York College Magazine 2024 Vol. 1

MAGAZINE COLLEGE

TO STAY OR NOT TO STAY

HELPING STUDENTS STAY IN COLLEGE AND SUCCEED

2,510 people donated $218,767 on Feb. 8, 2024, for #YCPGIVES. That total included 762 alumni, 211 faculty/staff, 363 parents, and 292 students who supported the students and programs at York College.

PHOTO: MARY KATE SMITH

Institutional

Grace Seebold ’25 knows the

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PRESIDENT’S LETTER

“I shared several YCPs—York College Points of Pride—like the practical, hands-on experiences that make a York College education one that prepares students to be professionals and helps them find their purpose and passion.”

It was truly an honor to be formally inaugurated as the fifth president of York College of Pennsylvania on Saturday, April 13, 2024. The ceremony—a celebration that included students, faculty, staff, alumni, delegates from other institutions, and, of course, friends and family—was a wonderful conclusion to a week full of living and learning together. During the week, our faculty shared presentations and panels about scholarship and service; our staff gathered for food and fellowship and shared why they chose to be members of the College community; and our students shared laughter, joy, and talents throughout the week. Spartan pride was on display everywhere!

During my inauguration remarks, I shared examples of what has made YCP an exceptional educational institution while beginning to roll out parts of the vision I’m forming from my first year as president. I shared several YCPs—York College Points of Pride—like the practical, hands-on experiences that make a York College education one that prepares students to be professionals and helps them find their purpose and passion. I emphasized the importance of the partnerships and collaborations that help the College deliver on our motto, “To Serve is to Live,” while helping develop students into engaged citizen leaders. I shared with those gathered that, as we move forward together, I have asked our faculty, staff, and administrators to help us focus on creating the opportunity for every York College student to have access to a paid internship. I believe York College should concentrate on opportunities that benefit the community where we live and allow everyone in York County to see—and know—that York College is a resource for them no matter where they are in their educational journey. We can’t be all things to all people, but we can certainly be the best York College that supports our region in its educational endeavors. Finally, I shared my belief that at the core of everything we do should be a focus on students and learning— we have to live this, not just say it. At every step of our decision-making process, we need to remind ourselves that we are here to support our students.

As you peruse this issue, including photographs of the inauguration events, I hope you see that York College of Pennsylvania is doing great things and that the future is bright when we collaborate to help our students succeed.

President Thomas Burns, Ph.D.

YORK COLLEGE

President

Thomas Burns, Ph.D.

Interim Provost and Vice President, Academic Affairs

Patrice DiQuinzio, Ph.D.

Vice President, Development

Troy M. Miller, CNP, CFRE

Chief Communications Officer

Mary Dolheimer

Vice President,

Enrollment Management

Brian Hazlett, M.A.

Vice President,

Campus Operations and Safety

Kenneth Martin, Ph.D.

Dean of Student Development and Campus Life

Rick Satterlee, Ph.D.

Interim Chief Financial Officer

C. Matt Smith, CPA

Dean, Center for Community Engagement

Dominic DelliCarpini, Ph.D.

Head of School,

York Country Day School

Christine Heine, Ed.D.

Chief of Staff for the President Jeffrey Vermeulen

YORK COLLEGE MAGAZINE

Chief Communications Officer

Mary Dolheimer

Design Consultant

Skelton Sprouls

Photographer

Emily Rund

Writer

Sarah Smith ’22

Senior Administrative Assistant

Colleen M. Adamy

CHANGE OF ADDRESS

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717-815-1410 or email yorkmag@ycp.edu

York College Magazine is published two times a year by the Office of Communications, York College of Pennsylvania, York, PA 17403-3651. Periodicals postage paid at York, PA, and additional mailing offices. Permit No. 174. © 2024 York College of Pennsylvania. Printed in U.S.A.

We welcome your news and comments at yorkmag@ycp.edu. York College of Pennsylvania does not discriminate because of race, color, religious creed, disability, ancestry, national origin, sex, or age in employment or in recruitment and acceptance of students.

“Despite the sophistication of false media, the simplest approach remains: Think about it.”

DURING AN ELECTION YEAR, HOW DOES ONE SORT THROUGH POLITICAL RHETORIC TO FIND LEGITIMATE INFORMATION?

Dr. Nick Anspach

Associate Professor of Political Science

Though politicians have always been known to stretch the truth, today’s media environment means that citizens have to be especially wary of falsities, misinformation, and partisan hyperbole. The rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digitally altered videos creates an extra cause for concern.

“…traditional journalists and news outlets provide perhaps our best hope of sorting through political rhetoric to find legitimate information.”

While research has shown that most of us trust our friends and family members to share factual information, it is important to recognize that our social media connections may not even realize it when they share fake news. For all of these reasons, traditional journalists and news outlets provide perhaps our best hope of sorting through political rhetoric to find legitimate information. Though trust in legacy media has been in decline for decades, I am hopeful that this new age of misinformation causes the public to reevaluate its skepticism toward mainstream outlets and appreciate the valuable service they provide.

Assistant Professor of Philosophy

Navigating the political claims that surround us has become trickier. It used to be enough to remind people that we should all seek independent evidence and not blindly support the spinning of a narrative. But today, AI Generative tools have made it harder to know what counts as “evidence.” You might be faced with a video showing a candidate admitting that they murder kittens for fun. How can we separate the true from the false?

First, look for modest claims. Is a call for increased prekindergarten spending being distorted as indoctrination? Is support for self-defense being twisted into advocacy for vigilantism?

Secondly, seek coherence. In February 2023, a fabricated video purportedly showed President Biden making derogatory remarks about the transgender community, in stark contrast to his established support for them.

Despite the sophistication of false media, the simplest approach

Assistant Professor, Cybersecurity and Business Administration

There is a great website called allsides.com, which curates the news along a spectrum from left to right. I recommend this resource to examine issues from left, right, and center.

“If you are having a strong emotional reaction, consider why you are triggered and employ your favorite calming ritual.”

Pay attention to your emotional responses. If you are having a strong emotional reaction, consider why you are triggered and employ your favorite calming ritual. As crazy as it sounds, when we encounter information that contradicts what we “know,” our brains experience it as a direct threat to our survival, keeping us trapped in our reptilian brain, so we can’t really think about and process the information. One technique I teach students is to mind map about the issue and see how things connect. You might be surprised to see how commonalities emerge from opposing sides of an argument.

Dr. Rory Kraft

Dr. Tamara Schwartz

Schwartz teaches a course on information and disinformation literacy to students in various disciplines.

ACCESSIBILITY SERVICES TESTING CENTER EARNS NATIONAL RECOGNITION

York College’s Student Accessibility Services (SAS) Testing Center was awarded Test Center Certification by the National College Testing Association (NCTA). Criteria for certification are rigorous and based on the NCTA Professional Standards and Guidelines, which were developed to guide post-secondary test centers in the delivery of quality testing programs.

SAS at York College serves more than 700 students yearly, offering support and assistance to ensure that students with documented disabilities receive equal access to the campus, course content, and programming.

“The Testing Center is the hub for SAS students.”

— ELIZABETH GROHAL

“In 2020, SAS received a generous gift from the Mayer family that gave us the opportunity to expand the Testing Center and our student services,” said Lynda Garner, Testing Center Coordinator. “SAS currently provides accommodations to 25 percent of the York College student body. The update to the Testing Center made it possible for us to pursue and achieve NCTA Certification, which keeps the Testing Center up-to-date on the most current testing center standards, allowing us to align ourselves with the best practices to provide a streamlined and successful experience for our students and faculty.”

“The Testing Center is the hub for SAS students,” said Elizabeth Grohal, Testing Services Specialist. “It is a welcoming, safe, positive environment and an example of a successful collaboration between students, staff, faculty, and the greater York College community.”

DR. TAMARA SCHWARTZ NAVIGATES DISINFORMATION IN NEW TEXTBOOK

Tamara Schwartz, DBA, Assistant Professor of Cybersecurity and Business Administration, published a textbook in September 2023 for her “Information and Disinformation Literacy” course. Titled Information Warfare: An Introduction to Information and Disinformation Literacy, the book is a comprehensive guide for students navigating the complex landscape of information in the digital age.

Dr. Schwartz possesses a unique combination of military expertise, academic rigor, and a passion for the human element in technology. With a doctoral degree and a U.S. Air Force background deeply rooted in cybersecurity, she brings a wealth of experience to her role as an educator and thought leader. Transitioning into academia after retiring from the military, she helped develop York College’s Cybersecurity Management program from the ground up.

She proposed a course in 2018 that went beyond traditional cybersecurity education. She envisioned a curriculum that delved into information and disinformation literacy. In 2020, the

COMMUNICATIVE STORYTELLING THROUGH BHARATANATYAM

Dr. Madhavi Reddi, Assistant Professor, Mass Communication September 6, 2024, 6:30 p.m.

Waldner Performing Arts Center

Reddi will perform Bharatanatyam, a form of dance from India that combines intricate footwork and facial expressions to tell stories, with live music.

COVID-19 pandemic hit, quickly followed by a raucous presidential election, upheaval in the nation, and the attack on the U.S. Capitol on January 6, 2021. Two weeks later, the new course had its first contingent of students walk through the classroom doors.

“The students came in wanting answers,” Dr. Schwartz says. “They understood this was a class that would help them understand the world in a way they didn’t previously.”

The course, initially designed for Cybersecurity Management majors, quickly gained relevance beyond the cybersecurity realm and found its place in the general Business Administration curriculum. Dr. Schwartz recognizes the necessity of equipping students across various disciplines with skills in information, disinformation, and media literacy. In an era when misinformation can have far-reaching consequences, cultivating these skills becomes crucial for professionals in any industry.

“If there’s enough bad information, people start to doubt good information and not believe anything that’s out there,” Dr. Schwartz says. When it comes to events such as the 2024 presidential election, attention capture is the name of the information game. Groups often get that attention by inciting fear or presenting novelty, Dr. Schwartz says. These two methods play a pivotal role in shaping political and other decision-influencing narratives. She has seen the detrimental effects of fear on decision-making, where it becomes difficult for individuals to process important information objectively.

For her, the key is to help her students learn how to truly listen to those who think differently.

“How do I listen to what someone else has to say? How do I problemsolve with someone who doesn’t think exactly how I do? There’s not a right or wrong way. There’s a lot of giveand-take with any way,” she says.

YCP WEBSITE REDESIGN

York College’s website is getting a timely redesign to serve students better in the digital age.

The website is being optimized to reflect core institutional goals—those goals include supporting enrollment efforts by enhancing the website experience for prospective students, providing the most relevant information for audiences when they need it, showcasing the student experience at York College, and translating campus life to the digital space.

“York College is committed to providing the best digital experience for our students, starting with our institutional website,” says Brian Hazlett, Vice President for Enrollment Management. “YCP.edu often serves as the first point of contact for prospective students and families, so we want to ensure our website is different enough to be memorable and impactful but familiar enough that people know how to use it.”

The redesigned website is expected to launch in June 2024, but will continually be assessed and updated to best serve the needs of students and reflect the institutional goals of York College. —S.S.

THE HUMAN COST OF AI AND AUTOMATION

Brian Merchant

October 24, 2024, 7 p.m. DeMeester Recital Hall, Evelyn and Earle Wolf Hall

Merchant is the technology columnist for the Los Angeles Times and author of “Blood in the Machine: The Origins of the Rebellion Against Technology.”

MEET JEFF VERMEULEN

Named First Chief of Staff

Jeff Vermeulen was named in December as the College’s first Chief of Staff, a new position reporting to President Thomas Burns. He provides tactical and strategic support to President Burns, serving as the primary government relations contact on behalf of the College, managing special projects, and helping the President’s Office function as effectively as possible.

Vermeulen previously served as Assistant Vice President for External Relations and Executive Director of York College’s Knowledge Park and J.D. Brown Center for Entrepreneurship. He came to York College in 2010 after working for the University of South Florida system and helping launch a business incubator system in Polk County, FL.

“Jeff has done wonderful work on behalf of York College for the past 13 years and has taken on increased responsibility during his tenure,” said President Burns. “He has proven himself to be the perfect person to step into this new position.”

Oscar Winters, who served as Associate Director of Entrepreneur Programs and Engagement, replaced Vermeulen as Executive Director of the J.D. Brown Center for Entrepreneurship.

“As with other institutions, DEI—Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion—is a volatile point of contention in the military. In fact, prominent figures in and around the military insist that DEI threatens national security. The issue is bigger than unequal admissions and recruitment. DEI writ large is eroding the integrity of the U.S. Armed Forces from the inside out.”

Dr. Erec Smith , Associate Professor of Rhetoric, wrote an op-ed, “DEI Should be M.I.A. in the U.S. Military,” for Newsweek, Jan. 31, 2024.

“Traditional horticulture has focused on production and yields. Programs have been changing somewhat, but it’s much harder for them to change than us, because we’re designing it from scratch.”

Dr. Charles MacVean, Dean of the Kinsley School of Engineering, Sciences and Technology, was quoted in “New Blood,” a story about the College’s Environmental Horticulture program, in the January 2024 issue of Nursery Management

“Information warfare is a rivalry for power, shaping everything from geopolitics to business to the classroom, and we are all targets. By teaching our students to recognize information strategies and their effect on attention, cognitive stress and decision-making, we are equipping them to thrive in our increasingly complex, constantly changing world and win the information warfare battles.”

Dr. Tamara Schwartz , wrote an opinion piece for Inside Higher Ed ’s Career Advice titled “We Are the Target,” Dec. 13, 2023.

“Let it be clear: this war depends on the U.S. and Europe. Collectively they need to rise to the occasion and provide continued economic support. Europe cannot deliver on military support alone. Ukraine has already demonstrated that defeating Russia is achievable.”

John Weaver, Associate Professor of Intelligence Analysis and author of “NATO in Contemporary Times: Purpose, Relevance, Future,” co-wrote an op-ed for The Hill, Feb. 23, 2024.

“The first three and a half months have been a lot of listening. It’s not as much about telling people why the college is a great place, which I believe in and love, but hearing from them what they’d like to see and what they already have seen from the college, good and bad, and then adapting that into the conversations that we have.”

President Thomas Burns’ interview with University Business was posted on Oct. 27, 2023. The article was titled “President’s corner: A lesson in humility for first-time president Thomas Burns of York College.”

INTERNATIONAL RECRUITMENT WITH CHRISTIAN DIGREGORIO

A cohort of 17 students from all over the Indonesian archipelago came to York College for the fall 2023 semester. Their stay was the result of a relationship that Christian DiGregorio, Director of International Recruitment, formed with The Ministry of Religious Affairs in Indonesia back in April 2023. “Usually, it’s a couple years of courting,” says DiGregorio. “This happened quickly.” The Indonesian students arrived at York College just four months later, on August 20.

In his office, DiGregorio has surrounded himself with signs of world travel. Hanging on the wall behind his desk is a multicolored Kurdish sling meant for carrying a young child. To the left of his desk is a long table that is covered with trinkets and artifacts he’s picked up around the world: hand-painted Uzbek ceramics, Kazakh chocolate, and a metal packard in the shape of a mountain called a gunungan that was gifted to him by the Indonesian students as thanks for his work in bringing them to the United States. When DiGregorio first took the position in March 2020, he immediately went to work on bringing students from other countries to YCP. “I was brought on board to help internationalize the campus,” he says, “and that process revolves around data.” In his search for countries with whom he could form relationships, DiGregorio came up with a list of twenty. “I whittled that down to 12 and then put out feelers to see who was responding. That whittled it down to five.” DiGregorio then began to “engage with those five countries to start developing relationships.” One of them was Indonesia. Other countries on his list are India, Kenya, Philippines, and Vietnam. (See the map to follow DiGregorio’s travels during the past year.)

DiGregorio’s efforts in India led to York College signing a Memorandum of Understanding with Lighthouse Learning, a leading early childhood and K-12 education group in Mumbai.

The MOU creates a three-year partnership aimed at enhancing students’ educational experiences, higher education pathways, and scholarship opportunities.

“One of the key aspects of going to college is getting so many different perspectives from different people,” he said. “Not just from professors, but from the people sitting next to you in class. If that’s diverse, if programs like ours are successful, that adds to everyone’s education. There’s only so much you can get from a book,” says DiGregorio.

“One of the key aspects of going to college is getting so many different perspectives from different people.”

— CHRISTIAN DIGREGORIO

Kenya

ENGAGING YORK

GENERATIONS OF HOPE EXTENDS REACH OF YCCOSP TO YORK CITY’S MIDDLE SCHOOL STUDENTS

In 2017, with the vision of helping York’s youth see a brighter future for themselves, Generations of Hope was conceived by Dr. Dominic DelliCarpini, Dean of the Center for Community Engagement, and a group of students from the York College Community Opportunity Scholarship Program (YCCOSP). Together, through the lived experience of York City students in YCCOSP and a generous grant from the Women’s Giving Circle of the York County Community Foundation, the program became a reality.

Despite having to go virtual during COVID, Generations of Hope has grown and blossomed into what Dr. DelliCarpini intended: a program that would empower YCCOSP students to help create equity for younger York City students, bringing them into the fold of the program and opening the doors of opportunity they may not have been aware existed. It also allows YCP students another opportunity for experiential learning—learning by doing.

“COVID taught us just how important being in a space devoted to learning and

fellowship is,” said Dr. DelliCarpini. “It reminded us that because these middle school students had never, even before COVID, experienced a college campus. It was not in their field of vision, their field of hope. Now that we are back in person, that hope is being restored.”

Biweekly sessions of the Generations of Hope (GOH) program are held from noon to 6 p.m. at the Graham Innovation Zone in Brockie Commons and at other locations around York. Middle school students are transported to the College, where they can experience campus life, including a meal in a college dining hall. This year, the program is working with students from two different schools for the first time—a total of 27 students from Jackson K-8 and McKinley K-8.

The Generations of Hope program is based on four cares: care for self, care for others, care for future, and care for community. “We plan activities around those principles,” said Daphney Adams ’23, Volunteer Engagement Scholar-in-Residence at York College, who serves as team supervisor for the program. “That includes sessions on wellness, physical health, mental health, and nutrition.

Generations of Hope is based on four cares: care for self, care for others, care for future, and care for community.

We also work on innovation-building through games and experiments.”

Adams supervises a team of 11 students, including project coordinators Angelica Blass ’24 (Psychology major from York, PA) and Merelys De La Cruz Guzman ’25 (Human Services major from the Dominican Republic). “They are all from different backgrounds and majors, which is great because we wouldn’t necessarily interact if it weren’t for this program,” Angelica said. This also allows the middle schoolers to see themselves in that diversity.

Getting the middle schoolers on campus and around other students from York City who are excelling at the College is critical to the GOH program. “Being able to come visit a college is huge for these students, who come from backgrounds where they wouldn’t necessarily do that,” said Angelica. “It gives them an opportunity to think differently and aspire to bigger things, particularly when they talk to YCCOSP students who tell them about their scholarships.”

YCP volunteers work on instilling skills each session: communication, cooperation, problem-solving, and civil manners. “We talk about coping with feelings and how to communicate,” said Merelys. “We are trying to teach them how to navigate conflict in a respectful, civil manner.”

The focus is fostering skills that the middle schoolers can scaffold and build on for high school and then college, adds Angelica. “For some, it’s about showing them that college is available to them. For others who don’t go to college, they get skills they can use wherever they go in life.”

In addition, GOH provides some students with an opportunity to take a break from their everyday lives, which often involves a lot of responsibility. “A lot of them are really mature in certain areas because they take on adult responsibilities like caring for younger siblings,” Merelys added. “They deal with big problems, and they don’t realize how responsible they are and the potential they have. GOH is a nice time for them to focus on their needs a bit more rather than having to worry about others.”

Students did research, created ideas, and pitched them during finals week.

FIRST-YEAR HONORS COMMUNITY STUDENTS SHARE IDEAS TO HELP APPELL CENTER CELEBRATE ITS 100TH ANNIVERSARY

Each year, Honors Community students enrolled in a first-year seminar (FYS) are presented with a “problem” to examine as part of a community-based learning course. In the past, students have considered how to innovate Central Market, the York County Food Bank, and several downtown cultural/recreational locations. This semester, they addressed ways to help the Appell Center for the Performing Arts celebrate its 100th anniversary.

Dr. Karin Swartz, Assistant Dean of the Center for Community Engagement, who co-taught the course, knew that the big anniversary was coming up. After clearing the project with the Center’s President and CEO, Swartz and FYS Instructor Beth Dunham put their students to work in teams.

Students toured the facility before completing empathy interviews (oneon-one conversations using openended questions to elicit stories about specific experiences and help uncover unacknowledged needs) with the Appell Center board and audience members, and community members.

Through the interviews, students sought to find out “what makes the Appell Center special,” according to Christian Nguyen, a first-year Media and Film major from York. “We heard

from volunteers about the variety of events held there,” he said. “Others told us what you would expect: the beauty of the preserved theater, architecture, the regal cinema experience. But streaming services and other ways to view events have taken audiences away from live performances, and the Center’s survival depends on reaching out to different groups and finding ways of saying that it has a lot to offer everyone.”

“The goal was to come up with ways the Center could celebrate its anniversary that would include all parts of the community,” Dr. Swartz said. “This was also an opportunity to show that the Appell Center means something to lots of different people in our community.”

Students did secondary research on their assigned topics. They created prototypes of their ideas that they were able to test with other Honors

“The goal was to come up with ways the Center could celebrate its anniversary that would include all parts of the community.”

— DR. KARIN SWARTZ

Community students before presenting them to the Appell Center.

“Students got to tour the facility, ask questions, and then come up with ideas they presented during finals week at the Appell Center,” Dunham said. “They also interviewed folks connected to the Center, from employees to volunteers to attendees. They combined this primary research with secondary research to develop and pitch their final ideas.”

The prototypes presented ranged from a social media/TikTok campaign that hoped to attract a younger audience to a community mural depicting the arts and a yearlong series of classes celebrating a different style of art from each decade of the last 100 years.

“Our group defined the problem— the need for more outreach to bring a more diverse audience—and focused on the performance aspect,” Christian said. “To get the audience involved, we came up with the idea of a talent show that would feature all forms of art and photography in the lobby, with artists there to discuss their work, and the main stage would be more like an America’s Got Talent production where people performed for cash prizes. The main goal was to get people in there so they could see what the Appell Center has to offer them.”

When the students presented their ideas to community stakeholders, including those they had interviewed earlier in the process, the response was good, according to Dr. Swartz. Some were easier to consider implementing than others, but all were based on the needs uncovered during the initial stakeholder interviews.

“Using the Design Thinking process meant that the ideas were totally driven by students trying to fill the needs they heard during the interviews,” she said. “They did a good job of looking across different opportunities to engage people; everything from social media to classes to events was proposed. It was good to see them look at different avenues to engage folks.”

WOMEN’S WRESTLING PROGRAM ENJOYS SUCCESSFUL INAUGURAL SEASON

Success can be defined in many ways. For the 2023-24 York College Women’s Wrestling team, success can be seen throughout their inaugural campaign.

The Spartans completed their first varsity season with success in spades. York finished the year with four dual meet wins, a second-place finish at the New Standard Corporation Invitational and a ninth-place finish in the NCWWC Region 1 Championships. They also had three regional place winners and first-year Spartan Maura

White (Wharton, NJ) advanced to the national championship meet.

Head coach Duane Bastress is extremely proud of his first-year team.

“We accomplished so much this year and the sky is the limit,” said Bastress. “I am incredibly proud of our studentathletes and how they represented themselves and York College. This program has a very bright future.”

White led the way for the Spartans as she wrestled at both 136 and 143 pounds over the course of her season. White earned her way to the national tournament as she finished second at 136 at the regional championships. She went 3-1 at the regionals including back-to-back falls to start the tournament. She pulled off an incredible comeback in the semifinals as she

“This group of young women…have helped grow the sport locally and are great role models for girls who want to wrestle. They truly are trailblazers.”

— HEAD COACH DUANE BASTRESS

scored nine points in the second period to erase an 8-0 deficit to earn a 9-8 win. The semifinal win secured her berth at the national championship meet.

White lost a pair of matches at the national championships but the experience she gained was invaluable. White finished the year with a teambest 20-9 record including 13 falls.

The tandem of Faith Warner (Newville, PA) and Allison Brandt (Sussex, NJ) were York’s other two regional place winners. Warner finished sixth at 109 while Brandt also placed sixth at 170 pounds. Warner concluded her year with a record of 17-11 with seven falls. Brandt went 12-12 as she dealt with a painful back injury during the year. Brandt had ten falls for the campaign.

Bastress believes the foundation has been established for future program prosperity.

“This group of young women have done everything possible to pave the way for long-term success,” says Bastress. “They have helped grow the sport locally and are great role models for girls who want to wrestle. They truly are trailblazers.”

Bastress is hoping to expand the roster next year up to 20 to 25 wrestlers after having 12 on the roster this year.

“There is great interest in the program and recruiting has gone well,” said Bastress. “We believe this is a great destination for wrestlers who want to compete at a high level and compete for a national championship.”

Women’s wrestling is classified as an NCAA emerging sport and is slated to become an NCAA championship sport in the 2025-26 academic year.

► Watch a video about the Women’s Wrestling program at youtube.com/yorkcollegepa

SPARTAN SHORTS

FIELD HOCKEY

The Spartan Field Hockey squad was honored by the National Field Hockey Coaches Association (NFHCA) for academic success both individually and as a team for the 2023 season. The Spartans were one of just 61 Division III programs presented with the National Academic Team Award. This prestigious accolade is bestowed upon programs that have achieved a team grade point average (GPA) of 3.5 or higher during the fall semester of the current academic year.

On an individual level, 19 Spartans landed on the National Academic Squad, which recognizes individuals who have attained a cumulative GPA of 3.5 or higher through the fall semester of the current academic year. Additionally, seven members of the York Field Hockey team earned Scholars of Distinction honors, which recognizes undergraduate student-athletes who have exhibited exceptional academic excellence, achieving a cumulative GPA of 3.9 or higher throughout the fall semester of the 2023–24 academic year.

MEN’S BASKETBALL

Men’s Basketball junior forward Kai Cipalla (Lititz, PA) earned first-team MAC All-Commonwealth honors for the Spartans. Cipalla, who was a secondteam selection as a sophomore, had an outstanding season for the Spartans. The junior averaged 20.4 points, 7.8 rebounds, 2.0 assists, 1.4 blocked shots and 1.0 steals per game. He shot 58.4% from the field and 75.2% from the free throw line. He played a team high 838 minutes, which averaged out to be 33.5 minutes per game. Cipalla also earned d3hoops.com first-team All-Region V honors to cap his post-season accolades.

WOMEN’S BASKETBALL

Sophomore guard Breana Grim (Wrightsville, PA) was named the MAC Commonwealth Rookie of the Year and was joined on the second team by teammate Alyssa Hocker ’24 (York, PA). Grim is the fifth Spartan in program history to earn the conference Rookie of the Year award. She joins Amy Anderson (1997–98), Kristen Daly (2004–05), Keli Ward (2005-06), and Kristen Haley (2010–11) as previous Spartans to win the award. Grim finished her first campaign in the Green and White averaging 12.3 points, 2.7 rebounds, 4.6 rebounds, 2.4 steals, and 0.8 blocked shots per game. She played in and started 24 games as she played an average of 32.7 minutes per game. She shot 40.9% from the floor, 33.0% from three and 78% from the free throw line.

Hocker made a big jump for her third year in the Green and White. She played in and started all 26 games for the Spartans as she averaged 11.5 points and 9.3 rebounds per game. Hocker played 28 minutes per game and shot 38.9% from the floor, 31.3% from three, and 78.4% from the free throw line. Grim also earned d3hoops.com Region V Rookie of the Year honors.

SPARTAN SHORTS

SWIMMING

Sophomore swimmer Isabella Klemm (Halethorpe, MD) had a fantastic Middle Atlantic Conference championship meet as she collected three individual medals at the championship. Klemm won gold in the 200 IM as she posted a time of 2:07.89. The win was her team-leading 22nd individual win of the year. On day three of the championships, Klemm finished second in the 100 breaststroke with a time of 1:04.93. She wrapped up her championships with a third-place finish in the 200 breaststroke with a time of 2:25.14.

The Spartans finished the championships in seventh place with 494 points.

The Spartan Men’s swim squad had a strong showing at the 2024 MAC Championships. Bryan Collins ’26 (Hanover, PA) won the 50 free while teammate Collin Draminski ’24 (Ellicott City, MD) finished second to earn York’s first two medals of the meet. The 200 Medley Relay team of Draminski, Matthew Peters ’24 (York, PA), Nick Bordovsky ’26 (Herndon, VA), and Collins finished third to earn bronze.

During day two, the 200 Free Relay team of Bordovsky, Draminski, Braeden Emore ’27 (Westminster, MD), and Collins combined to set a new school record and win the race with a time of 1:23.48. The Spartans have won the 200 Free in consecutive championships.

ACADEMIC ALL-MAC HONORS AWARDS

The Spartans had five players earn fall Academic All-MAC honors awards. The MAC sports information directors nominate and vote for the Academic All-MAC teams, giving 50 percent weight on both academic success and athletic success. A student-athlete must have a fall semester GPA of 3.20 or higher to be eligible for the award.

Spartan fall recipients include Meg Kalthof ’27 (Bel Air, MD) and Sara Frensley ’26 (Fredericksburg, VA) from Women’s Soccer; Sara Pique ’24 (Crofton, MD) and Riley Buschert ’25 (Chesapeake, VA) from Field Hockey; and Abby Diehl ’24 (East Berlin, PA) from Volleyball.

On day three, the 800 free relay team of Emore, Liam Perrin ’27 (McSherrystown, PA), Leo Ott ’26 (Freeland, MD), and Collins picked up a silver medal as they finished the race in a time of 7:02.35.

York capped the day with a pair of individual titles as Collins won the 100 free with a time of 46.33 while Ott won the 200 backstroke with a time of 1:53.73. The 400 free relay team consisting of Draminski, Emore, Bordovsky and Collins, earned another relay gold on Sunday.

The Spartans finished third at the championships with 1,107 points over the four-day championship.

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GRADUATE AND PROFESSIONAL STUDIES

MAPPING FREEDOM PROGRAM TEACHES ABOUT HISTORY IN A DIGITIZED FORMAT

Mapping Freedom, a National Science Foundation Research Experience for Undergraduates, is a University of Southern Mississippi research experience that uses mapping technologies to explore societal transformations in history. Two York College students, seniors Sydney Slack (Arnold, MD) and Alaina Crowell (Niantic, CT), participated in the experience last summer.

Sydney, a dual major in History and Forensic Chemistry, was intrigued by the prospect of blending her passions for science and history. She saw this as a chance to create educational tools in a new environment while collaborating with a diverse group of individuals.

For Sydney, who enrolled at the College as a Forensic Chemistry major, Mapping Freedom became a pivotal experience in shaping her academic trajectory. Throughout the two-month program, Sydney and her peers created diverse projects that showcased the richness of their exploration of historical archives. The program culminated in a research symposium at which participants presented their findings. Alaina applied to the program as a Public History major. Motivated by an interest in the Reconstruction period,

they focused on digitizing letters from the Civil War, providing a fresh perspective as the first cohort to explore and analyze these digitized materials. The program exposed Alaina to interdisciplinary methods, including GIS systems, mapping, coding, historical research, paper formatting, and library science.

Mapping Freedom not only broadened Alaina’s academic horizons but played a crucial role in the decision to pursue graduate studies.

“I never thought that I was going to go to grad school,” Alaina says. “I thought there was this huge cost obstacle until I went to this program.

Motivated by an interest in the Reconstruction period, they focused on digitizing letters from the Civil War, providing a fresh perspective as the first cohort to explore and analyze these digitized materials.

They really pushed us to go to grad school. Talking to peers, I realized there are options.”

Alaina’s experience led them to focus on learning more digital skills to better prepare for graduate school. Mapping Freedom, with its emphasis on digital history, showcased the evolving nature of historical research and presentation methods in the technical realm.

INSTITUTIONAL

RESEARCH EXPERIENCE

Grace Seebold ’25 knows the potential a good work experience can have on your future career path.

The junior Sociology major (York, PA) took a work-study position for the Fall 2023 semester in the Provost’s Office as an Institutional Research Assistant. Now, she’s considering institutional research and assessment as a possible field to pursue after graduation.

“I took this work-study job because it was filled with great opportunities for me to get more familiar with research methods in an applied manner and for me to enhance my analytical skills,” she says.

As an Institutional Research Assistant, Grace’s main responsibilities were to collect and analyze data, which assists with the College’s reaccreditation processes and institutional assessment. Her most recent project was working on analyzing the data from the First Destination Survey (FDS) that is sent to students when they graduate from York College. All of this data will be used as “evidence” for the College’s accreditation with the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. Her favorite part of the work-study experience was the positive feelings she gained from the work she was doing, and she believes she made a difference. “I love feeling like what I’m doing is meaningful, and that’s something I definitely get from this job,” Grace says.

“I love feeling like what I’m doing is meaningful, and that’s something I definitely get from this job.”

— GRACE SEEBOLD ’25

She partly credits her internship success to her relationships with the College’s professors.

“I think the smaller class settings provide an opportunity to have closer relationships with professors at York, and that’s something that I’ve found really valuable,” she adds.

After college, Grace doesn’t have any career plans set in stone, but she can see herself somewhere in institutional assessment.

“I think this job has really opened my eyes to a whole new field of career opportunities,” she says. —S.S.

Dr. Tej Man Tamang Assistant Professor of Environmental Horticulture

As a doctoral student, Dr. Tej Man Tamang focused on the intersection of biotechnology and plant performance, with corn as his primary subject. His team explored the expression of a specific glutaredoxin gene from Arabidopsis (a plant in the mustard family) to enhance corn production under challenging conditions such as heat and drought. The results were impressive: a sixfold increase in corn yield under heat stress and a twofold increase under drought stress. This groundbreaking work resulted in Dr. Tamang’s research being published in the esteemed Plant Biotechnology Journal

After earning his doctorate, Dr. Tamang continued to conduct research at Kansas State University, where he delved into maize generation that utilizes cutting-edge tools such as the geneediting technology CRISPR/Cas9 to genetically modify corn and enhance tissue regeneration. In July 2023, he seized an opportunity to bring his expertise to the budding Appell Environmental Horticulture program at York College.

“With many students coming into Environmental Horticulture, we just think about growing fruit, vegetables, and greenhouse-related problems. What I’m offering are high-level courses where students can learn biotechnology tools,” he says.

Dr. Tamang is not merely teaching traditional horticulture but introducing students to biotechnology tools and research. With courses such as “Plant Biotechnology,” “Plant Pathology,” and “Plant Propagation,” as well as handson labs, he is ensuring that his students are well-prepared for the future.

One of his key initiatives is to introduce York College students to CRISPR/Cas9 technology, a field in which he has amassed more than five years of expertise. Dr. Tamang plans to bring gene-edited seeds from his research at Kansas State to York College, creating a hub for biotechnology and tissue culture research and further expanding the horizons of the program.

His team explored the expression of a specific glutaredoxin gene…to enhance corn production under challenging conditions such as heat and drought.

“I am very eager to introduce this new system to York College of Pennsylvania,” he says.

Dr. Tamang hopes to bring the research culture of larger universities to York College, a smaller, teachingfocused school. He believes in instilling the importance of research activities in students and fostering an environment where education and research coexist seamlessly with an emphasis on hands-on learning.

HELPING STUDENTS STAY IN COLLEGE AND SUCCEED

Many students experience the urge to quit college at one time or another. Through the Spartan Success Network and an array of data-driven, student-focused initiatives, York College of Pennsylvania strives to help students overcome that temptation and complete their degree.

TO STAY OR

NOT TO STAY

ILLUSTRATION BY BRIAN STAUFFER

Gabrielle Sladek ’26 (Aston, PA) had dreamed of becoming a nurse since high school. But as she began her second semester at York College of Pennsylvania, she felt as if life was spinning out of control. She was struggling with a Biology class, and she was in a dark place mentally and emotionally.

She was ready to drop out.

Gabrielle shared what she was going through with her academic advisor. In weekly meetings, she was honest about her personal and academic struggles. Together they mapped out a plan, walking through what each week would look like and how to get through each day.

“She made me feel like I wasn’t alone, and that it definitely gets better,” Gabrielle says.

THE LONG-TERM PAYOFF

Her advisor knew that if Gabrielle stayed in college, the benefits would far outweigh the temporary difficulties. In fact, completing a college degree yields numerous returns, ranging from enhanced career prospects to increased earnings potential.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, individuals with a bachelor’s degree experience lower unemployment rates and higher median weekly earnings compared with those holding only a high school diploma. In 2020, the median weekly income for someone with a bachelor’s degree was $1,248, while for those with only a high school diploma it was $746. College graduates also tend to have access to a wider range of job opportunities and are more likely to receive employer-provided benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans.

To top it off, a college degree is associated with improved job satisfaction and opportunities for career advancement. Investing in higher education not only enriches individuals intellectually but opens doors to a more secure and fulfilling professional future.

Those are facts that Omar Castro ’25, an Accounting major from York, knows firsthand. Omar’s family moved to the United States from the Dominican Republic while he was in middle school.

“My family made a big sacrifice coming to this country, and education is really important to them,” he says. “I didn’t want to disappoint my family and myself.”

Still, during his first semester, Omar became set on dropping out. He had completed high school during the COVID-19 pandemic and had appreciated the flexibility of attending school from home. With in-person classes resuming at York College, that option was no longer available. He could save time and make more money living at home and getting a job, he thought.

He turned to a good friend and mentor who had earned

Below: Omar Castro ’25

his master’s degree at York College. They talked about life goals and plans for the future. Omar shared that he hopes to start a real estate and financial advising firm.

The friend asked Omar how he planned to help people become financially literate and purchase homes without having the knowledge and resources that the friend had gained through his degree program. Conversations with his mentor, as well as his academic advisor and York College Community Opportunity Scholarship Program (YCCOSP) advisor, confirmed his friend’s words.

“They helped me see opportunities available with a degree,” Omar says.

BARRIERS TO SUCCESS

Numerous barriers can impede students’ progress toward completing a college degree. Financial constraints represent a significant hurdle, as the rising costs of tuition, textbooks, and living expenses can strain budgets.

Balancing work and academic responsibilities is another challenge, with many students juggling partor full-time jobs to cover expenses. Family obligations such as caregiving or a lack of familial support can also disrupt academic pursuits. Inadequate access to or use of academic resources, such as tutoring and counseling services, can hinder students’ ability to overcome academic challenges.

“Let’s be clear, there are 100 reasons a student might not return,” says Joshua Landau, Ph.D., Associate Provost for Student Success at York College. “But we have resources on campus to help students be capable of returning.”

York College is addressing these barriers through a holistic approach, combining financial aid initiatives and comprehensive support services to ensure that all students have the opportunity to complete their degrees.

A CIRCULAR APPROACH

Through more than 25 years at York College, first as a professor of Psychology and now as head of the Student Success Division, Dr. Landau has used data to help promote student retention and success. He takes a circular, rather than linear, approach to helping the multidimensional students who call York College home.

When Dr. Landau transitioned to the Student Success Division in 2016, his goal was to remove obstacles that impede students’ path to a successful education. The Division oversees Academic Advising, the Academic Success Center, the Writing and Communication Studio, and Student Accessibility Services. It also manages the York County-based scholarship programs York Promise and YCCOSP. Dr. Landau also recently took over the First-Year Experience.

He also revived the Retention Committee, comprised of faculty, staff, and student representatives who focus on smoothing a student’s path to graduation.

“One of the issues we identified early on was we needed to enhance the communication about our students,” Dr. Landau says.

Cindell Behrmann ’24 (York, PA), a Political Science major and Urban Education minor, served as a student voice on the Committee. That involvement helped Cindell see how the College was assisting students from vulnerable backgrounds to succeed.

“When they were discussing their action steps focused on areas of vulnerability, one that stood out to me was recognizing student achievements and celebrating their successes,” Cindell says. “I feel like there were many students doing amazing things without recognition.”

Cindell worked with the College to find ways to better recognize students and communicate award opportunities.

Joshua Landau, Ph.D., Associate Provost for Student Success at York College

SPARTAN SUCCESS NETWORK

A byproduct of the Retention Committee’s work was the implementation in 2017 of a software called Starfish, branded as Spartan Success Network (SSN), which provides a single touchpoint for faculty and staff to communicate with one another and students about student concerns and successes.

“We were very purposeful and strategic about the rollout of it,” says Renée Sefton, Coordinator of Student Success Initiatives.

Through the SSN, faculty can send students kudos as positive reinforcement for a job well done. That is one of four communication tools available. Flags are the flip side of that praise, raising concerns about well-being, class performance, work not completed, or classes missed. The software keeps everyone, from students to professors to athletic coaches to advisors, on the same page and helps pinpoint early risk factors for dropping out.

Referrals, the third communication tool, direct a student to connect with a specific resource on campus, while to-dos, the final tool, direct a student to complete an important task. Various York College staff members use this data to look for behavior patterns and connect with students who are struggling.

“If they start to see flags across multiple classes or a bunch in one course, folks pay attention to that,” Sefton says.

For Omar and Gabrielle, kudos were an encouragement to keep going when they couldn’t see a way forward. The SSN also offers the opportunity to connect with resources. A degree planner helps students stay on their academic paths, while resources for various clubs, scholarships, and programs keep students informed about opportunities.

AN ADVISOR MODEL FOR SUCCESS

Another key to retaining students has been York College’s faculty advisor program. While larger institutions might have an advising office, York College connects every full-time student with a faculty advisor. These individuals not only advise but discuss students’ plans and a route to achieve them.

“It’s more of a mentoring role,” Dr. Landau says. “Our faculty not only talk about what’s necessary to graduate on time but also talk about what students want to do after York College.”

Many students point to that one-on-one interaction with faculty as a highlight of their time at York College. It’s not just specific career advice that makes these interactions so valuable but the advisors’ compassion and dedication of time.

WARNING SIGNS

Through researching the data generated by the Spartan Success Network, Dr. Landau and his team discovered an interesting trend. Students who withdraw from even a single class in their first year were less likely to continue into their second year. The ripple effects of withdrawing from one course could have enormous consequences. Students might lose financial aid, lengthen their path to graduation, or lose NCAA eligibility.

“One of the things we developed was a process where a student ‘raises a hand’ via SSN if they want to withdraw,” says Sefton. “Their instructor, advisor, and coach are notified, and each one is asked to contribute information from their perspective.”

The goal is to use a combination of data and personal interaction to help students make a well-informed decision rather than take dire action in a moment of feeling frustrated or overwhelmed.

WHEN THE ONLY OPTION SEEMS TO BE DROPPING OUT

For Gabrielle, when her Biology grade began slipping, withdrawing from the class and possibly from the College appeared to be her only choice.

“Sometimes, the weight of something like that is so heavy that the only option feels like dropping out,” she says.

But before taking that step, Gabrielle turned to the support structure around her. She talked with her parents, who helped her look to the future and consider her career options. She worked with her faculty advisor and academic advisor to make a plan. She spoke with her roommates, both of whom had switched their majors from Nursing to Human Services.

After taking time to weigh her options, Gabrielle chose to change her major to Human Services rather than leave school. She still would be in a career field where she helped people, which was important to her, but she’d be focused on subjects that weren’t as daunting. Finding the right people to seek out and ask for support was key.

Dr. Landau and his team continually look for data markers that indicate a student will or won’t be successful. If a student is having academic trouble or missing classes, the Student Success Division engages and puts the student in touch with the resources that can help, whether that’s a faculty advisor, the Counseling Center, or the Writing Center.

“The key is in-person interaction,” Dr. Landau says. “As a campus, we do our best to work in those one-on-one conversations.”

KEYS TO SUCCESS

By tracking the data, the Student Success Division has pinpointed several key efforts that help students to thrive:

GO TO CLASS

If a student doesn’t want to go to class or is skipping classes, it is an early warning sign that something is going wrong.

BE ENGAGED

Whether it’s a mentorship, a sports team, a club, an organization, or an affiliation with a professor, successful students engage with people on campus.

STAY HEALTHY

Maintaining physical, mental, and emotional health is important to academic success.

GET FINANCIAL SUPPORT

The College has numerous scholarships and financial aid opportunities for students. Getting an oncampus job can be a key factor in student success.

FIND A BUDDY

When Dr. Landau taught Psychology, he encouraged his students on the first day of class to find a buddy. Jump in, find your group, be a good friend, and support each other.

REACH OUT AND GET HELP

Don’t be afraid to start the conversation and advocate for yourself. Often a struggle has multiple layers. Students might have a difficult time knowing to whom to turn. Through the SSN, students can connect with various parties and collaborate on solutions.

REALIZE IT’S OKAY TO BE UNDECIDED

Parents should allow students to follow what they deem to be their path. If they are undecided, that’s all right. York College students are given time to explore and discover their interests. If students aren’t thriving in their degree program, parents should encourage them to consider other options before dropping out.

USE YOUR RESOURCES

The College offers numerous types of support for students. Don’t wait until you’re struggling to access them. The advisor program, the Counseling Center, the Writing Center, and Accessibility Services were created to help you thrive.

BACK ON TRACK

For those still struggling, York College has implemented the Back on Track program, an Academic Advising Center initiative to assist students who are on academic probation with a cumulative GPA below 2.0. This program pairs students with mentors in one-on-one sessions to assess the students’ unique strengths, challenges, needs, and motivations in the context of academic success. Together, mentor and student develop a personalized academic plan to address factors that impact academic performance and enhance necessary skills, habits, and strategies. The mentor provides ongoing support and guidance to monitor a student’s progress and build momentum toward academic goals.

“We have to make sure we’re meeting you where you are.”

— JOSHUA LANDAU, PH.D.

Students going through the program have increased their cumulative GPA, which helps academic standing and financial aid eligibility. The program encourages students to advocate for their success with the mentor’s feedback, knowledge, guidance, and tools, fostering a foundation for continual growth.

Sefton, who coordinates the program and serves as a mentor, has seen a major impact on students. The most positive feedback focuses not only on the academic help they receive but the opportunities for one-on-one interaction with a mentor.

“When we ask them what was the most helpful aspect of the mentorship, they usually say the general advice they received, the general kindness and rapport they have with their mentor,” Sefton says.

While the program is driven by data, it’s the personalized approach to retaining students and helping them to succeed that has worked.

EDUCATION ACCESSIBLE TO ALL

Academic issues aren’t the only needs addressed by the Student Success Division. Many students have accessibility problems. York College aims to engage each student and provide a path to success. Often, though, students are wary to tap into that help.

Students who had an Individualized Education Plan in high school are eligible for special accommodations in college, which both showcase their strengths and help

them with their struggles. But often students refuse those accommodations. For Dr. Landau, this is vexing.

“We as a country have carved out a way for you to show how smart you are, and you don’t want to take advantage of that. That is one of the more frustrating things for me,” he says. “We have hundreds of students that use that resource. We have to make sure we’re meeting you where you are.”

Gabrielle, who has such accommodations, discovered a vast amount of support when she tapped into the resources of not only the Accessibility Center but the Counseling Center and Writing Center.

“I try to use all my resources,” she says. “If I am failing, I can go to them as a backbone.”

THE FUTURE LOOKS BRIGHT

While York College has expanded its research and implementation of student retention initiatives, there’s still more to do. Dr. Landau and his team are strengthening and growing the First-Year Experience to help students be more successful and avoid common pitfalls that can lead to dropping out.

He also is working to increase opportunities for students to work on campus. He is focusing on changing the pay scale for those jobs and synchronizing certain aspects of training across the campus. He hopes that the data his team has gleaned will continue to support a campus where all students can be successful.

For Gabrielle, that success has looked like diving headlong into her new Human Services major and seeking the support she needs to make each day a success. She loves the switch and the fact that she is pursuing a career where she’ll be able to help people in a way that better fits her skill set.

For Omar, sticking it out through that first, difficult semester has paid off. He’s on track to complete his master’s degree in one of York College’s 4+1 degree programs. The connections he’s made have led to job and internship opportunities.

“Don’t give up,” he says. “The way employers see a college degree shows that you’re capable of taking on a challenge and finishing it.”

Cindell’s final undergraduate semester is being spent in Washington, D.C., serving as an intern for Rep. Cori Bush of Missouri. Then it’s back to York College for Master of Public Policy and Administration studies in the 4+1 degree program.

“York College is here to help you and work with you,” Cindell says. “You’re not just a number, you’re a human being. You’re not alone in this.”

IN FOCUS

INAUGURATION

In front of an audience of students, faculty, staff, and alumni from York College, family members, and dignitaries from 20 colleges and universities, Dr. Thomas Burns was inaugurated as the fifth president of York College of Pennsylvania on April 13.

President Burns was introduced by Dr. Bob Fisher, President Emeritus of Belmont University, who recognized the 25 audience members from Belmont. “I think that tells you a lot about Thomas Burns,” he said.

Inauguration Week was marked by events engaging different campus community groups, including an Employee Celebration, a daylong series of Faculty Research Presentations, and the studentfocused activities Spartapalooza and YCP’s Got Talent.

The Jupiter Quartet presented a special program on April 12, and an Inauguration Luncheon brought together all who were at York College to celebrate the inauguration of President Thomas Burns.

COLLEGE OF PENNSYLVANIA

“The largest percentage increase in the number of tech firms in the Northeast occurred in the York-Hanover, PA, metro area, where the number of firms in the industry increased by 16.2% between 2017 and 2021.”

— COMMERCIAL CAFE ANALYSIS

HIGH-TECH HAVEN

Through York College of Pennsylvania’s J.D. Brown Center for Entrepreneurship and the Knowledge Park, high-knowledge budding businesses and entrenched firms are finding a place to thrive.

Siddhesh Pawar, Ph.D., CEO and co-founder of Envision Biomedical, was looking for a place to launch his biotechnology company. With a doctorate in Macromolecular Science and Engineering from Virginia Tech and a master’s degree in Chemistry from the Rochester Institute of Technology, as well as connections at companies up and down the East Coast, Dr. Pawar had options.

In 2021, he and business partner Jay Kunzler, Ph.D., settled on York and have never looked back. They received funding from Benjamin Franklin Technology Partners, leased lab space from MRG Labs in the J.D. Brown Center for Entrepreneurship at York College of Pennsylvania, and began developing new contact lens technologies.

“I hope that people, if they’re looking for an opportunity to establish themselves and do what they want to do, don’t strike off York without learning about the resources that are available,” Dr. Pawar says.

RIPE FOR TECH EXPANSION

Beyond receiving a warm welcome, Dr. Pawar found the York community with a rich network and ripe for tech business expansion. The College’s wealth of knowledge and resources, coupled with access to state-of-the-art lab equipment and a pool of talented students, offered resources that Envision Biomedical needed to establish itself.

The J.D. Brown Center and nearby Knowledge Park, also part of York College, provided an ideal place to set up shop. Positioned in the heart of York County, Knowledge Park and J.D. Brown Center serve as a catalyst for economic growth and community-building, connecting industry partners, faculty experts, and students in innovative projects.

The J.D. Brown Center is a launch pad for incubator businesses. Knowledge Park, housed in a former paper mill, provides state-of-the-art facilities to high-knowledge businesses that are ready to go to the next level.

“It’s important that we have interesting and scalable businesses forming in our county to not only provide opportunities for the founders but for others,” says Jeff Vermeulen, Chief of Staff for the President of York College. “Generating wealth and opportunity pays dividends.”

Envision Biomedical is not the first tech-focused company to thrive on the rich resources available in the York community. According to an analysis by Commercial Cafe, “The largest percentage increase in the number of tech firms in the Northeast occurred in the York-Hanover, PA, metro area, where the number of firms in the industry increased by 16.2% between 2017 and 2021.”

ALUMNI-LED ENTREPRENEURSHIP

York College alumni are discovering it for themselves. BeeCentral Technology and Lehr Labs are alumni-founded companies that set up shop in the J.D. Brown Center.

BeeCentral Technology, founded by Alex Louderback ’21, a Computer Science major, and John Gallo ’20/MBA ’21, a Business Administration major, has found a flourishing home in York, much to Louderback’s surprise.

“I thought I’d have to move outside of York to get my business launched,” he says. “I really thought York was not a place to start your own high-velocity startup.”

The company, rooted in Louderback’s passion for smart homes, aims to simplify technology for seniors who often face challenges in adapting to modern devices but want to live independently as long as possible. With York being one of the area’s fastest-growing retirement destinations, Louderback found it was the perfect place to launch and grow his business.

After BeeCentral, then known as Ambient Home, launched in 2022, the J.D. Brown Center quickly became Louderback and Gallo’s linchpin for collaborative efforts. The central location of York allowed the company to easily work with other businesses throughout the MidAtlantic region and provided an essential platform for partnerships and internships with York College students.

“Without the J.D. Brown Center, there wouldn’t be a BeeCentral,” Louderback says.

BeeCentral expanded its services in February 2023 with the launch of “Helper Bee,” a membership service that provides year-round support tailored to the digital needs of older adults through phone, text messages, video calls, Facebook, and in-home assistance.

Louderback envisions the company’s role not only as a tech company but as a catalyst in growing York as a tech hub, encouraging students and entrepreneurs to believe in

the growth potential of the region.

“INDUSTRY SPIDERS OFF YORK”

The broad spectrum of high-knowledge companies in York encompasses much more than smart technologies and biomedical engineering. For Lehr Labs founders Evan Lehr ’21 and Marcos Rivera ’20, both Mechanical Engineering graduates, the J.D. Brown Center became the ideal place to grow their 3D printing and advanced manufacturing business.

When his 3D printing setup began to outgrow his garage and its power capacity, Lehr turned to the J.D. Brown Center and Knowledge Park. In 2023, Lehr Labs installed a large-format printer at the J.D. Brown Center and began collaborating with MRG Labs to establish a presence in Diehl House, the first completed section of Knowledge Park. Eventually, Lehr envisions expanding into Knowledge Park with high-temperature, large-format 3D printers.

“York is a dominant manufacturing hub, and industry spiders off York from there,” he says. “Being local in York with all the industry, and because its manufacturing is dominant, there are customers and clients we can directly collaborate with.”

Lehr and Rivera hope that advanced manufacturing startups such as theirs contribute to York’s growth as a tech hub. Through their expertise in 3D printing as a frontline manufacturing technology, they aspire to revolutionize the 3D printing industry. York’s diverse manufacturing sector provides ample opportunities for startups to thrive.

WHERE HISTORY MEETS TECHNOLOGY

Dynamic Family Narratives, led by Albert Blakey, is another company pushing the boundaries of high-tech, high-knowledge businesses that are hanging a shingle at Knowledge Park. The company has pioneered a software and database management application centered on rendering timelines from intricate data sets.

“There’s applications in business, engineering, health, in any deeply technical field where facts emerge and the process of developing facts over time matters, and where one event sequences a series of events,” Blakey say. “In any domain of academic or applied research, this tool can be useful.”

The company’s move to Knowledge Park stemmed from Blakey’s desire to cultivate relationships with York College faculty and students, fostering collaboration on projects involving content creation, curation, and software development. The Dynamic Family Narratives software, which Blakey has begun licensing to such clients as multigenerational family companies, print and digital publishers, and museums, offers a unique approach to rendering historic materials into a timeline-centric form of digital publica-

“The leadership of York College don’t just talk about wanting to do innovative things; they’re taking action to do innovative things.”

— ALBERT BLAKEY

tion. Blakey’s software makes it easy for viewers to piece together multiple forms of media related to a topic, theme, or event in a chronological, integrated fashion.

The company’s location in Knowledge Park provides an environment conducive to innovation and collaboration, aligning with the College’s emphasis on hands-on education. Dr. John Altman, Professor of Political Science and Interim Director of the Master of Public Policy and Administration (MPPA) program, is working with Blakey on a pilot project. Prof. Altman says, “After seeing Albert’s presentation at a meet-and-greet with faculty from the School of Arts, Communication and Global Studies, I wondered if his approach to compiling information and narratives could work in my classroom. I’ve always been frustrated by the fragmentation of classroom presentation tools, which currently force me to jump between Canvas, Google, PowerPoint, PDFs, and the online textbook. Albert is working with me to pilot the application of his method to my Presidency lecture in my American Government class. I will be able to use a single software application to present the general outline of the lecture and then integrate additional resources, examples, and illustrations along the way, while easily returning to the main point and never having to leave my digital location.”

Whether a student is focused on history, library science, or any other discipline of the humanities, Dynamic Family Narratives offers an interdisciplinary outlet to put into practice for clients what students are learning in the classroom. Blakey hopes to provide students the

opportunity to work on Prof. Altman’s pilot project through the Graham Center for Collaborative Innovation.

“The kinds of skills that students can gain by working in this setting could be very easily made relevant to any field,” Blakey says. “From a cultural perspective, one of the things that has been appealing and reassuring to me is the leadership of York College doesn’t just talk about wanting to do innovative things; they’re taking action to do innovative things.”

FROM STARTUPS TO ESTABLISHED COMPANIES

While the J.D. Brown Center has attracted many startup businesses, Knowledge Park is home to an expanding array of more established high-tech tenants. MRG Labs provides specialty lab services while also offering internships and research opportunities for York College students. WellSpan Health will establish a state-of-theart content creation studio.

From digital history to high-tech manufacturing, biomedical engineering to smart-home technologies and beyond, Knowledge Park and J.D. Brown Center at York College are helping establish York as a hub for highknowledge companies.

“York is already in a really excellent position to help businesses grow with its proximity to larger cities,” says Oscar Winters ’14, Executive Director of the J.D. Brown Center. “Knowledge Park is going to shine a spotlight on that.”

CONNECTIONS

CLASS NOTES

1960s

Anthony J. Danna ’68 (Narvon, PA) has published a book, How to Develop Professional Selling Skills and Techniques Based on Common Sense and Ethics

1970s

Kenny L. Markanich ’78 (Old Hickory, TN) has published a book, The Other Patient, featuring stories from patients and their caregivers at Oasis of Hope Hospital.

Dale K. Phillips ’78 (Bella Vista, AR) began his career with the National Park Service in 1976 as an interpreter at Gettysburg National Military Park. In 2017, he retired as Superintendent of Lincoln Home National Historic Site after 41 years of service.

1980s

Gregory L. Davis ’88 (Philadelphia, PA) has published a book, Checkmate: Tips & Lessons to Help You Make the Right Moves to Achieve Happiness!, that has a dozen life lessons from research and personal experiences.

Robert F. Granzow III ’83 (Columbia, PA) graduated from FEMA’s prestigious National Emergency Management Executive Academy at the historic Emergency Management Institute in Emmitsburg, MD. He is currently the Director of Judicial District Security, Administrative Office of Pennsylvania Courts.

Daniel M. Reck ’88 (New Oxford, PA) earned a master’s degree in organizational leadership from York University (Nebraska) in December 2023. He is currently a Systems Trainer with the Administrative Office of Pennsylvania Courts.

Steven D. Seidel ’83 (Sicklerville, NJ) has been named the National Sales Manager for Retail Mechanical Services.

Todd E. Steinberg ’89 (Pompton Plains, NJ) hosts an annual Children’s Holiday Party in New Jersey to support homeless families in the area during the holiday season. This year’s party was the 20th anniversary of the event. Other YCP alumni in New Jersey generously donated gifts for 16 children.

Amy G. Strayer ’88 (York, PA) published her first children’s book, A Trip to the Doctor, in August 2023. It is part of a planned series called “The Pelican’s Pouch.”

1990s

Gregory A. Coon ’95 (Albuquerque, NM) was named Parks and Recreation Director for the City of Belen in New Mexico.

Kimberly A. DiLeo ’96 (Mt. Laurel, NJ) was promoted to Director of Issues Management with Cenlar FSB.

Duane M. Fisher ’92 (Lancaster, PA) was named the Police Chief of Manheim Township in Lancaster County, PA.

Kelley A. (Fay) Gibson ’96 (York, PA), president of the Cultural Alliance of York County, served as the Grand Marshal for the 2024 York St. Patrick’s Day Parade on March 16.

Brion P. Gilbride ’99 (Ogdensburg, NJ) earned a Doctor of Philosophy degree from Liberty University in November 2023.

Valerie L. (Speakman) Karch ’99 (Wilmington, DE) is the new Head Coach of Saint Mark’s High School girls’ basketball. She is also the school’s Assistant Director of Advancement.

Lena M. (Mummert) Nebel ’99 (Woodbine, MD) was promoted to President and Chief Operating Officer of BFG Financial Advisors. She is the first female president in the firm’s 20-year history.

Gary W. Rappoldt ’92 (Thomasville, PA) was presented with the 2023 Volunteer of the Year Award by ACNB Bank. He is the Senior Vice President/ Regional Commercial Lending Manager with ACNB and contributed nearly 400 hours of his time with numerous local organizations.

Karla J. Trout ’91 (Palmyra, PA) is the Executive Director of the Library System of Lancaster County, PA.

Amy M. (Bixler) Young ’93 (York, PA) was promoted to Vice President of Business Development with Wagman Construction, Inc.

TOP TO BOTTOM: Book by Kenny L. Markanich ’78; Gregory L. Davis ’88 with book, Todd E. Steinberg ’89 hosts annual Children’s Holiday Party; book by Amy G. Strayer ’88

MARY M c NEIL ’84

McNeil credits her education at York College of Pennsylvania with helping her succeed as President and COO of McNeil & Co. Inc.

York College of Pennsylvania appealed to Mary McNeil ’84 not just for its academic offerings but the small, private, liberal arts setting. The College also had a swim team, an essential feature for McNeil, who swam competitively for the College.

A few years after graduating with a degree in Marketing, McNeil returned to her hometown of Cortland, NY, and in 1990, she joined McNeil & Co. Inc., an insurance firm founded by her brother. Over the years, she rose through the ranks to become President and Chief Operating Officer in 2019.

“I walked away from York College with a discipline that I truly appreciate,” she says. “I gained that from the professors as well as my friends and the swimming program. They were a very supportive group. I learned a lot about leadership.”

A FOCUS ON STRATEGIC LEADERSHIP

In her professional role, McNeil has been instrumental in establishing new company offices, overseeing staff incorporation, and driving expansion. From late 2018 to 2023, she oversaw the growth of the company by 91 employees, to a total of 226.

With a 34-year tenure at McNeil & Co. Inc., she is responsible for leading and directing internal affairs across the firm’s departments. Despite the challenges of growing a company, she

remains committed to a hands-on, family-focused culture, employee wellbeing, and community philanthropy.

Beyond her corporate endeavors, McNeil has been active in nonprofit organizations. She has served on the boards of United Way for Cortland County, the National Volunteer Fire Council, and the Franziska Racker Centers, which support people with developmental disabilities.

She also is a trustee of Cortland County Family YMCA and serves on the Advisory Council of the McNeil Academy at Le Moyne College, where she earned her MBA and was honored with the 2022 Frank Fernandez Business Leader of the Year Award.

“Don’t take life for granted,” McNeil says. “Live every day to the fullest and stay focused on the right things in life.”

CLASS NOTES

2000s

Cortnie R. Amelotte ’00 (York, PA) is a College Counselor with Jemicy School in Owings Mills, MD.

Aaron L. Arndt ’05 (Santa Barbara, CA) received a certificate of recognition from the nonprofit U.S. Thalidomide Survivors for his service on behalf of Americans disabled by the now-banned drug. He is currently a Partner with the law firm Foley Bezek Behle & Curtis.

Jonathan M. Barron ’05 (Crofton, MD) was recently promoted to Nuclear Medicine Supervisor at Doctors Community Medical Center in Washington, D.C.

Jennifer L. Berrier ’01 (Enola, PA) has been appointed Executive Director of the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission.

Natalee (Colon) Gunderson ’09 (York, PA) has been named President and CEO of the York County Community Foundation. She was previously with the York Water Company for 12 years and was named one of the Central Penn Business Journal’s “40 Under 40” for 2023.

Samantha J. (Christy) Johnson ’05 (York Haven, PA) was named one of the Central Penn Business Journal’s “40 Under 40” for 2023. She is the Director of Aquaponics-AgWorks for Commonwealth Charter Academy Cyberschool.

Megan A. (Mickles) Levan ’09 (Douglassville, PA) was appointed Outpatient Services Director with Recovery Centers of America at Devon, PA.

Chad A. McGowan ’09 (York, PA) was promoted to Corporal with the Harrisburg Police Bureau. He has been with the Bureau since 2013.

Tabitha L. Musso ’04 (Dillsburg, PA) has been named to the Board of Directors of the Manufacturers’ Association for southcentral Pennsylvania and northern Maryland. She is currently the CEO at MKT Metal Manufacturing.

Branden A. Pensyl ’08 (Glendale, AZ) earned his MBA from Wake Forest University in May 2023.

Kayla N. (Hansen) Redding ’06 (Phoenix, AZ) is the new Regional Sales Manager for the western United States for Caleffi North America.

David M. Remm ’05 (Mechanicsburg, PA) was selected to run Segment 20 of the “MS Run the U.S.” nationwide relay. In August, he will run 148 miles from Brookville to Sunbury, PA, over six days. He is currently Director of Sales and Customer Service for NAPA Transportation, Inc.

Kristin A. (Summers) Schab ’04 (York, PA) was named Executive Director of the Office of Alumnae/i Engagement at Goucher College in Baltimore, MD.

Brandon S. Sherman ’01 (Arlington, VA) recently joined law firm Saul Ewing as Counsel in their Washington, D.C., office.

Michael B. Tager ’02 (Baltimore, MD) published a book of poetry, “Pop Culture Poetry: The Definitive Collection,” in April 2024.

Joseph M. Yeck ’07 (River Vale, NJ) is the Head Coach for the new men’s and women’s golf team at Kean University in Union, NJ.

David P. Zellers Jr. ’05 (Napa, CA) has been selected as Director of Community and Economic Development for the City of Fairfield, CA.

Ashley P. Zimmerman ’09 (York, PA) has been named the first-ever Executive Director of the Northern Central Railway of York in southern York County.

2010s

Nana O. Adams ’12 (Louisville, KY) was promoted from WO1 to CW2 in the U.S. Army Reserve as a UH60 pilot.

Michelle C. Brennan ’10 (Yardley, PA) is the new Cash Management Sales Team Leader for Penn Community Bank of Perkasie.

Tess D. Cooper ’10 (Parkville, MD) is Director of Operations for the Lyric Baltimore and Pier 6 Pavilion. She was named one of the Baltimore Business Journal’s “40 Under 40” for 2023.

Brian W. Dix ’16 (Mount Holly, NJ) is the new Director of Development and Community Relations for Medford Leas in Medford, NJ.

Allison J. Dobstetter ’17 (Mechanicsburg, PA) was named one of Harrisburg Young Professional’s “20 in Their 20s” for 2023. She is a Senior Associate Brand Manager at The Hershey Company.

Aaron G. Jacobs ’10 (York, PA) was inducted as the 107th President of The Rotary Club of York for the 2023–24 year. He has been a Rotary member since 2008.

Thomas E. Kaizar ’14 (Lancaster, PA) was admitted as a Partner with RKL LLP CPA and business consulting firm.

Travis T. Klein ’11 (Towson, MD) was promoted to Director of the Tax Department with Ellin & Tucker. He has been with the firm since 2012.

Eric P. Levandowski ’11 (Mohnton, PA) was promoted to Director with Kreischer Miller Accounting and Tax firm. He has been with the company since 2014.

Jimmy V. Strusowski Jr. ’14 (Newport, DE), who is a Service Account Manager for Seiberlich Trane Energy Services, was awarded the 2023 “Young Professional of the Year” by Associated Builders and Contractors Delaware Chapter.

Kristina M. (Caltagirone) Tucker ’12 (York, PA) was promoted to Director of Marketing with SEK, CPAs & Advisors.

Kyle M. Walthall ’16 (Ashland, OH) is an Assistant Coach for the men’s and women’s swimming teams at Penn State University.

Robin M. (Martin) White ’11 (Lancaster, PA) has joined the law offices of Gibbel Kraybill & Hess LLP as an Associate Attorney.

Matthew S. Whitscher ’18 (Huntington Station, NY) is the Defensive Coordinator for the Dartmouth College Big Green men’s lacrosse team.

2020s

Jacob D. Halem ’22 (Clarksburg, MD) has been named Assistant Coach for the Washington College men’s and women’s swim teams.

Chandler M. Ort ’23 (Etters, PA) has joined the Hershey, PA, office of ARM Group as a Staff Engineer in the renewable energy practice area.

Natalie R. Robson ’23 (Sarasota, FL) is one of 23 recent college graduates to be named to the 2023 class for the PGA WORKS fellowship, Middle Atlantic PGA section.

Joshua J. Santora ’20 (Pittsgrove, NJ) has joined the York Revolution as Baseball Operations Manager and Home Clubhouse Manager.

Kasey M. Taylor ’21 (Slatington, PA) is the new Executive Director of the Northern Lehigh Recreation Authority.

Molly M. Thate ’21 (York, PA) was named one of Harrisburg Young Professional’s “20 in Their 20s” for 2023. She is a Research Project Manager at Penn State College of Medicine.

WEDDINGS & ENGAGEMENTS

Kasey M. Taylor ’21 (Slatington, PA) is engaged to Evan Meixsell ’20 (Schencksville, PA). A May 2024 wedding is planned.

Jessica S. Cable ’19 (York, PA) married Wade R. Watkins ’20 (Etters, PA) at the Yorktowne Hotel on July 15, 2023.

Michelle A. Civitella ’18 (West Sayville, NY) and Chase W. Helferstay ’18 (Severna Park, MD) were married on September 9, 2023, at Kurtz Beach in Pasadena, MD. They started dating spring semester of their first year in 2015.

Channing T. Raver ’16 (Windsor, PA) is engaged to Avery R. Quinn of Lititz, PA. A December 2024 wedding is planned in York.

Jon D. Kirssin ’78 (Mechanicsburg, PA), married Marilee Wolf on February 16, 2024, at the Country Club of Harrisburg, PA, with a reception at the Antique Auto Museum at Hershey.

Lauren A. Hannaford ’14 (Kyle, TX) married Joshua W. Fulmer ’13 (Kyle, TX) on October 27, 2023, at Kindred Oaks in Georgetown, TX.

Michelle A. Moore ’13 (Columbia, MD) married Alex Dysland on September 16, 2023, at Turf Valley Resort in Ellicott City, MD.

Sharlene E. Roberts ’17 (Edgewater, MD) and Tanner Craig ’17 (Annapolis, MD) were married on May 20, 2023, at Dreams Royal Beach in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. They met at the College during their first year in 2013.

ABOVE: Michelle A. Civitella ’18 and Chase W. Helferstay ’18 (center). YCP alumni in attendance (on left side): Ashley Arena ’18, Hannah Kruelle ’18, Jenn Miller ’18, Amanda Tondin ’18; (right side): Zach Miller ’18, Ryan Caputo ’18, Bill Goodman ’93, Benjamin Ney ’18, Mark Baner ’18, and Mark Deardorff ’18.

For news about alumni events and to submit information for Class Notes, visit www.ycp.edu/alumni. Any questions? Email alumni@ycp.edu.

IN MEMORIAM

Alumni

James E. Baish ’77 (Carlisle, PA), December 13, 2023. He retired after more than 25 years as Vice President of Operations at Neema Hospitality Management. He is survived by his mother and a daughter.

Jeffrey C. Becker ’68 (Hanover, PA), September 17, 2023. He attended York Junior College and Millersville University and was employed by Susquehannock High School.

Mark T. Bedara ’92 (Hatboro, PA), November 23, 2023. He worked as an accountant and later as an entrepreneur. He is survived by his wife of 29 years, Eileen (Bowman) ’91, who he met at the College, and three sons.

James A. Brenner ’48 (Hanover, PA), January 8, 2022. He attended York Junior College and Franklin & Marshall College and served in the U.S. Army during World War II. He was Manager of the Proofreading and Bindery Departments at Doubleday Publishers for 45 years until his retirement in 1995. He is survived by his two sons, four grandchildren, and eight great-grandchildren.

Kendra L. “Kandy” (Messersmith) Crone ’82 (Dover, PA), November 18, 2023. She worked as an art teacher and school bus driver. She is survived by her husband of 42 years, Michael, and three children.

Robert L. Crouse ’78 (York, PA), September 2, 2023. He retired from Exelon Corp. (formerly Constellation Energy), where he worked in natural gas marketing. He is survived by his wife of 30 years, Linda, and three children.

Russell E. Cunningham ’77 (York, PA), January 23, 2024. He also held degrees from Penn State University and Kent State University. He was the Operations Manager at Lincolnway Bowling and Colony Park Lanes North for over 40 years combined.

Michelle E. (Fullerton) DeFabio, DNP, MS, RN ’01/’05 (Lancaster, PA), October 10, 2023. She was the Director of Nursing for Penn Medicine and an adjunct faculty member at York College and HACC. She was involved in many professional and service organizations and was an accomplished nursing professional. She is survived by her two children and her parents.

Robert H. Deller ’79 (Dover, PA), January 19, 2024. He was employed as a Senior Customer Service Representative. He is survived by his wife of 42 years, Gail, a son, and two grandchildren.

Frederick R. Ditzler ’90 (York, PA), September 24, 2023. He was employed as Chief Engineer and Vice President of Manufacturing at Red Lion Controls. He also served in the U.S. Air Force during the Vietnam War. He is survived by his two children.

Cynthia A. (Moyer) Dotzel ’76 (York, PA), July 27, 2023. She was a Certified Public Accountant and co-founder of Dotzel & Company, Inc. She was the first female Chair of the Board for the York Water Company and PeoplesBank and served on many other community boards in York County. A member of the York College Board of Trustees, she received the Distinguished Alumni Achievement Award from the College in 2017. She is survived by her husband of 47 years, George, and their three daughters.

Timothy A. Drabick ’01 (Burlington, NJ), August 30, 2023. He also held a certificate in orthotics from Northwestern University and worked as a certified orthotist. He is survived by his wife, Rebecca.

Terrie (Smith) DuCray ’76 (Longboat Key, FL), March 12, 2023. She worked in banking and insurance, eventually becoming the owner of her own fashion boutique. She received a Spartan of the Year Award in 2019 and was an enthusiastic supporter of scholarships for YCP students. She is survived by her sister and many dear friends.

Dennis P. Durant ’79 (Port Carbon, PA), October 17, 2023. He retired as Major, Chief of Security of the Pennsylvania State Correction Institution system after 28 years. He is survived by his wife of 38 years, Mary Ann, and a son.

Amy A. (Aydlett) Eller ’97 (Mount Wolf, PA), October 5, 2023. She worked as a purchasing agent for the former FEC Technologies. She is survived by her husband of 23 years, Thomas.

Betty M. (Bohr) Emig ’51 (Glen Rock, PA), December 21, 2023. She attended York Junior College and worked as a medical secretary before staying home to raise her two children. She was the wife of the late John W. Emig.

Colleen M. (Costello) Fisher ’86 (Spring Grove, PA), October 23, 2023. She was a Registered Nurse working as a Nurse Manager for Dialysis Care Center. She is survived by her mother.

Kendal J. “Ken” Fleming Jr. ’64 (Leesburg, VA), October 28, 2023. He attended York Junior College and Shippensburg University. He retired from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania as the Field Director for the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation. He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Cheryl, two children, and four grandchildren.

Kenneth D. Fowler ’73 (Fairfield, PA), November 24, 2023. He served as a Corporal and Auto Theft Detective with the Prince George’s County (MD) Police Department for 22 years. He is survived by his four children.

Gary W. Fox ’72 (Biglerville, PA), August 17, 2023. He worked for many years in the hospitality industry, and with his wife, served as a foster parent in Adams County for 25 years. He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Susan, and six children.

Jeffrey T. Freedman ’73 (York, PA), August 7, 2023. He had a long career in real estate and was a member of Temple Beth Israel. He is survived by his two daughters and two grandchildren.

Russell S. Fuhrman ’76 (York, PA), December 25, 2023. He also earned a master’s degree from Johns Hopkins University and was the founder and owner of Fuhrman Tax Service. He is survived by his wife of 20 years, Deborah.

James L. Gannon IV ’09 (Cordova, MD), October 23, 2023. He worked with his family at Gannon’s Refrigeration. He is survived by his wife, Heather (Fleischmann) ’10, who he met at the College, and two daughters.

Jeffrey A. Grove ’01 (Ashburn, VA), January 3, 2024. He also earned a master’s degree in history from Temple University. He is survived by his mother and two sisters.

Beverly A. (Purpur) Hartman ’85 (Red Lion, PA), September 23, 2023. She taught preschool and served as Director of the daycare center at Christ Lutheran Church in Dallastown, PA. She is survived by her husband, Gregory, and five children.

Andrew G. Heidingsfelder ’89 (New Cumberland, PA), December 23, 2023. He had a 36-year career with the U.S. Navy/NAVSUP. He is survived by his wife of 27 years, Christin (Vogt) ’91, and their two daughters.

Barbara A. (Myers) Heim ’12 (Dalmatia, PA), November 11, 2023. She was an oncology nurse with UPMC and a devoted volunteer with the American Cancer Society. She is survived by her husband of 14 years, Randy, and two children.

Donald C. “Chuck” Helton Jr. ’74 (Annapolis, MD), July 14, 2023. Prior to attending the College, he served as a Military Policeman in the U.S. Army and then owned a successful marine refrigeration business. He is survived by his sister.

May E. (Harbaugh) Hoffman ’86 (Waynesboro, PA), November 23, 2023. She worked for Washington County Hospital/Meritus Medical Center.

Donald J. Houseknecht ’78 (Plains, PA), November 30, 2023. He was a Revenue Protection Specialist at PPL until his retirement. He is survived by his wife of 40 years, Mary Jean, and their two children.

Coralie F. “Carrie” (Bennett) Howse ’90 (Orem, UT), November 1, 2023. She was a registered nurse and also studied at Ricks College and Brigham Young University. She is survived by her husband of 30 years, Arnold, and their son.

Sherry J. (Tibbs) Isennock ’13 (York, PA), September 9, 2023. She worked in the grocery industry and for AAA.

Vivian L. (Hoover) Jamison ’85 (Yoe, PA), September 29, 2023. She worked for 11 years as a secretary at Dallastown High School and then for 18 years at the College. She is survived by her three children and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Frank V. Kelkis ’80 (York, PA), October 29, 2023. He worked for AMF, Inc., and Precision Custom Components in York, eventually owning and operating his own business, Precision Calibration and Testing, for 27 years. He is survived by his wife, Joyce, and two children.

Charles E. Lichty ’76 (York, PA), October 16, 2023. He worked in sales management for WITF, then earned a master’s degree at age 53 and became a counselor. He is survived by his wife of 33 years, Julie, and a daughter.

Ronald A. McClain ’79 (York, PA), November 22, 2023. He worked for the York City Police Department, beginning as a Patrolman in 1965 and retiring as a Lieutenant in March 2003 after 38 years of service. He is survived by three daughters and two stepchildren.

Mac F. McCormick ’89 (West Milford, NJ), January 8, 2024. He was a Corporate Trainer for Lakeland Bank and was also involved in community theater. He is survived by his mother and two sisters.

Richard G. McKenzie ’84 (Baltimore, MD), November 6, 2023. He served in the U.S. Air Force and was a troop leader with Boy Scouts of America. He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Karen, and two sons.

Shelbie A. (Douglas) Paules ’74 (York, PA), November 15, 2023. She taught at York Township Elementary for 25 years. She is survived by her three children.

Jessica J. Puleo ’87 (Etters, PA), November 30, 2023. She also earned a master’s degree from Temple University and worked for UPMC as a psychotherapist. She is survived by her two siblings.

James C. Rodgers ’02 (Taneytown, MD), October 14, 2023. He worked in I.T. for Adams County and Cigna Insurance. He is survived by his parents and a sister.

Frances W. (Wogan) Saylor ’46 (Phoenixville, PA), July 17, 2023. She attended York Junior College and worked as Textbook Buyer at the York College Bookstore for over 20 years. She is survived by her daughters and grandchildren.

Terry L. Shaffer ’65 (Cary, NC), August 1, 2023. He attended York Junior College, then served in the U.S. Navy as a Yeoman before earning his degree in business administration from Old Dominion University. He joined Kimberly-Clark in 1972 and worked there until he retired in 2000. He spent the next 20 years working in various roles within several grocery stores, including Winn-Dixie and Food Lion. He is survived by his wife of 38 years, Diane.

Mary S. (Stauffer) Skold ’41 (York, PA), July 6, 2023. She attended York Collegiate Institute and was a member of the York College Women’s Auxiliary. She was also co-owner of the family-run company, J.E. Baker Co. She is survived by her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Arthur D. Smith Jr. ’75 (York, PA), October 9, 2023. He started with the West Manchester Police Department in 1976, eventually assuming the role of Chief of Police in 2001 and retiring in 2017. He was named West Manchester’s Officer of the Year in 1982. He is survived by his wife, Pamela ’89, and their daughter.

Claude W. Stabley II ’94 (Dover, PA), November 28, 2023. Known as “Smoke,” he was employed by the York City Police Department, retiring as a Lieutenant, and was the York County Chief Deputy Coroner for 22 years before retiring in May 2020. He is survived by his wife and two children.

Margarette L. “Peggy” (Frigm) Stauffer ’92 (York, PA), February 19, 2023. She also attended Johns Hopkins University. She had a long career in the field of women’s family planning, serving as President and CEO of Planned Parenthood of Central Pennsylvania. She was also an active member of the York County Corvette Club. She is survived by her two sons.

Eleanor M. “Elly” (Rearick) Stepanic ’90 (Mechanicsburg, PA), October 4, 2023. She also earned a master’s degree from Western Maryland College (McDaniel College) and taught elementary school, retiring from Bermudian Springs School District. She is survived by her siblings and a stepdaughter.

Carol M. (Bollinger) Varney ’83 (York, PA, and Calabash, NC), November 8, 2023. She worked for Yankee Candle and was married to David Varney ’84

C. Wayne Wagaman ’58 (Jefferson, PA), September 26, 2023. He attended York Junior College as well as Millersville University, Penn State University, and Western Maryland College (McDaniel). He taught chemistry and other science classes for 35 years, retiring from Southwestern School District in 1995. He also volunteered with his community, including as an EMT with the Jefferson Volunteer Fire Company. He is survived by three children and six grandchildren.

Kathleen A. Wolff ’75 (Lancaster, PA), January 11, 2024. She also earned a master’s degree in health sciences from Penn State University and worked as a respiratory therapist throughout the tri-county area. She is survived by her two siblings.

Candy L. Yingling ’90 (Gettysburg, PA), December 29, 2023. She worked as Director of Life Enrichment at Artis Senior Living in Lemoyne, PA. She is survived by her parents and two siblings.

Friends

Warren C. Bulette Jr. (York, PA), October 18, 2023. He retired from the U.S. Army Reserve after 32 years with the rank of Colonel, having served as Deputy Chief of Staff, Resource Management, 99th Army Reserve Command, with active service in Germany during the Korean Conflict. He also retired from Westinghouse Electric Corp. after 28 years as Corporate Director of Financial Planning and Analysis. After retirement, he operated his own financial and wealth management consultancy for 36 years. He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Katherine, and a daughter.

Barbara A. (Stover) Gingerich (York, PA), August 25, 2023. She had a diverse nursing and professional career, including as an adjunct faculty member at the College, and kept her RN license up to date until her 80th birthday. She is survived by her son and daughter.

Ralph W. Hess (York, PA), July 12, 2023. He served in the U.S. Army on active duty and in the reserves while attending Millersville University. He was elected to the Pennsylvania State Senate, serving five terms. He was also an adjunct faculty member at the College, as well as Lebanon Valley College and Millersville. He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Ruth, and their two sons.

Marlene J. Rineman (Jacobus, PA), November 2, 2023. She worked as an office manager in the College’s Admissions Office for 25 years. She is survived by her husband of 60 years, David, and two children.

Benefactors

Josephine “Jody” (Davidson) Appell (York, PA), widow of Louis Appell Jr., passed away on January 21, 2024. She and her husband were passionate about helping York College and many other organizations in the York area. Throughout the years, the Appells supported a number of programs at York College, either as individuals or through the Powder Mill Foundation, including donating the downtown York building that became the Center for Community Engagement, creating through gifts the Appell Art Fellowship and the Powder Mill Arts Fellowship, and supporting the renovations of the Appell Life Sciences Building. The most recent example of their generosity was the Powder Mill Foundation gift that created the Appell Environmental Horticulture program and the Appell Horticulture Center, which opened in October 2023.

Albert J. Diehl (York, PA) passed away on August 31, 2023, and his wife, Helen L. (Lehr) Diehl, died on November 17, 2023. The Diehls were honored for their generous and longstanding support of York College in 2012 when the academic building that housed the Stabler Nursing program was named Diehl Hall. In addition, the naming of the Diehl House at Knowledge Park at York College recognized their decision to leave a legacy by remembering York College in their estate plans.

Chloé Eichelberger (York, PA), a 1954 graduate of York Junior College, passed away on Dec. 2, 2023. She served as a York College trustee from 1995 to 2007 and served in 2012 on the Business Campaign Steering Committee, the leadership group for the campaign that led to the renovation of the Willman Business Center. She was a member of the 1968 Society for 38 consecutive years of giving to the College. In 2011, she created the firstever endowed professorship at York College, the Chloé Eichelberger ’54 Endowed Chair in Business Education, to enhance the College’s ability to prepare future business leaders. Through her gift, the College established the Chloé Eichelberger Business Education Series. York College acknowledged her extraordinary service with a Distinguished Alumna award in 1996, an honorary doctorate in 2009, and designation as trustee emerita.

ALUMNI NEWS

2023 SPARTAN OF THE YEAR AWARDS

Distinguished Young Alumni Award

Colbe Herr ’14 has a degree in Sport Management and currently serves as the Program Manager –Client Experience for SeatGeek, a mobile-focused ticket platform for sporting and concert events. While at York, he was a baseball team member, earning the title of All-American in 2014. Herr is actively involved with York College, even while living in Florida.

In addition to serving businesses and community organizations as a baseball program manager, he has served on the Manatee County Chamber of Young Professionals and on the board of directors of a local country club. Herr serves as Vice President of his community association, volunteers for Habitat for Humanity, and is entering his fourth year as assistant head coach of varsity baseball for St. Stephen’s Episcopal School. He was recognized as the 2023 Manatee Young Professional of the Year.

In service to York College, Herr contributes financially each year, serves on the Alumni Board of Directors and previously served on the Young Alumni Council Executive Board, mentors members of the York College Sport Management program, and recruits young college-bound individuals for possible interest in York College.

Distinguished Alumni Service Award

Rodney Altemose ’92, Ed.D., earned a bachelor’s degree in Communications Studies, a master’s from Shippensburg University in College Student Personnel Development, and a doctorate from Wilmington College in Education, Leadership and Innovation. He currently serves as the Interim Associate Vice President for Student Affairs at Bucks County Community College.

Altemose is the definition of what it means to be a Spartan for Life. He has given tirelessly to YCP with his time, talent, and treasure. Highlights of his involvement include consistent giving to YCP since graduation and membership in the 1968 Giving Society; membership on the Alumni Board from 2018–2022, including service in executive board positions; serving on the EVOLVE Campaign Cabinet and supporting the entire EVOLVE Campaign; attending events yearly and serving as the alumni speaker on multiple occasions at events; and active engagement with his fraternity, Zeta Beta Tau.

Distinguished Alumni Achievement Award

Kevin Jablon ’96 graduated with a degree in Management. While attending York College, he loved everything that York had to offer, from Greek life to relaxing at Murph’s Study Hall. It’s where he met his wife, Tricia (Ruff) Jablon ’94, and three of his best friends, Dave Cipalla ’95, Anthony Ferrante ’95, and Chuck Schillaci ’94, all of whom are now instrumental parts of his business.

After graduating from York College, Jablon worked for a Japanese company, where he quickly became familiar with standard business hierarchy and culture. He then founded Spartan Surfaces in January 2007, naming the company after his alma mater, on the principles of building strong relationships, providing excellent customer service, and having tremendous company culture. By sticking to these principles, Jablon was able to build his dream business, which takes on a human-centered approach.

Jablon continues to speak to students at York, and he hosted several Business majors at Spartan Surfaces to share his inspiring story of life before college, during, and success after. He continues to donate and recently donated to the Spartan Advance Fund on behalf of his family. His oldest son, Dylan, attends YCP and is a Men’s Soccer Team member.

NEW ALUMNI RELATIONS EVENTS

York College’s Alumni Relations Office has been busy.

The Office has been working hard over the past several months, undertaking initiatives to engage alumni beyond “Happy Hour” and dinner events and encourage lifelong learning beyond the classroom. These initiatives, including a Book Club, Hiking Club, and Maker Series, have garnered significant interest and success.

THE VIRTUAL BOOK CLUB hosts over 100 alumni at each meeting. Books read have ranged from This Time Tomorrow by Emma Straub, The Daughters of Erietown by Connie Schultz, The Invisible Life of Addie Larue by V.E. Schwab, Quiet: The Power of Introverts In a World That Won’t Stop Talking by Susan Cain, and more. Meetings take place bimonthly.

“It’s awesome to see so many people getting involved and making connections in such fun and meaningful ways!” — MICHELLE SHELLENBERGER ’89

THE HIKING CLUB, a “once-a-month outdoor adventure,” averages 20 to 25 alumni per hike. Outings are led by a volunteer staff member or alumnus and take place on trails in South Central Pennsylvania and Maryland. So far, alumni have trekked paths at Mill Creek Nature Preserve in Airville, PA; Richard Nixon County Park and Lake Redman in York, PA; Northwest Lancaster County Hiking Trail in Columbia, PA; and Silver Mines Park in Conestoga, PA.

THE MAKER SERIES, which is designed to provide alumni with opportunities to learn new skills or crafts from local crafters and artisans, consists of four programs throughout the year, held on campus or at the crafter’s location. So far, alumni have participated in lotion and soap making at Sunrise Soap Co. in downtown York, PA; glass fusion at the Prancing Pig in Dallastown, PA, where attendees made a nightlight or suncatcher; and a rustic-themed candle-making workshop where attendees made wooden dough bowl candles, led by Apricity Products, LLC.

The initiatives are intended to meet alumni where they’re at, with programs designed to be low-commitment with flexible schedules and the option to attend both virtually and/or in person.

“Our Hiking Club, Maker Series, and Book Club are hitting all the right notes with our alumni. These programs have been a hit, bringing together grads from all walks of life to share adventures, creativity, and good reads,” says Michelle Shellenberger ’89, Director of Alumni Relations. “It’s awesome to see so many people getting involved and making connections in such fun and meaningful ways!”

In addition to new programs for alumni, the annual Fall Fest, or Fall Alumni Weekend, is undergoing a rebranding effort to become Homecoming. The initiative was undertaken to welcome the “YCP family” home during the annual event.

“We want to emphasize ‘homecoming,’ so our 35,000-plus alumni know we are inviting them home to the YCP campus to visit with fellow alumni and

friends, professors and administrators, and tour campus if they haven’t been back in a while,” says Andrea Jackson, Assistant Director of Development Events for Advancement and Alumni Relations. “Another reason is to make our current students and their families feel welcome. Five or six weeks into the fall semester is a great time for families to visit their students after they’ve settled in, especially first-year students, and spend some time with them. All ‘Homecoming and Family Weekend’ events are open to the entire York College community, and we think the new name reflects that.” —S.S.

For more information on alumni events and activities, visit ycp.edu/alumni or contact the Alumni Relations Office at alumni@ycp.edu.

EVENTS CALENDAR

MAY 17

Alumni Golf Outing –Honey Run Golf Club

JUNE 14–24

Alumni Abroad Trip to Greece

JUNE 23

YCP Day at Hersheypark — ticket includes lunch buffet

SEPTEMBER 7

YCP Night at the York Revolution

OCTOBER 4–6

Homecoming and Family Weekend

BOOK CLUB

Discussions occur at the end of June, August, and October

HIKING CLUB

Hikes are scheduled first Saturday of every month

MAKER SERIES

Check the YCP website for dates

A GLIMPSE OF OUR PAST

York College’s Archives welcomes donations of college-related materials. Contact Karen Rice-Young ’92 at kriceyou@ycp.edu, 717-815-1439 for more information.

BUTTONS, SLIDERS, AND KNOBS EARLY TECHNOLOGY

ON CAMPUS

Could this (above) be the bridge of the Enterprise? The ground-breaking series Star Trek introduced its audience to the tech of the future. On the campus of York Junior College (YJC) in 1962, there was a machine that looked a lot like a control panel from the Starship Enterprise: the IBM 1620. Current Chief Information Officer Ilya Yakolev recalls that its nickname was C.A.D.E.T.: Can’t Add, Doesn’t Even Try. But it could register students, record grades, and run analytic reports. President Ray Miller reported in 1963 that using the data processing equipment for this purpose saved 720 employee hours.

YJC began leasing the equipment in September 1962; the price tag to buy the 1620 outright was just shy of $100,000 (over $1 million today). To offset the expenditure, noncredit Data Processing courses were offered in October of the same year. The sessions, which met for two hours a week for 10 weeks, cost $30. The special

program was called Basic Machine Accounting and included instruction on using punched cards for recording information, processing those cards to accumulate information, analyzing the information, planning for machine accounting set up and operation, and basic concepts of electronic machine utilization. Sixty years later, desktops, laptops, and cell phones do all of this.

For those who have seen the original Star Trek, the IBM 1620 may look like a console on the Enterprise. For YJC in 1962, it was another step toward the future. The year before, the campus moved from Duke Street to its present location and changed the title of the yearbook from The Tower (named for the castle-like building on the old campus) to Horizon. And the first computer was installed—complete with buttons, sliders, and knobs.

Thanks to Matt Shoemaker and Trenton Bankert from Library and Technology Services for their input.