Spring Winter 2013 2013
The Tower
Serving Alumni, Parents and Friends of Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology
Who was this man?
See cover article
New text for on Page 11 feature story. See article on page XX
SAVE THE DATES FOR OUR SPECIAL UPCOMING EVENTS! Admissions Open House March 23, 2013
Thaddeus Stevens Birthday Celebration
Friday, April 5, 2013 – 4:30 p.m. Shreiner-Concord Cemetery
Stevens Alumni Banquet April 27, 2013
Commencement May 11, 2013
Stevens Scramble Golf Outing June 14, 2013
The Tower is a service of the Thaddeus Stevens Foundation and Alumni Association. It is published quarterly. Current circulation is 7,500 to alumni, parents, trustees, faculty, corporations and friends.
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John Yurchak, Jr. ’60, Foundation President Scott Trower ’80, Alumni Association President Alex B. Munro ’60, Executive Director amunro@stevenscollege.edu Sophia E. Weibel, Editor seweibel@stevenscollege.edu Mike Brady ‘05, Graphic Designer brady@stevenscollege.edu
740 East End Avenue Lancaster, PA 17602 (717) 295-9666 1-800-571-7324 Fax: (717) 295-9652 Federal Tax I.D. #23-6406980
The Thaddeus Stevens Foundation is registered with the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania in compliance with its charitable organization law, and copies of the official registration and financial information may be obtained from the Pennsylvania Department of State by calling toll free within Pennsylvania 1-800-7320999. Registration does not imply endorsement by the Commonwealth.
Greetings….. In previous columns I have discussed the College’s current Master Planning process and promised to update you throughout the initiative. A draft plan has been created at this point which projects enrollment growing to 2,000 students within the next ten years, producing a minimum of 600 graduates per year. In the plan several programs are doubled in size and new programs added. The numbers referenced above are predicated on two basic tenants: demand by prospective students and demand by employers. Currently we have approximately 3,300 applicants for 500 openings in the coming fall semester. The demand for graduates by employers is equally as daunting with over 125 employers requesting booths at the annual career fair. The bottleneck or impediment to achieving the goals of the Master Plan is the College’s limited physical capacity both in terms of land and buildings. Governor Corbett recently approved a capital projects plan for the College that will enable TSCT to create the facilities necessary for its expansion. However the time required to design, build and matriculate the first associate degree class will take a total of five years.
From The President’s Desk William E. Griscom
The National Guard Armory could provide an opportunity for twice the number of current students to change the circumstances of their lives and become productive citizens and simultaneously double the number of skilled graduates who are desperately needed by employers.
During the Master Planning process the National Guard withdrew from its Armory located a few blocks south of the main campus on Chesapeake Street. The property is approximately four acres and contains two large pole-type buildings that would be ideal for a number of the College’s current and planned programs, plus enough land to build more additional buildings and provide significant parking. The site reverted back to the City of Lancaster, who was the original owner. The Armory property is adjacent to the City’s Parks and Recreation facility, which the City had been trying to combine with its Public Works facility for years. From the City’s perspective this development was a godsend that would enable them to move Public Works into much better facilities and combine it with Parks and Recreation. The College approached the Mayor of the City of Lancaster, Richard Gray, and discussed the possibility of the College purchasing both the sites from the City with the funds appropriated by the Governor. The Mayor agreed the College’s use would be a higher purpose for the property and be more beneficial to the community. At that point, negotiations began to purchase the property from the City for approximately $3 million, an amount that would allow the City to construct equivalent facilities on property it owned in another location. Unfortunately the appraisal of the property only came in at $950,000. In the private sector this would not be an issue because the purchaser could pay whatever he or she considered an appropriate price. However in the public sector it is not possible to pay more than the appraised value. Consequently while the property is worth at least $3 million to the City and to the College we cannot purchase it. For the last several months we have been exploring every possible means of resolving this problem. To date the only viable option would be to have a company, foundation or individual donate $2 million to the City for the construction of their facility which would allow them to sell their existing property to the College for its appraised value. If this can be achieved the College could then utilize it newly acquired capital funds to make the necessary improvements and expand several of its high-demand existing programs and add new high-demand programs in a very short time. In addition the College would create a learning center at the site to reach out to the immediate community with continuing education programs for youth and adults. Acquisition of the former National Guard Armory and adjacent Parks and Recreation property is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for the College that cannot be missed. In addition to the existing buildings, the site’s additional acreage is strategic to the College’s future, given the main campus is essentially land locked on 32 acres, with few viable options for expansion. In my mind it would be tragic to allow this property to become a maintenance facility for municipal vehicles and equipment, when it could provide an opportunity for twice the number of current students to change the circumstances of their lives and become productive citizens and simultaneously double the number of skilled graduates who are desperately needed by employers. Any thoughts, ideas or support readers can provide will be sincerely appreciated. Best regards,
William E Griscom President The Tower • 2013 Spring 3
From The
Tower
1974 We recently received an update from Robert Tressler (Electric). He entered Stevens under the G.I. Bill after serving in the U.S. Marine Corps. After graduating from Stevens with honors, he went to work at Armstrong World Industries as an industrial electrician. Subsequently, he has worked for Federal Mogul, Grinnell, and Harley-Davidson. He has received recognition as a Master Electrical Journeyman from two major unions. Upon retiring from Harley-Davidson in 2010, Tressler opened his own electrical service business. Noting that electrical work has been his passion for almost 40 years, Tressler thanked Stevens for guiding him to this great career.
1978 Timothy J. Cowan, AIA, (Architecture), has been named as principal and leader of Stantec’s healthcare practice for the Western Pennsylvania region. Over the course of his 30-year career, Cowan has been involved exclusively with healthcare facilities design, ranging from facility master plans for hospitals, healthcare systems, and institutions, to large-scale complex building types including additions, renovations, and free-standing specialty healthcare facilities. He is a licensed architect in four states, certified by the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB), and a member of both the Pennsylvania chapter and the national American Institute of Architects (AIA). After graduating from Stevens, he earned his bachelor of architecture degree from The Pennsylvania State University. Stantec’s Western Pennsylvania team is home to over 170 architects, engineers, environmental scientists, and other professionals focused particularly on healthcare, education, environmental engineering, oil and gas, and urban planning.
2008 Congratulations to Rachel Black (Graphic Communication and Printing) and Brinton Schlegel (HVAC) on their wedding on February 9, 2013. They met while students at Stevens and look forward to their lives together.
New Alumni Database The Foundation and Alumni Association will be instituting a new software system over the next few months that will integrate with the College’s new portal. It is anticipated that this new module will improve efficiency and strengthen alumni and donor communications. We ask your patience and understanding as we move through the transition process!
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In Memoriam Alvin Brendel Class of 1942 (Electric) August 13, 2011 Andrew Sofranko Class of 1943 (Machine) January 8, 2013 Parke Plasterer Class of 1946 (Machine) November 10, 2012 Bruce Brosius Class of 1947 (Carpentry) October 3, 2012 David Fenton Class of 1947 (Drafting) September 6, 2012 Kenneth Moser Class of 1951 (Electric) April 25, 2012 Allen McDonald Class of 1953 – (Electric) January 31, 2013 Clarence Krantz Class of 1955 (Machine) November 8, 2012
Home Safe! Thomas Varanavage Class of 1956 (Mechanical Engineering) September 16, 2012 Luther “Mooker” Miller Class of 1958 (Printing) October 18, 2012 Gene Nottingham Class of 1963 (Mechanical Engineering) August 2010 Phil Durling Class of 1965 (Masonry) January 2, 2013 David Minns Class of 1965 (Bake) January 27, 2013 Walter Ickes Class of 1969 (Electric) June 23, 2012 James Lally, Jr. Class of 1975 (Machine) December 9, 2012 David Strmensky Class of 1995 (Collision) December 12, 2012
Former Head Coach Joe Wysock Returns to Stevens Football The College has announced that former head coach Joe Wysock will return to the College once again as the Bulldog’s Head Coach. “This is a great opportunity for me to return to Stevens,” stated Wysock. Thaddeus Stevens football has long served as one of the most successful athletic programs at the college level and I am looking forward to continuing this success.”
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As a followup to our cover story in the last issue of The Tower, we are happy to announce that Sgt. Pete Cassarly ’08 (Carpentry) arrived home safe from Afghanistan on February 6, 2013. He and his mother stopped by the College the following day and Pete presented Dr. Griscom and Alex Munro with the Stevens banner that flew over the U.S. Army Combat Outpost Khilagay, in Northern Afghanistan on September 11, 2012. Pete also presented the College with a Certificate of Authenticity from the 4th Platoon Bloodhounds of the 420th Route Clearance Company. Both the banner and certificate will be framed and displayed in a permanent place on campus.
Get In Touch Many of our readers of The Tower have told us how much they enjoy reading the “Class Notes” section of this publication. The news and accomplishments of our alumni are of great interest to fellow alums, faculty, staff and others. So we want to hear from you! Send us news of your businesses, careers, promotions, marriages, births, etc. Email correspondence is welcomed also - send to seweibel@stevenscollege.edu
Be sure to follow us on Twitter and friend us on Facebook. It’s a great way to keep up to date with Stevens and reconnect with classmates! The Tower • 2013 Spring 5
The Director’s Corner Alex Munro, Executive Director Foundation & Alumni Association I’m happy to report that 2012 was a year of measureable growth for Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology. All this was achieved by President Griscom, his dedicated administration and committed faculty. Quite an accomplishment for Stevens when everyone else in the state had long been wrestling with fiscal restraints due to a down economy. Sometimes being painful as it was to put to practice, our Presidential leadership at Stevens College did a masterful job in separating our needs from our wants in supporting Governor Corbett’s budget. There are numerous projects in planning and many important issues to resolve in advancing the College which presents a strong indicator that 2013 will be an exciting year at Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology. We would like you to be a part of your alma mater’s achievements help us celebrate each of the numerous goals that lie before us as we move Stevens College forward. We can all work together with enthusiasm and anticipation of fulfillment of our 10-year Master Plan, which will soon be disclosed. The strength and achievement of a college will never be greater than the strength and achievement of its alumni. This is why we’re honored to ask you to be a supporting partner in all we do in changing lives of young men and women through technical education. As you review your yearly tax-deductible receipts, this may be the perfect time to make a supporting gift to the College through the Thaddeus Stevens Foundation, enabling you to help the College at the same time it’s helping you. The hardest part about making a financial gift is making the choice as to what area you would like to support. Well, this is the perfect time to make a supporting gift to the Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology through the Thaddeus Stevens Foundation. It enables you to help the College at the same time it’s helping you. The hardest part about making a financial gift is making the choice of which of the many worthy ways of planned giving you would desire to participate in. Current Projects: We need to raise $350,000 to purchase building lots for the continuance of our new home construction program. We currently have only one building lot left. Students from seven different building trades have benefited from this on-the-job training since 1953. Stevens has an enormous but doable challenge to raise $2,000,000 for the acquisition of the Armory Depot from the City which is no more than two blocks from our main campus. There’s a tremendous need to double our Machine Technology program, along with the expansion of many of our other technical programs as well as to implement new ones. These monies will have to come from the private sector inclusive of alumni, philanthropists, industry and other friends of the College. 6 Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology
We have an open campaign to raise $400,000 for the restoration cost of the 107 year-old Mellor Auditorium. It’s a most worthy project in preserving our historical past. Upon completion the room will be called the Lydia Hamilton Smith Gallery. Certain capital projects carry naming opportunities for the person or business who would make a financial contribution that meets a predetermined level set by the College. It’s a great way to honor a family member, friend, or to bring civic recognition to your company. Ways to Give • Making a pledge of a total cash gift to be paid in installments that extend up to five years. • Gifting real estate or other personal property of value to the Thaddeus Stevens Foundation. • Making a gift of securities. Transferring marketable stocks or bonds directly to the Thaddeus Stevens Foundation relieves the donor of capital gains tax and provides a tax deduction. • Naming the Thaddeus Stevens Foundation as a beneficiary of an insurance policy. An alternative is to make the Foundation both owner and sole beneficiary, providing a tax deduction for the donor for the policy’s cash surrender value. • Including the Thaddeus Stevens Foundation in one’s will. A codicil can be added to a current will without redrawing the entire document. • Creating a gift annuity fund or trust fund through the Thaddeus Stevens Foundation that pays an income for life to the donor or to a beneficiary. At the death of the last named beneficiary, the fund’s assets will go to the Foundation. • Make a monetary gift in memory of a loved one or friend. • Create a scholarship. Leaving a legacy is a wonderful way to say thank you to Stevens for a job well done. Please pick up the phone and call us at 717-2959666 or 1-800-571-7324 and ask for Alex Munro or Sophia Weibel. You may email us at amunro@stevenscollege.edu. We’ll be happy to discuss a detailed plan of gifting to reflect your personal desire. Your supporting gift is a valued statement of your confidence in Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology to be a continued leader in providing trade and technical education to the youth of Pennsylvania. The innate act of giving creates a wonderful humanitarian feeling of satisfaction that only comes when we help change the lives of our fellow man. If you would like a private visit to your home or place of business, please inform us of such and we would make every effort to accommodate that setting as well. Thank you and share the joy of gifting.
Happenings in Academic Affairs Dr. William Thompson, Vice President
This will be my last article in The Tower as I will be retiring as Vice President for Academic Affairs in June, 2013. It is hard for me to believe that more than three years have passed since I came to the College. The time has flown by, but I feel as though I have always been here and that this is where I belonged. So much has been accomplished; so many changes; so much yet to be done. In these few years, there have been many significant changes at Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology. The Branch Campus is completing its two year renovation, the College continues in its efforts to acquire the National Guard Armory, new Certificate and Associate Degree programs have been adopted, and many new faces have arrived on the main campus. The organization of Academic Affairs led to the creation of Master Course Forms for all 400+ courses at the College, the setting of timelines for changes in curriculum, the establishment of fixed Model Schedules for each program, and the use of the nationally recognized DACUM as the means to design new programs. In addition, the College has adopted a long range assessment program for
all courses and programs, established minimum credentials for all new faculty, and created an enhanced Pre-Major program to develop the basic academic skills of some of our applicants. Two Master Plans were written. The Academic Master Plan set challenges for the growth of the institution over the next ten years. To reach a student body of 2000, there will need to be new programs, better partnerships with business and industry, stronger articulation agreements with sending schools, and expanded facilities. In response, the College’s Facility Master Plan was written, and it continues to evolve. In support of an expanding student body, there will need to be new buildings, additional classrooms and laboratories, more student parking, new dormitories, and a redesigned campus. Some of these initiatives have already begun. I see a bright future for the College. The first steps toward reaching a student body headcount of 2000 are well underway. It is my plan to watch with pride as the College continues to grow and reach all of its goals. The groundwork has been laid, and the resources are in place. I know the College will succeed. My very best wishes to all, Farewell.
Wrestlers Head To Nationals Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology will be sending four wrestlers to the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Championships to be held February 21-23 is Des Moines, IA. Each wrestler earned their spot in the Championships after competing at the District II Championships February 9-10 in Nassau, NY. Adam Will (McClure, PA) won the 157 lb bracket on February 9 by going 4-0 in his matches. Will also captured the Outstanding Wrestler recognition for the tournament. Will is a previous All-American and will look to repeat this accomplishment at Nationals. Will has a 10-4 record for the season. Corey Seasock (Schuylkill Haven, PA) earned a spot at Nationals by finishing second in the 184 lb bracket at Districts. Seasock finished the day 2-1 in his matches. Seasock has a 9-4 record for the season. Matt Rust (Quakertown, PA) finished 4th in the 149 lb bracket, earning him a trip to Nationals. Rust finished the day 2-2 in his matches. Rust has a 14-5 record on the season. Matt Flynn (Newtown Square, PA) earned one of three wild card spots to Nationals. Flynn went 1-2 with his matches on February 9, however has a 14-8 record for the season, including an EPAC Player of the Week recognition.
L-R: Matt Flynn, Adam Will, Corey Seasock, and Matt Rust
The NJCAA Men’s Wrestling National Championship will be held February 21-23 at the Richard O. Jacobson Exhibition Center in Des Moines, IA. Information regarding Nationals can be found at http:// www.iccac.org/f/Wrestling_Tournament/2013_NJCAA_Wrestling_ Championships.php. The National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) is the governing body of two-year college athletics, offering endless athletic and academic opportunities to college students. It is the second largest national intercollegiate athletic organization in the United States with over 500 member schools in 43 states. Each year over 50,000 studentathletes compete in one of 28 different sports and the organization sponsors 48 national championship events and nine football bowl games each year. The Tower • 2013 Spring 7
Skilled Hands Serve in the Dominican Republic
at w th e n k I ld out, g a wor g n i n g i mak t han f jus ing and else.” o d ea e er “Inst volunte someon s o t a I w erence ff of di
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ver Christmas break a group of masonry students, under the supervision of instructor Norm Carter, volunteered to travel to the Dominican Republic to complete an elementary school building, which was located inside a 100-acre local mission compound. The students’ task was to stucco the entire outside and inside of the concrete block school building. Upon arriving at the airport, the Stevens students were escorted to the compound by armed soldiers. The lifestyle in the Dominican Republic is very different from what students are used to in the United States. Although the scenery was beautiful, poverty is rampant. Electrical power is sporadic and many times the power goes off for hours at a time. Sleeping quarters were not air conditioned despite the heat and humidity. However, the students reported that they ate very well and enjoyed the local food. The students were impressed by how friendly and relaxed the Dominican people are compared to Americans. There was no internet access, no Facebook, no texting; just a simpler way of life that they had never before experienced. In spite of an intense work schedule, students did get a chance for some relaxation. They braved the frenzied local traffic and traveled to the beach at Boca Chica. They played dominoes and soccer with the local children and got a chance to ride bareback on the mission’s resident horses. Overall, the experience was a life-changing event for these young men. One student reported, “Seeing how other people live was an eye-opening experience for me. I don’t take anything for granted in my life after seeing how they lived. I will take what I have now and won’t complain about it; I realize how good my life is and I am thankful for it.” Another Stevens student noted, “I reflected on how peaceful I was. Instead of just hanging out, I knew that I was volunteering and making a world of difference to someone else.”
Development News
Allen E. Tate, Director of Development
A Well-Centered Future The College’s recent annual report highlighted stories of various Stevens students and alumnae and the mark they are making on campus, in the community and as they prepare for their Well-Centered Future. These are only a few of the many that are reoccurring and bringing attention and distinction to our college. Thaddeus Stevens College has emerged from a being a “well-kept secret.” Recently, we have been meeting with representatives of companies, foundations and trusts, many at their invitation, who want to learn more about the College and how they can become involved. The common theme we hear is, “How can we get more students to enter the technology fields and hopefully become potential employees for us?” Another consistent comment is, “The media has not highlighted the severe need for trained technical workers and the significant availability of these jobs, leaving the general public with an impression that industry jobs have gone to overseas, which isn’t accurate. What can be done to change this mindset?“ Our answer is to become interested and involved in supporting post- secondary technical education, especially the many opportunities at Thaddeus Stevens College. Thaddeus Stevens College welcomes partnerships with corporations, foundations and individual trusts to further the College’s mission. What are some of these opportunities? This critical area of support enables students to experience new areas of training on equipment that is replicable in business and industry today. It prepares students for placement in high demand jobs at significant wages. Partnerships also provide support for the expansion of facilities to meet our growing need. Our College’s Master Plan sets a goal of 2,000 students by 2020, double our current student body. This increase is projected due to the significant demand for our graduates from all of our programs. To meet this increase, new or expanded facilities are needed for many of the technology programs both in classrooms, labs, technology and other support services. Partnerships can take a lead in assisting the College in bringing these new facilities on line soon. A master plan and design exists that we would be happy to share and discuss. Partnerships also are available in the format of Industry Advisory Councils established by each of our 18 programs. These advisory councils are made up of business and industry representatives who advise the respective technology department on current trends in the field that may affect the curriculum we teach our students or even recommend machinery/equipment that is needed to keep up with industry standards.
Scholarships are another partnership opportunity that supports students in need as they enter the technology program of their choice. Sometimes it makes the difference between coming to Stevens or finding a job in a lower skilled position. Also, our Career Services Office coordinates student Internships that are another opportunity to partner. Not only does an internship give students an opportunity to demonstrate their skills in a workplace situation, but also provides the company with an opportunity and an edge in recruiting. Current opportunities for partnership support include: • Manufacturing Center – An industry center for training, equipment showcase, and related college technical programs – (Machine Technology, etc.) • MyFutureCareer Website- an Interactive career website for middle and high school students to explore technical careers. • Industrial Maintenance Laboratory Capital Campaign • Smart Classrooms (Technology Enhanced) • Metals Fabrication & Welding Lab Capital Campaign • Electrical/Electronic Engineering Laboratories New Equipment Campaign • Workforce Development Lab Campaign • Physical Sciences Laboratory –Equipment • Retention Center for Under-Resourced Students • Endowed Scholarships • Summer Experience Camps (Gyrls Tech, Digital Camp, etc.) • K-12 Educational Experience Adopt-a-Kindergarten, High School Early Dual/Enrollment programs – EITC Tax Credit approved program) I would be happy to meet with you and discuss these partnership opportunities in more detail. Please call me at 717-391-7285 or e-mail me at tate@stevenscollege.edu. Our Development Office intern, Abby Cook ‘13, a graphics communication major, has designed an outstanding desk top calendar in a CD Case. This full color calendar is highlighted by scenes and people around the campus and facts about Stevens. We have a limited number available to the first 100 who send me an e-mail at the above address. We’d be happy to send you one. There are many exciting things happening on campus that you will want to see and be part of a college that provides a Well-Centered Future. I look forward to hearing from you.
The Tower • 2012 Summer 9
Who Was This Man? We’ll share a couple of random paragraphs from a story written by Harold Holtzer called, “Reel vs. Real,” which appeared in a publication of Civil War times. Holtzer’s article starts off with the question, “Was Thaddeus Stevens as angry and abrasive as he’s portrayed in Speilberg’s movie, “Lincoln?” In December 1863, when Maryland Representative Henry Winter Davis arrived in Washington for the new session of Congress, he promptly headed to Capitol Hill to pay his respects to the all-powerful chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee, Thaddeus Stevens. But if the newly reelected Davis expected to be welcomed with open arms by the cantankerous Pennsylvanian, he was in for a surprise. Emancipation had been ordered and the Union had won the Battle of Gettysburg – news that would have warmed the heart of most abolitionists. But Davis found “old Stevens” as [g]rim, savage, sarcastic, and mordant as ever, living on brandy and pain killers to subdue the perpetual pain and mocking at the powers that be in the most spicy way.” For generations, the unstintingly negative reputation of the so-called “Great Commoner” remained locked in this oversimplified time warp, as crafted by the early, Southern-tinged historiography of the Rebellion and Reconstruction. In war, according to their accounts, Lincoln was the reasonable leader, Stevens the extremist thorn in the great man’s side. In peace, Lincoln was the forgiver, Stevens the avenger bent on premature equal rights for blacks and perpetual subjugation for the white South. Under a different magnifying glass of one who happens to be an admirer of the Great Commoner, it may be noted that there were many great men but no one person in the 19th Century whose decisions had a greater impact on governmental and social changes in America than Thaddeus Stevens. He was the genesis of civil rights; he influenced the abolition movement, the underground railroad, the movement for women’s rights in voting and employment. He was an outstanding advocate of the Industrial Revolution and Labor Movement along with a litany of other life-changing initiatives. We can no longer let the outstanding achievements of Thaddeus Stevens collect dust in the archives of America’s political past. He was an unparalleled champion of humanity in every aspect. His grave may hold his bones, but his voice on human rights can be heard echoing across America, prodding his fellow man to face the social challenges of the day by enforcing the non-discriminating laws of the land guaranteeing that every man, woman and child will experience equality of life and opportunity through the duration of his or her lifetime. Subject to public as well as congressional scrutiny, Stevens was unwavering in his pursuit for human rights and freedom. One of his most crowning achievements as a Pennsylvania state legislator was securing the passage of the Public School Act of 1834, which preserves free public education for all. As a U.S. Congressman he had a few more unprecedented accomplishments. As a Republican floor leader, Stevens shepherded the passage of key measures of congressional reconstruction – the Civil Rights Act of 1866, the Fourteenth Amendment and the Reconstruction Act of 1867, along with making
contributions and influencing support for the passage of the 13th and 15th Amendments of the United States Constitution. Although the final pagssage of the 15th Amendment didn’t take place until after Stevens’ death,.Thaddeus Stevens will always be known as a man before his time. The political issues he warred against in the 1800s are the primary issues of our 21st Century. He was truly a political genius and a friend of the disadvantaged. Stevens was a man of extraordinary vision. He didn’t see the color of your skin when he looked at you, he saw people as functioning human beings without distinction. His continuous campaign for human rights throughout his career shows he was a man with passion for life itself. He was a conqueror of both personal and public adversity. Stevens was one of our nation’s most committed political figures in our country’s history, who was willing to forfeit personal gain and sacrifice everything for the betterment of all mankind. His outward dedication for human rights and freedom made him the recipient of undue public scorn. Oblivious to the threats of personal harm or political banishment, he carried on the fight for equality and freedom up to the day he died. He was a people’s champion with unlimited academic dimension. Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology stands proudly to celebrate one of the most renowned, colorful yet controversial political giants in the history of our great nation. Thaddeus Stevens, if living, could attest that the truth has always been unpopular, especially by those who would compromise the rights of others for their own personal gain. The truth was unpopular in the 1800s and it’s just as unpopular today, especially to the self-serving and to those who’ve lost sight that the freedom they enjoy today was purchased by the blood and lives of others who valued liberty. The undaunted Thaddeus Stevens fought endless legislative and congressional battles for the betterment of his fellow man, for freedom and civil rights, where democracy and human equality could reign hand in hand. Courageous Americans are still waging the war for freedom. They’re battling in the courts of our land and with cannons in the fields of the world to protect and retain that very same freedom that was so uniquely precious to Thaddeus Stevens. Stevens was an articulate defender of the truth. It took a sharp, quickwitted, intelligent man to take on the political accusers of his day and it’s without question Stevens was the masterful king of verbal defense. Usually his piercing responses caused his opposition to cower and fall to the wayside. His relentless pursuit of equal rights and freedom for the disadvantaged was his lifelong priority, which can be directly related to why Washington has failed to recognize the unheralded greatness of this man as a political champion for his fellow man and his country. Was Thaddeus Stevens a cantankerous man? Perhaps, but above all he was an American through and through. It didn’t take an embellished movie to market his point of justice. He lived what he believed and America knew it. Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology is immensely proud that we had a determined and loyal benefactor who loved his country and served his fellow man throughout his lifetime. -ABM The Tower • 2013 Spring 11
2013 Career Fair
The Career Fair at Thaddeus Stevens College, held on February 14, 2013, was an unprecedented success. More than 125 businesses and industries were in attendance with hopes of attracting about 300 highly trained, soon-to-be graduates. According to Laurie Grove, Director of Career Services at Stevens College, “Right now, what’s happening is that we don’t have enough students graduating to fill the jobs that are out there.” Grove said the boom in these hands-on jobs has to do with a number of reasons, including a lot of manufacturing coming back to the U.S. “The other thing is, the aging workforce, the Baby Boomers,” she said. “There are so many that are ready to go and there’s not enough skilled individuals, those who actually have the skill traits to come in and take their place.” We talked with one prospective employer, Greiner Industries, who hired two students on the spot and another on an internship basis. According to company representative, Mary Mendenhall, the Stevens Career fair produces more instantaneous results for filling jobs than expensive advertising.
Former Stevens Student is One of Top Hopefuls for the Sochi 2014 Paralympic Winter Games For Eric Frazier, a former Plumbing student at Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology, life has taken many turns. Now a member of the U.S. Paralympics Nordic Skiing National Team, Frazier’s journey to this place was tumultuous. Growing up in inner city Pittsburgh with his mother, younger sister and brother, Frazier was often left to care for himself because his military father was mostly absent. As a result, Frazier found himself in and out of trouble and by the age of 15 was placed in an all-boys group home. Eventually, he was released to The Summit Academy’s Aftercare Program, which pointed him in the right direction. Life at the Academy meant an opportunity to learn a trade and a sport. Since Frazier was a wrestler, he picked wrestling and ended up meeting Frank Wentzel, a coach that would change his life. By the time Frazier completed his time at the Academy, he wasn’t ready to leave. After being released from the program, Frazier kept going back. With a childhood that was filled with uncertainty, the Academy provided stability. “He just wanted someone to be proud of him,” Wentzel said. “And I was. He’s finally feeling he’s where he needs to be and wanted to stay, so I gave him a job in the kitchen. When he wasn’t scrubbing pots and pans, he was reaching out to other kids in a similar situation.” Every day the two would train together, and Frazier got better. He was named team captain and eventually placed in the state tournament. Although things were good on the mat, his home life continued to 12 Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology
struggle. At 17, he moved out and the Wentzel family took him in. “I was a black kid, and Frank and his family were white. They brought me in and treated me just like their own kid. I had some of the best Christmases and best memories there. I still call her ‘Mom’, I call him ‘Coach’, and I call their two boys my brothers. To this day, when I say ‘I’m going home,’ I’m going to Coach’s.” His continued wrestling success earned him a scholarship to Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology. But before enrolling in classes, Frazier made up his mind to enlist in the U.S. Marine Corps. But then he talked with Wentzel. “Although Coach supported whatever decision I made, he told me I wrestled my butt off and needed to consider pursuing an education. I took his advice and went to school for two years, entering the Plumbing program at Stevens. While in school, 9/11 happened and it refueled Frazier’s desire to join the Marines, which he did. Stationed in Fullajah, known as the most dangerous town in Iraq, Corporal Eric Frazier was a motivated and respected leader who led his men through many successful missions. During one vehicle checkpoint mission, a car approached at high speed. Without hesitation, Cpl. Frazier drew his pistol and fired into the speeding car, instantly killing all three insurgents inside. Upon inspection of the car, it was found to be loaded with explosives. An untold number of American lives were saved by his actions. At age 20, Frazier completed his first tour in Iraq and came home to see his family and friends. A moment supposed to be filled with
Black History Month in the LRC Thanks to the generosity of Dr. Vincent E. Miles, Professor of Social Sciences at Stevens and Class of 1987 alumnus, the Learning Resource Center has expanded its collection of books and movies for Black History Month. Stevens Librarian, Tim Creamer, researched and recommended 32 new books for the Vincent E. Miles African-American Collection and coordinated the display entitled, “Spotlight on Abolition, Slavery and Resistance.” This impressive collection is on display in the LRC through February, and materials may be borrowed throughout the year.
happiness and joy, turned to anguish and sirens. While visiting his biological father, Frazier suffered multiple gunshot wounds with a .45 caliber handgun. “My Marine Corp training kicked in. I took off my shirt, tied off all my arteries and slowed my heart rate. I then called an ambulance.” During recovery, the Wentzel family updated their basement to meet Frazier’s needs. They made the bathroom wheelchair accessible, provided a bed and assisted in every way they could. The competitive nature within Frazier became stronger than ever. He constantly looked for ways to challenge himself and found it in a cycling event called Face of America. Within a year of becoming T12 paraplegic, he completed
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by 3 percent, which was remarkable because he was going up against the top guys in the world who were setting records. Although he did not make the team, Frazier went to Vancouver as a spectator. It was his way of preparing for his next opportunity. He wanted to provide himself with the visual motivation of where he could be in four years if he put his mind to it. “Going to Vancouver set the final hook for me. I’ve always been the kind of person – no matter what I’m doing – to do it to the best of my ability. And for me, the best of my ability is at 300 percent. I put everything in it I can, and ever since then I’ve put everything into Nordic skiing.” Since 2010, Frazier has dedicated himself to making the U.S. Paralympic Team in 2014. Although Nordic skiing is an individual sport, he has surrounded himself with a team he trusts. He hired a physical therapist and a strength and conditioning coach. He invested in top-of-the-line nutrition and found a sponsor, Wilmington Prosthetics and Orthotics, that helped design a state-of-the-art sit ski. Now, at age 29, he trains six days a week with multiple workout sessions each day. He uses a hopoxico machine, which simulates high altitudes, when he works out and sleeps. A Skierg sits in his garage and helps recreate the doublepull motion of skiing at various levels of incline. Frazier has already noticed feeling stronger and more confident.
the 175 mile event and wanted more. Next up was the Sea to Shining Sea. Frazier road his hand cycle from San Francisco to Virginia Beach, Va., in 63 days. Frazier was just one of two individuals to complete the 4,100 mile journey. His grit and determination was noticed. Three months prior to the Vancouver 2010 Paralympic Winter Games, the U.S. Paralympic Nordic Skiing coaches approached Frazier to ask if he’d like to try and earn a spot on the U.S. Paralympic Team. The first time he tried skiing was three months before the Games and he ended up missing the team
This growing confidence is what helped Frazier successfully compete at the January 2013 Nordic Skiing World Cup in Cable, Wisconsin. He was selected as one of five athletes who will represent America at the 2013 International Paralympic Committee (PIC) Nordic Skiing World Championships that will be held in Solleftea, Sweden in early March. All five team members are active duty or veteran servicemen. This is the final competition prior to team selection for the 2014 Sochi Games. According to Dr. Vince Miles, Founder of the Tech Phi Tech fraternity at Stevens, Eric Frazier is a remarkable inspiration to other young people who come from difficult circumstances – and a true American Hero.
The Tower • 2013 Spring 13
Thaddeus Stevens Alumni Association invites you to attend the
Spring 2013 Alumni Banquet
Saturday, April 27, 2013
4:00 p.m. Annual Business Meeting (Jones Conf Rm) 5:00-6:00 Social Hour 6:30-9:00 Buffet Dinner & Program Multipurpose Activity Center
loo
Name:____________________________________________ Class Year:_______________
E-mail Address:_____________________________________ Phone:__________________ I would like to purchase ___ reservations at $35/each for: Name(s): _ ______________________________ ,___________________________________ _______________________________ ,___________________________________ TOTAL ENCLOSED: $ __________ Note: Special tables will be reserved for the 50-year reunion class. All other seating is open. Make checks payable to: Thaddeus Stevens Alumni Association Mail this form to: 740 East End Avenue, Lancaster, PA 17602 Also payable by: ( ) Visa ( ) Mastercard ( ) Discover Account # ____________________________________ Exp. Date_________ Signature________________________________________________________
Deadline for Reservations is April 19, 2013
SPRING ALUMNI WEEKEND SCHEDULE Friday, April 26
Saturday, April 27 (all activities held on campus)
6:00 – 9:00 p.m. Class of 1963 - 50th Reunion Welcome Reception at the Lancaster Host Resort
12:00 – 2:00 p.m. Machine Technology Reunion Reception For alumni, prospective students and industry representatives Machine Tool & Computer Aided Tech. Lab
6:00 – 9:00 p.m. Class of 1958 – 55th Reunion Informal Gathering at Lancaster Country Inn & Suites
12:00 – 2:00 p.m. Electrical Technology Reunion For alumni and industry representatives Electrical Technology Lab
4:00 p.m. Annual Alumni Association Business Meeting Jones Conference Room
Go to www.stevenscollege.edu for more information or contact the Stevens Alumni Office
5:00 p.m. Stevens Alumni Banquet Social Hour Multipurpose Activity Center (MAC)
(717) 295-9666 or seweibel@stevenscollege.edu
6:30 p.m. Alumni Banquet & Awards Presentations Multipurpose Activity Center (MAC)
Reservations requested for all events.
What’s New at the MAC
The MAC (Multipurpose Activity Center) has been a hub of activity over the winter months. Dedicated in January 2002, the MAC has proven to be an integral part of student life on campus and a successful source of revenue for the College.
site for several exciting competitions between elite girls’ volley teams. The MLK Kickoff Classic event had 408 teams from all over the east coast, including Canada and the Jamaica National Team from Kingston, Jamaica. Players ranged in age from 13 to 18 years.
The 2012 Shufu Open Judo Championship was held in November with record attendance. Judo Masters of all ages and skill levels came together to compete and increase their skills in this ancient discipline. For participants and spectators alike, the event was a huge success.
The MAC continues to house a state-of-the-art fitness center. A range of new high-tech cardio equipment has recently been added to the center, and is being enjoyed by students, faculty and alumni throughout the day and evening hours.
This was the fifth year for the Martin Luther King Kickoff Classic Girls’ Volleyball Tournament, a 3-day event held in January. Centrally hosted by the Lancaster Convention Center with playoff games held throughout the county, Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology’s MAC was the
Thanks to Facilities Director Tony Miller and his staff, the MAC looks as pristine as the day it opened 11 years ago. If you haven’t already visited this beautiful gem on the Stevens campus, take some time to stop by and tour the facility.
The Tower • 2013 Spring 15
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A GIFT ANNUITY CAN PROVIDE: • Financial security with guaranteed income for life. • Tax benefits including deductions and capital gains tax savings. • Personal satisfaction in leaving a meaningful legacy at Stevens.
Let us help you create a lasting legacy at Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology. For more information, contact the Foundation Office at 717-295-9666.