4.21.16 Yellow Jacket

SPECIAL COMMENCEMENT ISSUE

APRIL 21, 2016 | VOL. 93 NO. 18 | EST. 1924

THEYELLOWJACKET.ORG

@WUYELLOWJACKET

THE BEGINNING OF AN ERA

Jenny Schouppe, Yellow Jacket

Waynesburg University's 165th annual Commencement Exercises will take place Sunday, May 1. After the Baccalaureate Service and the Graduate Luncheon, nearly 550 undergraduate and graduate students will receive their diplomas and begin the next phase of their lives.

Almost 550 undergrad, grad students to Waynesburg alumni office plans events receive diplomas May 1 at Commencement for soon-to-be graduates of the university

By KIMMI BASTON Executive Editor

After years of work put in at Waynesburg University, 545 students are expected to participate in the university’s 165th Commencement Exercises Sunday, May 1.

Approximately 339 undergraduates and 201 graduate students will receive their diplomas during the Commencement Service.

This year, according to university Event Planner Mary Fox, the website for Commencement information has been kept more up-to-date than ever before, so both students and guests can find all necessary information.

The website can be found at waynesburg. edu/commencement.

As is tradition, Commencement day will begin with the Baccalaureate Service at 11 a.m. in Roberts Chapel. Guests can enter the chapel at 10 a.m., while graduates are simultaneously lining up in Marsh Center.

Baccalaureate is optional for students.

Immediately after Baccalaureate proceedings, honor cords and Academic Excellence pins will be distributed to graduates in the gymnasium.

A luncheon for graduates and their families will be held in the Benedum Dining Hall and Stover Campus Center at 11:30 a.m. Tickets for the luncheon must be purchased online in advance of the event.

At 1 p.m., students should promptly report to their assigned locations to line up (see Commencement website for locations). The Commencement procession will begin at 1:55 p.m. and the ceremony will start at 2 p.m. The Commencement

Service is mandatory for all graduates. To

By TEGHAN SIMONTON be exempt from the event, students must Copy Chief fill out the request form on the website.

Until further notice, Commencement Students in the Class of 2016 are only just will be held on the lawn in front of Miller beginning to view themselves as graduates; Hall, and anyone may attend. In the case however, in the Office of Institutional Adof inclement weather, the service will be vancement, staff members are beginning to held in the Rudy Marisa Fieldhouse, and view these individuals as alumni. each graduate According will be allocatto Heidi Szued two guest minsky, vice t ickets. The president for service will be Institutional live streamed Advancement at waynesand University • Q&A with the 2016 burg.edu, Relaations, this and guests on year’s graduValedictorians (A2) c ampu s c an ates will imview closed mediately be • Preview of Commencement circuit video added to the of the service alumni dataDay speakers (A2-3) in a number of base and will • Senior spotlights in acacampus buildhave the opings. portunity to demics and sports (AA1) The C omget involved mencement with a number website feaof events. tures tabs for “As soon as students, GAPS candidates, guests and our [students] graduate, they become a part of more. Fox recommends graduates and our alumni family,” said Szuminsky. “And so those attending the ceremony visit the site any events or information that we would send for all information. out to our alumni, they receive right away.”

Fox also said the event is an important Szuminsky said that within the past 10 part of a student’s college career and a years, the university has made a combined chance for the campus to celebrate as one. effort to reaching recent graduates in the “Commencement is a day for the entire younger demographic and integrate them into campus community to celebrate the accom- the alumni network sooner rather than later. plishments of our graduates,” said Fox. “It’s “We saw a need for our recent graduates an important day for faculty and staff as to have an opportunity to connect with each well as for students and students’ families.” other,” said Szuminsky. “So we started host-

WHAT'S INSIDE:

ing annual events just for our more recent graduates.”

These events have been remarkably well received, said Szuminsky, as there has been a “jump” in recent graduate attendees in the past few years. Szumnisky also said that when the events are specifically planned for the younger graduates, rather than all alumni in general, they typically see higher attendance rates.

The next alumni event in which this year’s graduates can participate is on July 28 in Pittsburgh.

“This event is not only for recent grads, but it is an event that many recent graduates will attend, and it’s our Pittsburgh networking lunch,” said Szuminsky. “Many recent graduates attend our networking lunches because many of them are networking for career purposes – and it’s a great opportunity to connect with other Waynesburg graduates in the Pittsburgh area.”

According to Szuminsky, the networking aspect is the major pull for alumni to stay in contact with their alma mater, especially for the younger generations.

“Building your own personal network will be invaluable to you for career advancement in the future,” she said. “And because Waynesburg provides a network of about 16,000 people throughout the U.S., it’s important for our recent graduates to work on tapping into that network early on.”

In addition to the professional aspect, however, Szuminsky encouraged students to stay in touch with Waynesburg University for other reasons.

“I think it also goes beyond networking ALUMNI >> A3

SPOTLIGHT ON SUCCESS

MINI RELAY FOR LIFE HELD AT WU

Disover the stories of 42 students selected by professors or coaches to be featured as outstanding students and/or athletes throughout their college career.

After the university's Mini Relay for Life April 17, the campus is still a few thousand dollars short of its $20,000 goal, but those involved are confident they can still reach it.

See AA1

HEROIN USE WIDESPREAD IN GC

FROM REHAB TO CELEBRATION

Read about the increasing awareness of heroin use in the Greene County area and how local officials are working to combat it.

Junior pitcher Derek Whalen threw a complete game against W&J Tuesday to continue his recent streak of good performances. He has recently regained his stride after surgery and grueling rehab.

See C1

See B1

INSIDE Commencement. . . . . . . A1–A4 Senior Spotlights . . . . . . AA1-AA12 Campus. . . . . . . . . . . . . . B1-B8 Editorial/Sr. Columns. . . B2–B3 Region. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C1–C4 Sports. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D1–D4

See D1

Copyright © 2016 Waynesburg University 51 W. College St.Waynesburg, Pa. 15370

Page A2

April 21, 2016

Q&A with the Class of 2016 Valedictorians Pittsburgh's D. Raja life, activities and schoolwork and maintained an excellent GPA?

Kayla Bleckley Creative Writing

What activities have you been involved in throughout your four years?

I am a member of Sigma Tau Delta, the International English Honors Society and served as vice president of the Upsilon Delta chapter here at Waynesburg for the 20142015 and 2015-2016 school years.

I have been on the staff of WU’s literary magazine Muse & Stone throughout my time as an undergraduate. I served as Poetry Editor during the 2013-2014 and 2014-2015 school years and as Student Executive Editor 2015-2016.

I am a member of the Lamplighters Concert Choir.

I work as a tutor on campus.

I tutor writing at the Waynesburg University Writing Center and for the Ethics courses through the Knox Learning Center.

How do you feel your Waynesburg education has prepared you for life after graduation?

I think the liberal arts education I received at Waynesburg has been essential to helping me determine what vocation I feel called to pursue and providing me the resources to be successful. Majoring in one of the humanities didn’t prepare me to step right into a specific career. Instead, I spent four years studying the human experience in my english and psychology courses, honing my writing and communication skills, and reflecting on who I am. Waynesburg’s faculty and facilities, such as the Writing Center, were an integral part of my undergraduate journey.

How have you balanced

The key word here is really “balance.” I think knowing my limits and maintaining realistic expectations for myself (and constantly updating my planner) allowed me to keep everything in perspective.

There were certainly stressful semesters, but a girl can do a lot with a level head and a pot of coffee.

What do you see as being your greatest accomplishment throughout your four years at Waynesburg?

I think my greatest accomplishment over these four years has been stepping outside my comfort zone and deciding to pursue a future in counseling.

What is your favorite memory from your Waynesburg career?

Each year I look forward to listening to/watching my peers read their short stories, poems, and service pieces at the Muse & Stone (WU’s literary magazine) launch party. We have a lot of talent at Waynesburg, and I love working on the Muse & Stone staff and witnessing my peers share their creations.

Is there anyone you want to recognize has having been influential while you were at Waynesburg?

The entire English Department has been paramount to my success and enjoyment while here at Waynesburg.

I’d like to thank them all for their expertise, dedication, and warmth and for the four years’ worth of wisdom they bestowed upon me.

What are your future plans?

My immediate plan is to hopefully be accepted into Waynesburg University’s Master of Arts in Counseling program.

Jess Marabello Secondary Math Education

What activities have you been involved in throughout your four years?

Math Tutor (all four years) Kappa Delta Pi (KDP) International Honor Society in Education ( all four years) Kappa Mu Epsilon - National Mathematics Honor Society (Since Junior year) Drus Women’s Honorary Society (Senior Year) Mission Trips: Dominican Republic ( Sophomore year), Costa Rica (Junior year), Puerto Rico (Junior Year) Student Teaching- During my fall semester of my senior year I completed student teaching. I was placed at Waynesburg Central High School where I taught three different math classes, six periods a day, to 10th12th grade students.

In the summer, I work at a city pool near my house.

I am the Head Guard at the pool, the swim team coach, and I teach learn-to-swim classes.

What does it mean to you to be named valedictorian?

B e i ng v a l e d i c tor i an means a lot to me because I have worked very hard to have my 4.0 GPA every semester and to see my hard work payoff is rewarding.

To be name valedictorian means that I have been recognized for one of my best kept secrets and it truly is a blessing. I have spent countless hours in the library and have given up time spent with friends and family because I was so

determined to maintain my GPA. I set a goal for myself freshman year regarding my grades and I was determined to reach it. When I finally reached my goal, I was very proud of myself.

I feel I have conquered a great accomplishment and I am so thankful for all those who have helped me get here. I am honored to be able to speak on behalf of the graduating class of 2016 at the commencement ceremony.

What do you see as being your greatest accomplishment throughout your four years at Waynesburg?

Besides my GPA, I feel one of my greatest accomplishments throughout my four years at Waynesburg has been making and seeing the difference I have made in the lives of others through mission trips, student teaching, or just walking around campus.

I have learned that it really is the little things that you can do for someone that makes the biggest difference. Receiving a genuine “thank you” from someone is one of the most rewarding feelings.

What are your future plans?

I am currently searching and applying for a full-time teaching job for next school year in the Pittsburgh area.

I hope to one day have my own classroom and work with the students that most teachers give up on. I have wanted to be a teacher ever since I was in elementary school and now I realize that my dream is coming true! I love teaching and encouraging others and I am looking forward to being able to make a positive difference in my students’ lives every day! After finding a job I will pursue obtaining a Master’s degree.

Regarding my personal life, I plan on getting married and one day having my own family.

to speak at university Commencement

By LUKE GOODLING Editorial Assistant

The Class of 2016 will have the opportunity to listen to a prominent figure in both business and entrepreneurship for the Commencement Ceremony May 1.

Initially, D. Raja came to America to further his education, eventually receiving a master’s degree in computer science from the University of Pittsburgh. Since then, Raja has started a consulting and project management practice and earned an MBA from Carnegie Mellon University in 2001.

Raja has also won numerous awards, many for his role in business. Raja also hosts a business and finance show on KDKA-AM. In the past year, Raja has spoken at Waynesburg University twice, and will again a third time at the Commencement ceremony. Douglas Lee, university president, said Raja’s character follows that of Waynesburg University’s mission.

“Raja’s demonstrated experience speaks to a high level of professional development and desire for continued education,” said Lee. “These characteristics align with Waynesburg University’s drive to instill a passion for lifetime learning coupled with faith and service.”

Raja serves, Lee said, as an excellent example for the graduating Class of 2016.

“His ambition, influential career and moral and business philosophies serve as examples to our students as they prepare to become the leaders and scholars of tomorrow,” said Lee. Though Raja has never given a commencement speech before, he said Waynesburg University is an institution that he values.

“With Waynesburg being a service oriented [university], the one thing that I’ve found [is that] there’s a lot of emphasis placed on character,”

said Raja. “This is what I’ve found in my life: the higher up you go in life, what counts at that point is character, and with what you get taught at Waynesburg, you are being taught something that most colleges [don’t].”

For the commencement speech itself, Raja said it would contain several narratives, each carrying the common theme of the important aspects of life.

“I’ve gotten some short stories to share with the students, but to me, most of us don’t remember facts and figures and things like that, but what we remember is stories,” said Raja.

Raja “The broad thing that I want to talk about is what is important in life. When you leave you get thrown into a medley [of priorities], you can bring this back to anytime you have a situation where you’re like ‘hey, what should my decision be?’ you can sort of bring this back to [that].”

The students, Raja said, would be able to apply the main points of the speech to their lives almost immediately after graduating, which he said would help with retaining the information.

“If you give [students] some really abstract stuff, maybe it sounds good, but a week later it loses its efficacy,” said Raja.

“If the students apply it every day, they’re going to see results and that is what is going to keep them on track.”

The Commencement ceremony will be held on the front lawn of Miller Hall at 2 p.m. on May 1. The rain location for the event is the Rudy Marisa Fieldhouse.

Stewart renovations, Some seniors face post-grad unemployment house maintenance planned for summer

By JENNY SCHOUPPE Chief Photographer

By JACOB MEYER Sports Editor

As students end their academic year with finals week, which is likely the busiest week of their semester, the maintenance crew enters the most important time of their year.

“The summer is always the busiest time of our year, actually,” said Terry Sattler, director of facilities planning and management.

This summer, the university will continue its renovation of the Paul R. Stewart Science Hall. By August 1, Sattler said the fourth floor should be fully renovated, which will complete floors three through five.

A plan for the first and second floor has not been devised yet, Sattler said.

“We’re currently evaluating what our next steps are going to be,” Sattler said. “We have yet to complete the first and second floors.”

The biology department faculty offices are one of the last pieces to be finished on the fourth floor, and Sattler said those should be done by the end of July.

The first piece of action for the summer is to relocate the data center on the fourth floor to a more suitable room. Sattler said they will get started on that with the information technology department right after Commencement in May. “[It will] still be on the fourth floor; it’s almost side by side, but we had to create a new room for it,” Sattler said.

“It was designed to be relatively close to the existing data

center room to make the move as easy as possible.”

The data center is where the main computer servers are located.

“First of all we needed to create a better space for it,” Sattler said. “The current data center space was very limited [and] poorly air conditioned, and we wanted to create a much better environment for the data center.”

Having the center air-conditioned is something that is “critical” for the system, according to Sattler.

Another important project for the summer is maintaining the on-campus houses and preparing for the increase in student houses in the 2016-17 academic year.

“We’re looking at a pretty fully enrollment for the upcoming year, so we’re looking at all the student houses currently and looking at what kinds of things need done,” Sattler said.

Sattler said one house specifically, 366 Richhill St., will need a new roof to be able to house the students planned to live in that house next year.

Sattler and Jessica Sumpter, assistant dean of Student Services, have already walked around all the houses and made a list for maintenance projects.

“We probably won’t be able to finish in one summer, but we’re going to begin a process to improve all of our student houses on campus,” Sattler said. “It may take a couple of years to get done, but we’re going to start pecking away at it.”

‘What are your plans for after graduation?’ is one of the many dreaded questions college seniors are asked during the final year of their undergraduate career.

Whether it’s a full-time job or graduate school, there are plenty of seniors who have decided what is next for them.

For others, there are still decisions to be made.

Senior environmental biology major Tori Whitty has a plan for the summer months but is still looking for the next step to take.

“I have a summer internship in Maryland to be a nature leader,” said Whitty. “But after that I have absolutely nothing planned yet.”

Like most seniors, Whitty has plenty of dreams and aspirations for herself but admits that it has been a challenge to multitask looking for jobs while also finishing classes.

“Ideally, I think we all would like to find something, but it’s hard whenever you’re in school to look for jobs at the same time,” said Whitty.

“That’s why, for right now, why I have settled with just a summer internship right now.”

The pressure to figure out the next steps in life has been constant and unbearable at times. According to Whitty, it is easy to feel overwhelmed and anxious when it comes to not having a full-time job lined up yet.

“There is always this pressure to find a job,” said Whitty. “Ever since the start of this year, people have been asking me about my plans for after graduation, and being so close to graduation and

Jenny Schouppe, Yellow Jacket

Senior Tori Whitty searches for jobs online as she prepares to graduate and faces the daunting thought of life without a full-time job. saying I have no plans makes part of me feel like a failure.”

Whitty said her religious beliefs have kept her sane through these times of stress and worry.

“My faith helps a lot during this process,” said Whitty.

“I’m constantly reminded that God does have a plan for me. As I move forward, I am trying my best to follow His plan. He will take care of me. And if I am doing His work and continue to strive towards that, then I feel like I am taking the right path for my life.”

Though stress and anxiety have come hand-in-hand with the job search process for Whitty, she does admit that there is a bit of excitement while heading forward.

“There are moments where I find it exciting to not have plans,” said Whitty. “My entire life has been planned be-

cause of school. Even though it is scary sometimes to not have plans, it’s relieving to, for once, not know what is coming next. It’s like the whole world is at our feet and we finally have the chance to explore it.”

For senior secondary mathematics education major Caley Blankenbuehler, there is added stress to the job search process due to her necessary timeline.

“I’m really nervous about not having a full time job lined up yet,” said Blankenbuehler. “I’m getting married in October, and I need to have some sort of full time job before then, even if it’s not in my major. Though I’m really hoping to find one in my major, however. At the same time, though, I’m really just trying to trust God with this.

I’m sure He has some sort of plan lined up for me, but not

knowing what it is yet is very frustrating.”

After graduation, Blankenbuehler hopes to find a substitute teaching job until June, and then plans to find a summer job. Her goal is to find a full time job as a math teacher in a school district around Pittsburgh.

According to Blankenbuehler, it’s very difficult to simply have plans with nothing concrete when it comes to finding a full-time job.

“I think I feel pressured to have my life figured out from my family,” said Blankenbuehler. “They keep asking me what my plans are and what my job will be after I graduate, and I can only give them plans so far, nothing definite. I’m sure they aren’t doing it on purpose, but it is stressful. I think I also put pressure on myself to find a job.”

April 21, 2016

Page A3

Admissions makes projections for next year's freshman class VP Payne's first Waynesburg University year marked with recruiting success

By TIMMY KAISER

For the Yellow Jacket

Deadlines are soon approaching for prospective college students to decide where they are going after graduation.

April 15 is the second priority deadline and May 1 is the deadline for students to file for the FASFA and also the national tuition deposit deadline. Shari Payne, vice president of enrollment, is excited about the way the incoming freshman class is shaping up.

“We set goals each year, and we are meeting and exceeding the goals that we set,” said Payne. “We’re very cautiously optimistic about the incoming freshman class.”

The admissions office evaluates a class in many ways.

From the amount of students who are accepted, to those who have deposited, according to Payne, the admissions office is doing well in evaluations for the 2017 freshman class.

“We look at how many students come to campus, how many students apply, how many are admitted, how many have deposited and in of those areas we are well above where we were last year,” said Payne.

This year has brought about new tactics for the admissions office said Jakie Palko, director of admissions. Digital advertising has helped reach their target au-

Incoming class size at

Incoming students anticipated for fall 2016

420

Past four years...

2013

2012

401

451 2014

2015

370

395

Information gathered from Department of Admissions

dience better as well as more traveling, said Palko.

“We traveled more this fall; we also are traveling in the spring which we haven’t done in the past,” said Palko.

“We ran some digital campaigns, which helped this class because in this generation everyone is on their mobile devices and that’s a great way to get to the students who we recruit.”

According to admissions, the cumulative deposits that came in before the end of February were the highest that they had ever been.

Students who have deposited come from fourteen different states, said Palko.

Finding students who fit in well is one of the main goals when targeting pro-

spective students, according to Palko.

“Our goal this year was around 420 new students,” said Palko. “When we go out recruiting, we look for students who are going to be a good fit for Waynesburg, who are sound academically, want to grow their faith when they’re in college and will be involved on campus.”

With the large number of students who have submitted deposits already, many have come from schools in the Washington and Greene county areas. These schools who often have multiple number of students enroll each year are considered “feeder schools” by the admissions office.

“We never want to take for

granted the extra attention we get from those schools,” said Payne. “It is very hard to develop relationships so we want to make sure we spend time on making sure we keep those relationships.”

All the success the admissions office is seeing this year comes one year after a big decision was made regarding student housing.

Students are no longer allowed to live off campus at any point during their time at Waynesburg. Prospective students are receptive to the new rule, and according to Palko, it has had little impact in the way in which they recruit.

“It hasn’t specifically changed the way we recruit,” said Payne. “We have the conversation with students when they come visit that we have a housing requirement, so we just try to go over all of their options depending on where they live.”

With time dwindling down on students making their college decision, the admissions office has not let up in their pursuit for students to be a part of the upcoming freshman class, said Palko.

“We’re still making contact with students,” said Palko.

“Whether that’s through phone or email, our job is not done until the students are here on campus in August.”

Although their year is far from complete, according to members of admissions, this has been a successful year.

By TIMMY KAISER

For the Yellow Jacket

It is a common occurrence for people to work in a field outside of the subject they studied in college. Shari Payne, vice president of Enrollment at Waynesburg University, falls in line with this commonality.

While working on her undergraduate degree at the University of Pittsburgh, she wanted to become a journalist. After graduation, she got started in the field of journalism but only for a short time.

During her time at the university, Payne worked as a Pitt Pathfinder in the admissions office, giving campus tours to prospective students; so when a job as an admissions counselor came up, she jumped on it.

“If there was ever a time where God steps in and puts you where you’re meant to be, that was it,” said Payne.

Payne, who was hired

by Waynesburg University in the fall of 2015 and started working in October, thought Waynesburg was a good fit as it fell in line with her beliefs.

“I was very connected to the institution’s mission of faith and learning,” said Payne. “When I came on campus, it was apparent the people were wonderful, not just the admissions office but the whole campus. I hear that a lot from prospective students and families that Waynesburg is very welcoming.”

According to Kyle Digiandomenico, an admissions counselor, focusing on the mission has helped Payne in her line of work.

“She is dedicated to bringing in the type of students that fit Waynesburg’s mission,” said Digiandomenico. “It’s so important to have someone who believes in the mission and is in pursuit of it.”

Helping the younger PAYNE >> A4

Alumni: Events planned Former Wbg. pastor to speak at Baccalaureate of his t ime to west Waynesburg “It’s been a wonderful

By MITCHELL KENDRA to incorporate recent the Washington and so his wife thing, helping that comHe a lt h Sy ste m and several oth- munity and helping Greene Rev. Dr. Richard Viss- Gre ene B o ard, ers from the First County at large,” said Visser. grads into 'alumni family' er The will be the guest speaker formerly known Baptist Church “It’s been a very rewarding Managing Editor

Continued from A1

for career purposes,” she said.

“There’s a common connection among all Waynesburg graduates that keeps people connected to their alma mater and the school that they love.”

Szuminsky strongly advised the class of 2016 to keep their contact information updated, so the Office of Institutional Advancement and University Relations can reach them as they advance

in their careers.

“It’s important that our recent graduates and all alumni keep their contact information up to date with the university,” she said, “so that they can hear about these events and receive our publications and stay connected with their alma mater.”

Szuminsky said that graduates and alumni can do this by visiting the university webpage, or by emailing alumni@waynesburg.edu with their contact information.

EXAM STUDY DAY: Monday, April 25 Schedule of Study Tables Knox Learning Center, Eberly Library Accounting: 10 a.m. and 7:30 p.m.

Biology: 4-6 p.m. (BIO 122), 7 p.m.

(BIO 207) and 1 p.m. (BIO 406) Chemistry: Noon-2 p.m. (CHE 121-122),

6-8 p.m. (CHE 122) and 4-6 p.m.

(CHE 212) Computer Science: 1-3 p.m.

Criminal Justice: 9 a.m. (CRJ 219) and

10 a.m. (CRJ 328) Economics: 3-6 p.m.

History: 11 a.m. (HIS 206 and 112) and

1 p.m. (HIS 102) Math: Noon-4 p.m.

Music: 3:30 p.m.

Nursing: 6-8 p.m.

Philosophy: 6-8 p.m.

Physics: 2-4 p.m.

Psychology: 3-4 p.m. (PSY 105) and

10 a.m. (PSY 409)

at Waynesburg University’s 2016 baccalaureate service.

Visser has been involved in the ministry for 56 years now and served in Greene County for many of those years.

Visser, a Hingham, Massachusetts native, worked in Greene County for 20 years from 1983-2003 as the senior pastor at First Baptist Church, before retiring.

During his time in Greene County, Visser was very involved with the local community.

Visser contributed a lot

a s t h e Gre e n e c am e t o g e t h e r County Memorial and created the Hospital, and the Greater WaynesGreene County burg Christian Depar tment of Outreach.

Human Services “It’s so good to Visser Board. hear and get reVisser was also one of the ports [of what the Greater founders of the Commu- Waynesburg Christian Outnity Foundation of Greene reach] is doing there in that County, which recently cel- community and across the ebrated its 15-year anniver- whole county of Greene sary. He said the work he has County – that’s very rewarddone within the community ing,” said Visser. was all very rewarding.

To this day, Waynesburg Visser said that his church students are involved in the once realized there was a Greater Waynesburg Chrisneed for a greater ministry in tian Outreach.

[experience].”

Visser said Waynesburg University President Douglas Lee contacted him because Lee wanted to give an honorary doctorate to Visser during the commencement ceremony. When Lee called Visser in February telling him about the honorary doctorate, Visser said Lee also asked him to speak before the commencement ceremony during the baccalaureate service.

Visser said that Lee wantVISSER >> A4

GAPS program adjusts to recent changes

By MATTIE WINOWITCH Editorial Assistant

Waynesburg University’s graduate program is growing and adding new features to fit the needs of students in the surrounding Pittsburgh area.

The university currently has three locations in addition to the main campus that offer graduate programs. Those locations include the Southpointe Center in Washington, the Monroeville Center in Monroeville and the North Hills Center in Seven Fields.

David Mariner, the director of program development for Graduate and Professional Studies, said that these locations were picked strategically to suit the target audience.

“We st ar te d deg re especific programs at these regional locations where we targeted working professionals: adult students working and living in the Pittsburgh area,” said Mariner. “We basically have the city of Pittsburgh surrounded with our centers.”

According to Mariner,these locations offer very specific degree programs.

“An undergraduate student wouldn’t be able to attend our regional locations for undergraduate studies, so we are really specific to the programs that we offer,” said Mariner.

The programs that are offered at the locations are

DEVELOPMENT IN GRADUATE AND PROFESSIONAL STUDIES AT WU 1. Additional sites chosen to cater to potential graduate students in Pittsburgh area 2. New degrees: Master of Arts in Criminal Investigation and Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision 3. Conversion of select programs to exclusively online graduate degrees are in business administration, counseling, nursing and education. There is also a Master of Arts in Criminal Investigation, which was the newest degree, released in the fall of 2015.

There is also one Ph.D. program in counselor education and supervision.

Mariner said that May 2017 will be the first year Waynesburg graduates a Ph.D. in the history of the university.

Waynesburg reaches out to graduate students with the use of technology and online classes through Blackboard, an educational platform.

“Historically we have had online classes,” said Mariner. “We embed technology with everything that we do.

Whether it’s a face-to-face class or not, it’s going to

have a technology component to it.”

One new aspect of the graduate program that Mariner said was just rolled out this past January is an MBA [Master’s in Business Administration] program that students can complete solely online. Mariner said that an online graduate program for education and technology will be offered starting this upcoming fall.

According to Mariner, students in the online programs will still have all of the same rights and privileges--including the commencement programs--as students that attend at a physical campus, since they are allowed to jump in and out of the online environment.

However, just because the classes are online does not mean that the program will

be stretching outside its intended region.

“Currently, I don’t see our recruitment strategy altering to extend past the Pittsburgh region extensively.

Even though we offer online, that doesn’t mean we are recruiting students from California and Florida [for our graduate programs],” said Mariner. “Our recruitment base is still primarily within the Pittsburgh region.”

Another new aspect of Waynesburg’s graduate program starting this upcoming fall is a change of locations for the North Hills Center. The university will be partnering with the Regional Learning Alliance, a consortium of educational institutions. Mariner said this partnership will allow for a new physical footprint north of Pittsburgh, as they move from the Seven Fields building to the Regional Learning Alliance in Cranberry.

Mariner said that overall, the university is fulfilling its mission by serving the needs of those looking for graduate programs and will continue to offer and adjust services as needed.

“There’s a significant need in higher education to provide education to working professionals,” said Mariner. “Over the past 20 years, Waynesburg University has been an innovator in that market. We are providing a service of education that is in high demand.”

Page A4

April 21, 2016

Class of 2016 gift to benefit fund for service immersion trips

By MARY HOFFMAN Copy Editor

The senior class gift offers an opportunity for seniors to leave their mark on campus before graduation.

Every year, a committee of senior class representatives works with the Office of Institutional Advancement to choose the gift and raise funds.

Last year, the class of 2015 restored the Hanna Hall Bell, now located in the walkway between Miller Hall and Hanna Hall.

In 2014, the senior class donated money to form a new Class of 2014 Endowed Scholarship. In 2013, the senior class raised funds for a new door to be placed in Stewart Science Hall as part of the renovation project.

This year, the class of 2016 chose to donate to the Faith, Learning and Service Immersion Trip Scholarship Fund.

The senior class gift is a Waynesburg University tradition dating back to the 1800’s, according to Donna Nypaver, assistant director of development. Nypayer said that the choice of gift from the class of 2016 of-

Jenny Schouppe, Yellow Jacket

This year's senior class decided to contribute to the Faith, Learning and Service Immersion Trip Schoalrship Fund as their senior gift. They presented a check for more than $4,000 to the university Wednesday. fers insight about the type of students they are.

“A tangible gift offers instant gratification,” said Nypaver, “but we feel it speaks volumes about the thoughtfulness and foresight of our senior class gift committee to choose a gift that will support future students and allow them to

make an impact through service.”

According to Kelley Hardie, assistant dean of students, the donation to the immersion trip fund is one that won’t soon be forgotten.

“This is a way in which [seniors] will be serving through other students,”

said Hardie. “That will last a very long time beyond [their] graduation here at Waynesburg University, in ways that [seniors will] touch many, many lives domestically, globally and locally. So I think this is an amazing opportunity for our students.”

The committee does not

have a specific goal in mind but is trusting in the generosity and passion that their senior class has for service, according to Nypaver. Hardie is also grateful for the seniors’ willingness to donate to the fund, which will go directly to future students who wish to participate in the immersion trips.

This scholarship helps offset the cost of the immersion trips, some of which can be costly due to the location, according to Hardie.

“That’s a great opportunity for the seniors to leave their fingerprints many places, domestically and internationally,” said Hardie. “So, students have the opportunity to apply for the Faith, Learning and Service Trip scholarship, where they can receive up to 25 percent of the total trip cost through that scholarship but not exceeding $450.”

Other donations are made to the immersion scholarship fund by faculty, staff and alumni, or are raised through fundraisers sponsored by trip leaders.

The senior class has raised over $4,018 for the fund, and the senior class gift committee presented the gift to President Douglas Lee at the senior class meeting on Wednesday, April 20 at 3 p.m.

Any questions can be directed to Nypaver at dnypaver@waynesburg.edu or Senior Class Gift Committee Representative Mary Hoffman at hof8497@student.waynesburg.edu.

Visser: Baccalaureate service to Payne: Early deposit record reached in 2016 under new VP feature former Waynesburg pastor Continued from A2

generation find a place where they are going to turn into adults, Payne said, is one of her favorite parts of her job.

“It is really wonderful to be able to work with young folks who are ready to transition to [the] next part,” said Payne. “To be part of where they are going to go and who they are going to be is really neat, and to be able to provide access to an institution like Waynesburg is very humbling.”

During her first year, Payne has helped the admissions office to achieve a record February and a record March with the amount of early deposits made by prospective students. April, Payne said, is also going well.

Throughout the year, there are ups and downs, and, according to Digiando-

menico, Payne has been particularly helpful with her optimistic attitude during some of those down times.

“Her constant encouragement and positive attitude really helps our team realize what we’re doing and where we are going,” said Digi-

“[Payne's] constant encouragement and positive attitude really helps our team realize what we're doing and where we are going.”

KYLE DIGIANDOMENICO

Admissions Counselor

andomenico. “It is hard to see silver linings, but she is always there to point them out.”

Since it is his first year as an admissions counselor, Digiandomenico has looked to Payne for guid-

ance throughout the year, he said.

“Having someone who knows so much about so many areas is so helpful in expanding my knowledge,” said Digiandomenico. “I’ve gone to her with many questions and she’s always steered me in the right direction.”

With a whole summer before the 2016-17 school year begins, there is still a lot of work left to do, according to Payne. But she believes the admissions office has had a successful year to date.

“You never know how you will end the year because we are still not finished,” said Payne. “There is lots of work ahead, but the work that the team has done is nothing short of amazing.”

The job transition Payne faced at the beginning of her career may have been daunting, but according to Payne, it worked out just fine.

Continued from A3

ed to have someone who has been active in the local community speak and Visser was just that.

“I was quite taken back because I hadn’t thought along those lines in the least – I was just doing what I felt God was calling me to do,” said Visser on Lee’s phone call concerning the honorary doctorate.

Visser said the message he will be giving during the baccalaureate service is titled “Being salt and light.”

He said his message, which is taken from Matthew 5:1316, is about how as believers of God, people are to be salt and light and shed light on the Lord to others.

He said whether he realized it or not, that’s what he has been attempting to do throughout his life: “to shed the light of the good news of the gospel in a practical way

in people’s lives.”

“I would like to encourage the students to get out into the communities and see where they can [be] of help and make a difference.

“I would like to encourage the students to get out into the communities and see where they can [be] a help and make a difference.”

THE REV. DR. RICHARD VISSER

Pastor

Quoting Jesus: ‘You are the salt of the Earth and the light of the world’ and you need to change the flavor so we say of people’s lives today,” said Visser. “That salt, of course, enhances the flavor of the food we eat. Like that we want to make a difference in this world: share with them

the light of the good news of the Gospel but also show them a better way to make a difference.”

Community involvement is something Visser said people need to step up and do.

Although only working part-time, Visser said he and his wife Carol still contribute to the community by doing a lot of volunteer work themselves.

The couple currently resides in Brunswick, Maine.

They are semi-retired and are part time association resource ministers for the York Baptist Association in southern Maine.

Along with Visser, Raja, who will be speaking during commencement, will receive an honorary doctorate.

The baccalaureate service will be held on May 1 at 11 a.m. in Robert’s Chapel.

Commencement will follow at 2 p.m. in the lawn area in front of Miller Hall, weather permitting.

FINALS WEEK SPRING 2016 Good luck from the Jacket staff!

MONDAY APRIL 25, 2016

TUESDAY APRIL 26, 2016

WEDNESDAY APRIL 27, 2016

THURSDAY APRIL 28, 2016

FRIDAY APRIL 29, 2016

Day of study for Final Examinations

Tuesday/Thursday at 9:30 a.m.

8:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.

Monday/Wednesday/ Friday at 9 a.m.

8:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.

Tuesday/Thursday at 8 a.m.

8:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.

Monday/Wednesday/ Friday at 8 a.m.

8:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.

Tuesday/Thursday at 1 p.m.

11 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Monday/Wednesday/ Friday at 11 a.m.

11 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Tuesday/Thursday at 2:30 p.m.

11 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Monday/Wednesday/ Friday at 10 a.m.

11 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Tuesday/Thursday at noon 1:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Monday/Wednesday/ Friday at noon.

1:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Independent Studies 1:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Monday/Wednesday/ Friday at 1 p.m.

1:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Any classes meeting at times not listed 4 p.m. - 6 p.m.

Monday/Wednesday/ Friday at 2 p.m.

4 p.m. - 6 p.m.

Any classes meeting at times not listed 4 p.m. - 6 p.m.

Monday/Wednesday/ Friday at 3 p.m.

4 p.m. - 6 p.m.

Classes which meet Tuesday evenings 6:30 p.m. - 9 p.m.

Classes which meet Wednesday evenings 6:30 p.m. - 9 p.m.

Classes which meet Thursday evenings 6:30 p.m. - 9 p.m.

Classes which meet Monday evenings 6:30 p.m. - 9 p.m.

T

The examination schedule is ·.. based on the days of the week and time of the class.

Examinations will be given in the room where classes normally meet.

Final examinations for classes that meet at times other than those listed above are to be scheduled through the Office of the Registrar.

RESIDENCE HALL CLOSING PROCEDURE

• • •

All residence halls close at noon Clean your room Close all windows and curtains

• • • •

Check-out with your RA or RD Rearrange all furniture back to its original state Take everything off the walls Have a great summer!

SECTION AA

APRIL 21, 2016 | WAYNESBURG UNIVERSITY | THEYELLOWJACKET.ORG BIBLICAL MINISTRY STUDIES

Serving as resident assistant a college highlight for Brown

By ANTHONY CONN Managing Editor

While at Waynesburg University, students are encouraged to live lives of faith, learning and service. Senior Jen Brown did not miss this memo. Brown is preparing to take her passions beyond Waynesburg in May pursuing a master’s degree and a career that leads others to Christ.

Brown is a biblical ministry studies major, with a focus in international missions and a minor in marketing. She said that her major has given her many fantastic opportunities.

Brown became involved with Cross Cultural Solutions and went on a mission trip to Ghana, Africa for a month this past summer. She worked with students with intellectual disabilities and taught them many life-applicable skills. Despite being the primary teacher, Brown said she was equally blessed by the experience.

“All of the students at the school were really great and really energetic and even taught me some sign language,” Brown said.

A very impactful moment of Brown’s college career was a trip to Costa Rica during her sophomore year. During that mission trip she saw her faith in God develop and flourish in a way she had not previously experienced.

“God is everywhere, despite what language you speak, despite what ethnicity you are, despite your age, despite your gender,” said Brown. “He’s at work all the time, everywhere.”

Brown is thankful for her opportunities to travel abroad and use her passion for missions to serve the Lord.

“It made me realize I have an outreach to help other people.”

Brown said the help she has received from others has

ABOUT THE SPOTLIGHT SECTION:

The senior students featured on Pages AA1-AA9 were selected on the basis of an outstanding academic performance during their four years at Waynesburg by a faculty member from each department. On pages AA10-AA12, the featured senior athletes were selected by their coach on the basis of an outstanding athletic performance.

The spotlights are arranged in alphabetical order based on the name of the academic department or discipline or in alphabetical order by sport.

BIOLOGY

Waynesburg experiences lead Franczyk to passion for bio Photo courtesy of Jen Brown

From her position as an Resident Assistant to her travels, senior Jen Brown has incorporated her passion for ministry into every area of her college career. also contributed to her desire to serve others. She has enjoyed mentorship from faculty, particularly Bailey Thorn, resident director of South, East, West and Pollock Halls.

When she looks back on her four years at Waynesburg, Brown said she believes most of her favorite memories will be from her time as a resident assistant [RA].

“I’ve had a lot of really good conversations with people,” said Brown. “Not just because it’s my job, but because it’s pretty cool to do and to get to know a lot of new people.”

Brown has been an RA for three years, with two of those years spent in Denny Hall and this year in East Hall. Brown is also a fouryear member of the Waynesburg Cross Country team.

Like many RAs, Brown said

it was difficult at times to build community in an upperclassmen dorm, but she took advantage of key moments to communicate with her residents. Now with Residence Life wrapping up with graduation approaching, Brown is ending one chapter of her life and beginning to unfold the next.

After graduation, Brown plans to attend Geneva College to pursue a master’s degree in higher education.

She also was accepted to be a graduate assistant there in the field of student ministry, starting in mid-August.

She is excited to pursue new endeavors but has not lost sight of her remaining time on campus.

“It’s given me a push to be more intentional about friendships,” Brown said, “I would say it’s pretty bittersweet.”

BIOLOGY

Hands-on work turns student away from AT, toward Pre-PT

By KYLE DAWSON

Assistant Sports Editor

Across Waynesburg’s academic programs, handson experience is something that students take advantage of.

It’s not just inside the classrooms that Waynesburg sets its students apart.

For Ashley Franczyk, it was no different with her athletic training and exercise science and therapy classes.

Thoug h she had her hands-on experience, little did Franczyk realize, according to the senior prephysical therapy major, more was in store for her.

Following her freshman year, Franczyk decided on another route to her career.

The Fairchance, Pennsylvania, native decided that she was more interested in diagnosis and the actual diseases than the

Photo courtesy of Ashley Franczyk

After starting at Waynesburg, senior Ashley Franczyk's newfound passion for biology and helping others led to a shift from athletic training to prephysical therapy. rehabilitation and other things that she had previously been set on.

“It just wasn’t for me,” said Franczyk. “ The hands-on experience and the study abroad trips I

went on made me realize I was more interested in the diseases and illnesses. I was more interested in the treatment of and diagnosis FRANCZYK >> AA3

BUSINESS

Jamaican mission Athlete pursues investigative accounting trip solidifies bio student's plans

By EMILY HACKMAN Multimedia Team

By KYLE DAWSON

Assistant Sports Editor

Cameron Grimes knew that she wanted to go into the field of physical therapy since she was in high school. The Carmichaels, Pennsylvania native also knew she wanted to play softball in college and stay close to home.

Grimes said that being able to combine those things made Waynesburg University the place for her.

Even though Grimes knew the line of work she wanted to end up in, one trip through Waynesburg sealed the deal for her and became the turning point in her desire to enter into pediatric physical therapy. “ I w e n t t o Ja m a i c a through Waynesburg,” said Grimes. “When I was there we stayed in an orphanage with children who had different types of disabilities.

We got to help the caretakers there with their daily responsibilities – like playing games with the kids or just spending time with the kids, and that made them really happy.”

As a pre-physical therapy major at Waynesburg, Grimes said she feels prepared to enter her field of work, especially after cer-

tain departmental requirements.

“I think one of the biggest things was the observation hours Waynesburg requires,” said Grimes. “The university requires at least 200, whereas other schools require 60 or 80 hours. The hours make us realize what we’re actually going to be doing in a couple of years and it gave me an edge on my application.”

Dr. Marietta Wright, assistant professor of biology, affirmed the necessity of observation hours in a field like physical therapy, saying that they are highly beneficial for students.

“Our students getting into these programs is just a notion that our students are well prepared to go into these prestigious programs,” Wright said. “When you’re out in the health field you have to know your stuff, and Waynesburg is a good starting point for that.”

Dr. Wright had Grimes as a freshman at Waynesburg.

She said that over the course of Cameron’s four years on campus, she has seen a lot of growth in the pre-physical therapy major.

“She knew this major is what she wanted as a freshGRIMES >> AA4

Finding Waynesburg University came easy to Jessica Dorazio, senior accounting major and business management minor, as her sister graduated from Waynesburg University in 2010. She will soon be following in her older sister’s footsteps when she earns her degree May 1.

Born and raised in Cokeburg, Pennsylvania, Dorazio found her passion and calling in the art of numbers.

Accounting was an easy and logical choice for Dorazio to make. With a love for numbers in combination with the economy, she saw her future filled with great opportunities.

“Every company needs accounting to be profitable, and there are a lot of opportunities with working in this field,” said Dorazio.

She obtained an impressive internship with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) at the recommendation of Professor Joshua Chicaralli, assistant professor of business administration.

“She was the first person I thought of when I came across the application,” said Chicaralli. “She has great leadership skills and is extremely organized right down to the color coded notes. These are traits that this type of government position looks for.”

This internship was an eye opening experience and

Photo courtesy of Jessica Dorazio

Jessica Dorazio, left, said her time at Waynesburg was characterized by her dedication to both athletics and her major, which led her to an internship at the Internal Revenue Service. very rewarding to Dorazio, she said.

“I was able to experience a different side of accounting that I would not have considered before,” said Dorazio.

Through this internship, Dorazio was able to shift her focus to the investigative side of accounting, which includes auditing. Investigative accounting finds the errors that accountants make. She also learned from her time at the IRS how to investigate,

compile, and verify crucial evidence that supports different cases.

D u r i ng h e r t i m e at Waynesburg University, Dorazio was also heavily involved in the athletic program. She played both softball and volleyball as part of her collegiate career, where she earned two honorable mention All-PAC nominations in volleyball and has been on the PAC Academic Honor Roll every semester

since her freshman year.

“I made a lot of friends by playing both softball and volleyball,” said Dorazio. “It helped me in my time management, and it did not allow for me to procrastinate on homework.”

In the classroom, Dorazio was a tutor for federal income tax, human resources and business law.

Dorazio hopes to pursue a job in the investigative accounting field in the future.

Page AA2

April 21, 2016

BUSINESS

Linn: 'Waynesburg was the school I was supposed to attend'

By EMILY HACKMAN Multimedia Team

As a senior in college, there is a certain level of stress that comes along with graduation.

Everyone’s main goal is to figure out what happens next, whether it is graduate school or going straight into a career.

Emilee Linn, a senior forensic accounting major, found her next adventure when she interviewed and was offered a position at Baker Tilly, a certified public accounting firm in Pittsburgh.

“One of the people who interviewed me was an alumni of Waynesburg University,” said Linn. “I don’t know why but it was kind of like a sign to me that Waynesburg was the school I was supposed to

attend.”

Linn chose to come to Waynesburg University four years ago because she liked the fact that it was a small campus with small class sizes.

The idea of going to a larger school where the professors would not know her personally did not appeal to her.

D u r i ng he r t i me at Waynesburg University, Linn was a cheerleader during the football season and made countless memories with her friends that will be cherished for a long time after graduation.

Linn switched her major at the end of her sophomore year from nursing to forensic accounting.

“It was really scary because I felt like I wasted two years in

Photo courtesy of Emilee Linn

After switching her major from nursing to forensic accounting, senior Emliee Linn eventually realized that her attendance at Waynesburg was meant to be. a major that I would never use before I switched into forensic accounting,” said Linn. “I

was determined to graduate on time which was really difficult to manage because of

how many credits I needed to finish.”

Joshua Chicarelli, assistant

professor of business administration, was a mentor for Linn when she transferred into the business department.

“Emilee is always willing to do the work and go the extra mile in order to be great,” said Chicarelli. “She has ownership of her projects and is very persistent when it comes to being successful.”

Receiving the job at Baker Tilly reinforced the idea that she was in the right place in her life and that all the work she did at Waynesburg University was worth it.

“It just took so much weight off my shoulders,” said Linn. “It made me feel like all the hard work these past four years have paid off knowing I have a great career waiting for me.”

CHEMISTRY

Science and swing dancing: Chemistry students leave multiple legacies

Involved student seeks eventual professorship Baldauff: Bromenschenkel's dedication is clear

By KIMMI BASTON

By KIMMI BASTON

Like so many students at Waynesburg University, senior Cassie Gates found her college path changed at the advice of a faculty member: Dr. Evonne Baldauff, chair of the Department of Chemistry and Forensic Science.

She entered her freshman year searching for a career in marine biology, but now, just a few days away from graduation, she’s looking forward to a graduate degree in biochemistry.

“I was very set against chemistry coming in because I had a very bad experience in high school,” said Gates.

“But when I came here I just had such a great experience with Dr. Baldauff as a professor and I excelled really well in her [chemistry] class. She pulled me aside and said ‘I think you should think about biochemistry.’ I ended up choosing it, and it was a wonderful decision.”

Gates, who will indeed be graduating with a degree in biochemistry, has been heavily involved in her department ever since her decision to change her major as a freshman.

She’s an officer for the university’s chapter of the American Chemical Society (ACS), works in the department as a teaching assistant and lab assistant and presented scientific research at the ACS National Meeting in March.

She was recently recognized as the top graduating senior in chemistry at the university, which she names as one of her greatest accom-

Steady.

That’s the word Dr. Evonne Baldauff, chair of the Department of Chemistry and Forensic Science, used multiple times to describe senior Trenton Bromenschenkel.

He came into Waynesburg University as a biochemistry pre-med major and has stayed his course ever since.

But even the steadiest of students faces a bend in the road at some point. For Bromenschenkel, it was during his senior year of high school.

Until that point, he was sure he was going into engineering – he loved math. But an encounter with a mentor changed that.

“I kind of made my choice about medicine when I shadowed a doctor that I knew,” said Bromenschenkel. “That was my initial exposure, and I said, ‘This is something I could really see myself doing. This is really cool.’”

Bromenschenkel traveled to Waynesburg from his Sacramento, California home because, in addition to financial benefits, Waynesburg has a pre-med program that allows him to graduate within four years. Once he arrived, he said, he jumped right into activities on campus.

He helped to start the Sting Swing dancing club on campus and worked to form an advocacy group called Results that runs through the American Medical Student Association, of which he is a part. Bromenschenkel has also served as an officer for the Biology Club, Waynesburg’s outdoor club and the American Chem-

Executive Editor

Executive Editor

Photo courtesy of Cassie Gates

Senior Cassie Gates split her time in college between activities like founding Sting Swing and preparing research to present at national conferences. plishments throughout her Waynesburg career.In addition to chemistry-related activities, Gates is a Resident Assistant at Waynesburg and serves as president of Sting Swing, a swing-dancing club she helped jumpstart at the university.

According to Baldauff, Gates stands out as a student who became very well rounded during her college career.

“She did a lot of stuff on campus outside of our department, and I think that in everything she did, she took her love of science with her,” said Baldauff. “I think people will remember [her] as someone that was very active and yet dedicated to the field of study she really loved.”

Gates plans to pursue biochemistry after graduating from Waynesburg.She’s currently waiting to hear back from a number of graduate

programs she applied to in the hopes of going on to earn a Ph.D. in biochemistry.

Fifteen years down the road, Gates wants to be a professor teaching science at a small liberal arts university, a feat which Baldauff says is very much in reach for Gates.

“I really think that if she decides to pursue an academic position she’ll be a great faculty member someday,” said Baldauff.

Despite her passion for science, Gates is an advocate for trying new things. She did just that when she helped begin the Sting Swing club at Waynesburg, and she hopes the club continues to prosper after she graduates.

“Embrace college while you’re here because it goes by so quickly,” Gates advises underclassmen. “Make yourself stand out by doing something you might not have done before.”

Photo courtesy of Trenton Bromenschenkel

In addition to being one of the co-founders of dance group Sting Swing, senior Trenton Bromenschenkel has shown his dedication to chemistry. ical Society student chapter.

He tutors through the Knox Learning Center and works as a Resident Assistant and a lab assistant for chemistry.

Despite his heavy campus involvement, Baldauff said he is eager to volunteer his time to serve others. This tendency is showcased by Bromenschenkel’s sophomore internship, during which he traveled to Mexico for two months to assist medical professionals at an orphanage’s clinic.

Bromenschenkel also interned for a summer at the UC Davis Surgical Center in Sacramento. He said both of these internships have solidified his desire to pursue medicine.

After graduation, he plans to work for a few years before applying to medical school.

Bromenschenkel said he couldn’t pinpoint one favorite accomplishment during his time at Waynesburg.

“My interests are so varied

it’s hard to say, ‘This is the one I loved the most,’” said Bromenschenkel.

He advises that all Waynesburg students get involved in multiple activities as soon as possible before narrowing down their interests. Although he is passionate about medicine, Bromenschenkel’s involvement in the university allowed him to pursue his enjoyment for math and other activities. And throughout it all, he’s been able to maintain a good GPA, which he said he’s proud of.

It’s his determination and hard work that Baldauff said will open doors for Bromenschenkel in the future.

“I hope that he finds something that he absolutely loves doing,” said Baldauff. “He definitely ash the determination and dedication to excel in a medical career, but if he chooses chemistry, he’ll also be every successful there.”

COMMUNIC ATION

Bayles credits fellow students for successes in public relations

By RYAN SCHWERTFEGER ,News Digest Editor

Though Megan Bayles is often associated with public relations at Waynesburg University, this was not a plan she initially had in mind throughout high school.

Bayles, a resident of Carmichaels, did not even have Waynesburg University in her sights at the start.

“To be honest, I didn’t think of coming to Waynesburg because it was too close to home,” said Bayles.

But in her senior year of high school, her decisionmaking process was changed when she was involved in a car accident. It made her come to realize how close she wanted to be to family and friends.

She started looking at a few schools in the region but wound up choosing Waynesburg for a multitude of factors.

“First, I came to Lanny Frattare’s announcing camp and absolutely loved it, so that was one draw,” said Bayles.

“But also, I’ve known Professor Krause for quite a while, and he heavily pushed for me

to go Waynesburg.”

Krause, the chair for the Department of Communication, knew Bayles and her family for many years, as he also lived in Carmichaels.

“Every time he saw me, he kept talking about Waynesburg and was always putting the bug in my ear to consider choosing to come here,” said Bayles. “And looking back, I’m glad I decided to come here. I think the accident was God’s way of saying that this was really the place for me.”

Krause said Bayles always wanted to be involved and active in whatever she was doing on campus.

“From the day she arrived, she wanted to contribute to the department,” said Krause.

“She started out with several interests but wound up choosing public relations, and I’m so glad she did.”

Bayles said she originally was a sports broadcasting major and became involved in the radio station, television station and the sports communication program in the department, but fell in love with public relations after she

Photo courtesy of Megan Bayles

Despite original intentions to go elsewhere for her college education, senior public relations major Megan Bayles will leave Waynesburg with a large number of significant achievements to her name. took a class and talked more with Krause.

“I really am extremely grateful and stunned it all

happened,” said Bayles.

Yet Krause wasn’t surprised, merely saying that she delivered on the department’s

“high expectations” and that he couldn’t be more proud of her accomplishments.

“She is a strong role model and symbolizes commitment to the field,” said Krause.

“She’s achieved just about everything one can do locally and nationally for PRSSA.” Krause said that in addition to being a leader of Waynesburg’s PRSSA chapter for the last two years, Bayles’ hard work has rightfully earned her three national awards from PRSSA: the Gold Key Award, the President’s Citation and the Betsy Plank Award.

“She has become the most decorated and recognized student in public relations ever in this program,” said Krause.

“And as PRSSA president, her visible drive to succeed has motivated the other members to succeed as well.”

Being president was motivating, according to Bayles, but she also credits past leaders and her fellow PRSSA members for giving her encouragement.

“When I won the president’s spot for Waynesburg PRSSA, it was a big ‘aha’

moment for me that ignited my confidence to work even harder, apply for awards and do the work to be successful,” said Bayles. “The leaders of PRSSA before me laid the groundwork and we were able to capitalize and build on it. I’ve been so lucky to have great fellow leaders with me who are goal oriented individuals with the same drive to succeed and progress as I do.”

Looking toward her future, Bayles is considering attending graduate school at West Virginia University or Northwestern University.

“I’m applying to graduate school to be involved in integrated marketing,” said Bayles.

Overall, Bayles said she is thankful that she came to Waynesburg and for the people she’s met and learned from.

“The faculty is amazing and have provided me with so many opportunities,” said Bayles, “And my fellow students have been so supportive and encouraging of me, which was so crucial to my drive to succeed.”

April 21, 2016

Page AA3

COMMUNIC ATION

CRIMINAL JUSTICE

Krause: Lydic the ‘embodiment’ of comm Hands-on experience

a turning point during Napolitano's 4 years

By RYAN SCHWERTFEGER News Digest Editor

After spending an hour on the fourth floor of Buhl Hall, the chances of seeing John “JD” Lydic walk by are likely. As a sports broadcasting/sports information major with a minor in business management, along with being involved with a little bit of everything in the Department of Communication, Lydic said he’s a busy man.

That’s something that Department of Communication Chair Richard Krause doesn’t see as a bad thing.

“I’ve always been impressed with his work ethic and commitment,” said Krause. “He really does take advantage of all the opportunities within the department and makes it work.”

Having been interested in communication since high school, Lydic said he immediately wanted to be a part of WCTV, the campus television station, and WCYJ-FM, the campus ra-

After a parttime job, CJ major becomes more devoted

By JOHN LYDIC Staff Writer

Photo courtesy of John Lydic

Senior John Lydic, center, is known by his professors as someone who takes advantage of every opportunity available, particularly in the communication field. dio station. He said he never planned to be a part of the Yellow Jacket newspaper at first, but decided to try it after talking to other com-

munication students and learning more about what the paper did.

This decision ended up molding his work ethic

for the rest of his days at Waynesburg.

“I was in the Yellow Jacket LYDIC >> AA9

A combination of a strong mission and a dedication to allowing for development drew Santino Napolitano, senior criminal justice major, to Waynesburg.

A native of Jefferson Hills, Pennsylvania, Napolitano already had a basis from criminal justice classes in high school, but what he was offered at Waynesburg really allowed him to develop his passion.

“I feel much more prepared going into this field

than I did coming out of high school,” said Napolitano.

While he has become a very involved member within the criminal justice department, it was something that Adam Jack, chairperson for the criminal justice and social sciences department, did not expect from the beginning.

“He came here and I would say he was a little timid and wasn’t a real great participating student,” said Jack. “He wanted to be involved but hadn’t seemingly been involved in the past.

He dove right in, out of his comfort zone.”

The turning point in Napolitano’s Waynesburg career came for him heading into his junior year.

NAPOLITANO >> AA5

CRIMINAL JUSTICE

Senior to stay in area, continue work in law enforcement

By JOHN LYDIC Staff Writer

Students at Waynesburg University work towards preparing themselves for life after college, but for one student, the work began even before he received his diploma.

Chris Caldwell is a senior criminal justice major at Waynesburg, but he did not have to travel far to pursue his passion.

Caldwell is from Mt. Morris, Pennsylvania, but he said Waynesburg molded him, despite not being far from home.

“When I came here I was a backwards guy. I just sat in the back of the classroom and did my own thing,” said Caldwell. “Over my time here at Waynesburg, I noticed myself grow and become more of a professional; I took that and ran with it when I got this job.

That job came from what Caldwell describes as his turning point.

According to Adam Jack, chairperson for the criminal justice and social sciences department and assistant professor of criminal justice, Caldwell had his turning point when he received an opportunity with the Greene County Sheriff ’s

Office.

“Chris [Caldwell] has a burning desire to be in law enforcement,” said Jack. “A couple summers ago Brain Tennant, Sheriff of Green County called and said if we ever have a kid that would fit for an internship they would take one. We chose [Caldwell] because he is a hard worker and he would do a great job.”

According to Jack, the department now sends students each semester and the internship led Caldwell to a full-time job, which he now works while completing his senior year.

Jack said that Caldwell shows up to class in his uniform and then heads off to work right after he is done.

“He knew what he wanted to do with his career but after [his internship] is when I started to see him participate in class,” said Jack. “You gain a certain point of honor and respect when you start to work in this field. I think that boosted his confidence tremendously.”

For Caldwell, he chose to pursue this internship because of the preparation he received at Waynesburg.

“I think the thought that came to my mind, I have such good resources here in

Photo courtesy of Chris Caldwell

As he finishes his senior year at Waynesburg University, Chris Caldwell is already employed full-time at the Greene County Sheriff's Office. my criminal justice professors and I know that these guys and girls can help me get to wherever I want to be,” said Caldwell. “I think that’s one of the realizations. My internship at the Greene County Sheriff ’s

Department was one of best experiences I ever had.”

D espite t he proximity to his home, the reason Caldwell chose Waynesburg was to put himself in the right spot for potential employment.

EDUC ATION

Hoffman grateful for influential profs.

By LUKE GOODLING Editorial Assistant

Graduating with a secondary education certificate, teaching will play a large part of Mary Hoffman’s future.

Four years ago Hoffman made the decision to apply solely to Waynesburg University due, in part, to the impressions the professors made on her visit.

“What really attracted me to come here were the professors in the English and education departments,” said Hoffman. “They aligned a lot with what I thought I wanted out of my education and that really solidified my choice to come to [Waynesburg University].”

Over the past four years, Hoffman has looked to her professors to develop her own personal classroom teaching style. Today, as a senior about to graduate, Hoffman said she is taking the ideas of those prominent professors in her academic career past graduation.

“Looking back, my professors really shaped who I am today, and I can’t be more grateful towards them and everything they’ve done for

“I chose Waynesburg because I heard only good things about the criminal justice program,” said Caldwell. “That is just the kind of person I am; when I am going to do something I am going to do it the best,

Franczyk: Senior plans to pursue physician's assistant education Continued from AA1

Photo courtesy of Mary Hoffman

As senior Mary Hoffman has developed her teaching style during the last four years, she has looked to her professors as examples and inspiration. me,” said Hoffman. “I look forward to being able to take their ideas out into the world and represent what they taught me here.”

Hoffman said that one teacher who has been influential in her own growth is her advisor, Kelley Solomon, assistant professor of education.

“I had [Solomon] for a lot of my education courses and she was really influential [in

my] teaching habits: a lot of them came from her,” said Hoffman. “She was not only there for me on an educational level, but anything else I would need help with she was there.”

Besides the considerable influence the professors have had on Hoffman’s academic career at Waynesburg, Hoffman said the student teaching experience she gained during her senior year was

vital to her growth as a teacher.

Through teaching eleventh grade at Waynesburg Central High School, Hoffman said her time was spent teaching students English literature and writing. Hoffman said the experience “solidified” her belief that this is what she wanted to do with her life.

HOFFMAN >> AA7

so I figured that Waynesburg could take me to that level.”

Jack said that Caldwell has exceeded his expectations for him in the department and in his career path.

“Chris [Caldwell] for me in one word would be pride.

For me I see he is so proud of what he does,” said Jack.

“To see him have the uniform on, he is very proud to be in this career, even though it is very dangerous and not everyone can do what he is doing. He is doing something many people could not do, or would not do. When people are running out of a building he is running in. It’s not until you put that uniform on that you feel that.”

Caldwell plans to continue with his employment at the Greene County Sheriff ’s Office while also pursuing employment as a police officer in Morgantown, West Virginia or at the federal level with The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

As Jack ref lected on Caldwell’s time at Waynesburg, he feels that he is well prepared to begin a career in law enforcement.

“He is ready to walk out the door and make us proud,” said Jack.

of diseases.”

Franczyk went on two study abroad trips, one to Mexico and one to the Dominican Republic, which she said were not only great for the hands-on experience, but also great in showing her what she wanted to do for her career.

“In Mexico I was able to assist with baby deliveries, pelvic exams and seeing patients as a [primary care physician] would,” said Franczyk.

“I was also able to learn a lot about different cultures and the way they view medicine so that will really help me when I head into the workforce in being able to recognize people of different cultures and how they want to be treated as a patient.”

Franczyk will be moving on to the physician’s assistant program at Marietta College in June and expects it to be challenging but not anything she is not up for.

“My dedication will help me,” said Franczyk. “I’m very dedicated, tenacious and hard-working. When I want something I go get it. Waynesburg has prepared me for the amount of course work I’m going to have when I start in June.

Dr. Hamilton’s physiology class is going to be really helpful in understanding the classes I’m going to take in PA school.”

Her advisor, Dr. Chad Sethman, associate professor of biology, expects Franczyk to do well in the Physician’s Assistant program at Marietta College because of how careeroriented she is and how focused she is, he said.

“Just the type of person she is will help her,” said Sethman.

“She went above and beyond the number of internships and things she set up during summers. Sure the classes helped her to prepare what she needs but with her ability I don’t have any doubt she is going to be very successful.”

Page AA4

April 21, 2016

EDUC ATION

ENGLISH

Vidosh to experience diversity in future Intro English class changes student's college direction

By LUKE GOODLING Editorial Assistant

For Makayla Vidosh, college was the building ground for her lifelong passion.

Through lacrosse and the criminal justice department, Vidosh’s journey to early childhood education was not straightforward. Now, four years later, Vidosh is graduating from Waynesburg University with the desire to educate children and with a future career in place.

As a lacrosse player since 5th grade, the lacrosse program and the criminal justice department were the primary draws to Waynesburg University, said Vidosh. Although she looked at eight or nine schools, she ended up applying solely to Waynesburg University.

Entering as a criminal justice major, Vidosh said her freshman year was eye opening as she realized that her major was not the right fit.

“I wanted to be a juvenile probation officer,” said Vidosh. “First semester I was like ‘oh this is really cool,’ and second semester I was like ‘oh my goodness I can’t do this for the rest of my life.’”

Vidosh said she spent the next summer reflecting on her interests and her first year at Waynesburg University. But it was volunteering at her church over the summer, Vidosh said, that showed her where her calling was.

“I started volunteering at my church in the children ministries as a small group leader and I just fell in love with it, and I realized I wanted to work with kids before they got into trouble and hopefully I have a positive influence that way,” said Vidosh.

The solidifying factor behind the change in major, according to Vidosh, was a mission trip she took through Waynesburg University. Vidosh said the mission trip to the Bahamas was

Photo courtesy of Makayla Vidosh

Senior education major Makayla Vidosh found her calling in the Education Department and looks forward to working in classrooms with diverse students. her first hands-on teaching experience and through that, she discovered her love for educating children in less fortunate circumstances. “[The trip] was my first teaching, not observing a teacher [experience], and that’s when I really knew this is definitely where I’m supposed to be,” said Vidosh. “That’s where my passion came, I think, to work with maybe not necessarily the most privileged kids and want to work with kids that maybe need a little bit more help.”

It was not just Vidosh that realized education was her calling. Associate Professor of Education Frank Pazzynski said Vidosh immediately captured his attention.

“I could tell from like the very first day I met her that she was something special,” said Pazzynski. “She really was. She was different; she was diverse, very intelligent.

Her depth and insight and understanding are second to none.”

Vidosh said she attributes part of her own teaching style to that of Pazzynski.

Over the past four years and five courses that Pazzynski has taught for Vidosh, she said he has played an underlying role in her growth as a teacher.

“[Pazzynski] has just always had really fun ideas, like getting the students to do the thinking not just you telling them: less lecture, more students exploring and learning,” said Vidosh. “I really like that and I try and do that with my students. Not everything can be learned from listening to someone talk.”

The student teaching opportunities offered through Waynesburg University during Vidosh’s senior year pushed her into the classroom of a local school on a daily basis to teach respective students. Through teaching a wide variety of subjects and coping with the daily struggles schoolteachers must face, Vidosh said she realized just how patient she is when working with children. “[Through teaching] I learned that I’m a lot more patient than what I actually thought I would be,” said Vidosh. “Usually I’m pretty impatient. But when it comes to kids, I have found that I can be incredibly patient.”

Moving past Waynesburg University, Vidosh said she already has a summer job in line. With plans of traveling to Memphis, Tennessee, Vidosh said she would be working in classrooms

on a daily basis with Teach for America, a two-year program for teachers.

Pazzynski said Vidosh would experience a lot of diversity in the program, something that strengthens both students and teachers alike.

“The public [education] system teaches so much conformity and everybody is sort of alike,” said Pazzynski.

“Diversity just doesn’t mean cultural diversity it means a lot of other things. Diversity means cognitive diversity; it could mean behavioral diversity. So it’s just not always cultural. The more a kid, any kid in education, can accept the fact that people are different, it’s much better in the big picture for them.”

Reflecting back on the previous four years at Waynesburg University, Vidosh said she contributes much of her growth to the strong professors she has worked with. Vidosh has also left her own personal impact upon the education department and its professors.

“She taught me to listen, pay attention to the depth of the actual particular student,” said Pazzynski. “Every student isn’t just a kid in the classroom… She’ll be fine wherever she’s going.”

ENGLISH

Grad school ahead for state presenter

By CODY YANKULIC

For the Yellow Jacket

Here it goes. The presentation has a lot of hard work put into it and the opportunity to present it on a large scale has arrived. The computer you are using for the presentation doesn’t start up.

After placing your flashdrive into a new computer, the presentation finally begins, but the sound from your video isn’t playing.

Some may quit or give up, but for senior creative writing major Hannah Megna this moment was her time to shine.

While Megna was at a conference in Seattle to present her work, she had some having technical difficulties. After wrestling with technology, she finally got her presentation to start. As the video started to play, she realized there was no sound.

Most would have given up, but not her.

“I guess I’ll just narrate it,” said Megna.

Leaving the audience both informed and entertained despite technological issues was no problem for Megna, who, according to English professor Jamie Dessart, was able to do so through her quick wit.

“It shows her character because she was nervous and even though she was nervous. And here she is, a senior in college presenting with these other people; she handled it,” said Dessart.

“She handled it to the top degree and it was great.”

The conference is just one of the accomplishments Megna has accrued here at Waynesburg University, as the accolades started early in her career at Waynesburg.

Photo courtesy of Hannah Megna

Throughout her time as an English major, senior Hannah Megna has had numerous opportunities to present her work at major conferences.

“The thing that started all this was my decision to take a senior level class as a sophomore,” says Megna.

“It was super intimidating, but it was being taught by Dr. Jamie; it was super hard but very rewarding.”

Dessart, who has had Megna in class every year, said she has seen Megna grow a lot as a student and find what she wanted to do in life.

“I really have watched her come to understand what her interests are, what her possibilities are for the future,” said Dessart. “Once she understood that, she started grabbing on with both hands to presenting her scholarship, applying to graduate schools. Now she has a very clear picture of where she wants to go, and you can tell that in her

scholarship work with what she’s doing.”

Megna has had a cornucopia of opportunities stem from that class. In both her sophomore and junior years, she has had the opportunity to present her work, a 17 page paper, at a conference for the English Association of Pennsylvania State Universities (EAPSU).

The achievement is remarkable because Waynesburg, as a private university, is not a member school of EAPSU. Megna was also able to attend what she called the “coolest thing she has done here,” the Popular Culture Association conference (PCA). The PCA was held in Seattle, and she presented her work in front of scholars, professors and professional authors.

Megna is also president

of Sigma Tau Delta, the national English honor society.

Megna’s goal was to make Sigma Tau Delta an active organization within the department.

“She’s been really taking over; she’s been really active in our assessment planning,” said Dessart. “They do all the scheduling for us now; she’s been really taking care of that.”

While Megna has accomplished a lot at Waynesburg University and plans to attend graduate school, it’s clear that Dessart sees an even brighter future for her.

“I fully expect that one of these days she will be going to the PCA’s and a professor somewhere,” says Dessart.

“We are going to be meeting up for dinner, and we will be talking about teaching, our lives.”

Photo courtesy of Kayla Bleckley

As a freshman, Kayla Bleckley's professors could tell she had a talent for writing, even though she was an education major. Four years later, she is leaving behind a legacy as the Executive Editor of the campus' magazine.

Bleckley goes from ed. major to Muse & Stone editor

By CODY YANKULIC

For the Yellow Jacket

Bleckley’s story starts just four years ago when she arrived on campus as a freshman english major with a focus in secondary education, a choice that she wasn’t sure of.

Similar to other freshman, Bleckley had her schedule picked for her, a nuisance to other grades, but something that freshmen cannot control was a blessing in disguise for Bleckley. Down the list of classes on the white copy paper sat: ENG 155: Introduction to Creative Writing.

The class, taught by Professor Richard Pierce, was a life changer for Bleckley, who switched her major to creative writing after taking the course. Pierce, whom Bleckley credits as being an influence in deciding to switch her courses, told her that she had a lot of talent, some of the best that he has ever seen.

“It was pretty clear from that first class that she is a very talented writer, especially with poetry,” said Pierce. “Her final project was very good. She’s such a standout writer, so I wrote her a little note and told her that she’s one of the best writers that I have seen period.”

Bleckley’s decision to change her major was just the beginning of what would become a very successful academic career at Waynesburg University. Over her four years, Bleckley has become the vice president of Sigma Tau Delta, the english department’s honorary society, and executive editor of Muse & Stone, which is a magazine published by the Department of English.

This position, said Pierce, was very demanding and a lot of work.

“I put a lot of things on her and she does it very quickly and very professionally,” says Pierce. “Plenty of times I would email her at [10 p.m.] and she would take care of something that night or by the next morning, pretty early next day.”

She was also winner of the Garvin Award, which is presented to a junior in the Department of English who has “attained the greatest distinction in the English department.”

All of Bleckley’s accomplishments have given her more confidence and selfesteem.

“I’ve become more confident in my abilities and accomplishments throughout the four years here, which is in part due to the professors who are good, kind teachers,” said Bleckley.

Bleckley’s confidence and change in character was noted by Pierce, who also said she had a great attitude towards any criticism she faced.

“I think she’s very honest, communicates very clearly and generally seems like a joyous person,” says Pierce.

“Sometimes you will have a student who is very intelligent but doesn’t work as hard or maybe is intelligent and works hard and has a negative attitude. She has all of that, good talent, a good attitude and good personal skills.”

The personal skills Pierce speaks of were partially influenced by the university’s motto of faith, learning and service. The school’s emphasis on service, says Bleckley, influenced her enough to pick up a minor in counseling.

“It has uncovered within myself a desire to serve others, sort of, as my career,” says Bleckley. “Because the school is so service minded, it sort of solidified in me both my faith and interest in serving others which is part of the reason I am pursuing counseling as a master’s and profession.”

Grimes: Compassion for others guides senior Continued from AA1

man and was not going to give up,” said Wright. “I think she is going to be very successful in the future. Some students are not as motivated as her, and she has a mental capacity and strength to get through a tough school.”

Grimes said her compassion for other people will go a long way in helping her through schooling and in her career.

“I care a lot about other people and helping them get

through what they need to get through,” said Grimes.

“I think as a PT [major], that’s a quality you absolutely have to have. You have to be able to put the patient first and truly care more than just going through the motions. That quality is going to help me in school and when I get into physical therapy.”

After graduation, Grimes will attend the Graduate School of Physical Therapy at Slippery Rock University.

She said that Waynesburg has prepared her well for what she is going to face.

April 21, 2016

Page AA5

ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE

Nature trail to be left behind as senior science major's legacy Ribar aims to create useful, practical tool for students

By SHON MEADE Managing Editor

Senior environmental science major Nathan Ribar is leaving behind a project at Waynesburg University, in the form of a trail.

“This year I started, probably one of my projects I’m most proud of, the nature trail,” said Ribar.

Along side other students; Rebar is helping to bring a nature trail to connect Thayer and Martin Halls.

He wanted something that would be practical and used for future students and general public.

“We’ve been making good

Photo courtesy of Nathan Ribar

Senior Nathan Ribar said he has always been passionate about the outdoors. As an environmental science major, he helped to develop a nature trail that he said is one of his proudest legacies at Waynesburg. progress,” said Ribar. “Just have some minor things to

work on.”

Growing up, Ribar was

always passionate about outdoors, whether that was

EXERCISE SCIENCE

hiking or camping.

While searching for a

school with a major that could help him continue that passion, Ribar realized that there was a university not too far away from home.

In fact, being a Waynesburg native, it was rather fitting for him to attend the university at the top of the hill.

“I decided to stay close to home and go to Waynesburg,” said Ribar. “The environmental science program appealed to me for the things that I was looking for.”

Ribar has since commuted to his classes over his time here at Waynesburg.

Janet Paladino, Ribar’s academic advisor and associate professor of Biology, has worked closely with him and said how great he is to work alongside.

During his freshman year, Ribar expanded his horizon RIBAR >> AA6

ATHLETIC TRAINING

Senior aims to secure a career in Paladin to attend grad school pediatrics, occupational therapy as a testing ground for careers

By BRENDAN KEANY Op/Ed Editor

Isabelle Menges, an exercise science major, hails from Carroll County in Maryland.

She was homeschooled up through middle school, and then she made the switch to public school once she reached high school.

She chose Waynesburg due to some recruitment from the soccer team, but she also noted the close community aspect of campus and the faith component as reasons for becoming a Yellow Jacket.

The adjustment wasn’t too hard for Menges, as she realized her distinct ability in being efficient with her time.

“I was always pretty good at time management, and academics are really important to me, so I always made sure that I set aside the time I needed to,” said Menges.

This attitude of caring about her work carried over to success in the classroom, and Drue Stapleton, the athletic training program director, took notice of her intelligence.

“I have had [Menges] in class multiple semesters now,” said Stapleton. “She’s really sharp, really smart, also driven and a tremendous hard worker.”

Menges noted that the demands of the classroom were often tough; however, she also appreciated how close-knit the department was, as she could

take on personal relationships with faculty and staff.

“I like the small class size because you could be close with your professors, and they really know you and they help you,” said Menges. “Even for internships and everything, I could talk to them and they could give me advice.”

It was actually during an internship that Menges decided to change the course of her academic career, as she had originally come into Waynesburg with the intent of

“Academics are really important to me, so I always made sure that I set aside the time I needed to.”

ISABELLE MENGES

Exercise Science Major

being a part of the pre-physical therapy program.

Although her internship involved working at a physical therapy (PT) clinic, she changed her mind when she observed work done with kids through occupational therapy (OT).

“I wanted to focus on occupational therapy, so going to grad school for occupational therapy is my plan now, because I did an internship at a PT clinic, but then I went and observed OT at a school with kids with disabilities, and I really liked that.”

Her long-term goal is to work in occupational therapy with kids who possess some sort of disability.

“I would like to work with pediatrics,” said Menges.

“I want to work with kids who, sometimes it’s not even a disability it could be an injury or a skill doesn’t come as naturally, so I want to help them develop that skill.”

Stapleton believes that Menges will be successful in her desired field of study, due to some of her intangible traits that can’t be taught.

“Again, she had the motivation coming in to be successful,” said Stapleton.

“She had that work ethic to be successful in whatever needs to get done at a high quality, and the expectation moving forward for her is that she maintains that.”

Menges noted that she will reflect on her time as a Yellow Jacket with fondness.

“I’ll definitely look back positively on the whole four years,” said Menges.

“I grew as a person spiritually, academically and all around.”

Stapleton wrapped up his final thoughts on the type of worker and leader Menges will be beyond the campus of Waynesburg University.

“She’s going to be an excellent representative of this department; she’s going to be an excellent representative of this university moving forward.”

“It has been the craziest whirlwind and roller coaster of ups and downs, twists and turns, but it's Savannah Paladin did not been the best time of my life.”

By BRENDAN KEANY Op/Ed Editor

wait around for anybody. She began her athletic training career in high school when she shadowed the athletic trainer at Northgate High School.

This attitude of taking initiative and possessing the drive necessary to succeed carried over to her collegiate career, and that, according to Athletic Training Program Director Drue Stapleton, is why she has been so successful.

“The first thing would be her work ethic,” said Stapleton, as he went on to list numerous qualities of Paladin that have made her career at Waynesburg so successful. “Her dependability, attention to detail, her ability to go above and beyond to get the job done, her ability to see things that need to be done and to take initiative to get them done and then the quality of the work is immensely high.”

The above qualities are precisely why Paladin was accepted into graduate school at Old Dominion University.

Although athletic training students don’t necessarily need graduate school to land a good job, Paladin possesses the long-term goal of being an instructor as well as an athletic trainer.

“I would actually love to stay more at the smaller college level – like a Division III

Napolitano: ‘Evolution’ describes student's journey Continued from AA3

“Coming in here I was like any other freshman, nervous out of my mind,” said Napolitano.

“The word college alone was intimidating, being away from high school and your family. The game kind of changed after my sophomore year. I took on more responsibilities.”

That summer, Napolitano received a call from John Ridge, a professor he had sophomore year.

He was asked about a job with the Washington County Booking Center. He took a part-time job and has continued working there throughout his senior year.

“I feel like that was a turning point. I was very thankful that I attended this university because there are instructors that I got to know on a personal level as well as a professional level,” said Napolitano.

Napolitano’s involvement with the booking center was just one of his many activities while at Waynesburg.

He spent time his freshman and sophomore years

Photo courtesy of Santino Napolitano

While Santino Napolitano started off slow at WU, by his senior year, he has evolved into a dedicated member of the criminal justice department. working with the Pennsylvania State Liquor Control

Enforcement, according to Jack. He has also been in-

volved four years with the criminal justice club, two of which he has spent as president.

Jack said that simply Napolitano’s time at Waynesburg could be put into one word.

“For me, the word is evolution. The reason I say that is he is one of the students I have seen develop the most in my 14 years at the university” said Jack. “He went from a student who I don’t know, as quiet as he was, I had a hard time believing he could go into law enforcement. Right now, he could go into any federal, state or local agency, and they would be lucky to get him.”

Napolitano has a great appreciation for what the professors have done and provided for him. They have made his experience memorable.

“Any time I’m working with the instructors was memorable for me,” said Napolitano After graduation, Napolitano plans to pursue a job with the Pennsylvania State police and is currently in the application process.

SAVANNAH PALADIN

Athletic Training Major

school,” said Paladin. “Part of it is because I would want to get more involved in the academic side of things, too, with instruction and teaching.”

In Old Dominion’s unique graduate program, Paladin will actually receive the opportunity to teach an undergraduate class for a semester to know for certain if teaching is a path she would like to pursue.

Stapleton also sees secondary education as a good fit for Paladin’s long-term goals.

“She helps bring [the undergraduate students] along and helps them get up to speed, helping them understand class material that might be difficult,” said Stapleton. “I think it suits her. It suits her personality.”

Growing up, Paladin knew that she wanted her career to be in some type of health care.

She was inspired in part by her mother who works as a nurse, but Paladin knew that she could not handle the duties of nursing, so she picked a career path that would work for her.

“In high school I did a lot of shadowing and working with my athletic trainer,” said Paladin. “I just love sports, and knew that I wanted to get into health care of some sort. So,

it’s the best of both worlds. I get to hang out on the football field all day and still get to take care of athletes and enjoy what I do.”

Paladin recalled her most rewarding memory of working with the athletic training program at Waynesburg, and it regarded a football player who couldn’t seem to stay healthy.

“One specific guy was out for a good while with different nagging injuries and things like that,” said Paladin. “If we’d put him out on the field he would come back off, and then he’d go out on the field, then back off. But towards the end of the season, he got on the field and he stayed on, and you just love seeing that. It just puts a smile on your face; it just make you happy.”

Somehow, after four years as a Yellow Jacket, Paladin was able to sum up her entire Waynesburg experience in two sentences.

“It has been the craziest whirlwind and roller coaster of ups and downs, twists and turns,” said Paladin. “But, it’s been the best time of my life, and I’ve definitely grown a lot as a person here. I would suggest Waynesburg to anybody.”

ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE

‘Rez’ balances sports and academics throughout 4 years

By SHON MEADE Managing Editor

St u d e nt s of t e n f a c e struggles with being both students in the classroom, while also maintaining an impressive record playing a sport that they love. For senior environmental science major, Brian "Rez" Resnik has somehow managed to handle both.

Janet Paladino, Resnik’s academic advisor and associate professor of biology, has spent the past four years working with him.

“Brian is probably one of the most responsible students that I have ever encountered,” said Paladino.

Growing up in Burgettstown, Pennsylvania, Resnik said he always loved the outdoors and never wanted to sit in an office all day. This is something that helped lead to his interest in environmental science.

Along with having high grades in his classes, Resnik also juggles being an athlete here at Waynesburg.

Paladino said Resnik is very organized and has never let playing baseball interfere with his grades.

In fact, playing baseball has helped Resnik throughout his college career.

“I’ve held my responsibilities pretty good,” said Resnik. “I gained a lot of time management and organization skills having to balance baseball and school, working part time too.”

As an athlete here at Waynesburg, students like Resnik are required to attend mandatory study tables. Some may consider it a hassle, but that is not always the case.

“I think it actually helped,” said Resnik. “A lot of people come in freshman year not RESNIK >> AA9

Page AA6

April 21, 2016

FINE ARTS

FINE ARTS

Mayfield chases dreams in arts program Waynesburg ideal

for Rosser to pursue love of music, Christ

By LINDSAY ORZECHOWSKI For the Yellow Jacket.

Senior art major Ryan Mayfield’s path took a turn soon after he began attending Waynesburg University – he had originally planned on majoring in environmental science.

Despite not coming in as an art major, the support of his girlfriend and his determination to succeed is what pushed Mayfield.

It was the encouragement of his girlfriend that allowed Mayfield to make the switch to something he had loved since his childhood.

“It was basically a hobby of mine since I was little drawing Pokémon. When I came here I was environmental science, and I learned it wasn’t for me like everyone else who switches,” said Mayfield. “When I came to the art department I was more open-minded. I could think creatively and express myself the way I am and actually relax and not have really stressful things to worry about. I could push my self as an artist because I grew up

By LINDSAY ORZECHOWSKI For the Yellow Jacket

Photo courtesy of Ryan Mayfield

Senior Ryan Mayfield's professor said his hard work and dedicated attitude led him to success in the Department of Fine Arts. doing it.”

Andrew Heisey, assistant professor of art, thinks that Mayfiled’s decision to make the switch was the point that got his Waynesburg career to a leaping start.

“I think changing to an art major was a significant change for him,” said Heisey.

“There’s a lot of pressure whether or not to do it, but his heart was really in it. He

really had a drive for it and he dove right in and [started] producing. You could see his skill growing, and he has grown a lot.”

When Ryan thinks back, it wouldn’t have been possible with out the strength from his girlfriend Mallory Stajnrajh.

“We’ve been dating for almost five years so she has been there from the start,

said Mayfield. “She was there when I switched my major the first day of college and all that stuff. She backed me up; she pushes me when I need it so she is always there for me.”

A native of nearby Carmichaels, Pennsylvania, Mayfield chose Waynesburg because of its locality and his familiarity with the school.

MAYFIELD >> AA9

FORENSICS

Despite change in major, senior ends confidently

By JENNY SCHOUPPE Chief Photographer

For senior Catelynn Pagone, it took changing her major to realize what she was truly passionate about.

The Pittsburgh native came to Waynesburg University to pursue a degree in marine biology but switched to forensic science with minors in biology and chemistry in her sophomore year.

“I realized that I was always the type of person to accept challenges head on, and solving puzzles was one of my stronger aspects,” said Pagone. “I got excitement from challenges, hard courses and having to solve problems and puzzles. With criminal investigations, and even forensic science as a whole, this major was better for me than marine biology was.”

According to Pagone, the change in major did not discourage her and made her realize she was at the right school, a place where she could grow in her faith and education.

“Waynesburg has a great forensic and criminal justice program that made my switch worth it,” said Pagone. “I also love how strong Waynesburg represents the Christian faith. My faith has grown tremendously stronger from being a student at WU.” Pagone claims that the memories made here at

Photo courtesy of Catelynn Pagone

Catelynn Pagone changed her major from marine biology to forensic science in her sophomore year.

Despite the shift, Pagone is confident in her future and has hopes of becoming an FBI agent.

Waynesburg University will forever have an impact on her life.

One of these memories in particular was a mission trip to Costa Rica she went on during her senior year.

Pagone said this is where her true relationship with God was found.

“The people I served with, along with the Costa Rican people we helped along the way, changed my life forever and were a huge influ-

ence on finding my faith,” said Pagone. “Those are the memories that will matter to me as I pursue my future endeavors after college.”

Though Pagone changed her original plans her sophomore year, she claims that it’s okay to have backup plans, and it’s probably the best thing she could have ever done.

“Never give up on any goal [you] may have,’’ said Pagone, “Make several goals.

That way, when life happens to turn upside down, you’ll have other goals to lean on and turn your world right back around.”

While here at Waynesburg University, Pagone has been a cheerleader since freshman, a member of the Biology Club for two years and a recent member of the Forensic Science Club.

After graduation, Pagone will be leaving for basic training for the Army Reserves.

“I will be trained to become a militar y police department, and I’ll be working in their criminal investigation division,” said Pagone. “I am in the Reserves rather than Active Duty; I will be able to go back to Waynesburg for my Masters of Art in Criminal Investigations. Hopefully someday, with my military experience and master’s degree behind me, I will be able to become a Special Agent for the FBI.” As Pagone reflects back on her four years spent here on Waynesbug’s campus, she feels confident heading into the next chapter of her life.

“I feel like I am well enough prepared to go out in the real world,” said Pagone.

“All my professors, whether they are in my criminal justice classes or forensic science classes, have all taught me quality information that will be very helpful in my career.”

MATHEMATICS/COMPUTER SCIENCE

Orth: 'No regrets' about time at WU

Rebecca Rosser’s journey started after graduating high school in 2012.

During her time in high school, she was heavily involved in the music department and was even encouraged by teachers to attend music summer camp with the intent of pursuing music.

Rosser is a music ministry major with a communications minor and hails from Sweet Valley, Pennsylvania.

Finding Waynesburg University wasn’t a struggle because she felt like it was picked specifically for her.

Rosser did research online and stumbled upon a website filled with different Christian colleges on it and Waynesburg jumped out at her.

“It looked like a really friendly place and I was looking specifically for a Christian college,” said Rosser. “A few weeks later, I got a big magazine of all these different private colleges and Waynesburg was the only one in their description that said, ‘this was a Christ centered community.’”

Rosser’s main objective for picking a college was to find a Christian college with emphasis music in the arts.

“I felt like God was telling me that this was the place you need to be,” said Rosser.

Since coming to Waynesburg, she has been involved in various activities within the fine arts and communications departments.

Rosser has been a member of the Lamplighter’s Choir all four years and is currently the Vice President of the choir.

She also spent a semester working with the radio station WCYJ-FM for a semester during her freshman year.

Ronda Depriest, associate professor of Instrumental Music and director of the music program says that Rosser is the perfect image of a music student.

“Rebecca Rosser is the picture of an organized student who [gleams] from every part of the music program offered here at Waynesburg,” said Depriest. “She has pursued her career rather than waiting for education to just land in her lap. That spirit seems to automatically mentor younger students.”

During her four years at Waynesburg, Depriest has seen great growth within Rosser not only as a musician but also as a person.

“With musicians, espe-

“I don’t think I would have the lasting piece that I do if I hadn’t been here, if I didn’t have the friends I’ve made here, if I didn’t have the spiritual growth that I’ve experienced here,” said Austin Orth.

“I felt like it was somewhere I could get a college education but grow as a person,” said Orth on why he chose to attend Waynesburg as a senior at Lighthouse Christian Academy in Cumberland, Maryland.

Coming from Meyersdale, Pennsylvania, Orth decided Waynesburg was the best fit for him – the scholarships, the proximity to home and the university’s mission.

Orth, a computer science major and music minor, will be graduating with his Waynesburg University classmates on Sunday, May 1.

Now it has set in. With

Photo courtesy of Austin Orth

Senior Austin Orth, far right, felt called while at Waynesburg to become heavily involved both in computer science and in music. only a few days left in his senior year, he has realized how much he will miss the campus he has felt so at home at for the last four years.

“It’s been awesome,” Orth put it simply.

At a young age, Orth was interested in technol-

ogy. Getting his first laptop around the age of 13 years old, Orth took his teenage hobby and decided to major in computer science at Waynesburg.

“I found my calling in that.

I feel like God is calling me to really set an example in that industry for excellence,

because I feel like God calls us to excellence in whatever we’re good at, you know, God gives people gifts for a reason; you’re meant to develop those,” said Orth on why he decided to pick his major.

Orth said his Christian ORTH>> AA8

Rosser spite the conditions they were living in; they were so joyful and so happy,” said Rosser.

“Even one of the people that went on the trip said, ‘They have nothing, yet they have everything, and we have everything, yet we have nothing.’”

Through the opportunities and experiences at Waynesburg, Rosser is ready to take on the music industry one day and to compose her own music or become a director.

According to Depriest, Rosser is a quiet but strong leader within the Fine Arts Department.

“Humble…Rebecca isn’t a boisterous person, and then there’s this amazing voice that appears from her,” said Depriest.

After graduation Rosser plans on applying to multiple jobs within the music ministry field but isn’t sure where life will take her.

“I don’t have a whole lot of set plans yet but I’m definitely going to be applying for a few jobs, in particular a customer service job with JW-Pepper which is a big music distributor,” said Rosser. “I will hopefully be applying very soon for that. “ As Rosser is applying for jobs post graduation, her professors are confident she will succeed wherever she goes.

“Wherever Rebecca lands, she will be an asset and will certainly thrive,” said Depriest.

Ribar: Environmental science major leaves behind passion project Continued from AA5

By MITCHELL KENDRA Managing Editor

cially those who lean toward perfectionist spirits, they often have to find their voice through nerves and the normal chaos of collegiate life,” said Depriest. “Rebecca has learned to work through all that and presents her abilities with confidence.”

Rosser claims that she’ll always remember the great opportunities she’s had at Waynesburg University, like going to on her first international mission trip to the Dominican Republic.

She reflected and said it was an eye-opening experience where she was able to grow within her faith.

“To see the people and de-

and went on a mission trip to Ecuador with the university and members of those in his major.

“That was a really fun trip, I got to know Dr. Paladino and Dr. Sethman a lot better, as well as other students in the program,” said Ribar.

Ribar has also gained practical experience by working in his field through internships.

His first internship was two years ago with the Conservation District of Greene County.

While staying close to home, he was able to work with their West Nile virus program and collect research for the state.

Then just last summer, Ribar worked for Phipps Conservatory in Pittsburgh as a part of their horticulture staff.

D u r i n g h i s t i m e at

Waynesburg, Ribar has also been a member of the men’s soccer team. Paladino said his commitment to the sport hasn’t affected his grades.

After getting his degree in May, Ribar hopes to continue on with his education.

“I applied to graduate schools at both WVU and Duquesne,” said Ribar. “I’m still waiting to hear back from them. I’d like to go on to a little more schooling to learn more.”

Ribar is glad that he has stayed so close to home for his education.

“Beyond academics and everything else, I made a lot of good friends here,” said Ribar. “So much happens in four years…the people are what makes Waynesburg.”

Without the professors at Waynesburg, all of it would have been a waste.

“Thank you to the professors and the bio department for giving me a meaningful education,” said Ribar.

April 21, 2016

Page AA7

FORENSICS

McDonold's education characterized by passions, career prep

By JENNY SCHOUPPE Chief Photographer

Senior Emily McDonold has never been afraid of hard work. She has balanced challenging course work and demanding sports schedules all while planning for her future.

The Manchester, Maryland native, who originally attended Manchester Valley High School, came to Waynesburg University to pursue a challenging major while also participating in the sports she loves. Waynesburg met everything that McDonold was looking for in a school.

“I chose Waynesburg because it was a small, private Christian university,” said McDonold.

“It was just far enough away from home, about 4 hours. I knew I was interested in biology, but was also leaning towards forensic science, and I knew that the forensics program here was pretty good. I also had the opportunity to continue to play sports here, which is a huge passion of mine.”

According to McDonold, she experienced a turning point early on in college when she realized that she

Photo courtesy of Emily McDonold

As a student at Waynesburg, Emily McDonold balanced a demanding major with her love for sports. After graduation, she will learn to balance her life in a new way when she marries fellow senior Aaron Palmer in May. could pursue her multiple passions and still have career.

“After my first semester here, I realized that I was interested in a lot more than biology,” said McDonold.

“After taking the introduction to forensic science class, I knew that having a potential career in forensics

would be interesting, so I decided to add the double major. Having both majors gives me a much wider range of possible job opportunities, whether it be working with animals or working in a crime lab.”

On top of pursuing a double major and a minor in Chemistry, McDonold spent

two years playing soccer and tennis.

According to McDonold, Waynesburg has not only provided her with a strong and diverse education but also given her memories, which she will forever be thankful for.

“The best memories would have to be meeting my fiancé

HUMAN SERVICES

here, being able to play two sports in college – soccer and tennis – and making lifelong friends,” said McDonold.

Though McDonold feels Waynesburg has given her so much, she still emphasizes how important for students to take it upon themselves to get out of their comfort zones and experience all that

college has to offer.“Don’t be afraid to get involved or participate,” said McDonold.

“Work hard, because it will definitely pay off in the end; and just have fun, and enjoy your four years here, trust me, they will fly by.”

McDonold has spent her four years working hard while trying her best to enjoy all the experiences. Though she admits she will miss college, she is excited for what the future holds for her.

“Although I still am not entirely sure what career field I will end up in, I feel as if I have learned so much and been exposed to many different subjects, that I will be prepared for whatever comes my way,” said McDonold.

McDonold and her fiancé, senior Aaron Palmer, have both been working hard at multi-tasking all the things that come along with finishing college while also planning their upcoming wedding.

The two are getting married May 22. McDonold will most likely work a part time job until she and Palmer leave for Fort Sill, Oklahoma, where Palmer will begin his Army career. McDonold plans to begin looking for full-time jobs once settled.

MATHEMATICS/COMPUTER SCIENCE

Student the founder of sociology club Senior would ‘do it all again’ thanks to Bonner program

By TEGHAN SIMONTON Copy Chief

Beginning as an early education major, senior Lori Williams wanted to build a career in which she could help young children. However, she quickly learned that the teaching environment was not a good fit for her.

Lost, Williams began search for an alternative in which she could still serve youth in a different respect.

“After talking to many individuals in other fields,” said Williams, “I realized that other careers provided ways to help children that aren’t teaching.”

To day, Williams approaches commencement as a human services major and the founder and president of the Sociology Club at Waynesburg University.

While her interests have shifted, Williams has become an influential figure in her department.

After Dr. Abolade Ezekial Olagoke, assistant professor of sociology, pitched the idea of establishing a club for sociology and human services students, Williams was intrigued and immediately took leadership in the project.

“I loved the idea because I had noticed that our department was lacking a lot of unity,” said Williams. “So, I took it upon myself to establish the club my junior year. By second semester of my junior year, the club was established and starting to gain members.”

Williams said that the club works to present potential career options in their field, something with which a lot of students in the depart-

By MITCH KENDRA Managing Editor

Photo courtesy of Lori Williams

Senior Lori Williams is hoping to do mission work after graduation, but knows God will push her in the right direction. ment struggle.

“I noticed that many people in the sociology and human services majors do not have a clear path of what they want to eventually do because our majors are so broad,” said Williams. “Our club has been bringing in established alumni, professors and individuals from the community to discuss the social services fields.”

Williams added that her cooperation with Olagoke has been instrumental to her academic success in the department and in the Sociology Club, as well as to the development of her professional goals.

“Ezekiel Olagoke has been my number one fan throughout my four years here at Waynesburg,” she said. “He has been such a help not only academically, but spiritually. Ezekiel has always encouraged me to go after my dreams and not let fear stand in my way. He is

such a blessing to me and everyone in the department.”

As for Olagoke, he attested to Williams’s success as a leader in the department.

Williams handles meetings with other club leaders, public relations, finances and all other aspects of keeping the group running.

“She does the organization,” said Olagoke. “You name it, she does everything.”

Olagoke said he was impressed by Williams’s drive to help others, both in academics and in other aspects of life.

Such commitment, he said, was especially noteworthy.

“She has a drive, a joyous love for life,” he said. “She’s a jewel. I don’t want to lose her; I just love her.”

Now, as Williams prepares to graduate, she looked back upon her early days pursuing a career involving early childhood education.

She said that she is still contemplating the realm of education and working toward the betterment of others.

“I eventually plan on going to grad school and majoring in either higher education or social work,” she said. “However, I will be taking a year off in the meantime. I do not have anything completely finalized yet, but I am looking into working with mission organizations for next year.”

While the future remains uncertain for Williams, she said that her experience with the sociology and human service departments has helped her grow as a person and push her in the right direction.

“I am still not exactly sure which career avenue that I want to take, but my college career has taught me what I am passionate about and that is what is most important to me,” said Williams.

Hoffman: Senior combines dual passions

Continued from AA3

Through Hoffman’s exp er ience wit h student teaching, Solomon said she demonstrated her strong characteristics as a student.

“During her student teaching experience, Miss Hoffman was effective at designing lessons that integrated content and pedagogy,” said Solomon. “She demonstrated in-depth knowledge of her content area. In her classroom experiences, Miss Hoffman utilized a variety of instructional strategies, making efforts to reach all students.”

Along with the significant role student teaching played in her senior year, Hoffman said there were other parts of Waynesburg that formed her as well. Through working with the Yellow Jacket and Writing Center, Hoffman said these were two great ways to combine her love of education and English. Hoffman said she has also enjoyed working with the Student Activities Board.

With plans to attend the University of Dayton in Ohio, Hoffman said she will pursue a master’s degree, a dream since entering college. In addition, she will teach for two years in Day-

ton. After completing her master’s degree, Hoffman said she is still unsure if she would rather continue her education or pursue teaching.

After working with Hoffman for four years as her advisor, Solomon said she believes Hoffman will succeed at the University of Dayton.

“I am extremely confident [Hoffman] will be successful in her graduate level course work and future teaching experiences,” said Solomon. “Miss Hoffman demonstrates the qualities and characteristics of a life-long learner.”

Though Hoffman said she

will graduate from Waynesburg University bringing with her the life-changing impacts of her past professors, she will also leave behind her own personal influence upon the professors she has worked with over the past four years.

“Because of Mary,” said Solomon, “and the students in the Education Department of Waynesburg University, I have the blessing of fulfilling my calling to educate the next generation of teachers. I am inspired by the purpose-driven life of Mary Hoffman. She will be a blessing to her future students.”

Caley Blankenbuehler, a senior secondary mathematics education major, said she owes it all to Waynesburg.

“So many doors have been opened for me through this university and through the Bonner Scholar program and everything [else I’ve been involved in], that if I hadn’t been in these roles I don’t know where I would be right now,” said Caley Blankenbuehler, senior secondary mathematics education major.

Blankenbuehler went to a smaller high school. Her close interactions with friends and teachers in high school led her to look into a college that would allow her to be a name, not just a number.

Upon graduation she decided that it would be in her best interest to attend Waynesburg University.

Along with the size of Waynesburg, Blankenbuehler liked the affiliation the university had with its students’ religious beliefs.

“I really liked the Christian aspect of Waynesburg,” said Blankenbuehler. “I got into my faith my junior and senior year of high school and I really liked that [Waynesburg] was a Christian university.”

Now, four years later, about to graduate from Waynesburg, her thoughts on the decision to attend the small Christian university haven’t changed.

“I’d do it all again. I learned a lot here; it was very impactful. I think that it’s just something that if I hadn’t come here or if I hadn’t been involved with the Bonner program or done service or [had the experiences I did], I don’t think I would have gotten such a good college experience – I don’t think it would have been as rewarding,” said Blankenbuehler.

Blankenbuehler has been involved with many different extra-curricular activities on and off campus.

The Honor Program senior is also a member of several different honoraria: Alpha Phi Omega, the national leadership honorary at Waynesburg; Kappa Delta Phi, the national education honorary and Kappa Mu Epsilon, the mathematics honorary.

Blankenbuehler is also a member of Student Pennsylvania State Education Asso-

ciation [SPSEA], a member of the Multi-Cultural Club and was a 2014 Vira I. Heinz Scholarship recipient, which allowed her to go abroad and teach children in India and Sri Lanka.

Blankenbuehler has also gone on two missions trips, one to the Pittsburgh Project during her freshman year and then during her junior year she worked with the Greene County Immersion.

Also a student in the Bonner Scholar Program, Blankenbuehler said she has especially enjoyed all of the service she has given back to the community.

“I think just service in general, just being able to serve in the community and get to know the community,” said Caley Blankenbuehler.

“By helping out with service, you don’t only help yourself grow, but you can also help the community grow, and there’s just such a fulfilling sense in helping somebody.”

Blankenbuehler finds joy in helping others and said her major helps her find happiness in doing just that.

“I really found that I liked teaching. I love [being around] kids,” said Blankenbuehler.

“I had an eighth grade teacher that really impacted me a lot – and through that I realized being a teacher you can really help students out.”

Chair of the Department of Mathematics and Computer Science Dr. Richard Leipold said Blankenbuehler’s passion for the subject is obvious.

“What I see when she is in the classroom is a student who is very engaged,” said Leipold.

“She watches me, she participates, answers the questions, she’s always with a smile on her face, she’s just [got the look to her] like ‘I’m really into this’ and that’s just a pleasure to have in class.”

He said Blankenbuehler’s work ethic isn’t that of someone who wants to pass, but instead one who wants to excel.

“She is the kind of students who really wants to learn – that’s what impresses me about her,” said Leipold.

“She’s not the kind of student who just comes in and tries to get good grades and that’s it, she really wants to learn the material, to underBLANKENBUEHLER >> AA9

Page AA8

April 21, 2016

POLITICAL SCIENCE

A long way from home, Kantos finds unique experiences

By RJ LEISIE

Sports Convergence Editor

Thirteen-and-a-halfhours: that’s how far Waupaca, Wisconsin, is away from Waynesburg, Pennsylvania. It’s also how far senior Parker Kantos is away from home.

Kantos, a political science major at Waynesburg University, somehow found his way from the middle of Wisconsin to southwestern Pennsylvania.

“It was the Stover Scholar Program that brought me to Waynesburg,” Kantos said.

“Meeting with Dr. Stratton and the different perks that come with the people that you meet and the things you can do really drew me here.”

Kantos talked about how the political science major is really open to interpretation because Dr. Larry Strat-

Photo courtesy of Parker Kantos

Senior Parker Kantos credits the Stover Scholar Program for providing him with valuable experiences while at Waynesburg University. ton, director of Waynesburg University's Stover Center for Constitutional Studies

and Moral Leadership, and Dr. Richard Waddel, professor of political science, let

NURSING

you go about and choose what classes you want to take. Kantos mentioned that there are two sides of the major: theoretical and ethics or current issues and government.

“I was considering law school but I wasn’t 100 percent set when I entered college,” Kantos said. “I was originally pre-law but I changed to political science because you can really go anywhere from there.”

Stratton, who Kantos took for most of his classes, thinks highly of Kantos in his time at Waynesburg.

Stratton not only has taught Kantos but has also worked along side Kantos for the Stover Program and in Student Senate.

“He is a star of the Stover Program and the political science program,” Stratton said. “He has been a senator

in Student Senate for several years.”

Kantos made a very good first impression on Stratton from the moment that he met him for his interview to become a Stover Scholar.

“He really caught my attention with his provocative essay about politics at that moment,” Stratton said.

“The way Kantos’ drew upon several political thinkers.

Since then he has taken several of my courses and I always enjoy having him in class. Kantos’ papers and in-class discussions have always pushed the logical edge of argument.”

Stratton believes that Kantos will continue to standout in the years to come with the possibility of becoming an author and ending up as a lawyer. Kantos, however, is just focused on the immediate future af-

ter graduation.

“For me, I am going to Lutheran Seminary in Minneapolis, Minnesota,” Kantos said. “Dr. Stratton had a large influence on it because I was looking at other seminaries but then I decided that I wanted to get a master’s of divinity. When I brought the idea up to him there was something that just felt right about Lutheran compared to other schools.”

After the seminary, Kantos is not really positive on where he wants to go or where things will lead him but he is sure of one thing that he found the right major.

“To quote Aristotle, ‘Political science is the master art.’” Kantos said. “I feel that everyone should take some of these classes and I have enjoyed every moment here at Waynesburg.”

NURSING

Dami to graduate Hune prepared for field thanks to WU with job prospect

By JACOB MEYER Sports Editor

By JACOB MEYER Sports Editor

Senior nursing major Mark Dami is in a position that only six other graduating nursing majors are. Dami is entering a field that, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, consists of only about eight percent men.

Instructor of Nursing Amanda Machesky said she doesn’t think a nurse’s gender matters, especially in Mark’s case.

“A lot of times it’s not so much that we look at gender or race or anything like that in the nursing profession, but he is just a natural leader and that is going to make him excel more than anything, more than his gender,” Machesky said.

Dami believes it’s important for there to be a more male presence in the nursing field, a field that he originally didn’t plan on dedicating his life to when he first started looking at Waynesburg University.

“I’ve always wanted to help people in some way,” Dami said. “I just wasn’t always entirely sure what I wanted to do. I had my mind set on psychology for a while and [my grandmother] changed my mind one day and I ended up loving it. We still talk about that now.”

Dami is the vice president for the Student Nurses’ Association of Pennsylvania, which Machesky, faculty advisor for SNAP, said has helped him grow as a motivator and student.

“He has excellent leadership qualities,” Machesky.

“He’s a natural leader, and he’s very supportive of people around him. I see how supportive he is of his peers and nursing is a lot about teamwork, collaboration and good communication and he excels in all of those things. That’s really going to serve him in the profession.”

Dami has recently received a job from St. Clair Hospital, where he interned last summer. He will be working in the intermediate care unit.

Dami said the difficulty of the nursing major is something that will prepare him for his professional career.

“I think the way they prepared us and it being 100 percent pass rate here is crazy compared to other places,” Dami said. “All of our tests are all based off what our boards are going to be like, and they’re all difficult, so it’s very challenging to get an A.” Dami said his time as a nursing major has definitely been stressful, but by his junior year, he realized that being a nurse was something he knew was for him.

Dami said, “I would say it wasn’t until the end of my junior year that I was comfortable with being a nurse. I said to myself, ‘Now I can actually see myself doing this with all the knowledge I’ve come by.’”

Machesky said Dami is the “get-it-done-the-right-way kind of student,” which she said will serve him well in the future.

“When he graduates he is going to be a very good asset to the nursing profession,” Machesky said. He never ceases to amaze me.We’re going to miss him a lot.”

Clarice Hune has worn a lot of hats in her past four years at Waynesburg University.

Some people know her as a Student Senator, which she has been since her freshman year.

Others know her as the President of the Waynesburg Outdoor Experience club.

What she’ll be remembered for most, though, is her time as one of the most impressive nursing students in her class, according to Nancy Mosser, chairperson for the nursing department.

“She’s an excellent student academically, and she is involved in many organizations, not only within the nursing department, but on campus,” Mosser said. “She is a wonderful representative to the community as well as the program.”

Hune said the nursing program’s reputation is what led her to come to Waynesburg University.

“I chose Waynesburg for the nursing program in particular,” Hune said. “With their 100 percent pass rate over the six out of the last eight years, there’s not much else that compare[s] and employers are looking to hire from Waynesburg.”

Even though she knew she wanted to be a nurse, Hune said her belief in that fact grew stronger in her time at Waynesburg.

“I knew in high school that I wanted to be in health care and I wanted to help others. I love the sciences, so nursing fit for me,” Hune said. “If anything, I would say my four years [at

Photo courtesy of Clarice Hune

Senior Clarice Hune was drawn to Waynesburg's nursing program because of their 100 percent pass rate on the NCLEX. Now, she feels prepared for post-grad life.

Waynesburg] have strengthened my belief in where this is where I want to be.”

With the several activities she’s involved in on campus, including being the academic vice president her junior year and the executive vice president for Student Senate her senior year, Hune said time-management skills were vital.

“I would say it definitely has been challenging, although I find with good time management it’s easy to be able to do nursing and also get involved in numerous other on-campus activities,” Hune said. “I, for one, know

I would have had trouble if I had to just stick to nursing and not be able to do the other things that I’m involved in.”

Hune said the nursing department has prepared her for her future as a nurse.

Mosser, who has been one of Hune’s professors for the last three years, said she will be a successful nurse.

“She’ll be an excellent registered nurse,” Mosser said.

“She’s done very well as a student, and I don’t think she’ll have any problem at all acclimating to her new role; she’ll be excellent.”

Hune interned last sum-

mer at UPMC Passavant in the cardiac ICU unit. She said it’s usually the small things that make her realize why she wants to be a nurse.

“It can be the smallest thing when you bring someone a warm blanket and they have a smile on their face and they’re so appreciative,” Hune said. “I think sometimes we don’t realize they can receive bad care in a hospital and so when you give them just small gestures of compassion they are so grateful, and that’s what drives me to continue on with nursing and hopefully for the rest of my life.”

Orth: Student found his calling in music, computer science while at WU Continued from AA6

background while in the computer science industry can have a positive influence on the field and those it benefits.

Last summer Orth did an internship in Clarksburg, West Virginia, with the government, and he said the internship didn’t go the way he wanted to.

He said that heading in he thought he would see himself working a similar job after finishing school, but when he got to the internship and got working, it wasn’t what he wanted.

“It was definitely a reality check,” said Orth.

While the internship changed Orth’s mind on his future career. He said the internship that he didn’t like with the government made him realize more specifically what he wants to do with his future.

With a music minor and a strong interest in his artistic

side, Orth said he could see working in the entertainment side of the computer science field, possibly going into a software development or phone application development.

Wherever Orth lands in the future, he hopes he is able to make a great impact.

“I want to be able to make the world a better place for what I do, because I feel like that’s what God calls me to do,” said Orth.

While Orth is uncertain where his future will take him, he believes the experiences he had while at Waynesburg have prepared him for whatever road he decides to take in the future. He thinks he has had different lessons that have helped him in his time here.

“Having all of those different experiences has caused me to think outside of the box more, I’d say, in com science and to pursue different creative approaches to solving problems,” said Orth.

Dr. Richard Leipold, chair

of the Department of Mathematics and Computer Science, said Orth has taken his imagination outside of the classroom into his work inside of the classroom.

Leipold said Orth worked with fellow computer science classmate Matthew Kenney on their senior project and it turned out to be an outstanding experience.

Orth said he was recently accepted to the University of Pittsburgh for graduate school and plans to further his education there in the fall. Leipold said Orth’s intellect is a necessity as he plans ahead for grad school.

Orth is in the Honors Program, a Chamberworks member, symphonic band member, member of the Chapel Worship Team, member of the Lamplighters and Upper Room, a WU Pep Band Member, is a Campus Ministry Assistant, is the leader of weekend worship group Ekklesia and is a member of the newly formed Computer Science Club that

was started this year.

In the past Orth has participated with the percussion and jazz ensembles, Barbershop Quartet and the Chapel Team.

Orth has also worked at the IT desk all four of his years at Waynesburg.

Orth also attended the Jubilee Conference and it was something he said had a huge impact on him.

“I would definitely say I wouldn’t have been able to put a purpose to my career I think, if I hadn’t come here, because coming here allowed me to go to the Jubilee conference, which is what really made an impact [on me],” said Orth.

Because of the changes that are continuously happening in the field of computer science, Orth believes his involvement across many different clubs and groups on campus will be of his benefit when he goes into the workforce.

“I don’t think I would have the lasting piece that I

do if I hadn’t been here, if I didn’t have the friends I’ve made here, if I didn’t have the spiritual growth that I’ve experienced here,” said Orth.

Leipold commented on Orth’s individuality and how he thinks it will benefit him in the future.

“I want him to find an interesting, strange job. I think he’s the kind of guy who is a thinker, who can come up with new ways of looking at things and I want to encourage him to do that,” said Leipold.

Orth said Leipold’s unique outlook on teaching has made him consider things that he wouldn’t normally realize, and that’s why Leipold has made such an impact Orth’s life.

Leipold has helped Orth out by guiding him towards success.

“The best teachers don’t really teach you anything, they lead you to find out things for yourself,” said Orth.

Leipold said that he will

remember Orth for his unique personality. For example, Leipold said Orth came to his 10 a.m. class with a coffee carafe, drank his coffee and shared it with his classmates.

“He’s that kind of guy,” said Orth on his originality and kindness.

Leipold said Orth’s creativity will take him far in his life.

“If I hadn’t had the processes of computer science behind everything, I don’t think I would have this approach to song writing, but what I’ve learned is if a song doesn’t feel right, don’t worry about it. put it away but don’t throw it out, because you might come back later and find something that works from that song, like ‘what did I like about this song when I originally wrote it’ and ‘what do I not like’ and you take what’s excellent from that and put it into something you wrote ore recently and it makes a more finished product,” said Orth.

April 21, 2016

Page AA9

PSYCHOLOGY

Hamilla received an early taste of Waynesburg while in HS

By MATTIE WINOWITCH Editorial Assistant

Rachel Hamilla, senior psychology major with a minor in philosophy, first wanted to come to Waynesburg University after attending one of the university’s mission trips to Argentina when she was only a freshman in high school.

Hamilla was able to attend this mission trip because her mom works at the university as a counselor and was leading it that year. By going on this trip, Hamilla said she already got a feel of what the people of Waynesburg were like, and this helped her make her college decision four years later.

“Once I started touring, it just felt really familiar and comfortable, and I looked forward to do some of those experiences again,” said Hamilla.

But as for her major, Hamilla was not as confident at first.

“I honestly didn’t have a career path in mind – I didn’t know,” said Hamilla. “I kind of thought that choosing a major meant choosing a job, and so as I started doing a little bit more research I fig-

Photo courtesy of Rachel Hamilla

After traveling with the university to Argentina while in high school, senior Rachel Hamilla discovered Waynesburg was an ideal fit for her to experience her college education. ured you could actually just study a field that you find interesting.”

Hamilla said she took this knowledge and aimed it at a field that had interested her for some time: psychology. “[Psychology was] a thing that I just loved to read about – I thought it was so interesting to learn about human nature and behavior and stuff,” said Hamilla. “I figured if I studied a field that’s interesting that it would lead to a job that’s interesting.”

Her interest still lays in psychology, in part to her relationship with Dr. Jenny Jellison, associate professor of psychology.

“If I didn’t come to Waynesburg, I would never know of this whole side of research that exists that I just fell so in love with in talking with [Jellison],” said Hamilla.

Hamilla also said that Jellison has inspired her personal career goal of teaching psychology someday.

“I’d love to be a professor, and Dr. Jellison has actually had me doing a small teaching assistantship with her this semester, so that was a huge game-changer,” said Hamilla. “It showed me that this is not only something that sounds like fun, it’s something that I got to actually do while I was in college and identify that I do love it.”

Leading discussions and giving lectures in her Social Psychology class is some-

thing that Jellison said Hamilla truly shines at and has made her proud as an instructor. “[Hamilla is] just good at nurturing people and understanding them and meeting them where they’re at,” said Jellison. “She embodies Waynesburg because we’re a Christian school – we’re not just about grades. She has the great grades, but she also has that sweetness about her.”

Hamilla said that the best

thing to do as a psychology major is to keep an open mind, which is something that she had to learn for herself in the program.

“This program is very counseling-driven which is awesome,” said Hamilla.

“But I found that, going through this program, I didn’t really feel called to counseling. I wasn’t really sure how to manage that because that’s what most of our resources were for, so I did a lot of work making my own connections and getting to know other professors and internship opportunities and stuff like that, so I was dipping my toes in all kinds of different water.”

Jellison said she has no doubt that Hamilla will excel as a future instructor.

“I would work with Rachel on some research project, as she’s a research person,” said Jellison. “I would want to be a colleague of hers teaching.”

After graduation, Hamilla will be attending Kent State University to work toward her master’s in biological anthropology. Beyond that, Hamilla hopes to further her education into a PhD and eventually get a teaching job at a small university.

Mayfield: Artist draws Waynesburg draws senior out of comfort zone strength, inspiration a fieldtrip for her Learning

By MATTIE WINOWITCH Theory class.

“We went to the Pittsburgh from people around him PSYCHOLOGY

Editorial Assistant

When Bethany Tinstman, a senior psychology major with a minor in child development, first started her college selection process, she already knew exactly what she was looking for.

“I am a preacher’s kid, so my parents really wanted me to go to a faith-based school, and I was kind of interested in it as well,” said Tinstman. “But more so, I wanted a school with a good psych program.”

And according to Tinstman, Waynesburg University checked all of her boxes.

“I took a day off of school and came and visited, and I didn’t even want to apply anywhere else.”

Tinstman’s path to psychology was not a straight-shoot.

“Until high school, I wanted to be a neonatal intensive care nurse,” said Tinstman. “I actually had two psychology classes in my high school that I was able to take; and from some personal experiences that happened while I was in high school, I really got on this kick of wanting to work trauma care with adolescents and children. I kept that dream all the way up until this year, I switched my focus to school counseling, and now I’m not looking back.”

After attending Waynesburg for four years, Tinstman said she has learned a lot

Photo courtesy of Bethany Tinstman

Senior Bethany Tinstman's passion for psychology was strenghtend thanks to Waynesburg. about the program and how to succeed in the psychology department.

“Find what you’re passionate about. There’s so much you can learn from the psych program here because there are so many different areas that they offer to teach you here,” said Tinstman. “Also don’t be afraid to explore other things here at the school.”

However, Tinstman did not learn all of this on her own.

She said she had many great psychology professors in the department to help guide her.

One of these professors was Dr. Jenny Jellison, associate professor of psychology and also Tinstman’s academic advisor. “[Jellison] has been such a role model for me in her confidence and her person-

ality,” said Tinstman. “She’s somebody I really admire and would love to be like. She has really inspired me to step out of my comfort zone a lot with life in general, not even just psych.”

As her professor and advisor, Jellison said she is very proud of what Tinstman has accomplished at Waynesburg.

“When Bethany is faced with something, she hits it head-on, and I respect that.

I respect her more than I respect some people my own age,” said Jellison. “She’s just so hardworking and willing to do things that other people would think that they are above. And she always does it with a smile on her face.”

One of Tinstman’s favorite memories in the psychology program was with Jellison on

Zoo to do animal observation for an hour, and it was so cool,” said Tinstman. “I did the Penguin Exhibit, and it was great, mostly because I love penguins. It was a really cool way to actually apply what we were learning in class.”

Jellison said her fondest memory of Tinstman was actually inside the classroom.

“In my Experimental Psych class, [Tinstman’s] partner on this huge project – it was the entire semester-long project – had to drop the class,” said Jellison. “Bethany could’ve had my intern help her, as that was an option. These [projects] are never done by themselves, they’re always done at least with one or two other people.

And Bethany just said she could do it – and she did it.”

After graduation, Tinstman will be attending California University of Pennsylvania in August for their Counselor Education School Counseling Program. She said she is hoping to gain a TSS [Therapeutic Staff Support] position to gain experience and to have some money to make it through graduate school.

“I also hope to get some certification to do trauma care in the summers after I get my school counseling degree,” said Tinstman, “because that dream has not died yet.”

Blankenbuehler: Math, Resnik: Dedicated baseball player excels service essential parts of senior's education on and off the field Continued from AA5

knowing what to expect, and we have mandatory study tables and it really helps you.”

Resnik has been able to get practical experience in his future career path thanks to an internship that Paladino helped him get.

He is currently interning with the National Atmospheric Deposition Program, where he monitors mercury in collected water samples from around Greene County.

After graduating in May, Resnik has a job line up with Alliance Source Testing, located in Robinson, Pennsylvania, which he has just recently accepted. Here he will be working with testing industrial air admissions.

All of this wouldn’t have been possible without the

faculty and staff here at Waynesburg, especially those that Resnik has had in class, he said.

“The field trips and the hands on stuff that we do, I think it really helps you move forward and get actual experience towards your career,” said Resnik.

Resnik is also an active member in the Eco-Stewards clubs and serves as the vice president. Working alongside other students, Resnik is helping construct a university nature trail that will connect Martin and Thayer Resident Halls.

Resnik over his four years has left a lasting impact both on the field and in the classroom, according to Paladino.

“He’s always there when you need him, he’s extremely helpful to me and other students, he’s extremely conscientious,” said Paladino.

Continued from AA7

stand the material, because she loves the material, she loves mathematics.”

Blankenbuehler was able to use her passion of serving others during the summers between her freshman and sophomore years and then again during her sophomore and juniors years.

During those summers she stayed in Waynesburg and tutored elementary and middle school students at the Eva K. Bowlby Public Library.

“I was able to gain so much experience because it dealt with my major and I was able to tutor students and just learn better techniques,” said Blankenbuehler on the summers spent tutoring.

Leipold believes the involvement Blankenbuehler had at Waynesburg will only

help her in her future.

“All of [her experiences here], I think, will make her a wonderful teacher – she’ll bring a lot of experience and different kinds of ideas into the classroom with her,” said Leipold.

Leipold said he taught Blankenbuehler in several upper level math courses, but that an honors program seminar allowed him to connect with her on more of a casual, friend-to-friend basis.

“We were able to speak about other topics other than math…It gave us the opportunity to talk on a deeper level about college subjects, about what’s happening in the world,” said Leipold.

“And I’ve always found her to be very engaging, very thoughtful, yet very committed to the Christian outlook on things and that really impressed me a lot.”

Continued from AA6

It was then Mayfield’s commitment to the program that Heisey said led him to find so much confidence and grow.

“One thing that is particularly special about Ryan is he works very hard,” said Heisey.” “He’s here early in the morning and he stays late and gets so much done during the day. He has been a good leader for the group.”

Heisey used two words to describe Mayfield: hardworking and dependable.

Mayfield has been a part of many activities while at Waynesburg, such as the new art club, the club lacrosse team and even spent some time with wrestling and the computer club.

However, it was his senior art show that will leave the lasting image of Waynesburg in his mind.

“I think the memorable moment at Waynesburg was my Senior Art Show and being able to see people come out and enjoy my art,” said Mayfield.

As for his plans for after graduation, Mayfield plans to take a year to himself and decide on possibly attending grad school, while continuing to practice his art.

Regardless of what Mayfield decides to pursue, Heisey believes he is ready to take on the next step.

“We have talked about different ways of looking for work depending on what his goals are and where he wants to go, kind of different ways to get his name out there.

He has already started online selling things to get his name shown,” said Heisey. ”We have also talked about apprenticeships and getting jobs in different fields that could lead to things in the future.”

Lydic: Senior an asset to Dept. of Comm.

Continued from AA3

office and just observed what all the senior leaders were doing,” said Lydic. “I saw that hard work and involvement will pay off. And so, since then, I haven’t looked back and I’ve drained every last drop I could get out of the opportunities provided to me in this department.”

This ambition is something that has caught the attention of communication professor and Yellow Jacket advisor, Brandon Szuminsky.

“JD is the kind of student with an obvious internal drive where he takes a goal, puts it to heart and does it,” said Szuminsky. “I noticed how he always puts in the extra mile, preps himself to be better, and while he could have quit other activities that weren’t necessary to his major, he saw the benefit of still being involved in those activities and stuck with it.”

Krause said that Lydic is the type of student that other students should be looking up to in the department.

“JD is the embodiment of what students in the department should be,” said Krause. “Having that kind of

senior leadership is critical to the department.”

Lydic, also a Bonner scholar and an Eagle Scout recipient, says that wanting to be a team player and giving 110% is just part of who he is now.

“I always want to do as much as I can for as long as possible for the department and the students around me,” said Lydic. “If they come to me, I want to be a helping hand and learn something myself and make the department look good.”

After graduation, Lydic will be working for WICUTV in Erie where he will be a multimedia journalist covering news and sports.

Lydic said he is looking forward to the new opportunity and the chance to launch his career in communication, but he will miss the family atmosphere that has come with being part of the Department of Communication. “ The professors here know you by name and also why you are here,” said Lydic. “It’s the professors and the students here who keep me going and keep me listening and supporting them all the while having fun.”

Page AA10

April 21, 2016

SPOTLIGHTS ON STUDENT-ATHLETES BASEBALL

WOMEN'S BASKETBALL

Bensinger's road to WU simple, impact greater Davis balances tough degree with basketball

By KYLE DAWSON

Assistant Sports Editor

For Waynesburg senior first baseman and criminal justice major Matt Bensinger, the road to Waynesburg University was simple.

He had interest in the school and after one visit, decided to come play for the Jackets.

The road to stardom and a prominent role with the team, though, was not as clear or simple as the one Bensinger imagined when he come to Waynesburg.

But the journey is one he said he looks back on and is grateful for, though he said it’s not over.

At the end of his freshman season, Bensinger debuted in a starter’s role in the Eastern Collegiate Athletic Conference tournament. It’s safe to say, he soared from there.

“I was a little surprised when I got called on to play in that tournament,” said Bensinger. “Getting that playing time when I was young like that in games that mattered just made me want to continue to get better and be the best player I could.”

Bensinger’s head coach, Mike Humiston, spoke highly of him, saying everybody that knows Matt seems to respect him.

“Matt is a leader both on and off the field,” said Humiston. “He’s held in high esteem by his teammates and anybody that knows him personally. From a baseball standpoint, he’s a guy that takes charge to help other guys. He’s a good leader, and I think our guys look up to him. They even may wish they could swing a bat like him.”

Bensinger, on the field, has been a mainstay in the lineup for the Jackets.

she played most minutes and competition was not as much of a factor, college athThe bus returns to campus letics was an entirely different well after midnight. creature.

The next day starts with “Freshman year I was kind another 8 a.m. class. of intimidated at first and The routine, relatable to then I realized like I can’t do most student-athletes, was this to myself because I did it all too familiar for Heather in high school and I set myself Davis, a prominent figure on back. Just gotta face it,” said the basketball team pursu- Davis. “A lot of things that ing a challenging came at me while degree in athletic I was here I had training. not had happen in “I had a love for high school. A lot the game since a of things, I mean, young age,” said came easy in high Davis. “My mom school… Coming coached from the [to Waynesburg time I was born University] was a until [last year] and lot of competition growing up around and I love comDavis it just kind of made petitiveness so I me fall in love with it more learned and loved it.” and I love to see myself grow With the uncertainty enin the sport.” tering into a collegiate level Davis’ career began with basketball program, the faWaynesburg University four miliarity of the hardwood years ago after, Davis said, she that Davis had been playing discovered the university at a on since 3rd grade pushed her college fair. Despite applying forward. After spending her to four other schools, Davis senior year as a captain on the said it was the Athletic Train- basketball team, Jones said ing program that brought her Davis brought to the team the to Waynesburg University basis of a successful athlete. along with the recruitment “She brings a fire and a pasfrom the basketball team. sion, for sure, for what she Sam Jones, head coach of does,” said Jones. the women’s basketball team, Beyond the improvement said Davis fulfilled many of on the basketball court, Daqualities that is sought for in vis said the game additionally an athlete. helped change her attitude.

“Obviously [I look for] tal- Davis said her relationship ent, someone with a little bit with Jones in the beginning of passion, you try and find of her four year career at kids who you think have a Waynesburg University was good work ethic and kids opinionated and they somewho see the bigger picture,” times struggled to see eyesaid Jones. “I saw lots of those to-eye. traits in Davis.”

“When I first came in For Davis, however, enter- [Jones] wasn’t very sure [of ing into collegiate athletics me], he didn’t like my attitude represented new challenges and I didn’t really like my atthat had to be overcome. En- titude,” said Davis. tering the team from a high school where, Davis said, See DAVIS on AA12

By LUKE GOODLING Editorial Assistant

Tyler Wolfe, Yellow Jacket

Waynesburg baseball senior Matt Bensinger, pictured above in a game during his this season, is two-time All-Presidents' Athletic Conference second-team athlete.

In 2014, his sophomore year, the Hamburg Area High School graduate hit .333 with 16 extra-base hits and drove in 24 runs.

He was named secondteam All-Presidents’ Athletic Conference and was part of the Capital One NCAA Division III AllDistrict IV Academic Team.

Last season, Bensinger hit .346, with one home run, 13 doubles and six triples.

He also drove in 30 runs to go with another secondteam All-PAC selection.

This season, he’s up over .350 for a batting average and has already driven in more than 20 runs with four home runs.

“He didn’t play much his freshman year,” said Humiston. “I think the ECAC Championship game against McDaniel was the game he arrived, and we realized he was going to play at a high level."

"He’s like a duck to water at first base even after we tried him in the outfield. last year to keep our two power bats in the lineup," said Humiston. "He’s made a name for himself in his time here and we’re going to miss him.”

Humiston said Bensinger is one of the few players who will be remembered for what he did on the baseball field at Waynesburg University.

FOOTBALL

“He’s a guy [who] five years from now, people will look back and say ‘I remember the guy that worked his butt off in the weight room and swung a heavy bat and played a great first base.

Who was that guy? Matt Bensinger, that’s right,’ and he’s been of the best we’ve had in recent memory,” said Humiston.

However, it’s not over he said, and while he has enjoyed his time here, there is still “unfinished business.”

In fact, the legacy Matt wants to leave, he said, is quite simple. He has one goal..

“I want to win a PAC Championship. If that happens, I’ll be happy.”

MEN'S BASKETBALL

Unplanned year a Durham satisfied with growth at WU blessing for Leavell

By JACOB MEYER Sports Editor

“It worked out perfectly for us and for Willie that he could work on his MBA Most NCAA Division III as a redshirt senior,” Shepas football players don’t get said. “He stuck with us and the opportunity got to play out his to spend five years career. We are just with one program. thankful that it all That wasn’t the case worked out with for senior running the MBA program, back Willie Leavell our sports mediwith Waynesburg cine and everyone University. else that helped “My t i m e at Willie throughout Waynesburg, bethe process.” ing part of the In his first seafootball team was son of seeing varLeavell great,” Leavell said. sity action, Leavell “I learned so many lessons made the most out of evabout being a good team- ery opportunity he could. mate, being accountable, and In the 2012 season, Leavell being a man that I could take vvvvvwas named the Presiwith me for the rest of my life. dents’ Athletic Conference Not to mention we won a lot Special Teams Player of the of games these past five years Week and the Eastern Colwhich made it memorable.” lege Athletic Conference DiLeavell came to Waynes- vision III Southwest Special burg in 2011 from Midland Teams Player of the Week.

Heights, Ohio as a major in In 2013, Leavell scored five the Business Department. touchdowns and also averLeavell did not see varsity ac- aged 26 yards on kick returns. tion during his first year on The 2014 season was the year campus as he suffered a knee Leavell broke out for the Yelinjury the first day of contact low Jackets. Leavell scored practice and was sidelined for seven total touchdowns with the year. a kickoff return average of 25 “One challenge that I faced yards and 14 yards on punts. was the long period of rehab Leavell was honored that seathat I endured,” Leavell said. son as a PAC Special Teams “It was tough but my faith Player of the Week, first-team and family helped me over- All-PAC All-Purpose Player come that. Also not being and Second-team All-PAC able to be out on the field Returner. playing was tough for me it In his final season, Leavell really made me gain that love scored three touchdowns and for the game back and I knew averaged another 20-plus reI had to do whatever it took turn average for kickoffs. He to get back out there.” also represented Waynesburg Leavell got the chance to at the PAC media day last Aubecome a medical redshirt gust. In the five years Leavell because of the MBA pro- has been apart of the football gram with Waynesburg. team, the Yellow Jackets went Head coach Rick Shepas was 33-20 overall, with a 25-15 glad to see that his player got record in conference. another opportunity to play four years of football.

See LEAVELL on AA12

By RJ LEISIE

Sports Convergence Editor

To the casual fan, senior guard BJ Durham is a volume scorer.

He’s a prototypical combo guard. He had the ability to be lethal from behind the 3-point arc. And he owns some of the most clutch moments in recent Waynesburg history.

What most people don’t know about, though, is his commitment to being an “ambassador” for the basketball program and Waynesburg University, as head coach Mark Christner said.

“He’s really made this community a home,” Christner said. “He’s put down roots and he has affected people in a really positive way in the community – certainly the university but also the school community, church community and certainly in our men’s basketball program.”

Durham, a psychology major, said when he thinks of

Photo courtesy of Greg Reinhart

BJ Durham, a graduating senior basketball player, made multiple big shots during his career. His runner to beat Saint Vincent, shown above, may have been the biggest. his four years at Waynesburg University, the word “growth” is what comes to his mind.

“I think of helping this program get back to where it was back in the early days in the 80s with [Rudy] Marisa,” Durham said. “I think throughout my four years we’ve been able to see how we’ve improved.

I think also as an individual I’ve seen how I’ve improved on and off the court. I think that’s what being a D-III athlete is all about. Kind of not just improving your abilities on the court or on the field but also preparing you for the next stage of your life.”

Christner said he still re-

members the young, ambitious kid who came in as a freshman.

“He came wanting to prove that he could play,” Christner said. “We’ve always talked about taking good [shots].

There was one time freshman See DURHAM on AA12

WOMEN'S TRACK & FIELD

Huwe follows in sister's footsteps for track

By MITCHELL KENDRA Managing Editor

Rose Huwe: Family brought her to Waynesburg, but the individuality kept her here Women’s track & field head coach Jason Falvo jokes that senior Rose Huwe has been around forever. While the remarks are made with humorous intentions, he’s right.

Huwe’s older sister Rhea attended Waynesburg University and the younger Rose was always at the meets interacting with the team, becoming familiar with the atmosphere of the team. During Rhea’s first three years at Waynesburg,

Rose spent time getting to know Falvo and the different members of the team.

Eventually, once it became time to make her college decision, Rose decided to head to Waynesburg. Rose was a freshman on the 2013 Presidents’ Athletic Conference Championship team with Rhea, who was a senior – one of Rose’s favorite memories from her time on the Waynesburg track and field team.

Although Rose had become known as Rhea’s little sister to the Waynesburg track team before actually being on the team, Falvo ensured her that she would be able to become

known as an individual. “[Coach Falvo] was a big part of my decision to come here,” said Rose. “He made it clear that I was going to be my own athlete, not ‘Rhea Huwe’s little sister.’ He makes it a major focus to treat you as an individual.”

Rose said that Falvo has been a huge part of her growth over the past seven years.

“There’s a family dynamic to what we’re doing here at the university, it’s been pretty good,” said Falvo.

But when preparing her applications for college, Waynesburg was left out.

Rose applied to the Univer-

sity of Maryland and American University in Washington, D.C., to be enrolled as a history major. However, when her senior year came to an end, Rose didn’t know where a history degree would take her in life and she liked the idea of being to keep competing in track & field. So she knew just where she would go to do so.

“I knew Waynesburg had a great [Department of Communication] and I had been familiar with the track team, so I thought that this would be a good fit for me,” said Rose.

Rose became an electronic See HUWE on AA12

April 21, 2016

Page AA11

WOMEN'S SOCCER

Lifelong commitment to soccer leads to collegiate success for Murphey

By TIM NERAL

Editorial Assistant

Karleigh Murphey concluded her career with the Waynesburg University women’s soccer team with 19 goals and 48 points in 71 games.

She also finished the 2014 season with a team-high nine goals and 23 points, both career-highs. Now, with her collegiate career finished, she reflects on her time at Waynesburg.

“One of the biggest things I miss now is finding something to do,” said Murphey.

“The silence is the hardest part, that and the teammates and the friends and getting to see them every day.”

Murphey mentioned the continuous struggle in balancing her career with her sport, but said looking back it was worth it.

“The soccer team kind of becomes your family and really influences you in your four years here. Thinking about the team, what they represent, what they care

Tyler Wolfe, Yellow Jacket

Senior Karleigh Murphey scored 19 goals, totaling 48 points in a stretch of 71 games during the past four years at Waynesburg University. for. There’s a lot of personal growth that happens in these years,” said Murphey.

Murphey, who represented the Jackets as a second-team All-PAC player this past year—her second consecutive

honor—does not mention the statistics or the awards she’s accumulated, such as multiple years on the PAC Academic Honor Roll, but instead the moments in games and the thrills that came with them.

MEN'S CROSS COUNTRY

A game against Geneva in 2014 went back and forth throughout the contest, and was tied at four going into overtime.

“We set up for a corner,” said Murphey. “You get this

feeling when you’re playing, like you know the ball’s coming to you.”

Lo and behold, the ball came to Murphey, who headed in the game-winner.

Murphey also remembers the conversations she had with her coaches.

“Coach Cross asked me if I knew how good I actually was,” said Murphey. “That was a real confidence boost and those are the things that you take with you when leave.”

Women’s soccer coach Laura Heethuis had good words for Murphey.

“What stands out the most to me is her driven attitude to continue to be the best. Karleigh is never satisfied with has attributed to her success in the classroom and on the pitch,” said Heethuis. “There is no challenge that Karleigh will back down from. One practice, I challenged her to a juggling competition. She stayed for 30 minutes to continue working and continued at home as well.”

Murphey says soccer has taught her much more than the things on the pitch.

“It’s taught me that you have way more in you than you think you do, to work hard,” said Murphey. “You never know when your last day’s gonna be. It sneaks up quick so just take advantage of every opportunity.”

She also noted there were some clear takeaways from the team that she can apply to her career as a nurse.

“Working with other people. Definitely have a lot of practice with that if you play sports,” said Murphey.

“There’s a lot of similarities.

In a game, one mistake can be the difference between winning and losing and in nursing, one mistake can be the difference between living and dying.”

Murphey has been playing soccer since she was four and plans to keep it that way.

“It’s always been a part of my life,” said Murphey. “I want to keep it a part of my life as long as I can.”

WOMEN'S TENNIS

Senior XC runner puts Klemash graduates after four years as No. 1 player seventh grade, showed her teammates before himself

By CODY YANKULIC that hard work was also reBy ROB MCKINNEY

For the Yellow Jacket

Senior cross-country and track runner Jon Sandoval’s season is rapidly coming to an end and so is his career at Waynesburg University.

The Chagrin Falls, Ohio native was recruited by head cross-country coach Chris Hardie and took on an interesting role with the cross-country team. “[Sandoval] always took the roll of ‘I have your back,’” said Hardie. “His thing became, ‘If you fall down, I’ll pick you up.’”

Sandoval embraced this roll and was always there to support his teammates.

“I wasn’t always the fastest runner on the team, but I was there to support anyone that needed it,” said Sandoval.

Sandoval embraced a physical role as well, which resulted in physically moving opponents out of the way so his teammates would have more room to run.

“At some of the bigger meets, like Gettysburg, we had some of the runners who would go out fast and beat the crowd, and we had some runners that weren’t as big, so what we would do, if some of the small guys were around me, is I would plow a path through as much as I could,” said Sandoval.

According to Hardie, Sandoval put his teammates first before his own

successes. Sandoval was named captain of the men’s cross-country team this past season and spent the year as a depth runner, who stepped in when other runners were injured.

In one particular instance, Sandoval did not just step in due to an injured teammate but carried that teammate from the place she received the injury to a medical staff booth set up nearby.

Sandoval did not just win the approval of his teammates, but his coach as well.

According to Hardie, the one word to describe Sandoval was: dependable.

“Dependability is the one word when I think of Jon, and he’s a very positive person,” said Hardie. “If I needed anything done, he was the guy I went to.”

According to Hardie, Sandoval was a great teammate and was a respected individual. Sandoval carried a leadership mentality and pushed his team to be the best.

Sandoval will be finishing his senior year as a hurdler for the men's track & field team at Waynesburg University.

After graduation Sandoval plans on attending Youngstown State or Cleveland State as a graduate assistant.

Sandoval is an education major at Waynesburg and hopes to, one day, become a college professor.

For the Yellow Jacket

It has been 16 years.

It has been exactly 16 years since a women’s tennis player at Waynesburg University was the number one player for the entirety of her career here. But a member of the class of 2016 has added her name to that list: Rachel Klemash.

In 18 years of coaching, says head coach Ron Christman, he can only think of a couple others.

Upon further thought, Christman could only recall one player who walked onto campus their freshman year and was the number one player throughout her entire career. While that player, Andrea Custer, departed long before Klemash, her record did not, standing until 2012.

In 2012 that was Klemash’s freshman year and a huge year for her career. Klemash would not only become the number one player on the team, but also finished the season at 10-6 in singles play, the best mark on the team, and a 10-7 record in doubles play.

Klemash would finish third in the President’s Athletic Conference in singles play and would become the first player to score a pair of victories over Grove City College since before 1998.

“I didn’t know what to expect,” said Klemash. “I wouldn’t say I was surprised, but more so happy.”

After freshman year, Klemash would retain her num-

Tyler Wolfe, Yellow Jacket

Senior Rachel Klemash became the first number one player through four years at Waynesburg University. ber one spot for the next three years and finish her career at Waynesburg with an overall record of 60-57.

Klemash’s doubles record, 34-27, is an accomplishment. Doubles, according to Klemash, is an area she struggled in before coming to Waynesburg.

“In high school I played doubles but we never worked on doubles or anything,” said Klemash. “Here is whenever coach Christman really taught me how to play doubles; I knew how to play, but not well.”

While Klemash’s play on the court improved and records were eventually smashed, her attitude off the court, she said, also improved.

“I used to have a little bit of a temper when I wasn’t playing as well as I wanted to,” said Klemash. “After sophomore year I just kind of changed that, I wasn’t so hard on myself and I just used that in my daily life to try and not get mad quickly at things.”

The attitude Klemash took led to her success on the court, and tennis, the sport she has been playing since

quired in life.

“You gotta work hard for things,” said Klemash. “Over the last two years, I have just taken a similar attitude with tennis, schoolwork and kind of shaped myself up and got my act together.”

The work ethic has led Klemash to be named PAC Academic Honor Roll for both the 2013 and 2015 seasons.

Her coach also noted the hard work.

“She was one that would go hit with the guys or show up at the courts out of season,” said Christman. “All the good players do that.”

While Klemash pushed herself on and off the court, Christman said, she was also there to support her team and help when needed.

“She’s always been supportive of the team,” said Christman. “I’ve had very good people on teams that you could call them up or text them and email them and say ‘hey we need to do this’ and they step up and would do it. She’s one of those kind of people that made sure things got done.”

While the criminal justice major leaves Waynesburg after a solid four years, tennis, said Klemash, is not in the near future. Depsite being asked to play in a tournament over Christmas, any play on the courts, she said, will be for the sole enjoyment of hitting the little green ball back across the court.

“For now, I’m just playing for fun,” said Klemash. “I’m kind of taking a break.”

Durham: Senior guard Potopenko steps into leadership role as senior scored 985 career points SOFTBALL

By CHELSEY WITHERS Editorial Assistant

Since her first season in 2013, senior softball player Katey Potopenko has made an impact on the Waynesburg University softball team.

The Munhall, Pennsylvania, native has been most effective with her offense over the years, and she currently owns a .303 batting average.

“Potopenko leads our team in RBIs with nine. She has done a good job executing with runners on base and in scoring position,” said Richele Hall, head coach.

“She has also stepped in and embraced playing left field. I knew coming in this season our outfield was going to be a rough spot for us, but we have had seniors step up and embrace new roles, and for never playing out there, Potopenko is doing a great job.”

As a freshman, Potopenko

hit .311 with one balance ever yhome run and 10 thing, especially RBI as a part-time with this semesplayer. te r hav i ng 2 1 Potopenko becredits.” came a full-time Potopenko said starter since her she also learned sophomore year. how to not be a She hit .278 and spectator and to .256 in the sophowork hard at evPotopenko more and junior erything she atyears, respectively. tempts when it comes to the Potopenko’s leadership softball field, and that was and dedication continues noticed in the 2014 season. off the field as well.

The Presidents’ Athletic As a senior psychology Conference awarded Potomajor, Potopenko has also penko twice in that season. taken on the challenge of The first came the week of completing 21 credits this March 24 when she was recsemester while competing ognized as PAC Hitter of the in her final season playing Week and the second came softball. after the conclusion of the “One of the most im- season when she received portant life lessons I have Honorable Mention Alllearned being a student- PAC. athlete would have to be Potopenko said the last time management,” said Po- four years have created intopenko. credible memories for her, “Being an athlete and a but her favorite memory was student is not very easy, and when the team traveled to I’m really learning how to Florida for spring training.

She said the trip contributed to help the team unity.

The team bonding is important to grow closer, but that is also how Potopenko learned to become a leader thanks to a teammate she looked up to.

“Although she has graduated a few years ago, Jenna Dorazio was probably my biggest influence as a collegiate player,” said Potopenko.

“She always pushed me when I needed it and picked me up when I needed it even more.

She truly showed me how to be a better person on and off the field, and I owe a lot of who I am to her.”

Potopenko’s advice to the underclassman is, “play for each other, which is what we do now and I feel as if that is a great motivator for our team because of how close we are. Stick through the hard times and stay strong like they’ve been, and I’m sure a PAC championship is coming real soon.”

Continued from AA10

or sophomore year, where he literally stepped over a guy and shot a 25-footer, and we still laugh about that one.”

Christner said Durham has grown in his ability to “channel his volume shooting.”

After playing about 10 minutes per game his freshman season, Durham took on a larger role in his final three seasons.

In his sophomore year off the bench, Durham played 20 minutes a night and shot 32 percent from the field and 30 percent from behind the arc.

Durham enjoyed his greatest success statistically in his junior season as a starter for the Jackets.

In a season where Waynesburg lost in the Presidents’ Athletic Conference finals, Durham played 23 minutes a game, scored 10.3 points per game while shooting 39

percent from the field and 36 percent from three. No player in the PAC made more 3-pointers that season than Durham One of the more polarizing moments in recent Waynesburg basketball history was Durham’s floater to defeat St. Vincent at the Rudy Marisa Fieldhouse in February 2015.

This season, Durham scored 15 points a game, while leading the team in minutes played, 3-pointers made and steals.

Durham is planning on going to graduate school to receive a degree in mental health counseling. He is leaning towards coming back to Waynesburg to receive the master’s degree.

He wants to eventually get his doctorate in sports and exercise psychology and be a sports psychologist for a college or professional team. He wants to combine his love for sports with his love for “how the mind works.”

Page AA12

April 21, 2016

MEN'S TRACK & FIELD

WRESTLING

Relationships crucial for star runner McAuley

Bieber ends successful career as mentor

ethic and overall positive attitude. Hardie also knew that McAuley was a guy he Senior Ben McAuley has wanted to have so the two finally raced his last race kept in contact until McAuon a cross-country course ley chose Waynesburg Unifor his time at versity to continue Waynesburg Unihis cross-country versity. career with.

In his time here, “I kne w B en he has accumuwould be a major lated multiple acfit here because colades, including he first came as a second-team Allnursing major and Presidents’ Athletwe have a great ic Conference two nursing program,” times, PAC runsaid Hardie. “I got ner of the week, to know his family McAuley Waynesburg Uniand we have very versity athlete of the week, similar personalities so it all the second-fastest time in meshed well.”

Waynesburg history of 26:41 According to Hardie, one and having the most finishes of his favorite things about under 30 minutes with 22.

McAuley is his durability.

The many records or No matter what, he raced accomplishments he has every meet every year and achieved, isn’t what matters nothing would hold him to him, McAuley said. back.

“For me, the records and “Ben was our ‘Iron Man’, times barely matter,” said to say the least,” said Hardie.

McAuley. “The accomplish- “I think he missed a total of ments I care about is grow- two practices in four years ing as a team and finding a and never had an official ingroup of people who love jury. He eats well and stays running almost as much as in shape along with just beme and really thriving with ing smart and dedicated to them. Every day I get to run what he does makes him I thank God and that is the great.” biggest accomplishment.”

Now that the four years A great relationship be- at Waynesburg as a crosstween coach and competi- country runner have come tor always equates to suc- to an end, it is a bittersweet cess when it matters. The feeling for McAuley. His relationship between head coach could not have better cross-country coach Chris things to say about a runner Hardie and McAuley is one that he debates may be oneof those examples. From the of-a-kind due to his work time Hardie first scouted ethic, ability and positive McAuley at one of his high mentality. McAuley took school races to now, the two this time to look back and have bonded well as runner reflect on his four years as and coach. a runner.

“I love coach Hardie,” said “As an athlete, the last McAuley. “He is like a sec- four years have been full of ond father who is here right ups and downs physically, on campus with me and he mentally and emotionally,” taught me a lot about lead- said McAuley. “Especially ership and growing. I have going through the team been so blessed to have such changing so much every strong Christian coaches year from graduations and who can guide me in my new recruits, I have grown sport and in my life.” so much from my coaches Hardie explained that he and my teammates and have had a good feeling about changed a lot. I would not McAuley the first time he change my experience for saw him because of his work the world.”

By ZACK ZEIGLER

For The Yellow Jacket

By DONNY CHEDRICK For the Yellow Jacket

Davis: AT, basketball led to busy, exciting four years

Continued from AA10

“From sophomore to junior year, from those two years to senior year, was a whirlwind and it was amazing how I changed… I realized and I approached him in a different demeanor.”

There were more than just the challenges that came with playing on the basketball team, Davis said, that required navigation through her past four years. As a student in athletic training, Davis said she was forced to ration her time to make room for both sports and academics.

“With my major its hands on, you have observation hours, you have clinical hours, you have to always be with a sports team so that is really hard, trying to balance everything,” said Davis.

For late returning nights from a basketball game and the days with overwhelming academic responsibilities, Davis said it was the understanding that athletic training was what she wanted which kept her moving forward.

“I knew athletic training was something I was going to further my career in,” said Davis. “That’s just something I know and I still have to work towards my goal of becoming a good student.”

Although basketball added to Davis’ schedule, she said the sport assisted her, more than it may seem, academically.

“If I didn’t have [basketball] I would have so much extra time on my hands and I would never have done schoolwork,” said Davis.

“Whereas I had practice and it forced me like ‘ok you have to do homework between this time and between this time.’ It kind of helped me with time management.”

Now, four years after entering Waynesburg University, Davis said it feels surreal to be leaving competitive basketball for quite possibly the last time. Through the personal growth and achievements with the basketball team, Davis said it was something she had worked for her entire life.

“It kinda hit me after the last game, really, because that was the last time I was ever going to play with my team,” said Davis. “It’s a weird feeling, it’s kind of hard to explain it’s over, like you work all your life for this and now it’s over.”

In retrospect, Davis said the focus of a student-athlete should be on not only setting the right priorities, but also appreciating the four years.

“Enjoy yourself,” said Davis. “Don’t stress yourself too much about everything. Have fun, because it’s the fastest four years of your life. And then know what you have to do and set your priorities right.”

While Davis will step off college courts for the last time, she will continue to pursue higher education. After graduating from Waynesburg University, Davis said she would be working towards a master’s degree in Health and Physical Education.

Speaking to Davis’ future, Jones is confident in her success.

“I think she’ll be just fine.

She’s an intelligent girl, she knows what she wants,” said Jones.

Gordan Bieber, senior wrestler for Waynesburg University, has always had a natural talent for wrestling. Ever since eighth grade, he was a star on the wrestling team.

He was named captain in his first year on the mat. It was this moment that Bieber knew that wrestling was the sport for him.

Wrestling was a sport that Bieber always had to work for. Bieber said that he started wrestling a year later then he wanted to, and it made him that much more motivated to succeed on the mat.

“I wanted to initially start wrestling in seventh grade, but my grades weren’t high enough and my parents wouldn’t let me,” said Bieber.

“So, I had to work towards being able to wrestle and that made it way more valuable to me.”

The hard work prior to his wrestling career payed off when he finally got a chance to be on the mat. Bieber was a 2011 MWAW national qualifier, a 2011 section finalist, and placed third in freestyle and Greco-Roman States.

With all of this success, Bieber was a highly recruited athlete in the Presidents’ Athletic Conference, receiving letters from all three participants in PAC wrestling. According to Bieber, he narrowed his final choice down to Thiel and Waynesburg.

“My high school head coach and I went to a Waynesburg, Thiel match. I was joking around and said whichever team wins that’s where I’m going to go,” said Bieber.

“Turns out Waynesburg won, so I went up and talked to coach Headlee and he said Alex Crown was moving up a weight class and said they

Tyler Wolfe, Yellow Jacket

Wrestling since middle school, senior Gordan Bieber has had great success with the Waynesburg University wrestling program over his past four years. needed someone to fill the 125.”

Bieber was starting at the 125-pound weight class right away as a freshman, and started his college career with a record of 18-21, including a 7-7 record in dual matches and 2-3 in matches determined by pin fall.

In those early years, Bieber says that coach Headlee really helped him through making him feel like part of the family. He says that this is one of Headlee’s best characteristics. “[Coach Headlee] really has set the standard for me as far as coaching goes,” said Bieber.

“The way he runs the team, the way he interacts with us, he always makes the team feel like family. He’s always open to us and there is no judgement.”

Bieber has had a very successful career at Waynesburg and that continued this season

as he finished with a record of 23-9 including a perfect 3-0 in dual matches. Bieber credits his hard work on the mat to both his inner determination and having some great teammates around him.

This season, he worked a lot with sophomore Tristan Buxton and credits him for making him better and allowing him to become the wrestler he is today.

Bieber says that Buxton’s work ethic is unlike any other he has seen in his wrestling career.

“I beat [Buxton] four times last year in the wrestle-off and this year he beat me twice,” said Bieber. “He didn’t let that slow him down and he used it to work harder. Getting to see my efforts in practice make him better really means a lot to me. I have a lot of respect for the kid and there is no one else

on the team right now that’s doing it the way he is doing it.”

The key to the Waynesburg wrestling program is finishing all four years, according to Buxton.

No matter what you will always remember completing your four years and it’s an experience like none other.

“Take the opportunities and times you are on this team to your full potential,” said Bieber. “Also, finish all four years. No matter how far you go it won’t matter if you don’t finish your four years.”

For Bieber, it is not certain what life after college has in store for him.

But one thing is for sure: he was a hard worker at Waynesburg and that is something that he will be able to use in all of his future endeavors, whether it be work related or on the mat.

Leavell: RB takes advantage of redshirting Continued from AA10

“It was great being a part of those teams,” Leavell said.

“Coming from a program in high school that didn’t win a whole lot of games, I wasn’t used to winning. Being a part of those teams and playing with some really good players made it memorable.”

Besides the knee injury, Leavell faced one other major challenge as a studentathlete.

“A big one would be time management,” Leavell said. “Prioritizing between school work, practices, training and film all while trying to maintain somewhat of a social lvife is very difficult for student-athletes. As a student-athlete you have try and find somewhat of a balance between those. I had to learn very quickly as to which priorities were more important and which were not.”

Tyler Wolfe, Yellow Jacket

Willie Leavell, pictured above, medically red shirted a year, giving him a fifth year of eligibility in football.

Shepas did not see any of those challenges bother Leavell and would love to have more players like him.

“Willie Leavell was a great player for us through five sea-

sons finishing his career as a redshirt senior,” Shepas said.

“I have had many big game memories here at Waynesburg over the last four or five years and Willie Leavell is in

every one of them. A blocked punt to beat Thomas More, kick returns for touchdowns and a big player in several two-minute situational drives. The thing that stood out most with Willie is his success off the field and in the classroom. Never once a discipline issue and respected by all of his peers and faculty.”

Leavell mentioned that he made the right choice to come to Waynesburg because of everything he learned from the football program not just as a player but as a person.

“The influence they’ve [coaching staff] had on me extends way beyond football,” Leavell said. “Especially coach Shepas because he taught me not only how to be a better player but a better man and all around better person. I’ve learned so many lessons that will stick with me always, and for that I’m very grateful.”

Huwe: Thrower enjoyed success on and off field Continued from AA10

media major at Waynesburg, but has been involved with almost all of the different organizations within the communications department – focusing the most on WCTV. Rose got involved early: she was named assistant general manager for WCTV and produced a weekly sports show from her freshman year to her junior year.

She is also the president of Lambda Pi Eta, the communications honors society.

While the life of a studentathlete can be difficult, Falvo said after her freshman year on campus Rose got the hang of it.

“I think you have to be a very detail-oriented and a very special person to balance of that,” said Falvo. “But the way you have to balance it as a per-

son is challenging and Rose, again, late sophomore year, junior and senior year, did a great job of that. " Rose said her freshman year was a learning experience on juggling a busy workload.

“It’s definitely a trial and error type of thing,” said Rose.

Now, at the end of her senior year as team captain, she’s been able to take everything she has learned in her time here and be a role model for the underclassmen.

Looking back on her collegiate athletic career, Rose sees that she didn’t push her physical limits until her junior year, when she started to get serious with her training and preparation.

Her hard work is now paying off, she’s having the ideal senior season: throwing personal bests in all of her events, winning her first medal—a third place at the 2016 Indoor

PAC Championships—and most recently re-breaking her own school record in the hammer throw.

“I think I’m just motivated. I only have a couple more meets left and then I’m done with my track career,” said Rose. “I think, just knowing that I want to go out on a really good note, I want to go out saying ‘I did everything I could have done.’”

Falvo said he is has been able to see Rose improve, especially her senior year.

“I think it’s been really a testament to her focus. ...But her focus and her practice and her preparation, not only during season, but in the off season, in the summer, has improved.

Her nutrition, how she’s working out, how she’s taking care of her body: she’s really calculated in doing that and it’s really been a good thing and it’s really shown,” said Falvo.

Falvo said when Rose came

in as a freshman she had a lot of potential but lacked confidence: now he is proud of what Rose has been able to accomplish.

But he said the growth that he has seen in Rose in her time here has been something that he referred to as fantastic to be a part of.

She’ll get one more chancewith her Waynesburg track and field jersey on to prove what she can do – the PAC Championships.

She said she is motivated and she’s set realistic goals for her last meet.

Rose said as long as she gives it her all and has done all that she possibly can, then she’ll be proud of herself, no matter what the results are.

“Win or lose, it’s going to be special,” said Rose. “I’m sad to see it end, but I’m mainly excited for it [to have happened].”

SECTION B

APRIL 21, 2016 | WAYNESBURG UNIVERSITY | THEYELLOWJACKET.ORG

Fundraising ongoing to bring Guatemalan student to U.S.

By JACOB MEYER Sports Editor

A group of students, faculty and staff at Waynesburg University is raising money to bring a student from Patzun, Guatemala to Waynesburg, Pennsylvania.

Kimberly Chivichon Ruiz,

18, is well known by those who have gone on any of the mission trips to Guatemala in the last 15 years.

Ruiz is currently taking classes at the local college in Guatemala, but Pat Bristor, associate dean of students, said it is her eventual goal to be a bilingual secretary in Guate-

mala.

“This opportunity for her to come do some practical training and get some coursework would really be beneficial for her career in Guatemala,” Bristor said.

Bristor, who has gone on the trip for the last 10 years, has built a relationship with

Ruiz from the beginning.

“She’s one of the children at the center that we’ve watched grow up over the last 15 years,” Bristor said. “We know her pretty well. She’s one of the few children that speaks English more fluently than the others, so we’re able to have a good conversation with her because

she speaks English, and she’s really been practicing and learning.”

The plan is for Ruiz to come to the United States in December 2016 or January 2017 and have her stay until the Waynesburg University mission trip goes to Guatemala in May 2017.

While in Waynesburg, she will stay with both Bristor and Heidi Szuminsky, vice president for Institutional Advancement and University Relations, who has also participated in the Guatemala mission trip.

MISSION >> B6

Student leaders target Fall 2016 completion for nature trail project

By SAMANTHA CHADWICK For the Yellow Jacket

With summer break quickly approaching, students and faculty have been working diligently to improve the campus nature trail and restore the forest around it.

The nature trail was a project that Nate Ribar, senior environmental science and biology major, proposed to Janet Paladino, associate professor of biology, at the start of the school year.

“He came to me and said that he wanted to create a legacy since he was a senior,” said Paladino.

After further discussion, Paladino was sold on the idea and agreed to help Ribar make his mark. But Ribar said the creation of the trail was less about him and more about those from the university.

“I don’t think there was really any one reason that I wanted to create the nature trail. It was just something I had the desire to do,” said Ribar. “That being said, I really wanted to create a nature trail on campus because I thought that it would be good to have an outdoor space for students, faculty and eventually the general public.”

Ribar knew of an old, existing trail that began near Martin Hall and ended in the

Thayer Hall parking lot, said Paladino, which is what has been used as the foundation for the current nature trail.

Paladino said the existing trail reportedly used to serve as an exercise trail for the university many years ago.

Students in the BIO 295 field biology class have put in lots of work into revitalizing that old trail.

With the nature trail as the primary goal, students in the class have been focusing on adding an outdoor classroom to it.

“Itís going to be amphitheater-style with three sets of seats and a podium,” said Paladino.

Paladino said there’s value in going out into nature for writers, artists and those involved in service work. This is something that will be there for the entire university to utilize.

“The hope is that it will be used by classes to just go and enjoy being outside and learning,” Ribar said. “It isnít just reserved to biology classes. I hope that everyone gets the chance to go out and use it.”

While creating a nature trail that is both beautiful and useful is the ultimate goal, Paladino said restoring the forest around it is also

Students' dedication puts Mini Relay on pace to break fundraising record

By BRENDAN KEANY Op/Ed Editor

Walking through Johnson Commons on Sunday, April 17 resembled a fair or carnival with booths set up along the grass and students walking around the square.

Students, clubs and organizations were working to raise money to fight cancer through the annual Waynesburg University Mini Relay for Life.

According to Kelley Hardie, assistant dean of students and coordinator of the university’s Relay for Life, this year’s fundraiser may have been one of the best ever.

“Things went fantastic. I think the weather definitely helped,” said Hardie. “But I think the students were absolutely amazing. They were really dedicated and hardworking, and the event just went very, very well – very smooth.”

Relay for Life is one of the programs that incorporates several different clubs and organizations TRAIL >> B6 on campus. Each group fundraises

much money as possible in order to reach set goals.

Lori Williams, president of the Sociology Club, decided to sell a product to raise money.

“The Sociology Club created a team last semester in hopes of raising money for those affected by leukemia cancer,” said Williams. “We set a goal of $300 and collected money through online donations and selling Bahama Breeze smoothies at the event on campus.”

Williams and the Sociology Club were able to significantly beat their goal, raising $530 between the donations and smoothie sales.

All together, Waynesburg University is on pace to beat its goal, and in turn, set a campus record for the amount of money raised.

“We’re almost at $16,000 right now,” said Hardie. “The money isn’t due until Friday the 22, so hopefully we’ll be able to reach our goal of $20,000.”

AlRELAY >> B6

Jenny Schouppe, Yellow Jacket

Waynesburg students filled Johnson Commons on April 17 to support the university's annual Mini Relay fundraiser.

The event has already raised over $16,000 for the American Cancer Society.

Waynesburg, like all colleges, combats issue of sex assault Student-led event aims to raise awareness Despite complexity,

By MATTIE WINOWITCH Editorial Assistant

Students gathered in Alumni Hall for the annual Take Back the Night presentation Thursday, April 12.

The purpose of the event was to educate students about sexual assault, as well as to give a voice to those who have experienced it.

The event was coordinated by many, but was led by senior Megan Lavely and junior Renée Belisky. Lavely said that to hold an event like this on campus is important because a lot of students don’t take it seriously.

“For me, it’s very important to have this, especially Tyler Wolfe, Yellow Jacket with some of the things you hear on campus, things like, University students hosted Take Back the Night April 12 to inform and raise ‘that test raped me,’ or dif- awareness about the issue of sexual assault among youths. ferent disgusting comments,” said Lavely. “I feel like it’s a and help you if you’re yelling had been a rise in sexual as- in the crowd to stand up and topic that’s more brushed rape,” said Lavely. saults in the past few months. share their stories. under the rug.”

T h e pre s e nte rs a l s o Other parts of the preThe program ended on a The presentation started brought up the myth that sentation included a spoken light note with refreshments out with a brief introduction girls are supposedly the word by senior chemistry and a balloon release in

by Lavely and Belisky who only ones who are affected major Cassandra Gates, sta- Johnson Commons. Those then took turns explaining by sexual assault. They made tistics, informational videos in attendance were encourwhat sexual assault was, ad- sure to point out that men go and personal testimonies. aged to write their regrets dressing the problem of vic- through it, too.

Lavely said that personal or painful memories on the tim blaming and describing “It’s an issue that doesn’t testimonies are the most balloons, as the release was the bystander effect, which discriminate,” said Belisky. moving part of the entire symbolic of letting go. is when people observe what They brought the issue presentation, as they literally Overall, Lavely was apthey think could be a sexual closer to Waynesburg when give a voice to the voiceless. preciative of the attendance assault but assume someone they showed a map on the “It’s shedding light on from students, and hopes else will call the police. presentation screen in which people you wouldn’t expect, that they each took some“A lot of people might there was a small yellow dot and brings it closer to home,” thing away from the event. have heard that when you’re with about six or seven red said Lavely.

“I’m so glad that we had in New York City and you’re dots surrounding it. The yelThe personal testimonies such a great turnout tonight,” being sexually assaulted you low dot represented Waynes- began with those who vol- said Lavely. “It means a lot should yell ‘fire’ because peo- burg University, while the unteered before the presen- for members of our univerple will come and watch a fire red dots represented nearby tation started, but there was sity to come out and show burn, but they won’t come universities in which there also an opportunity for those support for such a big issue.”

WU believes Title IX policy is effective

By JACOB MEYER Sports Editor

According to the Association of American Universities (AAU), 23 percent of female college students experienced unwanted sexual contact while in college. A study that is commonly cited is from the Center for Disease Control (CDC) states one in five women will be sexually assaulted in their lifetime.

Those numbers are concerning, but actually are far more complex than they seem, according to Director of Human Resources at Waynesburg University Tom Helmick, who is in charge of overseeing the reporting of sexual assaults and other Title IX violations.

For example, numbers in studies from AAU and CDC are almost always higher than the number who have reported such crimes to police.

Discrepancies between sexual assaults that occur and those that are reported to police or campus authorities makes finding an accurate picture of the scope of the problem difficult, Helmick said.

“Are those numbers accurate? I don’t know if they’re accurate or not; no one does,” Helmick said.

Despite the complexity of the issue at the national level, Helmick, who serves

as the Title IX coordinator at Waynesburg University, believes the sexual assault policy at Waynesburg University is a thorough process to ensure fairness for all parties involved.

“You never want sexual assault to happen, whether it’s on a college campus or outside of a college campus. That’s never something you want to happen,” Helmick said. “Unfortunately, it does happen in the world. Obviously, we react and report on things that are reported to us.”

As the coordinator, Helmick oversees all complaints made to the university about discrimination, harassment, sexual assault and stalking, among many others under the Title IX policy.

While Title IX has a baseline that all colleges must follow, Helmick said colleges, including Waynesburg University, individualize the policy to fit the specific university.

The policy, which is listed in the university Code of Conduct on myConnect, lays out the procedure for sexual assault complaints.

The procedure begins with the initial complaint being reported to someone at the university, whether that’s Helmick, someone in Student ASSAULT >> B6

Page B2

SPJ BEST ALL-AROUND N O N - DA I LY F I N A L I S T

Leave your ‘Nate moment’ and serve others JOHN LYDIC Senior Columnist

EDITORIAL Executive Editor Managing Editors

Sports Editor Asst. Sports Editor Sports Convergence Editor Op/Ed Editor News Digest Editor Copy Editor Graphic Design Editor Chief Photographer Photography Editor Multimedia Manager Multimedia Team Copy Chief Editorial Assistants

Asst. Advertising Directors

ADVISORS Richard Krause Brandon Szuminsky

Kimmi Baston Anthony Conn Shon Meade Mitch Kendra Jacob Meyer Kyle Dawson RJ Leisie Brendan Keany Ryan Schwertfeger Mary Hoffman Whitney Waters Jenny Schouppe Tyler Wolfe Annie McGlaughlin Emily Hackman Teghan Simonton Tim Neral Chelsey Withers Jodie Alexander Luke Goodling Mattie Winowitch Casey Heimberger Autumn Foust

Editorials in the left-hand column represent the views of the Yellow Jacket. Letters from readers, columns, cartoons and other elements on the editorial page do not necessarily reflect the position of this newspaper and university.

EDITORIALS

Professors pile on Staggered due dates yield better work

It’s really perplexing to us as to why professors wait until the last week of the semester for the large projects and end-of-theyear assignments to be due.

Of course, there are a number of things that professors could say in response to our gripe. We could work ahead and not procrastinate, sure. We could develop better time management - which would fall under the same category as procrastination, yet they are still different. And yes, students do not always handle the stresses of the final two weeks with the highest efficiency.

However, it still begs the questions as to why the largest projects seemingly always have to be due at the end of the semester?

First off, many of the projects or capstone papers and essays feel much more like busy work - a big project for the sake of saying there’s a big project.

Second, if professors really wanted the best work from their students, then they would not push the largest assignments to the end. If we have three or four huge assignments due in the last week, the chances of us putting our best effort toward each of them are extremely slim.

With the added stress, lack of time and the “just get it done” attitude, the quality of work takes a severe hit in the final two weeks.

It is understood that our final projects are supposed to reflect a culmination of what we have learned in the class throughout the semester. However, we believe it would be more beneficial to stagger the major projects and assignments so that the quality of our work, and our lives, doesn’t fall too low.

April 21 , 2016

Leave your impact like tomorrow won't come. Tomorrow is no guarantee.

We are not promised college. We are not promised a job after. We certainly are not promised anything.

Just three short months ago, my life and many others from one community were changed forever. The Penn Hills community lost one of its most promising young people when Geneva College freshman Nathaniel Ferraco was killed in a car crash while heading back to school.

Nate was only 18, but he had already given life everything he had. A promising student and stellar athlete, we were all better because of meeting Nate and seeing his wonderful smile.

Although many of us will never get to hug him again or see that perfect smile, Nate

is still making his impact felt by everyone that touched him. We are not guaranteed tomorrow.

As my four years as a student at Waynesburg are coming to an end, I sit back and ask, what impact have I left on the university? And I ask many of my fellow seniors, and even the juniors, what will you leave if today is your last?

Since Nateís death, I have looked at how I can make an impact and what I have done to help make this university, these people and this community better.

My contribution is not a school record or a large donation, but one of a serving kind. As students at Waynesburg, we are asked to embody the mission of faith, learning and service. It is to become not just something we do, but a mentality with which we think.

For myself, that was through the Bonner program and helping young children of this community. I have

worked with students ranging from ages 3-18. These students did not know me and I did not know them, but we leave knowing more about each other than any of us ever could have imagined.

We cannot dwell on the past, but rather we must prepare the future. I took the opportunity to leave just a small impact on what will become of this community, this region and this country's future.

If you have not served as underclassmen or have only had a small taste from service learning, I urge you to do more.

You do not have to serve kids. Find your own niche, but get to know this community.

Most of us will spend four years or more at this university and in this community.

Spend time to not just observe this place--take time to know it and know the people.

Serving will open your eyes to wonders and understandings you may have never thought were possible.

Serving is not about doing it for a class requirement or to make yourself feel better, or even for leaving an impact.

It is about helping these people and this community become better through teaching and serving, not just giving.

Now whether these children or the university will remember me long after I'm gone is not of my worry.

I just hope in some small shape or form, I have touched and left a minor impact on a community that has given so much to many of us.

We are given the opportunity for life, liberty and a pursuit of happiness. We are guaranteed nothing else.

We are not guaranteed tomorrow or a chance of success, but we can make a difference, just like Nate.

So to all students what difference will you make in your four years?

Leave your "Nate moment" and that will be your greatest achievement at Waynesburg University.

We've learned a lot here; time to prove it JENNY SCHOUPPE Senior Columnist

Four years ago, I stepped foot on this campus as a freshman sports broadcasting/sports information major.

I was looking forward to playing softball, meeting new people, growing in my faith and discovering my purpose in life.

By my sophomore year, I had switched my major to journalism and decided, due to school and schedule conflict, to stop playing the one sport that had brought me so

much enjoyment for a majority of my life.

During this time, I had also experienced the loss of a few relationships and felt that I was simply going through the motions when it came to my faith.

I felt lost.

At this point, I had no idea what I wanted to do with my life or what I was passionate about.

I was always told that college would be the best time of my life, but I was struggling to believe that.

During my junior year, I started to get heavily involved in the school newspaper; specifically the photography aspect of it.

Back in high school, I was also involved in the newspaper and photography, so I felt comfortable for one of the first times since starting college.

It was also during this time that journalism wasn’t something I simply felt comfortable with but was something I actually enjoyed doing.

I enrolled in a profile and feature writing class my junior year. This class showed me that I really enjoyed writing feature pieces.

The class focused on how using someone’s personal story can be an effective way to shine light on big issues.

I loved investing my time and energy into people and

their stories. Everyone has a story. As a journalist, it is my job to tell those stories. As a photographer, it’s my job to capture an accurate account of those stories. I feel it is an amazing privilege to have a source trust me and allow me into their life and then share their story with the public.

Every piece I write, I hope to do it justice. I’ve spent day after day with sources, getting to know their routines, likes and dislikes. I’ve asked awkward questions.

I’ve shared laughs with a pipeliner as he told me stories of what it took to live such a SCHOUPPE >> B3

Seniors leave their mark

WU needs more green

Teamwork can create better recycling program With the hope that student and administrative leadership can work together, we believe that the campus of Waynesburg University, one of the most beautiful among Christian schools, can be made even more beautiful and green.

The Student Senate has worked to expand and implement recycling on campus, even hiring student workers to collect recyclables in campus buildings and dormitories. That’s certainly a good start, but what about trying to recycle even more items than we already do?

A student speak was recently held about recycling, and students are not only environmentally aware of the benefits of recycling, but the millennial generation is “all in” for singlestream recycling opportunities.

What about placing recycling bins next to trash cans around campus? Likewise, what about encouraging positive, green behaviors around campus by trying to minimize an item students and faculty alike use quite often: plastic water bottles? When water fountains need to be replaced, or if there are fountains that are clearly not working as well as they should, they should be replaced with the type of water fountains found in Stover and Stewart that enable a reusable water bottle fill-up option.

Both of these suggestions would cost money, but we hope that if both the administration and the Student Senate can work together, it will not only benefit students, faculty and the campus as a whole, but it will also have a positive impact on the greater world in which we live.

NEWSPAPER POLICY The Yellow Jacket is the student-operated newspaper of Waynesburg University funded by student fees and advertisements and is intended for the entire college community. The Yellow Jacket is produced by the student staff on a weekly basis during the academic year. The office of the Yellow Jacket is located in room 400 of Buhl Hall. It is the right of the Yellow Jacket to print all material deemed newsworthy and gathered in a fair and unconditional manner. No advance copies of stories will be shown, and reporters' notes are considered confidential. No "off the record" information will be accepted.

ADVERTISING POLICY Anyone wishing to advertise in the Yellow Jacket should email the advertising director at jacketads@waynesburg.edu.

Ads must be submitted by the Monday before publication date and not conflict with the university mission.

Tyler Wolfe, Yellow Jacket

Graduating Yellow Jacket staff members include, from left to right, Anthony Conn, Jenny Schouppe, Whitney Waters, Mary Hoffman, Time Neral and John Lydic.

Unpredictability awaits, and it's just fine ANTHONY CONN Senior Columnist

No matter where you are in your collegiate career, there is always something to learn and something to appreciate.

I can honestly say that my time at Waynesburg has been a very good experience.

Throughout my three years here, however, I’ve noticed some people that like to focus on the negatives.

A lot of students have complained to me saying the campus is not diverse enough, there is nothing to do in town and that everything is too small. Oh, and the food is bad.

Perhaps I did not encounter people of every race and creed during every class period or experience a myriad of nightlife after those classes.

Maybe the food wasn’t very good at times. But if

you come into college with a detailed checklist, you’re almost always going to be disappointed.

My message to current students is to be thankful for what you have and to not let your own expectations ruin your college experience. Focus on what really matters.

I remember my first class of my first semester on a Monday morning and sitting next to a guy that would end up being my best friend.

I remember taking a threehour car ride to Gettysburg with two soon-to-be friends for life that I had only known for a week at the time.

Walking into Buhl Hall for the first time, I saw juniors and seniors that seemed to have everything together.

They were the leaders of the television station, newspaper and many other facets of the Department of Communication.

I remember meeting this year’s seniors when they were

freshmen, just catching their stride in the hustle-bustle of the department and other campus life.

I would be remiss if I didn’t thank those seniors, especially J.D. Lydic and Creg Milko, for sitting down and talking with me as a freshman when I visited campus as an eventual transfer in the spring of 2013.

As a Yellow Jacket, I soon saw a way to continue my love for broadcast as a part of WCTV. I remember being nervous beyond belief auditioning to anchor on the newscast, and even more anxious as I interviewed for the general man-

ager position six months later.

In two years as WCTV general manager, I witnessed tremendous growth in Waynesburg’s television program. I saw my people skills develop by dealing with many small-department problems.

In the end, I’m proud of what our program has been able to do even when we didn’t always have the best circumstances.

The tough days were bearable because I genuinely enjoyed my job, and I wanted freshmen to feel welcome and CONN >> B3

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Letters to the editor are encouraged as a method to bring issues of concern into the public eye. Letters should be typed, limited to 300 words, signed and include a phone number for confirmation. Letters may be submitted to 400 Buhl Hall, sent to the Yellow Jacket via campus mail or via email to jacket@waynesburg.edu. Letters may also be sent to Yellow Jacket, 400 Buhl Hall, Waynesburg University, 51 W. College St., Waynesburg, Pa. 15370. All letters must be received by 5 p.m. the Monday of any publication week.

April 21, 2016

Page B3

Realize your opportunities and your people We all can be heroes; we have to decide to 'put on the cape' MARY HOFFMAN

Senior Columnist

As a freshman, I didn't expect much to happen to me during my college experience.

I didn't expect to travel to the Dominican Republic or to Jackson, Mississippi.

I didn't expect to present at an international conference.

I didn't expect to graduate just to go on to more school.

Yet, all of these things, and so many others, have happened within the last four years.

If there's one lesson that Iíve learned in college, it is to take advantage of every opportunity, even ones that might seem insignificant or will push you outside of your comfort zone.

Take classes that challenge every belief you have. Go on mission trips to places you've never heard of. Join student organizations.

Add a minor in a subject

that intrigues you. That's what college is all about or at least, in my opinion, it should be.

I didn't come to this conclusion immediately, and I surely did not come to this conclusion by myself.

But as a soon-to-be alumnus, I encourage all of you not to wait as long as I did.

Start taking advantage of the opportunities now. Rest assured: you won't regret it.

As a senior, I have come to realize that I have done nothing by myself. For that, I'd be

amiss not to personally thank a few who've helped me along the way: to my family, especially my mom, dad, grandma Ruediger and grandma Hoffman, thank you for supporting all my endeavors with love.

To my professors, especially Jill Moyer Sunday and Dr. Solomon, I wouldn't be a teacher if it weren't for you.

Finally to my grandpa for his invaluable lessons and love throughout 21 years, this day is for you.

Conn: Narrowed direction brings purpose Continued from B2

appreciated like I was when I was a new student.

I saw my interests narrow from basically everything television to strictly television news, and I developed an interest in journalism thanks to excellent faculty and upperclassmen.

Pretty soon I was a member of the Yellow Jacket newspaper staff and took on an entirely new bundle of responsibilities, but oddly enough, I’ve loved it.

I’ve also had the tremendous opportunity for the past two years to broadcast the Gospel to the surrounding community on 99.5 The Hive as the host of two specialty

A message from our Graphic Design Editor WHITNEY WATERS Senior Columnist

Editors Note: Graphic Design Editor Whitney Waters chose not to write a column, but still has a message to share with readers: "I have learned much and have been given amazing opportunities.

I can honestly say I love what I do and what I'm going to do as a graphic designer."

radio shows on two opposite ends of the musical spectrum: rap and metal.

My hope is and has always been that people see that music is about the message, not just the “noise.”

At the end of the day, it’s not about the activities you do in college, but about how you conduct yourself and treat those around you.

Don’t let your activities rule you, and don’t let them hold weight against those you love.

The sooner you get your priorities in order, the better you will be on this campus and anywhere in life. Ask yourself why you do what you do. There were days when I wanted to just stay in bed and not walk up Buhl hill, but I

knew that people relied on me and me on them. There were times when I know I gained some gray hairs.

On the other hand, there were also many times – probably too many count – I knew that a 1 a.m. food run with a carload of friends was the right thing to do. Or staying up a little late to have a genuine conversation with someone or a prayer group was totally worth it.

There is enough negativity out there, so if your heart is not in whatever you do, I hope you have the guts to make the right decision.

Remember that it is perfectly fine not to have everything together. In fact, don’t.

It’s okay.

I tend to be a perfection-

ist, but it is a dangerous way of life. Learn to accept failure every once in a while. Don’t settle for it, but realize your limitations, and of course, the limitations of others. Show grace, because we were first shown grace by God. There was a time when I was lost in my collegiate career, a confused freshman soon-to-be transfer without a firm grasp on where I would be months down the road.

I remember the feeling well, and as a graduating senior, I have discovered the very same feeling once again.

But this time is different, because I have too much to fondly look back on, and I’ve learned to be much more appreciative of what God has given me.

TIM NERAL Senior Columnist

When asked to write a senior column, I could think of only one thing: leaving a hyperlink to a movie trailer.

Thanks to my college education here at Waynesburg, I know that hyperlinks don’t work in a physical newspaper, so I’m writing about what that hyperlink would have led to.

That hyperlink would have led to the third official trailer of Zach Snyder’s “Man of Steel.” Here’s why.

The trailer is digital perfection and has a hopeful message for the millennial generation.

Kevin Costner, playing Jonathan Kent, says to Clark, “I have to believe that you were sent here for a reason and even if it takes you the rest of your life, you owe it to yourself to find out what that reason is.”

That message is one I pass along to all of you, as well as to myself. We all have a role to play, a bar to set, a mark to leave. I believe a fair amount of us came to Waynesburg not having a concrete idea of what that role was. Chances

are some of us still don’t, but I would ask you not to quit.

I would ask you to refuse to lose. I believe that despite never-ending adversity and immeasurable doubt, there is an inherent fire within us all that only burns brighter when tested.

Not only do we owe it to ourselves: we owe it to the world.

Russell Crowe, playing JorEl, later says, “You will give the people of Earth an ideal to strive towards. They will race behind you. They will stumble, they will fall. But in time, they will join you in the sun. In time, you will help them accomplish wonders.”

It seems quite exaggerated to say that we as Waynesburg graduates and students of a university--which in the grand scheme of the world map resembles an uninhabited anthill—will make such an impact.

But is it? Is it not possible?

Was it not so impossible for so many of the celebrities and athletes that now hold the spotlight?Perhaps we can leave an ideal to strive towards--maybe not one for the people of Earth--but for our families, friends, peers and our community.

We can all be heroes. All it takes is the courage and the will to put on the cape.

Schouppe: Journalism provided direction Continued from B2

unique lifestyle. I’ve cried with a daughter of an Alzheimer’s patient.

I’ve even had the chance to learn a few dance steps from when I wrote a profile piece on a 12-year old pageant queen. Not only have I learned a lot, but I have met amazing people and experienced a lot of stories along the way.

This major and the Department of Communication have provided me with endless opportunities.

Some of my best friends are in this department. Some of the best mentors I have ever had are in this department. This department has become my family over these four years.

The Department of Communication encourages its students and

genuinely wants them to succeed.

I have been able to receive a great education, while also learning what it takes to intertwine my faith with my passions of photography and writing.

Throughout college, I have struggled to figure out God’s plan for my life. Honestly, there are still a lot of unknowns. But what I do know is that I feel journalism has given me a gypsy heart and a curiosity to see how the rest of the world lives.

I have lived in Pennsylvania my whole life, so as a journalist, I want to challenge myself, learn and explore.

I want to photograph new places, meet and listen to more people’s stories and experience all that I can.

American author Ray Bradbury once said, “Any man who keeps

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE CLASS OF 2016 FROM THE YELLOW JACKET STAFF

working is not a failure.

He may not be a great writer, but if he applies the old-fashioned virtues of hard, constant labor, he’ll eventually make some kind of career for himself as a writer.” I have all the tools needed to become a great writer, thanks to all those who have helped me along the way.

Though I was lost in the beginning, I have found my way.

College has consisted of some of the best and worst times of my life. I have gained friendships that will last a lifetime. I’ve learned and grown tremendously.

But most importantly, Waynesburg University is the place where I found myself and found the talents with which God gifted me.

Now it’s my job to go out into the world and use everything I’ve gained and learned to make a difference.

Page B4

April 21, 2016

April 21, 2016

Page B5

2016 Student Senate Board elected, sworn into office

By BRENDAN KEANY Op/Ed Editor

Student Senate elections wrapped up Thursday of last week, and 10 senators have been chosen to represent the student body.

The swearing-in ceremony occurred Tuesday, as all of the recently elected positions, including executive staff, were read their duties and responsibilities and agreed to accept.

One newly elected senator, junior Matt McDermott, decided to get involved in Student Senate for his senior year because he was tired of hearing ideas: he wanted to see them placed into action.

“Over the past couple years at Waynesburg, myself as well as people that I’ve gotten to know, have all had these different ideas about Waynesburg and the things that we love and the things that we’d like to see change,” said McDermott. “Over the years, I felt like I did a whole lot of talking about that, but

Megan Cook, Yellow Jacket

Newly elected Waynesburg Student Senators from each class level gathered for the swearing in ceremony Tuesday.

I never really did anything proactive.”

McDermott didn’t want to be hypocritical in his approach to affecting change on campus.

“If I wanted to see something change in past years, I would only talk about seeing it change, but I never went

out and kind of chased that myself,” he said.

On the flip side, sophomore Nick Cordova will be returning for his junior year as a re-elected senator, and he firmly believes in the principles of the Student Senate.

“I felt that my service this past year has helped advance

the interests of the students, and I want to continue representing them,” said Cordova.

As a new senator, McDermott already possesses several ideas on ways to improve the school, even if they are small.

There are a lot of things on campus that students want

to see changed such as parking and food service issues; however, McDermott wants to focus on things that students can actually impact.

“I’ve been talking to a couple of people recently, and one person said that they’d like to see more bikes on campus, putting in bike racks and stuff like that,” said McDermott. “Someone had suggested a place for commuters to go, and the person described it like a commuter house, for example taking one of the on-campus houses that we have and transforming it into something that the commuters can use.”

Cordova has a similar approach to his work as a senator. In fact, he points to the initiative he takes when coming up with ideas and hearing things that his constituents want. However, he is willing to put a pen to paper to get the process of change moving. “[I have a] willingness to write bills and to vote ‘no’ when necessary,” said Cor-

dova, on what he offers to Senate. “I also try to get directly to the heart of issues and bring the rest of the Senate along with me.”

Cordova wants to improve the efficiency of Senate for the upcoming year.

He believes that the way in which student clubs and organizations receive money from Student Senate should change.

“We are working on reforming the process by which clubs request additional funding to save time and make sure that we are spending wisely,” he said.

2016-2017 Senate President Ryan Schwertfeger also appointed, with confirmation from the newly sworn in Senate, a new Treasurer.

Nobody had run for the position previously, so it was the former Social Vice President, Anthony Juliani, who got the official nod.

The Senate will hold their first meeting the first Tuesday at 5:30 p.m. once the next academic year begins.

Band back together for annual show Forensic Science Club

raises drug awareness with community event

By JOEY BUCHANAN

For the Yellow Jacket

Community concert returns to campus April 23, offers variety of music, sounds

By ANNIE MCGLAUGHLIN Multimedia

Preparations for the annual GNP, Gross National Product, concert are underway on campus. The concert, which is in its 46th year, will be held April 23 at 7:30 p.m. in the Goodwin Preforming Arts Center (GPAC).

The story behind the annual music event dates back to Assistant Professor of Communication and Director of Television Operations, Bill Molzon’s high school days of rock n’ roll.

“The origin of GNP begins with my New Jersey high school rock n’ roll band; where I was raised,” said Molzon. “If you were a high school student who wanted to play in a rock band, there were not [many] better areas of the country to live in.”

Molzon and his band wanted to be different than the other bands in the area, so they hired a female lead singer. The band then needed material to play.

GNP >> B6

Photo courtesy of Bill Ingalls, ‘87 alumnus

The band performs in the GPAC every year for the campus and community. Faculty, staff, students, alumni, original band members and community members make up the band. Former members travel across the country to attend and play in the annual concert.

Although the semester is coming to an end, a few Forensic Science Club students have managed to maintain their motivation, choosing to spend time at an after-school program for middle school and high school students.

“The Communities that Care program promotes drug and alcohol awareness for children as well as gives them a safe place to go to every Wednesday after school,” said Jelena Kyle, president of the Forensic Science Club.

Six members of Waynesburg University’s Forensic Science Club were invited April 13 to West Sides, located across from the Pennsylvania Live Stock Auction, to talk about the impact of drugs and the dangers of using them, and to provide the 12 children with a mock crime scene.

“Usually, whenever we do our talks, it’s to high school kids,” said Kyle. “Some of these kids were in sixth grade so it was nice to know that we got to talk to them before they got into high school.”

Children at the program were given the chance to be the lead investigator of a mock crime that involved a drug overdose. The kids had to collect evidence and interview someone in order to figure out what happened at the scene.

“Not only did they get how much work it takes to process a crime scene, but for some of them it might [have given] them a possible career opportunity,” said Kyle.

During the presentation, students talked about the impact of drugs and the consequences of getting in

trouble for drug use. They also presented the students with before and after pictures of people that use drugs to show the physical impacts to the body.

According to Faith Musko, instructor of forensic science, heroin is a drug that is prominent in the town of Waynesburg, and it is important that high school students that have a higher vulnerability to drugs and drug abuse see what these drugs actually do to the human body.

“We all have a responsibility to keep the community healthy, to keep the community positive and to keep the community informed because the more informed people are the better choices they can make,” said Musko.

Kyle said there aren’t many local high schools that provide programs such as this one. The kids at West Sides were very interested in listening to the information that the university students were presenting to them, according to Kyle.

“I think that it has a bigger impact that kids closer to their age are coming to talk to them about this, not so much as an adult, where they might not pay attention as much to them because they aren’t as close in age,” said Kyle.

Kyle said the hard work was all worth it in the end, and gave them a chance to brush up on leadership skills and prior knowledge.

“We were kind of hesitant about doing this because it was a lot of work,” said Kyle.

“But once you put in that work and go do it, you see all the kids smiling faces and they’re all excited, you feel good about it. So we’re definitely doing it again.”

Theater students IACBE accredits Business Department perform one-act at Pittsburgh festival

By COLE LONG

For the Yellow Jacket

By MICHELLE FRYE

For the Yellow Jacket

When college students are asked to think of the tragedy of the Titanic, a common response is to visualize the characters in the fictional James Cameron movie.

However, the Waynesburg University Players have tried to break this misconception by performing their Spring 2016 student-directed oneact play, “The Last Lifeboat” on April 13, 2016 in the Goodwin Performing Arts Center.

“[‘The Last Lifeboat’] is a side of the Titanic story we don’t usually see,” said Michael Merten, junior history major and director of the student one-act play. “Generally people think ‘Jack froze to death, but he could have fit on the door.’ That character wasn’t on the real passenger list, but some of our characters were.”

According to Merten, “The Last Lifeboat” tells the historic lifelong story of J. Bruce Ismay, the man who

PLAY >> B6

Four years, 1,976 miles and countless careful hours of crafting multiple documents are just a few of the things that the Waynesburg University Business Department has done to become accredited by an international organization.

The Business Department was notified April 4, of their recent accreditation accepted by the International Assembly for Collegiate Business Education, IACBE. Team members of the IACBE were on campus in November to meet with the business professors and students about what Waynesburg is and what they would like to be-

come as a department.

The meetings ran very smoothly and were reassuring, according to Dr. Christian Ola, department chair.

“When they left here, I remember the six of us in the department saying, ‘this is the right thing,’” said Ola. “That is when we felt good about it, and we knew we were going in the right direction.”

The direction that Ola is referring to is becoming better as a whole department, since the IACBE is based on continuous improvement, but physically, he and Instructor of Business Administration Neeley Shaw were headed in the direction of Memphis, Tennessee.

The two traveled 1,976

miles during the week of April 4 to be recognized by the IACBE in Memphis for the accreditation.

They were part of multiple workshops each day that were meant to give them something to bring back to Waynesburg and use effectively in their respective classes. This addition was just a little bit extra to what they had planned before the accreditation process had started.

When the accreditation process started, Dr. Gordon McClung, professor of marketing, was still the department chair and was the one who led the operation, said Ola. “When Dr. McClung said that this was the right team

to go with, he was spot on,” said Ola. “He spearheaded this whole thing. Without him, we would still be sitting here wondering what we were doing.”

McClung had reasons in mind for the accreditation, as well as hopes for things that it could bring not only to the business department, but also to the university as a whole.

“I wanted to get us accredited for the benefit of all of the students,” said McClung.

“It doesn’t change my world, but it should really help all of the students because it means we have this standard that we have to live by. Knowing that your program is accredited ACCREDIT >> B6

Page B6

April 21, 2016

Stover Scholars recognize seniors during annual Pgh. trip

By SHON MEADE

Managing Editor.

Members of the Stover Scholar program took to the city of Pittsburgh this past Friday as a part of their annual Stover trip.

More than 20 students went on the trip, waking up in the early morning to depart from Waynesburg at 7 a.m.

Dr. Lawrence Stratton, assistant professor of Ethics and Constitutional Law and Director of the Stover Center for Constitutional Studies and Moral Leadership, saw many benefits from the things that were done.

“It was a powerful day,” said Stratton. “We learned about law and ethics and faith and public service all at once.”

The first stop of the day was to WYEP, an NPR radio station in Pittsburgh. While there, students met with onair DJ’s and got to see some of the behind the scenes aspects of the radio industry.

After the tour, the group

Photo courtesy of Colin Nelson

Pittsburgh District 5 Councilman Corey O'Connor met with students from the Waynesburg University Stover Scholars program and discussed his time on the City Council. then traveled to the Fort Pitt Museum for more insight on history.

Amongst the travels from the day, Stratton said the students also got to meet a variety of people in the city. One of the people they met was Corey O’Connor, councilman of District 5 of Pittsburgh.

Stratton said it was a great

experience to meet with a councilman who was so young.

“Our students, too, could be getting into that at a young age,” said Stratton.

Among the Stover Scholars who attended, freshman history major and political science minor Tyler McCoy experienced the annual trip

for the first time. In doing so, he also got to meet with the councilman.

“I felt it was beneficial for the Stover Scholars to meet with a local city councilman,” said McCoy. “The unique issues he and the other city council members deal with, such as urban revitalization.”

During the trip, the stu-

dents also stopped at Jones Day Law firm, which McCoy said was his favorite part.

“I am thinking of going to law school, so that is why Jones Day was such a great experience in my opinion,” said McCoy. Students also spent a part of their day checking out the architecture at the First Pres-

byterian Church in Pittsburgh.

The trip concluded at the Duquesne Club for a dinner recognizing the seniors in the program. Stratton said each senior was presented with a plaque. Previous Stover Scholars were also guests at the dinner.

“It was a reunion and a send off,” said Stratton.

Also in attendance at the dinner were Waynesburg University President and Mrs. Douglas Lee, along with Chancellor and Dr. Thyreen.

McCoy found a lot of value from attending the trip as a Scholar.

“This trip impacted me as a Stover Scholar because it allowed me to see into the careers of men and women in both public sector and private sector work,” said McCoy. “As Stover Scholars it is our job to change this country and our world no matter what line of work we enter into, so seeing so many different people who are all making a difference was great.”

Mission: Money raised Trail: Student's trail project to live on at WU to educate student Continued from B1

Continued from B1

“We didn’t really think about it; we just said that we would do it,” Bristor said.

“There are a limited amount of places that she could stay, and given the fact that she won’t have the means to live in an apartment, and she can’t live on campus, so we are opening our homes to accommodate her and make this a great experience for her.”

Kyle Digiandomenico, admissions recruiter and alumnus who attended the trip four times, is helping lead the fundraisers to bring Ruiz to the United States.

He thinks Ruiz being immersed in this culture is vital for her and her goals to become a bilingual secretary.

“She has that desire, that passion, and I think that’s something that when we see that fire and desire in a student that we want to help ignite and expand,” Digiandomenico said.

“Waynesburg University and Guatemala have seen fruits produced by bringing students here and letting them know that there are opportunities for them and if they work hard enough, if they get these good grades, they have an opportunity to make something of their lives and to be something great. And that’s something we really want her to understand and to see.”

This is the second time, the university has brought someone from Guatemala to the United States, Bristor said. A few years ago, another student was brought to Waynesburg and stayed with Bristor; but in this case, it was only for a month—compared to the five to six months for Ruiz.

The long time period, Digiandomenico said, will greatly improve Ruiz’s English, which is something he has seen grow throughout his trips to Guatemala.

“She speaks English very

well,” Digiandomenico said.

“Over the four years that we’ve gone down, she’s improved year after year, and that’s one of the reasons we want to bring her up for six months rather than just a month because coming up here and actually being in a dominant English speaking culture. She’s going to perfect the skills that she already has.”

While in the United States, Bristor said the goal is to enroll Ruiz in English courses to improve her language skills while she is here. Those courses cannot be at Waynesburg University, Bristor said, and she is not sure where Ruiz will get that education yet.

“I think for so many people in other countries, the American Dream to come to America is a dream that many of them have,” Bristor said.

“To go back and hopefully share and teach others English at the center and to really help what her life could be without this opportunity.

In Patzun, Guatemala, the poverty is overwhelming. It’s very poor, and to be given this opportunity to come to the states, to learn English, to go back and have a skill and to get a good job is going to be so life-changing for her. I can’t describe how much this is going to mean for her future.”

Bristor said while the total dollar amount is unknown, she believes it will take a minimum of $2,000 to get Ruiz to the United States.

Through a spaghetti dinner and the Guatemala luncheon within the past five weeks, $1,400 has already been raised.

Bristor said they plan to hold another spaghetti dinner in the fall semester.

“It really does touch my heart that this mission, this experience that our students have had over the last 15 years, has really touched them enough where they want to continue to give,” said Bristor.

a priority.

“It might look pretty, but in terms of an ecological perspective, it's not a very pretty forest,” she said. “Itís so disturbed and there’s lots of invasive species.”

The students of the field biology class have recently been planting some native plants.

Some of those plants include trillions, which are a very common wildflower of southwestern Pennsylvania.

Prior to planting such native plants, it was necessary to get rid of the ones that have been taking over the majority of the forest ground.

By ridding the forest of invasive species, native plants will hopefully grow in their place.

The future of the nature trail looks very bright, according to Ribar. There are

some plans in place but the nature trail is a campus wide project and everyone’s creative input is welcomed.

“In many ways, the future of the trail is dependent on the students who are willing to put something into it,” said Ribar. “I really hope that we have students in the future who are willing to do so.”

The nature trail is the only naturalized area on campus, said Paladino. She and the students who have worked on the project hope that people can come to understand the services that nature and God have provided by giving forests like the one surrounding the nature trail. Whether a person is looking to go for a peaceful walk or teaching a class, the nature trail is available to them.

Though there isn’t a definitive ending point for the nature trail, said Ribar, there is still a lot more to be com-

Tyler Wolfe ,Yellow Jacket

Shown above is a part of the planned nature trail that students are working on. The trail will connect Thayer and Martin residence halls. pleted.

“Starting out this year, I wasn’t exactly sure what all would be done to the trail.

I just wanted to get started,” Ribar said. “Now that the

year is coming to a close, I’m pleased with the progress that has been made, but more importantly, I’m excited about the interest that is being expressed for the future.”

Relay: Waynesburg optimistic about reaching goal Continued from B6

though the university is still $4,000 short of the goal, Hardie is optimistic.

“We are very far ahead from where we were last year, and I would say this is the most we have ever raised at this point after the event,” said Hardie.

“I’m very hopeful that we’ll be able to reach our goal of $20,000, and that would be the most we ever raised for the American Cancer Society [ACS] from our event.”

According to the ACS website, roughly 4,620 cases are diagnosed and 1,630 people die from cancer on a weekly basis.

Although cancer is still the leading cause of American deaths, there is some promising news in the field of treatment.

According to the Online Library, “The number of can-

cer survivors continues to increase due to the aging and growth of the population and improvements in early detection and treatment.”

Since many people are affected by cancer in some way or another, events such as Relay for Life are usually successful.

Hardie thinks that the attitude and perseverance of the student body allowed for a successful day.

“I think the students were really dedicated,” said Hardie.

“They really utilized the online fundraising off the Relay for Life webpage. WCYJ-FM had a very awesome fundraiser with their 24-hour broadcast.

Online alone they almost raised $2,000, so I think the students worked really, really hard to reach their goals.”

Furthermore, even with some added aspects and programs to the day, everything, according to Hardie, went off

without a hitch.

“We introduced a fun way to learn about cancer awareness facts through a passport that went along with our theme of ‘Relay Around the World,’ and that went very well,” said Hardie. “In addition to that, the Survivorship Hour was amazing as we had two really powerful survivor speakers, one of which Brian Tennant, who is the Greene County Sheriff. He just shared his amazing story about brain cancer and how he was able to overcome stage-4 brain cancer, and that just really what this day is all about.”

To echo her sentiments, Williams believes that the passion shown by students embodies the mission and purpose of the university as a whole.

“I believe this event is important on campus because of our commitment to the university’s mission of faith,

learning and service,” said Williams. “The relay event is just another way we can serve the community and those affected by cancer.

Although the event is now in the rear-view mirror, Hardie and the planning committee have already begun to think of new ways to improve and enhance the experience so that even more money can be raised next year.

“We would really love to improve advertisement; we would love to improve our social media presence, or lack thereof,” said Hardie. “We would love to improve the online fundraising – that was a huge success this year – so we want to see that grow. A new feature that we’re going to introduce next year is that each team will have online debit and credit card payment at their table, so it won’t just be cash, and those moneys will go directly to their online goal.”

Assault: Process involves several steps to thoroughly investigate allegations Continued from B6

Services or anyone else with the university, Helmick said.

Chris Hardie, assistant dean of Student Services, said the first step is if a student reports any incident, it must be forwarded to Helmick.

“The first step is once it’s reported to a staff member, we are obligated to take it to the next level or next step,” Hardie said. “If I hear that a student was sexually assaulted or raped, it is a must for me to take that to either the authorities or the Title IX investigative officer.”

Helmick then speaks with the person who made the complaint and assigns an in-

vestigator to the case.

“We have several investigators on campus who have been trained as Title IX investigators and they would conduct the investigation,” Helmick said. “They’re responsible for speaking to all parties involved: the accused student, the student who filed the complaint and any witnesses.”

Helmick said three investigators are appointed each year, and under the Title IX policy, the university trains the investigators, who are faculty or staff members at Waynesburg University. The training involves learning the policy and investigative techniques. Many times the investigators end up being

criminal justice professors, but that’s not always the case, Helmick said.

Hardie is one of the few investigating officers for Title IX policy violations on campus.

“If [Helmick] hears about some type of an assault or racism or anything like that, he’ll do a preliminary screening of some of the facts and then forward it off to an investigative officer who has been trained to interview a witness and write up a report,” Hardie said.

The investigator then makes a report to Helmick, who then decides if the case should be forwarded onto Student Services for a further hearing.

Following the hearing comes a decision, which

ranges anywhere from recommending counseling to removal from the university for a certain amount of time to irrevocable expulsion, Helmick said.

Following the decision from the hearing, an appeal can be filed challenging the decision from the hearing.

Helmick said the entire procedure can take anywhere from two weeks to two months, but there is a specific timeline listed in the policy.

“We want to resolve it as fast as possible,” Helmick said.

“The timeline is aggressive, and we try to follow it.”

The investigation followed by the university, according to Helmick, is completely separate from the investiga-

tion with the local police, if there is one.

“We advise the student that they have the opportunity to do that. Sometimes they don’t want to do that, though,” Helmick said.

Throughout the procedure, Helmick said, the university recommends students go to the counseling center at Waynesburg University.

“We make the opportunity for them to use counseling on campus,” Helmick said.

“Whatever happens with the counselor, we don’t get any of that information from that because that’s a therapist-patient relationship.”

As required by Title IX and the Clery Act, Hardie said all Title IX violations on campus

are disclosed.

“We are 100 percent honest and truthful about that,” Hardie said. “Regardless of what it looks like to the public, we are as honest as possible and it’s important to us that we are.”

Hardie said sexual assault is “one of the most heinous crimes you can see as a college administrator,” and that’s why he said the university is always looking to direct more resources to diminishing it.

“I think if you look across the country, I’ve seen similar statistics,” Hardie said. “Without even using my experience, the statistics aren’t going to lie.

If one in five females are going to be sexual assaulted, that’s a problem that people need to address and take seriously.”

April 21, 2016

Page B7

University plants Returning artist involves students in show tree to celebrate, honor Earth Day

By SHON MEADE Managing Editor

By TIM NERAL

Editorial Assistant

Each year, on April 22, people around the world celebrate the environment and sustainability on Earth Day. This year, Waynesburg University is planting a tree next to Eberly Library.

The tree will celebrate two people and the contribution they made to the world: Leah Zwerver and the daughter of Pam Abbe, director of the Knox Learning Center.

"She [Zwerver] was an alum, and thereís now grant money there to provide Greene County children an opportunity," said Kelley Hardie, assistant dean of student services. "We thought this would be a good thing to do for it."

The tree will also be planted in memory of Pam Abbeís daughter, Leah Abbe, who died in 2008.

"I took on this project of planting a tree on Earth Day because it is being planted in memory of Pam Abbeís daughter, Leah, who passed away in 2008 and was a graduate education student when she passed," said Abigail Standley, a junior educa-

tion major. "It means a lot to me that I am able to do this for Pam and plant a tree on this campus in memory of a woman who left such a legacy behind in the field of education and in the lives of many."

Earth Day is as much a time of reflection as it is a time of action and discovering what can be done to make the Earth great again.

"It symbolizes the beauty and importance of our planet,” said Standley. “It is a day that acknowledges all that we need to do to keep our Earth healthy and protected.”

Standley encourages students to participate in Earth Day out of a love for service .

"We can better our world and, more importantly, our world of Waynesburg University, through love," said Standley. "Without love, this world would be nothing.

Without love, our personal worlds would be nothing.

It should be the foundation in everything we do in our lives. If each of us starts there, then we can do great things and make this world a much better place in a very significant way."

The Waynesburg University Student Activities Board hosted their final Wing Night of the semester Friday. Musician Five Times August performed his set in the Benedum Dining Hall with more than 60 students in attendance.

After his flight in from Texas, Bradley James Skistimas visited the university to play his original music.

Five Times August is the name of Skistimas’ solo music project, which he as been performing under for the last 15 years.

Performing since he was a child, Skistimas began his musical career path after turning 18.

“It’s in me; I’ve always been that kid who performed for his family,” said Skistimas.

“When I was a little kid I would dance like Michael Jackson.”

That likeness towards Michael Jackson helped inspire parts of his musical styling, said Skistimas. During the performance, Skistimas covered “Billy Jean” by Michael Jackson, but in a more acoustic way.

Michelle Keith, Yellow Jacket

Sophomore Melanie Byler asked guest artist Five Times August for a song request, and instead he invited her onstage for a duet.

For the most part, however, Skistimas played more original songs than covers.

According to his website, his music has been played on networks like ABC, Fox and The CW. After years of performing, Skistimas tries not to fall into the same routine, from time to time things do happen unexpectedly.

“There are things that you don’t expect to happen,” said Skistimas. “You can get into the same routine night after night.”

For Friday night’s perfor-

mance, one student went up to the stage planning to only ask a song request. As Skistimas tries to change things up, he then spun it back on her and made it so that she had to sing on stage.

The student, Melanie Byler, wasn’t expecting that to happen. She only went up to request a song based on a dare, she said.

“It was fun,” said Byler.

“I was a little nervous and a little apprehensive I guess at first. As soon as he started playing and he started singing and being goofy I felt

more free to be goofy.”

Skistimas said he is sure to remember this.

“When surprises happen,” Skistimas said, “it makes the show pop out more a little bit in your memory for next time.”

Skistimas felt like the overall performance went over well.

“It was fun, there were a few things I didn’t expect, the dancers, doing the improv thing with [Byler],” said Skistimas. “I learned after a while to just roll with the punches.”

GNP: Annual concert brings in community Continued from B5

Lucky for them, their drummer had just gotten back from San Francisco and told them about the new craze, psychedelic rock. Since light shows often accompanied psychedelic rock, Molzon and his band mates made a light show to play at their live performances.

In 1969, when Molzon came to Waynesburg for his freshman year, he realized he missed his old band mates and creating music with them. At the same time, the student group at Waynesburg, Creative Idea, was looking for a light show to bring to campus.

Molzon thought, “I have a light show and a band to go with it.” And just like that, GNP was born in the spring of 1970.

When Molzon started working for the university in 1973, he continued the tradition of the concert. He started to get more students involved with tech production and performers. The GNP concert was performed in the old student union; then, as it grew in popularity, it moved to the dining hall, which was turned into a club

setting for the performance.

Eventually, the show moved to the GPAC, as people from the community started to come and enjoy the diverse talent GNP offered.

“Because of the loyalty of the audience, the show has kept going,” said Molzon.

GNP will feature Waynesburg alumni, faculty and students. Five of Molzon’s original band members will be in attendance as well as musicians from the area.

There will be different styles of rock, country, bluegrass and even a show tune here and there, said Molzon.

Even Amy Randolph, assistant professor of English, will be singing in the event.

Molzon wants to keep the Waynesburg student connection going with the concert. “No one gets paid to perform,” said Molzon.

“This leads to dedication and loyalty for coming back year after year. There is no other musical event on campus like it throughout the academic year.”

Admission is free, and doors will open at 7 p.m.

Reservations are not needed.

For more information about GNP and the concert, students, faculty and staff can contact Bill Molzon.

Accredit: Faculty excited for Business Dept. future Continued from B1

just gives it more credibility with everyone.”

With credibility comes more opportunities for students. Students will now be able to receive more scholarships, according to Ola. “This opens up a number of opportunities that at this time last year were not there,” said Ola. “This gives us the chance to say to students coming in that we are accredited, and that’s more than some of our competitors can say,” said Ola. Added Shaw: “This is obviously a huge recruiting tool. A lot of jobs that students seek will ask them if their school was accredited and our graduates will be able to say yes.”

The accreditation is also a way to help parents of the students understand the value of the education that

the students will receive, according to McClung.

“For students and the parents, it sends a clear signal that you are trying to structure all of your programs around not just what you think is good, but in relationship to all of your peer institutions,” said McClung.

The department will have to annually evaluate itself and report to the IACBE on how they have improved throughout the year in order to keep the accreditation.

This process goes right along with the main goal of the business department, which is, according to Ola, improvement.

“The accreditation has created a formalized setting for us to evaluate every single year how we are doing as a department,” said Ola. “It gives us the opportunity to make changes where we think we will need to make changes.”

Tyler Wolfe, Yellow Jacket

CHOIR AND BAND UNITE FOR SPRING PERFORMANCE Parents, community members and students alike filled Roberts Chapel on April 16 as Waynesburg University’s Department of Fine Arts held its annual spring choir and band concert.The theme of the concert was “Music for an American Spring.” Sections from the concert included “American Hymnsong Suite” for the band and selections from “Seven Country Songs” for the choir. The choir also honored their seniors by having them each sing a verse of their last song, “Look at the World.” The band preformed a 15-minute song titled, “Angels in the Architecture” that included a vocal solo and a large variety of percussion instruments.

The Concert Choir had 30 members consisting of students, alumni and faculty, and the Symphonic Band consisted of 43 students, faculty, community members and high school students.

Play: Different take on the Titanic performed Continued from B5

built the Titanic, and the repercussions he suffered after he escaped death when he took the last available space on the ship’s lifeboat after all children and women were loaded. The American press tore into Ismay after the tragedy, and the play reveals the internal struggles Ismay endured as the nation’s scapegoat.

Senior computer science major Josef Dawson Laabs played the role of Ismay in the university’s production.

Although he had been a part of eight productions since first attending Waynesburg University, “The Last Lifeboat” is the first time Laabs had been cast as a play’s protagonist, and he said it has been a rewarding experience for him on a personal level.

“I l i k e d h ow mu c h thought I had to put into Ismay,” said Laabs. “In the past, my characters were all fictitious, meaning that I can’t be wrong if it’s not real. Since Ismay was real, I had to pay attention to the specifics.”

While “The Last Lifeboat” was first shown at Waynesburg University, the cast also performed three times as part of the 2016 Pittsburgh Fringe Festival in the St. Mary’s Lyceum Theater on

Tyler Wolfe, Yellow Jacket

After performing for one show in the GPAC at Waynesburg University, The Waynesburg Players took their show to Pittsburgh to perform at the Fringe the weekend of April 15-17.

The Pittsburgh Fringe Festival is an annual celebration of the performing arts that selects artistic groups from all over the country to perform.

Dr. Xela Batchelder, chair of the fine arts department, said that this was the first time any performing group from Waynesburg University has been selected to appear at the Fringe Festival.

“It’s very good experience for students to perform for different audiences and not just for mom and dad,” said Batchelder. “The fine arts department is very support-

ive of [the Waynesburg University Players] to perform because the Fringe is such a good real-world experience.”

According to Edward Powers, professor of theatre, performing at the Pittsburgh Fringe Festival involves far more than just acting in a different space.

“So often with a lot of our actors, they never have an opportunity to perform in another venue,” said Powers.

“Now by taking this script in a different space with a different audience, I think the actors are going to grow quite a bit.”

While Merten was be-

yond satisfied with how his first directing experience turned out, he believes that the most important idea for both the audience and the actors to gain from the show is through the recurring theme present in “The Last Lifeboat.”

“The message is, if you had been forced into a situation that is socially expected of you to keep your name clean or never see anyone ever loved again, what would you do?” said Merten. “What’s more important: the ones you love or your reputation?

I feel that everyone can learn quite a lot from this.”

Page B8

April 21, 2016

THE BACK PAGE

Written by Maura Fenske Designed by Whitney Waters

Commencement Sunday is fast approaching. In preparation for the day, here are 11 things all those who are graduating need to remember from the senior meeting which took place Wednesday, April 20, in the GPAC.

1.

According to Jessica Sumpter, assistant dean of Student Services, the commencement site is the first place to check for any information or resources you may need. At waynesburg.edu/commencement, you’ll find the graduation day schedule, steps to take before commencement, order forms for caps and gowns as well as for luncheon tickets, guest resources, campus maps and more. The site will be your one-stop guide to the weekend.

2.

6.

Visit the commencement site.

“We pray for good weather,” said Sumpter, “but we do prepare for bad weather.” Each graduating senior has two tickets to distribute to family members or friends in the case that weather forces commencement into Marisa Fieldhouse.

Additionally, alternate viewing locations for a live stream of commencement will be held in Alumni Hall, the Stover Center conference rooms on the third floor, the Goodwin Performing Arts Center and McCance Auditorium on the third floor of Buhl Hall.

Apply to graduate.

7.

In case you haven’t already, be sure to apply for graduation with the registrar’s office. This step may seem simple, but it can easily be overlooked.

3.

Take care of your student loans.

8.

Order and pick up caps and gowns.

Buy tickets for the commencement luncheon.

One noticeable change in this year’s commencement weekend activities is the availability of graduation luncheon tickets for purchase. The tickets are sold on a first-come, first-served basis and cost $8 each.

Grduates are encouraged to invite friends and family to purchase tickets and eat with their respective graduate. The luncheon will take place between the baccalaureate ceremony at 11 a.m. and the commencement ceremony at 2 p.m., both on Sunday, May 1.

Avoid wearing heels.

Sumpter encouraged students to refrain from wearing heels as commencement will be held in front of Miller Hall. Heels will sink into the grassy ground and may cause injury or difficulty.

9.

Caps and gowns should have already been ordered and delivered, but if you don’t have yours yet, order them via the commencement site (waynesburg.edu/commencement). Pick them up in the bookstore before May 1.

5.

Be on time.

Simple, but vital. Lineup for baccalaureate begins at 11 a.m. in the Marsh Center, while lineup for commencement begins at 1 p.m. in the old gymnasium. The day will pass as smoothly as possible if students are punctual and prepared.

If you have student loans, make certain you visit the financial aid office and the business office before commencement to close out those accounts and receive exit counseling regarding loans.

4.

Prepare for inclement weather.

Wear honors cords at commencement only.

Students are to wear their honor cords at the commencement ceremony but not at the baccalaureate ceremony. To avoid confusion, cords will be distributed after the baccalaureate ceremony.

11. Pick up your diploma.

While you will receive a faux diploma at the commencement ceremony, your actual diploma as well as your official transcript can be picked up from the Office of Records and Registration beginning Monday, May 9. If diplomas are not picked up between Monday and Friday (May 13), they will be mailed first-class to the home address on file.

10.

Request to stay on campus.

If you need to remain on campus between the time you finish finals and the time of commencement, make those arrangements quickly.

Requests for extended housing are available on MyConnect and should be filled out as soon as possible. If approved, students are not permitted to move out of their dorms until after the commencement ceremony to avoid road blockage and traffic.

For more information or for any questions, visit waynesburg.edu/commencement, or call 724-852-7727 and speak to university event planner Abby Pittanaro.

SECTION C

APRIL 21, 2016 | WAYNESBURG UNIVERSITY | THEYELLOWJACKET.ORG MARCH AGAINST HEROIN

Efforts increase in fight against Greene County drug use

By ANTHONY CONN Managing Editor

“Heroin is everywhere. It’s an unfortunate truth,” said Greene County Sheriff Brian Tennant.

Heroin use in Greene County is no longer a secret, and according to Tennant, is getting worse every year.

In a report by the Drug Enforcement Agenc y in 2015, Greene County is ranked 10th in drug-related deaths in Pennsylvania.

“Drugs are rampant around here,” said Jim Maraney, a resident of Carmichaels. “It’s hitting everybody. Kids are dying everywhere.”

Tennant said that he is seeing more drugs and paraphernalia than before when on duty. Sim-

ple arrests have resulted in drug charges and those he arrests have even brought stamp bags into the courtroom.

“I’ve dealt with everything from cutting friends I went to high school with out of cars because they were high on drugs and they wrecked,” said Tennant.

“I’ve had to arrest people I graduated with because of this heroin problem.”

Tennant stressed that drug abuse transcends beyond race, social status and geographic location.

“It can get its claws into everybody, from the preacher’s son to somebody who works in the coal mine, it doesn’t matter who it is,” said Tennant. “It’s terrifying to think that is the environment

that we have in Greene County today. You can’t turn around without seeing some sort of evidence of heroin.”

He said the drug issue is more visible than ever, with needles being left at playgrounds and on the streets, which frustrates him.

“I talk to inmates and ask them what percentage of inmates they think have addiction problems,” said Tennant. “The say between 80 and 90 percent.”

Greene County is taking steps toward reducing the amount of drugs on the streets. One step is the implementation of D.A.R.E. programs in Greene County high schools.

Tennant said all schools in the county should be equipped with these programs by the end

of next school year. He said that prevention is where he wants to

“I've had to arrest people I graduated with because of this heroin problem. ”

BRIAN TENNANT

Greene County Sheriff

start in correcting the drug abuse problem.

Another step is an anti-heroin rally, taking place on May 14.

Maraney, a member of the organization board, sees the rally as a crucial part in the fight against drug abuse.

The rally was inspired by the movie “Appalachian Dawn,” which features the members of a small town in Kentucky that united against the drug culture in their community.

Those in the movie used prayer, community involvement and the help of local churches to organize a rally and reduce the drugs in their area.

Maraney, who is a member of the organization board for the Greene County rally, believes that there is more to fixing a drug problem than making arrests.

“We can’t just throw everybody in jail that uses drugs,” said Maraney. “We need to get them help.”

Maraney is excited for the rally HEROIN >> C4

Gateway Senior Housing construction Local program on schedule, projected to open in June raises awareness of teen sexual assault

By JACOB MEYER Sports Editor

Tyler Wolfe, Yellow Jacket

Builders are expected to complete Gateway Senior Housing soon, and the opening date is set for June 17, with 52 rooms available. The building is on 330 Nazer Street, and the construction can be seen from High Street.

Housing facility to encourage community, easy living for seniors

By TYLER WOLFE

Photography Editor

Driving into Waynesburg on High Street, residents have watched the four-story Gateway Senior Housing building go up on 330 Nazer Street.

Ground breaking of the site was almost a year ago, May 1, 2015, and the facility has an expected opening date of June 17.

“There are only three or four other places for senior living in the Waynesburg area,” said Jason Temple, gateway senior housing site manager. “There is a very large need for senior housing in Waynesburg--that is why we have really worked to get this project done.”

The facility will have 52 rooms: 31 one-bedroom apartments and 21 twobedroom apartments, with

every room consisting of a full kitchen plus a dishwasher, a walk in closet, a controllable central air and other handicap amenities.

Laundry facilities will be located on the 2nd and 4th floors, along with a wellness center, a computer room and a community room with a porch for residents to use.

There will also be two offices in the building: the

realtor and an office to help residents with any needs they might have, such as transportation, questions and concerns.

“The project has been smooth sailing so far,” said Temple. “The winter wasn’t as harsh as expected, which help to keep things on schedule.”

The apartments are deHOUSING >> C4

This month, local efforts are being made in the community in hopes of raising awareness about sexual assault, as April is Sexual Violence Awareness Month.

Nadine Michalak is the educational programs director at IN THE KNOW, which aims to raise awareness about healthy relationships among teenagers in the Pittsburgh area.

Michalak said she is passionate about relationship issues, including sexual assault, because of the amount of negative examples of relationships that people, especially teens, are exposed to.

“I think the media and celebs are just giving such an unfortunate picture of how we should treat one another,” Michalak said.

“I think it’s important to teach high school and college students about healthy relationships.”

IN THE KNOW had a table at the health fair at Waynesburg University on April 7 and is also represented at more than 65 middle and high schools in the Pittsburgh area.

According to its website, www.intheknowteens. com, the program “educates groups of teens about everything from healthy relationships to peer pressure to myths about condoms.

The presentations are very interactive to keep them from being just another boring lecture. We tackle the hot topic of sex in a way teens can relate to.”

Across the nation, Denim Day 2016 is an annual campaign to honor Sexual Violence Awareness Month.

This year, Denim Day is on Wednesday, April 27.

According to the Denim Day website, www.denimdayinfo.org, the efforts started 17 years ago to commemorate a ruling in the Italian Supreme Court where a rape conviction was overturned because the victim was wearing tight jeans.

“Since then, wearing jeans on Denim Day has become a symbol of protest against erroneous and destructive attitudes about sexual assault.

In this rape prevention education campaign we ask community members, elected officials, businesses and students to make a social statement with their fashion by wearing jeans on this day as a visible means of protest against the misconceptions that surround sexual assault,” states the website.

According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, about “63 percent of women have experienced some form of sexual violence.”

Twenty percent of women in the United States have been raped in their lifetime, according to the Centers for Disease Control.

A pamphlet with these numbers, along with many other statistics about sexual violence and advice for victims, was given out to students who stopped at IN THE KNOW’s table at the health fair.

ASSAULT >> C4

New program to help locals safely recycle old electronics

By KYLE DAWSON

Assistant Sports Editor

Over the course of the past few years, Greene County residents did not have many options when it came to recycling old electronics.

With the shift to more environmentally smart decisions in the area, Pennsylvania State Representative Pam Snyder and the Greene County Commissioners partnered to give county residents avenues for recycling their used technologies and appliances.

At a monthly voting me e t i ng on T hu rs d ay, April 6, the Greene County Commissioners passed a program that will alleviate issues with disposal of those

electronic items.

“In the past, the people of Greene County had to travel to a location in Washington County to recycle...We wanted to give them a more convenient location to do so and what is more local than the fairgrounds?”

MIMI RITENOUR

Greene County Recycling Coordinator

“Ne w environment al protection laws make it difficult for people to get rid of old televisions, microwaves

and other electronics,” said Snyder. “I had a one day electronics recycling event several years ago, and the constituents have been calling my office requesting another one at a regular basis.

The Commissioners and I finally found JVS Environmental to provide this service at an affordable cost to benefit our constituents.”

Blair Zimmerman, one of the three commissioners, said people call the office all the time asking where they can recycle their electronics.

“It’s very difficult to find somewhere to take them,” said Zimmerman.

JVS Environmental, a recycling company based out of Rockwood, Pennsylvania, will travel to the

Greene County Fairgrounds on four different dates this year, according to Snyder and County Recycling Coordinator Mimi Ritenour: April 20, July 13, Sept. 14 and Dec. 14.

“We are really excited to have this new program,” said Ritenour. “In the past, the people of Greene County had to travel to a location in Washington County to recycle their old electronics. We wanted to give them a more convenient location to do so and what is more local than the fairgrounds?”

Ritenour said there is no cost for most electronics to be recycled; however, there are some restrictions due to the feasibility of recycling some electronics in an environmentally friendly

fashion.

“It is going to cost $1 for fluorescent light bulbs and $15 for appliances with Freon in them,” said Ritenour.

It will also cost $50 for any hazardous waste handling, according to Ritenour.

Those wishing to use the service can bring accepted items like computer equipment, televisions limited one per carload, laptops, printers, peripherals, VCRs, stereos, cameras and more.

Ritenour said there are some items JVS will not accept.

“They can’t take things like sweepers, hair dryers and some other products,” said Ritenour. “It’s tougher to recycle those in a safe way.”

In the end, Ritenour said she is excited for the new program and for the county residents because they will “benefit greatly” from the ability to stay local and get rid of their used products.

Snyder echoed those comments.

“An event like this is becoming necessary for any area,” said Snyder. “Garbage companies and general recycling companies can’t take most of this equipment.

These few hours will end a recurring problem for many residents. Washington County has started a similar event on a monthly basis, and we decided it would be a huge benefit to the people of Greene County, as well.”

Page C2

April 21, 2016

Trump rally draws crowd in Pittsburgh Protestors, supporters engage in conflict after speech ends

By RYAN SCHWERTFEGER News Digest Editor

Blood, sweat and steers Waynesburg extreme bull riding returns for 15th year of thrills

By CODY YANKULIC

For the Yellow Jacket

One has two legs and the other has four. One is 175 pounds and the other is 2,000, but both bodies have to remain in perfect symmetry to accomplish the goal.

This fact couldn’t be more evident Friday night, when the Buckin B’ Cattle Company hosted its annual rodeo in Waynesburg.

The rodeo, which took place from April 15-16, was hosted by Matt DeJohn, the owner of Buckin’ B Cattle Company, and was presented by Ron Lewis Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram. The winner of Friday night’s action was Cody Martin, who is a two-time Southern Extreme Bull Riding Association (SEBRA) champion.

SEBRA is an up-and-coming sanctioning body that not only has events across the mid and southeast but is gaining traction on a national level.

“I think people are excited to get out of the house in the spring and do something; I think if we didn't have it, people would be disappointed.”

MATT DEJOHN

Owner, Buckin' B Cattle Company

SEBRA was founded by Jerome Davis, who also founded the world’s most premier bull riding association: Professional Bull Riding Association (PBR). SEBRA acts as a springboard for riders, including number one in the world, JB Mauney, to make their way into the PBR. Several riders and bulls in the weekend’s contest were featured on the PBR Built

Professional bull riders took their talents to Greene County this past weekend as part of an annual rodeo hosted by Buckin' B Cattle Company, held at the Greene County Fairgrounds. Matt DeJohn, the owner of the company, has held the rodeo for 15 years and said it always draws a large crowd.

Jenny Schouppe, Yellow Jacket

Ford Tough Series. Friday’s events were a step back, said DeJohn, from what his company is used to performing in.

“We’re normally in bigger events, coliseums,” said DeJohn. “We try to bring that same show to a smaller building.”

The same show that is seen all across the east coast was on display Friday night, as the announcer went to a “dark house” and introduced riders who were ranked as high as number two in the nation by SEBRA. DeJohn, whose company has traveled up and down the east coast for events, has provided bulls to SEBRA for eight

years and is located locally out of Lippincott, Pennsylvania. DeJohn’s company was voted producer of the year eight times by SEBRA and the recognition, he says, is something special.

“We do this all over the country,” said DeJohn. “The bull riders and the other people that do what we do vote on that, so it’s a big deal to us.”

DeJohn has held a rodeo for the community for 15 years and it is something the community looks forward to, he said.

“I feel like that’s the reason I do it,” said DeJohn. “I think people are excited to get out of the house in spring and

do something; I think if we didn’t have it, people would be disappointed.”

T h e ro d e o re c e i v e d around 2,500 fans between Friday and Saturday night.

The events on Friday, which included a bubble soccer match between the rodeo clowns, were made possible by sponsors like NAPA, Hot Rod’s House of Barbecue, Ron Lewis Chrylser, Dodge, Jeep, Ram, Brigg’s Tire Service, Waynesburg Yamaha, Hlatky Enterprises and many more.

“These events are very expensive, tens of thousands of dollars,” said DeJohn. “Those are very committed sponsors, and we appreciate their help.”

While both Democratic presidential candidates had visited Pittsburgh already, a Republican candidate had not until this past Wednesday.

GOP presidential frontrunner Donald Trump held a town hall meeting earlier in the day with Fox News and talk radio host Sean Hannity.

Trump then held a rally for thousands of supporters at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center in the evening.

Many from across the area descended upon the center, including a handful of students from Waynesburg with different ideological views.

Ju s t i n Ku n s c h i c k , a sophomore accounting major and the treasurer of Waynesburg’s college Republicans club, decided to attend the rally to see what Trump had to say, while also wanting to experience his first ever political rally.

“I heard about this event through other friends who were interested in going,” said Kunschick. “I have many conservative viewpoints and I wanted to learn more about Trump and his campaign.”

Kunschick said that he and his friends arrived early to the rally and saw many vendors selling Trump related merchandise and even decided to buy a shirt for himself.

Once inside, Kunschick said he found Trump’s speech to be captivating, though there was an interruption to remove a protestor.

“The speech was a very motivating speech in which Trump addressed problems he wants to fix,” said Kunschick. “[The speech] focused on Pittsburgh and the state of Pennsylvania in returning steel and coal jobs as well. Trump also spent much time bashing the media and how, despite the party or candidate, the media can lie, and the crowd liked this.”

AJ McClure, freshman environmental science major, heard about the rally over Facebook and at first thought it was a joke.

But upon learning that Trump was actually coming, he decided he wanted to attend.

“It was actually an immediate decision that I wanted

to go,” said McClure. “I know how controversial [Trump] is and I wanted to see him for myself. I have never been to a political rally before so I thought I would just jump right into it.”

McClure also said that while Trump’s speech was repetitive, the crowd in attendance loved Trump’s message.

“The crowd was very passionate about what he had to say and they responded well to the questions they were given,” said McClure.

“Trump’s speech felt very familiar, as if it was an old speech that had ‘a Pittsburgh touch.’ He mentioned the Steelers, steel mining and Penn State.”

Yet, while McClure decided to attend, he has no plans to vote for Trump.

“I only went to the Trump rally as an observer, as I have no intentions on voting for a man that plans on leading a country through sheer fear and hatred,” said McClure.

“Unfortunately, none of the other choices are much better. We will just have to see what happens in November.”

To another student attendee, freshman history major Tyler McCoy, the demonstrations after the rally were the parts he thought were the most inappropriate and shameful.

“When we left the rally there were protestors outside that were behaving irrationally and dangerously,” said McCoy. “Unfortunately, many of the Trump supporters chose to engage the protestors, which just made the situation worse. Don't let anyone lie to you, both sides were behaving irresponsibly, not just one of the sides.”

McClure saw the same demonstrations when he was leaving the rally.

“Protesters had almost completely blocked the exit so security for the building moved us to a back door.

When we stepped outside, the first thing we saw was a man being cornered against the bridge of the Ohio River

by Pittsburgh police,” said McClure. “When we turned to go back, the number of protesters had increased since the rally began. As we were walking, I glanced over my shoulder to see the riot police in full gear and all lined up.”

Republican candidate Ted Cruz was scheduled to TRUMP >> C4

Unemployment rate in U.S., Pa., at a low for recent years

By KIMMI BASTON Executive Editor

In January 2016, the unemployment rate in the United States hit 4.9 percent — the lowest since 2008 when a recession hit the nation.

Employment briefings from the White House show that more than 14 million jobs have been added in the last six years, which helps account for the decrease in unemployment.

Similarly, in Pennsylvania, unemployment decreased to 4.6 percent in January, according to a press release from the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry.

In both the nation and the state, the unusually low rate of unemployment held steady through February.

The landmark low in unemployment is something Pennsylvania residents and the U.S. as a whole are working to understand, especially because they are presented with a slew of data from the national and state governments.

After statistics for March were gathered, the White House reported that nationwide unem-

Unemployment on the decline in Pennsylvania Unemployment Rate: Pennsylvania

Rate is lowest since before 2008 recession 10%

8%

6%

4%

2%

2000 2002 2004 2006 2008 2010 2012 2014 2016

ployment is back up to five percent.

In Pennsylvania, however, the rate remains at 4.6 percent, according to Sara Goulet, a representative of the Pennsylvania De-

partment of Labor and Industry.

She said that shifts in unemployment on a monthly basis are normal, and both the state and country are recovering from the Great Recession.

“It’s interesting that the rate has been what most people would consider really low,” said Goulet.

“We can’t really say that’s going to be the new norm because we don’t really know. We’re really just seeing the economy as a whole recovering.”

The Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry also reported that jobs, at nearly six million, were at a record high in February.

Although the decrease in unemployment and increase in jobs align so far this year, Goulet cautions the two numbers are entirely separate and may not always have a direct relationship.

According to Goulet, the unemployment rate is determined by conducting a survey of households and asking how many members over 16 years old in the household are working.

The job rate is calculated after surveying employers and asking how many people they have working for them.

Sometimes, Goulet said, Pennsylvania residents wonder how jobs can be up and there are still more people unemployed.

“People confuse those numbers – it’s a totally different survey, and that’s why they don’t match up,”

said Goulet.

In addition to statistics about jobs and unemployment, the state provides information about declining and growing industries.

Recently, Goulet said, the teaching, healthcare and professional business services have flourished in Pennsylvania, while industries like mining and logging are declining.

Goulet said her department assesses these statistics, breaks them down by county and by metropolitan region, and then looks for trends.

According to the White House employment briefings, the national government is continuing to strive to create more job opportunities.

Goulet said Pennsylvania is doing the same.

“I think the biggest thing is to match up that job seeker, whether it’s a student who is in middle to high school, whether it’s a person with a disability, whether it’s veterans, whether it’s a person trying to change careers because they’ve been displaced,” said Goulet. “It’s trying to make sure we have programs in place that can meet the needs of all those people and the needs of employers.”

Page C3

April 21, 2016

House serves as spiritual haven for many Preparation begins Waynesburg couple sees Servant Song Ministries as God's calling for Greene County Relay For Life

By JOHN LYDIC Staff Writer

A lo c a l Way nesburg couple is following God’s calling by providing an ecumenical retreat house to the Waynesburg community.

Larry and Donna Koller said it was God that led them to create this unique house in Waynesburg.

“I just had a deep inner sense that God was calling for a retreat house and spirituality center in Waynesburg,” said Donna Koller, co-director of Servant Song ministries. “I wasn't the only one. There were several pastors in the area that had the sense as well. I always thought that I would have some involvement with that, never expecting that God would call my husband and I to be the force behind establishing that.”

Donna Koller and her husband Larry Koller established the facility in 2005 to promote spiritual growth and enrichment through prayer, silence, retreats, education and spiritual direction in the Christian tradition, according to Donna Koller.

Although the building and ministry is established and serving the community now, Koller said the road to finding its location and what it would provide was a long journey.

Donna Koller said in 1995, God imprinted a scripture in her heart that led her to start her path towards creating Servant Song ministries.

That scripture was Joshua 42:6-8 which reads, “I, the LORD, have called you in righteousness; I will take

By CHELSEY WITHERS Editorial Assistant

Tyler Wolfe, Yellow Jacket

Servant Song Ministries sits at 720 E. Green St. in Waynesburg. The ministry was established in 2005 by Larry and Donna Koller as a way for locals to become closer to God.

hold of your hand. I will keep you and will make you to be a covenant for the people and a light for the Gentiles, to open eyes that are blind, to free captives from prison and to release from the dungeon those who sit in darkness. I am the LORD; that is my name!

I will not yield my glory to another or my praise to idols…”

The building the Koller’s are currently in was not their first choice. Servant Song ministries was also not their first endeavor with ministry for the community.

The couple used to own a Christian bookstore near the current Burger King.

They were tasked with selling that building before finding a place for the current Servant Song building.

According to Donna Koller, the local churches

and leaders were looking for a place like this and had contacted the couple about leading the initiative.

After finding a seller for the property where they had their current bookstore, they searched for a place for the ministry to call home.

It was not an easy process, according to Donna Koller.

After many obstacles and through many meetings, they selected the current building at 720 East Green St. in Waynesburg.

The building is a multifloor structure that has additional housing on the property to house up to 20 total people.

Servant Song is a very special place where those w h o c om e e x p e r i e n c e God’s love, mercy and His deep abiding peace, Donna Koller said.

Donna Koller said that she has sp ent t ime in Waynesburg and Greene County, where she has learned so much about the people and the culture the community is made up of.

“It's just such an honor to be able to let a really busy time where we have churches from all places and programs we do, different groups all coming here,” said Donna Koller.

For her and her husband, Donna Koller believes that this is just God’s way of using their talents and a fun way to use their time.

“You know God was just present. People often say that you can just feel His presence and I believe that’s true,” said Koller. “There’s just sort of this feeling. It’s just to be a part of life. It’s a wonderful way to spend your retirement.”

‘Hammer In’ showcases local history

Blacksmiths demonstrate skills of the trade at annual event

By CODY YANKULIC

For the Yellow Jacket

The man reared back to strike the steel. After landing his blow, he pulled the steel bar back up toward his face to look down it vertically.

With another man beside him, the two worked together to create their masterpiece from a red-hot piece of metal.

These actions were that of blacksmiths at the Pittsburgh Area Artists Blacksmith Association (PAABA) and the Appalachian Blacksmiths Association Hammer-In event.

The Hammer-In, which takes place in Rice’s Landing, Pennsylvania, has been a tradition in the Greene County area for over 30 years and took place Saturday, April 16.

The event, according to Secretary and Editor of the PAABA Chris Holt, is held to help educate the public about a very old trade and also help give a glimpse to the community of a historic machine shop.

“It opens up the W.A. Young & Sons Foundry and Machine Shop to the community,” said Holt “It’s open and really makes it an open house and shows them [the community] what the W.A. Young & Sons Foundry and Machine Shop is all about.”

The W.A. Young & Sons Foundry and Machine Shop has stood along the Monongahela River for over a century, and the artifacts in the shop have stood the test of time.

The shop ran from around the turn of the century until 1969.

Over that time period, the shop, said building caretaker George Blystone, had provided service to all parts of Greene County.

Blystone went on to explain that the building had been built by W.A. Young

Cody Yankulic, Yellow Jacket

Two blacksmiths work their craft in front of visitors at W.A. Young and Sons Foundry and Machine Shop in Rices Landing. The 'Hammer-In' taught guests how the trade has been performed over the years. h i m s e l f . He r e , Yo u n g bought a sawmill and cut all the lumber for his building.

The shop, says Blystone, got its start by building metal pieces for steamboats, which pushed coal down the river to Pittsburgh.

The shop then adapted to different industries until it made its last repairs, which Blystone said would have been something minor in 1969.

Blystone said the shop itself is a piece of history.

“It’s a step back in time, you can’t find ‘em anywhere,” said Blystone.

“They have machine shops set up in concrete, but they don’t have the original

belts.”

The shop is a rarity in that it is one of the only known line-driven machine shops to still be able to operate. Line-driven means all of the machinery in the shop is driven by one engine.

The rarity of the shop was noted by volunteer and machinist Dean Martin, whose family, similar to Young, founded a machine shop around the turn of the century.

“Most of the shops like this went to the scrapyard,” said Martin “It takes a true machinist –because of the gears – to run this equipment.”

The equipment in the building is still driven by the same belts that helped Young produce crafted metal over 100 years ago.

The patterns for creating the pieces of metal and equipment can be found lying around the bottom floor of the machine shop.

The pattern shop, which is located upstairs and now holds more artifacts, was used to make the wooden patterns that, when paired with sand, would help make a mold to pour hot metal into.

While the shop is a working piece of history, the Hammer-In event featured blacksmithing demonstrations, an auction and sculptures that were available for purchase.

Blystone said the event tends to draw people to the trade.

“We advocate a lot of people that come through that want to blacksmith,” said Blystone. “They come through, and we get some kids and give ‘em a hammer.”

Although the event may seem to garner a lot of hype for what many consider to be a dying trade, it can also help to keep the trade alive, as Holt said most modern blacksmiths come from all walks of life.

“Blacksmithing is alive and well in western Pennsylvania,” says Holt. “Believe it or not, you may live next door to one and not even know it.”

The simplicity, said Holt, is something he believes keeps people coming back to the trade, and the reason the PAABA strives to keep the trade alive. “ There is something very honest about working with iron; you have a fire, a hammer and an anvil and that’s it,” said Holt. “You can create something beautiful from them and that’s what we’re about.”

The 21st annual Greene County Relay for Life, to benefit the American Cancer Society, will run from 8 a.m. April 30 to 8 a.m. May 1. The fundraising goal this year is to raise $200,000 and the theme is “Relay Around the World.”

“Each team has selected a famous place around the world to theme their camp site on,” said Steve Gillis, senior community manager for Relay for Life. “It is not just countries or cities: it is famous places that are fictional, too - like Emerald City, Gotham City or Bikini Bottom - because, even though they are fictional places, they are still famous. They will have their camp site decorated as their theme.”

The day will consist of multiple different events and activities such as the Road to Recovery, which will take place from 2:15 p.m.-3:30 p.m. This activity is to promote awareness for one of the programs offered by the American Cancer Society, where volunteers drive cancer patients to and from their doctor’s appointments and chemotherapy. Road to Recovery is currently inactive in Greene County, so the

board hopes to raise awareness and get drivers.

“We do a Miss Relay competition, and a lot people really like this and come out for it,” said Gillis. “During this, male participants dress as women, which gives it a silly look, which is what we want.”

The event will occur from 5 p.m.-6 p.m., and during the hour contestants will participate in a talent competition and a question and answer session. The winner is chosen based on whichever contestant raised the most money.

Pennies count towards the participant's score, while all silver change counts against them.

“This is a very community involved event," said Jessica Sarnoski, one of the co-leaders of the event.

One of the most crucial events is the survivor lap and lunch, which will occur form 10 a.m.- 1 p.m. Within the hour, all registered survivors will be honored and congratulated.

O t h e r a c t iv it i e s are planned for every hour of the event, to keep it festive and active. Currently there are 31 teams participating in the event. To join a team or donate to the Greene County Relay for Life, patrons can go to http://www.relayforlife. org/pagreenecounty.

Library hosts kite day and vendor fair

By TIM NERAL

Editorial Assistant

Books are not what they were. Neither are libraries, which begs the question: What role do libraries play in communities now?

National Library Week was from April 10-16, rem i n d i ng c om mu n it i e s across the country of the importance and continual relevance of public libraries.

Flenniken Library hosted numerous events, culminating with a Kite Day and Vendor Fair at the Greene Academy of Arts in Carmichaels, Pennsylvania.

To highlight the consistent need for libraries, book readings were performed by Greene County Commissioner Archie Trader, Representative Pam Snyder and 2015 Coal Queen Katlyn Allison. The book for the readings was “Kite Day” by Will Hildenbrand.

Chad Gallantine’s BBQ Food Truck ser ved the event’s participants, and 18 vendors from around the Greene County area showcased their talents and hobbies to the community – from jewelry and candles to a bake sale and a Chinese auction benefiting the library’s summer reading program.

Flenniken Library sponsored the event and informed the public of the relevance of public libraries.

“It’s not just about books anymore,” said Katy Pretz, the director at Flenniken Library. “It’s about getting education and information, as it always has been.”

Emerging technologies have diminished the influence and relevance of libraries; however, libraries are adapting with the times.

“The people who have come into the libraries for the past few years aren’t going to stop coming to the library because of these services,” said Pretz.

Instead, libraries are bringing these services to consumers, according to Pretz.

The Flenniken Library offers a wide range of resources that are designed

for the tech-savvy, including free music downloads, hundreds of audiobooks, unlimited access to your favorite magazines and tutoring on a long list of subjects.

Flenniken Library also offers Gale courses – sixweek courses that are available every month and that give the public access to lessons on a large ensemble of topics.

“It's not just about books anymore. It's about getting education and information.”

KATY PRETZ

Director, Flenniken Library

The index of courses ranges from lectures on blogging and podcasting and web and mobile app design to video game design and nonprofit grant writing.

What is perhaps even more surprising about all of these resources is that they’re completely free with a library card.

“We want to provide what you want, what you need,” said Pretz.

Pretz said w hen she first became the director of Flenniken Library, her husband was surprised by what was available.

Events like Kite Day allow the library to readily engage in their community, interact with the people they’re serving and get to know their needs and act upon it.

That’s why, Journic said, people keep coming back to the library.

“Young people read more than they did when I was young,” said local resident Jean Journic, who was in charge of the Chinese auction. “They’re veracious readers.”

Libraries are still a place where people gather.

“They offer a lot of services to the community,” said local volunteer Lindy Parker, who ran the bake sale. “It’s a nice place to hang out.”

Page C4

April 21, 2016

Greene County schools to participate in reading contest

By MITCH KENDRA Managing Editor

According to t he Gre ene County Library System’s website (GCLS), its mission “is to be a recognized provider of informational, educational, cultural, and recreational materials.”

The organization often works hand in hand with Waynesburg University for events.

Once the students are gone for the academic school year, Waynesburg will host the Greene County Reading Competition, which will take place Tuesday, May 10.

The competition was started in 2013 by Shelly Rogers, the librarian at Jefferson-Morgan Middle/ High School.

Therese M. Barry, system administrator for GCLS, said Rogers based the competition off of America’s Battle of the Books.

Rogers moved on to coach a team from Jefferson-Morgan and there-

fore handed over the competition to Barry.

Barry commented on the importance of the event.

“It’s a way to get the whole county together competing for the common goal and it gets the kids to read books they aren’t necessarily reading on their own,” said Barry.

All five school districts in Greene County – Carmichaels, Central Greene, Jefferson-Morgan, Southeastern Greene and West Greene – have teams entered in the contest. Entries for the competition had to be in by April 1.

Barry said this year’s event will have a total of 27 teams entered, with around120 students competing in the competition.

Registration for the event will start at 8:30 a.m., and the competition itself will begin at 9:15 a.m.

The competition, which is between students, is separated into three divisions: elementary, mid-

dle and high school.

The teams must consist of four members, but can have eight members and two alternates.

During the competition, two teams will compete against each other at a time.

A proctor will ask a team a question and then the team will have 20 seconds to discuss with one another until the team captain must give a final answer.

There will be three rounds of competition within the respective age divisions and then a winning team will be crowned.

Barry, who is in charge of organizing the event, hosts the competition with GCLS at Waynesburg University, since the university offers its buildings to the GCLS at no cost.

Hosting the event at any other location in the area would be difficult because of the number of rooms needed and the costs for those rooms, and Waynesburg University offers Buhl Hall for

the competition.

The university also benefits, because they are able to speak to the high school students about the university.

John Thompson, one of the librarians at Waynesburg’s Eberly Library, has volunteered at the event for the last couple of years.

He said several high school students from the competition have asked for tours of the campus.

Thompson believes this is beneficial because if the students have been on campus before, they feel more comfortable in the future.

This, he said, can positively influence the number of students from the competition who might attend Waynesburg University in the future.

Thompson also agrees with Barry that the competition is a necessary event because it helps improve students’ reading skills.

“I have talked to different teachers in the county, and there are many students who really

struggle with reading and this competition gives, so to speak, an excuse for students to read additional books,” said Thompson.

Thompson’s daughter, who is a freshman at Waynesburg Central High School, competed in the event last year in the middle school division. He said from the perspective of both a volunteer and a parent, the competition is a great experience for the students.

After the competition concludes, the students will gather in the Beehive for lunch, which is followed by an awards ceremony.

The competition is a volunteerrun event in which people from the local schools, libraries and members of the community come and help throughout the day.

“If you go to the event and go in one of these classrooms, it’s exciting to see how enthusiastic the students are, even the high school students,” said Thompson.

For more information, visit greenecolib.org.

Effects still felt from January snowstorm Heroin: March to

By ANNIE MCGLAUGHLIN Multimedia Manager

From Jan. 22 to Jan. 23, winter storm Jonas shocked the region with its heavy snowfall and wintry gusts.

The storm, according to Weather.com, dumped more than two feet of snow into the Northeast region, spanning from Washington, D.C, to New York.

The storm is one of the largest winter storms on record in the Northeast region.

For the duration of Jonas, Governor Tom Wolf declared the affected areas in a state of emergency.

State of emergencies can aid in the funding for additional physical labor and equipment the townships used in a large storm. During the state, snow removal crews have access to state resources to deal with the weather.

Franklin Township, located in the Northeast region, felt the cold draft of Jonas.

Having state funding helped to ease the costs of winter storm removal.

“State of emergencies help us to feel free about keeping our men out without worrying about the budgets,” said Corbley Ordorff, Franklin Township vice chair supervisor. “The biggest thing it helps is the costs of remov-

ing snow.”

In a press release released

by Gov. Wolf ’s office, he declared a state of emergency to ensure state agencies can respond with resources as quickly as possible.

“We are urging Pennsylvanians to stay calm, but be prepared,” said Gov. Wolf.

“State agencies are preparing for the worst, tracking conditions in real time and collaborating on our response.”

According Penn DOT, they used over 2,200 trucks with 4,800 operators to combat Jonas statewide.

Pennsylvania residents were told to stay home unless it was crucial they needed to leave. Richard D. Flinn, Jr., director of the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency (PEMA) stated in the press release that Pennsylvania residents should track the storm and be prepared for at least three days spent at their house without outside assistance.

A big fear about the winter months and the use of popular heating devices such as charcoal burning stoves and grills is carbon monoxide poisoning.

Flinn urged residents to be aware and call 911 if they suspect carbon monoxide in their home.

The winter months can have a negative effect on the

roadways year round.

With salt and other chemicals being used to treat slippery and icy roads, the asphalt eventually begins to deteriorate. Potholes and uneven roadways are the biggest issue, crews are facing now that the harsh winter is over.

Maintenance crews around the state are still recovering from Jonas and will continue to fix the numerous problems it has caused on roadways traveled frequently.

With winter storm Jonas hitting the region so heavily and quickly, it is no wonder there were some major obstacles Franklin Township faced. Luckily, with Gov. Wolf declaring a state of emergency for the days Jonas visited town, townships statewide are getting additional funding.

Township supervisor vice chair, Corbley Ordorff said the township was beyond blessed the storm hit on a weekend. The schools in the district had an early dismissal and got all students home without a problem.

Ordorff said having a state of emergency helped keep his men out on the job without worrying about going over budgets and let them have access to state appliances.

Challenges the township

faced were that the township is so residential and where the snow was going to be put when removed.

“It’s always a challenge in residential areas. The question is always where to put the snow because we don’t have time to actually remove it,” said Ordorff. “Deep snows like Jonas, run the risk of obstacles and things you don’t know are there like curbs and those that cause damages to your equipment.”

According to Ordorff, Franklin Township is already preparing for the impending winter months. Massive potholes are a huge obstacle in the area.

Coal patch materials are applied around every two weeks to patch up problem spots until hot asphalt can be applied in the summer months. Making the roads smoother now can lead to better snow removal in the winter.

“We do in the summer months for snow removal, paving projects and getting smoother surface on the road,” said Ordorff. “When you plow a smooth surface it’s better for both the plow and the road.”

The trucks used are on a 10-year replacement cycle and currently they are working to get both a new plow and salt spreader.

give community hope Continued from C1

on May 14 and the activities the day has in store for those who attend.

Participants will meet at the Greene County Airport at 10 a.m. and march to the Greene County Fairgrounds.

Once everyone reaches the fairgrounds, a program will be held to inform those who marched what the scope of Greene County’s drug issue is.

There will also be buses and vans available for those who are unable to walk.

Leading up to the rally, there will be prayer nights and meetings for the organizers.

Maraney said the support for the event has been tremendous, and he is grateful for the involvement the community members have given the entire team responsible for the rally.

“The whole county has been on board with us,” said Maraney. “It’s unbelievable.”

Rev. Richard B erkey, pastor of Rolling Meadows Church of God in Waynesburg, sees great potential with this march and its influence on Greene County.

Berkey has seen churches of every kind unite to combat the growing drug problem.

Through multiple prayer nights and support from Greene County public figures including Sen. Camera Bartolotta and Rep. Pam Snyder, Berkey is excited about how far the movement has come, despite what religious or political views the participants may have.

“The denomination walls have come down for a common cause, and that is to lift up the name of Jesus against this drug epidemic,” said Berkey.

Maraney and Berkey encourage everyone to come to the march on May 14 to show support for ending the drug abuse and the heartbreak it has caused.

“We’ve seen what drugs are doing and we are turning it around and seeing what God is doing,” Berkey said.

Maraney said that everyone is tired of the problem heroin and other drugs have caused and it is time to take action.

“We won’t sacrifice our families and our children anymore.”

Housing: Building completion on schedule Trump: Campaign incites mixed reviews Continued from C1

signed to meet the housing needs of persons aged 62 and older by providing affordable rental housing and support services to the residents.

Besides the requirement of being 62 or older, there is a max income limit of $24,840 for one person and $28,380 for two people.

“The fact that it is just for 62 and older--I think it has, and will, help our applications to the apartments,” said Temple. “There’s no mixed generations, which can lead to more companionship and a stronger community feeling, especially at first arrival.”

With a quick glance of the site, parking might look like a problem—with Nazer Street and a row of houses to the north and High Street to the south—but there will be 52 spots for residents.

Visitor and staff parking has not been designated yet,

Continued from C2

have an event in the area last week but cancelled suddenly due to a national television interview that was scheduled last minute, though he said the event would be rescheduled soon.

His father has been in the Tyler Wolfe, Yellow Jacket

Construction of the Gateway Senior Housing Complex, which will house residents over at 62, began May 1, 2015, and is projected to finish just over a year later. but Temple does not foresee an issue.

The row of houses on the other side of Nazer Street, some of which have been vacant for a while, are currently being managed by the Redevelopment Authority County of Greene (RACG).

“We want to address the blight in this area, and locate and relocate people to

a place that suits them best,” said Dave Calvario, executive director of RACG. “We are trying to revitalize and stabilize a neighborhood that has a need.”

Their are eight houses on the north side of the Gateway facility which RACG is working to rehabilitate and remodel while the construction project is going on.

Applications for apartments started January 19 and are still open.

“I feel confident that the building will be almost full by the time we are ready to open,” said Temple Application inquiries can be made by calling 724-8800373 or by visiting Gateway Senior Housing’s temporary office at 93 E High St Office #216, in Waynesburg.

Assault: Program aims to raise awareness Continued from C1

Michalak said the program focuses on two important aspects of why sexual assault is a problem in the world: respect and

self-control.

“I think those are two aspects that aren’t given too much attention,” Michalak said. “As a society, we’re impulsive, and I think selfcontrol is something that is a big part of our culture.”

Giving a “voice to victims” is something Michalak noted is crucial to “destigmatize” sexual assault.

“I think it really just takes informing the generation that we need change,” Michalak said. “I think the

cool thing now is the positivity that social media can be used. I don’t think the message is falling on deaf ears. I think if we can get to a few hearts in a small group of people they can cause a ripple effect.”

area, however, holding an event at Grove City College late last week.

Ohio Governor and the other Republican presidential candidate, John Kasich, has not held an event in western Pennsylania, though he is a native, born in McKees Rocks, Pennsylvania in 1952.

SECTION D

APRIL 21, 2016 | WAYNESBURG UNIVERSITY | THEYELLOWJACKET.ORG

Four-year road to recovery Pitcher enjoying first success since elbow surgery

Dave Miller, ADM Photography

Junior pitcher Luke Carter, pictured in a game last season, threw a complete-game shutout in the first game of a doubleheader Tuesday against W&J, a doubleheader the Jackets swept.

Baseball wins series against rival W&J for first time since 2003

Carter, Whalen throw complete games in sweep

By LUKE GOODLING Editorial Assistant

It has been over 10 years since Waynesburg University’s baseball team won a series against conference rival Washington & Jefferson College. The Yellow Jackets ended that streak this week.

Additionally, excluding this week’s victories, Waynesburg has only managed to beat W&J one other time dating back to May, 2009.

With only giving up one run over two 7-inning games, the pitching was the differentiating factor in the pair of wins for the Yellow Jackets. Head coach Mike Humiston said both pitchers performed exceptionally well in the series.

“I think [Luke Carter and Derek Whalen] pitched absolutely outstanding, I mean both of them were in control from the first inning until the last in both games,” said Humiston. “Carter, when he’s [performing well] he’s difficult and he was definitely on today.”

Junior Luke Carter pitched a complete game shutout in the first game of the doubleheader in Washington, Pennsylvania. With

errorless defense behind him, Carter managed to hold W&J to five hits while he walked two and struck out five. Waynesburg’s two runs came in the third and seventh innings, respectively.

In the third inning, after junior Josh Hausler reached on a two out single to left field, senior Matt Bensinger hit a double into right field scoring Hausler. Although only one run was needed for the victory, an insurance run would further solidify the win in the top of the seventh inning. After freshman Tyler Reis walked to start the inning, a fielding error by W&J’s first baseman would push Reis to second BASEBALL >> D4

remember going up to my mom and saying ‘I think there’s something wrong with my arm.’ I wasn’t in incredible pain like you’d expect from tearing a ligament. I just couldn’t throw the ball 60 feet without searing pain in my arm.”

At the Urgent Care, Whalen said, he was misdiagnosed for the first time.

By KYLE DAWSON Assistant Sports Editor “The guy just thought I tore my muscle or something like that,” said WhaThe day started like any other day. len. “I had gone to my family doctor It was a hot, summer day. once who referred me to an In fact, it was incredibly hot. orthopedic guy. When you’re The Westminster Titans not a professional athlete it’s were playing another game in amazing what it takes to get the Baltimore Metro League, an MRI. I got misdiagnosed a well-respected travel league multiple times and had to in the area. They were playing wait three or four months to in Reisterstown, Maryland. get the MRI.” One of the pitchers was Having him misdiagnosed throwing a bullpen. was tough on his mother as A bullpen that wasn’t well. a typical bullpen. It was a “When he first came up to Whalen gravel driveway behind the me and said that he heard a Titans’ dugout. In the pitcher’s words, pop and had numbness, all I remember there was no stability there. thinking was ‘oh I hope it’s not what I He had been experiencing some arm think it is,’” said Tammie Whalen, Dersoreness for a few days. ek’s mother. “I took him to an Urgent He didn’t know what was going on. Care place and they just thought it was His elbow felt like it was on fire, and tendonitis. Every place we went seemed not knowing any better, he said, he just to just say to rest it. We had to get the played through the pain like he always MRI approved through the insurance had. company, so that took a few months. It And then it happened. was tough but we tried to stay positive.”

He threw a fastball and suddenly, the And then the news came. normal day became one that would live A 16-year old kid. Told he had torn in infamy. his ulna collateral ligament in his elbow: “There was one pitch where I was his Tommy John ligament. warming up to go in the game that sticks At the time of the 1974 operation, the out,” said junior pitcher at Waynesburg, odds of a full recovery from the proceDerek Whalen. “It was a fastball. I heard dure were around one to 100 with Dr. a pop and I went numb the whole way Frank Jobe. By the time Derek Whalen down from my elbow to my pinky and needed the operation, which was permy ring finger. That was when I first formed on November 16, 2011 by Dr. realized ‘hey, something’s wrong here.’” James Dreese, the odds of a full recovery He said he tried to play through it the were around 90-percent. rest of the summer, and “it just didn’t “For a 16-year old kid it’s weird,” work out. We had to shut it down.” said Derek Whalen. “It’s like you think Immediately after the game, a game it can’t ever happen to you. You don’t during which Whalen did not go in af- think you can get into a car accident ter the pop, his parents took him to an until it happens to you. It’s the same Urgent Care. kind of deal with your arm, especially “The team didn’t think too much of it. that young.”

We just figured we’d ice it, which doesn’t “I think I held it together in there do anything, I’ve learned, but we figured we’d do that,” said Whalen. “I WHALEN >> D3

Tennis wins five of six Messenger salvages WU split with shutout at the plate; kind “[Messenger's] been lights out all season, for the matches in straight sets By LUKE GOODLING struggles of frustrated our hitting

By RJ LEISIE

Sports Convergence Editor

The Waynesburg University men’s tennis team hit the road for its season finale before the start of the Presidents’ Athletic Conference Championship. The Yellow Jackets took on the Titans of Westminster and won 6-3.

“Everyone played pretty well,” head coach Ron Christman said. “Jonah Cooper’s match went to a third set, otherwise everyone won in straight sets.

Overall, we just played very well as a team.”

Freshman Jonah Cooper faced Kornel Foremski, winning the first set 7-6. Cooper lost the second set 2-6 but rebounded in the third set,

winning 10-5. Junior Tim Harris won in straight sets over AJ May, 6-2 and 6-3. “[Cooper] has done well for us,” Christman said.

“This is a good win for him too, and it really sets him up for a good seed in the tournament.”

Freshman Josh Denham and sophomore Adam McKnight won in straight sets in their single matches. Westminster took the final two singles matches by way of forfeit.

For the doubles competition, the pairing of Harris and Denham won their match over May and Foremski, 8-4. Cooper and McKnight followed and defeated

TENNIS >> D2

Editorial Assistant

hadn’t been where it started The Waynesburg Uni- off when we came back to versity softball team split Pennsylvania after Florida, the weekend series against where we had red hot bats Bethany and as the season for a while,” said Hall. “We begins to draw to a close, were getting production conference victories gain a from the whole lineup; we higher precedence. have been struggling scorIn the first game ing runs as of t h e d ou bl e TOP of late.” header, WaynesSenior PERFORMERS bu rg s t r u g g l e d Stephanie offensively with Courtney Messenger: K o t o m only managing to 7IP 4H 0R 6K 0BB ski was the combine four hits starting and one run in the Alex Lawrence: pitcher for seven inning af3-5, BB Wa y n e s fair. Head coach burg in the Richele Hall said Mackenzie Smith: first game hitting has been 2-6, RBI of the doua struggle for the bleheader. team since the start of the The start for the senior was season. fitting, as it was Senior Day “Game one was full of for Waynesburg and Hall

most part, especially in PAC play."

RICHELE HALL

Head softball coach

said that, while giving up six runs, Kotomski was not responsible for the loss. “[Kotomski] did not pitch a bad game, but our defense was not there to play behind her. We made five errors in the game, so that was also kind of frustrating,” said Hall.

Despite the struggles Waynesburg faced in the first game of the doubleheader, the Yellow Jackets managed to perform better defensively in the second game. Although the offensive problems continue with Waynesburg only putting up one run, fresh-

man Courtney Messenger pitched a complete game shutout. “[Messenger] was definitely hitting all of her spots,” said Hall. “She got some big outs—she gave up a couple hits with less than two outs but our defense was playing behind her, and she was able to get a couple big strikeouts to get out of those innings.”

In Messenger’s outing, she managed to only give up four hits with no walks and six strikeouts. According to Hall, Messenger has SOFTBALL >> D2

Despite record, women's lacrosse has bright spot in Bachman Junior attacker nearing 100 career goals

By CHELSEY WITHERS Editorial Assistant

Dave Miller, ADM Photography

Junior attacker Holly Bachman is nearing 100 goals for her career at Waynesburg.

Bachman also owns the Waynesburg University program record for career goals.

The Waynesburg University women’s lacrosse team currently holds a 1-9 record, but that has not stopped junior attacker Holly Bachman from having a successful season.

The Butler, Pennsylvania native currently has 30 goals, leaving her with 94 collegiate career goals thus far. Bachman is leading the team in goals this season, after leading the team last season in goals and was also second on the team for goals her freshman year.

“Setting small goals for myself throughout the season helps motivate me and

wanting to be one of the best pushes me too,” said Bachman. “I am a very competitive person, so being able to

“Getting 100 goals is something I have set for myself since my freshman year, but at no time did I think I would be so close so soon."

HOLLY BACHMAN

Junior attacker

compete with some of the best girls in our conference is such an accomplishment

for me. Getting 100 goals is something I have set for myself since my freshman year, but at no time did I think I would be so close so soon.”

Currently Bachman holds the Waynesburg record for career goals, which means she would be the first in history if she hits the 100 goal mark. Not only does Bachman lead the team in goals, but she also was chosen to serve as a team captain this season by her teammates.

“She works hard everyday, she expects the most out of people,” said head coach Stephanie Benkowski.

“My favorite thing about her is she calls out people and BACHMAN >> D4

Page D2

April 21, 2016

GOLF COVERAGE

Richards places third at Thiel invite Men finish last in weekend event

By RJ LEISIE

Sports Convergence Editor

The Waynesburg University women’s golf team traveled north to the Greens at Greenville for Saturday’s Thiel College Invitational.

The Yellow Jackets placed fifth in the five-team event.

Freshman Abbey Richards, who placed third out of 22 competitors with a score of 93, paced Waynesburg for the event. Richards missed out on individual medalist honors by just two strokes.

“She had a rough today to be honest,” head coach Sam Jones said. “She didn’t play her best, and she was pretty frustrated from it. We talked about it, and I think she will be able to grow from it.”

Sophomore Cassie Hudson, junior Andrea Losko and senior Meghan Bayles also competed for the Yellow Jackets. The team finished the event with a total score of 543.

“The team is improving and coming along as

a whole,” Jones said. “A couple of them had days, while a couple had rough days compared to last week. That’s going to happen when you are new to the sport.”

Saint Vincent took home the team title after compil-

“[Richards] had a rough day today to be honest. She didn't play her best, and she was pretty frustrated from it."

SAM JONES

Head coach

ing a four-woman mark of 394. The Bearcats also claimed the individual championship thanks to Samantha Firestone’s tournament-low score of 91.

Waynesburg has one more warm-up event at the Saint Vincent Invitational today, April 21, before the Presidents’ Athletic Conference Spring Champion-

ships. The Yellow Jackets enter the Spring Championships finishing seventh out of seven teams in the Fall Championships. Richards led the Yellow Jackets with two-day total of 171, good for second place.

Washington & Jefferson took home the team trophy after tallying a 709 over 36 holes.

That total was 61 strokes better than second-place Saint Vincent. W&J’s Jocelyn Sudar took home medalist honors with a winning mark of 166.

“We just need to work on more consistency,” Jones said. “If we take out those wasted or bad shots, the scores will drop and from there the confidence of the player grows. We have a chance to get better as a team, and I think overall we can accomplish it.”

The Saint Vincent Invitational began Thursday, April 21 at 11 a.m. The Spring Championships are on April 29-30 starting at 10 a.m.

By RJ LEISIE

Sports Convergence Editor

The Waynesburg University men’s golf team traveled to Greenville, Pennsylvania for the Thiel Invitational on Saturday, April 16. The Yellow Jackets placed seventh in the seven-team event.

“It was a great day for golf,” head coach Sam Jones said. “I think it was the first day this semester we haven’t been rained on or it has been cold outside. It was a rough day for a couple of the guys, they played a little worse than they did last time out.”

Senior Chris Little finished the course with a score of 102. Fellow senior Josh Hennig, who carded a teambest 91, paced Waynesburg for the event. His result ended up good enough for 25th in the individual standings.

“Josh looked great,” Jones said. “He has been super busy this semester being a senior student-teacher so he hasn’t really had a chance to go out and play. Chris had a

great round compared to the week before and he has been making some nice strides.”

Sophomore Ivan Li and freshman Nate Gearhart both took part in the invitational for the Yellow Jackets.

Li finished the round with a 111 while Gearhart returned to the clubhouse with a 119.

“They kind of took a step back honestly,” Jones said.

“They are both young and new golfers and they have to realize that it is just part of the game. They just have to learn from it and overcome these challenges so it doesn’t become a repeat performance.”

Grove City took home the team title after compiling a mark of 307. Thiel’s Jeff Jenkins claimed individual honors with a 73.

Waynesburg was originally scheduled to play in the Westminster Invitational on Monday, April 25, but with the date during finals week, the Yellow Jackets have elected to miss the invitational and prepare for the Presidents’ Athletic

Conference Spring Championships.

Waynesburg will enter the Spring Championships finishing seventh out of the eight teams in the Fall Championships. Senior Tyler Miller finished the twoday event with a total of 166, which was good enough for 27th. Hennig finished the event two spots behind Miller after shooting a 169.

S a i n t Vi n c e n t C o l lege took home the team title with a 616 score. The Bearcats edged secondplace Grove City by four strokes.

“My goal is to have all four guys, for at least one of the two rounds, get under 100,” Jones said. “Little is right there, along with Li and Tyler Miller and Hennig [who]normally shoot under 100. I think it is the next step for us to continue our growth as a team.”

The PAC Spring Championships will be held on April 29 and 30 at the Grove City Country Club. The event will begin at 10 a.m.

Tennis: Lack of seniors not a problem for Jackets Softball: Jackets look to make PAC playoffs

Continued from D1

their Westminster counterparts, 8-1. The Titans took the final doubles match by way of forfeit.

“Everybody moved up a level with their wins today,” Christman said. “We are going to go into the tournament, even though we are down the ladder as a team each individual and the doubles teams will be in good position.”

Without a senior on the roster, Christman does not feel there is a single player as a leader, but instead it is done by committee.

“You can’t highlight one player or another player as a leader,” Christman said. “Everybody stepped up at different times of the year. Days like today, we were working on things to become

Jenny Schouppe, Yellow Jacket

As a junior, Tim Harris serves as the oldest member of a young men's tennis team. more solid as a team, and it worked out pretty well.”

Christman also mentioned he is not worried about having young players heading into the championship.

“A lot of these guys have had a fair amount of play before coming to Waynesburg,” Christman said. “Its Harris’ third year with us, so he knows what is required. It’s just a different situation and

we can get leadership from anyone to help each other.”

Christman said he is excited heading into the championship for the team and the different players.

“We have to wait and see who the guys are facing as there are several teams who still have to finish their season,” Christman said. “We can’t really practice much, with finals week but we have some days before to get out to work on some things. Its going to make us tougher going into the championship and that’s what we want.”

With the regular season concluded, Waynesburg will begin preparations for the 2016 PAC Championships, which take place at Pennbriar Athletic Club in Erie, Pennsylvania.

The two-day event starts on Friday, April 29, at 8:30 a.m.

Continued from D1

been exceptional all season long for Waynesburg.

“She’s been lights out for us all season, for the most part, especially in Presidents’ Athletic Conference play… but we need to give her more run support,” said Hall.

Looking to the rest of the season, Waynesburg only has four more doubleheaders in conference play before the run for the PAC Championships begin. With the upcoming onslaught of conference games, Hall said each game is a vital one for the team.

“They’re make or break games for our season because sitting at 5-5 in the PAC [isn’t good enough].

We can’t lose very many more games in the PAC,” said Hall. “We’re just going to go through things one game at a time.”

For three upcoming series; Hall said the only option the team has is to either split or sweep the series.

“We need to split or sweep, with playing a couple top teams in the conference, I think splits are maybe more realistic… [although] the last two [series]—Grove City and W&J—we definitely have opportunities to sweep in those contests.”

The next series for the softball team is against Saint Vincent at home on Thursday, April 21.

First pitch of the doubleheader is slated for 3:30 p.m.

PRESIDENTS’ ATHLETIC CONFERENCE ROUNDUP BASEBALL STANDINGS Thomas More Grove City Thiel W&J Saint Vincent Waynesburg Bethany Geneva Westminster

LACROSSE (ORLC)

SOFTBALL Conf. Overall 13-1 19-6 12-2 20-7 8-4 19-9 8-4 14-11 8-7 15-13 6-6 8-18 3-8 7-18 3-14 8-19 0-15 2-25

Friday’s Box Score

GROVE CITY 7, WAYNESBURG 4 Waynesburg 0 0 0 3 0 0 1 4-3-0 Grove City 1 1 2 0 2 1 x 7-12-2 WP: Gallagher LP: Furwa Saturday’s Box Score

GENEVA 6, SAINT VINCENT 3 Geneva 0 0 1 4 1 0 0 6-5-0 Saint Vincent 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 3-6-1 WP: Metzler LP: Whittaker S: Glover Saturday’s Box Score

THOMAS MORE 10, WESTMINSTER 6 Westminster 0 3 2 1 0 0 0 6-6-2 Thomas More 3 0 2 0 1 4 x 10-11-4 WP: Ruberg LP: McMaster Saturday’s Box Score

FREDONIA STATE 6, BETHANY 0 Fredonia State 0 0 0 0 3 3 0 6-12-0 Bethany 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0-5-1 WP: Kopsell LP: Woods Saturday’s Box Score

WASH & JEFF 10, THIEL 6 Wash & Jeff 2 2 0 2 3 1 0 10-15-4 Thiel 0 0 0 1 0 0 5 6-9-5 WP: Groves LP: Nozicka

RECENT RESULTS

Friday, April 15 Grove City 12, Waynesburg 10; Saint Vincent 17, Geneva 4 Saturday, April 16 Thiel 8, Wash & Jeff 0; Fredonia State 8, Bethany 0; Thomas More 10, Westminster 2; Saint Vincent 8, Geneva 5; Grove City 6, Waynesburg 1; Grove City 7, Waynesburg 4; Geneva 6, Saint Vincent 3; Thomas More 10, Westminster 6; Fredonia State 6, Bethany 0; Wash & Jeff 10, Thiel 6 Sunday, April 17 Thomas More 7, Westminster 6; Wash & Jeff 9, Thiel 2; Bethany 13, Pitt-Greensburg 3

UPCOMING GAMES

Friday, April 22 Summit at Geneva (DH) - 2 p.m.; Gtove City at Thomas More - 3 p.m.; Thiel at Waynesburg - 3 p.m.; Westminster at Bethant - 4 p.m.

Saturday, April 23 Grove City at Thomas More (DH) - 12 p.m.; Summit at Geneva (DH) - 1 p.m.; Bethany at Westminster (DH) - 1 p.m.; Saint Vincent at Wash & Jeff (DH) - 1 p.m.; Waynesburg at Thiel (DH) - 1 p.m.

Sunday, April 24 Wash & Jeff at Saint Vincent - 1 p.m.

PAC PLAYERS OF THE WEEK

Hitter: Donovan Pogue, Senior 1B, Thomas More Pitcher: Dave Culeton, Junior, Saint Vincent

STANDINGS Westminster Thomas More Saint Vincent W&J Waynesburg Bethany Thiel Geneva Grove City Chatham

Conf. Overall 10-0 17-11 10-2 25-7 6-4 18-10 6-4 10-14 5-5 14-18 4-4 12-16 4-4 10-14 3-7 13-13 0-8 3-14 0-10 2-21

Saturday’s Box Score

WAYNESBURG 1, BETHANY 0 Bethany 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0-4-1 Waynesburg 0 0 0 1 0 0 x 1-4-0 WP: Messenger LP: Binkley Saturday’s Box Score

WESTMINSTER 7, SAINT VINCENT 6 Saint Vincent 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0-2-2 Westminster 0 0 4 0 0 0 x 4-7-0 WP: Rohrer LP: Emert Saturday’s Box Score

THIEL 5, THOMAS MORE 1 Thiel 0 1 0 0 0 2 2 5-11-1 Thomas More 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1-5-2 WP: Flynn LP: Knotts Saturday’s Box Score

WASH & JEFF 14, CHATHAM 2 Wash & Jeff 0 1 2 3 0 8 14-21-0 Chatham 0 0 2 0 0 0 2-6-0 WP: Flynn LP: Knotts

STANDINGS

Transylvania Wash & Jeff Saint Vincent Mount St. Joseph Franklin Hanover Waynesburg Thomas More Thiel

Conf. Overall 6-0 12-2 6-0 9-4 5-2 5-9 4-2 6-7 3-3 5-5 2-6 5-10 1-4 1-9 0-4 1-9 0-6 0-10

Wednesday April 3rd’s Box Score

FRANKLIN 11,WAYNESBURG 7 Wash & Jeff 6 7 13 Waynesburg 6 0 6

RECENT RESULTS

Friday, April 15 Centre 18, Thomas More 1 Saturday, April 16 Mount St. Joseph 10, Hanover 3; Wash & Jeff 14, Saint Vincent 6; Transylvania 17, Franklin 11

UPCOMING GAMES

Friday, April 22 Waynesburg at Thomas More - 5 p.m.

Saturday, April 23 Waynesburg at Transylvania - 1 p.m.; Wash & Jeff at Mount St. Joseph - 1 p.m.; Hanover at Franciscan - 2 p.m.; Franklin at Saint Vincent - 2 p.m.

Sunday, April 24 Wash & Jeff at Transylvania - 1 p.m.; Franklin at Thomas More - 3 p.m.

Saturday’s Box Score

GENEVA 8, GROVE CITY 0 Geneva 1 1 2 1 3 8-4-0 Grove City 0 0 0 0 0 0-3-6 WP: Keslar LP: Aughton

RECENT RESULTS

Saturday, April 16 Thomas More 9, Thiel 5; Bethany 6, Waynesburg 1; Westminster 4, Saint Vincent 0; Geneva 6, Grove City 4; Wash & Jeff 8, Chatham 0; Westminster 7, Saint Vincent 6; Thiel 5, Thomas More 1; Wash & Jeff 14, Chatham 2; Geneva 8, Grove City 0; Waynesburg 1, Bethany 0 Sunday, April 17 Thomas More 10, Chatham 0; Wash & Jeff 3, Penn State Behrend 2; Penn State Behrend 5, Wash & Jeff 4; Thomas More 20, Chatham 0

UPCOMING GAMES

Thursday, April 21 Grove City at Bethany (DH) - 3 p.m.; Saint Vincent at Waynesburg (DH) - 3:30 p.m.

Saturday, April 23 Chatham at Saint Vincent (DH) - 1 p.m.; Westminster at Thiel (DH) - 1 p.m.; Waynesburg at Grove City (DH) - 1 p.m.; Wash & Jeff at Thomas More (DH) - 1 p.m.; Bethany at Geneva (DH) - 1 p.m.

PAC PLAYERS OF THE WEEK

Hitter: Kailey Liverman, Freshman IF, Westminster Pitcher: Jazmyn Rohrer, Sophomore, Westminster

WAYNESBURG ATHLETES OF THE WEEK Matt Bensinger, Baseball Courtney Messenger, Softball

PAC BASEBALL LEADERS

Batting AVG.: Metzger, .494, TMC; Koller, .452, THI; Kenning, .452, TMC RBI: Kenning, 38, TMC; Pogue, 33, TMC; Laumann, 29, TMC Batters Struck Out: Resnik, 58, WAY; Elko, 52, THI; Nichols, 37, GEN ERA: Culeton, 1.93, SVC; Elko, 2.08, THI; Kerr, 2.25; W&J

PAC SOFTBALL LEADERS

Batting AVG.: Nardone, .464, WES; Liverman, .459, WES; Noel, .450, SVC RBI: Liverman, 35, WES; Noel, 30, SVC; Fee, 27, GEN Batters Struck Out: Rhorer, 114, WES; Weiss, 104, BET; Messenger, 75, WAY ERA: Knotts, 0.65, TMC; Emert, 1.38, SVC; McCartney, 1.79, W&J

ORLC LACROSSE LEADERS

Goals: Ward, 55, TRA; Harrison, 53, TRA; Nelson, 52, SVC Assists: Kallos, 27, W&J; Carroll, 23, SVC; Ward, 17, TRA Saves: Phillips, 122, WAY; Franey, 109, SVC; Mousa, 105, HAN Points: Ward, 72, TRA; Nelson, 66, SVC; Kallos, 63, W&J

OUTDOOR MEN’S & WOMEN’S TRACK & FIELD MEN RECENT RESULTS

WOMEN RECENT RESULTS

Individual MOUNT UNION -- JOHN HOMON OPEN 100-METER DASH 1. Jaevon Hardy, WES, 10.82; 2. Jametrius Bentley, WES, 11.08; 9. Mark Minjock, WAY, 11.33 200-METER DASH 1. Jaevon Hardy, WES, 21.63; 2. Aaron Barlow, N/A, 22.10; 23. Mark Minjock, WAY, 22.98 400-METER DASH 1. Kyle Minger, BET, 48.64; 2. Jake Dindack, WES, 48.69; 53. Brio Davis, WAY, 57.27 800-METER DASH 1. Dylan Buffington, PSU-B, 1:54.21; 2. Cody Cornell, PSU-B, 1:55.53; 36. Matthew Raineri, WAY, 2:06.76 1500-METER RUN 1. Matt McWilliams, PSU-B, 3:53.07; 2. Josh Natalie, PSU-B, 3:54.40; 33. Joel Kuzminski, WAY, 4:26.84 5000-METER RUN 1. Dani Christiansen, GRO, 15:08.09; 2. Killian McNally, PITT-J, 15:31.29; 37. Cody Nail, WAY, 17:20.87 10000-METER RUN 1. Shane Burkhart, W&J, 32:22.56; 2. Kevin Dixon, Alfred, 32:43.24 110-METER HURDLE 1. Noah Bostick, SRU, 15.30; 2. Nick Betz, GRO, 15.55; 20. Matthew Shinkle, WAY, 17.05 400-METER HURDLES 1. T Lavine-Sifontes, WES, 55.92; 2. Joshua Burns, PSU-B, 56.85; 13. Matthew Shinkle, WAY, 59.47 3000-METER STEEPLECHASE 1. Ryan Alud, CMU, 9:45.04; 2. Jacob Hanss, Alfred, 9:57.62; 16. Benjamin McAuley, WAY, 10:38.68 HIGH JUMP 1. LeAndre Jackson, THI, 1.94m; 2. Kevin Gardner, PSUB, 1.94m; 24. Matthew Keany, WAY, 1.69m MEN POLE VAULT 1. Oehler-Ma Whitman, BRO, 4.90m; 2. Josh Steinman, BRO, 4.60m; 17. Jeremy Welsh, WAY, 3.75m LONG JUMP 1. Umar Moore, BET, 6.95m; 2. Aaron McGinnis, RWU, 6.85m; 47. Lucas Mauer, WAY, 5.42m TRIPLE JUMP 1. Richard Rouse, N/A, 14.41m; 2. Adam Leeper, SRU, 14.27m; 22. James Steele, WAY, 11.96m SHOT PUT 1. Mitchel Obenrader, PSU-B, 16.25m; 2. JJ Ollio, SRU, 15.32m; 17. Austin Oberg, WAY, 12.19m DISCUS 1. Paul Yohman, N/A, 45.55m; 2. Nick Fiorentino, WES, 45.01m; 9. Aniellio DeStefano, WAY, 40.12m HAMMER THROW 1. Jacob Schofel, CMU, 49.98m; 2. JJ Ollio, SRU, 44.78m JAVELIN 1. Mitchel Obenrader, PSU-B, 60.70m; 2. Cameron Smith, CMU, 60.70m; 20. Austin Oberg, WAY, 41.17m

Individual MOUNT UNION -- JOHN HOMON OPEN 100-METER DASH 1. Chelsea Hayward, RWU, 12.25; 2. Kathleen Amstad, RWU, 12.41; 17. Marla Holland, WAY, 13.13 200-METER DASH 1. Chelsea Hayward, RWU, 24.93; 2. Kathleen Amstad, RWU, 25.27; 39. Kaitlin Brooks, WAY, 28.70 400-METER DASH 1. Paige Allen, PSU-B, 57.29; 2. Sarah Cook, CMU, 58.03; 20. Cassidy Guiser, WAY, 1:03.72 800-METER DASH 1. Rose Ciriello, CMU, 2:19.09; 2. Courtney Sargent, PSU-B, 2:20.77; 19. Elinore Loch, WAY, 2:27.08 1500-METER RUN 1. Mackenzie Donahue, DAE, 4:48.52; 2. Rebecca Schorr, PITT-J, 4:54.55; 5. Emily Latimer, WAY, 4:59.19 5000-METER RUN 1. Katie Guarnaccia, PPU, 18:22.43; 2. Lindsay Piriano, Alfred, 18:37.81; 17. Katherine Latimer, WAY, 20:34.55 10000-METER RUN 1. Kayce Bobnar, CLA, 38:52.55; 2. Danielle Vensel, CLA, 40:10.74 100-METER HURDLES 1. Kelci Warshel, PITT-J, 14.64; 2. Morgan Berg, THI, 14.78; 400-METER HURDLES 1. Tatiana Cloud, CLA, 1:02.34; 2. Marisa Toensing, WES, 1:04.22; 3000-METER STEEPLECHASE 1. Joanna Friesen, HOU, 11:42.76; 2. Katie Chambers, CLA, 11:46.48; 6. Elinore Loch, WAY, 12:29.45 HIGH JUMP 1. Paige Kassab, SRU, 1.66m; 2. Ashley West, SRU, 1.61m; POLE VAULT 1. Kaitlyn Clay, SRU, 3.80m; 2. Cassidy Shepherd, WES, 3.75m; 23. Breanne Prinkey, WAY, 2.80m LONG JUMP 1. Janelle Perry, URS, 5.49m; 2. Jessica Shomo, CLA, 5.32m; TRIPLE JUMP 1. Kia Clayton, PITT-J, 10.99m; 2. Sadira Brown, EDB, 10.90m; 20. Caitlin Brooks, WAY, 9.58m SHOT PUT 1. Gabby Schultz, EDB, 13.34m; 2. Anna Frengel, SRU, 12.91m; 30. Rose Huwe, WAY, 8.83m DISCUS 1. Gabby Schultz, EDB, 41.84m; 2. Kiana Daley, PPU, 39.19m; 19. Rose Huwe, WAY, 30.56m HAMMER THROW 1. Oluchi Nwankwo, CMU, 43.16m; 2. Anna Frengel, SRU, 41.88m; JAVELIN 1. Samantha Taylor, SRU, 44.22m; 2. Jesse Hinkle, CHA, 37.08m; 23. Brittany Faust, WAY, 23.79m

Team Saturday, April 16 WESTMINSTER INVITATIONAL 2. Westminster, 93 pts.; 5. Grove City, 53 pts.; 6.

Bethany, 52 pts.; 9. Wash & Jeff, 32 pts.; 12. Geneva, 24 pts.; 13. Thiel, 23 pts.; 16. Waynesburg, 7 pts.; 19.

Saint Vincent, 5 pts.

Team Saturday, April 16 WESTMINSTER INVITATIONAL 7. Westminster, 47 pts.; 12. Geneva, 24 pts.; 13 Grove City, 16 pts.; 15. Thiel, 13 pts.; 18. Bethany, 9 pts.; 18. Chatham, 9 pts.; 22. Waynesburg, 7 pts.; 24. Saint Vincent, 5 pts.

April 21, 2016

Page D3

TRACK & FIELD COVERAGE

Falvo ‘very pleased’ by Gerber returns in time for championships men's team's weekend

By MITCHELL KENDRA Managing Editor

“I will push myself to my limits and upmost abilities to help score points for the The Waynesburg Univer- team and help lead us to sity men’s track & field team victory.” traveled to the Westminster Minjock also competed Invitational on in the 4x100 and Saturday, April 4x400-meter re16. lays. He teamed T h e Ye l l o w with James Steele, Ja c k e t s p l a c e d Sheldon Wagner 16th out of the 25 and Mitch Kendra competing teams to take fifth in the in the invitation4x100. al.

Matthew Shin“ We h a d a kle, a sophomore great weekend,” jumper, finished said head coach in the top half of Kendra Jason Falvo. the men’s 400-me“Each member of the team ter hurdles with a 13thworked very hard. I was place time of 59.47 seconds. very pleased.”

At the invitational, junior S op h om ore s pr i nt e r Aniellio DeStefano placed Mark Minjock was able to ninth in the 52-man disfinish the 100-meter dash cus throw with a distance in 11.33 seconds, which of 40.12 meters. Followput him in ninth place for ing DeStefano, was junior the race. He also received Jonathan Hager, who place a 23rd place finish in the 14th in the event with a dis200-meter dash after com- tance of 38.31-meters. To pleting it in 22.98 seconds. wrap up places in the event “I will go into the next was freshman Blake Feldner meet just like I do with ev- who took 19th after a toss of 36.95-meters.

Another strong finish for field events came from “We had a great weekKendra, in which he placed end. Each member 13th out of 32 competitors of the team worked in the pole vault by clearing 3.90 meters. very hard. I was very The team now begins to pleased." prepare for the Presidents’ JASON FALVO Athletic Conference ChamHead coach pionship, which will be held April 29 and 30 at Bethany College. ery meet, I will go into the “Last year, we lost the blocks aiming to run faster PAC title by one single than I have ever ran before point,” said Minjock. “We and to place as high as I possibly can,” said Minjock.

TRACK >> D4

By CHELSEY WITHERS Editorial Assistant

The women’s track & field team traveled to Westminster for the Westminster College Invitational on April 16. The Yellow Jackets were one of the 26 teams competing at the invitational and they finished 22nd overall.

As one of the bigger meets that Waynesburg competes in, Falvo thought the team handled it well.

After an earlier-than-usual departure time that Falvo said was more difficult for the athletes to adjust to, the bus arrived in Titan territory around 9 a.m. Saturday. From that point, Falvo said the team got rolling.

The team set up their tent in the bleachers to cover the athletes from the hot sun, something Falvo said was great, but also “zapped” the athletes.

After getting to the meet early and being in the sun all afternoon, Falvo said it was tough for the athletes to adapt to the different way they should be eating and hydrating.

Some of the athletes did not compete in their first race until the late afternoon, and being in the sun all day affected their performance, Falvo said.

Falvo said it was nice to have warm weather and that he could see the difference the weather had on some of the athletes’ times, heights and distances.

Junior Emily Latimer led the Yellow Jackets on the track with a fifth place finish in the 1,500-meter run.

“Emily has been running great all year, so [it’s] not surprising she ran a great time in the [1,500-meter],” said Falvo.

Dave Miller, ADM Photography

Sophomore Julie Gerber made her return to the track last Saturday for the Jackets. As one of Waynesburg's top runners, Gerber has been out since late February with mononucleosis.

“We had seen her and predicted her to run well.”

Sophomore Elinore Loch had another top 10 finish for Waynesburg. Loch finished in sixth place in the 3,000 meter steeplechase.

“We knew what Elinore could do, from doing steeplechase last year, so for her, just getting her feet wet a little bit… she’s going to do some great things over the next two meets in steeple,” said Falvo.

Loch also competed in the 800-meter, finishing in the 19 spot, and was a member of the 4x400 meter relay team.

Also on the track for the Yellow Jackets was sophomore Julie Gerber. Gerber, who has not competed since the Kenyon College Classic on Feb.

20 because of mononucleosis, returned for her first outdoor meet of the season. Gerber competed in the 5,000-meter run, but Falvo said having her back around the team was better than having her competing again.

“Julie does everything we ask her to do, every time we ask her to do it, so [that shows] her dedication to do exactly what she is coached to do,” said Falvo. “It was great to have her back, more so to have Julie Gerber the person back than it was to have Julie Gerber the athlete back.

She’s a special person, we love her personality so [we were] happy to see her, the person back, athletically that’s just a secondary bonus.”

Senior Rose Huwe finished in 19th in the discus, but Falvo believes she’ll perform better at the conference championships.

“Rosie has been improving so much in her throws this whole year that I expect nothing less of her going into the next week,” said Falvo. “She should be a top five discus thrower for us and we expect her to do so.”

Yesterday the team traveled to Bethany College for the Presidents’ Athletic Conference Quad Meet. The meet ran too late for results to be published in this week’s publication.

On April 29 and 30, the team will head to Bethany College for the third and final time this season for the PAC Championships. Having prepared all season for the championships, Falvo said the two-day event will take a team effort.

While the team has been competing against the other PAC teams on and off all season, this meet will bring together everyone and will showcase who the best athletes in their respective events are.

“I’m looking forward to a total team effort,” said Falvo.

“You never know who is going to surprise you. It’s a lot of fun, but it’s going to take a whole team effort for sure.”

The team was expected to finish fifth this season, but Falvo believes the athletes need to perform well individually to boost the team’s scoring.

“I think we’re going to have to contributions from everybody,” said Falvo.

“To be in the running for a championship you have to get those small victories in the meet.”

Whalen: Junior finds identity after long, grueling road back to mound Continued from D1

pretty well, especially better than my mom,” he added. “I don’t think it really hit me until a few days after and I had no idea what was coming down the road.” *** Fast forward to now and the 2016 season started off like the last two have for Whalen.

He gave up three runs on three hits and walked one against Cornell, and only recorded one out. Two days later, Whalen surrendered three more runs in two innings against Albion and another run, the game winning run, against Muskingum the next day.

Since spring break in Florida, however, Derek’s junior season at Waynesburg has been the best for him since his surgery. In 22 total innings over the course of nine appearances this season, he has given up 10 earned runs on 26 hits, walked seven and struck out eight. His ERA was 23.62 when the Jackets returned home from the Sunshine State.

Following a complete game, one-run performance against W&J Tuesday, his ERA is down to that 4.09 highlighted above.

It is, he said, the culmination of all the hard work the Fairfield, Pennsylvania, native put in over the course of four long years.

“My year started off poorly in Florida,” said Derek Whalen. “I don’t think the numbers though, necessarily reflected how I pitched. I was fairly confident coming out of Florida, though, that if I continued to throw how I was throwing I was going to be successful come conference play. Other than that it’s just everything we’ve worked on throughout the entire time is paying off.

I’ve tried to stay process-oriented, without just focusing on the results in the short-term, and it has worked.”

Whalen said he has had much more command of his fastball and off-speed pitches since Florida.

In a game against Bethany in which Whalen pitched a

scoreless seventh inning, he would earn his first collegiate victory, a game he said he wasn’t thinking of having a chance to win, as the team walked off in the bottom of the seventh inning.

“I was just trying to keep the team in the game and figured if I could keep the deficit where it was, it would give us a chance to win,” said Derek Whalen. “Good things are going to happen when you just keep doing what you’re doing.

We are just trying to let the results come and stay focused on the process, long-term. I was just trying to keep the hitters off-balance and keep the team in the game.” *** It was his first surgery, and it came with a fair share of physical stress.

Essentially what the reconstruction surgery does, in laymen’s terms, is forcing a piece of a tendon graft out of the leg to mimic what the UCL does in the elbow. The one they took out of Derek’s knee was too short, so he had to have a cadaver tendon graft fitted to complete the surgery.

He said for a few weeks after the surgery. his leg hurt more than his arm.

“After the surgery was rough for him,” said Tammie Whalen. “He had to have a catheter. He couldn't walk.

They put him on an antibiotic and he was allergic to that. He had a really rough time.”

“I remember the first thing I asked for was a ginger ale from the nurse,” Derek said. “I remember waking up and all of the sudden it was like, ‘this is not a dream. This is actually happening and I had no clue what was coming.’ It was definitely, when all was said and done one of most trying things I have ever gone through.”

The rehab process was complicated and long.

He was immobilized at 90-degrees for six to seven days in a cast. Taking it off was tough and painful, he said.

He had lost 30-percent of the total mass in his arm and it was unexpected.

“It was like I had a noodle for an arm,” said Whalen. “I still couldn’t fully extend my

Kyle Dawson, Yellow Jacket

Junior pitcher Derek Whalen notched his second career win Tuesday with a complete game over W&J. arm for weeks after taking that off.”

For him like others who have the surgery, it took baby steps from there.

“We started off doing the smallest of things like lightly squeezing a stress ball,” he said.

“We heated it up and had it massaged a couple of times.

It was about getting the range of motion back early in the process.”

Everyday life changed too.

“It was weird things like having people offer to do things for you,” he said. “I’m the type of person that tries to do everything I possibly can to the point where people tell me to slow down. It was little things though like pouring a soda in a cup from a two-liter bottle because you have to hold it with your other hand and pour. Just everyday tasks like that were a pain in the butt. Things like that became annoying and sometimes painful.”

Rehab continued to work its way up. The next focus was strengthening the core to prevent injuries to the elbow, from working on a pedal bike to finally just tossing a tennis ball back and forth and staying positive.

“We just tried to stay positive,” his mother said. “It was a really long and tough process

and we just kept saying ‘you’re going to come back from this.”

The end product was all Whalen had hoped for and more.

“I never really experienced anything that gave me wincing pain or couldn’t take,” Derek said. “When we got to that tennis ball, you couldn’t wipe the smile off my face, and that was the happiest I was in months until I threw my actual baseball. I still have that ball and it means a lot to me.” *** In Fairfield, Pennsylvania, playing in Class A, Whalen didn’t face much competition.

When he got to Waynesburg, he was immediately thrown into the fire.

Mt. Union was his first opponent, a notoriously successful program on the diamond.

He pitched three innings.

The final line was ugly: seven hits, eight runs (seven earned), two walks and four batters hit by an errant Whalen pitch. He called it a “traumatizing experience.”

With a lot of games in a small amount of time, chalk up the old baseball adage of a pitcher laying on the proverbial grenade on the mound.

Not playing after that, in fact, so tough that he toured

Hood College and talked with the new head coach about the institution’s newly established baseball program.

“There were a bunch of underlying things that were ready to blow up in my face freshman year,” said Whalen. “I got here and people were not only just as good as me but better. I had a lot of time to sit around and think about not playing and what was going on. I had it figured out before my last outing that I was transferring.”

He had never played baseball without his dad there and wanted to be closer to home.

He then threw four innings of no-hit ball against W&J in a playoff game. He said it was like a higher force telling him he had to stay.

Perry Cunningham, the pitching coach at Waynesburg, had a conversation with Whalen after that outing and told him that he wanted Derek to be a part of the staff going forward.

Whalen said that was a big factor in keeping him at Waynesburg.

“I think he found a group of people he found that he couldn’t leave,” said Tammie Whalen.

Thus he didn’t leave, and he found a new obsession with pitching mechanics to the point that everyone who knows him, knows how truly obsessed he is with baseball and the mechanics.

He’d videotape everything he threw and helped others as well. Derek and Jacob Meyer, a teammate and close friend, could be seen in the hallways of Martin Hall doing towel drills and dry mechanics.

Meyer saw the success sophomore year that Whalen had hoped for. The obsession resulted in more of the same struggling for the sophomore.

He had a tough relief experience in Florida and then got a start in Florida that was lucky, he said.

Then his chance came. It was a start against Bethany.

He only made it through 1.1 innings.

“We did the same, everything,” said Meyer. “We did the same weight programs, throwing programs, read the same things and watched the same things. A lot of my suc-

cess was because of him and we did the same exact stuff. It was frustrating for me to see that because here I was reaping the benefits and he wasn’t.

In that game against Bethany, you could tell he felt the pressure and everyone knew this was his chance. I remember my dad called me to talk about it and I was just mad. I remember saying to him ‘this isn’t fair.’”

Whalen was happy for Meyer, who ended up 4-1 with a 5.13 ERA in 2015. He said he kind of took a bit of solace in it in what was otherwise, another bad season for him. *** In the summer between sophomore and junior year at Waynesburg, he needed a break.

Whalen was ready to be done. To stop playing the game he played his entire life.

He knew he had a problem that needed fixed both on the field, and in his head off the field. He wasn’t having fun.

He was allowing baseball to control his life, rather than it being part of it.

So he entered the sports pshychology program on campus and, long story short, the results, he said, were mindblowing.

“It was the best life-altering, mindset-altering, ego-changing, decision I’ve ever made in my life,” said Whalen. “I noticed that I just need to have fun and get back to doing that. I left this program with my briefcase of words that I still have in my locker. I cried straight tears of joy because I had finally figured it out.”

He said he doesn’t know if he’d do it all over again. The pain of the surgery. The pain of the rehab. The trials and tribulations of struggling through two “grueling” years of college baseball.

He looks down at his arm every once a while, looks at the scar and realizes what it took to get back.

He now has three words written in his hat that sum up the entire process and what he needs to do in order to have things click and pitch well, but also have fun.

Breathe. Process. Freedom.

Page D4

April 21, 2016

BASEBALL WEEKEND PREVIEW

Presidents' Athletic Conference series: Thiel College

By KYLE DAWSON

Assistant Sports Editor

The Waynesburg baseball team continues the Presidents’ Athletic Conference portion of its 2016 schedule this weekend with a threegame home and away series against the Thiel Tomcats.

Both teams, entering play Wednesday for the Jackets, were in the top four of the conference standings.

Waynesburg was in action attempting to sweep the three-game set with Washington & Jefferson after notching 2-1 and 2-0 wins in Tuesday’s doubleheader in Washington, Pennsylvania.

The Tomcats wrapped up early week play Tuesday with a pair of 2-0, shutout wins against Geneva College to push their overall record to 21-9 in 30 games this season and their conference record to 10-4, which, entering action Wednesday for other teams around the PAC, was good for third place.

Last season in the season series, the Yellow Jackets accomplished a feat, that in sports, the old adage is that it is not easy to beat a team four times in the same season.

Waynesburg did that, earned. He struck out four however, sweeping the before then-sophomore three-game set during the Parker Beatty recorded the regular season and then de- final out to get the win after feating the Tomcats in the the walk-off. opening game of the PAC Down 6-1 entering the Tournament. sixth inning of the second In the first game of the segame, the lead THIEL ries, Wayneschanged four burg scored t i me s , w it h Pitchers to Watcb six runs in the Waynesburg f rame to end coming back Matt Elko (Sr.) up winning from 4-1 and Jaden Nozicka (Sr.) the game 7-6.

7-5 def icits Riley Schwertz (Sr.) B eatty picked to win the up his second tilt played in Key Offesnive Players straight win afWaynesburg ter picking up by a final of Dan Koller (Sr.) then sophomore 8-7.

Matt Elko (Sr.) Luke Carter in Then sophTrent Smith (Sr.) relief. Kletzli omores Nacontinued his than Mori and Jonathon great series at the plate with Kletzli both collected two- two more RBI. plus hits and scored a comGame three of the series bined four runs in the win. was no different for the Kletzli drove in four runs two teams than the first on his three hits including a two. It was another seesaw triple and the walk-off two affair. The ice broke for RBI single in the ninth.

Waynesburg in the top of Then junior outfielder the seventh inning when Matt Bensinger added a then sophomore catcher home run to the victorious Ben Miller drove a pitch effort. from then junior pitcher For Waynesburg on the Matt Elko of Thiel to the hill, Brian Resnik rose to left-center field wall for a the occasion of pitching in a bases-clearing double that big game to open the series, took a Thiel lead of 3-2 and throwing 8.2 innings, scat- turned it in to a 5-3 lead for tering 10 hits and the seven Waynesburg. runs, three of which were Then sophomore Jacob

Meyer started the game bullpen. and pitched five innings Then senior Ben Shortof three-run baseball. Two house, Miller, and then of those runs were earned sophomore third baseman on six hits. Then freshman Cameron Bernhardt all colBrandon Lawless entered lected two hits. the game in the sixth inResnik pitched the full ning and earned nine innings, the win after giv- W A Y N E S B U R G surrendering ing up a run on three earned two hits. Then Pitchers to Watch r u n s a n d junior Derrick four runs on Zavatsky, who is Brian Resnik (Sr.) nine hits on no longer with Luke Carter (Jr.) struck out the team, recordDerek Whalen (Jr.) seven. ed the save in the The two seventh inning to Key Offesnive Players teams don’t secure the sweep look all that for Waynesburg.

Matt Bensinger (Sr.) different In the playoffs, Tyler Godwin (So.) this season Waynesburg was Josh Hausler (Jr.) outside of a the home team as few changes the No. 2 seed against the to Waynesburg’s lineup. three-seeded Tomcats.

Shorthouse, Kyle Weyand, The first round matchup Eric Crum and Neil Yakopitted two eventual first- pin have graduated from team All-PAC pitchers on Waynesburg. the mound. It was WaynesWaynesburg has plugged burg ace Brian Resnik ver- the gaps with a few freshsus Thiel ace Matt Elko. man, outfielder Eli KuchThiel jumped out to a 4-0 erawy and infielder Tyler lead in the first three in- Reis. It has plugged another nings. Two of the runs came gap with sophomore transon a Trent Smith home run. fer outfielder Tyler GodWaynesburg scored the win. next seven runs to win the The pitching staffs game 7-4. Waynesburg was haven’t changed much for able to tie the game in the either team as Resnik and sixth off Elko before tak- Elko still lead their respecing the lead for good in the tive staffs. seventh against the Tomcat The only glaring change

will be the absence of junior Jacob Meyer, who is out for the 2016 season with a few different injuries.

For Thiel offensively, senior catcher Dan Koller, who is hitting .450 with one home run and 23 runs batted in, leads the charge.

Elko and Smith are hitting .417 and .355, respectively.

Jaden Nozicka, Kevin Forrester and Riley Schwertz, all seniors, lead the charge behind Elko on the mound.

Godwin led the team in batting average entering play Wednesday at .364 with Bensinger, junior outfielder Josh Hausler and Reis, who, entering the game against W&J Wednesday were hitting .363, .340 and ,324, respectively.

Leading the pitching staff into the series against Thie will be Resnik, Carter and a host of other Jacket pitchers including junior Derek Whalen, Beatty and sophomore Brandon Lawless, among others.

The two teams will play Friday at 4 p.m. in Waynesburg in a single, nine-inning affair, before contesting a doubleheader Saturday in Greenville, Pennsylvania with first pitch scheduled for 1 p.m.

Bachman: Captain takes on leadership role in 2016 Baseball: Pitchers give up one run in DH sweep Continued from D1

she has an expectation on each person on the team and the team knows that. It has been awesome having her as a team leader for us.”

As a freshman, Bachman was second on the Yellow Jackets in goals scored with 22.

Bachman took a big step in her sophomore year, as she emerged as the leading scorer for the Jackets. The then-sophomore attacker scored 42 of Waynesburg's 135 goals last season.

So far this season, Bachman has s core d 31 of Waynesburg's 76 goals, which is tied for eighth best in the Ohio River Lacrosse Conference.

Bachman has scored six goals in a game on two different occasions this season.

The first was when the team traveled to Lancaster Bible College and the second was when the team took on Saint Vincent.

As Bachman continues to drive for success, she also looks at her teammates for guidance and support.

“My te am m ate s an d coaches push me every day to lead the team and set an

Lindsey Orzechowski, Yellow Jacket

Junior attacker Holly Bachman is also the captain on the short-manned women's lacrosse team. The Jackets currently stand at 1-9 on the season. example. Having that pressure on me drives me too,” said Bachman. “The team is always cheering me on, but they also don’t take it easy on me either. I love when people call me out because I know I mess up and I want to hear what I need to work on and what I can be doing to get better.”

This year’s roster is compiled of 15 players for a sport requiring 12 field players counting the goalie. The lack of substitutions has been a difficult for the

team, but the team has tried to change that in a positive light.

Bachman said this has been challenging, but because of the short numbers everyone must work together, which makes for better chemistry on the field. This also contributes to how Bachman motivates her teammates.

“I try to get the girls excited to play and I feel like I do a good job lifting them up when they’re down,” said Bachman. “So many people

are hard on themselves so pointing out the positives, no matter how little, definitely helps. It’s not fun having to point out the negatives or yell but when we are capable of so much more you have to. By pointing out mistakes, we are better able to work on those things to grow.”

After the hard work and leadership the last three seasons, Bachman will continue to work towards her 100-goal milestone as the season comes to a close.

Track: With PAC champs nearing, preparation is key Continued from D3

had one of the greatest team performances that I’ve ever been a part of at that meet. We put in our all and ran our hearts out and came up so close, but we knew we did everything we could and it was almost like we won in spirit. If we

In retrospect, Humiston said the two conference victories for the Yellow Jackets base. With another scoring are important for playoff opportunity for the Yellow implications.

Jackets, sophomore Tyler “These are two huge wins Godwin singled to center for us,” said Humiston. “I field to score Reis. think if you look The second at the conference game on the aftertournament, and noon for Waynesthat is obviously burg was another what we are trying low-scoring affair to get to—we have for both teams.

Thomas More that Junior D erek is [ranked] one Whalen, who and Grove City had not started a [ranked] two— game for Waynesthere’s two spots Bernhardt burg this season, left in the tournatook the mound for the Yel- ment… it is imperative that low Jackets. Humiston said we do well against teams like when Whalen has his pitch W&J.” selection working he can be Looking at the remainder a threat. of the regular season, Hum“Whalen is one of those iston said if they continue guys—if his splitter is work- to play like they did against ing, he can sneak by fastballs W&J they will be able to and [he’ll perform well],” continue to win important said Humiston. “He pitched series before the Yellow extremely well. He got out of Jackets turn their eyes to the some tough spots.”

Presidents’ Athletic ConferWhalen pitched a com- ence tournament. plete game, giving up one Humiston said there run on five hits with two aren't many big changes strikeouts. The Yellow Jack- Waynesburg has to make ets managed to plate a run moving forward, but said it in both the third and fourth was good to get a couple of innings. The first run came wins, bouncing back from when junior Nathan Mori a sweep at the hands of the singled to right field to start Grove City College Wolveroff the third inning. After ines this past weekend. advancing to third on a The Jackets had a chance throwing error by W&J’s to sweep the Presidents in right fielder and a passed a game Wednesday played ball, Mori would go on to past this week's deadline. score after Hausler hit a sac“We have to do what we rifice fly to centerfield. did today, we can’t be afraid For the second run, Reis of these [teams]… I think singled to open the fourth if we hit the ball and play inning and after a pair good defense and we pitch of consecutive bunts, be a little bit, we’re looking for pushed to third. With one a sweep,” said Humiston. out in the inning, junior “That’s what we have to Cameron Bernhardt singled have… we win series from to left field, driving in Reis. now on.”

Continued from D1

have that same attitude this year, we have the potential to make almost anything possible.”

Some athletes, Falvo said, will be successful at the championships are Mark Minjock in the 100 and 200-meter, Mitch Kendra in the pole vault and Brandon VanTine in the shot put.

“Preparations are going well. We are getting our bodies and mind in a peak performance shape,” said Falvo. “We treat every race as a championship race so this meet is no different.

We need to just keep getting better each day as we plan.

Trust the coaching and let our hard work pay off.”

The Jackets ran in a PAC Quad Meet Wednesday, the results of which came in past this week's d e a d l i n e. Way n e s bu rg will prepare for the Presidents' Athletic Conference Championships, which will take place Friday April 29 through Saturday, April 30 in Bethany, West VIrginia.

Yellow Jacket Athletes of the Week Courtney Messenger

Freshman Courtney Mesversus Pitt-Greensburg and senger was named Athlete of Bethany. the Week for her recent perThe Beaver Local graduate formances in the circle. This has the top era for the Yelis the second nomination for low Jackets at 2.42. She also the freshman. leads the pitching staff with The East Liverpool, Ohio, 75 strikeouts on the season native allowed just one unwhich is goof for third in the earned run in 22.1 innings over conference. Messenger has also four appearances. Messenger allowed the fourth fewest walks Messenger tallied 18 strikeouts and did in conference with 15. not walk a batter.

Waynesburg returns to the field on Messenger also picked up a victory in Thursday. April 21, as it host the Bearcats all three of Waynesburg’s wins this past of Saint Vincent for a doubleheader. First week, including a pair of 1-0 victories pitch is slated for 3:30 p.m.

Matt Bensinger

Senior Matt Bensinger was B ensinger, he ade d into named Athlete of the Week for Wednesday's contest versus his recent performances on the Washington and Jefferson secdiamond. ond on the team in batting avThe Shoemakersville, Pennerage, hitting at a .363. He also sylvania, native hit .353 over leads the team in RBI and home four games while posting team runs with 26 and five respechighs in home runs, runs scored tivley. Bensinger is the leading and runs batted in. Bensinger fielder with 140 putouts and also compiled a .522 on-base five assists with no errors.

Bensinger percentage and slugged .706 to Waynesburg returns to the lead Waynesburg to a 2-3 record. Bens- park on Friday, April 22, for a single, inger also was a star in the field for the nine-inning game against the Thiel TomYellow Jackets playing error-free in the cats in Waynesburg. First pitch is schedfield and registering 21 putouts. uled for 4 p.m.