marauders coming off a PSAC East championship and NCAA Tournament appearance, he hoped for a chance to play meaningful late-season basketball. For Gair, he was looking for a landing spot to get back on the floor and knock off the rust. But a common goal they shared was finding a team where they could play together again.
“Coach [Casey] Stitzel hit me up in the springtime because a couple of players left last year, and I knew Aiden wanted to enter the transfer portal,” says Ali. “I took that as an opportunity and said, ‘there’s a great player in the portal that I know; even if I don’t go to your program, I’d be setting you up with a great player.’ He looked at the film I sent him of Aiden, he talked to both of us, and he ended up liking us and what he thinks we bring to team.”
Another one of the boxes on Gair’s checklist for his next school was that it needed to be closer to home. With Ali being recruited, too, Millersville made the most sense.
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“I wanted to play with Saraj, get back to Pennsylvania and play in front of my family,” says Gair. “My family hadn’t watched me play basketball in college before here. Then to also build a relationship with Coach Stitzel – I really liked him from talking on the phone – he felt like he was a genuine guy. Some coaches are just in the business of numbers, not athletes. I had that connection with him, and Saraj had the same connection, and we really wanted to make it happen.”
Ali echoed Gair’s feelings about Stitzel, saying what sets him apart from other coaches is the accountability he holds his players to and the relationships he develops with them. As the two transfers saw something unique in Stitzel’s approach, the Marauders’ head coach envisioned a championship-caliber team after watching the video.
Millersville was tasked with replacing two catalysts of last year’s team in Matt Dade and Jaden Faulkner. Their departures created a need at forward and another on the perimeter. In order to stay near the top of the conference, Stitzel’s recruiting journey focused on transfers, which led him to the Williamsport natives.
“We were familiar with Saraj in two really good games against us last year, and then when I was recruiting him, he brought up that he had a friend that was looking to get closer to home,” says Stitzel. “We started communicating with Aiden, and we needed a shooter with size, so it worked out really well. They called me together – I think it was about two weeks after I was introduced to Aiden – and said they both wanted to commit to Millersville. Their chemistry and knowing each other has been really good for our team.”
the guys like Drew [Stover] and Jahme [Ested] that have been here in the program.”
Going from the offensive engine at Mansfield to a key piece at Millersville with all-conference-level teammates, Ali’s role changed, but his play only improved.
“It’s nothing less than what I expected them to expect out of me,” says Ali. “As far as them putting too much on my plate, I don’t think there’s ever too much on my plate.”
Ali said transferring in to play with Gair was a main selling point, and an added bonus of that has been getting used to Millersville with a close friend.
“When you have someone comfortable alongside you, especially going to a new place, it just helps you realize that you’re not by yourself,” says Ali. “With Aiden being my roommate, my teammate, it’s just a stability point knowing there’s someone there that you can always turn to.”
That preexisting chemistry has allowed both of them to acclimate themselves to their new team.
“I feel like I’ve settled in pretty well, coming to a new school and coming off a serious injury, just finding my way back out on the court,” says Gair. “It started in the preseason, really gelling with guys like Saraj and some of
Ali and Gair found it easy to become part of the team with all the time spent together with the rest of the roster on and off the court. That has allowed them to not only feel comfortable on the floor but to also rekindle their chemistry from high school and pickup games.
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Whether it’s Gair finding a cutting Ali along the baseline for an alley-oop, or the defense collapsing in on Ali, only for him to kick it outside to an open Gair on the perimeter, the duo provided a winning connection for the Marauders.
“You can see that their chemistry, and also our team’s chemistry, increased throughout the season,” says Stitzel. “Most people think that happens during success, but a lot of times that actually happens during failure. I think that has probably gotten us to the point where that’s improved and we’re mentally tougher now.”
Following a run to the PSAC semifinals and a fourth consecutive season with at least 18 wins, Stitzel has high hopes for his rising seniors going into next year. Ali scored a team-high 23 points and Gair scored 21 in the semifinals against eventual conference champ Gannon.
Stitzel praised Gair for stepping up as a playmaker late in the season and believes he can continue to grow in that regard and also envisions Ali as a player with division player-of-the-year potential. If Stitzel’s predictions come true, the Marauders will be a contender once again.
What makes winning feel even better than it already does is when it’s done with teammates whose relationships go beyond the basketball court. Now that Ali and Gair have been able to reconnect at Millersville, Gair says there’s just one thing left to accomplish.
“We didn’t get to finish the state championship in high school because of COVID, so we want to win a PSAC Championship here.”
