CLARION U N I V E R S I T Y M A G A Z I N E FALL 2018 G E A OUS R U . CO confident. PEHRSSON. Assimilation is key in helping refugees. CLARION FA L L 2 0 1 8 VOLUME 5 NUMBER 2 FEATURES 12 Undergrads change the fate of cells Student scientists began their summer break in Dr. Doug Smith’s classroom and lab, learning how to change cell characteristics. 16 At the top Since the early 1960s, Clarion has built a nursing program that allows students to climb the ladder of credentials from Associate of Science in Nursing to the Doctor of Nursing Practice. Robin Bilan is the first person to complete every step DEPARTMENTS 4 Clarion Digest Paralegal students produce Clarion’s first law journal; a new Venango alumni chapter invites new members; head athletic trainer Jim Thornton is inducted into the National Athletic Trainers’ Association Hall of Fame; Clarion celebrates freedom at the annual Juneteenth observance; alumni and friends gather at Pittsburgh Zoo for the first CU at the Zoo. 10 Alumni Weekend 2018 on that ladder. 22 Sesquicentennial: 1967 to 2018 This issue takes a look at the past 50 years of Clarion history and explores the vision for the future of the university. 28 Meet President Pehrsson 31 Sports roundup The inaugural Sports Hall of Fame class returns for 30th anniversary; Holden and Vensel join fellow PSAC spikers for international play; young talent emerges for baseball; golfers play strong in a season shortened by weather; new faces shine in softball; a solid foundation shows promise for tennis; new records set in exciting track & field season. 40 Class Notes At the end of 2017, the United Nations Refugee Agency reported that 68.5 million people have been forcibly displaced from their homes due to persecution, conflict, violence and human rights violations. Dr. Mark Lepore, associate professor of rehabilitation sciences, has been working with refugees since the 1990s. He says refugees will be the best neighbors you’ve ever had and encourages people to extend a hand to them. ON THE COVER Dr. Dale-Elizabeth Pehrsson, Clarion University’s 17th President 48 Courageous Endeavors Melinda Carbaugh had graduated and was days away from taking her board exam to be a registered nurse when she and her husband were in a motorcycle accident, leaving Carbaugh unable to walk. The determined mother of two decided she would walk again and be able to work as a nurse. Read more at http://www.clarion.edu/news/2018/july/refugees.html. CLARION UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE 1 Pennsylvania’s State System of Higher Education CLARION UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE President: Dr. Dale-Elizabeth Pehrsson Executive editor: Tina Horner Co-editors: Sean Fagan (sports); Amy Thompson Wozniak (’02, MS ’06) Board of Governors Chair: Cynthia D. Shapira Vice Chair: David M. Maser Vice Chair: Samuel H. Smith Sen. Ryan P. Aument Rep. Matthew E. Baker Audrey F. Bronson Joar Dahn Sarah Galbally Rep. Michael K. Hanna Donald E. Houser Jr. Barbara McIlvaine Smith Marian D. Moskowitz Thomas S. Muller Pedro A. Rivera, secretary of education Sen. Judy Schwank Harold C. Shields Brian Swatt Rep. Mike Turzai Neil R. Weaver Janet L. Yeomans Gov. Tom Wolf LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT Dear Clarion University family, Greetings! I am thrilled to be at Clarion University, serving as your president! As a first-generation college student, I had no idea that my journey would ultimately lead me to the presidency of a university. I began my career as a nurse, not suspecting then that I would gravitate toward education. As I continued to learn new skills and add to my academic credentials, my interests changed and led to higher education, then higher Design: Bryan Postlewait (‘04) Contributors: Michelle Port, Hope Lineman (‘10, MS ‘16) Photographers: Adam Reynolds (’15), Bri Nellis (’16) Address comments and questions to: Clarion University Magazine Center for Advancement Clarion University of Pennsylvania 840 Wood St., Clarion, PA 16214 Email: alumni@clarion.edu Council of Trustees Chair: J.D. Dunbar (’77, M.S. ’79) Vice Chair: Milissa Bauer (’84) Secretary: James L. Kifer (’83) Dr. Syed R. Ali-Zaidi Susanne A. Burns The Honorable R. Lee James (’74, ‘83) The Honorable Donna Oberlander (’91) Randy Seitz (’09) Howard H. Shreckengost (’83) Neil Weaver (’00) Visit Clarion University on the Web at www.clarion.edu Clarion University Magazine is published by the Division for University Advancement for alumni, families of current students and friends of Clarion University. Alumni information is also located at www.clarion.edu/alumni. Clarion University of Pennsylvania is committed to equal employment and equal educational opportunities for all qualified individuals regardless of race, color, sex, religion, national origin, affectional or sexual orientation, age, disability or other classifications that are protected under Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, and other pertinent state and federal laws and regulations. Direct equal opportunity inquiries to: Director of Social Equity, Clarion University of Pennsylvania, 216 Carrier Administration Building, Clarion, PA 16214-1232. 814-393-2109. Alumni Association Board of Directors President: Jeffrey Douthett (’79) President-Elect: Theresa Edder (’91, 05) Treasurer: Jonathan Catanzarita (’11) Secretary: Virginia Vasko (’88) Lindsay Banner (’07) Angela Brown (’80) Michael Chapaloney (’99) Henry Crawford (’02) Christopher Enos, Eagle Ambassadors president Kimberly Griffith (’87) Lee Grosch (’62) Sandra Jarecki (’69) Bridget Kennedy (’90) Barry McCauliff (’72) Thomas Launer (’10) Chris Myers (’12) Michael Phillips (’03, ’04) Ryan Peffer (’03) Michael Polite (’86) Will Price (’11) David Reed (’09) Robert Schmidt (’69) Georgia Yamalis (’15) Glenn Zary (’97) education administration. My story is not unique; many of you have had similar experiences, beginning your college education in one field, but listening to that inner voice that nudged you elsewhere. I’m a firm believer that our life experiences, collectively, prepare us for what’s to come. We aren’t done learning! I have hit the ground running, learning as much as I can about the challenges we face and the opportunities before us. We are strong and will grow even stronger. Our faculty and staff are committed and engaged, our students represent the best and brightest from across Pennsylvania and the country, and you, our alumni and friends, are making a difference in your communities. My husband, Dr. Bob, and I are truly excited to be part of the Clarion community, and I look forward to meeting you and hearing your Clarion stories. Dr. Dale-Elizabeth Pehrsson President Clarion University Dr. Dale-Elizabeth Pehrsson ex-officio President, Clarion University James Geiger ex-officio Vice president for advancement 2 FALL 2018 WWW.CLARION.EDU Ann Thompson ex-officio Director of alumni engagement CLARION UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE 3 STUDENTNEWS NEWSI I CLARION DIGEST ALUMNI STUDENT NEWS I CLARION DIGEST simpson ATTENDS WOMEN’S POLITICAL LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE Kaley Simpson, a sophomore political science major from Sligo, attended the National Education for Women Leadership Pennsylvania conference in June at Chatham University. Leadership Pennsylvania is an intensive, weeklong, residential leadership and public policy institute designed to educate and empower young women for future political participation and leadership. Each year approximately 35 students from colleges and universities across Pennsylvania are selected to attend. “I am involved with the League of Women Voters in Clarion. They are a bipartisan group worried about issues in and around Clarion,” Simpson said. “I encourage any woman to become involved and make your voice heard.” CU AT THE GOLDEN EAGLES TACKLE NEEDS OF community zoo (From left) Marissa Hefferan (’18), Morgan Woodin (’17, ’18 MBA), Maggie Hefferan and Michelle Hefferan (’16) take a break from visiting animals during the Alumni Association’s first CU at the Zoo event at Pittsburgh Zoo. Before their final spring practice of the year, Golden Eagles football players delivered care packages to Clarion’s Shelter Task Force. The initiative, started by junior defensive lineman Alec Heldreth of Canfield, Ohio, generated donations from players, their families and friends. “I transferred here from Lake Erie, and we did something similar to this in the city of Painesville, Ohio,” Heldreth said. “When I brought the idea to my teammates, everyone was on board to help out. Guys realize we’re blessed with the opportunity to attend college and play football, and it’s important for us to give back and help people who need it.” John Danvers, a junior political science and economics major from Franklin, is the paid APSCUF government and public relations intern at APSCUF in Harrisburg this summer. In the highly competitive statewide position, Danvers will earn six academic credits in political science for his work. As part of his internship, he writes a blog. He discusses the Pennsylvania Promise legislation in his July 18 entry, available at http://www.apscuf.org/lets-fund-pennsylvania-promise-through-a-severance-tax/. FALL 2018 WWW.CLARION.EDU SOARS TO ALTITUDE The packages included essentials such as toothpaste, mouthwash, deodorant and other hygiene supplies, as well as clothing and snacks. danvers APSCUF SERVING COVETED INTERNSHIP 4 Dunleavy Gina Matthews Clark (right), who graduated in 2001 with a Master of Science in Education, reading specialist certification, accepts a teacher kit from Ann Thompson, director of alumni engagement. Clark teaches reading at Keystone High School. The Office of Alumni Engagement received nearly 600 requests for teacher kits that included branded sticky notes, pencils, erasers, a Clarion University pennant, tape measure, sewing kit, first aid kit, coffee mug, pledge card and admissions materials. Kits are available while supplies last. Casey Dunleavy (’13) has joined the Altitude Marketing team as manager, digital marketing. He will develop and implement campaigns to attract, nurture and engage clients’ audiences to meet specific goals and milestones. Altitude Marketing, Emmaus, Pa., is an integrated marketing agency serving technologyfocused B2B companies. CLARION UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE 5 CLARION UNIVERSITY – VENANGO DIGEST KIDS IN CLARION UNIVERSITY – VENANGO DIGEST Clarion University – Venango college ALUMNI CHAPTER FORMS, PLANS MEETING Wesley Sanchez and Riley Guiste collaborate on building/programming using LEGO Mindstorms v3. They were among more than 50 students in kindergarten through 8th grade who enjoyed a variety of classes in science, technology, engineering and art at the weeklong Kids in College summer enrichment camp, held in July at Venango campus. The week concluded with an Adventure Day at Two Mile Run Park with a variety of fun lessons and activities, courtesy of Venango County Conservation District. Clarion University – Venango Alumni Chapter formed in May as a way to connect alumni to each other through networking and social interaction, and to provide opportunities for alumni to reconnect with Clarion University by helping to recruit new students, serve as mentors for current students and provide a resource for recent graduates. The group plans activities to help students with their schoolwork, promote the campus and Clarion University, and provide fun networking experiences. For information call 814-393-2572 or email alumni@clarion.edu. simulation PREPARES STUDENTS TO BE EFFECTIVE IN CRISES Nursing and respiratory care students participated in an interdisciplinary training day May 1 to better prepare them for being part of a healthcare team as they move from educational training to the workforce. Interdisciplinary simulations focused on patients in situations of cardiac and respiratory arrest. These are high-stress medical events that typically are anxiety producing for students. The high-fidelity mannequins can be programmed to mimic real patients that blink, have reactive pupils, have pulses, have lung, heart and bowel sounds, breathe, and can be intubated and defibrillated. “The chapter is open to anyone who has attended classes at the Venango campus, friends of the Venango campus, and those who attended Clarion main campus and live in Venango County, who are interested in advocating for the campus and its students in the community and beyond,” said Will Price, who earned his associate degree at Venango in 2009 and his bachelor’s degree at Clarion in 2011. Price is leading the establishment of the chapter. Members are: (from left) Linda (Lusher ’81) Antonucci, Will Price (’11), Deb Lutz (’04, MBA ’09), Susan Hileman (’97) and Emily Weaver (’09), assistant director of alumni relations. MISSION OF gratitude “The students are getting ready to graduate, and we want to make the simulation as real as possible,” said Chris Weidle, nursing faculty. Cross-disciplinary simulation allows students to learn hands-on collaboration with various healthcare roles in a critical situation. The real-life simulation better prepares students to act effectively, to decrease anxiety, and to know the important initial steps to take to be an effective healthcare professional. Clockwise from left: Weidle, nursing students Harry Powell and Alyce Wedikind, respiratory care faculty Greg Sambor, and respiratory therapy students Matthew Sibley and Tasia Weber. 6 FALL 2018 WWW.CLARION.EDU “This is the type of interdisciplinary learning opportunity that is uniquely emphasized across all of our academic programs within the College of Health Sciences and Human Services,” said Dr. Jeffery Allen, college dean. Oil City Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center and Oakwood Heights Presbyterian Home honored the Veterans Club of Venango campus in April for their service to elderly veterans in the Oil City community. The club’s primary mission is community service. Annually, they collect donations and support for the local humane society and plan and host Flags for the Fallen at Venango campus. In fall 2017 they collected 2,581 can tabs to support homeless veterans. Members visit veterans each year with Veterans Day cards, Easter lilies and an assortment of Christmas gifts. They partner with local elementary schools to assist in making cards for veterans. (From left) Dalyann Fuller and Mark Conrad, former and current Veterans Club advisors, Jay Stull and wife Brenda Stouffer.   CLARION UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE 7 ALUMNI NEWS I CLARION DIGEST ALUMNI NEWS I CLARION DIGEST growth BRINGS NAME CHANGE TO ACADEMIC COLLEGE The College of Health and Human Services has changed its name to the College of Health Sciences and Human Services to better reflect the professional programs it offers and represent the comprehensive programming and growth of offerings in these fields. “’Health science’ expands the focus of the college and refers to the body of knowledge, applicable in the practice of clinical health care and population health,” said Dr. Jeffery Allen, founding dean, who is leading the growth and has an extensive background in neuropsychology. “The college comprises numerous disciplines and sub-disciplines that provide cross-curricular training that will aid in impacting health, disease diagnostics and clinical practice.” Dr. Valentine James’ new book, “Capacity Building for Sustainable Development,” has been released. Capacity building is a topic of intense focus in many industrialized countries. The book explores the theoretical underpinnings of capacity building to sustain natural, cultural and human resources of communities. The book reviews the extensive literature on capacity building strategies and policies and examines the implications of sustainable development in communities around the world. The book’s approach is both theoretical and applied. It offers methods of operationalizing sustainable development and sustainability theories and explores capacity building methods at different levels of government. “Health care must address the whole person, and the medical profession is moving to integrate physical, behavioral and mental health care and services,” said Dr. Pam Gent, interim provost. “Locating the department of psychology in the college will allow for greater collaboration and synergy between the departments and faculty and, more importantly, it will allow for increased opportunities for students to develop skills in coordinated care and a team-based approach to serving people.” In the past few years, Clarion has introduced multiple academic programs in health sciences and human services, including nutrition and fitness, sport management, a three-year bachelor’s in respiratory therapy and master’s programs in athletic training and mental health counseling. Enrollment in the expanded nursing program continues to grow at all levels: ASN, RN-to-BSN, four-year BSN, MSN and DNP. Jim Thornton, head athletic trainer at Clarion University for nearly 30 years, was inducted into the 2018 National Athletic Trainers’ Association Hall of Fame at the 69th annual NATA Clinical Symposia in late June. Thornton has held volunteer leadership positions at the state, district and national levels, including the NATA District Two. He was the NATA District Two secretary in 1998, District Two director in 2005, NATA vice president in 2009 and president of the national association in 2012. The book is available through the publisher, CABI, at cab.presswarehouse.com in North and South America and at www.cabi.org/bookshop elsewhere. graduation rate FOR PELL RECIPIENTS LAUDED Collegefactual.com ranks Clarion in the top 8 percent based on the expected vs. actual graduation rate, and the university was recognized by Southern Regional Educational Board in their report, “Promoting a Culture of Student Success.” hall of fame FALL 2018 WWW.CLARION.EDU ABOUT CAPACITY BUILDING The college houses the departments of communication sciences and disorders; human services, rehabilitation, health and sport sciences; and nursing. The department of psychology also recently became part of the college, a move from the College of Arts, Education and Sciences. THORNTON INDUCTED INTO NATA 8 james RELEASES BOOK As president, he represented NATA in White House meetings that resulted in the “Stop the Bleed” campaign, introduced a new logo, announced the Japanese Athletic Trainers’ Organization as an official affiliate member of NATA, and initiated ATs Care, an international program that provides peer support for athletic trainers dealing with a crisis or critical incident. The report highlighted public universities with a high percentage of Pell Grant recipients, and SAT/ACT scores at or below the national average, yet having a strong percentage of these students achieving a bachelor’s degree. Clarion University was one of 31 universities nationwide that met the criteria and one of 16 model universities chosen for this study by SREB. BRING THE DREAM to life The Rev. Mark Elliston of Christ Episcopal Church, Oil City, was guest speaker at Clarion University’s 16th annual Juneteenth program, “Bring the Dream to Life,” June 14 in Hart Chapel. Mia Hill, sophomore rehabilitative sciences major, was emcee. Juneteenth began in Texas. Although the Emancipation Proclamation was issued Jan. 1, 1863, slaves in Texas didn’t receive word until two-and-a-half years later, on June 19, 1865, that they were free. This is the celebration of that freedom. CLARION UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE 9 10 FALL 2018 WWW.CLARION.EDU Friends and family of Dr. Brenda Sanders Dede gathered to say farewell and best wishes. She retired in July after 23 years at Clarion University. ALUMNIweekend 2018 CLARION UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE 11 UNDERGRADS CHANGE FATE OF CELLS Students in Dr. Doug Smith’s Advances in Manipulation of Cell Fate course learn how to fuse cells to achieve specific traits. When cells just won’t behave the way they’re needed to behave, what is a scientist to do? The results obtained will be examined for intellectual property development potential. This summer, students in Dr. Doug Smith’s Advances in Manipulation of Cell Fate class learned the answer to that question: Make them behave through hybridoma technology. In class, the application for the technology is a kit to test for a fungus that is lethal to amphibians, mainly frogs and salamanders. Affected animals develop scarring on their skin. Amphibians breathe through their skin, and scar tissue makes the skin impermeable to air. According to the catalog description, the course “Focuses on highly technical laboratory training in the methods to change cells outside the body. Manipulated cells can then be reintroduced to the body as therapies or used alternatively in various experimental applications.” Students undertake three projects: • Isolation of particular cell types; When the fungus is present, antibodies bind with it and the students can put in signals that create a colored reaction, much like a pregnancy test. The test allows the fungus to be diagnosed and treated before it spreads among the species, which is especially crucial when the animals are in a captive environment, such as a zoo or conservatory. • Fusion of two different cell types to obtain a desired hybrid; • Dedifferentiation into stem-like cells and redifferentiation into new cell types. THE PROCESS Three months before the class begins, students begin injecting mice to create a strong immune response to the fungus; they give repeated booster shots to the mice. “When the mice are making a very strong antibody response – which we determine by testing their blood – we remove the lymphocytes that make antibodies and fuse them with cancer cells,” Smith said. “Fusion is completed by putting them together in a chemical that causes the cells’ ‘skins’ to bind together, then we put them in a centrifuge to push them together, and then we let them grow.” 12 FALL 2018 WWW.CLARION.EDU Smith said they screen out unsuccessful fusions; screening detects fusions that produce antibodies that work in the kit. It takes about a year to get the desired cell. The ability to perform this process is a skill that is highly sought, immediately hirable, and important for molecular ecology and biology research. Its applications go far beyond helping our cold-blooded friends. “Any test kit used in a diagnostic lab in a hospital is usually done the same way,” Smith said. “Testing for cancer, endocrine disorders, neurological disorders – these kinds of kits are what hospital labs use to diagnose people with different types of diseases.” CLARION UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE 13 STEM CELLS AND CLONING “We do a variety of other types (of cell growth) that involve stem cell technology,” Smith said. “Stem cells can live for a long time in a culture, and they can self-renew. The stem cells, hopefully, are producing healthy tissue that can be used in individuals for transplantation. When older tissue wears out in a heart valve, for example, we currently use cow and pig valves, but the future holds promise for our own stem cells to be used.” One of the main problems with transplantation today is that the immune system can react to – or reject – something from another body. Smith said that through autologous transplantation – taking a person’s own stem cells, manipulating them and putting them back in in a new form – the body should not reject them. “We design our own experiments to learn what conditions would be best for growing autologous stem cells,” Smith said. He encouraged the students to be creative with various conditions. Is Smith ever surprised by what the students discover? “It happens all the time,” he said. “Multiple projects in the lab are currently patent-pending. Students worked with me to test their own ideas, and we found something interesting.” Smith said he doesn’t know of another university that offers such a course. Frequently, students from other universities take the class, which is offered during summer session to allow for the extensive lab time. BELLY DANCER When the 25th anniversary of the molecular biology/ biotechnology program was nearing, Smith and other faculty put out a feeler on Facebook to gauge interest in a symposium. “Within two minutes we had six positive responses, and in two days we had 150 people interested in coming,” Smith said. He approached the Office of Alumni Engagement, and assistant director Emily Weaver worked with him to set up the “Soaring Science Symposium” during homecoming. Weaver recommended creating a new fund for research equipment as part of the celebration, and Smith was all for 14 FALL 2018 WWW.CLARION.EDU it. He explained that equipment needs are great in molecular biology; the small pieces of equipment are too expensive for the department to purchase, but not expensive enough to be eligible for grant money. Radosevich approached Smith after the symposium ended and told him that he has some money to use, and wanted to put it toward the biology program’s equipment needs. “Kids who were in the program still remember the equipment. They marveled that we were still using the old stuff,” Smith said. “They said yes, they’d love to donate to research, because research at Clarion is what got them their internships and jobs.” His donation purchased software to analyze gels on a documentation instrument and a belly dancer which shakes specimens to combine them. A GOAL OF $5,000 WAS SET. Mark Radosevich (’77) was among the alumni who returned for the Soaring Science Symposium. Although his Clarion degree is a BSBA in marketing, the symposium piqued his interest. He stayed throughout the symposium, listening to talks from various alumni. My Clarion years were spent in the business department on the other side of campus, and I’ve been in sales, marketing and now mergers and acquisitions for my entire professional career,” Radosevich said. “The microbiology topics went mostly over my head, although I did pick up on some things and learned quite a lot. I found the speakers to be quite impressive in their respective fields, and the work that they were doing is truly meaningful, for not only their careers but to society as whole. The fact that they were all accomplished and successful Clarion grads made it all the more impressive.” The symposium brochure listed several items that the biology department needed to enhance undergraduate learning. After witnessing the important work and contributions that these former students were now making, Radosevich decided to pay it forward and purchase some of the needed items to help students improve their Clarion learning experience and make equally meaningful contributions to society. “My wish is that this small equipment donation will yield great long-term payoffs as these students embark on their respective careers,” Radosevich said. “If more people better understood the many positive benefits that graduates of the Clarion biology department can impart on society, more people would be inclined to open their wallets and fully fund all equipment and software needs. We're really not talking about a lot of money when considering the long term dividends that such contributions will generate.” Dr. Doug Smith CLARION UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE 15 Bilan’s commencement ended up being in Clarion, enabling her to participate. She led the commencement processional for the College of Health and Human Services graduates, including her BSN students. “I’m so excited to walk with my own students,” Bilan said. “I’ve been here with them since the spring of their freshman year.” THE DEMAND The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that registered nurses will experience greater job growth than any other occupation by 2018, with 581,500 jobs or a 22.2 percent increase. Nursing is the nation’s largest health profession with more than 2.5 million jobs worldwide. In fact, nurses are the largest single component of hospital staffs. Bilan CLIMBS FINAL RUNG OF CLARION UNIVERSITY NURSING LADDER The profession feels the crunch of the nursing shortage in the numbers of practicing registered nurses, as well as the numbers of students entering the field. Additionally, the word “traditional” no longer applies to any part of nursing, or to the educational process. Today, it’s a rare student who is going to school full time in preparation for a life after graduation. Most nursing students are in the workforce, contributing to household budgets, supporting themselves or their families. Many are holding full-time positions in nursing or health care, or in other professions and fields. Clarion University is the only institution in Pennsylvania’s State System of Higher Education to offer all rungs on the nursing education ladder and demonstrates a strong commitment to nursing with its accredited nursing programs. The two-year Associate of Science in Nursing program provides students a technical base for the practice of nursing and prepares them to take the licensing examination to become registered nurses. To further encourage students to continue their education in nursing, the RN-BSN program prepares students to practice nursing at the professional level. This program expands the knowledge base of the student to include theoretical concepts and independent practice and is offered online to allow students to complete the program around work and family obligations. For students seeking a four-year traditional program, an on-the-ground Bachelor of Science in Nursing program rounds out the undergraduate offerings at Clarion. With Bilan (center of photo) are Clarion’s first Bachelor of Science in Nursing graduates: (Back row, from left) Trevor Peretic of Pittsburgh, Brooke Reynolds of Clarion, Sydney Smajda of Springdale, Rhianon Fowler of Wilcox, Taylor Huff of Butler, Danielle Tarr of Pittsburgh, Kate Hammond of Clarion; (middle row) Tatyana Kalik of Clarion, Terri Geist of New Bethlehem, Austin Dusch of Clearfield, Bilan, Jillian Shull of Franklin, Rosemary Brooker of Marble; (front row) Nicole Bellefleur of Burlington, Conn., Jessica Byrd of North Huntingdon and Brandi Jackson of Douglassville. When Clarion University conferred 1,023 degrees during spring 2018 commencement ceremonies, among them were 107 associate, 645 bachelor’s, 270 master’s and one doctor of nursing practice. The recipient of the DNP is Robin Bilan of Summerville, the first person to complete every step on Clarion’s academic ladder of nursing credentials. Bilan, who began her nursing career by earning her licensed practical nurse certification after high school, worked in the nursing field for 10 years before leaving the workforce to raise her sons. When her older son left for college, she wanted to return to nursing. “I had been out of the nursing field for 13 years, and I was asked to take a refresher course before returning to work,” Bilan said. She weighed the cost of the refresher course and decided her money would be better spent advancing her education. She applied to Clarion and Lock Haven universities and ultimately chose Clarion. She started with the pre-nursing program. 16 FALL 2018 WWW.CLARION.EDU Bilan continued to the Associate of Science in Nursing program, during which she also served as a volunteer tutor at Venango campus, which ignited her passion for teaching. She decided to pursue her master’s degree to enable her to teach and practice nursing. She completed the ASN in 2006, finished the Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 2008, and graduated from the Master of Science in Nursing program in 2010. The MSN program certifies graduates as family nurse practitioners. Bilan worked full time as a nurse practitioner prior to accepting an adjunct faculty position at Clarion. At that time, she applied to the Doctor of Nursing Practice program. As Bilan completed work for the DNP, offered jointly with Edinboro University, she applied and was hired as full-time faculty in Clarion’s BSN program. While she is proud of her accomplishment, she was willing to sacrifice walking in her own commencement ceremony, originally scheduled in Edinboro, to celebrate in Clarion with her 21 graduating BSN students. They are the first cohort of students to complete the BSN program; both the BSN and DNP degrees were added in 2014. CLARION UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE 17 Nursing education provides rich and diverse opportunities for graduates who wish to continue to advance in the field of nursing. Advanced education in nursing – the Master of Science in Nursing and Doctor of Nursing Practice degree programs – are now the norm. Academically prepared nurses have opportunities to become independent practitioners, nurse researchers, nursing administrators, or nurse educators. care providers, but it also helped to alleviate the nursing faculty shortage. On April 20, 1995, the MSN Family Nurse Practitioner joint program between Clarion University and Slippery Rock University received State System approval, and on June 22, 1995, the program received State Board of Nursing approval. Edinboro University joined in 2000. THE EVOLUTION In the fall of 1964, Clarion University – Venango began offering a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree in cooperation with the Oil City School of Nursing. Prior to this time, curricula at the campus had focused on elementary and secondary education and liberal arts. The nursing program was originally the Oil City Hospital’s diploma program. When the hospital decided to close its program, the window of opportunity opened for Clarion University to take over the program and house it at Venango campus. In June 1968, the Pennsylvania Department of Public Instruction reversed its policy that associate degrees be offered only at community colleges and authorized an Associate of Science in Nursing program to fill a special need for nursing education in Venango County. The program had been in the planning stages since the early 60s. The first director of nursing, Ruth Benfield, was hired in 1968, and the first ASN students were admitted to the program in September 1970. Classes were in the Richard C. Frame building, then the only building on the Venango campus. The building housed the library, classrooms and staff offices. The Charles L. Suhr Library was built in 1976, allowing for program growth. In December 1980 the Clarion University Council of Trustees approved the formation of the Division of Nursing to be a separate administrative unit. The new organization structure begin July 1, 1981, and approval was sought to offer a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. In fall 1982, the first bachelor’s class was admitted. The 80s proved to be a great span of time for the nursing programs. In June 1983 the ASN program was granted National League for Nursing Accreditation Commission accreditation for eight years, and by fall 1985 the RN-BSN program followed suit. In November 1985, the Division of Nursing became the School of Nursing. In May 1987 the Nursing Honor Society at the Venango campus held its first induction ceremony, welcoming 25 charter members. This was the required first step toward the establishment of a chapter of Sigma Theta Tau, the international nursing honor society. 18 FALL 2018 WWW.CLARION.EDU In November 1987, the School of Nursing received approval to establish a satellite program at West Penn Hospital in Pittsburgh to offer nurses and nursing students in the Pittsburgh area an opportunity to complete the requirements for a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree. The program was developed at the request of West Penn Hospital. West Penn’s NLNAC-accredited Nursing Diploma Program formed the technical concentration for the degree, and Clarion offered general education and support courses. The Associate of Science in allied health then became the entrée to the RN-BSN and Master of Science in Nursing programs for students who chose to continue their education. This model has since converted to a more linear model of diplomas to BSN. In 1998, the School of Nursing launched a Bachelor of Science in radiologic sciences degree program in collaboration with Northwest Medical Center, which is now known as UPMC Northwest. Clarion University restructured its School of Nursing in 2004 to accommodate growth in its student population and programs. The reorganization created the School of Nursing and Allied Health, with a department of nursing, academic home to the university’s associate, bachelor’s and master’s degree programs in nursing, and a new department of allied health, which included degree programs in radiologic science and allied health. on the ground at regional hospitals. Faculty began to work on a traditional bachelor’s degree model for the Clarion campus and a doctorate of nursing online degree. The continued growth and development of the programs within the School of Nursing and Allied Health necessitated further restructuring to accommodate both qualitative and quantitative level of maturity, size and complexity. A newly formed School of Health Sciences, housing the departments of nursing and allied health, was proposed in fall 2013 with a founding director starting in the summer of 2014. On Jan. 23, 2014, the State System approved two new Clarion programs, a traditional, four-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing and a Doctor of Nursing Practice, which prepares nurses for executive levels of leadership in health care systems, filling a workforce need. The BSN is taught fully on the Clarion campus, and the DNP is taught online in partnership with Edinboro University. The first BSN cohort began classes in fall 2014, and the first DNP class began in summer 2014. From 2004 to 2012, additional programs were created in the health sciences fields to include allied health leadership and respiratory care, and to offer ASN cohort education On Jan. 5, 1988, the growing School of Nursing moved into Montgomery Hall. The first department chair was elected in August 1988. In January 1995 the Clarion University Council of Trustees approved a Master of Science in Nursing degree with a nurse practitioner concentration. Soon after the launch, a nurse educator track was added to support nursing education workforce needs. The MSN program, a collaborative effort of Clarion and Slippery Rock universities, and eventually Edinboro University, was developed in response to State System task force initiative and would serve as a model for collaborative efforts within PASSHE. Meeting the health care needs of rural residents was becoming an increasing problem in many areas of Pennsylvania and the nation. Students were served by courses at both university locations and through distance education modalities. The collaborative model allowed students to complete clinical and educational practica within or close to their hometowns, increasing the probability that they would remain there as nurse practitioners or to teach as nurse educators in hospitals or nursing schools. This not only improved access to health care by increasing the number of primary health CLARION UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE 19 21 top 50 US NEWS & WORLD REPORT’S NATIONAL RANKING OF CLARION’S ONLINE MSN PROGRAM GRADUATES OF FIRST BSN CLASS 100% ATE AM PASS R ASN PROGR URE NAL LICENS FOR NATIO 16 0 N IN 2 EXAMINATIO TOP 50 5 – CONSECUTIVE YEARS MSN PROGRAM EARNED SPOT ON US NEWS & WORLD REPORT’S TOP RANKING LIST EARLY 1960S – Planning for ASN program 1964 – Venango campus offers BSN with Oil City School of Nursing 1968 – State authorized Venango to offer ASN; first director of nursing, Ruth Benfield, hired 1970 – First ASN students admitted 1976 – Nurses’ lab, nursing department office and storage in new Suhr library allow for program growth 1980 – Division of Nursing formed 1982 – First BSN degree completion class admitted 1983 – ASN program earns national accreditation 1985 – RN-BSN program earns national accreditation; Division of Nursing becomes School of Nursing 1987 – Nursing Honor Society inducts 25 charter members; satellite program approved at West Penn Hospital 1988 – School of Nursing moves to Montgomery Hall; first department chair elected 1995 – MSN with nurse practitioner concentration begins jointly with Slippery Rock University 2000 – Edinboro University enters joint MSN program 2004 – School of Nursing becomes School of Nursing and Allied Health to accommodate growth 2004-2012 – Additional programs developed 2013 – School of Nursing and Allied Health becomes School of Health Sciences 2014 – Founding director begins; four-year BSN and DNP programs approved and first classes offered NURSING AT CLARION UNIVERSITY IS SYNONYMOUS WITH QUALITY AND EXCELLENCE. In 2016 the ASN program boasted a 100% National Council Licensure Examination pass rate and followed that rate with a 93.94% in 2017. The average national pass rate is 87%. The U.S. News & World Report Best Online Masters in Nursing Program Rankings, 2018 edition, ranked the Clarion and Edinboro Universities program among the top 50 in the nation. The MSN program has made the top ranking list for the past five years. 20 FALL 2018 WWW.CLARION.EDU CLARION UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE 21 IN CELEBRATION OF THE SESQUICENTENNIAL, CLARION UNIVERSITY IS TAKING A LOOK BACK AT ITS 150-YEAR HISTORY – 50 YEARS AT A TIME. IN THIS ISSUE, WE CELEBRATE AND EXAMINE THE YEARS 1967 TO PRESENT DAY AND LOOK TO THE UNIVERSITY’S BRIGHT FUTURE. COMING TOGETHER In 1967, the university and the town were at odds over the university’s expansion and the town’s subsequent real estate losses on the tax rolls. According to Dr. Samuel Farmerie’s history recorded in the 125th anniversary edition of Clarion Magazine, local Part of the need for expansion was the rapidly growing student population. Farmerie reported that prior to Dr. James Gemmell’s presidency the student population was at 1,099 students. By the end of his tenure in 1976, the student population was at 5,000. Venango also continued to expand. In January 1976, an 18,000-square-foot student center and instructional complex was built. The Robert W. Rhoades building cost $765,000 to construct and included a gymnasium, locker rooms, theater-lecture area, and a fully-equipped kitchen. In addition to the Rhoades building, Venango campus constructed Charles L. Suhr library, featuring 24,000 books and space for work and circulation rooms, library employee offices and study lounges. Some activities have even helped romances to blossom. government entities helped the expansion along. Clarion Borough Council tied the school’s expansion into its federally funded urban renewal plan, and the Clarion County commissioners partnered with the school in an urban renewal plan. Throughout this time, the growing student population was politically and socially active. “Students were involved in protests against on-campus activities of military recruiters, as well as American involvement in the Vietnam Conflict. Streakers were also observed darting about the campus,” Farmerie reported. Some of the buildings included in that expansion of the university include Carrier, Chandler Dining, Becker, Givan, Ralston, Nair, Campbell, Wilkinson, Carlson, Peirce Science Center, Tippin and Marwick-Boyd. Of those buildings, a few are completely gone, including Chandler Dining, Nair, Campbell and Wilkinson. Others, such as Peirce, Carlson Library and Tippin Gymnasium (currently being renovated), have been renovated or portions have been incorporated into new buildings. Students loved living in the residence halls and still remember good times there. “There are so many fond memories, but one that students now will not experience is the echo chant battles 22 FALL 2018 WWW.CLARION.EDU between Wilk and Nair. Especially when the sororities and fraternities would come for pledge pick-up, they would do their cheer, then another would do their cheer,” said Annamarie Mellett (’80, education with a major in rehabilitation sciences). “I can’t think of anything better than the two years that I spent in Ballentine Hall,” said Anthony Deter (’17, liberal studies, minor in history). I will never forget anything from my freshman year. There was only one floor of people so we did practically everything together. Game nights in the basement will be forever some of my best memories. I also loved my time being a community assistant there, up until the dorm’s closing.” The number of campus organizations has not waned. Student Life reports more than 130 campus organizations in which students can be involved. These include academic, athletic, Greek, political, multicultural, service and other special interest groups. Around the end of Gemmell’s administration, student groups of all kinds were forming. “The number of sororities, fraternities, clubs, interest groups, and other extracurricular programs increased as dramatically, as did curricular ones,” Farmerie reported. “ A student affairs office was created to coordinate programs and scheduling. “A month into dating, we participated in a St. Paddy’s Day UAB event where we had to practice the art of kissing with other couples on stage in front of an audience of our peers,” said Kelsi (Wilcox ‘07) Boyles, who met her husband Charles at Clarion. “Twelve years, seven years of marriage and one beautiful son later, we are still together and reminisce often of our time as students at Clarion University. We give back our time and money to the university as participants of the ALF festivities, alumni events such as Pirates games, volunteering countless hours as the chapter advisor for Sigma Sigma Sigma, partnering with the university for educational work events, and going back to obtain two more college degrees from CU.” The special interest growth also coincided with curriculum developments. Clarion became the first former state teachers college to offer a Bachelor of Arts degree, a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and master’s degrees in several fields. The year 1967 also saw centennial celebrations with special events and speakers. Thus began a golden era for Clarion University’s organizations and athletics, with students winning awards and acclaim. The first women’s athletic teams were intramural in the late 1960s, but became official a few years later. CLARION UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE 23 NEW INSTITUTIONS AND FACES Unionization became part of the university culture in 1969 with the Association of Pennsylvania State Colleges and University Faculty and the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees becoming official representation for two groups of employees across the State System. Another institution soon became a staple of university culture. The Clarion State College Foundation was formed Dec. 8, 1969, as a way to facilitate donations to the university. Now known as the Clarion University Foundation, Inc., the foundation has raised more than $65 million in private dollars and more than $93 million in total support to the university since its inception. Some of the foundation’s most notable projects include Reinhard Villages and the Suites on Main apartment-style residential complexes. Former President Dr. Diane Reinhard praised the work of the foundation during her tenure. “They provided outstanding leadership for this university,” Reinhard said. Reinhard said during her time as president the foundation had a hand in two specific successful ventures: The Comprehensive Capital Campaign raised 40 percent more than its goal, and the foundation developed ways to fund better housing. The foundation continues to this day to raise money and conduct a diverse set of special projects, all in support of the university. Clarion University Foundation, Inc. When Gemmell retired in 1975, the university was on good terms with the community and maintained a steady student population. Gemmell’s lengthy time at Clarion left an impression at the university and on its students. Alumni Ralph Zema (’76, geography) shared a story of Gemmell from when he was a freshman. Zema said he was seated in Hart Chapel to see a show and was dressed down in comfortable clothes when Gemmell and his family and some colleagues sat all around him. “I sort of wanted to leave ASAP because I felt so out of place. The group started introducing themselves and giving their titles within the college. When asked who I was, I told them my name and that I 24 FALL 2018 WWW.CLARION.EDU was ‘just a student.’ The college president immediately remarked, ‘No, no. You are not just a student: You are the reason why we have this institution and why all of us here have a job.’ We all laughed a bit and, even though I still felt uncomfortable being there, it gave me a whole new perspective on Clarion, its administration, and its role in my life.” At the retirement of Gemmell, Dr. Elizabeth Rupert, dean of library, media and information sciences, served as interim president before Dr. Clayton Sommers became the 11th president. Sommers’ tenure was one of keeping the status quo and maintaining strict budgets. Just before Dr. Thomas A. Bond arrived, another prominent Clarion figure would arrive on the scene – Ernie the Eagle. Ernie made his debut in 1979, according to the Clarion Alumni Bulletin, which also reported that Denny Morelli was inside the first mascot costume. The costume was criticized as looking more like a chicken than a Golden Eagle. In the 1986 edition of the Sequelle, writer Sue Folmer wrote an article called “What your mother never told you.” One of the bullet points of that article was that your mother never told you your “mascot would be a chicken – granted a golden one, but still a chicken.” However, this was just the first of many Ernie looks. He’s undergone a variety of makeovers throughout the years and has starred in some of Clarion’s music videos, including the “Harlem Shake” and “Happy.” BONDING CLARION The Bond years were of considerable growth and change, both in the number and constitution of faculty and students. According to Famerie’s history, enrollment rose to 6,600 students during the 80s. Venango Campus set an enrollment record in fall 1985, with 235 full-time and 377 part-time students. During this time, 80 faculty members and 95 staffers retired, opening the door to hire more people with terminal degrees, more females and more minorities. The student body also had become more diverse. A notable change during Bond’s presidency was that state colleges were separated from the Pennsylvania Department of Education in 1982 and became part of the State System of Higher Education. Bond quipped that he was the last president of Clarion State College and the first president of Clarion University. In an interview to kick off 150th celebrations, Bond said his presidency was marked by the establishment of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree at Venango campus and starting the certification process for the then-College of Business. Nursing continues to be one of the university’s most popular programs. According to Venango’s history, in November 1987, the school of nursing received approval to establish a satellite program at West Penn Hospital in Pittsburgh. In addition to the university’s Associate of Science in Nursing offered at the Venango campus, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing is available on the main campus and features a hands-on training facility in Ralston Hall. The university also offers an RN to BSN degree online, a Doctor of Nursing Practice in conjunction with Edinboro University, a Master of Science in Nursing: Family Nurse Practitioner concentration, and a post-master’s Family Nurse Practitioner certificate. Bond is particularly proud of a fund drive in which the goal was to raise $1 million over a three-year period. “At the end of three years, we raised, $3.5 million,” Bond said. Bond said his years also included building relationships with the community by entertaining them before, during and after university events. “My wife was a big part of it,” he said. Most people also didn’t know that Bond was a pilot who would fly himself to Harrisburg rather than drive and served on the Clarion County Airport Authority Board. REINHARD YEARS OF CIVILITY Reinhard assumed the presidency June 1, 1990. Her interest in applying to the presidency at a public institution was a personal one. “I’m very much a product of public schooling and universities, and I believe in the mission of public universities,” Reinhard said. “Clarion is an outstanding public university.” Because Clarion is a public institution, Reinhard believes the institution should be a strong resource in helping regions address problems and concerns. Much like former President Karen Whitney helped develop the opioid certificate, Reinhard said during her time at Clarion, there was much concern over the growing HIV and AIDS crisis. “The focus may change, but the role of the university in responding to the needs of not only the local community, but the region and state, stays the same,” Reinhard said. CLARION UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE 25 Throughout her tenure, Reinhard believes her best achievement may be one of creating a culture of mutual respect “because most of the problems facing higher education are complex, and they require a cast of thousands to become involved in their solution.” Reinhard knows that many consider the fiscal situation she dealt with to be the good old days, but any financial concern can preoccupy a president’s thoughts. “You were always trying to figure out new ways of gaining support,” Reinhard said. One companion Reinhard could always rely on was her cocker spaniel, Maggie, who was always on campus seeking treats and affection from faculty, staffers and students. community and its students. It would be a day on which everyone would remember what they were doing when they heard the news. “For my generation, 9/11 will be spoken about to our children like the assassination of JFK was talked about to us,” said Jennifer (DeFazio ’02) Atkins. “I remember being in Gemmell to get some coffee before class when I saw the crowd gathered at the TV. As I walked over and realized what was happening, the second plane hit. My stomach dropped. I had just witnessed thousands of American souls perish in front of my eyes. Our world would be forever changed, and I watched it happen.” During Reinhard’s time, renovations were completed to Harvey, Founders and Montgomery halls. The Recreation Center and the new president’s residence were also constructed. When Reinhard retired in 2003, Dr. Joseph Grunenwald became the 15th president after a long history of service to the university. His positions before he became president included professor of marketing and department chair, interim executive dean of the Venango campus, director of continuing education, dean of the College of Business Administration, and provost and academic vice president. 26 FALL 2018 WWW.CLARION.EDU Whitney’s presidency would be during a time that Whitney herself called an “exceptionally challenging period of higher education.” “Karen Whitney has provided strong, steady leadership as president of Clarion University for the past seven years,” said board of governors Chairwoman Cynthia D. Shapira in a statement. “She is smart, strategic and pragmatic. During her presidency, the university also demonstrated a renewed focus on teaching, health and human services, and business, which she acknowledged in an interview kicking off the 150th celebrations. Dr. Dale-Elizabeth Pehrsson was officially hired July 1 as the 17th president of Clarion University. She brings with her more than 25 years’ experience in higher education, beginning her academic career as an affiliate faculty member and clinical supervisor for counselor education at Idaho State University in 1991. She also has worked in the healthcare field, as both a counselor and registered nurse. “Dr. Pehrsson has a unique set of tools that makes her an ideal fit for Clarion University and its focus on professional programs,” Whitney said. “They are a perfect match. I am certain Dale will be a great addition to both Clarion University and the State System. I am thrilled that she is joining our leadership team.” Grunenwald said college presidents are supposed to boast a list of buildings, enrollment numbers and services as their greatest accomplishments. Early in his career he helped bring the fiberboard plant to Shippenville, and as president he was instrumental in the construction of the Gregory Barnes Biotechnology Center at Exit 62 of Interstate 80. Her willingness to make tough decisions may have caught the eye of the State System when she was asked to become the interim chancellor in September 2017. With the appointment of Whitney as chancellor of the State System, Peter Fackler filled in as interim president until the next president was selected. GRUNENWALD’S TEAM Grunenwald said when it comes to challenges, every president will tell you finances and enrollment management are the two biggest concerns, and his years were no exception. When Karen Whitney became the 16th president in 2010, she began her presidency with a listening campaign. “Because she has strong relationships across the system and beyond — and is keenly aware of the challenges and opportunities ahead — she will be able to hit the ground running so we can continue our forward momentum.” LOOKING TO THE FUTURE Her time also included the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks and the impact such an event would have on the university “I can tell you that my greatest pride is recruiting the finest people we could find and building a team that would deliver the services that drew enrollment, that allowed us to build those buildings, that allowed us to move forward,” Grunenwald said. “That was an achievement that no money can buy.” WHITNEY’S TOUGH DECISIONS “I’ve always thought we should have a science agenda,” Grunenwald said. Grunenwald said he continually reminded himself of some other truths. “I knew that everybody’s job was on the line and every student was here to graduate. I thought about that every Monday morning, and I’d take a deep breath in hesitation in the hallway before I stepped into the office,” Grunenwald said. He also strongly believes in the Clarion promise that you can become something that you don’t even know you can be. “You can be that, whatever ‘that’ is.” Pehrsson said she is excited about the opportunity to serve as Clarion’s next president. “I am highly honored to have been chosen as the 17th president of Clarion University,” she said. “The strengths of the faculty, staff, community and stakeholders are inspiring. I will seek and welcome advice and support from all constituents. Clarion University has a strong reputation, and I look forward to building on our long tradition of excellent teaching and service to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.” a positive manner to everyone who needs and wants to know,” Bond said. Reinhard agreed with the listening advice, but added to listen not only in the beginning of the presidency, but throughout it. “Listen throughout your tenure, and listen to a broad base of university constituencies.” Reinhard also believes the people are what make Clarion so special and still keeps in touch with many colleagues from Clarion. “It’s a people business and you have to love people,” Reinhard said. Grunenwald’s advice had to do with humility. “You’re never as smart as they’re going to tell you you are,” Grunenwald said. Sometimes it’s important for the president to get out of the way and let work get done, he added. Whitney said the next president shouldn’t lose focus on what’s most important. “Be flexible. Have a sense of humor, and the focus should always be on student learning and student graduation,” Whitney said. For Whitney, her favorite part about being president was commencement when she’d shake the hands or hug the students who earned their diplomas. The living past presidents each shared advice they had for the incoming president during 150th celebrations which began last fall. “Listen. Be open and communicate your decisions in CLARION UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE 27 Last year, Dr. Dale-Elizabeth Pehrsson made a bet with herself: “BY JULY 4, I WANT TO DO 2,500 MILES ON MY BICYCLE.” In reaching that goal, she has ridden every day this year. Every. Single. Day. Outside. In snow. On ice. In searing heat. In whatever Mother Nature doled out. Bicycling has been a part of Pehrsson’s life since her father taught her to ride when she was four years old. “My whole life, we would ride our bikes together. He was riding 20 miles a day the week before he passed away,” she said. “I feel like my dad is under my wings when I ride.” Wind beneath her wings is fitting for Pehrsson, who became Clarion University’s 17th president – and a Golden Eagle – July 1. 28 FALL 2018 WWW.CLARION.EDU PEDALING At age 17, Pehrsson graduated from a vocational high school in New York as a licensed practical nurse, then continued to a two-year registered nurse program. She pursued associate and bachelor’s degrees in liberal studies, then, in graduate school, her attention turned to education and counseling – she holds master’s degrees in both. Her terminal degree is a Doctor of Education in counselor education and counseling. How does a career begin in nursing and lead to a university presidency? It wasn’t intentional, Pehrsson said. “The thing about nursing is that it’s helping people to live their best lives,” she said. Her professional roles have changed over the years, but the goal as a nurse, as a counselor, as a professor, as a dean, and now, as president of Clarion University, remains helping people to live their best lives. “I never set out to be a university president, but someone would see that I had certain hard skills,” she said. As someone who loves to learn, she didn’t hesitate to dive deeper. “About four or five years ago, when I first became a dean, someone said, ‘You’d be an excellent president.’ So, I went to a workshop, and I saw that it fit with things I’m good at,” Pehrsson said. SHIFTING GEARS Just as Pehrsson’s past has prepared her to be Clarion’s 17th president, the university’s past has prepared it for her leadership. “The university has a long history of serving the region. Staff and faculty are engaged, talented and committed to our students, and it is apparent in the care and attention that is given to all aspects of the student experience,” Pehrsson said. “The programs are strong, with an adherence to national review evidenced by the multiple specialty accreditations the university has deliberately sought. That only happens when there is a strong commitment by faculty and administration.” Clarion’s focus on arts, science, education, health and business appeal to Pehrsson, and she believes Clarion is perfectly positioned to build upon these programs. “Our academic programs are strong in all three colleges. We offer three locations and online learning,” she said. “We care, we are affordable, and we are accessible to our students.” As she begins her era of leadership at Clarion, Pehrsson said her goals are “to listen, to learn, and to help all of us live our dreams.” “The bicycle is a curious vehicle. Its passenger is its engine.” ~John Howard CLARION UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE 29 BALANCE “I’ve been married 40 years, so my family is very important to me,” Pehrsson said. “Work/life balance is important. I’m a very hard worker, but I try to play and have fun at work.” Pehrsson became interested in play therapy when she was working with children after completing her master’s program in counseling. “The training I was getting was really talk therapy, but children don’t have the same ability to tell a story with words,” she said. “They have the same emotional range, but not the same vocabulary.” Pehrsson said for children, play is a metaphoric representation of what’s going on in their lives. Through play, children gain mastery and confidence. “Play is extremely healing and restorative,” she said, and not just for children. “One of the outcomes of having play in my background is I know the importance of restoring oneself so we can do the good work we’ve been put here to do.” Dr. Bob Pehrsson is professor emeritus of literacy at Idaho State University. She later wrote her doctoral dissertation on the topic, and she makes sure to incorporate play into her busy life. “I ride my bike to work, I do yoga, I play with art, do a lot of crafts and create things. I also try to walk a lot,” she said. “To me, that’s a gift. When you’re walking, you get to use your legs.” “Life is like riding a bicycle. To keep your balance, you must keep moving.” ~Albert Einstein 30 FALL 2018 WWW.CLARION.EDU L L A B FOOT E R OPEN SET AT s ’ h g r u b Pitts m u i d a t S k r a m High As part of Clarion’s 150th anniversary celebration set to conclude this fall, the Golden Eagle football team will open the 2018 season Sept. 1 with a game at Highmark Stadium in Pittsburgh. Clarion squares off with Shippensburg with a 1 p.m. kickoff time. As a sign of gratitude for the dedication of all Clarion fans, and a desire to have as many people as possible join the festivities, the game will be free of charge to all wishing to attend. In addition, tailgating will be permitted in the parking lots adjacent to the stadium. “We are excited to cap our sesquicentennial celebration with this special event for our student-athletes, coaches and fans,” athletic director Dr. Wendy Snodgrass said. “Playing against the backdrop of the city of Pittsburgh, with the opportunity to welcome back our many alumni from the area, I am confident this will be a memorable day for our entire athletic department and the university.” Highmark Stadium is a 5,000-seat stadium located in Pittsburgh’s Station Square, adjacent to the Monongahela River. The hybrid-turf field is the permanent home of the Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC, a professional soccer team competing in the United Soccer League. CLARION UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE 31 SPORTS ROUNDUP SPORTS ROUNDUP YOUNG TALENT BEGINS TO EMERGE FOR CLARION BASEBALL Nick Fugh The Golden Eagle baseball team saw a young squad gain invaluable experience in 2018 as they build toward the future. The season started on a promising note, as the Golden Eagles returned from spring break with an overall record of 5-8. They opened conference play with wins over Gannon and California, but a tough stretch of 12 consecutive losses across the middle part of April doomed the Golden Eagles’ season. However, the future can be called bright in part because of the youth of the Golden Eagles roster. Seven of Clarion’s nine regular starters were either freshmen or sophomores, led by freshman utility man Nick Fugh. Fugh was the only Golden Eagle to appear in all 46 games, making 44 starts, split between outfield and catcher. The freshman led Clarion with team highs in batting average (.320), hits (48), runs (34), total bases (61) and stolen bases (16). His 16 stolen bases were one shy of the school record of 17, set by Jerico Weitzel in 2012. Fugh’s total was part of a wider pattern of success on the basepaths for the Golden Eagles. The team broke a 32-year-old school record for stolen bases, swiping 69 bags on the year, 17 more than the previous record set in 1986. 32 FALL 2018 WWW.CLARION.EDU On the mound, nearly 60 percent of the innings were occupied by freshmen and sophomores. The Golden Eagles pitching staff was led by second-year ace Jeremy Frazier, who logged a team-high 62.1 innings and 41 strikeouts over 11 starts, going 3-7 with a 5.34 earned run average. Chandler Palyas Jeremy Frazier Sophomore outfielder Chandler Palyas (transfer from Marietta) led the Golden Eagles in extra base hits (12) and RBI’s (21) and was arguably one of the best defensive center fielders in the conference. Returners Cole Shaffer, Dillon Wolbert and Brady Andrews all logged over 100 at-bats in 2018, with all three recording batting averages over .280. Shaffer finished with a .294 average and was third on the team with 35 hits making the transition to second base. Wolbert, the everyday first baseman, tied for the team lead with eight doubles, while Andrews finished second on the team with 10 stolen bases. Another bright spot for Clarion in 2018 was the emergence of freshman Bryce Jackson, who tied for the team lead with eight doubles and was second on the team with 19 RBI’s. Freshman Nate Torbich threw 45.1 innings, going 2-6 on the season across 10 starts and finishing second on the team with 40 strikeouts. Junior transfer Branden Schlick (Geneva) was dominant early in the season before a hip injury forced him to miss over a month of the season. Senior Chance Miranda stepped up for the Golden Eagles in 2018, tossing 37.1 innings, making nine starts. The freshman trio of Dereck Pritchard, Josh Kirwin and Kyle Thompson threw a combined 70 innings for Clarion, gaining valuable experience as they head into their sophomore campaigns. NEW FACES SHINE FOR CLARION SOFTBALL The Golden Eagles softball team was represented on the All-PSAC team for the first time since 2014, as newcomer Rebecca Kelley and junior Taylor Nonnenberg earned the honors for the 2018 season. Kelley earned the distinction as a utility player, helping the Golden Eagles as both a pitcher and a hitter. She hit .293 on the season and ranked second on the team with five home runs and 14 RBI’s. Kelley was named PSAC Central Co-Athlete of the Week April 23 after a weekend series against Mansfield in which she slugged two home runs at the plate and collected a win on the mound. At one point Kelley bashed four home runs in five games, an impressive stretch of power that hopefully is just the start of a successful Clarion career. Nonnenberg, the speedy leadoff hitter, led the Golden Eagles in hitting with a .356 batting average and 37 base hits. She also swiped 12 bags on the season, en route to breaking the school record for career stolen bases. She led the team with a .402 on-base percentage as well, giving opposing pitchers headaches with her ability to take the extra base, seemingly at will. Although left off the All-PSAC squad, freshman Jessica Cartia had an impressive rookie campaign for the Golden Eagles. The utility player slugged a team-high nine home runs, along with seven doubles, while ranking second on the team with a .333 average and 35 base hits. Like Kelley, the freshman backstop had her own extended stretch of power, hitting three home runs in as many games at one point. While the Golden Eagles return much young talent, Head Coach Cheryl Peterson will have to absorb the loss of a pair of seniors in Cassidy Runyan and Sarah Gossard. Runyan was the Golden Eagles’ starting shortstop, starting all 37 games and finishing third on the team with four home runs and 13 RBI’s. Gossard was the ace of the pitching staff for Clarion, logging 76.1 innings over 19 appearances. The senior hurler led the team with three victories on the mound and was Coach Peterson’s go-to arm in 2018. Clarion will return their top four hitters in 2019, along with pitcher Macy Rubin, who was second on the team with 64 innings pitched and led the Golden Eagles with 23 strikeouts and a 4.59 earned run average on the season. Despite fielding the youngest team in the PSAC, the Golden Eagles were competitive from start to finish, with 22 of their 46 games decided by three runs or fewer. Second-year skipper Anthony Williams will look to take a bigger step forward with a more experienced group in 2019. Rebecca Kelley Taylor Nonnenberg Jessica Cartia Sara Gossard Macy Rubin CLARION UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE 33 SPORTS ROUNDUP SOLID FOUNDATION SHOWS PROMISE FOR TENNIS The Golden Eagles tennis team wrapped up their dual-season year in the spring, finishing with a 5-10 overall record at the conclusion of the spring schedule in April. With just one senior graduating in 2018, the program has a solid foundation on which to build for next year and the seasons to follow. The season started back in September at the Daemen Invitational, but the women really got things going in dual match play in the fall with a 3-1 record. They opened with a shutout win over Penn State-Altoona and followed that with a dominant 8-1 victory over PSAC East foe Shippensburg. After closing the fall season with another shutout – this over Pitt-Greensburg – the team took a break before gearing up for the spring. Maria Snyder Clarion’s spring break trip to open the second half of the season was dominated by close calls and a shutout win at the end of the week. The Golden Eagles dropped a narrow 5-4 decision to East Stroudsburg on the penultimate day of the trip before coming back for a shutout win over Shepherd. Though the team struggled in most of PSAC West play, they concluded their overall season with one more dominant victory, a 9-0 win over California (Pa.) in the final match of the year. Leading the way for the Golden Eagles was senior Maria Snyder, who posted the team’s best dual match singles record at 6-9 and led the team with a combined 14 singles and doubles wins. She teamed with Alivia Arnold to form Clarion’s top doubles pairing, going 6-9 in the No. 1 singles spot to lead the team. Katie Benson was also effective in singles play, tying Snyder for the team lead with seven singles wins over the course of the year. GOLFERS PLAY STRONG IN WEATHER-SHORTENED SEASON The wet, gray springs that are a hallmark of northern Pennsylvania once again played havoc with the men’s and women’s golf teams in 2018, with the unpredictable weather disrupting the routines and competitions of both programs. Case in point: The Golden Eagle women were able to compete in just two events over the course of the spring – the last two on the schedule, in fact – as several tournaments were canceled, not to mention scads of practices. Downpours, saturated courses, snow … you name it, and it probably happened. It was a shame too, as the women’s golf team had shown great progress in the fall season under first-year head coach Gregg Fritz. Freshman Morgan Johnson put together two fine tournaments after the long layoff, averaging a team-best 96.0 over the course of three spring rounds. She paced the team in all three rounds of spring competition and finished the full year with the lowest average on the team, at 96.5. Just behind Johnson was senior Elisabeth Papa, who averaged a score of 98.0 over the course of 10 rounds on the year, and sophomore Christan Bowshier, who was a fraction of a stroke behind Papa at 98.67. Bowshier shot what ended up being the lowest round of the season for any Golden Eagle with an 86 at the Allegheny Invitational, while Papa’s 91 at the same event was the second-best in relation to par. On the men’s side, the Golden Eagles were among some of the top teams in the NCAA Atlantic Region, coming up just a hair shy of qualifying for the regional tournament at the end of the season. The competition in the PSAC is rigorous, but the Golden Eagles held strong, finishing 10th in the NCAA Atlantic Region in the final regional ranking April 20. However, they were kept from the NCAA field due to an automatic qualifier from another conference taking the final spot. Katie Benson 34 FALL 2018 WWW.CLARION.EDU Nathan Sandberg paced the Golden Eagles through the course of the spring, averaging a 78.9 that was nearly two strokes better than the next-closest teammate, Nick Giambrone. Sandberg shot the best round of the spring for the Golden Eagles at the Edwin Cottrell Invitational hosted by West Chester, carding a 73 in the first round. Logan Reed and Mitch Faulkner were just behind him with rounds of 75, the former doing so at the Oglebay Intercollegiate and the latter at the Edwin Cottrell. Alivia Arnold CLARION UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE 35 SPORTS ROUNDUP SPORTS ROUNDUP INAUGURAL CLASS JOINS NEW INDUCTEES AS HOF MARKS 30 YEARS Style Henry Laurie Carter John Hughes Lisa McAdoo EXCITING TRACK & FIELD SEASON SEES NEW RECORDS SET The Clarion track & field team concluded its spring with an exciting outdoor season that saw a number of school records broken or challenged, giving Golden Eagles fans plenty to look forward to as the program continues to progress. Perhaps the biggest driver of that enthusiasm was Style Henry, a freshman who burst onto the scene during the indoor season with a school record in the 60m and one of the program’s best-ever marks in the indoor long jump. Unsurprisingly, Henry’s abilities carried over into the outdoor season where she set two more school records. The Erie native topped Anna Pfingstler’s 100m mark at the PSAC Championships with a blazing time of 12.31, and later went on to shatter Jessica Shomo’s outdoor long jump mark with a 5.56m leap at the Gator Invite hosted by Allegheny. Speaking of field events, senior thrower Kari Steuer concluded her career in the Blue & Gold with another scoring performance at the PSAC Championship meet in May. She was one of two Golden Eagles to place at the meet, joining a scoring performance from Henry in the long jump, scoring in the shot put with a toss of 12.84m. Fellow thrower Katie Brest authored one of the program’s top marks in the hammer toss, throwing the implement 39.97m at the Slippery Rock Open in mid-April. That ranks second in program history, just behind Carol Cress’s record of 43.13m set in 2012, giving Brest a clear target for her final season in 2018-19. Freshman Ashley McCluskey shined in the throws as well, just missing out on a top-eight finish at PSAC Championships in the javelin but setting a strong foundation to crack the all-conference podium in the future. The future on the track also looks bright for the Golden Eagles. Amanda Batey joined Henry in the top-five in school history in the 100m, recording a 12.43 at the PSAC Championships. Also a key part of the team’s top 4x100m and 4x400m Relays – along with fellow PSAC qualifiers Nicole and Courtney Young – that sets the stage for her upcoming senior season where she will be one of Clarion’s top returning sprinters. In the distance events, five Golden Eagles qualified for the PSAC Championships, including Letizia Collini (800m), Kayce Bobnar (10,000m) and a trio – Haley Schaller, Danielle Stoner and Morgan Manglaviti – in the 3000m Steeplechase. Kayce Bobnar 36 FALL 2018 WWW.CLARION.EDU May 4 was a night of reunion and friendship as Clarion hosted its 30th annual Sports Hall of Fame ceremony and dinner. In honor of the 30th anniversary of the Hall of Fame, as well as the university’s sesquicentennial celebration, the athletics department welcomed backed the five newest inductees, as well members of the inaugural Hall of Fame class, and other Clarion greats from throughout Golden Eagles history. Wade Schalles, Christina Tillotson Sheets. Pete Vuckovich Dan Payne Entering this year’s Hall of Fame class were Laurie Carter (1981-84; women’s track & field), John Hughes (1982-85; football), Lisa McAdoo (1985-88; women’s basketball), Ken Nellis (1982-86; wrestling/1998-2006; wrestling head coach) and Dan Payne (1991-95; wrestling). After a Q&A session with each of the new inductees, Clarion honored seven past members of the Hall of Fame, including inaugural inductees Wade Schalles (wrestling), Pete Vuckovich (baseball), Jim Alcorn (football) and Al Jacks (football coach). In addition, Corissa Desmona Mona (Gaffney) Brosier (class of 2003 - women’s basketball), Christina (Tillotson) Sheets (class of 2006 - women’s swimming) and Reggie Wells (class of 1990 – men’s basketball) were all welcomed to the stage for recognition. CLARION ADDS 147 TO RECORD PSAC SCHOLAR-ATHLETE TALLY Letizia Collini Danielle Stoner Ken Nellis LOCK HAVEN, Pa. – The Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC) announced its list of conference Scholar-Athletes July 9, with Clarion contributing 147 of the league-record 3,053 scholar-athletes in 2018. In order to be eligible, the student-athlete must acquire a GPA of 3.25 or better throughout the year. Kari Steur Out of the PSAC’s 18 member institutions in 2017-18, there were 3,053 total scholar-athletes, which makes up 42 percent of the total student-athlete population in the conference. Both of these numbers break the previous record of 2,934 and 41 percent, set one year ago. The league has now registered at least a 30 percent rate for 10 straight years. Clarion’s total 147 scholar-athletes also constitutes growth over previous years. The Golden Eagles topped last year’s mark of 146 PSAC scholar-athletes and bested the 2016 mark of 138 athletes as well. CLARION UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE 37 SPORTS ROUNDUP SPORTS ROUNDUP “We dropped the first set and it sort of shocked us back to reality,” Holden said. “From that point, we improved during every set and every match. There was never any tension. We just wanted to go out there and have fun.” “It’s so important to immerse yourself into the local culture and learn how other people live,” Holden said. “It makes the world smaller and much more interesting.” On the last full day of the trip, the athletes taught a volleyball clinic for local children, many of whom cannot afford even the basic equipment needed to play. At the end of the clinic, the athletes donated the gear to the children. “Young women that normally compete against one another learned how to work together, play together and win together, despite coming from different programs and systems,” Herron said. CLARION’S HOLDEN & VENSEL JOIN PSAC IN INTERNATIONAL PLAY When Golden Eagles volleyball players Julia Holden and Leah Vensel were invited to spend a week this summer in the Dominican Republic with other Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference volleyball players, taking on national and local teams, they didn’t need to have their arms twisted. The origins of the trip date back two years when Matt Darling, head volleyball coach at Gannon, took a group of PSAC volleyball players to Italy for a week of competition. The trip was such a success that Darling reached out to Clarion Head Coach Jennifer Herron and encouraged her to take part in building and coaching a new team of conference athletes in 2018. When the two discussed how to construct the roster, they knew it would take a unique group that could jell quickly and adjust to international rules. limitation of substitutions. Whereas the NCAA permits 15 substitutions per set, international teams can only make six such changes per set, meaning that players often play in all six rotations. In addition, the ball used in international play is different from the college one – “it’s spongier and harder to pass,” Herron said – placing even more emphasis on players that can excel on both defense and the attack. The team practiced in Clarion before making the trip to the Dominican Republic; it didn’t take long for the disparate group to mesh. “It was actually very surprising how quickly we started to look like a fluent team,” Vensel said. “Having some older players with experience in communicating and leading helped us get into the flow pretty easily. After one practice, we were working together well.” After a long day of travel to the Dominican Republic, the squad played their first match of the week against the country’s U20 national team. A veteran unit with much more experience playing together, the U20 team dealt the PSAC athletes their only loss of the week. The student-athletes won their remaining four matches. “Matt and I sat back and let the girls completely run the clinic,” Herron said. “It was honestly one of the coolest things I’ve seen in my years as a coach. It’s an area that struggles with poverty, and I think seeing that opened our girls’ eyes about how fortunate they are.” The language and cultural barrier was much more prevalent. When not playing, the team stayed in a resort in the capital city of Santo Domingo, the first permanent European settlement in the Americas after Christopher Columbus landed there in 1492. The official language of the Dominican Republic is Spanish, though local dialects and the influence of other countries over the years presented an additional hurdle for the athletes, until they took the court, that is. “I’m thankful that we had the opportunity to give back to the community,” Vensel said. “It was amazing to see the excitement on those kids’ faces when they realized the things they got to take home with them.” “One of the biggest benefits of the trip was seeing how sport could break through the language barrier,” Herron said. The team took in the local culture and enjoyed some sightseeing. Darling and Herron prioritized the educational aspect of the trip by breaking the team into groups and asking them to present to their teammates on different aspects of the Dominican Republic. Other activities included a catamaran cruise to Saona Island, a tour of the city and a trip to Christopher Columbus’s grave. Holden said that the team attempted to bridge the language gap with “lots of smiles and positivity,” while Vensel added that some things were better illustrated through actions than words. “I was trying to communicate with the kids verbally, and I think they thought it was pretty funny that I didn’t know much Spanish,” Vensel said. “Even though we didn’t speak the same language, it was great how we could easily connect through the universal game of volleyball. “We wanted to represent multiple teams from across the conference,” Herron said. “We were looking for athletes that could compete at a high level, who could also be flexible. Positions were kept in mind, but the ability to handle a lot of different scenarios was important.” Volleyball on the international stage differs from the collegiate game in several ways, one of which is the 38 FALL 2018 WWW.CLARION.EDU CLARION UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE 39 A look back… ALUMNI NOTES Fall 2018 1972 Carole Briggs was one of 29 recipients of the Jefferson Award for volunteerism, sponsored by the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette and Highmark. Carole received this award for 30 years of volunteering at Jefferson County History Center in Brookville, where she has served as executive director, exhibit designer, grant writer, educator and curator. She was part of the team that worked to turn a historical society in a house into a first-class small museum on Historic Brookville’s Main Street. A retired teacher of gifted students, she has authored several books, including “Creamed Onions” with Dr. Todd Pfannestiel, and writes columns for local newspapers and websites, all pertaining to rural Jefferson County. Carole resides in Brookville. 1980 Jeff Schmeck is retiring in San Antonio with his wife, Kim, after a 39-year career. 1988 Rev. Scott and Linda (Loichinger) Schul reside in State College with their children, Annika and Emilio. Scott is senior pastor of Grace Lutheran Church, State College. 1991 Submit your photos on Facebook or Twitter with #Cuhistory 40 FALL 2018 WWW.CLARION.EDU Christine (Grear) Nicholas is a parks and recreation coordinator for Hatfield Township She resides in Pennsburg with her husband, Michael, and children, Emma and Sydney. 1993 Kelly Lawton, principal of Luray Middle School, has been selected as the Virginia Middle School Association Outstanding Educator of the Year for 2016-17. Barbara Nichols, President of VMSA, surprised Ms. Lawton with the announcement in front of her students and faculty at the Annual Awards Assembly on Thursday, June 8, 2017. In her presentation remarks, Ms. Nichols drew attention to the appropriate middle school practices in place at Luray Middle School that caught the eye of the selection committee, including a strong advisory program. Ms. Lawton was presented the award at the Virginia Middle School Association’s annual conference on October 2017 at James Madison University. She resides in Stanley, Va. 2000 Dr. Chris and Jennifer (Kibler) Davis reside in Toledo, Ohio, with their children: Emma, Noah, Addison, Kristen, Victoria and Carter. Chris is a chief information officer and assistant professor of education at Lourdes University. 2004 Katie (Brose) Isacco is an executive administrative assistant for Summit Academy, Herman. She resides in Cabot with her husband, Dan. 2006 Jonathan (’05) and Jessica (Lowden) Stiffy reside in Canonsburg with their children: Taylor, Madelyn and Emma. Jessica is a therapeutic emotional support teacher for the Canon-McMillan School District, Canonsburg. 1995 Scott Brown is a high school guidance counselor for Pymatuning Valley Schools. Andover, Ohio. He resides in Warren, Ohio, with his wife, Amy. 1996 Dr. Sean Boileau is a behavioral health services director at APLA Health & Wellness (AIDS Project LA), West Hollywood, Calif. CLARION UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE 41 WE WANT TO know about YOU! MARRIAGES Casey Dunleavy ’13 and Lauren Szoszorek ’15, March 3, 2018 And so do your Clarion classmates. It’s easy to share your latest personal milestones and professional accomplishments in the pages of Clarion University Magazine. Just send us a note! Visit www.clarion.edu/alumni-update 2008 Jesse (‘12) and Meghan (Jacobs M.S. ’12) Snyder reside in San Antonio, Texas. Meghan is a speech language pathologist for assessment intervention management, San Antonio. Jake (’07) and Valerie (Shingledecker M.S. ‘09) Kepler reside in Montrose, Colo. Valerie is a speech language pathologist in nursing homes, helping adults with dementia, strokes, Parkinson’s disease, difficulty swallowing and other neurological diseases. She has taught dance, specifically hip-hop and jazz, to children ages 8-18 for six years. The speech pathology career allows the flexibility needed to teach dance in the evenings. While a student at Clarion University, Valerie was a member of William Krausmann ’05 and Carrie Hillmar, April 21, 2018 the hip-hop dance team. Philippi. 2010 2013 Michael (’11) and Danielle (DiPerna) Bryan reside in Poland, Ohio, with their daughter, Aubrey. Danielle is an outreach advisor for Eastern Gateway Community College, Youngstown. Daniel Lewis is a librarian/head of reference for Capital Community College, Hartford, Conn. He resides in New Britain, Conn. Shawna Lind was recently named assistant registrar at Clarion University. She resides in Pittsburgh. Craig and Samantha (Petroff ’11) Butler reside in Philippi, W.Va., with their sons, Theodore and Lincoln. Craig is an associate athletic director for communications and marketing for Alderson Broaddus University, Christina Loscar is a newscast producer of the 6 p.m. news for WBAL-TV, Baltimore. She resides in Baltimore. 2014 Amanda Platt is employed with the Baltimore City Public Schools. She resides in Baltimore. 2015 Madison Shobert is a systems administrator for Miller Welding and Machine Company, Brookville. She resides in Punxsutawney. Kaiti Capurro is an education coordinator for Huntington Learning Center, Harrisburg. She resides in Harrisburg. IN MEMORIAM 1940s 1970s 1990s Jane (Smathers ’48) Hindman, May 10, 2018 Robert Mongiello (’71), March 22, 2018 Cathy (Bish ’92) Lieberum, July 3, 2018 Mary Resch (’72), June 18, 2017 Michael Vrable (’95), July 3, 2018 Richard Hawkins (’74), March 23, 2018 Jennifer Gabany (’99), May 20, 2018 Lynne (Wagner ’75) Basista, April 20, 2018 Patricia Brison (’99), June 6, 2018 Lois (Hlava ’76) Barber, July 5, 2018 Steven Kiley (’99), July 2, 2018 1950s Michael Petruska (’51), May 31, 2018 Barbara (Heasley ’53) Kuhns, April 7, 2018 Harvey Shapiro (’55), June 30, 2018 Twila Wollaston (’58), May 31, 2018 Sandra Adams (’59), May 8, 2018 Carol (Hogue ’59) McCartney, June 28, 2018 FALL 2018 WWW.CLARION.EDU James Marsh (’77), Feb. 7, 2018 2000s Pamela Brown-Tate (’03), July 15, 2018 1960s 1980s James Dunn (’60), Oct. 19, 2017 Kathleen Smith (’81), March 8, 2018 Joseph Hancharick (’65), May 28, 2018 Elizabeth (Matson ’83) Stephenson, Sept. 26, 2017 Nicholas Rebick (’65), June 26, 2018 Christine (Harley ’83) Anderson, April 8, 2018 Brad Johnson, April 3, 2018 Jack Dittman (’66), June 16, 2016 Judith (Johnston ’84) Mushinski, April 16, 2018 Kenneth Vayda, April 18, 2018 Marilyn Flath (’67), March 30, 2018 Dyann (Best ’89) Carroll, June 11, 2018 M. Janice Ditz, May 3, 2018 Sandra (Bealko ’67) Johnson, April 11, 2018 42 Michael Robbins (’77), Nov. 21, 2017 Friends Janice Lutz, Nov. 21, 2017 Orpha Stewart, Dec. 5, 2017 Larry Bish, March 29, 2018 Paul Daugherty, April 4, 2018 Patricia Steffee, April 20, 2018 David Kahle, May 11, 2018 Gordon Rice, June 13, 2018 CLARION UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE 43 CLARION CLARION CLARION UNIVERSITY UNIVERSITY UNIVERSITY WILLIAM ROMAN William Mark Shingledecker, son of Moira (Brown ’10, M.Ed. ’17) and Daniel Shingledecker, born April 18, 2018 SOPHIE PAXTON Roman James Espey, son of Ian Espey and Margaret “Margie” Savolskis (’04), born July 30, 2017 PENELOPE Paxton Augustine LaCovey, son of Ryan (’11) and Chelsea (Campbell, ’11, MS ‘13) LaCovey, born June 2, 2017 NATHAN AUBREY Nathan Lee Sheaffer, son of Brett (’07) and Lizzie (Suwala ’10) Sheaffer, born March 14, 2018 Aubrey Mae Bryan, daughter of Michael (’11) and Danielle (DiPerna ’10) Bryan, born Aug. 31, 2017 LINCOLN LANDEN Our gift to baby Eagles of Clarion alumni is a dashing new bib! To receive a bib, visit www.clarion.edu/babybib and complete the online form. Once you receive your bib, take a picture of your Eaglet putting the bib to use, and email a high-resolution photo to us for inclusion in Clarion University Magazine. Questions? Call the Office of Alumni Engagement at 814-393-2572. Sophie Marlene Brocious, daughter of Daniel (’08) and Shaina (McManigle ’08, MS ’09) Brocious, born March 26, 2018 MASON Mason Warren Maloney, son of Chris and Katie (Warren ’03) Maloney, born Aug. 12, 2017 44 FALL 2018 WWW.CLARION.EDU Penelope Quinn Dusenberry, daughter of Stephen and Erin (Dispennett ’98) Dusenberry, born March 26, 2018 LUCA Luca William Schrader, son of Chad and Rachel (Slater ’12) Schrader, born Dec. 19, 2017 Lincoln Irene Berezansky, daughter of Nathan and Britney (Olsavsky ’09) Berezansky, born April 21, 2018. Landen Lindsey Jackson, son of Joe and Kelsey (Kimmell ’06) Jackson, born Oct. 4, 2017 CLARION UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE 45 students EXAMINE LEGAL ISSUES IN LAW JOURNAL The College of Business Administration and Information Sciences published the first edition of Clarion University Law Journal. The 52-page journal is the culmination of a class project for Advanced Legal Writing and Research. Dr. C. Frank Shepard, associate professor of finance and instructor of the class, said law journals contain advanced legal research on topics of interest to legal professionals and anyone interested in the current state of our legal system. “Students selected their own topics based on what they considered to be the most relevant legal topics of the day,” Shepard said. “By the time they entered the class, they had a thorough knowledge of the use of online law libraries such as Westlaw and Lexis-Nexis.” AUTHORS AND THEIR TOPICS ARE: Paralegals and Access to Justice John Eichlin and Frank Shepard Human Trafficking: Plaguing the United States Kaitlyn Vale of Greenville and Shawney Heffern, Franklin Abuse of Civil Forfeiture in Our Communities Kelsey Monro of Wall and Robin Rybczyk of Titusville Justice for the Brave Zechariah Lemke of Harrisville Bad Boys Bad Boys; Whatcha Gonna Do? Whatcha Gonna Do When They Come for You? Austin Blose of Strattanville and Demetrius McKenzi of Clarion Gas Companies and Their Abuse of Private Property Decklan Burkhart of Franklin, Nikki Deitz of Knox, Andrea Larsen of Warren and Ben Trinkley of DuBois How Gerrymandering Affects Elections in Pennsylvania Jacob McCord-Wolbert of Lucinda Breaking Up Families as We Debate the Constitutionality of DACA Kassandra Wetterwald of Shirley, Mass., and TyNiesha Perry of Harrisburg “The Clarion University Law Journal shows the extreme talent, legal knowledge and skills of our students,” Shepard said. “The students engaged in detailed legal analysis and applied that analysis to the tough societal issues of our time. This type of in-depth analysis and application will serve them well in their legal careers.” FALL 2018 WWW.CLARION.EDU Pennsylvania State Representative Donna Oberlander (’91) has completed the 12-credit, online opioid treatment specialist certificate program. helpful in understanding the history of this drug, how we, as a nation, found ourselves dealing with this epidemic, and treatment options.” “As an elected official, I was very aware of the opioid epidemic and the impact it was having on the commonwealth. I was intrigued by the opioid treatment specialist certificate program when I saw that public policy was one of the components,” Oberlander said. “I found the fourcourse certificate program to be very Oberlander, also a Clarion University trustee, said the online format enabled her to complete classwork for the certificate late at night, early in the morning or whenever she found time in her busy schedule. and to promote economic mobility, especially among low-income and minority students. He developed and implemented a national strategy for increasing the number of degrees awarded and for reducing the attainment gaps among majority and non-majority students at U.S. colleges and universities. Understanding Your Freedom of Speech Hannah Dewey of Tidioute The Oil War of 1872 Frank Shepard The Clarion University Law Journal will always contain an article on local oil history, according to Shepard. “Not only is our petroleum history a large part of what we are today, the publication of the law journal was funded by the Barbara Morgan Harvey Center for the Study of Oil Heritage, located on Venango campus,” he said. For information about the online opioid treatment specialist certificate, visit www.clarion.edu/opioidspecialist. FORMER GATES FOUNDATION DIRECTOR SELECTED AS STATE SYSTEM CHANCELLOR The Legal Status of Wrongful Birth and Wrongful Life Claims Morgan J. Green of Allport The journal is available electronically at www.clarion.edu/lawjournal. 46 Oberlander COMPLETES OPIOID TREATMENT SPECIALIST CERTIFICATE Greenstein said he is excited to take on the new role and eager to work closely with the board, as well as with faculty, staff and trustees at the universities to solidify our future and fulfill our public obligation to our students and the state. The Board of Governors of Pennsylvania’s State System of Higher Education has selected Daniel Greenstein to serve as the next chancellor. As director of the Postsecondary Success strategy at the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation for the past six years, Greenstein worked with other higher education leaders across the country on initiatives designed to raise educational attainment levels “This system took a bold – even courageous – step two years ago when it chose to take a hard look at itself,” Greenstein said. “That effort to redesign the system has pushed the State System to the forefront of innovation nationally.” Before joining the Gates Foundation in 2012, Greenstein spent nearly a decade in leadership roles in the University of California system, includ- ing serving as vice provost of strategic planning, programs and accountability in the Office of the President. He also provided leadership to the Regents’ Commission of the Future, focusing on educational and curriculum reforms designed to improve student success, reduce students’ time to degree and make more effective use of the system’s constrained academic program capacity. Greenstein’s selection as chancellor comes at the conclusion of a national search launched in the fall of 2017 following the retirement of former Chancellor Frank T. Brogan. Former Clarion University President Karen M. Whitney has served as interim chancellor since then, and will continue in that role until Greenstein’s arrival Sept. 4. Greenstein earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees in history from the University of Pennsylvania, studied at the London School of Economics and earned a Ph.D. in social studies from Oxford University. CLARION UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE 47 COURAGEOUS endeavors MELINDA CARBAUGH Melinda Carbaugh (’17) had been working as a respiratory therapist for five years when she decided to go back to school to study nursing. She enrolled in the Associate of Science in Nursing program at Clarion University – Venango. In addition to her full-time job and schoolwork, she was the mother of three-year-old and five-week-old daughters. She graduated May 12, 2017. Eager to take her boards June 20 and begin her nursing career, a motorcycle accident June 13 changed everything. She and her husband sustained major injuries, but Carbaugh more so. She had a spinal cord injury and was told that she would never walk again. She also had a lacerated liver, a fracture at the base of her skull and a punctured lung. With determination to heal, she began rehabilitation. Fitted with leg braces, she began walking with assistance of support staff and a walker. Doctors were impressed with her progress after a May 2018 MRI. There was still bruising in the area of her spinal injury, yet they were hopeful that she might regain more feeling and movement. Carbaugh continued to study for her nursing boards. She passed the licensing exam in January 2018. She is not currently working, but she has a spot as an emergency room nurse at UPMC Northwest when she is able to begin. She continues with rehab three days a week and now walks with long leg braces. She is optimistic, positive and strong. What many people take for granted, she finds precious and rewarding. “I take care of my children, I enjoy working in my gardens and, with the assistance of my husband to get onto the lawn mower, can cut the grass.” Your gift matters to Katlyn. Melinda, supported by leg braces, stands with daughters Vivian and Meredith and husband Ben. Carbaugh is an eight-year Army veteran, serving 12 months in Iraq under Operation Iraqi Freedom from 2005 to 2006. She is a wife, mother and survivor. Carbaugh continues to plan her future. “I want to be working as a nurse in the next year. I want to be walking and fully mobile,” she said. “I am beginning to research education programs to allow me to earn my master’s degree as a family nurse practitioner. In five years I want to be working as an FNP.” 48 FALL 2018 WWW.CLARION.EDU How are you funding your education? I fund my education mostly through scholarships I have received and through private loans. What are your career plans? My goal is to be hired as an RN at the Childrens Hospital of Pittsburgh to eventually work as a pediatric oncology nurse. I also work at the phonathon and tutoring center on campus, and at the hospital on weekends and during breaks. What have you liked about working at the Clarion University phonathon? My favorite thing about working with the phonathon is that I have realized how scholarships are actually funded. It has made me so much more thankful because I know it can take a lot of people to make a big thing happen, which is why I’m passionate about scholarships and paying it forward! YOUR GIFT TO CLARION UNIVERSITY CREATES OPPORTUNITIES FOR STUDENTS LIKE KATLYN. No matter which department or scholarship you support, no matter the size, your gift makes a difference. She derives strength from a Bible verse, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Phil. 4:13 “After what we have been through, both my husband and I, and the miraculous healing that we have both had, I believe God has a plan for everyone.” Name: Katlyn Bonifay Major: Nursing Year: Senior Hometown: Kersey, PA To make a gift today, go to clarion.edu/givenow Melinda’s brother, Bryan Chanson, and father, Paul Chanson, visit Melinda in the hospital after her accident. CLARION UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE 49 NONPROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE PAID PERMIT NO. 2 CLARION, PA 840 WOOD STREET CLARION, PA 16214-1232 WWW.CLARION.EDU Homecoming CLARION UNIVERSITY 2018 October 5-7, 2018 For a full schedule of events and to register visit www.clarion.edu/homecoming. Questions? Contact 814-393-2572 or alumni@clarion.edu.